#let my man have STYLE and FLAIR

[patroclusdefencesquad]

[soaringwide]

PAC: How to enhance your personal allure and beauty? • Glamour Reading

This reading is meant to dive into your own personal glamour and find ways to magnify the way you appear to others, privately or publicly.

Beauty is about weaving illusions in some ways, but the best lies contain a part of truth. How to weave lies and truths to enhance your expression of beauty is what I'm going to try to uncover today, which is why we're going to look both at your natural abilities and untapped potential.

It's something I've wanted to do for a long time since it's a subject that fascinates me, and wanted to test it out in a tarot spread, so a pick a pile readings seems like a good starting point.

If you'd like a personal reading, I'm in the process of opening my website but in the meantime I'm available through DMs.

As always, this is a general reading meant for multiple people so it might not apply 100% to you. Take what resonates and leave out the rest.

If you liked the reading and want to tip me, I have a ko-fi.

PILE 1

Cards: The Hanged Man, Death, The Chariot, Knight of Cups, The Fool, 7 of Cups, Queen of Pentacles, 10 of Swords, Ace of Pentacles, Page of Pentacles

First, let's look into your natural beauty and talents, if you will. This is easy to tap into and you might already do it to some extent, and is what people perceive from you at first glance.

I see someone with a strong, magnetic presence that might be intimidating to some people, giving the vibe of someone who is confident and knows what impression they want to give off. You have a very deliberate style and strong personal allure that might lean into darker types of aesthetic, but it would definitely be ornate, romantic (in the true, dramatic sense of the word) and as far away from minimalism as possible. I see you choosing little elements that others might not notice but that are full of meaning and symbolism for you, like a piece of jewellery, or swapping the color of your shoelace or socks to fit into a vision you have in your head. Wearing hats or headpieces might also be something significant for you. You see your clothes and other visual upgrades as some type of armor you wear to feel stronger, more confident, and make a great impression on people around you. You like being noticed and want people to find you beautiful or stylish, but at the same time have very little regard for established rules and like to bring a twist of change in the way you appear to others. It's like you're already practicing glamour naturally, funnily enough, because I see you magnifying your natural talents already and you definitely are shrouded in some type of glamourized, attractive mystery.

When it comes to your ideal archetypal beauty, what you can draw inspiration from to push yourself even further, i see you as someone who embodies the characteristics of going against expectations when it comes to style and appearances. I get the idea of playing around with gender expression (might not apply to all or be applicable to varying degrees), going against what's commonly assumed to be fitting for your perceived gender to create something unique and different, but it could also simply be about going against common taste. It's about carving out your own path, inspired by yourself and your unique perspective on life, and by extension, on your style and appearance. This is not someone who follows trends and style guides mindlessly, but someone who is not afraid of calling everything into question, in order to incorporate what they choose and add their own unique flair to it. Taste is subjective and it's something you can learn to lean even more into.

Now, for the untapped qualities, or raw power you can learn to incorporate, I see strong Uranus influence, which was already highlighted in your ideal archetypal influence.

There is an elements to finding joy and pleasure in shocking others a little bit. Letting yourself be completely free with your style expression, but keeping personal enjoyment in mind. The goal is not to shock for the sake of being an obnoxious eccentric, but going to the core of what makes you feel empowered and free and fining the graceful pleasure in it. There is also the idea of weaving some type of illusion so that people can never guess what you're going to do next. I think you have an untapped natural talent for manipulating how others see you a little bit. Right now you focus on your personal magnetism, but you could push that even further and endow yourself in whatever illusion you see fit for the time or situation. I see you being able to work on your appearance like a beautiful work of art, following the vision you have in mind.

For how you can magnify everything I mentioned, here is what I see.

First of all, it seems that despite all the great things I said about you, deep down, you feel quite inadequate and vulnerable, which is perhaps why you put so much effort into your ''armor''. I've got to tell you that these doubts are only in your mind and that the powers I describe are felt very strongly by others, they might just never say it or only give you a light compliment, which you don't even take into account. You seem to keep these worry very private and assume everyone can sense that when it's not the case. So yeah I definitely see you are already doing sooo much but it's just in your mind you don't see it, which is the first thing you need to focus on. Because I think that these doubts might influence your stylistic choices to some extent, which would be self-sabotaging your natural and ideal strengths. Therefore, you first need to clear out these thoughts and hurts in order to see yourself as others see you, in your highest potential.

Secondly and once you've done that, you definitely are advised to invest further in your appearance, and by that it could be money but also time, effort and energy. I feel like there is a new direction that is available to you, perhaps to switch things up a little or express some things more intensely. In both cases, the very strong message is to be deliberate in your vision and keep your eyes on this. I think you already do it to some extent, but here we're talking about Glamour, glamour, like, it's not enough to pick a pair of earrings or the color of your top, you need to focus on what it is the impact you want to have on others is, and how to best achieve that, keeping in mind the strong Uranian influences about being your own Icon and breaking boundaries along the way. Really, the next step involves planning and deliberate steps. Don't just throw whatever in your cart but be mindful of what story it's telling and if it aligns with your vision.

If you liked the reading and want to tip me, I have a ko-fi.

PILE 2

Cards: Queen of Cups, 8 of Swords, The Star, The World, The Lovers, The High Priestess, Knight of Cups, The Hanged Man, Ace of Wands, 9 of Cups

First, let's look into your natural beauty and talents, if you will. This is easy to tap into and you might already do it to some extent, and is what people perceive from you at first glance.

What's actually really interesting is that there seem to be an opposition between constriction vs liberation, as embodied by Saturn in Aquarius qualities. It seems being in touch with your imagination and ideals is natural to you, you appear dreamy but in a melancholic way, a loner that people don't approach easily. People might get the sense that you are lost in your thoughts and that something else is taking your attention. You don't project a strong sun-like charisma, but rather, charm people when they get close to you and get a feel for your rich inner world. You are very authentic in the way you approach your appearance, as in, you don't seek to appear as someone you are not, up to a fault I'd say. Like, if you don't hold a high opinion of yourself that might stop you from dressing how you like because it doesn't feel true in some way. It's also like you feel constricted when you have to follow a dress code and would rather be able to wear whatever puts you at ease in the given situation, but then again it's a problem is you feel weak or stuck because it influences your choices. On top of that, I'm again getting strong ideals, so I would not be surprised if your social or political ideals influence the way your present yourself. Perhaps you have an inclination towards sustainable fashion or cruelty free beauty and it helps you feel more aligned with your inner world.

When it comes to your ideal archetypal beauty, what you can draw inspiration from revolves around the idea to let your idealistic and creative nature run free, like the waves on the ocean's shore. This hints at a poetic approach to your style and appearance, with the desire to evoke gentle feelings. Your archetypal beauty is one of a siren, enchanting and mysterious. You might benefit from beautifully ornate jewelry, nacre, pearls and shells come to mind, and I'm also getting renaissance inspired aesthetic like cherubs imagery and dramatic silhouettes, rosy cheeks and braided hairstyles. The ocean is wide and mysterious, fascinating and unknowable, and that's definitely an allure you can harness at your highest potential. Even in that configuration, you're still highly focused on your inner world but it appears on the outside as well.

Now, for the untapped qualities, or raw power you can learn to incorporate, I see a few messages.

The thing is that, despite the saturnine influences, you do have raw potential for a more radiant and inviting, shall we say, energy to you. With the Lovers which is connected to Gemini, you can really learn to actually express your rich inner world and come across as communicative and adaptable regardless of the social situation. Balancing out the coldness with warmth and being more inviting if you will. Someone people can't stop looking at, which implies you actually have to get out of your comfort zone and accept being seen by others.

Paired with you natural characteristics, this has the potential to increase your magnetism and make you mysteriously seductive because people will tap into both layers, sensing an inviting and charming first impression but also getting a feel of your deep inner world. There is also the potential to truly express your emotions through your clothes and appearance and thus sticking true to your desire for authenticity. Don't shy away from being creative and even artistic with your appearance. You have a natural inclination toward romantic styles and flowyness (sheer fabrics or silk-like textures) which can make you stand out in a crowd. Approach your style like a dream, something that is felt intensely and that you can get lost in. Play around with color combinations, and I would suggest having fun creating color palettes that evoke specific feelings rather than being minimal because you want to blend in. You can really project a striking vibe with your newfound confidence, with the help of your clothes and beauty care.

For how you can magnify everything I mentioned, here is what I see.

First of all there is a need to change you ways drastically. As we saw, there seem to be an opposition with how people currently see you vs what your potential is. Don't get me wrong, everything is present within you but it's like it's dormant. I sense you being somewhat stuck in your routine and stylistic habits and reluctant to change anything. You are being called to step up and take actions toward change. Dare to wear what makes you feel like your creative and dreamy self. You know yourself well but if you truly want to change the way people see you you have to take deliberate actions towards that. Not by wearing what you think people want but by going to the highest vision you have of yourself.

You would also benefit greatly from a more optimistic outlook on yourself and learn to communicate happiness, ease and expansion. Be more generous with your energy, which means that you don't have to hold everything in in fear of being judged or disliked, but rather learning to stand strong in your individuality and communicate it to others. Not everyone will like it obviously but those who do will be enchanted by your presence.

If you liked the reading and want to tip me, I have a ko-fi.

PILE 3

Cards: Ace of Cups, The Magician, 3 of Pentacles, The Hermit, 9 of Swords, 5 of Pentacles, King of Cups rx, the Fool, 7 of Cups, 3 of Swords

First, let's look into your natural beauty and talents, if you will. This is easy to tap into and you might already do it to some extent, and is what people perceive from you at first glance.

I get strong Mercury qualities when it comes to how you naturally appear to others. You manage to seduce others with your quick wit and knowledge on many different subjects. It's like, there is nothing you don't have a smart or funny opinion on and people love that about you. You are highly intellectual and I think you like mirroring that in your appearance, favoring established aesthetics and proven formulas, relaying more on your personality than your clothes so to speak. And if clothes you chooses to put the accent on, I see a more traditional and refined approach. Modest and put together. You are meticulous in your choices and don't like appearing messy. Nothing comes in excess, you pay attention to color and texture harmony and like a balanced, classic look. As a result you appear serious and put together to others.

When it comes to your ideal archetypal beauty, what you could embody when pushed to your highest degree, with the Ace of Cups, it is quite abstract than a given aesthetic. I see you having the power to initiate strong positive emotions towards others. Perhaps they admire you or have fond feelings for you, or they may fall in love or become friends with you easily. You make them feel easily connected to you by you presence and allure, you energy having that color that drives people in. It's like, a very friendly and gently type of charisma.

Now, for the untapped qualities, or raw power you can learn to incorporate, I'm not sure why but I feel a strong rag to riches vibe here. As in, it is possible that you have experienced mental and financial hardship in the past, a situation might have improved to some extent, but that probably isn't fixed completely yet. That left you scarred and you try your best to hide it, which is why it's in the raw power position. I see the potential to use that as a strength to add depth to your character. With the King of Cups reversed, you feel inadequate and undeserving. I'm getting the sense that when it comes to glamour, you can fake it till you make it so to speak. Don't forget we are talking about magnifying your allure and I think there's definitely an air of like, you know who you are and you are aware of your situation, but you don't want to appear that way to others. It's strange because for all pile I got strong impression and aesthetics here, but for you it looks more like something that's dragging you down, which means there's a potential to turn it into a strength in some way. You got the Ace of Cups as ideal archetype and the King of Cups is nothing but the Lord of this Ace, so if you manage to flip it you can embody its quality and empathetic, abundant authority and trigger positive feelings in others. There is also this idea that, even when you make that shift, you won't forget where you come from and will keep being highly empathetic and kind, and that will be part of your charm.

For how you can magnify everything I mentioned, I notice a strong idea of starting fresh and stepping away from the heartache that plagues you. There is a youthful carelessness to it as well, the idea of opening yourself to the world and see the richness you have within with your larger than life personality. You would benefit from letting that aspect of you loose a bit. You are a bit chaotic at heart and this is so so endearing to many.

Furthermore, don't get too focused on glimmers, as all that shines is not gold. I think you may have a tendency to seek material things to counter or hide your difficulties with money, but here it's all about character expression when it comes to charm people. But be mindful of how you interact with others as to not to appear aloof or unapproachable.

If you liked the reading and want to tip me, I have a ko-fi.

[flamingpudding]

I had a crack idea that I was thinking of so you know in Dan is Klarion au I was imagining a au based off of that one where all of Danny's children are Klarion is like the robin thing for Batman it started off with Danielle when nabu insulted Danny as the Ghost King and Balance

Ever since Ellie decided that she needed to get back in blood so she made the chaotic antihero Klarion and and her suppose it familiar 'cat' Teekl the way to help out her mother and mess with Dr Fate/Nabu Teekl is actually a bear with an illusion on that makes him look like a cat in the human's eyes

Whatever since the anti-hero Klarion in The Phantom family has been passed down each of them giving their own flair to the persona of Klarion with a different animal every time that they had pretending to be a cat

Tell her to finally passed on to Dan it is an honorary sibling thing each of them has their own antihero name once they passed down the title of Klarion

Diana's query and takes after his father's style of dressing and his tickle is a phoenix

First of Thanks for the Ask! Inspirational as always! Helps with my writers block [insert awkward laugh]

Either way because this is split in two asks... you get two version! One focused on how it started and the other on the reveal! Though the might be some little Shorts... Also there is something really funny to me about a giant bear letting Illusionen into a cat... So Enjoy!

(BTW still thinking over the other ask... and working on it don't worry!)

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

Ellie huffed as Danny reprimanded her for her actions. She just huffed crossing her arms. She was just helping Danny. Her mom got a lot on his shoulders and she as the sort of oldest saw that the best. Sure technically Dan was older then her but, he shrunk down to kid level again and now she was the oldest.

Well if she ignored her other brothers but they were only saved recently and still in treatment with Frostbite. So she was the oldest. End of story.

"Ellie you can't just go off like that you know that messing with an Ancient is not-"

"Mom, That Nabu-Guy was being a pain in the a- " - "Ellie!" - "A PAIN, babbling on to much about Order here Order there. How keeping Balance means keeping Order and bla bla bla!" She cut in stopping her mom before he could go on another rant about the Ancients, she needed to treat with respect.

"He doesn't respect you, the Ancient of Balance! You are the literal Symbol of Balance between Life and Death! Aside from being the Ghost King. So of course I had to mess with the one HE mentors!" Ellie added huffing as she crossed her arms.

Danny pinched the bridge of his nose. "Ellie, you created an entire alternate persona!"

"Yea so?"

"You used an illusion spell on Fluffels!"

"And? Any good Anit-Hero needs a Mascot." Ellie shrugged once more looking up at her mom before looking over to Fluffels, her pet ghost grizzly that was pretty much double maybe even tripple her size and the fluffiest ghost grizzly you could find in the entire Ghost Zone, and the cutest.

Danny on the other hand groaned, wondering if he had done anything wrong while raising Danielle. Sure he had been a teen himself but good damit why the hell did Ellie decided messing with the Ancient of Order or rather his mentee was a good idea. "I am calling Jazz! You can explain to her what you were thinking!"

He was definitely to overworked and stressed to deal with Ellies mischievousness right now. Well she did call her alternate persona Klarion, Lord of Chaos. Nope! He was not dealing with this right now, so Danny did the sanest thing he could think of. Turning on his heel and walking away. Where to? Who cares maybe he would check in with his old man Clockwork and see what Ellie had actually been up to, instead of just reading through Nabu's complains.

Ellie on the other hand blinked watching her mom leave before calling after him. "Does that mean I have to stop, being Klarion?"

"Mom?!"

"MOM!"

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

"Well hello my lovely Amadillos! Long time not seen!"

Ellie shouted cheerfully as she twirled into appearing hair styled into a horn like form, black suit and she might have over done it a little with the black eyeliner but hey it was an iconic look wasn't it. She smirked as Fluffles growled which translated into a meow for the mortals before her thank to the illusion spell.

The mortal teen looked up at her surprised as she floated down her hand glowing with red ectoplasm (a color change from her usual green ectoplasm that had taken a while to learn from Pandora). Young Justice was currently transporting something of interest to her. Well of Interest for the Justice League, really but Doctor Fate was involved which meant Nabu was involved, which naturally meant she would get involved. It didn't hurt that she would also get to try to try some new tricks.

"You got something interesting there... and I want that." She grinned. Ellie didn't give them long before she acted using the new tricks she had learned.

"Woah! Hey there, watch the pointy and sharp thowies!" She laughed making a quick shield as she blocked some batarangs and arrows before blinking.

"Hey they look different. Robin, did you change equipment? Did you get a new haircut too?" She asked curious but didn't really receive an answer as they ignored her questions and shouted something about distracting her while the others continue the transportation. Still she bend down to pick one of them up twirling it between her fingers. "What gives didn't they have a different design before?"

In hindsight it was probably not a good idea to just abandon her original goal but Robin was making her curious. And she could always find a different way to mess with Nabu. Her mom had given her an indirect okay years ago anyway.

"Teekl!" She called out and only her eyes could see how Fluffles jumped at the call growling in response as he swatted away some of the more annoying Young Justice kids. To the mortals it probably looked like Teekl was using ectoplasm, or well magic, in their eyes.

She used that change to go up into Robins face smirking widely as she looked at the other more closely, trying to get a read on him. "You are different! You aren't the same Robin I meet before!"

She ducked in time avoid Superboy as she hopped back excited with a new idea for her family.

But first she would have to deal with the little chaos and mischief she was creating.

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

".....and that is how I learned that the Robin title is getting passed down. So I was thinking of doing the same!" Ellie broadly stated looking at all her younger siblings before her. "We all get pretty annoyed with the way Nabu treats Mom so there always has to be a Lord of Chaos to 'balance' Nabu out!"

She grinned at her siblings expecting the same kind of excitement she had and they didn't disappoint. Danny had been there for all of them, even going so far as in to find a way with Clockwork to save some of their lives. So of course they all would jump at the change to mess with the one Ancient that was badmouthing their Mother just because Balance didn't entitle Order the way they wanted.

