#storytelling guru

[maartenschafer]

Maarten Schäfer - "In the footsteps of the great explorers"

Maarten Schäfer – “In the footsteps of the great explorers”

I’m cycling through Amsterdam’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an enduring testimony to the city’s rich history. During the Golden Age in the 17th century, Amsterdam’s port was at the center of a global trade network, with ships sailing to Asia, Africa, the Americas, and merchants trading goods across Europe. In this city of openness to the world, I was born and raised. This…

[guideoflife]

[aphrodeiities]

ᴛʜᴇ ᴅɪᴘʟᴏᴍᴀᴛꜱ

↳ the group archetype

♇ diplomats are known for being intuitive [N] and known for their feelings [F]; whenever you see someone who is a diplomat you'll always see an N-F pair together.

for example ⬎

I N F J | I N F P | E N F J | E N F P

diplomats and their nicknames ⬎

INFJ ⟶ advocates, counsellor, the messiah, the sage & mentor.

INFP ⟶ mediators, idealist, storyteller, scribe & quester.

ENFJ ⟶ protagonists, puppet master, guru, psychologist & developer.

ENFP ⟶ campaigners, motivator, hero, optimist & paladin.

♇ diplomats are people who like to look within, understand others and themselves. due to their understanding and empathetic nature, it makes them popular and influential.

♇ they're the type of people to yearn, crave bonds and connections. their nature is to be empaths, kind, generous and co-operative.

♇ most of their intentions come from good-will, and they like to make sure everyone around them is aware of that, so they become very encouraging people, invested in the lives of other people.

♇ due to them having great understanding and belief in people, they have much hope and faith in the future. true believers of peace in the world, sometimes it could be unrealistic.

♇ as they're unrealistic, they become hyper-sensitive people, can even be guilt-trippers when someone doesnt have the same belief in them. diplomats can be indecisive people, self-righteous and single-minded.

♇ diplomats can sometimes find themselves to be day-dreamers. they could have a fixed way of seeing the world, which likely makes their heart broken easily. as they're people who are very much about the principle, they meet a lot of people they butt heads with.

♇ diplomats are the type to day-dream about achieving a goal but do nothing to achieve it. they have big dreams but the type to have their ideas squished because it's not realistic. they're people who have a lot of maturing to do, especially when it comes to understanding how the world works.

♇ as diplomats are usually the dreamers, they are the type of people to believe in destiny. they wear their heart on their sleeves and are likely the people to give their emotions to the wrong people in their life, specifically inconsiderate people.

♇ with them being creative people and like to connect with others. they like to feel like they belong to places, could get really clingy since they have a fear of abandonment.

INTRODUCING OTHERS WHO BELONG TO THE DIPLOMAT ARCHETYPE ⬎

INFJ DIPLOMATS

ENFJ DIPLOMATS

INFP DIPLOMATS

ENFP DIPLOMATS

MBTI MASTERLIST

MASTERLIST

[tossawary]

I still think that the ending of "Avatar: The Last Airbender" was poorly foreshadowed, specifically the lion turtles and the energy-bending. (Not Aang not killing Ozai! I like that part! It suits the themes, it suits the characters! That part is fine. I am glad that the last airbender found a way forward that respected his people and beliefs.)

Like, I saw ATLA when it was originally airing and I thought these things kind of "came out of nowhere" at the time. I have heard the arguments to the contrary over the years and I have never really been persuaded by them, while at the same time personally agreeing that the lion turtles and the energy-bending absolutely do fit the world and lore! They are fitting elements! They work! I like this ending at the same time that, in my personal opinion, I think it was poorly established.

I think that the story BEGINS to establish lion turtles and energy-bending well enough. We meet both many other spirit beings and bending-capable animals earlier on, including the Moon and Ocean Spirits who apparently gave the world water-bending. S2 introduces Ty Lee's chi-blocking techniques and Guru Pathik teaching Aang about chakras. There are also a handful of lion turtle easter eggs in the background of some episodes, the most prominent perhaps being on a scroll in Wan Shi Tong's library.

But the story then jumps from these various establishing elements all the way to "lion turtles are real and not extinct and telepathic and can also energy-bend and Aang has suddenly mastered this new art well enough to take someone else's bending away permanently, and these relatively new elements are going to resolve the main conflict of the show". It feels like "1+1=3" to me. I think that last jump in the story is too big. Like, we're REALLY close, but I personally needed another 1 in there somewhere to bridge that final gap and get to that 3.

(Includes some fic ideas / suggestions on how to maybe add to strengthen the foreshadowing under the cut.)

The fact that a lot of people, especially more casual viewers, were really confused by the way all of these elements suddenly came together at the end says to me that, no, the foreshadowing that WAS done (there WAS foreshadowing, I cannot rightfully say that it all came completely out of "nowhere", but it) was not good enough. Or maybe I should compare it to someone presenting me with all of the necessary ingredients for a cake and then telling me that it IS cake? Yes, all of the right ingredients are HERE, I agree, this COULD be a really great cake, but... you still have to mix it all together in a bowl and then put it in the oven to bake to get that specific cake. It's not quite cooked yet.

(Okay, wow, that sounds kind of mean. Maybe I should compare it more to a missing stair? We have MOST of the staircase, I just need one last step to get to the Deus Ex Machina at the top. To be clear: I don't think a "Deus Ex Machina" is inherently bad. I often like them a lot. I just wanted a little more foreshadowing than the stuff that is already there.)

In storytelling, there's this technique casually called "The Rule of Three". (And yes, of course, rules were made to be bent or broken depending on what story you're trying to tell, but usually, these rules exist because they are effective.) This rule is also sometimes known as "Introduction, Pattern, and Payoff". (It has other names, but that's how I remember it.)

Very loosely, this rule states that an important element of the story must appear at least three times. 1. It must be introduced / established in the world. 2. It must appear again to remind the audience that it exists / and establish a pattern such that the audience begins to expect it to appear again later. (And is hopefully excited for it.) 3. Payoff. The element returns in an important way, probably to resolve part of the plot. The previous two appearances have acted as foreshadowing for this ending.

There's also a "Rule of Two" version of this general storytelling technique. Like, "If this special crystal can zap the bad guy and save the day, we have to have shown or at least told the audience that it can do that BEFORE the big final fight scene."

In regards to ATLA, no, I don't think that a scroll in a library or a statue in the background of some scene served as adequate introduction and reminder for the existence of lion turtles, so it didn't necessarily feel like a payoff for me that they solved the main conflict. (It's the "solved the main conflict" that's most of the issue for me. If the lion turtles had just appeared in another episode as a random cool thing like those sea monsters by Kyoshi Island, I would not have cared.)

I actually think that the establishment of other spirits like the Moon Spirit and bending-capable animals like sky bison and dragons can serve as a decent enough "Step 1) Introduction". Though this does not establish that lion turtles specifically exist, we have established that powerful creatures similar to lion turtles exist. But I still needed a solid "Step 2) Pattern / Reminder" that would have established that lion turtles specifically exist and are important BEFORE one shows up at the end like that.

I think that there's at least one episode somewhere in Book 1 or Book 2 that could have been cut in favor of an episode where the Gaang meets and rescues a young lion turtle baby or something.

Maybe Guru Pathik could have learned his ways FROM a lion turtle? Aang could have gone to an isolated village somewhere (with more brown people besides just Guru Pathik?) where people are living in harmony with a lion turtle, or maybe even on the back of a lion turtle! That would be cool!

