#the bond it forms and strengthens w time

[gloopdimension]

Ohhhh intimacy being a special thing esp for fark

[maxzinn]

just some siren!reader x jingyuan thoughts warnings: suggestive and... sexual stuff, not proof-read

random late night thoughts but my head can't stop thinking about siren!reader who's like,,, the princess or leader of the sirens that lives in scalegorge waterscape along with the vidyadharas. they can transform from human form to siren form and would return to the waters whenever they want.

reader is the co-ruler of imbibitor lunae regarding the waters and friends with hcq when the tragedy happens, the vidyadharas left scalegorge waterscape, leaving the sirens to rule the waters. but the waters soon became inhabitable due to the absence of the high elder, and reader may control the waters but she cannot strengthen the seal in the arbor (that's imbibitor lunae's job) which soon contaminated the waters, making it reek with the stench of abomination so she evacuated the sirens. but even though the waters are contaminated, reader tries her best to purify the waters so they can still hold ceremonies and the summer solstice and winter solstice!

you see, the summer solstice is huge celebration where sirens return to the waters to be cleansed and replenished and where the new sirens manifest their transformation for the first time. this is the day of the year with the most hours of daylight so the sirens just bask in the waters and sun as much as they could to re-energize.

when it comes to the winter solstice, the day of the year with longer hours of nighttime... things can get a little... frisky. in short, it's like the mating season for the sirens so they hold a little ceremony to try and find their lifelong mates. every species abording the xianzhou can participate the ceremony. foxians, vidyadharas, xianzhou natives... siren mates aren't restricted to sirens only.

jingyuan is more than aware of this little ceremony that the sirens hold in scalegorge waterscape, and you both have this some kind of relationship that goes far beyond the definition of friends. and oh, this little celebration had him oh so intrigued. just the thought of seeing you so bold, and wild, and nasty, and dirty had him biting the inside of his cheek.

he's done waiting, he's done prolonging this unspoken whispers of desire when it's so obvious that you two like each other. and just the thought of other men having to see your glory... he could feel his composure slipping away by the minute as he tightly grips his teacup. he would kill any man who'll dare to feast their eyes upon your body.

he wants you to look at him only as you sway your hips in front of the crowd, wants your whole attention on him, wants you to stake your claim on him... claim him in front of the luofu's residents for them to see that he belongs to you and you belong to him just as you sink your fangs on his neck - a mark to form a permanent mating bond. he's staring at the men who laughably thought they stood a chance on ever having to have a taste of you as he sinks his teeth on the flesh of your shoulders - marking you as well.

his eyes are gleaming and boastful, completely different from the calm and relaxed demeanor he usually have. he's pulling you away from the ceremony, dragging you to somewhere more private as he ravages and devours you whole like a starved beast - like a lion. licking and nipping on your skin under the moonlight, caressing your sensitive body with his hands, and tongues intertwined with the taste of spit and blood as he becomes one with you under the moonlight.

errors are inevitable in this writing, it's 2 am and i'm very sleepy -w-

[novlr]

how do i write an established married couple that are out of their honeymoon phase and now theyre just cute and comfy w/ eachother??

Established relationships, in particular, require careful consideration and development to make them feel authentic and relatable to your readers. An established relationship is one that has a history of shared experiences and a level of comfort and familiarity between the characters and can take many forms, such as long-term friendships, romantic partnerships, or even familial bonds. Writing established relationships requires a deep understanding of the characters’ backstories, the dynamics of their relationship, and how their connection influences their individual arcs.

Understand the dynamics of established relationships

Established relationships have a history and shared experiences that shape their current state.

Power dynamics, roles, and expectations within the relationship have been formed over time.

Established relationships involve a level of comfort, familiarity, and trust between the characters.

Conflicts and challenges in established relationships may be more complex and deeply rooted.

Characters in established relationships have a deeper understanding of each other’s strengths, weaknesses, and quirks.

Established relationships involve a sense of commitment, loyalty, or even obligation.

Develop their backstory

How and when did the characters first meet, and what were their initial impressions?

What significant events or experiences have the characters shared that have shaped their relationship?

How has the relationship evolved over time, and what challenges or conflicts have they faced together?

What are some of the defining moments or turning points in their relationship?

How has the way the characters have grown and changed as individuals affected their relationship?

What are some of the inside jokes, shared references, or traditions that are unique to their relationship?

Show the depth of their connection

Use dialogue to reveal the characters’ familiarity, comfort, and understanding of each other.

Show the characters engaging in shared activities or rituals that demonstrate their bond.

Describe the characters’ nonverbal communication, like knowing glances or subtle gestures.

Reveal the characters’ ability to anticipate each other’s needs, thoughts, or reactions.

Show the characters supporting, comforting, or challenging each other in meaningful ways.

Demonstrate the characters’ willingness to make sacrifices or compromises for the sake of their relationship.

Explore conflicts and challenges

Identify the underlying tensions, differences, or unresolved issues in the relationship.

Show how the characters navigate and cope with these challenges, both individually and as a pair.

Explore how external factors, such as family, work, or personal goals, can strain the relationship.

Demonstrate how the characters’ individual flaws or weaknesses can affect the relationship.

Show the characters working through conflicts, compromising, or finding solutions together.

Illustrate how the challenges and conflicts ultimately strengthen or change the relationship.

Develop character arcs

Show how the relationship influences each character’s personal growth, decisions, and actions.

Explore how the characters’ individual journeys affect the dynamics of the relationship.

Show how the characters learn from each other and inspire growth or change.

Show how the relationship evolves because of the characters’ individual development.

Illustrate how the characters’ shared experiences and challenges shape their shared future.

Reveal how the relationship ultimately supports or hinders the characters’ individual goals and desires.

Craft authentic dialogue and interactions

Use inside jokes, nicknames, or references that are specific to the relationship.

Show the characters finishing each other’s sentences or thoughts, demonstrating their deep understanding of the other.

Use subtext and implication in dialogue to reveal the characters’ unspoken feelings or concerns.

Demonstrate the characters’ ability to communicate effectively, even during conflicts or disagreements.

Show the characters engaging in playful banter or teasing that reflect their comfort with each other.

Illustrate the characters’ ability to have meaningful, vulnerable conversations that deepen their connection.

[etherealsinsau]

Introduction to Asherah's character

In our hellaverse AU "Ethereal Sins"

Alot of important and unnecessary characters are added along w/ the plot being lengthened & shortened in some acts.

Asherah is a Primordial being and an equal to God. There Infatuation w/ one another has been apparent since before the stars were formed.

Their love for one another created the Tree of Life, this fueled both spirits with passion and creativity. Both then created Heaven.

In this heaven the type of angel labeled "Thrones" are the law keepers of the universe & time itself.

One Throne is to be appointed by Asherah to assist her in duties w/ the Tree of Life. These Angels chosen for this honor of a role Are trained from creation or birth.

The first to hold this role was Belphegor, though originally named Acedia. After the throne joined the newfound Devil's rebellion, her & the other Sins along w/ a third of heavens angels fell. Leaving a gap to be filled.

Some centuries pass w/ the Primordial Goddess in a melancholy state caring for the Tree of Life.

The next Angel to take on this role is an Angel named Perisa, whose Betrothed to the Archangel Michael, Leader of the Angels, & Protector of Heaven

Thrones hold a stern tradition to cover ones eyes with a veil, in a masculine or feminine Angelic form. Once reaching maturity. The only beings to be granted permission to gaze at their eye's is ones betrothed or the Devine Leader, God. (Similar to Muslim Women's hair)

(Asherah w/o her veil)

The 13 Archangels (Morningstars) were created by the two Gods early on in Heavens History, The oldest being Michael,Gabriel,Raphael,Azrael, & a sister, Raziel. Samuel & Jophiel being the youngest.

The 13 Angels were raised as children to strengthen eachothers bonds. Later causing immense heart ache.

-fin🌟

[foursaints]

ur vibes to me are like we are in a dark academia novel coquette fans on tiktok recommend and we are two weird off putting individuals in an environment which shuns us and thus we form a bond that time only strengthens . perhaps we decide to commit some sort of weird freaky experiment on someone we have observed will not be missed to forever bond us by the weird and indescribable . ur like a broken jewelry box with antique jewelry both second hand and passed down by family …. i am like a teddy bear w tear tracks n weird blood stains n frayed ribbon that has been used to string over the years … perpetually in a state of similar opposites …. i think it would be fun to watch trash tv with you and do serious character analysis . i also get the vibe from u of like … hating the purposefully frayed and broken for the bit. this is not true to the saints aesthetic all of your frayed edges are natural and come from love and time . you are not faking this faking this is a cop out !!!! also i can see you doing archery seems like a very saints hobby … i feel as if this anonymous analysis may be very obvious but !! 😊

hello ivy

[longagoitwastuesday]

So so indebted to u for posting those lovely illustrations from Cyrano <333 & even more so for yr tags!! I'm completely in love w yr analysis, please feel free to ramble as long as u wish! Browsing through yr Cyrano de Bergerac tag has given me glimpses of so many adaptations & translations I'd never heard of before! I'll be watching the Solès version next, which I have only discovered today through u ^_^ As for translations, have u read many/all of them? I've only encountered the Renauld & Burgess translations in the wild, & I was curious to hear yr translation thoughts that they might guide my decision on which one I buy first (not necessarily Renauld or Burgess ofc). Have a splendid day & sorry for the likespam! 💙

Sorry for the delay. Don't mind the likespam, I'm glad you enjoyed my tags about Cyrano, and that they could contribute a bit to a further appreciation of the play. I loved it a lot, I got obsessed with it for months. It's always nice to know other people deeply love too that which is loved haha I hope you enjoy the Solès version, it may well be my favourite one!

