#rowling bashing

[my-castles-crumbling]

Most people, when meeting someone new and trying to figure out their morals:

What's your political party?

How do you feel about gay marriage?

Are you religious?

Are you an animal person?

Me, when meeting someone new and trying to figure out their morals:

How do you feel about Dumbledore?

Do you think JRK is a terf?

Have you read all the Harry Potter books?

What is your favorite Taylor Swift song?

Explain your feelings about Taylor Swift.

As a follow-up, explain why we hate Kanye.

[serpentine-reflections]

Character Bashing and the Normalization of Abusive Behaviors

In 2020 I got into the Marauders fandom knowing nothing about the Harry Potter franchise and I cannot understate how disgusting the fandom’s treatment of bullying (abuse) was and continues to be. Do better.

I’m sick of seeing victim blaming rhetoric shared with no care to the real people it affects.

The character bashing in this fandom and the Harry Potter fandom overall is honestly abhorrent.

This also applies to Lily bashing from fellow Snape fans. Disgusting, honestly. She’s allowed to draw a line. Slurs are literally an act of violence.

Can’t we just have nuanced, well-informed, and transformative conversations around harmful power structures and how they affect how we treat one another?

All of these characters are flawed and it doesn’t hurt to try and tackle your favs bad behaviors instead of sharing harmful victim blaming rhetoric to justify their actions.

This fandom honestly has so much more potential if we simply chose to acknowledge the inherent faults in the source material and reject the poor handling of sensitive subjects by a world-renowned BIGOT together and make something better.

[whimsicalcrying]

Serpentine Beach: Chapter 3

Pairing: James Potter x Regulus Black

Summary: Regulus buys a run-down shack on a pretty beach hoping to turn it into a five-star restaurant. Lucky for him, across the stretch of Serpentine Beach sits the looming Tigers Eye Resort, who's owners generously let him, and his team stay. At Tigers eye Regulus is faced with his past, present and future.

w/c: 5k

a/n: This was my poor attempt at something a little steamy towards the end lmao but as you can see, I do not write smut at all.

As always, feedback is always helpful and appreciated!

Ao3 M.List ch.2 ch.4

!Warnings!: A bit steamy, drinking, weed, mentions of horny.

Chapter III.

𓇼 ⋆｡˚ 𓆝⋆｡˚ 𓇼

It was hot. 

The kind of hot that makes you sweat before you've even taken a step out of the safe haven that fans and aircons provide. The kind of hot that has you trying to catch your breath in the humid air, only to be left sweatier and unsatisfied. 

Regulus unbuttons his shirt, fully giving into the hellscape the beach front has become. He walks through the outside paths, taking the shortcut to the kitchens that Lily had so graciously supplied him after his mild complaints about being so far from it during a small chat while she did the hotel laundry. 

It's a small walk between the two large buildings. One side is purely rooms for guests and information desks, lounging areas etc. The other building has a few rooms for sleeping, but more sought out for the dining, the game room, the ballroom and of course areas that lead to the outside pool, and shopping center.

The sheer number of things to do here nearly gives him a headache, but there's only one thing on his to do list. Get to the kitchen and try a new recipe he thought of while sitting on Evans balcony with the others. 

It was a rather weird night, all five of them squished to one balcony using a small telescope Barty brought as a joke to see if they could spot the bones of Starlight. They could- well Barty said he could but Regulus is convinced he was high out of his mind and seeing things. It was one of those moments that reminded him that this was the family he chose, all of them talking about the future that was so close.

Regulus makes it to what is essentially the middle of the resort, where the large pools are surrounded by the tall buildings on one side and the outlook of the beach on the other side. Here, Regulus is faced with a small dilemma. He could make the walk even shorter, cutting through the pool gates or he could go the longer way and walk around the pool gates. 

Another gust of hot salty wind makes the decision for him, and Regulus sets off to open the nearby pool gate, closing it quietly behind him in hopes none of the lifeguards see him.

He trudges past the kiddy pools and many of the pavilions before he makes it to the adult area. Pausing his steps on the hot ground deck, he stops at the sight of James, who's using a pool net, leaning over the edge and gently scooping the leaves from the water. 

Of course, the man isn't wearing a shirt, his defined abs and glistening tan skin numbing every thought in Regulus's mind. Where was he headed to? It doesn’t matter now. He snapped back to reality when James looked up, eyes widening at the sight of him watching.

Stop fucking staring, Regulus chastises himself, turning his head away for a moment until James calls out.

“Just Regulus!” James exclaims with a smile, using the wet pool net as a staff beside him. He stands up straight, nearly posing before leisurely making his way to where Regulus had melted into place. 

“Mr. Potter.” Regulus says back, trying to avoid looking at the man's chest with all his might. It barely works, and he wishes that he had brought his shades with him this time. But alas, when he feels around his front pockets, they're not there. 

James's wild grin softens, taking the moment to look at how stiff and awkward Regulus is when he's caught off guard. “Please, just call me James.” He says, not stopping his inspection, eyes behind the glasses dipping lower and lower. Regulus feels his face start to burn, stepping back, bringing his hand to brush the sweaty hair from his face.

“Then stop with your teasing.” Regulus manages to mutter back, barely keeping his pride intact at the direction of the conversation.

James nods, stepping closer. “It's a hot day. Are you here to finally relax in my domain, Regulus?” 

“No, I'm headed to the kitchens.” Regulus answers, glancing up to finally meet James's eyes. “Lily told me of the short cut, that's why I’m passing through.”