After all Chaos was needed to Balance Order out.

This was going to be fun...

[Follow up part Linked here]

[monakisu]

rating oil paintings i did in high school based on their likability (to Me) ⊙▂⊙

light study 💡 - the earliest one out of all of these bcuz i technically painted it in middle school but then went back in HS to add the seagulls and boat so i could fit it into the theme of my AP art portfolio LMAOOO but still one of my favorites, which is sorta sad cuz it’s so old… 9/10

filial love - honestly didn’t care for this one very much because it was meant to just be more fodder for my AP portfolio but turns out my mom likes it a lot!! she says it reminds her of “the lion of judah ✝️” (whoever that is) so i was happy to give it to her! she displays it in her room so her fondness really carries this one’s rating: 10/10

play nice with your brother!! 🐻‍❄️ - i like this one a lot! because it’s one of the only paintings my hardass art teacher let me use neon colors on (or at least as neon as u can get with oil paint). usually he just paints over my colors to make them grayer. that guy… otherwise this one is just not very interesting. 8/10

koi pond 🎏 - PRIME EXAMPLE OF WHAT I MEAN when he paints over my stuff with gray!!! i was so excited to paint this one and added all sorts of flair that i like—pink dots as leaf highlights, super detailed colorful water—AND THEN HE JUST WENT AND SMEARED ALL MY DETAILS 💀💀💀 so i Hate this one and avoid looking at it as much as possible. 0/10 below it is a version from a diff angle that i did in an hour with shitty free acrylic verrryyy recently in college, and u can just see how i went ham on the colors right?! eugh. what could’ve been… 🪦

with heavy heart ❤️ - a pretty big old lady (18x24”). i feel obligated to like her because she won me the congressional competition for my district so i got to go to the capitol to see her framed there and briefly meet my stale white bread representative but HONESTLY all i can think about is how hideous my makeup was at the time and i get upset. 🙁 i do think this granny is very pretty though!! 7/10

my ocean blue 🪼 - this one im not sure if i like it or only tolerate it. i just wanted to paint a super colorful coral reef!! "🐠🪸🫧" you know?? but my mom and teacher said it Needed a message for ~intrigue~ so they brainstormed together (without me) and made me add this random ass child with a VR headset smack dab in the middle… something about cyberreality? IDK i just want her ass gone so badly. i also never got around to finishing the stripes on that fish in the front but nobody calls me out on it so it's whatever 🤷‍♂️ LOL 4/10

radial self portrait 🎯 - HUGE DEVIATION IN STYLE not only bcuz this one’s gouache instead of oil but also because i got to paint without an old man (art teacher) hovering over my shoulder!!! 😸 it was my first time painting something super stylized and i realized that painting can actually be Not Agonizing!!! 😸😸 this was at my summer camp where we had to come up with a radial pattern using a compass (i hate that little pointy shit) and then combine it with our self portrait. it’s me having a headache! i painted this in a single stressful sleepless night because i have HORRIFIC time management when i’m left alone so it’s pretty sloppy. also at the time i had those blonde e-girl bangs hahaha… i still like this one a lot!! i was just SO happy i didn't have to go photorealistic AND i could use my favorite colors (mainly hot pink)!!! 10/10 😸

overall my high school painting in experience was spent beefing with my art teacher and inhaling paint fumes. sort of miserable honestly -_-

[sofisweb]

　₊　　　˙　　⠀⠀✦⠀　　　˙　　₊　

          New years celebration!!

summary: its new years (at least that's what you calculated)

use of Y/N, fluff!, i suppose Negan is a warning, negan interupts the fluff mood  𓈒⠀　˙　　₊　

　₊　　　˙        reader & daryl, rick, maggie, negan  𓈒⠀　˙　　₊

 　˙　　₊　setting: whenever?? :P ˙　　₊　

₊　　really wanted to add maggie sooo　˙

Daryl dixon:

You’d appeared suddenly in front of him as you popped a confetti popper at him- causing him to almost jump.

So now stood in front of Daryl, confetti in his hair as you waved a lit sparkler- he wasn’t sure where you got it- no one was, but it was a nice addition to the mood of making it through the year

“Happy New Year, Dixon!” you grinned causing him to have a faint smirk as his arm wrapped around your waist, “According to my calculations..and the weather- it should be a new year!” Or around it..

“Ain’t much to celebrate.” He grumbled, resting his head on your shoulder, brushing the confetti out of his hair with his hand. You gasped dramatically as you rolled your eyes, “Uhm..me? That’s something to celebrate!” you countered, nudging his arm gently.

“And we made it through another year!” He shook his head with a small chuckle as he moved back and you leaned your head on his shoulder, smiling softly at him. 

“Yeah, guess so,” he shrugged, causing your head to lift up on his shoulder. “Don’t need all this flashy crap though.” 

“Oh, come on,” you teased, twirling the sparkler in the air and watching the golden trails it left behind. “It’s festive! You could use a little festivity in your life, Dixon.”

“‘Cause throwin’ confetti at me’s gonna make the world all shiny again?” He chuckled as he shook his head, a small smile on his face.

“Not exactly- but it did just make you smile!”  “You’re somethin’ else, y’know that?”

“Yep.” You beamed, leaning against him more comfortably. The sparkler fizzled out in your hand, and you tossed it aside before turning back to him. “Happy New Year, Daryl.”

“Happy New year..” He murmured before scooping you up in his arms bridal-style and you took the opportunity to immediately kiss him.

Rick grimes: “Boo!” You called out, throwing the confetti that was bundled in your hand at him—causing Rick to flinch with a chuckle.

“What the hell’s all this?” he asked, his Southern drawl soft and steady as he brushed a hand through his curly hair, pushing the confetti out. “Happy New Year, Ricky!”

“..how’d ya’ even know it’s a new year or–”

 “It just is!” You cleared your throat, looking off to the side for a moment before back at him “It should be..!” 

Rick shook his head, brushing the remaning confetti from his hair with a faint chuckle. “We made it through another year! That’s gotta count for somethin’.” You announced as you waved the sparkler.

“Hm, guess that’s right..” He murmured, pulling you in as he wrapped an arm around you waist, “Pft- I’m always right..”

“And another thing to celebrate..me!” You grinned happily, gesturing to yourself with the sparkler.

“Happy New year, old man.” “Happy new–” 

“I’m not old!-” He scoffed as you cupped his cheeks, shutting him up with a kiss.

Negan Smith: You appeared out of nowhere, a mischievous grin on your face, and popped a confetti popper right in Negan’s direction. The sound startled him slightly and you were lucky he didn’t hit you over the head with a bat.

“What in the goddamn—” He scoffed, looking at you with a blank expression before letting out a chuckle- now covered in confetti as he spoke up once more. “Oh, sweetheart, you’ve got some nerve.” His grin slowly spread, brushing the colorful pieces from his hair.

“Happy new year!!” You announced with jazz hands, the sparkler leaving a golden trail behind its every move. 

“You really went all out for me, huh? Ain’t I the lucky one?” Negan teased as he let out a loud laugh. 

“What’s with all the flair, huh? You think you’re throwin’ some kinda party?” “Well, it is a party- what’d ya’ think I was doing on that supply run-”

“Anyways..we survived another year, didn’t we? That’s worth celebrating!” He tilted his head slightly with a smirk, speaking up as he stepped closer to you.

“Eh, I’ll give you that..” He shrugged, “-but did you really have to shower me in confetti?”

“Well you did need some colour..you’re always giving off this doom vibe.”

“Ha ha, funny!” He replied with sarcasm as he plucked the spent sparkler from your hand, his grin never faltering. “But I gotta admit, you? You’ve got some balls pullin’ this little stunt-”

“And it made you laugh, didn’t it? Mission accomplished.” “Touché.” 

“..Alright fine, happy new year, darlin’.” “Here’s to another year of raisin’ hell together!” You grinned, before practically jumping onto him.Negan's arms wrapped around you, brushing a stray piece of confetti from your hair before picking you up. “Now how ‘bout we celebrate?” He grinned with a wink.

Maggie Greene

You came up behind Maggie- sneaking quietly and unable to contain your grin as you popped a confetti popper over her head. 

She jumped slightly, spinning around to face you, her expression a mix of surprise and amusement as you had to hold back from jumping onto her as you waved the sparkler your hand.

“What the—” Maggie stopped short,  “Seriously?”  She exclaimed, brushing the confetti off her shoulders, though she couldn’t hide the smile on her face.

“Happy new year, maggie!” You grinned, waving the sparkler and making a heart shaped trail. 

“Now where on earth did you find that- you a walking party store now?” “I have my ways! And figured there should be some festivity!” You chuckled softly with a grin, proud of your announcements and ‘celebration’  “And you need some more joy in your life- I have made it my goal to beat Glenn–”

She scoffed at your words, elbowing you gently and jokingly- she took one of your other confetti poppers out of your hand, popping it without warning as you also now, had confetti on you.

“At Least you're in the holiday spirit!” You exclaimed, bouncing on your heels with excitement. “Well, Y/N, happy new year.” “Happy New Year!” you repeated in now, a cheer like tone as you grabbed her hand and twirling her around in an impromptu little dance. 

“Gosh- you’re a handful.” She chuckled, your smile bright.

“And how do you even know if it’s a new year–” “-Yet again, I have my ways.”

[mxnsterbabe]

Male Drider/Female Reader SFW Wordcount: 2,910 Tags & Warnings: character of colour (reader & monster) Commissions | Ko-fi | Masterlist

You own a dance school and have one especially unusual student - a clumsy drider who loves human culture.

The sun had just begun to set, casting a warm golden glow through the large windows of Rae's dance studio. She smiled as she watched some of her students chat; Kamaria was putting on her shoes, pausing to laugh in that pitched, gnollish way when Andromeda said something silly.

The studio was a sanctuary, a place where music could chase away the worries of the day. Rae's students were a diverse group—humans, elves, tieflings, a gnoll, and even a cyclops—each bringing their unique flair to the dance floor. She loved the mix of cultures and styles, finding joy in helping each person find their rhythm.

As she was about to start, the door creaked open, catching her attention. Rae glanced up to see a towering drider hesitantly entering the studio. The rest of the class turned their heads in surprise. It wasn’t every day that a drider joined a dance class.

The human half of the drider was a lean, tall man with richly dark skin several shades darker than her own, and striking grey eyes. His hair was tied in a haphazard bun, a few braids hanging loose. His spider half was equally impressive, a sleek black with a hint of iridescent sheen that caught the light.

Rae felt a jolt of nervousness, unsure how to teach someone with more than two legs.

He approached her, his many legs moving in unison. “I’m sorry I’m late,” he said, his voice deep and calm. “My name is Amandi.”

Rae took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. “It’s alright, Amandi. Welcome. I’m... I’m glad you’re here. Why don’t you find a spot and we’ll get started?”

Amandi nodded, moving to an empty space near the back of the room. The rest of the class whispered among themselves, glancing curiously at the new arrival. Rae clapped her hands to get their attention. “Alright, everyone. Let’s start with our warm-ups.”

She led the group through a series of stretches and basic movements, her eyes constantly drifting to Amandi. His upper body moved fluidly, mimicking the steps with surprising grace, but his lower half struggled to keep up. The floor seemed too slippery for such slender legs, and his delicate spider feet were bare. She could see the frustration in his eyes, and her heart went out to him.

As Rae moved on to the main routine, she couldn’t shake her apprehension. How could she adapt her instructions for someone with a completely different body structure? The thought was daunting, but she reminded herself that everyone deserved the chance to learn and enjoy dancing.

“Alright, let’s try the first sequence,” she said, demonstrating the steps. The class followed her lead, their movements in sync. Amandi tried his best to keep up, but his many legs seemed to get tangled, causing him to stumble.

“Okay, everyone take five,” she called, giving the students a break.

A few glanced Amandi’s way as he tried to regain balance. He ducked his head in embarrassment, brows scrunched in frustration.

“Hey,” Rae said softly, approaching him. “You’re doing great. It’s just... maybe a learning curve, you know?”

Rae could see the tension in Amandi’s eyes, and she wanted to ease his worry. “You know,” she said softly, “street dance is all about expressing yourself and having fun. It’s not just about perfect movements. It’s about feeling the music and letting it guide you. You’re doing great, really.”

Amandi’s lips curved into a small, grateful smile. “Thank you, Rae. That means a lot.”

She nodded, encouraged by his positive response. “Let’s head back to the class and try again.”

They rejoined the rest of the group, and Rae resumed the lesson. She demonstrated a basic move, breaking it down into simple steps: a bounce, a slide, and a quick step to the side. The students followed along, their movements tentative.

Amandi tried his best to keep up, but his numerous legs seemed to have a mind of their own. He bounced too high, slid too far, and his steps were more like stumbles. The other students couldn’t help but steal glances at him, their concentration wavering.

“Alright, let’s put it all together,” Rae called out, her voice bright and encouraging. She started the music, a lively hip-hop beat that filled the studio. “Five, six, seven, eight!”

The class moved as one, their bodies finding the rhythm. Kamaria’s gnollish laugh rang out as she nailed the slide, and Andromeda’s wings fluttered slightly as she spun with ease. Amandi’s movements were still uncoordinated, his legs tangling beneath him.

“Focus on the beat,” Rae encouraged. “Feel the music.”

The distraction Amandi caused was painfully obvious. Students glanced his way, their own steps faltering. Amandi, determined but struggling, misstepped and stumbled forward, all eight legs skidding on the polished floor. He crashed into the mirrors with a loud thud, and the music came to an abrupt halt.

Rae rushed over, her heart in her throat. “Amandi, are you alright?”

He looked up, embarrassment and frustration etched on his face. “I’m fine,” he muttered, his voice strained.

The rest of the class had gathered in a concerned circle, their earlier amusement replaced by sympathy. Rae helped Amandi to his feet, her touch gentle but firm.

“We’ll figure this out,” she said softly, meeting his eyes. “We’ll find a way to make this work for you.”

Amandi nodded, though his expression was still clouded with doubt. The rest of the class murmured their support.

Rae felt a surge of determination. She knew this wasn’t going to be easy, but she was committed to helping Amandi find his place in the dance.

“I think that’s enough for today,” Rae announced to the group. “We’ll come back and try again next week.”

The students began to file out, murmuring amongst themselves. Rae could hear snippets of their conversations. Kamaria, always the most outspoken, paused by Amandi on her way out.

“You know,” Kamaria said, her gnollish voice soft and encouraging, “I was just the same when I started. Couldn’t get my legs to cooperate at all. I got the hang of it, and so will you.”

Amandi managed a small, appreciative smile. “Thanks, Kamaria.”

With Kamaria’s encouragement, the rest of the students offered nods and murmurs of support before heading out. The studio gradually emptied until it was just Rae and Amandi left. 

Rae approached him, noticing the slump of his shoulders and the lingering embarrassment in his eyes.

“I’m really sorry,” Amandi said quietly, his voice tinged with frustration. “I didn’t mean to disrupt the class.”

Rae shook her head, stepping closer. “You have nothing to apologise for, Amandi. This is new for both of us, and it’s going to take some time to figure out what works. I’m just glad you’re here and willing to give it your all.”

She reached out and touched his arm, her fingers brushing against his smooth, dark skin. She couldn’t help but notice how lean and slender he was, his human half exuding a quiet strength. Her eyes drifted to his spider half, which seemed almost delicate despite its size. The sleek black legs shimmered in the low light.

Amandi looked at her, grey eyes sparkling. “Thank you for being so understanding. I know I’m not exactly built for this.”

Rae’s heart warmed at his words, and she found herself drawn to his sincerity. “You’re determined and passionate, Amandi. That’s what matters most. The rest will come along on its own.”

She smiled at him, feeling an unexpected flutter in her chest. There was something incredibly endearing about his shy smile. She admired his willingness to step out of his comfort zone and try something new, despite the obvious challenges.

“You really think I can do this?” Amandi asked, his voice soft and uncertain.

“I know you can,” Rae replied firmly. With a final, reassuring smile, Rae squeezed Amandi’s hand gently. “See you next class?”

Amandi nodded, a genuine smile spreading across his face. “I’ll be here.”

***

The following week, Rae arrived at the dance studio earlier than usual, wanting to prepare for the evening class. To her surprise, Amandi was already there, standing near the entrance with a bashful yet determined expression on his face.

“Hey, Amandi,” she greeted him warmly. “You’re here early.”

He nodded, his grey eyes reflecting a quiet resolve. “I wanted to get some extra practice in before class. I’ve been working on the steps over the weekend.”

Rae’s heart swelled with admiration. “That’s great! Let’s get started then.”

They moved to the center of the studio, and Rae began demonstrating the steps they had worked on last time. Amandi followed her lead, his movements still a bit awkward but much improved. His upper body moved with more fluidity, and his spider legs seemed more coordinated, albeit still with the occasional stumble.

As the rest of the students trickled in, Rae couldn’t help but watch Amandi from the corner of her eye. His lean muscles flexed with each movement, his concentration etched onto his features. He really was striking, dark skin glistening with sweat.

“Alright, everyone, let’s start with the basics again,” Rae announced once the class was assembled.

A few students groaned, particularly Andromeda, who rolled her eyes. “Do we have to? It’s so easy.”

Rae smiled, her tone firm but kind. “Yes, we do. It’s important to master the basics. Trust me, it will make everything else easier in the long run.”

She glanced at Amandi, who gave her a grateful smile. He was clearly more comfortable and confident than he had been the previous week. They began the routine, Rae leading them through the steps slowly at first.

As the music played, Rae found herself continually drawn to Amandi. His determination was evident in every move he made. The lines of his lean muscles were pronounced under his smooth, dark skin, and his spider half moved with a fluidity that hinted at countless hours of practice. There was a grace to him now, a confidence that was beginning to shine through.

“Great job, everyone,” Rae called out, watching as the students repeated the steps in sync. “Let’s try it a bit faster.”

