#otp: for you i'll try my very best

[sweet-s0rr0w]

day 18 of @hprecfest - a fic that makes you laugh

Little Red Courgette, by @blamebrampton - T, 31k, 2009

Summary: When this season's purple courgettes are woefully thin, Draco Malfoy thinks it amounts to small beans. Next thing he knows, the Department of Standards is over-run with leeks, Brussels sprouts all sorts of legislative difficulties, and somebody appears to have put a roquette under Harry Potter. Can Draco seize a marrow victory? Or will his plans for peas be squashed?

All along, Kingsley Shacklebolt finds himself pining for the good old days, when, instead of governing, all you had to worry about were Dark Lords and imminent death.

Excerpt:

They each made it through a bowl of chocolate with sundry other flavours garnishing it. And three large glasses of wine. This was the only excuse Draco could find for the fact that he found himself asking Potter: 'So what's your game?'

'Quidditch,' Potter replied instantly. 'Or Exploding Snap.'

'Here. What's your game here.'

'I'm not with you.'

A part of Draco's brain screamed at him to stop, but the alcohol-soaked part, in a voice that sounded suspiciously like Smythe's, encouraged him to go on. 'Are you working with Kingsley to enlist me as your pawn in a clean out of the Ministry? You were very quick to agree when I asked you to warn The Quibbler off, was it all a ruse?'

'I thought you were engaged in your own hands-on grass-roots Ministry reform, making the one department work well, with an eye to expanding in the future,' Potter rebutted.

'Well I am, so you needn't try making use of me in your nefarious scheme.'

'I don't have a nefarious scheme.'

'So is it all a complicated plan to take some highly personal and embarrassing revenge for the Potter Stinks badges? Because that was years ago. And although I feel a little badly about it now, they were excellent work for a wizard that age.'

'They were, I was impressed. I still have one at home, you know.'

'Really?'

'Yup. I thought you were a wanker at the time, but I have to say, that was a quality Charm.'

'Thanks. So what's left? You're in the hire of someone keen to assassinate the last of the Malfoys; it's all an elaborate if somewhat clumsy plan at seduction; or you're desperate for someone to talk to now that all your friends are getting married and having children.'

'Those are my options? I'll take two, clumsy seduction.'

'Really?'

Back in 2019 when I rediscovered the joys of fanfic after over a decade out, I started off the way any (less tech-savvy) millennial would, by googling 'Drarry fanfiction'. blamebrampton's works were some of the first that I found, and I was immediately entranced. They're such an incredible variety, from the Muggle World-set Doing the Lambeth Walk, to travel fic Beneath Boundless Skies, to wartime epic (and longtime @tackytigerfic obsession) And Save Me From Bloody Men. No matter what the topic, though, blamebrampton's sense of humour always shines through in her sharp observations and witty dialogue, and in Little Red Courgette she's able to showcase this to the fullest extent. It's a hilarious examination of government bureaucracy from the world-weary point of view of one Draco Malfoy, an employee of the Office for the Volumetric Standardisation of Edible Wizarding Greengrocery Produce. The veg related puns are numerous, and excellent, and both Draco and Harry are incredibly endearing. Big rec, for all her works!

If you read it, and especially if you love it, please do let me know! And as always, please do take the time to leave the author a kudos/comment <3

day 1 - first fic you remember reading

day 2 - a fic rated G

day 3 - a fic not on ao3

day 4 - a comfort fic

day 5 - a romantic fic

day 6 - a fic for a ship you don’t normally read

day 7 - the best of your OTP

day 8 - a fic that was recced to you

day 9 - a WIP

day 10 - a fest/event fic

day 11 - an underrated fic

day 12 - a fic from your favourite author

day 13 - a rare pair

day 14 - a fic rated T

day 15 - a fic over 50k

day 16 - a podfic

day 17 - a fic that makes you cry

[jerzwriter]

I was inspired by this OTP Question from @kyra75 : How would they react to someone flirting with them? Flirting with their significant other. Kyra asked for all four of my pairings, and I decided I'd write a little fic for each one. Tobias x Casey's can be found here. If inspiration hits, I'll write one for Trystan x Carolina (CoP) and Eli x Zoe (WTD), too. Thanks so much for the inspiration, Kyra!

Book: Open Heart (Book 3 Timeline) Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Kaycee MacClennan (F!MC) Rating: Teen Words: 2,005 Summary: Ethan and Kaycee are on their way to the first conference they're attending together since making their relationship public. But it seems that everyone didn't receive the memo. Fortunately, they don't get jealous.

A/N: Participating in @choicesprompts Flufftober #7 - Acceptance.

The sun was just starting to peek through the Boston sky when Ethan and Kaycee emerged from the lobby of their apartment building, causing the befuddled doorman to do a double-take as Ethan nodded his way. Seeing him up at this ungodly hour (for a morning jog... of all things) was commonplace, but a Kaycee spotting this early in the day was almost unheard of. Still, she was all but glowing as she hopped into their waiting cab.  

Once nestled in the back seat, she leaned over and planted a kiss on her boyfriend’s cheek. “Finally! We're attending a conference where we don’t have to pretend we're not together anymore!"

Ethan smiled, but there was a hint of judgment in it. “Why is that so important? It’s not as if we intend to put on a soft porn performance in the reception area?”

“Which is really a pity,” Kaycee laughed. “I’m sure some of the old fuddy-duddies in attendance could use a pointer or two. It would be a public service, really."

This time, he smiled genuinely, pulling her under his arm with a chuckle. “I don’t know what I’m going to do with you.”

“Oh, I have some ideas,” she teased. “But seriously! Aren't you excited? We can hold hands, acknowledge each other, and we don’t have to pretend we’re unbothered when others flirt with us.”

“Well, that was never an issue," Ethan insisted. "I don’t get jealous. Jealousy is for people with trust issues, and I trust you.”

Kaycee raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a smile. “And you should trust me, but, babe, you do get jealous sometimes."

“No," he insisted. " I don’t."

“All right,” she smiled with amusement. She didn’t push further, but in her mind, it was game on.

Santa Monica was beautiful at this time of year, and their resort was already bustling when they arrived, filled with tourists and conventioneers alike. Doctors from all over America were milling about, networking over cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. It was an atmosphere that Kaycee thrived in, but Ethan did his very best to avoid. But one thing was certain: the atmosphere was ripe for flirtation, and Kaycee was already thinking of the long game.

She was the first to experience it, only moments after they arrived. As they headed toward the registration table, a tall, handsome surgeon from New York spotted Kaycee and all but jogged over to greet her. His hazel eyes were alight as he neared her. “Dr. MacClennan, correct?” he grinned with a bit too much confident charm. “We met at the cardiothoracic symposium in Chicago last year, and I’ve been looking forward to running into you again ever since.”

Kaycee politely returned his smile but stepped closer to Ethan, trying to give the suave surgeon an easy way out.

“That’s so kind of you to say,” she replied. “And you are?”

“Dr. Barrington from NYU-Langone,” he smiled, so taken in with Kaycee he never even saw Ethan standing by her side. “I was wondering if you’re free tonight. My hospital is hosting a private dinner, and most of the convention’s keynote speakers will be there. I’d love for you to join me if you can.”

Kaycee opened her mouth to reply, but before she could get a word out, Ethan spoke calm, but direct. “We have plans,” was all he said, but Kaycee swore his tone brought the temperature in the crowded room down ten degrees.

Suddenly aware of Ethan, the surgeon blinked. “Oh. Well, I see.” He turned to Kaycee, undeterred; there may have even been a wink. “Well, next time?”

Ethan cursed under his breath as Dr. Barrington walked away, and Kaycee stifled a laugh. “But you don’t get jealous, right, hon?”

“I’m not jealous,” he shot back. “I was just doing my part to save you from an extremely boring dinner when you have much better plans with me.”

“Oh, that's what that was,” she grinned, straightening the collar of Ethan’s linen shirt. “And what do those plans involve?”

He dropped his lips to her ear, whispering in a way that made Kaycee forget all about this little game. “It involves you, me, a bottle of champagne, our bed, and very little clothing.”

“You’re right,” she giggled, looping her arm in his. “Your plans sound much more appealing.”

Throughout the conference, there were many more flirtatious encounters, each more entertaining than the last. At one of the panel sessions, a beautiful conference organizer set her sights on Ethan. A statuesque woman with long, dark hair and dazzling blue eyes moved to Ethan’s side. The compliments she bestowed on him were flowing faster than the wine, and she leaned in just a little too close.

“Dr. Ramsey,” she beamed. “I’m Dr. Monica Rivera. I’ve been dying to meet you in person.”

“Have you,” he replied. “Then I hope you won’t be disappointed.”

“Doubtful,” she simpered, eyeing him from head to toe. “I’ve always found your research to be so inspiring,” she said, brushing her hand against his arm. “I’d love to discuss some thoughts I have with you. Perhaps over a drink later?”  

Ethan, who was entirely focused on his presentation, didn’t have the time for this. “I don’t drink,” he stated flatly.

Dr. Rivera’s face faltered, but she recovered quickly. “Well, then, over coffee?”

Ethan glanced at her, annoyance etched on his face. “I don’t drink coffee either.”

Kaycee, who had been observing the exchange from a few feet away, bit back a laugh as the woman walked away, clearly confused and discouraged. Ethan, focused as ever, was already looking over his notes when Kaycee appeared at his side.

“You don’t drink alcohol or coffee?” She laughed. “Are you about to tell me you aren't really a doctor? You don't like opera? Because that’s all that’s left of your identity, sir!”

He turned to her with a mischievous glint in his eyes. “Were you jealous, my dear?”

“What?" She laughed. "Not at all. Entertained? Yes. Amused? Without question. But jealous, nah. She’s got nothing on me.”

Ethan leaned over, the scent of Kaycee’s perfume intoxicating as he surreptitiously placed a kiss on her cheek. “Now, that’s the truth.”

