#please give me your important insight on this matter thank you

[fogwitchoftheevermore]

TERRIBLE NEWS. TUMBLR HAS REMOVED MY ABILITY TO ADD POLLS TO REBLOGS???

anyways. i'm trying to decide where to put skizz and joel in the hermitcraft blaseball au.

skizz's team is already decided (he's on the lovers, duh). yes that's his team in the life series au too, it's not my fault he has a brand. i made these aus before secret life even started.

but joel is harder to decide so i'm giving the choice to you all, who i trust with joel opinions more than i trust myself.

i'll add my reasoning for the teams provided below the cut, alongside a list of all the other options, including which hermits are on which team if putting him on the same team as certain people matters to you.

tokyo lift: other hermits already on the team include stress and false, who i think he'd have a fun dynamic with. i'm pretty sure the lift had a cyberpunk theme, as does joel this season. if he's on the lift i can justify drawing him with a pink streak instead of a green one. i'm also feeding into his ego here and putting him on the strong team.

yellowstone magic: he would be teammates with zed here, and i just think they would be very funny together. i can also justify dying his hair pink here, though it's much more magenta. also i think shrek would've lived in yellowstone. idk it feels right.

kansas city breath mints: i think joel would fit in with them vibes-wise (which is to say i think he would fail the bar exam). but i mostly included the breath mints in the poll because he would be teammates with cleo and gem.

breckenridge jazz hands: it would be pretty funny to shove joel in a room full of band kids, theater kids, resident mean girl iskall eightyfive, and xisuma. just imagine it with me. however. know that if you vote for joel to be on the jands, he will be making a brief cameo in my pearl/netty/jimmy precog trio fic that i'm working on as jimmy's replacement on the jands when he dies. for flavor!

anyways, other options!

hades tigers: only hermit teammate would be exil x, which is inherently a little hilarious. anyways these guys live in hell- not really. but they ARE fireproof!

mexico city wild wings: would make him teammates with hypno. all i really knew about the wings was spicy milk (exactly what it sounds like) and the time they tried to sue the entire league so. keep those facts in mind.

chicago firefighters: would make him teammates with tango. and also he would be a firefighter now. like, the profession. blaze joel afterlife smp likers i feel like this would appeal to you somewhat.

atlantis georgias: would make him teammates with xb. if he ends up on the georgias i'm turning him into a sea creature of some kind, so vote for what creature that is if you vote for this option.

philly pies: no hermit teammates here. all i remember about the pies off the top of my head is that they won the first two seasons of blaseball and then proceeded to never win a championship again.

new york millennials: would make him teammates with mumbo. and also housemates, because all the millennials live in an infinite apartment together, which feels appropriate for magic mountain. i could also make him pink here. however putting him on the mills would require me to type millennials more often, which is a word i cannot ever spell. would you do that to me? (/j)

seattle garages: would make him teammates with joe. one large band. if joel joins the garages i will be making him play the drums, of course. also i'll need to decide which garages song(s) i think he wrote.

dallas steaks: would make him teammates with beef. i don't know if i trust joel at a grill enough for this but i also don't know if i don't trust him.

san fransisco lovers: would make him teammates with ren (team captain), skizz, and wels. wow you've found one of the hermit hot spots. anyways this would put him in a medieval-themed, team-wide polycule.

core mechanics: would make him teammates with doc and keralis. i do think this would be an extremely funny trio. these guys live in the core of the world and build cool robots and things.

hellmouth sunbeams: would make him teammates with impulse. the moab desert fell into a hellmouth in season 1, so all the beams are Weird now. joel joining the beams would also make him Weird.

houston spies: would make him teammates with pearl. netty and jimmy were also spies before they died but idk if that'll be relevant to joel idk when i'm inserting him into these teams. anyways top secret escapades on the spies. also they have a secret base on the moon.

miami dale: would make him teammates with scar. the dale are the party time capital of the world and were the last team to ever make the playoffs, qualifying for the first time in SEASON FIFTEEN OF TWENTY FOUR. they never won an internet series but that's less of an accomplishment.

la unlimited tacos: would make him teammates with grian. the tacos tried to do a strike against god one time (it didn't work out but i respect the commitment)

boston flowers: no hermit teammates here. this was my team when blaseball was running and it would make me happy to put a hermit on it but it doesn't feel right for joel unfortunately. i can be convinced, however.

ohio worms: would make him teammates with wormman (aka zedaph in a disguise) and be coached by tfc. the worms are worms. they're in the dirt. self explanatory.

hawai'i fridays: would make him teammates with bdubs. this is also esmp 1 joel's team in the empires au which isn't relevant but is a fun fact (esmp 2 joel is on the lovers). the fridays have a cool goddess and good vibes. except for that time they all died. don't worry they got better.

canada moist talkers: would make him teammates with etho. i don't know if joel could survive in the cold but maybe i'm wrong maybe he'd be fine. maybe he's withstand it just to stake his claim as #1 ethogirl.

charleston shoe thieves: would make him teammates with cub and jevin. would also (maybe) make him get cursed by god but don't worry about that part, worry about the thieves guild he's joining.

baltimore crabs: would make him teammates with helsknight only. also inherently hilarious. this is the divorcee zone also there's a long dead crab goddess in the chesapeake and if you join the crabs parts of your body will slowly turn into crab. we have fun in baltimore.

[readbymarie]

PAC ෆ Message from your Shadow

Left to Right 1 -> 3

Pick a Card: Message from your Shadow ⌇ This PAC is meant to give you some insight on what you need to hear right now–the things you are intentionally ignoring and don't want to confront. Please take this reading with a grain of salt. Take what resonates!

🌱Book a Reading (Ko-Fi) ☘️Let me know if this resonates with you!

Pile 1

Hi, Pile 1! Right now, you are going through something–something tough, unfamiliar, and even a bit scary. You're trying to push through it, but in doing so, you are ignoring some important signs. You're tired and drained and need a break. You may feel that you need to push on and stay strong for those around you; maybe there's a part of you that feels like you deserve to feel this way and that you need to subject yourself to these hardships. You don't deserve to suffer in silence. It's hard to express yourself sometimes, but it's time you stood up for yourself. This can come in many forms, from physically standing up to speaking up against an oppressor to giving yourself a day of some much-needed self-care. You deserve it. You need to sit down and have an honest conversation about your current situation and how you feel about it rather than constantly trying to repress your emotions. You deserve to feel safe and loved.

TL;DR: You need to listen to your body's needs and take a break.

Pile 2

Hi, Pile 2! You've probably heard this one a lot, but there's definitely something you need to unpack from your childhood. You probably already have a couple of ideas of what that means. That unresolved trauma from your childhood still plagues you today, even though you'd like to pretend that it doesn't. There's really no easy way or a how-to guide to cope with this. You've built some tall walls, and do everything in your power to (not so) gracefully dance around from these memories. You'd silently carry this burden than confide in a friend. There's a part of you that really struggles to connect and trust others. You don't want to open up and get rejected. It's important to remind yourself that you are no longer the same person that you were in the past. Look around, and you'll see that your situation has changed immensely. It doesn't need to be an entire dramatic performance with a meticulously thought-out script; if you feel that you have a person that you can trust in your life–open up to them. If you feel that you don't, consider a journal, or talking to yourself aloud (or even sitting alone with your thoughts). What you really need right now is to give life to the words you've been too fearful to say, and once you do, you'll find that things aren't as scary as you thought.

TL;DR: You should really consider opening up, even if that means talking your emotions out to yourself.

Pile 3

Hi, Pile 3! There is someone or something that you need to move on from. This person/situation hurt you in ways that you never thought you could be hurt. You've cried, gotten angry, and yet still cannot find it within yourself to move on. What you've failed to do is forgive. You don't have to forgive the person or the other people in the situation, but you have to forgive yourself. It doesn't matter if you did literally everything single thing wrong, or if you were just a witness–you need to forgive yourself to heal, and then maybe that forgiveness will extend to other people.

You are not the same person that you were. You've changed, learned, and grown; it may not feel like it right now, but by just enduring whatever situation you dealt with, you've learned something, and you are stronger because of it. Tell yourself that you deserve to be happy and truly mean it–because you do. You have to let yourself feel forgiveness, accept, and heal rather than hold onto the past. It will by no means be easy, but it is something you should work towards.

TL;DR: You need to learn how to forgive yourself and move on from your past.

Thank you for stopping by! Please let me know what Pile you picked and if it resonated with you. As always, my asks and DMs are open!

Divider by @/cafekitsune

[spiritualitygeek]

PAC | Your 2024 In A Nutshell

Disclaimer:

This pac is for entertainment purpose only. I am not liable for any actions or decisions taken or made based on the information presented in the reading. The interpretations and insights are subjective and open to individual perception. Please use your own judgment and intuition when applying the messages to your life or situation. Thank you!

Pile 1

Cards: 6oP rx, QoW, 2oC

With the Six of Pentacles in reverse here, I'm seeing your financial situation hitting rocky roads in 2024. You need to reassess your generosity or be cautious with resources. Refrain from spending or investing thoughtlessly. And most importantly, do not lend money. To anyone be it family or close friends.