Concept: Aang encounters Guru Pathik living alone on the back of a lion turtle which doesn't talk to people anymore (Aang swims down to look at its face and it doesn't even look at him), because its kind have been hunted nearly to extinction and it's tired of violence. Guru Pathik learned his ways from his old teacher, who learned from his old teacher, all the way up the teaching lineage from a person who once learned from the lion turtle itself before it gave up on the world. Guru Pathik tends to this nearly empty temple on the back of a silent lion turtle who ignores him, because he will not forsake his teachings even when the world seems uninterested in hearing them and the old lion turtle seems like it could die any day now. The people in the fishing village on the shore think that Guru Pathik is crazy and most of them don't even believe that the floating island really is a lion turtle, it's just weird geography.

Guru Pathik could also have chi-blocking abilities! We could see him demonstrate them in self-defense! He could teach a few chi-blocking moves to Aang, who could later go on to use them occasionally in Book 3, and it would have been really cool to see Aang exploring non-bending skills. We don't need Guru Pathik to explicitly name energy-bending here, but I would like to connect him just a touch more strongly to chi-blocking. Like, he IS connected already by helping Aang clear chakras, which is kind of like a reverse of chi-blocking, but it would be nice to establish Guru Pathik as somewhat capable of the opposite but perhaps not liking to use the skill.

Aang really vibes with this dying culture of pacifists, but he still has to leave Guru Pathik before he can finish the training. Later on, he can encounter Guru Pathik and the silent lion turtle again, and he can confess to them how desperately he doesn't want to have to kill anyone, no matter what his past lives say. He just wants to STOP the violence and restore balance to the world without sacrificing himself. And THEN the lion turtle could wake up and gift him with energy-bending.

Or something like that! The foreshadowing doesn't have to be THAT heavy-handed, but SOME brief appearance by an actual lion turtle would have served as a better "Step 2) Pattern" to me.

Things like chi-blocking, chakras, water-bending healing, water-benders losing their bending when the Moon Spirit was killed, and even Zuko's spiritual turmoil serve as a good "Step 1) Introduction" to the concept of energy-bending to me. The ingredients are THERE. But again, I would have liked some clearer "Step 2) Pattern" that had actually baked the cake in regards to this being a skill Aang had specifically.

The above episode concept with Guru Pathik on the back of a lion turtle could have worked as a "Step 2) Pattern / Reminder" for energy-bending.

ANOTHER option would be to have Aang temporarily lose his bending at the beginning of Book 3, after Katara resurrects him with that special spirit water after Azula killed him at the end of Book 2.

I think Aang losing his bending for at least 3-4 episodes would have been really good for him / the show. So much of Aang's identity is tied up at this point in being the Avatar and the responsibilities of being the Avatar. Losing his bending, especially his AIR-BENDING, and his connection to the spirit world and his past lives would send him into a personal crisis. The Gaang could worry over whether or not a new Avatar has somehow been born or if the Avatar powers are gone forever. The characters could confront the fact that perhaps they've been relying too much on Aang as the Avatar and what they'll do now without the Avatar.

Also, it would be really funny if Aang woke up and picked up his glider to jump off that boat, then just fell into the ocean, and Katara needed to fish him out. (Which would then transition into the dramatic revelation that he has lost his bending!!!)

Katara could use her healing abilities to tell Aang that what's happened to him feels a lot like Ty Lee's chi-blocking. Katara would then probably try to emphasize with Aang, who gets angry with her and says she has no idea what this feels like! Katara could then have a really good intimate scene with Aang over how scary it was when the Moon Spirit was killed, what it physically felt like to lose that spiritual connection, and how scared she was even afterwards about what it would have been like to permanently lose that connection to her people and her culture. Aang then apologizes to Katara and they resolve to find his bending again.

Aang then goes on some spiritual journey with his friends to reconnect with his bending and his past lives as the Avatar. Probably some partially internal spiritual journey with Guru Pathik's teachings. Katara and Toph could both talk about what bending means to them personally as different people, and also what it feels like to them as they interact with the elements of the world around them.

Aang could have some cool fight scenes where he dodges some random thugs using all of his bending skills (martial arts) without the actual bending, air-bending techniques, water-bending techniques, and earth-bending techniques, and then finally some chi-blocking techniques that Guru Pathik showed him. There could be some scene where Aang saves a kid from these random thugs and realizes that he can still do good in the world even if he's not the Avatar! Even if he's not a bender anymore!

There could also be some REALLY funny scenes of Aang trying to get Appa and Momo to teach him how to reconnect with his air-bending. Aang mimicking their movements and so on. (Sokka: "Is that... working so far, buddy?" Aang: "NO! They're terrible teachers!!!" Cue sad Appa bleating and offended Momo chittering.)

You could even do it in a cycle of sorts, where Aang reconnects with his air-bending first using Guru Pathik's teachings and his friends' help. (He is OVERJOYED.) And then Aang slowly regains water-bending and earth-bending over the next few episodes, culminating in him having to face his fears learning fire-bending again. I think you could accomplish this storyline by squeezing it into about 3-4 episodes, or else starting off with losing then regaining air-bending plus the Avatar state in the first 2 episodes of the season and then threading relearning the other elements in the background through later episodes.

ANOTHER option where Aang temporarily loses his bending is after the eclipse, because he has a spiritual crisis over the fact that he was resolved to kill someone and he really doesn't want to do that. I don't like this option so much because it feels a little too late in the season compared to kicking off Book 3 with the drama of Aang losing his bending(!!!), but it's an option.

See, if Aang temporarily loses his bending and has to find it again somehow, then the show could establish what this kind "energy-bending" and spiritual manipulation within a person looks like. If Aang has had to get his bending BACK, then it would better establish Aang then using this ability he has now practiced on himself to take bending away from another person. It's a pleasantly surprising twist that Aang figures out how to reverse a previously established energy-bending technique and successfully uses it against Ozai.

And then the ending, though arguably still in the realm of a Deus Ex Machina (which is cool), would feel more like "Step 3) Payoff" instead of "What just happened?" We needed to see more obviously that Aang was capable of ANY kind of energy-bending before it saved the day like that.

Anyway! This post became way longer than originally intended! I hope this has made it clear that I like both the lion turtles and energy-bending as concepts. I think there are many elements in the show that begin to introduce lion turtles and energy-bending as Aang uses it as things that COULD exist. I just think that the show needed some kind of additional baking step in the middle to establish a pattern and use those ingredients to foreshadow that specific "an ancient lion turtle teaches Aang energy-bending and Aang then uses it against someone else" ending.

[ultfreakme]

I just need everyone being increasingly toxic and negative about NATLA to realize that the OG cartoon has a gazillion problems too. The original creators are white, the only POC of the main cast for voice actors were the season 1 villains(Zuko and Iroh). Guru Pathik was voice by a white man doing an Indian accent. The SWT and NWT sexism has consistently be pointed out as inconsistent to the cultures it draws from. Sokka and Katara's names are randomly derived from Arabic because it apparently sounded good. Sokka's face paint has also been criticized. The show and concept, fundamentally, has a LOT of issues.

NATLA would also have similar issues but they're trying to fix it the best they can. It is by no means perfect in it's rep and I doubt it'll be perfect in storytelling but everyone manages to give grace and dismiss all the disrespectful things going on in the original but can't seem to do the same for NATLA.

No one points out the actual issues in the OG because we saw it as children and the overall quality of the show outweighs the flaws. Again, you need not praise the live action, be interested or bother watching it.

Just, don't act like the OG was a perfect piece of media that never did any wrong because I had to live with the only show with a dark skin female protagonist also depicting my identity in one of the most racist caricature ways ever.

[astragreenwoode]

Made my own AU/Reboot of the Smiling Critters franchise because they deserve to be happy.

Chapter 3 was AMAZING, guys! Mob Games delivered us with the lore we were all asking for and deserved.