As dusk began to fall, they met up at a cocktail hour by the pool. They had spent the majority of the day attending separate workshops, and Kaycee was looking forward to catching up with Ethan. But before they could enjoy a drink together, another attendee, this time a young doctor from Johns Hopkins, slid up next to her.

“You must be Kaycee MacClennan,” he said, flashing a bright smile. “You’re even more beautiful than I heard.”

Kaycee raised an eyebrow. “It's Doctor Kaycee MacClennan,” she retorted. “And, really? That’s what you heard? We’re at a medical conference with our peers, and that’s what you’ve heard about me?”

“Well, among other things,” he replied smoothly, his eyes lingering on her. “I also hear you’ve been doing some groundbreaking work at Edenbrook. Perhaps you could fill me in over dinner. What do you say?”

Kaycee crossed her arms, amazed the man couldn’t see how annoyed she was. “Well,” she began when she felt a strong arm encircle her waist.

“We’re not available for dinner,” Ethan declared, his steel blue eyes daring the charlatan to say another word.

The young doctor blinked, clearly thrown. “Oh, uh, I didn’t realize—”

“Well, now you do,” Ethan said dismissively as the doctor scurried away.

Kaycee couldn’t help but chuckle as they walked away. “Thanks for the save, babe. But I had it under control.”

“Of that, I have no doubt,” Ethan replied.

“But you had to step in,” she grinned. “Because you might have been a little jealous?”

Ethan’s eyes narrowed. “He was wasting your time, and I wanted to be with you."

“Right,” she teased, nudging him playfully. “Jealousy had nothing to do with it.”

The day continued the same way, with Ethan maintaining a stoic front as others flirted relentlessly with Kaycee, and she quietly relished watching him jump in every single time. She couldn’t wait to tease him about it later, but that would have to wait until after the final reception – where everything was about to change.

Dr. Allison Porter was the star of the conference, the main keynote speaker, and a world-renowned cardiologist with a smile that could light up a room. She was holding court tonight, and everyone wanted her attention, but she was only interested in one doctor from Boston. When she spotted him alone at the bar, she knew it was time to make her move.

“Dr. Ramsey, I presume,” she grinned, extending a well-manicured hand as she approached.

“Dr. Porter,” he nodded politely while shaking her hand. “It’s lovely to make your acquaintance.”

“Likewise, I’m sure. And please, call me Allison." Her eyes twinkled as she assessed Ethan, though he didn't seem to notice. “I’ve been watching you from afar for some time now. The work you’ve done at Edenbrook is truly awe-inspiring.”

“Well,” Ethan laughed softly. “I’m very proud of the work we've achieved, but awe-inspiring may be a bit of hyperbole.”

“Don’t underestimate yourself, Dr. Ramsey. You should hear how others speak of you at the conference.”

“Really?” he smirked, raising his glass of Scotch to his lips. “I’m usually better off not knowing what my colleagues are saying about me when I’m not in earshot.”

Allison tossed her head back, laughing much too enthusiastically, and that caught Kaycee’s attention from across the room. Amused, she grabbed a flute of champagne off a passing waiter’s tray and shifted positions so she could get a better view of the show taking place. She wondered how long it would take for Ethan to become flustered or have that familiar scowl take over his face. But as she continued to watch, it never occurred. Instead, he seemed taken in by the conversation, which was fine... until Dr. Porter placed her hand on Ethan’s arm.

“Excuse me,” Kaycee said with a plastered smile as she turned on her heel and made her way across the crowded room. Allison’s voice was lithe, almost sultry, as Kaycee approached from behind.

“Ethan, I think you and I should definitely...collaborate... sometime. I have no doubt that we could...accomplish great things together.”

“Hey, sweetheart,” Kaycee announced as she took her place at Ethan's side. “I’ve been looking for you! I should have known to check the bar first!”

“Yes,” he replied. “I’m surprised that wasn’t your first thought. Kaycee, this is Dr. Allison Porter, Dr. Porter, my teammate and partner, Dr. Kaycee MacClennan.”

“Oh,” Dr. Porter said, attempting to hide her surprise. “It’s lovely to meet you. I’ve read your work as well, Dr. MacClennan...  didn’t realize that you two were...”

“Yes, we are,” Kaycee beamed confidently. “Very happily so.”

Allison’s eyes narrowed slightly before she took her leave, and Kaycee turned to Ethan with a sarcastic smirk. “Collaboration, huh?” She said, taking a sip of Ethan’s drink. “Collaboration, my ass. She wanted... something else.”

Ethan cleared his throat, obviously amused. “Are we... what’s the word... jealous, Dr. MacClennan?”

“What? Me?” Kaycee replied. “Absolutely not! I don’t get jealous. I trust you!”

“OK,” Ethan smiled softly. “Whatever you say.” He moved in closer. “Why don’t we get some fresh air? I'd like to get away from all these people lusting after us.”

"Hmm. We do have that effect on people, don't we?" She smiled. "But you can be honest. You just want to get me alone. Don't you?"

"Always," he growled in her ear.

They left and walked along the beach hand-in-hand, their footsteps mingling with the sound of waves crashing against the shore. As they recounted the day’s events, Kaycee nudged Ethan with her shoulder.

“Admit it,” she said, smiling. “You got jealous. More than once."

He glanced at her, his face still stoic but his eyes warm. “Jealousy is beneath me. But you, you may have turned a slight shade of green when you saw Dr. Porter speaking to me. But don't worry, I think it’s kind of cute.”

"What! I was not jealous!" Kaycee insisted, contemplating kicking sand at him if it wouldn't have made her look like a child. "I was not jealous at all!"

Ethan gave her a long look, and finally, a ghost of a smile tugged at the corner of Kaycee's mouth. “All right. Maybe... a little," she grinned. "But admit it, you got a little jealous today, too."

"Fine," he surrendered. "I did."

Kaycee grinned, slipping her hand into his. “Thought so.”

Kaycee shook her head as they continued to walk. "What is it about these things? The minute the lectures are over, it's like someone pumps an aphrodisiac into the air."

Ethan laughed but agreed with her assessment. "I never understood it," he said. "These are professional events. People should act... professionally. I would never lower myself to behaving that way."

Kaycee's eyes flicked to his, the moonlight showing the shadows of her smile. "Seriously? Do you remember Miami? I was there, you know."

"That's different," he insisted. "That was... you."

"Mmm-hmm. But you had been with me in Boston plenty of times, but it took Miami for you to finally come to - then quickly take loss of - your senses."

Ethan stopped in his tracks, his hands finding Kaycee's waist and pulling her near. He kissed her so passionately, so intensely, that she forgot what she was saying - which may have been the very point. He pulled away with a playful grin.

"Enough of this. What do you say we head back to our room and remind ourselves why no one else here stood a chance?"

"Sounds good to me," she said, jumping into his arms. "And Ethan?"

"Yes?"

"I really wasn't jealous."

"All right, Kaycee," he winked. "Whatever you say."

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Tagging others separately.

[marley-manson]

001 | Xena

Thank you! 💖

Favorite character:

Xena!! Everything I could possibly want in a female character, and a fandom that largely enjoys it rather than downplaying it.

I loooove that the writers went into the show (Xena, not her first appearance on Hercules probs) essentially writing her as a male archetype almost no concessions to the fact that she's played by Lucy Lawless other than pronouns and some het. She's cold and stoic - it's not until the first season finale that she even really displays a raw emotion other than mid-fight glee, including when her own mother draws a sword on her, and when she has to kill a man she loves to some extent. She's the strongest, toughest, most competent person in any room at all times, and everyone knows it and defers to her, absolutely including men. Early on there are a few scenes where she's hit on and punches dudes, but that actually goes away pretty quick as she just tends to command a certain sense of respect. It's an ideal female power fantasy - not to survive patriarchal violence, but to live without even having to spare a thought for it.

She's complex and nuanced and the narrative is very interested in exploring her as a three dimensional character.

She's formerly evil and still revels in violence, and it's amazing. She's often on the verge of going too dark again and needing to be pulled back from the edge, and she snaps in a few episodes including one where she attempts to murder Gabrielle, pre-meditated and all. She's framed like a horror movie monster in a few episodes, something I always love to see in a protagonist.

And on the flip side, she's fun! She steadily loosens up the more time she spends with Gabrielle doing good, and she can be very playful at times, and it's awesome to see in contrast to the first season.

I'll never be over her and idt there'll ever be another female character who can truly compare. Xena is a product of the tone of the show, and that tone is dead now.

Least Favorite character:

Borias, mainly for his appearance in The Debt as the only man who has ever had physical power over Xena - while her legs were broken - and for clitblocking Lao Ma.

5 Favorite ships (canon or non-canon):

Xena/Gabrielle (and Mel/Janice who counts under this umbrella) Gabrielle/Aphrodite Xena/Ares Xena/Lao Ma Xena/Callisto

Character I find most attractive:

Gabrielle. I mean just look at her abs

Character I would marry:

Gabrielle 💖

Character I would be best friends with:

Gabrielle lmao.

a random thought:

Xena has the best clipshows of any show I've ever seen. Almost always worth watching for the absolutely delightful framing devices.

An unpopular opinion:

I get shallow entertainment out of the scenes where Xena seduces men in the later seasons lol. Like firstly, I love that the show really pointedly toes a line and she never actually sleeps with them past like season 2, because she's in a relationship with Gabrielle. I also love that they show Gabrielle being annoyed or jealous if she gets into it. The show is blatantly playing both sides and trying to appeal to het viewers as well, but very deliberate in never contradicting X/G and I can appreciate that.

But also I love how dominant Xena almost always is, both in bed and in how she just interacts with men, and how it's always framed as something she wants/how she behaves by default rather than something she does for the dudes, who are generally more ambivalent about her topping. Like, ultimately it's a fantasy for subby male viewers, but it doesn't feel like it so it's enjoyable to me.

This is popular with the het fans lol, but they're the minority so it still counts.

my canon OTP:

Xena/Gabrielle, and yes it absolutely counts as canon for the purposes of this question.