The class picked up the pace, and Rae’s heart swelled with pride as she watched Amandi keep up. He still had moments of clumsiness, but they were fewer and farther between. His improvement was undeniable.

She moved around the room, offering pointers and encouragement. When she reached Amandi, she placed a hand on his arm to correct his posture. His skin was warm under her touch, and she felt a slight shiver run through her.

“You’re doing really well, Amandi,” she said softly, her eyes meeting his. “Just remember to keep your shoulders relaxed. You have six extra legs to contend with; try to move them in sync.”

He nodded, his expression earnest. “Thank you, Rae. I’ve been practicing a lot. I really want to get this right.”

As the class continued, Rae found it increasingly difficult to focus solely on the routine. Her thoughts kept drifting to Amandi, to the way he moved, the way his determination shone in his eyes. There was something incredibly attractive about his dedication and the quiet strength he exuded.

When the class finally came to an end, Rae gathered everyone for a quick debrief. “Great work today, everyone. I know it can be frustrating to go over the basics, but it’s essential for building a strong foundation. I’m really proud of the progress you’ve all made.”

As the students began to disperse, Rae lingered, her gaze once again finding Amandi. He was talking to Kamaria, who gave him a friendly pat on the back before heading out. Rae approached him, her heart racing slightly.

“Amandi, you were fantastic today. I can see how much effort you’ve put in, and it’s really paying off.”

He smiled, a hint of bashfulness returning. “Thanks, Rae. I’m just trying to keep up with everyone else.”

“You’re doing more than that,” she replied warmly. “You’re becoming a great dancer.”

He smiled; tentative, bashful. “I might have been practicing over the weekend,” he admitted. “By the way, how are you getting home?”

“I drive. I could give you a lift, though…” Rae trailed off, cheeks warming. “Though I don’t know if you’d fit in my little Nissan.”

“Oh, I only live around the corner anyway. Can I walk you to your car?”

Rae tried to ignore how her heart fluttered at the offer. As if she would say no.

They walked out of the studio together, the cool night air refreshing compared to the warmth of the studio. As they reached the parking lot, Rae approached her car and fumbled for her keys, only to find that the engine wouldn’t start. She tried a few more times, but the car remained stubbornly silent.

“Looks like I’m not going anywhere tonight,” she sighed, leaning back in her seat.

Amandi stepped closer, concern etched on his face. “Do you need help?”

Rae shook her head. “It’s too late to call a repair shop. I’ll just have to figure it out tomorrow.”

“Where do you live? I could walk you home,” Amandi offered, his voice gentle.

Rae hesitated for a moment, but the idea of walking home with Amandi was strangely appealing. “Are you sure? It’s a bit of a walk.”

“I don’t mind,” he replied, his tone sincere. “Besides, it’ll be good exercise.”

Rae smiled, grateful for his kindness. “Alright, I’ll take you up on that..”

They set off, the quiet streets bathed in the soft glow of streetlights. The city had an almost magical quality after dark, and Rae found herself enjoying the peacefulness. 

They walked in comfortable silence, their steps in sync,

After a while, Rae felt the urge to break the silence. “You know,” she began, her voice light and teasing, “I think you’re going to be the star of our class soon.”

Amandi chuckled, the sound low and warm. “I doubt that. I’m just trying to keep up.”

Rae felt a flutter in her chest at his humility. “Well, I think you’re amazing; and not just because of your dancing.”

He glanced at her, his grey eyes curious. “What do you mean?”

Rae hesitated, feeling her cheeks warm. “I mean... you’re determined, kind, and... well, you’re a great guy.”

Amandi’s eyes widened in surprise. “Me? But… why?.”

Rae stopped walking, turning to face him fully. She reached out, her fingers lightly brushing his arm. “You’re unique, Amandi. I find that incredibly attractive. Your strength, your grace, and the way you light up when you talk, it’s all so captivating.”

Amandi’s gaze softened, and he took a small step closer. Rae could feel the heat of his body, his hard muscle beneath his t-shirt. Her heart raced, and she felt a heady mix of excitement and nervousness.

“I... I never thought anyone would see me that way,” Amandi said quietly, his voice filled with wonder.

Rae smiled, her fingers tracing the lines of his lean muscles. “Well, I do.”

In the soft glow of the night, she could see the warmth in his eyes, the flicker of something deeper. She leaned in, her breath hitching as she closed the distance between them. Amandi’s lips met hers, tentative and soft at first, but growing bolder as the kiss deepened. She felt the gentle clink of his fangs against her own teeth, and shivered.

She pressed closer, her hands resting on his shoulders. She could feel the strength in his lean body, the delicate yet firm hold of his arms as he wrapped them around her.

When they finally pulled away, both of them were breathless, their foreheads resting together. Rae smiled, her heart pounding. “I think you’re amazing, Amandi,” she whispered.

Hand in hand, Rae and Amandi walked the remaining distance to her home. The night felt alive with possibilities, the air humming with promise. Rae’s heart raced, her thoughts a delightful jumble of excitement and anticipation.

As they reached her front door, she turned to face Amandi. His eyes, striking grey, held a softness that made her feel cherished. She soaked up his presence.

Then, with a bashful smile, Amandi leaned in. His lips brushed hers gently, a tender, almost hesitant kiss that spoke of his growing affection. Rae responded, deepening the kiss, savoring the warmth and sweetness of the moment. Her hands rested on his shoulders, feeling the lean strength of his muscles beneath her fingertips.

When they parted, he was beaming. “Rae,” he began, his voice soft and sincere, “would it be alright if I took you out sometime? Maybe for dinner, or a walk?”

Rae’s heart skipped a beat. “I’d love that, Amandi,” she replied, her smile matching his. “Although, you do realize the dance class will be talking about us. They love some romantic gossip.”

Amandi laughed, the sound warm and rich. “Yeah, I figured. Sorry.”

Rae shook her head, her smile widening. “I’m not sorry at all.” Then, “thank you for walking me home,” Deft fingers traced the underside of his jaw, along his clicking mandibles.

“It was my pleasure,” Amandi replied softly. “I’ll see you soon, Rae.”

“I can’t wait,” she replied, her heart full.

With a final, lingering smile, Amandi turned and walked away, leaving Rae standing at her door, her heart brimming with anticipation. She watched him until he disappeared into the night, the memory of his lips still lingering on her skin.

[tspud-whiteboard]

[Full Previews, Final Files and Extras can be found on GoogleDrive!] !!! THE DEADLINE HAS ARRIVED !!! (End of June it was) I am currently working on putting together the final files, but as this might take a while, YOU CAN STILL KEEP SENDING ME YOUR FELLAS! Once I’ve prepared the actual, finished, fullsize versions, this pinned post will unpin itself and I’ll put a different one here, with the final previews, the download links and some information what the future may hold... maybe I’ll do a Season Two if the interest is there. But we’ll have to see about that. For now, [SUBMIT MORE] like the wind while you still can! Hello, hello! Welcome to The Stanley Parable Ultra Deluxe Whiteboard Collaboration (a just-for-fun fan project)! I’m assuming that you found your way here because you’re well aware what The Stanley Parable is, and that you are curious to know what a Whiteboard Collaboration might be about!

Let me cut straight to the case then. It all started in 2023 - the 27th of April, to be precise - which just so happened to be the One Year Anniversary for the release of The Stanley Parable Ultra Deluxe on Steam and consoles, along with the historically very important and internationally renowned - or at the very least grudgingly accepted - 4/27: STANLEY DAY!

To celebrate the occasion, and only one day too late on the 28th, an idea came forth to put together a Whiteboard, containing all those Stanleys by all the fan artists out there (all credited, of course!), a worthy tribute to the Man of the Hour! And as you can see... we’ve already got quite a few collected!

But why stop there? Since plenty of people also came up with their own Narrator designs, and there’s a good few Timekeeper-Settings-432s and Curators, and plenty of other characters (defining the term loosely here), we might as well give them all their own little space to look absolutely dashing next to each other! Imagine, all those different designs, united in one glorious collection!

My point being... I’d love to see yours in there as well.

So... how can you join in?

The gist can be found up there in the first image, but let me also put it into text form down here, with some extra information:

[Submit] your Stanley, Narrator, 432 or Curator mugshot (or all of them at the same time!). You have [some other canon TSP favorite]? Go ahead, submit ‘em, too! We’ll find a spot. The format of the picture needs to be 300px (width) x 400px (height) to fit with the others. I can resize and cut them into shape if needed, but it’ll be easier on all of us if I don’t have to do that. All pictures will have a small white frame added by me afterwards, to give them that authentic printout flair.

Should the [Submit] button not work for you (I triple-checked and it works for me, but then who knows what this thing does while I’m not looking), sending your artworks through PM or tell me where you posted them is fine as well!

AUs and all art styles are fine! Please only submit one picture per character (if you have more than one design, maybe pick your favorite, or elegantly squeeze them into one picture. If you absolutely cannot decide, sending two pictures per character is okay, but I’d like to cap it there to give everyone equal amounts of space.

Must be Safe For Work!

This is also very important: Tell me how to credit you! Your name will go under your artwork, I do have to put something there. I’ll likely default to your username if I have nothing else to go by, but it’s best if you directly tell me, right there in your submission.

I will publish your submission(s) on here as soon as I’ve added it to the queue, so you’ll know it went through okay, and so you can show it around to others if you wish! (I can’t do that with PMs, of course.)

THE DEADLINE: Please try to submit your artworks before the End of June! Yes, 2023. This month. In this year. There’s a chance I’ll change this if a sudden influx of new entries rolls in, but as of now it looks like it’s a good time to start wrapping this up. I want my life back and all. ...But prove me wrong, why don’tcha? Why not tell your favorite TSP artists that they NEED TO BE ON THIS THING? NEED TO! WE CRAVE THEM, PRECIOUS. ...Sorry, got carried away there.

I give updates regularily. Previews of the latest Whiteboard statuses, questions that need answering, sometimes I might just add some nonsense rambles, all inclusive, for free.

The FINAL files, whenever they’re ready, will be 8000x4000px in size each and are mostly a much bigger version of the previews, with maybe a few small changes for the aesthetics.That’s quite massive. Humongous. It’s really impressive to browse all those artworks next to each other at that size. Here’s the [Google Drive] link, for all to download from and share around. So far, you can always find the latest Previews and a bunch of random Extras there, along with the first fullsize Stanley board as a test. Please do make suggestions if there’s better options, or if you can’t drive the Google.

I also post on Twitter and the Crows Crows Crows Discord server (fanart channel). If either of those are more comfortable options for you, or if you know someone on there who might also be interested in joining this collaboration, maybe poke me so I can give you directions. Or you might be able to find it yourself, I’m not actively hiding them away. Not even passively.

I think that’s all for now! If you have questions, suggestions, reservations, my Asks should be open. Looking forward to hopefully a lot more additions to the Whiteboards, there’s quite a few of you guys I’d loooove to see on there!

[probablyin-bed]

Sweet as Candy

Happy Halloween!!! Here's a little blurb inspired by a conversation I had with my friends.

cw: none really!! some halloween domesticity w eddie. Maybe some suggestive stuff.

18+ pls!!! MDNI

I do not consent to any of my work being reposted or claimed as someone else’s.

🎃

🎃

🎃

"Eddie! You're not even trying to make the candy last!" You scolded as you watch him give another fistful of candy to a trick or treater. Ever a generous man.

"Babe, she was cute. She deserved way more than two pieces for that princess leia costume, " You tilt your head so you can see the little girl walking away, showing off all the candy she just got to her parents. She was pretty cute, she wore the long white dress and had her hair styled into the signature leia buns.

"Besides we should be getting way more than 5 bags of candy, I refuse to be a 2 piece household." Eddie had been very adamant about this since the first group of kids showed. But, It was only two hours later and you were just about to finish off the fourth bag.

"5 bags should've lasted us way longer than two hours baby. S'all i'm saying."

"7 bag minimum next year. The kids will know to come back to this house because of how much candy they get. Just watch."

"Yeah, but maybe if you didn't use both hands to scoop the candy maybe 5 would be enough."

"These hands are doing the lords work in the eyes of those kids, sweetheart." He holds up his hands as if to show you proof, never losing his dramatic flair after all these years.

"M'thinking your hands are too big." You tease with a slight shake in your head. As you turn away from him to get the last jumbo-sized bag of candy, you don't catch that famous glint in your husband's eye.

He shuts the front door to your newly purchased home and creeps up behind you. You're oblivious to his scheming until you feel those big hands grab your sides and pull you into his chest.

"You mean these hands?" His voice dropping into that low tone he knows will turn your legs to jelly. His hold on you never falters as his hands roam up and down your sides, along your hips and around to your tummy. Your head falls back to his shoulder and your eyes flutter shut.

"Yeah. Those hands." The words come out of you light and airy. The attention making your brain get all fuzzy, you can't help but to melt into his touch. His lips find that spot on your neck and he leaves a few loaded kisses as he hums in acknowledgment. You get lost in the moment and forget where you are, what you're doing. It's all just Eddie Eddie Eddie.

You wish you could stay this way forever, blind to the world around you. Just him and you, happy and at peace in each others hold. The bliss doesn't last nearly long enough before the assault on your doorbell fills the quiet.

You can't help but let out a small whine. You want to stomp your feet and throw a fit until he just takes you to bed but you know he's been looking forward to handing out candy to the local kids. It was one of the first things he said when you moved in. You couldn't be selfish and ask him to call it quits for the night.

Eddie hesitates though, his grip loosened and head turned in the direction of the door where all the kids are waiting. You expected him to leave you high and dry, but you could never hold that against him. He pulls you back into him one last time to whisper into your ear. You have try to hold in your laughter when you feel his warm breath on your neck and the physical affect your little moment you just shared had on him.

"Baby."

"Yes Eddie?"

"Do you think we can just put the rest of the candy in a bowl and call it a night?"

"Please."

"I'll be right back."

With a smack of a kiss to your cheek, he's off to find that damn bowl.

🎃

🎃

🎃

ty for reading :)))

[choi-hae]

Kenny’s Top Music of 2024!

Oh boy, it’s that time of year again - where I listened to too much music and now I’m making myself choose what the best ones (in my opinion) are but I’m bad at making decisions. Obviously I didn’t listen to everything, that would be impossible, but I did my best and honestly a lot of my picks will not be surprising. I’m very predictable. 

This year’s list is similar to last year’s, in terms of categories. But I think choosing was a bit easier than last year’s. Still hard obviously because I simply love too much of what came out this year, but the way my lists are structured, I believe it includes most of everything I loved from this year.

The rules I put upon myself in terms of choices are similar to years past, but please take note of them before reading further. Thank you in advance for reading my list! 

RULES: 

If an album was chosen for top album (group or solo), I tried to choose a different title from a different album OR a completely different artist all together for top title track (group or solo) to showcase as much variety as possible (and to challenge myself). If an album was chosen, it can be assumed I love all, if not most, of the songs on that album anyway. 

Top b sides are okay to chosen from top albums, as it only makes sense, and there can be multiple from a single artist but only ONE SONG per album.

None of these lists are in any particular order. It’s hard enough to choose top of anything, let alone put them into a numbered order.

And with that, here's my top music of 2024!

Top 6(+1) Group Albums/EPs

ATE - Stray Kids

Are we surprised? Another no skip album from SKZ. Even the festival version of the title track is fire. There’s not too much to say on the matter other than that I love every song so of course it had to be here. I’m in this Stay shit for life. 

GOLD - ITZY

Lia is back! Not only do I adore all the new songs on this album but they gave us “Final Ver.” of all the group tracks from Born To Be, and it just makes it all feel so complete. That fact alone makes this a top album for me. Plus the double titles were both amazing while being completely different vibes. 

Killin’ It - P1Harmony

Their first full album and what a banger. Every track is unique but is completely their style. Getting to see a lot of these songs live obviously gave me a bigger appreciation but even without that fact, I love every single song on this album. 

Armageddon - aespa

Another first full album and another case of every song is unique but suits the members’ vibes so well. No skips, I adore every song. The double title tracks were perfect for promotions. I love that they gave us a lot of short preview videos as well during the lead up to release.

Troubleshooting - Xdinary Heroes

THIS ALBUM! Again, another first full album but holy shit, these guys really found their sound with this one. The emo rock vibes throughout while still having each track have its own flair. Incredible. And the vocals! Play this album at my funeral. Bury me with it.

CRAZY - LE SSERAFIM

Choosing between this one and EASY was tough but I chose CRAZY because the b sides just hit more somehow. Even the intro track setting the vibe for the entire EP, this one has such a hype factor. I loved it. 

Fe304: BREAK - NMIXX

This one blew me away. I love these girls, I love their music, but there’s always at least one or two b sides I don’t vibe with. But this one, no skips. They hit this shit outta the park, for real. I could listen to this album all day. 

Top 6 Solo Albums/EPs

rosie - Rosé

My girl. She’s finally here. Her artistry has always been incredible to me and it shows in this album. It feels like she was finally let free and poured her everything into it. I adore her and her music. This album was beyond fantastic. 

Sir.Robert - Bobby

His first album since Lucky Man and what a follow up. All the songs are bangers and bops. Everyone knows Bobby for his hard rap tracks, but this album includes so many of his softer tracks and it’s a vibe I love to see from him. 

NA - Nayeon

I can’t believe how good this album is but also I can because it’s Nayeon. What a queen, what it girl energy. Her last one was good but this one, never skip. Every song is a 10/10 and I could listen to it forever. I love it so much, I even bought it, and I don’t own a single Twice album. 

TEN - Ten

This album proves that when you set this man free, he makes magic because god damn. Every song is a bop and each one makes you wanna move, as to be expected from a dancer. Since it seems like WayV has had more releases this year, I hope we get more Ten solos as well. 

Fake Happy - Seori

A short little EP but a good one. As always, her voice is so calming and honestly I love anything she releases. But this one has some great relatable messages throughout it, in both the title and b sides. It’s one of the things I love most about her music.

