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spaceorphan18 · 3 months ago

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The Lady Whistledown Papers: 1x04 - An Affair of Honor (Part 1)

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

Alright, episode four, some meatier things to sink our teeth into, and another Polin scene to dissect, finally!

Rutledge

We're getting into the baby drama really earlier in this one. Marina has spent the previous five minutes being poked at like prized cattle as Portia is trying to sell her off to the quickest bidder. Of course, it's a humiliating thing, especially when Lord(?) Rutledge is a crusty, old man.

When Penelope is leaving, she notices Marina is upset and asks if she should stay to help. it's one part gossip, sure, but I do think at this point, she considers Marina a friend and does care about how Marina is feeling.

I need to take a quick non-Polin moment and just say that we have the introduction of one of my favorite characters on the show --- Albion Finch, who is there to call on Phillipa. I love Finch and his sweet, awkward, adoring love for Phillipa. The fact that he's there for comic relief is a nice touch to a rather heavy season 1. But also, the fact that all of the Featherington sisters are going to find men who truly, truly adore them --- especially when their parents' marriage is cold and lifeless --- is really one of my favorite aspects of the show.

Quill

I love this conversation between Eloise and Penelope -- it's just a well written scene with the conversation turning from one thing to another in an organic fashion. Just as from a structure point of view, I think it's great.

We start off with the two of them looking at quills, and Eloise complaining about feathers in the hair, and how Daphne is closer to getting married which has ignited Eloise's fears that the attention would turn to her and her turn in the marriage mart, and Eloise just does not want that!

Pen finds it all amusing -- she is following all the Daphne stuff closer than she lets on (she has to for Lady Whistledown to be as good as she is!), but on a more personal level, she's always been amused that Eloise is so against it while she, herself, doesn't want to admit that she is a fan of all of it. Eloise continues on about wanting to be free and independent (and girl -- I do not blame you, I couldn't be a woman in this time period). Her line about how their options are to "squawk and settle" or "never leave the nest" while she wants to fly is really on point and essential to her character.

(Also, note the bird metaphors as they're talking about quills and feathers? it's a nice touch.)

But the conversation takes a turn when Eloise starts praising Lady Whistledown for her ability to make a name for herself without a man's help. The grin on Pen's face when Eloise notes "a brilliant woman of business, who fools the ton while pocketing their money". The irony of which is that Lady Whistledown is standing right next to her.

Penelope is grateful to see everyone buying her written words, and she is making money off it. But to have the respect and admiration of her best friend? That's just icing on the cake. Because Eloise is incredibly impressed. But Pen plays it down -- as gentle amusement. It's a wonderfully played moment.

The next line Eloise has about LW is really fascinating, though: "Imagine the life she must lead. Independence. You can be sure she is not simpering on the edge of a ballroom every night, praying a man might take a fancy and leg-shackle her into marriage."

Pen laughs, and says that it's quite the life Eloise has fabricated. She takes it with ease, though Eloise has described exactly what LW is really like. The fact that Pen is not independent and stuck in a verbally abusive and neglectful home. The fact that she does hide on the edge of the ballroom. And, while Pen does like romance, and would be open to suitors, let's be real, there's only one man she'd like to be leg-shackled into marriage with. ;)

Then Eloise gets it in her head that they should find her and Pen is so delighted by this -- the fact that having this secret is really a fun thing for her right now. The fact that Eloise, whom she admires so deeply is fawning over her is a quite nice thing for her ego.

And, I mean, it's a human thing -- that while Pen cherishes her friendship with Eloise, and they usually are on the same level, there are times when Pen probably does feel less than Eloise (something we'll get into later in the episode). So the fact that Eloise is so gushing over something she's done, something that can be admired in her, makes her feel prideful.

Eloise proclaims that they're the two most clever girls in all of the ton and if anyone could figure out LW it's the two of them. Of course, Pen does not want this to happen, and brushes it off, claiming family obligations. Which gets them into a conversation about Marina.

Pen has kept Marina's secret, by the way. We already know Pen is pretty good at keeping secrets, and although she does trust Eloise, she wouldn't dare bring scandal to her family, and specifically Marina. She does like Marina - and I kind of want to emphasize that Pen doesn't use LW gossip to purposely harm people (not really). Marina, as of this point, is someone she wants to continue to protect. She respects Marina enough to want to protect her.

The scene ends with Eloise claiming she is going to start her search for LW, which is going to be a huge plot line for the rest of the season and into the next. Pen is pretty chill about it, though she thinks her identity is pretty secure, and maybe since she is so close to Eloise, she feels like she has the situation under control.

The Boxing Match

Huh. Lord Featherington standing next to his future son-in-law. You know if Lord Featherington had any sense, he would have figured out how to snatch a Bridgerton up for his own daughters (instead of Marina) and it would have saved his ass. However, that might have ended up with Benedict married to Prudence or something, and that would have felt weird.

You guys notice this scene is one giant metaphor for the 'fight' going on in Daphne's heart between the Prince, who actually makes a lot of sense for her because he is cute and actually wants all the things Daphne wants and her burning desire for the Duke? Idk what's so wrong with the Prince anyway - he seems like a perfectly lovely guy...

Oh, am I supposed to be talking about Colin? Oops. Yes, he's in this scene. Continuing being the show's highest paid extra.

There are two Colin things I can pull out of his nothing to do in the background...

He has a front row seat to the asshat-ery that is Lord Featherington. And I have no doubt, had he lived, Portia would not have been the only one getting it from Colin over the treatment of the family and of Penelope.

Colin seems to be rather enjoying the match. While it may be much more subtle and lighthearted than Anthony, Colin does have a bit of competitiveness about him.

Cheese

I need to mention the LW voice over -- which sets the scene, discussing Lady Trowbridge, her recently dead husband, and the fact that the new widow is throwing a giant party in his 'celebration'. Pen, you are so saucy in these observations!

But more interestingly, LW goes on about how much of a scandal it would be if any unmarried woman dared do anything with a man it'd be her ruin. So, it's a testament at how little people notice (or take seriously) Pen (or even Colin), because their asses would have been married so fast if anyone had taken a moment to witness the shenanigans that go on between them.

Anyway... more to the point, Portia is once again shuffling Marina off onto Lord Rutledge, and Penelope feels terrible for her.

Meanwhile, Finch continues courting Phillipa while they bond over cheese, and I dare say, Pen is quite enjoying it. Not only are they the epitome of dorkiness, but I think Penelope has a tiny iota of affection for at least one of her sisters, but also maybe Finch as well. I think she can appreciate a love match, even between two dolts, when she sees it. I also love at how off put Prudence is during all of this -- it's hilarious.

I just need to take a second and shout out to this dude who is just having the most boring time with the harp. Idk why but it makes me laugh every time they cut to him.

It also gives me a moment to mention two things slightly relevant to Pen and Colin... A) the fact that Lord Featherington continues to be an asshat and basically tells Finch he can't marry Phillipa and B) Eloise is continuing her search for LW by thinking its the servants, and we don't get a lot of class stuff in Bridgerton, but I do love the maid and how she's like you stupid, privileged child -- like we'd spend our little free time writing about you lot.

What a Barb

Finally! Another Polin scene! Let's do this!

At the beginning of this, Marina is being manhandled by Lord Rutledge, and basically mouthing to Penelope to get her the fuck outta there. Pen looks sincerely distraught over Marina's plight, and probably would step in if she could.

But more importantly, no one really notices or cares that she's there... except the one person who is always seeking her out at these social situations. I will point out every time it's Colin who starts a conversation, because most of the time, it is him. And yeah, social norms of the time dictate... whatever, these two don't care a flying fig about the Regency Era's social norms.

You know how in Season 3, Benedict goes on a long diatribe to the Mondrich's that once you're married, the rules don't apply and so who gives a flying fuck? These two are already there. One is just too dumb to realize it yet.

[Also - I have to note that he's wearing yellow in this scene. Granted, everyone is wearing the theme of creams and golds, but I think it's important here, as this is the real start of his integration into the Featherington family.]

Colin comes in with a joke about the new Lord Trowbridge -- a new born baby, and if he falls asleep they all need to leave. And Penelope is deeply amused. She appreciates his sense of humor, and he definitely gets a kick out of making her laugh.

And look, I'm just gonna say it, Colin's got real Lord Whistledown energy in this scene. He may not be indulgent in gossip the way Pen is, but he'll definitely make fun of things the way she does.

And then Pen ups his joke with a scandalous piece of gossip -- that it's clearly obvious Lady Trowbridge fucked around with her servant and produced an heir with that guy instead of her husband. Note the red hair? It's clearly obvious. And then we get's Colin's infamous line "Penelope, what a barb!".

He is amused by her and entertained by her and scandalized by her but it all impresses him. Her observation skills, her wit, her cleverness, he really is taken by her natural abilities -- and we see that the two of them genuinely enjoying each other's company, which is why he seeks her out every time there's one of these balls. They make the evenings more enjoyable for each other.

But also, Colin... my dear, sweet, dumbass favorite character of mine... (No, look, I love Colin to death so I feel okay pointing out when he's being a dumbass) THIS IS LADY WHISTLEDOWN! SHE'S STANDING RIGHT IN FRONT OF YOU IMPRESSING YOU WITH THE WONDERFUL BEING THAT SHE IS AND YOU ARE ENJOYING IT -- EATING IT RIGHT UP! SHE IS RIGHT. HERE. GO DANCE WITH HER -- DON'T BE DISTRACTED BY MARINA!!

Penelope and her 'omg, ilu so much and the fact that you get me and laugh with me and think i'm awesome, will you let me have all your babies right now? cause i'll seriously let you get me pregnant. right here. right now. in this ball room. i don't even care if everyone else is here' look.

The thing about this moment though? Is that it's a shared moment. Yeah, Pen takes a second to kind of stare up at him with her ever adoring look and her unrequited love glazed eyes and it's just a /moment/ for her. But Colin lingers just as long. In fact, it's a beat too long and they both know it, and suddenly, they're both looking away as if they're guilty of something.

The intensity of the moment spins them in different directions, however. Colin finally notices Marina dancing with Rutledge. And it's Pen who kind of uses the magic words to spark Colin's actions. She tells him that Marina needs rescuing -- and oh boy, is that going to kick in Colin's hero complex.

Colin, boy, you do have some prince charming energy going on in this moment.

Yes, I do believe Colin has genuine interest in Marina. But getting to jump in and save her from a terrible fate, really gets him going. And poor Pen -- she kind of knows what's happened after she's already said it, and she's left there alone while he whisks Marina away.

Colin, what's going on with your hair, babe? It's, like, going everywhere.

The thing about this is -- he jumps in with a joke, just like he had when he approached Penelope. Only, Marina doesn't quite get it. Not only do they not know each other -- and Marina isn't used to Colin's sense of humor, but she's so concerned with her own issues, she doesn't quite know what to make of Colin's levity.

But she is amused by him, too, and this is where she starts to see some potential. He's a nice guy, pleasant to look at, willing to get her out of sticky situations, and (unfortunately) easily played. Colin is a romantic and really does enjoy play the role of rescuer, and Marina's smart enough to pick up on that really quickly. It isn't going to take her long to figure out that he is exactly what she needs to help her situation.

Marina asks him to spin her away -- and he does so literally, taking her off and (he thinks) sweeping her off her feet. Daphne is going to mention to the Prince that Colin knows how to make things 'memorable'.

And there are a couple of neat aspects to this little moment. For one, they're giggling and laughing together -- which, is kind of fascinating for two very different reasons. For one, this kind of signifies genuine connection and while everyone else is taking all this courtship stuff so seriously, Colin again brings levity to it, which is sweet and endearing. But on the other hand, it speaks to his youth that he's so playful with his jokes and his dancing. He doesn't adhere to the steps he's supposed to, but instead whisks Marina around the dance floor not paying attention to what he's supposed to be doing (according to society). And it somewhat speaks to the fact that what's going on with Marina isn't as serious as he feels like it probably should be.

And... that's where I'm going to stop for now. Lots more to unpack in this episode -- including some really great Penelope scenes...

#bridgerton #polin #colin bridgerton #penelope featherington #penelope bridgerton #colin x penelope #polination #the lady whistledown papers

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magpie-trove · 2 months ago

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August Reads

Cress & Winter • Marissa Meyer | it was Trying Times and for some reason Lunar Chronicles is one of my go to escapes and comforts turns out. I really wanted to reread Cress but got sucked in and had to do Winter too. Still as good as the first time. Deeply near and dear to my heart.

The Talented Mrs Mandelbaum • Margalit Fox | new non fiction about a Victorian crime boss lady and her band of thieves and fencers. Short and to the point. Interesting. Wouldn’t say it was one of my favorites of the year but it was worth reading.

Your Vote Matters • Rebecca Katzman | childrens non fiction about the electoral process. Made sense and had a real nice layout and pictures!!!!. (Not a picture book it was like 80 pages or something? But yeah I like it!)

Howl’s Moving Castle • Diana Wynne Jones | was just rereading all my faves for a bit there. Still a 12/10 book.

Yours from the Tower • Sally Nicholls | new YA epistolary fiction set in the 1890’s. Surprised me! Actually had a little nuance! Was very good about the characters. Important to me cause it made me understand how people work in certain situations better than I had before. I think I cried sad and I know I happy cried a little towards the end. I do recommend.

