#it's nice to be making progress

[realkaijuhavecurves]

I just managed to crack my first ever X wing sudoku without any help or hints, waheey

[the-meme-monarch]

edit: woe finished version upon ye here⬅️

YAY im either. 1/3 or 1/2 way though now i think

delilah and shrimpo are my favorite characters. the animatic is Not about Either of them but I kinda didn’t want to just post the video on its own since it’s Not Done Yet

[amogus-real-not-clickbait]

part 1 of a little comic / art sequence that i've been working on! :D it's part tribute, part experimenting with brushes n colors and trying new thingz :]

| 1 | 2 | 3 | ... |

and thus continues my endless quest of spreading the carrot fics like a plague! if you've seen my art floating around you probs already figured that this au holds a very special place in my heart, forever and always!!

if you haven't heard of it, it's a fic series by @crowned-ladybug called carrot soup!! it made me wish i could speak colors and i need more people to share my struggle xd

go check it out if you're into sweet voice lore and qpr level gayness and just wanna feel warm and soft and warm (hurt/comfort my beloved) <333 there are some heavier themes cos everyone's traumatized but they're working through it! be sure to check the tags and stay safe! <3

[equill]

Its himm

Extra: gift

[profoundmakerdreamerss-blog]

Tomarry AU time travel but with a twist

— where Tom and Harry are best friends but Harry ends up falling for Tom — and Tom? He rejects him. Because Tom isn't ready. Because he thinks relationships are a waste of time — and believes what he and Harry has is better. And, Harry? Though hurt, accepts his answer. Though there is some residual awkwardness — they go back to being friends.

But— now, Tom is more aware of Harry. Now, that he knows Harry is okay with having a romantic relationship with him, he starts noticing things that he hasn't before. He starts thinking about Harry more than he did before (which basically means he thought about him every second now, back then it was one thought per ten seconds but anyways—) and having realizations about himself that he has been ignoring before due to always thinking about the future. After all he is a busy man with a grand plan — he was just too busy to have time for something mundane like introspection, am I right?

Unfortunately, though before Tom could do something about his emotions derailing his plans — Harry dies. For him. To save him

Tom being Tom, through his all consuming grief and regrets — breaks time conventions to save Harry and ends up travelling back on the day Harry came to Hogwarts. And as Tom tries to make amends for his mistakes by trying to befriend Harry, who is the new transfer student earlier than before, he realizes how strange Harry used to be.

How he would act skittish around Tom or glare at him with so much hatred that would make him stumble. Because Harry never did that, or did he? That didn't matter though, because Tom would win him over anyways — because he is the one whom Harry loves loved. So, he is one who would end up winning him anyways — not Black or Longbottom for that matter.

So this au is basically time travelling harry and time travelling tom but both of them from different points of time, trying to do their best — trying to save the world (for Tom, it's Harry and is that my way of implying Harry was his world? Yes.)

[cozylittleartblog]

my ACEN tip gimmick has been fulfilled, aaand i got a little carried away with it. I haven't had time to draw for myself (or at all, really??) in like two weeks, i needed to Doodle and Have Fun. ... also, i did not think he would get so many donuts. people understand the value of giving treats to fictional characters :) its what he deserves

also shoutout to snazzyskeletons who had the same Tip Theme i did. we took pictures with our tip jars together. they are adorable v

i'm glad their vash got some donut money too :) 🍩 please check them out if you want some cute trigun stuff

[reactionimagesdaily]

Reaction images aside, how are you holding up?

Aww, thanks for asking. :P

To be honest, I'm probably doing better than most. I'm a healthy cishet white man who lives in the UK, so I don't have nearly as much to worry about as I know a lot of people do. (Also hey, I'm enjoying the new Dragon Age game, so that's been nice.) But I also know what kind of ramifications this election is bound to have, both inside the US and beyond.

(I mean, the world's biggest democracy is getting overtly more hostile and authoriarian in real time (y'know. again), and I know on this side of the pond we've got some real brain donors who'd love to see something similar happen here. I'm worried about what Trump could do once he's back in charge, and I'm worried about what might happen to my own country, with it's 'special relationship' to the US, as a result. And I'm not alone in that.

All this on a fuckin' Wednesday...)