Moreover, with the Queen of Wands I see you embodying a strong, charismatic energy, hinting at your ability to take charge and make bold decisions. This is particularly great if you're looking to move out or start a new venture. Or maybe start a new course? Degree? College?

I'm seeing you getting out of your comfort zone and taking charge for doing things that you've been scared till now. Most of y'all might be introvert or would turn 18 this year?

The Two of Cups here indicate deep connection, possibly in relationships or partnerships. Again, I'm seeing you start something new where you'd meet new people and collaborate with them. If you're a student, you'd enrol in college or if you're looking to start new business or anything for that matter. But in my humble opinion, you're gonna find your soulmate this year. It can be a best friend or lover? But you'd surely click with this person like nobody else.

To sum up, in 2024, you may encounter financial fluctuations, urging you to find a balance between giving and receiving. And so, it's highly advisable to approach any challenges with confidence and passion, embracing your leadership qualities. You may as well end up making meaningful connections which are going to last a lifetime. Be it professional or personal.

Stay attuned to your financial choices, ensuring fairness and caution. Embrace the Queen of Wands' boldness to overcome obstacles. Nurture connections, fostering collaborations that bring joy and fulfillment. Remember, balance and confident decisions will be your allies in shaping a rewarding 2024.

Pile 2

Cards: KoW, 6oS, 7oS

In 2024, you're likely to embrace the leadership qualities of the King of Wands, making your way through any situation with confidence. The Six of Swords points to a journey, both physical and metaphorical, indicating positive movement and growth.

However, be cautious of potential challenges or deceptive elements as the Seven of Swords are telling me there are people who are going to backstab you or feel jealous of your growth. When you're growing, and acing it all with confidence and grace, it's natural to attract envy of anyone. Be extra wise and careful with people you keep close. Not everyone has your best interest at heart.

In a nutshell, your year is likely to be a balance of bold decision-making, adaptability during transitions, and a discerning eye to avoid pitfalls. I must say, 2024 is gonna be your year pile 2. Fasten your seatbelts and get ready for the ride. You're gonna enjoy this one.

Although, it's advisable to trust your instincts always, in the face of your problems and in your connections. Sometimes it's important to keep your guards up against certain people. Regardless, you indeed have what it takes to overcome obstacles and lead yourself towards positive change.

Pile 3

Cards: KoS, 5oP, QoS

In 2024, you're advised by the King of Swords to approach challenges with logic and clear thinking. The year ahead requires you to use reasoning over emotions. Because situations would require it with the five of pentacles here. There may be temporary setbacks, a lot of rocky roads throughout the year, but nothing that can't be managed. You may feel often than once that it's too much. You can't bear it. Or that things never go as you wish. Well, they won't. If I'd be honest. This is why you need to stick to reasoning over emotions, to address financial or emotional concerns better. Just because things aren't going the way you want them, doesn't mean they're going to hit a dead end. There's always a door that leads to a better outcome than what you imagined or wished for. Just stop resisting the best by insisting for good. Because that'd lead you to settle for worse.

The Queen of Swords is here for you to guide you with her decisive and perceptive qualities to cut through any confusion and make informed choices. Take this message to your heart and make your mind right now. You won't give up. You won't complain. You will keep pushing! Because things will get better. And you will get the best if you stop resisting what universe has in bags for you.

Overall, be patient and practical in 2024. The year may not be your best year, but it'll indeed be a stepping stone to the best years ahead. Have faith! Don't be a quitter. Be a fighter.

You can overcome any obstacles with a combination of intellectual clarity and emotional resilience. Utilize your analytical skills, address challenges systematically, and make decisions with a discerning mind. Maintaining a sharp focus and clear communication with yourself will be essential in navigating the year successfully.

Thank you all for taking the time to read my pac. I hope the insights resonated with you and provided some guidance. If you found this helpful, I'd be grateful if you consider following me for more spiritual content and future tarot readings. Wishing you all love, light, and positivity on your journey! ✨

- With love, Snow ❄️

Enjoyed the reading? Tip me here~

[foreststranger]

DAN HENG ∙ IMBIBITOR LUNAE - Colliding to Catharsis and Reigning The Clouds

ꜱᴛᴀʀʀɪɴɢ *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ

↳ 『honkai: star rail』dan heng (imbibitor lunae form) x gn!reader

ꜱʏɴᴏᴘꜱɪꜱ *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ

↳ a sequel to my other post (read it here), basically meeting ur reincarnated lover

𑁍 ᴡᴏʀᴅ ᴄᴏᴜɴᴛ: 0.7k

ɴᴏᴛᴇ ꜰʀᴏᴍ ᴀᴜᴛʜᴏʀ *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ

↳ GUYS IM BACKK!!! SORRY FOR BEIGN GONE FOR 7 MONTHS BUT ILL POST MORE NOW I PROMISE. SORRY THIS IS SO SHORT. PLEASE SEND IN SOME MORE REQUESTS.

“Well, thanks for helping me out, Trailblazer! I’ll be sure to visit you and the others on the Astral Express. But, uh… before you go, do you mind if I asked you something?” You take a step closer to them. Their soft grey hair rustles in the wind, swaying with a quiet solemness. The same way Dan Feng’s did the last time you saw him; when he told you of his departure and some grave sin he had committed.

“Would it be alright if you could… tell me more about this ‘Dan Heng’ you mentioned?” When they had first said his name, you felt an odd sense of familiarity. A cord deep within your being was plucked, playing a wistful song that has remained in your mind ever since it left you. This was who your heart has yearned for all these years. Dan Heng. Is that his new name?

Do you really even want to see him again? After you discovered what he had done? A traitor of the Xianzhou, a disgrace to the Vidyadhara. A sinner. But most of all, a man who had betrayed you and your future together.

“There’s not much to say about him. He doesn’t talk a lot but he means well.” It was a vague answer and didn’t give you much insight. Though, if you stretched it, it would sound similar to how Dan Feng was.

“What does he look like?” It was a shot in the dark. Reincarnations don’t always look like their past selves, but you had to at least ask. After all, that name…

“That’s a weird question. Why?“

You shrug.

“He has black hair, about this tall,” they reach their hand up to slightly above their own height. “and blue eyes. But recently, his appearance changed.”

You were too busy thinking to catch their last throwaway sentence. From the description alone, you could already feel Dan Feng’s presence in the air. It was as if the fateful string that bound you two together had finally lured you to him.

It was him, it was really him. He looked a little different — more meek, colder eyes, odd posture — but you could tell that it was him. He stared you down with a strange look, something between confusion and embarrassment.

“Dan Feng…” You can’t help but murmur, a hand reaching out for him. He was a sinner, but he was your lover too, once. He jolted at the sound of his name. Why? Why was he so scared of himself? He brushed your hand away, now avoiding your gaze.

“I’m… I’m not Dan Feng. He’s been gone for a long time.”

“But it’s still you… deep down, isn’t it? I can feel it. You’re still you.”

“I am Dan Heng.”

You frowned at this, unsure of what to say next. Who else could it be? Even reincarnated, you knew it was him. And he knew it was you, didn’t he?

“Do you know who I am, Dan Heng?” The name felt nasty on your tongue, leaving a horrid taste of longing.

“…I know that you must’ve been important to him.”

Tears well as you grab for him, when he makes contact, it’s a burst of emotions. Relief, a catharsis of sorts, but also a horrible feeling of mourning. This wasn’t him. It wasn’t Dan Feng. Like he said, Dan Feng was long gone.

Soft hands lay on your hair. You could tell he was unsure of what to do, having a stranger cling to him like this.

“You… he… he made a promise to me. That we’d meet again in his next life… and that we’d live out the future we never got to have. Do you… remember that? Do you have his memories?”

“I… maybe. Nothing is very clear.”

“I promised him that no matter who he was, where I’d find him, I’d love him all the same. But… he’s gone now, isn’t he?” Sure, this Dan Heng was his reincarnation, but it wasn’t really him. He didn’t have his memories, or his love, or that spark in his eyes, or the fire in his heart. And… that was okay. You pulled away from the hug, finally content with this ending as you wiped away tears.

“I’m sorry, really. I’m sorry that he couldn’t keep that promise to you.”

ask before translating, taking inspo from (not copy), reposting, etc. my work. remember to credit me and if you’re taking inspo from it, please @ me as I’d like to see what you do with my ideas!

[way-of-love]

The Heat of Adam (Teth-Adam x FemReader) (SPOILERS) (R-RATED) (PART 2)

Alright guys, here's PART 2! I've been quite sick so please bare with me as I try to write these beautiful ideas on my laptop! Also thank you so much to those who truly found this story a good read, love you all!!

And yes there will be a part 3!

PART 1 PART 3

-Currently you are the sister-in-law to Isis, the woman who found the tomb of Teth-Adam. You are the sister of the deceased husband of Isis and the only living aunt of Among, Isis and your brothers son. You felt for Adam during your time with him knowing all along that he was filled with more good than bad. During your journey with him and your family, you finally knew you cared for him more than you should...-

After internally admitting your feelings for the hero you were now waiting for the perfect moment to admit how you felt to him. You knew it would be difficult, especially knowing his past and what the poor man went through with his previous family. Not that you were saying you’d want to start one with him but, you know, maybe he could start something with you?  