Sonnets from the Portuguese • Elizabeth Barrett Browning | still a favorite

Voices in the Air • Naomi Shihab Nye | the Emily poem!!!!! I think I loved Everything Comes Next more, a lot of these poems got more specifically political and idk it takes away their power a bit to me? But it still had plenty of bangers

Wheels of Change • Sue Macy | YA non fiction about the role of the bicycle in the suffragette movement. Interesting topic, real nice layout, lots of good primary sources. It had a reprint of a lot of pretty funny things women were advised not to do while riding, including “do not say Feel my muscle” and “do not ask Do you like my bloomers?”

The Castle of Llyr • Lloyd Alexander | follow up to The Black Cauldron. Beloved. He writes at such a good level and manages to keep the Nobility to the story.

Kilmeny of the Orchard • LM Montgomery | I actually didn’t like this one that much? Kinda hinged on some racist stereotypes and was mean about adoptees and the romance felt kind of condescending. Idk I wasn’t really impressed.

Saintly Women of Modern Times • Joan Carroll Cruz | Learned so many cool stories!!! I did also discover though at times you need examples as encouragement and at times examples might get a little discouraging. The women highlighted were all unique and interesting though!

Mapmakers and the Lost Magic • Amanda Castillo and Cameron Chittock | children’s graphic. Nice art interesting premise and world building. I’d probably read the next one.

Uniformity with God’s Will • Alphonsus Linguori | very good

A Wish in the Dark • Christina Soontornvat | HELLO!!! Childrens fiction with the premise Les Miserables but in Thailand. LOVED IT. SHOOK. I CRIED. BEAUTIFUL. I loooved the characters looooved the words, it was sooooo goooood!!!!!!!!! Made me want to do something nothing else has ever succeeded in (read Les Miserable). Do recommend!

The Lucky Poor • Mazie Lovie | adult graphic memoir about getting a house through Habitat for Humanity and unexpected drawbacks or something? Nothing really struck me about it tbh

Sisters of the Lost Marsh • Lucy Strange | the VIIIIIIBES VIIIIBES FOR DAAYYYYS. Middle Grade fantasy based on English folklore and circus, about six sisters who’s father says they’re under a curse. Beautifully done. This one will haunt me. Do recommend.

Romanov • Nadine Brandes | YA historical fantasy. had its moments but I kinda wanted the fantasy out of it at times though it wasn’t as jarring as some other stuff in that regard. It was a nice walk in the park and then the most nightmarish thing I’d read then just kind of ok. Not bad at all but not my most favorite. I just wanted to read about Anastasia tbh. I think (?) it had a pretty good illustration of forgiveness at one point though that made it make sense to me in a new way.

#August sure was a MONTH

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acroagoraphobe · 9 months ago

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Hi! ❤️

How do you think the companions romanced or not (and Maxson) will react if you give them a portrait of themselves that you drew?) maybe Sole is artist or smth like that)

OOoooo good Idea!

(Im not the best with *all* the characters, but im tryin here!)

Because I mainly Write for like just deacon and a few others, also I did it in my usual format so I hope that's good enough!

(Also I did both romanced and non-romanced because HEHEHEHEHEH also non romanced is assumed Sole reached Idolized with them.)

Cait:

(I don't know that much about Cait, so I'm trying my best [: )

Non-romanced:

Would probably be irritated, but also flattered

"What're ye given me that for?"

Secretly thinks thats pretty nice but she's not telling Sole that.

Romanced:

Would be a bit more appreciative of it openly, but still act tough about it.

"Its alroight, eyh guess-"

Would probably fold it up and secretly keep it stashed in her corset or something.

But if anyone asks she never had it.

She sneakily gives Sole a quick smooch on the cheek.

Maccready:

(Idk that much about him but Ik he's a dork)

Non-Romanced:

"Oh that's pretty cool-"

Probably hasn't had a friend draw him before.

Probably pretty impressed because I think he likes to doodle too.

Romanced:

Probably would ask for more drawings after he sees that.

Like a drawing of him and Duncan

Keeps that drawing in his pocket, happily.

Smiles like an idiot, then gives Sole a little kiss.

Danse:

Non-Romanced:

"What is the purpose of this, soldier?"

Genuinely confused on why they drew him, Is it because they're just practicing their drawing? Is it a symbol of affection?

He would be critiquing the details and where Sole can improve, even if they didn't ask him to.

But thats just him showing he's interested in Sole's improvement.

Romanced:

"Oh, Thank you. This is a rather detailed depiction of my likeness."

He would be more invested in Sole's improvement if romanced, 100%.

Keeps that drawing in a nice safe place, he doesn't want it to get lost.

When he realizes it's actually like.. a sign of affection, he's got a big ass smile on his face.

Deacon:

Non-Romanced:

"Guessing you like my face then, huh? Don't get too attached it though!"

Actually very flattered that he's being drawn and not just on wanted posters because he goofed off too much.

Pretends to throw it away, but actually sticks it in his pocket.

Romanced:

"Damn, you must realllyy love my face then, huh?"

Trying so hard to not giggle like an idiot at that moment.

Smiling like a dork, big goofy grin.

Maybe blushing a little bit, but definitely trying to hide it.

Hancock:

Non-Romanced:

"Suprised you got my ugly mug is so much detail heh-"

Taking a nice good look at it, definitely putting it on the wall later.

Where everyone can see it, like a public buletin board.

Romanced:

Sole's 100% getting a big ol' kiss from him for this.

Still putting it on a public buletin board but will like publicly announce that theres a cool-ass drawing of him done by his partner on the bulletin.

"Thanks, Sunshine. Looks just like me-"

Piper

Non-Romanced:

"Thanks Blue! This looks great!"

Putting it on her wall next to her terminal.

Really appreciates it, she might even consider getting Sole to make illustrations for the Publick.

Romanced:

"Aww, Thanks Blue! I love it!"

Sole's getting a smooch on the cheek for this.

She's definitely showing it to Nick and her sister.

Nick Valentine:

Non-Romanced:

"Huh. Thanks kid, looks great."

Would probably get lost in his files and papers.

But he still appreciates that Sole took the time to draw him.

"Maybe you can take the time to make some wanted posters. The ones around here ain't the best".

Romanced:

He's putting it on the wall, immediately. Right over his desk.

"Thanks, Sweetheart, I love it."

Really happy Sole took the time to draw a beat up old Synth like him.

Longfellow:

Non-Romanced:

"Huh? Whatcha draw me for?"

Doesn't really think it's worth the effort for Sole to draw him.

But he's flattered. Probably keeps it on a table in his cabin somwhere.

Curie:

Non-Romanced:

"Oh thank you! Zis is very nice of you!"

Puts it in with her medical notes, folded up and paperclipped in the folder.

Big ol' smile.

Romanced:

About the same, But gives Sole a sweet little kiss on the cheek.

Codsworth:

Non-Romanced:

"Thank you Sir/Miss, I shall treasure this drawing always!"

Doesn't have a place to put it really, so he just kinda holds onto it for a while and maybe puts it with his cleaning supplies.

X6-88:

Non-Romanced:

"I do not understand why you would draw me, Sir/Ma'am."

Really doesn't get it.

Even if sole explains that it was a sign of affection and appreciation.

He really tries to understand why, but logically it doesn't make sense to him.

Romanced:

Still doesn't really get it, but he's trying his best.

"Thank you, Sir/Ma'am."

Keeps it in his pocket anyways.

Very tiny little smile.

Preston:

Non-Romanced:

"Thank you General, This is really nice of you-"

Keeps it in his coat pocket happily.

Big ol' smile on his face.

Blushing a bit that Sole took time and effort to draw him in such detail.

Romanced:

"Oh wow, Thanks babe!"

Sole is getting a smooch, right on the lips (:

Gage:

Non-Romanced:

"What the hell, boss. Why'd ya waste yer time on that?"

Throws it away, he's a raider, ain't got time for sappy touchy-feely shit.

"Tough shit boss, suck it up." when Sole gets mad at him for throwing it away.

Romanced:

Same kinda reaction, but he picks it up outta the trash later and sticks it in his pocket.

Ada:

Non-Romanced:

"Oh. Thank you. This is rather nice."

Doesn't have anywhere to keep it, so Sold holds onto it for her.

Maxson:

Non-Romanced:

"Well, Soldier. That does catch my likeness very well, doesn't it?"

Cocky bastard about it, but in a "Im your elder" way.

Thats getting put into his man diary (That he 100% has because I said so.)

Romanced:

"Well, that is very nice.. Thank you Soldier-"

Puts it into his pocket for later, with a smile on his face that goes away once he walks away from Sole, because it's serious time now.

#fallout #fallout 4 #fallout 4 companions #fallout 4 maccready #deacon fallout 4 #fallout 4 curie #fallout 4 cait #preston garvey #Im too lazy to tag this this took an hour and a half to write

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lovely-lotus · 1 year ago

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Do you read much fanfic these days? So you have any current favorites (any fandom)?

I'm sorry for this very belated response!! I've been holding off because I wanted to make a whole rec list, and still plan to do so, but I thought I might as well just respond with a couple of fics I've been reading to make some progress. Getting started is better than nothing after all <3. As a heads up, this list contains many incomplete fics. I know a lot of people don't read incomplete fics but I often find the character dynamics, prose writing, and/or worldbuilding worthwhile and fascinating, even if the story isn't done yet. So, here are just a few stories I've been reading and why I recommend them. Note: This list is 18+. Please check out and mind the tags and ratings for every story.

aurora polaris by AGlassRoseNeverFades: Why I recommend it: This story is just gorgeous. Beautiful prose writing and a premise that'll just sink its hooks in you. I've reread this like 4 or 5 times at this point. I'm so obsessed with the bond Tom and Harry share in this story. If you want a lot of non-verbal (and verbal) intimacy, this story will be your cup of tea. In general, I love romance stories with lots of love. My favorite romances always make it abundantly clear how much two people love being together, so this story was just everything I ever wanted.

paved with the best intentions by ailora Why I recommend it: Cutest baby Tom ever!! I absolutely adore him so much. His and Harry's relationship makes me so soft. I think the author does an amazing job on the dialogue and on portraying baby Tom's perspective and how he feels about Harry. If you want a really cute story with a helping of angst and lots of tension, this is the one for you!

anemone by A_Single_Cactus Why I recommend it: I usually like Ginny. Tbh, she's not my favorite (the girl/boy-next-door type / best friend's sibling usually isn't for me), but I understand why she and Harry ended up together in the end (which is ofc all leading back to TMR again). However, I've recently been loving the trope of TMR coming up with some elaborate plan to steal Harry and this story kickstarted that completely. I really enjoyed the pacing of this story and it has such good reread value. I think the author is very good at conveying emotions.

hologhost by vash (hanamichi) Why I recommend it: Some of the most gorgeous prose writing I've ever had the pleasure of reading. Floaty and gossamer as a dream. This story reminds me of an impressionist painting with a faint undercurrent of panic through it all. I cannot wait to see where it goes.

Anything by mosiva. At this point, I will read any Tomarry that mosiva writes. Absolutely gripping, thrilling dynamics between them in all of their works.

the world is yours and mine by othernight Why I recommend: I'm slightly foggy on this story, but I have a really positive impression of it in my mind. I think I loved the worldbuilding and the burgeoning Tomarry dynamic. I also remember really liking Harry's characterization.

Thank you so much for your ask and I hope you find something new to read!! Sorry again for how late this response is.

#tomarry #tmrhp #fic recs

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ladythornofrivia · 2 years ago

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Endless Reds and Blues

(Here's the link for the synopsis and the chapter list--before you read new chapters, please read chapter 1.) Pair: Kakucho x Reader (Warning: Inappropriate jokes and dialogue that includes bullying, gossiping and other things that aren't appropriate--dark content--for people under 18 (if you're under 18, I'm sorry but you can't read this)(Yes, I have to say it twice XD)

Author’s Note: Thank you so much for reading the series I wrote! It means so much to me that you guys enjoy this story--I nearly cried. I know what it looks like--the romance between Kakucho and reader is slow or non-existent; they haven't properly interact with each other, and it seems that I might give off the wrong impression that another character has been interested in her instead (XD). So please bear with me on the romance part. Let me know if you want me to tag you whenever I write a new chapter (post a new chapter, I mean). I'm so pumped on getting another chapter out, and it's not even done yet. (Note: Report if someone decides to steal the synopsis and my story. And notify me. Thank you) ❤️

Chapter Three: Sinful Men

Previous Chapter Next Chapter

Taking a one hour quiz was a real pain. Your hard work paid off well.

You didn't expect anything your usual results. You have been studying Math most of the nights because it's your least favorite subject. Japanese literature and History class were somewhat hard, but you managed to pull through unlike Mathematics. Whoever created Math must be punished big time. To hell with Math! Why put numbers with letters? What's the point of learning Math or what good it would do when it comes to insurance and taxes?

While obtaining on speaking and reading English, it is at your most advantage, everyone else in the class we're having a difficult time.

When Himiko asked your help regarding simple vocabulary and correcting the sentences, instead of answering her back in verbal communication, you wrote a note down saying that you couldn't tell or explain to her because your classmates will cheat by taking a credit you worked hard for, also taking credit from Himiko under the influence of your guidance.