Anyway, I had a longer thing written out here about the concept of orthopraxis (just while I was trying to get my thoughts in order, lmao) but the core of what I want to say is this:

I think we're about to see an uptick in people being shitty

I'm going to counter that by doing un-shitty things

What do I mean by un-shitty things? Well, I've been meaning to participate in Amnesty International's 'Write For Rights' campaign for months - I just fired off my first email today. I've already donated to causes supporting Gaza in the past, but now I'm also planning to write to my local MP about how annoyed I am that my country is still culpable in genocide. Make my voice heard, you know? I also want to keep making art that people enjoy, because I think that's important. And I'm going to buy another commission from an artist I like, because they could probably use something good in their life right now. And... to be honest, I'm not sure what else I'll do yet. When I figure it out, though, I'll try and actually do it.

Maybe for you, un-shitty things mean something smaller scale. Hugging your loved ones for longer, or giving that loose change you always carry around to the next homeless person you see. That's good too. Maybe it's something larger in scale, and that's awesome! But to anyone who's reading this, I'd definitely recommend doing something that not only feels good, but is also TANGIBLE. Not only does doing feel good, but it means that you're improving someone else's life, in however small a way. Which, y'know. Net positive, innit.

(Yes, I'm aware this is basically the 'when you see someone being so mean it inspires you to be kinder meme', lmao. No, I don't really care.)

You asked me how I'm holding up? Well, the first thing I'd like to do is respond to your question in kind: how are you holding up? In a general sense? In specific ways? Hopes, anxieties, plans?

And the next thing I'm going to do is tell you that I'm more than holding up.

I'm locking in.

[cinimuffin]

[woolieshubris]

So, you've been sent bait: A Guide for Internet Posters and Readers

Disclaimer: I am simply an autistic internet poster with a special interest in human interaction, abuse patterns, and internet culture. I am not a scholar and I do not have a degree in these things. While I have done research into the topics of cancellation, online abuse, and harassment, I am far from an expert.

Introduction:

I've seen this happen dozens of times before. A semi popular blogger will suddenly seem embroiled in a controversial topic, receiving harassment and accusations of some pretty terrible things. It goes on for about 24-72 hours, and then poof, it seems to be completely over, (however, of course, it can be brought up again without warning.) This can be emotionally damaging for the blogger, for the supporters of that blogger, and for the shock waves it will undoubtedly send into the greater community. This also further spreads discourse and popularizes harmful ideologies to people who might have previously never heard of them. The targets are almost always trans women, (with transmisogyny doing most of the cancellation legwork) and it seems to always have the goal of turning fellow trans people against the target. (Though, of course, I've seen this done with autistic creators, nonbinary creators, ect. Trans women are just the most popular target.)

Now, the goal of this guide is to help people understand how this happens, be able to recognize the patterns of a targeted harassment campaign, and be able to try and prevent it in the future. I'll be writing this as a guide to the target, however, I think it's important for lurkers/readers to also be able to recognize these patterns so they too can avoid being manipulated into falling into these pitfalls. A large portion of this harassment initiative is to use "useful idiots" in order to do most of the legwork. As a reader, you must avoid becoming a useful idiot, (which I'll be referring to as fools from now on) and you must be able to tell when other people are being used in this manner as well. This is the most effective way to protect people from unwarranted harassment campaigns.

Section 1: Bait

Types of Bait:

You've been sent bait, but you aren't sure if it is actually bait, or a genuine question from a fan. You don't want to ignore someone's valid concern, so you answer it even though you might not be sure. This is your first mistake! If you think it might be bait, it's best to treat it as such. Think of bait asks as toxic waste. If you aren't sure, it's much better to be safe than sorry. If you receive a bait ask, your best bet is to delete it and not respond at all. Yes, it will probably rattle you, and you'll probably feel bad about deleting the question, but you need to understand that it doesn't matter. If this person was asking a genuine question, they would understand if you don't want to answer. If they get annoyed or angry at your lack of answer- they were likely asking it with the intent to hurt you.

The first type of bait is bringing up a controversial topic.

