#like i’d feel bad making someone draw that character.
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loderlied · 3 days ago
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it’s so funny how shana is truly just like A Guy when it comes to character design like most of my other characters are fantasy or sci fi ass creatures or at least have those kinds of elements in their design in some way but still for some reason shana is the most difficult one to draw for me by far. sigh
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exopelagic · 1 year ago
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sudden realisation that the thing holding my art back is that I never had an anime phase
#going to find a time machine and get my younger self into death note or smth#I have been driving myself insane for the past few years bc I wanna draw characters but all I know how to do is portraits#I’m trying to figure out how I could recreate smth similar now and tragically I think it does just come down to draw more :/#however! I am also going to try using brushes which will be bad for sketchiness and better for lineart bc I might need to force myself here#I just gotta simplify things down to basic shapes how hard can it be#[has been thinking this exact thing for years and it’s not worked]#I am getting better every time I do stuff I’m just not satisfied bc art is frustrating when you know what you want but can’t get there#god it’s 2am I should not be awake rn but I could draw again tonight so I was taking advantage#endlessly frustrated by hair. why is it so awkward. I need to understand hair better how do I do this#i have a feeling it’s bc I’ve not figured out how to apply the shit I figured out abt volume yet#I’m also getting impatient bc I’ve been trying to do a study thing for some art styles but I decided I wanted to draw ocs instead of that#when I hadn’t gotten to the actually important bit which was. making smth new. but I can still do that#and I ended up doing a different style anyway (someone pls stop me rounding everything make me use high opacity square brush for my health)#the Other problem is I never wanna switch brushes. like I want to use one brush for whole drawing bc the extra clicks annoy me#I wonder if there’s a shortcut to swap brushes#anyway I’m gonna stop complaining bc drawing is fun but god I wish I’d drawn some more pokey mans when I was a teenager yknow#ideally younger. would rlly like to not have to actually think to figure this out rn#I’m probably overthinking stuff anyway honestly and I KNOW I’ll get it if I practice enough but goddamn it is hard to practice#especially when my me insists on making the bad things look better by making it more realistic#instead of figuring out why the shapes aren’t working#OKAY IM DONE WITH THIS NOW. GONNA TRY NEW ART THINGS LATER STOP TALKING <3#luke.txt
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shirefantasies · 9 months ago
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This is something no one requested, but that I wrote for sheer comfort at a rush of bad memories. Warnings are fairly obvious, but this post will contain implications of abuse, though no graphic/explicit depictions.
The Hobbit Characters Finding Out You Were in an Abusive Relationship
Balin
His gaze drops from yours, but you are not offended by the pensive expression that crosses his face- what you said would take anyone time, let alone someone as thoughtful as Balin. Several heartbeats pass before he speaks. "My heart breaks for you," he begins, "that is a fate no one deserves. I can hardly begin to imagine... But what I do know is you have every right to do things at your own pace. Don't push yourself for me, love." Eyes shining, you nod. "And if I ever raise my voice at you, it'll only be for good reason, say, in a battle or because my old ears don't work so good." Giggling, you accept his proffered hand. "I admit, I can't picture you raising your voice like that at anyone." "It's happened," he jokes back, "those nephews of Thorin's have earned it a few times. But not you. I'm not here to control you, I'm here to love you, and you tell me if I'm making good on that." "It's a deal," you reply, smiling softly as Balin squeezes your hand.
Dwalin
“I know you may not understand or that my fears may seem weak-” “Weak?” Dwalin cuts you off. “Ya know who’s weak? That coward for picking on someone who loved ‘em. You are strong as hell for telling them yer done.” One final question rose to your lips. “So you don’t think differently of me?” At that, the tattooed dwarf shakes his head, placing a hand upon your shoulder and breathing your name softly even in his rough voice. “By my bear, you’re about the sweetest soul I’ve ever met and this only serves to confirm it. I’d have pummeled the sod at first insult.” “I probably should have,” you remarked, arms crossing over your midsection. “Not so fast,” Dwalin’s hand clapped over your chest, taking yours, “that’s what you have me for!” The hearty, devilishly proud laugh he burst into was enough to have you joining the mirth, your head falling gently against his.
Thorin
His eyes darken, jaw setting in a way that sends shivers of intimidation down your spine even in spite of your knowledge that it is not for you. You know it because of the way Thorin pulls you into his arms, because he breaths his condolences into your ear as he does so, warm air ticking the shell of it. "And your fire still burns," he remarks, wonder coloring his voice and shining in his blue eyes. "In a way," you reply, gaze still a bit downcast, "I use it as fuel. Never again will I be somebody's plaything." "Never indeed," Thorin agrees with a small nod, "and you may not need it, but while I remain at your side you have my sword and my word that no harm will come to you so long as I draw breath…”
Oin
His eyes go moist in a moment and he holds up his ear trumpet, clearly hoping beyond hope he heard you wrong. Hands clasping his, you shake your head. “So I’m sorry if I ever seem afraid to-” “You are sorry?” Oin asks incredulously, his tone still managing to be quiet, subdued to the volume you normally know him for. “You don’t have a damn thing to apologize for. That is not your fault in the slightest. Do you have any scars? Any bruises? I’m only asking because I want to take away your pain.” Likely it was in the past, long enough ago for those worries to fade. Scars to score only your heart. “Aye, if I can…I want to heal that, too. Treat you like the jewel you are.”
Gloin
His wide-eyed expression is almost comical despite it all, bringing a hushed, nervous chuckle past your lips. Gloin continues staring at you like you're a new creation for a moment longer, dragging the silence out until you feel you might burst. Finally, he stutters out a reply. "You- you endured all that?" "Yes, though I cannot help wondering if I could have prevented it. You see, I-" "Oh, no," Gloin cuts off your spiral, clutching your gesticulating hands and shaking his head firmly at you, "don't you dare let that coward off one bit. No one asks for anything that bastard did. They always say pressure makes a diamond, but you, my dear, were a gem far before and only shine brighter with each passing moment. Diamonds are gifts of this earth, though, not just some trinket for rich arms. If it was you or all the wealth in the Lonely Mountain, I'd choose you every time. Remember that. Please." "How could I forget words like those?" You grin at him, heart still hammering. "I will do my best to carry them in my heart."
Bifur
Soon as your confession leaves your lips, Bifur backs up from you, dismaying you with his own pain in your eyes. “Scared?” He signs, and your heart breaks anew. Quickly you step forward, bridging the gap again, and reach up to tuck some of his wild hair behind his ear. Shaking your head, you reply, “No, dear Bifur, I am not afraid. If anything, I apologize if I ever seem that way. If my nightmares frighten you and I either hold you closer or push you away. If I startle a little too easily. If I am quick to say no.” He finally tilts his head back up to look you in the eyes, moving it to the side to rest his cheek against your palm. “I, too, have nightmares. Bad things happen when I sleep,” he signs to you, “I get hurt. You get hurt. I need space sometimes, too. I may tell you no, too.” “But when you love someone,” you finish, a tearful smile rising to your face, “You want to see them fulfilled.” At that, the dwarf nods vigorously. “I love you. I never want to scare you. To hurt you.”
Bofur
“A star as bright as you?” Shaking his head, Bofur removes his hat, clutching it in both hands. “Guess that’s beside the point. Someone like that only thinks o’ themselves. But hey, you know that wasn’t your fault, right?” You just nod. “And the fact that you still give your heart to everyone… you’re nothin’ short of amazing.” Tearing up, you burst into a smile, exhaling your relief and falling into Bofur’s open arms. “Was gonna do it anyway,” he mumbles into your neck, “but I want you to know that I’ll treat you like royalty. Much as I can give. I really will.” “I believe you, Bofur, I believe you.”