Needless to say, Himiko respected your reasoning, due to the massive backlash you received in the last couple of weeks from a clash between you and a group of young men who are immensely adored by their faithful fans, and the comments you have been receiving ever since you transferred at your new school.

Each time your classmates come by at your desk, they discussed about studying English with you by giving an extension of invitation, as if the disturbing slanders and manipulative plans on 'taking you out' never happened. But you knew what they meant.

You didn't want anyone using you for a good grade, you didn't want to cry or get hurt again from stealing your hard work for their selfish gain. You wouldn't let it happen again.

So you happened to make an excuses by saying, "Sorry, I have work at this hour I can't be late on" or "My sister is sick and she needed my help, so I have to clean the house and cook food for her."

Whether they know it or not, there's nothing they can do about it but to talk shit behind your back again. And this will happen again every time your class studies for the next quiz regarding to English subject. Though of course the ginormous amount of letters you received in your shoe locker were gone, except you received a letter regarding to your bitchy nature for not helping them in English subject. What else is new? So you threw the letter in the trash and spit on it.

Truth be told, you don't have a job, and you don't have a sibling to begin with. You just wanted to get away from these "civilized" people.

You went back at the school's rooftop during lunchtime with Himiko. This time, you brought your own lunch; you prepped the meal last night. Thanks to cooking tutorials and secret tricks on making a tasty meal, you became a decent cooker while your parents are out at night, working at their new job.

"That looks good," Himiko commented.

"It took a bit long to cook this," you replied, smiling. "Around almost 3 hours."

"What is it? I don't think its Wagyu beef."

"It's Baby back ribs with rice," you explained. "With meat, you can never go wrong putting the baby back ribs with seasoning."

"It smells good," Himiko said.

You ate the first piece into your mouth. Your mouth tingled with delight.

"Drink?" Himiko handed you lychee flavored juice box.

Your hand reached the juice box. "Thank you."

From then on, Himiko accompanied you, whether during class or lunchtime, she doesn't like the idea of leaving you alone unless you ask for a quiet time to yourself. Most of the time, you and Himiko talked about anime and updates regarding to the manga.

"Are you okay?" your friend asked, studying your features.

"I'm doing fine."

"Your sadness is slowly fading--that's good!" Then she noticed you brought your school bag with you. "If you don't mind me asking, why did you bring your bag with you? We usually leave it at our classroom."

"Um...how do I put this in the simple terms? Let's just say that where I come from, we carry our backpacks--our belongings--to lunch."

"Ah, I see."

"But I have another reason for bringing my school bag with me," you added. "It's that dear classmates of ours. They ransacked my shoe locker, so I can't let anyone steal or touch or destroy my belongings."

"I don't blame you. These people are going way too far with everything for defending their so-called kings."

"Aren't you friends with them? I mean, no offense, but, if they hear you say stuff like that...you already saw what happened to me."

"I'm angry at them, too. I ignored them as much as I could. I can see why you're so annoyed by them. Remember that girl who was talking to me when I asked you about that thick book you were holding? Well, she tried to justify everyone's behavior by saying that 'no one deserves to get hurt' and that 'they're in full panic that they have to do something about the mess'."

"What else did she say?"

Himiko bit her lip. "While she tried to justify their behavior on defending their idols, because the guys filled the girls' lives with happiness, and they're forever thankful to them. She also said something about you."

Silence prolonged.

"Go on," you coaxed.

"She said that you're acting too rash, and that you need to get help. She almost called the police in order for you to get arrested and turn you in to a mental facility."

Your body and hands grew cold.

"Talk about harsh statement," you said, covering up with a laugh.

"That's where I broke my composure and started yelling at her on how you were just trying to defend me. I told her, "If I were defending you if you were in trouble, you wouldn't call me those names. Why the hell would you get mad at someone--at someone you barely knew--for trying to defend me?'"

You couldn't pull yourself together; you stopped eating the lunch you made.

"But all she said that the guys are their savior, and that she would never betray them."

Your hands balled into fists.

"I'm so sorry you have to experience this way." Himiko placed her hand on your back. "I talked to the teachers and principal about it, but they didn't care. And I'm sorry for being careless about where I was going. It's that stupid mistake I make that caused you to be put on an unfortunate circumstances."

You nodded. "It isn't too late to fix your mistakes, Himiko. We talked about this. It's your friend that tries to distract you, and you ended up getting hurt because of her."

"But still..."

"Your lunch is getting cold," you reminded, finishing up yours.

"Honestly, I don't blame you. Ever since that English quiz we took, they've been asking you to give them answers, even me, they even asked me if I get any answers from you because you're from a different country. They treated it as if nothing ever happened despite their efforts of trying to make you miserable. Once again, I'm sorry. You're too smart for your own good, (y/n)."

"So who were they?"

"The girls?"

"No, those guys they kept fawning about. I don't see the appeal to them. Not a slight of charm."

"Those guys you confronted with, they're known as what the girls whispered. Bonten. They're the ones who provided the school with best renovation. Thanks to their money, the school is the most wanted school to go to for high school students."

"Are you sure that's it? Because people go to school because they hear how much their handsomeness is exuding the building, and not because of having a 'good education'?"

"I heard this school is once a good one, where there's not much bullying to go around or extreme cases of hurting someone or ransacking personal belongings and slander--it's all about being well-educated for the sake of their futures. But thanks to them, this school was nothing but a playground for the girls, and for Bonten. Rumor has it Bonten is also a group of criminal organization."

You leaned back in shock. "You have got to be fucking kidding."

My parents are going to faint if they hear this...

Himiko shook her head with fear. "I mean, I'm not going to lie. They're good looking, but, I wouldn't date them or play with them just like the rest of the girls here. They would call their names to get attention from either of the boys. How handsome they look, the girls dubbed them as 'Sinful Men'."

"Sorry, I didn't hear a "ha ha" at the end," you said.

"Ha ha?"

"You're joking, right? I think your punch line needs a little bit more of improvement," you said. "Don't worry, we can work on that."

"As much as I want to say that 'it is a joke', I'm afraid that this is reality for us."

*~~*~~*

The house is quiet by the time you get home. Either your parents are watching a movie, or they're doing a quiet cleaning after work. As you stepped into your new household--a complex apartment, more like--you released a long exhale; the burdened nature of your school and classmates has been lifted off of your shoulders--detoxified by somewhere you were glad to see.

When you're at school, you speak Japanese, but at your home, you speak English; your mom often told you that you should never forget where you come from--be loud and be proud, as your mother always said--before and after moving into Japan.

"Mom, I'm back," you said, discarding the shoes and entered the living room, but your mom is nowhere to be found and went into the kitchen, where your mom is concentrating on chopping vegetables and meat.

"Mom," you said once more, your head poking out from the kitchen's entrance.

"Hi, (y/n)," your mom turned her attention at you for a second before concentrating back on her chopping ingredients. "How's school?"

"Great," you said, though you weren't happy.

"Doesn't seem like you're fine," your mom said. "You want to talk about it?"

"Right after you're done cooking," you said. "I'll go wait by the living room."

"Go ahead, no one's stopping you," your mother said, chuckling.

By the living room, your parents decorated almost in a meticulous fashion--everything is minimalistic--aesthetic wise. Though it had a few touches of old patterns like your old house, but improved. Before moving to Japan, your parents sold half off of the items they never used and got extra cash in case of emergencies when moving to another country.

Mostly they kept the most important--and sentimental--items they cherish and decorated it, not a single mistake.

Grabbing your bag, you unzipped your school bag to retrieve the current book you're reading. Your other book hasn't been returned to you since the confrontation between you and Sanzu. You tried to brush it off, taming your inner panic from trying to imagine on what they were doing with the book you last held.

If they somehow return it to you, will there be negotiations involved? If the negotiations are either respecting your classmates who made threats against you or to share your English assignment or quiz answers to them, or somehow becoming as Bonten's servant, you'd rather have expulsion than being polite to people who doesn't respect you and your boundaries.

Unable to read the book, you hid it inside your school bag and turned on the 80-inch television screen, watching your favorite movie, "Titanic". One good look of a 22-year-old Leonardo DiCaprio, and your troubles from school and Bonten have been forgotten.

"You watched Titanic around 10 times, (y/n)," your mom said, putting dinner meal at the table.

"I never get tired of looking at Leonardo DiCaprio," you said with a dreamy sigh. Nothing could ever go wrong when watching Leonardo DiCaprio's well-known movie.

Your mom sat down on the couch beside you. "You mean Jack?"

"I know what I said," you responded, giggling.

Your dad entered the living room, removing his shoes.

"I made dinner," your mom greeted merrily.

"I'm going to sleep for a couple of hours," your dad said, shutting the door.

"Let's eat while watching Titanic," your mom suggested.

"Good plan," you said in return.

While eating dinner, you couldn't help but to think back regarding to Himiko's words on people who harassed you and vital information about Bonten.

"How are your grades?"

"Perfect. I got A's on all of my classes."

"That's great! Keep up the good work."

Little by little, you couldn't insert the food portions in your mouth.

"You haven't been eating for a while, sweetie. What's going on?"

You didn't answer her question; the fork in your hand swirled and poked around the vegetables and the cooked meat.

"Do you want to talk about it?"

You placed the fork down. "I've been bullied."

Your mom drew a sharp intake of breath. "When?"

"Since my transfer on the first day...until now."

"What did they do?"

"They ransacked my shoe locker, they send brutal messages on my desk and they tried to sabotage me in the worst way possible.”

"By what?"

"Taking me out," you said, pulling your phone out, you showed your mom the shoe locker ransacked with threatening letters and school desk. You made sure you took pictures first—when no one is around—before discarding them.

"Good god," your mom said. "What were they doing it for?"

"For the guys who never paid attention to them."

"Are they popular?"

And part of the criminal organization...

"Yes, they defend them to a point one of the girls almost called the cops on me to have me arrested and transfer in the mental facility."

Your mom's eyes narrowed.

"That's not all," you added, pulling the tape recorder out, playing the conversation about the girls' plans on how to take avenge for Sanzu by hitting you with the thick book, before you confronted them with a maniacal acting method to scare them off, and you explained a backstory to her about how guys were bullying Himiko, and that you stood up for her, not to mention how your classmates were trying to use you for a good grade in an English assignment and quiz.

"Do you want to switch schools?" she asked, tossing her red hair to the side.

"No, I just want to go home," you replied, tears falling down on your cheeks; you didn't have the strength to eat anymore.

Your mom stood and walked over to the side of the table to give you a hug. "My sweet baby..." your mom said. Her words made your weep grew stronger.

"What did I do wrong? I thought I did everything right. And yet, I've been accused and harassed by them. I thought I was doing the right thing."

"Nothing, (y/n)," your mom answered. “Nothing’s wrong with you. You're a good person. I'll go contact my lawyer about this."

"No," you said, "I just want to go back to America. I don't see a point of staying here. I don't think I can endure it much longer."

"I'll let my friend know if she has a guest room available, and I'll book a flight for you."

"I hope I'm not a burden to your friend."

"She loves you, sweetie," your mother answered. "In the meantime, you have to send me the photos. I'm going to print pictures on what the bullies did to you. We need the evidence, after all."

"Thanks, mom." The heavy burden in your chest suddenly vanished.

Your mom pressed a kiss at your head. "Don't worry about this, okay? Go watch and read, I don't care. Oh, and since you're doing very well at school, I thought I might give a little something special to cheer you up."

In her hands, she gave you the video game--one that you're waiting for.

"It's a new Tomb Raider game!"

"I thought you would like it. You've been sad for a couple of days. I don't want to see you to get hurt again." Her open palm stroke your red hair.

Instantly, you embraced your mom. "Thanks, mom."

In return, she embraced you once more. "You're welcome. You're the nicest daughter that I ever had. You deserve the world."

You wiped your tears. "Just let me know when I'm going back to America."

Then your mother smiled. "I will. I'll go make some hot chocolate for you. You deserve a break and a reward from protecting your friend."

The rest of the night, your mind was thinking nothing but to return back to your homeland.

*~~*~~*

Voices reeled into your walls the next morning. It was a fine morning for everyone. Until that moment came.

A man and the woman next door were having a screaming contest.

Groaning, you shoved your blankets and walked into the kitchen where your parents watched a movie in a full volume, but no matter how high the volume is, the man and woman from outside your apartment doesn't know the life of learning how to have inside voices.

"How long have they been arguing?" you asked.

"25 minutes," your dad timed on his watch.

"I swear I thought this apartment is supposed to be completely peaceful," your mom said.

"I'll go handle this," you said, marching on the entrance door.

Bursting the door open, you said in English, "Hey! There are neighbors that are trying to have some peace and quiet in the morning. If you can't shut the fuck up, I'm going to have to--"

You felt like your soul died. Because at the scenery in front you, saw the girl with a sheer tank top and a thong and the shirtless young man, with a large scar across his face looked at you with wide eyes.

Oh, no.

You saw him again.

But you didn't expect Kakucho to be there, having a screaming contest with the girl.

At once, you shut the door, and went back into the dining room.

"How did it go, sweetie?" your mom said.

"Fuck," you mumbled.

