#other people are welcome to add their own advice to this. sorry this got so long that wasn't my intention.

[laegolas]

right now one of my beloved fandoms has devolved into infighting and drama that we've seen time and time again over some truly meaningless shit. And I'm not blaming any one individual or ship - we collectively do not do enough to educate people about online boundaries.

so here is some unsolicited advice from a Fandom Elder in hopes of eventually jumping off this hamster wheel:

if you see something you do not like or agree with, simply do not engage. ignore it. block the poster if you have to. snide comments are not necessary. the more you engage with something on an algorithmically driven feed, the more it will be put in front of you. the findability heuristic does not care whether attention is positive or negative, it only knows that you clicked. I promise you will see less of the stuff you dislike when you stop saying you dislike it.

for the love of god please drop this idea of 'policing' fandom. this implies a social hierarchy within the community. fandom is not a singular entity, it is a collective. you can only ever control your own experience.

just because you personally dislike a character/ship/interpretation, doesn't mean its morally bad. you do not have to find a reason to dislike something. just accept it doesn't tick the boxes for you and move on.

do not assume in bad faith. more often than not, people misstep due to ignorance, not malice. the internet is full of people from different countries/ages/backgrounds/experiences/identities. you can provide a polite alternative perspective, but whether that is taken onboard is 100% to do with the poster's intentions/perspective, and not anything you can say. you will never change a stranger's mind about deeply held beliefs.

stop feeding the trolls. if you get messages/anons you do not agree with or are attacking you/your fandom/ship/etc you do not have to publish it. if you do, you're giving them precisely what they want: attention. also, these trolls are never the representation of the majority.

play in your own sandbox. do not make moral treatises on why your sandbox is better than someone else's sandbox. if you spend all your time worrying about what someone else is doing, you have no time left for your own sandcastles.

Get comfortable with death of the author. we have unprecedented access to the writers/directors/crew/actors of our favourite media, and they have that same kind of access to us. but what you're engaging in is fiction and storytelling, not a director's positivist, socially-devoid, historically-accurate thesis on an event. the director's interpretation of a story is exactly that: an interpretation. Hell, even if it's a single writer who also edited who also published an extremely indie book, you can still take something different away than what the author originally intended.

canon is NOT the One Truth. some people ship/headcanon/meta irrespective of canon - some people ship/headcanon/meta in spite of it. sure, it'd be nice to see some of your fantasies play out on the screen/page, but that's not the point of fandom.

if you absolutely have to say a negative word about a character/ship (which you really, really do not), do not tag that character/ship. you are inviting the voice and criticism of people who have the opposite opinion of you.

Remember that engaging with hate or drama is always going to leave you feeling worse, no matter your intentions. at the end of the day, these are stories. none of it is real. there are no stakes. no one is committing any crimes.

Remember why you got into that story, that show, that movie, or that book - remember what you loved and what you wanted to share in. choose that instead.

[tsbs-ship-hate-confessions]

Honest to God there is nothing more hypocritical of a bunch of whiny proshippers complaining about hate

yet preach free speech as long as they get to jerk off to kids getting fucked by their parents.

The hypocrisy is appalling.

'oh oh proshipping doesn't mean that stuff anymore, we're Clearly anti censorship oh oh the horrors of being called a creep for making celestialcest smut and giggling about siblings diddling each other. but we totally don't glorify dark topics why would you say such a thing'

like pick a fucking struggle. deal with the consequences of your actions. None of this is okay.

And mind you, this is coming from someone who is a major proponent of dark fiction. people should get to write whatever fucked up shit they want to. coping, venting, idc the reason

but you cannot honest to God be stupid enough to assume you're not a walking red flag. No one owes you trust that you're 'doing it for the right reasons' or 'don't support the morally stripped content' just like how you don't have to owe anyone an explanation. That street goes both ways

It's even stupider, when these fucks are all like 'u should clearly know I don't condone this'. I'm sorry, are we all a hivemind now? Are we above communication? It literally cost nothing to add a note of 'hey btw I think this shit isn't okay in case you can't read the room'. if ppl decide to assume bad faith after that then that's on them. but being a fucking mule about it? really? thought we were supposed to be adults here

speaking of which

"Children shouldn't be reading this anyway, My audience is smarter than that" ok thanks for infatizing and being ablest. nothing says fun like attempting to grow and try new things regardless of learning disabilities. or do you think we all roll over and die before highschool?

Also are we gonna brush past the part where the sun and moon show is literally made with kids in mind? Why again are we so desperate for smut over a show literally built around found family? 'everyone here is so immature' yeah bud, it takes one to know one. we were all kids. all of us were the newbies of the internet at one point. I ain't saying ya gotta hold anyone's hand or babysit but is throwing a hissy fit over finding spiders in a jar labeled spider the hill you really wanna die on? if you don't like it, leave

you literally preach that same shit yet seldomly follow your own advice.

Actually, let's go a step further: you're not welcomed here anymore than the gore anons are

P.S.

The reason why murder and gore is more acceptable than pedophilia smut is because one of these attracts actual predators. Porn is still porn at the end of the day, whether it's video or a picture, or words. and if it's on a screen it will fuck your head up the same way you can't have just one cigaret. it's always 'one more can't hurt' until it's an addiction you cannot escape from. And once someone is in that cycle, it gets worse. because soon the same thing that got rocks off doesn't work anymore. so then you find something stronger to get that high. then you have to find another stronger way to get that same effect

And that is exactly how convicted pedophiles go from using fictional kiddy porn to actual csem. There is actual fucking evidence for this shit with neurobiology and psychology to back it up

TL;DR violent video games don't create serial killers because people can only have a dopamine addiction. video game addiction is like sugar addiction Porn however can most definitely create pedophiles and rapist because of the involvement of dopamine, oxytocin, norepinephrine, vasopressin. porn addiction is like meth or heroin

These 2 are Not remotely comparable to the other 2

ALL, actions have consequences. It does not matter if you are a celebrity, or a fic author with 3 views. You are not an exception, and you feed the machine that gets kids groomed, trafficked, and even killed when you choose to sexualize and normalize pedophilia and incest.

So if you're getting shamed for getting giddy over shipping shit like Killcode and Bloodmoon or Sun and Dazzle. maybe you should think long and hard about why that is.

This is so much bigger than fighting over 'making dolls kiss'.

Get the fuck out of a fandom filled with kids before you get someone hurt

-

[did-i-do-this-write]

Hey! I just stumbled upon your blog and I'm in love. I am a complete newbie writer, as in I have never written creatively in my life, but I have suddenly found the passion. I seem to be able to come up with good ideas, but when it comes to articulating them I am struggling a bit. I seem to overuse cliches and seem to just be writing lists of actions beats and dialogue and things just feel a bit repetitive. Do you have any tips for me? Much love 💞

Hello, anon! Thank you for your kind words and I'm sorry that it took me so long to get back to you! I was sick for a bit and I was struggling to recover and then I just got super busy, but that's awesome that you've decided to take up creative writing! Welcome to this wonderful, treacherous, and often bizarre adventure that we are all taking together :)

As for advice, I apologize if it is not exactly what you are looking for or if it turns out to be unhelpful, but i'd be happy to share what has helped me in my years as a writer! Maybe you'll find some of it helpful, too 🤗

Here are my tips for beginners!

Study, study, study!

Read other people's writings, especially in genres that you hope to write in! Seeing how other writers work in their action, add poetic elements, vary their sentences, and overall structure their story can do wonders for helping you break out of using the same list-like style! When you see what other writers can do, it can help build up your own skills and ideas!

Do what's best for your story

You will see a lot of advice that starts with phrases like "ALWAYS do-" or "NEVER do-"

My advice? Ignore that shit! Sometimes you need to break one of those "always rules" to make your story work. And there is no magic arbitrator of writing that will strike you down for using a "forbidden phrase" or "overused tropes." If it works, do it!

This applies to cliches, too!! Cliches aren't inherently bad! Writers use them because readers like them and they can serve a narrative purpose! The question isn't "how do I avoid cliches" it's "how do I use the cliches I like effectively?"

Write badly, write slowly, write short things, write unfinished things, as long as you write!

Every piece of writing you ever produce (finished or unfinished) will teach you something about your writing process! I found that, for me, one-shots and short pieces helped me find my voice before I could tackle bigger, more complicated narratives. I would not be as confident in my abilities as a writer without fluffy, silly, self indulgent fanfiction one-shots.

Keep writing, and don't be afraid to analyze what you've written and ask yourself "what worked in this piece and what didn't?"

And, finally,

Be proud of your writing!!!!

It's okay to love your own work! You wrote it for you, it'd be weird if you didn't love it! Re-read it, enjoy it, look back on it fondly. And I encourage every writer to add the phrase "I could do better now, but I'm still proud of where I was at the time" to their brain!

You are allowed to recognize flaws in your writing while also still appreciating it! You can't learn if you don't start somewhere.

I hope you find something useful in all this! Sorry it got so long. Good luck on your writing journey!

This ask motivated me to write 285 words for Home is Where Your Light Shines Brightest.

Experiment Total: 97,871

[sereniv]

Hi this is the same anon that came to you questions my identity maybe I should give myself an anon? I would like to drop by often and chat a bit about identity and such. Maybe 🦪. I tried to take your advice and go on Reddit and see if I could listen to the community and such but I can’t help but feel that the community has a bit of racism going on. I just searched afro indigenous to see if I could find more people with my struggles or more people who have gone though the exact same thing of me but the first thing that popped up was about a show of indigenous people and I tried to scroll through it with a open mind and open heart but I can’t say I don’t feel hurt by the comments a bit. They seem to separate black indigenous people as just black and internally don’t seem to claim them. They called it “indigenous shows” and how indigenous people needed their own shows and how we already have a ton of our own. And I get it I do but it also feels like they just don’t want to add black mvskoke to their show and- I’ll leave a quoted comment that kinda deflated me. “There are plenty of "black shows". This show is for us indigenous. I don't believe it needs more representation of anyone else except for more indigenous people. Some groups are over represented, we are not in that category. If it were me, I'd show less of other races and try to bring more native talent into the world. But, that's just my opinion. Love the earth and each other” and then another comment under that one being “1 agree. There are black shows with black creators, black actors, and that talk about black issues. This is a show about Indigenous creators, Indigenous actors, that talk about Indigenous issues. Everyone deserve to see a show about people like them created by people like them. Rez Dogs is that for Indigenous people.” I don’t think I’m welcomed and I don’t think I would ever be “like them”. -🦪

I am so sorry i didnt warn you. There is a lot of anti-black racism in the native community unfortunately but i KNOW there has to be afro-native groups out there. Because there are black natives ive seen articles of them talking about their experiences, as a black person, as a native person, and as a black native person.

Im sorry that you had to read that i truly am. You DO belong and not as a side note or asterisk. As a whole person

And these are the same people, the ones youve come across, that uphold colonialist ideas like one drop rule and blood quantum, that which in the end works against them.

You might have an easier time in the subreddit MixedRace, but i totally understand being turned off and wary, so dont do that unless youre prepared for anymore of that. Because i cant say there wont be but id like to think its better, since its mixed people of all kinds talking and not 'pure natives 🙄'

if you want i could make a post asking around for afro indigenous spaces or subreddit or forums, lurk a bit and vet it for you. I know youre very shy, but i could maybe find a few options that you can choose from hopefully

And what they said is wrong. Yes rez dogs is more geared towards ppl who grew up on the rez, but that shouldnt exclude black natives. Your blackness doesnt diminish or is even always seperate from your indigeny. Not to mention not everyone grew up on the rez. Not everyone grew up with their culture. And also it seems rez dogs still plays into colorism but i could be wrong.

Rez dogs is great im sure. and not everyone has to be represented all the time. But if we were to say it focuses just on ppl from a rez then that includes black natives who grew up on the rez. That is a fact.

There are black natives who have grown up on a reservation, whole families! They are native they are indigenous as a whole person. And they want to uphold white supremacist type bullshit to keep the 'purity'. its just plain bigotry

Because you KNOW that not everyone on that cast is 100% native theres got to be someone whos mixed. and its like does that automatically disqualify them as part of the native representation?

Native is all skin tones. Its all hair styles. Its all clothing type all music types all accents. Its also all over the place.

You have these assholes say that someone who doesnt give a shit about being native yet is 100% in blood, has more worth as a voice than someone who is low BQ but helps the community and is deep within their culture or wtvr- even someone with low BQ and born on the rez they will claim fraud.

that makes no sense.

But nonetheless, i cant imagine the hurt you must feel. And i wish there was something more i could do to help.

Just remember that at the end of the day, you have to know in your gut and your brain and your soul that they are wrong. That they are bigots. Black native people are native. Not part. Whole. Being black doesnt take away or diminish being native at ALL.

What i tell everyone is, you are what native looks like. In experience, in physical appearance, in all ways.

