#one of these days I will master the art of simplicity

[forgetmenottpott]

An attempt at a different style and my favorite yoga buddies

By @thickenmyblood

[fr0stf4ll]

Forge of Starlight - Part 1

paring; Azriel x reader

summary; In the heart of Velaris, a skilled blacksmith's quiet life is turned upside down when unexpected bonds begin to form with the enigmatic Spymaster of the Night Court. As she navigates the challenges of her craft and the complexities of newfound relationships, she discovers that love and loyalty may be the strongest forces of all in a world where darkness often lingers just beyond the light.

word count ; 4k

notes; This is my first time writing fan fiction. I hope that you guys will like it, and since English isn't my first language, please don’t hesitate to mention any mistakes <3. The story takes place when Rhys was in the early stages of being the High Lord of the Night Court, around 300-350 years old, so 200 years before ACOTAR actually began. I'm not sure yet how many parts this story will have, but I hope that you all will keep reading it ;)))

here is the link for part 2

---

The sound of hammer striking hot iron echoed through the narrow streets of Velaris, mingling with the melodies of the city—the distant hum of conversation and the ever-present whisper of the Sidra River. Within the heart of the Rainbow, a district renowned for its vibrant arts and crafts, a new shop had begun to draw attention. It was an unassuming place at first glance, yet the sheer force of energy within its walls set it apart. This was no ordinary smithy.

You wiped a bead of sweat from your brow, your hands expertly maneuvering the red-hot blade beneath your hammer. Sparks flew with each strike, the heat from the forge wrapping around you like a lover’s embrace, both comforting and overwhelming. The rhythmic clang, clang, clang of metal against metal was music to your ears, a symphony you had been conducting since childhood.

Velaris was in your blood. Though you had been born here, your early memories were of the forge and the sound of your master's hammer. Your mother, a powerful and kind high fae, had died giving birth to you, and your father, unable to bear the weight of his mate’s passing, had followed soon after. You had been raised by a close friend of your father’s, a Master in the art of blacksmithing, who had taken you in as his own. It was under his watchful eye that you learned the craft, your small hands gradually growing strong and sure as you worked beside him, day after day.

With your master, you had traveled across the courts and to the far reaches of the continent, learning from smiths of every kind, studying techniques and secrets long forgotten by most. But no matter where you went, Velaris always called to you. And now, after hundred years of honing your skills, you had returned to the City of Starlight to forge your own path.

The shop itself was a reflection of your work—functional, yet beautiful in its simplicity. The front room was a gallery of sorts, with weapons and tools displayed like pieces of art. Gleaming swords, daggers with intricately carved hilts, and axes that looked as though they could fell the mightiest of trees hung from the walls, each one a testament to your skill. The floor was of polished wood, dark and smooth, with rugs from the weavers of Velaris adding warmth to the space. The light streamed in through tall windows, catching on the steel and iron and casting a soft glow across the room.

The shop had been open for only a few months, yet it had already begun to stir curiosity among the citizens of Velaris. Word spread quickly in the Rainbow—whispers of the new blacksmith who had come to claim a place among the best. But you rarely dealt with the customers yourself. That task fell to Alexander, your young apprentice. At only ten years old, he was sharp as a blade and twice as charming, with a quick smile and a mischievous glint in his eye. The boy had a knack for reading people, knowing just what to say to put them at ease—or to convince them that they needed a new sword or dagger.

As you plunged the heated blade into a trough of water, the hiss of steam rising into the air, you heard the familiar chime of the shop’s bell and the light patter of Alexander’s footsteps as he went to greet the newcomer. You allowed yourself a small smile as you heard his cheerful voice, already launching into his well-practiced routine.

“Welcome to the finest smithy in Velaris!” Alexander’s voice rang out, full of enthusiasm. “You won’t find better craftsmanship anywhere in the city—or the continent, for that matter. What are you looking for today? A sword? A dagger? Or maybe something a bit more… unique?”

There was a pause, and then a voice, low and measured, responded, “I’m looking for the blacksmith.”

Your hands stilled, your grip tightening around the hilt of the blade you had been shaping. It was rare that someone asked for you directly. Most customers were content to browse, to admire the work and perhaps make a purchase. But something in the tone of that voice, the way it cut through the air, sent a shiver down your spine.

“Ah,” Alexander said, his voice tinged with a hint of surprise. “You’re in luck. She’s right here. Let me fetch her for you.”

You took a deep breath, wiping your hands on a cloth as you made your way toward the front of the shop. The bell above the door chimed softly as it closed, and you stepped into the light, your eyes adjusting to the brightness. Alexander was standing by the counter, his wide eyes flicking between you and the figure standing in the center of the room.

As you rounded the corner, you finally laid eyes on the stranger. The words of welcome you had been preparing died on your lips as your gazes locked, and you felt a strange sense of familiarity wash over you, as if this meeting had been fated long before you had returned to Velaris.

Alexander, sensing the shift in the air, stepped back slightly, his usual exuberance giving way to a quiet curiosity. “This is Y/N,” he said, his voice soft but steady. “The best blacksmith in Velaris.”

The stranger’s eyes never left yours, and you found yourself holding your breath, waiting for whatever would come next. He took a step closer, towering over you despite your own considerable height, his presence imposing. His dark hair contrasted sharply with his piercing violet eyes that seemed to take in everything with a single glance.

“Y/N,” he began, his voice smooth and rich, hinting at depths of authority and power. “I’ve heard much about your work, and I find myself in need of your particular expertise.”

The chill from the incoming winter seemed to linger around him, a reminder of the cold that had swept through Velaris with the approach of the Winter Solstice. Despite the warmth of the forge, you felt a shiver run through you—not from the cold, but from the intensity of his gaze.

“I’m honored, my lord,” you replied, maintaining eye contact, feeling the weight of his presence. “What can I do for you?”

Rhysand’s expression was serious, and his next words carried an air of significance. “The Solstice celebrations are approaching, and with the colder days upon us, I’d like to commission two sets of weapons—a sword and a dagger—for my brothers. I want them to be special, crafted with the utmost care and consideration for their owners.”

Your mind whirred with ideas, but you needed more information to tailor each piece to its future owner. “To create something truly fitting, I’ll need to know more about your brothers. What are their personalities like, and what are their preferences in combat?”

Rhysand’s face softened slightly as he spoke of Cassian and Azriel. “Cassian is a warrior through and through—strong, fiercely loyal, and a born leader. His weapon should reflect that strength and his role within the Illyrian legions.”

You nodded thoughtfully, picturing a sturdy, bold design for Cassian’s sword. “And Azriel?”

“Azriel operates in the shadows, precise and strategic. His weapon should be subtle yet deadly, embodying his role as spymaster.”

A smile flickered across your face. “I have the perfect idea for him—a sleek design with a hidden element, perhaps.”

Rhysand’s approving nod encouraged you to continue. “Since those two are illyrian maybe we can include syphons in the design. It might be best to work with their olds ones. If you could send those to me, I can restore them and integrate them into the new weapons, preserving their familiar feel while enhancing their function.”

“That sounds ideal,” Rhysand agreed. “I’ll arrange for some of their old syphons to be brought to you tomorrow. They are quite worn but hold significant meaning for my brothers.”

You glanced up at him, reassured by his confidence in your abilities. “I’ll ensure the weapons reflect both their personalities and their needs.”

Rhysand’s smile was genuinely warm now. “Thank you, Y/N. I look forward to seeing your craftsmanship.”

With that, he turned to leave, his cloak swirling around him as he stepped out into the cold Velaris air, leaving a trail of frost in his wake. The bell above the door chimed softly, signaling his departure.

Standing in your forge, you felt the weight of the responsibility settle onto your shoulders. This commission was more than just a job; it was a chance to craft pieces that would be carried by some of the most formidable warriors in the Night Court. You had done works for other lords, kings or fighters, but every time a new challenge would come up your excitement increased so much. The idea of those people working with your creations was just incredible. 

As the cold seeped into the shop, you turned back to your workbench, pulling out parchment and charcoal. Your sketches began to take shape, influenced by the discussion and your insights into the characters of the two brothers. Powerful, elegant, and deadly—just like the men they were meant for.

The forge called to you, and as you answered, diving into your work, you felt a sense of purpose. These weapons would be more than just tools; they would be extensions of the warriors themselves, forged with skill and imbued with the spirit of the Winter Solstice.

After a few more hours of work and locking up the smithy, you and Alex headed up to your cozy apartment. It was adorned with all the comforts of a true craftsman's home—polished wooden floors, local Velaris art, and big windows that showcased the night sky. Your personal collection of swords decorated the walls, each blade a story from your past travels with your old master.

At the foot of your bed lay Stellan, your faithful direwolf companion. His thick, snow-white fur contrasted sharply with his deep, dark eyes that held a world of wisdom and loyalty. You had found him as a pup during one of your early travels—a small, shivering ball of fur huddled against the cold. From that moment on, Stellan had been by your side, growing into a majestic creature whose presence was as comforting as it was formidable.

Your apartment, while only boasting two bedrooms, mostly saw both you and Alex sharing the larger one. Alex had claimed a corner of it with his makeshift bedding, but as the night deepened, he inevitably migrated to your bed, preferring its warmth and the company.

