#justice was a romantic spirit

[carrinth]

"She loved this man a great deal, and he loved her. I... envy what they had." - Justice, DAA

One of the greatest crimes of DA2 was never expanding on this line during the Anders romance. I mean, did they forget that Justice was the total hopeless romantic and was actually intrigued by the concept of love rather than repulsed by it?? Spirit boi spent the whole of Awakening, yes nagging his fellow Wardens about duty and obligations, but also passionately lamenting to the Warden-Commander about love; how in love Kristoff and Aura were and how he was starting to love this strange, mortal world.

'Thinks you a distraction?' Please. Justice would be No. 1 Hawke/Anders shipper. Heck, if we go by the 'Justice and I are one' logic then Justice would be the one obsessed with Hawke, in the way spirits tend to hyper-fixate on things, while casual hook-up Anders would be the one trying to reel him in like: 'Would you please slow down for one second and not make us look like a desperate lovesick fool!'

'I would drown us in blood to keep you safe''? Yeah, that was Justice talking XD

Varric got it backwards!

(Also I found it amusing (and prophetic???) that Anders was the one in the background of this screenshot lol. Makes it look like Justice is speaking to/about(??) Anders instead hah)

[frickingnerd]

Phoenix Wright Masterlist

oneshots

pursuing the truth at all cost

phoenix begins to worry about you, as you let yourself be consumed by a case that you have a personal connection to…

tonight is when our stars align

the wright anything agency spends friday night together, ordering take out and chatting. but you seem a little distracted...

drabbles

[nothing yet]

headcanons

phoenix realizing his feelings for you

phoenix with a doting s/o

dating disbarred phoenix

phoenix celebrating his s/o's birthday

the new lawyer at the wright anything agency

polyamorous

poly relationship with phoenix, apollo & athena

love triangles

love triangle with phoenix & miles

phoenix & miles defending you in court together

love square with phoenix, apollo and athena

[ghafahey]

a chain reaction of countermoves to assess the equation of you. check mate! i couldn’t lose.

fall(ing) for @mdzswomen : week 2 — qin su + betrayal

[trans-ruffboi]

so my Opp Onion is that Anders' Martyr spell (and entire Vengeance mode) is functionally the same thing as blood magic in that it's Justice using Anders' actual life force, because the way that mortals do blood magic is effectively an (occasionally clumsy) out-of-Fade recreation of how spirits/demons do magic, but Anders and Justice cannot accept this because of their own (valid due to circumstances but misled) fears.

like, spirits are made entirely of magic and the Fade itself, and they can cast spells or use magical effects because of that. more powerful spirits can use more powerful spells. and when they're in the Fade, this is NBD because the magic they're using is easily replaced by absorbing more of the Fade's ambient energy, and the world is incredibly mutable. and even out of the Fade, there is ambient magic around that they can recover with, but it takes longer and is more difficult. (this gets all sorts of fucked up by the Breach but that's later)

but where blood magic comes in is that, to a creature made of magic, mana and life force aren't all that different. so if a spirit like, say, Audacity, were to teach a mage their magic, how they get power and use it, then large amounts that power would likely have to come from the life force because mortals are limited in mana in a way that spirits aren't. like Merrill said, she'd use lyrium if she had buckets of the stuff, but she doesn't, so she's working with blood. and if a spirit like, say, my best friend Justice over here, were to help his mage use magic, or use magic through him, converting the life force spent in battle into mana that Anders knows how to use seems like a very natural thing for them to do.

and even mortals have a connection between mana and life force. there's a physical draw on connecting to the Fade for magic, and it's mentioned in the codex "Mana and the Use of Magic" from the Mage Origin and in Merrill's home in DA2 (wow a link between life force and mana in Merrill's house in particular?) that a mage can overtax their mana and start burning their life force and hurt themselves.

blood magic is just directly accessing that life force instead of reaching into the Fade and burning the whole mana pool first. but Anders and Justice don't see what they do as blood magic the way Merrill sees hers as blood magic because blood magic is what demons do, and Justice isn't (CAN'T be) a demon.

as we see from spirits like Justice or Cole, many spirits don't even really know the difference between spirits and demons (Justice pretty directly says that for him it's because of fear that understanding demons will bring him closer to becoming one), but blood magic is associated with demons because spirits believe teaching it is something a demon does, that demons are the ones over-concerned about mortals and have mortals use their own bodies separate from the pure Fade to do magic wrong. you see Anders' question Merrill trying to see if she could've done blood magic without a demon telling her because to him that'd be relatively okay, and I definitely think a lot of his hatred for blood magic isn't just the indoctrination or his palatability argument, it's because Justice is very much afraid of being a demon.

and these are all beliefs shaped by mortals as well, because what exists in and shapes the Fade reflects the mortal world. spirits' fears of demons are shaped by mortals' fears of demons, and how spirits manifest to interact with mortals and each other is shaped by mortal feelings and actions.

anyways, Anders is the loml and also a big hypocrite. but he has to deny that part because he and Justice are running on at least 25% fear at all times. they both want to help each other so so badly, but they don't quite understand what they're doing. and even if I don't buy that Anders' rage perverted Justice, them both being afraid of themselves, and each other, and of hurting each other, is definitely holding themselves back and causing them pain.

[nebulousmistress]

On Rarepair Hell

Once again! If I choose to actually write the underlying story AND use the relationship tag?

It will be the only fic in the tag. On all of AO3.

This is not the first time.

[curiouslavellan]

ellyyyyy tell me about the poly soulmate au thats on your wip list!!

The necessary preface to this is that Justice is one of my absolute favorite little guys! Which means I am constantly mad about the way DA2 approaches him and the version in my head is so different, especially re: Hawke/Anders

So A/A/J is my Hawke, Ariel, and Anders, and Justice. All soulmate AUs have different rules but I want to go with the first words version because "I have made this place a sanctuary of healing and salvation" is such a banger opener that I can't resist. There'd be a lot of "weirdness" to this, based on getting their marks late in life (post possession), having "too many", marks looking weird because one is from a spirit, etc with some angst based on the confusion. Like most shippy writing ideas about this Hawke, I want to dig into how Justice could work in this dynamic if he was allowed to be a full character like he was in Awakening, the soulmate aspect is mostly so I can examine that fully with an in-world mandate that it's "right" and just because I think soulmate AUs are fun

[tarot-swords-gemini]

Pick A Pile: Are they into you romantically or not? (Reality check)

The images are not mine! I found them one Pinterest! If you know the artists mention them!!

Whenever you feel ready pick the pile that feels close to you but don’t overthink it for intuition doesn’t take long! If this post is not for you scroll, don’t press your spirit to read one, it might not match your situation! Some parts might be 18+, so if you are not, scroll.

💌My type of readings are brutally honest for I used to struggle with it myself; so now I only command from the spirit to tell me the truth through protection, but always the truth, I like it or not, so I warn you that I am like that.

The animals are: Dragon, Goat, Snake, Owl, Rabbit & Crow.

Like & Reblog my pinned post for it will help me!! ❤️ thank you! And may you be safe, happy and blessed!

1. Dragon:

Cards: Four of Pentacles, Six of Pentacles with Three of Wands, Eight of Wands, Five of Cups, Chariot, Devil, Hermit, Page of Cups, Four of Wands (bottom: Two of Wands)

Reading: No, they are not genuinely into you romantically. If they show something like that then it’s not genuine or they are not generally. The moment I did the reading I felt a very unbothered energy to the point I didn’t like it. The Four of Pentacles indicates a reluctance to fully engage or open up emotionally. The Six of Pentacles combined with the Three of Wands suggests an imbalance in effort and reciprocation, highlighting that you might be investing more than you’re receiving (in rare cases, the opposite too, which would mean that they are done of you, but this would resonate for like 1% of the people who chose it.) The Eight of Wands points to fast-moving situations but is undermined by the Five of Cups, which shows lingering disappointment and emotional setbacks regarding this situation from your side. The Chariot and Devil cards suggest a struggle with control and unhealthy attachments, while the Hermit advises introspection and solitude to gain clarity; which guess what it means? You have the answers but you avoid them because you’re attached to a monkey or to this passion that you crave to feel and you know that to feel this you need to be attached to someone. The Page of Cups signals immature or unreliable emotional gestures/behaviors this situation might cause you. The Two of Wands at the bottom underscores the need to make decisions and plan for your future rather than clinging to unrealistic hopes regarding this person. You deserve more boo!