Also, I got my CatNap plush I pre-ordered back in December as a birthday gift to myself! I love him! I'll definitely be ordering DogDay once I secure another job for myself.

So, I was thinking about all the shows I used to love as a kid; Care Bears, My Little Pony, Blues Clues, etc. I realized the whole appeal of the Smiling Critters was that it reminded us of being carefree kids. And I think that's why I find the atmosphere of Poppy Playtime so comforting despite the history of violent experiments. The entrance to the factory, the game station, even playcare feel like a childhood liminal space that makes me feel safe and like I'm a kid again.

The Poppy Playtime Fandom seems to have latched onto them and created their own sub-fandom like FNAF did with Sun and Moon. I don't know what it is about sun and moon themed characters, but I am here for it!

Anyways, I'll eventually be posting the other critters. I'm working on Bobby Bearhug and CraftyCorn for the next installment. My handwriting might be a bit hard to read, so the typed-up version of all my headcanons down below the cut.

CATNAP

• Throws THE BEST Slumber Parties

• Night Owl

• Stays up until 5 AM and wakes up at noon.

• Eternally Eepy (Narcoleptic AF)

• Everything he owns is some shade of purple and yellow

• Always wears pajamas

• Never leaves home without a blanket and pillow

• LOVES Astronomy and Stargazing

• Down to go camping at anytime

• Torn ear from fight with his siblings

• Best Bedtime Storyteller

• Has a library room

• Ends his days with hot tea and reading by the fire

DOGDAY

• Almost always covered in dirt

• Morning Person/Early Bird

• ADHD Kid

• Loves to Explore

• Therapy Dog Energy

• Always there to cheer up his friends

• Repetitive exercising and fidgeting to self-soothe

• Chris Traeger Vibes

• Owns every sports ball and exercise equipment ever made

• Fitness Guru

• Party Animal

• The one at slumber parties who wants to stay up all night. Passes out 5 minutes after bedtime

I hope you like my work and please let me know what you think, as I really appreciate it and use it as motivation. Be sure to follow me and come back for me, please!

Stay wild, free and safe, my dears!

-Astra

[danelloevee-sky]

Red spirit is done! We have Peeking Postman!

Next is orange, poll below the cut

Note: the 2023 Tulip Bloom Cape is listed as orange in the wiki

[marleysfinest]

I'm going to kick off my own event and shout about some of the angels who have made life truly exceptional. more 2 come!!!! I will not be cutting I'm sorry y'all are just gonna have to witness who these incredible human beans are

✨@pisspope; my spouse across the waves. the other half of my soul. the one who turned my head and made me retire the phrase of never fucking with the jaegers. u inspire me every day and the fact I get to call you a friend is insanity actually and I love u bitch

✨@fromriches-tosin; it's actually beyond my comprehension how talented u are. ruler of reijean, your fics have given me HOURS of eating the most delicious content in the world. shady queen I value so much from our home in the stables

✨ @sailorspica; it has been nothing short of an honour to be here while u discover self-shipping mrs ackerman. your writing is some of the best I've ever read and I hope u realise how gifted you are!! thank u also for turning me on to chappell roan, I fear I would've been stuck in the dark ages without u

✨@oxygenbefore1775; somehow u have been blessed not only by an immense storytelling talent but u are also an incredible artist??? the bridging tongues art will continue to live in my head rent-free until the end of time. I'm extremely grateful we can discuss period-era sukuna together

✨@strawberrystepmom; simply the kindest sweetest soul I've ever known. kendy u are sunshine personified; perhaps u did bring one s*guru g*to into my life but I forgive u. not only are you a beacon of goodness and joy you are also such a talented writer and hilariously funny. ily kendy!!!

✨@quiveringdeer; nat I gotta be honest and tell the people you are the reason I'm still here!! the first person to reach out to me when I set up this lil blog and indulge and inspire me!! I'm smooching u always!!

✨@ssslime; rorybeb I am always so elated to hear from u. you make me laugh so so so much and I'm so happy to know u. you make me feel sane when I'm bellyaching about Momming and for that I will love u until the end of time

✨@neiptune; supremely talented writer, artist, my sworn enemy. need I say more???

✨@vampyrsm; cor unum changed my life and I'm so serious when I say that. I can't adequately put into words both how much I enjoyed that fic from a story perspective and also ur intoxicating writing style. your creativity is an inspiration!!

✨@pavloves-dog; leigh I always know I can get filthy with u and ykw? that's invaluable. I simply cannot put a price on it. u r such a sweetheart and I'm so happy to know u; whether I will still be saying this when naoya is animated WE'LL SEE

✨@bloompompom; the other half of the duo making me Fuck With The Jaegers. bloomy ur art is perfection to me; ur talent is unbelievable and I'm so happy I get to witness it truly!! u r an inspiration!!!

[tramon81]

I've been thinking why the Arven Storyline is so good, and I think it's about pacing and delivery.

Pokémon SPOILERS AHEAD!!!!!!!!!!!!

Also recalling this from memory so might be some inconsistencies but the spirit is there :) .

There's this mild mystery about this guy at the start, apparently he knows your Legendary Lizard and is responsible of it. He also seems that he'd rather not deal with said lizard, foreshadowing or a more classy term, setup. We also end up realising he is the son of the Professor with very little to go on of what this relationship is.

It is implied in NPC dialog that the Professor has been away from the public from a long time, but being the owner of the lizard that you own now he/she actually shows him/herself to you. He/She calls you by student ID, weird. And requests you sometime travel to Area Zero, the forbidden area, where he/she presumably has taken residence.

When you meet with Arven on the lunchroom he proposes that you embark on a quest for, ... Herbs? Herba Mystica that seem to have some weird healthy properties. It is known that he likes cooking but didn't think he was a healthy foods enthusiast, a healthy lifestyle guru. Anyway you consider it.

Later he gets into a fight with Nemona into who's path you should follow. He seems really aggro on keeping you to his mission. Weird.

First mission, after the fight, you find the Herb, ok seems more than just curative bogus, he cooks ya a sandwitch and Koraidon goes ahead and asks for yours. Arven seems apprehensive but you eventually give it to the bikemon and whoa! It got its powers back. So maybe Arven is helping his parent out? Or was this not planned? Wait "you can come out now"? What pokemon did he send and why was it kept a secret? Weird.

Now, for the first "delivery" on all these "setups" this guy's not just a crazy cook in search for the ultimate ingredients, the setup at the cafeteria has its answer in Mabosstiff, the pokemon he secretly sent out last scene. It is stricken with a weakening health condition and the reason his owner is gathering all these ingredients is to cure him before it's too late. This is great for two reasons: 1. We know there is a ghost dog Pokémon with a similar build to it's preevolution and it can evolve so the dog could indeed die and turn into that. Also we now have a reason why he's been so jumpy, he doesn't want you to help him, he needs you to help him. If you ignored him and went with Nemona or that wacky Hacker, He'd be all on his own, and may not make it.

After some more adventures, smth smth setup for weird futuristic/ancient form of Donphan he recognises. Mabosstiff... Is cured! The relief on his face and the tension of the story is relieved as the dog wears again its toothy grin. This sort of thing is actual good storytelling methinks. Simple but effective. What a great... Wait it's not over.

Apparently it is revealed that you must finally go to Area Zero, together with the other cast, it's exciting because there's been so much build up to it, mystery and weird new pokemon. However it is also revealed that, one of the strongest deliveries in the story, Arven has an absentee parent, which made him be on his own... With only Mabosstiff as his family. This is potent. Of course this makes you want to meet this prick, see what kind of character does such a thing, but more importantly, it gives weight to Mabosstiff's recovery, together you saved not a dog, but the only family left by his side.