*~~*~~*

"You sure you need any help from the Math assignment?" Himiko asked, walking with you.

The best part about school is after school. You just couldn't wait to go home. But you waited everyone else to go; you didn't want anyone following you.

"No, I'll be fine," you said, inserting one earphone, playing the music.

"I'm glad you're back to your usual self," Himiko said. "Do you want me to stay here in case the other people are picking a fight with you?"

"No need," you told her.

"See you tomorrow," Himiko waved at you with a smile.

"Bye!" You waved back, pressed the play button.

(this is what the reader's listening to.)

youtube

Bopping along the music, not realizing your surroundings.

A long limousine stood at your way, with a large man with weird angular brows stood in front of the vehicle with his hands behind his back, waiting for someone.

Turning, you saw no one behind you.

Whoever this person's waiting on must be really late.

As turn your eyes away, you heard him say, "Miss (y/n)."

Your heart stopped. You wanted to look at the large, buff man, wondering what he’s going to do next.

But instead, you quickly headed to a different direction, but the large man caught up with you with a hand over your shoulder.

"What do you want?" you asked with anger in your eyes.

"You're going to have to come with us," the large man said.

"I have a friend waiting for me," you said, but with regret. You should've asked Himiko to go with you.

"You shouldn't have said to goodbye to her," he said.

"Okay, you creep, if you want to approach me, you could've just use your legs," you shot back, fear drumming into your heart. "Not just standing there in front of the limo menacingly."

The large man did anything but produced chuckles. "You have a hot-temper for a short lady." His eyes checked you out from head to toe.

"Okay, that's it," you said, adjusting the handle of your school bag on your left shoulder. "I'm going now."

He grabbed your right forearm.

"Let go," you seethed. "Now."

"Can't let a pretty face like yours go to waste."

What's that supposed to mean?

"Just come with us," he said.

The strands of your red locks tickled your nose; wind blowing. "Us? Us who?"

"I think you know who, Miss (y/n)."

"Fine, I'll go with you, just let go of my arm first," you said, your voice hardened.

"I'm afraid that's not possible." Then he slung your body over his shoulder.

"I didn't say anything about you carrying me!" you screamed.

Once the man placed you inside the limo, he went at the passenger's seat, telling the driver to start the engine, left you wondering to where you're heading next.

Taglist: @colored-tr-panels & @galactict3a

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mdhwrites · 1 year ago

Text

My Adventures With Superman Episode 3 Review: A Welcome Chance to Breathe

Non-Spoiler short version: If the first two episodes were a bit rushed and bursting at the seams, this one takes a couple steps back, takes a deep breath in and then strides into right where it should be with confidence. The humor is on point, characterization continues to be really strong, the foreshadowing is good for what’s coming later and the final line has SO MANY IMPLICATIONS that have me excited for where it might go. Also, if anyone was worried the romance wasn’t going to matter, well, I would say this episode puts it to bed that they understand that good romance also plays into character growth and the like and means a push and pull in things which has me increasingly excited to see more of Lois and Clark. Both as individuals and together. Also, has the best Superman fight yet so far I’d say so just very good all around.

Now time for the spoilers!

I’m actually going to work backwards from the ending because it’s a cliffhanger to me that really helps explain how Lois behaves in this episode. After all, I kept going “LOIS NO!” as I watched. Not in a bad way but in a comedic “WHAT ARE YOU DOING!?” fashion. After all, she lies, steals and tricks even Clark during this episode which does mean she’s having a push and pull with the lesson she learned in the first episode but...

Well, the major goal for the team in this episode is to get an interview with Superman. Even when they technically swap cases to the ‘Inter-Gang’ one, the villains for this episode, Lois is actually using it to just get put in danger so Superman will come rescue them and she can spring an interview on him. She didn’t let Clark in on the plan, though neither told Jimmy. She also never actually gets in the way of the investigation or the like and is doing good work, just for questionable reasons. Also, when this is revealed and Jimmy says it was what they did with Livewire (I also love the idea that Jimmy is going to probably end up naming like at least 50% of the Rogue’s Gallery), we get the great line out of Clark of “THAT WAS ON PURPOSE!?” Poor... Poor Clark.

And potentially poor Lois. Her last line, the last major line in the episode, is “He’s a liar.” She gets her interview after all and Clark is honest. He’s figuring himself out, figuring out his powers, etc. like that. The closest to a lie is not being willing to give a name but she technically didn’t ask for one. Then he says he’s just here to help the people of Metropolis and asks “Isn’t that what matters?”

Well... The first episode brought up whether or not Lois was doing these cases for the people... or for herself. Well, the Superman case is technically not useful to the people. They may want more information but aren’t the crimes going on more pressing if your focus is actually on the people? That’s what makes the first episode justified. It’s kind of what makes her lying and stealing justified too... But not so much the fact that she’s still trying to trap Superman who’s just doing good. Like she pointed out in the first episode: “He wouldn’t have helped me otherwise! Not like he did with the lady and the bib... Or with me and Flip... Or when he brought donuts for everyone!”

It’s starting to build the impression that Lois’ real point of contrast with Clark is that if Clark is optimistic and will always save everyone... Lois is pessimistic but will do what she can anyways. She expects people to be selfish. To look out for themselves. To do whatever they have to to get ahead. She’s taking this same mindset to journalism and it’s blinding her from the people in front of her who are genuinely just good.

But this doesn’t mean she’s a bad person and a little gray morality next to Clark’s white morality is a good thing. She still won’t hurt people and Superman actually states that why he was willing to do the interview was that when he told Lois and Jimmy to go, they stuck around and helped people because Lois’ true nature is still good. She still puts others in front of her... But she’s willing to bend the rules if she thinks it won’t hurt anyone and will help her. That’s not terrible but she needs to be doing it for the right reasons and it’ll be interesting to see the push and pull on this.

If it seems like I’m spending a lot of time on this, it’s actually not because the rest of the episode isn’t interesting but that it’s what matters most to me. I LIVE for characters and interesting hooks like these are my lifeblood. But that doesn’t mean just a good cast playing well off of each other doesn’t work well too, such as the Inter-Gang.

Inter-Gang is three people, Roughhouse, Mist and... I never quite caught their leaders codename and I can’t remember her actual name. They’re good low level criminals though to show that the stolen tech that Livewire got sent to the rest of the thieves in Metropolis is going to be a major player in the problems being caused, at least for now. They use each others real names when doing crimes, they’re generally not good at what they do but they’re also tired of being mocked which makes them prime tinder to misuse and abuse experimental tech, such as the freeze ray they use that then jams and then goes into hyper drive when they smash it with strength gauntlets.

Edit: The leader is the apparently the eventual super villain “Silver Banshee” and thank you to the person who let me know!

And while I got it wrong, I thought he was gaining X-Ray vision this episode, the foreshadowing to Superman’s heat vision and that being what saves the day is done well. His powers are developing now that he’s actually using them and embracing them so he keeps having moments where his eyes go blue and then red, first the color connected to his adrenaline state and then specifically the laser eyes. This gives him a headache and he stumbles a bit but then it moves on until he’s almost frozen, the leader of the gang screams for help after her tech won’t save her and BAM! LASER EYES!

It’s keeping to the show’s formula so far, including having a vision at the same time like when he saved Livewire, but that’s okay for now. We’re still in the early days and the addition of new powers will help keep solutions fresh. Frankly, if this is how the show is going to be in general... Cool. I’m here for it. It’s a good start to what to expect the majority of the season to probably look like and it’s funny, exciting and smooth.

And that includes the animation. There was maybe one time I thought something looked a little clunky but it came off as a deliberate choice for the moment, rather than a mistake or something that needed another pass. Otherwise, the animation was nice and clean and the fight against the Inter-Gang was still short, not as short as Supes versus Livewire though, but satisfying and looked really good, putting one of my big fears from the first two episodes to rest: That this animation studio was going to struggle to do Superman fights well. We already know they can do stuff like Slade versus Livewire well, this is the same team that did Korra after all, but Superman and his flight, and his brute strength, is a very different beast to tackle.

But I have been given good reason to trust in the animation team now just as much as I’m trusting the writers so I’m definitely looking forward to next week.

===========

I have a public Discord for any and all who want to join!

I also have an Amazon page for all of my original works in various forms of character focused romances from cute, teenage romance to erotica series of my past. I have an Ao3 for my fanfiction projects as well if that catches your fancy instead, If you want to hang out with me, I stream from time to time and love to chat with chat.

And finally a Twitter you can follow too!

#my adventures with superman #Lois Lane #Episode Reviews #Positive #Superman #Clark Kent

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apatheticcrossovers · 1 year ago

Note

Can you write moxie x Millie x amy rose fic?

In this universe,Amy is hellborn hedgehog and is 25 years old

What would happen if hopeless romance like Amy meet newlyweds moxie and Millie?

Sure! I had fun writing this one, sorry if this seems like it ended a bit angsty, You can always come back an request a part 2! - Mod Apathetic

Hopeless Romantic

Fandoms: Helluva Boss, Sonic the Hedgehog Ship: Amy Rose (Sonic the Hedgehog)/Millie (Helluva Boss)/Moxxie (Helluva Boss) Characters: Amy Rose (Sonic the Hedgehog), Millie (Helluva Boss), Moxxie (Helluva Boss), Blitzo (Helluva Boss) Tw: None Summary: She just didn't understand! Amy Rose had been trying her best to find the love of her life for years! She just couldn't understand how the damn Imps were better at finding love than her!

She just couldn't understand how those two could be so happy! She had seen those Imps around the city, as well as in a commercial for their Company, and whenever she saw them, they always looked so happy together! Amy couldn't get it, how could those two somehow be so happy together? So, she created a plan, she'd agree to work at I.M.P. in order to get closer to the two, and then when she was alone with either of them, she'd question them about their relationship. It sounded perfect in her head, and totally not more work than what it's worth!

Getting into I.M.P. was the easiest part, Blitzo felt getting a non-Imp demon on their team might make people more willing to use their services. Plus, he was impressed with how well Amy knew how to use a hammer! The hard part was getting either Moxxie or Millie alone. Millie would be the easy part, just ask her to go out on a girl's day together, but Moxxie... She could probably figure that out later, right now, she just had to focus on the stuff she did know how to execute.

"You know Amy, it's really nice that ya' offered t' take me on this shoppin' trip!" Millie exclaimed, walking alongside the dark pink hedgehog with a smile. Amy simply smiled back, waving her hands dismissively.

"Oh, it's really no problem! Just don't buy too much though! I'm not exactly that wealthy..." Amy let out a nervous chuckle, thinking for a moment as she tried to phrase her next questions casually. "So... I've noticed you and that Moxxie fella get along pretty well! Are you two, dating or something?" She glanced down at Millie, who didn't seem at all bothered by this question.

"Oh, absolutely! We're married actually! I just couldn't be happier!" Amy nearly froze in her tracks, trying to hold back a bit of shock. Those two were only maybe a few years older than her, and they were already married?! Amy hadn't even gotten her first boyfriend yet! She couldn't help but feel jealous. "Amy dear? Are you ok?" Amy hadn't even realized the anger was written all over her face. She quickly shook her head and forced a smile back onto her face.

"Y-yeah, sorry, I just..." Amy was silent, trying to figure out what to say. "I guess I was just surprised, I'm 25 and haven't even gotten my first boyfriend, yet here you two are, only a few years older than me, and already living a happy life together!" Amy let out another laugh, Millie giggling slightly as well. She found the hedgehog's jealousy almost adorable.

"Awe, there's no need to be jealous! You're such a fine young lady, I'm sure you'll find someone soon!" Millie seemed so positive about the topic, trying to reassure Amy that she wouldn't be lonely for long. "Besides, who wouldn't want to date you? you're just the cutest darn thing!"

"I know right? I mean, I just don't get what I'm doing wrong! Like, what do you like about Moxxie so much that you wanted to marry him?" Amy was just genuinely curious about what was so great about Moxxie, but Millie must've thought Amy wanted to know so she could change herself to be 'more likable', as that's how Millie responded to it.

"Oh Amy, that's not important, I love him for being himself, and that means you have to find someone who loves you for being yourself." Amy wasn't sure what to say. This isn't how she expected this conversation to go. Millie's words did make her feel nice though, Millie was surprisingly nice for her profession.

"Thanks, Millie, you're pretty nicer, much nicer than I expected, no offense..." Amy let out a nervous chuckle, Millie waving her hand dismissively.

"Oh it's alright Sugar, I know how to be nice when I want t' be!" Sugar. That nickname made Amy's heart flutter, but she tried to push down the feeling of growing affection. She could deal with that later.

Later that same day, Amy ran into Moxxie alone, and after her conversation with Millie, she hadn't intended to actually confront him about anything, but she thought she might as well while she had the chance. "hey Moxxie, you got a minute?" Amy tried to sound nice, and tried to play this off casually, just like she did with Millie.

Moxxie raised an eyebrow, he had always been a bit cautious of Amy from the start. I mean, it's not every day you see someone like Amy willingly working with a bunch of Imps. "Uh, sure... What is it?" Amy fidgeted with her fingers slightly. "W-well... I hope this doesn't seem too personal, but, how are things going with you and Millie?" That didn't sound too odd to ask a coworker, but Moxxie still thought something was going on, Amy seemed just a bit too nervous.

