#i hate to say this but their presence is not as impactful anymore

[idiosyncraticrednebula]

Tbh, the princes in the Disney Princess LA remakes don't have a reason to be there anymore. They have been rendered useless in these stories since now there seems to be a much heavier focus on the independent and tough aspect of the princess, which is why the romance no longer has a place in them the way they used to back then. You can cut them out and these movies will still work. They are only included because they were part of the original movie, but when you take the more recent princess movies into account and what they are now about, which is along the same lines as the LA remakes, their presence is pretty damn unnecessary.

[sugarphoenixlovesfanfic]

better off without me ◦ . ◦

synopsis: Aventurine thinks he knows what's best for the both of you. a/n: angsty oneshot I wrote based off of a prompt from here. tags: angst, aventurine, aventurine x reader, sad ending

ao3 link here!

You watch as the blond gambler saunters into the house, acting as if his very presence didn’t make your heart bloom and wilt simultaneously. 

“Did you miss me, sweetheart?”

The last few weeks blur in your mind. All those days and nights anxiously watching your phone, waiting for a text. A call. A note. Anything to let you know he’d be back, or that he was doing fine, or that he was thinking of you. Maybe even an “I’m missing you” but, clearly, for the gambler that was too much. 

You thought he had changed. You thought maybe there was something blooming, between the long nights and the expensive gifts. 

With the way the gambler was acting, as though nothing had changed, despite not returning any of your messages for weeks, there was nothing.

You ball your fists, tears stinging your eyes, as you rise from the living room couch and come to stand a couple feet away from him.

“Where were you?” you demand, trembling. “Where were you all this time?”

You see a hint of an emotion pass through his face. Could swear that it was guilt, sadness, pity. Even self-hatred. But just as soon as it had come, it was gone, and he was back to his strange grin.

“Don’t you remember? I told you I was going on an assignment before I left.”

“Why didn’t you return any of my calls? Or my messages?” Hot droplets trail rivers down your cheeks, pitter-pattering on the ground. “You could’ve let me know you were okay. Or alive.”

“I was busy, darling. I couldn’t—”

You smack him across the face. 

“Busy? Too busy for me?” You practically scream at him. The impact of your hit knocks off his serene mask, and now he’s looking at you with a stunned expression. “You didn’t have time for just one text back. Just one!

“Just one would have been enough,” you sob, pulling away and clapping a palm over your mouth as though you were trying to stem an open wound.

Aventurine looks away, and this time the expression of guilt doesn’t fade away when it comes. You stand there, waiting for an answer or an explanation, or even an angry insult. Anything. But the gambler doesn’t say anything.

“Do you even care about me at all? Did you ever care, all those nights? All the times we hung out? All those gifts you sent me?” The tears blur your vision now, and you wipe them away.

The gambler still doesn’t respond. 

“Say something!” you yell.

“No, you’re right,” he says, and if your heart was already broken it felt as though he ground the pieces into the dirt with his heel. “You’re right. I’ve been terrible to you.”

“No, that’s not what I wanted to hear,” you say, almost too choked up to speak. “That’s not what I want. I want you to apologize, tell me you’ll try harder next time.”

“Sweetheart, you don’t deserve me,” Aventurine says, looking at you. “You should move on.”

“No!” you yell. Why was he just giving up so easily? “I want to save us, why don’t you understand? Why won’t you try to hold on to us like I am?” 

Aventurine goes quiet again, and you can’t handle it anymore, your body wracking from each sob you let out. 

“Fine. Leave. Go. And never come back again.” The words are barely perceptible in between your cries.

Aventurine freezes for a moment, looking at you as if to verify that this wasn’t a joke. When you don’t respond, he moves towards the door, and you watch him. Just before he leaves, he pauses, looking back at you for a long time, as though committing your form to memory.

And then he’s gone.

You crumble to the floor, crying and sobbing and wailing until you’re exhausted and empty.

♤♤♤

Aventurine looked at the text you sent.

How’s your assignment going? I miss you.

He sighed. It had been five hours since he touched down on this planet, and here you were, checking up on him.

He didn’t hate it. In fact, he loved it. It’s took every ounce of his strength not to reply to you. 

But that was precisely why he couldn’t let himself reply.

The arrangement was meant to be temporary, noncommittal. He’d drop by for a night or two, then move on. Two nights became three, an afternoon became an evening, and a quick text became an hour long conversation. It wasn’t long after that he’d begun to shower you with gifts and affection throughout the day.

During one of your conversations over text, he’d typed in that’s what I love about you into the text bar.

Love? No, this was never supposed to turn into love. 

But one thought turned into another, and suddenly he was recounting all the things he loved about you in his mind. I love your smile. I love your laugh. I love when you pout because something hasn’t gone your way. I love, I love, I love.

And then the thoughts of everything between the two of you flooded over him. The way he bought you gifts, the way you smiled at him, the way you checked on him throughout the day, the way he loved curling up with you at night. 

Disastrous. No one was ever supposed to love him, least of all you. He was a hot mess of a man, distrustful and beaten and broken through and through. He was hateful, and awful. Unloveable.

He hit backspace, erasing what he had written. Replaced it with lol yeah. And decided then and there and he would slowly start to end things. 

To protect you from himself.

So he’d text you a little less throughout the day. Stopped giving you gifts. You didn’t notice it, because it was only a week and then he went to his assignment, where he decided he would cut it all off, then and there. 

He watched as you texted him, and then didn’t respond. Watched as your texts turned from joyful, to confused, to sad, to desperate. You didn’t stop texting him, though. You texted him almost everyday. Ironically, Aventurine realized what the full extent of your love was as he was cutting you off, but he couldn’t turn back now. It was better this way, he told himself. You were better off without him. 

But when he came back, he realized he couldn’t keep himself away from you. He had to see you one last time.

So he paid you a visit, deciding to act as though nothing was wrong, just to twist the knife a little. To make sure you would absolutely hate him. And then when you told him to leave, he left. But not before giving you one last glance, memorizing your form in his mind, your tearstained cheeks he could kiss every day for the rest of his life, your wet eyes he could stare into forever. The anguished look on your face he desperately wished he could turn into a smile.

But there was no turning back now.

You’re better off without him. Yes, that’s what he tells himself as he lays in bed tonight and holds his phone to his heart, your past text messages displayed on the screen. That’s what he tells himself as a single tear falls from his lashes, wetting the pillowcase beneath him. 

You’re better off without him.

dividers by @cafekitsune!

reblogs and comments appreciated!

[yurinaa-world]

hello, blade, jing yuan, dan heng and welt platonic with a teen!reader who is like sirin from honkai impact?

Characters: Blade, Jing Yuan, Dan Heng, and Welt yang platonic! x Female Reader

Synopsis: reader that's like Sirin from honkai impact

Warnings: Fluff and spelling mistakes, a little dark blade's part

𝐵𝓁𝒶𝒹𝑒

It fits the Stellorn Hunters theme and everything, but a little different, and he likes it. You’re like him, and he’s like you—brother and sister bonding at its finest. hating everyone, hoping everyone dies, killing people, and overall being insane in the head more than the others.

You deem him worth it since he’s such a loyal servant to you, and even better when he isn’t human, only a corrupted man under the flesh of his body; it’s the only thing he’ll ever be an unlucky man, but you, the chosen one, born to be special, unlike anyone, he’ll be grateful to spend a second in your presence.

𝒥𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒴𝓊𝒶𝓃

Your ego is a bit too much for a little girl like yourself since you are just a child, but nonetheless, a child with power is too much for your own body to handle. You continue to fight him but get too frustrated when he doesn’t go down as easily as you thought he would. “I would let you beat me!” You’ve already lost the second you tried to attack him. You refuse! Refuse to end it here like this!