You were with him hours ago when he admitted to wanting to spend more time with you. That, you obviously didn’t deny. He sat with you at the foot of the throne talking and giving you an insight into his past, even spoke briefly about his wife and son that he thought he allowed to die. That, he blamed himself for. You knew there was nothing he could’ve done, or anyone for that matter because after all everyone was still human. For him, it was a mistake he truly wasn’t going to make again. And he made that perfectly clear to you. He confessed he enjoyed speaking to you about anything and everything and he was grateful for the things your family had done for him and you for always being there and showing you how the world changed, how his world has changed.  

Then it came to the hardest thing you think he had to do yet, he confessed that he would have to go away for a while and discuss a few things with ‘important’ people. And he won’t be back until those discussions are over. In your mind you thought the Justice League finally snatched him up, but he quickly shut that idea down when it presented itself with Superman. Khandaq only had a hero for a few days and already the world was snatching him for itself, well the damn Justice League was. And you, left with nothing but the ghost of him until he returns.  

First, you brother was taken and killed, your nephew gets kidnapped but thankfully saved and now the only man you’ve ever felt something for was leaving. Oh, how cruel the world could be. 

You sat in the living room early that morning when Adam dropped you off through the hole in the wall by the shabby balcony, saying he’d visit before he departed. After spending those few hours just talking to him and hanging by the thread trying not to fall asleep, he called it a day and flew you home where you found yourself more awake than ever after he flew away. 

You were in a dream-like state replaying the conversation earlier that morning before the sun rose. He kept telling you that when he returned, he’d be a better man than how he was currently. He even asked you to wait for him... did that mean he liked you too? You wanted to ask him so much what he meant by what he said but you couldn't muster up the words to do so. 

“Auntie? When did you get home? I didn’t hear you come in,” Amon, holding his skateboard under one arm and his backpack slung over the other. He looked ready to start his day as usual.  

You glanced back at him with a small smile, even reached a handout for him that he took without hesitation. Though he was a tad confused and a bit worried, you were the fun aunt not the mood dampening aunt. Looking at him reminded you why you never had kids of your own, too much emotion was needed to raise a child and you thought you could never do it in your line of work. But seeing Amon like this caring and comforting you made you realize maybe one kid wouldn’t hurt. After all, if your brother could raise a family, why couldn’t you? 

“Are...you okay auntie?” His brows furrowed in concern while the corner of his mouth tilted up trying to smile a bit hoping to ease this atmosphere of longing you created.  

“After the events of yesterday I’m more than alright. I was so glad that we saved you before anything worse happened. Adam...Black Adam is a hero, without him I’m not sure we’d save you,” Amon smiled warmly at you before dropping to one knee beside where you sat placing his skateboard down and looking up at you. 

“You saved me too, Auntie. You’re a hero too. After dad...died. It was hard on both me and mom, but mom took it the hardest. Then you started living with us and it felt like Dad never left. You helped mom find justice for him and while you did that, you guys found Teth- Adam! I mean, you are the reason he even stayed here in Khandaq,” Amon looked more bewildered with every word that left his mouth. It warmed your heart seeing him like this, and it was all thanks to Adam. Though one thing did stick out about what he said.  

With furrowed brows you asked him, “What do you mean he stayed because of me? He stayed because this is all he’s known...for the time being,”  

Amon gave you a knowing look and shook his head, he looked like he had a secret he wasn’t going to tell you,” Auntie, Black Adam wouldn’t have stayed here in the city if it weren't for you,” The young boy stood back up and placed a solemn hand on your shoulder feigning pity, “Just wait ‘till he tells you because I don’t like meddling in adult stuff.” 

You sat there staring pan faced at your nephew trying to understand what exactly this kid was saying at eight or nine in the morning. Your brain wasn’t functioning quickly enough for him, so he shakes his head, picks up his skateboard and heads towards the apartment door. 

“Amon you better not be pulling my leg here or I swear no more late-night secret comms tapping.” Slowly you came to a stand and narrowed your tired eyes at him and all he did was snicker. 

“Auntie, I’m not sure if adults still call it this but... Black Adam does like you. He’s just, how do you say, like a rock. Stubborn and doesn’t admit it easily like a normal person just give him time.” 

You didn’t realize it then, but Teth- Adam left a big mark in not only your life but in your families lives as well. It was going to be a hard... goodness however long he was going to be away. You just hoped by the time he comes back things, feelings will be the same and that finally you could tell him just how much you care for him. 

------------------------------------ 

ONE YEAR AND A FEW MONTHS LATER  

As it turns out after saving a few cities with the help of the Justice League Black Adam was getting a handle of this superhero stuff. But the damage, the intel you worked for, was taken for granted. You had hoped that he wouldn’t be over glorified like all those red, white, blue washed heroes but turns out he was slowly becoming just like them.  

The real heroes were the ones who rebuilt, sacrificed their very lives for information that delt damage to their enemies. Who killed their enemy. Yet, the root of evil keeps coming back with more heads after one was slain. So many people suffered because of these decisions, people without power never lasted long in this world, it just wasn’t fair.  

Now, you who worked for a secret organization had an insight into everything these heroes did thanks to a leak in Amandas Wallers systems, you knew what the heroes knew so that meant your organization did too. With vital information like this you could easily sell it to the highest bidder on the blackest market known to man or do the good thing and use it to your advantage. Of course, you were the good doer and used it to better the lives of people who were done wrong by heroes and their mottos.  

Shifting the black hot liquid in the mug you and Isis, your sister-in-law, watched the news in your new boxed tv. Her brother managed to scrape together some electronic parts to fix a semi modern tv up. Amon was currently in school, so he didn’t have that pleasure to witness the little surprise that was in store for the adults that morning.  

After a year of a no call no letter and even a no show of Adam you simply gave up. You tried to contact him without raising suspicion or alarms in your direction, but you heard nothing back from him. Even when you went away to America on a solo mission, you were so close to his floating form that you called to him, but he did not answer. Right then you knew this was not the Black Adam that asked you to wait for him, this was Americas Black Adam. And with a heavy heart you accomplished your mission and returned home heartbroken and confused. Why’d he ignore you like that? You knew there was nothing wrong with his hearing. He was superhuman! He chooses to ignore you that day. 

It took you weeks to get over that ache in your chest, you went on missions, took under the table jobs until you ended up hurting yourself on a dangerous info retrieval mission by Russia. You were in an arm cast for months, last week the doctor gave the okay and removed it. Isis was also scolding you about how much you’ve been working, that if you worked too hard, you’ll land in an early grave…just like your older brother. It hurt but it was true. He lived his life trying to free Khandaq and died trying so hard to do so. You’ll be next if you don’t take a break. 

After a few calls and Amons complaints to you, you decided to take a month off to…relax. Now at a different apartment further from the city and closer to Isis’s new teaching job in the university, you ran the house for her. The freed city gave her the job she lost back with more privileges, meaning this spacious apartment and higher pay. Amon was taking full advantage of the time he had now that his mother was working at the university; going out exploring more of the ruins before his mother came home, discovering more hidden nooks and crannies inside the apartment building. You always thought he was a smart kid, so you gave him a time limit to do so. 

He reminded you so much of you and your brother when you both were just children. As you cleaned up around the kitchen you noticed the picture Isis kept of the small family when your brother first moved in with her. The four of you, Isis, your brother, and her brother were piled onto a tiny kitchen table with open boxes everywhere filled with dishes or glasses. Isis was pregnant with Amon during that time and didn’t know, that’s what made the picture so sweet. Everyone was in it. Everyone except Adam. 

With a heavy sigh you placed the picture back on the small fridge replaying the memories you had in that one tiny apartment when you heard the front door of the apartment open. Immediately you thought Amon was home, so you spoke without looking up from the picture. 

“Dinner’s ready Amon, make sure to wash up and put your skateboard away. Also, dust off whatever dirt you may have so,” You turned around to face Amon, “That your mom…doesn’t…” 

Your words trailed off when you noticed Amon wasn’t the only one standing in the doorway. The big, tall familiar being wearing a dark hood over his head stood there behind a nervous looking Amon. 

He quickly came inside and went straight to you grabbing your arm and shaking it lightly. But your attention stayed fixated on the man who had your heart standing by the now closed door of the shared apartment. You were shocked to see him and even more shocked that he had the audacity to come back. 

“Auntie! Auntie! He came back, Teth Adam came back!” Your poor nephew sounded excited or relieved, you didn’t feel any of that whatsoever. In fact, you felt…angry that he was here. How dare he show up and not even to you or to his people but to your nephew. The one person he knew wouldn’t push him away because of how long he’s been gone.  

“How…How dare you come back?” The words were out your mouth before you could stop them. You saw how his shoulders tensed under his fucking cloak as if what you said hurt him. Oh please. You crossed your arms under your chest and tilted your head as if to say, ‘Explain yourself now.’ 