“Yeah, she's full of facts about Tigers Eye.” James says easily, shrugging his shoulders before glancing to the pool then back to Regulus. His eyes look Regulus from head to toe once again, making Regulus want to shudder away.

Or pounce, he really can't tell. 

“I hope you're not too upset about the first night here.” James says softly, which kills any sort of fluttery feeling in Regulus’s chest after being so blatantly checked out.

Right, the first night here, Regulus thinks, closing his eyes for a moment to contain the rage and anxiety. He had fallen in the pool and made a complete fool of himself in front of everyone. Then Sirius went and made it worse like always, announcing that he couldn't swim when in fact he could. 

“I'm used to Sirius causing a panic.” Regulus deadpans, unable to hide the shift in his emotions. “He always makes a scene, even about the mundane things. Needs to be the center of attention like a needy child who craves it.” 

The sheepish look on James's face tells Regulus everything he needs to know. Clearly James and Sirius are close, that much it certain without Regulus even having to see them interact. Plus, from the small bits of rambling Remus does when talking about his university days, he's heard well enough about the marauders to take any of them too seriously.

Of course, his brother would be causing trouble, and of course he'd befriend the most attractive man Regulus has ever seen. 

“He's not so bad.” James mumbles softly, stepping closer to Regulus. “Just dramatic in a loveable way.”

Regulus scoffs, rolling his eyes. James smiles again, seemingly amused by the reactions he can pull from Regulus. Regulus doesn't like how easy it is for James to do such a thing, but he can't really control himself it seems.

“I'm sure Remus has told you about the staff party. It's a tradition to get hammered before opening day.” James continues to prattle on while Regulus watches the sunlight filter through the man's curls, lost in the image of him. “It's going to be really fun, I hope I'll see you there.” 

There's a couple of beats of silence, only the seagulls and the water filter of the pool being heard before Regulus snaps out of his stupor. “Ah, right.” He mumbles before rubbing his jaw. “I was told about it, but I don't think I'll go considering Sirius likes to start things.”

“Remus will keep an eye on him.” James promises, reaching out to gently tug Regulus’s hand away from his face. “I want you there.”

Yes, Regulus’s heart says. Fuck no, his mind screams in return. Regulus looks down to James' hand that is still holding onto his arm. It's too hot to even be touched this little, yet it takes everything in Regulus to not tug him along to the nearest hotel room.

Swallowing, Regulus takes a step back, glancing behind him to make sure there's no ledge he can fall off of. “I'll think about it, James.” 

“That's all I need.” He murmurs, giving him a goofy grin before shaking out the leaves from the net, then putting it around his shoulders. Regulus avoids looking at his arms, and starts his way back to the kitchens, remembering his actual destination is near. 

When he opens the gate to leave, he looks behind him to find James already staring. Regulus raises his hand and waves before slipping from the gate. James waved back, smiling brighter than the sun beating down on their backs.

Regulus makes it into the building in record time yet sweat drips from his forehead onto his cheeks and his back is wet. Briskly, he walks into the kitchens expecting the normal sleek cleanliness that Remus liked to keep.

Instead, Regulus walks into a room full of people, instantly moving to take a step out but the swinging door announces his arrival, making all eyes turn to him.

Sirius is there, along with that blonde woman, and Evan and Dorcas. Remus looks almost like a cornered mouse, despite the fact that he looms over all of them, the tall bastard. 

“Apologies, I did not realize this was a hang out spot." Regulus deadpans, turning to walk away. He's too overheated to deal with his brother, a stranger and the teasing grins on Dorcas and Evans faces. Remus can save himself, it’s what he deserved for having such horrible taste.

"Wait wait!" The stranger speaks, reaching out to grab his wrist. She drops it when he shoots her a look, but turns around to listen, nonetheless. "We were just telling your friends about the annual staff party we have before the chaos starts." She smiles, glancing back to Dorcas before tucking a short strand of her hair behind her ears. 

Flirting, Regulus instantly clocks, slowly looking up to give Dorcas a deadpan look. Evan catches the exchange, coming over to loop an arm around his shoulders. Regulus nearly groans at the extra heat, shoving Evan off lightly. 

"Yes, I'm aware of the staff party." Regulus sighs, glancing to his brother who's watching the exchange with what can only be described as a childish pout. He leans near Remus, as if trying to convince his husband to be as salty.

Remus is too busy sharpening his knives to care. 

"It's gonna be great." Evan smiles, tapping his hands on his shorts. "I'll get to bartend with Remmy boy here."

"His name is Remus." Sirius corrects with a small growl. Regulus partially thinks his older brother behaves like an unneutered dog whining for attention. It seems some things do not change, even after years of not seeing a person. 

"Right, Remus. Whatever." Evan shrugs, completely unbothered. Remus just snorts, shaking his head with amusement as he finishes up his knife set. Glancing to Regulus, Remus nods his head over. 

“Have you decided to come, or will you be smoking in your room and trying to hide it from Lily?” Remus asks casually, already knowing how to rope Regulus into doing things. Evan and Dorcas both shoot Remus and nod.

Giving Remus a frown, Regulus shakes his head, walking past the intruders to get to a proper workstation. “It'll be a surprise.” Regulus answers before snatching the prep list off the walk-in freezer door. 

“That means no.” Dorcas whispers to the blonde woman, who just giggles and leans closer to her.