About translations, I'm touched you're asking me, but I don't really know whether mine is the best opinion to ask. I have read... four or five English translations iirc, the ones I could find online, and I do (and especially did, back when I was reading them) have a lot of opinions about them. However, nor English nor French are my first languages (they are third and fourth respectively, so not even close). I just read and compare translations because that's one of my favourite things to do.

The fact is that no translation is perfect, of course. I barely remember Renauld's, but I think it was quite literal; that's good for understanding the basics of the text, concepts and characters, but form is subject, and there's always something that escapes too literal translations. Thomas and Guillemard's if I recall correctly is similar to Hooker's in cadence. It had some beautiful fragments, some I preferred over Hooker's, but overall I think to recall I liked Hooker's more. If memory serves, Hooker's was the most traditionally poetic and beautiful in my opinion. Burgess' is a whole different thing, with its perks and drawbacks.

Something noticeable in the other translations is that they are too... "epic". They do well the poetic, sorrowful, grief stricken, crushed by regrets aspects of Cyrano and the play in general, but they fall quite short in the funny and even pathetic aspects, and that too is key in Cyrano, both character and play. Given the characteristics of both languages, following the cadence of the French too literally, with those long verses, makes an English version sound far too solemn at times when the French text isn't. Thus Burgess changes the very cadence of the text, adapting it more to the English language. This translation is the one that best sets the different moods in the play, and as I said before form is subject, and that too is key: after all, the poetic aspect of Cyrano is as much true as his angry facet and his goofy one. If Cyrano isn't funny he isn't Cyrano, just as he wouldn't be Cyrano without his devotion to Roxane or his insecurities; Cyrano is who he is precisely because he has all these facets, because one side covers the other, because one trait is born from another, because one facet is used as weapon to protect the others, like a game of mirrors and smoke. We see them at different points through the play, often converging. Burgess' enhances that. He plays with the language itself in form and musicality, with words and absences, with truths masking other truths, with things stated but untold, much like Cyrano does. And the stage directions, poetic and with literary value in their own right in a way that reminded me of Valle Inclán and Oscar Wilde, interact with the text at times in an almost metatextual dimension that enhances that bond Cyrano has with words, giving them a sort of liminal air and strengthening that constant in the play: that words both conceal and unveil Cyrano, that in words he hides and words give him away.

But not all is good, at all. Unlike Hooker, Burgess reads to me as not entirely understanding every facet of the characters, and as if he didn't even like the play all that much, as if he had a bit of a disdainful attitude towards it, and found it too mushy. Which I can understand, but then why do you translate it? In my opinion the Burgess' translation does well bending English to transmit the different moods the French text does, and does pretty well understanding the more solemn, cool, funny, angry, poetic aspects of Cyrano, but less so his devotion, vulnerability, insecurities and his pathetism. It doesn't seem to get Roxane at all, how similar she is to Cyrano, nor why she has so many admirers. It does a very poor job at understanding Christian and his value, and writes him off as stupid imo. While I enjoyed the language aspect of the Burgess translation, I remember being quite angry at certain points reading it because of what it did to the characters and some changes he introduces. I think he did something very questionable with Le Bret and Castel-Jaloux, and I remember being incensed because of Roxane at times (for instance, she doesn't go to Arras in his version, which is a key scene to show just how much fire Roxane has, and that establishes several parallels with Cyrano, in attitude and words, but even in act since she does a bit what Cyrano later does with the nuns in the last act), and being very angry at several choices about Christian too. While not explicitly stated, I think the McAvoy production and the musical both follow this translation, because they too introduce these changes, and they make Christian as a character, and to an extent the entire play, not make sense.

For instance, once such change is that Christian is afraid that Roxane will be cultured (McAvoy's version has that infamous "shit"/"fuck" that I detest), when in the original French it's literally the opposite. He is not afraid she will be cultured, he is afraid she won't, because he does love and appreciate and admires those aspects of her, as he appreciates and admires them in Cyrano. That's key! Just as Cyrano longs to have what Christian has, Christian wants the same! That words escape him doesn't mean he doesn't understand or appreciate them. The dynamics make no sense without this aspect, and Burgess (and the productions that directly or indirectly follow him) constantly erases this core trait of Christian.

Another key moment of Christian Burgess butchers is the scene in Arras in which Christian discovers the truth. Burgess writes their discussion masterfully in form, it's both funny and poignant, but it falls short in concept: when Cyrano tells him the whole discussion about who does Roxane love and what will happen, what they'll do, is academic because they're both going to die, Christian states that dying is his role now. This destroys entirely the thing with Christian wanting Roxane to have the right to know, and the freedom to choose, or to refuse them both. As much as Cyrano proclaims his love for truth and not mincing words even in the face of authority, Cyrano is constantly drunk on lies and mirages, masks and metaphors. It's Christian who wants it all to end, the one who wants real things, the one who wants to risk his own happiness for the chance of his friend's, as well as for the woman he loves to stop living in a lie. That is a very interesting aspect of Christian, and another aspect in which he is written as both paralleling and contrasting Cyrano. It's interesting from a moral perspective and how that works with the characters, but it's also interesting from a conceptual point of view, both in text and metatextually: what they hold most dear, what they most want, what most fulfills them, what they most fear, their different approaches to life, but also metatextually another instance of that tears/blood motif and its ramifications constant through the whole text. Erasing that climatic decision and making him just simply suicidal erases those aspects of Christian and his place in the Christian/Cyrano/Roxane dynamic, all for plain superficial angst, that perhaps hits more in the moment, but holds less meaning.

Being more literal, and more solemn, Hooker's translation (or any of the others, but Hooker's seems to love the characters and understand them) doesn't make these conceptual mistakes. Now, would I not recommend reading Burgess' translation? I can't also say that. I had a lot of fun reading it, despite the occasional anger and indignation haha Would I recommend buying it? I recommend you give an eye to it first, if you're tempted and can initially only buy one.

You can read Burgess' translation entirely in archive.com. You can also find online the complete translations of Renauld, Hooker and Thomas and Guillemard. I also found a fifth one, iirc, but I can't recall it right now (I could give a look). You could read them before choosing, or read your favourite scenes and fragments in the different translations, and choose the one in which you like them better. That's often what I do.

Edit: I've checked to make sure and Roxane does appear in Arras in the translation. It's in the introduction in which it is stated that she doesn't appear in the production for which the translation was made. The conceptualisation of Roxane I criticise and that in my opinion is constant through the text does stay, though.

[jonquilyst]

Day 11 - Socialization Day

It's another socialization day. It was a rather peaceful day for Lilium (SL); she simply spent her time trying to catch frogs. Meanwhile, Logan (KC) spent his time attempting to strengthen his bond with Dahlia (KC)

Cassie (KC) approached Alexis (KC) with a proposition. With Logan now part of a 3-way alliance with Dahlia and Anika (KC), only she and Alexis remain outside the alliance, making them easy voting targets. As a result, Cassie and Alexis have agreed to form a temporary alliance to help counteract the alliance until they reach the merge.

The Screaming Llamas, with only 4 members remaining, remained peaceful today, though Reagan was the most social with her teammates than she ever has been. With merge soon approaching, it's starting to get down to the wire for our teams; no one wants to be voted out.

With a new alliance born among the Killer Cowplants, Alexis attempts to boost her reputation by having a friendly chat with Dahlia.

Today's Confessional: Cassie Fuller

"Yeah... I'm not in the greatest spot right now. With the vote being split the last time we had an elimination, it's a miracle I'm still here. And if we lose again, the alliance is definitely gonna try and get me out again... Well, I just need to survive until merge, and I know Poppy will help keep me safe afterwards, so I had to ask Alexis to team up with me. So thankful to that sweetheart for saying yes."

@seyvia @ashubii @akitasimblr @thebramblewood @softle0 @simsinfinitylt @micrathene-w @prismaticpotentia

[hallucinateonpaperspines]

In Once upon a time do sparklings exist? Humans clearly keept their way of reproduction and can have kids but can cybertronian since that bot that sold the kids to Shockwave didn't think they could be anything else(and for that matter are humans and cybertronians now capable of having kids with each other) ?

Ahhhhh, I'm actually super happy you asked this!

Yes, humans and all Earthen cyber-organics still have their former methods of reproduction intact and functioning.

In OUAT, Cybertronians have two means of reproduction; cold construction and spark merging.

With my version of cold construction, one can construct a body and submerge it into the Well or a hot spot and hope a new spark attaches and merges with the frame creating a new Cybertronian. Typically the new spark will be in a youngling stage and not a "true sparkling" since it would be easier for a spark to cement itself in a frame that doesn't require constant upkeep and upgrades. Cold-constructed bots, in the Golden Age, would have been built to order for whatever caste needed more members at the time. They would have been paired with a mentor who would be charged to provide experience and specific guidance and download the general information they required as mandated by their caste (a common experience for lower cast and some mid-caste bots).