Bombur
Never have you seen his face fall like you do in that moment. All but instinctually, he opens his arms. “May I?” Nodding, you fall against his chest, the beat of his heart calming your racing thoughts. “I don’t know what to say other than that you don’t deserve that,” Bombur tells you, a hand gently cradling the back of your head, “you deserve the finest man who tosses roses at your feet ‘n’ sings your praises day after day. Someone with half an eye who can see how lovely you are. You deserve all the pretty things in this world.” “And I have that. I have all I could ever want right here,” you reply, a tear slipping from the corner of your eye, “you give me all the love I deserve.”
Dori
"What gives them the right? Nothing. It's not right, any of it! Why is it always the prettiest flowers that get plucked?" Even in his righteous anger, Dori pays you a sweet compliment, a small testament to his value of you. Cupping his cheek, you interrupt his rant, shifting him to meet your eyes and feeling tears prick at you when you see how wet his eyes are. "I don't want you to live with that pain," he adds, voice breaking slightly. Heart dropping, then soaring again at the love in his eyes, you reach up on the other side, and his hand comes up to cover yours. "These roots are strong," you assure him, leaning forward to rest your forehead against his, "with care they grow anew." "I will take care of you," Dori whispers your name, blue eyes fluttering shut, "Always. I swear it."
Nori
“Where is the rat? I’ll kill ‘em, gut ‘em like the pig they are!” Nori’s rage rose an odd flush of endearment through you; murderous as his words may have been, your heart was lightened for his care, the sheer vindication that what you went through was not deserved. But then again, the way that person hurt you was something you would never wish upon any living soul and you knew that. Sheepishly, you shook your head, stepping forward to take one of the dwarf’s wildly gesticulating hands. “The way you love me has avenged enough,” you cut into his harsh words, “no one has fought for me before you, Nori. Thank you.”
Ori
“Somebody really did all that to you?” He doesn’t mean to sound stupid, but the revelation is nothing but dumbfounding. “Yes,” you nod, breath catching in a half-sob, “I didn’t even feel like a person by the end of it.” Your arm is crossed over your chest, but Ori removes it, gently, intently, to hold your hand in his. “You are, though. You’re…you’re more than anything I could have ever imagined. And I like imagining things quite a lot,” he smiles softly, almost sheepishly, “in fact, you know what one of the things I imagine is?” You cringe, see his eyes widen that he accidentally hit a sore spot and feel the way his hand involuntarily tightens. He continues, though. “How I can show all that to you.” Head falling atop his, you succumb to a grin- he is leagues different from that person without even lifting a finger. “You do that just by being you, Ori.”
Fili
You hardly expect his first words to be thanking you, but indeed as both of his hands grip yours, he smiles sadly and does just that. "Thank you for trusting me with that. Fighting the fear. I don't take it lightly. But if you think this does anything but make me love you more," his smile shifts, returns to something more like the amusement you more often saw, "I'm afraid you are solely mistaken. The fact that you trust me, feel safe around me...why, I'll work to keep earning that until the day I die." Grinning, you fall into Fili's arms, feeling utterly secure in the warmth of his embrace. "And that alone means the world," you whisper, "I love you." "And I you. Forever."
Kili
"No," Kili shakes his head, "no, you cannot be serious!" "So you think I lie?" You shoot back, tone sharply defensive in your hurt. Kili's dark eyes widen, glossing over with tears; he shakes his head again, this time slower, but much more vehement, "Not at all. I simply can't believe it. Why anybody would want to hurt someone like you. I admit I can't fathom it." "It's because I didn't matter in that person's mind," you reply, your own eyes tearing and your voice going soft, "I was not a consideration." "Well, let me consider you," Kili replies quickly, straightening and reaching out a hand, "I'll not do anything you want me to do. And if I ever raise my voice at you, feel free to slap me." "Kili," you half-chuckle, half-sob, "how would that make me any better than-" "It was a joke, but see? Now I have you smiling again. That's all I want. For you to be happy. I love you, truly, I do."
Bilbo
“Any chance we would…run into this person?” So casually, almost awkwardly phrased, and yet you deduced exactly what Bilbo meant with his question. “Are you…” Your expression widened back to a tentative smile. “…hoping to have a fight with them?” Plenty of people had been on your side, nearly everyone agreeing that what you endured crossed every line, but hearing it from a partner was an even stronger spike of the vindication you never tired of. Plus Bilbo’s scrappy side was all but the cutest thing in the world. “Well,” the hobbit straightened his coat, “I simply think they need to be put in their place. Why, of all the… how could anyone take a look at someone like you and see anything but the greatest treasure they’ve ever known, it’s insulting, maddening, uncouth beyond all-” He stopped when he heard you giggle, felt your arms snake around him. “Oh Bilbo…my greatest treasure. I’ll always feel safe when you’re here.”
Thranduil
Rarely do you see the woodland king’s eyes harden, go so cold like shards of pale blue eyes, as you do when he hears your admission. “This person saw fit to treat you like property?” Thranduil’s voice is dangerously low, his gaze drifting distantly from yours. “I felt that way, yes,” you quietly agree, nodding. The king’s expression sends a shudder of intimidation down your spine. He must notice, the way he offers you his hand- tentative, eyes softening in question. Telling you wordlessly that acceptance is your choice. A small nod and you take it, his fingers closing over yours as he lifts the back of your hand to his lips. “Never again,” he breaks the silence, voice low but all ice drained from it, “while I wish your time here to never end, our gates are open to you. My halls are as your own. If that…that fiend even thinks to cross the Woodland Realm’s borders? Some gates shall be closed forever.” A part of you wishes to cringe at Thranduil’s harsh words, but as he winds you into his chest you simply feel the heat of tears prick your eyes as you whisper your thanks, an answer coming in the form of the elven king’s lips upon your head.
Bard
He stepped back, eyes widening at your revelation. Every aspect of him softened. “How? How could anybody…” Eyes distant, you shook your head. “At the time, I felt like it was because I wasn’t good enough. Now I see how sick it was. How I was…just an object,” your voice faded into a near-sob, prompting Bard to catch you about the waist, lower you into a chair. He moved to put a hand on either arm of it, thought better of making you feel trapped. Instead he simply let you keep hold of his hand, tilting your chin with the other to meet your eyes. “By every power I hold dear I hope you never feel too afraid to tell me no. To tell me if I’ve hurt you. And by that same light we’ll spend every day filling your heart. Never should you apologize for your scars- those are signs of your strength.”
Beorn
He never does this. You've never known the Skin-Changer to be one for spontaneous affection and yet he's pulling you into his arms the moment you finish, your head falling against his chest or wherever it falls upon his massive height. Several breaths pass like this before either of you speak again. “There is cruelty in this world I will never understand. No excuses exist for it. None. But I will do everything in my power to keep you safe from it.” True to his word, the Skin-Changer is there for you after every nightmare. Never once does he raise his voice or his hand to you. He may not always understand you, but well does he know the feeling of chains, physical or metaphorical, and he would die before casting his own. In moments surpassing his understanding of you, he takes to the woods, offering space over harsh words and freedom of travel over control. True love, after all, always returns.
Taglist: @lokilover476 @fuckyoumakeart @kilibaggins @mossthebogwitch @ibabblealot @stormchaser819 @pirate-lord-of-narnia @datglutengoblin @letmelickyoureyeballs @mossyskinn @wordbunch @tiny-and-witchy | Message/Reply/Ask to join 🥰
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captain-pheonix · 3 months ago
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Hello. I will call you Phoenix because that sounds very cool and you are cool and I platonically like you and enjoy your works.
Anyways I have come to request an all mercs + Pauling if you’re comfortable and want to write that. (If not maybe just Medic +whoever else you want to write for.) with a reader who has Schizophrenia? I’ve been going through some moments with it and the TF2 mercs are my comfort characters and your blog just feels nice.
If you aren’t comfortable with this feel free to block me or just ignore this ask entirely! Thank you very much!