Again im so sorry for not telling you and you had to experience that. Just know there are other black natives, of every tribe. There are articles on their experiences. Just dont read the comments

[nbundarin]

Acceptance (Fanfic)

Clark Kent strummed his fingers on his knee. He could count on a few of them the amount of time he had ever had a butterfly and now he could add a pinky. For Gotham, Leslie Thompkins’s apartment was a stark contrast to the gothic, brutalist and Tim Burton fever dream outside. It was a two bed, two bath, accented in Alice blue and Roux white. The decor had a modern sensibility but the paintings lining the walls and photographs spotting here and there made it homie. On Zillow it would make a great steal, if Zillow dared to list anything in Gotham. Clark had particularly smiled at a picture of Leslie, standing between a beautiful red-headed bride, in a decked-out wheelchair, lilac, laced around her spokes, and a sharp-looking groom, his Biscayne blue’s elevating his boy next door smile.

            “You made a very handsome usher,” Leslie stood between the linoleum of the kitchen and the hard wood of the living room. She was a petite woman, with silver hair, sloppily bundled on her head, and chocolate brown eyes framed in cat rimmed glasses. She could be the aunt who tells you a bawdy joke at the family Christmas party or your mom’s best friend whose advice you take even when your parents said the exact same thing

            “That was a fun night,” Clark started. 

“For the world’s greatest introvert, Bruce knows how to throw a party.” The kettle whistled for attention and Leslie called over her shoulder.

“You and Lois certainly know how to cut a rug.”

“You and Alfred were no slouches either, Doctor Thompkins.”

“Clark.”

“Sorry. Leslie.” She returned with twin mugs of tea.

“You Midwestern boys and your politeness. It’s a warm welcome from, GET OUT OF THE WAY OR ALL BLOW YOUR HEAD OFF!”

“Rush hour in Metropolis has its fair share of angry drivers too.”

“It was the Supermarket.” Leslie placed her mug on a coaster and as she handed the other to the former journalist,

“Careful it’s ho—” She remembered,

“Sorry, forgot who I was talking too.” Clark thanked her as he laced the tea in his hands. Leslie situated herself, the coffee table dividing them.

“You don’t take notes?” Clark asked.

“No. I find it too distracting.”

“I wouldn’t X-Ray them if you did.”

“Saves me from buying led lined note pads.” She winked at the farm boy.

“Just a reminder; Nothing is off the table. No emotion is unwarranted. I do have insurance, so if you want to start zapping things, please direct it at the ugly string art my cousin Dorothy got me from Tucson.” Clark spotted it, across the room.

“It must be really, interesting, being the Superheroes’ therapist.”

 Leslie laughed.

“Thinking about maybe getting my own costume. But seriously, behind the capes and the superpowers your people too.” 

“Even if you come from another planet,” she added.

“Having teenagers, I feel the same way, Usually I would go to my mom or Bruce for advice, but he said you would be a better fit.”

“You and Him became very close,” Leslie observed.

“Almost twenty years. I always hate it when people call us frenemies. Bruce is one of my best friends, he would technically be Jordan’s Godfather, if Me and Lois were the religious type. I wasn’t always thrilled with his choices, especially when he brought Dick into the fight, but the kid turned out great, as did the others.”

“I think it would be fair to say you helped keep the rosy in that boy’s cheeks. You came up with Nightwing didn’t you?” Clark chuckled at the Question.

“Yes, like you said though I just helped. But I have two boys full time and I don’t know what the hell I’m doing.” Clark caught the H word. Rarely would he use a damn but it felt honest.

“Once again Clark, you are no different than any parent today. Bruce has definitely not been perfect. But we’re not here to compare the Dark Knight and the Man of Steel, we’re here to talk about you.” Clark took a long sip of hot green, choosing his next words.

“I wasn’t around as much as I should have, with the boys I mean. Between the Planet, Metropolis and the literal planet. I remember missing their seventh birthday. I had to lie and tell them I had to work on a scoop out of town.”

“What were you actually doing?” Leslie asked.

“Stopping a forest fire in California. But let me tell you, the disappointment in their faces was a lot more scorching. Especially Jordan.”

“Jordon is where you’re finding the most contention?”

“Yes and No. I don’t want to minimalize Jonathan. I took him from the only home he knows, he and his girlfriend broke up and theirs a huge possibility he may never have powers. He called Smallville his Kryptonite.”

“And what did you do?”

“I pulled the typical parental platitudes. You tell yourself you’re going to be different from your folks and then you open your mouth…” Leslie nodded.

“And Jordan?”

 The former journalist sat back.

“The kid is dealing with social-anxiety, he’s developing powers and there’s no telling what he’s capable of. I feel like I’m making it worse and Jordan confirmed it, loudly.” Leslie pressed on and Clark explained to her about everything, including taking Jordan to the Fortress, how his father made the kid feel inadequate, how he was struggling with the heat vision, the strength, Jonathan’s passive aggressive resentment, not to mention puberty was in the periphery.

“Elsa’s Ice castle?” They both shared a smile.

“I sent him to his room. Standard procedure in our house.”

            “No, it’s a good way to diffuse tension. It allows you to compartmentalize and figure your next move. I assume you talked after?”

            “Yes. And it was great. I got a smile out of him, until he got mad for something else and it feels like the entire board gets erased.”

            “He’s a teenager Clark. Not excusing any rudeness, but I think it’s great you give both your boys a little grace when expressing themselves. Some parents are too quick to jump at the smalless inflection in the voice or movement in the face.”

            “My parents were good about those things to. I can lift a submarine, break the sound barrier and kick Kalibak’s backside across Metropolis but Jordan…” He trailed off.

            “Jordan doesn’t need to be saved, Clark,” Leslie finished.

            “I didn’t say that.”

            “But that was where the bus was stopping. When you speak of Jonathan it’s more typical teenager. Having to move, new school, new football team—”

            “Jordan’s powers—”

            “You keep saying that too. I have a question for you.” Clark nodded.

            “Would you have preferred that Jonathan had the powers instead of Jordan?” she caught his hesitation, but waited.

            “I don’t have a favorite Leslie.” It came out more forced then intended but the therapists resolve did not waver.

            “That’s not what I asked Clark. I’ll rephrase, would it have been better If Jonathan had the powers.” Leslie hit a nerve, no small feat. He wouldn’t look into her eyes, just staring down at the tea bag at the bottom of his mug.

            “Jonathan, he has his flaws and like I said I have my short comings with him but, I get him. That sounds horrible. “

            “No, it doesn’t Clark. It sounds honest. Keep going.”

            “I suck at articulating myself.”

            “You’re doing fine. We’ll get every piece in the puzzle in its place.”

            “When I told them my secret, Jordon accused me of wanting John to have the powers instead of him. I take responsibility for not considering, it was just the hurt in his eyes, the hurt in both their eyes. Honestly, I was hoping neither of them would have them. These abilities come with a price. I’ve lost a lot along the way. You have enough on your plate in life without putting on a costume.”

            “Clark, I can tell you for a fact you don’t have a favorite. You just have a different relationship, no more no less, just different,” Leslie sipped.

“It’s not like Jordan and I have nothing in common. We have the same sense of humor, we share the same favorite flavor of ice cream, both love Stephen King novels, I can go on but the older he got the more separated we got and now we share this huge thing.” Clark paused for a moment. Lesley waited with a saint’s patience. 

            “I’m not worried Jordan is going to level a town or become a supervillain. Lois has always been his anker when it came to his mental health. She was able to quell every tantrum and talk him through every anxiety attack, I was lucky if I could make it to one of his therapy sessions. His brother even has a better grasp of what’s going on.”

            “I’m sure your, well maybe training is not the best word, but coaching him with these abilities?”

            “Yes of course, and it’s helped us get closer actually, it’s just…”

            “The unpredictability. I’ll repeat Clark, he’s a teenager. They are figuring things as they go along, they aren’t in the eye of the storm, they are the storm, social anxiety, super powers or not. You are capable of such great feats Clark. You can stop a building from burning with your freeze breath and weld the beams of broken bridges with your fire eyes…” Clark nodded while cracking a smile.

            “But Jordan is not a burning building, or a broken bridge, not even a cat in a tree. He’s a young man like you once were figuring out his place in the world and good fortune to him has a more developed support system.” Clarks’ brow lifted.

            “Don’t get me wrong, your parents were the gold standard. They took a baby and not just any baby, one that fell from the sky and raised him with unconditional love and helped him develop his gifts when they didn’t know what the heck they were doing and when you became a man, they supported you becoming a hero. Your mother made you your first costume. You won a lottery anyone would dream to cash in.” the farm boy shelved his brow, taking in this information as easy as his cup of tea.

            “From what you’ve told me, the boys are acclimating to small town life. Jonathan has made new friends and met a new girl and Jordon is coming out of his shell and through his abilities as well. You teaching him it’s actually bringing you two closer together, not further apart. You told me your powers are driven by emotion, that’s something you can relate to with Jordan, that’s your way in and you both can bounce off each other.”  Clark was about to respond—

            “But what if—”

            “Nope. What if Jordan zapped someone on the field? What if Jonathan blew up in that trailer? What ifs are bread and butter to intrusive thoughts and I sympathize with you having them, we all do. My understanding Clark is that a lot of these insecurities you have stem from Kara and not to be to blunt, Loise’s miscarriage.” That caught the Man of Steel off guard but remembered that Lois did talk to Leslie years ago.

            “I feel like I abandoned her.”

            “You were a young man in his early twenties, finding his place in the world. Not to mention introducing yourself to that world as Superman. No one could expect you to take care of a ten-year-old girl. You gave her to a family that helped her thrive and she has become a remarkable young woman and hero in her own right, regardless of sharing the same crest as her cousin and it wasn’t as if you flew away from her life, you still visited and kept in touch.”

            “And Lois?”

            “You both went through something that many have gone through. It is horrible and immeasurable painful and though you both may never heal completely from such a loss, you and Lois have been fantastic parents to those boys despite the fact you are not going to always get it right.” This was a lot for Clark to process and he could see the session would soon be up on the clock.

            “I know I’ve given you the cliff notes version and this has been a lot for a preliminary consultation, but I promise you if you come see me Clark, with an absolute understanding that you have two lives to juggle, I will help you navigate both sides to the best of my ability.”

            “I would really like that Leslie, I’ve never been this open with someone, except for Lois and I keep having these feelings of inadequacy.”

            “Clark honey. What you need to learn is acceptance. You see, you’re trying to solve everything with Superman, instead of Clark Kent, the husband and father. You have a secret identity for a reason. Jordon is going to be working with his anxiety for the rest of his life, it isn’t going to go away. You can’t protect him from it, like you protect a civilian from criminals. Same goes for Jonathan.” He nods.

            “You think you’re so alone Clark, another thing you and Jordon have in common. The truth is you are going through what so many men, parents, all together human beings have gone through. Trust me, I worked in Arkham. I have had sessions with nuisances like Condiment King all the way down the abyss with that evil fucking clown. I have seen hell in human and it wears a tacky purple suit. You have seen the embodiment of greed and xenophobia and you’ve come out on the other side a better person, but you have to accept that you can’t be invincible all the time and put away the cape when you need to.” Clark wiped his eyes as the clock chimed.

            “Now that I’ve talked your ear off. We will schedule are next session during the week and we will continue discussing all of this as much as we need to.” They both stood.

            “Thank you, Leslie.” Clark hugged the tiny woman and she hugged just as tight.

                                                                        The End

[canirove]

Red & Blue | Chapter 20

Previous chapter | Next chapter

Masterlist

After our quick trip to Paris, it’s time to start packing all our belongings and move to our own house. Together. It still doesn’t feel real.

“You own so much rubbish” Aaron says. He and Leah have come to help me with everything, but mostly, to help me decided what to keep, what to donate, and what to throw away.

“I’m just sentimental and like to keep things just in case” I shrug.

“You, my dear, have a problem” he says. “Where should we start?”

“The books are all already packed, so you can start with all the other bits and bobs from the living room, like the trophies and photos. Leah will help me with the clothes.”

“I can also help with the clothes.”

“And you will, but carrying the boxes. What I need now is fashion advice, and I don’t think getting it from someone who wears bucket hats is the best idea.”

“Hey, they are trendy, everyone wears them! Even Ben!”

“They are ugly, Aaron. I’m sorry. Not even Ben can pull them off.”

“Not even… what?” he says, starting to get mad. “Leah, say something!”

“I… I think they aren’t that bad” she shrugs.

“See? She, your fashionable friend, likes them too.”

“I think I should have called Mason to help me with my clothes.”

At that, we all start laughing. Because after almost three years of dating, I still haven’t managed to convince Mason that most of his clothes are ugly and that he would look much better if he took inspiration from the style others have, like Kevin Trapp for example. But he is a stubborn one, and only lets me buy him a few things from time to time. Things that end up being his favorites I may add. My only consolation is that I’ve won the hair war, and the stupid hairstyles are over.

━━━━━━❃━━━━━━    

“Wait, wait, wait” Mason says, stopping me from opening the door.

“What? What happened?”

“There is something I want to do before we go in.”

