#i think being able to engage with the idea that we must have each other's backs even if we aren't fond of each other is important

[uncanny-tranny]

Do you believe in transandrophobia

I mean, I talk at length about being a trans man and the intersections of my trans manhood and interacting in a world which often doesn't want people like me to exist, so even if I don't really call my experiences that, maybe you might? I generally support people calling their experiences with oppression how they see it, which is why some trans men say they experience misogyny and some don't. Neither are "more correct" because we almost all experience transphobia, misogyny, and everything else slightly differently.

At the end of the day, trans liberation must happen with all of us no matter what their experience is. I've seen so much "discourse" surrounding terms like these when at the end of the day, we're still being oppressed no matter what we call our experiences. I think it's okay for people to label their experiences as they see fit, but I don't think that's the end-all-be-all. I guess my sole focal point is trans liberation before debating about what terms we have to use.

I always find asks like this to be very odd, mostly because I don't know what the context behind this is or why it's asked. If you want a more direct answer to my political or philosophical views, I really would at least like more details as to what inspired questions like these so I can clarify, expand, or discuss specific points.

[sgiandubh]

This was a work Outlander event and posts. No way to determine how they feel about each other from today's Social media promotion. 12 minutes apart just shows it was a coordinated attack for audience involvement. When you have something about their connection unrelated to Starz, Outlander, then it will be interesting. But so far after 10 years, everything between these 2 still is work related. Nothing new. Even Sam coordinated his whisky event over the weekend to coincide with OL 'birthday'. It's all promotion. Do you have anything not related to Outlander showing a relationship?

Dear Work Event Anon,

I could really set my watch by you guys popping in here each and every time a breath of fresh air floats over this fandom. Since you seem to have a problem with people being happy about something, I figured out you'd actually be better hearing what I have to tell you:

I am not sure I am interested in what you have to say, Anon. You certainly chose to step in here completely uninvited, unwanted and at your own risk. At this point in time, I am actively hesitating about you being bored, daft, cruel or simply desperate. A bit of each, to be honest and the mix might vary.

Two social media posts might not be able to determine how These Two feel about each other, Anon. But, I wasn't exactly discussing that. I was discussing their entourage reactions, in my first post, something you probably understood very well, since I do not think you are visually impaired. I was also pointing out the fact S shared C's post in record time, something that did not happen in a good while. That is all.

Sam coordinating 'his whisky event over the weekend to coincide with OL's anniversary' (not birthday, punk - that is for people only!)? You must be kidding, pumpkin. Hasn't your Marketing Expert Supremo explained to you yet that The Kimpton Hotel & Restaurant Group, LLC is, in fact an international boutique hotel brand, based in San Francisco and owned by the InterContinental Hotels Group? Hasn't she explained to you that, as all the other international hotel brands, their marketing strategy is also focused on event management and planning, with a separate dedicated website to boot?

Hasn't she told you there is actually a dedicated event management and planning webpage on Kimpton Charlotte Square's website?

It features everything you'd need to properly organize any type of event. As is the case for a bajillion other luxury hotels all around the world:

Same wallpaper, same picture frames. Matchy-matchy, as Ye Olde Troll would say. Heh. And this is how we know the pop-up shop was organized in the hotel (connecting) private Dining and Drawing Rooms:

You also seem to not be aware that such events are never planned last minute. He did not 'coordinate' anything, punk. The opportunity was there and he took it. As simple as that.

If you think you do God's work by trying your very own version of the Chinese water torture, i.e. asking the same damn questions over and over again, well...You have no idea how wrong and clueless you are, Anon. What makes you think people will actually engage with a broken record?

And last but not least, I don't give a damn if you find my page uninteresting. Now be a doll, Anon - scroll on and fuck off.

[trans-androgyne]

Sorry if this is an irritating ask or anything, but could you please explain to me what people find wrong about the term transandrophobia? As far as I’m aware it’s literally just a word to describe trans men’s oppression. I’m not against the idea that it might have something wrong with it (as a transmasc person), but through all this fighting I’ve never once seen someone clearly explain what the problem is.

I’ve seen people claim that transmascs keep throwing transfems under the bus, but the only thing I’ve ever seen is actually the OPPOSITE way around, and only when I go searching for it (but that might just be because I make an effort to keep my dash free of that kind of thing) again I’m not saying it doesn’t happen, I just… don’t quite understand all this.

Sorry abt this rambly ask, I’m just tired and frustrated and I HATE that we’ve been pitted against each other

I will do by best to genuinely present and respond to the main arguments I have heard made against using the term. Apologies in advance for the length.

The most common in my experience is that “androphobia/misandry doesn’t exist,” or “men aren’t oppressed for being men,” based on the terms transandrophobia and its origin, transmisandry. It feels like a non-sequitur to me, completely bypassing the actual meaning of the term. Some people do include androphobia or misandry in their definition of the term, but many more don’t and just use it to describe the intersection of transphobia and misogyny in the lives of transmascs or even just “transphobia against transmascs.” I personally do believe androphobia exists in a literal sense—the fear of men that has serious consequences—but not in the way they mean it. They are attempting to paint us as MRAs, but nobody who gets any eyes on them using the term has ever argued that women oppress men as a class. MRAs are antifeminist, and the transandrophobia conversation is very much a feminist one.

The simplest is just that transmascs just “don’t need a word” to talk about their oppression. Our experiences are called “just transphobia” or “just misogyny” based on whatever they think applies most in the moment. Our theorizing is painted as useless infighting or just being jealous that trans women have a word to describe their oppression. I vehemently disagree with this one, I think everyone deserves language to describe their experiences. I think it’s impossible to ignore the way that both transphobia and misogyny interact to affect us in a new way (the very definition of intersectionality), and that we deserve to recognize and describe that intersection. Even the coiner of the word “transmisogyny” appears to agree with us on this.

Other people will focus on the term’s perceived origins. They frequently call the person who changed the term “transmisandry” to “transandrophobia” a “lesbophobic transmisogynist” and rape fetishist. From everything I’ve been able to put together on the matter, it seems to be that they’re referring to him having engaged in someone else’s detrans kinks as a sex worker on a private blog. I’ve heard from others he may have harassed people, absolutely cannot verify that. To me, it feels like another case of accusing trans people with kinks others find unsavory of being a sexual predator/sex pest, which people generally recognize as transphobic. In any case, even if every single part of their outrage was true, I do not think the behavior of a person who didn’t even come up with the ideas means that transandrophobia theory is inherently transmisogynistic.

In regard to “throwing trans women under the bus,” I think a lot of those ideas come from oppositional sexism. It’s assumed that what we’re saying is true of men must be the opposite for women. Trans women, including the woman who coined “transmisogyny,” have been using trans men’s perceived “opposite” experiences to prove their points for many years. They try to make a claim for transmisogyny by saying trans men don’t experience similar issues (violence, sexualization, demonization, safety issues, misogyny, trouble passing). But the reality is, trans men do experience those issues — some to a lesser extent, some in a different form, some just less visibly due to our chronic erasure — and have other issues of their own that trans women don’t face (like abortion rights issues). An attack on the idea that trans men have it easier is seen as an attack on transmisogyny as a concept. But it isn’t!! Transmisogyny is so blatant and oppressive of a system that it doesn’t need to compare itself to transandrophobia/trans men’s issues to have ground to stand on. Trans people are all harmed by transphobia in different, complex ways and none of us have gendered privilege.

Very few people engage with the actual meat of transandrophobia theory. We have really bad optics, I’ll give them that. It’s hard to like a word with “androphobia” in it, talking about men’s issues puts people on edge due to MRAs, and there are TERFs actively trying to recruit us. (The last part is used against us when it shouldn’t be, they try to recruit transmascs of all stripes for detransitioning and are only using us in particular because so many transfems have been awful to us because of the term. They are trying to widen that divide while most of us discussing transandrophobia are trying to close it.)

We (people who use “transandrophobia”) are often characterized as a unified movement that hates trans women (like in that post that blew up in the wake of predstrogen’s banning). We are not a movement any more than “transmisogyny” or “exorsexism” are. We don’t all believe the same things, the only thing we share in common is that we feel transmascs have a specific kind of oppression and deserve a word to describe it. And, obviously, we are doing our best not to perpetuate (trans)misogyny! The number of disclaimers I have seen people put on their post to make it exceedingly obvious to the piss on the poor website that they’re not talking about trans women is absolutely astounding. I’m sure our circles do have some transmisogyny in them, everywhere does! We do our best to combat it and I know my personal spaces have a couple transfems in them that help keep us in check. If we were being genuinely transmisogynistic, I would ask people to actually point to what they’re seeing that’s harmful instead of just dismissing all of us as evil bigots.

I think what contributes to the backlash the most is simply that trans men do not fit into current understandings of feminism well. People have gotten it into their heads that men are gender oppressors and not gender oppressed — which doesn’t shake out so well when you put being trans into the equation. I grew up hearing “ew men are gross” “I hate men” “kill all men” sentiments due to being in LGBT spaces. Some people really, really do not want to let go of the idea that men are bad and icky and dangerous and women are good and pure and safe, especially when it benefits them as non-men. Many transmascs themselves have internalized the idea that they are gender oppressors, traitors to feminism, more likely to be dangerous/predatory/misogynistic, and take up too much space because they are men/mascs. I sure felt like that before finding these conversations! I sincerely think that as we grow our transfeminism and heal from our gender essentialism a little more, this rhetoric will be left in the past.

[bengiyo]

We Must All Get Louder and Gayer About La Pluie Immediately

I understand that this show only airs on iQIYI and that most of us canceled that after KinnPorsche and/or Love in the Air, but I’m gonna need y’all to re-up those subscriptions and get on this train right now. This and Step By Step have been some of the most intriguing romance explorations we’ve had in the realm of Thai BL in a long time, and you are missing out on this incredibly breakdown of the soulmate and fast romance tropes that I’ve ever experienced.