 

You can calm down; he isn’t going to execute you since you want to beat that badly, then become his student since you seem to have a lot of potential. You were never going to lower yourself to this level! For this sleaze!

Well, you could have your revenge faster..hm..maybe you could be. You aren’t going to even show any mercy, so he better be ready!

𝒟𝒶𝓃 𝐻𝑒𝓃𝑔

You have such an attitude; you can’t just say whatever you want! Why? because people hate it whenever you question their power, so you have to tip-toe around and sugarcoat everything. Just stop talking before you end everyone in jail because of your so-called 'truth'

March can’t deal with you, and not most on the express can’t have the patience of an angel, so it’s him, maybe Himko (a woman’s got power), and Mr. Yang (it’s him most of the time). Whenever he gets stuck with you, he just hopes that you don’t destroy someone by calling you a kid.

Il Dan Heng: He is a changed man who went through the lesson of self-reflection, and everything and a bonus can deal with you now. He has a lot of patience, and you listen to him now since he’s not some dumb insect human anymore, so he can be your presence.

𝒲𝑒𝓁𝓉 𝓎𝒶𝓃𝑔

War flashbacks here, folks, but he handles it very differently from a similar situation that happened when he was way younger: you hurting even though you look at him with a disgusted look wherever he puts the word ‘hurt’ and you in the same sentence. He’ll get to warm up to him, which helps with the fact that he’s the one spending the most time with you.

You get sort of close with him since he’s strong for an old man with brittle bones that could crack any minute. You need to start getting close to other people as well, or else how will you get any friends? But who needs friends when they’re humans?

if you liked this, consider tipping me on ko-fi! it'd mean a lot

[reticent-writer]

Hi How would Obanai, Sanemi and Shinobu react to knowing that Their Father figure is paying Too Much Attention To Giyu Tomioka and Coldly Ignoring Them For Treating Water Hashira Rudely. And Refusing to Stay in their presence until they Apologize to Giyuu and don't tease him anymore. it would be cool to see that happen

I'm so so so sorry for the wait I was looking through my drafts and found this unfinished.

An: for some fathers I go with their occupation from other fics.

Mitsuri's ff is a Baker. Giyuu and Rengoku's is a retired hashira. Shinobu's is a doctor. Obanai, muichirou, sanemi and tengen are people from their past.

demon slayer masterlist

✿✼:*ﾟ:.｡..｡.:*･ﾟﾟ･**･ﾟﾟ･*:.｡..｡.:*ﾟ:*:✼✿　　

Sanemi

You'd treat sanemi the way he treats genya, just completely ignore him or send him a dirty looks

You told him that he had to apologize or you'd be disappointed

"I'm not made just disappointed"

That broke sanemi but for u he put his pride aside

Watching sanemi apologize was like watching a child, he couldn't hold eye contact, his face was glowing red, he stummbled on his words until he yelled out.

"I'M SORRY GIYUU"

Before the both of you could react Sanemi took you by the arm and dragged you home.

------------------

Obanai

This man genuinely hates Giyuu💀

You taking the water hashiras side make him hate him even more

He would refuse to apologize until you blackmailed him with sharing embarrassing stories to Mitsuri

he wrote a little note that you promised not to read and gave to giyuu

Dear Giyuu, I would like to apologize for what I said. I know that words can hurt and I shouldn't say everything that I'm thinking because of the impact that they have on others

from obanai

although it sounds a bit backhanded its the thought that counts and you threw in giyuu's favorite snack to help.

-----------------

Shinobu

Usually you'd let her sly comments go but one comment caught your attention

The 'joke' made Giyuu go home because "he was tired"

Since then you made 'jokes' about shinobu until she got the hint and stopped being so harsh

but that didn't stop you from treating Giyuu like your own child

"Look who's finally graced us with her presence. How was yet another all-nighter Shinobu?"

Giyuu looked between you and Shinobu. Shinobu looked like she wanted to ring your neck, you've been making little comments like that for a few days and she was sick of it.

"I see what you're doing. Stop it."

After that, she stopped with mean jokes towards Giyuu and instead targeted you causing her to be the butt of any joke

✿✼:*ﾟ:.｡..｡.:*･ﾟﾟ･**･ﾟﾟ･*:.｡..｡.:*ﾟ:*:✼✿

[abductedhiko]

Blood

Based off of one of @junkiepunkie’s posts

My first rose killer work ✌️✌️

Tags: @oh-phoenixx @invasiveroadkill @sunshinewhosketches @butyoureastarr @im-a-mess-of-a-person @printershorts

TW for violence and n@zis (violence HAPPENING to the n@zi dw)

He tasted the unmistakable warm, metallic, tang of blood on his gums.

Barty ran his tongue over his teeth, tasting it. That flavor, the pain, felt like electricity zapping in his veins. The thrill of the fight was one Barty chased often. He longed for that familiar ache in his jaw, just to remind him he was real. Often he found it in small local bars and pubs after getting too drunk to think straight.

The man, a skinhead, had tried to punch him hard in the face, But Barty was quicker. The heavy drugs he had an appetite for had worn him down and made him skinny, but his senses were heightened with adrenaline.

He quickly ducked, before slamming his fist into the man’s chin. He stumbled back from the blow and fell on his arse, slurring curses. Barty relished in the way his knuckles stung from the impact.

“Yeah? You like that you son of a bitch?” Barty asked him manically. He crept toward him, step by step.

“You’re fucking insane.” The man spat.

“I get that a lot.” Barty smirked, he quickly grabbed a beer bottle laying empty on its side and slammed it to the ground by the neck. He lazily held the jagged piece to him.

He bent over the man, a dangerous gleam in his eye. “Hmm? That’s a cute symbol on your arm… would be a real shame if you couldn’t see it anymore…”

The man didn’t get a moment to flinch before Barty slashed at the Swastika in his arm. The skinhead screamed in pain, and Barty let out a little giggle.

“Look at you, squealing like a little girl. Not so tough anymore, huh?

Oh did Barty feel high. The adrenaline pulsed through his veins, and for once he felt alive. He felt in control. And it felt so, so good to have control without it being given or bought with daddy’s money.

Barty crouched, putting his face dangerously close to the skinhead, savoring that look of utter hate and fear that shone defiantly in his eyes.

“Go to hell.” The man snarled, before bringing up his fist and punching Barty in the nose. Hard.

The crunch of his bones were loud, but the pain was unbearable. Barty flung his head back as his back hit the ground with stars in his vision.

He hardly registered the soft squeaking of the man’s boots as he quickly scampered off.

#

Barty must have laid there for what felt like hours.

He was in a daze, a strange limbo between reality and sleep. He didn’t feel like getting up, his limbs were filled with rocks, and hardly felt up to trying to say something, for his mouth was made of cotton.

And so he laid. He laid for a good long while, in a daze.

Until it began to rain.

He hadn’t noticed it at first, the first little droplets were too small to feel, but they eventually grew. And came down harder. Harder and harder and harder. Until the sky was pounding down on him and he felt like sinking into the ground.

In a way, the rain was a comfort. Tough love. Wiping away the blood that streamed down his face and kissing the bruises that began to bloom along his cheeks.

I’m pathetic, aren’t I? He mused, but his thoughts were barely even thoughts.

In his head, only static and the thundering of rain remained.

#

Barty must have fallen asleep at one point, before he was woken up by yellow car headlights shining into his face.

“Bee..?” A voice called hesitantly. Familiar.

“Rosebud…” He called back as pushed himself to stand. He was so, so tired. Chill seeped into his bones, and hunger was a steady presence in his belly.