Non-canon OTP:

Xena/Ares

most badass character:

Do I have to say it after my ode to her up there?

pairing I am not a fan of:

Gabrielle/Joxer, Gabrielle/Virgil, Gabrielle/any dude. Xena/Borias in terms of canon relationships.

character I feel the writers screwed up (in one way or another):

Najara!!!! I absolutely adored her in her first episode, she's an amazing foil to Xena. She would've been a perfect recurring villain after Callisto, with her moral ambiguity, her deliberate choice to kill vs Xena's bloodlust, her more grandiose ideals vs Xena's more do good when its in front of you philosophy, etc.

Then her second episode just eviscerates her character and turns her into a caricature of a ~crazy girl~ and it's awful. The actress probably wasn't available for a recurring role, but like, she could've been written off more respectfully, or never given a second episode at all to assassinate her character. Boo.

favourite friendship:

Gabrielle and Aphrodite, I think. They're very cute together. Though shout out to Gabrielle and Ephiny, since I did find it quite touching to see her again in season 6.

character I want to adopt or be adopted by:

None, I don't really think of characters this way.

ask meme

[marmorafarms]

Maybe 14 and or 33 with Seb for the otp prompt?👉👈

I really enjoy Reading your writing, especially your HC!💖💕🙇thank you for your hard Work💖

What about both in one fic hehe

And thank you so much! You are so sweet! I'm so happy you like my writing and my thoughts about the bachelors! 💖

14. "If you do that one more time I don't think I'll be able to control myself."

33. "I don't want them I want you."

I hope you enjoy!

Seb x female reader

18+ for a very suggestive scene. A tiny bit more than suggestive, actually. No true smut, but I could be convinced to write a second part...

Three months.

This had been going on for three fucking months and Sebastian was tired of it.

Or, wait, hold on. Sebastian sure thought it was obvious he liked you. It seemed like everyone had gotten the memo except for you.

He knew he didn't have a right to feel that way. It's not like he was official with you or anything. Sure, it was obvious that you two were into each other, but you weren't an item. You hadn't even kissed!

Maru had approached him, bluntly asking if he liked you, Abigail, or both. Sebastian had been thrown.

"Maru, you're my favorite sister and everything--"

"I'm your only sister."

"Right. Well anyway, I have a tight deadline and I really can't afford to answer your weird ass questions right now." Sebastian typed away on his computer, but didn't fail to see Maru's eyes narrow.

"You're avoiding the question."

"Maru I don't like Abigail!" Sebastian had said, exasperated. "I haven't liked her for a year now. You know exactly who I'm into."

Maru nodded, looking thoughtful

"I only ask because she seems convinced you are head over heels for Abigail."

Since this conversation, Sebastian had been trying to figure out how best to make sure you knew he liked you. And then it hit him. A bouquet!

Quickly, he rushed to Pierre's, practically throwing his money at the man before snatching the flowers. He didn't walk, but ran to your farmhouse, hoping against hope you were there.

Sebastian didn't see you in your field of crops, and jumped when he heard his name called out. He turned, and saw you by one of your silos, clearly having just filled it up.

He walked with purpose over to you, bouquet hidden behind his back. Sebastian wasn't convinced that you hadn't already seen it, but hey. It was the romantic thought that counted, right?

"What are you doing here?" you asked, looking surprised.

"I have something for you," Sebastian said.

"Oh?" you asked, head tilting like a confused puppy.

Sebastian took a deep breath in, and then presented the flowers with a flourish. You simply stared, and his heart pounded.

"Well, say something!" Sebastian said.

"This...but..." you said, looking flummoxed.

"But what?" Sebastian asked, annoyed that you hadn't taken the bouquet from him.

"I thought you liked...others," you said softly.

"Others?" Sebastian said, frowning.

"Like Sam. Or...or Abigail," you said, not meeting his gaze. Sebastian let out an annoyed huff, causing you to look up.

"I don't want them, I want you!" he said.

Your eyes were as big as dinner plates, and you took the bouquet from him with shaking hands.

You took one step forward, and then another. Gently tilting your head, you placed a chaste kiss on his lips.

"I accept," you said with a smile.

Beaming, he kissed back. But this one wasn't innocent. It was full of passion and desire. He pressed you up against the silo, lifting one of your legs and wrapping it around his hip. He rocked his hips against you, and you moaned into his mouth.

"Fuck Sebastian..." you panted.

"That's the idea," he said with a grin. He rocked his hips against you, more forcefully this time.

"If you do that one more time, I don't think I'll be able to control myself," you said, locking eyes with him.

"Outside? Against the silo?" Sebastian asked. "You wouldn't."

"Wanna bet?"

[ink4blotches]

OTP

(Pavitr Prabhakar x You)

Synopsis: You like Mumbattan more than New York, so you chill there often. And sometimes help your best friend out as Spider-Woman. But the people of Mumbattan think there's something more to the relationship of the two heroes.

•

•

•

"What does OTP mean?" Pavitr breaks the comfortable silence that had set in as we sat atop the tallest building in Mumbattan, staring down at the -very- busy streets below.

"Uhm..Only Thing Purple?" I guess, scooting over as Pav moves to sit next to me. "No, it means 'One True Pairing', actually." He states, showing me his phone screen and scrolling on Tik Tok.

The video consisted of a fight Pav and I had the other day with an anomaly. Specifically the part where I not so heroically got electrocuted because I stepped in water.

The music filled as Pav landed beside me, reaching out and putting a hand on shoulder. "You oka-" He got cut off as he was shocked as well.

"Okay why would someone edit that?" I ask as I read the caption.

Two dumbasses...literally made for eachother!!

"I know right? I can still feel the lightning in my veins." Pav shivers, pulling his phone away from me. "And there are tons of edits of us saying we're OTP." He concludes.

A second passes in awkward, notedly not comfortable, silence before a loud explosion came from the streets below.

Ah, back to work.

•

•

•

•

"And Look at That! Our very own heroes have swung by for a quick hello!" The reporter woman smiled at us as I wiped the dirt off my clothed leg.

I smiled back, instantly stopping once I realized she can't see through my mask. "Are you- oh wow, is this live?" Pav asks, waving at the camera.

"Stop you're so embarrassing." I judged his shoulder, to which he threw an arm over my neck and ruffled my hair. "You know you love me." He laughs.

"Oh, wow! That brings me to my only question...the public wanna know! Are you two an item?"

Not this again.

Before I can open my mouth to deny, Pav laughs.

"No, but...might as well do this now. Y- I mean, Spider-Woman. I love everything about you. The way you part your hair, the way you laugh, all the way to your face when you eat really tasty food. And as the months have passed, I realized that I love you. So, will you go out with me?"

I looked between him and the camera, then back at him.

"Nah, I'll pass." I say simply. The lenses on his mask widen.

"I'm kidding! I'm joking! Yes, I'll go out with you Paaaaa...l. Pal." I caught myself. "Oh, my god. Yes!" He tackles me into a hug.

"This is great and all...but can one of you swing this girl to the hospital? The ambulance is backed up..." A paramedic taps me on the shoulder.

I immediately throw myself off Pav. "Yes- of course I'm so sorry come on let's go girl." I grab the citizen, being careful not to touch her...ouch, really nasty arm and swing away.

It takes a lot of focus to swing through Mumbattan with a passenger, but I've done it a billion times. However, it's a little more difficult this time.

Since my heart won't stop beating so fast.

•

•

•

•

I sat in a chair next to one of the crash victim's hospital bed. The teenage boy hadn't woken up yet, and as much as I'd like to be with Pav right now, my duty as Spider-Woman is to make sure people are safe- even if they're not from my universe.

The boy suddenly stirred in his bed, which caused me to put down my phone. "Hey, you're awake. You got into a car crash. How are you feeling?" I ask the boy, who's hospital bracelet says Aarush. Cute name.

"Ugh...like shit. Who are you?" Oh damn I forgot I took my costume off. "Uh...my names Carly, I'm a med student. It's a whole program- don't even worry about it." I shake my head with a laugh.

"Oh, okay. Hey, look it's Spider-Man." He looks at the TV which had been playing the news. I looked up just in time to catch Pav(Spider-Man) catch my hand with a web after I fell off the bridge trying to keep a car up.

I should probably work out more.

I watch with a warm face as the entire scene from earlier plays out again, Pav wrapping me in a hug and me swinging away with a girl in my arms.

"Damn, Spider-Man and Spider-Woman are totally OTP."

[thelunarfairy]

Hello! I really love your analyzes of Tbhk, they are really good and have helped me understand it much better, I have some questions, I would like to know your opinion!

1- Do you think Nene will at some point hear the rumor about Tsukasa and dare to investigate it? What do you think will happen?

2- Do you think the bond that Tsukasa formed with Nene after kissing her is useful?

4- What do you think about Tsunene?

3- How and what type of relationship do Nene and Akane have? I especially love their dynamic too much, it's very funny, I loved when they came together to rescue Aoi, I'm fond of how Akane tries to help Nene in the trial of the guardians of the clock, it's so cute! He even encouraged her discreetly, he knew that she would be incapable of doing something to harm so many people, Nene is not that kind of person and he knows it.

That's all! Sorry for the questions, I wanted to read your opinion on this, I love it so much!

Hello!!!!!! Awwww I'm very happy to hear that >.< Thank you S2

Well, regarding your question, I'll number the answers :B

Yes, it is likely that Nene hears about the rumors, if the girls in the current timeline did the ritual, then it means that the rumors about Tsukasa are still there, and, Nene is the person who will always be involved with the School rumors, the whole story started when she found out about Hanako-san's rumor, so she summoned Hanako. There is a possibility that she will discover and try to summon Tsukasa.

Tsukasa and Nene's bond is very important, a development between the two is happening, Tsukasa is showing his gentler and sweeter side to her. And well, Tsukasa had already shown some signs of interest in her previously, in a very subtle way. We still have a shadow on how Tsukasa feels about Nene, but everything Tsukasa does has meaning. He didn't kiss her for nothing.