“Why do I feel like I will regret it?”

“You won’t, I promise. Just unlock the door, but don’t open it.”

“Ok” I say, doing as he says. “Now what?”

“Now this” he says, lifting me in the air.

“Are you seriously gonna carry me inside the house?” I laugh.

“I am. Isn’t that what people do when they move into their own houses for the first time?”

“I’ve only seen it on movies.”

“That’s enough” he says, opening the door with his foot. “Welcome home, love.”

“Welcome home” I say, kissing his cheek.

━━━━━━❃━━━━━━    

“Mase, I don’t think it is a good idea to throw a party right now. We just got kicked out from the Champions League, and things on the league are a bit better but still not good.”

“This isn’t a party. It’s just a gathering with some of our closest friends and their partners to celebrate the new house. Nothing else.”

“But still…”

“It’ll be fun, you’ll see” he says, grabbing me by the waist and pulling me closer to him. “Dec and Aaron are coming, which means that we will definitely have a laugh. And, Chilly is finally introducing you to his girlfriend. You know he’s been looking forward to it for a while, don’t let him down.”

“I know, but…”

“But nothing. You need to stop worrying for a bit, and this is perfect for it. C’mon, love” he pouts.

“That’s cheating. You know I can’t say no when you do that face.”

“Sorry not sorry” he shrugs. “Are we having this party, then?”

“Gathering, Mason. It is a gathering.”

“Are we have this gathering?” he says, trying not to laugh.

“We are.”

━━━━━━❃━━━━━━    

As planned, our closest friends come to visit the new house, getting a tour of every room.

“Have you baptized them all yet?”

“Aaron!” Georgina, his girlfriend, and I, say at the same time.

“What? Isn’t that what you do when you first move in with your partner?”

“Ignore him” Georgina says. “This place is amazing, I love everything.”

“Thank you” I say.

“But you know what I mean, don’t you Mason?” I hear Aaron whisper to him.

“I do” he whispers back. “We are almost done.”

“I’ve heard you, Mason Tony Mount” I say, giving him one of Leah’s murderous looks.

“Love you too, gorgeous” he says with a big smile.

Once everyone else has arrived, we meet in the living room, where we’ve set a table with food and drinks.

“So, what do you think?” Chilly asks me while everyone else is chatting between them. “Do you like her?”

“She’s lovely, Ben. And you look so happy together… I’m a bit jealous of the way you look at her, to be honest. You never looked at me like that.”

“And you never looked at me the way you look at Mason, so."

“Fair” I chuckle.

“Ok, people. Why don’t we play some games?” Leah says. “Maybe spin the bottle?”

“Leah, we are not twelve” Declan says.

“Scared of having to kiss your best friend, Rice?” she asks him, arching a brow.

“Whatever” he replies, rolling his eyes.

“What about truth or dare? Is that mature enough for you?”

“That could be fun” Mason says. “Who wants to start?”

“I will!” Leah says, raising her hand. “Declan, truth or dare?”

“Seriously, Williamson?”

“Yes, Rice. Pick. Truth or dare?”

“Dare” he sighs.

“I dare you to kiss Mason. On the lips. And for five seconds.”

“Really? Is this some fantasy of yours or something?”

“C’mon, Dec. I promise I won’t get jealous” I say, teasing him.

“No wonder you two are best friends” he says, getting up from the couch and moving to where Mason is.

“Come here, Deccy bear” Mason says, grabbing his best friends’ face and kissing him, everyone in the room cheering while counting to five.

“Now it’s my turn” Declan says, his face completely red. “Aaron, truth or dare?”

“Dare” he says with one of his smiles.

“I dare you to kiss White.”

“Ok” he shrugs. Neither he or Ben seem to be too bothered about it.

After another round of cheers, it’s time for Aaron to pick someone.

“Benjamin, truth or dare?” he asks to his teammate.

“Truth.”

“Have you ever thought about making out with anyone on this room? If so, who?”

“I have. With our gunner girls.”

“Oh, wow” I say, blushing.

“But at the same time with both of us?” Leah asks.

“If you are into that…” he shrugs, looking at Leah and I.

“Ok, let’s keep playing” Mason says, visibly uncomfortable. “Benjamin, it’s your turn.”

“Truth or dare” he says, looking at me.

“Truth.”

“What’s your footballers body count?”

“I’m sorry?” I ask.

“How many football players have you been with? I know about three.”

“Three?” Declan says, his eyes wide open. “What did I miss?”

“Hey, don’t look at me” Leah says. “It was another Arsenal blonde.”

“No!” Declan says, looking at Aaron.

“We were kids, ok? We just wanted to get over the first time thing with someone we trusted. It isn’t a big deal.”

“Isn’t it?” Declan says, looking at Mason and Georgina. Their only answer is a shrug, both of them already knowing about it.

“They also had a pact to get married if they were single when they turned 40” Benjamin adds.

“That’s cute” Chilly says.

“And now you are sharing a room with three guys you’ve slept with. Isn’t that awkward?” Declan asks me.

“Nope. And it is four, actually” I whisper.

“Four?” Mason says, turning to look at me. “Who is the fourth?”

“I’ll tell you later in private.”

“Do you know who he is?” Mason asks Leah.

“I do. Sadly.”

“Sadly? What does that mean?”

“I’ll tell you later” I repeat, already dreading the moment.

“Aaron?” he asks him.

“Do as she says. Discuss it in private” he replies, focused on his hands.

“Unbelievable. So everyone knows but me. Your boyfriend” Mason says, getting up and leaving the room.

“Mason, wait” I say, following him. Behind me, I can hear Leah telling Benjamin off.

“I can’t believe you kept this from me. I thought we had told each other everything about our past relationships!” Mason says when he hears me walking behind him and into our room.

“It wasn’t a relationship, it was just a one night stand. It meant nothing.”

“But it was with another football player, someone I probably know and may even share the same changing room with. What if one day I meet with him and he mentions it? I would look like an idiot.”

“He would never tell you about it, he isn’t like that.”

“Who is he?” he asks, finally turning to look at me.

“Mason…”

“Who is he. You know everything about my relationships, I deserve to know. Even if it meant nothing like you say.”

“Eric” I say, not being able to look him in the face.

“Which Eric? Dier?”

I just nod, my gaze still focused on the floor.

“Eric Dier” he chuckles. “That’s why Leah said sadly, right? Because you, an Arsenal girl, fucked a Tottenham player.”

“I did, yes. But I already told you, it just happened once.”

“That bad it was?”

“Oh, c’mon Mason. Don’t be a child” I say, finally looking at him.

“A child?” he scoffs, starting to pace around the room.

“Mason, say something. Please” I beg him after a while. He’s been silent for what feels like an eternity, still walking around the room.

“We have guests downstairs. We shouldn’t make them wait” he says, finally speaking.

“Mason…” I say. But he just ignores me, walking past me and leaving the room.

I knew not telling him about what happened with Eric will come back and bite me in the ass. I just knew it. I’m such an idiot.

[miekasa]

Mie, I’m begging for some Jean college au bf hcs - im literally so down bad for this man and the way you write men is just 🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻

Absolutely, not a problem 😌 I saved this ask as a draft a while ago when you sent it, sorry for just now getting to it. Anyway, I love Jean with my whole heart, best boy, best boyfriend <33

King of forehead kisses, and not even just because of his height in comparison to yours; he just likes it. He likes the feeling of pressing his lips against your skin, and making you feel safe.

Brings you tea or coffee however you like it every day without fail. If he can get it to you in the morning before work/school then he’ll do that, if not he’ll meet you some time in the middle of the day to drop it off. Your own personal courier just for drinks.

He… has a thing for long(er) nails. He loves the feeling of them against his skin, even if you’re not scratching to apply pressure—just you holding his hand them grazing his skin is enough for him.

That being said, he will pay for you to get your nails done. Actually, he’ll pay for… almost anything you want, but the nails benefit him as much as they do you so feel free to ball out.

He never blowdries his hair because he doesn’t... know how to do the back of it. You did it for him once and he hasn’t stopped thinking about it since, but he’s also too embarrassed to ask you to do/style it again.

On the subject of hair, he does do his best to style it and take care of it, but he’s a sucker whenever you play with it. Sometimes he feigns like you’re messing up all his hard work, but he’ll literally crane his head into your touch. He loves it. 

The first time he lays on top of you and you run your hands through his hair... top 10 most euphoric moments of his life. He tries to fight off the sleep threatening to take over him, but it’s futile. Give it 15 minutes at most before he’s knocked out like a baby. 

Dogs love him. Anytime you’re in a park or just taking a walk and there’s a dog around, it’ll come up to him and he looks adorable leaning down to pet it. He loves dogs, too! So he’s always happy to stop and pet them. He’d be a 10/10 dog dad. 

Has your name saved in his phone with two hearts at the end. Do not point it out.

Loves taking pictures together and if you guys are on a date, he’ll ask someone to get a picture for him. He just likes having them to look back on (and to send to his mom, later).

He doesn’t mind painting classes or videos or tutorials, but he hates paint by numbers kits. He claims that they have no sense of color theory and that it takes the originality and fun out of painting. Not to mention the quality of the paints isn’t great to begin with; all of which he takes very seriously.

It’s pretty cute actually, to see him get worked up over the paint kits. He claims that painting and drawing isn’t even something he takes “that seriously,” it’s just a hobby for him (one he’s insanely good at); but in moments like these, you can tell that he’s way more into art and art theory and history than he lets on. 

Huge movie guy, from animated movies to martial arts movies, Jean is usually willingly to give anything a watch at least once. When he’s high, he can go on about his favorite directors and art styles and movie details for hours if you don’t stop him. It’s super cute. Just don’t bring up Moana, because he’ll start crying. 

Arm around the shoulder kind of boyfriend for sure. It’s a casual way of keeping you near him and letting everyone know that you guys are together. Plus it allows for him to easily pull you into him for a quick forehead kiss when needed.

Listen. If you hug his arm, he’s on cloud nine. He tries to be nonchalant about it but he’s about three seconds away from his eyes rolling back in his head it feels that good to him. Bonus if you lean your head on his bicep a little—then he’s a goner.

He takes his bagels very seriously and believes that both you and him deserve nothing but the best quality bagels. He’ll grumble if a bakery gives you guys a less than favorable one and make a note that taking the long route to get to his favorite place is much more worth it.

Always makes you walk on the side furthest from the cars. If he notices you’re not, he’ll just shuffle behind you until he’s shouldering the street and you’re on the inside. 

He grew up on a kind of modern ranch situation; not exactly all the way in the countryside, but not isolate from the city, either. Because of this, he knows how to ride horses, take care of smaller farm animals, tend to plants, and yes he knows how to use a lasso. You wouldn’t know any of that though, because he never ever talks about it. The only way you find out is when he takes you to visit his mom’s house for the first time, and she asks him for a hand around the place. 

(He’s got a cowboy hat, too, but refuses to put it on. He got it when he was, like, nine, okay, leave him alone). 

When he thinks you look tired, he’ll wrap his arms around your shoulders to hug you. It’s usually followed up with a kiss to your head, and a promise that you guys will go home soon and get food on the way. 

He’s a really good cook. He just understands and flavors and pairings really well, so he doesn’t need a recipe to make something that tastes good; he just kind of knows what to add to get the balance he’s looking for. 

Naturally, he’ll cook for you. Especially if he finds out that you haven’t eaten all day/in a long time. He doesn’t care if it’s 11pm and it might seem excessive to make steak and potatoes with a side salad at this hour, he’s gonna do it to make sure you eat, and you are going to sit there and watch. 

He also bakes pretty well, though he isn’t as experimental with his baking as he is with his cooking. He usually sticks to what he knows, and it’s not cupcakes and brownies and cakes; he’s better at croissants, and cheesecakes, and canelés. 

Dating Jean means getting along with his friends. If you guys didn’t know each other before you started dating, be prepared to be ambushed by Connie and Sasha (after Jean stops hiding you away and gives them the green light lmfao). Neither of them waste time with the small talk and formalities; straight into mini golfing and beer pong. They make you feel welcome right away.

Sasha always teases that you’re too good for Jean, and that she might just steal you away for herself some day. Sasha is also Jean’s main confidant, so she really knows just how much he loves you, and yeah, she teases him for being lovesick, but really she’s happy for Jean. And proud of him for facing his feelings like this. 

Connie adores you, and you know he trusts you when he starts going to you for advice/help. Could be anything from schoolwork, to what color he should get his new shoes in. He’s also the one who, surprisingly, you have the sentimental talks with about your relationship with Jean. It’s easy to overlook, but Connie loves Jean, and he’s come to love you too; he just wants you both to be happy, so he’s there to listen when you need it. 

Jean waits outside of your classroom after you’ve had a test or presentation, usually with a drink or a snack, or the promise of taking you out as a treat. Always tells you he’s proud of you, and is there to comfort you if you think you didn’t do too well. 