Tonight, you were sitting in bed with your sketchbook, the moonlight and candlelight mingling to create the perfect ambiance for drawing. Stellan's gentle snores provided a soothing background hum, his large form curled protectively at the bed's end. Alex, lying next to you, propped himself up on an elbow to get a better look at your work.

"So, Nana, this one’s going to be for the High Lord, huh?" Alex's voice was soft, filled with awe and curiosity.

"Yeah, it is," you nodded, continuing your sketch. "Every piece needs to be perfect, though, no matter who it’s for. Whether it's a High Lord or a local warrior, they all deserve the best." Despite the illustrious clientele, you held every piece to the same standard of perfection, knowing well that each creation bore your signature, no matter the buyer.

Alex grinned at that. "I know. That’s why your stuff is the best. But hey, why’d you let me call you Nana again? It’s nicer than just ‘master’ or something too formal."

You chuckled softly, a slight blush on your cheeks. "Because you said it fits well, and I guess it does. It’s kind of endearing, Alex."

He blushed, pleased with the affirmation, then leaned closer to peek at your sketchbook. "Show me what you’ve got so far. I bet it’s epic."

You tilted the sketchbook towards him, revealing detailed designs of the sword intended for the spymaster. "This blade needs to embody stealth and strength, reflecting who it's for. It’s not just a weapon; it’s a piece of art."

As you spoke, Stellan lifted his head, ears twitching as if acknowledging the conversation. His dark eyes flickered open, observing you both with a gentle, protective gaze. With a soft huff, he repositioned himself, laying his head back down on his massive paws, content to simply be in your presence.

Alex nodded seriously, taking in every line and curve you had drawn. "It’s amazing, Y/N. They’re gonna love it."

As the evening wore on, Alex's questions and observations gradually slowed as sleep began to claim him. His head eventually found a resting place on your shoulder, his breathing evening out as he drifted off. You smiled down at him, setting the sketchbook aside. His trust and the simple title of 'Nana' he'd given you felt more precious than any formal recognition.

Stellan, sensing the room's quieting energy, stood up and stretched, his movements graceful despite his size. He padded softly around the bed, finally settling down closer to you and Alex, his body a warm barrier against the night’s chill. His presence was a comforting constant, a silent guardian watching over your small family.

With the room now quiet, save for the soft sounds of Alex's sleep and Stellan's rhythmic breathing, the distant hum of the night city served as a lullaby. You felt a peaceful end to the productive day. The weight of creating something worthy of the Night Court was significant, but it was a challenge you were ready to meet with your usual dedication to excellence. Slipping under the covers, you settled in next to Alex, the moonlight casting a gentle glow over you all. With Stellan's protective aura enveloping you, you allowed yourself to drift off, thoughts of tomorrow’s forging dancing in your dreams.

On the other side of the city at the townhouse, the evening was filled with laughter and good spirits. Cassian was in fine form, regaling the table with a joke about an Illyrian warrior who mistook a glamour-spell for his opponent in a sparring match. The table erupted in laughter, appreciating the absurdity of the tough warrior swatting at thin air.

As chuckles subsided and glasses were refilled, Azriel steered the conversation toward local news with his typically quiet but clear tone. "Have you heard, Rhys?" he began, capturing the table's attention. "There’s a new blacksmith in Velaris."

"Actually?" Cassian's interest was piqued, his expression curious.

"Yes, I’ve checked on her—she's already established quite the reputation," Azriel continued.

"Her, like she is a female?" Cassian asked, his eyebrows raising in surprise.

"Yes, 'her' like that, Cassian…" Azriel replied with a slight smirk, enjoying the moment of revelation.

Rhysand joined in with a knowing smile. "She's not just any blacksmith. She’s made quite a name for herself, especially with blades. She’s worked with several high lords across Prythian."

Cassian choked slightly on his drink, surprised. "A female blacksmith, swinging hammers with the high lords? She must be quite skilled."

"She is," Rhysand confirmed, his voice reflecting a mix of respect and intrigue. "Her blades are reputed to be some of the finest—well-crafted and balanced. The detail and precision are said to be exceptional."

The brothers shared intrigued glances, the atmosphere buzzing with new interest. The conversation seamlessly wove around various artisans they knew, but the topic of the new blacksmith lingered, sparking a particular fascination.

"So, what's her specialty? Just weapons, or does she do armor too?" Cassian probed, clearly intrigued.

"Primarily weapons. She has a particular talent for swords and daggers," Rhysand explained. 

As the evening wore on, Rhysand found a moment to lean towards Azriel. “By the way Az, could you drop a box off at the blacksmith's tomorrow? "

Azriel nodded, sensing the significance of the task, though his eyes narrowed slightly in curiosity. "Anything else I should know?"

"Just the box," Rhysand responded, his tone firm yet enigmatic, giving nothing further away.

Both Azriel and Cassian looked at each other, their curiosity clearly piqued, but recognizing that Rhysand was keeping his cards close to his chest. They returned to lighter topics, but the mention of the new blacksmith had woven itself into their conversation, adding a thread of intrigue to the vibrant tapestry of Velaris’s ongoing stories.

—

Back in your smithy, the clanging of metal and the heat of the forge filled the air, mingling with the lively chatter of customers at the front of the shop. Alexander, navigated skillfully among the patrons, his arms laden with weapons. His voice, bright and enthusiastic, carried over the din as he extolled the virtues of your craftsmanship.

"Feel the balance of this blade!" Alexander exclaimed to a curious couple, holding up a finely crafted sword for inspection. "Forged right here, each swing is as smooth as the Sidra's flow!"

With the Winter Solstice drawing near, the shop was bustling with activity as each order demanded meticulous attention and finesse. You had just put the finishing touches on a stylized hammer, commissioned by one of the lords of the Illyrian camps, when the bell above the door chimed.

From the corner of your eye, you saw a figure cloaked in shadows enter. It was Azriel, Rhysand’s spymaster, moving with a quiet grace that seemed almost unnatural. His presence caused a subtle shift in the atmosphere as he approached Alexander first, speaking in hushed tones before your apprentice pointed him towards the back.

Wiping sweat from your forehead with the back of your hand, you pushed through the curtain that separated your work area from the shop. Dressed in a revealing black top and overalls that were unclipped at the top, leaving much of your torso exposed due to the heat of the forge, you approached the visitor. Big gloves covered your hands, protecting them from the forge’s heat. As you came into view, you caught Azriel's gaze flick momentarily—almost imperceptibly—downwards before meeting your eyes again. Though brief, it didn’t escape your notice.

“Who is it?” you asked, your voice echoing slightly in the busy shop.

“I need to deliver something to you,” Azriel stated, his voice even and calm, holding out a small, intricately carved box.

Before taking the box, you carefully removed your heavy gloves, revealing hands marked by the rigors of your trade. You took it, feeling the weight and the latent power it seemed to hold. Curiosity piqued, you looked up at him. “From the High Lord ?”

“Yes. He said you’d know what to do with it,” Azriel replied, his gaze now fixed firmly on your face, any earlier distraction gone.

You nodded, understanding that the contents of the box were likely tied to the commission Rhysand had mentioned previously. “Thank you, Sir. I’ll handle it from here.”

As Azriel turned to leave, Alexander’s voice once again filled the shop, drawing new customers' attention: "Every piece has its own story, crafted with the finest skills learned from the great forges of Prythian! See for yourselves!"

You couldn’t help but smile at Alexander’s enthusiasm as he continued to engage the customers with his lively banter. Azriel, the enigmatic shadow singer, had left as quietly as he had arrived. There was something undeniably captivating about him—his mysterious aura only added to his allure.

Standing for a moment, you held the box, feeling its potential. But the demands of the day pulled you back, and you returned to the forge, your mind already racing with ideas for the contents of the box and the work that lay ahead. 

Just as you were about to reignite the forge, Alex poked his head through the curtain, a mischievous grin plastered on his face.

“He was hot, right?” he asked, his eyes twinkling with teasing curiosity.

You paused, a smirk forming as you glanced back at the retreating figure of Azriel. “Aren’t you supposed to be ten?” you retorted playfully, raising an eyebrow at Alex.

Alex chuckled, undeterred. “Maybe, but I can tell when someone’s cool. He’s like a shadow knight from those legends you told me!”

Laughing, you shook your head and turned back to your workbench, the plans for Rhysand’s commission spread out before you. “Get back to the front, Alex. And keep your comments about the customers to yourself, even if they are high lords or shadow singers.”

Alex laughed and ducked back through the curtain, his voice soon mingling with the customers once again. As you focused on the intricate designs of the new commission, you couldn't help but feel a rush of excitement for the challenge ahead, your heart still light from the brief yet intriguing encounter.

[cosmicalily]

"to be loved is to be remembered" - a mini series by @cosmicalily. view series masterlist, and outline here

procedural memory | kim seungmin x fem!reader

procedural memory: a type of implicit memory that is categorised as the unconscious guide to the processes and tasks performed on a daily basis.

author's note: this might be one of my favourite seungmin fics i've ever written. and maybe i'm biased because he is my bias and i love strawberry matcha, but i think sometimes it's okay to be self indulgent. enjoy!