After you completed all three routes, he shows you the way to area zero. Which you discover about the place and the Professor, fellow of science, too absorbed in it, made a time machine oh so that was the deal with that donphan, oh cool there's more where it came from. There's also some very cool banter with the three coprotags, specially love the one about parents, this stuff is more direct than even Sun and Moon sometimes.

The Professor is acting odd though. Arven is suspecting something's off but doesn't really like the implication. You get swarmed, paradox pokes at all flanks. Another Lizard. Arven also reveals that he was envious and blamed Mirai/Koraidon for his parent's absence as there seems some unknown trust finally building up between them at the end of the scene. You enter the lab and finally get to meet...

Oh.

AI Sada/Turo. The professor died in an accident, standing in their place is an imperfect cold and robotic replica of the deadbeat progenitor. This "delivery" if you didn't have it spoiled just, hits way different that all others, the person who you probably hate by now, is long gone, no happy or cathartic reunion, no Arven giving a piece of his mind. If he wasn't by now, your friend is now officially an orphan. This copy seems to garner regret from its actions, its work is too dangerous and wants you to destroy it. The one thing that came over its family, its true passion, it is at least able to do away with it. However, you have to battle it as the defence system overrides its AI with this... well, it's pretty much the part of it you hate, obsessed, distant(literally lol it's like a good story above you up there). You beat it as your friends and Arven come to see the machine terastalize its insides or smth and it blocks your pokeballs and send the aggresive Legendary agaisnt you, completely unarmed you try to do something but your Sandwitch friend the MotoLizard achieves his battle mode. This makes things even, however you tetastalize him into even more of a dragon and oneshot him.

Last scene, AI is defeated, however for the machine to be over, "it" has to be over too. Arven pleads for it to stay, but it decides to go to its paradise, its life work and creation takes it to a different time in a final act both selfish and selfless sacrifice, In front of its son. Finally, "the climax".

You see, this all lead up to this, every setup and every delivery. Arven has finally faced the memory of his Father/Mother and it, in consecuence, has faced him. A bit of a somber note, but hey this is a treasure hunt, what about his treasure. I can't believe I'm saying this but this is one of the best implementations of "The friends we made along the way" trope I've seen. You see Arven has this factor of "afraid of ending all alone" that is implied a bit through the game, he is a bit abrasive but has a good heart. The last scene(Not the Ed Sheeran one) shows him on a understandable horrid mood when suddenly both Penny and Nemona suggest to go to eat, he is hard to get at first but this sense of now, connection to these people, propels him to join (Also Lizard nudge).

This is actually, even if way more contained, a bit on par with explorers of sky for best writing pokemon ever had. At least in my view on the matter what do you think?

[suzie-guru]

I debated writing this post, but it’s become clear that I need to address some misunderstandings about the Ratterrock, the webcomic that @bajingoarts and I have created together. 

This comic is a collaboration between @bajingoarts and myself, @suzie-guru. The original characters are not solely @bajingoarts, and nor are they solely mine. They are our original characters from our story we have organically created together. 

Neither one of us are “riding the coattails” of the other, just like neither Neil Gaiman or Terry Pratchett “rode coattails”  when they created Good Omens together.

@bajingoarts is a wonderful storyteller, and so am I, and Ratterrock is a wonderful story we are creating together. Neither one of us is an afterthought in this story, it comes from both of our hearts (and both of our horniness). 

It’s sad that I feel compelled to explain how my work schedule plays a part in how often I am able to come online and post about Ratterrock, but quite frankly, the only person to whom that information is pertinent to is my co-creator. 

Both myself and @bajingoarts are vital to the story of Ratterrock. Please respect that. 

[partywithoutsmiling]

opinion on creek?

Complicated one XD

From a storytelling perspective, he's a perfect douchebag. Hiding mean comments right under seemingly positive messages, he parades his supposed superiority like peacock his feathers. And while wouldn't he? He is respected guru, he is in the popular group, his friends look up to him, there are obvious hints that the Princess of the Tribe is sweet on him- life just couldn't be better! Creek breezes through his day marinated in his own arrogance and wholeheartedly convinced he deserves everything in his life.

He's exactly the type who sees nothing harmful in the way he 'teases' Branch; self-centered little prick that he is, he doesn't have the empathy required to feel concern for anyone but his own wellbeing, and Branch is on his shitlist because he steals Poppy's attention. Perhaps he would be even content ignoring Branch- but mocking him and pocking him puts Creek in positive light infront of his friends who appreciates his 'humour'.

His main goal in life is to be needed- needed in the way you need advice, guidance, someone to tell you what to do. He wants the attention and respect that comes with leadership, and he is basking in the possible power he gets from it.

Then the Chef's attack throws hurdles into his life that Creek isn't prepared for. Oh he try to maintain his role as the wise, calm and reliable- the leader of the group in Poppy's absence, mainly because- despite the obvious danger they are in- it just didn't quite hit him, just how fragile a life is

Untill it's his own that's in danger.

Faced with his own mortality and just how sudden and unexpected it could be, I don't blame his sudden and visceral reaction, and his desperation. People are able to promise and do anything, just to keep themselves alive. Easy to call someone a corward in that case, but lol the trolls are literaly snack size; dying by being munched on alive is horrifying, let alone in the hand of a giant.

In Creek's case, however, his true colours came out with this one. As I said, he himself is his number one concern, and nothing stands in his way in that. Unbelievable, but he saw in Chef a kindred spirit- someone just as powerhungry, just as driven; a mirror of himself.

Someone willing to do anything to get what they want. Oh no doubt he was lying to himself, believing that would be enough for Chef to keep him alive, but the fact he was needed and valuable enough alive and whole- it was close enough to what he had before. He also had new perspective, new insight: siding with his tribe is quick ticket to death, and that goes against his main goal. So yee, no remorse for cutting his 'friends' off or sending them to death; they served their use, and he now had no need for them. It felt much more exciting to have the potential of being in power in Bergens' court.

tldr; Creek is a mess and a menace, and written sinisterly enough where he rubs you the wrong way from the get go

From a person's perspective, lol, yeah not a fan of him XD

As mentioned, he's a massive asshole; a bully, a sleazy creep, and someone who without remorse sends others to their death- even small children. It's honestly chilling, how calm he is with everything, how okay, he is with everything

He has obvious bias against Branch, but there is just not a drop of empathy, sympathy or kinship for anyone; not even trolls who are his closest friends. He sacrifices them in a heartbeat. He cares about no-one else but himself.

So yee, as far as I am concerned, he got eaten pff, good riddance and all that

[vimberries]

Tarot Legacy Challenge

Are you ready to infuse your Sims gameplay with a touch of mysticism and destiny? If you love the idea of exploring new aspects of The Sims while embracing the rich symbolism of tarot, the Tarot Legacy Challenge is just for you!

Welcome to the Tarot Legacy Challenge, where each generation of your Sims’ family is guided by one of the Major Arcana cards of the tarot deck. This twenty-two generation legacy challenge invites you to harness the power of tarot to shape your Sims’ lives in ways you’ve never imagined. Each card represents a unique theme and set of rules that will influence the objectives, aspirations, and experiences of the current generation.

The Tarot Legacy Challenge offers an exciting opportunity to explore new gameplay elements and storytelling possibilities while creating a vibrant and dynamic family legacy. Embrace the journey, let the tarot cards reveal their secrets, and watch as your Sims’ lives unfold in magical and unexpected ways.