And just then, a body came crashing into him. Barty smelled vanilla and honey as he buried his face Evan’s neck.

“You asshole. Where have you been? I was up driving around these dodgy pubs to find you and here you are, soaked and bloody and bruised!”

Barty gaped, moving his mouth soundlessly. His voice as hoarse and hollow when it finally came out. “You care?”

“Of course I care!” Evan said incredulously. "What kind of question is that?!"

“Why? For someone like me?” Barty breathed. Those words sent a flutter of relief in his chest. He hadn’t realized it then, but something cold and rotten had melted within him. “Of all people you pick the drugged up, filthy yob.”

Evan pulled back, looking at him pointedly. “Don’t make me rethink my choices. Listen, believe it or not, you’re a good guy. Even if you make some bad choices that worry me and hurt you. I know you, and you’re a good guy deep down."

Barty was speechless, looking at Evan and utterly gaping at him in shock.

“Now get your sorry arse in the car, I’m taking you to the hospital for that nose.”

[valentine-cafe]

. ˚◞♡ 𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝒅𝒊𝒂𝒓𝒚 —  𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒖𝒏𝒌𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒎𝒆𝒓𝒄𝒆𝒏𝒂𝒓𝒚◞ ₊˚

. ˚◞ ꒰ alessio 781 x gn reader ꒱ mercenary x reader, antihero x reader, enigma x reader ⊹ ۪ ࣪

𖹭. a selection of diary entries featuring the reader writing about their lover ( different characters )

diary.

feb. 6th, 3147

i was peacefully sitting in the tree swing outside the university gardens. when suddenly i smelled that bastard’s cigeratte smoke.

and even though i kindly asked of him to either move away or turn it off because the smoke was disturbing my nose, he just lifted a brow and grinned. shrugging and nodding his head towards the other treeswings further away.

telling me that if it bothered me, the one who got to the spot first, that i could always relocate further away.

he only turned it off with a scoff when i gave him a glare and threatened to tell the professors he was smoking on grounds where he shouldn’t.

and that annoying grin stayed on his face the entire time.

his presence itself was enough to get me to move away, gods.

diary.

feb. 8th, 3147

today, i was walking down the hallway. when suddenly i tripped over who knows what, and my head met with the fucking lockers on impact. and who was it the caught me and helped me back up?

alessio arias.

and i thought to myself, why is it that every time i am in some situation where i don’t want him to be there. he is there.

that agitating voice told me to be careful, all i saw in his eyes was mock concern.

i feel haunted on these university grounds by a man that refuses to leave me alone. and the worst part is, every time we meet it’s coincidense. I need to find new spots.

at the very least he helped me to the nurse’s office.

 

diary.

feb. 10th, 3147

finally, i have found a new place to sit and hang out by, no disturbances. no smug remarks from the thick spanish-italian accented voice. no smell of smoke or louded noises from crowds.

just

peace.

i managed to even do homework for once, the calmness of the small corner i’d found in the library comfortable.

 

diary.

feb. 11th, 3147

HE FUCKING FOUND THE SPOT.

I can’t believe it. I am convinced he’s just trying to find me now. what. is he bored?

doesn’t he have two boyfriends to take care of or whatever?

well i mean talisen is nice and so is rishen. . . BUT THAT DOESN’T MATTER. he is a pest! a plague!

he is the reason my mama always told me to never interact with ghosts because when you do they won’t stop following you around!

i marched out quickly after he a gave a few teases. he’s infurating.

when he called out for me again, i looked back at him and told him to just leave me alone.

i’m tired of his bullshit, it’s like he can’t see that he annoys me — i told him he makes me feel like i am suffocating.

it’s like he thinks we’ve been having fun. i’m so tired.

 

diary.

feb. 20th, 3147

it’s been a while since i last saw alessio. it’s odd, i’ve begun to miss his presence, and i hate it— well i think i do.

he’s conflicted my mind, i can’t tell what i think of him anymore. he used to annoy me, i don’t know what changed it. maybe it was the fact i recently realised that most of the times he’d tried to interact with me he’d just tried to talk to me.

sure he’s teased and flirted a bit. but i’ve come to notice that it’s. . . normal. and i might’ve misunderstood greatly.

i’ve observed how he acts around the people he’s friends with, i observed how he is with talisen and rishen. it’s the exact same way.

or.

well

it was.

he hasn’t spoken to me much.

mostly because i haven’t seen him around. . . i feel bad.

 

diary.

march. 1st. 3147

for the first time in weeks i finally saw him. sat next to him in mechanical engineering.

gods he’s never been this quiet with me, i don’t really know how to react. i feel like i’m an idiot for saying i miss his voice. even if it used to prickle at my skin everytime he spoke to me in the past i now wish he would talk to me.

it felt so awkward, he’d talk to most people around but me. the time i spoke to him was when i asked if i could borrow a pencil.

he gave me a little look, he’d always been so pretty. . . it made my stomach twist, but i don’t know with what emotion.

he’d only handed a pencil to me quietly, looking away and then speaking to his mutuals once again.

i wish he’d laugh like that again when he talked to me

i wish he’d grin at me

i wish he’d tease again.

gods. i don’t like feeling this way.

what has he done to me?

 

diary.

march. 16th, 3147

today i found alessio’s sketchbook. i haven’t look inside of it of course, he wouldn’t like that. but i’ve taken it with me and kept it safe for next time i see him.

i really hope he doesn’t miss it too much — i wonder what could’ve gotten him into such a hurry.

 

diary.

march. 28th, 3147

i finally got to see alessio again. he was walking down the little pathway away from the university.

so i’d run, as fast as i possibly could. calling for him and making sure that i wouldn’t get slowed down by my umbrella.

the guys was walking without any raincoat or coverage for the rain and it was pouring? what in the world was he thinking.

he turned around the second he heard me call. emerald eyes glaring at me.

glaring.

why were they glaring.

i quickly halted, his sketchbook in my hand holding it safe from the rain. and then i walked the rest of my way over to him to hand it over to him.

at the very least his eyes softened when he saw i just wanted to give him the sketchbook.

he spoke to me then, for the first time in a month.

“thanks.” he’d said, before continuing. “don’t you have quiet places to be.” it didn’t sound like a question and more like a statement.

i’d shook my head, i didn’t know what to say admittedly.

i felt awkward.

 

diary.

april. 5th, 3147.

i’d finally built up the courage to ask if he was mad at me when i saw him out by the treeswings. smoking, just like he did the very first line of this diary. . . it felt nostalgic, but in a nice way. yet it still made me somber.

he looked at me and sighed, shaking his head.

explained to me he hadn’t been mad, simply given me the space i’d asked him for.

for some reason that made my heart feel like it was gonna tear itself apart. i looked at him and asked of him to please stay again.

i admitted my misunderstandings.

i admitted a lot of feelings i didn’t expect to admit.

i think that’s the first time i’ve seen his eyes have life around me again since early februrary.

it made my heart flutter.

 

diary.

april. 6th, 3147

i sat down and had some coffee with alessio today, it was nice!

gods. i didn’t realise how funny he actually was.

he’s by far one of the loveliest people i’ve ever had the pleasure of getting to know and i had no idea. i always thought he was a tough-guy with bad boy demeanors, he’s the furthest from it.

he likes playing board games, old fashioned video games too — gods, the man plays pacman. that’s ancient.

he likes coffee, windy days — says he likes the way his hair blows in the wind. even if it’s a little silly.

i told him he looks majestic. that’s one of the first times i’ve heard him laugh at one of my jokes.

gods, he has my heart clenching and fluttering i don’t know what to do. i’ve fallen in love with him and i don’t know what to do.

he likes all sorts of animals. a big fan of dobberman dogs. says he’s always wanted to have one.

i also only today discovered he’s a part of the dance club?!

he showed me a few of the things he could do and i am impressed. the way his flow works is fascinating, every move is beautiful.