There were many things that Seungmin would do without realising, as if he was on autopilot. Actions that were ingrained into his daily routine, little activities that made up his day without his awareness. The way he made his bed, the double knot he always tied on his shoelaces, the route he took to the coffee shop where he worked. He loved his routine; he loved simplicity and consistency.

At work, he thought even less about his actions. He was a quick learner, and had mastered the art of perfect coffee early on. He heard the words ‘latte’ or ‘flat white’ and somehow the completed drink would appear in front of him thirty seconds later.

“Do you do iced strawberry matchas?” a voice asked, snapping Seungmin out of his coffee-scented daze. He looked at the shot he’d started running for a flat white and then at you, cheeks pink from the cold and eyes sparkling. A soft blue scarf was wrapped around your neck, covering your chin, and you wore a cosy navy cable knit sweater, just a little too big at the sleeves.

Seungmin thought intently. “We don’t,” he said truthfully, drumming his fingers on the benchtop. “But give me a second. I’ll try and make something for you.”

You beamed in excitement. “Thank you!”

“It’s no problem,” Seungmin gave a half smile back, digging around for the matcha powder. “Although, I have to say, who orders an iced drink in the middle of winter?”

Your cheeks flushed a little pinker and you rolled your eyes. “Shut up, it’s business for you, isn’t it? And I’ll tip, obviously, because it’s a custom order. They just don’t taste as good warm. I tried it once, and it was awful.”

“Was it?” Seungmin paused, tipping the ice cubes from your cup back into the tray and placing it into the freezer. “I’m going to try and change your mind. Out of confidence as a good barista, but also out of concern for your health, because you’re literally going to freeze as soon as you step outside with ice in your system.”

“And if I don’t like it?”

“It’s on the house.”

“Deal,” you agreed, leaning against the counter and watching as he poured the frothed strawberry milk, creating a little bear design. He leaned to grab a lid, but you knocked his hand away. “It’ll cover the art you did,” you protested, and he shook his head in amusement.

You breathed in the soft, sweet scent and took a sip, thinking hard. Seungmin watched intently, his attention distracted from the three coffee orders he had lined up to complete next. You smiled, and his face softened. “Good?” he asked.

“It’s shit,” you deadpanned, then burst out laughing. “It’s amazing! How much do I owe you for it?”

“Nothing,” Seungmin replied, eyes shining.

You opened your mouth to protest, but he gave you a warning look. “Do you do this often, then?” you asked, taking another long sip of your drink.

“What do you mean?”

“Save girls with silly drink orders from hypothermia.”

“Sure, it’s my favourite pastime,” Seungmin replied seriously, though his eyes twinkled mischievously. “No, not ever before. You’re the first, Strawberry.”

Your smile widened at the nickname. “Even if you’re lying, I feel special. Thank you…” you paused.

“Seungmin,” he finished, handing over a latte to a man behind you.

“Thank you, Seungmin. I’ll be back, I promise!”

He nodded. “I know you will. See you around, Miss Matcha.”

You snorted and walked towards the door, spinning around and blowing him a quick kiss. He winked and you burst into a fit of laughter, and once you were properly out of sight, he let a full smile creep across his face.

By your third visit to the coffee shop, he didn’t even need a prompt to make your order. By the fifth, your drink would be sitting, ready for you, extra hot. Even though you no longer had a reason to wait, you always stayed to talk to him, and he was thankful you did.

Soon, Seungmin became unconsciously aware of your routine, of your timing, of your daily scarf rotation. Once winter ended, he caved and made you your first iced strawberry matcha, which you declared better than any other iced drink you’d ever consumed. He still refused to let you pay, but he was always accepting of your newfound habit of leaning across the counter and giving him a quick kiss before you left for the morning. Initially on the cheek, but by mid spring, on the lips. Your kisses tasted of your mauve lipstick, cinnamon, and of course, strawberry matcha.

After a year of dating, you moved into his apartment. Seungmin, a lover of routine and consistency, found himself mesmerised by your sporadic actions and in the moment decisions. It didn’t frustrate him, the way he worried it would. Your presence was a constant, something dependable that he centred his new, irregular routine around, filled with evening walks and beach day trips. He learnt your habits, and soon, your actions were as familiar to him as his own. He would still make his bed in the morning, and you'd help him, finishing the job off with the two jellycat puppies you'd bought for your six month anniversary. He would tie a double knot in his shoelaces, and wait for you to slip on your ballet flats. Whilst you always had your signature drink at his shop, he knew you loved chamomile before bed, and there was always a mug of it by your bedside after you'd gotten out of the shower.

And of course, you did the same for him, but in your own way. You'd lay on top of him, playing with his hair for hours, explaining every single thing you adored about him. You cooked him dinner, and you'd sit on the counter beside him as he did the dishes. It was routine. You were each other's routines.

He kept working at the coffee shop, but now as a manager, although he always insisted on making your drink himself, and you would visit him, sometimes bringing your laptop and glasses with you to set up in a corner and work, other times bringing whatever book you were currently engrossed in.

“Hi baby,” you smiled up at him, stretching your arms and dog-earing your page.

“You know I hate when you do that,” he groaned, sitting beside you on the bench. Nevertheless, he pressed a kiss against your cheek and you giggled.

“I know, but like, it shows the love I have for my books. The ones that have crumpled pages and tea stains and frayed edges are the ones I read the most.”

Seungmin shook his head. “I’m just teasing. I love you and your broken books.”

“They aren’t broken-” you protested, but he cupped your face in his hands and silenced you with a soft kiss.

“I love you,” he repeated, eyes glossed over.

“I love you too,” you gazed back at him. Your book fell off your lap, but you didn’t move to grab it. The strawberry matcha Seungmin had brought over was probably cooling, but you didn’t care. It was moments like this where everything felt like muscle memory, where nothing felt new or uncomfortable. He was familiar.

He grabbed your hand, entwining your fingers in his. You gently stroked his thumb, then whined when he let go of your hand to reach in his pocket. “What are you doing?” you asked, then you paused.

He’d slotted a ring on your finger.

“You can say no,” he said, looking you directly in the eye. "You can take it off. But it feels right for me. I saw it in the window the other day and I didn’t even think, I just bought it. Which is crazy, because you know I overthink and overplan everything.”

“I know, you’re a dork,” you smiled, but your eyes were glassy. “Why the fuck would I say no? Of course I’ll marry you.”

Seungmin breathed out and pulled you in a tight embrace. He felt warm, he smelled like coffee, and the skin of his neck was soft against your cheek. “I’m glad, because I’ve never been so sure of anything in my life.”

“I’m only doing it for the strawberry matcha, of course,” you quipped, chuckling.

“I’m only doing it out of pity,” he added.

“Dickhead.”

“Asshole.”

You leaned against him, his arms around your waist. He kissed your cheek, your forehead, your shoulder, and you rubbed his back. A buzz went off in his back pocket, a reminder that his break was over.

“So,” he broke the hug, rubbing the back of his neck. “Your drink’s probably cold. So I guess, as a good barista, I probably have to make you a new one.”

“I’m gonna make out with you for hours tonight, Kim Seungmin,” you declared. “You’re my dream boy.” You blew him a kiss as he stood up, taking your drink with him, and he winked in return.

You watched his reflection on the steel coffee machine, and saw him smile.

[habken]

If you're willing to share can you give a few reasons why you think Bakudeku works so well as a ship? (I also ship them and love your art!)

okay...

I think they just naturally fall into each other’s orbit. Living in each other's minds rent free 24/7. Their entire lives are so intertwined. Even when things were bad between them, there's never been a point where they haven't been part of each other's life in some capacity.

They've influenced each other so much you can see little habits they share and behaviours they've picked up from one another. Izuku acting more like Katsuki when he wants to win is the obvious one, but even little things like the way they think out loud and pinch their lips and stuff are similar.

I don't think it's right to undermine Katsuki's bullying and the falling out between them, but coming from a place where there's a lot of animosity and hurt and then having that turn into a relationship where they both mutually care for each other and challenge each other to do better and be better is really interesting.

I think that's part of the reason it's such a compelling relationship in general, not just in a romantic way. They start off at the lowest point - we see them at their absolute worst and then we get to watch as they mend that fractured friendship and build up a genuine and healthy bond.

To me personally, the trajectory of their relationship was evident as soon as episode two, when Katsuki chased after Izuku after the sludge villain to let him know how much he "didn't need his help." That's the point that I decided I was interested to see how their characters developed as the story kept going, and I think it was such a huge payoff.

I think it also made for a lot of interesting fanworks. In the earlier days especially, you really had to work at it to make things good between them. Canonically, their relationship really is a slow burn lol, so if you wanted to write something that followed close to the actual story, there had to be tons of build up. I've read stuff where the beats felt so similar to what happened in the actual series which is crazy. It's a ship that lends itself to deep and lengthy analysis and a lot of people ended up being pretty spot on because of that.

I also think what's special about them is how intentional they work to make things right between each other again. They want to know each other's feelings, they want to be rivals and fight alongside each other, and be neck in neck and constantly chasing after each other. They want to be close again. Izuku offering Katsuki an olive branch and asking him about his fighting style after their bout at ground beta and Katsuki finally grabbing onto it is such a turning point for their relationship. It's a conscious choice on both their parts to work towards mending what was between them.