"What are we doing for food?" He takes the bait, already annoyed at that blooming friendship. 

"Drunk people food." Remus says.

Regulus thinks about it for a moment, glancing at the clock and then back to Dorcas and Evan who clearly want to be included in this. It has been a while since he put his team to work. Biting his lip, he starts to button his shirt back up before grabbing an apron, before giving Dorcas and Evan a sharp look. 

The look he wears when leading a team.

"Evan, I want three specials on the menu. Make sure to add something light." He speaks, walking past his brother as if he wasn't there. "Dorcas, you know what to do." 

Dorcas nods, grabbing an apron for herself, not forgetting to wink at the blonde before walking further into the kitchen to set out what they need. Remus hums in approval, before kissing Sirius’s cheek.

"Don't pout about it or I'll tell Lily you're trying to leave out our special guests from the fun." 

Sirius gapes. "You wouldn't dare!" 

Remus nods, giving Sirius a raised brow. "Oh yes, I would. You're still on thin ice from using Harry as a personal messenger boy."

"I'm his godfather, I can do what I want."

"Oh, really now?" Lily's voice slices through the married couple's banter. She walks in, adding another person inside the kitchen that is barely full of people actually working. 

Regulus likes Lily. She's full of information and straight to the point, not taking bullshit from anyone, including Sirius. His lips quirk at the edge just a bit as he sees the way Sirius instantly backs down, turning into a bumbling fool. 

Lily smiles though, hitting his arm lightly. "Don't worry Pads, you can play nice for a night, can’t you?" 

Sirius crosses his arms, shooting pointed looks to the Starlight Team, making sure Regulus catches his eye. "Seems like I don't have a bloody choice, do I?"

Lily nods happily. "You don't." 

She reaches out and intertwines her fingers with his, gently tugging him along over to where the blond stranger is. "Come, we have set up to do. You too Marlene, I want the pools in top shape." She says, hooking her arm with the strangers no, Marlene's arm. 

With one last nod to Regulus and Remus, she whisks the two away to go work like some sort of fairy godmother taking away Regulus’s problems. 

𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝

Remus told him that the party would start at six, but the loud bass booming through the gated pools started at five-thirty. The sun was still out, beaming down on everyone's arms and necks, making their swaying bodies sweatier than they'd usually be. Evan and Barty were already with the others, Barty gladly taking up Evans time at the little open bar Lily had set up. 

There were even more lights strung around the tables, small lanterns placed beside the food. Remus and Regulus had made all the food a drunk person could want, wings, different three-layered dips, jalapeno poppers and shish kabobs of tender meat and veggies.

Regulus wouldn't know if they're a hit though, because he chose to sit on his balcony til eight, with a small blunt between his fingers, peacefully watching the smoke curl into the sky. There's no Lily to come drag him to the smoking area, and there's no Dorcas bitching at him about being a recluse. 

He's done his work for the day, now he simply just has to sit. Sit and wait. Wait for what? He doesn't know, all Regulus can think of is the swirling smoke in the sunset and the faint echoes of the bass he can hear from his room. 

Regulus barely could register the sound of the glass door sliding open. He blinks slowly when Pandora sits next to him, gently taking the blunt from his fingers and pressing it to her lips. 

“Knew you'd be out here hiding.” She says softly. Regulus doesn't say anything, just watching her take in a breath and release smoke.

“Not hiding.” he mumbles, reaching back for what's left. Pandora holds it over her head before snuffing it out and setting it in Regulus's little ashtray. It was supposed to be a clay plate Luna messily painted for him, with garish hot pinks and purples. Instead, it sits on the small table, a perfect place for the ash.

She gives him a gentle mothering look; one she uses on Luna when the toddler tosses one of her toys a little too hard. Regulus feels like a child suddenly. She's got me all figured out, he thinks, leaning over to press his head into her shoulder. “Maybe I am.” He admits, closing his eyes. “He wants to see me.”

“That's a good thing.” Pandora says, bringing her hand to pat his curls. “Don't let your past hold you back anymore. Don't let your mind trick you into thinking you're still that same lost kid.” 

“What if I am that kid? The one that fucks everything up, the one who waits too long.” 

“The only solution to waiting is to just do it, Regulus.” Pandora gently presses her cold hands to his face, lifting his head to touch her forehead with his. He'd never let anyone as close as he'd let Pandora. He loves the others, he truly does, but only Pandora has ever been the one to make him want to keep changing.

From the second she asked their head chef a long time ago if she could put beetles in the soup, Regulus knew he'd found someone other worldly. They graduated together, he was a groomsman at her wedding, and he was the first one Xenophilius called when Pandora went into labor.

“You should bring Luna here.” Regulus says suddenly, missing the small girl who rarely spoke. “There's a boy her age here, they'd have fun.”

Pandora smiles, letting Regulus pull away. “Seems like she's never far from your mind, uncle Reggie.” 

“I despise children.” He reminds her, looking back out to the ocean. Waves and bass are all he can hear, the reminder that James could possibly be waiting- looking for him. It makes his stomach tingle, his fuzzy mind homing in on one thing. “But what I despise more is falling into that same old pattern of regret.” He says, standing up, dusting himself off.

“Let's go get a drink. I'm sure Evan can make me something lethal.” 

Pandora gets up and follows along, slipping her arm in his as they walk to the elevator and down to the party at the pools. It doesn't take long to reach the gates, the sun fully down now with a faint line in the sky. The darkness makes the entire party lit up by the lights. 

