#more themes of complex betrayal >:^)

[painfully-unoriginal]

it's like burning...

[evelynpr]

The Fontaine main cast are all so thematically, emotionally, and narratively connected to each other that you can ship them in nearly every way and it somehow works.

I'm talking Furina, Neuvillette, Arlecchino, Clorinde, Navia, and Wriothesley here.

Wriolette? The upholders of the order of Fontaine. One on the surface, and one in the depths.

Clorivia? Childhood friendship, betrayal, and now healing with the truth and past resolved.

Neuvifuri? 500 years of closeness and understanding, mixed with distance and regret. Only after her sacrifice are they finally both free.

Arlefuri? Changing their fates through sheer force of will. Protecting the people who need on them, while accepting nothing in return.

Wriolinde? They were going to protect Fontaine together if its the last thing they do. Their trust is unbreakable.

Arlevia? Protecting their loved ones beyond the law. With a system and world that did not care for them, they care for their family their own way.

Knavilette? The seemingly cold and distant with bleeding hearts. They always keep their distance for fear of what would happen in a moment of weakness, especially with their overwhelming power.

Navilette? Personal regret with injustice and loss, now healing with compassion and understanding.

Furinde? The selfless princess and her loyal champion. She has always been by her side, protecting her with her blade, but only now does she get to know the real "Furina"

There are even more I haven't touched on (lemme know if you'd appreciate it ig?). These characters are just so...so interconnected through Fontaine with its themes on justice, order, love, loyalty, and more. They really knocked it out of the park with creating such a beautiful and complex cast of characters.

[moonxknightx]

♡˗ˏ✎*ೃ˚ : FORBIDDEN INTENTIONS: :;

╰┈➤ ❝ [PAIRING] ❞ Old!Stepdad!Logan Howlett x F!Reader

・❥・GENRE: i don’t even know what to call this genre tbh….

˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆FANDOM: X-Men

ੈ✩‧₊˚ WARNINGS: Age Gap: Significant age difference between characters, Manipulation: Themes of manipulation and deception, Romantic Tension: Intense romantic and sexual tension, Mature Content: Contains mature themes and emotional intensity. Family Dynamics: Complex and potentially distressing family relationships.

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥SUMMARY: You thought Logan, your mother’s husband, was a blessing for her in her later years. But after her passing, you discover he married her to get close to you. Now, as Logan’s relentless pursuit of you unfolds, you’re torn between feelings of betrayal and an unexpected, unsettling attraction.

Based on this request.

YOU DIDN’T HATE LOGAN. In fact, when your mother introduced him into your life five years ago, you were almost relieved. After all, it had been just the two of you for years, and seeing her with someone in her later years seemed like a blessing. She deserved to be happy, and Logan seemed to care for her.

At least, that’s what you thought.

You were in your early thirties, and your mom—well, she was getting older. Logan was retired from whatever military past he had. You knew he was more than just a regular guy, but she never really told you much about him beyond that. Still, there was something about the way he looked at you, something… intense.

“Good to see you, kid,” he said gruffly when you visited home that weekend from university.

“I'm not a kid, Logan,” you corrected him, smiling as you placed your bags down. “Master's degree, remember? I'm practically a professor by now."

He raised an eyebrow, not bothering to hide his amusement. “Yeah, sure. But you’ll always be the kid to me.” His voice was rough, like gravel under boots, and there was always an edge to it, something that made your skin prickle whenever he was around. Still, you brushed it off as just him being… well, Logan.

~

Your mother had taken ill shortly after you started your master's program, and you made the journey back home every few weeks to check in. Logan was always there, looming. He never gave you much space, but it was the way he looked at you that had started to make you uncomfortable.

One evening, after your mother had fallen asleep early, the two of you sat in the living room. The TV was on, but the noise was nothing but background to the silence hanging between you both.

“So, you still seeing that guy from your class?” Logan asked suddenly, his eyes not leaving the TV screen, though you knew he wasn’t really paying attention to it.

You blinked, surprised at the question. "What? How do you know about that?”

He shrugged, finally glancing over at you. “Your mom mentioned it.”

“Uh, no, actually,” you said, shifting a little in your seat. “It didn’t work out. We weren’t really… compatible.”

“Hmph,” Logan grunted, his lips quirking slightly. “Good.”

“Good?” You echoed, confused. “Why is that good?”

He leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees, his gaze suddenly piercing as he looked at you. “Guy wasn’t right for you.”

Your heart skipped a beat. There it was again, that intensity. His eyes seemed to bore into you, not in the way a father figure would watch over his stepdaughter. No, there was something else, something darker.

You swallowed hard. “Logan, what—what do you mean by that?”

“You’re smart, kid,” he said lowly, leaning back against the couch. “You can figure it out.”

“I—” The words caught in your throat, and you stood up abruptly. “I should check on Mom.”

~

Months passed, and your mother’s condition worsened. Logan had become a constant presence in your life, more than you ever wanted or expected. You started to notice how often he would drop by your apartment in the city. Always with an excuse—"Just passing through," or "Wanted to make sure you’re doing alright."

It was unnerving.

“Logan, you don’t have to come all this way just to check on me,” you told him one afternoon as you caught him lingering by your door again.

He leaned against the doorframe, that familiar smirk tugging at his lips. “Sure, I do. Can’t have you out here all alone, can I?”

“I’m an adult,” you snapped. “I can handle myself.”

He chuckled softly, his eyes trailing over you in a way that made your stomach twist. “You can try. But that doesn’t mean I’m going anywhere.”

~

Your mother passed quietly in her sleep one cold winter evening. The grief was sharp, cutting through you like a knife, and while you were thankful she no longer had to suffer, the loss left a deep void in your heart. Logan was there at the funeral, of course, standing stoically beside you.

“She loved you,” you murmured through tears, staring down at the casket. “She really loved you, Logan.”

“She did,” he agreed, his voice low and steady.

You turned to him, something breaking inside of you. “What am I supposed to do now? She was everything.”

He stepped closer, his hand resting on your shoulder. “You got me.”

The words felt wrong. He wasn’t the comfort you needed, but he was all you had left.

~

Weeks passed after your mother's death, and Logan stayed around. No matter how much you tried to distance yourself, he was there. At your apartment, waiting when you returned from class, sitting at your usual café, casually slipping into your life in ways that you could no longer ignore.

One night, after a particularly long day of classes and work, you found him waiting in your kitchen.

“How the hell did you get in here?” you demanded, your heart racing as you dropped your keys onto the counter.

He shrugged. “Door was unlocked.”

“Bullshit,” you spat. “I locked it. Logan, you can’t keep doing this.”

His expression darkened, and he stepped closer. Too close. “I’ve waited long enough, kid. Your mom’s gone. There’s nothing stopping us now.”

Your blood ran cold. “What are you talking about?”

“You know exactly what I’m talking about,” he growled, his voice low and dangerous. “You think I stuck around for her? For all those years?”

You took a step back, your mind reeling. Logan's gaze was locked onto yours, the truth crashing into you like a tidal wave. Every warning sign, every lingering look, the possessive edge in his words—everything suddenly made sense, but it was too much. Your heart raced as the room seemed to close in on you.

“You didn’t—” you stammered, your voice barely a whisper. “You didn’t stay for her?”

He didn’t flinch, didn’t bother pretending anymore. Instead, he stepped forward, his presence filling the small space between you, suffocating. "She was a means to an end. I stayed for you."

The weight of his confession hung in the air, and you felt a shiver run down your spine. You wanted to scream, to push him away, but the raw intensity in his eyes pinned you in place

“Logan, this isn’t right,” you managed, your voice trembling. “She was my mother. You were her husband.”