Element - BM

Congrats to BM and his first EP! And what a banger EP it is. This man will always be in his fuckboy era and maybe that’s where he’s meant to be because he’s good at this vibe. What a freak (affectionate).

Top 6 Hip-hop/R&B Albums/Singles

dopamine - Junny

I love when my boy Junny releases an album. There’s a whiff of fuckboy energy in this one but it’s played off with enough rizz that it suits him super well. His voice will always bring my joy and happiness. We love a Canadian. 

Yours Truly - Camo

My girl, my angel, my queen. An album release is always a blessing. There’s a lot more R&B vibes this time around and I love it. There’s not much to say - I love her and her voice and her artistry. 10/10.

16 Fantasy - Lee Young Ji

I think this is her first EP? Which is crazy. I feel like she’s been killing it for years, and this project is no exception. It’s so unequivocally her. I first saw her like four years ago on the Good Girl program and to see how far she’s come, it’s really amazing.

3:33 - Dean & FKJ

Dean giving us one single project every year but you know what? I’ll take it. I adore this one. It’s everything I want out of a track from him, and it’s only two tracks. The piano, his vocals, and a slight chill beat. Bless.

SPOT! - Zico & Jennie

An insane collab but also another Zico bop. Like if Zico made it, it’s gonna bang. Put Jennie on the feature, it’s a certified classic. Their chemistry is incredible and it seemed like they had fun doing it too. So I have fun listening to it. 

Domino - SAAY

This one came out of nowhere for me but my god, is it beautiful. Her voice is phenomenal and the track itself is dark and bass-y, really contrasting her lighter tone. But girlie also has range. I would love more like this from her. 

Top 6(+1) Girl Group Titles

Mr. Vampire - ITZY

This was my top song on Spotify and YouTube Wrapped this year, and rightfully so. When this song dropped, I was obsessed with it. Honestly, I’m still obsessed with it. That silly flute sound and the playful vibes. AND I got to see it live this year. It had to go on the list, for sure. 

EASY - LE SSERAFIM

You know me, I love a song that makes me feel like a bad bitch. But Easy is that subtle bad bitch vibe that makes you feel like you could take on the world by barely lifting a finger. Hence the title. Also the choreo slaps. They murdered it with this one. 

Heya - IVE

THIS SONG. As soon as I heard it, I said SOTY. When that bridge moved into Yujin’s high note and then the final chorus drops, it’s like a dopamine shot to my brain. Inject this song into my veins, seriously. 

Whiplash - aespa

Another subtle bad bitch for me. Runway energy. Also the styling for this era was incredible. Honestly, the concept elevates the track for me a lot. This era also made me realize I bias Giselle. So it’s a good one for sure. 

Cosmic - Red Velvet

It’s a Red Velvet song, what can I say really? Cosmic does feel special though. Wendy’s final high note that moves into the chorus really make me feel like I’m flying. And it has that overall retro vibe. It’s such a beautifully made song. 

Howling - XG

One thing XG is good at is mixing hard rap with beautiful melodies and this is THAT song. The raps are fantastic but it’s really those melodies in the pre chorus and chorus that pulled me in. Also a new entry for the K-pop cat/dog scale. 

Super Lady - (G)I-DLE

I added this one as my plus one pick because A) bad bitch energy, and B) I honestly think this was (G)I-DLE’s best era. A full album era will always hit harder and this is no exception. Super Lady is their Beyoncé era.

Top 6 Boy Group Titles

Walkin’ On Water - Stray Kids

Hip-hop is Stray Kids and Stray Kids is hip-hop. It’s one of the genres SKZ does best, aside from their own of course. And I love when they talk their shit. “When you’re sinking, I’m fishing”? “Say hello to Nemo ‘cause I can’t see”? Insane. 

Ice On My Teeth - ATEEZ

If you know me, you know I love a classical piece on a hip-hop track. The blend of classical and hip-hop is quite literally perfect on this one. The concept itself is amazing too. ATEEZ can master any vibe but this one suits them incredibly well. 

Deja Vu - TXT

It’s true what they say - any song called Deja Vu is gonna be a bop. This is another song for me where the melodies carry. The song itself is just so well made, and the rock style break down for the dance break is amazing. 

Sad Song - P1Harmony

Piwon only makes bops, I swear. How can they make me dance to a song about being sad? The first comeback after I saw them live and it makes me wish this song had come out before their tour. I love it so much.

Nallina - NEXZ

A new boy group, and they’ll appear later as well, but this song really surprised me. It’s very laid back but upbeat and fun. It’s hard for me to get into new groups most times but these guys make some fun music and their choreography is always stellar. 

Giant - Stray Kids

Another SKZ entry. I have many reasons to include it; 1) it’s a good song, 2) they’re talking their shit again, 3) it came out right after HYBE called them short, 4) Han’s silly sneeze rap, 5) “do ra me fa, king giant”. Do I need to say more?

Top 6 Solo Titles

Shopper - IU

This song is so incredible, and it is heightened by the music video a bit. It feels like an experience. And as a girlie who loves retail therapy, the song itself kind of speaks to me. AND it’s an IU song. Can’t go wrong. 

Like A Flower - Irene

The vibe of this song is immaculate. We love an afro beats dance-y type track. The concept of comparing one’s self to a flower has always been my favourite too. As a solo debut, I wasn’t expecting this for her but it suits her so well. 

LURE - I.M

The only music Monsta X related music release this year, and it was a great one. The laid back R&B vibe suits his voice so well, so this vibe wasn’t surprising but it was appreciated. The lyrics are also kinda wild but that’s what I love about him.

Freak - Yuqi

Another one that’s heightened a bit by the music video. We love a “it’s okay to be weird” kind of message in a song too. When it comes to solos, Yuqi really knows her sound and what works for her. 

Letter To Myself - Taeyeon

This song felt very uplifting and hopeful, which is a feeling I’m needing going into the new year. What else can I really say about this? It’s a Taeyeon song so of course it’s high quality. I really love the more down to earth vibe she’s been going with lately. 

Mona Lisa - Soojin

I think this song was fantastic for her. The sound was perfect and it made it possible for her dancing to be showcased more than her debut. Just my opinion but this one felt so much more her and I hope she releases more in the new year. 

SPECIAL: Band Comeback Mentions

DAY6 - Fourever & Bandaid

What can I say? Day6 came back from the military and killed it this year. Like objectively, they had multiple hit songs over their two albums and it’s so deserved. Personal favourites: Welcome to the Show, Happy, Get The Hell Out, Sad Ending from the Forever album, and Melt Down, Monster, I’m Fine from the Bandaid album.

ONEWE - OFF ROAD

They did have their EP earlier in the year, but I really loved this single album. Off Road is a great summer title coming out at the tail end of summer, but the two b sides on it were also super top tier to me. I think it came out at the perfect time too. Just enjoyable all around. 

Rolling Quartz - Victory & RE:BOLD

One album and a single this year, and I believe they keep getting better. I liked Victory as an album but the RE:BOLD single is probably their best song to date for me. Something about it really showcases that energy I love from them but in a new way. It’s hard to explain but I really love it. 

Xdinary Heroes - LIVE and FALL

Insane releases this year. I already included their full album above, but I have to mention this one. Similar to their Day6 seniors, they decided to do a single every month, just for about four months, before releasing them all with some b sides on an EP, and every song CRUSHED. So many different genres explored and they mastered all of them. Personal favourites: Save Me, Boy Comics, Feeling Nice, and Love and Fear.

Dragon Pony - Pop Up 

A new k-band that surprised me a lot. The quality of their music is a lot higher than I expected from a new band. I know nothing about them other than that I am excited to hear what they do next. Personal favourites: Pop Up, Traffic Jam, and Ouroboros.

Top 6(+1) Boy Group B Sides

I Like It - Stray Kids

I like it. What can I say? I know there was the big thing about how it’s a situationship and whoa crazy, but like it’s just objectively a good song. It’s playful, it’s cute, it’s fun, I like the switch up when the instrumental kinda goes dark. It’s good. 

Shaboom - ATEEZ

Reggaeton? In my K-pop?? I adore this song. It’s so unique and I’ve never heard anything like it in K-pop. I love ATEEZ for trying new genres like this because I think this in particular suits them super well. 

Late Night Calls - P1Harmony

I’m still bitter they didn’t do this one on tour. It’s one of those fun dance-y tracks but not like big dance, more like groove. Does that makes sense? It makes me happy. It makes me wanna move. It’s easily a favourite from them. 

Bounce Back - Stray Kids

I love when SKZ talks their shit. And I love when Han talks his shit. We love a Han track. Seriously though, this song feels good. Like I could run through a wall. And the whistle motif feels super nice in my ears. It’s a good diss track. 

Higher Than Heaven - TXT

This song feels like serotonin. It makes me happy for some reason. I love the chorus when they go higher when they say “high”. It feels cathartic almost? I dunno. It’s hard to explain but it’s definitely a favourite. 

Feeling Nice - Xdinary Heroes

This song is dopamine. I’m obsessed. Something about the bass line tickles my brain in the right way. Inject it into my veins. It’s probably their best song to date, and it’s a b side. That’s insane. 

Falling Up - Stray Kids

Now I’m just being self indulgent but it’s my list so fuck you. I love this song. It’s definitely OST coded, because it’s an OST, but it stands so well as a SKZ song as well. I adore the vocals in it, I love the guitar through the instrumental. It’s just lovely.

Top 6(+1) Girl Group B Sides

Love Is Lonely - NMIXX

This song is beautiful. NMIXX is incredibly strong in some many areas, but most people talk about their performance and dancing. But I’d argue that their vocals are just as strong, if not stronger. And this song showcases that beautifully. 

Sunflower - Red Velvet

Just another serotonin song. It’s upbeat, it’s fun and playful. I love the energy it gives me. And the fact that it’s called Sunflower makes it even better, iykyk. The chorus is my favourite part, the way they’re like calling out together. It makes the build up feel so gratifying. 

Flight, Not Feelings - aespa

WOW, this song. When I first heard it, I was confused. Like I didn’t understand the beat, but a couple listens later and I knew it was my favourite on the album. I love boom bap, combined with their lovely vocals. It’s fantastic. 

Bad Girls R Us - ITZY

It’s cheeky, it’s playful. I love when the guitar comes in. The genre bending it does is super fun to listen to. I think ITZY always does this type of vibe super well. Their strong songs are good, but these fun melodic b sides are always their best to me. 

Right now - NewJeans

I love a drum and bass track. It’s literally my favourite genre of music. NewJeans does this vibe super well. Their light vocals float over the fast beat and it’s like perfection to me. Am I being dramatic? Oh well. I love this song. 

Vision - (G)I-DLE

More drum and bass. What can I say? This was an early favourite in the year, no contest. I love the style of the instrumental obviously, but my favourite part is during the chorus when the girls are using a light higher vocal, you can hear a lower mumbled vocal underneath it just slightly and I think that adds a lot.  

Smart - LE SSERAFIM

Phenomenal. The only downside to this song is that it wasn’t released in the summer. But it was definitely played in the summer. It’s a song that gets you moving, even if you don’t know how to move. Catch me shaking ass in the kitchen to this. 

Top 6 Hip-Hop/R&B B Sides

Here We Go Again - Junny

Junny was really in his bag with this one. The instrumental is really fun and groovy, and it really lets his voice float over the top. I absolutely adore his lower tones in particular. It’s just an all around good song. 

Wings - Camo

Like I mentioned above, this album was phenomenal. This song in particular is one of my favs - another drum and bass type beat. Her laid back rap over the kind of fantastical instrumental is just too lovely for me to ignore. 

Kiss Me Now - Mirani

Something about the melody on this one. It’s so infectious and playful. The beat is bouncy. It’s just a genuinely fun song. I love when she’s does more sing-songy rap as well. I think it suits her style super well. 

Sugar Rush - BIBI

This song is so damn fun. It’s an ass shaker. The lyrics are so good - one of my favs: “I don’t need a man for no dessert / I got popsicles in my freezer”. Girlie’s always got the best concepts, the best messages. And she gives me the bad bitch feeling I need to survive.

EGO - Camo

It’s the instrumental on this one. It’s pretty minimal all things considered but I like the vibe. It’s slow and smooth. I have a chill vibes playlist and this song would definitely go on it. Actually, it probably already is.

figure8 - Junny

This song feels safe. Does that makes sense? It’s the acoustic vibe, his voice, the lyrics. Everything about it feels like a hug on a cold winter day. You’re standing the the snow with your boo and you’re huddled together to keep warm while you wait for the bus. It’s lovely. 

Top 6 Solo B Sides

Embers - BM

I adore this song so much. I love that he’s singing! We don’t get singing BM too often but I love it. This song showcases that a lot. It’s slow but groovy, and it’s still thotty like the rest of his album but it’s somehow sweeter than the rest. 

drinks or coffee - Rosé

I’ll die if I don’t listen to this song at least once a day. Once again, a groovy song, a song that makes me wanna dance, that makes me want to fall in love at a bad party. Most of the songs on her album are a bit sad and slow, but this one is such a vibe. 

Ups & Downs - Taeyong

I was pretty shocked when I heard this because I’m used to Taeyong from NCT. Which is good, I like him. But this song is so much more chill that what I’d heard in the past and I really enjoy it. I found it getting stuck in my head at random times. 

Vermillion - Wendy

I liked a lot of b sides from her album but I found myself always coming back to this one. I mean, we all know she’s a phenomenal singer but paired with this kind of grand instrumental really caught my attention. 

Lie With You - Ten

We love yearning. I feel it in my bones with this song. The upbeat instrumental but sad lyrics about loving someone you aren’t allowed to openly love. Star crossed lovers kinda track. I adore it. 

Butterflies - Nayeon

Queen Nayeon, she can’t make a bad song. It was hard to just pick one from her album. It's cute, it’s fun. And she raps on this one! Which I love to see her playing all the parts on her solo pieces. Not much else to say, it’s just really good. 

Top 6(+1) Collab Tracks

harmless - Bobby (feat. Chanmina)

They did this collaboration for ME SPECIFICALLY. When I heard this was dropping, I’m pretty sure I screamed. I love them both so much and their energies together is electric. Two idgaf rappers, it’s a collaboration made in heaven. 

SICKUHH - NMIXX (feat. Kid Milli)

This was so unexpected but so appreciated. We know I adore NMIXX, and I’ve been listening to Kid Milli on and off for a couple years at this point. I think the girls killed the rap track and his feature added that extra spice. Plus it’s a Dem Joints beat. 

Come Back To Me - Kang Daniel (feat. Chungha)

I love their voices together. End of sentence. It’s a collab that I never knew I needed. I think it’s the perfect track for them both to be on. It’s super minimal to let their voices shine. It’s perfect. 

Butterflies - Camo (feat. pH-1)

Wow, Camo on the list again? And with pH-1 this time?? An obvious pick. I love both of these artists so much and their vibes match each other so well on a chill but bouncy track like this one. 

Fraksiya - Mark Lee (feat. Lee Young Ji)

Mark Lee doing a for real diss track, and not against himself this time. And with Miss Young Ji?? Oh my goodness. He said with no rest time! He knows! It’s too good. Their chemistry is fire. I don’t need to spell it out for you. 

Rush - Junny (feat. Bobby)

Junny again, but with Bobby this time, hello. Another unexpected collab but I’m never gonna complain when two of my favs get together and absolutely destroy a track. This one is laid back and a lil sexy tbh, and they both sound awesome on this one. 

DND - Young Posse (feat. BM of KARD)

I love this one, mostly because BM making and hopping on the track with his lil sisters is cute af. But also this song is just really pretty. The girls have super lovely voices for being advertised as a rap group, and BM’s feature adds a nice little flair. It’s fun. 

Top 6(+1) Singles

Only One - VCHA

I feel sad considering everything that’s in the news surrounding these girls. This song released and I felt like it was their best so far. I’m very heartbroken to hear how they were treated, what they went through, and I hope they get justice.

Sticky - Kiss Of Life

Song of the summer, easy. These girls are so damn talented and I love that they’re bringing grown women sexy back into K-pop, reminiscent of Sistar and older Mamamoo. It’s so fun and we need more iconic summer bops like this. 

distraction - AleXa

I kind of hate that the reason I love this song is because I relate to it 100%. These lyrics are almost word for word what I wish I could’ve told myself when I was in my previous relationship. I wish I had this song back then. Shit. 

Ride the Vibe - NEXZ

This is the song that made me go, “oh these guys have a good vibe”. I love the chill start and then switch in the drum and bass style. I will admit that it did confuse me at first but I quickly started to love it and I’m still obsessed. 

Wait - Hyolyn

Song of the summer part 2. From the summer queen herself. And she got everyone shaking their asses with this one. I love it. It makes me wanna sit on a beach with a refreshing drink and just soak in the summer vibes. 

Done - naevis

The debut of the first fully computer generated idol. The music video really blew me away - technology is wild, like how is she not real? You’re telling me the girl on the screen isn’t real?? But I’m also fascinated by the fact that her voice is an amalgamation of all the aespa girls’ voices. It’s all very interesting to me. 

Diamond - TRI.BE

More tears from me on this one. The lyrics made me cry a lil bit. It’s a very sweet message, uplifting and nice to hear on a bad day. The instrumental is upbeat and fun - sticking to their overall vibe - but with a message that’s so wholesome, it could warm the darkest heart. 

SPECIAL: Rookie Mentions

Young Posse

These girls fascinate me. They’re a rap heavy group and all their mainline MVs are like purposefully not well done, but well done, green screen/VFX heavy videos that kind of rip off the style of old GTA games? Like how’d they come up with the concept for these girlies?? I’m so interested in them even though their titles aren’t really my style. I love their b sides, I love their vibes. I’m curious to see where they go. Notable songs are DND, Scars, and Skyline.

NEXZ

They’ve appeared on this list a couple times already. I enjoy them a lot - their songs are good, they’re very good dancers, fun to watch. I think they’re likely going to go far being under JYP to a certain extent. But they also clearly have so much talent already that I’m excited to see what else they come out with. Notable songs are Ride The Vibe, Nallina, and Hard.