There were tons of dancing bodies, staff that Regulus had never even seen before in the week that he's been here. Girls were grinding down on some guys who pulled them closer, chugging their drinks out of plastic cups. 

A couple of men were hitting on other men, and two women were off to the side making out like they weren't around more than forty people. The closer Regulus got, the more clearly, he could see that one of those women was Dorcas and the blonde who was a lifeguard along with James. 

“Of course she went for it.” Regulus leans down to snark in Pandora's ear. Pandora simply giggles, guiding him along to the mini bar where Evan has completely taken over, Remus nowhere to be seen.

He’s busy shaking a drink, while clearly talking shit to Barty who's now melted into one side of the bar with a glass of water in his hand. They both look up when Pandora lets go of Regulus to run over and kiss Barty's cheek. 

Barty groans at the pampering, while Evan looks up and raises a brow at Regulus. “You've finally decided to come from your cave. We've been waiting for you, mate.” He says lazily, pouring the drink into a glass and sliding it over to Regulus. 

Regulus doesn't know what it is, but it's fruity and pink so it must taste at least halfway decent knowing Evan. “Double shot?” He asks. Evan nods, folding his arms on the bar to lean over it.

“Like always.” He confirms, before nodding his head to the side. “We haven't been the only ones looking for you. I don't know what you did, but you've got that man foaming at the mouth, Regulus.” 

“What man?” Regulus deadpans before following Evans' gesture while sipping the fruity concoction. He nearly chokes when he catches a glimpse of James. The man is pouting, leaning on Sirius like the end of the world is near, with a beer loosely hung from his fingers. 

Sirius is whispering in his ear like a devil on James' shoulder, clearly trying to cheer the man up.

Has he really been waiting for me? Regulus takes a moment to chug some of his drink before looking away, hoping Sirius hasn't spotted him yet. 

“Don't pay him any mind.” Regulus sighs, setting the glass down before taking a hand through his hair and unbuttoning his shirt. 

Evan whistles, plucking a flower from the bar decor and sticking it into the pocket of Regulus’s shirt. “There, now you look like you're properly on vacation” He grins and gestures back to James and Sirius. “Best kind of pay back would be to fuck his best friend, no?”

“James isn't going to be pay back.” Regulus corrects, struggling to compose himself. Maybe he shouldn't have gotten so high, it's got him being far too open and honest. “He's going to be my toy of the summer whether Sirius likes it or not.” 

“Atta boy.” Barty mumbles from his half-asleep state while Pandora mothers him. She looks up to send Regulus an encouraging smile, and it's all it takes for him to be on his way.

He almost feels like a stalker with the way he walks around the entire pool, briefly speaking to people, trying to look like he's not looking for a way to make contact with James without Sirius seeing. He kept his eye on the man for a good hour, just socializing before they made eye contact across the pools.

James’s mouth drops open from where he's trapped with the other marauders, in mild surprise that Regulus actually came. That Regulus was staring him down while sipping a pretty drink, looking way too attractive for it to just be innocent eye contact. 

James starts to make his way over, so Regulus starts inching his way to him as well, hoping to meet in the middle. Weaving through bodies, James gets faster the more steps Regulus takes to his direction.

Regulus was so close and then-

“Oh, there you are Regulus!” Lily says happily, a little too loud for a sober person. She's made her way in front of him, a shorter dark-skinned woman with pretty flowers in her afro by her side. Well, more like on her side.

“This is my girlfriend Mary, Mary this is Regulus, co-owner of Starlight.” She says, but Regulus is too busy looking at James who seems frustrated at the block. He seems to be patiently waiting, sipping his beer with eager eyes. Looking down to Mary and Lily, Regulus clears his throat and nods, holding a handout to shake Mary's hand.

“I hear you've been needing a good design for your menu.” Mary speaks, after she drops his hand. “I've got a degree in graphic design; I wouldn't mind helping out such an inspiring chef.” 

“Inspiring?” Regulus echoes, truly paying attention now. Mary nods, giving Lily's waist a gentle squeeze before speaking again.

“Yeah, I know about you. All the awards and charities you've donated the proceeds to. One of them was mine, fashion for troubled youths.”

“Miss McDonald!” Regulus says in surprise, taking a moment to force his inebriated brain to catch up to what's right in front of him. “I didn't realize we'd meet. The world is quite small.”

Mary nods, sipping her drink. “It is indeed. I was excited to hear that you're finally opening your own restaurant. Your work is important. I hope you keep that connection you have with your customers, it's one of the most valuable things you have.”

Regulus nods, feeling his body swell with pride as Mary McDonald of all people compliments him. The woman was renowned for the many organizations she’s put through and built from the ground up to help people in need and causes that were more important than petty drama. He had spent months trying to find somewhere to donate some of the House of Black funds after he shut down one of his father's most shady wings in Birmingham. 

“That means a lot, thank you.” He says, giving her a rare small smile. Mary and Lily beams back to him, slipping into an easy conversation about their plans and what Mary's next big project was. Regulus almost forgets the eyes pricing on his back. Almost. 

Once they wander off to go be alone together, Regulus doesn't even get the chance to turn around before a hand gingerly graze his back. He looks up to find James staring down at him with a peaceful, unassuming look.

“You're a renowned chef and a major donator to charity. What's next, you take care of puppies in your free time?” James wonders with a soft tease. Regulus rolls his eyes, sipping the last of his own drink before setting it on one of the planters beside the pool gate. 