I’ve seen some consternation about whether this show is honoring or defying conventions within romance and BL, and I don’t think that’s the most enjoyable way to engage with a piece of media in a mature genre. I think it’s more useful to ask questions like:

How is this show using those conventions?

What do these conventions fit?

What new things have we learned about ourselves or the genre as a result?

We’ve been unpacking the soulmate idea from the very beginning (@lurkingshan). The show upended our expectations about that from the opening scenes by showing us a romantic man who doubts in his own romantic destiny because his parents divorced. The show has then gone on to state quite plainly that it believes that the hearing loss connection is entirely coincidental, and that what people do in their relationships with other people is what matters the most.

We are sitting in the audience, and so we know that this is a romance. We fully understand that Tai and Patts will more than likely be together at the end of this story. What that knowledge and expectation allows the show to poke at the development of relationships in dramas. The characters are in a slow burn romance, but everyone in their lives doesn’t think they should be! That’s been incredibly fascinating because we so often see BL characters rushed into a relationship with each other that we are always surprised when they aren’t (Bad Buddy, My School President, Bed Friend). It’s been incredibly enjoyable for me to see a romance refuse to rush their characters into commitment with each other.

My good friend @lurkingshan wrote about this subversion of tropes and expectations this morning as they pertain to Lomfon. She makes the point that we expected Lomfon to be a bigger factor going into episode 7 than he was, and that’s also I think part of the point. He’s not a threat to the core romance, but he does have a role to play in this story. For me, I think he’s here to reinforce that skepticism and doubt are critical to making any sort of relationship or belief system function. Your ability to handle new challenges and things that confuse you are critical to being able to maintain a commitment. It doesn’t work if it’s forced.

As for misunderstandings, this show also continues to be intentional about this. As far back as episode 4, Dream chided Patts for not making things clear with Nara. Patts listened but hoped that his non-answer would be enough for Nara. Likewise, Bow has warned Tai twice about Lomfon’s clear desire for him, and how by not making things clear Tai may also face difficulties.

This comes to a head this week with Nara. I agree with @ginnymoonbeam that Nara’s return lets the narrative blow up Tai’s uncertainties he’s left bubbling since the beginning. I personally love Nara’s reintroduction here because Tai is romantic and because he genuinely seemed to like Nara. He liked that she still knew how to take care of her ex. He liked the determination she showed to travel all the way to Chiang Mai to pursue him. He was rooting for her! Even if he misunderstands the kiss, it’s not really about the kiss. It’s about the fact that someone he admires cares for Patts, and he likely worries that he’s the reason they didn’t work out. He’s also still questioning if the mutual attraction between himself and Patts can be trusted.

Moving on to the intimacy, I wrote last week about the way this show has made it clear that these are two men interested in each other. Following up on that this week, we entered an incredible liminal space in their relationship. Patts signaled earlier in the episode when they first got to their room that he is hoping to pick up where they left off with their last intimate moment. Both went into this bed fully aware of the sexual tension between them.

Tai is the one who opens the door this time by first offering the massage and then initiating the kiss. Things heat up between them, with Tai again on top to remain in control of the situation, something @shouldiusemyname points out here. Tai once again asks Patts to stop when he moves to escalate the encounter, but Tai shows Patts that he is interested in him. He offers to help him out by performing the act that Patts was most certainly going to do last week. This is incredibly fascinating for me, because I have always asserted that bottoms are the ones in most control of an encounter. I do not read Tai choosing to take care of Patts as him giving up control in any way. In fact, it’s a way for him to further maintain it. He reassures Patts that he is happy to be here and lets them release the tension of the moment.

Also, I just absolutely lose it over the lip flick.

gif by @pharawee​

Once again, I cannot overstate how radical it is for me to see a show saying that the one performing the act is the one in control of the encounter, and has the character who’s feeling unsure use that as a way to explore their own feelings. Tai needed to know that he likes making Patts happy. Please list the other BLs that have done this with sex in the notes. It’s not very often we get this!

Also, look at this man. This is not the face of a man who is being coerced. This is the afterglow of two people navigating their intimate relationship (@ginnymoonbeam).

He’s literally rubbing his hand because as they spoon because he’s so relieved.

I also just absolutely love Patts. I love that he keeps leaving notes for Saengtai to make sure he knows where they are.

Look at him walking around the next morning. He seems pleased...like a man can seem pleased.

We just never get this kind of stuff in genre. This is a classic romance of the Nora Roberts variety that’s allowing us to show two men navigating their romance and intimacy on their terms while also showing that even fated mates must be good partners to each other. This is a story that loves romance and loves the conventions of the drama. It is approaching each thread with clear-eyed conviction, and we as queer viewers deserve this.

So, I’m going to need you all to get louder, weirder, and gayer about this show. We gotta get more people on this one. We can’t let this show be forgotten because it’s not on YouTube.

Once again, thank you for coming to my post.

tagging @wen-kexing-apologist​ and @kyr-kun-chan​ for all the conversation we’ve had about this show.

[utilitycaster]

hi, what are your thoughts on the recently announced changes to dnd classes? I'm particularly interested what you think about the new paladin and warlock since you always have very correct opinions on them.

Hi anon, I must admit I have not been keeping up with the PHB playtests; I do intend to get the updated book when it comes out but I found keeping up with every change was a lot of time I would rather spend on other things, especially since they came out very intense and have walked a lot back (some for valid reasons, some not)

I did, however, go look at Paladin and Warlock though I didn't go into depth with any subclasses.

Warlock, since that's the one I found first (Playtest 7): in terms of general progression I am always pro focusing more on invocations so having them from the start and having two more is good in my mind. I am also pro pact magic. I think it is a cool different thing and is a feature of the class; making it a normal spellcasting table was a mistake. Spell progression/cantrips/slots seem otherwise the same as the 2014 PHB, which seems reasonable.

I haven't read thorough other classes so I don't know if swapping cantrips is true of every class; I do think there should be a way to change out cantrips because sometimes you pick a bad cantrip. You shouldn't be able to prep them if you're a prepared caster (wizard, cleric, etc) but yeah I'd say levels or at least ASI levels should permit cantrip swaps.

Magical cunning is GREAT actually because that used to be a L20 feature and now it's slightly weaker and L2. Hilarious, but also I think it offers more opportunities for engaging with your patron and the RP/story that provides. Same with the Contact Patron L9 feature. Keeping Eldritch Master for the capstone is admittedly a little weak but also I'm lenient on L20 because so few people play at L20.

I think the pacts being invocations is fascinating because like, you could just be a pact boon-less jack of all trades if you really wanted, OR you could have all three, and that's funny to me. I also like that you get additional spells rather than just expanded options.

The one thing I'm not sure about is moving the subclass to L3. This works okay for paladins because paladins are like, you dedicate yourself at L1 and your powers come from your own dedication and conviction, and then you take an oath at L3. Warlocks are like...until you have a patron you are just a guy. That should be at L1.

Paladin:

Bonus action lay on hands is killer. incredible. no notes. big fan. I do think they should still be permitted to cure diseases however; basically 5 lay on hands should be a lesser restoration spell.

Simplifying spell prep is probably a good idea just in terms of time and ease but the drawback is you don't have as many cool options each night. Less of a big deal for a paladin but this would be an issue for full prepared casters, and I checked and (EDITED I FORGOT TO INSERT WHAT I MEANT TO SAY HERE) full casters get full spell prep as before so nevermind, fine for paladins.

haven't been following weapon mastery but given most characters don't swap weapons that often, seems fine.

Smites are also fine; paladins can do STUPID damage as is so limiting smites to only one per turn is not unreasonable imo.

Big fan of find steed always being prepared because I think a lot of people just don't use it because there's better spells unless it's a really important part of their character. We need more steeds.

Abjure Foes seems awesome; Radiant strikes are great also FINALLY. SORT OF SMITING ON UNARMED STRIKES.

Restoring Touch makes more sense to me than Cleansing Touch, also seems reasonable.

Broken Oath flavor text very good

Overall this seems pretty good for paladins and the only warlock thing is that I think they need to work on when you choose a subclass.

[cake-writes]

A Dutiful Disaster (Part Seven)

Pairing: Loki x Reader

Story Tags/Warnings: Arranged Marriage, Enemies to Lovers, Royalty, Pre-Thor (2011), Smut, Angst, Drama, Slow Burn, Odin’s A+ Parenting, Cis Female Reader (she/her), No Y/N Usage, Second Person POV, POC-inclusive descriptors, Toxic Relationship (lil bit of abuse from both parties - mostly screaming matches with the occasional physical thing but he never like slaps her or anything), Smut, Slut-Shaming, Mommy Issues, Reader has anxiety, 18+

Chapter Warnings: anxiety, reader is super bitchy in this chapter, and so is her letter, oh my gosh you guys they actually talk shit out like MATURE ADULTS

Word Count: 3.8k

Snippet: “I do not wish to be kissed. It’s too great an intimacy for our,” you pause to consider the word, tapping your finger to your chin, “unique situation, wouldn’t you say? We are the furthest thing from lovers.”

“Oh?” Loki sounds amused by your answer – and then he drops his feet back to the floor with purpose, taking advantage of your startled jump to pull you further into his lap where you can feel the hardening length of him against your clothed core. “If not lovers, then what are we?”

“Married,” you gasp, arms clutching around his neck for fear of being dropped – or so you tell yourself.

Master List / Spotify Playlist / Part Six

A/N: And we’re back! This chapter finally ties us in to the prequel one-shot, as well as the argument between Loki and his father in part two. You may need to read them again for a refresher because it’s been a fair few months (in real life) since those were posted. Enjoy :)

You study your husband from above the gold rim of your teacup. It’s suspicious, the certain ease to his demeanour as he discusses today’s breakfast offerings with his servant.

Loki is manipulating you. He must be. It's the only conclusion you can come to.

You haven’t forgotten the nasty things he said about you to his father the day after your wedding. Loki made it crystal clear that he can't stand you, that he finds this sham of a marriage as torturous as you do, to the point that he'd even referred to it as a life sentence – much like your own thoughts on the matter. Yet, it bothers you in a way you can’t quite explain.