BADVILLAIN

I was so surprised to hear that Emma was debuting in a group. I really loved her on SWF, she’s such a talented dancer. And the rest of her group are also incredibly talented. The songs got the bad bitch energy I love. Their debut was so solid. There’s not a single song by them that I don’t like. I’m so excited to watch their journey. Notable songs are Yah-ho, Hurricane, and +82.

82MAJOR

Now I haven’t listened to them much but I was drawn in by the fact that P1Harmony Keeho’s little brother is in this group. Their songs are fun, really unique in certain ways. They’re great dancers. I’ve liked what I’ve seen so far and I’m curious to see what else they do. Notable songs are First Class, Choke, and Stuck.

MEOVV

I think these girls are powerful. They are small, they are young, but they are powerful. They have a lot of talent - singing, rapping, dancing - and they’ve clearly trained for a while. I was super impressed by their debut. I think they’ll definitely go far. Being under the Black Label, I just hope they get consistent comebacks. Notable songs are Meow, Body, and Toxic (their only songs, lol).

Top 6(+1) MVs

Love Wins All - IU

I cried. Multiple times. For like a month. Every time I saw this video, I couldn’t help but cry by the end. Serious props to IU and V for their acting. I really felt like I was watching this tragic tale of two people who care for each other so much and want to be happy so bad, but death follows them no matter how much they run. The world building in a relatively short music video is impressive. They show you very quickly how everything works, why the characters are running, what their dreams are and how those dreams can never be possible. The story matches IU’s beautiful vocals so much. They weave together to paint this tragedy. And by the end, when the characters meet their end, you really feel for them. You feel their love for each other, whether it be romantic or platonic - I know some interpretations vary. It’s just so incredibly well put together from start to finish. The first masterpiece of the year for me. 

One Spark - Twice

I cried again. Shocking? Not really, hear me out. Even if you’re not a huge stan of Twice, you know their impact. Their journey. How special they are. And if you know K-pop, you know a lot of groups don’t make it as long as Twice has - 2025 will be their 10th year. So when this music video came out, it’s this triumphant call out that they’re still here, they’re still going, they’ve only just hit their golden days, and they don’t plan on stopping. These are women who truly love what they do, they love each other and what they’ve accomplished, and there’s no end in sight for them. And that’s plainly illustrated by the count-up on the elevator throughout the music video. Starting at their debut date, going up to 2024 - the music video’s release date - before changing to say “timeless”. Twice is timeless - an endless flame, an everlasting blast. They sparkle beautifully and will shine forever. And they won’t let you forget it. 

Armageddon - aespa

So I’ve talked about storytelling thus far in these music videos. Let’s talk about effects enhancing story. This music video, and this era even, was insane for aespa. They leaned into this dark horror concept, but still stuck to their roots with AI. And yes, that’s a sore subject when it comes to art and video. But this video is clearly an example of AI done right. The scenes in this music video aren’t AI generated, but AI assisted to achieve the vibe and feeling they want for their storytelling. The VFX team used AI tech to enhance the visual effects to create images that are creepy and off-putting almost. Which matches where their story is leading. If you know a bit about aespa lore, you know that at this point in their story, the computer/AI world and the real world are mixing when they shouldn’t be. And that creates these distorted images, faceless bodies, butterfly monsters and sirens. The use of VFX in this way is the reason the story feels chaotic and “is this the same story?”, but that’s the point. It’s a new era with new tech and it’s done beautifully. 

JJAM - Stray Kids

At first, this video doesn’t seem like anything special. It’s a silly music video for a b side off their main album of the year. So why is it here? Editing and cinematography. Every cut and camera move is motivated by the music and in a lot of cases, that’s what a music video should be. Yes, it’s telling a story. But the story would be diminished if the editing was off or the camera movements didn’t match. It makes the whole experience more satisfying to the eye, whether you realize it or not. During Changbin’s first verse, the cuts and push ins with the camera match his cadence. When Hyunjin is mopping the floor with slime, his movement stutters along with the instrumental. When the beat drops and the choreography starts in the chorus, they use speed ramps and light flashes during the bass drops to accentuate the movements, to make the impact feel bigger. It’s those little choice that really make the video feel just a bit spicier, you know? 

Howling - XG

I could’ve chose any of XG’s MVs to go here - Woke Up, IYKYK, Something Ain’t Right - because every XG MV is going to have insane VFX that are just mind blowing. But I decided on Howling because of how editing is utilized to compliment the song because I think it’s really well done. When I talked about this song above in the title track section, I mentioned that it’s got strong raps and beautiful melodies that blend perfectly, and they show that in the edits visually. Almost to the point where it could be too much for some. What I mean by that is, we start with a rap section - it goes Cocona, Jurin, Harvey, Maya. The editing increases in speed as we move through each member, Harvey’s section being the most chaotic (almost unwatchable), then starting to slow down again during Maya, before it’s slowed to hardly any cuts for the vocal members’ sections in the pre chorus, then picks up to a normal cutting speed for the choreography scenes in the chorus, and then speeding up again with Jurin when the rap comes back in. Rinse and repeat for that verse. It’s like a rollercoaster, and it matches the song beautifully, adding to its overall impact, and probably why this is my favourite song from them to date. 

Zombie - Everglow

Can you believe this was their only release this year? Illegal. Anyway, I love this video. It’s haunting, just like the song. The visual storytelling is fantastic. The unhinged laugh to start off. The all white room in white outfits and white hair. The lighting feels overbearing and bright, which is a huge contrast from the darkness of the song. The acting is fantastic as well - the obsessive nature over the phones which symbolizes this love they had that turned them into zombies - a super creative way to show this kind of toxic obsessive love. The wind blowing to symbolize the insanity, the unrest. The dial tone paralleling a flatline, phone cracks and bleeds, showing the death of this love. The stark white room being splattered in blood for the final chorus. But also the yandere aspect to the song itself saying, “you drove me crazy and you might think this love is dead but I’ll keep coming back for you like a zombie.” I think visually and thematically, everything is so cohesive and strong. What a phenomenal drop to be their only one of the year. 

Railway - Bang Chan (Stray Kids)

Now hear me out. Yes, he’s attractive. But aside from that, the quality of this music video is insane. And mind you, it’s a solo b side on a special album, not even a mainline album. My jaw hit the floor when I watched it for the first time, simply because it was so unexpected. All the solo MVs were great up to this point, but Chan’s exceeded all expectations. The colour grading is so gritty and fantastical - really like you’re being transported into this different world. The acting is insane - I knew he could act but I didn’t know it was that serious. Like get him in a k-drama asap. The way the sound effects blend so well with the track itself - it was like the music was made with the music video in mind for it to blend so seamlessly. The editing as a whole is so attention grabbing, captivating, chaotic and hungry - the moment you think you know what’s going on, it throws you for a loop. And that can be said for the story as well. I’ve loved to see how Stays are interpreting it online - Chan has a way of showcasing these struggles he has with his own mind, his own psyche, in a way you don’t expect. It was the same with Red Lights. Everyone thought this was a sexy toxic love song, and maybe it is, but maybe not in the way you first thought. My interpretation is that, like everyone, he has two sides to him - one side he considers bad, and another that tries to keep that side tied down, even if he’s maybe drawn to that “bad” side of himself. And sometimes the “bad” Chan escapes, reeking havoc, until he gets it under control again. And that’s the train that never sleeps. The unending ride that is his own psyche. It’s so relatable and fantastic. I am in awe at his creative genius every day. 

If you've read this far, thank you for your time! I'd love to hear what your favourites of the year were. Do we have similar choices? Are they completely different? Did I miss a song that you absolutely loved? Feel free to let me know! I'm always open to listening and talking about all music.

And that's the end of music in 2024. It's been a good one, seriously. Again, I definitely missed lots because there's just so much that comes out all the time. I feel incredibly lucky to live in a time where I can listen to so many incredible things and where the possibilities for music are endless. I can't wait to see what 2025 will bring! 💕

[moonselune]

Wyll and a druid + ranger multiclass tav for a drabble?? Tav is really good at swordfighting so maybe she's asking him for styles or they're sparring

Ooo Ooo Wyll is actually the type of man I need in my life but have absolutely no hopes of finding xoxoxox

ANYWAY

Hope you like this :)

----

The sun was setting, casting a warm glow over the camp as you tightened the straps on your gauntlets. You were a formidable fighter, drawing on your blend of druidic wisdom and ranger agility, but tonight you sought a different kind of challenge, growing tired of Karlach's brashness and Lae'zel's criticality. You watched Wyll, the formidable "Blade of Frontiers," sharpening his sword with practiced ease and a thought bloomed in your mind.

"Mind if I join you?" Your voice broke the quiet, a hint of mischief in your tone as you slowly walked towards him. You had always admired him, his bravery, his gentility, his politeness, but now you were looking for something a bit more intimate in him.

Wyll looked up, his eyes sparkling with interest. "Thinking of adding some flair to your fighting style, Y/N?"

You grinned, your fingers dancing over the hilt of her sword. "Something like that. I could use a few pointers from the legendary Blade of Frontiers."

Wyll stood, stretching his muscles with a fluid grace that had you subconsciously staring. "Alright then, let's see what you've got."

You took your stances, eyes locked in mutual challenge. The first clash of their blades echoed through the camp, a symphony of skill and strength. You moved with the fluidity of the forest, your strikes precise and swift. Wyll countered with a blend of elegance and power, each motion a testament to his training.

"Not bad," Wyll teased, parrying a particularly fierce strike. "But you're holding back."

You smirked, your eyes narrowing. "You'd know if I wasn't. You seem to enjoy watching me train"

You lunged, pushing him back with a flurry of strikes that had him on the defensive. It hadn't helped him that he had become flustered at your comment.

Wyll's smile grew as he recovered, a flicker of admiration in his gaze. "That's more like it." He pivoted, his blade dancing through the air as he countered your attack, their proximity closing with each movement.

As the duel intensified, the air between you seemed to crackle with a different kind of energy. Each clash of your swords brought you closer, breaths mingling, eyes locked in an unspoken understanding. Your heart raced, not just from the exertion but from the flush that began to overtake you, the animal within you going primal.

Wyll's next move brought him dangerously close to you, your faces inches apart. "You fight well, Y/N," he murmured, his voice low and intimate.

"Likewise," You replied, her voice barely above a whisper. You could feel the heat of his breath, the intensity in his gaze.

Your swords crossed again, but this time, instead of pulling away, you let the momentum bring you even closer. Wyll's hand found your waist, steadying you as he paused, the world narrowing to just the two of them.

"Careful, Wyll," You said softly, her lips curving into a playful smile. "You might make me think you like this."

Wyll chuckled, his grip tightening slightly. "And if I do?"

Their swords lowered, forgotten for the moment as you leaned in, you eyes flickering to his lips. "Then you'd better be ready to prove it."

With a boldness that matched your fighting spirit, you closed the distance, your lips brushing against Wyll's in a desperate kiss. For a moment, the duel was forgotten, replaced by pure desire.

When you finally pulled back, breathless and flushed, Wyll's grin was wider than ever. "Consider me challenged," he said, his voice husky.

You laughed softly, stepping back but not breaking their gaze. "Good. Because I'm not done with you yet, Blade of Frontiers."

[askroahmmythril]

RMN-001 - Vegas Man

Y'know, I guess I never really gave my original eight Robot Masters write-ups like I've done with the later ones, so may as well do that along with finally doing my own finalized renditions of them. So let's start with my first custom Robot Master, Vegas Man!

Designed as an entertainment robot, Vegas Man operates a very glitzy casino. Truthfully, the place could be described as fairly gaudy, lots of gold trim, neon signs, flashing lights, but Vegas Man believes in making it super bright, flashy, and eye-catching. He was made with a bit of a western outlaw flair, in keeping with slot machines sometimes being called "one-armed bandits." He has a bit of a fascination with luck and fortune, and even though he could easily rig games in his favor, he refuses to do so, wanting to see what fortune has in store.

(Originally, I tended to envision him having a Cajun style accent in the vein of 90's X-Men cartoon Gambit, but I'm torn now between that or a smooth southwestern drawl to go more with his overall looks.)

His weapon is the Casino Shield. It summons four ace cards to spin around the user. Damage can destroy the cards one at a time. Hitting the fire button again makes any remaining cards shoot outwards. If a card hits an enemy, it explodes into a flurry of cards of that suit, causing a small "area of effect" damage field there for a short moment.

[zaiixoxoo]

A WOMAN’S PRIZE

Parings: RosaliexFemReader Dom!Rosalie Sub!Reader SingerxFemReader

Contains: !Fluff, 18+, a lil smut, Angst, Violence, tw! mention of blood etc.

Summary: Rosalie Otterbourne was a famous singer in the 1940s, known for her sultry and sensual style, performing at the world-renowned Club Calloway's. She quickly became the talk of the town, praised for her beautiful singing, sultry voice, and mesmerizing presence. In her spare time between performances, she was often found indulging in luxury and enjoying the attention and company of her many admirers. As a woman of the 1940s, Rosalie had to keep her sexuality hidden and keep up a persona of the typical Hollywood starlet: glamorous and attracted to men. Despite her true feelings, she put on a good show for the public, acting the parts of the flirtatious, seductive actress or the charming sweetheart. She was secretly gay, and often felt frustrated by having to act the part of a submissive woman in need of a man to protect her and provide for her, despite being fiercely independent and strong-willed. However, she secretly yearned for a woman who could love and appreciate her for herself, someone who would accept her for being lesbian rather than the fake heterosexual persona she had to play. She often felt trapped and frustrated by the expectations of the 1940s society, and would often find herself secretly pining for the affection of women in the shadows, hiding her true feelings from the publicity.

February 14th, 1943. 8PM, at Club Calloway, Hollywood.

The lights in the Club Calloway dimmed slightly as the sounds of the band began to slowly fade and the bright lights on stage now focused directly on Rosalie. Rosalie stood at the center of the stage, the spotlight washing over her as she adjusted the microphone, taking her place. She closed her eyes and took a breath, before her lips curled upward into her signature smirk that she always had on stage.

The band started playing again, a smooth and sultry jazz tune that accompanied Rosalie's iconic husky voice. She sang with the band, every note hitting just right, her voice carrying throughout the club with her signature flair and sexiness.

As the chorus came around again, Rosalie's voice grew louder, her eyes now fixed on the audience, her smirk growing into a smile as she sang the lyrics, watching the audience. As she sang,"Put your head on my shoulder," she gently touched her hand to her shoulder, her smirk turning into a small grin as she continued.

Rosalie continued, her voice once again softer as she sang the first part of the chorus, her hand still gently touching her shoulder. She would sway her hips slightly to the music once again, her eyes still fixed on the audience, a smirk on her face.

"Freak like me….You want a good girl that does bad things...You've never been with no one as nasty as me...'"

Her voice was husky and seductive, her eyes still roaming around the club, her gaze occasionally landing on the patrons, her smirk growing as she looked at some of them.

As she continued to sing and the next lyrics came around, her smirk grew wider again, her hips moving a little more sensually along with the beat. She would look into the faces of the men as she sang, a mischievous glint in her eyes. Her voice was still low and husky as she sang the lyrics to them.

"Spice up your life, come get a freak. Tied her down to my queen bed…. Tease her just enough to hate me….”

She continued to sing, her voice growing husky as she continued, her hips moving more with the music, swaying and rolling with the beat of the song. Her eyes continued to wander, still studying the different patrons of the club as she continued to sing.

As she sang, she would occasionally let her eyes linger on one of the women in the club, letting her eyes wander over her body. She would keep her gaze on them for a moment before she continued to sing, her smirk growing at the idea of taking one of them home with her. Her voice was still husky and sensual as she sang the next line.

Rosalie's eyes lingered on the attractive women in the club, her gaze holding them in her sights. She would give them a small, charming smirk as she watched them, her eyes roaming over their bodies.

She would let her gaze travel up and down them, watching the way they squirmed and tried to avoid her staring. Her eyes held a hint of a challenge in them, a silent question of who would look away first, who would be the prey.

She continued to watch them, her gaze never leaving them, her smirk growing at the sight of their squirms. Her eyes were still fixed on them, studying their every move and reaction, the way they shifted their eyes to avoid hers, the way their cheeks would lightly dust pink in embarrassment, the way their shoulders would pull inward. Rosalie loved watching them squirm, loving the way they tried to avoid her watching eye, making them her silent prey.

Rosalie's eyes stayed fixed on one of the women, her smirk still on her face as she sang the next part of the lyric, her eyes holding a challenge as she sang, a silent demand to keep the woman's attention on her.

"Tied it tight enough she can’t break free..."

She continued to watch the woman, making sure that she was looking back at her, that she wasn't just staring off into space or at her drink.

She continued to stare at her, letting her eyes slowly and sensually travel over her body, still keeping her smirk as she sang, watching the other woman's reaction. She would shift her gaze to the other women in the club, her attention switching to them as well. Her eyes would roam over their bodies, watching for the same reactions, noticing how some of them would look in fear, while others would get flustered.

Rosalie's eyes would occasionally move to the men around the club, noticing how many of them had dirty looks and jealous facial expressions directed at her. She would let out a small scoff, her eyes rolling in annoyance as she saw them, realizing that they were upset because she had spent the last ten minutes singing for the women around her, barely giving the men even a fraction of the attention that she was giving the women.

She would ignore them, not wanting to get roped into their drama, instead she decided to focus all of her attention onto singing and performing. She put on a show for the women, letting her eyes roam over them, her smile widening at the attention she held from them, ignoring the jealous looks from the men staring at her.

As Rosalie continued to scan over the women in the audience, her eyes suddenly locked onto one specifically, her smirk growing a little, her eyebrows raising slightly. As her eyes landed on you, she was immediately captivated by your appearance. Her eyes slowly trailed over your body, her smirk growing into a small smile as she watched you.