Keywords: Emotional block, imbalance, disappointment, control issues, introspection, chakras issues, immaturity, decision-making, number five, autumn, Saturn, tears, sudden glow up and brown beauty products.

—-

2. Goat:

Cards: Two of Wands, Emperor, Ten of Pentacles, Ten of Cups with Page of Swords and Strength, Seven of Pentacles, Hierophant with Page of Wands, Justice, The Fool, Lovers (bottom: Knight of Pentacles, Moon)

Reading: Yes, they are genuinely into you romantically. The Two of Wands indicates that there is potential and planning for the future in this connection; take practical steps and don't run, let them step in too. The Emperor and Ten of Pentacles show a solid and stable foundation, suggesting serious intentions and long-term potential from both sides and the masculine person of the relationship might dream of it and desire to build something with you. The Ten of Cups with the Page of Swords and Strength reveals deep emotional fulfillment and the actual strength to overcome obstacles, though there may be a need for clear communication and understanding before every decision you take. The Seven of Pentacles signifies that patience and effort are being invested and valued by this person. The Hierophant and Page of Wands suggest a blend of traditional values and youthful enthusiasm, indicating a meaningful commitment that leads to something beautiful. Justice implies fairness and balance, while The Fool represents a new beginning or fresh start in the relationship; so expect good news. The Lovers card confirms a strong romantic connection that is worth it mutually. The Knight of Pentacles and Moon at the bottom suggest steady progress and a need to navigate any uncertainties with care and patience.

Keywords: Commitment, red, 666, stability, emotional fulfillment, communication, patience, tradition, balance, new beginnings, intimacy, romance, business, money, kpop, and luxury.

---

3. Snake:

Cards: Empress, Eight of Swords, Four of Swords, Nine of Swords, Moon, King of Pentacles with Queen of Pentacles and Ten of Cups, Three of Swords, Five of Cups, Page of Pentacles, Sun, Temperance reversed, King of Swords (bottom: Chariot, Nine of Wands)

Reading: No, they are not genuinely into you romantically, but they are invested and conflicted; there is an interest, but not something serious from their side. The Empress card shows potential for nurturing and growth if it is handled with an intuitive approach, but the Eight of Swords and Nine of Swords reveal significant mental blockages and anxiety in your energy and perhaps their life that doesn't allow them to even commit themselves to someone; it's like their emotional state is far away from romance right now -- like, you are noticed, but at the same time, they are elsewhere mentally. The Moon indicates confusion and hidden truths that you are not aware of regarding them, while the Four of Swords suggests a need for rest and contemplation rather than active engagement; that means that something has happened to them and they are committed to breaking free from something not really loving someone right now. The King and Queen of Pentacles with the Ten of Cups point to stable, idealized partnership potential, but the Three of Swords and Five of Cups highlight pain, heartbreak, and disappointment in the current context; it's a long path and not promised. The Page of Pentacles signifies a small, perhaps unreliable gesture of interest, that gives some hope but without any strong foundation. The Sun and Temperance reversed to indicate a lack of balance and clarity in their path, with the King of Swords suggesting a need for rational detachment from your side. The Chariot and Nine of Wands at the bottom further suggest ongoing struggles and obstacles, reinforcing that this romantic interest may not be genuine or fulfilling, so I advice you to not take it personally and move on.

Keywords: Blockages, anxiety, confusion, heartbreak, mystery, darkness, sleeping, gloomy colors, breakdown, battles, broken car, 1:01, night.

---

4. Owl:

Cards: Ten of Cups, Hierophant, Moon, Eight of Cups with Four of Cups, Ten of Pentacles, Four of Swords with Three of Wands, Hermit, Knight of Wands, Wheel of Fortune, Eight of Swords, Ace of Wands with Three of Pentacles, Ten of Swords (bottom: Three of Swords, Six of Swords)

Reading: Here is mixed, and the person says NO, but they don't even know, lol. There are warm feelings but denial, the person doesn't want to like you or there is something that doesn't "allow" the person to analyze their feelings so everything is in the air, is like avoiding your face in their mind (for example, age gap, same-segss, authority, etc). The Ten of Cups suggests a vision of emotional fulfillment, but this ideal is overshadowed by the Moon, indicating illusions and hidden feelings, the person knows they can be happy with you, but an inner hell keeps them away. The Eight of Cups and Four of Cups together show dissatisfaction and emotional withdrawal, revealing that the connection may be lacking genuine interest or commitment from their side or they believe this about you too. The Ten of Pentacles indicates stability but could imply a focus on long-term goals rather than current affection, they can focus on other things to avoid the warmth they feel for you. The Four of Swords and Three of Wands suggest a period of contemplation and waiting without much progress, something that would explain your side. The Hermit points to introspection and isolation, while the Knight of Wands and Ace of Wands hint at passionate but unreliable gestures the person thinks about you. The Wheel of Fortune and Eight of Swords indicate cycles of uncertainty and restriction, which means that the person feels restricted about you. The Ace of Wands with Three of Pentacles suggests potential but also a need for collaboration and effort. The Ten of Swords at the end underscores deep-seated pain and the end of a difficult situation, I don't know what happened between you too but there are two scenarios here, 1) something happened and the person chose to not want you even though is a delusional choice which means that the heart wants what it wants even if you lie to yourself or 2) something happened in their personal life that takes them away from you and they don't prefer to be close to you. The Three of Swords and Six of Swords at the bottom reflect heartbreak and a need to move on from emotional turbulence for both sides; they might think of whether they should stick with you and if they should move on completely; they are confused about if they should approach you platonically or romantically -- a pained story connects you two deeply, and you two only know of this.

Keywords: Illusions, displeasure, escape, strength, gossip, meditation, forbidden passion, delay, black, women, lgbt+, social media, tower experience, pain, moving on.

---

5. Rabbit:

Cards: Three of Swords, Two of Pentacles reversed, Lovers, Three of Cups, World, Five of Cups, Queen of Cups, Hanged Man, Four of Swords, Four of Pentacles, Nine of Swords, Death (bottom: Emperor, Knight of Cups)

Reading: Yes, they are into you romantically, but they are tired; they don't want to give in anymore, or at all. The Three of Swords indicates heartbreak and emotional pain right at the center of this situation. The Two of Pentacles reversed suggests instability and difficulty managing emotions, leading to uncertainty in the connection or extreme behaviors that lead to endings. The Lovers and Three of Cups signify potential for emotional connection and joy or reconciliation, but this is surpassed by the World and Five of Cups, which point to the end of a cycle and significant disappointment, which means that it's hard to make it genuine now. The Queen of Cups implies deep feelings but also a tendency towards emotional overwhelm that the person can't handle from your side. The Hanged Man and Four of Swords show a period of suspension and reflection rather than active engagement, so the person wants to take it all and think about it deeply without your influence. The Four of Pentacles and Nine of Swords highlight holding back and anxiety, so don't expect any action right now. Death card signals a major transformation or end, reinforcing that this connection might not lead to anything lasting, or if it will, it will take too much time for the person to not feel tired by all of this energy. The Emperor and Knight of Cups at the bottom suggest that while there may be an offer or sense of control from your or their side, it is not enough to build a genuine, fulfilling relationship that you wish you had right now.

Keywords: Heartbreak, moody, 26, summer, night and beach, 11, emotional overwhelm, thinking, anxiety, 444, change, control, body kisses, toxic, and 222.

