#someone: hey joy what fics do you enjoy/rec?

[penny-anna]

i have other things to do but here we gooooo owl house fic recs:

Autism to Autism Communication by Polyhexian

"I understand sarcasm," Hunter said, sounding offended. He crossed his arms. "You didn't do the voice thing." Darius stared at him. "The what?" Hunter put his arms in the air and gave his hands a sarcastic little wave. "I GuEsS I'LL hAvE tO sToP cOmInG oVeR, tHeN," he said in the most over the top and comical parody of sarcasm that Darius had ever heard in his life.

everything by this author is great & this one is a joy and a delight!!

Extant Species by Polyhexian

She'd been called a monster more times than she could count, but she knew what a real monster looked like.

i'd happily rec a bunch of polyhexian's stuff but this lil vee & hunter fic was a highlight. especially enjoy the part where hunter's advising her on how best to go about murdering him. love that for them both!!

Owlet by Polyhexian

"Eda!" Hunter yelled as he shouldered open the door and Hooty cooed and rambled at him, "I need help with my potions homewooooooaaaat the HELL is that?!" Luz looked up from where she was sitting on the couch and reading what appeared to be a romance novel about werewolves. "What is what?" "That!" he yelled, pointing at the hulking behemoth curled up in the middle of the room in a massive pile of blankets, pillows, and stuffed animals. "Is that the owl beast?!"

& 1 more!! short n sweet n cute

With Clay and Star Scraps by SiryyGray

Hunter decided to do some research into Grimwalkers. First discovery: Grimwalkers were outlawed in every city under every rule as far back as the history books go. Second discovery: Grimwalkers have no natural means of death. Third discovery: there’s a caveat to that second one.

some absolutely brutal grimwalker content. SPOILERS: hunter can't outlive belos.

Intrusion by rayrock

'He drops something in. It moves and writhes, but it is clearly exhausted. “Eat,” is all he says, voice barely above a whisper. But it is a demand nonetheless, intimidating enough to send shivers down her spine. She hisses in protest once more. He tucks the notepad and pen into his cloak and pulls out a staff. It unfolds and glows a bright red. He does not say anything more. He is nearly always silent when she sees him.' Or: Vee and the Golden Guard’s relationship is complicated, but it is there

some more vee & hunter content for you

just a little bit left by prodigalDaughter

The first time Darius had seen the new Guard unmasked, the fury and betrayal had risen in him like floodwater, bubbling and steaming out of creeks and sewers. Creed had never told him he had a son. —— Hunter has discovered what he is, but he’s not the only one who has to grapple with assumptions made about his origins.

hey remember the other day when i was talking about 'what if darius thought hunter was the previous golden guard's son'! well here u go someone wrote that fic

Wild and Wandering Cries by PorcelanaRota

So his uncle goes flying into the wall directly above him and he is unable to dodge. And his uncle, who is now more palisman curse slime than he is flesh and blood, splatters on the wall, on the ground, on him. Hunter’s been in hundreds of life-or-death situations. He’s felt real and true and visceral fear that sank into his bones and marinated into terror more times than not. Still, nothing has ever left him so shocked and horrified and just flat-out scared that time has actually stopped.

belos splash zone? belos splash zone.

mistakes (the thrilling saga, in high definition) by quynnyah

"This," Amity says, "is not normal human behavior." (Or: Amity and Hunter volunteer to help Camila on a grocery trip. It goes about as well as expected.)

some banging amity & hunter in the human realm stuff for u

Notched by angelcloves

Belos removes the ear tag from his newest Grimwalker.

tiny wee fic giving a backstory for Hunter's notched ear. i rotate this concept in my brain all the time. absolutely twisted.

There is no open window, but the floors still creep by theprincessofdenial

On Tuesday, they eat Chinese. On Wednesday, Camila once again doesn’t have the time to cook, so pizza it is. On Thursday, she wants to make a proper dinner but there’s a hold up at the clinic, Luz knocks over a shelf, Willow has a wardrobe emergency, and then Amity’s cat goes missing. And Hunter beats Gus up so badly the boy ends up bleeding, so there’s also that.

hgnnnh i would rec this entire series if i could (it's 14 fics totally 200k total). its all so chewy i want to get my teeth into it and rrrrrrrrrr. ANYWAY this is my no 1 fav i've been back and re-read it about 7 times. love the Camila Noceda POV; the way it captures the chaos of all 6 kids in the house and makes it feel so real & vivid; the absolutely brutal Hunter characterisation. if ur a Hunter fan go read this right away.

Distance by theprincessofdenial

For the first minute, they all just stand there in silence and watch the airship slowly disappear beyond the horizon. Even though they’re supposed to react quickly, the cold still comes as a shock. It takes some time for the reality to settle in and for them to realize how useless everything they have brought is going to be when their marrow freezes. Hunter hears some of the Scouts inhaling sharply after they approach the ledge and look down. They turn around, unsure where to start, and they shuffle their feet in the snow (terrible decision, really, this way their boots are going to get wet even quicker). Hunter’s the first one to break the silence, and oh, he does it with style. He has been rehearsing that line for a week. “See you at the bottom, suckers!” he exclaims as he pulls out the staff and disappears in a flash of red light. (or: The Obligatory "Leave Everyone at the Top of the Mountain and See Who Makes It Back to the Bottom Alive" Fic. With a splash of Steve)

2nd rec from this series. exactly what it says on tin. *banging pots together* you like whump come get your whump i ADORE what this author does w Hunter. also Steve is there (whump for Steve!!)

A Potter's Field by theprincessofdenial

The view from the staircase is, well, not stunning, that’s definitely not the word. It’s just that “view” is supposed to be accompanied by “stunning,” and Luz can feel her brain coming to a screeching halt and refusing to process what they’re seeing. It's skeletons. Come on, they both knew it was going to be skeletons. The entire Isles know at this point. (Or: despite what the stories would have you believe, in the aftermath, there are things to deal with. Those things include ruined infrastructure, electing new leaders, and prosecuting those responsible for the old regime. And apparently, also Grimwalker mass graves.)

& third and final. unbelievably chewy post-canon fic. lets get into the reconstruction of the isles in full detail. goes hard as hell. will sit in my brain for a long time i think. cannot rec this enough.

and rats all for now!! i got a bunch more stuff in my 'marked for later' so watch this space

[lola-andheruniverse]

Hey - thank you so much for your response to my other request. I’m loving the fics. I’m here now with another request.

I’m looking for Caryl fics that involve Carol going through pregnancy/birth. I’d love to see your recommendations. TIA 😊

Hey, @roryelijah02! Wow, I love baby fics! Thanks so much for asking for this rec list. It took me a while to select stories for you that haven't yet appeared on my blog. It's has a little bit of everything - from WIP to completed works and series, sweet and fluffy romances and major dramas with happy endings. There's even a series of funny one-shots written by a group of talented carylers in collaboration. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do. 🧡 1. An Innocent Man by @spanishrose2002 [ 9Lives | AO3 | FF.net ] Summary: Caryl and Mandrea, AU.  Life began at forty and only got better from there.  Carol had a good job, amazing friends, and a happy life.  She didn’t need love, and she didn’t need romance.  Besides, she already knew that all men were the same.  They would all, eventually, be guilty of the same crimes.  That didn’t make her jaded; it just made her aware.  Could one man prove to her that he was different?  Could he prove to her that he was an innocent man? Rated: E Word count: 328.365 (119 chapters of ?) Published: April 12, 2020 (WIP)

2. Maybe It's Just Us by @waynedunlaptheorgandonor [ 9Lives | AO3 ] Summary: “Look, I don't know what to tell y'all. Carol's pregnant, it's mine, it wasn't on purpose, and we ain't a couple. That's it, that's all there is.”

Spoiler alert: That isn't all there is.

Rated: M Word count: 68.675 (13 chapters) Published: September 25, 2018 (complete)

3. illuminate the heart by lilabut / @singingfirefliess [ 9Lives | AO3 ]

Summary: Whatever had happened between them, it most definitely was not supposed to mean anything. The pink plus sign, however, tells a different story.

Rated: M Word count: 55.337 (09 chapters) Published: February 04, 2016 (complete)

4. Someone Else's Star by Amanda Hawthorn [ 9Lives | AO3 ]

Summary: All those years that Ed had blamed her for being a dried up, barren bitch and it was him that had been defective all along. If she wasn’t so stressed, she’d find the situation highly amusing, but right now, she couldn’t see the funny side. She had to face facts. She was forty six, alone and pregnant...no, not funny at all.

Rated: E Word count: 122.101 (29 chapters) Published: November 20, 2017 (complete) 5. What to Expect When You're Expecting by CharlotteAshmore, Amanda Hawthorn, BettyBubble, CLADD, Geektaire and Marie1063 / @haircoveredwriter [ 9Lives ] Summary: Carol’s pregnant … surely, something Daryl hadn’t been expecting.  Oh, the joys of parenthood!  But first he has to survive something worse than a zombie apocalypse … hormones, cravings, midnight runs for pickles, sensitive boobs and the list goes on and on. Rated: T Word count: 45.177 (12 one-shots) Published: February 01, 2018

[ghost-recs]

hey :) it's very cool that you're making such organized rec lists! you probably don't mean any harm by this but is rating them necessary? by recommending them you are already telling people that you like them, and saying what you enjoyed about them is also great!

but rating fics on a scale from 1-10 and putting your opinions into the general tags/ tagging directly so that the writers that- i'm guessing largely did not ask for your criticism- are very likely to see it creates an uncomfortable atmosphere

i know that at least for me i would not enjoy being putting next to other authors like this, and having a rating put on a fic that i worked hard on and that is therefore probably very dear to me would feel discouraging. many authors on your lists also explicitly state that they are not looking for criticism on a hobby they want to simply enjoy

again, i assume that you mean absolutely no harm and simply want to help others find fics they might enjoy, but this luckily isn't school, we can simply enjoy things without having to grade them

this divide in fandom, where artist are treated like 'content creators' and readers as the 'consumers' is a larger issue that way too often causes artist to lose their joy in being active in fandom.

fan art should be about community, after all we're all just some people with a shared love for our favourite characters

so please, let's share and support the fan fiction ( and fan art in general) we enjoy in a way that doesn't feel like a product review

Hey! :) I just wanted to address this before it becomes something that I never intended/wanted it to become.

In no way, shape, or form am I trying to offend or criticize anyone when I recommend works. My “ghost ratings” are purely my personal preference out of my favorite fics. It is an easier way for me to organize my lists based solely on my personal taste and preferences. The ratings are not meant to be a grading system. They don’t measure the quality, quantity, or even the content of the works. What they show are simply which ones I preferred over others.

I will admit that choosing to add my own personal rating is to let others know which fics were my favorite. But first and foremost the entire point of making these lists is to share the love of these works. I enjoy adding the ratings just to show personal preference. After all, everyone has pieces of writing, fics, or fan art that they prefer over other ones. It’s fun to gush a little extra over the works that you most enjoy!

Again though, it is not meant to be a critique. I am not trying to offer advice or pretend that I could do better. It never crossed my mind that someone would view these recs as a “product review,” and that is my own fault for not thinking it through from that perspective. I don’t view these artists and writers as “content creators” and the readers as “consumers.” We ARE just one community! :)

That all being said, I am deeply sorry if I have offended anyone or crossed a line. I never meant to do that and truly just want to share fics that I enjoy with others. To any writers, artists, and readers that I’ve offended with my ratings, I apologize and I hope you will forgive me.