What’s worse is that the Allfather thinks you disloyal to the Crown, and you still haven’t been able to figure out why. You’ve been nothing but loyal, the events of last night notwithstanding. It makes you feel uneasy, knowing that the King has tasked Loki with ensuring your loyalty to Asgard, like he actually expects you could ever be a traitor—a proper one, that is.

Even so, you find yourself begrudgingly admiring the way your husband’s dark, glossy hair perfectly accentuates his sharp cheekbones – during which he turns his attention to you. 

“Is that acceptable?” Loki questions, just as you take another sip of chrysanthemum tea—your favourite, and all you can think is that it can't be just a coincidence.

You hate how infuriatingly attractive he is. Even now. Especially now, with his pretty green eyes so focused on you, like he actually cares what you have to say. 

“That would be lovely,” you answer amicably as you set down your teacup, even though you have no idea what you’ve just agreed to. Something about smoked salmon and capers.

Loki seems to accept your answer, and when he engages once more with his servant, you lose yourself in your thoughts. Two ragged, albeit manicured fingernails tap an anxious rhythm against the side of the porcelain cup in its saucer, each fingertip sounding its own melody.

Tink, tink. Tink, tink.

It worries you how easily Loki plays the part the perfect husband. Sitting here in his chambers is unnerving; you’re just waiting for the other shoe to drop, but he seems perfectly content, like he isn’t at all bothered by the contents of your letter. Nor does he seem to hold any opinion of the events that transpired last night. 

For now.

Tink, tink. Tink, tink.

The daylight streaming in through the open windows offers a glimpse of the fine lines near his eyes and the dark circles just beneath. While he always appears as though he’s never been able to get enough sleep, courtesy of his fair skin, you’re starting to think that Loki might have slept about as well as you did last night—in other words, scarcely at all.

Tink, tink. Tink, tink.

You conceal a yawn with your free hand as the servant bows and makes his way to the exit, and then you’re alone with your husband again. That knowledge should set you on edge, but you’re more focused on the rich accoutrements of his sitting room. It’s the first time you’ve been here since that awful argument following the attack; no sign of shattered glass in sight, but then, it has been a week since then.

Tink, tink. Tink, tink.

A vase full of fresh flowers sits upon the entry table. You’d bruised your hip against it that self-same night. How suspicious that the blooms are the colour of plum wine, a deep reddish-purple that makes your heart sing: your colour.

Tink, tink—

You stop tapping the instant you notice him watching you, and snatch up your teacup as if you meant to do so all along. Then you take a larger sip than you intend. The hot tea scalds your tongue, and his lips twitch in silent laughter as you try and fail to pretend it doesn’t.

“What?” you snap irritably.

“How did you sleep?”

“Why act as though you care?”

Visibly amused by your bristly demeanour, Loki retrieves his own tea, his slim fingers pinching the gilded handle with more finesse than you could ever hope to achieve. “I cannot help but wonder, petal, if you haven’t slept a wink. Were you worrying about how this conversation would go?”

You set your teacup down in its saucer with force, the loud clink of fine china resounding through the room. “Considering the events that transpired during our previous one, I’d be a fool not to worry. I expect that you will have me imprisoned the very moment you manage to lull me into a false sense of security.”

He doesn’t bat an eyelash at your vitriol, instead opting to take a sip of his tea. You can scarcely tell what kind of tea it is anymore, what with how he's drowned it in cream and sugar. Some things never change. It’s comforting, in a way.

Your husband savours the too-sweet taste for a moment before he speaks. “I will not have you imprisoned. You have my word.”

You scoff. “I threatened you.”

“Indeed.”

“With a knife.”

“A dagger, actually,” Loki corrects, and when you cut him a withering look, he gives you a shit-eating grin. You hate how stupidly reassuring it is that he’s just as insufferable as ever. Then his expression shifts to something a little more serious, his eyes softening at the corners. “You felt that I posed a threat to your safety, and you acted in self-defence. A sleepless night is punishment enough.”

You don’t buy it. “And my letter?”

“I suspect that you would never have sent it, had your fear not driven you to do so. No one in their right mind would call me—what was it, an animal?—among so many other insults that I cannot even begin to fathom them all, in a letter signed with one’s personal seal. That alone could have landed you in the dungeons, yet you did so with little regard for the consequences.” A puff of laughter escapes him. “You have always had an impulsive streak, darling, but never to that extent.”

He sees right through you. You despise it. “Yes, well—”

“If you truly think me an animal, then I can only imagine that you would indeed feel safer in another part of the palace.” He mentions the request you’d made in your letter so nonchalantly, like the two of you are merely discussing the weather. “Where did you have in mind?”

That does it.

“How—How can you be so calm about all of this?” you sputter. “Forgive me, husband, but I do not trust how willingly you would turn a blind eye to my transgressions!”

The precise manner in how Loki returns his teacup to its saucer betrays him. “Don’t you?”

You glare at him. Something is simmering beneath the surface of his suspiciously mellow exterior, but you can’t quite discern what it is. Not yet.

“If you think that I am calm, darling, then you couldn’t be more wrong—unless, of course, you honestly believe that I have any penchant for forgiveness.” His tone may be cordial, but every single one of his movements is calculated to the nth degree. The tactician.

No, he isn’t calm at all. He’s plotting. You should have known.

“Or is there another reason that you would arm me with more than enough ammunition to have you imprisoned?”

With that single question, the conversation becomes an interrogation. Your palms turn cold and clammy at the knowledge that he very well still could, and when you start to fidget with the white napkin in your lap, the cloth sticks unpleasantly to your skin.

“Is that what you want me to do? Arrest you for a rash, impulsive decision? A crime of passion?”

You can feel your blood pressure rise under his rapid fire, your anxiety and sleep deprivation giving way to anger. “No,” you bite out. 

While part of you feels that a life in the dungeons would be infinitely better than one bound to him, your more reckless side likes to push boundaries – to your own detriment. And Loki knows it as well as you do. His mouth sets in a firm line, his expression unreadable.

“Then you do trust me,” he says, tone neutral. “And that, dear girl, is the worst transgression of all.”

You stare at him, disbelieving, before you let out a loud peal of laughter – like he’s just told the funniest joke you’ve ever heard. It just might be. “I trust you, do I? No, husband,” you spit the word like it’s a curse. “I loathe you. If you have mistaken that for trust, then I pity you.”

If your venomous tirade affects him at all, Loki does well to hide it. A prolonged silence falls over the room as he rests his elbows on the table and laces his fingers before him, no less patient with you than he has been for the rest of the morning. He studies you – studies your reaction – studies every single flaw you try so hard to hide, and he says nothing.

You look away first. You always do, when your temper gets the better of you.

Only then does he finally grace you with a response. “I am amenable to your request. Choose whichever chambers you’d like.”

Your eyes snap back to him in shock, only to watch as he procures a small envelope from beneath his place setting. Your letter.

Casually, he extends it out to you between two slim fingers. “I wish to return this to you as well. I refuse to hold something so incriminating over your head. It is neither fair to you, nor to our marriage.”

You stare at it, then at him, stunned into silence by his magnanimity. The Loki you know would never do such a thing. He’d hold onto it for leverage.

Your husband rolls his eyes, almost like he knows what you’re thinking. “If you do not take it, then I will destroy it in a similar manner to the gift you so graciously decided to bestow upon me, after…” he shifts uncomfortably in his chair, then, “after what I did to you that morning.”

He means his own letter – the one you’d returned to him, torn to shreds after he’d all but thrown you into the entry table. The very same entry table upon which those lovely flowers now rest.

You sit up straighter at the memory. It sets you on edge, and though you’re tempted to cower, instead you overcompensate. “Oh? Go on, then.”

He raises an eyebrow.

“It is incredibly cathartic, you know,” you drawl, delicately picking up a biscuit between your thumb and forefinger to examine its intricate design. The sugar granules glimmer in the light. “To destroy one’s heartfelt letter in a fit of anger. Though I must confess,” you hold your head high, smug as can be, “I did not read what you’d written before doing so.”

That doesn’t seem to faze him either. “You say that as if you expect it to surprise me.”

You scrunch your nose at him in annoyance. “Well? Go on. Or will you not follow through on your promises?”

His promise not to harm you. His promise not to touch you. His promise not to lock you away.

Maintaining eye contact, you use your teeth to break off a piece of the biscuit with a crunch.

Your challenge isn't lost on him. “Very well,” Loki sighs. He swiftly opens the letter to pull out the fine stationery upon which you’d so hastily scrawled all manner of insults, after which he makes a point to show it to you, front and back, to prove its authenticity. “I’ll not have you thinking I’ve stowed it away to use against you later on.”

You bat your eyelashes at him. “I see you’ve turned over a new leaf.”

“Charming,” Loki comments dryly, but you don’t miss the humour in his tone – nor in his eyes as he skims them down the page. “I must say, darling, you have quite the talent for castigation. It would be a waste not to read such a heartfelt letter aloud.” His eyes flick back up to yours, then, and you know for a fact that he’s taunting you. “For posterity. You understand.”

Posterity. There is no doubt in your mind that he knows you only wrote it yesterday. You’d even sealed the envelope with the ink still wet, as evidenced by the dark smudges littering the page.

“Stars above,” you grouse. “Get on with it, then, seeing as you are positively chomping at the bit to humiliate me.”

“Humiliate you? No.” Loki holds your gaze, resolute, and for once, you’re inclined to believe him. “I want you to acknowledge exactly what you’ve said of me before we put all of this to rest.”

Of course he does. Gracelessly, you wave a hand at him as if to say go ahead.

Loki clears his throat before he begins to read your letter verbatim, surprisingly in a manner that befits its serious nature. His voice holds not a single shred of mockery.