---

6. Crow:

Cards: Two of Swords, King of Pentacles, Temperance, Queen of Wands, Strength, Ace of Cups, Queen of Swords, Justice, Wheel of Fortune, Magician, Star, Three of Pentacles (bottom: Ace of Wands, Five of Cups, Six of Swords)

Reading: Yes, they are genuinely interested in you romantically. The Two of Swords signifies a decision point, which implies that the person is considering their feelings seriously. The King of Pentacles and Temperance suggest stability and a balanced approach, indicating a genuine, mature interest. The Queen of Wands and Strength show attraction and a strong, magnetic presence that you bring to the table. The Ace of Cups indicates new emotional beginnings and heartfelt connections. perhaps, new spicy feelings they experience when they think of you, and something about your hair came to my mind that turns them on. The Queen of Swords and Justice reflects clarity, fairness, and the importance of honest communication in this relationship, the person is mature or tries at least. The Wheel of Fortune and Magician reveal the potential for positive change and the manifestation of your desires regarding them. The Star and Three of Pentacles highlight hope and collaboration, suggesting that there's a real possibility for growth in this connection. The Ace of Wands at the bottom confirms mutual passion, while the Five of Cups and Six of Swords suggest overcoming past disappointments and moving towards a more hopeful future. Not all people are here to disappoint you; enjoy the road.

Keywords: Shirt, resilience, Netflix and..., attraction, muscles, new beginnings, boundaries, law, eye contact, reputation, hope, union, and, sports.

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Thank you <3 if you are interested in tarot readings check my pin post, like, and reblog <3

Wish you the best, and eternal protection and love!

[the-bar-sinister]

There's lots of gay subtext in Ace Attorney. 

But when looking specifically at subtext that might be intentionally put in the narrative by the creators with the intention that the character in question is actually gay, I think the main character with the most evidence behind this is actually Apollo Justice.

Our other main characters, Phoenix Wright and Athena Cykes both have obvious subtextually heteronormative romantic partners. To an adult, straight, culturally normative audience, Phoenix Wright and Maya Fey read normatively as an obvious romantic pairing. This is also the case for Athena Cykes and Simon Blackquill. In Great Ace Attorney the same can be said for Ryuunosuke and Susato. 

I repeat– to an adult, straight culturally normative audience, the romantic subtext between these characters is clear. If you showed these games to an American movie going public, that would be the obvious read by the audience.

Yes, each of these characters, Phoenix, Athena, and Ryuunosuke also have strong queer romantic subtext with another character. (Miles, Juniper, and Kazuma respectively).

However, that's not my point. It's not significant that each of the other three characters has homosexual relationship subtext.

It is significant that Apollo Justice does not have a character with whom he has heteronormative romantic subtext.

The closest thing Apollo Justice has to a "heteronormative romantic subtext" is Trucy Wright– whom we, the audience know is his sister.

And yes, you can make the argument that there is deliberate incestuous subtext between them– a kind of Luke/Leia style relationship with which the audience is teased by the narrative. Dhurke brings it up directly in Spirit of Justice.

However, this is still not a heterenormative subtext, because of its taboo nature. More taboo, culturally at this point, than homosexuality.

On top of the lack of heteronormative romantic subtext, Apollo also is on the receiving end some of the strongest and most overt of the homosexual subtext in the series.

There is of course the famous "meet cute" introduction between Apollo and Klavier– 

“I must say, I'm used to being inspected by the ladies... but this is the first time I've felt this way with another man.”

This is without question overt homosexual subtext.

However, there is another, even more subtextually clearly defined moment in Dual Destinies. Honestly, the subtext is all over Dual Destinies in the way Apollo reacts to Clay Terran's death (basically completely losing it) but there's one particular moment that deliberately draws your attention to the relationship in a queer way.

In one of the last cases of the game, everyone is delicately trying to explain to the judge that Aura Blackquill was in love with Metis Cykes (who was murdered) in a queer way. It's a big “they’re lesbians, harold” moment.

And then the conversation immediately turns to Apollo Justice and how he’s just had someone who was “important to him” murdered, too.

The narrative specifically draws you attention to the relationship that Aura and Metis had, and compares it to the relationship between Apollo and Clay.

You are specifically invited to speculate about what kind of important relationship Clay and Apollo had, and why Apollo has been affected so incredibly deeply.

So yeah. Between Clay, Klavier, and the lack of anything resembling a heteronormative romantic relationship for Apollo in the games, I think he has the strongest narrative evidence that he's actually being written deliberately as gay.

[aaronsinferno]

Tommy notices that Buck has been feeling down recently. It might be due to the chaos at work or maybe something else, but Tommy senses it immediately. Despite his efforts to get Buck to open up and reassure him that he's there whenever needed, Tommy also knows that sometimes people need their space to sort things out on their own.

Wanting to lift Buck's spirits and help him feel more comfortable without seeming intrusive, Tommy gets an idea. He remembers that a coworker of his has a brother or cousin who owns a restaurant somewhere across town. After nonstop pleading and negotiating, Tommy arranges to borrow the restaurant's kitchen for only a few hours after closing time.

One evening, Tommy sends Buck the restaurant's address with instructions to enter through the back entrance. When Buck arrives, he finds a cozy setup: a table set for two with wine glasses, a LED flameless candle in the center, and Tommy standing by the stove in an apron that reads "I have no idea what I'm doing." Tommy tosses Buck an apron that reads "Head Chef."

Buck, clearly puzzled but smiling, asks, "What's going on?"

Tommy begins, "I wanted to do something special for you. I know how much you love cooking, so I thought,” he makes his way over to his puzzled boyfriend. “why not let you cook in a professional kitchen for a change? You can show me your magic, and I'll try not to burn the place down around us."

Buck begins to ask how Tommy managed this, but Tommy cuts in, "I know a guy who knows a guy. We've got the kitchen to ourselves for a few hours. So, can you please put on that apron and save us from a very uncomfortable run it with the 118, cause I’d really like a chance to learn from and dine with the best of the best tonight."

Buck's smile broadens into a genuine grin as he ties on the apron. Approaching the table lined with ingredients for a pasta dish and vanilla doughnuts, he sighs, "First of all, 'Head Chef' doesn’t do me justice. 'Master Chef' is more like it."

“Oh, of course.” Tommy responds with a smile.

"Secondly," Buck starts, but before he can finish, he cups Tommy's face and pulls him into a tender kiss, their noses brushing together in the process. Tommy’s hands instinctively find Buck's waist, drawing him closer. After a few heartbeats, they break apart, their foreheads gently touching.

"Thank you for this," Buck whispers, his voice filled with gratitude. “It’s probably one of if not the most romantic things anyone has ever done for me.”

Tommy beams. "Anything for you, Chef,"

[stagark]

Warmth Amidst Dust

Gender-neutral Reader & Jiyan Comfort

Minors DNI - this blog writes dark and sexual content.

Content warnings: Panic/anxiety/ptsd attacks, left vague but reader experiences extreme dissociation and derealization and struggles to breathe due to anxious thoughts. Mentions of minor character death, paranoia on reader’s part. Basically, reader has a panic attack and Jiyan holds you while you breathe. Please be aware of the tags and do not read if these topics may trigger you.

Can be interpreted as romantic or platonic! You are a soldier under General Jiyan who has pushed yourself too hard recently, causing panic attacks. General Jiyan noticed and offered a shoulder to hold while you relearn how to breathe.

Word count: 1.5k - Also read on Ao3

You never once thought you would ever thank the dust of Norfall Barrens. As a rookie soldier you had grimaced through it, determined to protect the city you loved despite the discomforts and hardship of enlisting in the Midnight Rangers.

But now, three years later, it was a welcome respite from the sharp, biting winds. The particles stuck to your sweat-slick skin, a grimy but effective layer that allowed you to fight the abominations with a shield from the bone-chilling wind streams. The icy breeze got to you over time, seeming to attack your skin at every opportunity, leaving your limbs tender and your bones brittle.