I have decided that my ratings are not worth the risk of possibly discouraging others. It would break my heart if I knew my recommendations were doing that to others. I will be taking down all my ratings and will not be adding more to any future recs.

Anon thank you for discussing this with me in a kind and helpful manner. And for not assuming that I’m trying to be a jerk and tear others down.

I love you all! I love all of you artists and the love for the fandom that we share! Thank you for bearing with me, and have a great day/night!🫶🏻

[deaf-bakugou]

Fully understanding that it is not your job to educate every single hearing person that wants to ask you questions about being deaf/hoh, I totally accept if you don't have the time or energy to respond to my question. If that's the case, I hope you have a great day! I found your blog via you being credited on the fic A Soul's Challenge because I also love the deaf Bakugo trope!

That being said, I'm currently writing an original story where I've decided to include a deaf/hoh character and I'm wondering if you would be able to point me in the direction of any educational materials I can use to write him correctly and respectfully? Or, if nothing else, any of your favorite Bakugo fanfictions that treat his deafness particularly well that I can learn from?

(Okay, I may also just be fishing for fic recs because, well, I do love me the blastie boi)

If you're up to it, I'd be happy to have a proper conversation via DMs! Thanks for your attention either way!

Hey! I'm sorry for the probably late reply. My messages... never tell me when I have them. (I'm told it is a common problem) I am more than happy to chat with you via dm's to help provide information. But let me say now, there is no one solid way to write your character correctly. It will vastly depend on a number of factors. If you are looking for a fun resource book I can recommend a book titled "for hearing people only"

But even this is just a general guide. (I have this book and I am Deaf myself. But not all Deaf experiences are the same. So it was still useful for me)

Factors to consider for you character include,

Us this a fantasy world or a real world. Do their parents know sign language. Do they know sign language? Do hearing aids or cochlear exist in your world? Did they attend a Deaf institute, were the mainstreamed, or fully homeschooled? This plus more factors into your portrayal just to begin. But I can tell you right now, if your Deaf person cannot hear well enough to communicate verbally, do not give them some magical aid that allows them to suddenly communicate perfectly. That just erases the fact that hearing loss IS a disability. (Though we prefer not to call it that. It is a culture.) But in the context here as a hearing person you must be aware of the things that it affects and that you can't magic them away or you will be written off as bad rep. Read through my blog there is a variety of writing advice there. Also, if you can get a copy, I enjoyed this fantasy story of a Deaf medieval character,

It was given to me by my ASL teacher when I despaired over reading material that understood what I was going through. (Bless her) a fascinating look into what it might be like in a fantasy setting. Look for art and stories by Deaf people and read it, look at it. Try to understand the grief and the pain and the struggle and the joy and the delay. Then when you write a scene, ask someone in the community, preferably who is similar to the circumstances you are writing, read over it and give feedback. I've studied Deafness from a medical, psychological, governmental and cultural angle. I know a lot. But not everything.

I have a Deaf Bakugou fic rec list somewhere on my page. If I find it I will reblog it again. But I haven't read any of the current stuff. I'm a year behind! Check out my fic on Ao3 though if you want an insight for disasters! (In America lol)

If anyone wants to send me current deaf bakugou fics please do! I will read and promo some! I would like to see how it has changed in the past year and what's going on!

[mustlovesteve]

Agreed! If I may expand on this topic in a few directions...

Unfortunately, many of these heavily-criticized tropes/pieces of fanon are based in prejudice and unchecked biases. Transphobia, biphobia, racism, sexism, classism, etc. They also tend to be common elements of the most popular fanfics that get the most attention, negative and positive. I think that's definitely worth criticizing on a fandom trend-level.

But many of the criticisms are about the "proper" interpretation of canon, superior ways to "properly" enjoy certain ships, simple preferences, or even based in different flavors of bigotry dressed up as activism. And hey, everyone has a right to be a hater and complain about annoying fandom things. I've complained sometimes too when I'm particularly frustrated, or in private with friends.

However, I think many people really don't appreciate that this is free content, produced by passionate fans who often get little to no recognition/appreciation regardless of how much joy they bring to the fandom. You can just filter out that content and ignore if it isn't to your liking. Don't like? Don't read. Keep scrolling. This fandom has an abundance of other fics to enjoy!

Or, as OP said, you can write your own fic! That's exactly what I did. I wanted to see a Steddie fic that had a fleshed-out plot, where Robin was treated like a character with her own problems, where Steve and Eddie had many noteworthy relationships and interactions outside of the main romance, where Steve was more bitchy (lol), etc. and now it exists!

For those who can't/don't want to write their own fanfics, I would strongly recommend showing appreciation for the fics that they do enjoy. Things like...writing lovely comments, curating specific rec lists (for example, "Steddie fics where other characters play major roles"), drawing fanart based on favorite scenes, making edits or playlists, creating promo posts, talking it up with your friends, etc. That way, you'll be encouraging those writers to continue writing things you like, you'll expose more people to their works so they can enjoy it and show their appreciation as well, and other writers might see that and recognize the appeal too.

This is a really complex topic. Ultimately, as someone who usually avoids being "guilty" of anything listed on the usual laundry lists of complaints, I much prefer to see positivity and celebration and promotion.

This might be controversial but i feel like saying it as a writer myself.

There’s a lot of complaints in the Stranger Things fandom about fanfic. About how people focus too much on Steddie, about how in Steddie fics the other characters take a backseat, about how people don’t like the common portrayal of xyz character. These complaints are valid, but do you wanna know the solution? Because it sure as shit isn’t bitching about it and trying to make fanfic writers write fanfic the way you want it.

It’s writing your own goddamn fanfic.

This kind of talk is extremely discouraging to fanfic authors. It makes them feel like they’re only allowed to write fanfic one specific way, and if they don’t write it that one way they’re a bad person, they’re lesbophobic for writing about Steddie and not Ronance, they’re a bad writer for focusing on what they want to write.

Fanfic authors do this for free. The solution is not bitching to them about the fanfic provided. The solution is writing your own fanfic the way you want it written.

Maybe if more of these people who are complaining wrote their own fanfic instead of complaining, there wouldn’t be much to complain about anymore.

(Sorry if this came off as rude, it was not my intention. I’m just getting fed up as a fanfic writer myself who feels discouraged by seeing the negativity surrounding fanfic in this fandom.)

[snackhobi]

content creator year in review ✨

I was tagged by a BUNCH of people: @yeojaa​ @jinpanman​ @personasintro​ @suga-kookiemonster​ @chillingkoo​ @yeoldontknow​ (thank you all so much for including me in your posts HELP???)

first creation and most recent creation of 2020: my first creation was technically strike a chord, even if I didn’t actually publish it first (I was having issues with appearing in tags and I didn’t have any followers so I deleted it until I had some traction OOPS) and my most recent is cream & suga! so I started with yoongi and ended with yoongi! I guess that’s consistency for you

one of your favorite creations from 2020: oh, wow. this is a hard one. I think I’d have to say a human touch, because it was the one I struggled with the most- so when I finally finished it, it felt SO good. and everyone’s been so lovely, I can’t help but feel happy that I’ve created something that people enjoy.

a creation you’re really proud of: burning bright. I wrote it across two days and it was hard going but it was fun and I’m really proud of how it turned out, and I hope erin still likes it fdslkjdsf

a creation that took you forever: a human touch. it technically took months to write; I got blocked during it and had to work on other things, and I had to rework a lot of stuff. so glad I got it done and I had people supporting me!!

a creation from 2020 that received the most notes: helping hands, which is currently at 2222 notes 😳

a creation you think deserved more notes: idk about “deserved”, but I really loved writing finding home and I think the premise is cute!

a new fandom you joined and a creation you made for it: I’ve been an ARMY since uhhh 2016? so bts isn’t a new fandom for me but it’s the only thing I’ve created things for this year whoopsy

a creation you made that breaks your heart: wow most of my creations are marshmallow fluff so this is a hard one HMM.... things you said after it was over, probably. covid has led to me seeing my friends far less than normal and I was feeling really isolated early this year, and I ended up thinking about an old friend who I loved dearly and fell out of touch with. which is where the feelings in this fic come from. so there’s a lot of heartache around that, for me personally

a ‘simple’ creation that you really love: heavy lifting; I’m calling it “simple” because it was super self indulgent and I didn’t put a lot of effort into it, but it was a lot of fun and it’s made people laugh! so that’s nice

a creation that was inspired by another one: hmm technically a human touch because it’s a detroit: become human au, so I guess you could say it was inspired by that? and burning bright is a pacific rim au so that, too?

a favorite creation created by someone else: oh god I’ve read some INCREDIBLE fics this year so this is NOT a representation of all my faves, this is just a small sliver (I’m in the process of setting up a fic reading blog so I can actually keep track of what I’ve read and enjoyed):

devil in a new suit by @yeojaa magnificat by @yeoldontknow greedy by @xjoonchildx unbroken by @sahmfanficbts finding bigfoot by @bloomsuga hug-o-gram by @cinnaminsvga into the wilderness by @gukyi

some of your favorite content creators from the year: everyone above, amongst others!! I’ve been out of sorts these past few months, I’m usually incredibly organised but I find myself discombobulated and incredibly forgetful. please watch this space for when I set up my fic reading blog 

and for good measure, another couple more creations of yours that you love: UMMMM midnight confessions because I love hobi. okay BYE

tagging: I’m fairly certain all my moots have been tagged in this by now?? 🤔🤧

[ckerouac]

I miss the big rec posts of old, so… I’m gonna do one.  And I'm going to be real extra about it. I’ve read & reread a variety of things over the past few months that I’ve thoroughly enjoyed, and figured hey, y'all might enjoy them as well.  Is there a rhyme or reason?  Of course not.  Are they all new?  Hell no, that’s the joy of an archive.  I also realized like half of them are spooky season themed, so... *shrugs* viva la spooky season. 

Game of Thrones

Dornish Sand by Aviss - (E, 5K, Oberyn/Ellaria/Jamie/Brienne) 

Jamie & Brienne go to Dorne, and the four of them bone.  Why there aren’t more of these four together, I don’t know.  More fics should be about sexy folks worshiping Brienne and this definitely hits it.

Royal Flush by @astolat - (E, 85K, various)

Canon divergence - what if during the Battle of Blackwater Robb found his way into King’s Landing, rescued Sansa, and killed Joffrey?  Where does the game go from there?  That’s the premise and it really is best to ignore the tags and discover the story as it goes because it is deeply engrossing and this is the type of story where being surprised and watching the chess match unfold is part of the fun.

Justified

Bad Apple Blues by @laporcupina  - (NR, 7K, Gen)

A S1 day in the life of Raylan at work, including but not limited to a hostage situation where the whole team gets to show off what they’re good at.  From one of my favorite gen writers, no matter what fandom they’re writing in.

In the Heart of the Holler by scioscribe - (T, 4K, Gen)

The stories say there's a place in Harlan County that will grant your wish on Halloween night.  Raylan thinks Loretta should stay the hell away from it.  Another one to head into spooky season.  Because as someone who grew up in a rural area, some places are just creepy as fuck and this has the vibes.

Underground by @sholiofic - (T, 3K, Gen)

Another preview to spooky season (do I have a thing for Appalachian scares?  apparently) with Raylan, Tim, and Rachel chasing a fugitive into what feels like a haunted mine.  There are far too many things you can only see from the corner of your eye that far underground.