His lips curled into a smirk, one that made your skin crawl. “Your mom knew what she was getting. But she’s gone now. You and I… we don’t have to pretend anymore.”

You shook your head, stepping back until your back hit the counter. "No, this is insane. There’s a huge age gap, Logan. You’re—you're like sixty, and I’m—"

“Thirty-two,” he interrupted, his voice deep and rumbling. “You’re an adult. Hell, you’re smarter and more capable than most people I’ve ever met. And you think I give a damn about age? I’m older than you know, sweetheart. I’ve seen and done things you can’t imagine.”

You swallowed hard, your mind spinning. Everything about this felt wrong, but at the same time, Logan had always been a larger-than-life figure in your world. There was something magnetic about him, something that pulled you in even when you didn’t want it to.

“This is twisted,” you whispered, trying to find your footing, to regain some control over the conversation. "I... I need time."

Logan’s expression softened—just a little. He stepped back, giving you space, but his eyes never left yours. "Take your time," he said, his voice low and gravelly. "But I’m not going anywhere. Not now. Not ever."

~

In the weeks that followed, you tried to distance yourself from him, to process what had happened, but Logan was relentless. He never pushed you physically, but he was always there, lurking at the edges of your life. His presence was inescapable, a constant reminder of the tension that simmered between you both.

You thought about moving cities, quitting your master’s program, anything to put more space between you, but you knew Logan would find a way to follow. He always did.

One night, as you sat in your apartment, your mind racing with thoughts of escape, there was a knock at the door. You didn’t have to guess who it was.

When you opened the door, Logan stood there, his expression unreadable. For once, there was no smirk, no cocky attitude. He looked... tired.

“What do you want, Logan?” you asked, your voice tight with frustration.

“I came to talk,” he said simply, stepping inside without waiting for an invitation. “You’ve been avoiding me.”

“I wonder why,” you muttered, crossing your arms. “You dropped a bomb on me, and you expect everything to be fine?”

He sighed, rubbing a hand across the back of his neck. “I never expected it to be easy. I knew what I was doing wasn’t… conventional.”

“Conventional?” You let out a bitter laugh. “Logan, you married my mother just to get close to me. Do you have any idea how messed up that is?”

“I didn’t plan it that way,” he said quietly, his voice more vulnerable than you’d ever heard it. “But once I met you, I couldn’t shake it. Your mom was lonely, and I knew I could take care of her, make her last years happy. But it was always about you. From the start.”

Your breath hitched at his confession. There was a part of you that wanted to scream at him, to tell him how wrong all of this was. But another part—one you didn’t want to admit existed—was drawn to him. You hated it, but it was there.

“Logan,” you began, choosing your words carefully, “this isn’t something I can just accept. You manipulated my mother. You’ve been manipulating me. How can you expect anything between us after that?”

He took a step closer, and this time, you didn’t move away. His eyes softened as he looked down at you, the weight of years behind them. “Because we’re the same, kid. You know it as much as I do. You’re not scared of me—you’re scared of how much you feel this too.”

You felt your pulse quicken, his words cutting through every wall you’d tried to build. "Logan…"

He reached out, gently brushing a strand of hair behind your ear. "I’ve waited long enough. I’ll wait as long as you need. But don’t think I’m gonna give up on this. On us."

His touch was surprisingly tender, and for a moment, you let yourself lean into it. You hated how good it felt, how much you craved that connection, even if it came from him.

“Maybe…” you whispered, your voice barely audible, “maybe I need more time.”

He nodded, his gaze never leaving yours. “I’ll be here when you’re ready.”

With that, Logan turned and walked toward the door, leaving you standing in the middle of the room, heart racing, and mind reeling. You watched him go, knowing that this wasn’t over. Not by a long shot.

And maybe, just maybe, you didn’t want it to be.

🏷️: @twinky-wink @fidgetingbee @astarions-girl-dinner @layladestiny8 @birdy-bat-writes @h0n3y-l3m0n05 @wolviesgirl @slowlikehoneyyy @boomveronika @lanabobana @shybluebirdninja @corvusmorte @seamlessepiphany @allmyn1ghts @chronicallybubbly @lex-the-flex @evasmlp @whxtewolf

If you want to be added to the taglist, let me know!!🫶

Also do we need a part 2?

[apollohears]

DEMO. ( TBD ) ✸ ROMANCES. ✸ PLAYLISTS.

last updated: coming soon !

Step into the shadows of Day of Dusk, a mesmerizing blend of dark fantasy, horror, and romance. Drawing inspiration from the chilling folklore of the Brothers Grimm and the adrenaline-fueled film "Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters," this interactive novel beckons you into a world where mysteries lurk in every corner and romance dances with danger.

In Day of Dusk, the line between magic and malevolence blurs, and you, the main protagonist, hold the key to unraveling its secrets. Will you dare to navigate the twisted paths where witches, witch hunters, and supernatural entities collide?

The choice is yours, but be warned: in the shadows of dusk, nothing is as it seems.

In the heart of a medieval fantasy realm lies "Day of Dusk," a tale woven with threads of mystery and the macabre. Journey alongside a band of young mercenaries, masters of the dark art of witch hunting, as they navigate a world teeming with secrets and shadows.

Their journey begins in the tainted township of Ruel-Mizu, where whispers of many vanished children echo through the fog-choked streets. Tasked with unraveling this enigma, your group treads a path fraught with peril and the weight of history's darkest deeds.

As you delve deeper into the town's grim past, you'll confront not only witches of formidable power but also otherworldly entities lurking in the shadows. Along the way, unexpected allies may emerge, and the bonds of friendship may blossom into something more.

Yet every choice carries weight in this twisted tale of power and love. Betrayal lurks around every corner, and the line between ally and enemy blurs in the gloom. Will you sacrifice everything for the truth, side with who you least expect it, save the town for good or succumb to the allure of forbidden romance?

In "Day of Dusk," the fate of worlds hangs in the balance, and only you hold the key to unlocking its secrets.

How far will you go to uncover the truth?

This game is a work of fiction; content warnings include, but are not limited to, graphic death, depictions of blood and gore, medieval violence, body horror, explicit language, depression, suicide, references to assault, grooming, mental and physical abuse, sexually suggestive themes, and drug and alcohol use. This story is intended for mature +17 audiences; reader discretion is advised.

STORY FEATURES :

Step into the shoes of a diverse protagonist, embracing your identity as male, female, non-binary, or anywhere along the gender spectrum. Explore the rich tapestry of human sexuality, navigating relationships and attractions as a gay, straight, bisexual, asexual, or aromantic individual. Your journey is uniquely yours, shaped by your experiences and choices as you carve out your place in the world.

Embark on a journey of discovery and connection as you navigate the complex web of relationships in a world filled with intrigue and danger. In the end, it is through these connections—friendships forged in fire, love born from adversity—that you might find the true meaning of your existence and the strength to face whatever challenges lie ahead.

Have your name written in history tales to come, become a hero beacon of hope, or become a feared figure among the community.

Confide in the unrevealed troubles that settle the mysterious past of your royal company's path to break tradition—or steal the heir's power to the throne for your own.

Learn the dark truth about the horrors that lie concealing just how far some would go to great lengths in order to create life.

Forge the future of a community and companions lives with the supporting changes and challenges schemed upon you and all of those who you know or love.