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A/n: GAHHH ILY PLATONICALLY TOO 🫶 ty for sending in a request, I’m so glad you enjoy my works! I try my best! I made sure I did some more extensive reasearch about schizophrenia/the real experience with it before I wrote this, please let me know if I should make some edits! (And other ppl reading this, also don’t be afraid to send an ask about making edits!)
Mercs + Pauling w/ reader w/ Schizophrenia (headcannons)
(Platonic or romantic!)
Pauling:
- will have some guilt about how she works all the time and can’t be there for you
- might send some gifts and call you in between jobs/travel, asking how you’ve been, asking if now was a good time or if you needed a distraction
- as soon as she gets the chance to come see you, she takes it
- asks over and over if you’re okay, because it’s been keeping her anxious on her jobs
- she’ll comfort you with sweet words over the phone if you call her for help
- reminds you to take your meds
Scout:
- absolutely clueless
- buys into stereotypes
- “the voices” type shit
- this guy is gonna need a thorough explanation as to how you feel all the time
- probably asks you how you’re feeling all the time too
- might be a little too quick to do his sneak-attack hugs
- likes hugging you a lot, so that could offer some grounding if you’re having delusions/hallucinations
- words of affirmation 10/10
- expect a lot of words…
- speaking of a lot of words, need an auditory distraction? The scout-o-matic is here! (Only $69.99)
Soldier:
- clueless prick
- thinks you’re some spy or something
- it might take the entirety of the team to convince him otherwise and try to explain it to him with your help
- might also buy into the stereotypes
- if you say you hear or see something that man is going to run around screaming with his shovel trying to chase them off for you (believes they’re real, but only you have magic powers to see them or something)
Medic:
- #1 meds administer
- does not buy into stereotypes, since he may know something about it
- (fw researching you heavy)
- dude is taking notes as you’re straight up not having it
- jk he goes to comfort you if he can after a bit
- you WILL be staying in the infirmary with him (sorry I don’t make the rules)
- will look into techniques to help you
Demo:
- you already know he’s offering alcohol to take the edge off/distract
- you have tried many times to tell him that that will not work
- if you had alcohol with your meds things would not end well
- offers himself as a napping space for being really exhausted (I’d take him up on that)
- he might already be passed out when you go to ask if you two can nap
- might wanna just scootch in there
Heavy:
- will protect you from the bad things (or at least try)
- if someone hurt pookie that’s no good it will not do
- offers protective bear hugs if you need something/somewhere/someone to cuddle up to and be distracted/grounded
Pyro:
- if you’re describing what you see to them, or have in the past, they might try to draw them with good old fashioned crayons and printer paper
- also schizophrenic 😭
- huge empathy from them
- but uhm they might also just straight up not know they’re schizophrenic, so bro could just be like “same”
- alright enough Gen z talk from me (there can never be enough)
- even if just hanging out with them makes you feel more comfortable
Sniper:
- probably feels bad for you
- opts to hang out indoors if hallucinations/delusions are not fun outside
- comforts you when you think you see or hear something
Spy:
- if he’s attempting to be subtle you might expect some noise cancelling headphones and other helpful tools show up at your door
- if you need a break from certain rooms he’s definitely gonna offer his smoking room
- gets you pill organizers for your meds if that’s something you struggle with
- offers lots of gentle comfort
- let’s be honest, this guy was clueless before you started talking to him about it and what it was
- now he just wants to offer help
Engie:
- probably pities you a bit
- gives you that Texan hospitality but may take a bit to understand you better
- will 10/10 make you something if there’s something he can make to help and if it’s possible
- gonna try everything in his power to make your life easier
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Hopefully I did okay 😭 ty for sending in your request!!
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darkficsyouneveraskedfor · 18 days ago
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Study Buddy 5
Warnings:this series will include dark elements which may include bullying, noncon or dubcon, or violent behaviour. Mind the warnings.
Summary: a group project leads to a tense partnership.
Character: Walter Marshall
Big thanks to those who read! Feedback always helps inspire and you know I’m always happy to chat about possibilities! Please reblog and comment ❤️
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Despite feeling entirely out of place, you can’t resist the draw of sleep. Nestled on the couch beneath a blanket, a soft pillow under your head, you drift away from the tension rippling off your study buddy. Even in the next room, you sense the density in the air. 
You’re so tired, you hear yourself snoring from the depths of your unconscious. Your brain is sludge and your dreams are murky. You only wake up as you sense the murmur of voices. 
You open your eyes to the glare of the TV in the pale light of day. You rub your cheek as your vision clears. You blink at the screen as the teen drama plays out. 
“You snore louder than my dad,” Faye snorts. “Morning, sunshine.” 
You lurch up, almost top-turning from the suddenness of it all. You remember where you are in an instant. You knead your temple as you try to sort yourself out. 
“Um, good morning,” you croak through your dry throat. “How are you feeling?” 
“Better,” she grins, still in her pajamas as she drapes her legs over the armrest of the chair. “How about you?” 
“Urgh, tired,” you drop your hand as the blanket falls to your lap. “Sorry, I should go--” 
“Daaaad,” Faye hollers over you. 
You flinch and turn as you hear footsteps. As you glance over, Walter emerges in a bathroom. You can tell by the glimpse of his furry chest and the glisten in his curls that he just got out of the shower. 
“Your friend’s awake.” She chirps. 
He looks at you and his shoulders square. He really doesn’t like you. You can’t help but wonder why he insisted you stay. 
“It’s alright, I’m just about to head out,” you stand and fold the blanket and set it neatly on the cushion. “Thanks, again.” 
“You should at least have breakfast. Dad made waffles.” 
“Waffles? Oh,” you glance at him. “I wouldn’t want to... impose.” 
“No big deal, I saved some batter. Iron heats up in a snap,” he shrugs. 
You face him as you cross the room. You stop by the doorway into the entry, “it’s very nice of you but I’m okay. I really should try to catch a bus.” 
“Gimme a few and I’ll drive you.” He offers. 
“Really, it’s...” 
He’s already stalking away before you can finish your protest. You sigh and grimace at his back. He really doesn’t give you a chance to argue. With anything. Would it be easier to just have him look at the paper before you go and tell you everything that’s wrong? 
“My dad likes you,” Faye giggles. “He doesn’t like anyone.” 
“Um, I don’t think so,” you lean on the doorframe and stare at the TV, trying to make sense of the snarky conversation. 
“He does,” she insists. “I know, I’m the only other person he likes.” 
“Sure,” you tut. “Does it matter? I just need to get this project done.” 
“Don’t you think it’s funny? My dad taking a writing course? He doesn’t really seem like the creative type. More the bashing skulls type,” she cackles. 
“I don’t really know... him.” 
“What did you think when he showed up? I’d be pissing my pants,” she doesn’t look away from the TV as she speaks. 
“I don’t know, I thought someone named Walter would be skinnier... maybe have glasses and a pension?” 
She laughs even louder, “oof, don’t say that too loud.” 
You let yourself smile. She’s not a bad kid. If you were her age, you might be friends. 
“I’m just going to get my stuff together,” you say, “uh, Faye, it was nice to meet you.” 
“You too. Nice to have someone around to keep the wolf from coming out in the full moon,” she snipes. 
You snicker softly and leave her. The analogy isn’t far off. Walter does fit the type. He’s a bit furry after all. 
You check that everything’s in your bag and ben to put on your shoes. You pull on your jacket and Walter appears; he wears a black hoodie and dark jeans. He pulls on a jacket and leaves it undone before he grabs his boots. 
You zip up your coat and hook your bag on your shoulder, “thanks, again. You know, I have a bus pass.” 
He grumbles and you quiet. Don’t push your luck. Hopefully he only needs to revise a little and you can be done with all this. 
You flinch as he suddenly moves toward you. Your eyes round and you hit the door with your back. He tilts his head as he reaches past you for the handle. You look down and cringe. 
“Sorry, I wasn’t... paying attention.” 