Cold-constructed would still receive the same care and affection a sparkling would have, it would just be on a more generalized level. "It takes a village" sort of phenomenon that would wear off as the spark becomes more settled into the frame and the youngling's EM Fields strengthen. But it wouldn't be unheard of for a mentor to form a creator bond with their apprentice.

The "sparkling" that we know and love (myself included) comes from bots created from spark merging. In my version, a bonded pair will merge their sparks temporarily, which, on rare occasions, can result in a spark "bud" that is a combination of the two parents. The Carrier is the parent whose spark is directly supporting and "carrying" the bud in their own spark chamber.

This does create a two-field effect as the sparkling grows closer to the point it can be safely expelled, and usually how the new parents/medic will know the sparkling is ready when the field becomes sensible by the parents through a forming creator bond, all the way the young one screaming "I AM HERE." to every passing EM-Field that passes over the Carrier.

Additionally, kinda like kangaroos, the Carrier is capable of slowing down the spark's development, or freezing it if needed, but extensive time in this state can be dangerous for both. The sparkling could be reabsorbed and flicker out of existence, or the Carrier could gain permanent issues with their spark and energy processing.

At the point the Spark is matured enough to enter the wide beautiful world, the creators would have either commissioned or been building the outlines of a frame for their young one. The frame typically would be laced with traces of the creator's CNA and a rough molding of the presumed frame type. (It can be further edited, but too much can be dangerous for the sparkling in the next step.)

Finally, the Spark is extracted and placed into the frame. Then, overseen by a doctor, this young frame would be placed into a tank and observed as the spark fully merges into the protoform. In this step, the frame is truly solidified as the constitution of the spark impacts and remakes the construction of the frame. Creators would visit regularly to maintain and strengthen their bonds until, at long last, the adorable sparkling is finally complete and ready to come home. Understandably, this technique is favored among the high castes and looked down on by the functionist government.

True sparklings would be heavily reliant on having spark bonds to help anchor them as they grow and develop. They also would lack the Cold-constructed programming and require dietary supplements and specialized energon. That said, they also would provide a good deal of variety and diversity to Cybertron's population which can allow for more flexibility given they were never custom ordered to exact specifications.

Pretty cool right? But what do these two methods have in common? They are reliant on somewhere to get sparks and the addition of frame material. Sparklings, because of the nature of their creation and the lack of materials, are non-existent and have been since Cybertron went dead. That's why finding the First Metal on Earth, Primis-Medli, was such a big deal. The essential part of constructing frames was found and, for the first time in forever, spark merging was an actual possibility.

There are actually three answers to the "Can humans and Cybertronians have kids?"

No.

Maybe?

Yes, you evil bastard.

As I have previously mentioned, there are two subsets of humanity, the cyberized and the envoys who are separated by the level of Cybertronian influence on their bodies. (Both are capable of having children with each other, and producing regular humans or envoy offspring. An envoy is basically a manifestation of a set of recessive genes that are carried by other envoys and the civilian descendants of envoys) the outcome of cross breeding with cybes depends on which subset is involved.

Instead of being spark-reliant and manually framing forms, humans do have a gestation chamber that forms the physical frame. (Humans are not soulless/monsters, I will get into this in another post). Due to that, a regular cyber human is NOT naturally compatible with a Cybertronian.

Envoys are a somewhat different story, offspring between the two would be significantly rarer, and MUCH harder to safely maintain, but because they do have a strong spark connection to Unicron it could be possible for such a thing to occur. That said, the carrier would have to be the Envoy since the bulk of "genetic/spark" information would come from the Cybertronian sire while the human essentially serves as an incubator. The resulting children of such a union would be a carbon copy of their Cybertronian parental unit with a few sprinklings of eldritch tendencies (and of course a very involved grandpa). So, all in all, unlikely but entirely possible.

Now, those are the natural forms of reproduction. Of course, since this is such an important issue, vital to saving their dwindling race, a few unsavory characters may realize that Humans, despite also having CNA now, don't share the same limitations when it comes to repopulation.

The main issue in natural reproduction is spark issues, not genetic compatibility. If a certain scientist were to turn his rotund sphere of an eye towards the topic, it would be relatively easy to rectify that issue by repurposing donor CNA from either party and making a test tube baby. There you would have a true hybrid, but I'm not going to say the results would be pleasant for anyone involved.

Thank you for reading!

[multiplicity-positivity]

would you have any advice on forming better connections and relationships with your headmates, especially when you guys cant control when you can front and when you cant go out much (chronic pain 💀) and cant be toooo overt due to parents

we seriously need to get better bonds with eachother haha

/nfa

Hey, all of our best advice for forming better connections with headmates can be found in our post on establishing contact with headmates:

Most of our suggestions in that post ^ you can do covertly or stealthily at home.

Our system has also learned more about each other and strengthened our bonds by learning more about each other and taking time to get to know each other. Ask games are amazing for this - the tags “#plural ask game” or “#system ask game” are probably full of excellent questions compiled by fellow systems. Y’all can each take turns answering the questions to get a better feel for one another. You can also check out this form made by a part in our system:

And finally, building a headspace might be a great way for y’all to bond. What’s more, afterwards you can have a space inside to gather and talk, play games, and have fun. We recommend any system whose able to to try building a headspace/inner world. Here’s a little post on headspaces if you’d like to learn more:

Hope this helps. Remember that getting to know each other and strengthening your bonds will come with patience, time, and practice connecting with each other. We hope y’all are able to forge uplifting, lifelong connections in the future.

💫 Parker and 🐢 Kip

[everythingstardewvalleydd]

Shane Headcanons: Part 1

Early Game: From the beginning, the farmer approaches Shane with the same persistent friendliness as everyone else in Pelican Town. It doesn’t take long for this to wear on him. It’s clear she’s determined to join the community and even though he barely participates and snaps and complains his way through every interaction, she just shrugs it off with a nonchalant smile. No matter how serious he is about it or how cutting the remarks, she just gives him that iridium-plated look and stops by again the next night to have the exact same conversation all over again. He knows he’s not being singled out — she makes a point of talking to everyone in the saloon every time — but something about her refusal to let it go is especially grating. He considers avoiding the place altogether, but what else is there to do in a town like this after dark? He grits his teeth and keeps on.

Two Heart Event (Fall, Year 1): This irritating, inescapable quality is the main reason Shane doesn’t bother trying to get rid of her when she stumbles across him on the dock in Cindersnap Forest late one night. In that down moment, he doesn’t have the energy to put toward his usual hostility, so he takes a different approach instead. Maybe if he lets her behind the wall, she’ll finally see him for the person he is and drop this obnoxious get-to-know-you game. As an outsider, who cares if she knows anyway? Give it another six months and she’ll be gone. To his surprise (and mild annoyance) the Farmer doesn’t back away from anything he says though. In fact, she takes the whole thing in stride. No pity or platitudes. No fixing... Just sits with him, even chugs her beer at the perfect moment to make him laugh. She’s weird… maybe as weird as him. But he’s grateful for that strange night all the same.

After their conversation at the docks, the Farmer keeps turning Shane over in her mind. She’ll be out watering crops or foraging in the woods, trying to figure out wondering over the details. It’s not a romantic fixation — the guy is clearly a mess, ya know? But something about it was familiar. Too familiar. Everything Shane describes is where she’d been before coming to the valley – standing at the bottom of that pit, too tired to even look up. Hopeless. Empty. Alone. And the parallels don’t stop there… It’s all of it, right down to Joja. They were both broken by it. They’d both taken a risk in walking away. They’d both escaped to the valley. To family, who built safe havens for them in all the ways they could. And then came the sticking point. As much as they were the same, there was one major difference. When the Farmer fled that life… she really had escaped it. Getting off that bus was a clean slate. A new beginning. But that wasn’t true for Shane. Joja had followed him here, plaguing his reprieve. All the beauty of Stardew Valley was poisoned by their presence. This gives her new compassion and respect for his situation and forms something of an unexpected bond between them. She says none of this, but keeps tabs on him and makes him smile where she can. 

As time goes on, the Farmer and Shane become tentative friends. Eh, friends is a strong word. They become a bit more than acquaintances. Let’s go with that. There’s an unspoken bond, but Shane is Shane and the Farmer is busy as hell. She starts diverting energy toward new farm ventures and her rapport with the town grows to the point that she’s able to relax in those relationships. She still drops in the Saloon, but not as frequently – just when she’s in the area and once on Fridays to make the rounds. She continues to think about Shane and hope he’s okay, and he continues to feel both at ease and irritatingly exposed when she’s around. They don’t talk much, but what’s there is solid.

Tangentially, that night at the docks also strengthens the Farmer's (already strong) resolve to drive Joja out. They don’t get to do this to people anymore. They don’t get to poison this tranquil town too. And with so many community-minded people around to help, she doesn’t want to worry about Joja’s influence anymore. Before, she was focused on getting her own feet underneath her, but that night reminds her that there’s also a larger picture and for the first time in a long time, she has the capacity to do something about it. 

Four Heart Event: Following canon here, but the Farmer stays briefly afterward (since the scene ends mid-interaction) to make sure Shane’s as okay as possible and encourage him to talk to Jas and reassure her as much as he can while being honest. The whole thing serves as a reality check for the Farmer, who’s more deliberate about her friendship with Shane after this. She still doesn’t see the point in sharing her own past and stays in a purely supportive role, but when she sees him, she takes the time to figure out how he really is (discerning when he doesn’t say) and tries to lift him a little when he’s low. That early attachment holds true, as hard as it is to watch at times.