“To my dear, despicable husband,” he arches an eyebrow at you, “I fear I cannot stand this any longer. My chambers are in such close proximity to yours that I’d sooner return home than sleep here for another night, knowing that a wolf in sheep’s clothing rests his weary head so near to mine.”

Whether he intends it to be or not, it is humiliating to hear what you’ve written become spoken word. All too soon, you feel your face start to flush.

“I find myself ill with the knowledge that the Einherjar would allow such a predator to prowl these halls while I remain entirely defenceless. Nay, it is hardly reassuring to know that not a single soul shall protect me from the animal who would bring me harm, either in his own chambers or in our marital bed.”

When Loki pauses, you immediately recognise the real reason behind this exercise. Though you’d written the letter to be purposefully harsh in order to invoke a reaction, in the light of day, your spiteful words seem to imply something else.

You haven’t just told him of your fears in a general sense, using your marital bed as an example. You’ve alluded to a significantly more heinous act.

“You will not see me become your prey, thrilling though the chase may be to a brutish man with little regard for others. I refuse to become the spoils of a war you’ve so savagely waged upon me and my body for no other reason than your own entertainment.”

No wonder he’d been so angry with you last night. The implication that he would assault you in such a way is bad enough on its own, but there is another layer.

For centuries, the two of you have harboured a forever unspoken secret. Neither of you have acknowledged it outright, but it’s there. You’ve seen each other at the den – the covert, invitation-only club which caters to the niche sexual preferences that both you and Loki seem to share. Namely those that are, and have always been, less than socially acceptable.

“One cannot expect an animal to behave in any way but his basest nature. As a scholar of grey morals, you have always preferred books to people, but a snake, however erudite, is still a snake.”

There, on multiple occasions, your rooms have been next door to each other—through no fault of your own, though you suspect Loki has done it intentionally. After all, what he’s seen of you through the window in between are things that you’d never tell another soul, and you’re sure he relishes in holding that over your head, if not your letter.

But then, you’ve also seen similar of him. His proclivity for consensual non-consent is just one of the great many things you’ve witnessed, time and time again, and you realise, now, that Loki thinks you’ve used that forbidden knowledge against him. He thinks you’ve used it to hurt him in a way that most others could never.

“No ruffian should ever be permitted to walk freely as you do. Until such a time that you do not, for my continued health and wellbeing I have made arrangements to return to my family’s manor.”

Of course he’s bothered by what you’ve implied – albeit unintentionally. And he has every right to be.

“I will only be persuaded to stay if you grant me a new set of chambers as far from yours as possible, for I have no desire to encounter any manner of beast in the wild.” Loki snorts derisively and drops the letter down onto the table between the two of you. “Disrespectfully yours, your dutiful wife.”

There is no laughter to be elicited, now, nor anger, but something else entirely. Loki hides it well, but the implication has clearly gotten under his skin. You can see it in his eyes, and in his posture, how guarded he is as he looks to you for a response.

Thoroughly humbled, you swallow the lump in your throat and focus upon your lap. “I… I did not mean what you’ve understood my words to mean.” 

When you glance back up at him, you immediately have to look away again in shame when you find him watching you, jaw set, waiting for a proper apology. 

“Of course, that does not matter when they have made such an impact,” you rush to add. “I sincerely apologise for my thoughtlessness. I did not mean to imply that you would do something terrible.”

Silence stretches uncomfortably between the two of you as you begin to pick at the skin around your nails. At the very least, you should have reread your own letter before you sent it. Perhaps then you wouldn’t feel so guilty.

After a prolonged few moments, he asks quietly, “What else could you have possibly meant?”

“I meant to paint a picture of my fears.” You accidentally draw blood from a hangnail, and it stings. “My intent in mentioning our marital bed was to offer an example of one such fear—not that sort of fear, mind, but I fully understand how it could have sounded like an accusation.”

“I see.”

Finally, you muster the courage to look at him again, impassioned because you would never, ever use what you know against him. “You’ve been nothing but a gentleman in that regard, Loki. You respected my wishes on our wedding night. You have asked for my consent during every one of our trysts. Please know that I would never accuse you of anything untoward.”

His eyes search yours for a long time, trying to discern the lie, but there isn’t one. Then he exhales a long, weary sigh and leans back in his chair, the tension visibly lifting from his shoulders. “Norns,” he mutters, dragging a hand down his face. “Yes, I suppose not even you would stoop so low.”

A jab.

You respond with the opposite: a jest. “Ah, but how could you know for certain? What with our—” you clear your throat, nearing ever closer to openly acknowledging the forbidden secret that you both share, “our history?”

It’s the closest either of you have come to doing so. You and Loki have been playing this game for centuries, trying to see who will cave first, but you continue to tiptoe around it.

Just as you predicted, the layered meaning instantly captures his attention. “Our history?” he repeats, as if he doesn't quite believe he's heard you properly, before his lips curl up into that same insufferable grin you so adore. “Oh, do go on, sweet. I’m all ears. What about our history?”

You try to give him a deadpan look, but find it impossible to keep the smile off of your face. “Only that we have never enjoyed each other’s company, you and I. You know that as well as I do.”

It isn't at all the history you’d originally mentioned, and you’re well-aware he recognises that when his voice takes on a note of smooth, persuasive silk. “In what way do you intend for me to take that, darling? Because I suspect that there are many things for a husband and wife to... enjoy.”

His insinuation is absolutely not what you meant, and he knows it, but your heartbeat quickens all the same.

Just in the knick of time, two rapid knocks resound on the door. 

“Enter,” Loki calls out, never taking his eyes off of you. Something about the heat within them, however slight, makes you think he isn’t done with you just yet.

You find yourself silently thanking whoever has chosen to interrupt.

The door opens, and another servant pushes a small gold cart into the room, two shelves stacked high with breakfast delights. The spread is much more elaborate than your typical morning meal, and your mouth waters.

“Now, I believe you said I would find this cathartic?”

You glance back over at your husband, only to watch him deftly pluck your letter up from the table. Before you can get a word in edgewise, however, you watch as your stationery sets aflame in the palm of his hand.

It’s an impossible sort of fire, for it doesn't seem to burn his skin. 

Magic.

You’ve always loved his magic, even now, loathe as you’d ever be to admit that you find Loki’s mastery of it in any way appealing. He wields his seidr like one might a paintbrush, creating masterful works of art from intricate spells and enchantments.

As the flames burn away your spiteful letter, your eyes follow the curling wisps of smoke as it drifts up, up, up towards the intricately-painted ceiling. Instead of the colourful collection of wildflowers you expect to see upon it, however, you find a field of white daffodils in their place.

A symbol of forgiveness.

In that moment, as you stare at the illusion he’s cast, you realise that your husband will forever be an enigma to you. Perhaps he’s changed in the great many years you've known him, or maybe you've never really known him at all.

Then Loki lazily waves his hand, and the illusion dissipates—as do the singed remains of your letter.

He’s manipulating you. He must be. It’s the only conclusion you can come to, but when you meet his eyes once more – when you see the mischief shining within them, and the softness hidden just beneath – you desperately wish that he wasn’t.

Part Eight

And because I’m a clown, here’s my ko-fi / patreon if you’ve got a buck or two to spare so I can buy a new laptop! Otherwise reblogs and keysmashing in my ask box are more than welcome 🤡🤡🤡 Thanks so much for reading!!!

[dreamwritesimagines]

Garden of Secrets - Extra Scene 1

A.N: So I got very inspired and excited by your wonderful asks and comments my loves! ❤️ I hope you like this extra scene, it was inspired by this ask ❤️ 

Well.

This was quite shocking.

Josie couldn’t decide whether she wanted to laugh or freeze. She had been staring at the letter for the last minute, the lines quite simple to understand and yet she couldn’t wrap her mind around them;

“By the way, I’m engaged now to that annoying artist I mentioned before. I’ll send you the details about the wedding.”

“My love?”

Josie blinked a couple of times as Bess made her way to her, then wrapped her arms around her waist from behind to rest her chin on her shoulder.

“Bess,” Josie said, holding up the letter. “Would you please read me the last part of this letter? Out loud?”

Bess pulled her brows together, then her eyes skimmed the lines.

“By the way, I’m engaged now to that annoying artist I mentioned before. I’ll send you the details about the wedding— this is lovely, who’s getting married?”

“Oh so I’m not imagining this,” Josie murmured and Bess let out a small laugh.

“Who’s getting married?”

“My sister.”

Bess pulled back slightly. “…Clover?”

“Jesus Christ—do you think she’s kidnapped?” Josie asked as she stepped out of Bess’s arms to make her way to the drawer to pull it open. “Is she writing to me from an asylum of the sort? Would I even know if she was in an asylum?”

“I don’t think people in those unfortunate places can send letters my darling,” Bess threw herself onto the bed. “Besides, the address is the same is it not?”

“It looks like her handwriting…” Josie muttered to herself as she pulled out the letters and Bess let out a laugh.

“What are you doing?”

“Listen to this;” Josie said as she opened one of the letters. “I’ve also met one of the most infuriating artists in the entire world, his name is Benedict Bridgerton and I cannot even begin to explain just how much he vexes me. He followed me around the museum I had to attend the other day, and auntie saw it. I admit that he’s very good looking, but he is very much aware of it so I suppose that convinced him that every lady must be under his spell. It’s so annoying, I hope he leaves me alone the next time we see each other. ”

“Aw she said he’s very good looking!” Bess said. “Did not take that long to fall under his spell I take it?”

“Another one,” Josie said, pulling out another letter. “I decided that I hate Benedict Bridgerton, that artist I told you about in my last letter. He had the audacity to show up at the same flower exhibition I attended, ask me for a dance for that night’s ball in front of auntie so I had to say yes, and then came to the ball near the end of the night and dared assume I was heartbroken for not being able to dance with him. Can you believe that? Josie, can you believe the audacity this man has?”

“Why was he late?”