The Mandalorian/Star Wars

ain’t no road i like as well as the road that leads to you by getmean - (T, 3K, Din/Cobb)

Post-BOBF, Din, Cobb, and Grogu go relax on a planet that is moist and green and definitely not Tatooine.  It’s soft, it’s sweet, and good lord the three of them deserve a break.

Find His Way Back by @catchclaw - (M, 9K, Din/Cobb/Obi-Wan)

What if Din and Cobb met 10 years earlier, and they ran into Tatooine’s favorite hermit and had to hunker down for the night?  It’s exactly what you hope it is, and turned me on to a new trio.

Hold Fast by @staranon95 - (E, 21K, Din/Cobb)

Post-S2, Din returns to Tatooine looking for peace, but he’s haunted by the darksabre, both literally and figuratively.  Cobb’s not doing much better.  Some of the best haunted by your past AND actually haunted that I’ve read and perfect going into spooky season.

Lest You Be Shining by @brightmouth - (M, 10K, Din/Cobb)

Cobb Vanth falls in love in the crux of a new era and it only hurts a little bit. It’s the 1960s, Cobb is an engineer working for NASA and Din is an astronaut.  Y’all, the absolute vibes on this one.  

take my revolution by @saltsprite - (E, 34K, Din/Cobb)

Take Din, Mandalore, and the darksaber, and make it Revolutionary Girl Utena. My 90s anime fan self couldn’t resist.

A Waste of Water by @magess - (E, WIP, Din/Cobb)

Din’s come back to Tatooine, Cobb’s past has come back to haunt him.  This one is currently a WIP, but the world building is great, the original characters feel fleshed out, and new chapters drop once a week.  I look forward to it every week. 

MCU

Can’t Keep a Good Man Down by @roboticonography - (M, 10K, Steve/Peggy)

After the serum, Steve has to deal with a persistent side effect. In his pants.  Did I get in the mood after Jen’s excitement in She-Hulk over Cap fucking to go back to an old favorite of the genre?  Yes.  This is exactly what you want it to be.

Rhythm, Interrupted by @staranon95 - (T, 1K, Gen)

Marc tries to keep his presence as minimal as possible in Steven's life for his protection even if Khonshu doesn't understand why.  I have such a soft spot for Marc trying to care for Steven before Steven realizes what’s going on, and this scratches that itch beautifully.  It’s short, it’s soft, it's what I wanted.

Ted Lasso

bell, book, and candle by fakelight - (T, 5K, Gen)

“There is something strange,” Ted announces gravely, standing in front of the whiteboard. “In our neighborhood. Well, our treatment room. But, you know, our general vicinity.” In large letters above his head, Beard finishes writing WHO YOU GONNA CALL? AFC RICHMOND.  A silly way into spooky season, for a change lol

Our Flag Means Death

The Keeper by @r0b0tb0y - (E, 7K, Ed/Stede)

Edward Teach becomes a lighthouse keeper. Everything goes wrong.  Another one perfect as we move into spooky season because it’s cosmic horror meets sea shanties.  And one you don’t want to know too much going into because the discovery is part of the fun.  

Like the Sea Around the Shore by @the-cimmerians - (E, 51K, Ed/Stede)

Are you looking for a fic that could easily be the first few eps of S2?  This is that fic. Ed and Stede find their way back to each other, the crew of The Revenge finds a way to talk it through as a crew, and a goldmine of callbacks and anachronisms are sprinkled through like the most fun easter egg hunt.  I can’t articulate how much I love this fic from an author who never disappoints.

A Night at Blackbeard’s Bar and Grill by soft_october - (T, 6K, Ed/Stede)

Restaurant AU. The manager at the new restaurant Stede is trying to review is being kind of a dick. A certain member of the waitstaff, however, takes a bit of a liking to him.  It’s fun, it’s light, it’s a delight.

The Sandman

Things That Never Happened In History Class by darth_stitch - (T, 2K, Dream/Hob)

Prof Hob teaches History 101, other immortals from other media make an appearance, it’s fun, it’s light, it’s a delight.  And Hob still gets irritated over Shakespeare.

[inevitably-johnlocked]

hey steph!! i just wanted to say that your blog brings me so much joy :) sherlock is a pretty cool part of my life, and i love the characters, and seeing someone love them as much and more than i do just makes me so happy. every post of yours i see on my dash brings a smile to my face, and the amount of work you put into your fic recs? it gives me SO MUCH joy and hope because there are amazing people like you out in the world, helping people with their fics and their life and just making things better. i guess what i want to say is thank you for being you, always, and your blog continues to be a source of support and comfort for me. you're the best, i hope you have a wonderful day because you deserve it, so much. love you <33

Hey Nonny!

OH WOW!! What a testimonial, this is so so sweet!! I don't deserve all this kindness, especially since I'm waning on the recent recs lately :( I'm trying though!! But, I am SO happy to know that my blog makes you happy. It always makes my day to know that you guys enjoy my obsession, hahahha.

Thank you so much, HUGGLES!!!! <3

[crappy-writings]

The World Had Gone Quiet

NatashaxReader // Hurt/Comfort-Angst/Fluff 

Summary: Sometimes, you need someone to comfort you when you’re down.

Trigger Warnings: Depressive thoughts

Word Count: 1,555

A/N: Yeah, I just needed to be in my feels for a bit and this happened, so… enjoy? Also, not me making a small “Agent Carter” reference in here.

Also also, I just wanted to thank everyone who liked and reblogged the Wanda fic, it brings me so much joy knowing people actually enjoyed it. So, thank y’all!

Main Masterlist | MCU Masterlist | Recced Fics Masterlist

You leaned against your door, rubbing your hands against your face. Man, today has been a shitty day. You stayed there for a minute, not doing or thinking anything, just allowing yourself to feel the sinking feeling that was nestled deep in your chest.

You took a glance at your bed and quickly decided you wouldn’t do anything else for the evening. You laid down, your back towards the door, and drew your legs close to your chest. You weren’t cold, yet you reached out and wrapped the blanket that had laid in your bed around you, forming a cocoon in an attempt to block out the world around you. You bunched up whatever bit of the blanket that had not been covering you and held it close to your chest, the way a child would hug their plushie.

No thoughts ran through your head in that moment. The heavy feeling in your chest was steadily growing, and despite this, you felt numb.

You were tired. You were just so goddamn tired, yet nothing you did seemed to change that. Nothing around you seemed to make sense, none of the pieces fitting together. And yet, people expected you to know exactly what you were supposed to be doing all the time. They turned to you, asking questions you didn’t have answers for, and the thought of failing and letting the people around you down terrified you to no end. Everything felt incredibly overwhelming, even if nothing was happening around you.

You pretended everything was fine, though. The world was not going to stop for you, so you tried your very best to keep up with it. The world would not quiet down for you, so you would just have to scream louder.

Not now though. Right now, you would allow the world to drag you to where it pleased; you would quiet down and allow the world to yell over you. For now, you would lay in the quiet the night often brought, wrapped in the comfort your blanket provided. You would allow yourself to deal with the feelings that you had pushed away for months on end.

The heavy feeling in your chest felt like it was squeezing your heart until it hurt, until it was almost impossible to breathe, yet you could do nothing about it. Nothing seemed to trigger the cathartic release you so desperately longed for, so desperately had searched for months.

You dreaded not being able to shake this feeling. You dreaded the fact that you would have to carry the weight on your chest even longer than you already had.

A soft knock startled you from your spiraling thoughts.

You knew exactly who it was that stood outside your door.

And it didn’t surprise you one bit.

 You called out to F.R.I.D.A.Y. in a voice that was just barely above a whisper, “Hey, F.R.I.D.A.Y.? Please tell Natasha to go away.”

Thankfully, the AI heard you and did as you asked. A few moments of silence had passed and you thought that she had left your door. A second knock proved you wrong.

You closed your eyes for a few moments, a sigh escaping your lips. Of course, she wasn’t just going to go away. She most likely had seen something was wrong and wanted to check up on you. She worried about her team and she worried about you, even if she would never admit to it out loud.

That’s not to say that the rest of the team didn’t worry about you. No, that was not it at all. You all had each other's backs, no matter what; it’s what made you all family. Perhaps a bit dysfunctional, but a family no less.  But Natasha seemed to have a special kind of worry about you.

It was noticeable in the way she looked out for you on missions and made sure you didn’t get hurt. It was noticeable in the way she’d sometimes pick up your favorite snack when you ran out and the groceries hadn’t been made yet. It was noticeable in the way she would silently play your favorite song when you seemed to be out of it.

It was noticeable now.

 “F.R.I.D.A.Y.? Please open the door,” you said, your voice still low. You couldn’t find it within yourself to care. Not right now, at least. You weren’t going to argue with her through the AI either, so you might as well just deal with it now.

You heard the door open behind you, but made no effort to unwrap yourself from the blanket to turn to look at her. “I don’t want to talk about it,” you said loud enough for her to hear after a few beats of silence. A soft “okay” came from behind you and you could hear her walking towards the bed. You felt it dip behind you as she laid down beside you. The next few minutes passed in silence, but it wasn’t uncomfortable.

After about a solid 5 minutes, you finally turned to look at her. She had been laying on her back, looking up at the ceiling until you moved. Her head shifted to the side to look at you when she heard you turn.

You avoided her eyes when you asked, “Did Steve send you in to check up on me?”

“No,” she answered simply, but did not elaborate on her answer. “Why are you here?” your voice was quieter again and you still refused to meet her eyes, choosing to focus on the bed sheets below you. You moved one of your hands from inside your cocoon to draw small circles in the sheets, your eyes following the movement of your finger.

A beat of silence passed. She shifted her body to face you before responding, “I didn’t want you to be alone.”

You didn’t lift your gaze from the sheets for a good minute, but your fingers had already stopped fidgeting with the sheets below you. You finally met her eyes and she gave you a small smile.

And that broke you.

You didn’t particularly know why it broke you, it just had.

Your gaze fell back on the sheets as you felt tears welling up in your eyes, the heavy feeling that had rested in your chest for months finally spilling over. Soon enough, thick tears trailed down and landed on the pillow your head rested on. No noises escaped your throat though, as the ability to cry silently had been mastered years ago. At this point, it felt almost impossible for you to actually cry out loud.

Natasha watched you silently as you cried. She would not admit it, but seeing you cry startled her. Come to think of it, this may actually be the first time she had seen you this way. Yes, she had noticed your down moods before, the ones you so desperately, yet masterfully, tried to hide behind fake smiles and jokes. She had noticed the bouts of irritability that seemingly came out of nowhere, and she noticed your rather sudden disappearances from the team, where you were most likely seeking isolation, but she had never seen you cry.

So, she did the only thing that came to mind.

She reached out hesitantly and placed her hand over your own. When you didn’t pull away from her, she ran her hand up your arm, always allowing you enough time and space to pull away. The last thing she wanted to do was make you feel uncomfortable while already being so vulnerable in front of her. But once again, you didn’t move away from her touch, you even seemed to lean into it, and so she pulled you in close to her and wrapped her arms around you, enveloping you in a hug.

You nestled your head in the crook of her neck, a small sniffle escaping from you. Your tears were soaking the front of her shirt, but she didn’t seem to mind. She instead rubbed circles along your back with the palm of her hand and you had to admit, you found her touch soothing. She didn’t say anything while you cried either, something you deeply appreciated.

After what had felt like an eternity, the tears stopped flowing and your sniffles had turned to deep, steady breaths. You felt lighter for the first time in months, your heart no longer feeling like it was being squeezed and breathing was an easy and mindless task to do again. Her steady breathing was slowly lulling you off to sleep, the tiredness finally catching up to you. Natasha knew this, but still didn’t let you go, knowing you didn’t want her to. She didn’t mind it one bit.