About Akane and Nene, for now their dynamic is friendly, despite everything, Nene is Aoi's best friend, and Akane knows that Yashiro is very naive and innocent in some ways, he tends to be rude when Hanako is around, because he doesn't trust him (he said so himself) but, Akane already said that his heart belongs to Aoi, even when he thought Nene was going to confess to him (although that wasn't the case). They are friends~

Tsunene is a ship that I find interesting! Even though I really like Hanene, my OTP, haha ​​I was always curious to know what the Tsunene dynamic would be like. Imagining Tsukasa in love is something super interesting, although he is not yet as well developed in romantic relationships, that is, he is not as sweet and gentle as Hanako, this is because he acts in a more childish way very often.

He kissed Nene but then it was as if nothing had happened, it's different from Hanene, you notice very easily how the two became closer, the way Nene started to look at Hanako, her eyes shining.

HOWEVER, in Tsunene we also see a development, the way Tsukasa feels comfortable singing alongside her, how he can open up and talk a little about the past, is a good point. Twins are always represented as opposites so the Tsunene dynamic will be opposite the Hanene dynamic in some aspects.

And well, look at the little stars of happiness that appeared when Nene hugged him~

If you notice, Tsukasa calls her Nene-chan shortly after, and well, she didn't introduce herself to him and Kou calls her "senpai" so, he just started calling her by her first name in an affectionate way.

Tsukasa Yorishiro didn't call her by name before. So, Tsunene is like that, even slower than Hanene, but I believe it might happen.

ooohh don't be sorry, I love questions!! I don't have much time to respond lately, but I always think it's fun!! THANKS!!!!!!!

[cinderflower]

👄🤔🦗☕⏳

👄 Your OTP are having their first kiss. What song do you imagine is playing?

MalMiq clearly are kissing to the beautiful sounds of the envoy horns of course lol

This question did stump me because I think pretty much all of my ships are non-modern and I struggle to imagine them in situations with modern music. So I'll just pick one of my go-to songs I listen to for setting the vibes when I write soft scenes of confessions, with lyrics that I think represent the ships well.

Princes: Skin - Marika Hackman (there's literally So Many I have for princes but this is the one I listened to most when writing Stay)

MalMiq: Unconditionally - Roniit (there's also so many for MalMiq but this is the first song on my FoR playlist for a reason)

🤔What are some words or phrases you find yourself overusing?

Oh there's so many, I think right now my biggest nemesis is the word "as" purely because of how I write in past tense. I've been trying to use it less to make my sentences more dynamic and interesting but ough it's hard.

Not necessarily a specific word or phrase but if I write for the same ship enough I will reuse the same gestures of intimacy between them repeatedly and even certain phrases they say to each other unconsciously. This is what kills me in the editing process is I'll be reading a scene and realize 'oh this sounds exactly like the scene from X fic'. It happened with Princes, it's currently happening with MalMiq (how many times will there be a focus on Malenia's thighs? So many and with no plans to stop), and I'm just trying to tell myself it's fine, people who read multiple of my fics probably don't mind it and people who only read one will be reading it for the first time. I always try and make it unique though as best I can by either the situation or emotional crux driving it so even if the actions are the same the underlying motives and meanings are different.

🦗Do you write in sequence or jump around?

I very rarely write out of sequence, it's partially why I don't feel too uncomfortable posting long fics chapter by chapter, but it does mean I don't get the opportunity to go back and make minor adjustments to prior chapters to better foreshadow certain things. For example in RM because I posted it all after I finished writing I went back and added small references to Knight General Godwyn in the first few chapters so his appearance was else jarring when I did introduce him. I'd do the same thing for FoR if I wasn't posting it chapter by chapter, like including a mention of Siluria's lessons instead of introducing her presence so late, but usually it's minor things like that.

Otherwise I either have a very strong vision of what I intend to write in terms of major plot beats (even if my outlines and notes are uh frighteningly sparse and vague) and/or I trust myself to be cohesive as I write. Usually this means going back and re-reading previous chapters while writing the next one, which is why updates take longer and longer the deeper I get into a long fic.

☕Coffee or tea while you write?

Coffee for sure, I'm not a tea person at all. I also basically only drink water, coffee, and energy drinks though I'm trying to cut energy drinks back out. I'm a terrible host because all I ever have for guests is water or coffee lol.

⏳If you could go back in time and tell your younger writer self something, what would it be?

Oh I'd absolutely tell my younger self not to take a 10 year break from writing and that as busy as I am, it's worth it to continue doing something I love and not to let work/life trample on my hobbies. It's still one of my biggest regrets honestly, and I think of how much I could have accomplished in those years, but it's fine now I'm just glad I'm back to doing a hobby I love. 😊

[funishment-time]

for the ask game, Toko Fukawa :D

you got it! i'll include Syo as well. this is a bit Incoherent, but with any luck you all can Parse what i mean

Sexuality Headcanon: Toko's...tough, because she's got so much going on. regardless, i think if you strip everything away she's genuinely Bisexual, as is Syo. they lean towards Men, but Komaru is special. additionally, i say "comphet" for a lot of the girls, but in Toki's case it's a bit different: hers was less societal and more the abuse of her peers and parents. had she never met Komaru it may have never occurred to her that she could love and partner up with a Woman.

brief aside on this: i don't think Toko would ever identify as gay or queer or anything remotely accurate or healthy (ha). nor would Syo, but Syo would probably use a Slur as a label to get a rise out of people, avatar of rebellion and grunge that she is. Toki in particular is on my list of personal "what are you, gay or something?" characters while actively being married to a woman, next to Miu and a few others. good times

Gender Headcanon: okay, hear me out on this one, and sorry if this doesn't make sense, but...

the Fukawas are generally cis to me, though i've imagined a few scenarios where they're trans. when they're cis, however, i headcanon that, if they're with Komaru, only Toko ends up actually being cis. Syo becomes a sort of...genderweird she/her because she sees herself as the fantasy-masc Byakuya to Komaru's femininity. for lack of a better term: Syo thinks of herself as Komaru's husband (hersband...) a lot.

i have no idea how else to explain this without getting mildly NSFW. my thoughts on it aren't really pornographic so much as, like, Psychosexual? you know? and i want to keep the blog somewhat PG-13, so i'll leave it there!

A ship I have with said character: i am a diehard Tokomaru shipper and they're probably the one OTP i don't like splitting up in the whole franchise. they have a game together. they are the Girls of all time

A BROTP I have with said character: i've always loved the idea of Komaru being the entryway into Toko genuinely befriending (or at least earning the tolerance of) a lot of her fellow survivors in the main timeline. i do think Makoto would sincerely be Toko's pal, though, and i adore positioning him as the sweet bachelor brother-in-law in their nasty little family

A NOTP I have with said character: are there people out there who genuinely ship Fukawa System x Byakuya? if so...i'm sorry, but why? whyyyy. again, i try to Live and let Live in this fandom, but lorda mercy you chose poorly in this case, no offense

A random headcanon: to expand on my previous point...i will add, however, that my Fukawa Headcanons generally don't exclude Byakuya. i've said before that, for me, the Fukawas never really lose their crush on him, but it becomes purely, well, NSFW. if you excuse me being blunt for a moment: they still want to rail him, he figures in many of their fantasies, but they don't want to wake up next to him, and they certainly don't want to have his kids or make him breakfast.

Komaru, however, is the Fukawas' WIFE. she is Love, she is Healing, and she is their very best friend at her core beyond all the romance. she is pancakes and shitty manga and joy. Toko (and Syo) may not dream of Komaru kicking them around, but they do dream of creating a peaceful life with her. well...as peaceful as things can get in that timeline. some shit is always Happening

anyway: and Komaru just accepts this, because she knows she's got the girl(s) in the end!

General Opinion over said character: 10/10 i love my Toki so very much. Toki kinnie 4 life. stinky little insect creature. vile and perfect and lovable

[the-darkestminds]

Hello xoxo

okay so I want to make you cry in the best (or worst) way possible

In order to do this (and to satisfy my curiosity)

Please answer some questions: (no pressure just curious)

What is Your preferred love language to give and to receive? (feel free to yap)

What are other forms of media you enjoy outside of ACOTAR (books, TV shows, etc.)

We all know Azris is a tragic pairing in terms of both ends are dealing with so much shit and the pair makes a beautiful variety of contrasts... what keeps you coming back to Azris? Why is this your OTP?

What do you think are their (Azriel and Eris') biggest character flaws? What about their strengths?

Finally, I've heard and seen that you have a talent for making people cry... what's an Azris fic or fics that you have read that brought out your own tears?

ANYWAY please feel free to yap. I'm just trying to get a better idea of your psyche and how you view Azris. Also I want to know you better.

I know you are not picky but you can't blame me for trying to curate something that suits your taste.

until next time!

xoxo,

Santa 2.0

P.S. you're very amazing and talented and I'm really happy I get to write for you

Hello!

My love language is words of affirmation. I need acknowledgement (and praise, apparently lol). Very much not physical touch. On the giving side, probably acts of service. Showing I care without having to say it, cuz I am bad at voicing how I feel.

Some of my favorite books/series: Children of Time, Seveneves, Anathem, Red Rising, The Arcana Chronicles, Strange The Dreamer, ToG, Nevernight… (I guess I do read a lot of sci fi). I admit I do not really watch TV that often. The last show I watched was the boys lol. 