[icy-saturday]

"The Copper Trawler" (continued)

Concept by Battlestation Four

Social Dynamics

Group Structure: Within a Copper Trawler group, there is a loose hierarchy based on age and experience. Older, more experienced lanterns often take on leadership roles, guiding the group's movements and decisions. Younger lanterns may be more playful and energetic, contributing to the overall vitality of the group.

Leadership Roles: The leader of a Copper Trawler group, often the oldest and most experienced male or female, is responsible for making decisions related to the group's movements, nesting sites, and safety. They also play a crucial role in coordinating group singing sessions, which are essential for bonding and communication.

Task Distribution: Copper Trawlers exhibit cooperative behavior when it comes to tasks such as nest-building, foraging, and protecting the group. While there might not be strictly assigned roles, individual lanterns naturally gravitate towards tasks they are more skilled at or enjoy, contributing to the overall well-being of the group.

Communication: Copper Trawlers communicate through a combination of vocalizations, light patterns, and body language. The leader often sets the tone for group activities through specific melodies, and different lanterns may have unique roles in the group's musical ensemble.

Conflict Resolution: Conflicts within the group are typically resolved through vocalizations and expressive displays rather than physical altercations. The social structure encourages cooperation, and disputes are settled through negotiation and mutual understanding.

Mating Rituals: During the breeding season, males may engage in elaborate singing displays and light shows to attract females. However, it's not a competitive process; rather, it's a collaborative effort where the entire group participates in creating a vibrant and harmonious environment.

Family Bonds: While there might not be a strict nuclear family structure, Copper Trawlers form strong bonds with their young. Older members of the group often take on mentorship roles, guiding the younger lanterns in various aspects of life, from foraging techniques to intricate singing patterns.

Breeding and Family Structure

Mating Season: Copper Trawlers have a distinct mating season marked by environmental cues such as changes in temperature and light. During this time, the air is filled with the melodies of males and the soft glow of their lights as they engage in elaborate displays to attract potential mates.

Courtship Rituals: Males play a prominent role in courtship, showcasing their singing and lighting abilities. They may create intricate patterns in the air with their glowing bodies, synchronized with their melodies. Females, in turn, respond with their own unique songs, and the collaborative display becomes a communal event involving the entire group.

Pair Formation: While the courtship displays are collective, individual pairs may form within the larger group. These pairs are not exclusive, and the communal nature of the Copper Trawler society means that parenting responsibilities are often shared among several individuals.

Nesting Practices: Once a female is ready to lay eggs, the pair, with the assistance of other group members, selects a suitable nesting site. Copper Trawlers are meticulous nest builders, combining twigs, leaves, and other materials to create sturdy and well-insulated nests either in trees or underground dens.

Egg Incubation: Both males and females take turns incubating the eggs, ensuring a balanced approach to parenting. The entire group contributes to protecting the nesting site, creating a cooperative and secure environment for the upcoming generation.

Rearing Young: Upon hatching, the young Copper Trawlers are cared for collectively by the group. Older members take on mentorship roles, guiding the young lanterns in various skills such as foraging, singing, and nest-building. This communal approach to parenting strengthens the bonds within the group.

Transition to Independence: As the young Copper Trawlers grow, they gradually become more independent. The communal structure allows for a smooth transition, with the older members continuing to provide guidance and support until the young lanterns are fully integrated into the group.

Continued Communal Living: Even as Copper Trawlers mature, they continue to live within the larger group. This communal living arrangement promotes cooperation and ensures the well-being of all members, regardless of age.

Interaction with Humans

Domestication and Bonding: Copper Trawlers, when kept in human households, have the capacity to form strong bonds with their owners. This bonding process often begins when the lanterns are young and continues throughout their lives. Regular interaction, feeding, and positive reinforcement contribute to the development of a trusting relationship.

Affectionate Displays: Copper Trawlers express affection towards their human companions through a combination of vocalizations, glowing displays, and physical gestures. They may perch on their owner's shoulder or lap, emitting soft melodies as a sign of contentment and companionship.

Shared Singing Sessions: Humans and Copper Trawlers can engage in shared singing sessions, creating a harmonious blend of human and lantern melodies. This activity not only deepens the bond between them but also provides a unique and delightful form of entertainment.

Feeding and Care: Human owners are responsible for providing a balanced diet for their Copper Trawlers, including a mix of grains, proteins, and greens. Establishing a consistent feeding schedule and providing a stimulating environment contribute to the lanterns' well-being.

Nighttime Activity: Given the semi-nocturnal nature of Copper Trawlers, humans who keep them as pets should be prepared for nighttime activities. This includes the lanterns engaging in lively singing, chattering, and glowing displays during the late hours. Owners who are night owls may find this behavior endearing, creating a unique bond during the quiet hours of the night.

Training and Enrichment: Copper Trawlers are intelligent beings, and they respond well to positive reinforcement-based training. Owners can teach them new tunes, tricks, or even simple commands. Providing a variety of toys and perches within their living space enhances their mental and physical stimulation.

Integration with Other Pets: If there are other pets in the household, Copper Trawlers can adapt well to their presence. Proper introductions and supervision are essential, and over time, these lanterns may form interesting interactions with other animals, fostering a diverse and harmonious environment.

Cultural Significance: In some human societies within your AU, Copper Trawlers may hold cultural significance. Their melodies and glowing displays might be incorporated into rituals, ceremonies, or artistic performances, deepening the connection between humans and these enchanting lanterns.

Cultural Significance

Symbol of Harmony: Copper Trawlers are seen as symbols of harmony and cooperation in many human societies. Their communal living and collaborative behaviors serve as inspirations for human communities to work together for the greater good.

Ceremonial Performances: The unique melodies and glowing displays of Copper Trawlers play a central role in various ceremonies and celebrations. Humans may incorporate the lanterns into festivals, weddings, and other significant events, enhancing the cultural experience with the enchanting presence of these creatures.

Art and Creativity: Copper Trawlers inspire artists, musicians, and writers within your AU. Their melodies become the basis for musical compositions, their glowing patterns inspire visual art, and their communal living influences narratives that celebrate unity and diversity.

Spiritual Connections: In some cultures, Copper Trawlers are believed to have spiritual significance. People may attribute mystical qualities to these lanterns, seeing them as messengers of positive energy, guardians of the night, or symbols of interconnectedness between the natural and spiritual realms.

Storytelling and Folklore: Folktales and legends featuring Copper Trawlers are passed down through generations. These stories often emphasize the importance of cooperation, kindness, and the beauty found in the diversity of talents and voices.

Educational Tool: Copper Trawlers become educational tools for teaching principles of teamwork and communication. Schools and educational programs may use these lanterns as metaphors to instill values of collaboration and mutual support among students.

Conservation Efforts: Due to their cultural significance, Copper Trawlers may become the focus of conservation efforts. Human societies might establish protected areas and initiatives to ensure the well-being of these lanterns and their habitats.

Economic Impact: The popularity of Copper Trawlers in cultural events, art, and education may contribute to economic activities. People may engage in the production of lantern-themed merchandise, performances, and experiences, creating a unique industry around these enchanting creatures.

Adaptations to Different Environments

Urban Environments:

In urban settings, Copper Trawlers may adapt to cityscapes by perching on buildings and streetlights.

Their vocalizations might incorporate urban sounds, creating a unique blend of city noises and enchanting melodies.

City-dwelling Copper Trawlers may develop a tolerance for artificial light and adjust their nocturnal activities accordingly.

Desert Environments:

In desert regions, Copper Trawlers may build nests within cacti or find shelter in rocky formations.

Their diet could include a variety of seeds and plants adapted to arid conditions, showcasing their ability to thrive in different ecosystems.

Adaptations to conserve water, such as specialized water-storing vegetation, may be observed in desert-dwelling Copper Trawlers.

Mountainous Environments:

Copper Trawlers in mountainous areas may build nests on high cliffs and rocky outcrops.

Their melodies might resonate through mountain valleys, creating a unique acoustic experience influenced by the surrounding landscape.

These lanterns may have adaptations for colder temperatures, such as thicker fur or feathers for insulation.

Forest Environments:

In dense forests, Copper Trawlers may construct elaborate nests high in the trees to avoid ground predators.

Their diet could include a variety of forest fruits, nuts, and insects, showcasing adaptability to the local flora and fauna.

Forest-dwelling Copper Trawlers may exhibit more intricate camouflage patterns to blend in with their surroundings.

Aquatic Environments:

In coastal regions, Copper Trawlers might adapt to aquatic life, using their glowing lights to attract prey in the water.

They may build nests on cliffs overlooking the ocean or even float on buoyant vegetation, creating floating nests.

Their diet might include a variety of seafood, and they could exhibit specialized adaptations for swimming and diving.

Subterranean Environments:

In regions with extensive underground spaces, Copper Trawlers may develop adaptations for digging and creating elaborate tunnel systems.

Their glowing lights could serve as a form of communication in the darkness of subterranean environments.

These lanterns might have unique adaptations for sensing vibrations and echoes in the underground world.

Tundra Environments:

In cold tundra regions, Copper Trawlers may have adaptations for surviving freezing temperatures, such as thicker fur or feathers.

Their vocalizations might carry over long distances in the crisp, open air of the tundra.