Even though your head was feeling heavy with sleep, you still managed to say, “Nat?”

“Yeah?” her head shifted down a little to look at you, surprised to hear you speak after so long. “Thank you,” your voice was hoarse and thick with sleepiness, your eyes starting to close.

Natasha allowed herself a small smile, one you didn’t get to see. “Of course,” she whispered to you, even though you had already fallen asleep, “I’ll always be here for you.”

And for what felt like the first time in forever, the world had seemed to stop. For this small moment, the world had gone quiet.

~~~

Taglist: @k1-k101​

[wangxianficrecs]

Follower Recs

Stories I haven’t read yet, but clearly need to put on my ever-expanding List.

~*~

Welcome back queen [Thank you, it’s so lovely to be back!] if ur still doing follower recs I gotta recommend I would wait for a thousand years by bleuett it’s soooooooo good

[This one was actually recced to me by two different people, the other of whom said, “ Maybe I'm crying a little so I feel like a should recommend ‘I would wait for a thousand years’ by bleuett on ao3.”]... it’s def. on my List!

I would wait for a thousand years

by bleuett (T, 10k, wangxian)

Summary:  During the worst of winter, a traveler comes to stay at Lan Wangji's inn. He wears a red ribbon in his hair.

“Do you see the rabbit?” Wei Ying asks and points at the moon. “That’s the moon rabbit, he helps make Chang’e more immortality elixir. He keeps Chang’e company.”

“I do not wish the rabbit for company,” Lan Wangji says tightly. “You are the one I want by my side.”

“And I’m here, Lan Zhan. If you go to the moon, I’ll follow you, I’ll always be here now.”

~*~

I just read a great fic by aisthuu "every love story is a ghost story", didn't see it in your recs so wanted to recommend it! LWJ is a guqin composer and teacher, buys a cheap guqin off eBay which ends up being attached to WWX's spirit from canon era. It's bittersweet, LWJ deals with Lan's homophobia (implicit in a Lan way) and his feelings towards the ghost. This is author's only ao3 fic and honestly I don't remember how I stumbled upon it, but I'm happy I did and hope you will enjoy it too!  [I’ve recently read this one, and loved it!]

every love story is a ghost story

by aisthuu (M, 59k, wangxian, my bookmark)

Summary:  The man is in Lan Zhan’s bed. Did they—he begins to wonder, eyes trailing to where the man’s body lies under the blanket. Had Lan Zhan—?

Then the sleep-fog clears and Lan Zhan realizes that the young man isn’t quite opaque around the edges.

“You’re a spirit.”

The spirit narrows its eyes. “I’m so much more than that.”

(Lan Zhan buys a guqin off eBay for a suspiciously low price, only to find that it’s haunted. And now there’s a ghost in his bed.)

~*~

Ok so I absolutely have to rec "see you yesterday" by glyphic. It's a wip, but it's currently at 101k so there's a whole lot there, and it's terrible and wonderful and beautiful all at once. The way the backstory of canon events is adapted to the modern-with-cultivation setting is brilliant, and then there's the amnesia, and then there's the time loop. This fic lives permanently rent-free in my brain.

see you yesterday

by glyphic (M, 101k, wangxian, WIP)

Summary:  

Wei Ying 21:09 hey lan zhan what’s the weirdest way youve died

Lan Zhan 21:11 Falling encyclopedias.

Wei Ying 21:12 omg no way that’s so rude turning books against you???

Lan Zhan 21:13 A betrayal I will never forget.

On Halloween night, an exiled demonic cultivator and a Lan disciple get stuck in a time-loop, find each other, and try to figure it all out.

~*~

If you are looking for recs for yourself I absolutely love (the complete!) story Just as the Snow Melts by draechali on AO3. It's a canon divergence where everyone lives, even WWX! ~ @airmidcelt

Just as the Snow Melts

by draechaeli (T, 67k, wangxian)

Summary:  Like a snowy mountain top in spring the residents of the Burial Mounds trickled down the mountain and joined the flow of society.

“I went to the Burial Mounds,” Lan WangJi said.

“Ah, yeah… I’m sorry Lan Zhan,” replied Wei WuXian, “I hadn’t thought anyone would come to visit. I am still not sure how it happened; I brought A-Yuan to Yiling to play by the river and then ended up somehow teaching a bunch of children swimming and writing along with him.”

~*~

Hello! It's come to my attention that you have not as yet read Grandmaster of Meme-onic Cultivation! Please do! It's the only thing that gave me joy during 2020 😆 like proper belly laughs and disney villain style cackling. It is a wip, and it is long but so so worth it!! The author has reworked the entire canon through these message crystals and still conveys complex characters despite the tricky format. It's just so good!! Highly highly recommend it! ❤ ~ @theladypeartree  [Oh!  I’ve been subscribed to this one, and know that @swaglexander-the-great is a reliable provider of Hilarity, so I’m excited for it to be finished!]

Grandmaster of Meme-onic Cultivation 

by Hades_the_Blingking (T, 49k, wangxian, WIP)

Summary:  The Untamed universe is exactly the same, except everybody has magical crystals that have a suspiciously familiar messaging system. The story is pretty much the same as the show, except everyone lives!! (so minor changes).

or in which Wei WuXian tries his darndest to date Lan Zhan, Jiang Cheng possibly has a aneurysm, Jin ZiXuan is still the most awkward human alive, and Xue Yang makes me write some VERY cursed things. Written in chatfic format! :3

~*~

Chomrafy on AO3 deserves love and encouragement; she’s written a body of compact, poetic, and eloquent shortfics each of which can stand alone, but that comprise an intricately cross-referential and mostly internally-consistent universe. They’re grouped as chapters in works according to theme; for example, “in cupped hands” focuses upon Jin Ling and his second-generation baggage; “Departure in Autumn” portrays the last years of WWX’s first life. Follow the tag “Chomrafy’s MDZS shortfics.” [I don’t see this tag?]

in cupped hands

by chomrafy (G, 2k, wangxian)

Summary:  Of secrets, of futures, of love. A Jin Ling-centric collection of 200-word fics.

Ch.1: Jin Ling repays a debt (JL, JC, & WWX). Ch.2: Jin Ling and a ghost in the mirror. (JL & JYL) Ch.3: A matter of friends (JL & the other kids) Ch.4: In this house we don't keep dogs (JC & WWX) Ch.5: In the end, he remains silent (JL & uncles) Ch.6: A first night hunt, of sorts (JL & the other kids) Ch.7: Jin Ling, forgiving, forgetting (JL & LXC & JGY) Ch.8: Jiang Cheng and Jin Ling argue (JL, JC, & WWX) Ch.9: Jin Ling and his father (JL & JC) Ch.10: Jin Ling speaks up (JL, JC, & WWX) Ch.11: Jin Ling and a piece of home (JL, JC, & WWX)

Departure in Autumn

by chomrafy (not rated, 6k)

Summary:  Four perspectives. A steady march to the end.

Ch.1: Because if anything happens to them, Wen Qing would never be able to heal with these hands again. Ch.2: As long as this is still home, Jiang Yanli will wait as long as she needs to. Ch.3: Five times Jiang Cheng reaches for Wei Wuxian, one time he turns away. Ch.4: Whether the road is broad or narrow, bright or dark, they would have to keep walking. Wei Wuxian digs Wen Qing's grave.

~*~

Hello, hope all is going well. I don't have an ask, by I do have a recommendation. I read this fic a while ago and found it again. I just wanted to recommend this for everyone. Let me know what you think please. Thank you. [Oh!  This one’s in my To Read list, but  I’d forgotten about it.  Mmmm, fox!wwx and dragon!lwj.]

Ten miles of Lotus Flowers

by Yukirin_Snow

M, 274k, wangxian

Summary:  He was a mischievous fox spirit, wreaking havoc where he went, about to depart on a journey that would span centuries.

He was a heavenly prince, a proud dragon destined to ascend the throne to become emperor.

Neither expected their paths to collide over the span of three lives.

~*~

I forgot if it was your blog 😥 that recommended “Bestseller” (when Wei Wuxian writes the Xianxia cut-sleeve equivalent of Fifty Shades of Grey, based entirely on his experiences with Lan Wangji, he doesn’t expect it to become the next big hit) (https://archiveofourown.org/works/21528316/chapters/51318766)

But OMG IT WAS HILARIOUS!!! I LOVED IT!! And if it wasn’t your blog, I’m so sorry for how weird this sounds 😭😭😭😭 I just loved this fic so much that I have to tell it to someone 😢 [It’s on my List, but I haven’t read it yet!]

Bestseller

by pupeez4eva

M, 8k, wangxian

Summary:  He had written the book to prove a point. It was never supposed to be a big thing, and he certainly never intended for everyone — Jiang Cheng, Zewu-Jun, the Juniors, literally everyone— to be reading about his sex life.

Oh God, he definitely needed to make sure Lan Zhan didn’t find out about this.

(Or, when Wei Wuxian writes the Xianxia cut-sleeve equivalent of Fifty Shades of Grey, based entirely on his experiences with Lan Wangji, he doesn’t expect it to become the next big hit).

~*~

I’d like to rec On Your Marks, Get Set, Bake! by @blackwiresgrowonherhead

It’s one of my absolute favorites and I laughed out loud so many times when reading it

on your marks, get set, bake!

by BlackWiresOnHerHead

G, 41k, wei wuxian & juniors

Summary:  Jin Ling resumes thumping on the door to room 721, and the small collection of freshmen starts chanting “Senior Wei! Senior Wei! Senior Wei!” with increasing volume until finally Wei Wuxian opens the door.

“Yes?” he says with his widest, most innocent eyes.

“Senior Wei!” demands Lan Jingyi, shoving himself to the front of the group. “Why didn’t you tell us you’re a contestant on this year’s season of The Great Gusu Bake Off?!?”

--

Several months ago, college student Wei Wuxian secretly competed in the most popular reality show in the country. The show starts airing in the fall. The freshmen in his dorm collectively lose their minds.

~*~

If you're in the mood for v. short ridiculous fun fic, may I suggest My chain hits my chest/When I'm bangin' on the radio by x_los It's 2k modern cultivators AU, featuring WWX calling LWJ's sword Bitchin' [omg I’m laughing so hard] and I think it's more fun going in blind?

My chain hits my chest/When I'm bangin' on the radio

by x_los

T, 2k, wangxian

Summary:  Lan Wangji finds he doesn't even need to call for help for Wei Wuxian to come running.

[snickiebear]

yo nadia <3333 i'm bored in my online classes and u reblogged the questions thingy at the right time lmao, so get ready: 1, 4, 5, 9, 10, 17, 23, 24, 28, 30!!!, 34, 38, 39, 40 (the intimacy of being understood) (imma stop here lol) (also i'm sorry u're not feeling well, ily and hope u'll feel better soon!! <33333)

ELE ILY. (and thank you, i’m stayin home today cause,,, yeah. i appreciate you sm.) you’re the literal best, i adore you. 

1. How long ago did you start reading fanfiction? Writing fanfiction?

The first fanfiction i read was for The Lunar Chronicles when I was like 11?? and it was 100% on accident and it scarred me because it was a hardcore porn one with a period kink and i was like WHAT IS THIS??? OH MY GOD???? LMAOOOOO i didn’t pick it back up until i was 13-14 and really got into the Fairy Tail fandom. I still reread my favorites on ff.net cause i love them. 

As for writing, I wrote a horrible, terrible x-men fanfiction when I was twelve. (my friend still brings it up and REFUSES to delete it so it still gets comments and views, that shit HAUNTS ME ELE.) then tried again for Fairy Tail, posted like two chapters before taking it down cause i wasn’t really feeling it. And then I posted The Intimacy Of Being Understood and here we are. 

4. Link your three favorite fics right now.

OMGG okok 

@murd3rm1ttens ‘s The Problem How Time Works IF YOU HAVENT READ THIS YOU GUYS NEED TO HOP ON IT ASAP. MITTEN’S WRITING SO SO SO SO GOOD. SAKURA AND INO ARE TOTAL BADASSES. KAKASHI IS A SIMPPPP. ITS SO FUCKING GOOD. 

@mouseymightymarvellous ‘s We Were Screaming In Color (Only A Possibility) yes, yes I KNOW. i always point into mousey’s direction but i WILL always advocate that everyone reads her fics, they’re literally so beautiful???? i just happen to be rereading WWSIN rn 

@safelycapricious ‘s Shaking Up And Breaking Down series. I found this like?? idfk but i’ve been raving about it ever since. ALSO CHECK OUT THEIR FICS IN GENERAL. 

fuck i have more than three but also check out @ambivalens999 ‘s Masks

i do wanna make a fic rec thing where i just rav about my favs,,, might do that later or sum

5. What are your fanfic pet peeves? Do they have a huge effect on whether or not you decide to read something?