 

diary.

april. 7th, 3147

we both went out on a walk today after classes. he’d seen how overwhelmed i was by the noise and decided to take me out for fresh air.

something to drink too.

he asked if he could hold my hand. i mean, of course he could, i let him. i let him.

gods.

it was just holding hands so he could comfort me.

i don’t get it.

how does he make me so shy.

[darcytaylor]

I get people who are saying he appears to be outgrowing his friend group, however it honestly seems like he is firmly committed to them regardless of his growth. The one constant thing we’ve seen has been the presence of at least A through all the promo and she seemed to be very involved with everything and everyone else in his life apart from Bridgerton. I believe she was even seen with his cast mates from TSOT recently.

I hate to say it, but I am starting to see Bridgerton as the outlier that doesn’t seem to be built into his life, but instead kept separate. The issue for Luke is that Bridgerton and the persona he is/was around it is what he’s known for now, and by seeming to do all he can NOT to be identified with it as his defining role, I think it’s causing problems. Again, not saying any of this is fair or even right, but it isn’t unexpected and I do hate to see this sort of thing playing out so publicly for someone who we know historically struggled with anxiety (although I know some people who have been around awhile and seen him in person have said he is noticeably different as a person now and more confident/not the dorky guy he was… that’s part of why I feel like Bridgerton Luke is not really him anymore).

You have made some very good points in regard to Luke’s commitment to his friend group (and also good points in general). But just because someone is committed to a particular path doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best choice for their life or that they’re fully aware of its impact. The choices we make affect our lives, and sometimes these impacts are not always positive for ourselves or those around us. 

In Luke’s case, while it's true that his friends are posting about his private/personal life, he is still responsible for setting boundaries and making choices that align with his personal and professional goals. His current approach suggests that he may not fully be aware of the progress he has made or the level of growth he has achieved. It appears he is not surrounded by people who match his professional aspirations, which could be hindering his career. (This is all speculation on my part).

I think Luke can still maintain his friendships while also focusing on networking and advancing his career with people who share similar goals. What’s being shown publicly should ideally reflect his professional image rather than his personal/private life. His recent choices to spend time with his current group, especially when aiming to build on his success with Bridgerton, seem counterintuitive. But I will say this again, until we know his specific career goals, it’s hard to say whether his choices align with them.

Maintaining a separation between work and personal life is healthy. I think everybody should strive to do this. The issue isn’t that we keep seeing Luke’s private life, but that his private life keeps intruding into his personal brand (I brought this up in a comment to an ask). Every celebrity has a personal brand, which they use to market themselves. For Nicola, it’s her relatability, humour, and advocacy, which she effectively leverages (she's damn good at her job). In Luke’s case, the overlap of his private and professional life seems to be damaging his personal brand and creating a conflict.

But people do evolve and grow, and I don’t think it is uncommon for actors (or anyone) to undergo significant personal and professional changes, which sometimes can lead to a disconnect between public image and personal life. I also don’t think it would be easy to manage these perceptions either, but I do think it is crucial for Luke to find a balance that could allow him to embrace his growth and maintain a coherent public image (that works and isn't holding him back) at the same time. 

(also sorry this was so longwinded, but you know me, long drawn out paragraphs are my specialty!)

[sciderman]

YES SCI YES YOU GET IT

like. okay, i dont think david way's run was AMAZING. it was flawed!! i think it struggled a lot with the execution of its ideas especially since there wasn't more natural flow between the comedy and more serious aspects, they interfered with each other a lot. HOWEVER. if you ignore the execution and just look at the underlying concepts behind the stories in way's run you start to appreciate it. way had such cool and fun ideas (i may be cringe but i really do like "evil deadpool" as bad as that name is not necessarily as a character but conceptually and as a medium for wade to Work Through Shit) and i think he may be gets a bit too much shit for it.

(i do, however, hate that way's run was basically the only reference material used for the deadpool game bc they stripped any more serious moments and themes from the run and JUST did the lol random humor and did irreparable damage by painting deadpool the taco memes guy and nothing more)

((also i might reread way's run now too :] ))

oh i have THOUGHTS about the deadpool game

way's run had such an impact on deadpool's pop-culture presence and my god. i think it was the timing of it, being at peak rage-comic icanhascheeseburger meme era of the internet where people would share panels out-of-context for the haha funnies and so that kind of was just how people were exposed to deadpool. deadpool became like, the comic equivalent to like, trollface or something

it's kind of over now, we kind of have a more complex deadpool out there doing his deadpooliest - and i can't say i miss the era of 7 different deadpool books and all of them being cringe incarnate. but i do miss the playfulness of way's era of deadpool. i think duggan and poeshn literally. actively did everything they could to "normalise" wade. make him like everyone else.

get rid of the boxes ✔️ give him a wife ✔️ give him a kid ✔️ put him on the avengers roster ✔️

i don't know, it was kind of a huge endeavour to make him normal. he still had all his misery, sure, but it became a lot less fantastical and probably more...? relatable? to your average straight middle-aged guy. but i think it's a shame, because i do like fantastical. i think it's fun to get fantastical with it. these are fantastical characters. so i love the grand hallucinations and indecipherable nonsense. i love the creativity. i love not-normal.

i think wade is boring now. comics wade is boring. he's boring, he's cutesy, he's not the weird messed up problematic fave that i fell in love with. i miss the problematic parts of him, instead of him just being a pity-fest. i miss his weird brain. i don't know what's going on up in there anymore. maybe dua lipa's "dance the night" en loope, maybe that's all that's going on in wade's head right now. yeah.

[lady0lunamoon]

Okay! My honest opinion on "Miraculous World: Paris"?

It was AMAZING!!!!

Lot's of action, some funny moments, very emotional and lots of tension!

One thing I especially love is how the Special wastes absolutely no time with getting straight into the action!

Something I hate about many movies is how they just waste so much time setting up the plot that by the time it finally gets to the good stuff, half the movie is already over!

The writers really have my respect for not doing that here! After the opening, they waste no time and immediately get straight to the actual plot!

Another thing i really love about the special is the way they handled Shadybug and Claw Noir!

I kept saying that Shady and Claw have the potential to become the best Miraculous villains ever, even if they get redeemed, and as far as I'm concerned, i was totally right about that because these two are officially my favorite Miraculous villains!!! 🖤

[WARNING!! SPOILERS AHEAD!!!]

For one, I love villains like Shadybug who are driven by a desire to not be hurt anymore!

I felt so bad for her when she cried while reading Marinette's diary! 😢

And I found it so touching how she first acted cold and rude towards Sabine but quickly backtracked on her attitude, when Sabine continued to speak kindly to her!

It showed that Shadybug wished she'd have a loving mother like that and she'd actually be grateful for it!

I am truly touched by how vurnerable she looked throughout that entire scene!

💔💔💔

🖤And I absolutely love how sassy and unhinged Claw Noir is!🖤

The guy freaking cataclysmed himself ON PURPOSE FOR NO APPEARANT REASON!!

At least I can't think of a reason why he did that! And even while cataclysmed, he still managed to put up one heck of a fight throughout the entire special!!

And It's very interesting how his motivation is a lot like Monarch's, but at the same time not!

Claw Noir does want his mother back, but he seems more hurt by the fact that his father doesn't seem as upset as he is!

Although it's not that hard to read the signs that Shadyverse!Gabriel infact is impacted by his wife's death!