While certain topics (like queer rights, abortion, Palestinian freedom) do actually matter in the real world and I would believe are worth responding to or making your position clear (as long as it is something you do have an opinion on) this does not mean all controversial topics are equal. Many topics that are "hot debates" online do not matter in the real world. (for example, proship vs antiship). Regardless of the validity of the debate, if it doesn't matter in the real world, it likely isn't worth publicly stating your opinion on those things. That is why people who are active in those movements try to make these things seem like they have real world consequences- to try and make their debate more valid and easier to pull more people into. The real goal with many of these topics is not to try and have a reasonable discussion. The goal is to try and pull as many people into them as possible. If they can successfully get ANY response out of you, then they win. Their debate is now broadcasted on your platform. Their thoughts, arguments, philosophies are now spread to thousands of people instantly. Even if you respond with an answer like "huh?" "what?" or "what does this mean???" they still win. Your acknowledgement of the debates existence at ALL is a win for them. They get to publicly platform their beliefs on your profile. If you respond at all and express even the slightest hint of an opinion, then they will have an entire section of fools that can now send you messages about this topic. Death by a thousand paper cuts. This is the most common type of bait, and the reason is simple. Internet debates can suck in people and can quickly rot peoples brains. Like sleeper agents, people will automatically start trying to chime in the moment they see the hints of any debate. If you fall for this debate, the best thing to do is delete everything, block main players and wait it out. With any luck, it will be completely forgotten by the end of the week.

The second type of bait is an accusation.

Again, while some allegations or accusations are worth responding to, if it is completely false, not responding will be your best bet. If you do respond at all, the allegation and your name will be linked in peoples minds. Even if you deny it, people will be confused as to why it was brought up at all. They might even think that you are lying or deflecting. Responding to the accusation at all is treated as a confession. If this accusation is something you've heard before, it would be worth looking into the source of the claim- someone might be spreading lies about you. However, if this accusation is something you've never received before, it is almost certainly bait. They are trying to make you look bad. Just delete them. If this is something you are receiving from a specific person, ask them about it privately. Never respond to false accusations on your public platform unless you know the source of the accusations. If you have to respond to them, you need to link to the accusation in full, not vaguely describe them. When you vaguely describe them, then you are putting the duty on the readers to find the accusation- they'll read it on the accusers terms- putting the ball directly into the accusers court. If your reader reads it directly from the accusers, then it will automatically make your refutation look dubious by comparison. Make it easy for the reader to see the full accusation and point out the absurdity of the claims. By laying out all of the information clearly, the readers will be able to easily figure out that the claims were bogus. In future confrontations, your supporters will likely even respond to the accusers for you, now that they fully understand the arguments against you. Supporters love to correct people, and this can help you significantly- just as much as it can hurt. It's a double edged sword, so if you point it in the right direction, it can help protect you against false accusations.

The third type of bait is confusion.

This type of bait is a bit harder to spot, and it's usually blended with the other two types. This type of bait is deliberately confusing. The confusing nature is what makes it such effective bait. A vague message can be read a thousand ways, and as long as one person can spin it in a way that makes you a "horrible person" then that can quickly become the narrative. If you receive a question that you do not understand, you have no reason to answer it. If you can't answer, simply not acknowledging it at all is the smartest thing to do.

How to deal with bait:

As I've stated in the previous sub-sections, the first time you receive any type of bait, you should ignore it. The intentions of the bait may differ, but they all need to be treated in the same way- with no respect at all. Anyone who tells you otherwise is someone who wishes for you to be hurt or a fool. If you receive it more than once, try blocking the person. If you continue to receive it, then that means that in all likelihood it's more than one person sending you the bait, and it might not be bait after all. However, you should proceed with extreme caution. You do not respond to the bait- you figure out the source of the questions and answer it on your own terms. Simply making a post like "Hey, for the record, I support dolphins." will go over a thousand times better than a post that goes like "'Why do you hate dolphins?' I don't." If you are receiving bait, another way to deal with it is by turning anonymous asks off and looking into the blogs of people sending you the bait. Search terms relating to the question they asked. If it's something they seem to get into a lot of internet fights over, block them. The approach you must always consider bait with is that all of the bait asks you receive are sent by one person trying to seem like a group of people. This is on purpose- they want to intimidate you into answering. This is why blocking and turning off anonymous asks can be useful tools. It forces them to unmask themselves.

Footnote 1: The response by these bait people is often "keeping on anonymous asks allow people to feel safe in asking these important questions." Your safety is more important. This is just trying to guilt trip you. Fools will also often respond similarly. After all, it can sound compelling. However you are not a publicly traded company. You do not need transparency. You do not have body guards or multiple employees. You are a singular person with a right to privacy and safety.

Summary

In this section, we discussed the main types of bait: controversial, accusatory, and confusing. We also talked about the best way to deal with each type, as well as the pitfalls of responding to each type, and how to deal with a larger harassment campaign.