"Things, are going, great, why do you ask?"

"Well, I've just been having, relationship problems lately, and... you two just seem to have it all figured out... I wanna know how you two can just, make it work..." Moxxie couldn't help but feel a twinge of sympathy. Finding love must've been so important to Amy.

"Oh, it really depends on who you're with. Some relationships take more work than others. Millie and I are practically perfect for each other, yeah, but that might not be the same for you." Moxxie tried not to sound too much like a downer, not wanting to upset the poor hedgehog. It didn't work too much, as Amy just sighed. Before she could even say anythign else though, Moxxie continued. "Listen Amy, you're perfect in your own way, and you need to find someone who thinks your perfect for them, and if you're lucky, they'll be just as perfect for you."

"You really think so? It's just that, I've tried too hard, and yet, all guys think I'm too annoying, or clingy..." Amy shrugged her shoulders, trying to laugh it off as she hugged herself.

"Well then clearly those guys weren't perfect for you. Besides, I don't think you're annoying at all, yeah you're a bit, weird, but I wouldn't say that's a bad thing!" Moxxie patted Amy on the shoulder, Amy letting out another sigh as she smiled and nodded.

"Thanks, Moxxie, I guess your right...." Amy's heart was racing again, the soft and sympathetic stare Moxxie was giving her felt so, loving. Not even her own parents had ever shown her such sympathy. "Well, I'll, see you around!" Amy felt in a much better mood than before, though she wasn't sure why.

Later that night, Amy tossed and turned in bed, Moxxie and Millie's kind words ringing out through her head like echos, the caring words, the way they made her feel like she could be loved, Amy hated to admit it, but... she was in love again, and this time it left her feeling even more hopeless cause the two were already married to each other.

#*✧･ﾟ:{anons}#*✧･ﾟ:{short fics/imagines}#*✧･ﾟ:{requests}#Millie x Moxxie x Amy Rose #Amy Rose x Millie #Amy Rose x Moxxie #moxxie helluva boss #millie helluva boss #amy rose #hellava boss #sonic the hedgehog #crossover ship #crossover shipping #proship #proshipping #tw aged up #ask to tag.

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genuflectx · 2 years ago

Text

A Marvellous Light ("Terato" Book Review)

You can thank my fiancé for me reading this one, because this really isn't my usual cup of tea when it comes to literature! It's not "terato," not even exactly "exophilia" either, however I think its general themes might appeal to some people of those communities- even I was a bit shocked and impressed by it.

The first half has vague spoilers, such as descriptions of sex and if there was a happy end or not. Under the cut you’ll find a longer review with detailed spoilers.

A Marvellous Light by Freya Marske has a simple plot at its core. Robert "Robin" Blyth is a typical well-to-do Edwardian jock who, due to a clerical error, is introduced to the secret world of magic. He meets Edwin Courcey, an icy and bookish magician with subdued powers- something Edwin's family looks down on him and teases him for. When Robin is attacked and cursed because of his accidental introduction to the magical world, Edwin feels responsible for him and does everything he can to find out how to remove that curse, with plans to remove Robin's memories after. Along the way a terrible magic conspiracy is revealed that the two become slowly more involved in. While also becoming quite "involved" with each other.

Pros and cons time! But.. I don't particularly have a lot of cons.

PROS ★ ★ ★

If I wanted to describe it in fanfiction tropes or tags, I would say: slow burn, magic kink, jock/nerd. Fun combinations.

Marske is really well spoken with her prose, and pacing seems to be a strong suit. Despite being her first published book, she really has mastered the craft of storytelling!

Highly romantic. Sexual content itself is built upon a strong foundation of slow built romance.

Multiple gay sex scenes, with some veeery interesting usage of magic as a kink. Something I've never seen before (but I've never been in any fandoms with magic, so maybe it's common in those?).

Because Robin is non-magical and Edwin is, it can sorta feel like that human/non-human gay relationship you might be craving. However, since they are both still technically humans, it doesn't really count as terato or exophilia explicitly.

A very rich magical world intertwined with the Edwardian period. It feels really unique, and the magic itself has rules and limitations, meaning magic isn't the end-all-be-all when it comes to power. Which... plays right into the underlying plot.

Themes of the rich (and rich men) being idiots and ignoring the importance of domestic magic and the magic of women. Marske is writing a period piece- and I appreciate her desire for accuracy while also clearly trying to find ways around it.

Ends on a happy note with potential for the next book and the main characters do not die.

CONS ★ ★ ★

The biggest turn off for some readers might be the prose. Yes, it's well written and well paced for what it wants to accomplish, but it is an Edwardian period piece that can still be pretty wordy. I don't think it's overly flowery, but someone else might find it harder to read if they don't really want to know what happens next.

While probably realistic for a bunch of rich white English gentlemen of that period, a large part of the book tends to feel like they're just piddling about reading books, chatting, and eating breakfast. That might be boring for some readers.

Somehow, the main villain should have both been obvious and was too obvious at the same time. I don't know if that is genius or lame. I guess it depends on what perspective you take.

This is a very "relationship" based plot; character relationships take the forefront over plot or action, as you'd expect with slowburn. If you go into it more interested in the romance and sex you might have a better time than if you go into it wanting to devour something plot heavy- it truly is just not plot heavy, unless you consider their romance the actual main plot.

★ ★ ★ WOULD I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO TERATO FANS?

Yeah! If you like magic stories! If you don't care for magic- or don't care for Edwardian period pieces- then maybe not for you. But if you do, then this is a darn good read. Marske is extremely competent in her craft, the romance builds slowly and the sex scenes feel both loving and exotically satisfying.

Just because magic stories aren't exactly my thing I might personally not read book 2, but I absolutely know my fiancé will because they adore this book and could not put it down. In their words, they believe it is one of the most romantic books they've ever read.

★ ★ ★ FINAL RATINGS:

Monsterousness: 0/10 Eroticism: 10/10 Story: 7/10 Characters: 10/10

MY FINAL SCORE: 9/10 (Not my favorite genre, but really good!!)

Heavier spoiler time!

I initially wasn't sure how I felt about the characters, I think ultimately the beginning is the story's weakest part. I feel that these are characters you grow to love more over the story's length, and when you are first learning who they are and getting that early exposition on magic it's sorta "eh" compared to the meat of the book... i.e. the rest of their relationship. Because yes, it's really their relationship that carries it. And that's not a bad thing! I actually prefer character-driven stories. But I think that's just something to keep in mind about this book (and probably the series), that relationships heavily take the forefront and the underlying plot is second to that. In this book, Edwin's past relationships and icy personality melting for Robin are more important than actually doing footwork to discover what happened to Reggie, the missing person, for example.

About 40% through the book however, I did have the realization that nothing was really happening or moving forward. It was a lot of playing little games, chatting over breakfast, and reading books. Sure, all this leisure is likely pretty realistic for their social status, but it does not necessarily make it an engaging read. Luckily, I think watching Robin and Edwin slowly fall for reach other to have encouraged me enough to keep reading to see them get even closer, but I do think that this might be a detriment to others.

It's not completely explicit, but rather something the reader needs to make a conscious effort to notice, that women and domesticity play a large part of this book's universe. By that I mean no one is going to beat you over the head to say "PAY ATTENTION TO THE SERVENTS AND LADIES" but they do play very important roles, in spite of accurate world views from the men that the women are too dumb to be taught. It is a domestic spell which allows Edwin to remove the curse from Robin's arm. It is a group of women- ignored by their misogynistic male magician counterparts- who discover the Last Contract and realize its potential for misuse. It is a pair of intelligent sisters who aid Robin and Edwin when the two are lacking friends. If you are a shallow reader you might take characters' opinions (including main characters) on women at face value, but their opinions compared to the actual actions and personalities of the women and servants is meant to show how wrong these spoiled Edwardian men are.

I really don't have much else to say! I thought the slowburn romance was great and using magic as a kink unique, especially the kind of magic they used. Overall it was a good book.

#a marvellous light #book review #review #magic #terato #but not really

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nikethestatue · 2 years ago

Note

I’m apologizing in advance because this a long one, but once I get going sometimes I just don’t know how to stop 😅

I’m a new follower of yours and for awhile was just a casual ACOTAR reader. After a recent re-read I decided to jump into the online fandom and *wowzers* was I surprised to discover the massive shipwars happening. Being a casual reader like many, (and not having seen nor even possessing the knowledge of the Azriel bonus chapter) I was always under the impression the next couple to be was Elriel. After seeing all the hullabaloo and noise regarding Gwynriel, I was confused and sought out the BC. Here is what I would like to contribute to the conversation after reading it…

First let me explain what I do for a living and how it applies to my thought process. I produce unscripted television episodes - my official title is Story Producer. I work in post production and am responsible for assembling and tracking the story for my designated episodes. Now, obviously television and books are wildly different mediums, however, the art of storytelling is universal and as a professional storyteller I’m banking all my chips on Elriel. Their ship has been seeded many times throughout the earlier books and I do not believe that the addition of the Gwyn character is going to change that rather than merely shake things up. I see a lot of Gwynriel supporters screaming why would SJM even have the interaction with Gwyn and Az if it wasn’t important… I think the answer to that is simple - It’s classic misdirection. Even though it’s a chapter that clearly not everyone is even aware of and takes place middle of the book’s timeline, I believe it’s ultimately meant to be treated as a cliffhanger. And what storytelling device is often used in cliffhangers??… misdirection. A tactic we employ often in the shows I work on. Even the wording surrounding the dancing shadows and the glowing necklace image seems very deliberately misleading and can be interpreted in multiple ways - which we have already seen from all of the ship camps (I myself am a supporter of the Gwyn lightsinger theory).

Given the types of meetings I experience at my job discussing character arcs, relationships, likability, audience perception, etc., I think it’s possible that similar conversations happened with SJM and her editing/publishing teams regarding Elain’s book. (Yes! I, too, believe her book is next!!!) And based on what I’ve seen to be a large portion of the fandom’s negative and grossly misogynistic attitude towards Elain, it’s possible they felt the need to drum up more interest for sales. Personally, I don’t think you need more interest than having Rhys outright command Az to stay away. I know what non-Elriels are squawking about enemies to lovers reigning supreme or whatever, but to me a forbidden romance (along with a broken or rejected mate bond) sounds soooo deliciously refreshing… but maybe the publishers were worried it might not have been enough to convince Elain nay-sayers to tune in next time, cue the Gwyn/Az cliffhanger.

I am by no means stating that everyone should listen to me because my profession dictates that I am 100% right in this (I’m just a storyteller of a different kind waiting on pins and needles for Sep 8th just like everyone else!!). I’m merely chiming in on the discussion from my perspective. And despite some very vocal Gwynriels deeming Elriel a “sinking ship”, I truly don’t believe SJM seeded said ship for three books only to change her mind before it even comes to fruition. That would be some very strange and bad storytelling. And no - Tamlin, Chaol, etc. isn’t the same thing. Those weren’t just multiple books of only build up, so that is a useless argument. And I definitely don’t believe she set up Azriel to “only want sex from Elain” after all this time. That obviously wouldn’t make him very likable and I highly doubt that is the goal for one of her beloved batboy creations, especially after making us wait all these years for insight into his character.

I have several other thoughts about the delusion of Elucians and Elain “not looking good in black” theories, but I’ll stop here haha. Sorry for rattling your ear off 😂 I’m just such a fan of your blog and wanted to share my two cents while we all eagerly await the *hopefully* upcoming news!!!

No, rant away, because this is actually perfect!

Because that's what we've been saying for years! It IS misdirection and somewhat of a lame attempt at an additional conflict and a cliffhanger.

Because if SJM wants to make this book spicier in terms of 'choice' it's nice to have people wonder, since a choice between just between 3 people isnt always all that interesting. But if there is another figure seemingly in the mix, it would seem like something else is going on.

It's kind of like Rhys expressing shock in ACOTAR and just disappearing. I don't think this is at the same level obviously, but it also makes people pause and wonder.

And no, she will not have an unresolved romance which she'd been building up for years just not happen. That's ridiculous.

it's the same thing as with Elrocan in TOG. They were built up over a course of many books. They were the background love affair, and they didn't consummate until the final book. Now imagine, when suddenly.........nothing happened. Elide met someone else and walked away from Lorcan. How would people feel about that?

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taleweaver-ramblings · 3 years ago

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Looking for a book to read?

Let me put an author out there who may or may not be on your radar: Kendra E. Ardnek. If you're in the market for a fairy tale retelling or a portal fantasy (or, in one case, a high fantasy political thingy), she's your girl. Her books aren't consistently masterpieces, but they are a delight to read and full of cleverness and adventure and humor and tragedy and love.

(Also, full disclosure: Kendra has a necessary medical procedure coming up that she needs to find a way to pay for. So, while I would recommend her books anyway, that is a motivation for making this post and trying to convince you to pick them up.)

My favorite of her books is The Worth of a King — it's got long-lost siblings, murder, plots, fabulous non-long-lost sibling relationships, a whole nation of people who are basically doing their best Zorro/Dread Pirate Roberts impressions 24/7, a super sweet romance, actual contemplation of what it is to be a good leader, and, last but not least, Prince Delaney, who I love. (You'll also love him once you meet him.)