He does not shut up about whatever major you’re in. It could be the same as his; it could be the complete opposite as his. He thinks it’s so sick that you’re doing it, you make it look cooler, you make it look better, and he’s certain you’re the smartest person in your program. 

He’s pretty serious about his studies, too, so he’s always down to study with you in the library whenever you’re both free. More often than not, he shows up after you, usually with food or extra chargers. He greets you with a kiss on the forehead, and asks you how you are while massaging your shoulders gently. If it’s been a while since you took a break, that’s the first item on the list, after that, he gets to work and stays with you until you’re ready to go, even if he doesn’t have as much work to do. 

He always sits across from you. This goes for when you’re in the library, or out to eat at a restaurant; Jean loves sitting across from you. He gets to see your face the best that way, and he adores looking into your eyes when you talk. 

He’s not... not a morning person. He’s not up at 6am ready to grind, but he wakes up before noon; let’s say 10am is his happy medium. That being said, if you wake up before him, regardless of the time, there’s a 9/10 chance he’ll lay on your back and tell you to hush so you guys can sleep for 10 more minutes. 

If you’re (close) friends with Eren, Mikasa, and Armin, Jean is... happy you’ve got people to rely on, but, “Of all people on the planet, you put your trust in Jaeger?” He acts so bitter (because he is), but deep down inside, he’s glad you have Eren to rely on if you need to. 

(Also, you have to humble him and remind him that he and Eren aren’t all that different. If you like him, why wouldn’t you get along with Eren, bye). 

Turns out though, that it’s not Eren who threatens to beat him up if he breaks your heart. It’s not even Mikasa, although, her threat goes without saying; it’s Armin he’s terrified of.

The last time Armin hated someone, it was this guy in your program, who happened to share a few mutual classes with him, too. Jean never knew the full story, just that he’s pretty sure that kid dropped out the following semester. 

If you have a job on campus, Jean usually doesn’t show up while you’re working (knowing how embarrassed he would be if you did that to him), unless you work the night shift and it’s dead. Connie, however, does show up; usually in some kind of crisis (“Please help me, I don’t know what the fuck APA formatting is and this is due tonight, please, please, please!!”). Your coworkers actually thought Connie was your boyfriend for a minute. That’s when Jean starts showing up more lmfao.

He makes it a point to go on a scheduled, night out, kind of date at least twice a month. He knows life gets busy with school and work and midterms, but he always makes sure you both set side a time to take a well-deserved break and be with each other. 

He’s the romantic type, so these dates are pretty swoon worthy, too. Drive-in movies, nice dinners, classy art exhibits, Jean plans it all. On that note, he really likes planning dates; he just doesn’t like talking about them with his friends beforehand. 

All in all, very romantic, very precious boyfriend. He’s always thinking about you, what you need, and how he can help you out. You’re one of his main priorities, and he just wants to treat you right. 

[imaeraser]

Hello!

I really love your headcannons about Strawhats with Teen reader, that's why...

If you don't mind - Can I ask for Platonic Strawhats with Female! Teen reader that tend to be the quietest in the crew because of her shyness?

I also had and the next idea after this one- but I don't want to overwhelm you with it. Take care of yourself!

Have a nice day!

Sorry for the wait, here you go!

Luffy

He was intrigued by you

That’s why he forced you onto his ship. And then he realized that instead of having a convoluted backstory, you were shy

And quite honestly it was refreshing

Even though he likes being around Chopper and Usopp and be loud as heck, he likes spending time with you

You balance him out

And even though you’re not an adult, he’ll go to you for advice. This makes the rest of the crew confused (and low-key mad) because he doesn't want their advice

But most of the time he doesn’t take your advice anyways

I think that you two are close, seeing as he is endlessly extroverted and will break through your walls no matter how hard you try

Most of the time he leaves you to your own devices, but he will drag you to large parties and make you feel as welcome as possible

He does the same on the ship, but that was never a problem anyways because everyone likes you

Feels the need to protect you, not only because you’re a member of the crew, but also because you’re the youngest

10/10 I can see him giving you some of his food (only some)

Zoro

Ultimate big brother vibes

Likes to go to you for a quiet space because the ship can be loud

So he spends a lot of time with you… sleeping

He also half-asks questions to fill up the space and gets to know you pretty well

He also feels a need to protect you since he sees you as kinda weak (but almost everyone is weaker compared to him)

He will also feel the need to shield you from the craziness of the ship

Like sir, it’s nice that you care, but they can take care of themselves too you know?

Doesn't incorporate you into the crew since… he’s mostly sleeping. But he would try, and he would fail because they already like you

Cue him being shocked that he wasn’t your only friend on board, but to be fair he is sleeping most of the time and not watching you

He likes the calmness you bring to the ship, good for his meditation sessions (but I don't think you want to just sit there why he meditates)

I can see you having fun with him and Chopper, maybe play a board game

8/10 calm down sir, they can take care of themselves

Nami

She’s like the cool and fun older sister

She likes to dress you up in her old clothes, and then gush about how cute you look (no, not her super tiny bikinis)

She takes it onto herself to guide you through… whatever I guess

Also feels the need to protect you from dudes

I think that she gives good advice, but when combined with Robin the two of them give life-altering wisdom

You can go to her for anything from how to sew to how to manipulate people

Always gives you juice when the crew starts drinking

If the ship starts to get too rowdy she will shout at everyone to keep it down, and then turn to smile at you as if her actions were for you

She will share her tangerines with you

I think that she wants to protect you, but is frustrated at the fact that she can’t be as strong as the Monster trio (but everything works out in the end)

If you borrow money from her, she will reduce the interest (only by a little)

9/10 only downside is the interest (if you ever borrow money)

Usopp

He was high-key suspicious of you

To be fair he is suspicious of anyone and everything, and seeing as you were quiet he was on the edge

But after you saved his life, he gets all buddy-buddy (really Usopp? You got saved by a teenager)

I think the two of you would get to know each other when he’s working on a new invention, and you guys are having idle chatter

Now he tried to act like a cool older brother. Always ready to swoop in and talk about his “accomplishments”

He will do just about anything to make you laugh

I can see some crazy (but fun) times with him, Chopper, and Luffy

He would give bad advice, but occasionally he does have some piece of wisdom

He would try to protect you, but… yeah

He ends up feeling bad, and incompetent. But tell him that he was amazing or something and he’ll be fine

I think he would get frustrated when you beat him at a game of cards

10/10 he is just so fun to be around

Sanji

Also acts like an older brother

He tries to protect you from guys, saying that they’re all dogs (but then you point out that he’s a guy)

This also means he tries to limit your time around Zoro, saying that he’s a bad influence

Then the two start to fight and right as they pull you into it, Nami hits both of them and carries you off to eat or something

Gives you more food because you’re still growing

He is a surprisingly good listener and when he chimes in his advice are always good

And like all of the crew, he will try to protect you from danger (ma’am you are still a teen, why are you on this ship? Oh wait, Luffy…)

I said he acts like your older brother, but he also acts like a proud dad sometimes

Like sir, why are you crying? All they did was perform twinkle twinkle little star on the piano (Brook taught you)

He also tries to restrain his pervert tendencies around you, but when they inevitably happen he can’t look you in the eyes for several days (he also smokes more. It gets to a point where you have to confront him)

He also teaches you how to cook

8/10 he can get a little extra sometimes

Chopper

If things get too crazy on the ship, he likes to go to you

I feel like he would try to act like a big brother, but you would just pet him (sorry Chopper)

I can see Chopper trying to get you to socialize more with the crew. Just drags you out with his tiny Reindeer paws

I can see you confiding in him a lot because it’s kinda like venting to a stuffed animal (again, sorry Chopper)

He gives (almost) child-like advice, but it’s so simple and it always works

I think you would beat both him and Usopp at games, and then they would proceed to chase you around

He would try to protect you, but he also knows that you need to push yourself to get stronger, so he lets you fight some of your fights

When you end up hurt, he always makes sure to be extra vigilant with your care

I believe that you would also try to protect him, but his pride would end up hurt

I think you two would spend a lot of time in his office for a quiet place to read (and for him to do work)

He makes you help him organize stuff

10/10 a great duo

Robin

She is the kind older sister

She is such a good listener, and her advice would solve all of the world's problems

If things get crazy on the ship, you go to her. She has the presence of calm around her that just soothes you

I think she would also like to participate in dressing you up with Nami. That means you get to wear Nami’s old clothes and Robin’s old clothes

Robin always has an extra book and cup of tea reserved for you. Tea times are when you two like to ramble about anything and everything. This is also the place where you can vent and the both of you talk about your past

She would like to teach you about world history, while you listen and ask questions

She would try to teach you how to read one glyph, but if it’s too hard she stops (and low-key gets sad)

Robin also lets you help her garden. She enjoys having a person keep her company while she does the things that make her happy

She thinks that you are too adorable, and that also makes her go into a momma bear mode when she thinks you are in danger

She will yell at crew members, and she will annihilate the enemies

Robin sees you in a similar way to Chopper, so if you say something dirty or cuss, her image of you will be ruined

10/10 she is perfection

Franky

I see him as a weird uncle figure

He mostly hides in his workshop and creates weird but cool inventions while you watch him and ask what he is doing

I don’t see you two talking about important things, just you two having fun and making jokes

He is fun to watch, but when he tries to get you to participate— it’s even more fun

I can see Robin trying to shield you from him (hey, he says he’s a pervert)

He would share his cola with you (I can see some very fun crew bonding time when everyone gets cola and huddles around Franky’s new invention)

Franky is the opposite of shy, so sometimes it gets to be a bit too much

Like sir, please leave them alone for one second

I think that Franky and Usopp would try to teach you how to make things

And if you like to prank people… they’ve created a monster

Expect all three of you to get yelled at

8/10 pretty good, but he does say some stuff that you don’t get sometimes

Brook

Another weird uncle

When he asked to see your panties, both Robin and Nami slapped him so hard, he had flown off

He never asked again

I can see him joining in on the Robin history over tea, and add things in he knows from living during the period (dang he’s old)

He occasionally makes the tea you three drink

I think he would try to teach you how to use a sword, and then get yelled at so he teaches you to play instruments instead

He’s a surprisingly easy-going teacher, if you don’t practice he’s not mad. He just assumes you don't want to learn. That means he won’t teach you, which leads you to practice

He would let you peek inside of his skull and then jumpscare you. It works every time

Brook would tell you about what he did during the two-year time skip, all while you’re laughing at the fact they called him Satan

I think that being around you and Luffy would make him remember his days as a teen

Starts to get all weary like a dad (and just like Sanji)

7/10 rough start, but good ending

Jinbei

He is the dad (not like, is)

He is always concerned for your health, and whether you should be fighting or not

He told Luffy that it was ridiculous to bring a teen on board, but then he realized Luffy is only 19…

Jinbei is always there to make sure you feel included, and will often leave the crew’s festivities just to hang out with you

Honestly, his old man self likes the quiet you bring

If you ask him, he’ll tell you about Fishman history (also over Robin History Tea Times)

100% tries to protect you. I think that can make you frustrated at times, but he has saved you so you can’t be too mad

So he teaches you Fishman Karate (it gets Robin’s stamp of approval because there are no sharp objects)

Jinbei gives the best advice, again dad and old man

He’s able to see different perspectives and tell you the best course of action (that gets annoying when you just want him to take your side, but you have Nami and Robin for that)

Also is proud of you when you achieve something (part of the tears dad group)

10/10 every group needs a parent figure

[itsthestutterforme]

Well Damn 2/3

Summary: You and Frank go to couples therapy - though technically you're not a couple. And the therapist gave some interesting advice.

Notes: GIF is not mine, all mistakes are my own, sexual themes (fingering, p in v penetration), minors DNI, reader is pregnant

--

Frank thought that it was a joke at first, but you were very serious. The doctor saw how the two of you argued when you went to your prenatal check up. He suggested a couple therapist. Though you and Frank were not technically a couple.

You need to have a healthy relationship with him to raise the baby the right way. "I really miss my wine," you admitted, your nails scratching at the seams of the therapist's couch. You saw a commercial about Italy's finest wines, and it made you miss wine even more.

"Wow, didn't think you were much of an alcoholic, Y/N," "Shut up," you said through gritted teeth. The therapist wrote a few notes down before he asked, "How have you two been sleeping?" "I get about five hours a night. It's normal for me." Frank explains after a few moments of silence.

"How about you, Y/N?" "Not very well. Probably three to four," "You told me you were sleeping eight hours," Frank scolds. "I tried. But I just never feel comfortable enough to sleep," "You need to get your sleep, Y/N." "I know," "You and that mommy brain of yours,"

"Don't even mention mommy brain to me right now, Frank." "What compels you to say comments like that, Frank?" "I don't have a reason," "That's some bull, he likes getting a rise out of me." "And why do you think that?" "I do think it, I know it. I know him."

The therapist hums with a nod of confirmation. You took a swig of your lemon water- lemon water, you've started drinking lemon water now. What kind of person are you becoming?