Unexpectedly, what relieved the wind chill the most was another gale, one scripted by your trusted general, Jiyan. He moved like a deadly dancer guided by a loong dragon’s spirit. It was clear your sentinel itself chose Jinzhou’s general, his unwavering sense of justice an arrowhead directing the war against the Lament’s effects.

A composed man who overflowed with warmth and care at his core, he warmed every space he ever entered both with his aero resonance and his very spirit. The medic turned leader was almost universally beloved, a man who faught alongside his soldiers, a voice of strength and reason so desperately needed in and out of the battle field. His mere presence strengthened resolve against the Lament’s corruption, igniting and directing soldiers’ will to fight for their home like the strong tendrils of wind that uplift gentle embers into roaring and ferocious wildfires. His guidance inspired you and so many others, and you worked hard to earn your place in a unit directly below him.

The call of your name by one of your companions shook you out of your thoughts. In the relative safety of your camp you were able to let your mind float following your shifts on watch. You tended to do that more often these days. Only in battle was your mind sharp; otherwise you were simply a shell of a human, no different from a golden echo on the field. Warmth graced your hands in the form of a bowl of hot soup, the scent of spices wafted into your nose, a very welcome surprise. Such commodities were rare these days, perking up even your dulled senses.

“Come on, I know you’re tired from your shift but we have a feast prepared today!” a new fellow you fought alongside with today called at you with a smile. You managed to offer one back. A feast in these parts meant warm food and extra proteins, and spices it seemed, this time. A welcome blessing in this hell. While you’re sure you would be glad, truly, your soul never stirred in celebrating any longer. Years of war had stolen your life force, only your determination and spite sustaining you. But it was easy to wear a mask of normalcy, falling into habits to alleviate your mind of a little bit of stress, letting your consciousness float and watch your body acting from above you, a spectator instead of a player.

The warmth of the bowl certainly sang to your body, blood pumping heartily from the sustenance. But your mind was as barren as the lands you camped on, a floating ghost devoid of nearly everything, that only came to life with skill and sharpness gifted to you in battle by adrenaline.

That very familiar chemical rushed through your veins, releasing your body from its cold prison and igniting your muscles to tense, ready for action. A foreign sound had resonated around you, causing the adrenaline to release. The call was loud at first, a deep bellow sounded, followed by quick, breathless exhales of mirth and an echo of the very sound by vaguely familiar voices. It occurred to you then: laughter. The noise was laughter. You shifted your gaze around the camp, finding the young soldier who handed you a bowl howling heartily with some senior officers. How long had it been since you had heard laughter for it to sound so foreign to you?

You truly didn’t know.

It wasn’t unwelcome, but it was a disruption to your routine that allowed the voices in your head to rise louder, your mind waking to make sense of the new occasion.

What was the joke, why was your comrade so happy? asked your mind. Mild annoyance traipsed through your thoughts, uncharacteristic, but an understandable ally. This was not a place for disruptions. Anything could happen here.

What if there were TDs creeping up on the camp right now? What if they had heard the ring of joy and legions of them were gathering to snuff it out, racing here in ground-shaking gallops like horsemen of the apocalypse. You had seen so many of your allies, your friends, fall to those beasts. Resounding memories of their cheers of camaraderie in the early days echo throughout your mind, cruelly juxtaposed with visuals of their brutal deaths. The monsters taunted you, holding your loved ones’ image captive and jeering at you while they poisoned your world, your beloved city, your home.

The world around you seemed to distort at the thought, the sky dropping. You were caged in by some invisible force, and noisy panic bubbled in your chest. Air began to feel denser, a newly elusive substance your lungs had to chase. The very thing you began craving seemed to mock you, seeming to grip your ribs and crush them inwards while refusing to let you draw in a breath. Your chest stuttered and attempted to heave before being yanked back by your achingly empty lungs as you began hiccuping for breath. Only when your airways started to sting and your face began to numb did you realize your situation and manage to gasp for breath.

You didn’t know how long had passed after you wheezed the sound of panic. You felt nothing until the bowl you were clutching was removed from your lap. A large hand came to rest on your shoulder, replacing its warmth. A scent so familiar that it unconsciously calmed you followed its motion: a fresh forest breeze tinged with the sharp sting of metal. The air began to flow in smoothly, enriching your body. A cooperative ally once more.

“Breathe, soldier,” the strong voice rumbled.

General Jiyan. Your general, Jiyan. The air once again blessed your bloodstream, feeding every inch of your body and once again giving you the gift of life. You had begun to breathe slowly and deeply, just as you had learned in training. In for four, hold for four, out for four. The familiar timings of the count served to calm both your body and mind.

The presence of safety, of your general’s strength near you, was a very welcomed gift. You sighed from your chest once the world had returned to clarity and life size in your vision and you once again heard the murmur of celebration around you. Unfortunately, your reaction was not unfamiliar to you. The toll of seemingly endless battle drew on your very soul, leaving your body weak and weary. And yet, after dozens of times, not even a decorated soldier under the great General Jiyan could manage to snap yourself out of the hell on Earth that was your own mind, not on your own, not in a way that left you sane.

“I’m sorry, general. I let my head get the best of me. Thank you for-“

The hand on your shoulder squeezed gently but firmly, a message to stop talking. As you looked up to gaze in the golden eyes of your general, you were met with pure gentle care. His understanding smile reached his eyes.

You caved to your pure exhaustion. Wordlessly, he let you relax into him, your head coming to rest against the front of his shoulder. You sighed once more, lungs filling to capacity and deflating equally in rhythmic undulation as your spirit came back to inhabit your body, bit by bit. Your general was so warm, so caring, so safe. Eyes closing against his form, your breathing slowed even without your measured counting. One steady hand gripped your side while the other came to rest along your shoulder blade, forearm resting comfortingly against your tired back. He rubbed gentle circles firm into your spine, grounding and soothing the ache in your muscles.

“Don’t speak. Ive seen you pick up extra shifts, push yourself hard. It is the most worthy of causes, no one here faults you, least of all me. But your work is done today, soldier. Rest.”

There was no hint of a waver in his voice, no false sympathy or concern. This was General Jiyan. This was safe. You nodded into his chest, accepting the help you so desperately needed. Jiyan hummed his approval as he continued to soothe your back. You could feel him brush away the dusr, replacing its tentative shield with his own unrelenting one. Your very bones seemed to breathe again, and your thoughts wandered not to the chaos and havoc of the war, but to the warmth and comfort of your general’s presence as you were surrounded by a joyful camp, grounding you instead of letting you dissociate. This was safe, and so, you breathed.

[lilybecca1]

An analysis about "Their feelings becoming one"

So far, this panel still has been a mystery, we still don't know what it's really supposed to mean. Their feelings become one? What feelings? Their love for each other?

Well, as good as that may sound, I don't think that's the case here particularly. In some way, yes, it does symbolize their love for each other, and that doesn't necessarily mean romantic. It's the true, unconditional love for the person that means the whole world to you, who is more important to you than anyone else. At this moment, you can see that realization settle in their eyes as they look at each other. As they realize that the person right in front of them is the one who they'd do anything for.

But let's talk about what "their feelings becoming one" means.

The whole manga basically revolves around their story and how they've grown to accept the sides of the other that they themselves have lacked in the beginning. It began with them, Bakugo's Win to Save, and Midoriya's Save to Win. The story has always revolved around this concept, what it means to be a true hero. Like All Might said, in order to reach their full potential, they have to accept and embrace the other side of the coin too, not just their own ideals on what they believe being a hero is.

“After being a hero for so many years you learn a few things. Striving to be the best, like you, young Bakugou, and caring deeply about people, about rescuing those in trouble, like you, young Midoriya; both of those feelings are necessary in a hero, otherwise they’ll never truly be able to represent justice. That’s why you admire his strength so much, young Midoriya…and I know that’s why you’ve always feared his heart and spirit, young Bakugou. Now that you’ve laid your feelings out on the table, maybe you can understand each other. If you have mutual respect and focus on making one another stronger, I’ve no doubt you’ll become the ultimate heroes, winning and saving people at the same time.” 