Basic Rules:

Each heir must complete their aspiration, master their career and master three skills

Optionally, each heir must represent the colour of the generation both with their genetics and the furnishings of their home

Each heir can move into any home they wish (freerealestate on) but must choose to have the home unfurnished

Thanks to major arcana cards, you will receive a bequest of §22,000 to help furnish your home (money 42000)

Have either normal or long lifespan

If you play this challenge, use the #tarotlegacychallenge or #tarotlc if you want me to see

Generation 0. The Fool (Yellow)

They are a whimsical comedian with a heart full of cheer and a playful spirit. Embracing a carefree, noncommittal lifestyle, they find joy in making others laugh and often indulge in spontaneous adventures. Their childish enthusiasm and love for singing add a vibrant, light-hearted flair to their everyday life.

Traits: Cheerful, Childish, Noncommittal Aspiration: Party Animal Career: Entertainer (Comedian) Skills: Comedy, Charisma, Guitar

Master Comedian career

Complete Party Animal aspiration

Master the Comedy, Charisma and Guitar skills

Have 4 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-4 children

Visit the lounge and perform comedy routines once a week

Generation 1. The Magician (Red)

They are a brilliant entrepreneur with a magnetic charisma and a keen intellect, always seeking innovative ways to achieve success. Driven by a desire for wealth and recognition, they channel their genius into building their own ventures while exuding confidence and ambition. Despite their materialistic pursuits, they are deeply committed to providing a loving and supportive environment for their future family.

Traits: Genius, Self-Assured, Erratic Aspiration: Computer Whiz Career: Tech Guru (Start-up Entrepreneur) Skills: Programming, Video Gaming, Charisma

Master Start-up Entrepreneur career

Complete Computer Whiz aspiration

Master the Programming, Video Gaming and Charisma skills

Have 3 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-5 children

Visit the library and do programming once a week

Generation 2. The High Priestess (Blue)

They are a mysterious and creative diamond agent, adept at navigating the shadows while keeping their true identity hidden. A bookworm at heart, they find solace and inspiration in the written word, often retreating into their private world for moments of reflection and strategy. Their solitary nature and inventive mindset fuel their success in covert operations, all while nurturing a deep-seated desire to build a close-knit family of their own.

Traits: Bookworm, Creative, Loner Aspiration: Freelance Botanist Career: Secret Agent (Diamond Agent) Skills: Logic, Charisma, Gardening

Master Diamond Agent career

Complete Freelance Botanist aspiration

Master the Logic, Charisma and Gardening skills

Have 2 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-4 children

Visit the library or park and play chess once a week

Generation 3. The Empress (Green)

They are a warm-hearted chef with a deep passion for creating delicious meals and nurturing those around them. Their romantic and family-oriented nature shines through in their love for hosting gatherings and cherishing moments with loved ones. Despite their culinary talent, their endearing clumsiness often leads to amusing kitchen mishaps, adding a touch of charm to their home life.

Traits: Romantic, Family-Oriented, Clumsy Aspiration: Big Happy Family Career: Culinary (Chef) Skills: Cooking, Gourmet Cooking, Piano

Master Chef career

Complete Big Happy Family aspiration

Master the Cooking, Gourmet Cooking and Piano skills

Have 4 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 3-6 children

Visit the lounge and play the piano once a week

Generation 4. The Emperor (Brown)

They are a commanding business manager with an ambitious drive and an unwavering self-assurance. Their materialistic tendencies push them to climb the corporate ladder and achieve financial success, all while maintaining a meticulous and strategic approach to their work. Despite their focus on wealth and power, they are determined to provide a stable and supportive environment for their future family.

Traits: Ambitious, Self-Assured, Materialistic Aspiration: Fabulously Wealthy Career: Business (Management) Skills: Charisma, Logic, Handiness

Master Management career

Complete Fabulously Wealthy aspiration

Master the Charisma, Logic and Handiness skills

Have 2 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-5 children

Visit the library or park and play chess once a week

Generation 5. The Hierophant (White)

They are a dedicated musician with a deep love for both their craft and the written word, finding inspiration in the pages of their favourite books. Their family-oriented and loyal nature drives them to create a nurturing and supportive environment for their loved ones. Embracing traditional values and a strong sense of duty, they balance their artistic passions with a commitment to being present for their family.

Traits: Bookworm, Family-Oriented, Loyal Aspiration: Renaissance Sim Career: Entertainer (Musician) Skills: Guitar, Piano, Violin

Master Musician career

Complete Renaissance Sim aspiration

Master the Guitar, Piano and Violin skills

Have 2 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-4 children

Visit the lounge and play the piano once a week

Generation 6. The Lovers (Pink)

They are a talented professional painter whose romantic and compassionate nature infuses their artwork with deep emotional resonance. They cherish their close-knit family, using their creativity to create a warm and loving home environment. Their genuine kindness and dedication to both their art and their loved ones make them a harmonious and devoted presence in their family life.

Traits: Romantic, Family-Oriented, Good Aspiration: Soulmate Career: Painter (Patreon of the Arts) Skills: Painting, Charisma, Cooking

Master Patreon of the Arts career

Complete Soulmate aspiration

Master the Painting, Charisma and Cooking skills

Have 5 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-3 children

Visit the museum and paint once a week

Generation 7. The Chariot (Black)

They are a driven eSports gamer with an unyielding ambition and a competitive spirit that fuels their quest for victory. Their active lifestyle extends beyond the gaming world, as they channel their energy into intense training and unexpected adventures. Known for their erratic yet exhilarating approach, they balance their gaming career with a passionate desire to be a present and supportive figure for their future family.

Traits: Ambitious, Active, Erratic Aspiration: Chief of Mischief Career: Tech Guru (eSport Gamer) Skills: Programming, Video Gaming, Fitness

Master eSport Gamer career

Complete Chief of Mischief aspiration

Master the Programming, Video Gaming and Fitness skills

Have 3 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-4 children

Visit the park and perform mischief interactions once a week

Generation 8. Strength (Orange)

They are a formidable professional bodybuilder, channelling their boundless energy and self-assured demeanour into sculpting an impressive physique. Their active lifestyle and hot-headed temperament drive them to push their limits and excel in their field. Despite their intense focus on fitness and competition, they are deeply committed to being a strong, supportive presence for their future family.

Traits: Self-Assured, Active, Hot-Headed Aspiration: Bodybuilder Career: Athlete (Bodybuilder) Skills: Fitness, Charisma, Handiness

Master Bodybuilder career

Complete Bodybuilder aspiration

Master the Fitness, Charisma and Handiness skills

Have 3 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-4 children

Visit the gym and work out once a week

Generation 9. The Hermit (Grey)

They are a reclusive author who finds solace in the quiet of their own company, preferring the comfort of solitude to social interactions. Their passion for writing is fueled by a deep love for books and a penchant for introspection. Though they may be lazy at times, their reflective nature and dedication to their craft are balanced by a genuine desire to create a nurturing environment for their future family.

Traits: Loner, Bookworm, Lazy Aspiration: Nerd Brain Career: Writer (Author) Skills: Writing, Logic, Gardening

Master Author career

Complete Nerd Brain aspiration

Master the Writing, Logic and Gardening skills

Have 2 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-3 children

Visit the library and write a book once a week

Generation 10. Wheel of Fortune (Purple)

They are a daring interstellar smuggler astronaut who navigates the cosmos with a blend of creativity and a good-hearted nature. Their adventurous spirit and knack for improvisation often lead to unexpected and amusing mishaps in their smuggling operations. Despite their clumsiness, they remain dedicated to their work and are determined to provide a loving and supportive environment for their future family.