If you personally have fallen victim to any of these techniques, either as a fool or a poster, I can understand how you might feel- however the important aspect of these types of bait is that they can and do trick people. If they didn't work, they wouldn't be used. It is not your fault for falling for it- it is completely on the perpetrators of this abuse. However, I hope this guide can help people to protect themselves or recognize when these things are happening to them.

[sysig]

For Requestober No.2

What about Handplates Gaster and Papyrus trying hard to have a bonding activity and Sans just chilling behind them eating popcorns...?

👉🏻👈🏻

Day 14 - He's supervising

[landinrris]

Football AU snippet in which Carlos asks about Lando's willingness to participate in a friends and family football match for charity. (Very much inspired by Lando's PlayStation match)

Lando’s busy unloading a few vases from the kiln when he hears the back door to his studio unit open. He slides one of the vases onto a shelf and glances down at his watch to see that it’s around 5:30. Probably Carlos then.

He finishes unloading the vases onto the nearby shelf before he picks up a couple and walks back out into his main workshop area. Sure enough, Carlos is there in a pair of joggers and a hoodie sitting on the stool in front of Lando’s painting and glazing workbench. He’s busy inspecting the centerpiece bowl Lando had been painting intricate designs on earlier.

“What’re you doing here?” Lando asks, walking the two vases in his hands over to the table where Carlos is. He places them down to the side before making his way to Carlos and sitting on his leg. He loops his arms around Carlos’ shoulders and leans forward to kiss him.

Carlos grins against his lips and winds his arms around Lando’s waist to tug him closer. He smells like the shampoo and soap from the club's shower stalls and not at all like he’d been working out all afternoon.

“I figured you were still here, and I wanted to see what you were up to.”

“Mmm, just finishing up unloading some things, and then I was gonna head home. But now that you’re here, guess I don’t have to take the tube.”

“That is the only reason?”

Lando scratches absentmindedly at the nape of Carlos’ neck and smiles back. “Yeah, the only reason, clearly.”

Carlos pinches Lando’s ass, and Lando very resolutely does not react to it.

“This piece is beautiful. Is it for anyone specifically?” Carlos asks, nodding towards the bowl. Lando’s done pieces like this in the past, but not this specific kind of ornate pattern.

He’d wanted to try something new, something that inspired him about the way Carlos had been playing these last few months at his new team. He thinks the swirling red and black lines get at that magical way Carlos moves across the field-- that he captured it pretty well. He doesn’t tell Carlos as much now, not yet sure what he wants to do with the piece once it’s finished.

“Haven’t decided yet. I’m glad you like it though. Maybe I’ll keep it for us.”

Carlos squeezes his arms tighter and presses another kiss to Lando’s lips. Lando melts into it, never one to not take Carlos’ kisses when offered. It’s not quite late enough that Lando’s confident they’re truly alone or else he might let himself escalate things.

“There was something else I wanted to ask you,” Carlos eventually says, his thumb moving back and forth beneath Lando’s hoodie and against his skin.

Lando pulls his head back to a more respectable distance so that he can look at Carlos for whatever he needs to say. “What’s up?”

“The team is having a family and friends friendly match in two weeks for charity. I think I mentioned it last week briefly.”

Lando nods. Carlos had mentioned it in passing in the context of Lando donating a few pieces. They'd decided on a few mugs and vases for the online charity auction.

“They were trying to get a headcount of who planned to have a family member or friend to sign up. They are beginning to draw up the rosters. I told them that I would have to ask, but you might be interested?”

Lando chokes on a laugh. “Me? When have I ever been known to play football more than to help you train every so often?”

“Exactly. You will know more than half of the people who will come to play. And there will be a coaching session before any matches are played. Think of the children, Lando. You will do so much for them.”

“Am I not already doing enough?” Lando teases. He rolls the idea around in his mind and thinks about being the one on the field looking up to see Carlos in the stands. What it might feel like. To get a taste of what Carlos experiences every week. The thought admittedly thrills him.

“And who exactly are they getting to play?”

“They are putting together a mixed team. Some of the guys’ girlfriends and wives have agreed to play. A few of their friends. I convinced Teto to come play, and you would be a person as well.”

“Be your wag representative?”

“I do not think you are a wife or a girlfriend the last time I checked.”

“Oh sorry, sorry, your hab representative then.”

“Yes, much better. I cannot make any promises you will be on the same team as Teto though.”