And I could go on and on about Katsuki's character arc, but that's a different post lol. For simplicity's sake, his arc is about recognizing for himself where his weaknesses lie, seeing how his actions hurt and shaped Deku, and working not only on himself, but on repairing the rift between them that he caused. He works with Izuku, shares and keeps his secret, trains with him, and eggs him on more and more lightheartedly as the series goes on.

His choice to care for Izuku, let him into his life again, and make up for what he's done is really important. Nobody is really forcing him to atone for his past and it's his desire to do so despite the lack of external pressure that makes that change feel genuine and meaningful. Training with Deku to master his quirks, sacrificing himself for Izuku during their fight with shigaraki, apologizing to him in front of the entire class and letting go of his pride, choosing to call him by his given name, dying with Izuku's name on his lips, fighting the big bad and continuously repeating that when Izuku can't handle it, he'll step in for him - all of these things are so telling of the kind of care he purposefully put into their relationship, and the way he grew and changed throughout the story.

And I think that in light of everything else, the fact that they remain important to each other right until the end is what makes it such a beautiful relationship, no matter what context you want to see it in. They love each other! They can't imagine a world in which the other isn't part of their life, and they actively and continuously work to make that a reality.

They're soulmates that intentionally chose to be so.

[drnikolatesla]

A Night with Tesla: The Future of Electrical Resonance

(This narrative is a creative reimagining of a 1901 interview with Nikola Tesla, titled "Tesla's Twentieth-Century Views," originally penned by Frank L. Perry for the Western Electrician. Presented from a first-person perspective, this piece offers a fun and immersive experience while preserving Tesla's original words about resonance and the future of energy.)

Late one Friday evening in January of 1901, I found myself at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York, sitting down with the legendary inventor, Nikola Tesla. The setting was grand, but Tesla seemed entirely focused, undistracted by the opulence around him. I had been eager to ask him about his latest thoughts on the future of electrical energy, particularly the concept of resonance, or as Tesla often referred to it, “electrical tuning.”

With a mix of excitement and curiosity, I asked, “From your own investigations with high-frequency currents and the transmission of electrical energy, it seems that there’s a great future along these lines. Does the question of ‘electrical tuning’ become a most important one? Will this direct the progress of scientific discoveries in the next decade?”

Tesla leaned forward slightly, his eyes bright with conviction. “You have put a question,” he began, “which not only is of great importance in many arts of the present day, but also throughout the mechanism of the universe. The phenomena of sound and light afford striking examples. I believe that ultimately even nerve action will be proven to involve the principles of ‘sympathetic response.’” His thoughts were as bold as they were profound, suggesting that the very nature of life and nerve function operated on the same principles as electrical resonance.

He continued, “In my own experiments with electrical and mechanical vibrations, I’ve been impressed by the tremendous possibilities. With a small engine capable of pressing a piston back and forth with a force of just two pounds, I once set an entire block of modern buildings into such violent swaying that people rushed out terrified. And this was done through precise attunement.”

As he spoke, I found myself captivated by the simplicity of his explanation, despite the staggering implications. Tesla didn’t stop with mechanical resonance. He went on to explain his even more astonishing work in electrical vibration. “In electrical vibration,” he said, “I have frequently obtained results that were even more wonderful. The tuning of electric circuits is becoming increasingly important as the arts advance and methods refine. The layman can only have a vague idea of what can be accomplished in this line by those who possess the knowledge and skill.”

I asked him about this skill—how one could master such an art. “Knowledge of the principles is easy enough to acquire,” he admitted, “and one of the best sources of information on the subject comes from Prof. Pupin, whose work makes it accessible even to a beginner. But skill—now that takes patience and untiring dedication.”

The conversation turned to the challenges of refining electrical circuits for optimal resonance. Tesla explained, “Many experimenters don’t realize that an electrical system cannot vibrate freely through an imperfect contact or high resistance. It’s like trying to get a spring to vibrate while holding it firmly—it simply won’t happen.”

He paused for a moment, as though he was envisioning the future even as he spoke. “The transmission of electrical energy through the earth offers the greatest possibilities of development. The time is not far off when electrical oscillations will speed through the globe, each separate and distinct, fulfilling its mission. It’s a seemingly simple subject, but as you advance, it feels as if the wide ocean is opening up before your eyes.”

As we concluded, Tesla recalled an experiment from five years prior, where he had successfully “tuned” 150 circuits, calling each one in turn without disturbing the others. “At the time, I thought I had mastered the art,” he smiled, “but now I see that I was only just beginning to learn.”

Leaving that evening, I felt that I had been granted a rare glimpse into the mind of a true visionary, a man who saw the universe as a symphony of vibrations, with every element perfectly attuned. What Tesla envisioned wasn’t just a technological future—it was a harmonious one. And as we move further into the twentieth century, I can’t help but wonder how much of his grand vision we’ll soon witness.

[roxannepolice]

Re: my therapy thoschei quote rants. One, maybe just maybe it'll last longer than until 16th because current suggestion is to apply for a month prolongation. So less "I'll never make this as perfect as I want" stress and more "what if one person (the principal) will cut me off at the home stretch with 240 a4 pages already in place" stress 👍👍

And two, yeah I'm obviously very classics and tensimm biased, and of course there's just plain personal preference, but I think there's also a level at which it is only later on that things got... convoluted. Overconvoluted. And for me this is where legitimate criticism steps in. Like, there are much fewer ways in which you can fuck up a simple thing than a complicated one. And when you want your characters and relationships complex, you're likelier to end up contradicting yourself. If it was thought through hypocrisy and this was conveyed by the text - great. But that's not always the case.

The simplicity in ClassicWho was kind of natural for the medium that tv was at the time (you simply CAN'T be intricate and rely on micro acting when the episode will be watched one, two times tops), and I think it carried over to tenyana and tensimm in a more self-aware and thoughtful way. Even if tensimm, or Ten, or Saxon aren't someone's cup of tea, that's what it is: it's not someone's cup of tea - but I've never seen either criticisms or defences that relied on explaining how the tea is actually coffee, you just have to taste it harder.

What I'm trying to say is, I really, really enjoy simplicity and straightforwardness in art. That's not to say I want authors to guide me by the hand, but rather that there's a difference between discussing something complicated in simple and precise terms and discussing something simple in complicated and vague terms. To stick to tags used, I don't need Simm!Master to have a tragic backstory to embitter him towards the Doctor in s10 (this is purely about interpretation, it's great as headcanon and fic material), because welp, his function in that story is to be an asshole and the story is very frank about it. The fact that it needs memory shenanigans and characters being just plain stupid to remotely work is how I'd define bad writing, but that's a topic for another rant.

Basically, there's a difference between participating in discussions of soteriology in catholicism and cardinalsplaining what the Pope actually meant about good atheists going to heaven.

But I guess this is also an invitation to suggest classic and tensimm quotes that don't sit right with someone, because one thing is sure I will be needing brain warm ups in days/weeks to come...

[robo-milky]

[More Info]

Nicknames:

Henchman (Grim) | Claws (Ace) | Clochey Wochey (Cater) | House Cat (Leona)

Shrimpy (Floyd) | Trickster -> La Petite Clochette (Rook) | City Kitty (Epel) | Kit -> Honorary Human (Sebek)

Kit of Beasts -> Heart of Man (Malleus)

In Return:

Master _____ (Everyone except for faculty)

Uncle (Ramshackle Ghosts)

Bio:

An emotionally distant girl who thinks with her brains more than her heart. Her words may come off as insensitive, but it’s always said in a neutral tone. Prefers to state the facts and look for the most efficient way out, than tackling more abstract concepts like emotions. Despite this outlook on life, she is a skeptical, worst-case scenario planner. Cloche will go the extra mile if it means security and success is guaranteed. When it comes anything, be it a task/person/subject, Cloche is the type of person who would want to know anything and everything about it to be prepared. When push comes to shove, Cloche will take on the role of leadership and make all the hard decision no one else wants to make. Cloche is a very “the ends justify the means” kind of person.

Core Values -> Competency + Freedom

Background:

A cosplayer from Earth who, after exiting from a con, took a wrong turn to get home and was swept away by the NRC horse carriage.

“I did not put so much effort into studying and making the right friends just for it all to go into smoke! …What’s the point anymore?”

Ghost Camera: “I’m pretty sure Headmaster Crowley gave this to me as binding to keep me here.”

Snow Hand Cream: “Master Rook could tell this cream is from Neige’s line just by the smell! Isn’t that impressive?”

Bandaids: “I originally bought these for myself, but I end up giving them to others…”

Advils: “Would you like one? Binding Bells told me you were getting headaches, so…”

Handkerchief: “Here, let me wipe that up for you, Master.”

Hair ties: “Master Epel gave them to me during a joint P.E. class. The day after, I overheard Master Vil complaining about his missing hair ties.”

Pencil Case: “If you wish to borrow a pencil, I expect you to give me something back as collateral— so I know you’ll return it back to me.”

Lollipops: “The lollipops in Twisted Wonderland are great and all, but they can’t beat the taste of Chupachups.”