Nests could be built in low-lying vegetation, providing protection from the wind.

NOTE: *I will update all my Copper Trawler posts as soon as i provide concept artwork (whether traditional, digital, or AI generated)*

[musaeon]

ship bias + for nene?

ship bias

1. tsukasa. ngl it took me a while to come around on them but i just love them a lot. yes they bicker from time to time but they're both devoted to their personal dreams and do care about each other despite the very rough start they got off to during the main story. they're my favorite ship within w/xs and i think they deserve the world and more. they are the world future star and diva after all!

2. ichika. i am... incrediably basic with this given it's one of the more popular ships for both of them but i just love them a lot... singing buddies to friends to something more... also introverted girls bonding with each other and getting close and comfortable... i just think they're neat.

3. saki. i blame this on my early days of playing sekai and with them having call out lines despite having very limited interactions but!! they'd be cute! not quite the same dynamic as say her and emu but saki's still really outgoing but sometimes you need the extrovert to introvert dynamic!

4. toya but platonic. classmates and also cgo really helped to solidify that they're similar in some ways. also gaming friends!! i just think they deserve more chances to bond. let them be friends.

5. rui but platonic as well. i'm not super big on them romantically but i love their bond with each other. childhood friends and they both understand and know the other in a way different than the others. and even though both of them do form friendships in and outside of w/xs i think they're still close and that being in w/xs just strengthened their bond.

[aces-and-angels]

i understand this would take a lot of time so this is not a request and rather just a query, but would you consider doing character analysis for the relationships but with all 3 routes (blood/merge/shadow) ? 🙂

Thanks for the message anon! To answer your question: I have and haven't done what you're asking lmaoo- lemmie explain (adding a read more bc tis long and I am incapable of simple saying yes or no, I gotta get into it lol)

---

My methodology when developing my 'final thoughts' posts is fairly simple:

Use my main route save as a reference

Use Rowan's greatest desire seen in the Power realm to determine their ending (blood/mixed/shadow)

See where that takes me lol

I have the ability to see how each route (blood/mixed/shadow) can end with each of the characters. In fact, I have played through each of them with Abel, Amalia, and Matthias. Looking at the other variants was mainly a tool for me to help strengthen my talking points for my canon endings (and to see what could happen, obviously lol) For example: I used MC losing all their nerve if they chose to merge with their Power-half to add to my discussion on why they ultimately become human in Amalia's route.

For Matthias- I responded to a very sweet message (which may or may not be you as well 👀) which you can read here; it goes into Ro's shadow ending with him if they split the Power between themselves aka the 'Power Couple' ending. Highly encourage peeps to stick around till the end of that post bc there's a bonus question that I'd like answered ♥

Since I have seen every variation for his end routes I'll fulfill your request for Matty right here, right now ☺

As for a mixed!route with him- to the best of my knowledge- there isn't a way for your MC to stay with Matthias without merging with the Power. If there is, it really puts a damper on my whole Matthias is only loyal to the Power rhetoric I've been harping on about lol. I think my statement here pretty much covers my thoughts across the endings he can have w/ Ro: humanity and Matthias do not mix. Period. If MC is rocking with Matthias in any way, it points to a very deep character flaw (or slay if you wanna think of it that way lol). They mirror Matthias' insecurities, ambitions, and drive. They both believe that as they are before the conclusion of the series, they are not enough. Utterly desperate and ruthless in their quest to make their desires a reality.

Ro's choice to side w/ Matthias and then betray him as well is a very good twist on a similar thought I had with Abel x MC mixed ending. With the end of their route, I see Abel and MC as a couple proving their words ("But if we truly love each other, we won’t hold each other back.”) with the progression of their relationship post-finale. Whatever transpires between them, it happens with the intent of seeing each other achieve their greatest potential. The double-cross ending is the ultimate I am choosing ME story. Ro chooses themselves over Matthias. Over their 'true purpose' made by Loha. Over the bonds they may have formed between the members of the ILW crew. All of that is cast aside in favor of possessing an unimaginable amount of power. To someone who believes they've never been granted the opportunity to forge their own path, receiving this level of autonomy is gratifying. Absolutely nothing holds Ro back from getting what they want. And nothing ever will again.

---

Luckily for me, I was able to unlock all three endings (blood/shadow/mixed) amongst all the LIs with my main saves.

Abel: mixed

Amalia, Lincoln, Matthias: blood

Jocelyn: shadow

The plan I have right now is to write out my full thoughts on Jocelyn's route first because I have yet to analyze a shadow ending that doesn't end with Rowan and Matty burning the world to the ground lol.

My approach with Lincoln will be slightly different.

By the time I get to writing his post, I will have shared thoughts on all of the possible endings at least once. My main save with Linc allows Ro to successfully achieve each end without losing too much nerve that they need to be revived/killed. Because of this, I decided that I will choose the ending, and not solely base my choice on what is seen in the Power dimension.

---

So after a very lengthy how-to, where does that leave this anon's query? I think I will have a better understanding on what I want to say about each of the routes (blood/mixed/shadow) in regards to each character when I've completed going through all my save files. For now, here are my initial thoughts on alt. routes for the LIs. I will make additional posts if I come up with anything substantial worth mentioning in regards to a specific LI ♥

A mixed ending with Joss as an LI has the highest probability of lasting out of the mixed endings with the other LIs. Disclaimer: I have yet to see Jocelyn's route, but I do know that she is the only one who chooses to stay and help hunt horrors. The others express their desire to leave those days in the past.

The shadow route just hurts- I can understand why it's difficult for players to want to end their journey like that and why it's slipping in the polls LMAO fr tho yall need to give shadow route more dang love its achingly wonderful

But seriously, it's altruism to the extreme. This is a stark contrast to Rowan's reasoning to claim the Power as their sole form in Matthias' route; Them severing all ties to their humanity for the sake of saving the rest of the world is the ultimate sacrifice. What's even more heartbreaking is that the majority of the world will never know of it.

The ones that do (the LIs) hold the heavy burden of trying to honor that sacrifice by enjoying the healed world around them while simultaneously grieving the loss of what they considered to be their world: Rowan. It's a love story that transcends realms- expressed not with soft caresses- but in the soft breeze in the air, the gentle warmth from the sun that hits their skin, the stars that shine brightly in the sky. A physical representation of the peace that was restored by paying the ultimate price.

Blood route: As of 3-9-23, this route is leading the polls as players chosen ending. I've said before that I connect most with a mixed ending. So it is a bit more difficult for me to frame Ro as solely human by the end of the series. If I'm strictly just answering the question of 'will they last?' the Blood route offers the highest potential of achieving a long lasting, established relationship for Ro x their LI simply because the majority of the LIs are ready to move on from their involvement with the Power. Makes sense. They are, in fact, human lmaoo. The drawback with this route is Rowan's guilt for leaving the Power behind. A somewhat selfish, albeit less extreme version of the double-crossing option, choice to put themselves over others in order to achieve their version of happiness.

Overall, each of the LIs will help Ro through this grief. Their approach may differ slightly, but the goal is the same. My main talking point that I think is worth mentioning is how Ro's guilt will manifest post-finale/the consequences of that.

The end scene right before credits roll is Rowan suffering from another nightmare- an indicator of their survivor's guilt. Their ability to move past that guilt is determinant on a player's interpretation

My take: To be connected to the Power for that long, to have it be an integral part of your identity- I cannot see Rowan not getting back into the fold in all things Power-related. Maybe it's my personal bias of wanting a mixed route, but I truly feel that Ro pushing themselves towards 'normalcy' by going full domestic isn't the answer to them overcoming their guilt (except maybe in Amalia's story, since I played the ultimate bff to lovers story) This might not be the case with other MCs. If you played as someone who yearned for that lifestyle, I think your MC will have an easier time coming to terms with their life as a human. How I view MC in the majority of my routes however, makes me think otherwise.

I'll refer to this line from Devon to Rowan to frame my stance:

Devon: Think we can count on you to help us out with that? Rowan: Me? But I'm just a full human now. Devon: So? Most people are just regular humans. I might not be anymore, I guess, but all of our other friends are. Rowan: I... I'll think about it.

This moment alone gives enough opportunity to speculate the POSSIBILITY of Rowan turning back to the life of the Power. To what degree? I can't say, but I play Rowan as someone who has deep ties to their connection to the Power, even if by the end of the Blood route, they have no physical ties to it.

Whew. That was a lot. If you made it this far- CONGRATS! Here's another secret poll so I can see how many people made it to the end 😊

[sarahfeliciam]

The Ultimatum Ch 21

Chapter 21

The next morning came quickly after they spent the rest of the past evening searching for a tree before bringing it home to decorate. They spent the night with Christmas carols, hot cocoa, and tinsel and Emeline felt desperately homesick at the thought of boarding the Hogwarts Express again as her father and uncle cheers’ed their drinks, grinning and singing animatedly. 

Nevertheless, she was now a few hours away from doing so. 

As the morning light peaked through the window in the kitchen, Remus opened it to let Saffron in. Taking the letter from her beak, he smiled and pat her head.

“Good work, girl.” He whispered, tearing the letter open.

Remus,

Happy Christmas to you, too, my dear. It was lovely to hear from you.

On the subject matter, yes, I have heard of this and vaguely remember my training on it. 

It is called mirror-ing and is specific to lycans. It hasn’t been studied much since most, as you know, are infected through bite and not birth (though there have been a handful).