Omniscient third person. I don’t like it. Like I can understand that it can be a little hard to stay in one person’s perspective but, in my opinion, if you can, it shows how disciplined you are as a writer. Plus, i just get so confused when I go from A’s thoughts to suddenly what B is thinking about A. 

When writers use ‘ ‘ instead of “ “. When writers put thoughts in ‘ ‘ instead of just italicizing them. It’s small things but like they just bother me sO MUCH. most of the time i can ignore it and try to enjoy but other times i just dip. 

9. Tag 3 fic writers you think are underrated/unknown in the fandom/fanfiction community.

@espoir-et-reves !!!!! THEIR SHISAKU FICS ARE SO SO SO SO SO GOOD. And they have a warring states one going on THAT I AM SO OBSESSED WITH. 

@writer168 idk if they’re really “underrated” but THEY HAVE SUCH GREAT FICS ON AO3. Like theres an AU with sakura, kiba, and shino that i reread constantly because it just. is. so. fucking. GOOD. and they posted a new one that i’m YELLING about. 

@eggtoasties okay they only have 2 in the naruto fandom (one shisaku which is still ongoing) BUT THEIR WRITING STYLE IS SO NICE?? I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT. I still go back and reread their shikasaku one cause UGH i can’t get enough. I love it. 

10. What’s your favorite fandom, pairing, or character to read fic for?

Fandoms: Naruto, Soul Eater, The Old Guard, ATLA

Parings: KakaSaku/ShikaSaku/ShiSaku/MultiSaku, SoMa, Joe X Nicky, Zukka

Character: SAKURA. I will read anything with Sakura as the main character and her being a fuckin badass or becoming a badass. I love her.

17. How obsessively do you sit and stare at your fic after you’ve just posted and wait for feedback?

aha.. haha.. well. I check my email like three times an hour. its the first thing i check in the mornings too. I’m literally a whore for praise and literally eat up feedback like its going out of style. I also reread a lot of my stuff because i make so many mistakes and spelling errors, or the spacing is weird oR SOMETHING. plus, literally any and all comments make my day, i go back and reread them cause they just make me feel so tingly and warm like “wow. this person enjoyed the fic/my writing enough to tell me. thats HUGE!”

23. What’s your absolute favorite trope to write?

Angry, feral, bloodied, morally gray women. They aren’t bad guys, they’re probably the good guy, but that doesn’t mean they cant be fucking raging at the world with raw knuckles and blood on their teeth. I just love an angry woman who struggles with her emotions and just has so much inner conflict but that doesn’t take away from her character or badassery, it adds to it. 

24. What’s a trope that you’d like to never hear about as long as you live, let alone write?

The fake dating or miscommunication troupe. LIKE GUYS JUST TALK. AND TELL EACH OTHER OMFG. the entire like obliviousness of “nah they dont like me” while the They holds their hand and kisses their cheek. MOFO WHAT. it makes me so impatient and like mad HAAHHAHA. its probably because i’m a pretty confrontational person so seeing stuff like that just “cmon bro, USE YO HEAD.”

28. How do you deal with writing pressure (ie: pressure to update, negative comments, deadlines, etc)?

I have yet to receive a negative comment! Which i was really surprised about tbh. As for deadlines or pressure to update, i just kind of do whatever. I do set goals, but i set them flexible enough that hey, if i can’t do it, that’s okay. 

I have a lot of mini goals, like “i want to write this chapter and get it done this week” and then the large goal is “FINISH BY END OF MAY” so i have time. 

Actually, now that I think on it, the entire pressure to update thing is probably why i’m waiting until I have all of OL&W written to post it weekly,, cause well. I wouldn’t wanna leave you guys waiting as I tried to write and work out the next chapters and stuff, you know?

30. Post a snippet from your current WIP without context - no more than 300 words.

AAAAAA YOU KNOW I LOVE THESE AHAHAHAH

Have you seen the way the dead dance, World Breaker? They roar, half mad and starving. Do you not wish, do you not hope to see them twist and bend and dance to your will?

Shikamaru snarls, looking behind his shoulders to where his Shadows lay. “Patience.” He spits. “Is of the essence, Things of Ancient. Know your place as the dark you are.”

34. How much of yourself and your life experiences do you put into your writing? What do you think your readers’ image of you is?

None of my experiences match up to anything I write tbh,,, probably the only thing that is me in my writing is maybe the emotional turmoil? I’m pretty emotionally and mentally mature because from a pretty young age i started forming my own opinions, started looking into the world around us and being like “dude what the fuck this is not what disney advertised”. Then i started talking (read: arguing and debating) with my dad about a lot of it. So, like emotions are kind of hard for me. Like i’m pretty good at controlling them or understanding them, but still. idk its hard to explain ig.

Like the weight of stress, the anger, the sadness. It’s kind of therapeutic to write. Cause i don’t know how to put those feelings to verbal words so writing them really helps. 

As for my readers’ image? Probably like some kind of hunched over figure typing away in the dark with a maniacal grin on their face. I honestly don’t know AHHAHAHA but it is fun to think about. I think they’d see me as someone with potential but a lot of room to grow and someone who is imperfect but in a charming way LMAOOOO

38. What does your writing process look like? How chaotic is it on a scale of 1 (very tame) to 10 (you can’t handle this kind of chaos)?

I’m gonna be real honest. Its probably like a 2. I’m a bit of a control freak so I almost always go in chronological order, my writing is pretty linear. Unless, i get bored and jump to one of my fav parts. It's pretty much i sit down, i open the doc, read over my notes and just start writing. 

It’s a little boring to explain AHAHAHA but once i get into the groove of things its really fucking great, I can like feel myself in the world, I can feel what i want the characters to, i love it. I catch myself mouthing the words as i type too, which i find hilarious.

39. What’s something about your writing that you pride yourself on?

I rather like how raw my writing is sometimes. Which might sound really vain, but i do like the way i word things or describe things. I love juxtaposition and repetition, or making a good ole circle back to some minute detail that wouldn’t stand out until i repeat it at the end and you’re like “omg” AHAHAHAHA.

Like those little poetic snippets or certain wording i just sit back and go “damn thats kinda good nadia! go you!’ HAHAHA  

40. How did you come up with the idea for The Intimacy Of Being Understood?

AAAAA this fic is like my first child, my pride and joy LMAO

so the idea initially came when i was reading some fic, idk if it was even naruto, but i was like “i don't like this, but i do like the rain symbolism.” And I knew i wanted to write something kind of slow paced, something a little sad and angsty, but would show KakaSaku slowly but surely falling in love.

Idk if you’ve noticed but a lot of my fics, the pairings don’t change each other dramatically. They accept each other as they are and then they grow with together. Like that acceptance is something i just love writing, its so subtle, it isn’t something you declare. Its simply “I am going to love you. I am going to love you despite your flaws and faults. I am going to love you unconditionally because I know you, I understand you, and there is nothing you could do to drive me away.” 

The fic kind of wrote itself after that first scene. I kept going back to the rain, go being ghosts, and resurrection, and the small epiphanies one gets. I wanted to focus on each character’s growth with each other. They didn’t find light in life because of each other, but with each other. And i think that’s my favorite thing about that fic. 

I wanted something raw and real and just something beautiful. I’m actually really proud of it tbh. Would i go back and rewrite/edit it? Oh of course! I’d do that with every single one of my fics, but i’m not gonna cause i think its in its rawest form right now. :))))

ask me shit plz

[itswildwinters]

Seeing as it’s the holidays for me, I’ve had time to read (and re-read) quite a lot of fics, and I felt like sharing some of them with you. It’s my first time doing a fic recs post, so I hope it’s useful and not too much of a mess, especially since it’s quite long!

If you do end up reading any of these stunning fanfics, don’t forget to leave kudos and comments to show your appreciation!

Enjoy!! ✩

✩ baby blue by @soldouthaz​ (39k)

summary: Harry Styles takes his time coming out to greet them. Louis only knows what he’s seen on file and what he’s heard them talking about, but he fully lives up to the image he had inside of his head. 

He saunters down the front steps of the farmhouse in his Levi’s, brown snakeskin boots curving out from underneath the denim Louis’ sure he had specially made. He’s got on a plaid button-down tucked into the jeans because of course he does, curls spilling out from either side of his cowboy hat around his sunglasses and country-tan skin. 

“Harry Styles,” he drawls, extending a hand to Louis’ manager, “Pleased to meet ya’ll.”

I loved the dynamic between Cowboy Harry and Celebrity Louis. What I also really enjoyed about this fanfic is that the depiction of farm life was accurate. The way the story is written really gets you into action, so that you can picture everything quite well through the Louis-centric third point of view. 

✩ The Space Between by @lads-laddylads​ (39k)

summary: Harry Styles is the alpha rockstar who can’t sleep and doesn’t know why. Louis Tomlinson is the omega PhD student who helps him figure it out.

A/B/O fanfic. I loved how Alpha Harry acted upon seeing Louis for the first time. You can really feel the tension and attraction through the screen, which is one of my all time favourite things. The way their relationship builds up is a delight, and Louis is a darling and so courageous in the end with how he deals with Harry, even when Harry is being an idiot. The connection they have at the end... just wow!

✩ fae series: Boiling Blood Will Circulate and Warming The Air Of The World by @crazyupsetter​ (42k and 3k)

summary of Boiling Blood Will Circulate: The wait isn’t long before something starts rustling in the bushes. Harry takes aim, squeezes the trigger, body moving unconsciously. They’re motions he’s done a thousand times before, and his body knows how to do it without the input of his brain now. It’s what makes him such a good shot.

He misses. The shot misses.

Something howls in the woods, a pretty clear indication that Harry hit it, but there’s no telltale sounds of a big body dropping, no animal charging out at him to take him out before he can finish the job.

Something does turn and run, though. “Fuck,” Harry spits out, scrambling to his feet and slinging the rifle back over his shoulder, giving chase. He’s not going to lose this hunt.

The trail of blood goes on longer than Harry thought it would. He doesn’t know how long he runs for, but his muscles are burning, chest heaving with exertion, until the trail just - goes dead. No more blood, just like that.

“Fuck,” Harry says.

I am a sucker for fantasy/supernatural fanfics, and this one is absolutely incredible. The suspense in there is well-built, and the dynamic between Louis and Harry leaves you hungry for more. There’s a lot of blood in this series, so if you’re not into that you should be careful, but for me the author really puts into perspective how complicated and different from mankind faeries are.

✩ With a whimper by @kitundercover​ (132k)

summary: Dystopian AU. Louis has been alone for too long to remember how not to be, and Harry has too much to worry about to deal with a scrawny, wild, stranger.

---

The man grips his arm tightly. “You’re not going to say anything.” It’s not a question.

Louis shakes his head, his body twitching.

“Fine.” Large green eyes survey him before letting go. “It’s cold. Take this. Wear it.”

Louis can’t help another flinch as the man’s long scarf is wrapped around his tender neck, it’s still warm. He touches the soft material. “Thank you.”

The man bears his teeth. “Don’t thank me. Don’t ever thank me.”