Thread and Needle: “Oh, you’re missing a button.”

Lactaid: “You don’t need one… do you?”

Scrapbook: “Do NOT touch.”

Textbook: “I’m so close annotating the whole book. Just a couple pages left…”

Spiral bound notebook: “Master Rook complimented the calligraphy title in my notes! …Maybe I should do the same thing for futures ones.”

Phone: “Master Grim, please stop playing games…”

Sketchbook: “Master Epel complained about me drawing him too ‘girly’, but I only drew what I saw.”

Notable Thoughts: Cloche’s

“Headmaster Crowley must be busy running such a prestigious school like this… So busy, I wonder if he’d have time looking for a way I can go back to my world.”

“Master Grim’s orders aren’t as bad you think. All he really does is make me do his share of the chores. The simplicity of his orders are a blessing compared to other students’…”

“Master Riddle is accomplished, but he throws tantrums too easily at the drop of a pin.”

“Master Ace may be annoying, but he can be a surprisingly reliable when needed.”

“Although Master Deuce has a good attitude, I don’t think I’m patient enough to wait for him to catch up.”

“I do like Master Jack’s work ethic, but his moral compass is suffocating.”

“I can relate to Master Ruggie’s pragmatism to some degree, though I personally disagree with his disregard of fine arts.”

“If Master Azul ever asks about my whereabouts, no he did not.”

“Is it bad I felt no sympathy for Master Kalim when Master Jamil overblotted?”

“I feel like I’ve been seeing Epel more and more since he stayed over at Ramshackle for the VDC. I get that it’s probably convenient for him to go with me, if we’re going to head back to the same destination anyways, but he doesn’t have to accompany during short breaks.”

“I think Master Rook is very admirable! He’s intelligent, athletic, and creative! …I wish more people could give him a chance and see him for who he really is— but… he probably wouldn’t like that… After all, half the things I know about him, he’s never told me in person.”

“I have deep respect for Master Vil, I really do. Although I have some qualms with the lyrics he wrote for ‘Absolutely Beautiful’.”

“Before asking Master Idia for homework help, Master Grim and I always play a game of rock-paper-scissors. …Why? Because neither of us want to be the bargaining chip.”

“I don’t see why I should fawn over the prince of a foreign land— let alone, from another world. Master Malleus will not be my king, nor will I be his subject. Sage Island is out of his jurisdiction, anyways.”

“…Some of my acting was genuine. A part of me was so desperate to rid myself of the curse, that I was fine with fooling myself. I’ll admit, if Master Rook didn’t come first, then I’m sure he would have... ahem— Capable, composed… it’s almost scary.”

Notable Thoughts: Others’

“Cloche could’a been the perfect henchman if he didn’t have to call other people ‘Master’!” - Grim

“With Cloche around, Heartslabyul doesn’t have to resort to using a cat beastman to play the violin, but an actual cat. That way, we can follow rule 529 without any loopholes.” - Riddle

“Me, friends with that stick in the mud? Pfft—! As if!” - Ace

“Even in a sticky situation, I’ve never seen Cloche lose his cool before. I wonder how he does it…” - Deuce

“For a beastman, Cloche really doesn’t like noise. I get that too, since our ears are more sensitive than humans… but shouldn’t he have already gotten used to it, by now?” - Jack

“I can’t have Leona ordering Cloche around, cause he’ll steal my job!” - Ruggie

“It’s such a shame Cloche refused my offer for him to work at the Monstro Lounge. …We could have made good money and attracted more customers if we used his cat form to promote on our Magicam…” - Azul

“Cloche is really nice! He’s kind of like Jamil, helpful and a bit stern. …But I also feel like there’s a darkness… Ah— Nahaha! N-Nevermind! I want to know more about him too.” - Kalim

“Cloche is surprisingly weak. He could barely lift up a crate of apples when I called him over for help the other day. I ought to be annoyed he couldn’t help, but I’m also kind of glad?” - Epel

“I thought I could feel the claws of a wild beast, but there’s a beauty to reservation too. Perhaps I’ll need to lure it out.” - Rook

“Honestly… All the work I put into reviving Cloche’ natural curls has gone to waste, since he left Pomefiore.” - Vil

“‘Master Hornton’, an amusing nickname, indeed. I was under the impression Cloche had known my identity, but it seems my expectations had been subverted.” - Malleus

“Tch. Cloche can play the victim when needed, I’ll give him that. Manipulating his curse to his advantage makes him no better than those Night Raven College miscreants he claimed to have disassociated with.” - ???

Extras/Trivia:

- Birthday: May 12

- ISTJ-T/6w5

- “She/Her” is only used in a meta/narration sense, otherwise— she uses “he/him”

- Prefers voice > looks

- When Cloche is in her cat form, she has no conscious thoughts and move as if she’s on autopilot, like a normal cat.

- Cloche has no distinct handwriting. It varies depending on what she’s writing and who it’s for— yet even then, no two letters look the same. (Unless forging)

- Cloche has no inner fur in her ears. It’s to signify that the cat ears are unnatural— fake.

- Has a habit of either covering her mouth with her hand/sleeve or turning away whenever she breaks into a genuine smile. Can smile on command for a camera (cosplayer intuition).

- Goes to the school forest to calm down whenever she feels emotional or if she has an inkling that her feral side will come out

- Cloche has germaphobic tendencies.

- Has a habit of biting her index finger or thumb to suppress pain/excessive laughter.

- School ghosts and paintings are fond of Cloche for always being respectful and fixing their frames, the Ramshackle ghosts, especially.

- Feral! Cloche represents Id

Gallery:

Cards:

Groovy!! [SR Tsumsitter]

Groovy!! [SSR Union/Birthday Jacket]

[SR Luxe Couture]

[SSR Birthday Bloom]

Groovy!! [SSR Glorious Masquerade]

[best-underrated-anime]

Best Underrated Anime Group B Round 4: Tonari no Seki-kun: The Master of Killing Time vs Run with the Wind

#B7: Tonari no Seki-kun: The Master of Killing Time

Kid epicly procrastinates during class

#B5: Run with the Wind (Kaze ga Tsuyoku Fuiteiru)

Amateur college track team aims for big race

Details and poll under the cut!

#B7: Tonari no Seki-kun: The Master of Killing Time

Summary:

All Rumi Yokoi wants to do is focus during school, but she is constantly distracted by Toshinari Seki, her neighboring classmate. Paying attention during class is the least of Seki's worries, as he obsesses over intricate setups created using an assortment of items, from an elaborate domino course on his desk to a treacherous war played out with shogi pieces. Yokoi desperately attempts to focus in class, only to be repeatedly sucked into his intriguing eccentricities; however, they always seem to end up with her getting in trouble with their teacher. Fortunately, lessons will never be dull with Seki's antics around!

Propaganda 1:

Seki-kun is the sort of anime that stays underrated because it seems overly simple, but it really shines in its simplicity. The episodes are short tales of Seki’s epic procrastination and they’re absurdly amusing. Both the opening and ending are super funny and really well-thought-out.

It’s the anime equivalent of a hard candy. You can have an episode at the end of the day or between tasks, and it entertains you well without asking for much.

Propaganda 2:

It is a really short anime with very short episodes but is still very entertaining, and we never hear the character whose name is in the title speak but we still get a really good feel of his personality. It’s just really funny and a lot of fun to watch.

Trigger Warnings: None

#B5: Run with the Wind (Kaze ga Tsuyoku Fuiteiru)

Summary:

Former ace runner of Sendai Josei High School, Kakeru Kurahara is chased away from a convenience store for shoplifting. Shaking off his pursuer, he runs into Haiji Kiyose, another student from his university. Haiji is impressed by Kakeru's agility and persuades him to live in Chikusei-sou, the run-down apartment where Haiji resides along with eight other students. Having lost his entire apartment deposit at a mahjong parlor, Kakeru accepts the offer reluctantly.

However, Haiji reveals a secret during Kakeru's welcoming party: the apartment is actually the dormitory of the Kansei University Track Club. He unveils his ultimate goal of participating in the Hakone Ekiden—one of the most prominent university marathon relay races in Japan. Unfortunately, all the residents apart from Haiji and Kakeru are complete running novices. Worse still, none of the inhabitants are even remotely interested in being involved with Haiji's ridiculous plan! With only months before the deadline, will the fourth-year student be able to convince them otherwise and realize his elusive dream of running in the Hakone Ekiden?

Propaganda 1:

Okay so, finally a sports anime that isn’t set in high school. (There aren’t nearly enough set in college.) MC is basically Older Running Kageyama, in both looks and personality. He has to overcome his past issues with his old track team, and learn to open up. I love the relationships that form between the team members. There’s one who is just Not Here for It and struggles A Lot, who just wants to go home and read manga. (Hey it me.) There’s also a cute dog, and a lot of the bg music is by the same folks as Haikyuu.

Propaganda 2:

I genuinely think this might be the best sports anime out there. It’s an amazing anime in general, with good animation, a beautiful art show, and a great premise, though what really makes it stand out is the characters.