He hums and you shift out of his way. He opens the door and lets you out first. You step into the sunshine, a deceptive beacon as your breath puffs out visibly. You cross your arms as he locks the door. 
He gestures you ahead of him to his truck. You go down the walk and to the driveway. You wait on the passenger side until the locks click. You open the door and climb in. He has a much easier time stepping into the high vehicle. 
He pulls his seatbelt down as you do the same. He turns the engine and lets it rumble as he turns the dials for the vent. He checks the mirrors and grips the wheel in one hand. He leans his elbow on the arm rest as he backs out. 
“You know,” he says as he rights the tires. “I got eye surgery so I don’t need the glasses anymore.” 
You squint at his remark. What? It takes a moment before you realise. Shoot. 
“It was a joke,” you say. “Obviously...” 
“No pension for another fifteen years at least and, well, helps to have a bit of bulk in my line of work.” 
Your cheeks burn in embarrassment. You really didn’t mean anything. 
“I’m sorry, I... yeah, I say stupid things.” 
He’s quiet as he steers. He sucks his teeth as he stops at a sign, “it was a good joke. Better than Faye’s werewolf schtick.” 
“Oh, uh, right,” you flick your thumb nervously. 
“You seem like the werewolf type. Know any good books?” He asks. 
“Werewolf type? Um, didn’t think I put out that vibe but... maybe Mongrels? I don’t read a lot about that stuff actually.” 
“Mongrels,” he nods. “I’ll check it out.” 
You’re almost flattered that he’d take your recommendation, less so that he thinks you’re a Twilight girlie. You stare through the windshield and take the victory for what it is. You don’t think you’ll be getting any more than that. 
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hiraethminds · 3 months ago
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This is a tangent, I'm here to entertain with needless rambling
The deep rooted hatred for taco I see in the II community genuinely concerns me. Especially since those people tend to be Mephone "apologists"(For lack of a better word, I love Mephone don't get me wrong) despite how taco is the "active" side of the coin to his "passive". The connections between them are there trust me Im connecting the dots. Ive connected them.
I understand that she's done bad things, but blaming her for her shortcomings when she doesn't and never had the same support group to change as Mephone did makes me a little ehh.. Getting upset because Microphone showed her support in the new episodes simply because you don't like the ship(I understand why people wouldnt but thats not an excuse to deny her anything), and because Taco doesn't know how to change yet and you refuse to see her as anything redeemable. I'm not big on shipping, thats not the point of this tangent, but Taco finally having someone to support her and help her change is a GOOD thing. Microphone was being the bigger person there, she was being mature and thoughtful because Taco clearly needs the help. The fact that people continue to deny Taco any kind of growth even if she goes about it in the wrong way makes me deeply uncomfortable. Because the moment any character does anything bad that isn't HER they don't say anything about it. She was shunned by her peers because she was playing the game and continued to 'play the game' so to speak.
Theres a deep rooted hint of misogyny in the way they treat her, but I wont yap about that you dont need to read allat.
I understand people have reasons for not liking characters! That's ok. But I've seen them actively go out of their way to harass people that DO like Taco and actively criticize enjoying her character.
They tend to take it as defending her actions. Which is not what's happening. I don't think oscommunity could handle vriska is all I'm saying.
Feel free to not answer this I just need whatever little imp is telling me to scream about it to get out. go draw a taco dis is driving me crazy
Thank you for dumping this in my inbox bigbarf200, I feel like a wise confidant.
okay so I don't interact/observe with the wider ii community (Mainly cuz i like playing with my touys without being bothered) So this information is so Interesting to me!!!
As you mentioned, the hate might stem from misogyny (and by the way, I’d love to read your essay—talk all you want, my friend!). This is a societal issue that affects every part of life.
That said, I also think some people might dislike her simply because she’s a hustler and stubborn. When she has a goal, she’ll do whatever it takes to achieve it, even if it means crossing into morally gray areas.
holding Mepad hostage > hijacking the show
lying and deceiving objects with good intentions > winning s1
seriously hurting Fan > winning Mic immunity
as you said in the greater scheme of things, she's genuinely done horrible things. But if you just accept that at face value you are missing out on such an amazing character. You have to consider her perspective and the circumstances of her birth (especially in a story like ii!!) to fully understand and come to an option on her. But I digress this is baby level analysis so ill move on.
people who think Mic being friendly towards Taco post e14 is out of character are misunderstanding Microphone as both a character and thematic device I think
that's literally the only rational reason I could think of as to why people would be mad about taco and mic being on good terms???
so yeah, these haters just sound like crazy irrational people who have a lot of pent-up emotions. crazy
anyways ty!!! I feel like I didn't have alot to add since, as stated, these people are just incredibly irrational. but its nice getting an earful of whagh the fuck the community is like. here are soem taco drawings for the occasion
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physalian · 3 months ago
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Not-so-gentle reminder of things to think about before harassing someone over their opinion on a piece of media:
These are fictional characters who don’t know you exist and do not need you to be their knights in shining armor bullying the people who don’t kiss their asses.
These are fictional characters making fictional choices and one person’s love, criticism, or ambivalence toward them does not define their own personal morals and worldviews.
You are as entitled to your positive opinions as someone else is to their negative ones, and when you say “you just didn’t understand” how you’re coming across is “you didn’t draw the exact same conclusions I did, thus you are wrong” which is just not how media literacy works.
You are not the creator and the lines you draw and patterns you see (positive or negative) in a work of fiction are not objectively correct. They're your interpretation and we all interpret things differently.
You have no idea what is happening behind any given post you see and especially in fandom, people post impulsively a lot. If someone’s on here ripping a character you love apart, telling them they’re an awful person for doing so isn’t going to change their mind, and there’s a good chance the character they’re hating on is not the root cause of why they’re upset. That character may represent something very real in their own lives that you’ll never know about.
Thus, someone attacking a fictional character who does not know they exist and isn't real because they're having a bad day or are in a mood or simply don't like them is a whole different ballgame than seeing that post and attacking a very real person with thoughts and feelings because you are having a bad day or are in a mood.
I’ll rip a character or a story apart on here, but I’ll never attack the people who like them on here, and I’d implore more people to understand that “I don’t like X” does not mean “I don’t like that you like X” and it does not mean "I don't like X and don't like this piece of you that you see in X either".
If you don’t have something nice to say to somebody… don’t say it? Block and scroll on.
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seastarblue · 17 days ago
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new year, new me, new intro! as always this is subject to change as time goes on <3
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all ids in alt ~ ✶⋆.˚✶⋆.˚✶⋆.˚
Nice to meet you! You can call me Sea, or Seastar, or whatever really I don’t mind too much!
-> About Me:
She / Her
18
AroAce
Black and Muslim (feel free to ask about either ^^)
Somewhat neurodivergent but I don’t know what exactly …
My favorite colors are red, yellow, and blue! Classics.
Favorite food is really anything my mom makes 🙏
I try to be funny sometimes and idk if it works but I’m doing it anyways
I’d like to use more tone indicators (like /pos, /gen, etc) and to ID more images here ! sometimes I forget…
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Anyways. Onto…
-> what I do and post about:
I’m a writer (or I try to be), artist (again: try to be), and a professional Silly Lil Guy 😌. I’d like to be a pharmacist soon, I’m planning on going to college for that !
This is my only blog, and here I post a plethora of Things, including but not limited to:
My original writing / doodles (more on those later)
My cool mooties and their characters
I wanna start writing prompts and such! For others to get ideas from!
This isn’t quite a whump blog per se but I do like whump and I do post about it occasionally so!
Yeah that’s basically it I’m ngl
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I’ve got a pretty decent tagging system if I do say so myself ^^ so a quick guide to that here:
#sea speaks! - for when I have random stuff to say! not always about writing stuff though
#sea draws - self explanatory
#sea’s asks - self explanatory
#sea’s games - for now, its tag games I’ve participated in! hopefully I’ll start making my own games soon…
#sea’s moots - for things that my (Aweseomesauce) mutuals have done
#osea: character name - for posts about specific ocs (or oseas >:D)
#o(sea’s) - for posts relating to a whole bunch of characters!