His hands come up James's chest slowly, light as a feather, testing how far he could really go. James nearly loses his breath, and it makes Regulus touch him a bit heavier.

“I'm not fond of dogs.” 

“Cats then?” 

Regulus makes a face at James, earning a bright laugh from the man. He dips his head down, nose brushing Regulus’s as his hands settle on his waist. “No pets then, I can handle that.” 

Regulus slides his arms to hang them around James's shoulders, leaning in just a bit. He smells the beer and hints of weed, unsure if that was him or James. It didn't matter either way to either of them. They were fucked up and a little majorly horny for each other. 

“Let me be frank with you, Mr. Potter.”

“James, please.” 

“James.” Regulus corrects himself, hiccupping a bit. “I find you painfully attractive, and very much have plans in the back of my mind to use you as my toy for the summer, regardless of what my bastard brother has to say. How do you feel about that?” 

Regulus already knows how James feels, as the man presses himself into him. The loose red shorts he's wearing does nothing to hide how excited those simple words made him. Him being so eager makes Regulus want him more. 

“I think I'd like that.” James mumbles into Regulus’s ear, hands slipping lower and lower until they cup his ass. Regulus fights the blush, telling himself that it's just the weed and drinks. He's not so weak as to let James have everything at all once. 

Regulus gives him a flirty smile, before turning from James's arms and walking to one of the pool gates. He turns back and motions for James to follow. James follows like a dog on a leash, nearly tripping over himself to keep up, rushing to put his hands back on Regulus.

They land in the sand somewhere, backs to the wall of some small shed near the water, hidden by plants and trees. James' lips attach to Regulus' neck, gently guiding his body closer to his own, pushing against each other. Regulus moves, making them both hiss in anticipation.

Regulus doesn't really remember what happens the second James hand makes its way into his trousers. His eyes slip closed and neither of them are able to speak, the pleasure mind numbingly good.

All he can remember is being bent over, James mumbling sweet and gentle words, praising every little thing about him. The kisses on the back of his neck, the shell of his ear. The sound of skin smacking together. 

Fuck having to work on anything right now. Fuck his stupid brother bringing back haunted memories. 

He’s on fucking vacation and loving it.

𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝

He wakes up sore and sandy, gently swaying in a hammock. A large umbrella and trees shelter him from the morning sun. The seagulls are loud and uncaring of his hangover and sore legs, hawking and screaming at each other while they dive between ocean waves for food. 

Regulus groans, using the palms of his hands to rub his eyes as the hammock moves a little more forcefully, like someone's bumped into it. 

Moving his hands, he finds a pair of little chubby fingers clinging to the side, curls and big brown eyes peering over it.

“Daddy said you weren't dead, Reggie. But it looked like it.” Harry says very seriously, voice in a barely concealed whisper. “He said not to wake you up, that you had the sleeps.”

Blinking, he tries to register the fact Remus’s nephew is staring at him, telling him all about his so-called daddy. He keeps silent for a moment, just staring back at Harry while things slowly click into place.

Dark skin? Check.

Big untamed curls? Check.

Big brown eyes and glasses? Check.

Goofy smile? Check.

“What's your last name, Harry?” Regulus asks, hoping God has some pity on his poor gay soul. All he wanted to do was sleep with an attractive man, not become a bloody homewrecker.

“Potter!” Harry says, moving to pull at the hammock, making it sway a little more. 

“I fucked a married man.” Regulus mutters to himself, before realizing Harry is very much paying attention to him with curious eyes. Sitting up quickly, he tries not to vomit when the hammock moves with him as he attempts to get out.

Once he does, Harry happily hands him his shoes and shirt. “Here Reggie! Daddy says you're his new friend, so that means we are friends.” He explains happily, moving his glasses to fit back on his face when they slip.

Regulus feels his heart squeeze, guilt pooling to the bottom of his stomach. I'm a homewrecker , he tells himself as he pats Harry's head, the expression of horror still painted on his face. 

“We were friends first Harry.” He tells the boy who nods along, before sending him a small little pout.

“A mean friend who wants me to try yucky veggies.” 

“Very mean of me, I apologize.” Regulus mumbles, sliding his shirt back on before brushing out the sand from his hair. He needs a shower, a good hour long one to forget about all the shit he pulled last night. 

“Don’t tell your father where I'm headed, okay Harry?” 

“Okay! Wanna go play ball with me?” Harry asks, reaching out to grab Regulus anywhere. Regulus gives the boy a small sad smile. What if I've ruined his family? How could I? 

“Maybe later. I’m going to head off now, okay?” 

“Okay, bye bye Reggie!

Regulus swallows before nodding, turning quickly on his heel to get as far away as possible from Harry and the crime scene. He was sure he didn’t see a ring on James’s finger, but he could have taken it off when working. What have I done?

[cloud-based-and-rainpilled]

Wow I can’t believe Neil Gaiman confirmed Dumbledore is gay

[cluelessuserwholives]

okay, dumbluedoor? love seeing all the fics bashing him. there a cool twist on the harry potter series written by she-who-must-not-be-named. BUT. everyone makes him seem like this super genius gaslighter and manipulator who planned everything to the last detail and had all these great plans revolving around keeping harry in check. and well this is great, I feel like fic writers are missing a great opportunity. Senile high-as-fuck dumbbluedoor.