“I have no idea and it’s not even the last of it,” Josie said. “This gossip paper wrote about me and Benedict Bridgerton and auntie seems convinced that I could have feelings for him when all I feel for him is annoyance. As if that’s not enough, he decided to— this goes on and on.” Josie threw the paper on the table. “Line after line about this artist, about just how much she hates him and how much he annoys her, and she is marrying him?”

“Who’s marrying who?” a voice reached them and Josie turned her head. Andrew gave her a big smile and wiggled his brows before entering the room, carrying a bowl of dried fruit. “Who has made my beautiful wife so displeased this early in the morning?”

“Were you not spending the night at Martin’s estate?” Bess asked, tilting her head and Andrew shrugged his shoulders.

“I don’t think I shall be spending any night at Martin’s estate again, my dearest cousin,” he said, flinging himself next to her and Bess shot him a look.

“Lover’s spat?”

“Lover’s separation, more likely.”

Bess hissed in a breath. “Ouch, I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be, worse things happen every day. It’s not like I woke up to his dead body next to me.”

Bess slapped his arm. “Ugh, when will you let that go?”

“Never. Your late husband, may he rest in peace, managed to surprise you for once in his very short time with you and you think I will let that go—how long were you married for by the way, when he tragically passed away? A year?”

Bess rolled her eyes. “Shut it.”

Andrew let out a chuckle. “He lasted longer than I thought he would. I was sure he would have died on his way to chapel.”

“So did I,” Bess pointed out and Andrew tilted his head.

“Josie? Who’s getting married?”

Josie held up the letter and shook her head. “How is she marrying him?” she asked. “She keeps saying she hates him in all these letters.”

“There’s a thin line between love and hate,” Andrew said wistfully. “Will you two tell me who’s getting married or…?”

“My sister,” Josie murmured without looking up from the letter and Andrew gasped.

“Aw, our Clover is getting married?” he asked, pressing a hand on his chest. “I feel emotional. It feels like just yesterday that I met her and she gave me a list of everything that my father’s gardener was doing wrong in our garden—”

“Do you think he’s forcing her?” Josie asked, her brows pulled into a frown. “Because if he’s forcing her into anything, I’m going to have to kill him.”

Andrew and Bess exchanged glances.

“Fun.” Andrew deadpanned. “It’s been a while since I last saw someone kill someone.”

“Stop encouraging her—I feel like she would tell you if she were being forced,” Bess said quickly and Andrew threw a raisin in the air, then caught it with his mouth.

“Does this mean we’re going back to England?” he asked. “I mean don’t get me wrong, I love Spain but...I’d like to see that house father left us at the very least.”

“Left you, you mean.”

“You’re my best friend and technically my wife so what’s mine is yours, we’ve been over this,” Andrew told Josie and turned to Bess. “I’m sure we can find someone to die next to you there too Bess—”

He was cut off when Bess grabbed the pillow and smacked it at his arm, making him chuckle and reach out to pull her into a tight hug.

“Sorry!”

“I hate you so much,” Bess said with a smile before her head snapped up. “Wait, I think I also have a house there somewhere as a part of my inheritance.”

“Ah, I forgot about that!” Andrew exclaimed. “Yes you do!”

“I mean it’s a small one, but it’s still something.”

Andrew nodded his head. “Almost makes up for the fact that he died next to you to leave you that house.”  

“Andrew, so help me God…”

Josie clicked her tongue and folded the paper in her hand.

“Do you two think it’s safe?” she asked. “To go back?”

“Didn’t you say your parents were not in London?” Andrew asked. “I’d say it’s very safe. And even if they do show up there, we can handle them. I promise.”

Josie thought for a moment, nibbling on her lip before she rolled her eyes.

“Fine,” she ended up saying, making Andrew clap his hands together and Bess let out a giggle. “I suppose we’re going back to England.”

[pastxlscorp]

Palia Character Impressions (pt.2)

I wasn't expecting my last Palia post to attract the fandom! I actually have played hours of it since then but because of college haven't had the time to get to writing another post! Thankfully I just finished my finals, so I'm back to being chronically online. Hope you all enjoy :)

Einar

A lot of people asked me about my thoughts on Einar, which was super surprising! I honestly didn't have many thoughts on him when I first started playing Palia. His dialogue was not very engaging to me. After HOURS (and I mean hours) of playing AND the most recent Ancient ruins that got added to the main storyline, I see why he is so well loved! He is such a fucking cutie! I find how much he enjoys the beauty of the world he is around so sweet, especially trying to understand the culture of the humans and engage with them in it. The recent story quest was sooooooo good at characterizing him.

*Spoilers*

In the most recent ruins added to the game, we meet another Galdur called the Gardener. His setup is so dystopian, I fucking adored it. Essentially, The Gardener is an AI of sorts that is able to control all Galdurs because he created them. That is his Oneness. He was abandoned by his human and was rarely acknowledged as a sentient being, thus he cannot understand the purpose of life if not to fulfill ones Oneness. When first meeting them, Gardener reveals that Einar is malfunctioning. I initially thought it was something serious, but the Gardener considers Einar a malfunction because he has more than one Oneness. He thinks Einar must be suffering from a lack of fulfillment and purpose and thus tries to reset his system. He continues to refer to Einar as "The Carpenter" (also calls him the "vertically gifted" one which I thought was fucking hilarious), which heavily implies Einar's oneness was something related to construction and he likely was a builder robot. I find that really wholesome compared to the Einar we know now, someone who finds fulfillment in fishing, something so far from his original Oneness. The Gardener also confirms that Einar likely has so many Onenesses because of his relationships with the humans he's met along the way, which put Einar in a whole new light for me. I didn't find my interactions with Einar anything special but now knowing that he does think fondly of the humans he is friends with really shows that his dry demeanor does have a lot of sweetness and thoughts behind it. Especially taking useless items to him, like carrots (that I always gift him) and using them as decor. I wouldn't romance Einar personally, but I can see why anyone would. Total cutie, and easily one of my favorite NPCS now.

Hekla

HEKLA MY BELOVED!! I love she. She became one of my favorites early on when I first started playing Palia. She is just so cute! She is so loving and kind and her adoration for Jina is so sweet. *Somewhat spoilers* I thought her lore was really depressing and it's somewhat angsty when you realize she latched on to Jina because she failed her prior child. It's even more angsty when you do her friendship quests and find out she is aware her attachment to Jina initially started because of her instinct to find a new Oneness. She's such a mom with her awkwardness sometimes and lack of awareness of social cues. I thought her friendship with Einar was always cute since she confirms she plays mental chess with him, but the recent quest shows that they really do respect each other in a high regard. They have somewhat of a familial relationship, almost like brother and sister. I think having Hekla be so spherical is a really nice contrast to her character. She is big like a shield, providing protection but also comfort and companionship-- like the whole idea around loving someone who can give "bear hugs."

Tamala

I love her design. I actually did not know Tamala was a NPC until I began engaging with Hassian and found out they were ex-lovers. She gave me witch vibes and I was right, not disappointed since they nailed that perfectly with her design (or at least an alchemist of sorts). She's a flirt and my first impression was honestly "Wow, I know why so many people love her. She's a milf." That changed when I found out she is hundreds of years old, using magic to rejuvenate herself. Makes sense since she does give off Mother Gothel vibes! Not only did she ignore all of Hassian's letters but she also laughs about it in the player's face. I feel even more bad for Hassian after learning this since Sifuu is implied to be somewhat of a neglectful mother and his other mom died. Poor dude already has mommy issues and gets groomed by a witch (I think it was also implied they had been intimate, considering Hassian wanted to marry her). I wonder if Hassian was always so closed in and it was encouraged by his heartbreak with Tamala, or if he became reclusive because of her. Very interesting background characterization, but this bitch is a predator since Hassian is most likely in his early or late 20s. Aside from her very obvious character flaws, I do love the choice of having a morally incorrect character. Most of the other villagers warm up to you, and even Eshe I would mark in the morally grey category. I also love the detail that most of the village is aware of her relationship with Hassian and doesn't fuck with her for what she did, or they just don't fuck with her period. Imagine being practically immortal and spending each century or so being hated by everyone.

Najuma

MY DAUGHTER! I love Najuma she's basically my kid. The parental figure you become to her has me weak in the heart every time she comes to you for help. I felt so bad when she comes to your housing plot after getting into a fight with her dad in one of her friendship quests. She even apologizes, not being sure you would kick her out or be bothered by her presence. She heavily confides in the player and even Hodari acknowledges this. When you try and talk to him about banning Najuma from the mines, he's firm on his answer and appreciates you looking out for her but that won't change his mind. I really wanna make a separate post on what NPCS would have a crush on the player despite not being romanced and Hodari is absolutely up there. ANYWAYS back to Najuma. I love how socially awkward she is too, really does a good job characterizing that she's just a teenager. I didn't even notice this until a friend who plays Palia pointed it out, but the fact she lost her leg in the explosion makes sense as to why there is such a big maturity gap between her and Auni. Auni has a good chunk of angst (which I will soon discuss) but he is certainly more on the carefree and energetic side compared to Najuma. Her intelligence is off the charts and makes sense considering she was hands-on working with both her father and mother. Her relationship with Auni is adorable, and I love how he looks up to Najuma. She's got the whole "Ahh you're so annoying but you can stay" dynamic with him and she clearly tries to act like she's annoyed by his energetic behavior with the player despite clearly hanging out with Auni enough to know a lot about him. Auni even has one of his friendship quests about Gardenia's, who he learned about from Najuma and wanted you to verify if it was true or not since she likes messing with him. Her bond with Zeki too was fairly surprising, and I like how Najuma is essentially an apprentice for him. He does not patronize her because she is a kid, however he does acknowledge that she has grown up too fast because of her experiences and is softer on her compared to the other villagers.