"When was the last time you had sex?" Your eyes widened and you opened your mouth to speak when the water goes into your airway. Your cough sprays water on the table in front of you and you placed a hand on your chest.

Frank took the bottle of water from you and set it on the counter. "Way to go, doc." Frank snaps. "Im sorry, I should have waited until she finished drinking the water." "You think?" Your eyes started to water under your persistent cough.

You reached out and held Frank's hand as you caught your breath. "There is love between you. So there isn't an issue with that. The issue seems to lie in how you speak to each other." He explains. "Which could be in connection with the lack of sexual intercourse between the two of you."

"I think you misunderstand," your voice turned raspy from the coughing. "We're not a couple," "You sure about that?" "Yes," you looked over at Frank and he looked at you in amusement. "What? You think we're a couple?" "I don't know what we have,"

"Okay, let's start with this. What is your definition of a couple?" "Two people who love one another and invest in a future together," you responded. "And you don't think that's what you are?" You looked over at Frank again. "Well, damn,"

He chuckles and your slapped his chest. "Maybe some sexual release will help with this build up of emotions." "Doc, having sex with him is what got me in this pickle in the first place," you tell him.

"Don't act like you didn't love it, princess. You would go rounds and rounds nonstop and still want more in the morning."

Your mouth fell open with embarrassment. "I can't believe you just told my business like that," you said through gritted teeth. "I hate you, you know that?" You added. He gripped your chin and leaned in close. "No you don't," "I think we got it from here, doc." He adds, pulling away from you and standing from the couch.

He offered a hand to you and you reluctantly took it. "Okay, you're more than welcome to swing by if you need it. The receiptionist will take good care of you." He explains. You left the room, unsure if you could face the therapist again after that.

The whole ride home consisted of Frank teasing you and you repeatedly hitting him. You fell back on the bed with a huff. Frank leans on the door frame of your bed room. Your eyes fluttered closed. "You hungry? I could order something." "No, I was planning to cook dinner tonight."

"Well that's not going to work, you're exhausted." "I hate feeling exhausted," you felt the bed dip but didn't open your eyes. "You wanna try what the doctor suggested?"

Your eyes snapped open and you slowly turned on your side. "You want to have sex with me? When I look like this? It's a pain in the ass to shave anymore." You grumble.

"First off, that's my child you're carrying. There's nothing hotter than that. And second off, I never cared if you shaved." You shook your head and laid back down.

The next thing you knew, you felt his lips pressing to yours. You instinctively moaned into the kiss. You felt him shuffling and his hand slide down to your tights.

In attempt to take off the tights yourself, you grew frustrated. "You don't have to do anything, princess." "But I want to," you groaned when he pulls away from your lips to kiss down your neck. Pulling his face back up to yours, you kissed him and gripped his hair.

You missed the scratch of his beard against your lips. He lays down parallel to you and pulled off your tights and underwear. You kicked them off the bed and he spreads your legs.

"Frank," he cuts you off by kissing you again. His fingers just grazed your holds and you gasped. He eases in a finger and pumps a few times before slipping in another finger.

In any other circumstance, you would be arching your back into him. But you could barely move on your side, let alone do anything with your back. Not being touched like this in months doesn't help you at all. He tuts at you when you tried to close your legs around his hand. He pumps and circles his fingers up into a gspot, making your toes curl.

He kisses down your neck and lifts your shirt and bra up to expose your breasts. He licks one of your nipples in a broad stroke and your walls begun to flutter around his fingers. Your moans echo throughout the apartment. Your breathing went shallow when your orgasm hit you like a mack truck.

"Shit," you groaned when he nibs at your ear lobe. "Atta girl," he whispers. "Fuck me," "You sure you can take it?" You sent him a glare and he pecks your lips. "Alright," you pull off his black Henley and he pulls away to take off his jeans.

He picks up your donut pillow from the floor. "Lay on your side," you complied and laid the side of your stomach on the donut to keep you stable. He lifted your leg and hooked it around his waist. Goddamn, this is going to feel great, you tell yourself.

He inches inside of you and you took the fabric of your silk sheets in your hands. "You feel so good, princess. Makes me remember why you're pregnant right now," he starts. He thrusts in slow and deep, his calloused hand skimmed down the back of your thigh and he leaves kisses up your back.

"F-frank," "I could never resist filling that delicious, tight cunt to the brim," You buried your face into the pillows to cover your moans and he gripped your hair so you were facing the ceiling.

"Don't hide those sounds from me," you whined when he licks up the side of your neck. He grunts when you clench around him, nearing your orgasm.

"Fuck," he spills into you but keeps thrusting as you clenched around him one last time before your body trembles. He slowly pulls out of you and lays next to your back. You shifted to fix your shirt and move the donut so you were laying on your stomach next to him.

He opens his arms so you laid your head on his shoulder. "I think that doc was up to something. I don't want to piss you off anymore." He tucks a hand behind his head and used his other hand to caress up and down your back.

Humming at the contact, your eyes fluttered and a content smile tugged at your lips. "And I don't want to tear your head off anymore." you stated. He chuckles and kissed your forehead.

[alex-wrtng]

How to avoid boring dialogue

HINT: It's not actually about the dialogue.

We've all heard about making your dialogue sound natural and all that, but that doesn't really work on its own, does it? An English teacher once told me to use the five senses, but that advice felt extremely weird to me because I don't go about smelling and tasting people when I talk to them. I made up my own method which is flexible enough to be used with any scene and genre. 

Let's start with a random dialogue:

"I'm sorry for your loss," he apologized.

"It's okay."

"I swear I meant to be there, but..."

"I said it's fine," she said.

Yeah... no. That ain't it, chief. It's boring. The sentences are short and lack depth. It's nothing we haven't heard before in other stories. So what should we do to fix this WITHOUT messing with the base dialogue? We write around it, beef up the boi, give it everything a story needs without info dumping. 

Here's a list of things to keep an eye on:

Setting description

Items (optional)

Actions and expressions

Tone

Motive

Crowd control

And here's some questions to ask yourself as a writer when you run out of things to describe, but need more meat in your narration:

Who initiated the conversation?

Do they all want to stay in this conversation?

Does the reader know what happened before the conversation or is there a need for exposition either in the narrative or within the dialogue?

Let's add every single item on the first list and answer every question to fix our short little dialogue as an exercise:

"I'm sorry for your loss," he apologized with a vaguely concealed smirk and a half-empty beer bottle in hand. 

This was not the face she wanted to see seconds after a humiliating defeat in the arena. Not when her new partner didn't last a second longer than the last one. Failure after failure fell on her shoulders. She clutched the dog tags tighter as if hiding them would make the situation dissappear and walked away, fully aware that the feet of her first partner would follow her like an imprinted duckling.

"It's okay."

But the dried tear tracks said otherwise, shameful as they were. Even in the dark, they were clear to see and the salty smell wouldn't be missed by someone like him.

"I swear I meant to be there, but..." but nothing. His kind wasn't welcome in the stands and they both knew it very well.

Despite that, his tone was bordering on humorous if slightly lazy. An I-told-you-so that would haunt her waking dreams. 

"I said it's fine," she said, wanting nothing more than to smash that beer bottle against his too sharp teeth. 

Now that we got some spice in there, let's analyze what we added and how it answers our questions and leaves some gaps to hook the reader.

Setting description

There were only two words used to describe the setting "arena" and "stands". It doesn't tell you what type of arena and that's great because now the reader wants to know more about where they are and why they are there. The rest of the setting is brought on by the items and the characters themselves. There's no need to info dump the setting's description in one go, make the reader work for it a little bit.

Actions and expressions

First we have to remember that characters have faces and bodies. They need to do something with both or otherwise the character is just standing there characters on a 2-bit RPG game. Of course, less is more so a writer should only focus on the most important movements and expressions and let the reader fill in the blanks with hints from the dialogue and narration. We have "smirk" and "dried tears" to put a face on our characters. Easy and simple. 

Items (optional)

This is somewhat like a crutch when it comes to keeping your character from just standing there. In animation, this is called "business" aka giving the character something to do like fiddle with their clothes, wipe down counters, gesture with pencils or other items, etc. Here we have the dog tags as an active item (the squeezing action) and the beer bottle acting as environmental storytelling (it's just there). The militaristic vibes and the tipsy attitude could've been described with exposition but this is quicker and sneaky.

Tone

How are things being said? Think of what's in between your dialogue as voice acting tips, but not as obvious. Yes, you can get away with some adverbs here and there, but overdoing it is a big no-no so I didn't use any in the example. There's no need to spell out "mocking" or "smug" when the character is smirking in the face of foreign loss. In the last line, I used visual imagery to spell out aggression. You can do the same with other types of emotions. 

Motive

What do they want? No idea, but that's not my problem at the moment. Motives guide conversations. What the characters want will color their actions. Writers won't introduce villains as "this is the villain", but they point out by throwing in some crumbs. Since motive is in everything, I'm not gonna point it out.

Crowd control

We don't need the reader to play mental gymnastics and end up with a pile of bodies on a twister map. I used two people in the example and used two actions "walking away" and "follow" to place them somewhere in the reader's mental map. I didn't describe their pace, but the tone (and later the words "humorous" and "lazy") hint at how they move.

And there you go! That's it for my dialogue scene guide. 

Have fun writing, 

Alex.

[cutiecorner]

《 I thought it might be nice to have a little QnA somewhere! 》

What do you use to make art?

I use ibis paint to draw (though I don't keep track of my brushes, sorry) and I use PicsArt to make moodboards!

Can I use your art/edit as an icon?

Absolutely! Just remember to credit me somewhere, and please don't use commissions unless you are the commissioner.

Can I use your art/edit in a stimboard/moodboard?

Yes! All I ask is that you tell me and credit me, just shoot me a dm or an ask :)

May I use your art on a deco paci/other product?

No, you may not. Please do not use my work in any fashion that is profited off of.

Your watermark says no reposts, what do you mean by that?

I mean please do not repost my art to other websites like Instagram or your account! Reblogs are totally welcome, I just don't want you to manually download it and post it as your own.

Where did (x post) go?

I regress and make regression content to deal with my anxiety, and sometimes I'll get anxious about a post for one reason or another, so I delete it. As much as I love sharing with yall, at the end of the day, my comfort is my top priority. If you'd like to personally keep the post, shoot me a dm and I'll see what I can do!

Why didn't you do my request?

Like I mentioned above, this blog is mostly for me, so I don't do requests if I don't want to. I don't mean any offense to the requester, my motivation is just very fickle "^^

Do you do commissions or requests?

Both! Kinda. I am always taking art commissions (unless stated otherwise) and I'll draw pretty much whatever as long as I'm comfortable with it. I kind of do requests, but they're more like suggestions. As stated above, there's no gaurentee I'll do your request if you send it. I do not take fanfic commissions because it's super hard for me to write under those conditions lol, but I do take suggestions to get ideas! Sorry if that's a little confusing "^^

Do you do art trades?

Sometimes! If you're interested in one shoot me a dm :•>

Can I make an agere sona?

Of course! I don't think I'm the first person to do so, so you're completely welcome to! If you got the idea from me, I'd love to be tagged if you want!

Can you give me advice on (x agere thing)?

Unfortunately, no "^^ I don't have good advice on regression stuff, as most if not all my regression is limited to this blog. It's not something I intend to share with people I know, irl or online, and I don't intend on having a caregiver, so I can't give advice on those things. Also, all of my regression stuff is digital (I draw and watch TV on my tablet), so I don't have any gear/activities to hide even though I live with my family. Lastly, I'm just really not comfortable with giving advice on real situations to people I don't know. It's nothing against you, and I'm very honored that you would ask me! But I won't be answering asks for advice.

《If you have any questions you'd like me to add/answer, let me know!》

[annmarcus63]

GIVE US TO HIM

Geralt z Rivii | Geralt of Rivia/Jaskier | Dandelion

Warning: this might hurt a little

on ao3 https://archiveofourown.org/works/34157128

Grandma said once that to give away your raw score is forbidden.

"Your heart in it's full rawness, chaos, is a precious and dangerous thing. Never you should do something as giving it to someone else."

"But our ancestors used to do it. Look ma ¡look!" said Jaskier holding his story book on the air for grandma's tired eyes to see. A handsome knight was lying on the dry grass, dying from a wound on his stomach. He started calling for his love, an ancient fae with blond hair and fair skin. She fell upon the prairie from the charged clouds, with something shiny between her hands. The fae feed the wound with her raw core, her heart. The knight lived along side her, flying amongst the starry night, happily ever after. "This are just stories, Julian" said Grandma with contened anger in her dry voice. She took the book and close it on her thighs "Things were rarely like that. Knights and kings are more inclined to use our cores against us and other people. We can't recover from that loss" Julian look at the drawing on the coverbook, the fae was kneeled by a pond and the knight stood glorious in practically all the cover, leaving a very small space for the real hero, the one who save the life of the protagonist.