RWTW is a character-driven story at heart, with all the main characters given their time to shine. The main cast is very lovable, and their relationships with each other are depicted in a sweet but realistic way. The protagonist, Kakeru, goes through a great character development over the course of the show, from being a lonely outcast at the start to accepting the other team members into his heart as found family.

While I’m not a runner personally, I still found this interesting to watch, since along with the training there’s a lot of thoughtful discussion on the nature of running: what it means to run, to be a runner. There’s a very philosophical aspect to it, which makes sense considering that RWTW is actually adapted from a book. The last thing I’ll say is that as a college student myself, it’s really nice to watch an anime focused on people in college and not high school. Oh, and the soundtrack is incredible.

Trigger Warnings: Alcohol and Smoking

When reblogging and adding your own propaganda, please tag me @best-underrated-anime so that I’ll be sure to see it.

If you want to criticize one of the shows above to give the one you’re rooting for an advantage, then do so constructively. I do not tolerate groundless hate or slander on this blog. If I catch you doing such a thing in the notes, be it in the tags or reblogs, I will block you.

Know one of the shows above and not satisfied with how it’s presented in this tournament? Just fill up this form with your revisions, and I’ll consider adapting those changes.

New: Starting round 5, screenshots will be included in the poll post. You can submit screenshots through the form linked above, or through here, via ask or dm.

Guidelines in submitting screenshots:

No NSFW or spoilery images.

Pick some good images please. Don’t send any blurry or pixelated ones.

You may send up to 9 screenshots, but not all may be used.

[erotic-melancholias]

‎‎‎ㅤㅤJuniper W. Lowell was born on August 22, during one of the most intense storms ever seen in the state of New York. The chaos served as the backdrop for her birth, which took place in her mother’s old pickup truck while she and two friends struggled to reach the hospital. Raised by her two mothers — a Canadian journalist and a French art curator — she grew up surrounded by the serenity of the countryside in Upstate New York. The house she lived in was enveloped by nature, with horses, ancient trees, and the constant sound of the music and poetry that her mothers cherished. Art and literature filled every corner, inspiring her creativity from a young age. Juniper, however, had a special inspiration: her grandfather Wilson, a former military man who, after his career in the armed forces, dedicated himself to writing. Wilson's stories, full of resilience and sensitivity, deeply influenced Juniper's curious and creative spirit. 

ㅤㅤLowell was an introspective and shy girl, and the loss of her grandfather during adolescence deepened her isolation, causing her to retreat further into her own world. At school, Juniper did not stand out. Although she was intelligent and curious, she struggled to find her place in an environment that made her uncomfortable. The lack of direction frustrated her, and she often felt lost. A significant turning point in her life came when she enrolled in advertising at NYU. There, for the first time, Juniper felt she belonged to something greater. The program allowed her to connect her creativity with her passion for storytelling, which had been nurtured by her upbringing in a home filled with art and literature, and by the deep conversations she had with her mothers about the power of expression and communication.

ㅤㅤAfter graduating, Juniper decided to further expand her academic horizons. Fascinated by the power of visual storytelling and its impact on society, she delved into the world of photography and visual arts. This transition led her to study the relationship between art and communication, exploring how imagery can evoke emotion and tell complex narratives. She enrolled in a master's program at the New York Film Academy, where she focused on capturing human experiences and the natural world through her lens. Juniper also participated in workshops and creative exchanges, volunteering with art collectives and nonprofit organizations, always seeking to expand her knowledge and understand the role of visual arts in shaping culture and preserving collective memory.

ㅤㅤCurrently, Juniper lives comfortably in the chaos of the city, where she enjoys a flexible schedule that allows her to travel frequently. In her apartment, she shares the space with her faithful companions, June, her cat, and Diego, her dog, who often join her on her adventures.

ㅤㅤOver time, Juniper realized that her journey has been a bridge between her messy mind and the serene, creative life she now leads. From the chaos of her stormy birth to the calm she seeks through her work in photography and visual arts, her path has always been shaped by a balance between passion and peace.

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤbabylonsolstice • erotic melancholia

I. The character’s sensitivity is transparent, where I treat everything with simplicity. It’s realistic, incense and raw. All the insecurities and desires are on the table, exposed to the eyes of those who really want to see. If there is no reciprocity regarding the interest of the story, don’t even interact.  II. Feel free to create a meaningful bond with the character, from friendship to romance. Connections are always very welcome. III. OOC +21. The Messages will be open for interactions, spontaneous or not, but do not interact if you’re underage. IV. This account is, for the most part, interpretative. Will be a few as exceptions to conversations outside the context of the game. Totally fictitious events. V. There might be some delays in getting back to direct messages or even a few days without activity. However, I would appreciate it if you refrain from reminding me about this. VI. Basic DNI criteria. Do not follow if you’re under 16. VII. I am not very interested in staying on Instagram; however, I do not intend to deactivate my account, just to stay away for an indefinite period (I may log in to check and post a few things). The communication platform I use is Tumblr. If you're interested in reaching out, you can also send an email to takenpolaroid@icloud.com. As a side note, I am looking for strong and willing connections, so don’t be shy—send me a virtual letter!

[inkisionary]

@chaosmultiverse liked for a starter [Jhin]

Hwei seemed, rather uninterested. Or for better words, he was rather uninspired by the work in which his masters had asked of him. Their requests were rather unsavory, to keep himself under control. That his emotions were unstable with his work, but after days of what seemed to be monotony, Hwei was rather bored of it all. That was until the introduction of a new master, perhaps one that would understand him. He was a traveling artists of sorts, welcomed by the school in a celebratory manner. Hwei couldn’t have been bothered by such things. But he was more focused on the new arrival than parties and the fancy tours which they forced the man to partake. Stroking their egos in his eyes to squeeze some sort of praise from his lips. His hand quivered as he struggled to contain his excitement and nervousness. Gripping his brush as the paints and magic swirled around him. Threatening to burst with the bottled up emotions which his masters had so carefully urged him to keep in line. Inviting the other to view his work personally in his studio was rather bold of Hwei. But perhaps this man would’ve understood his plight? He seemed well versed in the craft.

There was a gentle knock on his door, Hwei stood upright from his slouched position, the nervousness swirling in his eyes. Hues of green, purple and blue. Mixing in a frenzy as he struggled calmed his nerves, eyes shifting back to a swirl of fuchsia and gold . Breathing to himself deeply he opened the door, smiling softly at the visitor as he stood in the frame. “Ah, master, I’m pleased you came. I was beginning to worry that perhaps I didn’t make it interesting enough. Please, come in.” He says stepping aside to allow him entry.

He had prepared some of his works for the other to view. Three canvases, all with varying imagery. Though their beauty was undeniable, they lacked something. A fourth canvas stood covered by fabric, ink dripping from the edge. A mess of swirling colors and from the spatter, less composed than the others. Hwei seemed to avoid it as he spoke, leading the man around.

“I am… for simplicities sake, struggling.” His eyes are tired, his seems stressed as he paces himself around his studio. “I feel as if my art is not what I want it to be, perhaps I am unfit for the title of artist? I cannot tell if it is a lack of skill or perhaps a lack of inspiration. I need…. I need help..” his hands wring together, clearly distraught. “My visions fail me, my masters say that these are perfection but they.. they lack something, these are not of my own.”

[greatwyrmgold]

The other day, I started thinking about what Devil Fruits the Undersiders might like, followed by what parahuman abilities the Straw Hats might want. So I decided to formalize my thoughts into a proper post.

For the sake of simplicity, I'm limiting it to the core Undersiders' powers and the Straw Hats' Devil Fruits. Also a couple of non-DF-users' abilities, since there are six "core Undersiders" and only four Straw Hats with Devil Fruits.

Also, this isn't a powerswap AU. It's assumed that the Undersiders are parahumans before they get this chance, and the Straw Hats are a crew. So they still have parahuman/Devil Fruit powers.

Taylor: Flower-Flower Fruit

Blame this for me writing this entire post. Robin's Flower-Flower Fruit compliments Taylor's powers and M.O. so perfectly. It lets her literally be anywhere within her power's range, to literally reach out to anyone she can sense, or literally watch them with her own eyeballs.

Moreover, her superhuman multitasking would let her use the Flower-Flower power more intricately than Robin could dream of. She wouldn't have the advanced techniques Robin developed over her twenty years evading the World Government with the fruit, but she could restrain a whole bunch of people at once with brute force.

Rachel: Human-Human Fruit

This one is easy, not because I think Rachel would really want the Human-Human Fruit, but because no one else would have much use for it.

I imagine she'd give this fruit to Angelica, in case it helped her with the health problems the terrier accumulated before and during the series. If she got it later in the series, she'd probably give it to Bastard instead.

Alec: Gum-Gum Fruit

I just think he'd have a lot of fun with that power. His friends would be pissed.

Brian: Fish-Man Karate

I'm a little fuzzy on what Fish-Man Karate...does, compared to Hu-Man Karate. But I think that Brian would be more interested in learning the basics of a novel martial art than a gimmicky power. If, for the sake of fairness, he could master it as easily as his teammates eat a fruit, I think he'd jump on that chance.

Aisha: Revive-Revive Fruit

I think the spooky soul powers Brook demonstrates post-timeskip would appeal to Aisha.

Lisa: ???