How I understand it, the genes are so powerful that a trace is always left behind on offspring, a way to keep the ‘pack’ close, if you will. I’m sorry for formality, but I’m quoting by memory from textbook and lessons long ago, dear boy. 

As for how far that bond goes, I’m unsure. The telepathy, for lack of a better word, is a proven factor; It’s something that can be honed if you’re willing to have that conversation. The emotional connection is more organic- not every Lycan has it as strongly. It solely depends on the connection relationally and how strong that is. That should be a lovely testament to you if you both experience this as frequently as you’ve portrayed. 

That can also prove distressing for Emeline though, if she begins to feel moon cycles and things alike. I’d warn her if you are able, but there’s no stopping that as care and love continue to grow. 

As for anything else, I’m unsure as the studies are limited. I’d be happy to help if anything else arises or you need any advice on better control for her. Severus can help in the Occlumency department if it ever comes to that; it borders similar practice, but for the reverse effect.

Enjoy the rest of your holidays, and don’t forget to start your potion tonight.

All my love,

Poppy

Remus folded the letter and sat for a moment in the silence. His brain was exhausting itself absorbing and replaying all of this information. To see his suspicions confirmed felt odd. He wasn’t crazy, there was something, but did Emeline realize it? 

It felt like an unusual thing to be relieved about - his lycanthrope having passed down something potentially good- but he couldn’t help to feel a small bit of pride swell in his chest. 

It still replayed in his head over and over. 

The ‘I love you, dad’ , weeks ago. 

She hadn’t said it again, but this connection was strengthening. Although he already believed her words, this solidified it. He felt like he missed so much of Emeline’s life that to have a connection like this with her right out of the gate felt like a precious gift.

Had she felt this as a child? Had he? 

 Guilt sent a pang through his chest as he thought on his little girl, randomly feeling the pains of his cycle, or the emotions of self deprecation. 

He shook it off quickly and resolved to ask her one question at a time. The first being, does she realize it now?

“It’s potion day, Doomsday.” Her sweet voice came into the kitchen before she did; her loud and bubbly self. But, keen to these new senses, he could tell it was an exuberant charade. 

“I know, darling. I’ll take it. Goodmorning.”

She nodded with an assured smile and set to work pouring some coffee.

“Did you want some?”

“I already had mine; early bird and all.”

Emeline chuckled and turned her back to him while he watched her, a ball forming in his throat.

“Em, you know, I thought maybe I could ask you something.”

She turned to face him again, mug in hand and leaning against the counter. 

“Anything, what’s up?”

“Well,” he scratched the back of his head nervously. It’s a little odd, but-“

He trailed off and Emeline set her mug down and walked toward him. 

“Dad, just ask me. You’re making me nervous.”

“That’s precisely it.” He blurted out. “And homesick, aren’t you?” 

She looked taken aback and stared at him quietly.

“What did you say?”

Remus stood and studied her face.

“You’re homesick already. Aren’t you?”

“How did you know that?”

“The same way you knew I was nervous and felt it.”

“I’m not following.”

“It’s a connection that comes via the genes for lycanthropy; it’s typically passed down when the condition itself isn’t.” 

He took a calming breath, hesitantly putting his hands on her shoulders, unsure of how she’d respond. She looked up at him and suddenly she was back in his classroom, looking into the eyes of her father for the first time. 

The emotions of finally telling her came flooding back to him and they shared a knowing smile. 

“You’re kidding.”

He shook his head no, softly. 

“Remember the night at the shack?” He asked slowly. She nodded. “I heard you.”

“I heard you too.” She agreed, remembering how it felt like his words were just… there, deep in her soul. 

“There have been other times.” She added.

“Yes, there have. When we can hear one another and no one else can. I thought I was going mad.”

“This is wicked.” She grinned. “I can talk to you anywhere. Saffron will be happy to have a break.”

“It may take some practice, pup. I don’t think full conversations are a thing. Then again, I’ve never studied this. But a part of this connection is more involuntary.”

“The feeling.” She caught on, realizing that they seemed to pass off each other’s emotions with no scheduled rhyme or reason and without trying. 

“I’m worried you could feel them deeper.”

“The moon?” 

“You’re too smart for your own good, Emeline.”

“Tell that to my classes.” 

He chuckled and shook his head. “Nevertheless, yes, I mean the moon. I don’t want you distraught if emotions arise sometimes that are a bit confusing.”

“You aren’t the only one whose emotions fluctuate through the month,” she mumbled. “So I wouldn’t feel too sorry for that.”

Remus laughed loudly now and pulled her close.

“You’re something else, Emeline.”

“You’re alright, too.” She smiled, soaking up their last moment alone before the hustle and bustle of the day would begin and she’d be back at Hogwarts. 

Remus heard her words, but the ones that really mattered are what his soul knew she meant.

I love you. 

•

Emeline arrived back at Hogwarts after sleeping most of the train ride. She had no time to waste in preparing for the Yule Ball and leapt to her feet as it stopped with a thud.

She was the first one off and to her surprise, George was waiting for her, already in dress robes under the clear night’s shining stars. He grinned cheekily at her and held out a hand as she stepped onto the platform. 

“You clean up well.” She laughed, holding his hand tightly.

“I almost thought I was being stood up and did it all for nothing.” 

“Not a chance,” Emeline laughed. “I’ll hurry.” she added, already in the castle walking beside him.

“You better!” He called after her as she headed up the stairs to the Hufflepuff dorms, baggage in hand. 

•

There was a lingering Hufflepuff girl whom Emeline had spoken to once before when her quill snapped during an exam, sitting in the common room when she arrived, and she felt guilty for passing her by without a word. 

“Hi,” Emeline hesitated. “I-“

“-Aubrey,” she stood quickly with a smile. “And you’re Emeline, right? Lupin?”

Emeline nodded shyly; she was never shy, but involuntary hesitation crept up in her heart. “That’s right.”

“Wicked.” Aubrey smiled. “I know we don’t know each other well but I heard what happened last year. Your dad must be a total badass.”

Emeline snorted and shook her head, unable to contain her laughter.

“I don’t think I’d ever call him that. And not many agree with you. But thanks. Are you not going to the ball?”

“No, I’m not big on social gatherings. But I take it you are and don’t want to keep you.”

Emeline smiled. “I am. I’m sorry; but we should chat sometime.”

“I’d like that.” Aubrey nodded, and Emeline hurried up the stairs. 

•

Everyone else was already in full swing when Emeline ascended the large staircase, glittering in her silver gown and her hair falling in thick waves down her shoulders. 

She kept her jewelry confined to her mother’s necklace and wore a slight heel as she was rather short, especially compared to George. He was standing at the bottom of the staircase, waiting patiently, hands clasped together in front of him.

She had never been so nervous in her life.

As she walked down slowly, her breath caught in her throat when he turned to her; she had never seen the gaze that fell on her in that moment cross his face before. 

He let out a deep breath as she came to stand in front of him and offered his hand once more.

“Emeline, “ her full name felt foreign coming from his lips. “You look beautiful.” 

“What happened to E?” She asked, smirking; an attempt to keep her nerves at bay.

“I have no clue.” He said softly, awestruck. 

They entered the dance together and took to the floor practically the entire night. Emeline matched George’s outgoing energy well, which is something he loved. They were blissfully out of breath when he offered to get them some refreshments and she spotted Harry and Ron.

“Emeline!” Harry stood, hugging her.

“Hello, gentlemen.” She quipped. 

“Hey, Emeline.” Ron sulked, to which Harry rolled his eyes.

“Ignore him. How’s it going with your date?” Harry grinned.

Blushing, she nodded. “Really great. Sorry, Ron. He just went to grab refreshments.”

“Sounds like someone else I know.” Ron groaned.

“Harry, you really need to come spend a holiday with us sometime. It would’ve been lovely. Your aunt and uncle would be none the wiser.”

He smiled and nodded. “If it weren’t for these tasks, I would have. I’ll take you up on it as soon as I can. Padfoot has been a right beggar about it.”

She chuckled. “I’m sure he has. Well, I’ll leave you to.. whatever this is.” She said, as George took her arm again and handed her a punch.

“Getting tired?” He asked, smiling as they exhaustedly rocked back and forth on the dance floor which was mostly clear now.

“Only if you are.”

“I’d like to take you to the balcony.” He responded, a twinkle in his eye. 

Emeline nodded.

•

“It’s beautiful up here,” Emeline started. “And quiet.” 

They turned to eachother and George nodded, seemingly much more absentminded at present. 

“I got you these.” He said quietly, pulling a small bouquet of wildflowers from inside his dress robes. 

They were similiar to the bouquet he gave her last year. 

“They’re beautiful.” She responded, holding them up to her nose and breathing deeply. She shivered slightly and he instinctively slid his coat off. 

“I picked them myself. Both times.” He smiled as he laid his coat on her shoulders and she looked up at him.

“You should be a florist, then.”

“Then I’d have to leave all the pranks to Freddie.”

“And we don’t want that.” She said softly, their gaze still unbroken; small talk lessening as they pressed closer in to eachother.

“No, we don’t want that.” He agreed quietly, grabbing her face gently in his hands and leaning down close.

With silent permission, she melted into him and their first kiss as their eyes fluttered closed. 

Quick, soft and simple.

“If your birthday gift wasn’t enough to convince you, I thought I’d prove my point.” He smiled, still inches from her face.