The fucker has no idea what the fuck is going on at all times.

he's just fuckiing vibing well probably high on lemon drops or whateverr. fuck has no clue whats going on in hogwarts.

harry knows fuck all about the wizarding world? fuck it. send hagrid. the guy who prefers magical creatures over humans and flunked out of school because of that. he'll be fine.

the fancy orange rock is in the basement and harry found it? oh shit i forgot about that. thanks for reminding me about it. don't worry about the guy who's face you disintegrated he's probably fine- oh he's dead? sucks to be him.

the chamber of secrets is open? tf is the chamber of secrets? idk. figure it out yourselves i've got no clue- oh Tom came out of a diary? how'd he do that? oh a big snek was in the walls two?

surius black out of prison... why was he in prison? '...betraying the potter's....' wait that wasn't him. oh shitttttt.... I forgot to tell people that didn't i. well he's probably fine. harry's name in the goblet of fire? how'd that get their- oh tom's back from the dead. whoa. how'd he do that? anyways here harry lets go to the wizard court, you testify im gonna go take a shit-

ah yes, horcruxes. those things. that i know about. anyways harry have you heard of the power of a mother's love-

fuck you a bjillion points to griffdoor you fucking snakes-

[solosolace]

Harry Potter fic

I wrote a Harry Potter Fic Just the prologue is up but i'm working on the first chapter-

slash fic, creature fic, mental health, no bashing

[maxdibert]

The nickname “Snivellus” derives from the word “snivel,” which means crybaby. So, Snivellus was basically a way of mocking the fact that Severus might show his emotions—that instead of toughing it out like a stereotypical, macho, strong, hairy-chested man, he cried. I don’t think I need to explain why this nickname is problematic—any nickname used to bully someone is problematic—but a nickname that also references a supposed weakness, stemming from the expectations of a patriarchal society for men to display “unmanly” behavior typical of “weak” men, is not just problematic due to the bullying itself but also because of the misogynistic implications it carries. Because yes, misogyny and hegemonic gender roles also affect men by demanding certain traits from them to validate them socially. And I know the Marauders lived in the 1970s, and that Rowling is one of the worst when it comes to gender issues. But I find it quite ironic how Marauders Stans or Slytherin Skittles, who have built their trash fandom and constant Snape-bashing around the topic of LGBTQ+ themes, have the audacity to mock Snape using a nickname that directly attacks gender nonconformity and justifies a toxic, traditional masculinity that shames men who cry or show emotions, labeling them as less valid.

The Marauders weren’t social justice warriors, and James and Sirius, in particular, embodied the classic values of male success through the performance of stereotypical “macho” characteristics: as leaders, as “alphas” of the pack. Both are violent; both are cocky men who try to stand out and mark their territory. Both exhibit behaviors that have typically been excused in men just because they are men, such as abusive and reckless behavior. Their nickname for Severus stems from the idea that showing emotions—especially crying—if you are a man, is a reason for ridicule and mockery because men don’t cry. Men are supposed to be strong, puff out their chests, and keep going because that’s what men do. It’s a misogynistic and archaic mindset that continues to be perpetuated in social models and relationships to this day. And I find it incredibly hypocritical that certain people who claim to hate J.K. Rowling for being a transphobe then go on to appropriate the horribly sexist nicknames she created for a group of heterosexual men embodying toxic masculinity to bully another man for not performing the traditional masculine model expected of someone like him.

Because Severus wasn’t a “macho”. Severus was a studious introvert with a more passive character who didn’t fit into the masculine vision of the time. Everything about him, including his appearance, demeanor, and interests, is unmasculine from a hegemonic perspective given the historical context. But these people don’t care. They’re so limited, so ignorant, and so cynical that they not only ignore these kinds of nuances but even find it funny to reproduce insults that any real-life James Potter would probably have used against them.

Make no mistake: James Potter and Sirius Black wouldn’t have been your friends. They would have tortured you as much, if not more, than Snape. And that’s the most pathetic part of their fandom, unfortunately.

[vintage-bentley]

David Tennant is a perfect example of how gender ideologists are their own worst enemy. Repeatedly, it’s their own awful behaviour that turns people against them. Look at JK Rowling: it wasn’t just what she said that got people siding with her, it was the reaction from gender ideologists. If they had just brushed her off and ignored her, I don’t think she’d be as relevant in the debate as she is now.

So now we have Tennant, hailed as an amazing trans ally to the point that he wins an ally award for textbook performative allyship. And he decided to call gender critical feminists “little whinging f------” (no idea what the f word is, this is from the Telegraph), continuing with “who’re on the wrong side of history and they’ll all go away soon”.

Women who are simply concerned about our sex-based rights. About the protection of women as a class in law. About the ability to organise together without the presence of male people, which is crucial for class consciousness and therefore feminist progress. Lesbians who are being told we’re bigoted for not being attracted to males, and that we need to change (who I mention because lesbians have been very vocal in this debate for this reason).

This is a heterosexual male who is looking at these women, and deciding that our very real concerns are just “whinging”. Because of course he is, our concerns don’t affect him. Of course he claims we’ll “go away soon”, presumably because men like him will silence us. This is the same shit that was being said about the suffragettes. About the Me Too movement. About any kind of feminist movement. That we just need to shut up and go away.

And we’re supposed to believe that this typical male view of women is super progressive this time, because it’s in the name of trans activism?

Less and less people are willing to believe that. More are starting to see the misogyny and homophobia that fuels gender ideology, all because the people who advocate for it are always so quick to let it show.