"Never give your raw core away. Stop reading these, THEY wrote this, Julian, you must be clever than her" said Grandma pointing at the beautiful fae. Julian nod, undesrtanding much more that he wanted to, and so little, so so little. Maybe that was the reason his family were hiding, they never express it in a literal way, that was the point really, but Julian notice anyway. The way, for example, of how they said their names and the rust taste that was left on the air after. It was common to hide their real names for fae, but you'd give that name knowing it's false, on the opposite when you say the false name thinking is the real one then another fae would know. Losing the self was something of a disease between the fae. Jaskier later knew that his parents have not choice but to lose themselves to save the lineage. Most fae really. Humans did that. Like they did to the elfes. Julian promise to never forget about the fae from his last storybook. He'll never forget about her sacrifice and the sacrifice of his people. But come on, after some years it was just naturally that, despite the wound on the history, a selfish creature he was and he forgot. He was raised as human, and he wanted to be a bard oh how he want it. And he did accomplish that, and a bloody good one that's for sure. Fae were extinct for all the world and that wasn't a cover, they're doomed to extinction sooner or later. It has been years since the last time Jaskier felt another fae being born. He is Jaskier troubadour, master of the seven liberal arts a mastermind amongst the crowds, a legend…an idiot most of the time basically.

What grandma failed to mention is that for a fae to be able to give their core away the recipient must be worthy at the eyes of the fae. Once this worthiness makes evident, that person would plant roots in the core itself, whether the fae want it or not. It's inevitable. Grandma should have said "be aware of where you place your heart. Hold it until you're fully sure of them" But well, it wouldn't have matter in the end. Jaskier have never being someone who follows advice, much less from his dead relative. It happened naturally, like breathing, eating and shitting. One moment he was standing next to Geralt under a pouring rain, the witcher kept looking for a missing girl on the edges of the woods, her parents place a bounty on the towns board, they couldn't offer payment in form of crowns but they're willing to let them sleep on the girl’s room. Jaskier became indignant, how a witcher is supposed to take a payless bounty? No, that is unacceptable. But despite the protesting bard and zero reward whatsoever Geralt went anyway, he look for a girl who surelly was already dead.

"I found her body near the cave by the pond. You can go for her by morning when it's safe. I'm sorry" after a minute of silence the parents with equal expression of cold sorrow release a heavy sigh charged with so much grief.

"What did it?" asked the father

"Nekkers. I got rid of the pack living there"

"Thank you, witcher. You and your bard can come in, i'm sure you're exhausted” Said the mother with great effort, like someone who can't breathe quite well.

Geralt rapidly added "No, I'm sure you and your husband need time to resign and mourn alone. My bard and i already had another place to stay" Eh, no they didn't.

"But...we don't have any crowns"

"I didn't do this for payment" And while the parents thanked infinitely to Geralt, Jaskier felt something wild and untamed surging from his chest. Reaching unabashed for the witcher with a big golden heart standing next to him, explaining to a mourning parents that he went to search for their lost daughter because he wanted to help. This new awareness of chaos, he knew what it was.

Chaos, core, raw.

And it had marked Geralt as his. We want him.

Give us to him. He's worthy.

He was doomed, so doomed from the very beginning since they encounter each other on Posada. Grandma tried to warn him of this. Oh grandma, you and i both know that I was never obedient or wise. So Jaskier let it happen, four years after knowing the witcher and his raw core already belong to him. But he didn't do it. He hold back despite the urgency on his chest because he wasn't sure it'll be welcome. Geralt was still trying to get rid of him in every town, sometimes Jaskier felt like a pet you don't want but you can't abandon it either. Surely there'd be a time in the future. And Jaskier wait and fell in love deeply with each passing year. And Geralt...well he was the same and also different in his own way, more at ease around him, softer maybe. Jaskier didn't need to be call a friend to felt like one to Geralt. They're friends, even if one part has being in denial for the past decade.

And then the djinn happened follow by the complicated affair with one Yennefer of Vandenberg. The curse caused the core to retreat afraid and wounded. He hurt us, he wished to hurt us. Jaskier argued with the voice that it wasn't his intention, he didn't even know he was the one with the wishes. In truth his heart shattered not for the wish but for the easiness in which the sorceress become someone important to Geralt, something to hold on to even if drowning. One decade and still Jaskier thinks he haven't reached that relationship level with his friend.

He doesn't want us

No.

"Uhmm?"

"What?"

"You said no"

"Oh, it's nothing" Geralt didn't ask again

But weak and in love he was, the raw core and him reached out again, with fully open arms for Geralt to pull. Jaskier long to belong to him, oh how he did.

Yennefer and her shining imbecile knight join the hunt and he was jealous because as soon as she appear the witcher was drooling as if she was all he needed to shut down the darkness inside.

Don't you know? inside me there's a full light waiting for you to hold

At the softness of the afternoon Jaskier found Geralt sitting on a rock lost, as usual, in though. But this time were different, he had failed three people, Borch's dead has left a wound that surely would scar badly. And the bard felt a deep sadness for his golden heart witcher. He's definitely blaming himself for the fall, for that narrow and insecure path alongside the mountain as if he was the one to build it.

Jaskier asked him to come with him to his home, to the coast, he yearn to be there with him and feel the sea wind on their faces while walking by a cliff near a quiet village that Geralt wouldn't mind to visit.

We want to be his.

Give us to him.

We can love him better.

But Geralt didn't want him, he wanted Yennefer.

He give himself to him anyway.

"Here" said Jaskier putting a hand on Geralt's thigh, surprise, instead of flinching away Geralt held Jaskier's hand and with most carefulness took what was inside the palm. A small glass vial, similar to the ones where he pours his potions. He held it on his gloved open hand. There was something inside, warm and inviting. White, almost yellow that make Geralt felt calm and safe.

"What's this?"

"A gift. It'd take care of you" Geralt frown at him, confused and uncertain of what it meant, but he took it with a barely there smile only for Jaskier to see.

He's a coward, he couldn't confessed him the reality of what it meant because he was terrified of being rejected, grandma said that a rejection is so devastating that it might kill him. And even at this point in their friendship Jaskier couldn't know for sure.

It's me. Take me, i'll protect and save you if needed to. Have me, please have me.

Geralt went that night at Yennefer's tent and Jaskier felt glad for not having told him the truth

"If life could give me a blessing it would be to take you off my hands"

No, no, not now.

They're doing fine.

And then very fast very suddenly Geralt reached for his breast pocket to held the vial of raw core on his fist and toss it unceremoniously to the hard soild.

The noise of shattered glass invaded Jaskier's ears before the heavy blankness surged from his chest to every corner of him.

“No, no, no” said he, giving a fumbling step towards the vial but deciding to turn around instead.

Away away away away.

He can't see me like this.

Something was tearing in fine lines caused by the trembling, an earthquake from his very bones that were fighting on maintaining their solid formation. Something inside was bawling with such and intensity that make his ears bleed.

Was this dying? let it be death for he can no longer take it. Does breathing always hurt this much? like if his lungs were filled with wool and the air only add heaviness on them. What was this? a beating heart, so afraid so betrayed, like a laugh from his ancestors. He wanted to throw up his intestines, they're on fire, but when he tried only saliva flood. He was not himself anymore, and to become whole was an impossibility that the pain was making sure off. Dirt get inside his mouth, his cheek on the ground was getting cut by rocks. A voice calling for him to react, to say something. But he no longer have a voice, he was death itself preparing for a long dream.

I’m sorry grandma.

I'm sorry, said to himself

and he remembered the blond fae on the cover book between grandma's hands, of how she give her life to save her love one, but who'd give their life for her?

who'd give their life for him?

He needed to sleep, right here on the mountain ground, to become whole again or at least half whole.

He begged for death instead.

[tea-and-spoons]

What happens when... I develop a new food allergy?

Whether this is your first food allergy, or the most recent in a long list, it can still be a rough adjustment and overwhelming amount of change.  But as someone who has gone through this more than twenty times, I promise you it’s not the end of the world.

The majority of this post is related to severe, anaphylactic food allergies, but I’m of course always going to advocate for being careful, and some of this will apply to milder allergies too.  This advice also works if you were just diagnosed with celiac disease, or another condition that makes you sensitive to cross contamination.  I’m going to let your doctor handle the medical side of this, but I’m hoping this post will cover all the other things you need to know!

I made some pretty thorough lists of things to check, replace, or clean to make sure you’re safe from allergens- I’ll put those at the end of this post.  It is a lot- recruit a non-allergic friend to help if you can!

But before I get into the lists, here are some other things I’ve learned about getting a new food allergy.

-Update your doctors, including your dentist.  And also update any emergency info you have around, like your medical ID in your phone.

-Research other names for your allergen and what it might be found in.  Food labelling can be very sneaky, which is Not Cool, but you get really good at reading ingredient labels once you know what to look for.  I would stay away from googling too many other allergy related things though, it’s an easy way to get into a panic.

-Talk to the people you live with.  Hopefully they’re good about it, but they might take a while to understand, or might even be angry and resistant, which honestly is beyond me.  If this is your situation, I am so so sorry.  You deserve to feel safe in your own home, no matter what.  If you can set some ground rules and get people on board even a little bit, that will help, and hopefully everyone will come around eventually.

-You should also talk to your partner, or anyone you might be kissing (or who might be kissing you, even on the cheek.  Hi grandma.)  Their foods, medications, reusable water bottles, and toothbrush are all possible ways you could get sick.  So even if they haven’t eaten allergens in hours, it could still be on their toothbrush and that can be enough to cause a reaction.  This research article (Maloney JM, et al. Peanut allergen exposure through saliva: assessment and interventions to reduce exposure. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2006; 118: 719-724.) found that waiting at least an hour and having something allergen free to eat was the best way to de-poison-ify for someone you want to kiss.  I’ve also heard from other allergists that 3-4 hours is the right number.  So I would ask your allergist what they recommend for you.

(note:  I would like to keep this blog safe and friendly for spoonies of all ages, but if you are in need of more information about dating and allergies, feel free to message me and I’ll send you some links!)

-One thing that surprised me with some of my food allergies was the cravings.  Sometimes I never want to even hear the word “pineapple” again, but especially if it was something like eggs that are more a hidden ingredient, I struggled with cravings for foods I couldn’t have anymore, like French toast.  And I’m not even someone who likes food that much!  So I’m here to tell you that the cravings are normal, and will subside in a few weeks.  It also helps to just not be around things you can’t eat for a bit.  And to look for replacement recipes for your favorites- there’s so much out there, it’s really impressive.

-The other common (emotional) reaction is anxiety.  Anaphylactic food allergies can be life threatening, of course you’re scared!  It is 100% normal to be worried and afraid and anxious and terrified, especially after an allergic reaction.  That response happens to help keep you safe!  But it’s also exhausting, and can get out of control.  My best advice here is to follow the concrete steps you need to be safe, and then tell yourself that you’ve done everything you can, you know what you’re doing, and even if something goes wrong, you know you are prepared.  You can be prepared and careful AND not have to be scared all the time.  There is zero shame in seeing a therapist about this too, they can really help.  (My advice here is borrowed from my lovely therapist!)

And here are the lists I mentioned earlier!  I hope this helps you feel safer and more prepared.  Severe food allergies are a big change, but you got this!

Things to replace:

-Toothbrush (and maybe toothpaste too)

-Any food that is still safe but might be cross contaminated (like flour, sugar, spices, things that go on toast… basically any open containers)

-Kitchen sponges and rags and anything else that gets used to hand wash dishes

-Chapstick and lipstick

-Stim toys that go in your mouth

-Cast iron kitchen equipment

-Cutting boards

-Reeds (if you play a reed instrument)

-Ice cubes, if you have a tray in your freezer that people reach into

Things to clean:

-Kitchen itself, including all appliances and countertops

-Anywhere else food is kept or eaten (such as pantry, dining room, couch, in your purse, desk, locker)

-All cooking supplies (plates, pans, silverware, crockpot, basically everything)

-Potholders and oven mitts

-Pillowcases

-Dish towels

-Doorknobs

-Handles

-Light switches

-Remotes

-Cloth napkins

-Reusable water bottles

-Kitchen drawers that might have gotten crumbs or residue in them

-Retainer or mouthguard

-Lunchbox

-Toys and fidgets

-Purse/backpack

-Writing utensils

-Car steering wheel, controls, and handles (especially if you’re the driver)

-Inhaler, spacer, nebulizer, CPAP mask, and other related equipment

-Oral thermometer

-Face masks

-Phone, computer keyboards, touch screens

-Hand or wrist braces

-Video game controllers

-Any musical instruments you play, but especially if it’s a wind instrument.  Plus the case, and any cleaning equipment.

-Whatever your toothbrush is stored in

Things to check the labels on:

-All your food (what you have at home, and anything new you buy)

-Toothpaste

-Floss

-Shampoo and other hair products

-Hand soap and dish soap

-Deodorant

-Makeup and chapstick

-Medications

-Lotions

-Sunblock

-Pet food (if their food turns out to contain your new allergen, you might want to clean or replace their toys as well.  And a bath for the pet themselves!)