If I had to guess, it looks very much like Claw THOUGHT his father easily moved on and continued to focus on his work as a fashion designer and forgot about Emily, while what he was really doing was using the butterfly miraculous to create superheroes and trying to stop the Supreme, most likely to create a safe world for their son!

I also love how both Shady and Claw wear different masks to hide their sadness : Shadybug acts cold and unfeeling while Claw Noir is more outgoing and unhinged! Claw is basically that one character who is a little b*tch but is just too charismatic to hate!

[SPOILERS OVER]

There might've been a few things I had hoped to see in the special that weren't there, but that's okay because a lack of one or two good possible elements is still better than the presence of multiple bad elements — which mind you was NOT present in this special at all!

The show often has some moments that really made me cringe, but I couldn't find a SINGLE bad moment in this special!

[SPOILERS]

So the fact that we didn't get much personal father-son drama between Batterfly and Claw Noir (Which was justified since, contrary to what i assumed, they don't know each others secret identities) or the fact that neither CelesteCat's white suit and hair nore Claw Noir's giant Cataclysm triggered Ladybug's Chat Blanc PTSD (because we don't talk about this enough in Season 5) don't bother me much!

My worries about Ubiquity, despite being featured heavily in promotional material, barely appearing in the actual special (because she only had one appearence in all the trailers) were also put to rest! Even though Alya isn't Ubiqity for long at first, she still gets turned back into her a few times! Giving her enough screentime that I see no reason to get mad over her being promoted so much even though she doesn't actually stick around throughout the entire special!

[SPOILERS END]

Whoever says this show lost it's touch should definetly watch this!

Which is another little meta detail I really love in this special :

'Hope' is a central theme in the special, and it was so good that it also gave me hope that the show can return to it's former glory!

Despite a lot of controversy surrounding the show for quite a while now, this special proves that, just like Shadybug, Claw Noir and Batterfly's world, the show itself can also still be saved!

[gnomescarfcomics]

Rings of Power: Episode 7 - The Eye

Rewatch mini review. Chaotic and out of order.

The grief episode.

Southlands: Galadriel's scenes with Theo were surprisingly poignant. It was great to see her slowly coming back to her true self after years of obsession, hate, failure, and grief. I don't dislike Theo, but he was probably one of my least favorite characters. This show finds a way to make good use of every character though. Seeing the world through his eyes helps Galadriel come to terms with how much she's changed since her hunt for Sauron began. I wish they'd spent a little more time with that though, even just another short scene or two. I think it could have softened the blow a little for how people reacted to Galadriel's personality throughout the show.

As I mentioned in my other review, another fake out death for Bronwyn feels extra unnecessary after the events of season 2. But it is what it is. Now I actually miss Bronwyn more than I thought I would. She was another one of my least favorite characters, but her storyline did have a lot of heart behind it.

Elendil's various stages of grief are played out well, even if most people know Isildur isn't actually dead. It's not always about what the audience knows but how the characters react. Miriel's blindness was a creative choice that has some nice symbolic implications, and it was nice seeing it hardening her resolve rather than sinking her into despair.

Halbrand being wounded and needing "elvish medicine" was a little hokey and felt like a lazy way of getting him to Eregion. I know Galadriel later says "we rode without rest", but I would have liked at least one scene with them on the road. Season one suffers from kind of ignoring the time and distance between locations. Even with the inclusion of map cutaways, which I grew to love, there isn't enough traveling for me. Maybe they took the complaints of Lord of the Rings having "too much walking" to heart.

And speaking of maps, I think the Southlands to Mordor visual transition should have been done over a shot of the whole map rather than just showing the text over a wide shot of the land. But that's a bit of a nitpick.

Harfoots/Harfeet: This part feels a little sloppy in some places. How much they fear the Stranger and his magic (and why) feels a little inconsistent at times. As does the sense of community of the harfoots. I get what they were going for: they're a superstitious clan that have become overly obsessed with survival, basically at the cost of their true unity as a people. The Stranger's mere presence fills them with fear, despite his kindly nature and attempts to help them. And when anything goes wrong, it's hard for them not to instinctively blame him. Their decisions are all based in fear, including leaving people behind.

Just as Isildur says Numenor is "not the true Numenor" anymore, I think the same is true of the harfoots. They've literally lost their way. But who they once were still lives on, and it's strongest in people like Nori and her father. Just as the heart of true Numenor lives on in Elendil and Isildur. As Nori says when she refuses to leave the Stranger behind, "That's not who we are." And Poppy corrects her, "That's not who YOU are."

I think Largo's speech and Malva admitting her faults do a pretty good job of communicating this, but it could have been clearer in my opinion. And like Galadriel, a little more clarification and time could have helped alleviate some of the criticisms. Because I think the writers' intent is good and makes sense overall.

Khazad-dum: The smoothest of the storylines. Elrond and Durin's relationship (and Disa) continue to be the heart of the show. Not even the somewhat clunky mithril stuff can hold them back. And to its benefit, this episode focuses more on the emotional impacts rather than the detailed intricacies of how the fading and the mithril supposedly works.

It may not be immediately apparent, but most of the characters on the side of good are "right" in their own ways. Even the grumpy dwarf king makes valid points and is doing what he thinks is best, just as everyone else is. He may come off as harsh, but he's not acting out of malice. This idea of people being both right and wrong in their own ways becomes especially important in season two.

I remember this episode feeling a little disappointing when it first came out. After such an impactful previous episode, it was hard not to want things to keep going at the same pace. But as Sadoc said, everyone needed "a moment to grieve" and regroup before the final reveals of the season came to light.

[cactusdrinkstea]

Hiii I found you while exploring around and I was wondering if you can do my matchup request ^^

~ Personality & Hobbies ~

I’d like to think I have a diligent, dedicated, creative personality. I’m always fixated on finishing task/s at hand and I like thinking of creative ways to make small trinkets as gifts for my friends. I am mostly quiet and open up to a few close friends but when it comes to work I often forget to take breaks. I do art as a hobby mainly drawing and recently writing since I was gifted a diary (and potentially matchups of my own too once I get to it). I’m looking into doing crocheting in the future too so I can gift handmade things to my friends. 🧸

~ Likes and dislikes ~

I like staying indoors because it’s more comfortable and I’m a night owl. 🦉 I like staying up late because no one will bother me and I get to cuddle with my plushies while checking the internet. I really like the feeling of accomplishment especially after finishing a task because it makes me feel good. I don’t like boastful and ignorant actions, especially in social situations like unfunny jokes and uncalled-for comments. 😬

What I look for in a partner is mainly loyalty, empathetic, resilience, and intelligence. My s/o don’t have to give me physical affection constantly and I don’t mind him being constantly busy. I just want someone who never cheats or considers it. I don’t want someone who is manipulative, constantly aggressive, and egotistic. 🥹

I prefer not to be paired with Alhaitham and Wanderer, no hate towards them ofc I just don't see myself being paired with either of them. 😅

Genshin Impact Matchup ♡

Hello there! Lovely request, thanks for saying who you did not want too! So here I go. I had several options in mind, but my gut feeling told me this was the one.

┉┅━━━━━━━━━━┅┉

I match you with...

︵‿︵ʚɞ『 Zhongli 』ʚɞ︵‿︵

┊ ┊ ┊ ┊ ┊

┊ ┊ ✫ ˚♡ ⋆｡ ❀

┊ ☪︎⋆

⊹

┊ . ˚ ✧

I can feel this man is so loyal! He would never ever betray you or even consider it. He has been around for real long, and I know the thought would not even pass through that golden mind of his, not even for a moment. Loyalty guaranteed for the rest of your days.

Since you have recently started to get into writing, he he might gift you a beautiful, antique pen with gorgeous golden carvings, something that feels timeless and elegant, much like him.