That's the real story here, that was the main purpose of the whole manga. It's about their journey on accepting the other's point of view and becoming a true hero. A hero that doesn't only win or save, but both.

In the beginning, Bakugo believed that being a hero is winning at any cost, meanwhile for Izuku, it was about saving at any cost, no matter the outcome. This side of Deku always triggered something inside Bakugo because he never understood why someone would have such a strong desire to help others and save them, even at the cost of his own wellbeing. He thought of it as a weakness, it was something that pissed him off to no end. That was until Deku vs Kacchan 2, when he finally started to see the bigger picture. After having this realization about Deku, and after All Might told him that in order to be the ultimate hero he'd have to accept Izuku's point of view, Bakugo started to focus on saving too, not just winning.

Izuku on the other hand, started off the opposite. He wanted to save and help others more than anything, and to him, it didn't matter coming out as a winner in the end, because to him, saving meant winning. It didn't matter to him what happens to his own body because he always put others over himself. But he always looked up to Kacchan and admired him for his determination to win no matter what, and to him, Kacchan is the image of victory, Kacchan is the embodiment, the symbol of winning. In Izuku's mind, Kacchan always had what he didn't.

His whole view of what winning is supposed to be comes from Kacchan, not All Might. Deku started to view Kacchan as his image of victory at the moment when he saw him stand up to his bullies. And the image of saving is what comes from All Might, as we know from that debut video that Izuku loved.

For Kacchan, his image of winning comes from All Might, but the image of saving has always come from Izuku. Right from that first moment when Deku reached his hand out to him. At first he thought it was pity, but deep down he always knew that it was more than that.

He knew that Izuku's desire to save was stronger than anyone else's, and that's what made him concerned. Because Deku's desire to save was so strong that Katsuki knew he'd go to any lengths to do it. Even if it meant hurting himself in the process.

------

“I’d never admit something like this to your face, but the truth is…when I get riled up and my desire to win surpasses my desire to save someone…without meaning to, I start talking like you. You’re so mean sometimes, and I hate it, but my idea of victory is so tied to the image of you in my head, that in those moments I can’t help but imitate you."

Bakugo wasn't the only one who rejected this side of the other at first. Deku hated it, he used to suppress this desire to win inside of him because he saw that as a weakness too. He knew that saving came first, but upon being riled up, he'd throw that out the window, and he didn't want that. He thought of it as a side of himself that he should reject.

But over time, he has also grown to accept that side of himself, and he started to realize that winning is just as important as saving. His idea of victory is so tied to the image of Kacchan in his head, that he can't help but imitate him whenever he desires to win. Kacchan is the one who gave the Win to Save to Izuku, because the idea of what winning is supposed to look like comes from Kacchan too. Without Kacchan, it wouldn't exist. And without Izuku, Bakugo's Save to Win wouldn't exist either. For Katsuki, the Symbol of Saving is Izuku, and that's why he starts mumbling and analyzing in the last battle. That's why he jumps in knowing that he'll die, because he knew Izuku would do the same.

It has always been them. The story has always been about them, because they complete eachother. They are the two sides of the same coin. Without the other, they wouldnt exist.

Because remember, Izuku's body only moved on its own once he realized it was Kacchan.

And Katsuki's body only moved on its own once he realized that Izuku was in danger.

They are the person that awakens the hero inside of the other. Without the other, they wouldn't be true heroes. They were always meant to be true heroes together, because they push each other to be their best self, and they couldn't reach their full potential without the other.

So I say it again: the story is about the two of them and how they become the ultimate heroes together. The story wouldn't exist without the relationship that they have. THEY give each other the meaning of what it means to be a hero. All Might was always just an ideal, something that planted the dream of being a hero inside their head. But not in their heart. They never needed him, because All Might was their hero, but they were the ones in each others life.

They are two halves, and by embracing the other, they embrace being a true hero as well.

And do they ever become true heroes?

They do, and let me explain it.

This panel right here is very important in more ways than one. I think this panel is meant to symbolize the peak of the entire story, it's meant to symbolize them achieving what they have been working for in the entire manga.

This is the beginning of them being true heroes. Quoting All Might, "both of those feelings are necessary in a hero, otherwise they’ll never truly be able to represent justice". And right at this moment, their feelings become one. This is the moment where they finally embrace both sides of the coin. "Their feelings become one"="Their desire to Save to Win and Win to Save become the desire to Win AND to Save"

It's not Save to Win OR Win to Save anymore. Neither desire is stronger than the other anymore.

Look at Bakugo's panel. Right at that moment when his and Izuku's eyes meet, he realizes that winning isn't as important as it was anymore. He realizes that he desires to save Izuku just as strong as he desires to win. He realizes that winning doesn't mean anything if Izuku isn't there by his side.

And when Izuku sees Kacchan, he realizes that he has to win in order to be able to save him. He has to win this fight, because if he didn't, his world wouldn't have Kacchan in it anymore. He realizes that he has to keep fighting on, for Kacchan. That he has to win so Kacchan can live on in a world where he is safe.

At that moment when their eyes meet, both of their hearts feel that Saving to Win and Winning to Save are equally important.

By embracing the connection that they have, by embracing their other half, the person that completes them, they have finally given eachother the heart of a true hero.

[frickingnerd]

apollo realizing hours later that you were flirting with him

pairing: apollo justice x gn!reader

tags: dense!apollo, happy ending, silly & wholesome fluff, mentions of trucy & athena, compliments & flirty touching

apollo isn't used to people flirting with him. he thinks of himself as very average, so he doesn't think he'd be anyone's type

so when you flirt with him, apollo doesn't even realize it! he thinks you're just being nice or that you're maybe teasing him a bit

it's not until hours later that it occurs to him that you were actually flirting with him

and to realize that, he needs the help of athena and trucy, who seem suspiciously interested in his earlier conversation with you

at first, they don't tell apollo why they're so interested, but eventually athena gives in and asks apollo if you asked him out

apollo is confused by that question. why would you ask him out? you were just talking. it's not like you were…

and that's when it hits him!

your little compliments, gently touching his arms when you spoke to him and asking about what he was doing later today… you were trying to flirt with him–!

apollo feels pretty dumb that he didn't notice it! he's the guy who picks up on the smallest details, but he can't notice when somebody is obviously flirting with him?

luckily, you left your number behind – probably in hopes that apollo would call you – and apollo still has a chance to make up for how dense he was earlier…

[redrum-alice]

ABA x Paracelsus HCs that live in my mind rent-free, even though I haven't played the game--

Some of these HCs include other characters involved in their arcade mode.

ABA is no stranger to stalking people. So when she came across a lookout point, she saw many couples, mostly teenagers, making out and going on romantic dates. She wonders what it would feel like to be young and in love, rather than just declaring someone whom she met first glance as a "husband"

ABA's collection of keys were hidden somewhere in the pocket dimension. She sometimes uses them as accessories to adorn herself, despite the like of knowledge in fashion (the girl wears pants as a top--)

There are many shades of blue that ABA can pick from. Since Paracelsus turned himself blue, the shiny surface reflected more colors than just blue, inspiring her to try and appreciate other colors near the blue gradient.

Added to the color stuff, she eventually tries variation of outfits with other colors, but with blue as the base.

Paracelsus knows when she's feeling fatigued. When she's at her limit, he opens the pocket dimension and lets her rest there until she wakes up. ABA sees this as his love language, but unintentional on his part

Both ABA and Paracelsus have no clue on how homonculi biology works, and Paracelsus hates to admit he feels bad that ABA may be at risk of getting herself hurt without him knowing what to do

Paracelsus wishes he knows more about human anatomy because its the closest one to ABA's physiology.