Auni

Last one for this post! Auni was always adorable to me, but his quests got him to be one of my favorite NPCS! I actually thought he was around the same age as Najuma because he has some pretty heavy inner turmoil for his age. He has a whole quest about wanting to run away because he feels so distant from his older brother, Nai'O. I absolutely adore their brotherly bond and Nai'O after this quest continuously mentions that's worried about Auni or mentions he appreciates you looking out for him. Nai'O (my impression of him has changed, I mind redo my initial impressions later on after I've written by impressions on everyone) is a super hard-worker and can't say no to people and frequently overworks himself (ex. that one bakery festival with his mom and the concert with Kenyatta). He has already confirmed his path as a farmer. His family is dirt-broke poor and frequently is behind on their taxes, which makes sense why Auni feels distant from him. Not to mention Nai'O is also dating Kenyatta, where some of his free time does seem to go. In addition to a less-than satisfactory relationship with his brother, Auni also is already having an identity crisis. He has an obsession with magic and is instantly enamored by the player upon meeting them because he thinks humans are all magical. His dream is to join the Order when he's older, but that would mean straying from his Path as a farmer. We already know what happens to villagers that stray from their path-- Look at Reth! He was not good at his path and went with something else and despite being good at it, he still receives a lot of judgment and shame. Then you have the angst with going along with your path, like with Jel. He is the only son in his family and all of his sisters are successful, creating a rivalry and tension between them all. Not to mention, his mom is still working as a high-end tailor present day. He has not been accepted by his mother and has been feeling the pressure since he was young, even going as far to steal one of his sister's designs. Despite having an obvious passion for tailoring, it makes sense why he's so melancholic. Imagine having this angst at Auni's age, especially seeing that his family is struggling and this Path is leading them into the ground. Not only does he have to acknowledge that this Path is not successful for his family currently, but that abandoning this path means it will die out (especially with the implications that Nai'O does not really wanna do this for the rest of his life). Aside from all that turmoil, his child-like innocence and his love for insects is so adorable. He admires Najuma (platonically or romantically as a little school-boy crush, who knows) and I love how he learns a lot from her. His relationship with Hassian too is also super adorable, since they seem to play cards every day. I was super confused when Auni tells you that Hassian is mad at you and then Hassian denies it-- for a good bit I couldn't tell if Auni had misread the situation or Hassian had gotten vulnerable and wasn't expecting Auni to tattle. In either interpretation, he clearly trusts Auni and I think that makes his whole situation with Tamala even more tragic. He was young and naive, and likely a lot more social-able before she broke his heart. I would say Auni is my son but my player would get jumped by Delilah and Badruu, so he's my surrogate son for the time being.

[mean-scarlet-deceiver]

What exactly do you think determines which accent an engine speaks with: where they were built or where they worked for most of their life?

Example: Thomas speaks with a cockney accent due to being from the LBSCR, James being Liverpudlian due to being a L&Y Engine etc etc.

In basic linguistic theory, L1 is our first language, that we learn natively. L2 refers to any languages afterwards/languages we learn when past the critical language learning stage (I think it's after 5 years?) that we have to learn through more explicit instruction.

I think the engines acquire languages and accents much as we do, though they would have an extra L0: the language and accent they absorb during their building process (as engines are presumed to be able to speak when they first come to life—they do not have the long language-learning stage that humans do!)

I have to suppose L0 (the building language) has a time-limited affect on engines. This is because of how very common it is for an engine to be built in one country and then immediately shipped off to another. I suppose at this point engines learn their L1 like babies do, and it takes a little while but they become fluent in this language. If it's different from their L0 then I would suppose their L0 is forgotten or at least goes dormant.

After L1, we have our L2s. We can learn more languages but they will not pick them up as readily and will speak it with an accent.

This all applies to accents, too, just like us. We do tend to engage in accent shift, unconsciously imitating the people around us. I would suppose Thomas's first accent is long gone — though he did have his original crew that travelled to Sodor with him and stayed on with him a long time, so through them he might have held onto it a good while! Apart from his crew, though, there must have been a remarkable dearth of speakers with that accent on his little rural branch line.

I love the idea of Scouse James though, again, it's been going on a hundred years now and I can see him trying to minimize it, so I imagine his accent has softened a good bit by now!

But James would retain his accent a while because he probably worked the L&Y for over a decade before coming to Sodor. If Gordon was only trialled out of Doncaster for a year, and given that he travelled all about the East Coast Main Line and his Works would have featured a rather cosmopolitan cast, well. I don't think Gordon retains his original accent at all. He could not imagine himself sounding Yorkish and, to be frank, neither can we!

Southeastern Sodor must feature a lot of the same Barrovian/Cumbrian/Lancashire mix that went into Edward's L1. I would imagine the north and west of Sodor have their own particular accents, though. So even his speech patterns shouldn't have remained completely stagnant.

Donald and Douglas having each other is going to reinforce their L0/L1 speech forever so it makes sense that they have the strongest accent.

[waitmyturtles]

Tee Bundit: YOU CONFOUND ME, man.

I watched TharnType. It wasn't quite your fault, but I wanted to vomit at the story.

I watched Step By Step. What could have been a great show, demolished into pieces by a lack of editing and a disdain for... either romance or workplace dramas, I have no idea.

I watched Lovely Writer. I WAS DRAWN IN. So many narratives! So many macrosocial points made! ANCHORED AND SOLID ACTING! One of my FAVORITES from my Old GMMTV Challenge project.

AND NOW! I Feel You Linger In The Air, episode 6.

Y'all, I was going to DUMP THIS SHOW after episode 1 because I had editing PTSD from Step By Step, LITERALLY. I HAVE TO THANK MY FRIENDS @lurkingshan and @neuroticbookworm for telling me to keep going, that the pace was right for historical dramas. Oh my god. I think Tee's found his lane again. God, I can't believe it, but this show is spending the RIGHT amount of time on EACH point of the story, and there's a LOT going on, but it's so well PACED, ACTUALLY -- like, the slow pace of historicals being GREAT for another complicated Tee story, but it is being told so well. My brain's spinning.

Oh my gawd. Fong Kaew possibly being SET UP to marry Robert, because someone intentionally burned her family's house down? James.... maayyyyybbbee stepping up to the plate for Yai? (Still though: get grazed, Pat's shooter, fuck you.) AUNTIE PRIK DROPPING THE DESSERT KNOWLEDGE? (Pharm's proud.) (It's butterfly pea flowers that give Thai desserts that blue color, so beautiful.) The presence of Neuy at the speakeasy, and Jom just immediately, inherently knowing so much of what Neuy likely had gone through in his village -- maybe Jom even got comfort in seeing Neuy's presence at a secret gay bar. Knowing this could be a place for him, and James being able to click into what Jom knows. Maybe even Jom feeling appreciative that Yai took him there.

Yai's just LEANING INTO sassyness and bitchiness, WHEW! And his jealousy being such a conduit for communication.

Jom just.... taking his time. Giving himself the time to consider Yai's admission. GEEZ. Jom being cognizant that being engaged in a same-sex lovership is very well dangerous for the time he's been transported into. Yai waving it away in delirious eagerness to be with Jom. Yai giving Jom a timepiece, their time beginning, with the next episode's preview already indicating that their time will have to start coming to an end (cc @neuroticbookworm and @lurkingshan). Jom clicking in and thinking to himself -- well, hot diggity, I like him, too, and going for the smooch. And Yai just losing it in happiness.

I mean! Considering the other shows airing at this moment (I AM NOT going to watch Dangerous Romance right now, I am going to enjoy the flavor of IFYLITA for a few more hours before it dissipates) (and I have to mentally prepare for Only Friends tomorrow), this show, for me, is the best paced romance I have seen in a WHILE. I'm glad Tee's found slightly slower historicals to be his thing, because Jom and Yai's story needs time, Yai needs empathy, and I think we need as much time with Jom and Yai mackin' and romancin' before things go haywire. I want my money on Yai's dad (Nu Surasak) coming through with a changed mind, with Khun Nu's history of being a Great BL Dad, but I have a feeling those are already dashed hopes for the moment in time we're in.

WHAT. A. FABULOUS. SHOW. If anyone here hasn't started it, do it. This show's got me BLUBBERING, as you can see. But, this show is LANDING, and it's giving me ALL the thrills and happiness. I LOVE WHEN DRAMAS CLICK LIKE THIS.

---

(PSA that there is INSANELY helpful history in this post from yesterday, which is a MUST-READ. Reading this yesterday was EXTREMELY HELPFUL, especially for understanding the context of seeing all the foreigners at the speakeasy in today's episode.)

[hinatastinygiant]

1 | Business Proposal

Pairing: Aizawa x Fem!Reader

A Game of Charades Masterlist

On a Monday morning instead of being out doing hero work like you should be, you sit inside a fancy business building, the opulence of the lobby surrounding you. The polished marble floods reflect the soft glow of the chandelier above, while heroic artwork fills the walls. Anxious thoughts swirl in your mind, not knowing why your agency is meeting with another one and how it involves you.

Just then, your agent approaches, taking the chair beside you. "What's going on?" you ask.

"We're making a business deal to team up with another agency," she replies calmly. "It's an opportunity to increase our resources significantly."

You groan softly, hating the idea of chasing after money instead of focusing on saving lives. "Money crap," you mutter under your breath, forgetting your agent can hear you.

They smile understandingly, "I know it's not your favorite part, but think about the good we can do with more resources."

You run a hand through your hair, contemplating her words. You realize she's right- more resources does mean more lives saved and more people helped. It's just frustrating that it has to involve all this business crap and corporate dealings.

Suddenly, your name is called, and you look up to see your agent signaling for you to follow. The two of you stand up and walk into a spacious meeting room. Inside, you see a group of well-dressed men, each wearing a serious expression. Among them stands a figure with scruffy hair, someone you immediately recognize – Pro Hero Shota Aizawa. Your heart skips a beat, realizing that you two must be here to put a face to the deal.

As you step closer, Aizawa stands up and extends his hand in greeting. You take it, feeling a mixture of nerves and excitement. "Nice to meet you," he says in his usual deadpan tone.

"Likewise," you reply, trying to match his composure even as your heart races. The tension in the room is palpable as everyone takes their seats.