Lando can’t help but groan. He might be allegedly better than half of the people coming to play, but he’ll not be better than Teto of all people. “Play the marginalized card.”

“Lando, I cannot do that.” He drops his face down onto Lando’s shoulder and huffs out a laugh. Lando holds him close and lets the giggles consume him as well, ever the one to feed off of Carlos’.

“Fine, fine, I’ll do it. Let you be the one cheering me on for once. Just tell Teto to go easy on me if we’re not on the same team.”

Carlos lifts his face from Lando’s shoulder and looks at him with a serious expression. “Of course. I cannot tell you how excited I am to be the one watching. I know you will be brilliant.”

Lando swallows and scratches a hand around Carlos’ neck and up to his cheek. He searches for something to say, but nothing comes to his mind. Nothing to do the swirling thoughts and emotions in his mind justice. All he can figure to do is smile and swipe his thumb back and forth over Carlos’ cheek.

Eventually, Lando sighs. “This is gonna be some kind of roleplay kink for you, isn’t it?”

The laugh Carlos barks out is perfect. “Oh, do not think this hasn’t crossed my mind, don’t worry. Maybe after the match though. We need you in peak condition.”

Lando scoffs. “Figures. Okay, let me finish unloading the kiln and then we can go? Maybe we can do something that’s not one of your meal preps for dinner.”

Carlos clenches his hands against Lando’s hips and back and smiles. “Sounds perfect.”

[the-art-of-sanshoku]

Some post fight TLC

[araneadillydally]

howdy, here to say that your work is great, its very cool to see you experimenting more with stuff and seeing you grow as an artist

can i ask for a aranea rambling to someone? preferably meulin, but im fine with anyone else, thanks for your time ::::3

DillyDally 116

[pallanophblargh]

Well, I found all my old cover illustration originals. However… some of them faded dramatically while in storage. They were light to begin with (likely due to the tendinitis I was wrestling at the time) and the resulting scan… left a lot to be desired. The meager paper texture has started to compete with the lightest areas. I remember this one being a massive pain in the ass to scan and adjust the first time around.

So since I’m a Luddite, I’m manually darkening key areas. It needed doing anyway. You can see the whole left hand side of the piece is being darkened, while the head and forelegs and far wing are as pasty as I found them.

I guess it’s been good to see how much I have improved over the years at the very least.

Someday there will be prints, I’m still going to make that work out.

[ancha-aus]

RealAgeAU Drabble - Rebuilding

You all have been so kind <3 It isn't much but I figured we need a win :D Here is the win :D

There will probably come another drabble between this one and the last one about Dream dealing with all he learned but I wanted fluff so we going out of order again!

First Drabble Prev Drabble Next Drabble

No edits or beta. We just having fun <3

*------------------*

Dream hums as he packs some snacks. He had been waiting impatiently for this day. Cross had texted him that the meeting would have to wait as it were the holidays with them in their universe.

But! Those have finally passed!

Which means…

Dream grins as he checks his own little present. He is excited to see Nightmare. See how his now little brother is doing.

It still hurts to not be the one to look after Nightmare. But Dream had managed to at least accept that for now.

Too much had happened between them for them to just pick things up as they were. And Dream will admit that he is a little afraid that he will end up letting the memories cloud his own judgement and behaviour concerning Nightmare.

So. They are taking small steps! Kind of like playdates.

Dream hadn’t minded the name much. It is cute. Even if he is still sad it is needed.

Dream takes a deep breath and hugs his bag close “Baby steps Dream. Just take small steps.”

For now he has a little brother to see and cuddle. Dream’s goal at the moment is to convince Nightmare that Dream does love him. Dream figured that is a good first step over trying to convince him that he had always loved him.

Dream texts the gang that he is going to the meeting spot before leaving the phone in his house. He knows people can track phones and stuff and he is not leading anyone to his little brother.

Dream concentrates his staff and powers and connects to the ride universe. He steps through and looks around.

It seems that this universe has a small town at least. Probably a locked universe than. As the gang doesn’t take risks. A locked one without knowledge about the multiverse, and probably far away from anyone who may have seen any skeletons.

Dream hums as he skips through the beautiful little winter wonderland town. The snow is nice and fluffy and the many coloured lights are beautiful. There are little stalls with some things for sale and Dream can see a little frozen lake in the distance. Oh! Maybe he and Nightmare can go ice skating?

Blue taught Dream all about it after Dream admitted that he never actually experienced winter. Which was weird to Blue as he grew up in a snowy town. They drag Ink along and had a lot of fun.