If you are into dystopian works, and doesn’t mind violence, blood and gore, this fic will make your day! I loved the world-building, the way it’s written, how Louis’ character is portrayed and how strong he is. I just couldn’t stop reading once I began. The secrets of the plot, the fear of the characters, and the curiosity that sparks within you as you read contribute into making this fic a unique one that’s so worth the read.

✩ Soaked In The Blood Of Angels by @crazyupsetter​ (40k)

summary: The boy looks drugged, caught between a man who’s almost twice his size and a girl who looks like she wouldn’t even break a sweat snapping him in half despite her small stature, eyes closed and mouth open as he pants, arching up between them almost as if he’s trying to escape.

Normally, Harry would ignore it and continue on his search for someone to drink from, someone who wouldn’t mind his sharp teeth and rough hands. He’s seen plenty of boys like this one, ones who picked the wrong playmates, and if he stopped to rescue every single one of them he would have died from thirst a long time ago.

This one, though. There’s something about this one, the sheen of his bright blue eyes as he blinks slowly, looks around as though he doesn’t know where he is, the weakness of his hands as he tries to push the girl off of him and make his escape.

Another magnificent creatures/fantasy fanfic. The writing is absolutely exquisite, and I love how hard to get Louis is. The violence between Louis and Harry might bother some people, but to me it really spiced up their relationship and made Louis and Harry, who are creatures of gloom, particularly interesting and even real, somehow.

✩ Play Pretend, Find a Friend? by @angelichl​ (40k)

summary: They had to pull back for air. Louis surveyed the guy’s face, in awe of his blown pupils and sharp jawline, the way their shared spit glistened on his lips.

“Hi,” he breathed. He blinked, and came back to himself a little bit, blushing at his own boldness. “Sorry. Is this okay?”

The stranger removed his right hand from the curve of Louis’ waist in order to cup his jaw, tilting it up to the angle he desired. He pressed their lips together, murmuring, “Definitely.” And then he kissed harder.

When Louis sees his ex-boyfriend kissing a random girl at a party, he acts out of blind jealousy. He kisses the first guy he can find. It turns into a thing.

Where do I start? I usually don’t like fake-relationship AUs since most of the time Louis and Harry are famous, which make it less fun to me. But in this fic, they’re students and Harry is a frat boy while Louis is a nerd, but it’s not cliché or anything. It’s actually so well-written and the relationship between Louis and Harry takes time to progress which I absolutely love, seeing as I am a sucker for slow burn. Harry is so sweet as a frat boy, and Louis is an angel. Really loved reading this.

✩ at your fingertips by @risthebrave​ (27k)

summary: He finds himself wrapped up in sheets in bed on Thursday night, staring at the familiar name on a new story that was posted the night before.

His fingers twitch, ready to hit play and surrender to his impulses, saving the regret and turmoil for later.

And still he hesitates, internally praying that he’ll somehow gain the strength to exit out within the next few moments before he inevitably loses his patience and hits the button.

Three…

Two…

One.

Play.

-

Or, Louis really should have seen it coming.

Besides being well-written, the whole plot is quite original. I absolutely loved Louis in there, especially since all of his insecurities made me relate to him. He’s so sweet, and I’m glad Harry was there to get him to open-up and see how amazing he is. I had so many moments of secondhand embarrassment haha, and they made the fic all the more amazing. Honestly, what really struck me in this fic is how the author managed to make Harry such an amazing person, and how intrepid Louis is while he learns to overcome his insecurities.

✩ Nothing But You On My Mind by @absoloutenonsense​ (83k)

summary: Louis Tomlinson is a PR manager hired to improve the image of royal bad-boy Prince Harry Styles. Unfortunately for him, that means being faced with the Prince's constant innuendos, incessant dirty jokes, and relentless flirting. Louis just wants to make it to Princess Gemma's coronation; once she's crowned Queen, his contract is up and he never has to see the Prince again.

It was such a joy to read this fic. Even though Harry pissed me off on more than one occasion, I took great satisfaction in how Louis ignored him or replied with one of his witty comebacks. The plot twist was just awesome and Harry’s stubbornness ended up being very much welcome.

✩ push you out, pull you back in by @behisoneandonly​ (31k)

summary: Harry grips his head in his hands helplessly, yanking the base of his dark curls and squeezing his eyes shut.

“Fucking hell,” he whispers, knuckles turning white from how hard he’s gripping the strands of his hair.

“Hey, hey,” says the petite stranger in front of him, quickly standing up. “Stop, you’re hurting yourself.”

–

Or Harry hates feeling vulnerable. Louis is set on breaking through his tough facade.

Oh my god, this was truly wonderful. The size difference made me go crazy! The smut was just wow too. What really made this fic so incredible is how protective of Harry Louis is, and how Louis seems to just... understand Harry despite his issues. Jealous Harry also! I loved it. Moreover, Louis’ character is literally perfect in this.

✩ thinking about the t-shirt you sleep in by @absoloutenonsense​ (52k)

summary: Harry's alpha fraternity donates to a local thrift shop (because of Liam's latent crush on a cute beta in his lecture). Louis' financial situation (and confusing omega instincts) lead him to make some interesting fashion purchases. Lots of pizza, feelings, and not-really-lying.

I’ve read and re-read this. I love Louis and Harry’s dynamic, and how they solve their troubles in the end. Harry is such a sweet soul, and Louis deserves the world!

✩ Canyon Moon by @eeveelou​ (40k)

summary: For as long as Louis has remembered, he has been promised to be mated to Harry, his best friend and the future pack alpha. But Louis’s heart belonged to the forest and to the hunt more than he could ever imagine it belonging to Harry.

Then Harry’s father dies in a violent accident, and Louis’s future alpha disappears on the wind.

An A/B/O Lion King AU

What really drew me in is that I’ve never before seen a larry fanfic on the Lion King, and honestly? It was so beautiful. The way the author made the plot of the cartoon go along with the A/B/O world was truly surprising, and absolutely interesting to read. Also, when Louis is introduced to the modern world? It’s such a sweet part of the fic.

✩ a trail of honey through it all by @yvesaintlourent​ (27k)

summary: The boy in front of him, well really, the man in front of him, was like something out of a confusing wet dream. Built, tall, tan and muscular, his skin glistened with sweat after a long day of working outdoors with his hands. He was wearing a cut up old American football shirt, the bottom hem was torn and the sleeves were cut off to the point where the t-shirt was really just a loose tank top. The shorts he had on had clearly been full length jeans at one point, and were now just crudely cut off above the knee. His white socks were pulled up too high on his calves, and the brown work boots he had on were old as fuck, the leather peeling along the edges of the soles. Curly brown hair stuck out from the edges of his backwards snapback, and there was a smudge of grease wiped along his brow bone. The smattering of hair along his jaw proved that he hadn’t shaved in a week or two, the hair growing in thicker across his upper lip and around his chin. His sinfully bowed mouth was pink and plump, and Louis was suddenly hyper-focused on the way that he chewed at the toothpick stuck between his lips. He looked like he needed a shower. Louis wanted to lick him.

Or, the TPH fic we’ve all been waiting for.

Trailer park Harry? HELL YEAH! The concept has been going on in the fandom for so long that when I saw someone finally wrote it, I was genuinely excited. And I wasn’t disappointed! The writing is wonderful and the way Louis and Harry grow closer is just so sweet. Loved it!

✩ The Healing Song series: The Healing Song and The Wedding by 2204 (111k and 3k)

summary of The Healing Song: Louis was carrying the large stuffed elephant like it was a baby, it’s trunk hanging over his shoulder and down his back and it’s front legs were resting around his neck, like it was hugging him. Said elephant was a present from Louis’ close friend Steve, who had thought Louis needed something to hug on bad days and had gifted him with a stuffed elephant the size of a one year old.

Steve had been right. Some days Louis did need something to hug, and this elephant was as good as anything.

Louis was having one of the rougher days. The harmonious state of the anxiety free life of a fearless Louis had ended the week after he met with Harry. It ended as abruptly as it had started. It was like pushing a button. Lights out. Almost as if the universe said “You’ve had your fun, crazy one, now go be sick” and slammed the door in his face.

Or where Louis is a single father of two, suffering from PTSD, and Harry is there providing soulmatey and loving support while he heals the wounds of past abuse.

God, this fic I swear! This made me cry, laugh, scream... this is a roller-coaster of emotions. It’s quite a hard fic to read, because it deals with past abuse and trauma. And it’s even harder knowing this story is based on real life events that the author went though. But the way it’s written, the way Harry helps Louis through his struggles and issues, it’s so beautiful and inspiring.

✩ Sunrise and Pixie Dust by @moonyblouie​ (14k)

summary: Harry's taking a walk at sunrise in the forest he knows like the back of his hand when the wind starts blowing, the sky turns pink, and golden glitter starts to fall from the sky. He’s not sure about what’s happening, but when he comes face to face with a gorgeous winged-creature, he can’t help but be immediately mesmerized.

Or an AU in which Harry finds himself crossing the borders between two worlds.

I loved this, the smut is so hot!! But the end... I really hope there will be a sequel! But other than that, the way Louis is written? Wonderful!

✩ Weightless by @smittenwithlouis​ (25k)

summary: He hopes that Harry still thinks of him. God knows Louis thinks of him every day.

Or: Harry is the best dragon racer the world has ever seen and Louis is an almost-vet who feels like he is carrying the weight of the world.

This was... just amazing, honestly. I loved loved loved every time Louis interacted with dragons, I could picture it and it’s just so so sweet. The way Louis is concerned about Harry’s safety, and Harry’s will to make Louis’ life better, to give him the freedom he deserves... it’s just beautiful.

✩ The Blood of Love by @mugglemirror​ (25k)

summary: Harry is a nurse and Louis is a painting worth more than a thousand words. As desire and darkness encompasses him, Harry has to learn the secrets of Thorne Hills manor before he succumbs to the mystery that surrounds him.

I absolutely loved this! The plot, the writing, the suspense, the secrets... everything was on spot and left me yearning for more. The atmosphere really makes the reader completely engrossed into what’s going on, and the end doesn’t disappoint. Dark fics have always been something that I enjoy reading, and this one definitely didn’t disappoint. Just wow!

✩ Latibule by @quelquesetoiles​

summary: Louis had worked in the infamous resort placed in the median point of all worlds for longer than he could remember. He went through everyday with a soul-crushing emptiness filling his mind, going through the same routine over and over again. Despite all the happenings around him, his soul never wavered, his emotions stayed superficial, and nothing took his breath away anymore.

Nothing, except the intoxicating smell of lavender and the contemplating green eyes that came along for the ride every now and again. His heart always seemed to wake up full force whenever those pretty lips formed around even prettier, yet empty promises, and he felt the magic sizzle in his bones again only when contact was made between the divine body and his own deceivingly normal one. He hated it for the fact he really didn’t.

Or : A Spirited Away AU of sorts where Louis just wants to heal and be left alone, only for all his plans to be destroyed by the hands of an infuriating British God.