Amon stood in front of you looking like a kid caught awkwardly in a fight between his married parents. He shuffled closer to you and looked up into your furious eyes,” Auntie, I saw him by the old apartment. He was looking for us, who knows how long he was looking for us!” There he goes justifying the heroes' actions. 

“Khandaq isn’t that big. If he was and wanted to look for us, he’d find us by now on his own,”  

“Auntie please- “ 

“Amon,” His deep voice shook your bones and warmed your core. “Let me talk to your aunt. There’s a lot that needs to be said and I won’t shy away from this confrontation,” 

“Look at you using big hero words,” A scoff left your mouth. 

You guessed that’s all Amon needed and nodded. Adjusting his backpack that was slung over his shoulder he began to head towards the living room but not before stopping by Adam and giving him his own warning a childlike one, “Try not to hurt my aunt again this time.” And he disappeared into the living room. 

The two of you were left, him by the door and you in the kitchen. But you suppose the distance wasn’t a fitting one so Black Adam decided to close that distance and walk slowly, not usually like him, into the kitchen. That stupid hood still covered most of his face except for below his nose so you couldn’t see exactly what he was thinking or see how he was feeling. He now stood a few feet from you peering at you no doubt from under his hood. It was annoying. 

You released an exasperated sigh and raised a hand to pinch the bridge of your nose, “Are you going to leer at me or are you going to give me an explanation? Why’d you suddenly leave without a proper goodbye and not even bother to acknowledge my presence? Did you find an American woman and decided to leave your life behind here? What?” You didn’t realize the tone of your voice was rising until Isis’s brother peeked over at you from the living room with Amon who was also wide eyed. You rarely yelled and when you did it was either while playing a game with Amon or yelling during your own missions but never like this, not when you were upset. 

Being tense like this wasn’t good for the heart. You relaxed a bit well as much as you could while having the man that almost broke your heart standing before you. 

“I know you're upset with me. And you have every right to be. I made you a promise that I intended to keep but I broke it instead,” He reached up and slowly removed his black hood revealing his face to you finally, after a year and some months you saw his face. He looked the same but his dark eyes...they looked so worn. As if he hasn’t slept in days, no scratch that month.  

Without hesitation you raised your hands and cupped his cheeks, worry written all over your face, “What in the world happened to you? Did they send you out into space or something? Adam...you look so bad,”  

He closed his eyes briefly and you felt the way he gently nudged his cheek into your palm some. “I told you, I wanted to come back a changed man. And I did accomplish that,” You only shook your head and took your hands back. A changed man wouldn’t just leave, ignore the person who clearly freed him from that stupid prison, never contact you when he clearly knows you’ve been trying to contact him. Nor does he suddenly come back out of the blue and try to mend things back to how they were. He must’ve seen how conflicted you were, so he didn’t bother reaching for you, he gave you space.  

“I know I have no excuse for the way I acted. Nor do I have an excuse for communicating with you about where I was, when I’d be back,” You didn’t bother to look up at his face now because if you did, you’d probably fold and tell him that it was okay when clearly it wasn’t. He knew how you felt you made it pretty obvious to him when you were helping him run around the city after you freed him with Isis. And for some strange reason your nephew knew Black Adam had a crush or liked you, yet after the whole year of not hearing a single response or even a look of acknowledgment in America to feel reassured that he was the same Adam that flew you to your home that beautiful morning. But you got nothing. Did he even like you? Was that even a thing? 

You felt a thick warm finger tuck under your chin and forced your head up, now you were looking up into those dark eyes that seemed to hold so much emotion as clear as day. Some may think he was glaring down at you and others may think he was plotting your death but for you, for you he looked like he was trying to show you how sorry he felt.  

“I tried to protect you. No one knows you as a spy, they only know you as Y/N the person who helped liberate Khandaq and freed me. If I showed any more interest, then I’d be freeing you from your own prison right now,” He spoke low and close to you. No one knew what you really did as an occupation, it was dangerous work and you only told Adam because...you were head over heels for the brute and truthfully no one would truly believe him, unless...unless he showed interest and Waller decided to investigate. Squeezing your eyes shut it dawned to you that what he was saying was absolutely true. And here you were yelling at him like some kid in middle school all because your feelings were hurt. You must stop hanging with your nephew so much. 

“Adam I... I’m so sorry, I wasn’t even thinking about that. I was just—I didn’t know what I was thinking,” Apology after apology left your lips and all he did was cup your delicate cheeks with his calloused palms and smile, he genuinely smiled down at you.  

“Y/N, there's no need for apologies. You did what you felt and... you thought you were doing the right thing. I, on the other hand, will need to apologize,” Adam leaned in closer to you, shoulders hunched a bit, and he was blocking most of your view from the living room and blocking the view to you.  

Brows furrowed you looked at him confused while cradling his wrists with your hands, “Apologize? You were just protecting me Adam,” Now he was getting a little too close, but you couldn’t jerk your head back even if you wanted to.  

“No, for this,” It didn’t take long for you to put the pieces together as to what he meant but when you did his lips were already on yours. Surprise wasn’t the word to describe how you felt. Excited? In awe? Shocked? Maybe all the above. He was kissing you, really kissing you! This wasn’t a dream...this was real. You slowly closed your eyes and let his slightly chapped lips mold against your softer ones. You’ve dreamt of this day for such a long time and now that it was happening you didn’t know where to put your hands or even breathe. But Adam did. 

He lowered one of his hands to your waist then your hip while your hands slid down his forearms feeling the thick barbed muscle and went straight to those broad shoulder you absolutely drooled over. As big as he was, he sure was gentle. Though you were glad that didn’t stop him from taking the initiative and pushing the kiss up another notch. A tongue gently glided across your bottom lip causing you to stop and open your eyes encountering two dark chocolate orbs staring right back at you half lidded.  

“I apologize,” His voice was hoarse when he whispered, it sent a shiver down your spine. As quickly as he apologized just as quickly his tongue slipped between your awaiting lips crashing against your own tongue. A sudden moan left your lips when you finally got to taste him which in turn made him make a low groan himself. Your tongues were clashing against one another in a heated wet battle of who was sorrier than who but you both knew that wasn’t it. This passionate, desperate kiss was long overdue and now that it was time to collect you both were like teenagers making out.  

His hands no longer respectfully stayed in their PG stations, they now roamed and gripped wherever they could. Gripping your sides, your hips before sliding back and finally cupping your plentiful rear. You were thankful you were wearing shorts because you were able to feel his rough hands upon the skin of your thighs. You pulled at his cape over his shoulders wanting him to be closer, closer than skin. That's what you wanted.  

It wasn’t until he slid his hand back down your thigh and gripped it pulling it up over his hip, you were now flushed against him. Groin against groin and you felt just how happy he was to be kissing you in your sister-in-law's kitchen. Goodness, were you really going to do it here? In the kitchen?  

“What in the hell is going on in here?” Isis’s voice broke you out of your trance causing you to jump and stare wide eyed at Adam who looked like he was about to dive in for another kiss. Luckily you stopped him with a shove to his chest, but he didn’t budge, wouldn't budge. Slowly you stood on your toes on the leg that was touching the ground to peer over at Isis over his shoulder.  

“Um-- Adam is uh... he’s back,” Your other leg was still being held captive by his hand keeping it pressed to his hip. 

“Clearly,” Isis crossed her arms looking at the two of you standing in her kitchen with disapproval written all over her face. “I’ll give you both five minutes and then I want to see you two in the living room.” And with that she turned, giving the two of you some privacy again. 

“We can do a lot in five minutes lets-” Quickly you swatted at his shoulders and shoved him away, red all over your cheeks. 

“Five minutes my ass! Go, get to the living room!” Honestly, it wasn’t possible to do anything in five minutes with a normal person but with Adam, you were hoping a lot could be done in less. 

[fellshish]

Weird question, maybe?

What do you think you would recommend when you feel depression (and you're under treatment and all that), to love drawing art and writing again? I mean, there are some videos that inspire you or stuff like that? I have read your fic and recs and would love to be back into writing and all that 💕

Thank you for trusting me with such a vulnerable question. I applaud your choice to be in therapy, and i’m going to assume you’ve asked your therapist for helpful steps in this, too? If not, that could be a good idea since they know your personal circumstances.

I’m not a therapist. Please keep that in mind. But i too have struggled with long absences from creating, so i can give you some insights in how i came back from that.

An important thing is practicing kindness to myself. Of course, that’s far from easy. But if i don’t create? I forgive myself. If i was going to write and i didn’t? Well it’s a hobby, not a job, and i should only do it if it’s (mostly) fun. No matter how many days i haven’t written — it’s ok. That’s what i repeat to myself: it’s ok, and you will write when you want to.

Your mind might be too clouded with depression right now to create. That’s ok — it needs all the energy for healing from that. You’re doing that, and that’s already amazing.

Here’s what i also give myself permission for: to do things badly. To suck ass. To write horribly. As long as i’m having fun, who cares. If i wish to share my writing in the future i can always edit it. Whip it into shape. But at first, in the process? I am writing for me, and it’s allowed to be terrible. Again, i am not being paid, this is my creative outlet, i am doing this for fun.