A close second is her Rizkaland Legends series, which is portal fantasy in the vein of Narnia, but more modern (and also with bonus arranged marriages — don't worry, there's nothing remotely questionable on the page). You can start with either book 1 or book 2; I love book 2 best, but that's because it contains most of my favorite characters in the series. Be aware: Book 3 is awesome — it deals a lot with that question of how the people who go on these adventures adjust to being home again (spoiler alert: the answer is "not terribly well) — but it will also tear your heart into tiny pieces. In a good way, though!

Her latest book, Rose Petals and Snowflakes, is also pretty fun. If you're a fan of Austen and fairy tales, give this a shot; it's a blend of Sense and Sensibility with Snow White and Rose Red, and it works astonishingly well. I had my doubts about it when Kendra said she was going to write it, but storm me if it isn't a genuinely clever idea and a good book. (She's doing Pride and Prejudice crossed with Cinderella next, and I think Emma/Rapunzel is after that. She actually has me excited for the Emma retelling, which is saying something since I have yet to get through a version of that book, full stop.)

She also has the Bookania Quests, which are humorous fairy tale retellings that end up hitting some serious topics by halfway through the series. The first couple books are her early work and therefore a little rough, but the second half of the series makes up for it by virtue of (A) just being generally better quality and (B) having the main couples get married and then just . . . keep having adventures. Like, who does that? More people should! If you want to skip the rough start, you can start with Book 4, which was written as an alternative entry point and features the aforementioned married adventuring couple. (Well . . . sorta. You'll see what I mean if you look at the book.) And then if you fall in love, you can go back and read how they got together.

All of her books are available in Kindle, Kindle Unlimited, and paperback. If you don't want to go through the 'Zon, contact her and she'd probably be willing to set you up with a back-channel copy.

Also, if you've already read her books, tell me so we can chat! Or try to chat. I am not very good at carrying a conversation, as you might have noticed. xD

#taleweaver speaks #taleweaver recommends #books #kendra e. ardnek #she is a very fun author #and a very good friend #and I already own all her books #so the best I can do to help her out is try to get other people to buy them #I genuinely do enjoy these just for the record #I will rate quite a few of them five stars

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hoe-doroki · 4 years ago

Text

ana’s bnha x reader masterlist

first updated 11.17.20 last updated 07.13.21 desktop version found here bkdk masterlist: desktop | mobile

fics [38] drabbles [13]

Thanks for dropping by! I want to note that I no longer write x reader and instead am writing bakudeku shipfic. So! By all means, read, like, comment on my fics here! But I can't recommend that you follow me unless you like bakudeku. Hope you enjoy your time here regardless! <3

legend:

character x character

Title w/ link | [rating] | word count | genre

Synopsis

ratings are bracketed: e.g. [g], [t], [m], [e]

[g] - appropriate for general audiences [t] - appropriate for audiences 13+ [m] - contains non-graphic adult themes [e] - explicit, 18+ readers only

🌸 = personal faves

characters x reader: no ship (1), aizawa (2), bakugou (12), endeavor (1), iida (2), kaminari (1), kirishima (4), midoriya (7), shinsou (2), todoroki (19)

Everything is in alphabetical order <3

no ship

2020 Election Night Comfort | [g] | 0.6k | hurt/comfort

The results are in and your class is all with you as you process the results

aizawa x reader

Stress Relief | [e] | 3k | smut

There's a new regulation that forces you to take an extra class before you can graduate college. When you learn that Eraserhead is teaching the class, you’re a little more interested.

2020 Election Night Comfort | [g] | 0.6k | hurt/comfort

Aizawa reminds that you were prepared for this and, together, you can handle it.

bakugou x reader

Can’t Find My Breath | [e] | 4.2k | smut 🌸

At the beginning of the day, Ground Zero was just another hero you wrote articles about. Now it’s nighttime and you’ve just left a bar together. Companion to The Rest with No Sound

Christmas Cold | [g] | 1k | fluff

You and Katsuki manage to make it to your parents' house for the holidays, but you've come down with a little cold.

Doing Something Right | [e] | 1.8k | smut

You’re pregnant and happily enjoying domestic bliss when Katsuki comes in, unable to resist you.

Frustration | [e] | 3.1k | smut

request. After a long day of work, Katsuki comes home frustrated and you, suffering from a different kind of frustration yourself, know exactly what will help you both.

Gorgeous | [e] | 1.5k | smut, hurt/comfort

ask. When you have a negative response to Katsuki touching you in a moment of insecurity, he intends to do whatever he can to alleviate your fears.

version 1: petite reader

version 2: curvy reader

Magic | [e] | 2.2k | smut

request. Katsuki comes home early and catches you...taking care of yourself.

Miniskirts | [e] | 0.8k | smut 🌸

After a long day, Katsuki takes a shower and his thoughts turn to you.

On the Job | [e] | 4.5k | smut 🌸

Super human society has a secret. Aphrodisiac quirks aren’t just of porn and fantasy--they’re common and too often fall into the wrong hands. When heroes get hit, someone has to be able to activate the quirk’s release condition. If they’re single, who might that someone be?

You.

The Rest with No Sound | [t] | 8.5k | slow burn, fluff 🌸

Bakugou thinks that people who wake up not remembering where they are are idiots. This is confirmed when it happens to him, head aching from a night of drinking. Idiot. But when he looks over, and sees you there, he realizes he doesn’t remember anything. So he has to gather the scattered pieces from the day before to figure out exactly how he ended up with you. Companion to Can’t Find My Breath

Stay | [g] | 2.2k | hurt/comfort 🌸

ask. The last thing you want to do on a rough day is worry Bakugou with your problems. So you try to hide it. You should have known better.

Steamy | [e] | 2.7k | smut

request. You're a pro hero, rising in the ranks and, happy though he is for you, Katsuki's old jealousy begins to roil. After you've been paraded around all evening as one of Japan's finest, Katsuki finds himself feeling more than a little possessive, and can't help himself from taking you as his.

Steel and Lace | [e] | 3.8k | smut

The only one who manages to get Bakugou’s birthday right is you.

endeavor x reader

When the Smoke Clears | [e] | 17.4k | slow burn, smut

Soulmate AU. After his battle with Hawks against Hood, Endeavor wakes up in the hospital to find that a young doctor saved his life, their quirk being able to counteract the negative effects of his own. His first thought is that he has to talk to you–you might be able to fix the drawbacks of his quirk. His second thought is oh no, not again.

iida x reader

Broken Glass | [g] | 1.8k | fluff, mild comfort

request. In a quirk-related accident you find yourself surrounded by shattered glass. Worst of all, most of that glass is from every single pair of your boyfriend’s glasses.

Flotsam, Jetsam, Lagan, and Derelict | [g] | 1.5k | hurt/comfort

ask. Trying to hide a panic attack from your boyfriend isn’t easy when he’s right next to you. But you’re determined to suffer alone.

kaminari x reader

2020 Election Night Comfort | [g] | 0.4k | hurt/comfort

You share your unsteady hope with Kaminari.

kirishima x reader

Silhouette | [e] | 1.8k | smut, hurt/comfort

ask. Before a gala, you’re stuck in the mirror, caught on all your old body insecurities. Kiri comes in and loves you regardless.

version 1: petite reader

version 2: curvy reader

We’ll See | [g] | 6.3k | gen, light romance 🌸

demisexual!Reader. After a fateful meeting, you and Kirishima keep running into each other. And although he’s so nice, you fear the fact that he might be interested in you. Even though all you want is, for once, to let yourself be happy and maybe fall in love, you can’t seem to be able to.

What We Look For | [t] | 15.5 | slow burn

Last time, you and Kirishima became friends—nothing more, nothing less. The idea of being something more sounds nice. But you can’t. You just can’t. So you won’t. Whatever happens will be on your own terms. Sequel to We'll See

2020 Election Night Comfort | [g] | 0.4k | hurt/comfort

Kirishima freaks out while you experience a numb calm. You meet in the middle.

midoriya x reader

Bad Days | [g] | 1.4k | hurt/comfort

Izuku helps you get out of bed.

Sunlight | [e] | 2.1k | smut 🌸

request. An early afternoon in bed with your husband, Izuku.

Surprised, Just Once | [e] | 5k | smut

request. You were planning on just another predictable night out with the girls. What you got was much, much more.

2020 Election Night Comfort | [g] | 0.3k | hurt/comfort

Izuku holds you close while you watch the results.

Multiple unrelated oneshots with Deku with an s/o with an eating disorder | ask

Gratitude | [t] | 1.4k | hurt/comfort

After having been with Izuku a while, you’re suffering a relapse and he helps you through with some gratitude practices on date night.

Picnic | [t] | 1.8k | hurt/comfort

Izuku surprises you with a picnic on your second date, much to your horror.

A Start | [t] | 1.2k | hurt/comfort 🌸

You ask Izuku for help when you realize you need it.

Trust Yourself | [t] | 2.3k | hurt/comfort

Shortly after moving in together, Izuku learns of your struggles and tries his best to comfort and encourage you.

shinsou x reader

Passing the Night Stars | [g] | 3.2k | hurt/comfort

The party was neon and you needed darkness.

2020 Election Night Comfort | [g] | 0.4k | hurt/comfort

Shinsou helps you prioritize yourself.

todoroki x reader

All Dressed Up | [e] | 4.6k | smut 🌸

quarantine fic. It’s been months since you’ve dressed up, felt pretty, and felt seen by anyone. Your husband’s birthday is a perfect excuse to get all dressed up. And then take it right off.

All the Wasted Time | [e] | 3.2k | smut, fluff

Three months ago, you’d been ripped from Shouto’s side with something less than a love confession, something more than a show of feelings. Now that you’re back, you’re eager to make up for lost time. Siberia sequel, First Snow prequel

Bad Days | [g] | 0.9k | hurt/comfort 🌸

Shouto comforts you when your demons arrive unexpectedly.

First Snow | [g] | 2.2k | fluff

A year after the events in Siberia, you and Shouto are happily together, and it’s the first snow of the year. Siberia and All the Wasted Time sequel

On the Job | [e] | 3.4k | smut 🌸

You. Sequel to On the Job (Bakugou); can be read alone

Siberia | [e] | 13.8k | pining/angst, smut, fluff 🌸

On the field, you and Todoroki are rising stars amongst hero pairings. Off the field…you’re kind of in love with him. After a successful capture, you’re boss brings you in to let you know you’re being sent on assignment in foreign country…alone. Before you leave, you have to act. You’re not partners anymore, after all. And with a little liquid courage you do. Then, the next morning, you still have to leave. All the Wasted Time and First Snow prequel.

Worth it | [t] | 0.3k | gen

The morning after with your boyfriend, Shouto.

2021 Election Night Comfort | [g] | 0.5k | hurt/comfort

The stress of election day comes back swiftly during the Georgia runoff and Todoroki’s quick to notice.

all works below are within the world of the a spare heart series:

A series about a fem, American reader who had to transfer to U.A. partway through second year. You’re there to become a hero, that much is obvious, but why else did you come? And, more importantly, what—or who—makes you stay?

timeline

may, year two:

- reader finishes junior year of American high school early

- reader transfers to u.a. from the united states

The Meeting | [g] | 0.1k | gen

Reader meets Tokoyami for the first time. Sequel to first impressions from my wip list

Hollow Victory | [g] | 9.6k | gen, action

chapter 1 | chapter 2

You transferred to U.A. from America two weeks ago. No one has found out your quirk yet. Today, they’re going be meeting it head on and you have the advantage: surprise.

june, year two:

Illiterate | [g] | 2.1k | fluff, comfort

Being unable to read Japanese makes you feel so stupid. And who comes into the common room after midnight just as you’re about to cry? The boy who hasn’t spoken to you in three weeks.

sequels

The Offering | [g] | 0.4k | fluff, gen.

The Mission (Shouto POV) | [g] | 0.3k | fluff, gen., silly

september, year two:

Impetus | [g] | 2.1k | friendship

Ever since Shinsou found out what your quirk was, the two of you have been each other’s best friends and confidantes. But when he turns a casual training session into a tease over your supposed crush on someone in your class, that trust might just break.

january, year two:

This Clock Never Seemed So Alive | [g] | 1.2k | fluff, comfort

You and your boyfriend, Shouto, always walk to class together, but today you haven’t yet left your dorm. When he checks on you, he finds you awake, but curled on your side, suffering from period cramps.

sequels

The Questions (drabble) | [g] | 0.1k | gen.

The Sweetness (double drabble) | [g] | 0.2k | fluff, comfort

february, year three:

Between Fear and Guilt | [t] | 2.5k | light angst, comfort

You and Shouto only started being intimate a couple months back, but you’re already experiencing a dry spell. Today you’re going to figure out what’s up with your boyfriend once and for all.

fifteen years after graduation

Something Perfect | [e] | 3.7k | smut, fluff

After years of questioning if Shouto would ever want children, he’s finally decided that he really does. Overjoyed, the two of you decide to get started.