THE RO CHARACTERS :

Each love interest will have their own route which you will get to choose from at the end of the common route. The four romance options in this game depend purely on the readers preference which include: a man, a woman, one you can choose between their presenting gender and a ç̸̤̞̟̏̀̄̔̚r̷̛̟͕͙̼͚̼̓̒̑͝͠ͅy̷̛͉̭͙̿̒̆̈́́͊͗̅̈̀p̶̟͎̩̩͕̭̀̍̅́͛̚ţ̵̺̬̭̪͂̊̑̋̽̚͝͝ì̴̠̪͊͐̿͊̽̍͘͜͝͠c̴̗͉̭̖͕͕̐̔̾̂͘͝ͅ ̴͓͉͚͔̬͓̩̜͒̂͋́b̶̘̽̔̃̀͂̒̕͝e̷̡̡̫̮̹̻̰̺̖͋̿͂̀͑̈́̌̕̚͝ì̵͚̤͗ͅn̸̫̎̋́ǧ̶̡̳̥̾̚ͅ.̵̧̛̩̯̹̦̊̎̈́̕͝

Silas/Sophia Amon — the needling best friend and a member of your witch hunting team. Forge a deeper friendship and uncover the true meaning of loyalty with your brash yet devoted childhood best friend, whose charming demeanor hides on top of another layer of emotion.

"I'll be the bad guy if it means keeping us alive. Someone has to make the tough calls around here."

Pavlos Norlenbourne  — the neglected forsaken naive royal with a roaring secret. Draw close to a haunted prince, haunted by the shadows of his tragic upbringing, and unravel the mysteries that surround him as you delve into the depths of his troubled soul. 

"In a world where power is everything, I'm just a pretty pawn in their game. But I'll make my own moves, carve my own path."

Annette Meadowcroft — the obsessive poet with a firing spirit who refuses to be tamed. Uncover the hidden depths of a secret poet, whose words hold the key to unlocking the secrets of the heart. Join her on a journey of self-discovery as she seeks to break free from the constraints of society and embrace the beauty of the world around her.

"The ink flows from my pen like a river of defiance, writing my own narrative in a world that seeks to silence women like me."

Rune — the callow knight who isn't very fond of small talk with a foreboding origin. Dare to tread the path of a cryptic made being, grappling with questions of identity and purpose as they navigate a world that sees them as little more than a weapon. 

"If you have the audacity to think that I am some sorrowful god, then the pain of my fraud in human appearance will be all the more agonizing."

Depending on your play style, you have the ability to create, shape and destroy numerous familial, romantic, platonic, professional and community relationships with a full cast of characters whose genders and personalities vary. 

✸ Dedicated to all the hopeless romance and fantasy fans who are too engrossed in their books to talk and too shy to write, to my momanager Kass, who always likes to keep things real.

[imbecominggayer]

Writing Advice: Too Many Characters

A common advice when writing stories is "don't write too many characters". But, like with everything creative and good, there is no definitive answer to how many characters should be in a book!

So I will be discussing numerous variables in storytelling which impacts how many characters you should have and what makes something in a book "pointless".

Themes! Themes! Themes! (Omori Spoilers, Not Too Much)

The most important question that a writer has to ask themself is "what is this scene/book/media trying to do?". If your story is based on the relationships we have with others and the impact they can have on our psyche then having a close-knitted community of people will drive the message of intimate connection better then just having more people in there. If your story is focused primarily on introspection, looking inward, individuality, and other spiritual activities then the protagonist is more likely to spend longer durations of the media by themselves.

An example of these to forces is the popular game of Omori.

(SPOILERS ABOUT OMORI<3)

Omori is a game that focuses on acceptance first and foremost. Self-acceptance to be more specific. Due to the fact that the game is a piece of introspection both for Sunny and for the player, the most important moments in the game such as the "reveal" sequence of pictures and Black Space are ones that are done on your own.

However, the game also prioritizes the relationships Sunny has between his friends as this serves as motivation for the final duet. The final duet was an act of bonding as Mari and Sunny just wanted to spend time together, doing something they liked.

The introspection moments are pushed towards the end of the game because it's only when Sunny has that support and belief in his friends, can he rise above his doubt and shame and fear.

2. What Is The Purpose Of This Character?

All characters need to have a purpose in the narrative. Both within the context of the world and in the context of the book.

Within the context of the world, they need a goal that is going to impact the protagonist either positively or negatively.

Within the context of the book, what is this character giving to the audience that wouldn't otherwise be there?

Pro tip: All the characters you have need to have more then one purpose! Characters that give exposition can't JUST give exposition.

If you have a love interest that can be cut out without taking away a vital part of the story either from a thematic(theme) standpoint or a narrative(plot) standpoint, just replace them with an object and move it along!

If you have an ally character that only shows up twice and can be changed into "I went down to the store to buy these items", give that "ally" tag to someone more story relevant"!

3. Priorites?

Ask yourself this: "Do I have the book length to dedicate time to this person?"

If the answer is no, follow my next steps. If the answer is yes, here is how to make them better.

When I say "prioritize", I mean you need to figure out what type of character this character is. Are they a main character? A side character? Cannon fodder? A symbol? WHAT ARE THEY?

Also, can you give these character responsibilities to someone else? This simultaneously gives those characters deeper complexity and eliminates more characters

Example: Love Interest, after being trapped by the villain, uses their intelligence in order to provide information about the villain to the hero. (Love Interest + Ally + Informant)

Example: Friend is revealed to be a double agent on the side of the Villain. However, it's revealed that Friend was secretly a triple agent who is finally redeemed from their original believed betrayal. They're back to being an ally. (Friend + Betrayer + Ally + Enemy)

[echantedtoon]

Tipping Point

(Warnings for yandere themes and pregnancy mentions.)

-It didn't happen overnight. Your husband was not someone to be feared yes but never by you. He was always so considerate and responsible. His presence always so stoic but gentle. The way he loved to hold your smaller form against his own. Listening to the soft heartbeats emitting from your form. You gave him the peace of mind he never got before.

-He's never had any say in anything before. His life, family, or what transpired between his brother. His inferiority complex and jealousy driving him to do unspeakable things. Unspeakable things you never held against him. You were perfect. Everything his past wife wasn't. He had everything he wanted. Finally surpassing his brother in life and strength (he was much stronger surely with his hundreds of years getting stronger and he was stronger than a dead man), the high ranking position he deserved, and a perfect wife.

-Just when He doesn't think he could be anymore blessed along comes with the news that you two were expecting. Two little ones. His own lineage. Muzan is pleased with the news, after all he thinks they'd be great to study and Kokushibo couldn't agree more already planning out what and how their lives should be. Everything is perfect.

-In his eyes only. You however have a very different view. Your husband was always kind and respectful in the beginning. He was everything you loved, but you started notices the shifting behaviors. Starting with the news of a person with hanafuta earrings and sun breathing was found. He started acting different. More distant, he didn't come home as often, but when he did he was dismissive...Until he wasn't. One day you're surprised by a new rule he placed on you. "You are no longer to go out anywhere by yourself. You are to stay within the house and go anywhere without me. Understood?"

-When you politely ask what brought this about, he only says that it's for your own safety. You can tell he's lying there's something intense about the way he's looking at you but giving him the benefit of the doubt you agree assuming he was just worried. However it was more than just overprotectiveness. His entire perfect world shattered the moment Muzan announced the existence of his brother's successor. Every buried memory, every locked up emotion, it all resurfaced.

AND HE WOULD NOT HAVE HIS ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN VAIN.

-It started with just the one rule. It was pretty overbearing but not impossible. You barely went anywhere anyways as your home had everything you need but slowly more and more overbearing. "You are to not leave this home at daylight." "You are to stay inside at all times. Yes. Even if I am not present. Misbehaving will be punished by the loss of luxuries." "Your skills are starting to lack. ..No. You cannot go to town. I will get what you need."