She bit her bottom lip, letting her eyes rake over your figure, her chest starting to feel warm as she watched you, the sound of her heartbeat now pounding in her ears.

You were the most beautiful woman she’d ever seen…

Your figure was one to be absolutely envious of. You were of a shorter stature, but your curves were absolutely incredible. Your body was thick, your thighs and ass so round and plushy. Your hair was in beautiful finger wave style, your hair falling in lovely waves around your face. Your lips were so plump and red, with such a sensual shade to them, accentuating your beauty in an incredible way.

Your outfit was stunning as well, the baby blue of your top complimenting your gorgeous skin, showing off the swell of your breasts and your pretty face perfectly. You had on high waisted black pants, the wide legs showing off your curves in a stunning, and sensual way. The heels you had on just added to the outfit as well, making your legs and ass look absolutely delicious.

Rosalie swallowed hard as she watched you, her eyes not leaving you for a moment. She could feel her body warming, her heart starting to beat quicker, her blood running hot as she watched you, her cheeks lightly growing pink.

She continued to scan over you, her eyes seemingly glued to you, not wanting to look away. Her eyes took in every last detail of your appearance, and she felt as if her mind was slowly starting to empty while she stared at you, her smirk growing wider as her tongue ran along her top teeth, biting at her tongue, her eyes not leaving you for even a second.

As your eyes locked with hers, Rosalie felt her breath hitch slightly, the sound of the music seeming to drown out, her heartbeat pounding in her ears. She had to fight to keep singing, not wanting to suddenly stop mid sentence just to stare at you, the feeling of your gaze holding her so tightly, holding her completely captive.

Her eyes continued to hold yours, trying helplessly to look away, but she simply couldnt. She continued to sing, her smirk growing wider as she stared into your eyes, her body growing warm as you held her captive in your gaze. Suddenly the other women were not a concern for Rosalie, her eyes fixed on you, watching your every move, her voice husky as she sang.

After Rosalie finished her song, the applause and cheers of the crowd were barely heard to her, her heartbeat still thumping loud in her ears, a thin layer of sweat forming on her brow. Her breath was slow, but shaky, and she gently ran her fingers through her hair. She finally broke her gaze away from you and looked down, her hand gently pressing against her chest to feel her rapidly beating heart as she tried to catch her breath.

Rosalie swallowed hard, her breath slowly evening out again, her heartbeat still racing in her chest, but at a more normal pace now. She looked back to the crowd and gave a small, gentle bow of her head, before she was ushered off the stage by one of the club's assistants. She was led off stage, and into the backroom of the club, her thoughts still fully absorbed with you.

"That was a great finish, Miss Otterbourne," Marylyn said with a smile as she led Rosalie off stage. Rosalie smiled back, but it was weak, her thoughts still filled with the thought of your appearance.

"Thank ya, Marylyn…hey, who was that other woman out there? The one in the blue dress shirt?" Rosalie asked, her voice a bit absent as she spoke, her thoughts distracted.

"Hm? In the blue dress?" Marylyn said, raising an eyebrow at Rosalie, before she let out a soft chuckle."I'm not sure. I don't exactly memorize the faces of every single woman who walks through that front door, Miss Otterbourne. Why?"

Rosalie paused for a moment, her face flushing slightly as she let out a small, flustered chuckle. "Ah- Uh, no reason suga’…I just noticed her, so I was just curious."

She tried to shrug the question off, but her distraction was still clear on her face, her eyes still focused on the thought of you. She bit her bottom lip, still seeing your figure in her mind's eye.

Marylyn raised an eyebrow at her, letting out a soft chuckle at Rosalie's flustered behavior, amused at seeing her friend and boss acting this way, her curiosity piqued. She crossed her arms over her chest and raised her eyebrow slightly.

"You seem awfully curious bout’ her, Miss Otterbourne…Why? She catch ya eye?"

Rosalie snapped to attention again, her eyes moving to look at Marylyn, still flustered, but now her cheeks a bright red. Her eyes went wide as she stared at Marylyn, her hand flying up to her face. She opened her mouth for a second, before letting out a soft cough, her eyes turning to the floor, and then back up to look at her assistant, the words finally coming out.

"Mhm…she's the most- Most beautiful finest woman I eva’ seen…"

Rosalie's voice was a little shaky at her words, her face still a bright red, her cheeks warm. Her eyes stayed fixed on Marylyn, but her mind was still distracted, her eyes darting away for a moment before turning back to Marylyn again, her cheeks still scarlet and her voice still a little shaky as she spoke.

"I-I just… I ain’t neva’ seen a more beautiful woman than her…she- she's just…stunning…"

Rosalie stumbled over her words a little as she spoke, her assistant now staring at her in surprise, her eyebrows raised at Rosalie's sudden admission, her voice now a bit quieter after confessing. She swallowed hard and let out a soft, flustered chuckle, her eyes now looking away again as she rubbed the back of her neck, continuing to speak, her voice shakier now.

"I-I just couldn't keep my eyes off of her…she's absolutely jaw droppin’…”

She ran her hand down her face with a soft sigh, shaking her head to clear her mind, her cheeks growing warmer again as her eyes moved back to Marylyn. She swallowed again, her voice still a bit shaky as she continued.

"I-I've never felt anything like this before…my chest was so warm, my heart was poundin’…she's so incredibly, undeniably, beautiful…"

Marylyn's eyes widened, her expression going from shocked to surprised to amused, raising her eyebrows. Her mouth opened a bit, but no sound came out, before her face turned into a mischievous smirk, her lips curling upward playfully at her friend's behavior, her eyes studying hers before she began to speak.

"You look like you in love, Miss Otterbourne…I can tell you's in love…"

Meanwhile, you were at your friend's bar where she works, sipping at a drink as you talked to her, the lights of the bar dim, while a jazz song played in the background, almost drowned out by the sound of people talking and enjoying themselves. Your eyes were fixed on the stage, while your mind was still filled with Rosalie's performance, her husky voice and sensuality still playing over and over again in your mind.

You were currently drinking a fruity cocktail, the sweet taste of the mix of alcohols filling your mouth as you spoke to your friend. Your mind was still focused on Rosalie, your heart racing as you spoke about her.

"She's absolutely incredible, Addy…she's so talented…"

You continued to look at the stage, picturing Rosalie in your mind, remembering her performance, every note, every syllable, every sexy hip roll, and every smirk that she shot directly to her audience. You swallowed hard, feeling the warmth in your chest start to rise, your cheeks heating up again as you remembered the way her husky voice, her hungry eyes…

You continued to watch as the empty stage was being re-setup, trying to calm down from the thoughts of Rosalie's performance, her voice now echoing through your mind. Your cheeks were still warm, and your heart was still racing, your head swimming as you spoke to your friend, Addy, her eyes fixed on you.

"She's so…so beautiful…”

Addy let out a small, amused chuckle at your words. Her head tilted slightly as she looked at you through the corner of her eye.

"Of course, she is. You've barely taken your eyes off her the entire show, and since it ended, too."

She smiled teasingly, crossing her arms over her chest as she studied your appearance.

Addy raised an eyebrow, her eyes slowly studying your face, the corners of her mouth twitching upwards as she bit her lip to keep from grinning.

"Do you…happen to be interested, Y/N? You've been absolutely mesmerized by her the whole time, do you have a lil’ celebrity crush, maybe?"

Addy was your best friend for years now, and she knew you better than anyone else did. She would know by the look on your face when you had a crush on someone, and you knew she would see right through your actions, so there was no point in hiding it. Whenever you had a crush, you'd avoid eye contact with the person you were fond of, or you'd speak in a shy, quiet voice, and she always knew.

Addy was a petite girl, around 5'3. She had a beautiful golden brown complexion, and long black hair that stopped right above her waist. She had an oval shape facial structure, and her eyes were a dark chocolate brown, and usually held mischief or a teasing spark in them. She had dimples when she smiled, and her lips were full and rounded, often sporting a bold red lipstick.

She was one of those girls who knew how to keep her cool, always having a smart-ass attitude with a smirk on her face. She was quick witted and never hesitated to say her thoughts, especially around her friends.

Addy let out a soft chuckle again, her gaze staying on you, watching every small moment of your face, the way your eyes would shift to look back at the stage, and how your cheeks would go a little red.

"It's pretty obvious you like her, you know…you’re completely fixated on her, I can see it a mile away Babydoll.”

She smirked, a teasing glint in her eyes as she studied you, taking in your flustered face as you tried to hide your infatuation. Addy was always good at reading her close friends, and you were no exception. Her eyebrows raised as she continued, her smirk widening a little.

"You have it bad, don’tcha’ babydoll?"

You let out a small, flustered chuckle and shifted a little nervously on your stool in front of the bar, your cheeks reddening more as you looked away, trying to hide your face. You swallowed back your embarrassment and nodded your head, your words coming out in a soft southern drawl.

"I-I do, Addy…like real bad…"

Addy's smirk grew more after she heard you admit it, her eyes still studying you, loving to watch the way you grew even more flustered under her gaze. She held back a laugh as she continued to tease you, her eyebrow raised.

"You is down bad, babydoll…"

Just then, Rosalie walked out, her smile on her face as she waved to all her adoring fans and gave a few quick autographs to the paparazzi and fans. She was swarmed by so many people, her assistant following behind her, trying to keep the crowd from completely closing in on Rosalie.

She smiled as she stopped and signed autographs, her cheeks now slightly flushed at the attention, her ears ringing a little from all of the yelling and shouting from the crowd. Her smile was polite, and she acted charming, knowing she had to keep up appearances, both for the fans and the reporters.

She took a moment to stop and actually take some good pictures with a couple of the fans, her assistant coming and tugging on her elbow to let her know she needed to leave the club soon. She waved at the fans again and called out, her voice sounding a bit tired, but she was hiding it.

"Thank y'all!"

Rosalie's eyes suddenly landed on you, her heart skipping a beat as she saw you. Her smile grew, more genuine and her attention focused solely on you in that moment, no longer paying attention to the fans or reporters.

She stared at you for a moment, admiring how you looked, her eyes roving over you, appreciating every little detail of your appearance, trying to commit your appearance to her memory. The sound of her assistant nudging her snapped her out of her trance and she quickly came back to reality.

She turned back to her assistant with a small shake of her head before looking back at you, her smile back on her face. She bit her lip, her eyes focused on you and feeling her heart beginning to pound in her chest, a feeling of a warm fluttering in her chest as she watched you.

She quietly muttered to herself as she turned away, her voice quiet, but still sounding husky.

"Oh that fine woman got me all worked up…I need to figure out who she is…"

She followed her assistant away, her eyes looking back over her shoulder, watching you behind, her eyes fixed on your form, already falling for you.

As she exited the club, she looked back over her shoulder again at you, staring for a moment longer than she probably should have. She felt her heart start to pound harder in her chest as she watched you, her eyes fixed on you, her mind already making plans to figure out just who you were.

She slipped into her limo, the sound of the city muffled by the car's interior. She let out a breath, running a hand through her hair before leaning back in the seat, her mind still focused on you.

She bit her bottom lip, feeling her heart still thumping in her chest, her thoughts filled with you, her eyes still seeing your form in her mind. She took a breath to calm herself down, her face starting to grow hot again as the thoughts of you continued to plague her mind.

You watched the limo pull away, seeing Rosalie disappear into the back. You let out a soft breath and bit your lip, your heart still thudding in your chest, your own mind still full of thoughts of her. You swallowed back the fluttery feeling in your chest and shook your head, letting out a soft chuckle.

Your conversation with your friend continued, the sound of people talking getting drowned out as you talked. You could hear the soft sound of a jazz band playing in the background, but you could barely make out the words.

"I didn't just imagine that, right?" Addy questioned with a smirk, a knowing look in her eye.

She chuckled softly as she took a sip of her drink, shaking her head as she continued.

"That look was unmistakable. The way she was staring at you…no one looks at someone like that unless she's completely head over heels."

Addy paused to take another sip of her drink, watching your face, her smirk growing as she saw the blush rise to your cheeks again, a small, knowing chuckle leaving her lips.

"She was practically drooling! Look at ya, all blushin’ like a lil’ tomato!"

You let out an embarrassed chuckle, your cheeks going even redder as she teased you, her words hitting closer to home than you wanted to admit. You bit your lip, nervously looking away a little, your fingers drumming on the bar countertop.

"I-I dunno what you mean, Addy…she was just lookin' around. It was a coincidence or somethin'..."

Addy rolled her eyes at your words, a small chuckle escaping her, her smirk growing.

"Oh come on, you aren't that dense. She gave you the same look you get when you're all flustered bout’ ya favorite singer. There's no way she wasn't checkin' you out, girl.”

Addy let out a small scoff, shaking her head again, her eyebrow raised as she watched you get redder, your denial clear to her, but she wasn't letting up.

"And I saw you, sweety. You turned into a tomato the second she looked at you."

You let out an embarrassed little chuckle again, your lips curling up into a small smile as your cheeks grew even redder under her teasing. You tried to hide your blush, your eyes shifting away as you bit your lip, trying to hold back any reaction to her words.

"I…maybe she…did look a lil’ interested… Maybe she might find me attractive maybe?"

Addy’s smirk grew wider at your sheepishness, her voice growing a bit higher in her amusement of teasing you and your flustered state, her eyes her eyes still on you as she spoke.

“If I’m bein’ honest babydoll, she was eyeing you like you some candy! Her ass was practically drooling, and I bet she wanted a taste-“

Addy chuckled softly at her own words, watching your reaction again, her teasing only getting more intense as she teased you about Rosalie's obvious interest. Her eyebrow raised as she spoke, her smirk wider than ever as she studied you, her eyes fixed on your face.

"She wanted you, girl. No doubt in my mind that you’re on her mind right now."

Your cheeks got warmer the more she teased you, your mind still picturing Rosalie's gaze, her eyes roaming over your body. You could still feel the warm fluttering in your chest and your face was hot, but you tried to push the feeling away, playing it off.

"She- She was probably jus' checkin' me out... she wasn't...droolin', Addy! You must be seein' things!"

Addy watched your reaction, her eyes twinkling mischievously as her smirk grew, her idea forming in her head, already knowing what she was going to do in the coming days. She kept up her teasing to keep you distracted while she thought.

"Well, she definitely seemed like she wanted more than just to check ya out, Y/N…"

Addy chuckled softly to herself, her eyes still studying your face, her eyebrow raised as a smirk slowly grew on her lips. She bit her lip, a mischievous glint in her eyes as an idea formed in her mind. She continued to tease you, her voice having a hint of hidden intent to it.

"Or she'd be wantin' a date. With you. Like maybe a fancy restaurant…like the Velvet Rose? Her daddy used to own the place before he passed it on to her aunt Ms Michelle. She a nice lady too, and plus, Rosalie would be HAPPY to go wit’ ya on a date Sug’!"

Addy paused for a moment, a sly smirk on her face as she rested her elbows on the bar and held her chin with one hand, her eyes still on you, her lips curled up at the corners, her mind reeling with all of the possibilities.

"I'll bet she'd take you out for a nice dinner. She's a big name celeb, so she's got the money. I could see her takin' you on a fancy date. You'd like that, wouldn't you, Sugar?"

Your cheeks were still warm, and your heart was still racing as you tried to push away your feelings for Rosalie, her face still in your mind. Addy's teasing was starting to become a little overwhelming as she continued to prod and poke at you about your flustered, lovestruck state, teasing you about how Rosalie wanted you, and how you were completely smitten with her.

You let out a soft, embarrassed sigh, your cheeks warm as you tried to hide your face in your hands.

"Addy! C'mon, you've been teasin' me the entire time, and I’m bout to go home. It’s gettin’ late.

Addy watched you, her smirk finally fading at your embarrassed reaction, but she was still happy knowing that you'd fallen for Rosalie's beauty. She tilted her head, her eyebrow raised, her words a little softer now.

"You're still flushed! I ain’t seen you this flustered since high school! And over a famous singer, nonetheless. But anyways, I’ll see ya tomorrow suga’, have a great night!"

Addy chuckled softly, waving at you before she resumed serving drinks to the other patrons of the bar, a satisfied smirk on her lips. Her mind was still focused on Rosalie and you, already planning to talk to her tonight and get the two of you a date planned. She would be so smug about it, knowing that she helped make it happen.

Once everyone had left and Addy finally got the bar closed, she walked to the office, pulling out her phone and finding Rosalie's personal number. She knew she was probably not gonna pick up a call from a number that she didn't recognize, but it was worth a shot. Addy smirked, biting back a laugh.

She dialed the number, holding her phone up against her ear, her eyes glimmering with anticipation. Her mind was still racing with the possibilities of setting you up with Rosalie.

As the phone rang in Addy's ear, her heart was started to race from excitement and nerves, her anticipation growing the longer she waited. After a minute or so of ringing, the call picked up with a small click.

"Hello? Who this callin’ my number?"

Addy let out a small, surprised gasp, her heart starting to race, her nerves getting to her a little, but she kept herself composed, smirking as she heard Rosalie's voice on the other end. She cleared her throat quickly, replying.

"Hey! this Rosalie Otterbourne's number? I got a lil’ proposition for ya if you interested."

On the other end, Rosalie raised an eyebrow, curious and slightly confused by the question, but she kept her guard up, not wanting to get scammed or something.

"Who’s askin’ and what’s ya proposition? This betta’ not be no damn prank either."

Addy chuckled softly, shaking her head even though Rosalie couldn't see her. Her nerves were a little settled now, especially since it sounded like Rosalie was willing to listen to what she had to say.

"This ain't a prank, don’'chu worry about that darlin’. I’ve got somethin to offer you. It’s actually SOMEONE I think you'll be very, VERY interested in…darlin'~"

Rosalie's eyebrow raised a little more on the other end, her suspicions starting to lower a little at Addy's soft drawl, her curiosity starting to grow. She bit her lip, her mind going to all the different possibilities of what it could be. Her curiosity was piqued.