#bnha x reader #mha x reader #bnha #mha #todoroki x reader #bakugou x reader #bakugo x reader #deku x reader #iida x reader #ida x reader #kirishima x reader #aizawa x reader #shinsou x reader #endeavor x reader

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my-mt-heart · 3 years ago

Note

I'm the anon from yesterday who said AK's comments about the show are vanilla. You questioned what I meant. Basically, I find her trite when she's interviewed and asked point blank questions, even after episodes have aired and there has been major shifts in characters and or relationships. It's just absolutely frustrating thatnshe just can never seem to lay it out and speak the facts. It's always a dance. Anyhoo.... I'm not going to waste anymore time on being annoyed with her. I want to ask you if you A) think Daryl will address Connie when he admits his love for Carol (meaning he shoots her down BY NAME so there will be no gray area) and B) tells Carol it was always her. Personally, I think it is imperative that Daryl explicitly end any speculation that his heart lies somewhere other than Carol because in order to have Caryl move on together, the show needs to stop playing up both sides and show one has substance and the other was just a manifestation in Carol's mind because she didn't think she was good enough for Daryl. In fact, I want to hear Carol say those exact words. Your thoughts?

Kang might be taking a page from Gimple's book in that regard, but also? I don't think it's that uncommon for EPs to be coy in interviews if not to avoid spoilers then to let each fan preserve their own personal experience. Personally, I believe in right and wrong answers, so I totally hear your frustration lol

A) I've been predicting a bait and switch since the start of 11B. The look Daryl gives Connie in 11x10, not coincidentally witnessed by Carol, has to amount to something and since it's definitely too late to keep teasing the non-existent Donnie romance, the next beat has to be Daryl making it clear who he really wants to be with. Frankly all he has to do is speak in the affirmative. For example, if Carol's argument is "But Connie," Daryl's can be "But you." And maybe he gives some vague indication of what his relationship with Connie really is and why it's different, but from that word salad interview, I got the impression that a crystal clear distinction won't ever be made. NR made it sound like he has no idea what his relationship with Connie is supposed to be. But we, the audience will know what it's not when Daryl chooses Carol. That being said...

B) I do think we will get explicit acknowledgement of how deep Daryl's love for Carol goes. He isn't settling for her. He isn't just discovering his feelings. He isn't writing pros and cons lists for Carol and Connie to see who's a better fit. Carol is who he wants and has always wanted. I would really love his confession to run parallel to a flashback of when he first became conscious of his feelings (probably within that six year time gap), but definitely not holding my breath for it lol

I think Carol's insecurities will be addressed in dialogue. Something like "But I'm too broken," and maybe that's where the conversation ends before they undergo some brief period of angst/drama/some mission. Then a few eps later, it'll be picked back up, this time with Carol ready to put all those insecurities behind her.

#caryl #caryl positivity #caryl is endgame #twd #twd season 11 #twd speculation

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beardrabbles · 4 years ago

Text

composed together. [ ♡ ]

characters: venti, reader

warnings: alcohol mention

word count: 3,029

notes: been trying out venti as a muse on a roleplay blog i have, but I wanted to have a crack at writing a reader with him. i'm not a poet in any sense of the word, so i'm sorry if isn't up to venti's standards lmao. if you tolerated all the rhyming, you deserve a gold star and a high-five.

You had tried so hard to make it back in time, but were disappointed when you returned to find Mondstadt barren of the usual Windblume decorations. There were no wreaths or elaborately decorated banners, no potted plants sporting twirling pinwheels. The scent of fresh flowers and baking goods persisted, but it didn’t carry with it the festive spirit. People were, once again, content to ask for help rather than tend to their own needs.

‘ And that’s why I missed out. . . ’ You brooded. It was because you offered yourself as a member of the Adventurer's Guild that you had found yourself pulled away from your home. You had been promised that the job in question wouldn’t take you longer than three days, give or take a day depending on how well you did. But, as it turned out, you had been gone for an entire week. And in that week, the festival had come and gone.

Windblume had never been about the romance for you. Every year, you looked forward to the food and atmosphere, letting the spirit carry you away. This year, however, you had held onto the fleeting hope that someone might show interest. Or that you might gather the courage to approach the one you so adored. You knew it was a lame excuse to depend on one holiday to steel your nerves, but the time and your chance had dashed past in the blink of an eye.

“Shouldn’t have taken the damn commission.” You slumped at an outdoor table near The Angel’s Share, a half-empty tankard of cider resting in your hands. You drummed your fingers along the side of the tankard, willing yourself not to be bummed. The holiday would come around again next year, you reminded yourself as you downed another gulp. “But I’ll probably get sent out then too.”

You stooped forward even further, cheek nearly pressed flat to the table when the familiar sound of plucked lyre strings thrummed in your ear. You sat straight so abruptly that you made yourself dizzy, your need to look around rapidly for the source not helping the fuzzy feeling in your head.

“Venti?” You called his name with such unbridled hope that he couldn’t keep himself hidden for long. A giggle sounded above you, and you felt your diminishing mood soar when you spotted the colorful bard sitting along the eaves of the tavern, beloved lyre in hand.

“The one and only!” He cooed, soaking in your glee. “Looks like you started without me.”

You frowned and peered down at your table, noting the two other empty tankards. Cheeks flushed from embarrassment, you pushed them aside, as if that would make them ( and your shame ) disappear. “Look, I just got back and I find out I missed out on Windbl——!”

Eyes up, you realized too late that Venti had vanished from the roof. You blinked once, then twice, your cider-addled mind slow to catch up. Where did he go?

“I was wondering where you’d gone off too.” His voice bobbed along the air, light and playful, and it tugged your attention like a hook pulling along a caught fish. He sat across from you, his chin resting in his palm and bright eyes twinkling with eternal mischief. “Missed Windblume, huh?”

“Mhmm.” You grunted and polished off the rest of your drink, mood dropping again. “I was looking forward to it too. Did I miss anything important?”

Venti hummed and leaned back in his seat. Absentmindedly, he toyed with the strings of his lyre. “Let me think. Margaret thought of a new, non-alcoholic drink and it went over pretty well with the kids and those looking to keep themselves a little more dignified during the festivities. Our own Honorary Knight was named this years Windblume Star! Oh! That’s right, I taught a class on the art of expressing ones love though poetry.”

You snorted.

“You taught people to write poems?” Your eyes narrowed suspiciously. “At what cost?”

“Come noq, Y/N, do you really think I could put a price on the ability to write out what a person’s heart yearns for most?” He paused, saw your deadpan stare, then let out a nervous chuckle. “A few bottles of holiday-exclusive wine is all I asked for.”

“Begged is more like it.” You rolled your eyes and shook your head. “How many bottles exactly?”

“Enough to tide me over.” Answered the bard vaguely.

“Is there any left?”

His silence was all the answer you needed. You groaned, let your head hit the table, then left it there as your forehead throbbed. Venti, sporting the rare flicker of guilt across a normally jovial face, leaned forward to pat at the back of your head.

“Hey, don’t be down. I have an idea!”

You lifted your head, but your eyes were downcast and dulled. “Is it a bad idea? I don’t think I want to mess with anyone right now, Venti.”

“I thought of the idea, so of course it’s a good one! And we’re not going to mess with anyone.” Venti grinned from ear-to-ear and stood, offering you a single, delicate hand. You gave it a hard stare, wondering what sort of troublesome plans he had brewing in his head. Unfortunately, you weren’t able to come up with a believable excuse as to why you couldn’t indulge him.

Leaving your empty tankards behind, you stood and took Venti’s hand. You stumbled the slightest bit before finding your footing. “What’s your idea, O Great and Fantastical Bard?”

“Since you’re being so kind as to lavish me in well-deserved compliments, I’ll tell you.” He winked at your withering glare. “You’re going to help me compose a song!”

“How is that going to cheer me up? I’m not poetic.” You grumbled. Venti clicked his tongue as he guided you away from the tavern and towards the cathedral.

“That is wildly untrue, Y/N! Everyone is capable of expressing themselves through poetry.” He argued.

“But I’m not good at rhyming or thinking of pretty words.” You countered. Venti sighed and gave your fingers an encouraging squeeze.

“That’s not what it’s about. No one said that poetry was meant to impress people. If it does, that’s a bonus, but the point is to shape your feelings. You write how you feel, not how you want to sound. If you don’t rhyme, that’s fine. If you want to use big words, then by all means! Short words are still words, and they can still carry your thoughts with them. There are no rules with it comes to poetry, no matter what some stuffy scholar might say.” He tugged your hand and pulled your arm up high, leading you into an impromptu twirl. Unable to help yourself, you fell into a fit of laughter that instantly lifted your mood.

“I guess you’re right, but that doesn’t make it any easier for me.” You followed along, a new spring in your step. Venti shrugged.

“Practice means progress!” He clearly wouldn’t allow you to wallow in your negativity, and you were quietly grateful for it. If there was anyone that could lift you out of a funk, no matter how deep and depressing it may be, it would be him.

Venti lead you past the statue of Barbados and around the side of the cathedral, where he perched on the side of a stone railing. Beyond you sat the lake, it’s surface a constantly shifting sheet of vivid oranges, cheerful yellows, warm reds and sleepy blues. The sun was setting, and soon night would fall, but Venti didn’t seem concerned. If it didn’t worry him, then it didn’t worry you, so you found a seat beside him and made yourself comfortable.

“The breeze is nice. . .” You let your eyes fall closed, skin kissed by a gentle twirl of the air against your heated cheeks. You couldn’t see then how Venti’s lips quirked up subtly, an adoration in his eyes that not many earned. He watched you for all of one, still moment before your eyes opened and he was forced to look elsewhere.

“Yeah, it is. So!” Quick to discard the hammering in his chest, Venti pulled forward his lyre and cleared his throat. “About that song——”

“What is it about?”

“Unspoken love, the kind that lives in your chest and makes every moment spent with the person you adore both exciting and painful.” His fingers strummed one string, then another. You frowned, the first few notes squeezing at your heart.

“Why is it unspoken?” You wondered, keeping your voice low.

“Because, sometimes, confessing is more selfish and cruel than never saying anything at all. Because opening up one’s heart may lead to more pain than you first expect.” The melancholy notes only proved to add more hurt to your chest, but still the bard smiled.

“Do you really want to write a song that sad?” You weren’t sure that your flimsy mood could handle thinking about such a morose subject.

“Oh, don’t misunderstand, dear friend~ The reason for love’s silence is upsetting, but the love itself is anything but!” Venti began to swing his legs, and you felt the breeze pick up. Green eyes turned up towards the sky, while a subtle tinge of pink touched his cheeks. “I’ll think of the first few lines, then you chime in with whatever your lovely little mind and heart think of first. Alright?”

“If you say so.”

“Great!” Skilled fingers began to play, the heart of the music beating in time with your own. “I want it to start like this: I want always to treasure your warm soul and kind eyes. . .”

You waited for more, but were met with a calm quiet. A single glance from the bard, and you suddenly felt as is everyone in town could hear and see you. Face burning hot with embarrassment, you looked out towards water rather than at your companion.

“I want always to treasure your warm soul and kind eyes. Hmm.” You breathed in deep and muttered the first thing that came into your head. “Every smile and glance like a hard-earned prize.”

“Good! And you said you weren’t skilled at this.” Venti beamed, the sheer glee behind his praise lifting your mood higher still. “Let’s keep going. Next line: Your voice it rings like the sweetest prayer. . .”

You thought hard again, arms crossed tight and lips pursed. This was as difficult as you thought it might be, but Venti’s enthusiasm was infectious. So, again you offered the only words that rose to the top of your mind. “. . . a blessing from lips so fair.”

Venti hummed, the sound soft and low in his chest. “Indeed they are.”

“What?”

“Nothing! Moving on!” He slipped from the stone railing and came to stand in front of you, posture loose and playful even as he came dangerously close. “I adore you, I do. My heart is yours, it’s true. Little skips and steady pounding, my dear, you are astounding.”

Feeling him so near, his eyes mirthful and intent on you, you couldn’t help but to shrink into yourself a little. You grasped the railing you sat on and hunched your shoulders, eyes glued to your feet. If only those words were meant for you. Oh, but then what would you do?

“Is this meant to inspire other people to think of their love, or are you thinking of someone in particular?” You couldn’t and wouldn’t dare to hope, but you had to ask.

The strumming stopped, but you didn’t turn your gaze up.

“Perhaps I am,” Venti purred coyly, “why? Is there someone you’re thinking about?”

“Don’t be such an imp.” You kicked a foot out, but he was quick to step aside. Your aggression, though harmless, pulled a laugh from the bard. “I might be thinking of someone.”

“Who is it?” Venti pestered. “Do I know them?”

“Maybe.” You sported a cheeky smile of your own. Venti moved in an inch or two more to your side, leaving only a breadth of space between the two of you.

“Do they inspire you?” He asked. You sighed, completely unable to contain the need.

“He does.”

“Oh, so they’re a he, are they? That narrows it down.” He tittered and let himself play a soft, ambient tune. “Does he know how you feel?”

“No way!” You let out a bark of laughter. “Been trying to keep it a secret.”

“Why?” Venti blinked, appearing thoroughly baffled. “He should know!”

“What was it you said? Confessing is selfish sometimes. . .”

“Using my words against me. Cruel.” Venti sighed. “You really won’t tell him?”

“Not until it’s right, and not until I’m strong enough to accept the possibility that he might not feel the same.” Your smile was feeble and didn’t quite reach your eyes. “Chances come and go, away with the wind they blow, so I hold these lovelorn words inside my chest, never to be confessed.”