Since ABA is clairvoyant, she often hears the spirits of their victims which she tries to ignore, and probably because she doesnt know the correct response to a wailing dead person wanting justice. When its too much, she asks Paracelsus if what theyre doing was justified and that she begins to regret her rage filled jealousy directed at those that dont even bother them.

Paracelsus keeps telling ABA that she needn't to worry because it was a necessity for the both of them-- something he deeply regrets to say because he knows she has strong principles that she live by despite not being a human

Paracelsus, deep down, is ashamed of himself for tainting ABA for the purpose of tending to his bloodlust. He saw how genuine and pure hearted she is, but it turned into malice because of his demonic origin. He begins to wonder what ABA would be like if she found someone else years ago.

Just like ABA, Paracelsus has an unspoken fear of abandonment, but since he lacks capacity to feel other emotions, he doesnt notice this.

Ever since Elphelt and Testament approached her with good intentions, ABA wanted to make more friends like them, but is scared that others have ill intentions toward her and Paracelsus.

ABA's favorite book would be Alice in Wonderland when she was still in Frasco, specifically the part where Alice was trapped in a room or multiple doors with the smallest door being the exit. ABA admires this because of the concept of escaping, especially that there's a key involved. (Im biased bc my name's Alice and i like this story--)

Besides door keys, she also collects windup key and smaller keys for chests and compartments. She sees this as a symbol for discovering new things, especially music when she came across a music box that needed a key

Speaking of music boxes, she associates this object with Elphelt bc of her musical talent (and that she may as well look like the ballerina spinning on the music box)

Other than doors, music boxes, and compartments, she also came across a small doll that needed a key. After she winds it up, it began walking and talking towards her and freaks her out. But when it said "mama" in a robotic voice, ABA contemplates and wonders if she was ready to become a parent somewhere in the near future when Paracelsus has a body. An impossible thought, but one could never be sure, and it scares her.

Butterfly Pea tea with brown sugar, or sparkling butterfly pea lemonade with honey would probably her favorite drink because of its color. She shares this with her hubby 🥰😋

There comes a time that her bandanges would get uncomfortable and smell bad from blood stains and wounds, so Paracelsus tells her she needs to change them before she gets an infection. He does stop her midway because he realizes she isnt wearing any undergarments and proceeds to take her in the pocket dimension.

Elphelt offers ABA to shop with her to pick clothes suited for her. The first thing she sees at the boutique display was a wedding dress and begins to day dream a wedding with Paracelsus. Without her looking, Elphelt happily buys the wedding dress with matching tuxedo and gives it to ABA, despite Paracelsus' protests (the fact that he hears them chatting about setting up the wedding next day had him ded on the spot :P)

ABA watches home video tapes left in houses unoccupied by their owners (abandoned or they went on vacation; ABA is a home intruder lol). She finds a tape labeled "Happy Day" and it plays a recording of a newly wed couple dancing at their reception. The way the couple moved gracefully tickled an idea in her brain and insisted she and Paracelsus should dance. But since the large key doesnt have any legs, her attempts in waltzing with him went nowhere 😅 (and this gave more reason for ABA to find a body for Paracelsus)

At late nights when ABA is asleep, Paracelsus wonders that if he had a body, would ABA still be shorter or they would be in the same height? Either way, he was impressed that she can keep herself up with that low weight despite her tall stature, more so on how she was able to carry him around without much muscle mass.

When he sleeps beside her, her hair unwittingly falls on his bow and feels how soft it is. A very pleasant feeling he won't admit.

Everyday, Paracelsus keeps reminding ABA that she needed to eat to gather strength. ABA often forgets to eat because its not hard wired in hr system, nor that it was even natural for her to eat in the first place.

[fuckyeahlabynight]

Fang Fest 2024

EDIT: Apologies! The first image I made for this had the date wrong. it's fixed now, so please reblog this version. Thank you!

Hello Tumblr Vamily! first of all, thank you to those who participated in the Fang Fest poll(s) I posted. I read all your tags and comments and I decided to go ahead with this year's Vampire the Masquerade Fang Fest!

This year’s theme is “Tarot.” These prompts are intended to inspire fanart, fanfic, and other pieces of fanwork. Anything you wish to create and share with the vamily is very greatly appreciated!

The Fang Fest will run from June 1 - 22, 2024.

Each day, starting with The Fool on June 1 and finishing with The World on June 22, post whatever fan work you've made inspired by the Tarot card prompt (eg. art, fic, gifs, poetry, music playlists, mood boards, whatever). Please include the hashtag #vtmfangfest24 so they can all be collected here. I know there are a lot of prompts this year compared to past years, and if you can't think of anything for a particular prompt, or are otherwise unable to finish, it's perfectly fine to skip it.

Those who are not taking part in making fan work are encouraged to like, comment on, give kudos, and share their favourites! Collaboration is also encouraged, so reach out to your fellow Kindred and see what you can come up with!

Another list of the prompts and their general meanings will be available under the cut. See y'all in June!

The Fool Innocence, spontaneity, free spirits, new beginnings, (reversed) recklessness, taking foolish risks, being held back.

The Magician Being resourceful, inspiration, manifesting plans, (reversed) poor planning, manipulation.

The High Priestess Intuition, divine femininity, sacred knowledge, (reversed) keeping secrets, withdrawing, being silent when your voice should be heard.

The Empress Femininity, beauty, abundance, (reversed) over-reliance on others, suffering creative block.

The Emperor Authority, father figures, structure, (reversed) domination, excessive control, lack of discipline.

The Hierophant Spiritual wisdom and beliefs, traditions, established institutions, (reversed) freedom and challenging the status quo.

The Lovers Love, harmony, relationships (romantic or otherwise, but usually romantic), your values aligning with others', (reversed) disharmony, arguments, hatred.

The Chariot Taking action, success, willpower, being in control, (reversed) lack of direction, opposition.

Strength Courage, compassion, persuasion, (reversed) self-doubt, low energy.

The Hermit Soul-searching, introspection, being alone in a positive way, (reversed) unwanted isolation, withdrawing, loneliness.

Wheel of Fortune Karma, good luck, destiny, a turning point in your life, (reversed) bad luck, resistance to change, cycles breaking.

Justice Fairness, truth, cause and effect, (reversed) unfairness, not taking accountability, dishonesty.

The Hanged Man Surrendering, letting go, considering new perspectives, (reversed) stalling, delays, indecision.

Death Endings, unstoppable change, transformation, (reversed) resistance to change, unwanted purging.

Temperance Balance, moderation, patience, (reversed) imbalance, excess, needing self-care.

The Devil Addiction, who you are when no-one is watching, sexuality, (reversed) releasing limiting beliefs, exploring your dark side safely.

The Tower Sudden change, chaos, upheaval, (reversed) personal transformation, averting disaster.

The Star Hope, faith, purpose, renewal, (reversed) despair, losing faith, disconnection.

The Moon Illusions, anxiety, intuition, (reversed) letting go of fears and repressed emotions, inner confusion.

The Sun Positivity, fun, warmth, success, (reversed) disappointment, toxic positivity, overly optimistic.

Judgement Rebirth, retribution, (reversed) self-doubts, ignoring opportunities.

The World Completion, accomplishments, travel, (reversed) short-cuts, delays, not yet finding closure.

[ecoterrorist-katara]

Hey bestie any zutara fic recs. I feel like I’ve read all the classics.

Hello anon! Oh boy have you come to the right place because I have read several million words of these two dorks falling in love and though I plan to read several million more, I am always down to screech about talented fanfic writers!!! Here are most of my faves, some of which you’ve probably read but my enthusiasm simply needs an outlet. No WIPs to minimize heartbreak.

In the spirit of not recommending too many classics, I’m not including anything from the first page of the Katara/Zuko tag on AO3 sorted by kudos, with one exception. Same rule does not apply to FF.net because nobody visits that site anymore, yet we mustn’t forget our roots!!! 