-It felt like the walls were slowly pushing inwards and inwards and constricting you. Every time you tried to bring up the same dismissive behaviors would play out. He wasn't going to risk outside sources convincing you to leave him. Not like last time. Yoriichi would not convince you to not leave him again. However he didn't see his possessive behavior was driving you away from him.

-Learning you both were going to be parents was the final straw. It's like something in him snapped. He seemed so pleased with learning about it only to sour the news by discussing the plans he had for perfect heirs. To train them and mold them into the perfect heirs.

-You nearly fainted from fear right then and there from what your husband became. So you fled. Fleeing during the day and never looked back.

-The rage and completely disarray of emotions pumping through his body was enough to boil Muzan's blood and send a shockwave to the lower ranks. The betrayal enough to shatter his sanity and send what little control he had left in him diving off the cliff of his tipping point.

-The monster underneath is clawing out. And it won't rest until it finds what it seeks.

[elysiansparadise]

i luv ur work.💌

can u pls do neptune in the 8th ?

Thanks for loving my work, love! 💗

Neptune in the 8th house

I consider it crucial to start mentioning how skilled these individuals are in sensing, intuiting or detecting when something is off. They have a highly developed intuition as well as a natural ability to decipher any type of thing that seems uncertain or unclear. You can never lie to them, because they possess the mixture of impeccable intuition and sharp observation. They are emotionally deep people, very sensitive to the environments and people they interact with. They are very compassionate and empathetic people, capable of feeling the pain of others very closely. Many times they fear their own emotional intensity, because they know themselves very well in that aspect, which makes them very cautious when it comes to opening up because they fear that people will take advantage of their emotional vulnerability, their devotion and heart. It is very likely that throughout their lives they have experienced betrayals, ones that led them to close down emotionally and not be so patient and soft with the wrong people. It should be added that there is the possibility of going through intense emotional and spiritual transformations, which, although challenging, could also be deeply healing and revealing.

What seems misunderstood, taboo or complex usually catches their attention. They enjoy getting to the bottom of things and it is common for these natives to question themselves existentially and spiritually. They may have an attraction toward esoteric themes, such as tarot or similar. Many of them can find healing through spiritual or unconventional methods for the worldly person. Likewise, when they begin their path through spirituality it is due to difficult or painful experiences, and they can find relief in this field. Many of these natives have the ability to heal and transform not only other’s moods, but also something deeper like their lives. It is very likely that they may have strong spiritual beliefs about life after death and may be interested in exploring, investigating and learning more about these ideas. There is a complex relationship with their dreams, as these natives can obtain clear or meaningful messages with them. In addition to this, they can be people very in touch with their subconscious, even being able to develop [or simply be born] with some spiritual gift.

There is something enigmatic about them, something that simply makes you not stop seeing them, the mixture of mystery, sensuality and that sensitivity that, although they do not show it, can be observed in their mannerisms and once you get to know them better. They look for deep emotional connections, superficial things not only scare them, but bore them. They seek to love someone completely, to give themselves and for the other person to give themselves too. Being one with your partner is crucial, precisely the reason why intimate encounters are a visit to paradise, a bit of heaven to which you can become addicted. They not only make you feel desired or like the most attractive being in the world, they make you feel heard, understood, seen. They seek to know those sides of you that you are ashamed of, not to judge you, rather to be able to love you completely. Internally, they look for that same devotion from their partners, someone who loves them with the same intensity with which they are capable of loving. 

-> Go back to the masterlist

[chosok-amo]

CURSEBOUND HEART : RYOMEN SUKUNA

In the chaotic world of Jujutsu Kaisen, where sorcerers and curses clash, an unexpected revelation shakes the very foundation of Tokyo Jujutsu High. Satoru Gojo's enigmatic younger sister, Satomi Gojo, harbors a dark secret: she is the reincarnated wife of Ryomen Sukuna, the King of Curses. When she encounters Sukuna, now residing in the body of Yuji Itadori, memories of a past life surge to the surface, intertwining their fates once more. As old bonds resurface and ancient curses threaten to tear their world apart, Satomi Gojo must navigate a perilous path, balancing her duty as a sorcerer with the haunting echoes of a cursed love. Can she overcome the shadows of her past, or will Sukuna's dark influence consume them all?

CONTENT WARNING!

this fanfiction contains graphic violence, emotional trauma, dark themes, psychological manipulation, strong language, and complex romantic dynamics. Reader discretion is advised.

Including these warnings will help readers understand the nature of the story and decide if it's right for them.

Violence and Gore : The story contains scenes of intense violence and graphic descriptions of battles and injuries.

Emotional Trauma : Characters experience significant emotional distress, including grief, betrayal, and internal conflict.

Dark Themes : The plot involves dark and mature themes, including curses, death, and manipulation.

Psychological Manipulation : Sukuna's influence involves psychological manipulation and mind games.

Mature Language : Strong language and mature dialogue are present throughout the story.

Romantic Tension : The story explores complex and potentially uncomfortable romantic dynamics due to Sukuna's reincarnation.

Flashbacks : Frequent use of flashbacks to a darker past, which may include distressing memories.

CHAPTER TITLES :

0. INTRODUCTION

1. THE HIDDEN CURSE

Introduction of Satomi and the first encounter with Sukuna in Yuji’s body.

2. ECHOES OF THE PAST

Flashbacks to Sukuna’s previous life and his relationship with Satomi, interwoven with present-day events.

3. UNVEILED SECRET

Satomi reveals her past to Satoru and the rest of the team, creating new dynamics and tension.

4. FATEFUL REUNION

Satomi and Sukuna/Yuji confront each other again, leading to a deeper exploration of their connection.

5. WHISPER OF DARKNESS

Sukuna manipulates events to draw out his wife’s cursed energy, revealing more about his sinister plans.

6. BOUND TO FATE

The team faces a powerful curse connected to Sukuna’s past, forcing Satomi to confront her own fears and memories.

7. THE KING'S RETURN

Sukuna’s influence over Yuji grows stronger, leading to a dramatic confrontation with Satomi.

8. SHADOW OF THE HEARTS

Emotional turmoil ensues as Satomi struggles with her feelings for Sukuna and her duty as a sorcerer.

9. THE BROKEN SEAL

A major event causes Sukuna to regain more of his power, putting everyone at risk and testing the bonds between the characters.

10. LEGACY OF CURSES

Satomi makes a critical decision about her role in the battle against Sukuna, setting the stage for the climax.

11. THREADS OF DESTINY

The final confrontation between Sukuna, Yuji, Satomi, and the Jujutsu sorcerers, culminating in a decisive battle.

12. ETERNAL SHADOWS

The aftermath of the battle, exploring the consequences for Satomi, Yuji, and the others, and hinting at future challenges.

This structure provides a solid framework for the story, blending action, emotional depth, and the rich lore of the Jujutsu Kaisen universe.