He would gently encourage you to pause and take care of yourself without being overbearing. Imagine him walking into your workspace, placing a hand on your shoulder, and softly saying: "My love, even the most dedicated souls deserve rest. Come, I’ve prepared some tea for us to enjoy together."

Even without breaks, he would praise you a lot about your completed tasks.

He would never let anyone belittle or take advantage of you. While he isn’t boastful or too loud about it, his commanding presence is enough to stop anyone who tries to disrespect you. He may not be an imposing deity anymore, but he would surely not stand back when it comes to defending you.

Since you love art a lot and Zhongli loves sharing his knowledge, he’d take joy in teaching you about Liyue’s traditions, even tying them to your hobbies. He might tell you about ancient symbols and patterns, inspiring your art or crocheting.

Any part piece that you make for him will be carefully kept and treasured, in his eyes they are way more valuable than any mora.

Speaking of, please remind him to carry money. Try crafting him something to make it easy for him to remember to have some around.

He isn't very touchy, but I feel like his love language involves acts of service and words of affirmation. Expect tons of things done for you and tons of beautiful praise that could sound as poetry without even trying.

At night, he might join you in your late-night routines, watching the stars together or discussing topics as you cuddle with your plushies. He can talk quite a lot if you want, or just stay in silence. Whatever suits you best, he'll do it.

He’d create a cozy atmosphere, sitting with you by candlelight or under the moonlit sky, sipping tea he made. You can do anything you want and he'll be there beside you reading a book or maybe just looking at you in silence in such a gentle way.

Zhongli would always remind you of his devotion through quiet actions always prioritizing your happiness and well-being. You want something? You'll get it. You need his presence? He is right there.

⊷⊶⊷⊷⊶⊷《 ✮ 》⊷⊶⊷⊷⊶⊷

Closer runner ups!

Albedo (and he was real close)

Kazuha

And that's it! I swear the moment I read your description something in my mind yelled Zhongli. I hope you think so too! Also I saw you have open matchups, so expect a request real soon -w-

[crownedtargaryen]

Aemond x Bastard Baratheon!Reader Oneshot FLUFF

A/N: I’ll be honest I used to hate Aemond, so if I don’t have a good grasp of his character I sincerely apologize. @valeskafics is to blame for my newfound Aemond love.

ALL NOTES ARE APPRECIATED (LIKES, SHARES, COMMENTS)

TW: Just people being rude, Implied sexual desire Pronouns: She/Her

Ever since I was young Aemond has impacted my life. A pushed-aside boy with a bastard girl who was set to marry the solemn and husk Targaryen, the duo felt like destiny.

At first, his mother was appalled by the request, feeling it was insulting of the deer to suggest a bastard wed her sweet boy, a growing and powerful individual. 

What had changed her mind? 

Well, when Aemond and I were together, there was an undeniable gentleness he felt toward me.

After he had been pushed around by his nephews, he became defensive and harsh. Maybe a woman was what he needed to rid that standoff and snappy personality.

When the adults were busy talking, I would urge him to show me around. Reluctantly, he agreed, since he hadn’t had much of a choice otherwise. He was knowing of my adventurous personality, and that no matter his response to showing me around, I'd go with or without him. So, might as well not be responsible for my demise.

I was with him when it happened, walking with him as he ushered me to come with him. He trusted me, a loving and honest feeling. It devastated me when he seemed ashamed in my presence. Lucerys sliced his eye, and I watched as he fell to the ground in horror, unable to do anything. The two brunettes looked at me fearfully, then scampered off as I fell to my knees next to my lover-to-be.

"Aemond?! Aemond! Let me see it, please, I can help!" I insist. He cries, which is something you never wished to see. I watch as he shoves me away with one hand, looking at me fearfully and shaking like a scared pup. "Aemond please, I beg of you." He refuses, panting and swallowing down screams. 

"Go away!" He yells at me, making my muscles tense. "Leave! NOW!" I refuse, shaking my head. "Are you stupid?! LEAVE!" I glare at him, moving over and grabbing him. He fights for a moment, before becoming too weak to battle anymore. I carry him straight to his mother, where she screams in horror and snatches him from me. My clothes are bloodied, and my figure trembles in adrenaline and horror.

"What have you done," Alicent screams, making my eyes widen. "WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO MY BOY YOU BASTARD." I wince at the phrase, looking at her with tears in my eyes.

"Your Grace, it was the Valeryon boys. I swear it! The smaller one, Lucerys, he attacked him!" I yelp, her eyes widening with anger and sorrow. She feels bad for saying what she said to me, but can't muster an apology. Her servants bring in whoever they can to help, and I hastily clear the room to avoid being in the way.

As I walk through the halls, I see the two boys hurriedly trying to find their mother. I run over in a fiery rage, grabbing Lucerys and throwing him to the ground. I stare at Jacerys who looks at me in shock, Lucerys groaning after his head hits the solid floor. I don't dwell on the fact I'm outnumbered here, I focus on the smaller one, clawing at his face and punching him as his arms are pinned beneath my legs until I'm forcibly removed. His face is bloodied beneath me, but he isn't hurt enough to be dead or chronically wounded. Just maybe a scar or two. "You took his eye! My husband!" I scream in anguish, kicking and crying, trying to escape Jacerys. I didn't care if he attacked first, and I don't care if it was self-defense, it felt unfair.

And after that, it's a blurred memory. I remember Alicent thanking me for my sacrificed honor, and demanding an eye for an eye. I faintly remember Aemond looking at me, the light in his eyes now gone. It shattered me.

Now, we were of the proper age to marry, but he hadn't talked to me since that day. It'd be dishonest of me if I were to say I hadn't been avoiding him as well, I knew he didn't want to see me.

All I knew, is every early morning on my name day, a knock came on my door. When I opened it, no one was there. Just a gift left at the door. I was sure it was him, but he wouldn't show any sign of interest when the celebrations came around.

Until this name day.

I was expecting no one at the door once more after the knock, scrambling out of my bed and opening the door swiftly in hopes of catching him. However, he waited. I open the door to Aemond, standing with the brutishness that I've grown used to. A small smirk comes to his face when he sees me, my heart skipping a beat.

"Prince Aemond? To what do I owe the pleasure," I whisper, looking around the halls to ensure no one is around.

"Happy name day, Princess," he says, surprising me. He hasn't spoken to me since- "I thought I'd deliver it face to face this time." I smile, almost melting into myself. I know the boy I once knew is in there, he's just putting walls up.

"Come in then," I insist, turning to the side and allowing him inside my chambers, closing the door behind him. "What'd you get me this time?" I look at the small box, raising a brow. He hands it to me and takes a seat. I feel somewhat defenseless around him, his eye trailing my form. When he notices I catch him staring, he covers it with an excuse. "Are you planning on opening it?" His face is flushed, and I feel a knot in my stomach, a good one. 

Slowly, I lift the lid off the box. My eyes widen at the contents inside, a necklace. A rich golden color with a dragon pendant attached to it. I grin like an idiot, hearing a small chuckle escape Aemond.

"I'm assuming you enjoy the gift, yes?" He crosses his arms and leans back a bit in the chair. I admire the expensive gift, looking at him with excitement and joy.

"Aemond, it's beautiful," I compliment, holding it close to my chest. "Could you help me put it on?" Hesitantly, he nods. I walk over, which surprises him, and sit between his legs on my knees, back facing him as I hand him the necklace, our hands brushing. He pulls away as if I burned him, taking the necklace. I can hear his breathing become broken, his warmth radiating onto my back. Slowly, he moves my hair from my neck, telling me to hold it, and slips the necklace over my neck. I feel his hands touch my skin, a small shiver escaping me. I hear the gentle clip of the neckpiece and look over my shoulder to him where he's pursing his lips. I stand, looking down at him and adjusting my hair. "What do you think? Does it look nice?"