I have read this at least three times, that’s how good this fic is. I am a sucker for mythology, like truly, and Louis and Harry’s dynamic in there had me screaming! Jealous Harry is the best thing, and the semi plot twist at the end made my heart jump. But besides the universe we readers are diving into, it’s also the writing that’s left me pleasantly drunk. The words flow together perfectly, at after each paragraph you just long for more. Also the pet names!!! Just beautiful.

✩✩✩

If there’s any mistakes, please let me know! 

[whetstonefires]

Hey, I really enjoy your Earth-3 fic (and your other DC fic too! The Robins convention is good, and the weird ghost-protector-spirit Batman makes me want an extended AU on the theme of 'the Justice League are creepy but wholesome'). I've been sharing it around to all my friends. You've got a lovely grasp of character voice and a real eye for narrating through the viewpoint character and it's just a joy to read on the whole. Patiently but eagerly awaiting further installments. :)

💕💗💖❤😄 Thank you! I’ve sort of drifted into a long hiatus on Earth-3 for an assortment of reasons but it is not abandoned and as long as I’m hearing chirps of interest I should be able to keep chiseling away.

Also that’s a fun idea tbh...what’s the best approach for each person...I kind of want Wonder Woman to be literally undead I think. Like, she died and Hippolyta got her back with magic but she’s still visibly a corpse.

She’s not decaying or anything (possibly because magic, possibly because the different magic that she was made from animated ceramics to begin with) but she’s definitely dead.

J’onn otoh isn’t J’onn J’onzz at all, he’s several million dead Martians all stuffed into one living body.

Hawkman and Hawkwoman are already pretty damn creepy with their reincarnation curse, which I understand got broken this week, I wonder if that’ll stick.

Superman is on the one hand already only not creepy on account of how wholesome he is, and on the other if I hadn’t given the Dead Planet one to J’onn I could give it to him. But when Mars isn’t dead its theme is ‘poorly thought-through allegorical racism’ so J’onn gets to be Mars, and anyway it’s better with a character who’s already psychic.

So Clark just...hears everything, all the time, and can actually process that much input in a meaningful way, so he knows just. Every damn thing that makes a sound. And spends all his time prioritizing which things to do what about. That’s disturbing enough, I think. It’s also a canon-compatible take on Superman, technically, but wcyd.

Maybe he could be actually an avatar of the planet krypton--like, as a unit, not a vehicle for the population--instead of a person? it would actually make his power levels make so much more sense tbh. not sure it’s different enough from j’onn tho.

Green Lantern is like. Also already creepy, but not spooky at all...obvious take is like Spectre!Hal, only instead of the Spirit Of Divine Vengeance it’s the ring which has fused with his soul and is allowing him to go on Doing Things even though he’s super dead, and presumably gets in debates with him about their course of action sometimes.

Flash hrm. It’s gotta be the lightning, that’s the unique thing he has going, but I don’t want him just to have died, that’s repetitive. More than half of them are dead at this point. He could be made of lightning, though? I kind of want the Flash to be a skeleton wreathed in lightning because it’s not like real muscles could ever do that anyway, and a skeleton wreathed in lightning is an amazing image, especially to be the guy rescuing you.

skdf;alsk maybe he can put his flesh back on to be Barry Allen, but then he can’t use super speed without hurting himself. the secret identity hijinks this opens up are choice.

To be clear this proposal is not the same universe that Spooky Batman already inhabits; the stalled next chapter of that is in fact him and the totally-as-usual Justice League conversing on the subject of how he’s a child’s weaponized nightmare and didn’t mention.

Anyway thank you so much! Ahhhhh and for recs! It’s very special to be approved of enough that someone will admit it to someone they know lol. ^^ The great thing about the internet (even if it is under some circumstances the terrible thing) is more people can come and find your stuff later on, because it keeps being there as long as the hosting continues. <3

Character voice! That’s something I value so highly, I appreciate that. :) Thanks for the polite and non-demanding encouragement! Courage buff obtained! 😉✨

[blueprint-han]

It's so hard being an sfw writer tbh you don't get asks, barely get comments, and lately notes on sfw fics have been RIDICULOUSLY low. I see some amazing fics that must've taken forever with 5k+ words get a mere 30 notes. Meanwhile I've seen some 50 word horny paragraph with fluff tags get over a 100. And there's nothing wrong with that, I'm not trying to shame smut, but it gets hard sometimes when you feel like nothing you write is going to get anywhere.

Yes !! Honestly, the fandom is getting super horny at this point. Now, I'm once again, not mocking smut readers or writers, because I have no right neither control over what you desire to read, but slowly, sfw writers are basically feeling disconnected from the fanfiction fandom, and why shouldn't they? I've seen fics with 8k or more words, or even the shorter ones, with amazing plots and such intricate storylines get like,,, 23 notes, while one 50 word smut snippet gets a 100 notes a day. Like you said, I'm not shaming the readers for what they want to read but like,,,, I feel like this whole fandom is slowly becoming more of a smut liking majority, at least of Tumblr.

Is that a bad thing? It is for me, because the fics I, or any sfw writer puts so much effort into (not implying that smut writers don't put effort but you get what I mean) basically get like 🤏🏻 many notes, all of them likes with the occassional reblog and once in a blue moon, you'll see tags that aren't "rec!" Or "skz fluff". Is it a bad thing in general? No, because I like I said, I seriously have no say neither control on what someone wants to read, nor do I want to have any.

I've seen many smut writers support sfw fics by reblogging them and all, but the tags abuse is another thing people fail to understand. I'll accept it from my side too, we put our fics into the smut tags for more reco, at least I used to. But when smut writers tag their mature stuff into the fluff tags, their basically ripping us the tiniest amount of recognition we get. All the top fics in the smut tags are Smuts, when I know purely sfw fics that deserve to be in their place in the fluff/angst tags. I've explained and explained but so far, I haven't seen one writer implement it into their tagging system. 😐

I believe every interaction works in two ways. We, the creators, create content. The consumers are supposed to consume and give feedback. To all the people who simply like on people's posts, you're basically telling them "hey I liked this but I'd rather not share it :D" it's demotivating and I hope the like only trend dies. Keep in mind I'm talking about people who only like, not those who don't enjoy my fics in the first place. The consumer may say "but dawnnnn, you're writing for yourself, not for others !!"

If I wrote only, just for myself I wouldn't be publishing my work here. 😐 I know it's my hobby, but I post my stuff here to get recognition on them, feedback and improve my writing. Not going to lie, as a person who's shifted from nsfw stayblr, I can feel the thirst for validation that sfw stayblr has, because most of y'all don't give one shit about us. 😐 There, I said it. Keep in mind I said "most", not "all". (Also not addressed to you in anyway anon).

And well, there will be a time, when this whole Tumblr fandom is basically just smut and no more sfw writers, because we are literally giving so much for so little. Before you attack me, I'm not saying smut isn't something that's written easily. It takes time, it also takes heavy plotting, but we can all see the clear difference an nsfw fic gets with respect to an sfw fic with the same concept, same member. Basically, sfw stayblr is slowly dying, and that's the reason I try to rb most of the stuff I find on sfw stayblr, because the writers here? They're amazing, they put so much work into the stories (again not saying smut writers don't) and they are literally dying for a bit of validation that'll bring them joy.

It does feel like all too much for too little, to be honest. I'm fine with smut being here, but the lack of people who even bother to bat an eyelash at sfw content is honestly baffling. Thank you for attending my rant.

[yehet-me-up]

*busts through the door like I'm the Kool-Aid man* BONJOUR FUCKERS I'M BACK!!! It is I, the Theatrical Gay Anon™! I hope you're ready to endure my endless babbling for a bit cuz I've got lots to say holy shit. Consider this part 1 of like, 1000 cuz I think Tumblr got rid of the submissions feature. I apologize in advance for the spam hehe.

Okay, with that out of the way. Ms. Yehet-Me-Up, may I call you Sarah? Sarah, what the fuck!? I can't even rn. I I give you a simple suggestion, no expectations behind it. I say "Hey, don't you think it'd be cool if Zitao was in the Exodus Mall universe?" to which you said "Yeah, that'd be neat, I might do that. Perhaps make him work at an Irish pub or something" and then I flip out with gratitude and excitement thinking you're gonna do like, a DRABBLE. 500 words at MOST -Theatrical Gay Anon

Imagine my SHOCK, my STUPEFACTION, upon realizing that you wrote OVER TEN THOUSAND WORDS about Huang Zitao aka the wind beneath my wings, the rain to my drought, the corny joke to my Junmyeon. And not only that! But you did this A MONTH AGO. I could've been reading this for so long and I had no idea! How foolish am I? I can't believe you wrote all of this based off of a silly little suggestion I made. I feel like bowing over how not worthy I am Wayne's World style -Theatrical Gay Anon

NOW IN REGARDS TO THE CONTENT OF THIS MASTERPIECE OH MY GOD WHERE DO I EVEN BEGIN!? I am floored by your preeminence. First things first, the title? Perfect. Full disclosure, I suck at titles. I've been writing for over a decade now and I'm still shit with titles. It's so hard to come up with just a few words to encapsulate everything you wrote but you do it SO WELL. The moodboard? Amazing. I've always loved that picture of Zitao and it fits so well with the pub setting -Theatrical Gay Anon

I'm afraid you've written "Fractions of Tomorrow" so well that I don't see there being a need for anyone to write anything else...ever. Stories? CANCELED. Poetry? CANCELED. Biographies? CANCELED. It's all over folks. Sarah has written The Best Thing Ever. We've peaked as a society. After I finish writing these asks I'm gonna become a hermit in the woods and make friends with all of the woodland creatures that inhabit it. -Theatrical Gay Anon

But seriously though, I love absolutely everything about this story. As a Zitao fan, I'm used to getting breadcrumbs. Not a lot of ppl write fics about him. I can count on one hand how many long fics of his you can find on Tumblr. But THIS?? This was no breadcrumb, this was a whole fucking bakery. And it all appeals to me so much oh my god? The sappiness of it all, the flowery prose, the rebellious rejection of cynicism, it's all so beautiful I want to marry it. -Theatrical Gay Anon

If I discussed all of the sentences in this fic that made me giggle with joy and kick my feet around I'd be here all day so keep in mind this is just a FRACTION of the ones I loved but I couldn't go without mentioning at least some of them so here we go. "It’s not his first time here, but it’s his first time paying attention" SHUT UP this line is go good it's so simple yet so nuanced I adore it. Seriously, why hasn't anyone hired you to write a screenplay? -Theatrical Gay Anon

"He wonders if you ironed the collar of your shirt to be that precise or if you simply move through the world without acquiring any wrinkles" God, this line is so CUTE it's DISGUSTING he's fond of the reader's un-wrinkled clothes that's such a specific thing to like and is totally the type of thing I've done with the ppl I've crushed on throughout my life. -Theatrical Gay Anon