#sea’s story 1-3 - posts relating to WIPs of mine! more on those… in a bit
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-> Important Links:
I have two tag lists! This one is for writing and this one is for tag games! Dm me if you want on either ^^
here’s my master list for prompts! hopefully I’ll fill it up soon ^^
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now onto…
-> My Original Works:
All art that’s done by me is under the tag #sea draws (I’m SO bad at tagging sometimes tho so expect some stragglers)
I’ve got a grand total of …*checks notes* three main writing WIPs, and two tiny little ones I haven’t fleshed out at all!
more about them under the cut:
-> Ardenia WIPs:
(Psst, the following all come from one specific world, of my own creation! In order, it’d be the unnamed one, Interwoven, then TGS, then AGGTRG!)
Interwoven - lovingly tagged as #sea’s story 1 status: hiatus as I figure out more Plot — outlining Genre: Fantasy Themes: family, friendship, grief, loyalty, power, justice, belonging
Kaiden Evania is a cursed bounty hunter focused on very few things: paying off her brother’s tuition, keeping her little family safe, and enacting bloody vengeance on them. Bounty hunting isn’t a ‘proper’ job, however, and eventually Kaiden is imprisoned on charges of murdering a Guard.
She’s—begrudgingly—accepted her fate, and awaits trial, when a mysterious offer comes right to her cell door, promising everything she wants and more. Despite her skepticism, she takes it.
And with that, she and eight others are thrust into a kingdom-wide web of death, lies, brutality, and spirits.
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A Golem’s Guide to Regaining Goodness - lovingly tagged as #sea’s story 2 status: brainstorming and shitposting Genre: Post Apocalyptic Fantasy Themes: Identity, belonging, morality, family
A former war golem, Arbor, and his young dragon companion Fiamma, travel the now war torn continent of Ardenia. Join them as they meet new people, explore the realm, and search for the answer to a single question: “What makes someone good?”
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The Guiding Star - lovingly tagged as #sea’s story 3 status: brainstorming only because I don’t have enough Plot to shitpost Genre: Steampunk Pirate Fantasy Themes: (idk yet)
Zenith, of the Guiding Star, is no different than other pirates. They’ve lied, stole, and killed others, all in the name of fame and riches. They and their tiny crew of three others are unassuming, small fish compared to the gargantuan crews that share their skies.
When the Goddess Andromeda’s stars start falling from the sky, the Guiding Star’s crew are the first to pounce on the opportunity for power beyond their widest imaginations. Little do they know, they are not alone in this hunt. There are others, pirates and kingdoms alike, who will stop at nothing to collect all the stars and use them for their own gain. (will fill this out more later)
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[Title Pending.] Status: just an idea Genre: Fantasy (structured like a field guide) Themes: (idk yet)
A field guide of Ardenia, written a long time ago.
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and now the WIP that isn’t a part of Ardenia:
[Title Also Pending]
Either way, it’s a whump story surrounding a healer and a crownchain knight, both of which are trapped in a fighting ring against their will!
It’s set in the Crownchain universe, which was created by @whumpdreaming and I HIGHLY recommend their content ok peak whump right there!
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Now that the yapping’s outta the way… I’d like to take a moment and say…
to all my lovely lovely moots and followers: I love yall sm <3
stay funky, and have a wonderful day!
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hana-no-seiiki · 1 year ago
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but like . . . yandere loser vampire partner that somehow doesn’t have game even after 200 years of living. and dom reader why not we miss em.
the only thing going for them are their looks, extensive knowledge about niche topics, and natural body glitter (like omfg i would become a vampire myself if it means im permanently covered in shimmer-)
they were in most of your classes in university but never appeared unless it was for exams. apparently they had a ‘skin condition that made them extremely sensitive to the sun’ and were therefore excused for classes. a student was usually paid to hand them notes.
that student was your friend. they were a bit of a bum if you were being quite honest. the only thing that urged them to complete the job was money. but after being too lazy to do it so many times, the job was thrown over to you to agonize on.
you quickly find out that your friend was underplaying the pay significantly after the first check. this student must have been the kid of a rich billionaire cause goddamn you didn’t know who the hell else would pay a grand for every subject you completed.
i’d say that you feel kind of bad receiving all this money and therefore improved your note-taking skills out of the kindness of your heart but i mean c’mon you’re reading from my blog- you definitely tweaked it just to earn more of that sweet cash. even drawing doodles at the wee hours of the night and little mnemonics you thought up.
yan sees the effort you put and begins subconsciously keeping your notes in better places. they find themselves grinning like a madman whenever they see that one character you drew that dumbs down some parts that might be too difficult to understand. you even provided translations in subjects that use two or more languages.
yan, despite being already down atrocious for you, never makes the initiative to meet up. they have however, already made extensive research on you. so much so that they’ve made several papers on just your magnificent self.
and so came the time you offered to meet with them. mostly cause y’know, connections with a rich ass dude would be great, but also because you were curious to see who tf pays someone this much to go to school for them.
and you then you meet this socially awkward, super shy, speaks hella old and formal (insert preferred language/dialect here), and oh they’re like super fucking cute it’s actually making you have that sort of aggression you get from pets/toys.
oh.
you want to fuck this dude’s brains out alright.
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cartoonistcoop · 4 months ago
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ShortBox Comics Member Interview: Sloane Hong
Throughout the month of October, the Cartoonist Cooperative will be sharing interviews with members of the Co-op who have a new comic available at the ShortBox Comics Fair 2024! 
NOTE: The Cartoonist Cooperative is not affiliated, associated, authorized, endorsed by, or in any way formally connected with ShortBox.  
Today’s spotlight is Sloane Hong ( @plaest2k ) and their new comic for ShortBox, Expiry Date.
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We’d love it if you could introduce yourself and tell us about your background in comics.
Sloane Hong: Kia ora, my name is Sloane Hong (she/her), I’m a Korean-tauiwi illustrator, comic artist and tattooer based in Aotearoa, New Zealand. I only started making comics professionally about five years ago but they’ve always been a significant part of my life for as long as I can remember.
Tell us more about your new comic?
SH: Expiry Date is an erotic, body horror, sci-fi short story about coming home from a long day at your shitty, minimum-wage job, crashing on your couch and fantasizing about how fucking good it would feel to just die.
I mean, it’s also about transness, labour rights, our relationship with our bodies and death under capitalism, etc but it’s mostly about shitty jobs.
My friend described it as “what if David Cronenberg was a transsexual dyke who grew up reading ero-guro”.
What are some early experiences as a cartoonist that shaped you or your process?
SH: My brother’s also an artist, probably better than I could ever be, and I basically owe any good taste I might have to him. Growing up, I always got home from school first so I’d sneak into his room to admire his drawings and read his comics. He had most of the usual stuff you’d find on any Korean kid’s shelf in the 90’s: Akira Toriyama, Masamune Shirow, Yoshito Usui, etc, and a couple of Korean manhwa that are all now damn-near impossible to find. As he got older, he started getting into American comics and brought home stuff like R. Crumb, Daniel Clowes, Fletcher Hanks, etc from the library.
But it’s not just that I had someone to introduce me to all this stuff, it’s the fact I’m six years younger than him and he was already reading this stuff earlier than most. So I think I started looking at all those misanthropic underground comics by horny white men when I was, like, what… about 10 years old?
Besides my brother, the trauma of working shitty jobs for years on end, The Terrible Boredom of Paradise, and this weird and fucked up miracle we call life are probably the wellsprings of both my inspiration and ceaseless burnout. 
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Tell us about your creative process; how did you develop this comic and what are the steps you took to bring it to the final stage?