Venti frowned, watching as your fingers pressed and rubbed at the sudden ache right where your heart sat. His own reacted in kind, the horribly familiar grasp of doubt squeezing at his chest. He knew those thoughts and feelings all to well.

“In your heart the feelings run deep, but darling, don’t put them to sleep.” He reached out again when you dismissed his lyrics with a scoff, only this time you didn’t hesitate to place your hand in his. He didn’t drag you away from where you sat, but let his fingers slip between yours. Your heart stuttered a moment, the gentleness of the gesture filling you with gratitude and trace amounts of confusion.

The breeze picked up again, and you thought you could still hear the gentle song of the lyre despite him being preoccupied.

“Look at me.” He voice dropped to a whisper, so soft and airy that you almost didn’t catch it. But when you did, you bashfully locked your gaze with his. The sweetest smile pulled at his lips, the glimmer in his eyes so sincere that it made your own eyes prickle at the very corners.

Why did you have to fall for someone like him? Why couldn’t you have fallen for someone forgettable, or someone that wasn’t almost always within reach?

“Listen to my words, find them true, only a moron would reject you. You are wanted, loved and adored, you are more precious than any treasure hoard.” Venti arched himself forward, his forehead meeting with yours. Music continued to play in your ears, making the air around his words sweet. Could you believe them when they came from someone as flighty as him? You wanted desperately to, but you had to argue, to contest his open fondness for you.

“By the time the day is done, you’ll have said that to everyone.” You countered. Venti couldn’t hold back a laugh, his head moving away from yours. Already, you regretted sassing him. Come back, stay close.

“You’re getting better at that. While it’s true that I love to sing peoples praises, what I give you aren’t throwaway phrases. You’ve caught me, dear heart, and I want to surrender, allow me to bask in your unending splendor.”

You snorted and gave him a harmless shove. Venti grinned and gave in to your push, but he was near again in an instant.

“It can’t be that hard to believe that someone would love you. Don’t you believe me?” His question hung heavy in the air, leaving you momentarily speechless. Your mouth opened and closed, and each time your words failed you. Only after a long moment of listening to you stammer did Venti cautiously lean in. “Should I be selfish?”

“What does it mean for a bard to be selfish?” After a moment of mental screaming, you felt a smirk tease at your lips, but it was short lived. “Aside from drink all his wine before sharing it with someone?”

“Selfish bards do many, many things.” He spoke slowly, making sure each word dragged and lured you in. “I’ll admit it was silly to drink all the wine without you, but I can make up for it.”

You hummed contemplatively, each passing second tugging you closer and closer.

“How?”

“More wine?” He offered. You pulled a face.

“Mmmn, maybe. And?” Your mind was numb at this point, the idea that you two were so close making every inch of your body squirm. You had only daydreamed of sappy little scenarios like this, so living one out felt too good to be true. You were waiting to wake up, in fact, because this couldn’t be real. He couldn’t be tempting the idea of confessing to you when the entire world of Teyvat could offer him better.

“Songs written just for you?” Venti’s grin broadened, but there was a hitch in his breath when you nudged the tip of your nose against his.

“Anything else?” You egged him on, catching a flare of darker green in his eyes. He said nothing, but the way he moved his hand to touch your cheek spoke volumes. “How about a share of the apples you pick every day, or some mora, or——?”

“You’re talking too much.” He muttered, lips only a fraction away from yours.

“That’s rich coming from you. . .”

His breath was warm and welcome and mingled with yours for all of one second before you felt the notion of a kiss. It was then that the bell above the cathedral chimed, it’s proximity and the intensity of the clap jarring you and the bard from your shared trance. You jerked away, flushed and wide-eyed, while Venti clicked his tongue. Vexed, he glared up towards the cathedral.

“You can’t be serious.”

“I need to go.” You scrambled from your spot, heart hammering so hard in your ears that it almost drowned out the sounds of the bell. “I forgot to see Katheryne about the commission!”

Venti arched a brow. “Oh, really?”

“Yes, really.” You vaulted over the railing and contemplated running off without another word, but it didn’t feel right. Rather than succumb to cowardice and embarrassment, you turned to face the bard. “Tomorrow. We’ll do this again, I promise, and. . .”

“And?”

“We’ll finish where we left off.”

“I was hoping you’d say that!”

#venti x reader #genshin impact x reader #genshin impact #( almost got a smooch! )#( it was another long one dang )#( i get too wordy sometimes :/ not sure if it's a good thing or a bad thing HMM )#( tried to keep this one gender neutral but if I slipped up at all please let me know )

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mllemaenad · 4 years ago

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So I just started a new DA2 playthrough, and remembered something that I'd love to get your thoughts and opinions on, especially since your Joanna romanced Anders. If you give Fenris to Danarius, basically everyone disapproves, except Anders, who actually *approves*. I understand the basics: he's so far gone to his cause he wants everyone who disagrees with him *gone*, fellow ex-slave or no, but I'd love to see if you had a more in-depth thought process on it. Thanks!

Hi. :)

I ... honestly don’t have much in the way of deep thoughts on Anders himself here, because I don’t think Anders is the core problem. I’ve seen people wring their hands over that +5 before, and it’s always confused me. I feel like if you’re worrying about the minutiae of a +5 to friendship you are not grappling with the full horror of what just happened. This whole quest is a catastrophic failure of the friendship/rivalry system.

So - the quest page is here.

Digging a little further tells me that on XBox, at least, Isabela will give a +5 to rivalry for the threat to Fenris’s sister, but nothing for Fenris himself. She has a line, objecting to Hawke’s actions, but no friendship/rivalry change.

I mean - what the hell are we looking at here? Do you know? Because I absolutely do not.

We have a solid +10 rivalry average for handing a friend over to a slaver. I can make that back with two moderately funny purple responses in the right places. In fact, as this is an Act 3 quest I would imagine that many people are missing some or all of these changes because they’ve already maxed out their companions’ scores one way or another. It’s an utter non-event.

Merrill, whose people were enslaved en masse by Tevinter, who lost her whole culture to them and is scrabbling to reclaim it, gives a +10 to rivalry when a fellow elf is handed over to a Tevinter Magister for enslavement and torture. Isabela, the pirate captain who liberates slaves has no followup on that at all. Our biggest rivalry gain is from Aveline, at +15, and - wow. Impressive. A whole 15 rivalry points for doing the worst possible thing to a long-time friend and comrade.

+10! +10! What does it mean? “We can still go for drinks later, but we’re going to sulk”? “Hawke, you’re barred from game night for the next two weeks for that silliness”? I can’t let it go. Those little +10s to rivalry make me much angrier than Anders’s +5 to friendship because they’re treated as sufficient. Anders’s +5 causes distress and dismay, because it worries people that he approves of slavery, but a tiny +10 to rivalry for one of the worst things you can do in this game - and we are not a little bit worried about everyone else’s moral compass?

This isn’t the dealbreaker? This isn’t the day we all leave and never talk to Hawke again? Why the fuck not?

So - for context, in The Urn of Sacred Ashes, back in Origins, Leliana will literally fight you to the death over desecrating the relic; if you spare Loghain in The Landsmeet, Alistair will leave you; if you don’t murder Anders in The Last Straw in retaliation for the death of Grand Cleric Elthina, Sebastian will leave and wage war on Kirkwall. But we can give Fenris to a slaver and it’s fucking fine. Oh, we’re a little annoyed, but we’ll get over it

I am so angry. Not at you, for talking about it, but at the writing in this quest. I don’t think there’s anything very meaningful to be said about Anders specifically. He and Fenris loathe each other. They fight and they poke each other’s sore spots. It seemed like a good idea to someone to give Anders a minor friendship bump if Fenris leaves. When the positions are (broadly speaking) reversed, and Fenris gets to comment on Anders’s fate in The Last Straw he says “He wants to die. Kill him and be done with it”. This is not Fenris having strong opinions about the mage rebellion - although he does have those elsewhere. This is a very broad, facile “fuck that guy”. Obviously the circumstances differ, but in terms of caring about each other’s wellbeing they’re about the same. Fuck that guy. If he’s going away, I’m having a good day.

Was it tacky for Bioware to put that +5 friendship into Alone? Yes. Definitely. But I don’t think it means anything at all about Anders or his view on slavery or his cause, because if I did think that, I’d have to think the other companions’ responses were significant too. I’d have to think that their firm position on this is to wrinkle their collective noses a little and then forget about it. And - I’m just going to do the obvious and gesture emphatically at Isabela’s whole character arc here in refutation of that.

I’m not opposed to evil choices in RPGs. That’s ... kind of how role playing works. But this one is so utterly facile as to be revolting. There are no meaningful consequences for this. And while it is possible to do other revolting things in Dragon Age, things done to companions stand out, because from a narrative perspective they matter. We can say in theory that the deaths of unnamed NPCs are bad and wrong - but it will be the characters we know and love that we mourn over. This isn’t the only bad choice you can make, but it’s a really big one.

For Joanna - this is a non-issue. She’s not going to hand anyone over to a slaver, much less her friend, so (mercifully) I do not have to try to rationalise this nonsense.

For anyone going to because they’ve committed to an evil playthrough? This might be a really good time to bring in “Varric is an unreliable narrator” and head canon yourself some reasonable fallout.

#pocketfox #dragon age #dragon age 2 #Hawke #fenris #anders #joanna hawke

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ianbbl · 2 years ago

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My Top 10 BL Series of All Time

1. We Best Love: No. 1 for You

a. The chemistry between Sam and Yu is absolutely out of this world. b. I ranked this as my number one show immediately after watching it week-by-week so it is entirely possible I am biased but…their chemistry!! c. I like the plot of enemies to lovers anyway and this version of it with added reluctance just floats my boat.

2. Word of Honor

a. Not technically a BL. This wuxia drama is based on a BL novel but was censored for Chinese television which has banned any BL content. b. Any show about a “bromance” that can convince me the leads are in love is a win. c. This show also made me feel feelings about many of the side characters, which is a big thing that very rarely happens when I watch shows. And given just how many side characters this show had is a particularly impressive feat.

3. Bad Buddy the Series

a. Ohm and Nanon flexed their acting chops and showed off why they are both such in demand actors. b. Like WBL I watched this week-to-week and then immediately put it on my list so my bias may once again be showing, however I loved this series. With the exception of two weird time jumps I thought it was incredibly well paced. By that I mean each episode had enough action to warrant the decisions that were made and to not get bored waiting for the next exciting part of the show.

4. History 3: Trapped

a. I love the non-traditional BL setting of a Mafioso and the cop out trying to get him and bring him in, only to fall for him in the process. b. I also appreciate that there is a mystery being unraveled throughout the course of the show. It means that if I ever lost interest in the main couple’s dynamic (which I never did, but others might) there was an actual plot catching my attention as well.

5. Seven Days

a. Not technically a series, more like a movie divided into two, but my god, it’s wonderful. b. I watched this due to AbsoluteBL recommending it at every chance they got and I regret absolutely nothing about that decision. c. These boys have chemistry up the wazoo, they have a heartwarming naivety in completely different ways, and their story just makes me smile.

6. Cherry Magic

a. I love this series. I love that you get demi-romantic representation, I love that you get asexual representation, I love that you get fantasy sequences about what the main couple could be but those fantasies are like “I wanna see this person eating a dinner I made for him”. b. Adachi is too good for this world, even as he flails about in distress at every turn, and Kurosawa absolutely wants to win the “world’s number one gentleman” award.

7. Light on Me

a. I hate love triangles because I think they are too obvious- most of the time you can tell who will end up with the lead by the end of the second or third episode. Light on Me, however? That absolutely was not the case. They used BL tropes in a way that gave equal weight to each potential love interest and gave both characters reasonably well developed back stories. b. I love all of the male characters on this show and want to give all of them hugs because they are doing their best. So yeah, love this show.

8. I Told Sunset About You

a. This one. Oh ITSAY. I have never felt more seen as a queer person than watching this show. The way the director and actors were able to capture how awkward teenage romance is? The way they were able to capture identity crises that come from realizing you like someone of the same gender? b. It hurts so good.

9. Until We Meet Again

a. I don’t cry at television very easily, and everyone talking about how much they cried at this series made me roll my eyes. But the ending of the penultimate episode and beginning of the finale had me weeping. Fluke Natouch did an absolutely fantastic job in those scenes in particular and shot to the top of my favourite Thai actors list as a result. b. The plot itself is incredibly unique to television (but not fanfiction, lol) and I thought the script writer did a good job balancing the time between the past and the present to make you invested in both couples even when you knew exactly what happened in the past.

10. Long Time No See/Gaya Sa Pelikula

a. Yes I cheated and picked two, but some of my options above might not qualify to your standards so, sue me.

LTNS

i. The plot of this show is so interesting. I love that the leads were interested in each other before even really knowing each other and yet that interest never waned as their secrets unfolded. Give me a lover who will fight for me! ii. I also love the awkward realness of the intimate scenes in this show.

Gaya Sa Pelikula

i. Had me on the edge of my seat to see where the couple was going ii. I loved that this series addressed being gay as normal. No [metaphors]. Loved that the two female characters were likeable.

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