“Consider it proven.” She grinned back as they went in for one more kiss.

[theconnectiongarden]

Growing Yourself to Grow Your Relationship: How Personal Growth Cultivates Healthy Relationships

Relationships require constant nurturing. Much like tending a garden, couples must actively cultivate empathy, communication, and understanding to foster a strong bond. When conflicts arise or they start to feel distant from each other, the health of the relationship begins to suffer. While seeking help from a therapist often becomes the go-to solution, the key to overcoming issues lies not in fixing your partner but in focusing on self-improvement.

John C. Maxwell once stated, “We must become the change we want to see.” Numerous research studies have indicated a link between personal growth and relationship satisfaction. Partners who purposefully work on developing themselves tend to communicate better, empathize more, and handle conflicts in a healthier way.

The reason is simple: personal growth leads to self-awareness. As we better understand our core values, emotions, and communication styles, we become better equipped to express our needs and manage conflicts in constructive ways. We are able to identify our own toxic patterns, like criticism or defensiveness, and make conscious efforts to replace them with more positive behaviors.

Personal development also cultivates empathy. When we spend time learning about ourselves, it helps us get better at knowing what our partner is thinking and feeling. We can put ourselves in their shoes, see issues from their perspective, and respond to them with greater sensitivity, care, and respect.

Likewise, cultivating personal interests, values, and an identity outside of the relationship prevents couples becoming overly dependent on each other. Partners who know themselves and have their own fulfilling lives are less likely to depend solely on each other for happiness. This takes pressure off the relationship and gives both individuals breathing room to be their authentic selves.

The key is balance and boundaries. As marriage researcher John Gottman’s work shows, successful couples make spending quality time together a priority while also carving out regular periods of separation. This “separateness” allows each person to independently pursue their passions and nurture close friendships. Far from driving couples apart, this independence actually keeps the spark alive in relationships.

While personal growth takes many forms, improving communication stands out as especially vital for couples. Arguments often intensify when partners misinterpret each other’s words and react based on false assumptions. Learning nonviolent communication techniques like reflective listening and “I feel...” statements minimizes these misunderstandings. Rather than criticizing their partner, individuals share their own emotions and unmet needs. This fosters vulnerability and brings couples closer together.

For those looking to strengthen their bond, the couples & relationship therapy workbook provides a comprehensive resource inspired by key takeaways from couples therapy. Whether you're starting into self-improvement, preparing for couples therapy, or seeking to deepen your connection with your partner, this workbook is a reliable companion on the path to a stronger and more fulfilling relationship.

The workbook contains insights, prompts, and practical exercises tailored around essential themes like communication, empathy, managing expectations, conflict resolution, and reigniting intimacy. While not a substitute for professional counseling, the book empowers couples to explore their thoughts and emotions in a structured, reflective way - either individually or together as a team.

Ultimately, constructing a resilient relationship rests on the foundation of self-knowledge and personal evolution. Partners focused on bettering themselves and position their relationship to thrive during seasons of conflict. After all, lasting love emerges not by changing others, but by leading through our own transformation.

So where will you start on your personal growth journey today?

Start the Journey

[eldragon-x]

PSMD Gothitelle AU

So, this is the up to date version of the Gothitelle AU :)

For those not familiar, the Gothitelle AU started out with me disliking Nuzleaf's writing as a villain and replacing the role with my Gothitelle OC instead.

Pretty much everything prior to this year concerning the AU isn't canon to it anymore as I changed a whole lot but I'll still keep it up. Everything that isn't mentioned in this text is the same as in the canon story, if not just obviously written out.

1st Dark Matter era

Gothitelle tended to suppress her negative emotions, or at least keep them to herself. She was one of the Pokemon who managed to avoid being turned to stone during Dark Matter’s first appearance in ancient times. Alongside Fix the human, Mew, and other Pokemon she tried to contribute to stopping Dark Matter to the best of her abilities.

Due to her emotional state and attitude, Dark Matter was able to reach out to and influence Gothitelle. She saw a vision, showing her that Dark Matter’s negative energy could be altered if a Pokemon utilized it to turn others to stone, rather than the Matter doing it on its own. The effect of the absorbed life energy would then weaken the Matter instead of strengthening it, ensuring its destruction while creating a world without pain in the process where the petrified Pokemon would be sent to.

Gothitelle saw this as the solution to stopping Dark Matter’s destruction. Not only to get rid of it, but make sure it would never return in a world where no one ever had to deal with painful feelings. Buying into the illusion and accepting it, Gothitelle allowed Dark Matter to create a bond with her, giving her access to its powers.

Gothi approached Fix and Mew, telling them about her vision and plan. They rejected it and argued that using Dark Matter’s powers to turn more Pokemon to stone would probably only make things worse, regardless of circumstances, while Gothitelle pointed out the high risk of Dark Matter returning in the future if nothing absolute is done against it.

As the stars were aligning to bring Dark Matter to a standstill, Gothitelle started acting regardless, causing a fight between her, Fix and Mew who tried to stop her. During the fight, the Matter stopped in its destruction, vanished, and took Gothitelle with it. She fell into a deep sleep and foresaw that she and Dark Matter would return to the world in the far future. Fix and Mew would be around too, though they would take on the forms of a Fennekin and a Turtwig. Through dreams, Dark Matter also showed her the precautions that were set up in order to prepare the future world for its return.

2nd Dark Matter era

Dark Matter re-appears with Gothitelle in the Tree of Life, waking her up. Due to their connection with Xerneas, Yveltal felt that something was wrong and checked up on it alongside three Beheeyem who acted as guardians to the tree. Yveltal recognized Dark Matter and the Beheeyem saw Gothitelle as an intruder, prompting them to launch an attack on the both of them. However, Dark Matter managed to put a halt to it, bring those Pokemon under its influence and show them a vision of an ideal world too. Gothitelle noticed that they ceased their attacks, explained her plan to them, and convinced them to join her cause and form a bond with Dark Matter through her own.

Yveltal flew around the world to convince other Legendary Pokemon to help achieve Gothitelle’s goal, but all rejected them. In turn, they petrified their fellow Legendaries in hopes that seeing the ideal world would make them understand, to prevent them from getting in the way, and to supply more life energy to Dark Matter.

Gothitelle and the Beheeyem were traveling and doing the same with other Pokemon, during which they found Fix unconscious in the forest. Gothitelle decided to leave them be but told the Beheeyem to keep an eye on them, knowing she’d still need them to break the barrier atop Revelation Mountain.

-

Nuzleaf found Fix and made sure they were alright before continuing his way to Serene Village. After they followed him, told him about their situation, and some hesitation, he agreed to let them stay with him. Fix soon grew on Nuzleaf and he encouraged them on their adventures with their new friend Champ, a Turtwig who lived next door, since he himself used to be a young Explorer and wanted Fix to have the same freedom.

The Beheeyem reported to Gothitelle that Fix seems to have lost their memory and that they’re with a Turtwig, and she ordered them to try and get Fix to the peak of Revelation Mountain. One of the Beheeyem approached Nuzleaf, saying it heard about his days as an explorer, and that there was a rumor about the secret of Revelation Mountain being related to a human. Nuzleaf’s interest peaked and he took Fix and Champ on a trip to the mountain, hoping to learn something about the Fennekin’s past. Gothitelle ultimately called the plan off as neither Nuzleaf nor the kids could make it past the second gate on the mountain. 

-

Fix and Champ joining the Expedition Society, Krookodile making himself known as a threat to them, and Entei’s attempts at finding the one responsible for petrifying Pokemon led Gothitelle to orchestrating a plan. The Beheeyem who encouraged Nuzleaf to visit Revelation Mountain would approach Krookodile and offer him a reward for dropping off warnings at the Lively Town plaza saying Entei would be targeted on Showdown Mountain, then going to the mountain to meet Yveltal there. 

Before Krookodile arrived, Yveltal petrified Entei. At the meeting, they handed him two notes and instructed him to return home, leave the notes there and then pick up his reward at the peak of Revelation Mountain. On his way back, he came across one of the Expedition teams climbing the mountain and ran away in alarm.  

While checking Krookodile’s place, Archen and Buizel found the two notes given by Yveltal. One was a half-written warning letter and the other pointed towards the Prehistoric Ruins containing records about Pokemon being turned to stone in ancient times and a way to reverse the process. Ampharos planned for the Expedition Society to go to the ruins together, though that was changed as Krookodile was later spotted heading towards Serene Village.

-

On their way to Revelation Mountain, Fix, Champ, Nuzleaf and Archen run into the Beheeyem who talked to Nuzleaf. It mentions it has seen Krookodile run through as well and is concerned, so it comes along to help the group. Meanwhile, the other two Beheeyem claim to be the guardians of the Prehistoric Ruins.

At the peak, after Raikou and Suicune arrived and while Krookodile was approaching, Beheeyem pressed for Fix to break the barrier around the pond just as Champ, Nuzleaf and Archen were. Afterwards, it thanked Krookodile for his help before turning him to stone. When Champ concluded that Beheeyem was the culprit behind all those petrifications, Gothitelle came out of hiding from the woods, correcting Champ that it wasn’t just Beheeyem.