I gotta be honest, I don't know what kind of Devil Fruit Lisa would want. Certainly nothing combative like the Straw Hats have; she only ends up in superhero fights because her teammates want her to, and she fades into the background as soon as she can. Maybe she'd pick the Revive-Revive Fruit so she could give it to one of the self-destructive people she struggles to stop from self-destructing, but in the timeframe of Worm that person is Taylor, and she already has a different Devil Fruit.

Considering the Straw Hats I've picked for the other half of this...I guess she ends up with something from Sanji by default. Maybe his...(wiki noises)...genetic modifications? Sure. Why not.

Sanji: Imp's power

Imp's power isn't invisibility per se, but it would still let him peep on naked women, just like the Clear-Clear Fruit. Let's move on.

Robin: Tattletale's power

Superhuman intuition would have obvious utility for Robin's people-watching hobby, her archaeological passion, and general curiosity. I expect she'd give herself migraines from overusing the power for at least the first few days.

Luffy: Regent's power

I just think he'd have a lot of fun with that power. His friends would be exasperated.

Brook: Grue's power

Grue's darkness is visually spectacular in a way most of the Undersiders' powers aren't. You can work that into a live performance, at least if your performances have the right vibe. And, well...Brook's face is a skull, so he either has the right vibe or no vibes at all.

Chopper: Bitch's power

I don't have any deep character-ful explanation, I just think post-timeskip Chopper would be more comfortable with such a "monstrous" transformation power.

Jinbei: Skitter's power, I guess

Like Lisa, Jinbei doesn't really fit with any of the Undersiders' powers. Maybe Bitch's if you altered it to work on whale sharks, but even that's a stretch. Anyways, Skitter's power wouldn't appeal to any of the Straw Hats, nor to most anyone else in the setting. Or any setting. It doesn't even appeal to Taylor until she's forced to invent ways to use it.

Anyways, I'm not sure what Jinbei would do with Taylor's power, but it's his now. Merry Christmas.

[shopcentral-blog]

Find Your Zen | Reduce Your Stress | Balance Your Life

In today's fast-paced and chaotic world, stress has become an unwelcome yet frequent presence in our day-to-day lives, impacting our mind, body, spirit, and emotional well-being. Managing stress is not entirely about coping strategies but also involves a variety of lifestyle choices that can fundamentally transform our conditions. In this piece, I will delve into more than just stress reduction, for it's also about adopting a lifestyle where stress is manageable. So, let's begin on this journey to alleviate the effects of what is often termed our 'silent killer' – stress. In my personal experience and learnings, it always begins with a conscious decision and a buffet of trusted techniques that have served many ordinary people and great masters from diverse backgrounds since time immemorial

The Biochemical Perspective of Stress

Stress isn't just a feeling; it's a chemical reaction. When we encounter stressors, our bodies release hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, triggering the 'fight-or-flight' response. This was helpful for our ancestors in the face of danger, but in our modern life, this response can become chronic, leading to detrimental health effects. Therefore, evaluating our activities, thoughts, and interactions based on the hormones they secrete is crucial.

He Who Has Begun Is Half Done

The road to a stress-free life begins with a pivotal step - adopting the right mindset. This involves a conscious acknowledgment and understanding of stress. Recognizing stress in its true form is essential. The approach is not merely reactive but it also involves a proactive stance in managing or preemptively addressing stress. The impact of stress is significantly shaped by individual perception and reaction. Viewing stress as a manageable challenge rather than an insurmountable threat can alter its effect. This mental framework is pivotal in transforming stress encounters from negative experiences to opportunities for growth and resilience. The focus is not only on coping but also on preventing the adverse impacts of stress through a mindset well-equipped to handle life’s pressures.

An Abundance Mindset

Adopting an abundance mindset is a significant strategy for managing stress, rooted in the belief that there's a sufficient supply of success, love, and resources available for everyone. This perspective is powerful in its simplicity; it requires a similar amount of energy to maintain an optimistic outlook as it harbours doubts. However, the key difference lies in the focus: this mindset encourages shifting attention from scarcity to the plentifulness of life's offerings. Embracing this view can effectively diminish stress and bolster overall well-being. It's a transformative approach that prompts individuals to appreciate and seek the abundance in their lives, fostering a sense of contentment and gratitude. Such a positive shift in perception not only alleviates stress but also enhances personal and professional relationships, leading to a more fulfilling life.

Frame of Mind Thinking

The frame of mind thinking involves being aware of and actively shaping your mental state, with logical and practical criteria for dealing with situations. It fundamentally suggests that perspective is better to have than a perception of things. One lets you see things for what they are from different points of view (POVs), while the other is influenced by opinion and prejudice, which can cause stress in events where imagination runs wild with what is perceived as negative or unfavourable. It’s also about choosing positivity and resilience in the face of challenges. This approach doesn't just alleviate stress; it transforms challenges into opportunities for growth. As the saying goes, "Every misfortune is a ladder to get to the next level."

Body, Spirit and Mindfulness

Mindfulness, a pivotal practice in personal and professional well-being, revolves around the art of being fully present and attentive to the moment. This technique involves a heightened awareness of our thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, and surroundings. Ironically, it encompasses being conscious of ourselves without being “self-conscious.” This nuanced awareness allows individuals to recognize early signs of stress and address them proactively. In the workplace, mindfulness can enhance focus, foster better decision-making, and contribute to a more productive and harmonious environment. It's a practice that alleviates stress but also enriches our quality of life.

Music Matters 

Music deeply influences our emotions. While it's tempting to drown our sorrows in sad tunes, they often exacerbate feelings of stress and sadness. Opting for uplifting, calming, or even silence can significantly impact our mood and stress levels. But then again, forget being told what to listen to. Tune into tracks that bring you equanimity. Have you ever tried those Solfeggio frequencies - 432Hz, 528Hz, 417Hz? They lend themselves to meditation music for your soul. It's about finding your rhythm, whether it's Beethoven or the Beatles. Have the right attitude that benefits you first. Raise your vibration to a level where you're happiest, and let the right music resonate with you.

The Sub-Zero Technique 

Now, about those cold plunges. Some say it's like the dopamine rush of cocaine – but let's be clear, it's a bit of an exaggeration (and much, much safer). Think of it as a chilly wake-up call for your body, minus any illicit side effects. Just a fun speculation, but hey, a cold shower never hurt anyone (as long as it's done safely)! An interesting observation is that since many people hesitate to try cold plunges, those who do are often viewed as brave, and this social validation could potentially provide an additional mood boost, reducing stress. It's a speculative but amusing thought.

Balance and Order from Chaos

Structured routines, balanced eating habits, and maintaining a work-life balance are fundamental to stress management. They provide control, clarity, and predictability, which is comforting in a chaotic and attention-deficit world. There is also a need for adequate and restful sleep so the body can repair itself, balance and settle down emotions and the brain consolidates memories. Additionally, regular strength and cardio exercises play a crucial role as stress relievers. They not only boost endorphin production to improve our mood but also help in managing the physical and psychological symptoms of stress

Finally

In this engaging pitch for a life-transforming concept, imagine your life as a captivating screenplay. You're the protagonist, grappling with stress — the main antagonist — manifesting in forms such as financial struggles, relationship issues, and personal trauma. This tale of self-discovery shows how overcoming personal flaws and obstacles leads to growth and fulfillment. Through this narrative, learn to adopt practical techniques and mindsets that resonate with your unique character. This story isn't just about battling stress; it's an inspiring journey toward finding balance and inner peace, making your life a masterpiece of resilience and the thrills of triumph. In the final scenes of life's many episodes, as you integrate these strategies into your lifestyle, a transformation unfolds. You steer your life towards serenity and balance, not just as a quick fix with a band-aid, but as a new way of living. A lifestyle. While one of many stories concludes, your life's journey continues, a testament to embracing life as your masterpiece.

[vampiric-rogue-astarion]

@divineslcyer  asked:

She sweeps her hair back, seated at the base of his tent and tilting her head. "You need to feed before you go find an animal tonight right?"

"Indeed, I do, darling." The response is hasty but delivered in full, complete confidence as he tilts his head back. Always the quick witted.

But what was this now? Was she really here suddenly, before him.

Willingly.

"Finding yourself ready for more, so soon." His words are a gentle tease as he revels in what a compliment it is to him and his ego. She's either up to something, stroking at him so playfully in such a manner or she absolutely was tempted by him, and why shouldn't she be, he'd mastered the art or charm and seduction for ages and he'd played each and every card in his possession perfectly to his advantage, right up until now. "My, my, it's almost as though you can't get enough." He seems to just about purr. "Really, who could blame you~" he adds with the charm and confidence of a gifted merchant about to land his biggest one-sided deal. At which point the very corners of his lips begin pulling back, ever slightly, forming into a smirk, it reads as an open invitation, plain as day and with an obvious simplicity. It leaves the receiver feeling they'd be all but foolish to decline something being offered so freely.