The other businessmen start to speak, using corporate buzzwords that you can barely follow. The CEO of Aizawa's agency takes the lead, explaining that both agencies have agreed to come together for this business arrangement, strictly for financial reasons. They emphasize that it's not an actual merger or partnership but rather a temporary alliance for mutual benefit.

You listen, trying to stay focused despite the whirlwind of information. Then, the CEO drops a bombshell that leaves you stunned. "As part of this arrangement," he states, "we've decided to arrange a marriage between Miss Y/N and Mr. Aizawa."

"What?!" you blurt out, unable to contain your shock and disbelief. This was definitely not what you had expected when you walked into this meeting. The realization that you're supposed to pretend to be married to Aizawa hits you like a ton of bricks.

Aizawa's expression remains stoic, but you can see a flicker of surprise in his eyes. This unexpected twist turns the entire situation into a whole new level of complication. "Hold on. Why do we have to do that?" he asks, trying to process the absurdity of the situation just like you.

The CEO clears their throat and explains, "Because our partnership is not 100% foolproof, we need something to really sell others on the idea of this partnership. A publicized engagement between the two of you will lend credibility to the alliance."

You look down at your lap, not knowing what to do. Aizawa, breaking through the businessmen's chatter, asks, "What does that mean for the two of us?"

The CEO replies, "Miss Y/N will move in with you, act like a couple, and do a few other things to really sell the idea of a relationship. It's not that difficult, Mr. Aizawa. I'd think someone of your standing would be able to understand that."

As Aizawa opens his mouth to talk back, the businessmen begin to talk over him, sealing the deal with handshakes. As everyone begins to leave the room, the CEO adds, "We're going out for pictures now. Aizawa and L/N, you will announce the engagement and make it official with a kiss."

You start to protest, "Come on. There's no way I'm—" but before you can finish, your agent pinches your shoulder and shakes her head. She whispers firmly, "You don't have a choice."

Groaning inwardly, you look at Aizawa, who seems to be having a similar conversation with his own agent. You reluctantly say, "Okay, fine."

As you all leave the meeting room, your agent leans in and says, "Well, at least he's hot."

Rolling your eyes, you follow the group, unsure of what lies ahead. But right as you're about to step out, someone takes you by the hand. You turn around and see it's Aizawa. He tells you, "We need to seal this deal for our own sakes too, or we'll be caught in a bad position."

You narrow your eyes, still suspicious of the whole situation. Aizawa continues, "Act professional, and let's get through this together."

You think there's no way you'll be able to deal with this jerk, but you nod politely and respond, "Okay, let's go then."

He instructs you to stay quiet while he handles the public interaction. "Just smile and wave," he says, and you can't help but retort, "Like the penguins?" Poor Aizawa looks confused, so you quickly add, "Nevermind."

When you step outside the building, cameras attack you. Aizawa subtly pulls you slightly behind him as he approaches the other standing in front of the large crowd. The CEO introduces the two of you, announcing that there is another announcement to be made. 

Aizawa then steps forward and speaks, "Y/N and I have been secretly dating for exactly one year as of last night and we've been doing well to keep our little secret, but we've decided that now is the perfect time to go public with the announcement of our engagement!"

The crowd gasps, and cameras click frantically. You hear paparazzi calling your name, and your heart races. Although you've experienced this a lot as a pro hero, you still feel anxious when the paparazzi overcrowd you.

Aizawa, however, continues to play the part perfectly, saying how lucky he is to have an amazing pro hero like you fall in love with him. He places his hand on your cheek and kisses you, sealing the fake engagement deal with a dramatic display of affection.

Internally, you can't help but feel a mix of emotions. This charade was getting more complex by the second, and you weren't sure how you would manage it all. But for now, you put on your best smile and let the cameras capture the facade of love, hoping that this elaborate game of charades wouldn't end up consuming your heart and true intentions.

A Game of Charades Masterlist

[tryingforthedelicatehopeofitall]

So it's a typical Tuesday night and all I have to say is that I adore Wylan and Jesper and their love so much!! 🫶🏼

They have experienced a lot of cruelty and been through a lot of pain and hurt in their lifetime and then they find each other and it's like something shifts. As Taylor Swift would say planets and stars aligned to make sure that magic happens when they found each other.

They shared a night together which was dazzling in its own way only for it to end like that's the end of the story, when that was just Chapter One.

The next time they meet it feels like the song some of the original lyrics of Gorgeous were written about Wylan quietly pining after Jesper “You're so gorgeous and I ain't just talking about your face but look at your face and I am so curious your mind got me feeling some type of way ... 'cause you're so cool,  yeah you should think about the consequence of your magnetic field getting way too strong ... you know it ain't my fault ... you're so cool it makes me hate you so much ... I'm nothing that you want but I must say you're gorgeous. ...” 

And then they become friends and get to learn more about each other and start falling for each other. We get to witness what “... for once, you let go of your fears and your ghosts. One step not much, but it said enough. ...” “... we can't make promises now can we babe ... is it cool that I said all that? Is it chill that you're in my head? 'cause I know that it's delicate. ...” looks like on our screen. The gentle way that they care about each other and for each other ... UGH MY HEART!!!!!

Even when they are on the battlefield, they are so in sync with each other. The way they are their badass selves and look out for other people while simultaneously looking out for each other? The way Wylan has his hand on Jesper's shoulder when they are first on the ground and trying to figure out how to go about things as Tamar asks them who they are!!!!! Wylan's little smile and nod when Jesper goes ahead to show them “what it's like to be blessed”!!!! The way Wylan comes picks up one of Jesper's guns and gives it to him after that!!! And then all those little moments in the background where it seems like Wylan is hurt and Jesper does not leave his side once!!!!!

“MY MAN” (moonlit witch version willow ~ I'm begging for you to take my hand, wreck my plans that's my man!!!)

*twinkling sounds of a key being made*

Someone with gambling addiction using the thing they are dependent on to try and give Wylan a home. Wylan who has never known what a home is before “... because all these boys ... never took me quite where you do. And all at once, you're the one I've been waiting for – king of my heart, body and soul ... the taste of your lips is my idea of luxury ... we rule the kingdom inside my (your) room ... is this the end of all the endings, my broken bones are mending with all these nights we're spending ... baby,  all at once, this is enough. ...”

Also thinking about Kit and Jack's response to the question of what Wylan and Jesper's universe would like and they said something like — if wesper could create their own thing ... it would be quite a cozy place. There would be a fireplace and a safe - where they keep the guns and the bombs. They would hold onto their weapons as there is danger outside and in comparison to that, they feel safe together … they found each other amongst the chaos. … <3 

And how they found a home within each other — “they have quite the opposite first impressions but when they start speaking there is a shared language that they have and a shared understanding. They want to look after each other and protect each other amongst the utter chaos … they are able to sort of engage in what is quite a joyful, lovely time. They are both very damaged; especially with trust is how they are able to find homes within each other, safety within each other in amongst the wildness. …”

[withgirl-sq]

I was wondering about your opinion about an Azutara au/canon divergence idea. And to see if it might be something your interested in. Either as a writing prospect or just an Azutara idea.

Essentially, at some point during book 2 3 (say at Ba Sing Se or during the chase, or maybe even at the Oasis ) when Azula is chasing avatar Aang she stumbles upon Katara while Mai and Ty Lee are elsewhere.

The two proceed to have a bending duel between them. The fight is hard fought and their are several times where either girl could claim victory. Till finally Azula triumphs over Katara. Impressed by the Waterbender and experiencing an “inexplicable” feeling at the mere sight of her Azula decides to take Katara prisoner in order to interrogate her about the avatar. And certainly not because she’s the most beautiful women she has ever seen.

During this, Azula and Katara bond with each other. Azula begins to consider the validity of the Avatar’s side of the war because of “Katara being Katara”. As well as her budding attraction to the “pretty Water girl”. Katara also considers how pretty yet alone Azula is and if Ozai treated his own children how he treated his son and daughter, how evil must he be?

Ultimately, Azula decides to stay the course (for now) and stay loyal to Ozai. He is after all her father and sovereign. And he must love her as such. Right?

Aang and Sokka find out Katara has been captured and attempt to spring her out. It takes them a fortnight or so to find we’re she is being held by team Azula (because Team Azula is constantly on the move). During the escape attempt Azula and Katara face each other in a bending duel again. Which is as climatic as the first one. The duel ends in Katara’s favor this time and she manages to flee with Aang and Sokka on Appa. She blows a kiss at Azula before she leaves though.

The rest of canon happens as normally until we get to Ba Sing Se. During the crystal catacombs the two engage in battle again. The third fight is as intense as the previous two, but unlike either of them, this battle ends in stalemate. With neither Azula nor Katara able to claim victory.

The fight ends with the two kneeling at the ground and holding ice and blue flame dagger (respectively) at the others neck. The two then have a “heart to heart” discussion. Where Katara complete her suction of Azula to the good side. Book 2 then ends with Aang charging into the crystal catacombs to “save” Katara. At the same time Zuko runs into the catacombs to help his sister in capturing the Avatar “once and for all”. The two arrive at the same time and come upon the sight of Azula and Katara kissing.

How would the story of Avatar go from here? Feel free to add to any of this. It is after all just an outline for your consideration.

Note: this is an expanded idea that I had previously (and partially) submitted to Azutara week 2023 as well.

Ps: love the avatar Azula au!

Hey, I really love the idea of this!

I can imagine that the fight in the catacombs would end in a stalemate because everytime one of them gets an advantage, the other one hesitates

I can 100% imagine that Zuko would 'snitch' on Azula because he wants to become the crown prince again and he knows that Ozai would never accept their relationship. I"m not sure whether Ozai would let him come home without something happening to Aang though. Maybe Zuko could capture Aang in the confusion and Azula would help Team Avatar to save him? We know that they don't want to kill him so he doesn't reincarnate, so they could launch a rescue mission to the Boiling Rock to save Aang?