TAGGING : @bahng @ryumurin @utarts @axeofwars @sparklyhologramstarfish @shuujin @qashmer @dookiemeshibear @cockonoi @tired-writter-club @junslxt @bubacakes @ejwrblog @glads-stuff @ourpastsilences-blog @crayolalili @caulfield-ley @levislui @fenix-why @wifeofnanamikento @diabetic-ace @miniaturechildmusic @diorlov3er @blueeyesboba @kaitrash @manyaya88 @genshinfinatic @rivq @btsblogsthings @mrsgaunt-sallow @space-doie @moonvyx @yeeter-skeeter-b @reiyastrauss @lunarracoon22 @toobytub @molliejames

[bobabisch]

I often hear the argument that Luffy is dumb, and I can't help but be ticked off every time I hear someone say it, because Luffy isn't dumb, he's simply carefree. And I mean that in the literal sense of the word. Luffy truly does not have a care in the world. Luffy chooses not to complicate things. He does things for the simple fact of wanting to and he purposely refuses to learn about people, situations, and the nuances involved with both because the nuance just pollutes the true nature of the subjects. Luffy doesn't choose to do these things out of ignorance or selfishness, but because in the grand scheme of things, all the information that he chooses to ignore is wholly unimportant both by Luffy's own standards and to the development of the story as well. What Luffy deems unimportant does not matter at all to how things play out in the anime.

Luffy, at his core, is an incredible judge of character. Luffy's relationship with Tama is a perfect example of this. By all accounts Luffy's first impression of Tama should have been negative. She came off as a little bit mean and stand-offish. However, Luffy in his natural Luffy-fashion is unbothered. He didn't need Tama to tell him or show him explicitly the kind of person she was to understand her as a person. Despite the fact that she was a little girl, Luffy treated her with basic respect right off the bat. Luffy didn't see her as child, but rather as the self-sufficient human she was. Of course his fondness for her was only furthered by the food that Tama gave him. Luffy didn't need to know anything more about Tama after he heard that she had given him her last shares of food. He didn't need to hear Tama's sad story to understand her. She treated him with kindness, like she would a friend, even though they had just met. Luffy would go to the ends of the earth for her over that simple fact. He had no desire to learn of Wano's history to better understand how Tama got to this point in her life. All he needed to do and all thay he wanted to do was return a kindness. And that he did.

The same can be said for the part Luffy plays in Nami's story. When Nami 'betrayed' Luffy, he'd simply brushed it off. Once again, Luffy knew who Nami was without having to ask and without her having to show him explicitly. Luffy saw her 'betrayal' yet did not take it at face value. Luffy refuses to leave her behind because everything Nami had said/done in that situation muddled Luffy's inherent and instinctive understanding of her character. This next bit is ironic to say because Luffy often makes decisions with his stomach rather than his head, but its clear that Luffy would rather trust his gut feeling than try to understand Nami's actions which appeared entirely contradictory to Luffy's perception of her personality/character.

This theme rings true throughout the whole anime. This happens when Luffy chooses to trust Law on Punk Hazard over Law's rather dubious choices without needing or wanting an explanation from him. This happens when he rescues Zoro at the very beginning of the anime and he simply trusts this well-known pirate hunter not to cut him down right of the post. I beg of you all, please do not dilute Luffy's complex character design down to something so trivial as him simply "being stupid".

Sorry for the tangent, I have just always felt people who say this about Luffy sell him and his whole character design short. There is so much more that I could say about this too. I could go into detail about the ways in which Luffy is as smart as the rest of the crew (in different ways than them obviously), but that would call for several more paragraphs, so I'll just cut it here I think.

Anyways tell me what y'all think, I'm curious.

[damnfandomproblems]

Fandom Problem #5327:

When people complain about "entry level feminism" in shows for kids. Like, of course it's "entry level" it's for kids, what other level should they be on? If you want something more advanced have you thought of maybe watching something for adults?

Yes yes, kids shows could have complex themes that could be enjoyed by adults too, yada yada. But it's always the people who are like PROUD of the fact they hate adult media and only like kids' media 'cause it feels more "safe", that then want to complain about it not being complex enough for them. Have you considered maybe it's possible that it's time to graduate to the grown up table?

Like, why was I so bored by The Owl House when I adored Gravity Falls? Is Owl House BAD? No, it's just that I was a kid when Gravity Falls was airing and I was an adult by the time Owl House started.

I think a lot of us were teenagers who felt like we had to defend the fact that we still liked media with a target audience younger than us, by arguing it to be "actually much more mature than you might think!" and now as adults a lot of us are starting to grow out of things we used to like, but it admitting it to ourselves feels like a betrayal to our past selves.

[manikas-whims]

Xavier follows Xianxia trope where the person has same soul. He does not love different versions of her. It's her in every life because it's the same soul. These are cultural things in CN that don't translate as well to global where these aren't commonly used romance tropes. It's not different versions of MC. They all love the same MC for her soul is the same. They are "you in every lifetime."

Yes dearest anon.

I didn't know about this Xianxia trope either but..

the minute I finished Xavier’s lightseeker myth, it was very obvious that it's the same person he (+other LIs) are in love with.

I'm just saying that whatever the antis are trying to use to push him into a negative light (no pun intended), is not gonna work for me and many others. Because themes like betrayal (if it happens) will only add to more angst and drama and complex relationships, and I'm here for that 😆

And thanks for explaining this trope, I'll go read about this to learn more (though we in India do have a similar concept about same souls & rebirth 🤔)

[articwolfclawartist]

Analysis of Wakfu and Yugo’s character:

Honestly, had it been given a more cohesive platform, Wakfu could’ve fucking slapped

Due to the whole story needing to be consumed via show, comics, webtoons, games and OVAs, a lot of it gets jumbled or rushed, making the story inconsistent with its quality and themes and leaving a lot of consumers in the dark due to not knowing critical context. But the actual concept? Absolutely amazing

A boy who’s sent on a journey of finding his real family, discovering he comes from dragons and gods. And not just any dragons or gods: the creators of the goddamn UNIVERSE. (A fact I consider to be incredibly underutilized honestly)

And as he comes into his powers the challenges and the trials become more and more dangerous and more and more and complex, he follows his moral code, despite the nuance of the situation. He’s incapable of changing who he is and what he must do. And it leads to him playing god, an act with consequences that are repeatedly foretold to destroy the world. But it didn’t matter how many times people warned him, he NEEDED to save his friend from Ogrest, he NEEDED to keep the Dofus, he NEEDED to stay to fight the Necromes, he NEEDED to share the Mechasm heart’s power. All these actions may have consequences that are devastating but not to take said actions would have been a betrayal of his character, a fundamental change in who he is. He can’t see the bigger picture like Echo, he can’t fully grasp the consequences like Toross, he can’t detach himself like Adamaï. He can only act in the moment to do what he thinks is right, and now the world is going to flood and thousands will die.

Absolutely incredible

[thewriteadviceforwriters]

Crafting The Perfect Lovers-to-Enemies Betrayal: A Guide for Aspiring Authors

Fellow writers and aspiring authors, you may be in need of crafting a compelling lovers-to-enemies betrayal for your fiction novel. Few plot twists are as captivating and emotionally charged as the transformation of once-intimate allies into bitter adversaries. In this guide, I'll help you explore the art of creating a lovers-to-enemies betrayal that will leave your readers gasping in disbelief and eagerly turning the pages for more.

Laying the Foundation: To build a convincing and impactful lovers-to-enemies betrayal, you need to establish a strong foundation for your characters' relationship. Begin by developing a deep emotional connection between them. Portray their love as genuine, passionate, and unbreakable. Let readers witness their shared moments, inside jokes, and unwavering support for each other. This foundation will make the eventual betrayal all the more shocking and heart-wrenching.

Foreshadowing: Witty and subtle foreshadowing is the key to creating an unforgettable betrayal. Pepper your narrative with hints and clues that something is amiss. Use foreshadowing techniques such as cryptic dialogue, ambiguous actions, or symbolic objects to plant seeds of doubt in your readers' minds. Engage their curiosity without revealing your cards too early, allowing the betrayal to unfold gradually.