TL;DR of my Zutara Fic Recs: 

Half Asleep for a Miyazaki-esque adventure romance 

Southern Lights for a sweeping epic where A Song of Ice and Fire meets Middlemarch

Refraction for a swoon-worthy post-war political romance ft. Katara learning how to politick in a patriarchal world 

Stormbenders for a fun undercover romance that is a ZK classic for a very good reason 

Another Word for Alchemy and The Slow Path for hilarious yet emotionally compelling adventures with found family themes 

The Undying Fire for world-building, more Gaang shenanigans, and super satisfying slow canon divergence 

Katara Alone for our fave girl’s post-war Bildungsroman/travelogue/heroic tour

Simple Misunderstanding for a hilarious rendition of Ponytail Zuko capturing Katara and trying to not be a creep

Clothe Me in Seasons, Dress Me in Snow for a mostly canon-compliant (so, v angsty) story about the different ways that love can evolve 

And some one-shots and modern AUs I feel like deserve some more love 

Summaries, reviews, and general fangirling under the cut because holy shit this post is long lmao 

Long fics / series: 

Half Asleep, by crushinator | Rating: T | Word Count: 82,335

Summary: Five years after the Hundred-Year War, Fire Lord Zuko is hit with an assassin's dart, and falls into a coma from which he cannot wake. A week passes, and his prognosis is grim. But Katara could swear she hears him in her dreams.

My thoughts: this fic, in many ways, is novel quality. The pacing? Immaculate. The action scenes? Exciting and interesting yet super easy to visualize. The characterization? On point. Katara is peak Miyazaki heroine in this, setting out on a quest to the Spirit World to save her boy (who’s not really her boy) from whichever Eldritch horror has him in its clutches. I love the little glimpses we have of the mutual pining between Katara and Zuko, and there are no words to describe how much I love the resolution of Katara and Aang’s relationship in this story. And oh boy, is the climax of the fic super romantic. This is just a really well written, emotionally compelling, tight fic. Deserves to be a fandom classic. 

Southern Lights, by colourwhirled | Rating: M | Word Count: 769,274

Summary: A world where the Avatar has disappeared from memory. Where Sozin’s Conquest was successful. Where the unsteady order of the empire is threatened as members of the royal family are picked off one by one and lines are slowly drawn in the sand One last chance for peace forces an unlikely alliance between a homesick waterbender, a carefree Air Nomad, a runaway Earth Kingdom heiress, and the fire lord's inscrutable son. Together they must learn to shed old enmities and become the balance they seek to restore to the world.

OR:

The avatar has four heads.

My thoughts: Is it a Bildungsroman? Is it a war story? Is it a politics story? Is it a love story? Is it a friendship story? Is it a story about colonial violence and well-meaning complicity and finding justice in a world where it simply doesn’t seem to exist? Yes to all of the above, because at 700k+ words YOU CAN HAVE IT ALL. You know how Virginia Woolf once said that Middlemarch is one of the few novels written for grownups? Well, Southern Lights feels adult, not because of violence or sex or general grimness (looking at you, HBO), but because it’s fundamentally about having the courage to make choices, live with the consequences, and make more choices, and repeat that over and over again. If Katara is a Miyazaki heroine in Half Asleep, she is full on Daenarys (pre-character assassination) in Southern Lights, a heroine who gets put through her paces yet retains her unwavering resilience to find her place in the world. Katara can be pretty frustrating in this and I know a lot of the commenters on this fic wanted to smack her up the head halfway through, but I support women’s rights and women’s wrongs and her decisions make sense to me even when I also want to smack her for them, and isn’t that a symptom of good writing? I count my lucky stars that I joined the ATLA fandom after this fic is finished (which was only last year!) because I got to binge it in a few days and I have not been the same person since. Deserves classic status. 

Refraction, by caroe3725 | Rating: E | Word Count: 215,249

Summary: Making choices after the war was supposed to be the easy part. Her future decided and neatly packaged based on what everyone else wanted for her, what she should want, too. But Katara’s destiny had a funny way of being exactly what she wanted to run from. (As if anyone needed another Zutara post-finale slow burn after 15 years.)

My thoughts: YES WE DEFINITELY NEEDED ANOTHER POST-WAR ZK SLOWBURN OF SUCH IMMACULATE QUALITY. Both Katara and Zuko’s internal monologues are excellent in this, but I particularly love Zuko’s. The writer is so good at capturing his resolve, his earnestness, and his awkwardness. This is a very restrained fic — no great histrionics — but also incredibly romantic. The first kiss scene made me want to both sigh and screech. I’m also just a huge sucker for “Katara learns politics” which this fic has in spades, with a bonus of very thoughtful gender dynamics. Anyway, if you liked AJ Lenoire’s The Summit or andromeda13’s such selfish prayers, you’d probably like Refraction. Zuko and Katara are very much dumb teens in the beginning portions of this fic, which I personally like because it makes me nostalgic. Oh, and Katara is low key chaotic good in this, which is super in-character and hilarious.

Stormbenders, by Fandomme | Rating: T | Word Count: 171,000+ 

Summary: S3 AU from FBM. Deep in the Fire Nation jungle, the Gaang meets a group of rogue water ninja who send Zuko and Katara on a mission to retrieve Ozai's secret battle plans.

My thoughts: I’m aware that if you asked the average ZK shipper ten years ago what the ship classics are, the answers are probably Stormbenders, His Majesty Prefers Blue, and the Sparrowkeet series. The other classics are good (classics for a reason!), but Stormbenders remains my favourite. It’s funny. It’s exciting. It’s WELL PACED. The ZK relationship grows so organically, which is a huge feat considering this fic was started before we even got The Southern Raiders. The events are a little more adult than the show, but the tone remains very ATLA. There’s a lovely little animatic of the beginning of the scene on YouTube to show you exactly what I mean about the tone and the humour. I am always weak for a well-structured adventure romance, and Stormbenders stands the test of time because it’s just such a well-written fic. 

The Undying Fire, by Boogum | Rating: T | Word Count: 534,665

Summary: "He has the eyes, Princess Ursa." They were half-forgotten words, a whisper of fears never explained. Zuko had dismissed it all as nothing to worry about—until he somehow healed the Avatar. Fire healers weren't meant to exist, except he did. He'd saved the kid's life. Naturally, he wanted answers. Too bad finding them wasn't so simple...

My thoughts: This fic is mostly Gen, and Zutara shows up in the latter half of the series. Despite being a ZK shipper I like plenty of Gen fics too, and The Undying Fire gives me the best of both worlds. I love the world building, the humour, and the slow ramp up of the Gaang friendships. I absolutely love how the canon divergence is so subtle at first and gradually unfurls into something super different, yet retains much of its ATLA charm. Boogum’s written some other bangers too, and I have to give honorable mention to Zuko’s Tiny Dilemma (where a spirit transforms ponytail Zuko into his six-year-old self, and Uncle into a teapot, and somehow it becomes an emotionally compelling 100k word saga) and Following Blue (season 2 canon divergent Bluetara with a bigger focus on romance). 

Katara Alone & associated fics by cablesscutie | Rating: T | Word Count: 86,890

Summary: The war is over, and with it goes the only life she has ever known. In this era of love and peace, the world is becoming new, and Katara is unsure of her place in it. That's okay though. Katara has rebuilt her life from scratch before, and she will do it again.

My thoughts: I love post-war “Katara sets out to find herself and also finds Zuko” fics. Katara Alone is a fabulous coming-of-age story with some good old fashioned letter flirting during Katara’s solo travels. The sequel, Lady of the Tides, has some very thoughtful depictions of Katara’s place within the post-war Fire Nation, and the accompanying story from Zuko’s POV, The Fire Lord at Home, hits all my buttons. Like…Zuko is Fire Lord Good Boy! He passes legislation! There is political optimism! Swoon. 

Another Word for Alchemy, by FanPanda 13 | Rating: T | Word Count: 108,000+ 

Summary: Five years have passed since the Avatar defeated Fire Lord Ozai, and the members of the Gaang have all gone in their own direction. But when Aang invites them all to a Peace Summit at the North Pole and tells them of his new project, for which he will need their support, the group comes together again for adventure, fun and romance. AU. Zutara. COMPLETE.