This is hard to put into words by I'll try... for starters, I love the characters individually. We don't know a ton about either of them which makes it fun to fill in the gaps. They are the perfect enemies to lovers in my eyes. The messy drama with Mor, that choking scene... such a fun starting point lol. I love it. I also like the contrasts between them: Eris is vibrant and bold, kind of outwardly cruel, whereas Azriel is dark and silent and brooding, rarely speaks his mind. Azriel tortures for a living, Eris has been tortured all his life by his father. Eris wields fire, Azriel's trauma is directly tied to fire. It makes for a very interesting dynamic. Neither of them are ever openly vulnerable, which makes it soooo good when they finally break down in front of the other. I HC that Azriel becomes pretty obsessive with the person he loves, and is truly willing to do anything for them, and with Eris never really having had someone who cares... it's just so fun to read about him realizing Azriel would die for him lol. Also, flames/shadows imagery is cool. (I am sure someone is reading all this and thinking... wtf this sounds so toxic lol) IDC I LOVE IT TOXIC.

I think Azriel’s weakness is his refusal to deal with his feelings, so they sort of build up until he either snaps or falls apart lol. He's terrible at communicating how he feels. His strength… I think he’d do anything for the people he loves. Extremely devoted, sometimes to the point of obsession. He’s self-sacrificial. Eris’s weakness is probably his pride. He doesn’t like appearing weak, so he doesn’t like to lean on anyone for help, even when he really needs it. His strength is probably his intelligence/cunning. His sharp tongue! So fun to write, and read.

Lol it’s an honor to make people hurt 🤣 I have to say I do not cry very easily… but one Azris fic that had me ugly sobbing is All Things End by @acourtofladydeath. It’s a beautiful story of love, life, loss and grief and it gutted me in the best way. Incredibly heartbreaking. Under The Weeping Beech by @chunkypossum was also DEVASTATING. Same with Mother Save Us… also by @chunkypossum. That first chapter… ouchy. ALSO What We Deserve by @chunkypossum. (Can you tell I’m a fan? Lmao) There is one scene in that fic that absolutely ruined me, I still think about it. No spoilers but GOD. So good. When The Blood Burns by @chairofchaos almost killed me. So damn painful, I have reread it so many times. The sequel is a WIP (so so good) and I desperately need more! These three authors are typically my go-to’s for the extreme angst. And finally, Nova by SRL and Tessabeth has been pulling at my heart strings a LOT. The hurt is sooooo good. There are tons more azris fics that have affected me deeply and I wish I could list them all but these are the first that come to mind as far as tears go!

damn. I really did yap. Hope this helps 😂

I appreciate you!!! Thank you 🖤 you are so sweet! 🥹

[cowandcalf]

Feeback Fest 2024: H50 Fic Recs

For International Fanworks Day, February 15 (for more information see this post by @transformativeworks)

Thank you, babe @stephmcx because of your great fic rec list I noticed this amazing Fic Rec Day! I'm not often on Tumblr anymore scrolling and discovering interesting things and I miss the interaction with other fandom folks. And here you are, posting a great fic rec list of the most epic OTP ever: Steve and Danny.

I have my McDanno 'go-to' fics I love dearly but for this list I put together a different number of McDanno stories from my bookmarks. I hope some of you haven't read them already. Maybe there's a chance you find an unknown great McDanno story. All of my recommanded stories always act like a large safety net of love I let myself fall into when I need those special, unique, and most magic McDanno vibes.

1.Blue Shorts and Gloves by WeirdoOfTheCentury - Summary: Danny... well Danny is Danny. Stella is a protective Sister and both Steve and herself wanna commit a crime when it comes to Danno. @shadowhunterdownworlderhybrid

2.Touch My World With Your Fingertips by kristen999 - Summary: Danny has plans for Steve when he returns home from his reserve drill.

3.More Than Words, Part One by Candy_A - Summary: The first chapter in a series based on the events that follow Danny's rescue from Colombia (Episode 5.17). In this installment, Danny returns to Hawaii and he and Steve begin to cope with the reality of Danny's ordeal there. (Nine parts belong to this outstanding series)

4.See You Tomorrow by bgharison - Summary: "When we were leaving the office, I said, ‘see you tomorrow’ to Chin and Kono, and they said, ‘yeah, see you tomorrow'. I said, ‘see you tomorrow’ to you, and you said, ‘goodnight’, And 'goodnight' sounded like 'goodbye', okay?""I wasn't saying goodbye," he said, finally. But he kept his eyes fixed on the water.

5.Why don't you try me? by azziria - Summary: Steve and Danny both want the same thing, they just don't know it yet.

6.Back To Back (They Faced Each Other) by harrycrewe - Summary: Danny didn’t even realize that Steve was a sentinel when they first met. That probably said a lot right there about what kind of a guide Danny was.

7.Like Death and Taxes by ariadnes_string - Summary: "One of these days," Steve growled, voice low and rough and filthy, "I'm gonna rip this thing off you and gag you with it." (That's my very first McDanno fanfic I read.)

8.Moments In The Skript by joannereads - Summary: Hello all! So, over the last few years I have dreamed of a few scenarios before, during and after the events of The Script. I wanted to add to it, but never found the time, so now I'm making a point of doing it. I'll add to this as and when I have time or the muse is singing. Some of the stories will be teen and up, some explicit. Hope you enjoy! (RPF)

9.Close To Me by joannereads - Summary: Danny Williams is 17. Steve McGarrett is 26. They all live in Hawaii. And their lives are about to get really, really messy. Because Steve? Steve's his brother's best friend.

10.Sock Monkey by Cattraine - Summary: He’s late; he’s running late when the call comes in. One minute he’s sitting at a traffic light on a perfect day on his way to work, bemoaning his lack of coffee and the next he’s screeching the Camaro’s tires towards the accident, heart pounding, keeping perfect time with the chant in his head. No, no, no. It can’t be.

[vmenfangirl]

List 5 things that make you happy, then put this in the askbox for the last 10 people who liked or reblogged something from you! Get to know your mutuals and followers ❤️

Oh... i have a lot of things that make me really happy xD so is kinda a hard question but ok, i'll try my best...

1. Enjoy watching my fav series and movies, like GOTHAM, BTAS, Dinosaurs, The Boys, The Shawshank Redemption, BoP, The legend of 1900, Back to the Future, I love you Phillip Morris, etc... also classic animated movies from Disney and Dreamworks... plus, i really enjoy to share opinions, HCs, theories etc. about that, with my friends

2. Reading... from novels to comics; i'm always searching for new material to read or if not, i also like to reread my fav stories, with the same excitement as the first time i read them.... plus, i think reading is the perfect way to learn about everything you want so i'm always learning and that's great

3. Writting... along with drawing, are activities i really love to do cuz those make me really happy, especially if are about my fav characters or ships/OTPs, cuz these last make me more than happy, in fact, two of them (Nygmobblepot and Zsasionis/Zsasmask) i easily can say they literally saved me from a very dark and deep depression periods in my life and i'll never forget that, i'll love those OTPs forever

4. Must say, to eat... i have a kinda complicated relationship with food, since i always have this toxic thought about that every lil piece of carb and fat i put in my mouth for a second will make me overweight ten kilos in the next hour i ate them... so has been kinda hard to try and change that bad perception about food in general, that's why i feel happy when i have a good day (i don't feel that toxic thought as intense as usual) and actually can enjoy some good meal, doesn't matter what it is

5. Kinda cliche but i love listen to music, i can hear just one (1) fav song the whole day, but i'm happy to listen all the playlists too... music is also such a great inspiration for my fics so i could hear or find new music just cuz that is useful for ideas or simply cuz that remind me at any of my fav chars/ships/OTPs, so those songs become special among other fav songs

That's it xD 💖

[braceletofteeth]

How about 1, 3, 5, 7, 8 9 & 11 for the ❤️🧡💛bl ask game 💚💙💜 (this might be my sneaky way to get bl recs)

1. Favorite Main Couple

Hira & Kiyoi, from Utsukushii Kare/My Beautiful Man.

For one, I really like these characters, not only for what they are like as a couple, but for them. For their personalities, their thought process, the way they talk and feel about things. That already sets them apart from other couples that I've enjoyed as far as their romance went, but didn't get invested in (both!) the characters themselves—and I noticed there seems to be a correlation between how much I like the characters involved, and how much I care about their romance.

But if we're talking about them as a couple, I think what I like the most about their relationship is the equilibrium. The idea that Hira and Kiyoi are perfectly balanced.

Aaaand I know there is definitely at least one person who have watched the show going “WHAT” right now, but let me explain first 🤚🧐

Hira loves in a way that is very, very specific, and Kiyoi wants to be loved in a certain way that is also very specific. The love that Hira has to give, not everyone can handle; the love that Kiyoi would like to receive, not everyone can give to him. The fact that they meet and somehow find in each other exactly what they craved for?

That's the stuff miracles (and OTPs) are made of.

3. Favorite Main Character

Hey, have I ever told you the story of How I Met My Blorbo? No? Well. Would you believe it. It was actually through a “Most Whipped” poll from the infamous @ bl-bracket.

It was the second round, and he was winning against Kurosawa, from Cherry Magic—someone whose whippedness I was already familiar with, and thought would be pretty hard to beat. I didn't know who this Hira guy was, or what he could have possibly done or be like to be considered more whipped than Kurosawa. So, already intriguing. I went back to check the first round. On that round, he had won by an even larger margin. It was almost ridiculous. Taking a look at the comments left in the reblogs of both rounds, who I got described back to me was a boy who was so whipped it was considered weird and probably unhealthy. Huh! Very intriguing indeed. By then, I was practically sold.

It was only a surface level of interest at first, just because I think Being Whipped is one of the best character traits for someone in a romantic relationship to have; as well as being very intense, and even a little (or a lot) weird about it.

But then, I actually met him and *breathes in* God, there's so much to say about Hira. I fear I'll never get to say it all... but let me summarize to the best of my abilities (I'll try to keep it short).

The Hira that we're first introduced to is a resigned boy who feels inadequate and rejected by his school peers. His response to that unwelcome environment is that he, himself, doesn't wanna be a part of the community—he'd rather keep to himself, or “be invisible”, as he puts it. He finds comfort in his solitude, or at least he tries to.