Dream snickers as he now knows why Blue had been so pushy about dragging Ink along too. But playing matchmaker is for later!

Dream looks around and grins as he spots the others. Seems like it is just Dust and Cross today with Nightmare. Dream rushes to their side and can’t help but think back to the first time he heard about their ‘child.’.

Back then Dream had still believed the worst of Nightmare. When the actual proof that Nightmare had always just been himself had been right in front of him.

Dream really needed to learn to look fully at situations before making decisions.

But that is for later. He happily goes over to Dust, Cross and Nightmare. Nightmare is sitting on Cross’s lap and seems to be people watching. He is wearing a large jacket, very thick looking pants and snow boats. Not to forget an adorable frog beanie.

No doubt to protect the scars on his skull and keep him warm.

Dream smiles “Hey guys!”

Dust looks at him bored and nods as greeting. Cross gives a small smile back “Hey Dream.”

Nightmare looks away from the people and shoots him a tiny smile “Hey…”

It was already so worth it. All the effort and work and careful steps. Because his brother finally smiled at him again. It may be after Gyftmas but Dream knows this is the best gift he could have gotten.

Dust gets up first and takes Nightmare over as Cross carefully rights himself.

Dream snickers to himself.

Cross looks confused as he gets up after one of his feet sliding a little bit “What?”

Dream shakes his skull before smiling “It is just… remember how the last time I met you guys with Nightmare you guys said he was yours?” he grins more “Apparently you were telling the truth after all.” Even if it is still hard to not have Nightmare with him. It is getting easier to accept the gang as his twins parents. It is just the obvious care they show. How to are so careful with him. It is hard to not see this as something good for his brother.

Cross sputters as he blushes slightly embarrassed.

Nightmare blinks and tilts his skull “I remember that.” He looks at Cross with a frown “You are not good at improv.”

Cross sputters again and looks with betrayal at Nightmare “Nightlight!”

That is another thing. Their nickname for his brother? Their little nightlight? Adorable. 10 out of 10. Dream will not let anyone interfere.

Dust chuckles and shoots Cross an amused look “Still ended up being right.” even more amused “Even about the relationship.”

Cross looks even more embarrassed as he looks to the side “If I had known I would get bullied I wouldn’t have come.”

Dust hums and shoots Nightmare a look. Nightmare looks back with a doubtful look and Dust nods “I agree Nightmare. He is bluffing.” More amused at Cross “You would have come either way.” Then Dust walks a bit closer and pulls Cross’s skull down a bit to enable him to easily kiss his cheek.

That is something Dream still needs to get used to. The four of them dating. It is just not something Dream had expected! Thought that is because of the fact that Dream only knew them when fighting. Who knows?! Maybe they had been dating for years and Dream just never knew- wait.

Dream gives them a strict look “You guys better keep it at handholding and kissing in front of Nightmare.”

Nightmare frowns at Dream “I know that kinda stuff!”

Dream sighs and gets a faraway look “How far I have fallen to let my little brother see those sinful things when he is just a baby.”

Nightmare pouts as he huffs “We fought before!”

Dust laughs and just nuzzles the grumpy baby. Cross grins amused as well “Yeah so sinful. Premarital handholding.” Which just causes Dust to snort again as Nightmare pouts.

Dream smiles and giggles “Sorry sorry.” He looks at Nightmare “It is great to see you again. How were your holidays?”

Nightmare keeps pouting and thinks for a moment before relaxing a bit “They were nice. We had food and did some stuff around town. Looking at things.” He looks back at Dream “How was Gyftmas?”

Dream makes a so-so motions “It was alright. There was this big party which I just visited to show my face. Afterwards I went back to Blue’s with Ink and the three of us and Blue’s brother had a bit of a more private celebration.” Which included Dream trying to push Blue and Ink under the mistletoe. He was kind of successful as Dream managed to get them under there. But Ink just stared at the little plant before proclaiming he had an idea for a drawing and he rushed off.

Dream and Blue drunk some whiskey after that together with Stretch.

Nightmare tilts his skull “I thought you liked the big parties?”

Dream shrugs as he walks with the family “They are okay. Mostly because it used to just give me a lot of energy thanks to all the positive emotions going around. Nowadays they are more of a hassle than anything.” He rolls his eye lights “People keep demanding I do the things nad stuff I used to do. Honestly some people never learn.”