SH: I did something really stupid for the 2023 ShortBox Comics Fair. I have ADHD and one of the many ways it manifests is that I have a debilitating habit of overthinking my stories. “Are the themes too obvious? Is it too heavy handed? Are the motivations for this character clear enough? Is this the right way to phrase this? Is this the right word? Is this the right letter? Is this the right punctuation?” etc, etc.
On paper, it probably sounds like something every writer goes through but when I say debilitating, I mean interferes-with-my-ability-to-live-a-normal-life-kind of debilitating. It’s kind of impossible to articulate how bad it was but it got to a point where I was so sick of myself and all the stories I never finished that I said fuck it–maybe if I just jump into a comic with nothing but a stupid premise, no planning and an impending deadline, I won’t have time to think about all these inconsequential details. So I sat down and forced myself to write, pencil and ink a comic, page-by-page.
It was essentially an exercise in automatism: I was still thinking about draftsmanship, composition, flow and everything but I kinda just let the story tell itself by writing/ drawing whatever felt like a natural progression for the narrative.
That was how I ended up with Marrow, which was kinda funny because the whole point was to make a goofy, low-stakes comic about nothing to circumvent the pressure of having to write anything good. Instead I’d inadvertently made something that was layered and deeply intimate and won the sci-fi category in the 2024 Minicomic Awards. But, more importantly, the whole process helped bring everything together. It reminded me of something I used to tell young artists: developing a style isn’t something you really set out to do, it’s something that just happens. You don’t practice drawing to get better at drawing; you do it to better channel your voice. It’s only when you can stop thinking about how to move your hand that your heart can take the lead.
I’d forgotten my own advice. I was so concerned about the technical details of how to write a story that I was basically assembling components rather than writing anything at all. Marrow helped me realize I’d already internalized everything I needed to write long ago. I just needed to stop thinking.
Expiry Date was a continuation of that process and made in basically the same way. There was just significantly less stress involved now that I knew I could trust myself.
Mostly.
Read the rest of the interview HERE! And dont forget to check out the Shortbox Comics Fair to support these lovely creators!!
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itsabouttimex2 · 4 months ago
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A lot of people go with the “you can’t hold fake characters to real people standards” with the SE Macaque discourse
thoughts?
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“Real Life Standards”
I guess if these nebulous individuals are holding ALL characters/actions to that standard then yeah it’d be fair…
But they don’t, and they aren’t.
If it was a situation where someone said “MK is so brave for putting himself in danger to save the city!” and these people whipped around and said “Erm, he’s not a real person! Don’t hold him to real life standards! He’s not at risk of dying, so he’s not brave!” Then I’d understand their viewpoint of “not holding fake people to real standards and rules”…
But instead of any of that, this perspective is entirely one-note in defending Macaque’s less than stellar redemption arc, which just makes it… deflective of criticism at best.
If these people were also saying things like, I don’t know, “Stop saying Sun Wukong is bad at communicating! He’s fake! He can’t miscommunicate with people! He’s not real, no one is! They have no agency to be communicated with!”
Or maybe “Sandy is not pacifistic! He’s not a real person living in the real word, so we can’t judge him by our standards of non-harmfulness!”
Or something like “Tang is not a mooch! He’s not real, so there’s no point in attributed a real-life negative word to a character who doesn’t even need to eat on account of being a moving drawing!”
And maybe even “It’s not sad that MK wanted to sacrifice himself! He’s not a real person, and is only doing what the writers want him to! Stop applying real world logic and views to fiction!”
Then I’d at least respect their iron-grip on fiction≠reality, but instead it’s literally just a desperate attempt to defend some awkward writing.
It’s only ever in response to “Macaque was kind of an awful person, and everyone is just… okay with him? They should like… have thoughts and feelings on that. And they don’t, which worsens them and Macaque as characters.”
It’s never a situation where this is applied to any action or character except for Macaque and all the shit he pulled, you know?
​I just personally think that you can like a character with flawed writing while accepting those flaws, and also without… for arbitrarily deciding ‘actually THESE actions are worth disregarding when you take into account the character” and not applying it evenly?
(I criticize Macaque’s writing all the fucking time, and I still like him enough to write for him? That shouldn’t be like… a rare perspective. It’s healthy to criticize the things you like. Being able to pick out good from bad is a fundamental life skill in every area that you can theoretically apply it to.)
But the arbitrary nature of “no real-life standards” UNLESS it’s in a good/positive way… is silly and deflective.
So I don’t really care for that perspective at all, I guess, especially since I’ve gone on at length about all the things I don’t like about his arc?
And how I wish he was able to face like… actual narrative consequences for his actions? And not in way where it’s like… The Gang Tries to Arrest Mac but instead a way where it’s like…
Mei is violently angry at him for hurting her friends and family. She doesn’t want to work with him. MK has to talk her into it. She can’t say no to him. Not over so kind a request as “Give him a second chance, Mei”. So she does, after some grumbling. She pretends to be okay with it. But she’s scared, deep down. Hurt. Secretly, she covers up her old bruises before going to have dinner with her parents.
Secretly, she’s scared of being hurt again.
Sandy is grateful to him and supportive of this newfound morality. Offers up tea and clean clothes. Lends an ear to complaints and frustrations. Lends a bed, if maybe he doesn’t have one. Keeps the monkey fed. Tries to lend self-help books. “You helped me. Maybe there’s something I can do to help you,” he says.
Maybe Macaque actually takes one, eventually.
Tang is scared, doesn’t want to be around him. He’s read the book. He remembers every word. He’s seen Mei and MK and Pigsy suffer at Macaque’s hands. He doesn’t want it to happen again. But he trusts MK, and wants the kid to be happy. So he bites back any fearful words and instead just… frets. Quietly. And far away, thinking: Sanzang insisted on mercy for a demons before. Tang got to see firsthand how that turned out. He had to help put her down.
What if it happens again?
Pigsy is tired. His friends, his kids, always, always in danger, always battered and beaten and hurt. Broken, sometimes. Tears and blood and bruises. He’s not sure how much longer his heart can take the stress. He wants to be angry, but can’t. Between Tang and the store and MK, Pigsy has too much on his metaphorical and literal plate to be angry. So Macaque gets a bowl of noodles. Because by now, Pigsy has learned that he can’t say no to the kindness that MK throws around, scatters like candy thrown from a festival float.
So much heart in his son, and he knows that it’ll end up broken at the end of the road.
Or smth I guess
He deserved better is what I’m saying
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worldunbent · 4 months ago
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chapter notes - matoba seiji
a compilation of all of midorikawa's chapter notes concerning matoba (as of volume 29)
all are from the official viz releases, translated by lillian olsen.
Chapters 23 - 26 - Inhuman Thing I didn't have a chance to write a story about Matoba until now due to page constraints or manga cycling issues in the magazine. I had fun when I finally got around to it. Matoba's appearance means Natori's hardships become more obvious. Natori settled upon his current philosophy after a lot of reflection. But then he sees Natsume wrestling with the same choices and slogging through the same place he used to be, and it's both amusing and frustrating at the same time for him. Natsume might realize this and not be able to presume so much on his kindness. Natsume and Natori are left with a problem, so l hope to take my time drawing them dealing with it.
Volume 9 (General afterword) I enjoyed drawing a bit about Matoba. He has several titles. He’s the organizer of the assembly of exorcists, so he’s called “Chairman” during the meetings. He’s the young head of the family from a regular human perspective, and known as the leader of his clan to yokai. Natsume has been more relaxed lately, so it’s very fun to draw something tense like this once in a while. I’d like to write thoroughly about exorcists some time when I have the opportunity. Seeing Matoba and Natori side by side here, they’re clearly eccentrics. I’m relieved that Natsume seems normal by comparison.