If I missed anything on my lists, please feel free to add on in the replies!  If you need someone to talk to or have questions, you’re welcome to message me.  And I promise this gets easier 💙

[blackbat05]

I need a break

Shangqi x Reader (Platonic) 

A/N: I feel like I’m loosing steam towards the end of my placement and wow I have never needed a break this badly before. Perhaps a short Shangqi x Reader imagine where they are both University students. Seriously at this rate I’ll just be solely a Shangqi writer HAHAHA. Doing this on my phone because I don’t want to open my work computer. Let’s see where this impromptu idea takes me to. Hope you enjoy it and as always like and comment if you wish!

Genre: PG-13

Warnings: None really, just friends supporting each other! I guess there’s an inaccurate timeline if you look at the MCU but hey this is an imagine plus if you look at some of the wiki pages, Shangqi is actually born in 1998/1999. So appreciate if you’re kind enough to go with the flow to read this comfort fic! 

‘Y/N!’ Shangqi rushes to catch up with you after class. You made an effort to conceal your tiredness but he saw it right through. ‘Gosh…you alright?’

You think to yourself. Were you really alright? The answer was pretty obvious. You were ten weeks into your placement and your emotions were a jumbled up mess. Having to deal with work responsibilities was one problem, school assignments were another issue all together. At this point, you felt like you were just getting through each week for the sake of it.

At first, you believed that what you were going through was simply a transition to becoming an adult. You thought that naturally, you would be able to persevere through the stressful periods by yourself. But of course, it has been hard.

You were a social work intern at a neighborhood youth centre, thirty minutes away if you took the train and bus. The work was fulfilling in it’s own ways, but recently there were self-doubts filling your brain, if you were really cut out for the job in the future. If you weren’t, what else could you do?

As you sat with Shangqi in the school’s student-ran cafe, you found yourself pouring out the exact same concerns to him. Credit to him, Shangqi never interrupted your monologue, he just simply listened. That’s what best friends were for. That’s what you did for him to when he ran into issues with his family.

Even then, he couldn’t deny that hearing you doubt yourself broke his heart. He had known you since high school. You mostly kept to yourself and one or two close friends. Despite joining the school’s athletic team where you were one of the main athletes, you preferred to stay in the shadows unlike some of your teammates. That didn’t stop you from going out of your way to help other students in need; like helping the girl who was in an arm cast to copy the social studies notes, even if it meant you had to do it twice. Or maybe just talking to a friend who was stressed out about their results.

Basically, you had studied your ass off to get a secured spot at this university who were only one of the few that offered the degree. He remembers you telling him the moment you got your offer, ‘I’m finally good at something. I don’t have to worry anymore!’

Shangqi wasn’t stupid. The pandemic had done some crazy things. And by crazy, it affected the self-esteem that you had been working so hard on by participating in various projects and events, with you being in charge of a drama production that was promoting on mental health. That was a big deal considering that you were a major introvert.

Online engagement was never easy. In fact he has heard some of your struggles that you’ve shared with him regarding this and it only makes him admire you even more. For someone who preferred to keep to themselves, stepping out of one’s comfort zone, to take on a role that wasn’t just simply about helping people - that took guts.

‘I’m sorry I’m just loading you with all this. I just feel…’ You trailed off, suddenly becoming emotional again. Again, Shangqi does not pry. ‘That I can’t do anything right.’ You emphasize that you had ended the statement for you were unsure that you could keep your cool if you had tried to continue on.

‘If I hear you saying sorry another time,’ he chides, ‘you’re paying for our meal later.’ Your lips curved upwards slightly before returning to its somber position. Shangqi decides that a meal won’t cut it. He needs to deploy ‘Operation Y/N’. Standing up with your buzzer to collect the food, Shangqi whips out his phone. There will be a few changes for today.

Food was definitely a cure in this situation, but it was only a part of the solution. After inhaling your ramen at light speed, Shangqi tells you that today will be a different Friday. ‘And you can’t complain! It’ll be a weekend tmr,’ he tells you. So why not? You figured that even if you went back home early, your head wouldn’t be in the right place to complete the essay for your English module.

‘Hold up! The VR studio that Katy was talking about?’ You look at the tickets inside the taxi that was taking you and Shangqi to the location. ‘How did you even, it was so hard to get these tickets!’ From the time Shangqi met you outside the classroom, he had yet to see you so ecstatic. Until now.

‘Well,’ Shangqi gives his best shrug. ‘I called in a favor from a friend. Said that it was for emergency purposes.’ He raised his fingers to make connotations in the air much to your amusement.

‘Wow… just how much do I not know about you Mr Popular?’ You teased. Shangqi decides to leave the fact on him having to persuade the Wakandan Princess in giving him free tickets.

‘Please! I swear whatever you want me to do, I’ll do it! It’s for Y/N!’

‘Ey well why didn’t you say so? If it’s for that nice friend, of course!’ Shuri leaves the entrance of the compound, an exasperated Shangqi trailing behind.

Yeah, the VR studio that Katy told them about was also funded by King T’Challa himself. With stunning life like visuals thanks to Wakandan technology, the VR studio was located in a middle class neighborhood. T’Challa believed that no matter where kids came from, they should have the right to enjoy and to explore the world. For now, he wasn’t ready to share that he was on the way on becoming a full-fledged Avenger yet - you just had too much on your plate. He’ll just have to settle with this white lie.

‘Is Katy coming?’ You were on the verge of vibrating off your seat. ‘She would love this place!’ Even when you were struggling, Y/N still manages to think about other people. Today, Y/N will put her needs first.

As if to answer your previous question, you can see an equally excited Katy waiting for the two of you at the roundabout. ‘HEL-LO EVERYONE! LET’S GET OUR FRIDAY STARTED IN PROPER SHALL WE?’ Her loud voice had attracted stares, some very displeased looks too but at this point in time, you didn’t give a damn. Katy was right, it was time to enjoy!

You wished that you could slow down time, or even replay it continuously when you needed cheering up because the only thing you felt was pure happiness - euphoria even. Your stomach was in knots for laughing hysterically together with Katy when Shangqi jumped in shock from a surprise scare from a zombie. ‘I’m keeping that for leverage,’ she tells you, quietly slipping her phone into her fanny pack. 

The Wakandans had really outdone themselves this time. Your favorite VR was the paradise VR. Slipping the headgear, you say goodbye to the smiles of Katy and Shangqi, whisking away to a beach that oddly reminded you of your dream destination - Hawaii. From where you were standing, you were surrounded by green and majestic islands. Despite their sheer size, you weren’t intimidated. In fact, you were healing. 

Your mind was no longer in the room of the VR studio. How could it when the sun kissed your skin, giving you the much needed energy that you were lacking for so long? In the room, the two sees you kick your shoes to the side, going barefoot. It may have seem strange, but with the monitor beside you, your actions were perfectly logical. 

As a kid, you used to despise the prickly feeling of sand in between your toes. But now, you grew to love the sensation that each grain of sand had on your skin. It made you feel grounded, that everything was going to be ok. You raise your virtual hand to touch your face - were you crying? 

‘She must have been really stressed huh?’ Katy whispers to Shangqi who nods in return. How he hated the fact that you were giving so much to your work but still felt underappreciated. Forget the Avengers with superhuman abilities, you were the true MVP. The VR ends and you remove your headgear. ‘I’m ok,’ you automatically reassure them despite the dry tears left on both cheeks. You step down the platform slowly, trying to regain sense of the real world. 

What you didn’t expect was the two embracing you in a hug, squishing you in between them. Maybe that had set off the waterworks. For someone like Katy, she had sage advice.

‘Life can be pretty shitty right? But I’m so proud of you fighting it Y/N. Just remember that it’s ok to be weak. I mean, I’ve seen worse from Shangqi,’ she jabs her finger towards his direction, earning a glare from him. That’s Katy, always trying to add a bit of humor to this grey world. Calming down, you let go of the both of them. ‘Thanks guys, for everything.’ 

‘Hey,’ Shangqi responds, slinging his arm over your shoulder. ‘We’re friends, so we don’t leave each other behind.’ Phone beeping, he retrieves it to check the message. ‘And look at that, nice timing. Who wants Korean BBQ?’ 

Trailing behind them, you get an amusing view of Shangqi bickering with Katy on how many Soju bottles she’s allowed to order later. As San Francisco welcomed the night, you were just thankful that you had the two of them to walk through this crazy maze called life. 

‘Last one to the shop is paying!’ 

‘Oh you’re on Mister!’  

A/N: I really just think that this was also an imagine for me to cope too. So I can only hope to finish my placement/assignments/exams well! To anyone who does studies and work simultaneously, I fucking respect you (allow me to use expletives for now, these people deserve the respect). If you’re going through a stressful time, I hope this brings the slightest comfort for you and remember… YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Again, thank you for reading! 

[ivyaugustetc]

the dead poets at hogwarts: a headcanon from hell

@aedan-mills @charlie-dalton-simp @pretentious-strikes YOU ENCOURAGED THIS BEHAVIOR SO YOU'RE GONNA HAVE TO LIVE WITH THE CONSEQUENCES. also i love you a lot but THAT'S BESIDE THE POINT.

also @aedan-mills i found out that some of the wand stuff is related to their birthdays and i am much too lazy to look all that up and figure it all out, but anyone else is welcome to lmao. sorry to disappoint but alas it's summer and i don't want to research that much. but other than that, please listen to me flex my extensive knowledge on harry potter :)

neil (half blood): i'm sorry,,,, can you say gryffindor? this boy would get up there and in a second the sorting hat would have him all figured out: big dreams with the will to pursue them, but not ambitious enough to step over others to achieve said dreams? sounds like a gryffindor to me. i just know he'd thrive at hogwarts, probably going on to play quidditch (def a chaser) and would excel in charms class. as far as pets go, i feel like he'd stay simple and classy with a chill barn owl he'd name after a famous broadway actor. he would kind of be a mix of james and remus, in which he's wild and crazy but still manages to get good grades. the teachers love him simply because they don't know much about him outside of class. he would absolutely LOVE going to hogsmeade and going batshit crazy at zonko's and honeydukes. he'd have a whole phase where he gets addicted to licorice wands and everyone else thinks they're disgusting but he simply cannot buy enough of them. he'd play a bunch of zonko tricks on the rest of the poets, saving the most harsh for charlie and the most wholesome for todd <3

todd (muggle born): ugh see i can see him being both a hufflepuff and a ravenclaw, but my heart says hufflepuff so i'm gonna go with that. he would absolutely HATE the sorting ceremony with a burning passion. getting up in front of everybody only to have a hat judge u??? no thanks. HAHAHA CAN YOU IMAGINE HIM ON A BROOM. i can't either because he would simply never get on one, probably referring to them as "flying death traps" more often than not. "hey todd, you think about joining quidditch?" "no thanks, i'd rather keep my limbs intact ;)". but he would love muggle studies a lot, even if the teacher was boring as hell. snape would scare the hell out of him for sure, resulting in his lowest class being potions. he would excel in classes that are more learning out of the book rather than in practice. for a pet, he'd want something that could not possibly turn on him and would just be sweet and loving, so ima give him a toad :) he'd name it something fancy and british, like nigel or sumn. and because of nigel, he'd love chocolate frogs because hey they're twins!!

fanon knox (pure blood): hogwarts fuck boy. okay well maybe not f boy but like...his favorite part is the fact that this is a co-ed school rather than an all-boys school so he can spy on both genders equally yknow. hmm i get hufflepuff vibes from him because he's a big romantic, sucker for cute relationships, etc. he would enjoy whichever class his current crush is in, although I feel like he'd do well with classes that involved spells and wand work mostly lmao. he'd want a really fucking cute pet, so i'd give him a kneazle (it's like a cat but a bit more lion like). he'd give it a strong sounding name, something german idk. but he'd love the shit out of that kneazle, i can tell you that much. i feel like he'd try out for quidditch his first few years, not make it on, and then make it on to the team around fourth year and somehow end up team captain in seventh (and that proves kids, that you too can have a redemption arc in sports). as far as candy goes, ima say he likes the super sour candy like acid pops n shit. like i feel like the others would dare him to each as much sour candy as he can and then he wouldn't be able to taste for a week. but he'd think it was worth it :)

cameron (muggle born): good god this boy just wants to learn. magic just fascinates him, what with growing up in a big muggle family (bestie he is the weasleys if they were all type a). he's a ravenclaw, no questions asked. he would love classes involving preciseness and attention, things like potions and transfiguration. i feel like he'd have a cute, stable relationship along the way ofc because he deserves so much love and happiness and UGH he's a baby. he'd stick with a lil ginger cat, naming it after one of the famous wizards he's read about. he would love spending christmas at the school and going places when the ground are nearly empty, enjoying the scenery. for candy, he'd go plain and simple with chocolate frogs. can't go wrong with those. he'd still have fun with his friends, but he'd skip a lot of parties for some studying (don't judge, i do it too lmao). would not play quidditch but would enjoy it, end of story.