Traits: Creative, Good, Clumsy Aspiration: Friend of the World Career: Astronaut (Interstellar Smuggler) Skills: Rocket Science, Fitness, Charisma

Master Interstellar Smuggler career

Complete Friend of the World aspiration

Master the Rocket Science, Fitness and Charisma skills

Have 4 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-5 children

Visit the gym and work out once a week

Generation 11. Justice (Blue)

They are a dedicated journalist with a perfectionist’s eye for detail, driven by a passion for uncovering the truth and delivering accurate, impactful stories. Their deep sense of justice fuels their commitment to fairness and integrity in their reporting. Loyal and good-hearted, they balance their demanding career with a strong desire to be a supportive and present figure for their future family.

Traits: Perfectionist, Good, Loyal Aspiration: Bestselling Author Career: Writer (Journalist) Skills: Writing, Charisma, Logic

Master Journalist career

Complete Bestselling Author aspiration

Master the Writing, Charisma and Logic skills

Have 3 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-4 children

Visit the library and write a book once a week

Generation 12. The Hanged Man (Green)

They are an enigmatic criminal oracle who navigates the shadows with an unconventional approach and a unique perspective on the underworld. Their solitary nature and erratic behaviour reflect their noncommittal attitude, as they often drift between alliances and plans with unpredictable flair. Despite their elusive lifestyle, they harbour a deep-seated desire to provide for and connect with their future family in meaningful ways.

Traits: Loner, Noncommittal, Erratic Aspiration: The Curator Career: Criminal (Oracle) Skills: Mischief, Programming, Handiness

Master Oracle career

Complete The Curator aspiration

Master the Mischief, Programming and Handiness skills

Have 3 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-3 children

Visit the park and perform mischief interactions once a week

Generation 13. Death (Black)

They are a professional painter with a sombre and introspective demeanour, channelling their creativity into art that reflects a deep sense of melancholy. Their gloomy outlook is contrasted by their innovative spirit and a unique ability to capture profound emotions on canvas. Despite their artistic talent, their clumsiness often leads to unexpected messes, adding an endearing charm to their creative process.

Traits: Gloomy, Creative, Clumsy Aspiration: Painter Extraordinaire Career: Painter (Master of the Real) Skills: Painting, Logic, Writing

Master Master of the Real career

Complete Painter Extraordinaire aspiration

Master the Painting, Logic and Writing skills

Have 4 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-3 children

Visit the museum and paint once a week

Generation 14. Temperance (Yellow)

They are a skilled mixologist with a knack for creating perfectly balanced cocktails, reflecting their meticulous and neat nature. Their dedication to crafting exceptional drinks is matched by a genuine kindness and a desire to bring joy to others. Though they may be inclined to take it easy when not behind the bar, they are committed to maintaining a harmonious and supportive environment for their future family.

Traits: Neat, Good, Lazy Aspiration: Master Chef Career: Culinary (Mixologist) Skills: Mixology, Cooking, Charisma

Master Mixologist career

Complete Master Chef aspiration

Master the Mixology, Cooking and Charisma skills

Have 3 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-4 children

Visit the bar and make drinks once a week

Generation 15. The Devil (Red)

They are a formidable criminal boss with a hot-headed demeanour and a relentless drive for power and wealth. Their materialistic ambitions fuel their ruthless, evil strategies as they manipulate and control their empire with a strict hand. Despite their dark pursuits, they are determined to use their ill-gotten success to secure a lavish and influential future for their family.

Traits: Hot-Headed, Materialistic, Evil Aspiration: Public Enemy Career: Criminal (Boss) Skills: Mischief, Handiness, Video Gaming

Master Boss career

Complete Public Enemy aspiration

Master the Mischief, Handiness and Video Gaming skills

Have 5 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-4 children

Visit the park and perform mischief interactions once a week

Generation 16. The Tower (Grey)

They are a secret agent villain whose erratic behaviour and intense activity are matched by a perpetually gloomy outlook on life. Their covert operations are characterised by sudden, dramatic actions and a penchant for creating chaos. Despite their dark and unpredictable nature, they remain fiercely determined to achieve their personal goals and to influence their future family in profound ways.

Traits: Erratic, Gloomy, Active Aspiration: Chief of Mischief Career: Secret Agent (Villain) Skills: Logic, Charisma, Mischief

Master Villain career

Complete Chief of Mischief aspiration

Master the Logic, Charisma and Mischief skills

Have 4 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-3 children

Visit the park and perform mischief interactions once a week

Generation 17. The Star (Pink)

They are a radiant space ranger astronaut who brings a cheerful and optimistic energy to their interstellar adventures. Their romantic and outgoing personality shines through in their interactions with both alien cultures and fellow astronauts, spreading positivity wherever they go. Driven by a desire to explore the cosmos, they are equally committed to creating a loving and vibrant future for their family.

Traits: Cheerful, Romantic, Outgoing Aspiration: Joke Star Career: Astronaut (Space Ranger) Skills: Rocket Science, Comedy, Charisma

Master Space Ranger career

Complete Joke Star aspiration

Master the Rocket Science, Comedy and Charisma skills

Have 3 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-5 children

Visit the lounge and perform comedy routines once a week

Generation 18. The Moon (Purple)

They are a professional painter whose work is deeply influenced by their erratic moods and a naturally gloomy disposition. Their creativity flows through their art, producing pieces that capture the mysterious and introspective aspects of the human experience. Despite their unpredictable nature, they are dedicated to using their artistic talents to create a meaningful and supportive environment for their future family.

Traits: Erratic, Gloomy, Creative Aspiration: Serial Romantic Career: Painter (Patron of the Arts) Skills: Painting, Charisma, Cooking

Master Patron of the Arts career

Complete Serial Romantic aspiration

Master the Painting, Charisma and Cooking skills

Have 3 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-3 children

Visit the museum and paint once a week

Generation 19. The Sun (Orange)

They are a dynamic professional athlete whose infectious cheerfulness and outgoing nature light up every game and practice. Their active lifestyle is driven by a passion for sports and a commitment to staying fit, which they balance with a joyful enthusiasm for life. Dedicated to being a positive and engaging presence, they strive to create a supportive and energetic environment for their future family.

Traits: Cheerful, Outgoing, Active Aspiration: Angling Ace Career: Athlete (Professional Athlete) Skills: Fitness, Charisma, Fishing

Master Professional Athlete career

Complete Angling Ace aspiration

Master the Fitness, Charisma and Fishing skills

Have 4 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-6 children

Visit the gym and work out once a week

Generation 20. Judgement (White)

They are a confident and self-assured diamond agent who excels in their covert operations with a strong moral compass. Their good-hearted nature drives them to make ethical choices even in the most clandestine situations. Despite their dedication to their high-stakes work, they maintain a noncommittal stance in their personal life, balancing their professional responsibilities with a desire to remain adaptable and unbound.

Traits: Self-Assured, Good, Noncommittal Aspiration: Successful Lineage Career: Secret Agent (Diamond Agent) Skills: Logic, Charisma, Handiness

Master Diamond Agent career

Complete Successful Lineage aspiration

Master the Logic, Charisma and Handiness skills

Have 4 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-4 children

Visit the library or park and play chess once a week

Generation 21. The World (Brown)

They are a dynamic and self-assured individual with a boundless drive for success and a zest for life. Their ambition propels them to excel in every endeavour, while their active lifestyle ensures they stay at the top of their game both physically and mentally. Embracing the world with confidence and determination, they are committed to achieving their dreams while also providing a nurturing and supportive environment for their future family.