Chapters 52 - 54 - Behind the Chains Natsume is now able to face a variety of things. But I also feel that the distance between him and Natori grows each time they encounter one another. They see the same things and hope for the same outcome, but because their paths are a little different, it's hard for them to take action when they're together. It's a strange feeling. I'm sure Natori wants to remain Natsume's ally, and Natsume wants the same with Natori. I'm happy I got to draw more about Matoba, too. Whereas Natori tries to do what's right and is afraid of making a mistake, I think Matoba is the kind of person who doesn't fear making mistakes.
Chapter 77 - The Two Rings This was another story I had always wanted to do, but the timing never worked out, so I was very happy to get to it now. When I'm drawing Natsume, I always agonize over his dialogue and pick his words carefully. But when I'm drawing the Matoba clan, I don't have to think about the impression they're making, and I just use words that pop up in my head. Mr. Natori is somewhere in between. It's always a bit refreshing to draw the exorcists. I hope people form their opinions of Mr. Matoba based on what's on the page. In good ways and bad, he's a character who lies but is also uninhibited.
Special Episode 17 - A Hand Extended They let me do another episode of Natori as a high school student. There was another anecdote I wanted to include, but it wouldn't fit, no matter how hard I tried to rearrange things. Still, I'm happy I could depict more of Natori and Matoba's relationship. Sometimes you can't come to an understanding with a person, but once you become aware of your own feelings, you can often begin to be more objective. Then you start to see aspects of the person that change your mind, which is natural. But unlike Natsume, Natori can be stubborn and won't allow his feelings to change. It was interesting to see how Natori would feel about the aloof and unwavering Matoba.
Special Episode 19 - An Abandoned Station in the Rain With 16 pages, the plot could have felt too similar to other Special Episodes, so I decided to do a simple story just about running into someone unexpected. It was fun showing Matoba being himself. Mr. Matoba knows yokai who live in a slightly different world from the one Natsume knows, and Nyanko Sensei knows both worlds. I'd like to do more stories about the two of them.
Chapters 92 - 94 - The House of Promises I have a memory of some boys climbing the gate of the town hall to pick some loquats at the end of spring and getting scolded. I made it seem like spring when the chapter appeared in the magazine, but then I heard that loquats ripen in early summer, so my older sister helped me race to redraw the clothing into something more summery before the graphic novel release. I enjoyed drawing the exorcists. Mr. Natori just can't catch a break and Mr. Matoba has many things going for him, but he often gets shut out. They don't really get along, and they're skeptical of each other even when real empathy is extended. Natsume is always at least trying to listen, so conversations are easier with him present. No matter what, Mr. Natori is older, and Mr. Matoba is younger. End of story. When I include the exorcists, there are all these dilemmas and convolutions that make things complicated and fun to draw. It feels fresh to me. I get nostalgic for the first time Natsume and Mr. Natori met when they're together. Their bond is getting deeper, but it was easier before for Mr. Natori to casually invite Natsume on outings. When you know someone a long time, there are more things to say, but sometimes, just as many things remain unsaid.
Chapters 103 - 104 - Where Vessels Lie in Slumber* I was so happy to work on a longer story for once. My head starts filling up with what to do next while I'm still working on the current episode. when I'm in one-shot mode. But being able to linger on a story arc reminded me of the excitement I felt back when I first wanted to be a manga artist. I still have a lot of storylines I'd prefer not to cut short, so I hope I get more opportunities like this. I've wanted to do this particular story for a long time, but. I feel like it could only be done now because of how Natsume's currently feeling. I hope you can pick up on how Natori and Matoba's relationship changes subtly depending on the situation, and that you get a feel for their solidarity as exorcist peers. It was so fun drawing everything I wanted to include: Natsume's faith in his friends; Natori's belief that he can still offer help even as an exorcist; Matoba, who's sometimes prevented from action because he knows and sees too much; Tanuma, who's surely able to help, but is unable to accompany Natsume; the cats protecting their secret; Nyanko Sensei. And of course there were even more things I wanted to expand on, so I'll take my time working them out.
*The first three chapters of this arc are in the previous volume and there's not enough in the other note for me to include.
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swampstew · 4 months ago
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Captain's little bitch
Summary: Play bitch games, win bitch prizes. Warnings: gender bent/ Fem Eustass Kid (dom) X Female Reader (sub), bdsm dynamics in the form of pet play obedience training, teasing, oral, pre-timeskip design :) WC: 800+
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Eustass Kid couldn’t not make something into a competition. A character flaw you willingly overlooked because of your beneficial friendship with her. One that left you both very satisfied. What should have been a fun game to simply drink and enjoy each other’s company…
“This game is rigged,” the spicy redhead scoffed before tossing the deck of cards across her room in annoyance for her consecutive losses.
“You taught it to me. Maybe you don’t understand the rules that well.”
“HAAH?!” she doubled over laughing, “No, doll. You should know by now, I don’t follow them at all.”
“Well maybe someone should put you in your place,” you stuck your tongue out, knowing you were inviting trouble. But, it needed saying.
“And who’s gonna do it?” her golden eyes narrowed sharply and her voice took a begrudged tone. “You? Need I remind you to whom you’re talking?”
Her red clawed nails wrapped around your throat, not pressing too deep as she pulled your face to hers while making you crane your neck uncomfortably. Her smirk was devastatingly beautiful, even with the cruel gleam in her eyes.
“Just because I let you eat me out doesn’t mean you have any authority over me,” Kid growled menacingly. “In fact, I’d say you’re the one in dire need of obedience training.”
Shoving you down to your knees, Kid pushed your head with the sole of her foot. Once you were bowed before her, she sat down in her throne like chair lifting her leg and hooking it over the armrest. Her spotted yellow skirt rode up and you could see the glistening, silk panties you had gifted her, snugly fit around Kid’s mound. It made your mouth water.
“Since you think you can talk to me like you’re my equal, I’m gonna train you to be a good girl from the bad bitch that you are,” she smirked.
“Y-y—” you tried to talk back, a plea for leniency.
“Dog’s don’t talk!” Kid snapped, taking her belt off her waist, and whipping it in the air with a crack. “Bring me the muzzle and the strap. Go on, all fours. If you misbehave, I’ll whip your pretty little ass.”
With a shiver, you crawled towards the bed and reached for the trunk stashed underneath. Pulling the requested items, you couldn’t carry both toys in your position and you had no choice but to bite down on the straps.
They dangled from your mouth as you shuffled back to your mistress.
“That’s better, although…something still seems off,” she let the implication hang in the air before she suddenly stood up and ripped your clothes off leaving you in your lingerie.
“There. I don’t dress my dogs up. Now the only thing missing…and you better fuckin’ stay right there,” Kid moved about the cabin where you couldn’t see; you almost almost wanted to take a peek, feel the leather belt caress your cheeks with a passionate strike that was sure to have you writhing.
She was back before you could try, clipping something cold and heavy around your throat.
A golden chain.
A collar.
“Now you look like a proper pup. Let’s see if you can act like one for mommy,” she beckoned you to the chair with a clawed finger. Kid took off her shirt and skirt, revealing a corset that was hooked to the panties, and assumed her original seated position.
“Ledge,” she commanded.
Gulping, you crawled on your knees until you were directly in front of her. You slowly raised your hands and placed them on the edge of the chair.
“Good pup. Now beg.”
Your mouth opened indignantly, and as you started to speak Kid shot you a glare. Biting your lip, you lowered your head on top of your hands and made short, whining noises.
“Does the puppy want my forgiveness?” Kid mocked you, tracing your cheek with her fingers as if she were giving you scritches.
You nodded, echoing your whimpers in the hopes of pleasing her from your humiliation.
Kid cooed, drawing her fingers back and pressing them against her clothed pussy. Rubbing herself teasingly as she coldly glared at you.
“Does my bitch want my affections?”
Your hands wavered on the chair as you tried to draw yourself closer to the intoxicating scent of Kid’s arousal. Your eyes dilated, round and wide as you pleaded with your eyes. Nudging your head and nose against her warm thigh with another pitiful cry.