You ask what inspires me. I’ve thought about it and, well, a lot does. I mostly get ideas (or solutions for ideas that are stuck) when i am doing other things, like doing dishes, or going on walks, or cleaning, or showering. That’s when suddenly something locks into place in my brain that’s been turning around without me even knowing.

And what inspires me to create (again), is other art. Reading books or graphic novels. Reading a funny or heartbreaking fic. Admiring fanart. But also going to a museum, a local drag show, a concert, … watching other artists extract joy from doing what they do. I get inspired by films, often too about artists, like dead poets society. Or i’ve started writing poetry again after reading a destiel au about a poet trying to find inspiration again after a long absence and struggling with self confidence. Fandom specific: rewatching the thing you want to create for, helps.

Reading about writing and listening to podcasts about writing, especially where writers talk about their insecurities, has also been helpful. Bird By Bird by Anne Lamott i found interesting. How to fail often has writer guests and is specifically about how failings and imposter syndrome have been part of even the most successful people’s careers. The writer files and The writers panel are interesting podcasts on writing as well.

I think my advice to you would be, take small steps. Forgive yourself every time along the way. Make a list of things that you love reading about and think of a way to put that in a blender for a story that will excite you. Allow yourself to write a bad first draft. To draw something imperfect. Fuck all the rules.

And start with short periods of creating. It’s a marathon not a sprint. Art is you, so you, it’s your self expression and though it might change over the years, it’s always yours. You can’t lose it. It’s still in there.

I hope this helped. Best of luck.

[desertfangs]

"Years ago", Armand interrupted, "it wouldn't have mattered to me, all this".

"What do you mean?"

"But I don't want it to end now. I don't want to continue unless you--" His face changed slightly. Faint look of surprise. "I don't want you to die".

Csually going insane over this on a Thursday afternoon because WHAT THE HELL, this is totally the moment for me where Armand went from being a quasi-villain to one of the most sympathetic, lovable characters in all of VC. The moment where the needle drops for him and he has that once in a lifetime realization about the redeeming qualities of love, and how his love for Daniel and Daniel's love for him meant that he all of a sudden he had a reason to live, and began to care about the possible demise of his kind (and of himself) a result, because it jeopardized his future with his lover. And the mere thought of Daniel dying? Unconcievable. Absurd. Out of the question. Loving that man saved him in every way that a person can be saved. Sorry for dumping all of this on you, I'm in my feels over them!!!

ANON!! 😭😭 I read this at work earlier today and I've been thinking about it ever since. Please always feel free to share your Armand/Daniel feels with me! I love it!

This moment is so important and means so much to me, and it means so much for Armand's character. The fact that he makes the choice to turn Daniel rather than let him die, and give up his long-held vow and conviction that he would never do so, all because he loves him too much to face the world without him in it is just... amazing. I really do think theirs is the best love story in the series because they both grow and change so much together.

Daniel goes from feverish and desperate for the blood because he wants to be a vampire and live forever, to desperate for the blood because he wants to live with Armand forever, and finally in that moment is resigned to die in Armand's arms because he knows Armand can't or won't do it. He's just happy Armand is there with him and he's not alone, but with the person he loves.

Armand goes from wandering alone and lurking in the shadows barely existing and not even caring if he meets his demise, to diving headfirst into modern life with Daniel and he learns to love someone, and learns that he can make mistakes in that love and they're not world ending. He learns to love and be loved and in the end, he realizes that love isn't something he can let go of. That he wants to keep it in the world and keep going.

I do think Armand, on some level, knew he wouldn't let Daniel die before this, but how much he let himself really understand that is debatable. I think here in this moment, faced with the very real prospect of losing him for good, he realizes how much he wants his life to continue with Daniel in it, because he's found himself and learned to be his own person and found that love at the same time. It's the most beautiful sentiment.

Honestly, all of DM gets me all the time but the scene where he turns Daniel just kills me because it's so beautifully written and you can feel their emotions so vividly. It makes me so happy I could sob (and often do!)

Thank you so much for the ask and the feels, anon! I feel like there's something more intelligent or insightful I should say about this but work has mashed my brain into pulp so this will have to do and I sure hope it's coherent. 💖

[k-s-morgan]

I cannot even begin to comprehend the weight of the alienation and numbness you’re facing, but I just wanted to let you know that even when I am not thinking about hp or fandom-related matters, I periodically check in on your blog.

I also know that it might be exhausting to provide updates sometimes, especially when words seem flimsy beside the magnitude of grief. Don’t feel obligated to share anything that is going to be mentally taxing, like you are indebted to your followers, or guilty for doing what you must do to preserve your energy. I Do like to hear from you, to know that you’re okay, but if this ever ceases to be a distraction please do not be upset at yourself for tuning out or like you need to be giving us more of anything. Your sanity is more important (as ridiculous as that is, in such an insane world.) Much love to you, your family, your friends, and your pets ❤️ You are one of the many reasons why I refuse to allow anyone I know to become apathetic about this.

Hi! Thank you so much for your wonderful, supportive words... it means a lot to me to hear this. I really appreciate your compassion and understanding. I do find solace in writing, and I still hope to update this week, but yeah, sometimes it's very hard :( Some days, all I can think about is my basic survival, and this really sets me back. The numbness and the fear get so overwhelming occasionally.

On the other hand, hopefully, it will give me a lot of insights for my future writing! Because some ideas occur to you only when you live through something like the war with its daily doses of cruelty.

Thank you again, seeing your ask was like a soothing balm. I'm hoping for a quiet night.

[chocosvt]

hi choco! i'm so excited to see you back on my tl; i've missed you and your god-tier fics & i'm super duper excited to read your wonwoo fic as well (140k words? we will all be well fed fr 🤲)

i had a little rant? not exactly rant but something that's been itching my mind a bit haha, i hope you don't mind me sharing it with you! i genuinely want some advice over this.

as a long fic writer, how do you consistently come back to writing your fic without getting bored? i looooove writing long fics too (big lover of slowburn and angst lol) but i always get so impatient and bored of writing the story so quickly :(

i'd posted a teaser for a fic a while back and it got a good amount of traction (something i will always be grateful for) and someone asked me when i would release the full fic, to which i gave them a tentative date. fast forward to the day before the day i said i would post the fic and you have me typing out paragraphs upon paragraphs of stuff that i absolutely loathe in my writing. i ended up posting the fic anyway, but it's been only a day and i already want to take it down—not bc it's not getting any attention, because it is, but more so bc i hate that fic and would do anything to rewrite it.

iirc your joshua fic, 'best friend's brother' was a rewrite of a fic you'd written earlier, right? was your thought process similar to this? where did you start your rewriting process from? did you have any second thoughts when you took it down the first time?

i'm really sorry if this is too many questions 😅 please take your time if you do choose to answer this! much love and have a great day, choco!!! thank you so much :)

(is it alright if i use an emoji to sign off so i can find this ask later?)

— 🍫

first of all, THANK U SO MUCH <3

and i don't mind at all! these are rly insightful questions :o though i'll just chunk my answers a bit so i'm not all over the place.

not getting bored to be honest, i'm not sure if i ever "get bored" of writing out the plot. but i definitely get burnt out, and sometimes i get downright sick of reviewing my own writing, to the point where i just have to close my laptop and walk away. i think the most important & overarching piece of advice i can give--not just in terms of long fics but any fic for that matter--is to never force anything & take breaks!

when i'm busy at uni, there are like 5 month breaks where i don't bother writing at all. i always think that the second i have free time, i should theoretically want to write, but sometimes i just don't. and i make peace with it bc i know the second i force anything i will end up hating it (also takes the fun & enjoyment out of the process).

i think if you're getting bored, it's probably a sign that your body & mind just isn't interested in writing at the moment. so i would step away & take a break and attempt to get your mind off the plot. i think that taking a break also invigorates your mind a bit and gives you newer, better ideas (at least from my experience).

bfb rewrite the reason i rewrote best friend's brother was bc the og fic was from 2016, when my writing style was completely different. i still liked the concept but naturally, as my writing grew, i just detested the way the old ver was written, which spurred me to create the rewrite.

i wanted to give the characters a lot more depth & beef up the plot, so the new fic is actually a lot different in comparison to the old one. i wasn't attempting to do a scene-for-scene rewrite--it was simply just my approach to an old concept that i felt i could now execute better.

as to how i went abt rewriting it, i just picked out moments from the old fic that i liked and built around them. for instance, i rly liked the "skipping stones" scene that shows some intimacy & tenderness between joshua and reader. but it can't just happen out the gate. so i had to figure out the typical "why, when, and how is this moment happening right now?" from scratch.

the thing with long fics for me, it honestly is a test of patience & dedication!! bc it can truly be so frustrating :( a lot of times, you want to jump right into the good parts bc those are like the shiny glimmers that make the fic attractive. but depending on how impactful you want those moments to be, build-up is sooooo key! the thing is, build-up is just so critical in my opinion, but it can also be such a pain to write :p

i find when i review my writing, these are scenes i criticize or change the most--more than the big, hard-hitting scenes. bc to me, it's such a specific thing that you have to nail down justttt right. it's a lot of thinking and finagling and i think this process is what i dread the most? especially when it refuses to turn out how you want it--ugh, so discouraging!! but once you get it's like a silky flowy river!!

the big takeaways (i guess?) 1. taking breaks is so important! 2. don't force anything xxxx 3. take the big moments & build around them i totallyyyyy understand your frustration!! there have been so many moments where i'm like I NEED TO WRITE AHHHHH and then i promptly open the document only to sit there, blankly read a few sentences, and then get this rly big sinking feeling in my gut that is essentially telling me "never mind" and honestly i just listen to it bc if i'm gonna close & open the document 10 times in a row i obviously don't want to write. i'm just searching for something fulfilling and clearly not finding it in the task at hand so i should do smth else.