Traits: Self-Assured, Ambitious, Active Aspiration: Mansion Baron Career: Business (Investor) Skills: Charisma, Logic, Fitness

Master Investor career

Complete Mansion Baron aspiration

Master the Charisma, Logic and Fitness skills

Have 3 romantic partners before settling down

Have between 2-5 children

Visit the gym and work out once a week

[sunshinesmebdy]

Moon in Virgo: Tidy Up Your Biz and Harvest Financial Abundance

Astrologers, rejoice! Business gurus, unite! Because under the meticulous gaze of the Moon in Virgo, it's time to blend cosmic wisdom with practical strategy. Get ready for a potent mix of grounded energy, keen analysis, and a sprinkle of earthy magic ready to boost your business and finances.

Virgo's Virgo-ness: Picture a spotless spreadsheet, a perfectly balanced budget, and a to-do list so organized it whispers sweet satisfaction. That's Virgo's domain. When the Moon dances through this earth sign, it brings a laser focus on details, a knack for efficiency, and an urge to declutter both your physical and financial spaces.

Business Benefits:

Sharpened Skills: Hone your expertise, take that online course, or finally master that new software. Virgo's energy fuels learning and skill development, making you a powerhouse of knowledge and competence.

Channel your inner Hermione Granger under the Virgo Moon! Devour knowledge like polyjuice potion, mastering that new software with flick-of-the-wand ease. Whether it's an online course on astrological forecasting or the intricacies of blockchain technology, Virgo's studious energy makes you a sponge for information, transforming you into a confident, competence-wielding powerhouse ready to tackle any business challenge.

Streamlined Operations: Virgo loves a well-oiled machine. Use this lunar phase to audit your business processes, identify bottlenecks, and implement systems that save time and resources.

Don your efficiency hat, because under the meticulous Virgo Moon, streamlining your business becomes a cosmically ordained quest. Scrutinize processes like a celestial accountant, unearthing time-sucking bottlenecks and banishing them with automated spells (aka, handy new systems). Watch as email chains unfurl into streamlined communication channels, meetings morph into laser-focused action sessions, and your once-chaotic workflow hums like a perfectly tuned engine, freeing up precious time and resources for your entrepreneurial magic to truly shine.

Networking with Purpose: Quality over quantity is Virgo's motto. Connect with potential clients or collaborators who share your values and expertise. Think strategic partnerships, not random coffee chats.

Forget the business card bingo of generic gatherings – Virgo's discerning Moon demands quality connections. Seek out collaborators and clients who mirror your values and expertise, like kindred spirits drawn together by constellations of shared passion. Think chess match, not cocktail party. Craft targeted pitches that resonate with their specific needs, and cultivate strategic partnerships that feel like cosmically ordained alliances. This intentional networking isn't about collecting contacts, it's about igniting mutually beneficial collaborations that propel your business towards the stars.

Marketing Magic: Craft targeted campaigns that speak directly to your ideal customer's needs. Virgo's analytical prowess helps you understand your audience and deliver messaging that resonates.

Under the analytical gaze of the Virgo Moon, ditch the shotgun marketing blasts and unleash laser-focused campaigns that whisper sweet nothings to your ideal customer's soul. Virgo's eagle eye pinpoints their deepest desires and pain points, transforming you into a messaging maestro. Craft content that speaks their language, addresses their specific struggles, and showcases your solutions like the missing puzzle piece to their perfect life. Let go of generic pitches and embrace storytelling that resonates with their values, because under this lunar influence, targeted marketing isn't just effective, it's downright magical.

Financial Fortunes:

Budgeting Bliss: Break out the spreadsheets and get granular. Categorize expenses, track income, and create a budget that feels secure and sustainable. Virgo loves a balanced bottom line.

Spreadsheets sing and budgets balance under the Virgo Moon! Unleash your inner accounting alchemist and transform financial chaos into crystal-clear clarity. Categorize expenses with the precision of a cosmic librarian, track every penny like a moonbeam, and craft a budget that feels not like a restrictive cage, but a beautifully organized, secure haven for your financial future. Virgo craves equilibrium, so find that sweet spot where income and outgoings waltz in perfect harmony, leaving you feeling abundant and empowered, the maestro of your own financial orchestra.

Debt Disposal: Tackle outstanding debts with renewed determination. Negotiate better terms, make extra payments, and experience the liberation of financial freedom.

Ditch the debt demon and embrace the warrior spirit under the Virgo Moon! Channel your inner debt disposal dragon, breathing fire upon outstanding balances with renewed determination. Hone your negotiation skills like a celestial diplomat, securing lower interest rates and crafting repayment plans that fit your budget like a cosmic glove. Make extra payments with the fervor of a moonbeam illuminating a dark cave, watching those numbers shrink faster than a vampire in sunlight. Embrace the sweet liberation of financial freedom, feeling the weight of debt lift like a cosmic spell dissolving, leaving you empowered and ready to conquer your financial Everest.

Savvy Investments: Research, compare, analyze – Virgo's energy is perfect for making informed investment decisions. Seek advice from trusted professionals and prioritize long-term stability over short-term gains.

Transform into a celestial stockbroker under the Virgo Moon! Put on your research goggles and analyze potential investments like a cosmic detective, comparing, contrasting, and sniffing out hidden risks. Consult trusted financial oracles for guidance, but ultimately, let your own Virgo-honed discernment be your compass. Prioritize long-term stability over fleeting trends, building a portfolio that grows like a well-tended celestial garden, not a gambler's dice roll. Embrace the slow and steady path, for under Virgo's meticulous gaze, informed investments blossom into financial freedom, one calculated decision at a time.

Unexpected Windfalls: Keep an eye out for unexpected opportunities to increase your income. Virgo favors those who put in the work, so your dedication could be rewarded with a bonus, a new client, or a lucky windfall.

Keep your antennae tuned to cosmic whispers under the Virgo Moon, for fortune often favors the prepared! Your dedication and sharpened skills could attract unexpected boons like a bonus shimmering out of thin air, a new client drawn by your newfound expertise, or a windfall landing softly as a celestial feather in your lap. Remember, Virgo rewards hard work, so keep hustling, honing, and learning, and trust that the universe may just surprise you with a bonus chapter in your financial story.

Bonus Tip: Embrace the earthy magic of Virgo! Surround yourself with green spaces, incorporate crystals like citrine and jade into your workspace, and practice grounding exercises to channel the Moon's practical energy.

So, there you have it! The Moon in Virgo is your invitation to tidy up your biz, fine-tune your finances, and reap the rewards of your focused efforts. Remember, success is a marathon, not a sprint. Pace yourself, celebrate the small wins, and trust that under Virgo's meticulous guidance, your business and finances will shine.

Now go forth and conquer, astrologically savvy entrepreneurs! Your financial stars are aligned.

[ramayantika]

Help it's not well a divine x mortal romance book anymore.

Rather it is a girl with an ambitious mother, who is also a powerful member of the apsara queen's court. Girlie must be an apsara, win the title and continue the legacy of every apsara before her, but the daughter is the image of her ambitious mother, just that her ambition is different.

Apsaras and dancers? They are not exactly equal.

When they watch me perform, us perform, who do they really see? What do they see? Beautiful beings blessed with beauty, radiance and form that feels unreal to behold even by the eyes of the gods; yet I feel caged to dance for the same patronizers.

I am a woman foremost. I am growing up to be a woman now. Do they admire my storytelling skills through movement or is it my pleasing form that attracts them and makes me serve my art to them? Is my devotion to art an act of service? Or am I an artist nurturing my art?

Oh hi mortal boy that I fancy. Shut up I know a hundred different gazes that would make you fall deeply and hopelessly in love but even then I can't look into your eyes for too long. Your eyes aren't really as pretty as a gandharva, but your plain brown eyes still bring me to the depths of your soul.

I can't love you. I have duties to attend too. I won that title. Became an apsara just how my mother wanted. Just how every young aspiring daughter of an apsara should become.