The redhead cracked a smile, dipped her finger under the fabric and gathered a generous amount of slick between her fingers.
“You can have a treat.”
She shoved her fingers between your drooling lips. Moaning around the digits as they explored your mouth, getting drunk off the taste of Eustass Kid’s juicy pussy.
With clean fingers, Kid pushed the soaked fabric aside and scooted herself closer to your face.
“Go on, lap it up. You’re gonna need your hydration with your punishment still coming.”
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theflagscene · 2 months ago
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Sky and Nani are basically getting all the benefits of a bl cp without actually being one. Their fans don’t seem to mind (for now) in fact some are quite condescending to Bl fans thinking that Sky and Nani are somehow above doing them. Meanwhile most of their fans ship them together. lol
I’m curious to see how it’s going to all play out cuz the initial hype will die down eventually. In this business there is always a new popular cp
Oh absolutely! I think a lot of their fans are holding out hope that the boys will eventually take on a BL, but I really don’t think they will. It’ll be interesting to see them be the first bromance branded pairing, to see how well that works out for GMMTV.
I’m on the fence about the whole idea, not because of SkyNani, but the idea of a branded bromance pairing in general. It kinda seems a little queerbait-y to me, like the company knows that the boys have great on screen chemistry and that will draw in a lot of QL fans, especially if the trailers for their series are vague about the character’s relationship, like in the pre-production trailer for Wu.
So they reel in viewers that are hoping for something that they won’t get, which is some kind of romance. Which can leave fans mad, but that won’t take away from the viewing numbers which is all corporate really cares about, unhappy fans can’t take back their watch time.
I’d never expect an actor to do work they don’t want to do or are uncomfortable doing, and I don’t think any actor is homophobic or wrong for not wanting to do a queer series or being gay for pay, which unfortunately a lot of people assume is the case if someone doesn’t want to act in a same sex romance. That is their own choice and they have their own reasons for making those choices, but what I do not support is production companies using those same actors who have made it very clear that they do not want to be in those types of series, using queerbaiting techniques to pull in viewers to shows that they know would not get as many viewers if the company was upfront about the lack of queer representation in the series.
I have no issues with bromance/platonic love stories, in fact I would love to see more of them! I want more stories about people of all genders absolutely loving the hell out of each other, being full blown soulmates without not having any romantic feelings toward one another.
I just have a bad feeling about this SkyNani branding because most fans want one thing from them—a BL—and it really does not seem like that’s gonna happen. And when it doesn’t, the poor boys are going to suffer the fallout, not GMMTV. Which is just unfair.
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maxdibert · 18 days ago
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In your opinion, why are the fans of Harry Potter more willing to forgive Sirius for betraying Remus in the werewolf "prank", than they are willing to forgive Severus for calling Lily a mudblood? I mean, both actions are bad, but one obviously has worse consequences.
I know part of it is because the characters themselves act that way. Remus forgives Sirius but Lily doesn't forgive Severus, so I guess fans go along with it.
But looking from an outside perspective, I have no way of defending Sirius. I think that may be the worst betrayal in the books and I can't believe something like that gets swept under the rug.
Because the narrative treats what Sirius does as a typical schoolboy prank, while Severus insulting someone is portrayed as worse than the 9/11 attacks, basically. Rowling handles really heavy topics in a totally superficial way when it suits her, especially if she wants you to adore a character. But when she wants you to hate someone, the most trivial things are treated as if they’re the worst offense in the universe. Just look at how Severus has to spend 20 years repenting and flagellating himself for joining a sect, but James just has to “mature” and get a girlfriend for us to forgive him for being an abuser.
It’s Rowling’s moral compass and scale of values that gets transmitted to the reader. If you have any critical thinking, you’ll draw your own conclusions despite her biases. If you’re a sheep, you’ll just follow the narrative without questioning anything. That’s how it works.
Honestly, even when I read the fifth book and wasn’t even a fan of Severus, I didn’t think the insult scene was such a big deal. In fact, I didn’t understand what all the drama was about. I’ve got friends from my neighborhood that I’ve known my whole life, and we’ve said worse things to each other. It feels so childish, and I had to fill in the gaps myself with interpretations and headcanons to even make sense of it. If someone stopped being my friend over something so stupid, given the context of the situation, I’d just tell them to go to hell.
Similarly, if a supposed friend of mine tried to make me an accomplice to murder, then yeah, I’m definitely not forgiving that either. Let’s be clear.
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jo-gakky · 4 months ago
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Can you express how much you love Nezha? I’d love to read about your rambles ❤️
WAAAAAAAAA this is such a flattering ask to get! 
I'm really bad at expressing myself when it comes to things I love, but I LOVE talking about and pointing out the little details about my favorite little guys!!
(also a quick note! I tend to describe things using examples/scenarios. If it gets a bit confusing, please don't be afraid to ask me about anything <3)
Nezha, specifically the LMK version of him, brings me a kind of stability and comfort that no other character really does/ever has. The comfort derives from sort of a combination between his general presence/movement, ideals and actions.
Have you guys ever met someone who just OOZES stability? They're dependent, and manage situations with grace, even despite their own troubles?
That's the kind of guy I read Nezha as! He's a noble guy with a stable moral compass, and he's self-assured in his actions and his righteousness, however, he's not afraid to admit his own wrongs when they pop up. He's stubborn, sure, but not to a fault. Despite knowing of Wukongs reckless behavior, he entrusts the responsibility and himself to Wukong’s plan(s). And to be honest, what deity in this show is NOT a bit stubborn?
Nezha is everything I'm not, and I ADMIRE that so much. There is something comforting in watching him whenever he comes on screen, because he is what every other deity pretends to be. He is just an honest guy, and honestly what's better than that? 
He's just the type of guy you could trust wholeheartedly!
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Again, I could be reading his character wrong. Rewatching LMK always makes me notice new things about characters that provide a new context to them, and Nezha is no different. 
But that's absolutely okay with me, because that means I get to re-explore all these characters over again!
But for my current impression of Nezha, I read him as a stern guy with a heart of gold!
I could imagine, even if he was on duty, he'd be the type to help out if someone asked him for a hand. He'd probably hesitate, but only because leaving his post probably feels like sacrilege to him, but in the end he can't neglect a person in need of a hand. He's a generally kind, nice and reliable guy, but betraying that trust would make him incredibly doubtful of whoever slighted that trust, for a long while. His trust is preserved for those who deserve it. He seems to be a good judge of character, and wont give his full trust to those who are suspicious.
I also just feel like he's the stern type, that actually hides a side that's more cheeky, but in fear of becoming a joke or looked down upon, he represses that side of him.
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I don't know how to really express exactly what I mean with all of this, but I generally just love him so much for being such a stable, kind, responsible and grounded character!
Something about him screams safety, and I'm genuinely so sad that I didn't pay him much mind on my first watch.
Aside from his general character, his design also just SCREAMS comfort and happiness to me!
The Pretty pinks and teal speaks to his calmness and general kindness and goodness, while the bright reds give a hint of his ferocious battle skills and power. And perhaps his temper, but I don't really think he has much of a temper. He gets a bit annoyed, but if i'm being honest, i would get a bit irked too if someone who could help wasn't taking something, possibly dangerous, seriously.
Beside his pleasing color scheme, his general shape-language is GORGEOUS and i love it so much! His hairstyle specifically makes me so happy! It's so beautiful!
He's also just generally really fun to draw, which adds a lot when it comes to a character's appeal for me.
This is just a minor detail, but I thought I'd add it anyway : His english voice BRINGS ME SUCH JOY! His voice is such a perfect fit for the kind of person he is! (tbh all the english voices are perfect, but specifically Nezha's voice strikes a chord with me.)
Um
yeah
That's just the basics!
TL;DR : I really like Nezha bc he's very cool and nice and awesome and responsible! <3 He makes me happy :)
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