Dust and Cross nod in agreement as Nightmare shrugs “Some people don’t want to learn. Can’t make them.”

Dream nods “Very true. But tell me how have you been!” and he looks hopeful.

Nightmare thinks for a moment before slowly starting to talk about how the winter hit and so there is a lot of snow. He mentions he doesn’t like the cold but the snow is pretty. And that his classes are going better.

Nightmare huffs unhappily “Math is still stupid.”

Cross looks amused “Just need to practise is Night. You will get it eventually.”

This actually surprises Dream a lot “But you had about a thousand calculations and stuff about the balance in your office.”

Nightmare makes some motions before sighing “It is different now…”

Dust actually speaks again “We think it is because he is a child again. The boost made him older using god magic. We wouldn’t be surprised if it changed him in some other things as well. Like how his magic had a different colour. It could have also assisted a lot with the way he thougth about things.”

Dream nods “Like an aid? Or a cheat sheet?”

Dust shrugs but nods.

Cross shrugs himself “We aren’t sure. It isn’t like we can test it and Nightmare thought that was just who he was.”

Nightmare nods “It felt like me. Not like I was still six. I felt like an adult… I think.”

Dream smiles “Well. It doesn’t matter now. We can just assume the magic aided you with everything.”

Nightmare shoots him a considering look before smiling a tiny bit again “Yeah.”

They get into town and Dream looks hopeful at Nightmare and Dust as he mutters “I was wondering… If I could… Could I please hold Nightmare again?”

Dust thinks for a moment and looks down at Nightmare. Nightmare gives him a nod. Which causes Dust to give him a nod and carefully hand Nightmare over.

Dream pulls Nightmare as close against him as he can while still being gentle. Nightmare is still healing. He almost died and got very hurt. Dream has to make sure he is careful.

Dream smiles as he nuzzles Nightmare softly “I am so happy to see you again. I love you.” I love you so much Nighty.

Nightmare hums and just hugs him back.

Their souls may no longer be in sync as they used to be but at least it seems that Dream’s hugs also mean something to Nightmare. Which may be all Dream gets but he will hold unto it greedily.

It just feels so good to have Nightmare near. To be able to hold and hug him.

They just let him hold his tiny twin. Enjoy the feeling of him close again. Dream never gets over this. He hadn’t realised how much he had missed his brother’s hugs until he finally got one again. He wonders if that is what starving feels like.

They sit down on a bench and Dream just asks his brother things. As long as Nightmare is open to it Dream is trying to get to know him again. Learn what he likes and dislikes. Which books he reads and which movies he watches.

Dream has heard so many facts about bats.

Nightmare tilts his skull “Gyftmas, or Christmas isn’t as much of a present holiday in our universe.” Their universe. The place the called home and settled. The very same that Error hid again and refuses to give the new coordinates to.

Dream frowns “So you didn’t get presents?”

Nightmare looks a bit shyer “I did get stuff!” then he looks embarrassed and crosses his arms “Dads are still used to giving gifts and stuff.”

Cross nods “We got him a few small things…” he rubs his neck “It was a special happening! A holiday! It seems criminal to not get him things!”

Dream laughs and nods “Oh I fully agree…” and he slowly rises his little present “I promise it isn’t a lot… just a present… Happy Gyftmas.” It is the first holiday where he has his brother with him again.

Nightmare stares with shock at the present before looking slightly panicked at Dust and Cross before muttering “I didn’t… I didn’t get anything… I didn’t know…”

Dream just hugs his little brother closer “I know. It is okay. Maybe I shouldn’t have surprised you…” or maybe he should have asked any of the four if this was okay?! He just wanted to surprise Nighty with something. “I just wanted to give you something okay? That is it.” he holds Nightmare close and smiles “You already gave me this chance Nighty… There isn’t anything else I want.”

Nightmare still looks unsure as he stares at the present. Cross rubs Nighty’s cheek “It is okay Nightlight. If you want we can check the stalls?”

Nightmare looks at the stalls and nods “yeah.” He holds his hands out to Cross and Cross takes him back. Dream is sad to let go of him but doesn’t fight it as Cross and Nightmare move towards the stalls.

Dream frowns at the present “I shouldn’t have surprised him.”

Dust snorts “You are fine. Nightmare just still has this idea that he owns people things when he gets stuff. We are still working on it.”

Dream blinks and thinks “Oh… is that why you guys gave him gifts for the last holiday?”