They are always so quick to claim that their biggest enemies are feminists, and not the violent men that actually wish them harm. They are always so quick to attack women first and foremost.

And people are noticing. They noticed when JK Rowling started to speak up, and they’re noticing now that a male celebrity has gone on record voicing hatred for feminists in the name of gender ideology. They’ll notice again when the next celebrity either speaks up or bashes women.

I hope Tennant enjoys his shiny ally award, all while his actions are causing women to turn against him and his cause.

[this-is-exorsexism]

"trans ally" liberals bash jk rowling for her bigotry towards trans women but act exactly like her when they see trans men, non-binary and intersex people

this is exorsexism.

the amount of people who think all of this is only about trans women and don't realise that a) plenty of things are directly targeted at other trans people all the time and b) everything excluding trans women from something has a flipside that affects trans men and many nonbinary and intersex people are wild. cis feminists do the bare minimum of including trans women while still painting trans men as the enemy and treating nonbinary and intersex people as if we don't exist and are neither privileged nor oppressed by the patriarchy. cis women "love trans women" because they "taught them to appreciate their womanhood" as if the value of a trans person hinges on whether we can teach cis people something.

[maxdibert]

The fact that you label the only character who was literally marginalized and mocked for not conforming to the hegemonic masculinity of the time as a homophobe is laughable. You pinkwash a group of privileged rich kids who performed hegemonic masculinity and turn the one who is clearly described with feminine traits into a homophobe. JK Rowling would be proud of you.

It’s funny how you present yourselves as super progressive, anti-transphobia, anti-body shaming, and ultra pro-PoC, but when push comes to shove, you take the least masculine guy in the story and turn him into a homophobe. You take the guy everyone mocked for his physical appearance and bullied for not fitting beauty standards, villainize him, and keep laughing at those physical traits. And then you take the only one whose features didn’t fully align with British whiteness and make him a racist. I don’t know if it’s cognitive dissonance or just a need to validate your kink for pretty privilege and fashionable classism, but the level of hypocrisy, double standards, and utter lack of understanding of the social issues you supposedly defend is remarkable.

Like, imagine thinking you’re a social justice warrior when your fandom has decided to single out the only working-class character, without social or economic support, who doesn’t conform to the masculine norms of his time and is discriminated against for not being "man enough," for not fitting beauty standards, and for having a nonconforming appearance—and you mock him as if that’s some sort of super radical reclamation. Honestly, I really hope these people are 13 years old, because if they’re adults, we’re doomed.

Snivllus: Fuck gay people

Barty: Oh I do, every single day

Evan: Amen

Dorcas: Truely a pleasure to do, will recommend

Regulus *grinning*: My boyfriend has the same to do list

Pandora: No self deprecating thoughts out loud go away

[bet-on-me-13]

Fanfics that changed your entire perception on a piece of Media?

Every once in a while I will find a Fanfic that completely overhauls my entire perception of a Show or Book, to the point that I consider that Fanfic as a Better Canon than the Actual Canon Story. Simply because I adore them so much.

(Not to say the actual Canon isn't good, but I just like certain elements of the fanfics more than what they did in Canon, and in some cases those elements stack up so much I wish I could just replace the entire story with them)

For Harry Potter it was Lily's Boy. This added so much to the HP Universe and made a story I desperately wish was Canon instead. I think most people who read this agree, especially because JK Rowling🤢 sucks ass at actual worldbuilding and this sets up a magical world that feels fleshed out and alive. My only gripe is the Ron and Hermione bashing, but I can ignore that pretty easily. Dumbledore Bashing is perfectly fine imo.

For MHA it was We Are Here: Emerald Sparks and Angel on my Shoulder. Both are Fics that dramatically expand on the MHA Worldbuilding, and have Concepts and Arcs that I wish were a part of the actual Anime. Especially with the expansion they do on what happened during the Dawn of Quirks, and just how Dark and Brutal the MHA World can actually get when you think about the information we are given about it in Canon.

And the big one for me, for Legend of Zelda: BOTW it was Luminous. This is a huge one because I actually cried when I read it, the character writing, emotional beats, headcanons, and more are all just absolutely incredible and kept me on the edge of my seat every single chapter until it finished. The scenes with the Champions and Mipha, the flashbacks, the Yiga Clan, the OC's, and character expansions, and so much more. I cannot wait for the sequel and prequel series that are in the works.

Any fics like that for you? (Also any recs?)

[bellatrixobsessed1]

I found my least favorite pages

Uggg. Yeah. No.

Like okay, with this one I could see them doing something really cool where they could use this as a lead in for Azula trying to dissuade her followers from fighting for the throne on her behalf. But I doubt that they will do that.

This second one has made me decide that I won't be getting this comic. I could write this off as a Mai POV joke but the phrasing of it is a bit too meta for my tastes. And given the vitriol the writers seem to have had for Azula fans in the past I feel inclined to take it at face value.

The only other time I've seen an author take such digs at a portion of their fanbase was when Rowling declared that there was something wrong with people who liked Draco.

Same energy.

It's just so disappointing because I could have sworn that Hicks seemed to like Azula and seemed to have taken some of the Azula fans' povs into account when writing the solo comic. Azula was portrayed sympathetically and some hope was offered. And then we get a complete 180.

It almost feels like baiting an mockery at this point and I'm borderline done with this franchise. Maybe I'm reading to deeply on this one but the writers have a history of making fun of portions of the fandom. I have no love for Zutara but the writers and official IG accounts like to make jabs at the shippers. I just don't have any respect for writers the stoke the flames of/actively encourage fandom drama and bashing portions of the fandom.