Aemond pauses before nodding slowly, and I smile once more. I watch as he relaxes at the sight of my smile, his gaze softening.

"Look, Aemond," I start, but he senses what I plan to say and stands swiftly.

"I have to return to my chambers, have a good name day, Princess." He hastily says, surprising me as he pushes past me. I hesitate before rushing to him and grabbing his hand.

"We can't avoid it forever," I say with a heartbroken tone, seeing him pause and then look at me. "Please, Aemond." His eyes widen at my words, watching as they gloss over slightly. I hate seeing him cry, I refuse to see him cry. So, without thinking, I grab his face and kiss him.

He freezes, refusing to return the kiss at first, then sighs and gives in. He wraps his arms around my figure, cupping my cheek with one hand as the other rubs my side. He groans into the kiss, leaning into it as it becomes more heated. I pull away, my mind and body craving more but I don't give in.

"Aemond," I whisper, watching him scan my face. I reach for his eyepatch, he grabs my hand.

"No," he demands, his jaw clenching.

"Why? I watched when it happened, why can't I get closure?" I murmur, seeing him debate his options.

"I do not wish you scare you," he murmurs back, his forehead pressed to mine. I close my eyes and sigh. "I have no fear towards you, Aemond. You are mine, and I am yours. Scar or not, you're still the man I love." I admit, peeking through my eyelids and seeing the surprise on his face. I open my eyes, smiling at him and looking at the eyepatch. Aemond hesitates for a moment, before nodding.

I reach for the clasp, undoing the patch and letting it fall into my hand as I slowly remove it from his eye. The sapphire stares at me, then he looks away hastily and grips me tighter. I reach and cup the side of his face, turning him to look at me. Hesitantly, he gazes into my eyes.

I say nothing, I merely kiss over the scar and chuckle softly. "Out of all the gems, a sapphire? Expensive taste." I joke, seeing his fear wash away. I watch that signature smirk come to his face, unable to stop myself from smiling like an idiot.

He doesn't let me tease him anymore, kissing me eagerly. I return the kiss and its passion, feeling us heading backward as I fall onto the bed. I look up at him, Aemond's smile growing as he nuzzles his nose with mine, gentle Eskimo kisses.

"I love you," he coos, petting the side of my face. I hum, content with his words and feeling my insides exploding with joy.

"I love you too," I respond, hooking my legs around his waist. "I never stopped loving you, nor will I ever. I swear it." 

"You swear it?" He teases, moving his head back to get a better view of my face, raising a brow.

"I swear it, by the old gods and the new," I assure, seeing his eyes glimmer with the affection I had known times ago. "I swear that I will love you into the last of my days, and after."

Aemond sighs, moving a strand of hair from my face. "I swear it as well, you are mine as I am yours," he reassures, moving back in and kissing me.

I felt complete once again.

[mtjester]

Choose Y(our) Own Adventure #003 — Negotiate the amount of help you’re willing to give

<-#001 <-<-#002

#004–>

—————

You clear your throat. “You shouldn’t expect much from me,” you say. “I don’t…do that kind of thing anymore.”

Koriena deflates slightly, but hie doesn’t look surprised. Hier eyes flicker to the four thin scars that cut white lines in the short fur on your face. “I heard a little bit about that,” hie admits. “They said you would be hard to convince.” Your chest tightens.

“Mm,” is all you can think to say. Thankfully, your food arrives, and Koriena is immediately distracted by the new cuisine. You’re granted the excuse not to talk for several minutes while hie samples hier food and chatters excitedly to hierself. Hier enthusiasm slowly takes the edge off your anxiety. “You don’t eat out much, huh?” you say, the corner of your lip turning up despite yourself.

“Oh, no, not really,” hie admits. “The kinclan shares the currency, you know? We don’t spend lightly.”

“Yeah, I remember.” You prop your chin up on your fist. “…How long exactly have they been gone?”

“It’d be…two standard septerms,” hie replies. Hie eyes you. “Are you considering it?”

You hate that you are. The longer you stay in this stranger’s presence, remembering what life used to be like, the more you feel your resolve waver. Hie reminds you of home. “I…have worked hard to get where I am,” you say, breaking eye contact and picking at your food. “The project I’m working on right now, it’s a big deal embassy for an important interplanetary trade partner. It’s—well, it means a lot to me to succeed, because…honestly, I’m not that good at any of it, and I’ve had to fight for every little success I’ve had since I left the clanship…”

You risk a glance up. Koriena’s watching you closely, waiting for you to finish with apprehension. Your voice dies in your throat. When it becomes clear that you aren’t going to continue, hie says, “I’m sure it’s been hard. I promise I won’t get in the way! But just…something? Please? Just tell me what I need to do, please. I’ll make it up to you, any inconvenience at all—I can help you build this embassy, even, but please…”

You can’t help but breathe out a laugh. “I’m not sure you could help with that,” you say. You pause and then sigh. “Well, I can at least help you find out what happened.”

“Yes!” Koriena says immediately, sitting forward. “Yes, please!”

You hesitate. “Listen, I’ve never heard of an entire ship getting spirited away before. I’m not even sure it’s possible. So be prepared for the chance that it’s something other than the Fair Folk.”

Hie shakes hier head. “Your elder said it’s definitely a spiriting away.”

“Well, we need to confirm that,” you say. “Especially if hie’s sick. That can impact Sight.”

“Your kin said you’re even better at it than hie is,” Koriena says eagerly. “So you can find out?”

You grimace. “I’m not…better at it. I don’t think anyone can be better at it.”

“But you can?”

“…Yes.”

[dazais-guardian-angel]

I hate to nitpick the Atsushi hallucinating scene in the new episode cause it was SO well done otherwise, but I'm still really sad that they cut out Francis being there. Like... it's not entirely necessary, I guess, but it just adds so much to his character and to the scene itself?

The Francis in Atsushi's mind is this looming, intimidating presence, because Atsushi did of course fight against him, he was his enemy at one point, but I think it undeniably says a lot that he's even included here at all.

I'm pretty sure I saw this discussed back when this chapter first came out, but while everything Atsushi's hallucinations say to him are framed as negative, putting him down, they can also be read as letting him know that the burden of responsibility for making such a huge decision isn't on him (hence why he decides to let Fukuzawa decide instead, because he can't make THE choice, but he can still choose to act to let someone else decide, and not simply do nothing), and Francis is no exception in this regard. Since he's naturally haughty and arrogant in his personality, this fake version of him doesn't at all feel out of character, coldly saying that "nobody expects anything of you", but again, I think this line especially can also be read as "you are not expected to do anything". In that way, it feels more reassuring, and maybe even dare I say kind -- the fact that Atsushi even considers him important enough of a figure in his life to think of what he would say to him in this moment means that he counts Francis among his allies now. Yes, they didn't get along at first when Francis lied and told him that he only wanted to revive Margaret just so she could kill Hawthorne (because god forbid he actually admit out loud that he cares about people, smh), and obviously because of the whole almost burning Yokohama down and trying to kill him and Akutagawa thing lol, but I'm pretty sure Atsushi changed his mind about him after he saw the state Margaret was in, and recognized how much Francis cares about her and wanted her to be alright. He probably still remembers him talking about his desire to bring back his daughter and save her and his wife, too. The guy still probably isn't someone Atsushi would want to hang out with and be buddy-buddy with during his free time lmao, but the airheaded vain old sport still has a good heart, deep down, and I think Atsushi has seen this by now, because he's a kind person, and so I think it speaks volumes that he unconsciously looks to him for advice here. Francis is just a really good and underrated character, and this is such a small but meaningful moment that shows his development so well, the only moment with him we've gotten or any of the Guild really in such a long time, so it makes me sad to see this cut 💔

I also just feel like not including him kind of weakens the impact of Akutagawa's appearance here?? Like, there's a progression of the order of people Atsushi hears/sees in this scenes: first, people from the ADA sans Dazai, who are all portrayed as on the same level, because he cares about them all equally, aside from I guess Kyouka (again, sans Dazai, the most important person to him). Then, there is Francis, and not to say that Francis is more important to Atsushi than the ADA, obviously not, but he's one of the last to appear because he used to be his enemy, and so he commands much more of a presence, has more of an impact -- but at the same time, like I said, it's complicated: he's not really his enemy anymore, but something between a rival and a friend, and so for that reason his words carry more weight. He is someone Atsushi, logically, shouldn't trust, after what he did to him in the past, and yet he does, because things have changed since the Guild arc, and he knows he can count on him to be there for him and the ADA now.