THIS IS EXTREMELY LENGTHY AND I''M BEYOND SORRY, but i hope somewhere amongst this mumbo jumbo there was something that stood out & may give you a bit of closure!

[skylarmoon71]

Patrick Jane (Mentalist) - Chapter 7

It’s a bit easier to breathe. While you’re still a bit skeptical of Jane’s explanation, there really isn’t any other.

His theory has given you a change of perspective. If it is true, then there might be other people out there just like you. The idea brings a strange sense of comfort. It’s similar to how you feel around Jane. You can’t help but wonder if you’re both connected in some weird way. He did repel your abilities, so it isn’t that far fetched. You try to push it to the back of your mind as you meet with Lisbon. 

It’s your monthly evaluation. 

“Good morning Boss.” 

“Good morning, take a seat.” 

You do as instructed, waiting patiently for any corrections or improvements that she’s about to inform you of. 

“You’re a great addition to our team. I have to say I’m impressed. Not just for your insight, but you do a good job of keeping an eye on Jane. At this point I really just need good babysitters.” 

You laugh at that. 

“I appreciate the compliment. These past three months have been very helpful. I’ve been learning a lot from everyone, especially Jane.” 

“I’m glad to hear it. I hope we continue to work well together.” 

You expect her to say something else, but she doesn’t. You raise a brow. 

“Is that all?” 

“Were you expecting something else?” 

“A lecture at least. My old captain had one for every meeting I had with him.” 

Lisbon smiles. 

“It’s obvious that your old captain was fond of you, otherwise he wouldn’t have spent the time giving you pointers.” 

“He’s a bit of a control freak.” You inform. 

“Well it’s clear that his method worked. You’re an exceptional agent.” 

That comment actually makes you blush. You nod as she dismisses you. It’s no surprise that Jane meets you the second you close the door. You jump at the sudden appearance. 

“Shit! Don’t do that!” 

He’s just wearing that grin. 

“She complimented you, didn't she? I can tell because you're blushing.” 

“Please don’t make me disappoint her by shooting you Jane.” 

“You wouldn’t do that, you like me too much. “ 

“Try me.” 

He narrows his eyes playfully and you can only smile. 

“Nah, that would be too much work.” 

“Really, that’s what would bother you. I’m appalled. Appalled I say.” 

He continues to complain dramatically straight to the point that you make it back to the bullpen. You’re so distracted by Jane that you don’t make out the man before you until you stumble into him. He steadies you and your instinct is to apologize. However, the first thing you notice is that he’s holding your arms and you aren’t bombarded by thoughts. 

“Jack’s play is tomorrow. I need to take time off.” 

You hear just one conscious thought. He’s looking right at you, but it takes a minute for you to process that his mouth is moving. 

“Are you alright?” 

You nod frantically and he releases you. 

Not that you’re looking at him you finally take in how attractive this man is. Tall, dark hair, stoic face. He’s a replica of Cho in a sense. 

It’s kind of hot to be honest. 

Not that you would ever tell this man, or Cho for that matter.

“Sorry, I’m usually more coordinated. Is there something I can help you with?” 

Jane is at your side just observing. 

“My name is SSA Aaron Hotchner, I’m here to see Agent Lisbon.” 

As if on cue she walks in. 

“Aaron, thanks for stopping by.” 

He nods at her as they shake hands. 

“I was in the area after a case. I was advised to pass on any information on Red John. I wanted to deliver it personally. It seemed important. I hope this helps.” 

Jane is fully invested now and Lisbon takes the file.

“Thank you, this means a lot.” 

“No problem.” 

He turns. 

“It was nice meeting you.” 

“Y-Yes, you too. Thank you.” He nods, heading out. 

“We’ll be doing a briefing tomorrow on the new information.” 

“Yes Boss.” 

They all agree, but your eyes are still fixed in the direction of Hotchner. 

“Why are you still staring at that guy?” Jane asks.

When you look over, all eyes are trained on you. 

“I-I wasn’t staring.”

“Yes and now you’re stuttering. You think he’s hot.” 

“Shut up Jane!” 

“Hah, that’s a yes. You secretly like the brooding types don’t you?” 

“I’m not playing this game!” You huff storming off and the rest of them share smiles. 

You make it all the way to the elevator before you realize that you actually have to get back to your desk to finish your paperwork. Going back now however would no doubt end in massive teasings from Jane. Maybe you should wait it out a little. 

“Everything okay?” 

You jump at the voice.

“Oh, Agent Hotchner.” You run your hand over your pants a bit nervously. 

“Yes everything is fine. Just needed some fresh air.” 

And time away from Jane.

“I could walk you out.” 

He nods at the offer.

You gesture to the elevator and he waits for it to come up. 

“So profiling must be a taxing ability. I can’t imagine what your case loads are like. Not a lot of time for other people.” 

He nods. 

“It’s hard. I have a son and it becomes a bit difficult to work around the schedule.”

The elevator dings and you step in the moment the doors open. He follows behind. 

“I can’t imagine what that’s like. How old is your son?” 

“Jack just turned ten.” 

He reaches into his pocket and when he flips open his wallet you smile when he shows you the picture. He’s wearing such a bright expression. There’s another image on the side just barely peeking out. 

“He’s growing up faster than expected.” 

There’s a somber tone to it. You’d like to offer comfort. It’s obvious he loves his son. You’re a bit hesitant at first, but then you reach over, placing it on his arm. 

“Hailey was always better with him. Better with us.” 

You’re saddened, because you realize now that his wife is no longer with them. 

“You’re a good father, Agent Hotchner.” 

He turns, and you hope that your words give him a sense of ease.

“Thank you.” 

Removing your hand, you nod proudly. Not just for your ability to talk to this attractive man without stuttering, but it seems that you’ve begun to get a better handle on your abilities.

The double doors open and you step out with him. The walk to the front of the building is nice. You stop right at the entrance. 

“Have a safe trip back Agent Hotchner.”

“Thank you, I will. “

You fully expect him to turn and leave, but he lingers for a moment. He reaches for your hand, a friendly gesture you assume. He gives your palm a soft squeeze.

“I appreciate the encouragement, it’s good to know I’m not the only one out there.” 

The thought he conveys startles you. Your mouth falls open. 

“No way..you can hear me..?” 

He wears a knowing smirk as he nods.

“The compliment is appreciated as well.” 

With a light shake, he releases and you stare down at the business card in your hand. 

“Enjoy the rest of your day Agent.” 

No other words are exchanged. 

You can’t form any, not one. 

Suddenly you believe Jane, because you’re beginning to notice a pattern. 

~Extra~

“I bet you right about now she’s fumbling around him.” Jane says. Vanpelt smiles.

“Come on, I think it’s cute.” 

The hurried steps catch their attention. Jane turns at the sound, ready to see your possibly flushed cheeks but instead you’re beaming. Before he can say anything you basically crash into him. Hugging him happily. He stumbles, almost toppling over. His arms hold on to ground the both of you. The contact is definitely a surprise. When he regains his footing he’s a bit confused. 

Everyone is just as surprised as he is.

“You were right, we’re not the only ones.” 

The thought that invades his mind makes him pull back slowly. You’re looking at him with so much excitement. He doesn’t miss the subtle increase of his heart. 

“You were right.” You say aloud. 

He seems to understand because it can only really mean one thing. 

Hotchner is just like the both of you. 

Now that you aren’t holding onto him you show him the card. Vanpelt is smiling. 

“You got his number.” 

You nod with a laugh. 

“I did.”

Jane knows he should just say more teasing words, or encourage you to pursue a friendship with Hotchner since it’s clear you’re the same. But the sight of that smile when you came in, it’s engraved in his mind. For once he doesn’t have any snarky responses.

[icharchivist]

Please reply to this only when your post limit it's in a safer range but..

. What's your personal anni event tier list?

ALL EVENTS ARE QUEEN.......... i don't want to put them on tier list per se because i did love all of those i read, and putting a grade or a top or something on them wouldn't exactly do justice to the fact that every year i get emotional about all the anni we got.

the only anni event i don't have an opinion on is Home Sweet Moon because i didn't read it.

my top and thoughts kinda:

I think my favorite event is "And You".