[obsidian-changeling33]

What's really funny, and i mean outright hilarious, is that he recently underwent plastic surgery to look more feminine

Which failed

But now he has to defend his disney bathroom photos because women, real women, are absolutely bashing him online.

JK Rowling is right, again. He's collecting trophies, not trying to prove his point of womanhood

[my-castles-crumbling]

Hi guys <3

I just wanted to talk about something that's really hit me this morning.

I feel like in the past few months, many people in this fandom have chosen to take a step back from fandom spaces, especially more interactive ones like twitter, tiktok, tumblr, etc. We've had a huge influx of people binding works for profit, sending hate on multiple platforms, and literally chasing people out of the fandom. Just this morning, I watched a tiktok of someone in this fandom reading hateful messages he received, and some of them were literal death threats.

Don't get me wrong- I do not blame a single person for privating their works, removing their creations, or taking a step back from fandom. In fact, I think it's absolutely warranted, and mental health comes first. While I would never delude myself into thinking I am as well-known as some of the people who struggle with these things, I myself have considered taking a break a few times, as it can definitely be overwhelming.

However, fandom is first and foremost and escape for me. I use it as a means of coping with past traumas and current stressors, and I have seen the way it has helped literally thousands of people deal with similar things.

I have to be honest. For years, fandom was a more-taboo community of 'nerds' and 'geeks.' When I was a kid, it was absolutely unheard of to read fanfiction, and I hid in my room for hours reading fanfiction.net, terrified someone would find me. But since it's become more socially acceptable, I feel like hate and judgement has only grown.

But the thing is, so many of you guys are ruining this. The hate you are spreading because you don't like a ship or because you dislike the way a fic has been written or because you, god forbid, hate that a character is written as feminine, is ruining this space for so many people. For god's sake, if you don't like it, don't fucking read it. Don't like Jegulus? Don't read it. Don't like transfem Sirius? Don't read it.

For so many people this is the only safe space.

And I'm gonna be so honest when I say that I need this safe space. This is something that keeps me going and helps me so much. So please, before you send hate, or bash a ship, or say something negative about anyone, remember that this is supposed to be fun. This is supposed to be a safe space. This is supposed to be positive. And you are interacting with PEOPLE. Nobody here is a deity, nobody here is above it all, and nobody here deserves the hate that has been spread. (Except JK Rowling).

Sending love <3

P.s. this is NOT me asking you to go after the people spreading the hate. While I enjoy teasing trolls as much as the next person, sending more hate is not the answer.

[ayyy-imma-ninja]

Sooo something has been brought to my attention that immediately needs to be addressed.

The user @asmodeus-682 (can @ them freely since they've already blocked me and I cannot reach out to them) is throwing around accusations that I'm a pro-shipper of Solar x Moon, a ship that's grown in popularity amongst some members in the TSAMS community. And is bashing anyone and everyone associated with it.

Gonna come out and call bullshit.

Yes, I did like some art of it from accounts I follow because I thought what was happening in said art was cute. But...that doesn't mean I ship it???

It's also NOT INCEST?????

Since when does liking something equate to supporting something else???

People can like Harry Potter and hate JK Rowling at the same time, so idk what logic is being used here.

Do I think SolarMoon is cute? Yes.

Do I ship it? No, it's personally not my cup of tea. Kidscove still has my heart and soul.

I understand some are hesitant to approach it or are heavily against it because Solar was given the title of "cousin" by Earth and has been accepted into the family. I, as a moderator in the official TSBS Discord server, have been cautious to not let any discussions of SolarMoon transpire BECAUSE of this fact.

But y'all...

This is so dumb.

So unbelievably fucking dumb.

I'm mostly pissed because I am having to delay progress on a thumbnail to have to type this out and yet I still feel the need to.

At the end of the day people like what they like. The ship isn't gonna affect the show in any way because it's never going to happen.

And don't drag the VAs into even more bullshit drama, they've had enough. My friends don't need more in their lives than what they've already gone through the past year.

Supporting an artist, does not mean you are a supporter of Incestuous ships. It means you like art.

And being personal friends with Reed, the VA for Moon, I can tell you with utmost certainty he does not fucking care.

If anyone has questions feel free to message me. Let's be adults about this.

edit: for the love of god DO NOT GO HARASSING PEOPLE. I DO NOT CONDONE ANYONE TO GO AFTER THIS PERSON OR ANYONE IN THE COMMENTS. THAT IS NOT COOL.

[writer-swift-knight]

My new WIP has been out for almost two weeks and wow do I love posting again! What you can expect this time around from SGP:

Eighth Year

BAMF Hermione

Soft Draco

Mutual Pining & Slow Burn

Forced Cohabitation

Ron Weasley Bashing

Side Pairs: Panville and NottPott

The art for this fic was created by the incredible @cocotamarindo ❤️

New chapters are posted every Friday 🪄✨

Summary

Fallen from grace due to his involvement in the war, Draco Malfoy fully intended on entering his ministry-mandated eighth year at Hogwarts as one thing: miserable.

But what happens when the most terrifying witch with a blood lust for justice—The Brightest Witch of Her Age—assigns herself as Draco’s unofficial bodyguard against their vengeful cohorts?

Draco earns himself what is aptly referred to as Scary Granger Privileges™.