But it is your plain world that feels home to me the most. And when I dance here abandoning my name and the legacy of my clan, I finally find myself and the true artist that my guru spoke about.

But apsaras who fall in love with mortal men must go back to their enchanting illusory worlds. This was never a farce.

I love the artists here. It is not me or the other apsaras becoming your muses. You enrich our creativity too.

And maybe this is my path?

[likealittleheartbeat]

Welcome. Collected a lot of my original writing below for those interested. The longest meta is 12 pages on a word doc. The shortest is two sentences. Most are 3-5 paragraphs. Fics are also here. Enjoy.

ATLA Meta

Zuko & Aang The Queer Platonic Love of Aang & Zuko (the longest meta I've written)

Aang's Traumatic Processing

What Do Aang and Zuko 'Understand' w/ the Firebending Masters?

The Theme of Emotional Isolation

On Fandom's Resistance to Zukaang

'A New Drive:' Desire vs. Connection and Zuko's Inner Fire

Touch: Zuko and Aang Don't Construct Intricate Rituals

Aang, Self-Hatred, & The Blue Light of Compassion

Jeong-Jeong's Wisdom: The Pain of Fire

The Negative Capability of the Blue Spirit

Contextualizing Ozai's 'Abuse'

Zuko's Interest in Spiritual Practices

The Avatar and the Firelord: Reincarnation for Zuko & Aang

Are the Firebending Masters Heart-Shaped and Why Does It Matter?

Aang Ran Away (A Response to NATLA)

Why Zukaang?

Post-Colonial Feminisms The Impact of Yue's Sacrifice on Katara

The Girl in the Iceberg: Katara's Winning Move w/ Azula

Ophelia and Katara: Women of Waters

The Implications of an Unconsensual Kiss in Emerald Island Players

Katara as an Indigenous Female Storyteller

Kyoshi and Pacifism

Resisting Romanticism in ATLA

ATLA Resists the Pocahontas Complex, but You Don't Have To

Symbolizing Colonial Rape in ATLA

ATLA Actually IS About the Ships

Context: History & Fiction Sokka & Wan Shi Tong: The Limits of 'The Archive'

Aang's Coming-of-Age: On Rites and Community

Atomic Bombs in ATLA: The Avatar State & Sozin's Comet

Aang's Not the Fictional Orphan We're Used To

Do These Characters Need Therapy?

ATLA's Trope Subversion

A Quick Note: On Bryke and Privileged Creators

Skin & Race in ATLA

An Indigenous Deus Ex Machina

Japan, Monarchies, and Resistance to Euro-American Imperialism

Zero Relationships Are Made Stronger Through Conflict in ATLA

A Follow-up to 'Zero Relationships': Reciprocal Relationships in Times of Oppression

ATLA's references to animated works on Imperialism

The Iceberg as a Novel Visual Icon of Survival

Visual vs. Oral Cultures in the Water Tribes

How Guru Pathik's Voice Actor, Brian George Embodies the Themes of ATLA

Aang as Hamlet

A Theory on Why the Series Ends in Ba Sing Se

The Tragedies of Jet and Hama

Aang & Katara Subverting Romeo & Juliet

Buddhisms and Spiritualities in ATLA On Defending Aang's Character

Death in ATLA

Avatar Alone: On Solitude in ATLA

The Block of Ice and the Crystal Palace

Breath, Air, and Abrahamic Connections in ATLA

The Gaang, Not A Found Family, But a Sangha

ENERGY BENDING

Queer Readings The Masculine Shift in Gay Coding

Queer Rep vs. Queer Themes

Alternatives to Queer Metronormativity in ATLA Tags To Browse My Blog With:

#atla meta, #buddhism, #colonialism, #imperialism, #indigenous, #queer history, #the world is wide (cultural diversity), #history is long (historical connections), #platonic love #likealittleheartbeatrecommends (for works with similar themes to atla), #fanart, and of course #zukaang

Fanfics (of the zukaang variety): Warning Sign: (modern au, 2 chapters, completed); The Gleaners:  (modern high school au, one-shot) Water:  (post-series, 19 chapters, completed) Fluff Fanfics Can Get It: (modern college au, WIP) What Is It Like to Be Full of Lightning?: (missing scene oneshot) The Strength of My Self-Discipline:  (missing scene, rated M, one-shot) False Pretender: (post-series, rated M, one-shot)

Ficlets: “I will seek your light, Aang”

“It’s not that Aang wouldn’t confide his feelings.”

“Right, friend.”

“I know you know this isn’t working”

“The True Blue Spirit”

“In the velvety night, a spark burst”

“If you walk down the spiral staircase”

"I give my secrets to Appa"

“So this is what peace sounds like”

“We didn’t have this whole idea of love back then”

"Zuko finished reading Aang's manuscript"

[hammill-goes-fogwalking]

The issues & beauties of German music

(70s Kraut Rock )

Here, NOT ONE SINGLE SOUL talks about Krautrock 🌿 it seems like dead & forgotten (except CAN)

which is sad about this phenomenon :/ the only ones paying attention are prog magazines and music connoisseurs

Everyone talks about the Scorpions and Rammstein (in fact it's quality). Sometimes Boney M but... it's always the same: good music is too elite for the masses.

Even the band Eloy. Prog fans love them- the most listeners come from other places of the earth but not their origin country. Often a fault of the music industry, critics as well as the radio stations which really neglected these now in modern times.

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The rhymes & language, pronunciation

Sure, worse languages exist. But to be honest, can you relax, with the German language? There's no flow at all, nothing like Italian or, you know, English. It's a popular opinion and what speaks against it?

Depends on the way someone sings and per region there is a difference but some harshness is always there.

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Sung in English example: Eloy (again)

Some people are totally fine with the accent (their whole discography is in English sung by Frank Bornemann!!) others have problems getting into this band. Depends on the listener.

What often happened was that the groups had a British singer...

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Old fashioned names

For example British rock: someone asks you, you say your idol is some random Jeff or Pete or whatever their names are. What about German musician's names? They're called Dieter or Jogi or Herbert or Udo

"Who's your favourite musician?" - Jürgen xy (sorry shouldn't sound mean)

People make jokes about old fashioned names, then why blaming yourself and getting sideeyed.

This is all a matter of coolness, let's move to the music...

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A few information

Okay don't judge (seems extremely stereotype now) the people, musicians of the 60s and 70s were the first generation after WW2. You can imagine. The children of ex- patriots. They wanted to change something. BUT!! They were BOUND in the roots of their country.

There was a scene and later with many students and discotheques. There were artists from all over the world. The music is innovative and you can hear it even clearly. You can also hear their protest, spirit and the diversity of sounds.

There is nothing you can call THE Kraut. It's practically impossible to sum the sound up. Actually it's not a genre. That one word represents all the music made in Germany

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An example.

You hear the instruments? The bass, drums, hard guitar, organs, saxophone EVERYTHING WORKS. SO FINE MUSIC.

Listen to it, create your own opinion.

Notes

1. So many songs by this one group called Lied des Teufels? Yeah. They're not known at all. That singer sounds like imitating Ian Gillan- Everyone can TRY to copy but they do it in their own style which is not copying, it's storytelling. (Kind of)

2. THE WHOLE THING SHOULD NOT MAKE ME SEEM PASSIONATE OR SOMETHING BECAUSE I DISCOVERED KRAUT LITERALLY YESTERDAY

3. Probably it's something that gets boring really fast

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So...

Skillful musicians w/ ability to express themselves and the problems of their country. Wether the singing style is something for you or not- there are countless of other groups.

We HAVE TO speak about these forgotten acts again & give it a chance