Character Development: To make the lovers-to-enemies betrayal resonate with readers, it's crucial to flesh out your characters' motivations and inner conflicts. Dive into their backstories, fears, and desires, unveiling the hidden layers of their personalities. Develop plausible reasons for the betrayal, rooted in their individual growth arcs. This will add depth, complexity, and authenticity to their transformation from lovers to enemies.

The Breaking Point: Every betrayal has a breaking point—a moment of no return. This turning point should be meticulously crafted to maximize its impact. It could be a shocking revelation, an unforeseen twist, or an irreparable loss that shatters the trust between the characters. Build up the tension gradually, heightening the emotional stakes until the breaking point becomes inevitable.

Emotional Fallout: Once the betrayal occurs, the emotional fallout should be palpable and heart-wrenching. Explore the raw emotions of anger, grief, and disbelief. Allow your characters to confront their newfound enmity head-on, engaging in intense confrontations and verbal sparring matches. Show the depth of their emotional wounds and the lasting scars left by the betrayal.

Consequences and Repercussions: Betrayal carries consequences, and your story should reflect these repercussions. Illustrate how the betrayal affects not only the characters involved but also their relationships with other key players in the narrative. Show the ripple effects of the betrayal within the larger story arc, allowing it to reverberate throughout the novel and impact other subplots.

Transformation and Growth: A lovers-to-enemies betrayal can be a catalyst for profound transformation and growth. Allow your characters to evolve in response to the betrayal, exploring the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and self-discovery. This will add richness and complexity to their arcs, making them more relatable and compelling to your readers.

Resolving the Conflict: The resolution of the lovers-to-enemies betrayal should be as satisfying as the betrayal itself. Whether it leads to reconciliation, revenge, or tragic consequences, ensure that the resolution remains true to the characters' development and the overall tone of your novel. Tie up loose ends, provide closure, and leave your readers with a lasting impression.

Checklist For Writers

Establish a strong foundation:

Have you developed a deep emotional connection between the characters?

Have you portrayed their love as genuine, passionate, and unbreakable?

Foreshadowing:

Have you included witty and subtle hints and clues throughout the narrative?

Have you used foreshadowing techniques such as cryptic dialogue, ambiguous actions, or symbolic objects?

Have you engaged readers' curiosity without revealing the betrayal too early?

Character Development:

Have you delved into the characters' backstories, fears, and desires?

Have you established their individual growth arcs?

Have you created plausible motivations for the betrayal rooted in their personal journeys?

The Breaking Point:

Have you built up tension gradually leading to the breaking point?

Have you crafted a moment that is shocking, unforeseen, or irreparable?

Does the breaking point shatter the trust between the characters?

Emotional Fallout:

Have you depicted the raw emotions of anger, grief, and disbelief?

Have you allowed characters to confront their enmity through intense confrontations and verbal conflicts?

Have you shown the depth of emotional wounds and the lasting impact of the betrayal?

Consequences and Repercussions:

Have you explored the consequences of the betrayal on the characters involved?

Have you shown how the betrayal affects their relationships with other key players in the story?

Have you illustrated the ripple effects of the betrayal within the larger story arc?

Transformation and Growth:

Have you allowed the characters to evolve in response to the betrayal?

Have you explored themes of forgiveness, redemption, and self-discovery?

Does the betrayal serve as a catalyst for profound transformation and growth?

Resolving the Conflict:

Does the resolution of the betrayal remain true to the characters' development?

Does it provide closure and tie up loose ends?

Does the resolution leave a lasting impression on readers?

Examples & ideas On How to Establish A Deep Emotional Connection Between Characters

Shared Vulnerability:

Have the characters confide in each other about their deepest fears, insecurities, or past traumas.

Example: Sarah opens up to Jake about her fear of abandonment due to a troubled childhood, and Jake reciprocates by revealing his own struggles with self-doubt.

Intimate Moments:

Show the characters sharing intimate moments that highlight their emotional connection.

Example: Emma and Alex cuddle together on a rainy day, sharing their dreams and aspirations while basking in the warmth of their love.

Inside Jokes and Shared Memories:

Include inside jokes and references that only the characters understand, creating a sense of exclusivity and camaraderie.

Example: Lisa and Mark burst into laughter at the mention of a funny incident from their first date, showcasing a shared history and deep connection.

Unwavering Support:

Demonstrate the characters supporting each other through thick and thin, offering unconditional love and understanding.

Example: When James faces a career setback, Lily stands by his side, encouraging him to pursue his dreams and assuring him of her unwavering support.

Emotional Intimacy:

Showcase moments of emotional intimacy, where the characters express their feelings and empathize with each other.

Example: During a heart-to-heart conversation, Michael and Emily discuss their hopes, dreams, and the challenges they've overcome, forging a profound emotional bond.

Sacrifice and Protection:

Illustrate instances where the characters prioritize each other's well-being and safety, even at their own expense.

Example: When faced with danger, Sarah shields David from harm without a second thought, displaying her deep love and commitment to him.

Shared Goals and Dreams:

Establish common goals and dreams that the characters work towards together, reinforcing their shared aspirations.

Example: Emma and Ryan are both passionate about environmental conservation and collaborate on a project to create a greener community, strengthening their emotional connection.

Few Extra Tips For creating Believable Lovers-To-Enemies betrayal

Build Complexity:

Make sure the characters have multifaceted personalities with their own strengths, flaws, and conflicting desires.

Avoid stereotypical portrayals and strive for nuanced, relatable characters who are capable of both love and betrayal.

Foreshadow Effectively:

Use subtle hints and foreshadowing throughout the story to create anticipation and suspense.

Drop clues that something might be amiss in the relationship, without giving away the specific betrayal itself.

Motivation and Justification:

Develop strong motivations for the betrayal that align with the characters' growth arcs and personal journeys.

Provide plausible justifications for their actions, rooted in their fears, desires, or external pressures.

Gradual Transformation:

Allow the transformation from lovers to enemies to occur gradually, rather than abruptly.

Show the progression of small betrayals, conflicts, or misunderstandings that slowly erode the trust between the characters.

Emotional Impact:

Highlight the emotional impact of the betrayal on both characters involved.

Explore their feelings of hurt, anger, betrayal, and confusion, making the reader empathize with their emotional turmoil.

Consequences and Repercussions:

Illustrate the wide-ranging consequences of the betrayal, not only on the characters' relationship but also on other aspects of their lives and the story's narrative.

Show how the betrayal affects other characters, relationships, and subplots, creating a ripple effect throughout the story.

Character Growth and Arcs:

Use the betrayal as a catalyst for character growth and transformation.

Allow the characters to learn from their actions, confront their flaws, and seek redemption or revenge, depending on their paths.

Authentic Dialogue and Reactions:

Ensure that the characters' dialogue and reactions to the betrayal feel authentic and true to their personalities.

Capture the range of emotions, conflicts, and tensions through well-crafted dialogue exchanges and internal monologues.

Avoid Clichés:

Strive to create a unique twist on the lovers-to-enemies betrayal trope, avoiding clichés or predictable plot developments.

Surprise your readers with unexpected turns and outcomes that challenge their assumptions.

Resolution and Closure:

Craft a satisfying resolution that provides closure for the characters and the readers.

Tie up loose ends and address the consequences of the betrayal, allowing for a sense of resolution and growth.

Crafting a lovers-to-enemies betrayal is a thrilling endeavor that requires careful planning, attention to detail, and a touch of literary finesse. Hopefully this guide helped you get the foundation of Lovers-To-Enemies Betrayal.

[windvexer]

Cartomancy After 101: Developing your own sets of card meanings that you swap out depending on your needs [concepts & tips]

My hypothesis for this post is that most forms of cartomancy heavily rely on the context of the question or situation being read on.