He has a hobby—photography—but he feels like he just does that for the sake of doing it. There's nothing in particular that he'd like to photograph. He's just going with the flow. All he does in life, it seems, is go with the flow, letting the tides take him forward.

Essentially, he's lacking companionship and a purpose, and that's a very frustrating way to live. When you just lack one or the other, you can still find some fulfillment in what you have. But when you lack both? It gets really hard to think of your life—or yourself—as valuable.

So when he meets Kiyoi Sou, and decides to dedicate his whole being to him—body, mind, and soul? I get it. I really do. Because the acts of service give him purpose, a reason to be, and it also establishes a connection to somebody, even if it's unilateral. It's a chance to be present, but somewhat still at the margins, never the one at the center of attention.

Hira believes he's unworthy of attention. He stays so much in his own head, he can't see his own qualities. And mind you, he has plenty of qualities! For example: Hira is book smart (see: finishes his homework much faster/with less difficulty than the others), strong (see: no less than three people are needed to hold him back when he's defending Kiyoi with his own hands), competent (see: learning how to do all house chores by himself), talented (see: admired by the other members of his uni's Photography Club), and handsome too (see: gif above people who had never met him before commenting on his looks and even hitting on him as soon he takes his hair off his face and dresses in an outfit that complements his body). Well-mannered, loyal, honest to a fault. And cute, in an awkward way. And funny, even when he has no intention to be.

But, of course, he has some flaws too, like... *frowns*... *frown deepens*... It will come to me... *staring at the wall*... Oh. He usually won't communicate how he feels unless someone else prompts him to. Which can be frustrating and cause problems... but that's on everyone else *shrugs*

(I jest like I'm not one of the people who have felt frustrated because of this...)

As much as he might struggle to communicate how he feels verbally, though, usually his face will give him away. Be it showing his displeasure, or his awe. And no one shows awe like Hira Kazunari. Like, I don't know how the actor, Riku, does that, but you can see literal stars in his eyes sometimes. “Oh, you mean heart eyes?” nononono ☝ I've seen heart eyes. That's not it. It's not the look you give a lover—it's the look of someone who travels back in time and watches the universe born.

Which sounds normal, right? No! No, it doesn't! Now you get what I mean about this guy?! How can someone be so passionate about anything? He's so... So. He's so much. He found what he wanted to dedicate his life to, and he never once doubted the conviction he has in its merit. That was it for him. The fucking big bang, over and over, forever. Nothing can compare to that, and his life is fulfilled as long as he gets to keep experiencing it.

... Anyways. He's a fascinating little guy, and a kindred spirit to me. I love watching him discover that he's capable and deserving of being and having much more than he assumes he is—despite his every attempt to deny himself so.

5. Favorite Female Character

So, I already answered this one time, but allow me to take this awesome opportunity to mention two other female characters that haunt me to this day—the sisters from Manner of Death, Janejira and Rungtiwa.

Now, if you're not familiar with them—basically, one is one of the most disgusting people you'll ever have the displeasure of knowing, and the other did nothing wrong in her life and suffered more than Jesus.

Jane, although not being there in person for most of it, is a fundamental piece to the narrative. She's what brings everything together. You could almost say MOD is her story—about discovering what happened to her and why that happened to her; her motivations, and the conclusion to her mission.

Honestly, I don't think I could do half of what Jane had the courage to attempt. Except for Tan and Dr. Bunn, it seemed like the whole world was against her. Powerful, terrifying people, as well as people close to her. People who should have been on her side no matter what, were the ones who hurt her the most. That in itself could break anybody's spirit. But she kept going. When the ones who should have defended her weren't there, she fought back for herself. She said she would do it herself. She would put an end to it herself; finally take back the control of her story.

When I think about all the rage, horror, and hurt that woman must have felt, I just about go mad all over again.

And Rungtiwa. When I talk about Jane's older sister, it might sound like I hate her. And I do. She's the character I hate the most out of every universe. The day she has no more haters, I'm no longer in this world.

But, as it is inevitable, the more you hate somebody, the longer they stay with you. I'll never forget about Rungtiwa, or how deep run her greed. What it led her to do, and to become.

7. Top 5 BL

Utsukushii Kare

A few months ago, I read a list in here, on this very website. Someone had asked for recommendations on High School Japanese BLs, and the kind owner of the blog made a list of their favorites. There were about five of them, it wasn't a long list, but Utsukushii Kare was listed as one of them.

That was very weird.

No, I don't disagree with the author of the post. Utsukushii Kare is good, and should be recommended. There was nothing wrong with that list, technically. But it still felt weird, to see Utsukushii Kare there, among the others. And it was then I realized that, before that moment, I had never, ever, ever thought of this drama as a High School Love Story.

I had never thought of it as a story that had a school as a setting, and it wasn't just because they were only high school students for half of it. I didn't consider Hira's house as the setting either, nor any of the other locations they passed through. Not even the city they lived in. In my head, to call those places the setting of their story was technically correct, but also completely wrong.

“Well, Brace, where did you consider the story was set, then?” Hira & Kiyoi's World, of course?????? What kind of stupid ques-

Listen. Even when they were at school, in many of those scenes, it was just the two of them. When they were outside, too, they were alone together, in most of them. And when not, more often than not, they would be looking at each other, would be thinking of each other. It was like nothing else mattered... more.

This drama helped me give name to my favorite trope of all time, which I now call A World of Two. Well, it's more like a dynamic than a trope, and one day I'd like to talk about it more extensively in a separate post, because there are specific causes and possible collateral effects to it—but it's basically when two people make each other the center of their worlds.

When they come together, it's like they are in a separated space and time from everything. It's a whole world in a single space, that they share together, and it can only exist because of the connection they have. Some kind of mutual understanding or attachment that makes the ones outside of it, strangers, but the two inside, natives; from the same land, the same home.

(In that space, during that time, they feel more like themselves than in any other.)

Never Let Me Go

I struggle to find words to describe or something to compare it to... It's like...

A movie from the 1970's that is set in the 2020's, except the vibes are not futuristic, but of an old play, a tale as old as time. A modern fairytale. A dream that you wake up from and it's like you just came back from an adventure; all your memories of it have a glint to them, the colors in tones you have never seen, your heart longing for another world, the feeling of plenitude. A melody that sounds grand in a ball room, but intimate in your home, when you play it for a loved one. A blend of summer love and 72 years of marriage. Butterflies in your stomach. Heaven on Earth.

The more I talk, the more pretentious I sound (although it's all true). So let me try to keep it simple: I like the classics. I like when people join forces to fight against the world together, overcoming obstacles and the miserable situation they are in. But I also think there should be just as much—actually, even more—joy, love, and hope, in between all that. To show what they could be, what could be theirs, if it wasn't for all The Horrors. I believe that's what makes the most satisfying Happy Endings.

... There's also something about how Palm and Nuengdiao would get lost in each other's eyes. The recognition there—a conversation between their souls, that no one else was privy to.

Strangers From Hell

Still funny that the devil fell in love with him and Yoon Jongwoo tried to convince you he didn't understand why, but he was lying the entire time.

Also my doctor said I can call BL whatever I want, because of the uniquely acute vision I have (he's a dentist).

KinnPorsche

[Little House on the Hill starts playing on the background]

A part of me stayed at that safehouse. It may never find a way out.

... Also. Maybe some people look back now and are able to think KinnPorsche was not that big of a deal, but to me, she still remains That Bitch™.

The cinematography, those locations—they are severed in my brain. Most of the songs from the soundtrack were not made with it in mind, but it was almost like they were. I still listen to many of them. And I can still repeat many of those lines of dialogue from memory—a reflection of how many times I had them repeated to me because of how impactful or iconic they were for us. The storyline was engaging, every week. Both the protagonists and antagonists were entertaining. There were many characters, and they made us remember them all. Even those who were only there briefly. And all three main couples were good—you'd get hurt no matter what your preference was :D

And all the while, great action scenes, plus some other surprises no one had ever seen on television anywhere.

It was the most thrilling experience I've had watching anything, and sometimes I fear I'll never get to feel that again.

Love in the Air

Everyone puts different values on different things. LITA might be a bit rough around the edges, but both Love Storm and Love Sky are comfort zones to me.

Their stories are, at their core, about trust. And you know what? It's easy to make a story about that in which one of the characters doesn't trust easily and the other is this admirable, dependable person... but that's not quite how it goes here.

In LITA, the people (Rain / Prapai) who need to earn another's (Payu / Sky) trust, don't exactly inspire that trust in the beginning. In fact, they do the opposite, and need to work for it, to become a version of themselves that they, too, come to believe that their partners deserve.

Sky's and Payu's trust issues come from past relationships that went wrong, but in very different ways. Sky was in an abusive relationship, and discarded when it was over; Payu was rejected for his personality, his overbearing tendencies. Those experiences led them to not open up their hearts as easily again.

On the other end of this, there are Prapai and Rain, and they are... they are a mess, it's the word. They are so lost, at their respective starting points. But Rain, at least, receives instructions: Payu wants him to succeed, if Payu—the way he is—is what Rain decides is right for him. If he's serious about it. And despite the initial mishaps, it's always clear that they are a perfect match, singing to each other's tune.

There was no such clarity, however, when it came to Prapai and Sky. In fact, when people were first introduced to Prapai, a lot of us thought that he was... inadequate. That he was not right for Sky, and he would not care for him the way Sky deserved.

And then, what happened? We cried. We bawled our eyes out, because of how much he genuinely fucking cared. And some of us (me), I dare say, have never recovered from that.

8. First BL

The first BL drama I've watched was Where Your Eyes Linger, back when it was released in 2020. A friend thought I'd be interested in seeing history being made, so she made us watch together. At the time, I was not into asian dramas yet—the few I watched every now and then were because of my friend.

Rewatching it recently, I realized WYEL has a ship dynamic that I usually enjoy a lot, and some well done emotional scenes—which, for some reason, didn't have an effect on me the first time, because I don't remember the story lingering with me after. Probably because it was short and passed too fast, if I had to guess? But I can appreciate it for what it is more, now.