There would naturally be a lot of scepticism from Sokka (I don't think Toph would care) and he would be super protective of his sister but Katara finds it funny that he thinks that he can threaten Azula lol

Another alternative, if they get together before Ba Sing Se would be that Azula and Katara would plan to fake Aang's death to give them an advantage during the eclipse, but this would depend on Zuko not knowing about them!

If people would be interested in this, I would definitely love to write it!

I'm glad you enjoy the Avatar Azula AU!

[shoechoe]

i think we should force our favs to be in a room together. or on a roadtrip. surely this will end in no murder (though i do think it's interesting to think about what sorbet and gelato would think of diavolo if they actually got to meet him... nothing good probably lol but i do wonder how the image of the boss members of passione must have lines up to reality)

True they should. Every time they threaten each other they just get zapped by electricity cartoon style

Also yeah I doubt Sorbet and Gelato would like Diavolo if they met him LOL, mostly because of already disliking him, but also I don't think Diavolo makes himself particularly likable in general. I imagine Passione members' views on what The Boss is like vary because some of them hate him but others do seem to have a weird kind of admiration/reverance for him. Bruno looked up to the Boss naively as a force of justice until he realized that he was selling drugs (which was really a very silly narrative TBH but it did show that there are people who see/saw The Boss as some kind of admirable figure. I think like, Pericolo did too)

This is mostly my own headcanon but I don't imagine Diavolo as very capable of social interaction and I imagine it would make him come across as very off-putting and unlikable to other people. I think if you came up to him and said hi or tried to ask him a casual question he would just glare at you in silence because he has no idea how to engage with people outside of like, orders, self-aggrandizing monologues, and murder. I think he'd rely on Doppio for "being able to talk to people" purposes as much as functional hiding and mafia duty ones. The level of self-isolation he's partaken in since young adulthood had to have altered him fundamentally in some way after all.

[shrimplyfangtastic]

20 questions for Fic Writers!

Hi hi! My lovely friend @gamingwithsydney tagged me in her reply to this list of 20 questions for fic writers. Apologies that I'm only getting to it now! <3

Tagging others is a bit daunting, so instead I choose to tag whoever ends up stumbling upon this ^_^

1. How many works do you have posted?

Just checked, and apparently I've posted 31 works on AO3, and 1 to Tumblr, leading to an impressive total of 32! Wow, when did that happen? XD

As a oneshot writer with plenty of WIPs waiting for me, I'm sure that number will only grow higher before the year ends.

2. What is your total published word count?

Almost 14k on AO3! That's a lot more words then I imagined it would be at, to be honest.

3. What fandoms do you write for?

Genshin Impact, Genshin Impact, and more Genshin Impact.

Or, that's what's posted at least. I've got a couple (read: MANY) WIPs waiting to be edited/lengthened that have been written for the Dead by Daylight, Monster High, Twisted Wonderland and Fable 2/3 fandoms.

4. What are your top five fics by Kudos on AO3?

At 37 Kudos we have Love You For Eternity an Eimiko drabble, followed by Like A Cute Stuffed Toy (36, Eimiko drabble), Romaritime (33, Part of Collei/Freminet Series), To Distant Shores (31, Part of Collei/Freminet Series) and Silver Threads Among The Night Sky (29, EiSara drabble).

My favourite from the above list would have to be Romaritime.

5. Do you respond to comments? Why or why not?

I do reply, most often aiming to overcome my anxiousness and respond within the same day of the comment! While I write with the understanding that I am the audience I wish to reach with my works, it's nice to see that there are others out there who share the same interest in fandoms and love for characters that I do.

I like engaging with fandom to meet new people and create strong connections, so each interaction is greatly appreciated and cherished.

6. What’s the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?

I like my angst endings implied rather than explicitly shown, so I think that leaves my FocaFuri drabble Her Prophecy with my angstiest ending. Typical Fontaine shenanigans, I'm afraid.

7. What’s the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

Romaritime has a happy end, I feel! Some cute but awkward interactions between Collei and Freminet. There's also my Yelan/Emilie drabbles — My favourite being Little Gift By My Pillow — which all have happy ends. I like soft Yemilie.

8. Do you get hate on your fics?

If I do, I'm unaware of it 😜 I don't really think a hateful comment or bookmark would effect me too much, honestly. As I said, I write with the additional intention of serving as my own audience, so if someone does not enjoy what I have to offer then I must kindly redirect them towards the Back button.

9. Do you write smut? If so, what kind?

I don't... Yet.

There's no plan to explore smut writing anytime in the near future, but it's certainly not off the table! Ei/Kujou Sara have almost tempted me before, and smut ideas for Reaver/The Hero of Bower Lake from Fable 2 have been floating around in my mind.

10. Do you write crossovers? What’s the craziest one you’ve written?

I don't post crossovers, but I've got a couple notes for an EPIC: The Musical/Genshin Impact series. I don't think this will be seeing the light of day for quite a while though, unfortunately. Otherwise, if I were to write other crossovers I think I'd either want to explore Descendants/Twisted Wonderland, or Dead By Daylight/Fear & Hunger.

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen?

Not to my knowledge!

12. Have you ever had a fic translated?

Again, not to my knowledge XD

As far as I'm aware, my works are only available on AO3 in English. I am open to translations though, as long as I'm properly credited and informed through any of my social medias.

13. Have you ever co-written a fic before?

Nope. Co-writing wouldn't really suit my way of writing, but if I were somehow able to find someone who follows the same writing process as myself, I'd love to co-write a Genshin fic one day. Maybe something Collei/Freminet. Perhaps something to do with this Pirate AU idea I've had for awhile. Dunno!

14. What’s your all-time favorite ship?

Oof, that's a difficult question! I think I'll split them by fandom, as choosing just one is much too hard.

Monster High: Kieran Valentine/Spelldon Cauldronello

Dead By Daylight: Sable Ward/Mikaela Reid

The Sims 2: Nervous Subject/Pascal Curious

Genshin Impact: Kaveh/Alhaitham or Emilie/Yelan or Layla/Kirara or Lisa/Il Dottore (Okay okay, I'll stop here!)

15. What’s a WIP you want to finish but doubt you ever will?

Either that EPIC: The Musical/Genshin Impact crossover, or the Genshin Impact Pirate AU idea. Although, now that I talk about that Pirate AU, some more ideas are coming to me... Hm... Mermaid Freminet...

16. What are your writing strengths?

My writing stamina has gotten pretty strong over the years, and I greatly cherish my ability to draw out inspiration from quite nearly anything.

I also quite like that I no longer feel an ounce of shame in my interest towards writing fanfiction, and instead embrace my creativity with welcome arms.

17. What are your writing weaknesses?

As of right now, I'm pretty happy with my overall writing style. If I had to choose some things that could either be improved or be explored in another way, I think my dialogue could flow smoother? Maybe include more metaphors in descriptive scenes? I've always liked more flowery prose, so if I were to revise my own style and pick apart "weaknesses", it would be to achieve that.

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language in fic?

I don't think I've written dialogue in another language, but I believe that if I were to try, I'd almost certainly need to have someone who knows the language that I could turn to and ask for help.

19. First fandom you wrote for?

My first ever fandom written piece was actually for the Creepypasta fandom over on Wattpad, back when I had a big fat crush on Eyeless Jack. While it's been taken down, I still have it saved in multiple folders so I can look back and awe at baby Shrimply's writing.

20. Favorite fic you’ve written?

In terms of published works, I'm rather fond of Romaritime (Collei/Freminet) and She Fears Not The Weather, She Fears Not The Sea (Eimiko).

In terms of yet-to-be-publushed works, I'm writing a oneshot that I absolutely adore on how I think Kieran and Spelldon's (Monster High) second encounter would go :D

EDIT: Haha, did I talk about Romaritime enough? :P

[archduchessofnowhere]

Has Empress Sisi ever fallen in love or had a lover? Thanks.

Hi! Short answer, yes and no. Longer answer:

When Elisabeth was around fifteen (some months before her engagement), she wrote a series of love poems dedicated to someone named "Richard", who died shortly after. It's assumed this man was someone who worked at the Ducal household (because at that age Elisabeth couldn't have known anyone outside her family and their entourage), but no one has ever been able to identify him, nor she ever talked about him in her later life: her love poems are really the only material evidence left of this first teen crush. And while in her biographies it's always a given that this was her first love, I personally think (and this is just my opinion) there's a possibility that perhaps these poems... were just poems. Like Taylor Swift writing love songs at fifteen when she had never dated anyone before. Whatever the case, these pieces must have been important for Elisabeth, since she kept them her whole life, and passed them over to her descendants.

She seems to have been in love with Franz Josef when they got engaged even if his position stressed her, as the very quoted "I love him so much, if only he were not the Emperor" shows (a quote that comes from Archduchess Sophie btw), and after they got married she wanted to spend as much time with him as possible and was in distress when she wasn't able to. They grew distant with time as Elisabeth found life at court more and more unbearable and started traveling abroad. Countess Mária Festetics, one of the empress' closest ladies-in-waiting, later said that "The Empress valued her husband and was deeply devoted to him. No... he did not bore her, that is not the right word. But she felt it to be natural that he took no part in her spiritual life and was unable to follow her flight to higher things (...) she respected him and liked him, but I doubt that she loved him". This is just her personal opinion and I don't think it should be taken as a fact, but it does show that in the later years of their marriage she didn't strike the people close to her as a particularly loving wife.

And lastly no, she didn't have any lover. We have no evidence of her ever having an affair other than unreliable gossip. For example, there were rumors about her friend Count Gyula Andrássy being her secret lover (and fiction writers love to depict him as such) but the truth is that they could've never had an affair because they were alone literally only once in the more than twenty years they knew each other. In a carriage ride. That lasted like fifteen minutes. Every other time they saw each other, they were accompanied by someone. Portraying them as lovers is a disservice to both of them (because how could possibly a man and a woman become friends for sharing the same political ideas, they must have been sleeping together!), and also just so boring.

Thank you for your question!