Dust nods “Yup. He is still learning to just be a kid again.”

Dream laughs and nods “I can’t imagine how hard that is…” For Nightmare to have to unlearn 500 years of trauma and responsibilities.

Dust shrugs “We are making progress.”

They sit in silence as they wait. Dust is very quiet and Dream rubs his hands. He is still not sued to Dust. He is just so eerily quiet and unmoving. Almost like a statue, and Dream can know as he used to be one.

The first few times Dream tried to fill the silence but nothing what he said seemed to be able to pull Dust into a conversation. Maybe Dust just doesn’t want to talk to him or maybe Dust is just quiet. Dream isn’t sure.

A memory enters his mind and Dream gets ready “I euh… had a question.”

Dust hums and waits.

Dream takes a deep breath “Have you guys been to Dreamtale? And… euh… have you seen any of us per chance?”

Dust thinks for a moment before nodding.

Dream shoots upright “Seriously?! Was Nightmare little at that point?” another nod.

Dream leans back and mutters “So I wasn’t going insane?”

Dust snorts and shoots him a look “Nightmare saw you through a window and he said you saw him too. Calling him ‘Nighty’ and he made a break for it.” and he looks back forwards.

Dream just leans back. Holy shit. All this time he thought it was somekind of magical hallucination or something. Nope. His actual brother. Dream can’t believe it. He went back to Dreamtale to get answers. And he got his answers but again he hadn’t considered what the sighting could mean.

At least Dream will excuse himself for just assuming it was a hallucination. Who would assume that it is your actual brother who was an adult the last time you knowingly saw him!?

Which is when Cross and Nightmare return to them. As soon as they get near Nightmare holds out a present. It is packed with the generic holiday wrapping paper and Dream happily takes the present after which he gives his own back to Nightmare.

Dream takes care to unwrap the gift and smiles at the small snowglobe. It has this town in it with the lake and Dream smiles happily at Nightmare “I love it.” and he isn’t even kidding. This place now holds a special place in his soul. A reminder is very nice to have. He will think of this moment each time he sees it.

Nightmare looks away embarrassed and shrugs as he opens the present only to stare.

Dream looks nervously at the small wooden bat he had tried to carve. He rubs his arm “I am still getting back into it… But well… You really like bats…” and they used to carve each other these statues…

Nightmare traces the carved wood and holds it close. A soft thanks is muttered and Dream feels himself relax. Nightmare always gets this shy about things he liked, even when they were kids together.

They end up relocating to the lake to get away from the other people. Only to see a small stall renting out ice skates and a few people skating.

Dream smiles at Nightmare “Want to learn how to skate? I can teach you!”

Nightmare frowns as he thinks it over. Dust and Cross share a look and seem to speak without making any sounds before both nodding. Apparently they are accepting of the idea! Great!

Nightmare looks up at his two dads and Cross smiles “I can’t skate myself.”

Dust rolls his eyes “I can. While Dream teaches you Night I will teach Cross.”

Dream looks confused at Dust “You can skate?”

Dust shrugs “Snowdin.”

Right. Of course. Duh.

They get four pair of skates and Dust helps Nightmare with his, and afterwards helps Cross with his as well. Cross looks deeply embarrassed as he mutters “Just never skated before…”

Dust shrugs “it is fine.”

They get to the lake and Dream is quick to focus all his attention on Nightmare. He helps him stand and find his balance and then a slowly helps him move a tiny bit.

It takes a while but soon enough Nightmare is smiling and having fun as they skate. Dream grins and happily shows off his moves to Nightmare when he has his balance.

Dream smiles as he just enjoys his day. And he hopes he will get many more just like this.

*------------------*

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Oh also. @spotaus haha almost forgot to add you that time!

[redo-rewind-if]

Happy New Year everyone!!! Let's try and make it a good one! (╹ڡ╹ )

Next Update (Chapter 4):

Opening: 100%

Avoid August/Confront Him: 100%

A Normal Day at Work: 100%

You Can Fix This, Right? 🤡: 65%

Keep Your Friends Close...: 25%

Avoidant Route: 0%

Since I was dealing with some writer's block, I decided to take a break from the "Fix This" section and went ahead and got started on the next part instead.

And it's been going well so far! I really think this chapter is going to be the best one yet. Can't wait for y'all to be able to read it! I'm hoping it'll only take me another month or two but I guess we'll just have to wait and see. 🤞