Gothitelle didn’t get time to explain herself before Champ, Archen and the Legendary Beasts surrounded her and Beheeyem and prepared to fight. Before Fix could reach the Luminous Water, Yveltal showed up and only explained that they’re doing this in everyone’s best interest before turning the group to stone. Beheeyem contacted the other two in the ruins to let them know to petrify the expedition team that’s with them.

After they dried out the Luminous Water, Gothitelle flew high up on Yveltal and used her telepathy to communicate with Pokemon all over the world. She explained that the recent cases of Pokemon turning to stone was the doing of her and her allies, that the affected Pokemon were only sent to the ideal world they were creating as they petrified more of them, and that it would ultimately lead to no one ever having to experience sadness, anger, hate and the like anymore. They would continue working towards this goal and she invited others to take part, whether it be by allowing themselves to be petrified or doing it themselves.

After the announcement, Gothitelle spotted Espurr hiding nearby. She approached her carefully so as to not scare her and asked if she wanted to help. Espurr agreed while already planning to go behind Gothitelle’s back. Within the next few days, many more Pokemon all over the world were being turned to stone by Gothi, Yveltal, and the Beheeyem.

-

Fix and Champ reunite with Nuzleaf alongside Mawile and Dedenne in the Voidlands. Nuzleaf is very relieved, but at the same time feels responsible for getting the kids into this mess. He apologizes to them, promises to do better for them and questions himself about whether he was too careless. Fix felt bad seeing him so troubled. They thank him for his concern and let him know that they appreciate him for always keeping their best interest in mind, even if things got bad.

Further into the Voidlands, the group comes across the ancient writings that talk about Dark Matter which also mention that some may believe that the effect of Pokemon being turned to stone would be the opposite if it is done by another Pokemon, but that is untrue. 

Nuzleaf makes it to Reverse Mountain with the others where the Legendary Beasts decide to join forces with the group to find a way out of the Voidlands. On the summit, Nuzleaf just barely managed to make it through the Door to Hope after Fix and Champ. He was dedicated to taking on a more active role and protecting the two the best he could.

-

Nuzleaf comforted Champ when she was distressed about their situation and checked up on Fix to make sure they were doing alright. When the trio showed up in Serene Village, Gothitelle spotted and tried to confront them but they were able to flee and made their way to Lively Town.

Gothitelle contacted Espurr, told her that the three Pokemon were around again, and asked her to inform her if they show up in Lively Town. Espurr then contacts Ampharos to tell him about the situation to which he tells her to get in touch with the trio, call them to the Expedition Society, and buy some time by giving Gothitelle misinformation.

Shortly after Fix, Champ and Nuzleaf arrive, Ampharos and Jirachi return to the Expedition Society too, and Celebi with them. Ampharos and the two Mythicals explained that they were investigating the current events, that Celebi helped with his time travel abilities, and what they found out, including how Gothitelle was involved by turning her back on other Pokemon because she believed to work towards a better solution and later vanishing with Dark Matter. 

The plan was for Fix and Champ to come along to the Tree of Life as everything pointed towards them being meant to stop Dark Matter, while Nuzleaf and Espurr should stay safely in the Expedition Society HQ. Nuzleaf insisted on coming along though since he didn’t want to leave the children hanging again, even if they were with three other adults.

Before the debate could be resolved, Gothitelle broke into the building and attacked the shopkeepers. She realized that Espurr betrayed her because one of the Beheeyem saw Nuzleaf and the kids entering the headquarters. With no more time to lose and no safe place left, Celebi teleported everyone to the Primeval Forest.

-

Nuzleaf talks to the kids on the way to the tree and once again promises to support them best he can, despite Fix and Champ being seemingly destined to take down Dark Matter.

At the Tree of Life, the villains show up to stop the group. Fix and Champ told Gothitelle that she was wrong and still sent Pokemon to the Voidlands, but she rejected their claim and assumed that they didn’t understand that her goal was worth the risk. One of the Beheeyem raised an objection and admitted to Gothitelle that it was starting to grow doubts since it seemed odd that any Pokemon would try and return from being petrified if it was supposed to send them to a perfect world. Gothi was upset and angered by this suggestion, told Beheeyem it should convince itself of the legitimacy of her vision, and turned it to stone. She and her remaining companions then attempted to do the same to the opposing group, but they were protected by the Harmony Scarves and a fight broke out between the two.

After the battle, the heroes once again tried to get through to Gothitelle and the others. They pointed out how the sun was getting closer and even the Tree of Life was clearly dying which was evidence of Dark Matter only growing stronger. Gothitelle was in denial and argued that the process was slow and they could destroy Dark Matter before it grew into a serious danger. Everyone was startled when Dark Matter’s voice could be heard, the earth suddenly started to quake and the Tree of Life was lifted out of the ground. The Beheeyem were terrified and Gothitelle and Yveltal were shocked as the tree rose into the sky. After a long moment of hesitation, Gothitelle ordered Yveltal to get her up to the tree. They complied and the Beheeyem were left behind with the other Pokemon.

When Arceus reached out to the group and told them they would teleport Fix and Champ into the Tree of Life, Nuzleaf wanted to come along. Arceus rejected the suggestion, knowing he’d only be turned to stone.

-

While climbing the tree, Fix and Champ find Yveltal who was still exhausted from fighting and catching up with the ascending tree right after. They express regret and shame for causing so much damage, even if with good yet misguided intentions, apologize to the two Pokemon and tell them that Gothitelle went up ahead, though they aren’t sure what she’s going to do. They ask the kids to try and stop her, adding that they know they don’t have the right to ask a favour of them. Champ agrees to do so regardless and the two kids go on.

In the section between the roots and the trunk, Fix and Champ find Gothitelle resting. She was also in a poor state due to the battle and the thin air of the Stratosphere. She is surprised that the two Pokemon have made it this far and when Champ asks if she’ll attempt to stop them she says she doesn’t know, though at this moment her regrets about throwing her life away for Dark Matter only serve to feed more into it, so she continues to supply power to it regardless. She goes on to talk to herself and wonders if the Tree of Life would still stand if only she got a grip of herself in Primeval Forest, or if she would’ve stopped if she saw the tree decaying at a less critical point. Fix and Champ didn’t stick around for long and continued their way towards Dark Matter.

During their fight against the Matter, Yveltal arrives with the two Beheeyem and Nuzleaf to lend support. Nuzleaf had asked Yveltal if he could come along in order to help Fix at least a bit in this dire situation.

Gothitelle slowly makes it to the top of the Tree of Life and stops Fix in their attempt to destroy Dark Matter’s core. She tells Fix and Champ that this would only bring Dark Matter back once again as it’s born out of the negativity of Pokemon, which is why she pursued her own way of destroying it in the first place. She brings up that Mew’s guilt about failing to destroy it for good was part of the negativity it grew on as well and that the events will only repeat themselves. 

Fix is unsure but Champ confidently claims that they could live with it, which surprises Gothitelle. They proceed to talk about how all these negative feelings are just a part of who Pokemon are and can’t just be rid of, the same case being with Dark Matter as a being of negativity, and that it’s just the way to overcome them again and again. Gothitelle is silent for a moment before she says she understands it now and asks to destroy Dark Matter alongside them, in order to break her and her companions’ bond with it, which Champ agrees to.

Post-Dark Matter

Back before the flourishing Tree of Life, Fix and Champ ask Xerneas where Yveltal, Gothitelle, Nuzleaf and the Beheeyem ended up. They assured them that all were alive and while Nuzleaf was returned to Serene Village, Xerneas would take care of the other Pokemon themselves.

Fix and Champ happily reunite with Nuzleaf and Carracosta in Serene Village. Fix and Nuzleaf sleep over at Carracosta’s place that night.

When Xerneas returned Champ’s memory of being Mew the next day, she also learned that Gothitelle would disappear just like her since only her bond with Dark Matter kept her alive all this time.

After Champ disappears, Fix runs home and tells Nuzleaf and Carracosta everything. The family grieves together and Fix loses their motivation to continue their work at the Expedition Society before Ampharos informs them about the Mew in Mystery Jungle.

Xatu discovers that Champ can be brought back if Fix visits Purifying Cave with Mew and wishes for her to be back strongly enough. Nuzleaf offers to come along out of concern but Fix assures him they can do it themselves, so he lets them. Fix and Mew succeed and Champ reunites with everyone in the end.

-

Yveltal apologized to Xerneas for their actions but Xerneas felt some guilt themselves, knowing there was a reason their equal was able to fall under Dark Matter’s influence. The two of them agree to look out for each other in the future and make things better. Concerning the Beheeyem, Yveltal decided to find new guardians to help them protect the Tree of Life, which the trio accepted.

-

Champ eventually reached out to Yveltal to ask them a favour which they agreed to as they still felt they owed her and Fix something. She asked if it would be possible to bring Gothitelle back, as she felt a lack of closure about her. Yveltal said they would consult Xerneas and Arceus about it.

The Legendaries did succeed in reviving Gothitelle who was brought to the hill over Serene Village by Yveltal, where Champ was already waiting for her. Once the two Pokemon were alone, Champ admitted that they weren't actually sure what to say at the moment. Gothitelle was understanding and said they could take their time or talk to her another day. The conversation shifted to Gothitelle thanking Champ for what they have done for her and being glad for them having found closure in their past as Mew. The two Pokemon eventually departed and Gothitelle promised to come by the hill each evening, in case Champ would one day find the right words. She stayed true to her promise, though on many evenings she encountered Yveltal there instead.