My thoughts: Now this is a fic that thoroughly crept up on me. The first 3/4 is good old fashioned fluffy, funny, fourth wall-breaking Gaang shenanigans with plenty of Zutara. But the last quarter? Oh boy does it come right at you and slam you in the solar plexus with the platonic love and found family feels and the complexities of those feelings when you’re a teenager. The impact of Aang’s loss of the Air Nomads is treated very thoughtfully here, way more so than in the show. 

The Slow Path, by TazmainianDevil | Rating: T | Word Count: 125,723 

Summary: Eight years after the fall of Ozai, Aang returns to the friends he left behind.

My thoughts: This is actually a Taang story with a great ZK subplot. But what I love about it is that the whole Gaang (including Suki ALWAYS INCLUDING SUKI) is superbly characterized. The ZK banter is top notch. I could actually hear their voices in my head in some of the scenes. Their relationship is playful but has plenty of emotional heft. And the plot is exciting and well-developed. My favourite thing, though, is how the author treats Toph’s POV: it’s very thoughtfully written, with consideration towards how she perceives the world.

Simple Misunderstanding, by ShamelessLiar | Rating: T | Word Count: 80,965 

Summary: Katara was captured by Zuko, but there was a lapse in communication. Takes place after The Fortuneteller. Fierce Katara, honorable Zuko, and meddlesome Iroh. Also, music night

My thoughts: Generally I don’t love fics where Katara gets captured, especially by Zuko (just a personal preference, not here to judge). But! I love this one, because…well, the circumstances of Katara’s capture by Ponytail Zuko are simply hilarious. Katara is suspicious and stubborn; Zuko has a one-track mind and doesn’t understand why Iroh is treating his prisoner so nicely; oh, and Aang gets into an amazing side quest with some spiritual animals. The only thing about this story is that it ends a little abruptly since the author was considering a sequel, but it still reads as a standalone fic. The author also wrote His Majesty Prefers Blue and Call Me Katto, two ZK classics, but Simple Misunderstanding is far and away my favourite work. 

Clothe Me in Seasons, Dress Me in Snow, by sadladybug | Rating: T | Word Count: 62,026

Summary: It is not the memorial she deserves, nor the one she would want. But it can't be helped. He owns no property in the other nations, and he needed to keep her close. Closer than she was in life, anyway. Zuko's reflections on a life lived and a life that could have been.

Review: sadladybug lives up to the username by creating a sadness so contagious that I have yet to recover from it, and I cope by recommending this fic to other Zutara shippers so that more may suffer like I did. (Stop the cycle? No.) Look — I think there’s something extremely beautiful and poetic about a love that changes in nature and form and expression, but not in intensity and devotion, and that’s what this fic is about. Loved it. Never reading it again. 

One shots: 

There’s a category of canon-compliant Zutara one-shots that are all extremely painful, and I cannot get enough of them: in the next life by we-were-angels, taking place right before Katara’s wedding to Aang; water can heal, water can break by crazyache, about why Katara didn’t attend Yakone’s trial. 

To combat the above, here’s a few funny, fluffy ones that make me cackle: i am older now by ama (who wrote the banger that is The Blackfish and the Dragon), an old!ZK fic that I read to counteract the emotional damage inflicted by psychedelic_aya’s we hold our hearts in silence; all good things start with tea by yodalorian, where Zuko’s hapless Disney sidekick-esque advisors try to get him a wife; And Half at One Another’s Throats by songofhopeandhonor (whose account is deleted), about Zuko’s harebrained proposals to Katara; The Dragon of the West’s Guide to Flirting by bluesunflower44, which is exactly what it says on the tin and the awkward disaster you’d expect. Waiting on a Steady Sun, by nire, is a long version of my favourite tropes: fake marriage + idiots to lovers ft. pining for your spouse. 

I generally don’t love modern AUs, but akaiiko’s talk is cheap (and i’ve got expensive taste), where Katara meets Zuko at a frat party, is a whole damn delight; my old aches become new again by jamesstruttingpotter is a wonderfully indulgent modern AU based on Our Beloved Summer. 

And finally, some season 3 character studies: don’t tell me how to feel by paintingcranes, ft Katara at the Western Air Temple being increasingly incensed at both Zuko trying to be helpful and how other people react to his helpfulness; the other side of mercy by crazyache, where Sokka calls Katara “high-strung and crazy” and that really makes Zuko think; The Silent Garden by romilley (whose WIP The Horizon is also fabulous), where Katara and Zuko avoid their feelings through a reluctant-allies-with-benefits arrangement (ft a way of depicting intimacy and sex that makes me think of Normal People); a deep delight of the blood by eruthros, where Zuko asks Katara to practice bloodbending on him out of pragmatism but also a little bit of guilt (it’s unrated, but that “Kink Without Sex” tag is there for a reason). 

Thank you for asking me for my recs, anon, because I needed an outlet to rave about fanfiction and my irl friends have heard enough. Feel free to ask me questions about specific fics that aren’t on this list: I always love talking to people about fic and I’m always looking for new ones to read!

[fadetoblacked]

A New Dawn in France: The Joy of a Hyper-Mixed Society

I love when I get to take a little vacation. France, a country with a storied history of art, culture, and revolution, is witnessing a new kind of revolution—a social transformation that is as exhilarating as it is profound. As I stroll through the vibrant streets of Paris, Marseille, and Lyon, I see a beautiful mosaic forming before my eyes. White girls are dating Black African men everywhere I look, creating a hyper-mixed society that embodies the spirit of unity, equality, and love.

This sight fills me with an overwhelming sense of joy and hope. It's a powerful testament to the breaking down of racial barriers and the embrace of diversity that we've long fought for. France is evolving, and with it, so is the world.

For far too long, society has been mired in the toxic legacies of colonialism, racism, and segregation. These relationships between white women and Black African men are a bold declaration of independence from those outdated ideologies. They signify a collective step forward into a world where love transcends color, where the bonds of affection are stronger than the chains of prejudice.

This hyper-mixing is not just about romantic relationships; it's a profound social statement. It's about the courage to love openly and the determination to reject the confines of societal expectations. It's about young people daring to envision a world that is inclusive, accepting, and celebratory of differences.

The blending of cultures, traditions, and backgrounds enriches everyone. Children born from these unions inherit the best of both worlds, growing up with a diverse perspective that equips them to navigate and contribute to a globalized society. They are living proof that our differences can be our strengths, that our diversity can be our greatest asset.

In schools and communities across France, these children will learn to appreciate and respect all cultures. They will become the ambassadors of a future where racial harmony is not a distant dream but a lived reality.

White girls hooking up with Black African men challenge the deeply ingrained stereotypes that have long plagued both communities. These relationships defy the racist myths perpetuated by those who seek to divide us. They are a direct affront to the fear-mongering and xenophobia that have no place in a progressive society.

Every interracial couple I see is a powerful reminder that love knows no bounds. They are the vanguard of a new narrative—one that celebrates humanity in all its hues and forms. They show us that unity is possible, that a hyper-mixed society is not only achievable but beautiful.

As we move forward, it is essential for all of us to embrace this change with open hearts and minds. Let us celebrate these unions as the harbingers of a new era. Let us support and protect these relationships from the forces of hate and intolerance. And let us work tirelessly to ensure that the hyper-mixed society we envision is one where everyone, regardless of their race or background, can thrive.

France, with its rich history of revolution and progress, is once again at the forefront of change. The sight of white girls dating Black African men is not just a trend; it is a testament to the power of love and the inevitability of a mixed, harmonious future.

As a radical , I am thrilled to witness this transformation. It reaffirms my belief in the possibility of a world where equality and justice are not just ideals, but realities. Together, we are creating a tapestry of love, respect, and unity that will inspire generations to come.

Vive la révolution sociale! Vive l'amour!