As context shifts, so do the specific interpretations that readers pluck out of a pool of general meaning.

By leaning into the idea of context and building extremely contextual meaning sets, readers can elevate their skills and more reliably produce very specific readings within contexts they have studied and prepared for.

This is going to be a long one, so I'm making sections for readability.

1. Cartomancy Relies On Context

Most "little white books" that come with tarot and oracle decks, and cartomancy websites and published resources, divide card meanings into the general and contextual.

E.g., a tarot card's general meaning usually includes key words such as heartbreak, betrayal, and backstabbing. Then, contextual meanings might be provided:

Interpersonal relationships: Is a relationship about to end?

Business: Make sure any new business deals won't screw you over.

Spiritual: How can you use your spirituality to help with heartbreak?

While these contextual meanings stem from the base source of the card, they aren't interchangeable. Imagine if a querent asks you about their small business, and you reply, "well, have you tried using your spirituality to deal with interpersonal heartbreak?"

Therefore, a major role of the reader is defining the appropriate context of a question.

In order to practice their skills, many diviners offer to do "blind" readings for others. This means that the reader doesn't want any background information about the question at all - but even so, a reader may still ask for the context of a question.

E.g., a reader may say, "don't even tell me your actual question, but just tell me what kind of question it is - if it's about employment, a relationship, etc. Otherwise I won't know how to frame the answer."

[I don't mean to say that all readers always require context in this manner. Many readers do not, especially very practiced ones. But I don't think that means that context is irrelevant, even to very experienced readers who can obtain context on their own.]

2. Developing Meanings for a Specific Context Results in More Specific Readings

The Complete Lenormand Oracle Handbook by Caitlín Matthews begins by introducing the typical meanings of Lenormand cards. Later, she provides a custom set of meanings she personally developed related to her years spent in live theater.

Because of her time spent performing readings for theater workers, and about theater, she had developed a complex and unique system of meaning for Lenormand which, for the purposes of reading about live theater, was immensely more accurate and specific than the general Lenormand system.

While the general meanings of Lenormand informed her custom system, the custom system was not interchangeable with general meanings and was only applicable to a specific context and its related themes.

I discovered the same phenomenon by accident years ago, when I was frustrated with how general and nonspecific my readings had become.

I wanted to be able to use tarot to read accurately for everyday situations. So, over the course of several months, I worked with my primary divinatory ally to develop my own set of notes for the tarot, specifically for reading everyday, mundane situations.

The meanings given for the cards don't work very well at all for mystical, spiritual, or meditative self-exploratory readings. The meanings are things like, "you're the only one putting energy into this relationship," or, "don't go to the party if you didn't receive an invitation."

I use this set of meanings when I want very plain and straightforward readings on everyday situations, which it's very good at. I got what I wanted: accurate and specific readings on day-to-day questions with the tarot.

The meaning set fails at every other kind of question.

Recently, in my ongoing experiments with a custom oracle mashup of playing cards and tarot, I decided I wanted a meaning set that was useful for troubleshooting creative writing projects.

This deck has general meanings like, air/movement/exchange, water/observation/stagnant, and earth/categories/planning.

I developed contextual meanings like, "the dialogue in this scene is doing what it needs to do," "the character's motivations aren't clearly explained," and "the external goals of the character don't match what's already been explained about them."

By focusing on a specific context, readers can get very good at reading certain types of questions.

3. Exploring Specific Contexts Improves Overall Reading Ability in Any Context

By taking the general meanings of a card and developing them in new, unique ways that are still true to that card's roots, you create a huge learning opportunity to connect more deeply with that card.

Not only can you explore the unique evolutions of each card as it intersects with your interests and life, but your understanding of the deck as a whole can evolve.

When I was working with my original set of "everyday" meanings for the tarot, I discovered that many times I developed card meanings that really overlapped each other, making some cards redundant. When I decided to sort this out, my understanding of - and relationship to - tarot rapidly changed. I'm at a new level of understanding that I hadn't been able to achieve just by using general meanings for the 15 or so years of reading I had been doing before that.

The elements are currently a major part in my practice of witchcraft. As silly or abstract as it may seem, exploring how an oracle card that generally means water/observation/stagnant could apply to a specific type of fiction writing deepened my relationship not only with that experimental deck, but also to my craft as a whole.

As I've explored custom meaning sets in general, my ability to rapidly link abstract symbols has improved. Even if a specific meaning set doesn't apply, just having explored that makes my readings stronger.

For example, if I draw a card and I don't know how to apply it to a certain situation, having different sets of meaning floating around in my head is a little like having three or four helpful aunties shouting suggestions. None of them may be completely accurate, but it's a far better starting place than having no aunties at all.

By investing in very specific sets of meaning that only apply to certain contexts, readers can gain insight and skills that assist them in all types of readings throughout all contexts.

4. Sundry Suggestions for Those Convinced

Here are a handful of tips and tricks I've collected throughout the years. Take or leave them as you desire.

Choose very specific contexts. The more specific, the better!

Well, I'm sure this one is more down to personal preference, but don't be afraid to choose extremely specific contexts.

In my examples above about the creative fiction meaning set, the context wasn't "literary analysis" or "creative writing." The context was, "troubleshooting commercial fiction manuscripts and outlines to be more in line with modern commercial standards."

That isn't great at brainstorming, coming up with story ideas, dealing with literary fiction, grappling with major artistic themes, etc. It does one thing great: helping you workshop a commercial manuscript that you'd like to send to a publisher.

Put thought into what deck(s) you're using.

Even when using general meanings, many readers identify that certain decks are just better at certain kinds of readings. If you have multiple decks, try swapping them out as you experiment and see which ones work best.

Develop not only individual cards, but the deck as a whole.

Depending on your preferences, you may find value in not only developing individual cards, but also groupings of cards.

By taking entire sections of cards (say, all of the wands cards) and linking them to an important concept within your context (say, the behaviors of all the dogs you train), you can make large leaps of progress.

The same could be done for all the kings cards (your mentors in the dog training world), all the #3 cards (they're all going to relate to, say, small change or progress), and you can end up quickly mashing up new meaning sets:

Today's dog training business reading suggests that a Youtuber who's information you rely on is going to release a video about the importance of small behavioral changes.

Assigning broad meanings to different sections of cards is a good way to start exploring specific contexts.

Let card meanings evolve as you explore.

As you take notes, there's no need to settle one one meaning for the card as it is and then avoid changing it.

If your original idea for a card is "stubborn dogs who are not motivated by treats," and you perform multiple readings on it where the card only really makes sense if it means, "this dog will show up super tired and just want to nap," then it's fine to modify notes as you go.

I find that over time, modifications actually end up being multiple possible interpretations, once again deepening my understanding of the card as a whole (this card refers to difficulty inspiring action and engagement).

Often, card meanings come to me very vaguely and are practically stand-ins until I can figure something out for them.

Be mindful of spreads.

I can apply some meaning sets to literally any spread and it'll come out just fine.

Other meaning sets I have don't play great with tons of spreads, and may only work well with small spreads, using signifiers, and so forth.

There's no need to avoid highly contradictory meanings.

If you've got two ideas for a card (the dog is well-adjusted and friendly, or, he's very reactive and dangerous) and you aren't sure which fits, keep both meanings and use a combination of readings and real-world verification to experiment.

Your unique context sets don't need to be congruent with each other.

While I believe it's a good idea to seek fidelity to the original/general meanings of a card, this doesn't imply that the unique contexts you develop have to coincide with each other.