It was the one that emotionally ruined me, while also feeling like a celebration of the years past, it really highlighted the journey we followed through the most. It's a really touching event.

and i think out of all of them, it feels the most Anniversary Event - it dives into creation lore while also being the most focused on the main character, it dives into the importance of family which is our main goal after all, and it gives answers to the blue hair phenomena while also setting up potential future threats. And it also celebrates a lot of the characters who crossed our path as well as seeing exactly how their lives were changed thanks to us.

In my opinion, it's the perfect Anniversary Event.

If i were to nippick the only thing about And You is that it has less of a narrative structure as the others event, since we kinda go from one simulation to the next and then to a reality check, and while there is an organization that makes act 1, act 2, act 3, it has its own structures compared to the rest.

Still, it's my perfect anni event for me.

Next, to me, is What Makes the Sky Blue 000.

As the conclusion of a trilogy it works hard to tie all the loose ends while also really opening the doors to the creation lore. We get the result of the built up of the previous years, and it slaps.

It also feels like an anniversary event due to the focus of the characters from others saga coming to help out against the threat in the skies, which really makes it stand out as well.

Next, i'll but Heart of the Sun.

I'll still need to sit a little on the event really to see how much it affected me, but despite some frustration, it's a very solid event. All the parts are really good and i think it's pretty well balanced.

Part 1 focused a bit more on the people we know and love and i think it worked very well as an anniversary, as a way to remind us of what mattered to us.

Part 2 managed to set up really well its stakes and to build up to the climax. And Part 3 delivered on the drama and everything that could possibly follow.

I think it had the weight necessary to celebrate 10 years of Granblue. It really dived into creation lore, and more insight on the past of the skyrealm as well. I also really like the recontextualization of the Phoenix, and the way to approach the Diviners into the lore.

The Event could have risked being overstuffed, but i genuinely think it somehow managed all of its plotlines really well and in the end everything feels like it had the proper focus it needed.

I think also the thematic of rebirth, and also grief, is a good one to celebrate 10 years of the game.

It's definitely one of the most solid plotwise and i think it's an insanely good 10th anni event in particular.

Next is What Makes the Sky Blue - Paradise Lost because i never fucking recovered man.

as a side note i think the wmtsb trilogy is a little hard to judge individually since they're all parts of trilogy and are meant to really built up from one another. With the benefit of insight it's difficult to see them as separate event. As a trilogy, it is one of the best written element of Granblue. As separate events, it means i think also that part 1 and 2 have weaker elements due to the fact that it's the benefit of the conclusion of the trilogy that makes them shine.

But i still score Paradise Lost high because the angst was hitting some of my favorite tropes of all time so i can't avoid it.

Next to me is Seeds of Redemtpion.

To me it was my introduction to the Eternals and it did its job very well. There were a lot of emotional high and introduction to some lore point, and the Seox/Nehan conflict was extremely compelling.

It's an event who suffered a lot on people's expectation though and it's true there's something a bit frustrating about the hyperfocus on Seox when all of the Eternals were teased.

I do think it's an event where the ideas are stronger than the narratives that bring them there. The last part was weaker than the rest and the ending was a bit rushed while the rest of the plotlines were left to be completed elsewhere.

I still love this event a lot as it was my first anni event per se, but i get the issues people had.

Next will be What Makes The Sky Blue, the OG.

Still was a strong event, still really dived into the creation lore, managed to really flesh out the archangel and Lucifer, and gave us Evil Sandalphon. What's not to like.

by virtue of being one of the oldest event it was a bit shorter and stuff but everything is done so tightly it was worthwhile.

it also worked well as anni goes since it included characters we've met in our journeys in it and actually focused on our crew too, as well as Lyria and Vyrn's powers and importance as well.

Finally my last one will be Created by the Stars, Loved by the Skies

This one's rough. The fandom isn't kind with it and i hate to add to it because i do think people are ways harsher than the event deserves -- but yeah it was on the weaker side.

The thing is that I love Cosmos, so just by virtue of the event focusing on her, i don't hate it, i couldn't hate it. but it's a very rough event.

The three parts don't jive well together. They sound like three different event patched together. The first part ask us to care about characters whom we don't ever see again, which is like... it's okay to have war content and all of that, and anni is probably the best place for that, but it felt very jarring. Part 2 was better if only because it focused on the primals we came to love and care about. And Part 3 was rough again because of the whole apocalyptic stakes linked to it.

I kinda imagine that the 3 parts were meant to echo the three parts of Cosmos character - first story being more about the humans (zooey), the second more about the primals (geo), and the third about finding a balance (yuni). But yeesh was it rough and i think Geo in particular was not given much to do and it hurt any type of messages that could have been had.

Also sorry but this event introducing that "if the Singularity dies the world gets destroyed" by having MC near death and the world starting to collapse.... kinda bugs me. IT removes a lot of stakes and i kinda hate it. "and you" also kinda is built on that, but i think "and you" kinda shows how the world would get destroyed by the Singularity's death in more subtle ways linked to the situations we die in. Ex: if Shinsha kills us, the fact she is unleashed into this world is what will cause its end yaknow? I thought CBTSLBTS was a bit vulgar about it.

That being said i love Cosmos. The relationship with Lucifer was amazing. Part 2 was extremely well done. And while i have issues with part 1 being in this story, it is a fantastic story on its own rights and i still hope Baldr will come back one day. Yuni is adorable and a fantastic addition to the cast.

But yeah it's a rough one and the return of Cosmos only a year later doesn't help the event stands on its legs imo. we desperately need Geo to be relevent again though, it's really the element of this anni that makes me go "wait, for real, that's all?!". Justice for Geo.

Still! i loved the event and think there's more good in it than the fandom has been saying about it. People have hated it hard and i think that despite its flaws, it shouldn't be getting this type of reception. If anything it was a gamble that didn't pay off.

But yeah that's pretty much my Anni Events Opinions. Sorry i can't give opinions on HSM though.

here you go o7

[galene-gothic]

- PAID READING FEEDBACK -

Hi! The readings I received were incredibly accurate, everything you mentioned, especially the childhood part about isolation and the caretakers’ personalities, aligns with my experiences. As a child, I was very giving, even if it caused me detriment, as I looked for acceptance and love. Currently, I am working on healing that part of my past and childhood wounds. It’s interesting when you mentioned my belief as a child that I could do anything, as I vividly remember at age 3 constantly asking my mom if I could be on TV (be an actress). At 12, I wanted to model but was shut down by my parents 😭. I was an imaginative and independent child, often spending time alone doing my own things and taking care of myself, as you mentioned. You accurately noted major power imbalances in the family system I grew up in, involving multiple people, and it resonated with me. I am pleased that my inner child is proud of me now, and I’m actively working through traumas to develop into a mature person with knowledge. The advice from my future self was very helpful, and I’ll incorporate it into my routine. I was very happy to hear about how I would turn out in the future, it’s exactly for what I am trying to emulate now. I was surprised by the accuracy of the ‘Remember Me’ reading, as it feels like I’m facing similar issues from a past life. It’s sad to hear about the relationship that had to end, and probably will in the future, but I believe everything happens for a reason. The ‘Breath of Eros’ was beautifully written, and your insights into how I would act in situations were spot on. I was amazed when you mentioned that smell is important to me because it’s true! I have a sensitive sense of smell, and someone’s natural scent matters to me. I have no constructive criticism to offer, everything was accurate and beautifully written. I trust you completely. Your kindness, time, energy, and effort are truly appreciated. Your gift and talent are evident, and I will continue to mention it because it’s undeniably true. Thank you so much.💞💞☺️☺️💫💫🥰

[alatismeni-theitsa]

Hey, nb anon here that asked that question about gender neutral names. I just wanted to thank you for the effort you put into replying and allowing me to reach more Greek people who are more educated than I am. you made me feel seen, provided extremely useful information, and connected me with other Greeks that I probably wouldn’t have been able to find otherwise. I am still thinking about how to proceed in light of everyone’s insights, but your kind words and vital information are much appreciated, I really am so grateful for the fact you give Greeks from all over the world and in diverse communities a voice in their culture. You don’t have to post this, but if you do, then I would love to thank everyone who contributed to the discussion and provided their insights.

Also, off topic but I think it’s important, please take care of yourself! I bet it can feel like you’re under a lot of pressure to help people and never be wrong, but I hope you know you can take a break and take care of yourself. Please please take care of yourself, you are a vital voice in our community but your wellbeing is also important and I hope you don’t forget that.

I am so grateful for you and the community you have brought together, thank you very much for your advice and thoughts! Please don’t feel pressured to post this or respond to this, just take care of yourself and know your work is benefitting others!

Thanks a ton dear! Ευχαριστώ πάρα πολύ! I think this is one of the kindest messages I've received and I can't describe how much it warms my heart! I appreciate all the time you took to write to me! 💙💙💙I'm posting the ask to give you my thanks in return, and also to make your gratitude known to the people who gave info on your request :)

It is pressure to be seen as a point of reference because people assume I can't be wrong, or that I believe I cannot be wrong 😕 And surely, I'm trying to give accurate info or give people access to accurate info but I can't be perfect. Sometimes it takes weeks or years to realize what I could've done better.