And then, after him, there is Akutagawa. Who is basically exactly the same as everything I just described for Francis, but times one hundred. Of course Akutagawa would be last. Of course, if there's someone Atsushi would simultaneously and paradoxically be both intimidated by and yet comforted to hear their advice because of their tumultuous history together, far more than Francis, it would be Akutagawa. The progression of ADA members > Francis > Akutagawa in that order gives Akutagawa's appearance much more weight imo than just going straight to him from the ADA members, especially with the specific framing of him standing in line behind Francis to judge/advise Atsushi.... it's just much more powerful, and I wish they'd kept it like this, for both Francis and Aku's characters.

[omeya]

A word or two about AI and our fandom

Over the last few months I've been noticing an increased presence of AIs in this fandom environment. Not that it's something new, they were already here for some time but, although maybe it's just my perception, I see them more and more often.

Being aware of the multitude of fields covered by this technology I would like to talk about what, as a lover of arts in general (not only graphics), makes me uneasy about this matter. 

I will start by saying that I am not writing this from a place of rejection towards artificial intelligence, I understand the value and the multiple utilities and advantages it can bring. I will even say that I am attracted to its potential and the promises of improvement that it can provide to certain aspects of life.

But not here, in art. In the most human work there is, it will never have a deserved place. 

I remember when, a few years ago, through social networks, we were beginning to see greater support towards artists. Many voices were talking about their visibility, about sharing their creations, commenting, criticizing, interacting with them. It seemed that everyone wanted to support their favorite artists, and who wouldn't? The art world is a hostile place, how could they not support them? It even seemed that the detractors, if there were any, were a bit more hesitant to steal art, leave hate comments etc. 

Now, however, I am deeply saddened to visit these same profiles and find "fanarts", "fanfics",... made by an algorithm where the public is full of flattery towards a work generated with, most likely, stolen art. Where has all that gone? 

The AI in this environment triumphs with its stunning images, full of colors, "details", "intricate shapes", lighting. Oh yes, they look very appealing and complex. Incredibly attractive (at least until you look at them in detail) and suspiciously similar to each other. As if they were taken from the same book. A part of the public no longer seems concerned about those artists who have their work stolen and amalgamated into an attempt at "art" by companies or individuals who are trying to break into this world with their dubious (to put it mildly) techniques. A painful part of them is content with simply seeing their favorite character in a new "work", no matter who or how they made it or its consequences. And I still hear from them that it is necessary to support the artists. But hear me out, it is not the public's fault, at least not entirely, they are not the ones who steal art nor the ones who are driven solely by the desire to have more interactions on social networks, whatever the price. It may be a false illusion but I prefer to think that there is a lack of information and not that we just don't care anymore.  

These days, interacting on networks, sharing what I do or just checking in is difficult. Not only for me, as I personally don't claim any artistic career and it's just one hobby among others, but for my more dedicated peers. I find the daily experience of many artists, being overtaken in numbers, visibility and support by an AI made of stolen art, heartbreaking.

Although I think that the use of these images and texts created by computer is equally ignoble in all art spaces, in particular for "fandoms" where most of us participate in a disinterested way, by and for the same community and with special affection, I feel it especially vile. Leaving aside (for now) the fact of the intentionality and the emotion the artist puts in and its appreciated in their works, I would like to emphasize that these communities are formed by small creators mostly that will feel in a more devastating way, if possible, the impact of this tendency. I would not want to see myself in the position of a small artist trying to carve out a niche in the community by competing against individuals or companies whose only goal is numbers and profit. Interactions, not art or the appreciation of a work. Just the generation of similar good-looking images that are known to do well in networks and collect numbers. And the artists, even if they manage to make a niche for themselves and get recognition for their work, how should they feel when they realize that what they had taken hours, days, weeks or months to create (among many other things), an algorithm can emulate in seconds, as many times as the person wants in the day, with little effort, even earning more recognition than them and, on top of that, based on stolen art? 

I won’t dare to call these crude attempts “art”. Not just because of its relation with effort, which is not entirely crucial, but for the absence of intentionality, conscious expression. To say that everything is art is to deny it, but in reverse, because if everything is art, it means that nothing really is it. 

A distinction must be made. As part of the community I will say that for me there is no comparison for a work made by a person who feels and loves what they do. All of them have something that cannot be emulated by an algorithm. Coherence, intention,... That's what I look for in these spaces and what I expect from them. Real people enjoying what they do, creating for themselves and gifting something for everyone else in this community. I won’t be praising a covetous individual or a company that steals art and writes prompts with the sole objective of clout. It would be an insult to myself and my peers' intentions and work.

I’d like to remind all artists that they have something incomparable and valuable in their hands and that they’re very much appreciated. To the vile individuals and companies stealing art and farming numbers I won’t bother to say anything since they’ve proven to be selective in what they listen to and my words will just fall into deaf ears. And to the "public" to inform themselves, if they want to. I’ll leave some links with guides on how to distinguish art from computer images.

Excuse my English since it's not my mother tongue.

Note that a lot more information is available on the internet and art communities for those who might be interested

Cited here: @gailynovelry @mdzsartreblogs

[basaltbutch]

Blaseball has been a constant background presence throughout pretty much the entirety of my adulthood life so far, and it feels weird to think the official source is gone.

I never meant to get into blaseball. At most, I figured it'd be a common interest between me and Moss (genusniebla). I picked my team entirely at random. And yet.

It kept me sane all throughout the initial lockdowns, when I didn't leave my house for an entire year. I tuned into the sim on nights I couldn't sleep, watched lore jams and liveshows and listened to podcasts about it while I gardened. Even when I started meandering into the rest of the world again, blaseball was a talisman, a comfort. The first patch on my backpack was a homemade one for the Hellmouth Sunbeams. About half the ones on my crustpunk pants were at least inspired by blaseball.

The music, most of all, has completely changed me. The Garages have been the soundtrack of my life, my number-one listened to artist, since I first discovered them. I skipped my own birthday celebration to watch the premiere of the Discipline album! There was a period of my life where I listened to solely (and I mean solely) the Garages for (at least) six months straight. I am going to continue to listen to the Garages until the day I die.

And the people!! Oh, the people. I've met so many wonderful friends and people because of this game. The community around blaseball has always been such a warm and welcoming environment (not just saying that because my team is the Hellmouth Sunbeams) and I'm truly lucky that this game has let me meet so many amazing people.

I hate to say it, but the game couldn't go on forever. It would lessen the impact of it. As far as I believe— we've won. Our teams have always won. We were always the driving force behind the cultural event of blaseball, the final bosses. It's over. No one has to play anymore.

Rest in violence, blaseball.