"Alright- Alright, I’m listenin’. Who this 'someone'? And please don’t say a man…"

Addy let out a small chuckle, a smirk spreading across her lips. She knew that Rosalie preferred women a little more than men, so she was happy to make that promise.

"Don't worry darlin', it ain't a man. Far from it, in fact…" She teased, her smirk still prominent in her voice.

"So…You saw a girl, a gorgeous girl, and she had dark skin, wavy red hair, with a buttoned down blue dress shirt and high waisted black pants, and heels?”

Rosalie's eyebrows raised higher and higher as Addy described you, her mind immediately going to you. She was getting very excited as she listened to that description, her eyes slightly widening as she continued to listen.

Addy chuckled, her smirk growing wider as she continued to talk. She knew she had Rosalie's attention, and she wanted to reel her in until she was on the hook completely.

"Yeah, honey. She is absolutely gorgeous…you wanna know the best part?"

Rosalie raised an eyebrow, her smirk growing as she listened, Rosalie’s curiosity evident. She leaned her elbow up against the counter, her lips curling into a small smirk, her mind running wild at the prospects, while her heart raced. Her voice was a little lower, filled with anticipation.

"Yeah? What's the best part?"

Addy smirked, her eyes glittering mischievously as she paused for dramatic effect, her words ringing in Rosalie's head.

"She had her eyes on YOU, darlin'. Y/N got a lil’ crush on ya Rosalie. She loves ya music, and she loves ya voice too! Shoulda’ seen the way she was swoonin over ya. Mhm, babygirl’s a lil’ squirmer for her favorite singa’.."

Rosalie didn't speak, and Addy could practically hear her heart hammering in her chest as Addy teased her and told the truth. Her mind went wild, her whole body heating up and her chest felt warm. Her eyes went wide and her breath felt a little short, all thoughts of work disappearing in a moment. She could feel herself beginning to fall fast and hard for you, and she couldn't stop it.

"…did you say favorite singer?"

Addy chuckled softly as she heard Rosalie's stunned reaction, her smirk only growing wider. She knew her plan was working as she continued, her voice practically dripping with satisfaction. That's right darlin...you're her favorite singa’, and the girl’s got it bad. So I was just wondering if I could set y’all two on a lil’ date at ya auntie’s restaurant. Y’know, Velvet Rose? I figured you’d like that as a start of y’all’s lil’ friendship to get to know each other. So, are ya down Ms Otterbourne?"

Rosalie took a moment to let the information sink in, her mind reeling as she heard it. Her cheeks burned as her face turned red, her heart beating even harder, her body even hotter, and her mind racing in circles. She could not believe it. It was all too good to be true, but she was already starting to buy into it. A huge smile formed on her face, her mouth curling up into a big smile, her eyes sparkling.

"I am more than down, suga’.~ Oh so, her name Y/N? Mhm.. what a beautiful name… for a fine ass beautiful woman.."

Addy smirked as Rosalie finally gave in, her heart warming up even more at Rosalie’s excitement. She let out a quiet chuckle as she heard the other woman's reaction to your name, adoring how she gushed at how your name was beautiful. She was feeling extremely smug right now, knowing that she was playing matchmaker for her two favorite people.

"Yeah, her name is Y/N, darlin’. And she is gorgeous. You'd betta’ be a real charmer with her, too. She's a sweet, lil’ softie. Go on and get ya self a sheet of paper and a pencil, cuz I’m bout’ to give ya her number and her address so tomorrow, she’d already be ready for you to come pick her up."

Rosalie did as she was told, her face still red and her heart still hammering in her chest, her whole body heated up as her mouth pulled into a smug grin. Her eyes were sparkling with excitement, and her mind still running wild. She snatched a notebook and pen, flipping it to an empty page, and grabbing a pencil.

"A-Alright, read her info out, Sug’. "

Addy smirked, her eyes glittering as she watched Rosalie scramble to get a notebook and pen, ready for her to receive your info. Her chest filled with warm fuzzy feelings just imagining tomorrow's date, knowing it would go extremely well. She knew Rosalie would sweep you off your feet, and you would likely steal Rosalie’s heart too. She quickly began to recite your info, speaking quickly.

"Your girl’s full name is Y/N y/l/n. Her address is 4511 W. 7th st. Apartment 5, baby. And her telephone number is 205-***-782. There ya go hunny! Enjoy!”

A/n: ps I put a fake number so don’t try to call it Lmaoo 😭😭😭.

Rosalie’s fingers quickly wrote down your name, address, and phone number, her eyes wide and her heart hammering in her chest. Her mouth curled into an excited smile, her heart going wild.* "Y/N y/l/n…I really like the sound of her name.."

She bit and chewed on her bottom lip, her cheeks warm, as she finished writing your contact information.

Addy chuckled softly, her smirk still present on her face as her eyes lit up with a mischievous glint. She had successfully set you two up, and she was feeling very accomplished. She watched Rosalie's response, her heart swelling with happiness knowing you were the one who was getting Rosalie all flustered. She finally spoke, a smirk still on her lips as she teased Rosalie a lil more.

"You better treat her right, darlin’. Or I’m bouta’ be on yo’ ass ya hear? But anyway, Enjoy ya night Rosalie and I hope you and Y/N have fun tomorrow!"

Rosalie let out a soft, shy chuckle as Addy teased her, her cheeks warm, her mind still reeling. Her body felt hot, her heart hammering in her chest, and butterflies fluttering in her stomach. She shook her head, her cheeks growing even warmer.

"Aw hell, don't you worry suga'. I'll treat her like a real princess…"

Addy let out a mischievous chuckle as she hung up her phone, a wide smirk on her face. She finally closed up the bar for the night, locking the door as she left, taking her keys out of her pocket as she walked to her car. Her mind was still fixed on Rosalie and you, picturing the upcoming date and her mind imagining how it will turn out, while she drove herself home.

After their little chat, Rosalie was now in her room, the notebook with your information laid out on her desk, the phone next to it. Her mind was still full of thoughts of you, and she couldn't stop thinking about you, her heart still hammering in her chest and butterflies fluttering like mad in her stomach. She quickly pulled out a box, opening it to begin selecting her outfit for tomorrow.

Rosalie was finally selecting her dress, when she suddenly heard someone knock on her door. Her eyebrows furrowed, her mind still focused on you, her heart still hammering, and butterflies still fluttering. Her lips curled into a scowl as the knocking persisted, getting more and more insistent the longer she hesitated to answer the door. She let out a soft sigh, walking to the door, ready to cuss out whoever was on the other side.

She finally got to the door, and she opened it, her mouth in the middle of preparing to speak, before she froze. Standing in front of her was a man she thought she'd never see again, and she hoped she'd never see his face.

"…Blance-"

To be continued…

A/N: it’s better to play the song at the beginning, and when I make the lil smut part lol. Working on pt 2 rn 💋.

[its-just-hyper]

As a trans person, gender swapping characters is always kind of a weird thing to me. But the more I think about it, the more I think it is entirely a case to case issue. Let’s use some characters as examples

Amy Rose

Amy loves to be cute and pretty, and I think he would keep that same aesthetic as a boy. However, I’m of the opinion that he would want to be cute and pretty in a distinctly masculine way. I think he’d wear a white shirt with puffy sleeves and a red pair of overalls (his heels would likely stay, they’re super cute and the vertical lines as well as shoe shape make him look taller) Amy Rose is an example of a character I think would change in appearance quite a bit.

Sonic

Sonic on the other hand.. he cares about physical appearance a lot less and I doubt that would change as a girl. Shes the fastest creature alive, so either she always puts on some mascara for the extra super cool flair, or she rushes out the door, no time to waste! I don’t think her standards for coolness would change all too much between genders, so easy things that don’t need prep or maintenance very often, like quill style and maybe some accessories are all I can think she would pick differently than a boy counterpart.

Shadow

(This is my last Sonic example, I promise) Shadow is interesting because he is an example of a character I think wouldn’t change in the slightest. She would look, act, think, exactly the same. Her identity is such a mystery already, she has more important things to worry about than what her presentation appears. Not to mention that her design is already somewhat androgynous, but regardless of what Shadow looks like I wouldn’t change my answer.

I will admit; there is a flaw in my examples thus far. “The girl cares about her appearance so he wouldn’t be girly as a boy!” “The boy is too cool to care, she would only change a little bit” “Wait, hyper didn’t you JUST say this guy is androgynous? Of course she won’t change as a girl!!!”

Shhhhshshshshh worry not fowl beasts, for I have more examples.

Anya Forger

If not for the attitudes of other children around her age in her source material, I would write this off as just Anya being a child. However she is around countless people who care heavily about appearance, both for safety and preference reasons, so for Anya specifically her age isn’t much more than a grain of salt in this discussion. Anya also cares about her appearance, however I do not think he would change appearance in any way that is of his own volition. Anya wants to get world peace, and to be loved by his parents— but she also wants to spend time with her friend and Bond and wear nice things and eat tasty foods. I think that when found by Twilight in the orphanage, he would look exactly as she does in canon, including his haircut. Things would be changed later, mainly he would of course wear the male uniform, but none of Anya’s choices would do anything to influence his appearance in ways that might have been done differently to his girl counterpart.

Franky Franklin

Franky wants a girlfriend. In her environment, ESPECIALLY as a woman, her appearance would be a heavy target of criticism as to why she can’t get one (even though really, Franky looks fine and it is merely her attitude regarding romance that keeps barring her from dates). This is why I believe Franky would lean heavily on femininity while in public than her man counterpart.

Agent Twilight

This one is here specifically as a counter argument to… the counter argument I posed about Shadow the Hedgehog. Cough. Uh. Twilight, unlike Shadow, is both traditionally masculine in appearance AND heavily concerned with his appearance. However I think she would look and act just about exactly the same were she a woman. She has no name, no face, no identity. If she were the mother of the Forger family it would be the exact same Twilight as Loid underneath. Maybe she would have a different hair style, but I sincerely doubt it. Short hair is the most logical as it allows for easy wig use. I can only imagine her growing out her hair as a shortcut for her disguise as a Forger- though I believe while it is growing out she would still wear a wig day to day.

Long story short, sometimes a gender swapped character changes their appearance from small ways to drastic ways. Sometimes a gender swapped character acts differently for whatever reason there may be. Sometimes a gender swapped character looks or acts exactly the same. The part of gender swapping characters that has irked me all this time is that far more often than not, artists do not take that into consideration at all. It feels disrespectful to the integrity of the character. Not to mention the pitfall trap of gender swapping characters for aesthetic reasons: blatantly sexualizing the feminine characters more than the masculine ones.

Valac Clara is creature. Nothing would change about her if she had a dick. Asmodeus Alice is beautiful and powerful and regal— and his ways of displaying that would be different if he were under different societal pressures. Suzuki Iruma… okay well—

Anyways. It’s like, 2 am on Christmas and Santa’s gonna kick my ass and fuck my mom or something if I don’t go to sleep soon so eepy ever yall, enjoy my ramblings.

Oh and the best way to gender swap literally every single character in Ace Attorney is to make them trans I take no criticism 😌

[brandnewbeing]

Hi, I’m Kassie! I’ve been passionately writing since I was 13 and have developed a flair for crafting immersive, detailed narratives. As a happily married mom of one, I’m only seeking long-term, story-driven roleplay partnerships—nothing more! Let’s create something unforgettable together!

🌟 What I’m Looking For 🌟

Dominant Partner – I play as a sub and prefer a partner who takes the dominant role.

Open to All Genders – Male, female, non-binary—everyone’s welcome!

Long-Term Commitment – Ongoing storylines we can grow over time.

Creative, Story-Driven Collaboration – Rich narratives and engaging character dynamics are a must.

Advanced Writers – Novella-style, detailed posts are my jam.

Patience Appreciated – Weekdays are busy, and weekends are family time.

Strictly Roleplay – Friendly OOC chats are fine, but I’m only here for roleplay.

🌟 My Rules 🌟

I know what I like, so please respect my preferences. If they’re not for you, no hard feelings!

Introduce Yourself – Tell me a bit about yourself and what you’re looking for in an RP.

Fandom Focused – I prefer roleplaying within specific fandoms (see below).

Friendly OOC – Let’s build a friendly rapport outside of the RP.

Detailed Writing – 3-6 paragraphs per reply. I can write up to 10,000 words but prefer consistency.

Clear Grammar & Spelling – Slip-ups happen, but effort is appreciated.

Plot & Brainstorming – I love bouncing ideas around to create something amazing.

Third-Person Writing – My personal preference for storytelling.

18+ Only – Both writers and characters must be adults.

No Doubling – It’s not my style, so please don’t ask.

Writing Sample Required – Show me your skills to ensure we’re a good match.

🌟 Kinks & Preferences 🌟

I enjoy exploring darker, complex, and intense themes in roleplay. Here are my primary interests:

Size Difference – Petite women paired with larger, more imposing partners.

Non-Con & Dub-Con – Open to these dynamics depending on the storyline.

Sleep Play – Exploring boundaries with trust and control.

Corruption & Manipulation – Including kidnapping and blackmail.

Mind Break – Along with themes of being drugged or drunk.

Stockholm & Lima Syndrome – Twisted relationship dynamics.

Abuse, Breeding, Begging – Adds depth to darker plots.

Masochism & Sadism – I’m into masochism, so sadistic elements are welcome when thoughtfully incorporated.

✨ For a complete list, check out my F-List here: Kasai Victoriano's F-List

🌟 Interests & Themes 🌟

I enjoy exploring darker, complex themes. Let’s dive deep into emotions and intense storylines! Here’s what I’m into:

Size Difference – Petite characters with larger partners.

Dark Themes – Non-con, dub-con, manipulation, Stockholm Syndrome, and more.

Intense Dynamics – Corruption, blackmail, mind games.

Trauma & Emotional Build-Up – Pain, heartbreak, and twisted relationships.

Character Development – Let’s break them down and build them back up.

For more detailed kinks/preferences, feel free to ask for my F-List!

🌟 Fandoms & Characters 🌟

I play as one of my female OCs in all RPs. Here are the fandoms I’m into:

Pokemon (Sun & Moon) – Guzma | Pokemon (Legends: Arceus) – Volo.

Naruto – Obito/Tobi, Kakashi.

Homestuck – Gamzee, Sollux, Mituna, and others.

One Punch Man – Genos, Sonic, Saitama.

Tokyo Ghoul – Enji Koma, Uta.

Chainsaw Man – Denji, Aki.

Soul Eater – Soul, Death the Kid.

Kaiju #8 – Kafka, Reno, Soshiro

Jujutsu Kaisen – Gojo, Geto, Nanami.

Black Clover – Zora, Yami, Nacht.

Dr. Stone – Senku, Tsukasa, Gen.

Other ideas and fandoms are always open for discussion! Let’s create a private Discord server and build our world together.

[mslanna]

OH MY GOSH! Those pictures/inspirations for a chivalry AU have got me imagining a scenario with Raphael as a warrior prince/king taking his loyal knight (who is also maybe lover) aside - maybe even temporarily leaving the Hėłłš to go to some kind of special location on the Material Plane - and privately proposing that they rule together.

Also 'discount Raphael' is right! If the man doesn't have (or had) a cambion form then he's an imposter. 😈

Well, this took a while. 🙈 And a different course. 😅 Hope you still like it, Nonny.

they/them Tav without body configuration PG13 Read it on AO3

A Cure for Restlessness

Six years after defeating the Netherbrain, Tav still hasn't settled down. They gave Raphael the Crown of Karsus and returned to rebuild Baldur's Gate. But it didn’t take. After only a few months, Tav took up their helldusk armour (a small token of appreciation), slung their favourite maul (enhanced by the wizard from Waterdeep and the selunite cleric) over their back and walked away.

Raphael watched with interest. He had considered them a piece in the game of ruling the city. But something drove his favourite client and off they went. As a paladin, Tav was a welcome sight for many in need. It only worried Raphael that they travelled alone and rarely stopped by at their companion's homes.

Tav isolated themself and the devil didn't know why. He doesn't like not knowing things. But the scouts he sends return with empty hands. There seems to be no reason for Tav's restless travels. Every now and then, Raphael offers jobs through middle men. After accepting a couple, Tav sends back the message that he can come himself the next time.

He does.

Tav stands out in the tavern – their armour shines with use and care, but the paladin within looks lost; tired, restless – driven. They force a smile as he slips into the booth opposite them. "I thought you'd be too busy conquering the hells to trifle with mere mortals."

"I always have time for my favourite client." With a wave of his hand, Raphael changes the wine into something actually potable.

"Checking in on me with flimsy quests?" The smile doesn't waver. It sticks to their face like a marble mask.

"I find your choice of life – interesting." Raphael scrutinises his adventurer. They don't look well-rested or well-provisioned. "And it is taking a toll on you. I wonder why."

The smile flickers into something sadder but more truthful. "Do you now."

"Our cooperation was a fruitful one, little mouse. I never let a useful token out of sight." He sips and watches while Tav stares into their own cup. When they finally look up, Tav's glance skitters away from his.

"So you still consider me – useful?"

"Always." Raphael raises his cup. "Let us drink to that."

They do and after this first, awkward meeting, it is Raphael who decides on the setting. Always something with style and flair. A place Tav stands out for their armour more than he does for his finery. Always offering food and wine. Usually offering work. The meetings work better when he brings a quest along.

"Of course they do," Tav discloses, eyes on their empty plate. "It means we get to meet again soon."

Colour rises to their cheeks. It is endearing and a useful thing to know. Despite the progress Raphael makes conquering the hells, dealing with his little mouse has become a treasured constant.

He meets Tav in Lastlight Inn, a trove of memories, and offers a game of lanceboard. Tav accepts though they play astoundingly bad. They ask about Mol, still avoiding to return to Baldur's Gate. There is little reason for them to. All former companions settled elsewhere.

"Too many bad memories and not enough good ones," Tav says one day. They shake their head. "Too many things ended there. And not for the better."