It took three more BLs till I became a regular watcher—I watched Addicted (stumbling upon it by chance on youtube) and Semantic Error (presented by the aforementioned friend), before watching Manner of Death, a story so dope that it made me fold and search for more BLs on purpose, just in case there were other stories that good out there. It was the first step into a world of possibilities I was previously unaware of, and I have found I quite like it in here.

9. Currently Watching

Takara no Vidro [4/10]

Perfect 10 Liners [2/24]

The Eighth Sense [1/10]

HIStory 3: Trapped [17/20]

Love in the Air: Koi no Yokan [1/10]

I'm using colors to represent how I'm currently feeling about them:

Pink: positive feelings

Blue: neutral feelings

Orange: negative feelings

Right now I don't really have the energy to binge, so it's been a slow catch up with my watchlist. I've been trying to watch BLs from different countries (because this year most have been Thai) and dramas in general of other genres (because most of what I've watched this year was romance). Also more GLs (there is a great diversity of them available right now!). But yes, as for BLs, only the ones listed.

Oh, but I'm also waiting for new episodes of a korean BL animation called Shutline...? Which is more smut than plot, to be completely frank, but I started watching because the main characters are a mechanic and a gang member whose job includes killing people (that might sound familiar 😬). Apparently, “I'm watching because there's a mechanic” is the new “I'm watching because there's a dentist” for me (and only God knows the places that will take me).

11. Most Anticipated Upcoming BL

It might come as a surprise, as I've been very tight-lipped, lowkey, and downright secretive about it... but it's the (alleged) romcom series The Heart Killers.

I just think “approaching a dangerous person with ulterior motives without getting caught” is an intriguing premise, you know? Keeping elaborated secrets is a difficult task, especially when it might cost your life; worse when you lose the plot and get enticed by your own lies, the fantasy you created for someone else, and might end up breaking your own heart in the process.

That's a ride that is bound to be full of ups and downs, and I need to know how high they're gonna take us before the drop, as well as how rough or delicate will be the pick up later.

I'm also just really excited to meet these characters and see how their dynamics will play out. I'm compelled by Bison's longing for freedom; allured by Kant's charms; amused by Style's shamelessness; and, last but not least, possessed by a mighty need to see someone reach inside Fadel's armor and pull at a loose thread until he falls apart.

I just think this one is gonna be fun. :)

(tried to make it sound like the normal kind of excitement, but I don't wanna lie to you, mate... I'm obsessed with this thing. It's been pretty bad. Like, really bad. It's been like that for six months, and it has only gotten worse... Don't try to help me, though!! 😩🖐 At this point, the only antidote is the release of the series...)

—

I don't know how useful this could have been as for recs, since most of the shows I mentioned are no strangers to this blog's page, but... this gave me an opportunity to reflect on them, and I enjoy doing that. So thank you for picking these numbers for me! 😊💛

See you o/

[cyberdragoninfinity]

you know it's yugo 🍌🏍🐉

LET'S YUGOOOOO

Why I like them/why I don’t: YUGOOOO god i love him so much. I think a pretty large part of why I enjoy thinking about him so much is i feel like he kind of gets written off as just Mr. Funny Sillyguy who doesn't get taken very seriously, which is a shame!! Cuz he's a really cool and brave and interesting and honestly deeply sad character! He's just some dirt poor kid trying to find his best friend and start a better life with her, he doesnt know he's a shard of The Evilest Man Alive. And then his best friend got BRAIN WORMED and KICKED HIS ASS and he NEVER GOT TO SEE HER AGAIN. ALRIGHT. I'LL BE NORMAL ABOUT IT. (and also he is absolutely hysterical. guy who says 'whoopsie.' guy with maybe 3 braincells to spare on any given day. god help him)

What I like about their appearance: I LOVE yugo's color palette, the primary colors with the white truly both evokes bruno my friend bruno but also the white is such a nice visual link to synchro summoning. Also he just really feels like he belongs in a 5d's inspired dimension, his racing suit/outfit design feels right at home next to actual 5D's characters/just that sort of turbo duel racing motif'd world in general. also his banana bangs are so fucking funny

Do I prefer their dub names or original names?: same in both, yugo through and through, and i love it! ("hugo" is also really funny. guy who is not beating the White Yuya allegations)

OTP: hey check this out *starts doing crazy aro!rin queerplatonic appleshipping maneuvers that blow your mind*

NOTP: i like. dont even Hate yugo/yuri it's just so nothing to me. the dynamic of these characters is infinitely more interesting to me through a platonic lens. stepbrothers (2008).

OT3: yugo and rin and their motorcycle outracing the cops for life!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Favourite card they use: I DO LOVE CLEAR WING A LOT such a sick as hell dragon design... I also really like his one speedroid spell card thats just a lottery Scratch Off Ticket. speedroid 7/11 gas station ass card.

Favourite moment they were in: god. so many. but i do think 'yugo thinking zuzu is dead and in heaven and he keeps bringing it up' is one of my favorites. it's so fucking funny. NOBODY TOLD HIM!!! i do also love like. every time they would cut to yugo during friendship cup duels he wasnt in and he would just be like. eating his doordash. it made me laugh every time

Least favourite moment: THE PARASITE'D!RIN AND YUGO DUEL IS SO FUCKING HARD TO WATCH. IT'S JUST MISERABLE his fucking motorcycle, this emblem of his bond with rin, gets broken, he doesnt even get to see rin truly in her right mind and neither does she. and then they never see each other again because they both DIE AFTERWARDS. IT READS LIKE FUCKING MELODRAMATIC TORTURE PORN. WHY DID THEY DO THAT TO BOTH OF THEM.

Something I associate with the character: yuya is usually my AJR discography yuboy but The Dumb Song is such a yugo song to me. college AU yugo especially. i love the idea of like...yugo being more self aware of his dumbassery than he lets on.

[katyspersonal]

Hmm... How about Izzy for Character ask meme? There isnt really any thing about them but if I am not wrong you liked them a lot.

You are NOT wrong :>

(Asks from this ( x ) meme)

Favorite thing about them:

I was already intrigued by the fact that this character tapped upon the thing of "the best way to fight the beasts is to become a beast yourself"! Just.. look at this:

Izzy gave me an impression of someone thinking too ahead of their time. But then, my FAVORITE favorite thing came with discovery of Bloodborne retranslations! They were said to be apostate, not 'irreverent'! So, straight up rebel to a Church, maybe even one once serving it but detracting, and I can see why! Izzy is the PUUUUNK.

Least favorite thing about them:

How easy it is to brush this character off with the assumption that they're just Suspicious Beggar т.т Not something I personally agree with, of course!

Favorite line:

Lol. Lmao, even. xD It is okay, though, I am writing a lot of her, so I'll grab a quote from my writing!

"When ya' sentence someone to die in the darkness... make goddamn sure they won't learn to SEE in it!"! That's her way to say "I lived, bitch" basically dfshhfsd After she got chased down into Loran Dungeons as a "beast and a heretic" when she snapped at Vicar Ashton! (My timeline of 'generation of Vicars' is: Laurence - Ashton - Norbert & Laura - Amelia, all names taken from cut content for Bloodborne).

Ashton is a PIECE OF SHIT and everyone knows he deserved it, and how he incurred it, but it was a good chance for him to... misjudge Izzy, to say the least. Healing Church has been waiting for a good excuse to kick Izzy out of the Hunters because of her uncontrollable nature and "dangerous" thoughts. Not only she lived, despite still having been not so experienced hunter, but also had quite a change of heart from simply misunderstood person with impulse issues to someone seeing succumbing into beasthood as "humanity regaining their true form again". 🙄 Having met Fauna was also a big factor.

....the worst part is that I wrote her before I touched Dark Souls with ten yards stick, but @val-of-the-north said that coincidences like this just prove that my creativity is on the same wavelength so I don't need to scrap and rewrite everything XD

brOTP:

Izzy and Archibald, without question! Yes, they both studied the Darkbeasts and were heretics for the Healing Church for trying to use beasthood powers for advantage! They think outside of the box!

But they also balance each other well! Archibald is very pragmatic and calculating man, and Izzy is open-minded and accepting. Both are slow to anger unless the right strings are pulled, and when one of them is ready to murder, it is another who can stop them! However, whereas Izzy falls into extreme about "forsaken civilisation and let the animal impulses guide us!", Archibald argues that there must be civilisation in beasthood as well, lest in this "future" everyone just eats each other into extinction. At the same time, Archibald can appear not daring enough, and Izzy helps the shared research progress with risky methods! Archibald can't step into the water without knowing its depth, Izzy jumps straight in it!

OTP:

Damn, I wish I knew which ship with Izzy is 1) more preferred than others and 2) is not on the hatefuck territory dshfdhfd Izzy's significant connections are either just friends, or people like Laurence or Ludwig who meet their match in him in the end and maybe at some point you just get tired of battling? -_-

I suppose Valtr, then! In my story, Izzy deceives him to join the League, especially with how they grew hostile to the Healing Church too! He wanted Valtr's secret of envisioning the human dregs, except... well, instead of destroying them, she studied them to benefit from this power and submerge stronger into it. 🙄 🤦‍♂️ But, they were rather passionate with each other while it lasted. As wrong and deceitful it was on Izzy's side. They have that awful bitter EXes energy where they still have tension between each other when they meet. xD

Izzy x Suspicious Beggar is "healthier", on the other hand! When Izzy learned of Loran curse still manifesting in him, he got jealous, true... but also, fascinated! Izzy gave him acceptance no matter what, telling him that dark impulses within him were not to be suppressed and uprooted, but divine? :p They'd play fight like actual animals often, Beggar would revel in the luxury of confessing a murder to someone and not be hunter, and she was giving him belly rubs!