"‘Zitao,’ he says finally. ‘Cute.’ You say" this is such a little thing but I love that you included his full name in this. I love his full name so much it sounds really pretty. Whenever I hear him refer to himself as "Huang Zitao" in interviews my heart soars. Hearing him speak Mandarin in general is a delight as well. It's an audibly gorgeous language and any racist who says otherwise can EAT MY ENTIRE ASS -Theatrical Gay Anon

"For someone who’s been in love for as long as you can remember she fights awfully hard against Baekhyun’s romantic nature" DEAR GOD I LOVE THESE TWO! I love these movie loving lovesick fools. I love that everyone in the world knows they love each other except them. I love seeing bits and pieces of their story throughout this written universe. I can't wait to see it all come together in Baekhyun's Exodus Mall fic. It's gonna be GLORIOUS -Theatrical Gay Anon

Also! I know you enjoyed my song recs that I thought fit perfectly with All Our Broken Places so here are some for when the Baek x Hitchcock fic drops. I know it's not done yet but I just *know* what it's gonna be like I can feel it in my bones. "Sidekick" by Walk the Moon and "Tongue Tied" by Grouplove. As for Fractions of Tomorrow I knew right away what songs I'd pick. "Dreams" by The Cranberries, "Jumpstarted" by Jukebox the Ghost and "Don't Stop Believing" by Journey -Theatrical Gay Anon

Gosh, this fic filled me with so much energy and joy I feel like a toddler on caffeine. But I really should sleep now though. It's gotten so late that I can see the sunrise peaking up sdksdksl. I'll see ya soon! I will be spamming you with more compliments about this fic once I wake up though! - Theatrical Gay Anon

Hi! I'm back. Okay, now where was I? Oh yeah, I was talking about some of my favorite lines from the story. "‘Hey man, how’s it going?’ Baekhyun reaches out and does a complex handshake with the man before you. ‘Oh, you know. Just working at the salt mines,’ Tao says with a laugh." I LOVE that you made Baek the one Zitao was close with. I miss the beef brothers so much. I'll never forgive SM for what they did to OT12. They were all such good friends 😔 -Theatrical Gay Anon

"‘I’m not sure.’ For a flash Tao’s eyes linger on you once more. ‘I think it would depend on the person.’ And then the bastard goes and winks at you." GOD, HE WOULD DO SOMETHING LIKE THIS! HE'S SUCH A SHAMELESS FLIRT I HATE HIM *narrator voice* This was of course a huge a lie, he in fact loved Zitao immensely -Theatrical Gay Anon

"‘Sweetheart, I’m everyone’s type.’" You've captured Zitao's unlimited confidence so well and that makes me really happy. It's one of my favorite things about him. The man truly loves himself and I think that's awesome -Theatrical Gay Anon

"Tao looks at you through his lashes, bending close enough that you can feel his breath on your lips when he speaks. ‘Words are just the appetizer, darling. I prefer to have an entire feast.’ 'Any other questions or can I grab your orders?’" ASDKDSDSL SO YOU'RE JUST GONNA SAY THAT PANTY DROPPER LINE AND GO BACK TO BUSINESS AS USUAL ZITAO???? HUH??? IS THAT WHAT WE'RE GONNA DO??? -Theatrical Gay Anon

"‘Oh, nothing.’ He looks like the cat that caught the canary. ‘I just love being right.’" Something I love about EXO fic writers (myself included lol) is that despite all of the different ways they'll write the other members, there is one member who is always written the same and that's Baekhyun. He will always be written as a cheeky little shit cuz he *is* a cheeky little shit. That's just who he is. Messing with ppl is a favorite past time of his. -Theatrical Gay Anon

"'So, love, huh? There’s not some girlfriend or boyfriend of yours waiting for you at home?’" Thank you for not being heteronormative with the "are you dating someone?" convo. I know it might not seem like much but I really appreciate it. -Theatrical Gay Anon

"The beginning of love is always a lightning bolt. If that’s all it ever is you never have to deal with being knocked on your ass by the resulting thunderstorm" OOF, this one got me. So very true. The beginning of love is so scary! -Theatrical Gay Anon

"I could argue that anarchy still is love. Love of your beliefs and love of a person or a place or a thing so much that you’re willing to fight for it" OKAY BUT PASSIONATE LEATHER JACKET WEARING ANARCHIST ZITAO IN A ROCK BAND IS SUCH AN ATTRACTIVE CONCEPT!!! There's nothing sexier than a bad boi that will hate capitalism with you! He'd probably be the one to give ppl rides to protests and stuff I LOVE IT -Theatrical Gay Anon

"If we say love is a feeling, who’s to say that we aren’t in love? If we decide it’s an action then which one is it? A kiss or a commitment or - maybe it’s nothing more complicated than putting words to the way I feel when you look at me?" Listen I don't mean to be dramatic or anything (wait, who am I kidding? I'm literally the Theatrical Gay Anon being dramatic is like my Thing) but if a guy ever said that to me my trans boi pussy would be open for business IMMEDIATELY

Alright, so, uh Final Thoughts. This may be my new favorite work of yours, and no it's not just cuz it's got my ultimate bias in it lmao. This year has been so shitty and it's made my depression + anxiety reach the highest possible levels but reading this, this love story filled with hope and certainty despite not knowing what the future will hold for them, made this year seem easier to cope with. Thank you so much for making this, it means the world to me. -Theatrical Gay Anon

ALRIGHT, LAST ASK AND THEN I'LL SHUT UP I PROMISE but I personally headcanon that Double Shot + Zitao stayed together till the very end. They didn't get married cuz they hate formalities but they got matching tattoos and even when they're old and grey you can still them clear as day on their wrists. When they're asked how they met no one believes their answer lol. And when Double Shot died of old age before Zitao he would sing her favorite song by her grave every Saturday -Theatrical Gay Anon

OKAY SO I know I said I was done and I know I've already sent in like, 30 bajillion asks but I'm curious does Yifan or Luhan also work at the Irish pub?? Or do they work somewhere else in the mall? Inquiring minds want to know -Theatrical Gay Anon

When I tell you this made my entire month (when you sent it weeks ago, I’ve been hanging onto these because they seriously bring me SO much joy holy crap) I am not remotely kidding j;oaisjdflkasdjfa

I am absolutely going to put on these song recs while I work on the next chapter! 

a;osdfjlaksdfjasl the fact that you stayed up late to read this warms my heart so much. It reminds me of all the times I stayed up til the ass crack of dawn reading fanfics because I simply could NOT stop reading, so the fact that you enjoyed this like that makes me helllllaaaa emo 🥰

I just??? 2020 was indeed such a long year and affected my energy and creativity and honestly don’t really remember writing this hahaha. I kind of go into a fugue state with these longer fics and they just EMERGE. So to see you reflecting back some of what I wrote allows me to enjoy the process so much more. Makes writing and tumblr fun and I seriously wish everyone writing and creating could have someone as passionate and thoughtful and hilarious as you hyping them up 🌟 it honestly feels like a GIFT and I will absolutely keep writing this series and hoping to be worthy of it 😘

We will definitely get to see more of these two in the finale fic! I got into EXO after Tao, Yifan, and Luhan left so I’m not quite as familar with their personalities, but I could definitely see Yifan working at the US Bank haha. Business suit by day and partying/flirting by night. As for Luhan I feel like he’d work somewhere like the bookstore or the music store?? somewhere quieter and more contemplative. 

Thank you again for sending this and for being you <3 I hope 2021 is a wonderful year for you and that you know how AMAZING you are 💖💖💖💖💖

[loquaciousquark]

a coupla recs

HEY so I’ve been meaning to make this post for a minute, and it just hasn’t happened but TODAY IT DOES. There’s some amazing Fenris/Hawke fic being written RIGHT NOW and while it’s not exactly one of my old big rec posts, I still feel like these people should be getting some props for how good this stuff is.

Fallout From The Fade, by JadeLavellan (@songofsaraneth​ here on tumblr)

Y’all, this fic is one of my favorites in the DA2 fandom. Ever. It is beautiful and extraordinary and excruciating and in many ways like trying to recommend a razor-sharp knife, but every word is so, so worth it. I’ve been following this fic for years and while it’s still definitely in the “all is pain” stage of the story, there’s plenty of moments of hope and relief and even occasionally joy to offset it. More importantly, there’s some glimpses of a possible solution in the latest chapter that have me clutching my hands to my chest just like a kid at Christmas.

It tells the story of a Hawke who’s made it out of the Fade--at a cost that’s slowly killing her post-rescue. Fenris has a major role in the story (in fact, I’d say he’s as vital as Hawke herself), and this piece does a wonderful, painful job of showcasing his loyalty. It’s one of my favorite aspects of Fenris’s personality, and this is basically a masterclass in his characterization through a living nightmare. However, there’s tons of small moments full of romance, lightheartedness, and even laughter that highlight and underline the sheer rock-solid strength of the relationship between these two.

Plus, as an Inquisition-era piece, there are tons of cameos and featured players from all of the Inquisition crew, especially Varric & Dorian. If you want a a fic that will rip your heart out and put it back together again, surrounded impeccable characterization, glorious prose, and a story with high stakes, this is the piece for you. Plus, she just updated with a Brand! New! Chapter! after a long hiatus, which longfic authors know is always scary, so please go give her some love and appreciation on this new amazing chapter!

A Lesson in Drowning, by @theherocomplex

Do you like eldritch horror? Do you like wondering whether or not the main character is slightly mad? Do you like extensive hurt/comfort? Do you like Fenris being a total bamf and also providing unquestioning support throughout the entire process, both before and after certain mysteries are revealed? If so, is this the fic for you!

This is a DA2-era piece that unfolds very, very slowly, and involves a cult (kind of), a couple of seriously insane (and awesome) bad guys, an eldritch horror (see above), a mysteriously ill child, and a secret of Kirkwall’s that may destroy everything within its walls.

Orsino also features heavily in this fic in a way I haven’t seen him used before, and it’s a great exploration of his character both on his own and in relation to Hawke. Hawke herself is spectacular, one of my favorite Hawkes ever, and her relationship with her growing desperation and how she learns to depend on Fenris throughout the impending (possible) madness is a beautiful study on what it means to trust someone.

This is a great, beautiful, thoughtfully written fic that been a labor of love for theherocomplex over many years. It’s still ongoing & she sometimes posts WIP snippets on her tumblr, so it’s very much still actively being worked on. Enjoy, carefully! <3

(has an amazing piano soundtrack by @bettydice​ here!)

The Far Shore, by @aban-asaara​

So this fic is pretty early in its posting schedule (four chapters currently posted), but I can already tell it’s going to be amazing. This is also a completed fic and will eventually have 39 chapters, so she’s posting weekly at the moment as each chapter is ready to go.

This is something aban-asaara has been working on for years, and the labor of love that has gone into it definitely shows. It explores (or will explore) Rivain, as well as the interconnectivity of Isabela, Fenris, and Hawke, and the importance of their relationships to each other. There’s an epilogue of sorts already posted (Song of a Seashell) so we know how it ends, but getting there is promising to be an exciting, tumultuous journey that I can’t wait to see unfold.

The best thing about this is the exploration of a completely different culture; aban-asaara’s prose has always been luxurious and graceful, and the Rivain backdrop gives it a chance to truly shine. The characterization, as always, is pristine, and her Hawke is a charmer.

However, if you can’t wait, aban-asaara has tons of other Fenris/Hawke fic already posted on her AO3, ready to be devoured. The Far Shore also has a piano accompaniment from @bettydice​, here!

I hope this provides some entertaining reading for your Christmas break! <3<3<3