"You saved the city," Raphael counters. "The Swordcoast too, if not all of Faerûn. What is that, if not cause to celebrate?"

Tav sighs and empties their cup in one draught. "Important isn't the same as personal. But personal hurts more, matters more. And I lost good friends that day. And more."

Raphael doesn't prod at the 'more' Tav mentions.

He doesn't want Tav back in Baldur's gate. Raphael wants them in his House of Hope, so he doesn't press the point. And they meet with him happily, and it is a thread to pull on gently unless it slip thorough his fingers again. He let that happen before, misjudging Tav and their plans. He would be more careful this time.

It takes careful planning to lure Tav back to the city. A complicated job that loops back unexpectedly but naturally to Baldur's Gate. His room in Sharess' Caress changed enough to remind of its former state but not trigger any averse memories. Or so he hopes.

The disappointment on Tav's face when they enter is a surprise. Everything they can't see from where they stand morphs back into its natural state. He can't make out where he went wrong. But the meeting goes on without a hitch and when he suggest they meet again in the Devil's Den, Tav agrees.

They met in is room in Sharess' Cress to seal something akin to a deal more and more often. Raphael changed the room back to its former glory and that relaxed Tav. It pleased Raphael that his little mouse came so willingly. Each visit to their dreaded home town less reluctant than the last. Still they were oblivious to his secondary motives. Or Tav ignored them on purpose.

Yet Raphael kept up the unnecessary little touches, the invasion of Tav's personal space. He leant close enough to smell their hair – brimming with sunshine and blood – and the sweat seeping into their armour.

Catching this little mouse is close to an obsession, close to what Hope kindled in the devil. But this time, he is careful, crafty. Tav gets accustomed to his proximity, his – attentions. When Raphael is sure that Tav will neither run nor scream, will, in the worst case, break into discussion, he prepares his stage.

The room in Sharess' Caress is set with care. Tav's favourite foods and wine. Subtle scents and almost audible music. His little mouse enters, death and victory in their wake and for a moment, Raphael allows himself a glimpse of the future he plans.

He closes his trap slowly and Tav shows no sign of noticing. Maybe they do not care. But at least they are not as careless with their life any longer as they were directly after their victory. Raphael lost more than one warlock in those years.

When his hands catch Tav's they blink, wary and confused. Yet when Raphael lets go, he notes the slight slump in their posture. An uncertainty he doesn't know where it stems from. An obstacle he carefully files down with conversation and carefully careless touches. But it is not until he catches their chin between his fingers and presses a gentle kiss to Tav's lips that understanding hits home.

They melt against him easily and eagerly. It is a victory so effortless that Raphael wonders if he is dreaming.

A feeling that last as he devours them whole, inch by inch, slowly, deeply, thoroughly. He takes them again in his true form, an ecstasy too good to be bricked behind his mortal skin; sucks up their taste and his name from their lips.

A sweet victory. A step into his future as sovereign of the nine hells. A path he never planned to take alone. He stays the night, wrapping his prize tightly in his arms and wings. When morning comes, Tav moves in his arms.

Raphael whispers his promises into their ear and Tav presses back against him mumbling. He leaves a key to the rooms on their bedside table. Tav lies with their face soft and serene. It calls to him and Raphael returns for a last kiss.

# # #

Tav didn't return to Baldur's gate. A riddle Raphael had no answer to. They avoided the place even more than before, roaming further and longer. When he attempted to meet them somewhere else, Tav just didn't show up.

Raphael pondered, as he did years ago, what went on in the paladin's head. Were they unwilling to commit? Was his offer unclear? Did Tav just not want him? Despite a memorable night of proving the opposite?

Forcing them into the city didn't go well. Jobs that warranted a visit were refused. Profitable or honourable – Tav avoided Baldur's Gate like the plague. With one leg in a bloody war for Avernus, Raphael didn't find the time to craft a scenario subtle enough for his liking and for a while his pursuit of the little mouse languished.

Only when Zariel was finally contained in their castle and he launched a prolonged siege, did his attention hone in on the spot of loss in his life. That nagging little thing. The victory that should have been his twice already. Sometimes he still felt Tav's lips on his skin when he closed his eyes. How could that devoted glow in their eyes been a lie?

A hunt was staged, leading Tav from the Coast into the city in hot pursuit. It worked as far as getting them into the city. Yet they did not drop by the Devil's Den. Tav concluded their business and left Baldur's Gate without a look back. Bringing them back remained a challenge. But with Zariel firmly locked up and their forces dwindling, however slowly, Raphael had time.

If Tav noted how much of their work led them back to Baldur's Gate, they didn't show. He sent warlocks to keep an eye on Tav. Never Korrilla though. That face was known to his little mouse. Things had to look natural.

It's a miscalculation on his part that finally does it. Raphael is enraged at his failure and exhilarated at its success. Tav drags themself into his rooms with great effort. To Mamzell Amira's aggravation they leave a trail of blood. But Tav is a hero so some things can be forgiven.

When the armour falls, Tav's body is a mess. Shirt and trousers are plastered to their skin with sweat and blood. It's just a small sleigh of hand to turn one of the many bottles on the side board Tav clings to into a small healing potion. Tav downs it in one gulp. It helps. But not much.

Tav peels out of their clothes wincing in pain. But by now the skin is unbroken. Dark blue and purple splotches cover it and the placement implies broken ribs, bruises and contusions. The mortal hobbles towards the pool and clamber clumsily into the warm water. The heat helps their cramped muscles relax and Tav lays their head back on the tiled floor.

The job wasn't bad per se. But this was Baldur's Gate and at night all hooded adventurers looked the same. Bad luck for everybody involved in Tav's case. But at least they get to wash off blood and grime whereas the bandits lay dead in the streets. Though their bodies are likely looted and vanished into suspicious pastries by now.

Tav breathes deep, gauging the amount of pain it causes. Once they are clean and feel slightly human again, they will search the place for more potions. The devil wouldn't have a hideout without backup.

Thinking of the devil – the soft woosh of apparition snaps Tav from their deliberations. The open their eyes wearily and there he is. Not unexpected but certainly unwelcome.

In his human form Raphael presents unthreatening. A conscious choice to put clients at ease. A handsome face to overcome apprehensions and doubts. He hopes it is enough to keep his mouse from bolting. Not that they would get far in the shape they are in.

A mistake, a miscalculation. Every day life in Baldur's Gate. But he is willing to grant the remaining, fleeing, pursued, perpetrators the mercy of a quick death. After all they shooed Tav right to where he wants them. Raphael glances over his little mouse, taking in the black and purple skin. Maybe a little torture for the bandits.

Tav winces in the water, stopping themselves halfway through trying to cover their body. As if Raphael doesn't know its every inch. Not as well as he'd like to, but that will be amended. Soon, he hopes.

"Would have been asking too much that you don't appear, huh." Tav curls up a little into themself.

"Is it not my place as much as yours?" Raphael heats the water a little more, engulfing his mouse in relaxing warmth.

They reply with a snort.

"Why are you here?" Tav crosses the arms before them even if the pain of doing so is clearly visible on their face.

"To see you, of course. What a question." With a wave of his hand, Raphael draws a glass filled with clear water from the air. "And I do not like what I see."

Tav's lips harden and they try to shrug.

Raphael steps to the edge of the pool. The water steams and he wants to strew petals into it. The scent of roses and jasmine fits his mouse well. But they are not ready. Yet. And also not healed. First things first.

"And what is that supposed to be?" Tav jerks their head in the direction of the glass.

"Healing waters from my House of Hope." Raphael slid closer holding the stem of the glass carefully.

For a moment Tav looks at their tattered body. The outline ripples in the water. "Why would you do that? What do you want?"

"Does it seem so strange that I want to help?" He tilts his head.

"You're a devil. You deal in deals and nothing is for free."

"And I cannot make an exception? Not even for you?"

"You got what you wanted, didn't you? So what is left?" Tav's tone is hard and hostile.

"And what would that be?" He steps closer to the water.

"My body," Tav spits. "You got it."

"I am not having it right now," he replies and rakes his eyes over them. "And while I am eager to remedy that, you don't seem to. A wish I will respect even if I do not understand it."

Raphael snaps away his clothes and steps into the hot pool. Tav's eyes follow his every movement and he smirks, when they cannot keep their eyes to themself. He sits, holding the glass over the water.

"You left." Suddenly Tav sounds small. Lost. "I – you were gone."

"I left you the key."

"A memory of what I lost. What you took. A small joke on my expense."

"Oh." Realisation sets in like ice down his spine. "You did not hear a word I said, did you? When you pressed your back against me and mumbled sweetly, you didn't actually hear a word I said."

When Tav's reply is a look of confusion, Raphael moves to sit at their side. He leans and repeats his promises one by one and Tav's eyes grow big and wet.

"Drink," he ends and raises the glass to their lips. "To heal your body."

Cool fingers close over his as Tav accepts the water. They drink deeply with closed eyes.

"To heal the body," the repeat and take the glass from his hands. Tav empties it and puts it down on the floor. Before Raphael can reply. Tav straddles him and adjusts their position with more grinding than necessary. He feels his immediate reaction and so do they.

With a smile Tav presses their forehead against his. "To heal the soul." They kiss him and Raphael is more than happy to oblige with this quest for their healing.

# # #

Things went smoothly after that. Though Tav carried a soft uncertainty with them for a couple of months, Raphael made sure to prove it groundless at every turn. He made a home in their body as much as he had in their heart, leaving only their soul untouched.

And Tav reciprocated. They answered touch for touch, kiss for kiss and call for call. A smile spread over their face when he approached that was his alone. As was their body and Raphael took advantage of it. In return Tav demanded his attention, demanded him and all of him.

There were few sounds as sweet as his name dropping from Tav's lips in rasped pieces, few tastes so satisfying as Tav's sweat and sex mixed with a hint of blood. They bled form him happily. Marks of his teeth and nails covered them in divine patterns and Tav wore them with pride.

He lured them in slowly. A job here a request there. Little things that got them around in Baldur's Gate. Small jobs that were more for visibility than their results. A strategy that worked. More people approached Tav and bound them I the city for longer periods.

Once it became known that the Hero of Baldur's Gate was back, the number of petitions grew immeasurably, became too much for one mortal to handle. If anybody frowned up Tav's place of residence in the beginning, it was soon just another quirk. Tav placed a heavy curtain before the pool and sleeping area and nobody questioned their choice. Mamzell Amira was proud to have such a prestigious lodger. It did not matter Tav didn't sell their body under their roof. Tav fanned her business still.

When Tav rested against his side, exhausted and relaxed, pliable in every way, Raphael nudged ever so gently towards greater things. If helping everybody themselves was impossible, why not improve the city in a way that helped the petitioners instead? If marauding bandits threatened the outlying farms, why not campaign for better protection. They were sure to have ideas fit for such a venture.

Tav didn't go easily towards such options. They were very much hands on, be it their weapons or him. A trait Raphael appreciated in general. It hindered his efforts to gently insert Tav into the political scene of the city. But the devil hadn't gotten to where he was without patience. Patience and subterfuge.

The first projects that Tav was involved with were smashing successes. Expectedly, Tav was encouraged to apply themselves more often to the bettering of their city. Opposed to his dealing in the hells, this was a pleasant mix of gentle nudging and passionate sex. A life Tav was also more than suited for.

# # #

Ten years after the defeat of the Netherbrain Baldur's Gate holds a grand celebration. All companions are invited, most attend. The Carnival of the Last Days premiers a show centring Tav and their heroic fight. The city is filled with market stalls, wine and food flow freely. Tav heads the parade and shares a speech with the attending companions. The vampire spawn joins after nightfall and Tav dances late into the night.

But Raphael is patient. He knows they will come to him in the end. So he prepares his suite. An exact replica of the room his little mouse walked in ten years ago. The refreshments, the dark red wine and the scented oils and soaps to mingle with the rose petals' heavy smell.

When Tav opens the door, he turns, dressed as he did back in the day, blue and red. Their eyes light up and Tav sweeps into his arms to bury their face against his throat. They smell of people and food but Raphael is not surprised to find them barely tipsy. As grounded as they are in the city's political landscape, Tav has no love for the elaborate festivities in honour of their deeds.

"You are disappointing your many admirers." Raphael hands them a goblet filled with heavy red wine.

From him, they take it and drink, a smile on their lips. "Are you disappointed, too?"

"Never." It slips from his lips easily and Raphael is surprised to find it true. Complicated, inscrutable, a challenge – Tav was all that. But they never disappointed him even when they thwarted his plans for them. He raises his cup to them. "To our future."

"And to our past," Tav adds. They both drink and Tav looks around the room. The Devil's Den is bare by the standards Raphael set. They know something is afoot.

"I didn't think you'd stick around for so long," Tav admits.

"There are many benefits to being a devil's favourite."

"Any I didn't have the pleasure of experiencing yet?"

"Are you interested if I say yes?" Raphael puts an arm around their shoulders. The feeling of Tav melting against him is delicious as ever. "I can give you a tour."

"Sounds promising." Tav takes another sip. "Will I need more wine?"

"I am amply provisioned where we will go." He transports them into his House of Hope in a flash of hellfire. Tav doesn't flinch and shows only curiosity when they arrive. Raphael did not bring them here yet. It was the last step. Tonight he would succeed in securing them forever.

"You home?" Tav asks softly.

"Indeed." He takes their arm and puts his hand over theirs. "I promised you a tour, did I not."

He shows them around and explains as they walk. Tav picks up something to eat as they pass through the feast hall. They are less than happy with the debtors but as a fixture in his home, Tav needs to know.

The boudoir is another precarious station. But Haarlep behaves – under threat of unimaginable pain – for once. They wear the form of a lithe drown and cycle through a few other forms as demonstration.

"Not that I need them now," the incubus sighs. "Now he only wants to fuck you."

"A temporary setback, I am sure." Tav seems unperturbed.

"I like them," Haarlep says towards Raphael. "I do hope we can play some time."

Raphael doesn't reply. His little mouse is his and he has no intention to share. Tav follows willingly and the tour continues. The throne room is a relatively new addition to his house. But every ruling devil needs one. Hewn from black marble with white highlights the hall stretches into all directions.

As he steps through the double doors, Raphael changes his dress with a wave of his hand. Back is the black with the red sash. The Crown of Karsus sits heavy on his head, a burden he wears willingly for the sake of power and order.

Tav hesitates. He can feel their eyes flicker around uncertain. Their glances hitches on the thrones. Two. Of the same size and make. Standing next to each other on the dais at the opposite wall.

Raphael reaches out and Tav takes his hand, lets him guide them through the room. "You said that the most annoying thing about politics is your lack of power to see changes through."

Tav nods carefully. The suspect a trap and they are not wrong.

"I can give you the power to make the changes. Power enough to not be questioned at every step along the way." He stops before the two thrones and gazes at them thoughtfully. "Not in Baldur's Gate, though. That city is not under my jurisdiction."

He turns to his mouse. Tav looks at him with the same deep-seated longing they always show. A tender emptiness only he can fill. It is time to finally conclude his deal with them. For a moment, Raphael catches Tav's chin between his fingers. Maybe he is delaying the final moment of truth. He was certain twice already.

"Rule with me." Raphael pulls a crown from the air, akin to his own, complementing his in ways his little mouse complements him. He presents is with grave decorum, ready to set it upon Tav's head as they crowned him all those years ago.

He sees the questions rush behind Tav's eyes. Hundreds of them to which he carefully prepared answers – logistics, occupation, their absurdly short lifespan. Raphael is ready to reassure them as long as necessary.

Tav stands very still. For a moment their lips move and their eyes search his face.

He can wait. At this point, Raphael has all the time in the world. The crown warms up to his touch, it's weight carefully chosen to be noticeable without being a burden. How he longs to place it on their head. His crowned little mouse, a crowning achievement.

With a sudden, Tav breaks into motion, but instead of kneeling, they throw themself at him. Their arms close around him tightly and though Tav buries their face deep against his chest, Raphael understands the one word coming from their lips.

Yes.

His arms close around his prize and the crown dangles uselessly behind Tav's back. For once it doesn't matter that Tav doesn't adhere to his script. He offered them the world and all it contained. And Tav chose him. Not the crown and its privilege. Not the luxuries of the life he offers. Tav chose him. Unreservedly. Completely.

Finally.

[egg-emperor]

I'm planning on doing a complete redraw of this (primarily to uh... make his torso NOT look weird as shit, I'm trying to make him fat but not like 100% classic eggman body style, just still fatter since I didn't want to copy the movie's skinnier body. But I don't think I portrayed it well here, but I'm still not used to the original classic proportions.), but what do you think? It's my interpretation of eggman's younger appearance before the sonic 1 game.

My idea here is that, like his film counterpart, he had a full set of hair (but he has a man bun instead, referencing the twitter takeover), but his reasoning for shaving his head and growing a full mustache is so he can resemble the man he admired, gerald robotnik.. the outfit is inspired by the films, but I tried to mix in alot of the classic designs elements just to suggest that he loves this style he puts it in most of his outfits up until his SA1-onward appearance

I'm gonna redraw this soon, since the torso just looks really bad, but is this good or... no?

I like it! I like how you gave him the man bun he mentioned in the Takeover XD it looks pretty good on him. I have no issue with the idea of him getting fatter thus coming into his identity with his egg shape more over time, I think it's cool and interesting and it's far better than the idea that he was ever stick thin and was suddenly hit with an immediate drastic change in body type

I also like him growing out his stache and letting it be more free and not as styled over time, less tame and more wild like his personality as he only becomes more openly crazy, as even classic Egg observes in modern Egg in the future hehe. I also hc he shaved his head by choice, at the first sign of balding, but was also happy to look more like his grandfather. Growing out the stache does point to inspiration too

You added a much needed flair to the movie inspired outfits, they look a lot more stylish and not bland like the movie's which is much more Eggman, and I dig what you did with the third to last too. This is a believable progression of his design and definitely along the lines of what I'd like to see if the animated Sonic movie of my dreams happened and they decided to show him in the past. Good job!