^^^ (no face distortion slider jumpscare) Also, since Suspicious Beggar and Henryk 1) share the absolutely identical slider for that mole on the nose 2) both are connected with Loran and 3) just fucking Look At Them, my monkey brain started to headcanon them as brothers XD So, if Beggar and Izzy became a couple, Henryk would basically do this:

sdjfhdsgfgds Also, before I considered the obvious implication that the beast Yamamura chased from not-Japan was result of Cainhurst doing trade with not-Japan, I came up with the story that the beast he chases IS Izzy's beast form.... This is not a shipping matter, I just think it is funny how I ended up inserting her in League's story so much!

nOTP:

This character is basically an OC with a prompt! Ships with Izzy depend on how character is interpreted beyond studying beasthood and being an apostate to the Healing Church! How can I tell!

Random headcanon:

Yamamura's hat comes from being still attached to Izzy's spikes even when she became a giant beast! It used to be her hat. He was not able to murder her with the weapon that he had, just stabbing and stabbing frantically, until Valtr walked towards and casually lended him his Whirligig Saw to be able to finish the job. He then put the hat on still shocked Yamamura's head, as sort of a trophy, that Yamamura later cleaned and fixed from the damage to his best ability! Izzy wanted to make sure that the curse of beasthood could never die down, so... yeah, even if entire Yharnam got nuked, there is still a large ticking bomb in Yamamura's village now... :^)

Unpopular opinion:

There is a whole type of hostile NPCs, known as 'Successor of Izzy', or 'Izzy's Admirer', roaming Loran! Josef is simply a summon variant of these enemies, which respawn! So, my unpopular opinion: if there is a bunch of people who followed Izzy's footsteps into Loran to find whatever insight Izzy found, then Izzy must have been a significant person for the setting! Legendary Hunter, not just another Hunter!

Song I associate with them:

I will share two? They kind of contradict one another in what Izzy vibe they make me think of, but hey, associations with songs are very vague thing! :p One made me focus on the "sad" look at her story, as if she was corrupted there in Loran, as well as her previously grappling with her impulses. Another is..... well, the most punk shit I've ever seen. xD However, both will probably make you age at least 20 years fsdhfdh

Favorite picture of them:

Okay, by now I figured that this question doesn't specifically refer to fanart... but there are NO images of Izzy from the source material! So I have to share art of her that I like the most anyways:

[scriveyner]

2023 Wrapped!

A total of 8 fics this year! And I just barely hit my resolution of 150k posted. These stats are insane, by the way, utterly insane. I never expected anything to hit like smarch/kinktober did this year. Fucking wild.

After the jump is a list of the fics this year and a few thoughts on each. A big thanks to everyone for reading this year, and here's to a fic-filled 2024!

stop time, your hand in mine (文豪ストレイドッグス | Bungou Stray Dogs) (7,257 words)

First fic of the year, and the one that really and truly jumpstarted sskk² stories. I'd dabbled a little prior to this, but really the only thing that existed was the origin fic from 2022, when Acchan and Ryuu-chan were infants.

chase forever down (文豪ストレイドッグス | Bungou Stray Dogs) (70,985 words)

Holy moly, y'all love vampire fics. The amount of tags this fic got when Things Went Down in S5 still makes me laugh. This is my favorite fic of this year tho, because I had so much fun writing it.

southern air (文豪ストレイドッグス | Bungou Stray Dogs) (12,557 words)

Pure fluff exuding from every pore. Fun family shenanigans. I love writing sskk² it's just so healing.

crossing paths (文豪ストレイドッグス | Bungou Stray Dogs) (8,728 words)

SSKK will always be my BSD otp, but I love me some chuuatsu. Doubt it's the last time I'll write some, but I know its reach is limited.

the places we'll go (文豪ストレイドッグス | Bungou Stray Dogs) (5,022 words)

My sskkbb23 entry, of course more sskk². I really like taking SSKK and showing them possible futures, have you all noticed this, lol.

three minutes more (文豪ストレイドッグス | Bungou Stray Dogs) (49,900 words)

I honestly and truly did not expect this fic to juggernaut. I have a chat from before kinktober started being all, "well I don't think it will be as popular as chase forever down..." and y'all came in like a wrecking ball and showed me how wrong I was. I am so glad this hit and hit strong for people.

all the love in my heart (文豪ストレイドッグス | Bungou Stray Dogs) (4,428 words)

Technically this counts as more than one fic but I don't like to list typetriggers separately. Just a bunch of little bites of sskk² goodness, from kid sillies to adults getting their alone time.

so be good for goodness sake (文豪ストレイドッグス | Bungou Stray Dogs) (1,247 words)

If you can't tell I very much love writing kid logic, and Acchan and Ryuu-chan are just full of it. The best part about writing sskk² fic to me is watching how the characters have changed and settled into new roles in their lives. (And also trying to figure out what new chaos Acchan can kick up, that kid is indestructible and has no sense of self-preservation. Nor what is actually food.)

[thevalkyriesshadow]

Writing tag game by @bonecarversbestie !

Describe your writing process from idea to posting/publishing?

My ideas: I'm often inspired by moodboards, pinterest images, writing prompts I see on tumblr, movies and shows I watch...inspiration is everywhere! I also try and write things I'm familiar with or things I have interest in. It makes the research part more entertaining and engaging! Once I get an idea I play out the story in my head for a few days before I'm sure I like the possibilities of the story...if I really like the idea I get right to writing, even if it's a part of a scene or a small intro.

I LOVE THE RESEARCH ASPECT OF WRITING

I know, the boring part, but I learn so many new things and I like my fics to be accurate to a degree...of course at some point I just have to be like "Debbi, it's okay if it's not possible for your character to survive a fifty foot drop -- you're doing it for the angst!!!!!"

Writing/Editing: I keep everything I do to Google docs! I can access it anywhere from my phone and I love the outline tool. As soon as I get an idea, I make a new doc and add the idea or outline.

I will write at home, on the bus, on my break at work, anywhere! I'm shameless so I don't mind writing smut next to strangers on a bus or in a cafe 😅 I like to write a chapter out without really focusing on editing, and if there's a moment where I'm struggling to find a way to phrase or talk about something or a word to use, I just bold that section and keep going. Then I'll go back and edit it.

I'll admit, I'm an awful editor LOL I'll go back through and make sure it makes sense (I like to try and find creative ways to get what's in my head on paper and sometimes it just doesn't sound good LOL)

I only recently had people start reading my stuff before posting and I always feel so bad for the grammar of mine they have to endure (To my beta readers, I love you and you're awesome! 💖)

I just have to remind myself that Stephen King had horrible grammar, but incredible stories. That keeps me going hahaha

Posting/Publishing: I am too lazy to go back through and type in the html, so I just hope and pray my italics make it through while copying it to AO3. So far it's cooperated. I've only had to go back and add in italics two or three times.

I like to promote my stuff with sneak peeks before posting fully, and recently I've been addicted to making playlists on spotify for my fics, little collages for when I post a new chapter on tumblr, creating ways for my readers to engage with the story by letting them choose certain things that happen next.

Are you a plotter or a pantser?

Both! 😅

Thirty Moments I planned out. I did have a thirty day OTP prompt I had written for merthur back in like 2014 so I followed that and changed it up a bit to go with acotar/gwynriel, and I knew I wanted the prompts to tell a story as they went along rather than them being one-offs so that required planning. That was my most extensive outline. My other outlines are quick little notes, like a basic idea of what's coming next...some times I follow that and some times it derails completely and I go off course!

BB, NH is very much pantsing. I went into it deciding that's how I'd do it because I wanted to try the method and I really like pantsing!

I think it really depends on the fic for me and how much bandwidth I have for the fic.

What do you listen to when you are writing?

Spotify playlists that fit the vibe of the story, or the playlist I created for the fic!

There's also a guy who plays the trumpet in the park I live next to, so sometimes I'll just listen to that as I write 🤣

What’s your drink of choice (while writing)?

I find my best writing happens in the morning so I'll usually have coffee or tea. In the afternoons if I'm writing it's kind of whatever I'm drinking; water, seltzer, wine...I don't have a specific drink I stick to when writing.

Promote yourself! What’s your favourite thing you’ve written?

Um, all of it? hahahaha no but I really loved Thirty Moments Tell A Story. It was my first major (published - I wrote something right after reading ACOSF and it was basically word vomit, but word vomit with potential so I'm currently editing that lol) Gwynriel fic and I loved the themes I explored.

Share a fic of yours that you think is underrated/deserves more love.

I'm going to shamelessly share FOUR of my one shots that deserve more love:

Please...Stay (because I love some angst with a happy ending)

The Priestess Listened (because Azriel just needs someone to listen to him)

Song of the Shadowsinger (what I think happened *HOFAS spoiler* when Azriel returned without TT)

Getaway Car (I got this idea when driving through Philly...it's the wild west in these mean streets)

Do you have any advice for new writers?

From the inspirational words of Shia LaBeouf: JUST DO IT

Seriously. Write the awful stories. Write the ones you can't get out of your head, or the ones that you only gave a minute of thought to. Writing anything helps you to hone your craft and meld it to what you want it to look like.

Try and write a little everyday. Even if it's a sentence, editing, an idea...anything to keep the juices flowing.

Take your time. Don't rush it.

This part is easier said than done, but don't be hard on yourself. Write because you like to do it, not because you're expecting a million hits or comments or kudos.

Talk with other writers and get their advice.

Read, read, read...seeing other writing helps to fuel and inspire yours!

Take breaks and remember to be kind to yourself!

What is a writing style/technique that others do really well that you'd like to get better at?

I like my smut, but I think I could do better at making it less telling and more showing.

Is there a character you were surprised you enjoyed writing as much as you did?

I like writing about the other Valkyries and giving them personalities. I liked writing Azriel’s mother as well!

I also have Balthazar as a beta in my Valkyrie appreciation week fic and I've only written one line for him so far but I'm already entertained by him 🤣

Thank you for tagging me @sadiegirl2021

No pressure tags: @captain-of-the-gwynriel-ship @oristian @shadowsxgwynriel @foreverinelysian