I'm only one person with various medical difficulties so there are time and energy constrictions. I really like receiving asks, and I love offering whatever info I have! No one is forcing me to write walls of text at a time 😂 Sadly, sometimes there are observers (not the kind askers themselves) who want to see JSTOR quality answers here that cover absolutely everything, and if they don't see it they dismiss the whole message completely. Or they don't offer some counterpoints that I'd be happy to discuss.

Buuuut this is Tumblr and I'm an ill, chronically exhausted potato* and they should remember the site we are on. (And that they don't even pay me to give me a headache with aggressive and bad arguments😂 I don't do that much for free anymore! 😂)

(*ok no one has actually diagnosed me with "potato" yet, but ONE DAY I'll add this diagnosis to my collection🙌 Maybe when I die and my body feeds the earth and then sprouts a potato?? A theitsa can dream 😂)

In any case, I do want to keep a community here and set the ground for Greeks and Greek citizens to be heard when it comes to matters of our culture and/or country. I created this blog cause no one else would do it. I don't have all the answers but I can only get wiser and more responsible with time! And I'm very happy when I hear good news about people who've been helped!

Good grief... I just realized I fell into the conversation pattern of an older Greek woman

Get excited and thank people

Moan about difficulties and annoying people

Mention illness and death

Reassure that theitsa will be here to annoy everyone forever 😂

[feedingtheflockministry]

How to use the Word of God

For the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power [making it active, operative, energizing, and effective]; it is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating to the dividing line of the breath of life (soul) and [the immortal] spirit, and of joints and marrow [of the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and sifting and analyzing and judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart.

Hebrews 4:12 ampc

But the Comforter (Counselor, Helper, Intercessor, Advocate, Strengthener, Standby), the Holy Spirit, Whom the Father will send in My name [in My place, to represent Me and act on My behalf], He will teach you all things. And He will cause you to recall (will remind you of, bring to your remembrance) everything I have told you.

John 14:26 amp

The first utility of the Word of God will always be to transform us from the inside out by the intervention of the Holy Spirit and we must let the Holy Spirit teach us the Word because He is the only true Teacher.

There are also other utilities, truly great, allowing us to keep our mind focused on God and His Word which is also a command we must obey

Let the word [spoken by] Christ (the Messiah) have its home [in your hearts and minds] and dwell in you in [all its] richness, as you teach and admonish and train one another in all insight and intelligence and wisdom [in spiritual things, and as you sing] psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, making melody to God with [His] grace in your hearts.

Colossians 3:16 ampc

There are also two commands of our Lord Jesus which we must obey and our obedience is greatly enriched if we use the Word of God to obey them. We are commanded to pray at all times

Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty. To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God’s consecrated people).

Ephesians 6:18 ampc

Be unceasing in prayer [praying perseveringly]; Thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will].

1 Thessalonians 5:17‭-‬18 ampc

The Bible is full of prayers from the Old Testament to the New Testament. Every time we read a verse which can be used as a prayer we can pray it. Imagine you spend one hour in the Word of God every day, in that hour surely there will be at at least one or more Scripture as a prayer. For example the Scriptures say The Lord gives strength to the weak, if you are reading that Scripture you can easily turn it into a prayer when you feel weak “Lord, I feel weak please Your Word says You give strength to the weak, give me Your strength in Jesus’s name”

We are also commanded to praise the Lord at all times

For here we have no permanent city, but we are looking for the one which is to come. Through Him, therefore, let us constantly and at all times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of lips that thankfully acknowledge and confess and glorify His name. [Lev. 7:12; Isa. 57:19; Hos. 14:2.]

Hebrews 13:14‭-‬15 amp

Thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will].

1 Thessalonians 5:18 ampc

All through the Word of God there are Scriptures of praises and we must not only read them we must praise Him with the Scriptures in question. For example the Scriptures says The Lord is Gracious and full of compassion and slow to anger; we can easily turn this into “I praise You my Lord for You are gracious and slow to anger towards me”.

Aside from our personal requests to God if we use the Word this way it will greatly help us to obey another command which is as important as the others mentioned in this article

IF THEN you have been raised with Christ [to a new life, thus sharing His resurrection from the dead], aim at and seek the [rich, eternal treasures] that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. [Ps. 110:1.] And set your minds and keep them set on what is above (the higher things), not on the things that are on the earth. For [as far as this world is concerned] you have died, and your [new, real] life is hidden with Christ in God.

Colossians 3:1‭-‬3 ampc

Using the Word of God in this manner will enrich your spiritual life very much in every way! It will allow you to obey the commands of Jesus more and help to keep your focus on God at all times, which is God’s will for us.

Blessings!

[gregg-reuben]

Celebrating the thousand with a special package

Celebrating the thousand with a special package https://seths.blog/2024/09/celebrating-the-thousand/ [Lots of links in this post… US offer is here, international is here.] Ideas travel horizontally. Not from the creator to the audience as much as from one person to another. It’s easy to misunderstand the insight of Kevin Kelly’s 1,000 True Fans. Decades ago he argued that the long tail is fueled by circles of people who lean in and support a creator’s work. 1,000 people who show up when there’s something important going on. 1,000 fans who care enough to enable an individual to create something worthwhile. That matters. But that’s not what makes it so powerful. Ideas that spread win. The 1,000 fans go first, yes, but they also spread the word. Part of the creator’s job is to give the true fans something worth talking about, something that advances their mission. When we make spreading the word worthwhile, the word gets spread. Today, I’m launching my new book in a special package to 1,000 people. Click here for more pictures and to order… Here’s a short video intro It’s seven copies of the book (which comes out in about six weeks), a collectible chocolate bar from Askinosie with a trading card inside, a deck of 54 strategy cards and three month’s access to purple.space, including full access to the Marketing Seminar and Strategy Course as well. The retail value is over $700. I’m working with my publisher and Porchlight to sell the whole box of joy for below cost, less than $125 in the US. Why overdo it? Because ideas spread horizontally. Because someone with seven books is likely to give six away. Because I believe that when people have a better understanding of how to use strategy to make things better, they’re going to want to have their colleagues join them on the journey. And because it’s fun. It’s fun to interact with the true fans. Your questions and stories and heroics make me think more clearly and find new ways to extend the work. And what an opportunity design and create packaging for chocolate bars, trading cards and a strategy deck as part of my day job. It all ships in a few weeks. If it’s something you’re interested in, I hope we made enough. Click here to see all the details. International orders (no chocolate, sorry), please click here instead. Thank you.

[titoist]

i was everything but sarcastic, i still am - your perspective, insight, this very rare sort of awareness or sensitivity with which you approach things and i find very relatable and moved by, but usually outside of my own reach to put together ... your attention to detail, painstaking and precise, but flowing and flowery -this - your way with words, which i guess i can attribute to just natural talent... you, your, yours. you are my favourite writer and poet of my generation. and please forgive me for this violent letter ... but maybe im not wrong.

[writing about the process of writing a reply to this ask] i'm not sure how to respond to this in a way that doesn't give off the sense of being afraid, or frighteningly overwhelmed. not that i'm not overwhelmed - but it's not in a frightened sense… & it's not that i feel i am afraid, & just cautious against it unintentionally showing in my words. it's not a matter of wanting to stay polite & not make them feel demented. i don't feel that this person has necessarily done anything wrong & i definitely don't feel like they've "gone too far" - at least, as far as i can consciously tell. it's just… i can imagine being this person & feeling very frightened at the prospect of causing fear. i can imagine receiving a reply & being able to interpret any given aspect of it as a sign of recoil, a kind of confused, uncomfortable hesitation. if it were too short, i could imagine thinking that they did not want to spend too much time lingering on me. if it were too long, i could imagine telling myself that they likely felt the need to spend a disproportionate amount of time soothing my message out of a kind of empathetic concern that something might "be wrong" with me - any phrasing could be recontextualized as weaponry. &, i don't know. it's obviously a complicated & vulnerable position to be in, to express to absolutely anyone, especially to express to someone as stiff & generally unaccustomed to humanity as me. - not that i perceive them as having declared unconditional eternal love, or anything. but i feel the largeness of it as a mental & emotional object is something mutually reflected & observed in their message to begin with. & how do i reflect that sufficiently, satisfyingly? i could very well imagine them not even wanting me to, could very well imagine them preferring if i stay the foreign object behind the monitor that spools out this or that string of words unrelated to them. in any case, as with the first message, i am blushing very much regardless.

i apologize for taking 3 days to somuch as acknowledge this, it's not a reflection of how important it is to me (my delays never are), i was just being, uhm, a bit indecisive & entropic - oopsy-daisy

i tend to struggle with responding to even very meagre praise, not really out of a sense of being embarrassed (though i am, invariably & now, even if not in a negative way) as much as non-comprehension - to an extent, my self-perception doesn't distinguish between anything within me that could garner praise to begin with.

it is violent, undeniably, deeply violent - but i enjoy violence. so, thank you very much.