"As we have both agreed, I perform much better when kept well-fed." A hand runs along smoothly beneath her jaw as he approaches, cradling her head, he meets his lips to hers before casting his gaze downward while she displays the supple flesh of that delicate neck of hers. Tantalising. If he would allow himself such a thought—and why shouldn't he? He was afterall, free to do so, at his own discretion and for his own pleasures. He can feel his mouth well with salivation, yes, this he will indulge in. His breath sweeps across her skin as he nears, enclosing the space between the targeted area and his hungry mouth. There is no hesitation—fangs puncture through the outer layers of her flesh, hot and flowing, his mouth fills. There could be no greater satisfying act for him then to feed on such a lovely human. No longer was he restricted or bound to only lesser living creatures to feed off of, like some lowly scavenger. And here he had her, consenting and all for himself. Arms wrap around her tightly. A moment shared. Beautiful.

Simply delightful.

[nat0327]

Fanfic Master Post

Just a compilation of all my published fanfics. For simplicity's sake, all links to the fics are AO3 links unless otherwise specified (aside from the link to the Sonata of Twilight Master Post).

Zelda Fanfics

Twilight Princess: Sonata of Twilight series (Master Post [here]) - [link] The Slow Process of Healing - [AO3 link], [tumblr link]

Tears of the Kingdom: Draconification - [link]

Ys Fanfics

Rastell's Goodbye - [link] Contains spoilers for the end of Ys 8: Lacrimosa of Dana. Rastell accompanied Dana as she and some other Eternians searched for somewhere to go, somewhere that wasn't slowly dying after the day the stars attacked Eternia. He is her last companion, after the others died along the trip. He has something to say to her before he breathes his last.

Spyro Fanfics

Reignited Memories - [link] Inspired by the art of Spyro and Thor in Reignited's credits. Following the defeat of Gnasty Gnorc, the Artisan dragons try to help Spyro find his artistic calling. When trying out ceramics, faint pieces of a memory come back to him.

Good Omens Fanfics

The Words I Meant to Say - [AO3 link], [tumblr link] He… he should say something. Right? "I…" But words, words are failing him. "I.." With the feeling of the kiss still lingering, sending his heart racing further. What if, instead of what Aziraphale said in the season 2 finale, he said what he really meant?

Can Either of us Really Ever be Free? - [AO3 link], [tumblr link] After Armageddon didn't happen, Aziraphale and Crowley were given the opportunity to become an "us". Then Crowley is accused of murder and taken away. --- An AU inspired by The Count of Monte Cristo, with Crowley taking on the role of Edmond Dantès and Aziraphale taking on the role of Mercédès.

Octopath Traveler II Fanfics

May the Sacred Flame Guide you - [link]

A shepherd always mourns when one of his flock is taken from him. They are his charges, his wards, and failing to keep them safe is a source of great shame for any self-respecting shepherd. Crick was Temenos' dearest lamb. The mourning is especially painful when it's someone so close to you.

[grandhotelabyss]

Granted that Aimee is a provocatrice who always wants to make the most shocking and reactionary remark she can (re: "red-blooded male" I think of the perennially jejune aesthete who once declaimed, "We all bleed the same red blood"), I will say this for the above Antipodean provocation, as someone who has for 10 years taught "Readings in the Graphic Novel" and "The History of Comics" and who is now writing an epic and controversial novel about a comic-book writer: it's a field where the gap between potential and performance is tragically wide.

I tell myself it's because we're just in the early days. The novel wasn't living up to its potential in 1723, and 1723 for the novel is 2023 for the graphic novel: Austen, Dickens, Balzac, Flaubert, Tolstoy, Dostoevsky, Melville, James—none of these have even been born yet.

If you think about it for two seconds, detaching your mind from social prejudice, you will conclude that a static sequential pictorial narrative usually accompanied by words is not an inherently juvenile art form. You can really only think it is if you dismiss or demote the visual tout court, Michelangelo right along with Moebius. But a number of social and economic factors condemned the form early to certain commercial simplicities, especially in America and Japan (less so in Europe, where it's also been taken seriously longer). The misguided rebellion against these commercial simplicities—the apotheosis of ugliness one finds in Crumb and his collaborators and successors—was to my mind a cure worse than the disease, and its legacy for the American "literary" graphic novel has been a disaster. (At least the most crassly commercial superhero artists could—what's the word?—draw.)

The form has produced a smaller handful of masterpieces than anyone wants to acknowledge, and an even smaller number of masterful oeuvres, and even these are compromised by being so shackled to indeed juvenile genres. Added to that, many of what are called masterpieces really aren't; they're flash-in-the-pan political sensations or the cult objects of ephemeral coteries. I can't tell you how many times I've been forced to ask myself: Do I like comics, really? Or do I just like Alan Moore? And how much do I like Alan Moore?

Tough love, I know, but somebody ought to say it every so often. I still believe the best is ahead. As Peter Milligan once said—and he had the talent to produce a significant oeuvre, but for some reason never did—if James Joyce and Pablo Picasso told a story together, it wouldn't be juvenile. And Joyce was interested in the form, while some of Picasso's work seems prophetic of its potential.

Finally, while writing a novel about a graphic novelist, I've felt an envy for the comic-book writer, who has a form as rigorous and rhythmic as a sonnet to work with on every page while I just canter along in prose. There's much to be done; I plan to write a graphic novel myself, in fact, sooner rather than later. The obstacles, however, are real.

In short, I believe the verdict will go against Aimee eventually, but I don't blame the jury for continuing to deliberate.

[knuweeklyblog2024basicwriting2]

EXAMPLES OF THE MOST BASIC KIND OF DESCRIPTIVE WRITING THERE IS AND WHY SIMPLER IS SOMETIMES BETTER

“The Old Pond” by Matsuo Bashō

An old silent pond

A frog jumps into the pond—

Splash! Silence again.

This traditional example comes from Matsuo Bashō, one of the four great masters of Haiku. Historically, haikus are a derivative of the Japanese Hokku. Hokkus are collaborative poems which follow the 5/7/5 rule. They are meant to comment on the season or surroundings of the authors and create some sort of contrasting imagery separated by a kireji or “cutting word” (like “Splash!”).

“A World of Dew” by Kobayashi Issa

A world of dew,

And within every dewdrop

A world of struggle.

Though sometimes, the kireji comes at the end of a haiku to give it a sense of closure. Kobayashi Issa, another great Haiku master, writes this stirring poem that places the kireji at the end. Translated, Issa’s haiku doesn’t meet the 5/7/5 rule, but its power remains.

“Lighting One Candle” by Yosa Buson

The light of a candle

Is transferred to another candle—

Spring twilight

Haikus focus on a brief moment in time, juxtaposing two images, and creating a sudden sense of enlightenment. A good example of this is haiku master Yosa Buson’s comparison of a singular candle with the starry wonderment of the spring sky.

“A Poppy Blooms” by Katsushika Hokusai

I write, erase, rewrite

Erase again, and then

A poppy blooms.

Katsushika Hokusai, a disciple of Bashō, writes another powerful haiku that translation cannot accurately capture. In it, he compares a written poem to a blooming poppy. He uses imagery of the spring season to describe his writing process.

“Over the Wintry” by Natsume Sōseki

Over the wintry

Forest, winds howl in rage

With no leaves to blow.

A slightly more modern Japanese poet, Natsume Sōseki, likens his breath to the wind in this haunting haiku. He learned the art of composing haikus from one of the four great haiku masters: Masaoka Shiki. As the art of the haiku traveled west, influential American writers like Ezra Pound picked up the craft.

“In a Station of the Metro” by Ezra Pound

The apparition of these faces in the crowd;

Petals on a wet, black bough.

Describing the Paris Underground, “In a Station of the Metro” is often considered the first haiku written in English, though it does not follow the 5/7/5 structure. As Pound believed that superfluous words tend to dull an image, the philosophy of the Haiku is perfectly up his alley.

“The Taste of Rain” by Jack Kerouac

The taste

Of rain

—Why kneel?

Jack Kerouac proposed that, because the English language structure is different than Japanese, the western haiku should “simply say a lot in three short lines in any Western language. Above all, a Haiku must be very simple and free of all poetic trickery and make a little picture and yet be as airy and graceful as a Vivaldi Pastorella.” In Book of Haikus, Kerouac experiments this formal and freestyle.

Many western authors like to break with the 5/7/5 rule, but maintain the power, simplicity, and brevity.

Sonia Sanchez “Haiku [for you]”

love between us is

speech and breath. loving you is

a long river running.

Known for her innovative use of traditional formats like haiku in a modern context, even infusing them with bluesy rhythm, Sonia Sanchez received high praise for her collection Morning Haiku. In its opening essay, Sanchez expresses her deep appreciation for haiku as an art form.

Ravi Shankar “Lines on a Skull”

life’s little, our heads

sad. Redeemed and wasting clay

this chance. Be of use.

A slightly darker take on the art of haiku, “Lines on a Skull” is inspired by Lord Byron’s “Lines Inscribed Upon a Cup formed from a Skull.” Poet Ravi Shankar distills this late seventeenth-century poet’s words into a more modern, potent, and visceral version.  

Joyce Clement “Birds Punctuate the Days”

Period

One blue egg all summer long

Now gone

Poet Joyce Clement currently serves as a director of the Haiku Circle in Northfield, Massachusetts and co-editor of Frogpond, the journal of The Haiku Society of America; the title, a gentle nod to haiku master Bashō.