Maybe you have a meaning set specifically for energy work, and a separate one for religious spirit work.

In your energy working set, the wands cards could always relate to fire energy and only ever refer to a spirit if drawn in conjunction with a court card.

But, in your religious spirit work set, the 4/wands might always refer to the spirit of a home, regardless of elemental alignment.

The meanings you develop for one context don't need to adhere to the rules you create for other contexts.

Playing card decks can really simplify the process.

Tarot cards, with their intrusive little pictures, can often impose their own meanings on a context whether you like it or not. Even if horrendous betrayal makes zero sense for your context, sometimes it's impossible to get those ideas of the 3/Swords out of our heads.

If you're finding tarot to be too confining, try experimenting with playing card decks. They're smaller, draw less attention, and most importantly, do away with the art that can anchor our minds to the wrong concepts.

(Split the difference by working with a tarot deck that just uses suit symbols for the pips, but has full art for the major arcana.)

5. Hey! Thanks for reading.

I hope you're having a good day ^-^

[k-rising]

8th house

What's the 8h house?: This house is ruled by Scorpio and represents obsessions, legacies, debts and transformations. This house represents the end of cycles, deep connections, power and control.

𝐒𝐮𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟖𝐭𝐡 𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

These people are receptive. They undergo transformations throughout their lives that make them stronger, so personal development is very important for them. They are passionate about everything that has to do with secrets and mysteries, and they usually have a lot of contact with d34th. People with the Sun in the 8th house will always count on the help of others to get out of financial troubles, mainly from the father or figures of power.

𝐌𝐨𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟖𝐭𝐡 𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

Hypersensitive and perceptive. These people can attract partners who have variable finances. The relationship with the mother or with women in the family can be conflictive and even toxic. People with the Moon in the 8th house have to learn to self-regulate and value themselves.

𝐌𝐞𝐫𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟖𝐭𝐡 𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

These people are reserved and find it difficult to express themselves easily. It is difficult to lie to them, since they are very good at reading minds. The relationship with their siblings is usually not good, especially in adulthood.

𝐕𝐞𝐧𝐮𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟖𝐭𝐡 𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

Passionate, intuitive, enigmatic and jealous. People with Venus in the 8th house seek a lot of intensity in their relationships. Therefore, they need absolute commitment from others towards them. They are attracted to danger and the forbidden. They see conflicts as a way to strengthen ties. They tend to remain reserved in social encounters and fear being vulnerable and betrayed in love. Themes related to power struggles, inheritance, family heirlooms, and legacies play an important role in relationships.

𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟖𝐭𝐡 𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

Perceptive and intense; they are always on the defensive. They are cautious when it comes to socializing, as they are very good at reading between the lines. These people are possessive with money and in love. They may experience betrayal or some type of 4bus3 in their life. They need to be in control of everything. They tend to experience a lot of conflict in relationships. Karma is usually always on their side.

𝐉𝐮𝐩𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟖𝐭𝐡 𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

Strategists. They tend to get excited about aspects of life that others find much more uncomfortable. These people help others transform their attitudes and beliefs about taboo topics and get out of difficult situations. They know how to maintain control in complex situations. Benefits often come when things seem extreme. They are subjected to experiences that test their beliefs.

𝐒𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟖𝐭𝐡 𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

These people resist transformations, change and growth. They may experience betrayal, deception, identity-related trauma, and painful relationship circumstances. They often implement aggressive defense mechanisms and are afraid of losing each other during intimacy. They may experience difficulties with savings, legacies, and joint finances. If Saturn is well aspected they will have a long life unless it is badly aspected.

𝐔𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟖𝐭𝐡 𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

These people are unpredictable when it comes to relationships, since they seek freedom in relationships. There may be legacies or sudden losses with this position. They have to learn to deal with unexpected turns in life and must look for other alternatives to manage their resources.

𝐍𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟖𝐭𝐡 𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

It is difficult for them to say no and set boundaries. These people are attracted to mysteries and the deep side of life. They are susceptible to having lucid dreams, nightmares or strange dreams and they like to analyze their dreams. They experience a lot of confusion and uncertainty in intimate relationships.

𝐏𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐨 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟖𝐭𝐡 𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

These people have the power to drastically change the lives of others. Relationships are usually very intense, passionate and complicated. Power struggles, physical or emotional violence can occur in their relationships. They are usually people who break family curses and are willing to heal deeply.

‧͙⁺˚*･༓☾　𝑇ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑘 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑠𝑜 𝑚𝑢𝑐ℎ 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔! 　☽༓･*˚⁺‧͙

[starryalpacasstuff]

LITBC Episodes 1 and 2; Differences in Mediums

I finally watched the first two episodes of litbc, and I am absolutely in awe. This show is doing a brilliant job at presenting the story in a way that remains authentic to the themes and storyline of the book but at the same time bringing in a new perspective that gives us a new take on the story. This is a perfect example of what an adaptation should be like; true to the story but also bringing something new unique to the different medium.

The third question the book club discussion post brought up actually happened to be one of the foremost things on my mind while I was watching the first two eps. How does the broader lens of the show affect our perception, as the audience, of the characters in Go Young's life? My initial impression was that the show was...kinder to the characters than the book was, in particular Nam Gyu and Mi Ae. But I've come to think that, rather than the show being the kinder one, it's simply a difference of perspective. In the book, a majority of our understanding of the events comes from Young, who has strong opinions and a cynical worldview. K3 is barely mentioned and is presented to us as the kind of person Young views him as; overbearing, dramatic, and in the end, entirely unimportant. With the show, we're able to see things from Nam Gyu's perspective a little and understand him more. Similarly, in the book we're only able to see Jaehee from Young's perspective and feel a similar sense of betrayal as he does, while the show, by allowing us to see the actual confrontation between Mi Ae and her boyfriend, helps us feel more empathy for her. I think that the show allows us to learn more about Go Young by developing the characters of the people he interacts with—his interactions with them tell us more about him because we know more about them.

I think an appropriate parallel to draw here would be the difference between a friend ranting to you about a horrible person in their lives that you know practically nothing about—in which you're honor bound to vehemently agree and join in on the bitching—and watching your friend have issues with a person you are better acquainted with—wherein you're far more likely to act as more of a mediator and try to get your friend to calm the fuck down.

I also think it's worth noting that at the end of the first two episodes, Mi Ae and Go Young seem far more friendly than Jaehee and Young; most noticeably due to the lack of Young's bitter internal monologue. I'm fairly certain that even in this iteration, Go Young's feelings aren't all that different, the difference lies in the perspective of the show, which is far less intimate with Go Young than the book.

While the book club was still running, I wrote a little about Jaehee here, in particular about her being an ally, her acceptance of Young, and her failure to understand him. But I think the show made it clearer that this failure to understand the other person went both ways. I think a few people had pointed this out last time, but the show made it far more clear; though Mi Ae and Go Young were close, their friendship was based largely on their shared experiences as outcasts and their similarities, and they rarely ever discussed anything deeper about themselves. The show makes this quite explicit with Mi Ae pointedly refusing to talk about her mother and Young simply never bringing his up with her. So, it was to be expected Mi Ae beginning to conform more to society's expectations would drive a wedge in their relationship. The show also makes it abundantly clear that Mi Ae drifting away from Go Young was a major factor in him being enraged at her when she confessed to having outed him—to him, it was something like the final nail in the coffin, proof that Mi Ae had changed.

I'm really enjoying the way this show is enriching our understanding of not only Go Young but also the other characters of the story; allowing us even more insight into these incredibly complex characters. I'm also quite excited to see the way the different directors will impact the episodes and what the entire show will be like as a collective—something to thing about next week.