charlie (pure blood): slytherin. don't dispute it. think the weasley twins but even more flirtatious. he would be a regular at every single party that happened, flirting with the guys and gals shamelessly and drinking butterbeer like it was water. look me in the eye and tell me he would not absolutely fucking HATE GILDEROY LOCKHART WITH EVER FIBER OF HIS BEING. he'd do spot-on impersonations of him though. teacher's worst enemy. like when he walks into class on the first day, every teacher collectively mutters "bloody hell not this kid again". asks the most incredibly stupid questions ("okay but is there a spell to turn my eyebrows green? just the eyebrows though, not my hair"). he would be the most aggressive beater on the slytherin team, though he would never deliberately try to hit someone, just distract the shit out of them ("put the fear of god in them and fate will do the rest"). he'd want a loud, aggressive pet but he'd probably end up with a mean cat that hisses at everyone. he'd give it the most adorable name that just. does not fit the personality. something like priscilla. for candy, he'd take his chance with bertie botts' every flavour beans and just roll with the punches. he's chaotic like that.

pitts (half blood): ASTRONOMY IS HIS JAM. he fucking loves that class. he tutors the entire ravenclaw house in that class. he's the guy that little first years who are terrified of the class go to when they're completely lost and don't understand what's going on. besides that, i feel like he'd just be everyone's cool older brother yknow? like he'd be in charge of helping all the first years figure out where stuff is and giving them advice to help them and stuff. he would be a die-hard quidditch fan although he would not play the sport (maybe recreationally on the weekends and holidays and stuff, but the fact that it's so fucking dangerous just does not appeal to him). he'd like the candy that does tricks and stuff, like fizzing whizbees and stuff. he gives me charlie weasley vibes, where he's hardcore in certain areas (in his case, astronomy) and just flipping chill in anything else. cool older brother vibes, man. it fits.

meeks (half blood): i've said it once and i'll say it again: nonproblematic ginger dumbledore. also a hufflepuff <3 this dude just wants to fucking coast along, getting good grades and not participating in the dumb shit that could probably get him killed (even though he would in a heartbeat if his friends were in danger. duh). he'd be a teacher's favorite, probably having conversations with his favorite teachers during free time. okay ik this isn't technically at school, but i swear to god he would be dumbledore one day. like he would be the chill ass headmaster who gets shit done while also being very la di da life is nice flowers are pretty type of person. that being said, his favorite candy is and has been lemon drops ever since dumbledore got him addicted to them. his favorite classes would be potions (he'd surprisingly get along well with snape) and he'd just be great and mixing shit right and just knowing how much of stuff to add in ("how much powdered root do i add?" "about three and a half shakes." "that's not a measurement, meeks." "*shrug* it works"). he'd stick with his small friend group and love them to death, but he'd be a friend to all really. he'll help anyone that comes to him asking for help with homework (and though he won't admit it, he gets super prideful when it's someone a few years ahead of him).

stick (muggle born): harry potter if harry potter could've been more harry potter. like he would just be a part of everything and end up being part of some prophecy that demands he'd save the world and at first he'd be like HEY i'm just a small boy but then he'd grit his teeth and finesse the shit out of this preventing the end of days stuff. he'd definitely be a gryffindor, and fucking proud of it. he'd be the seeker on the quidditch team because he is so short and small and yeah he'd fucking kill it there. he'd kind of be the shy one no one expected much from, but once he starts absolutely wrecking the shit out of the other houses' quidditch teams, he'd become sorta popular? like people would invite him to parties and stuff and he's too nice to say no, but he'd mostly just hang around the outskirts, saying hi to the other poets if he saw them and mostly talking to chris and ginny (danburry, not weasley). he'd like defense against the dark arts and minerva mcgongiall would become his literal mother i can't explain it. he'd have an owl as a pet and treat it like it was his own child, telling it thank you every time it brought his mail or took his mail. as for candy, he'd like drooble's bubble gum because the bubbles are all magic and shit and i just feel like that would make him so happy <3

chris (pure blood): the older sister lesbian <3 she'd be a sweet hufflepuff who would be friends with everyone while also being the greatest socialite the school has ever seen. you know that party that practically the entire school attended and talked about for months on end? she planned that shit. she'd be like pitts in the respect that she'd help all the first years find their way in the school and in life in general. she's just such a warm and kind person that everyone would love her. she's have a little pink pygmy puff to match ginny's purple one, and she'd give it such a perfect, human name like lila or something. she'd be great at muggle studies and all the teachers would love her. also every one is so invested in her relationship with ginny it's adorable. he favorite candy is acid pops even though they make her eyes water like crazy. she'd make pretty good grades, every once in a while getting one slightly lower than she'd expected, but she always manages to bring them up to her satisfactory level :) she would not play quidditch, but she would go all out to support ginny, even though they're in different houses. that's what i call love, baby.

ginny (half blood): the mom lesbian <3 she's a ravenclaw and also one of the sweetest people in the whole school. while chris helps other with the social aspect, ginny will help anyone in any subject they need help with (she and meeks are a help duo on this). she's quieter and less social than chris, but she's one of the best chasers the ravenclaw quidditch team has ever seen. she'd end up team captain by fifth of sixth year. she'd be like oliver wood in that she is sO invested in the team's success that at sometimes she'll go a bit crazy, but chris is always there to help her put things back into perspective <3. she'd make stellar grades of course, being good friends with all of her teachers. her favorite candy would be the sweetest things like fairy floss. as previously stated, she'd have a purple pygmy puff to match chris's pink one, and she'd also give it an adorable human name like lisa or something. ginny's just sweet to everyone, especially neil and his friends.

I DID IT. IT TOOK FOREVER AND A FEW HAIL MARYS BUT I DID IT. enjoy besties <3 love u all

[melzula]

The Reunion

*part of the Fire Lilies series

request: Could you write a Fire Lilies blurb about Zuko's and Princess! Reader's reunion when he joins Team Avatar?

The atmosphere is oddly tense when you wake up that morning and head out for breakfast. Aang and Sokka refuse to meet your gaze and Katara keeps her eyes set on the pot of rice before her. Unlike her brother and the Avatar, her eyes are more firm and hard set.

“Did I miss something?” You muse inquisitively. Sokka begins to sweat nervously, and you take that as an opportunity to narrow your gaze at the boy- if anyone’s going to break first it’s going to be him. “Sokka?”

“Zuko was here!” He finally blurts, earning a fiery gaze from his sister.

“Sokka!”

“I’m sorry! I couldn’t hold it in anymore, it was killing me!”

“What?” You gasp softly. Your bowl of rice begins to tremble in your pottery crushing grasp, and you feel absolutely sick to your stomach.

“He came yesterday while you were exploring with Haru,” Aang explains gently while trying his best not to upset you. “He wanted to join our team and teach me fire bending. He said he’s changed.”

“He was obviously just trying to trick us so he could turn us over to his crazy sister,” Sokka adds indifferently. “And he admitted to sending Combustion Man after us!”

“I wouldn’t put it past him,” you grumble whilst angrily stabbing at your rice with your chopsticks.

“He... also asked for you,” Aang says, causing you to go wide eyed. “He wants you to know how sorry he is for everything he’s done to you.”

“We didn’t tell you because we didn’t want to upset you,” Katara consoles in response to your uneasy silence. “You’ve been so much better off without him, you don’t need him trying to uproot your life again.”

“I appreciate the sentiment but you don’t have to keep secrets from me,” you argue. “I’m glad I didn’t see him, but I have the right to know about him.”

Katara isn’t able to say anything more as Toph tumbles through the rocks with a groan.

“Toph!” You exclaim, rushing to her side and gasping at the sight of her feet. You’re quick to coat her burned skin in a pool of water, making sure to lower the temperature so that it’s nice and cool against her wounds.

“My feet got burned,” she frowns. “I went to see Zuko last night-“

“Zuko did this?!” You seethe. Anger and fury flow through your veins at the thought of him hurting the girl who’s basically become like a little sister to you.

“Hey, easy with the water there your highness,” Toph complains, and you barely notice that your anger has caused the water’s temperature to rise.

“Sorry,” you murmur apologetically as Sokka and Aang lift Toph from the ground and set her feet into the fountain.

“That’s the stuff,” she sighs contently. “Now I know how you guys feel. It stinks not being able to see with your feet.”

“How did this happen?” Katara asks.

“I kind of startled him, it was an accident.”

“Accident or no accident, Zuko is obviously too dangerous to be left alone. We have to go after him.”

“Go after him?” You repeat uneasily, despising the worry that begins to wrap around your heart at the thought of them going after Zuko. Why do you still care?

“I have to agree with Sokka,” Aang sighs. “I hate looking for fights but we have to do this.”

“Toph said it was an accident, can’t we just let him go?”

“Why are you defending him? He burned her feet! He’s obviously still evil,” Katara criticizes.

“I’m not defending him! I’m just saying maybe it’s better if we just avoid him. Seeking Zuko out will only lead to more trouble,” you try to rationalize, but your fellow water bender isn’t having it.

“Leaving him alone means there’s a chance he can hurt someone else. Wouldn’t you have wanted someone to stop Zuko from hurting you before it was too late?!” The question leaves you misty eyed and hurt, but you don’t have time to argue when a harsh blast shakes the earth underneath you. You’re quick to scoop Toph up into your arms before being guided to safety by Sokka.

You focus your attention on tending to Toph while the others fight off Combustion Man, keeping her safe since she can’t use her bending to protect herself. The battle doesn’t last very long thankfully, but now you find yourself facing a new obstacle.

“I can’t believe I’m saying this but, thanks Zuko.”

“Hey, and what about me? I did the boomerang thing,” Sokka points out, and you’d laugh if you weren’t so conflicted at the sight of your ex boyfriend before you. He looks so different from the last time you were together; his hair is shaggier and he looks a bit leaner, his eyes are tired and full of remorse. You do your best to conceal yourself behind Sokka, holding onto his arm for comfort and refusing to meet the Prince’s gaze.

“I know I didn’t explain myself very well yesterday. I’ve been through a lot in the past few years, and it’s been hard. But I’m realizing that I had to go through all those things to learn the truth. I thought I had lost my honor, and that somehow my father could return it to me. But I know now that no one can give you your honor. It’s something you earn for yourself by choosing to do what’s right.”

His eyes meet your own then, apologetic and full of longing for your forgiveness. You had tried to explain that same truth to him countless times before during your time abroad together, and each time it only seemed to go in one ear and out through the other. He had to learn the lesson on his own, and now that he finally had he was ready to follow your advice. He just hopes that you’ll let him. You look away and give Sokka’s arm a squeeze to which the boy responds by taking your hand in his own, and Zuko deflates slightly at the action.

“All I want to do is play my part to help you end the war and restore balance to the world. I know it’s my destiny, and I hope you’ll allow me the opportunity to see it through,” Zuko admits humbly. He turns to Toph. “I’m sorry for what I did to you. It was an accident, and I need to learn to be more in control of my fire bending so that I don’t hurt people unintentionally.”

A single tear slides down your cheek at his admission and you’re quick to brush it away. Don’t hurt people unintentionally. It was a little too late for that, wasn’t it?

“I think you are supposed to be my fire bending teacher, and I’d like you to teach me,” Aang says. “But I can’t let you join our team without asking my friends first.”

With each member of the group giving their acceptance, some more reluctant than others, of Zuko becoming Aang’s fire bending instructor, all eyes land upon you as the deciding vote.

“Y/n?” Aang calls gently, forcing you to meet your friend’s caring gaze. “I know how much pain you’ve been through and how long it’s taken you to overcome your heartbreak. Are you going to be comfortable with Zuko joining our group?”

Sokka’s arm comes to wrap around your shoulders comfortingly as you shrink under everyone’s gaze. At least a full minute passes before you finally will yourself to meet Zuko’s hopeful gaze. His eyes are different than the one’s you last saw in the cave, softer and lacking the malice they had once held, but you still can’t look at him without seeing the same boy who had intended to burn you in order to appease his sister. You swallow harshly and will the tears away from your eyes.

“I’m willing to put my feelings aside for your sake, Aang,” you finally answer. “Defeating the Fire Lord is more important than anything else.”

“I won’t let you down! I promise!” Zuko beams, and the group begins to disperse until it’s only you and him standing face to face. His features soften, remorse immediately washing over him as he takes a step forward. “Y/n, I-”

Zuko stumbles forward, struggling to regain his balance as he finds he cannot move; you’ve frozen his feet to the floor. He looks at you wide eyed and astonished, a hint of amazement at just how much you’ve improved since the last time he saw you.

You’ve spent countless sleepless nights figuring out what you’d say to Zuko if you ever saw him again- if you’d yell and curse his name to every spirit within ear shot, if you’d cry and scream with anguish, if you’d tell him off or welcome him with open arms. But now, with Zuko standing frozen before you, you find that you have nothing to say to him.

You leave Zuko behind to unfreeze his own feet, silently following Toph and Sokka back into the temple.

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