#the characters in books 12-14 don't love each other even when they talk to each other. instead they're constantly trying to manipulate

[alectology-archive]

I think what really upsets me specifically about the gathering storm is that rand spends 11 books internalising terrible advice about giving his body and life over to a greater cause and suffering in silence because he can’t bear to let anybody figure out that he’s in such a bad shape - mentally and physically - but he spends all of book 12 telling everybody that he’s suffering, and nobody moves to help him! at least in the 11 books RJ wrote, people were unaware about the extent to which he was struggling! In book 12 they either offer him sympathy, occasionally, when they can stand to be around him, or they avoid him entirely. they talk about how he’s becoming a problem and a tyrant behind his back and cozy up to people who’re responsible for his worsening mental health. rand does not deserve to be perceived as an unconscionable human being beyond redemption just because he doesn’t want to die and hates being picked for a greater purpose when RJ’s whole intent behind writing him was to critique and explore the idea of how traumatic the role of a hero in a story is. he does not deserve to be characterised as a monster as he grows increasingly depressed and traumatised. and he did not deserve to have his disability downplayed to such a great extent except when swordplay was concerned.

[suebswrites]

20 Questions for Writers Game

Thank you for tagging me, @yanny-77 and @caeli0306!

1. How many works do you have on AO3? 14! Plus a bunch on fanfiction.net from back in the day...*checks* 23. 23 works on FF.net that I will not share with you unless you are my friend, lol.

2. What’s your total AO3 word count? 114,162 words

3. What fandoms do you write for? The Empyrean (Fourth Wing) is the only fandom I currently write for, including one crossover with Bridgerton. All of my back-in-the-day fanfiction was for Harry Potter, but I don't write for anything other than the Empyrean anymore.

4. What are your top 5 fics by kudos? Just Ask - 1,087 Xaden POV: At Samara - 350 Throne Scene: Xaden POV Microfiction - 170 Dear Brennan - 117 Bridgegiath - 110

5. Do you respond to comments? Yes! At least, I try to. Though when I get an influx of a lot of comments at a time, I get overwhelmed and a little anxious about wanting to respond to them all, and then I get avoidant, heh. So it may not be right away, but I try to respond to as many comments as I can, and often will go back weeks later and then respond to them once I'm less anxious. As any writer will tell you, comments absolutely make my day and I read them over and over again, even going back and reading them days or weeks (or months) later.

6. What is the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending? Probably Happy Birthday, Violet, which is a drabble I wrote for the "birthday" prompt from the RQ War Games events in June. It's not necessarily angsty so much as sad. (I was hurting again about Liam at the time, lol.) It's tiny and short, you'll be fine.

7. What’s the fic you wrote with the happiest ending? I have no idea how to answer this. Almost all of them are happy! I think. Uh. Okay @yanny-77 tells me that the answer is Ridoc Talks To The Dragon, and I believe her.

8. Do you get hate on fics? Nope! Well, never on AO3 or Reddit. I got, like...three negative comments on my biggest HP fic on FF.net years ago, but they were only three comments among over 400, so whatever, lol.

9. Do you write smut? If so, what kind? Yes! I have written M/F and M/F/M. I only want to write sex if there are feelings involved, though, so I don't write any pwp. I don't know that I could, to be honest. The only fic I've written that had smut, outside of Just Ask, is canon-compliant TO Just Ask, and leans on the context built in the main longfic, heh. So...therrrrrre you have it!

10. Do you write crossovers? Yes! But only one. Bridgegiath is a Bridgerton-Empyrean crossover fic where all the characters from Fourth Wing are in a Bridgerton-world, more or less following the plot from Bridgerton Season 1. The most common comment type I've gotten on it is "the crossover I didn't know I needed AND I NEED IT SO MUCH", lol. It's hilarious and delightful and I plan to get back to it once the summer is over and I have more time to write again!

Bridgegiath - a Riorgail, Bodoc, Immrick, Jesiam fic, featuring (among all the others), Lady Durranbury as Lady Danbury. It's a blast.

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen? No

12. Have you ever had a fic translated? I will steal @yanny-77's answer and say that I am not cool enough for that. Lmao

13. Have you ever co-written a fic before? Hell yes. Co-writing has become my love language. I've co-written with @yanny-77 and @sarahydeart and all four times were fucking awesome.

Dear Brennan The Book Cat Garrick's Snorkel Ridoc Talks To The Dragon

14. What is your all-time favorite ship? My favourite ship is Liam/Violet/Xaden, for many reasons, which I will list now lol.

I adore each of the dynamics in this triad: the obvious friends-to-lovers, protect-you-with-my-life, slow burn fall of Violet and Liam; the explosive chemistry between Violet and Xaden; and the love that would grow between Xaden and Liam, born of being fostered together after the trauma of losing their parents, being separated for two years when Xaden went to Basgiath, and then meeting again once Liam gets there--and then they both fall for the same person.

I think Liam balances out a lot of Xaden's dark-and-broody energy, and could bring out a more relaxed version of him. And I think Xaden could bring out a harder edge to Liam that would be incredibly sexy. Liam and Violet's dynamic I obviously adore, and I think the way they take care of each other is fucking delightful and healthy and sweet. I think there's such an easy likelihood that both Xaden and Liam would fall for Violet.

I genuinely don't consider either Liam or Xaden to be bisexual, but I think they could fall for each other in this specific scenario, because of the unique dynamic of trust they have with each other.

All of this to say...Liam/Violet/Xaden is my One True Polypairing, heh, and one day I might write it. But that is a very distant, very pipe-dreamy one day.

Shoutout to Harry/Hermione, though. I'll die on that hill to this day.

15. What’s a WIP you want to finish but doubt you ever will? Oof. I absolutely intend to continue Bridgegiath once I'm less busy, this summer has been absolutely bananas, and I'm REALLY hoping I'll be able to take it to a satisfying conclusion eventually.

16. What are your writing strengths? I have been told, and I think I agree and hope that it's true, that I'm able to wring quite a wide range of emotions out of my readers. I have it on good authority that I can bring you from thrilling tension to desperately turned on to heart-stopping angst without missing a beat, and have a decent eye for knowing when to insert a funny little exchange to ease tension before diving back in.

17. What are your writing weaknesses? I hope I won't lose my fanbase if I honestly say "finishing", heh. Though looking back at my history, I actually did finish both longfics that I wrote for Harry Potter, and I'm on track to finish Just Ask in a timely manner. I'm not too worried about Bridgegiath, because I know I'm much more likely to be invested in it again once I'm done Just Ask. It's just my original stuff that I struggle with I guess...

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language in fic? I would rely entirely on Google translate if I ever did this, and thus would probably butcher any attempt.

19. First fandom you wrote for? Harry Potter, waaaaay back in 2007, two days after Deathly Hallows came out. I couldn't accept that Harry and Hermione didn't get together. (And I still can't.)

20. Favorite fic you’ve written?

Just Ask. It's probably the best thing I've ever written. I started writing it to deal with my intense book hangover after Iron Flame, I'm still writing it, and it will be finished before the release of Onyx Storm. I am fiercely proud of it.

---

Tagging: @taumoebaa and @ubiquitouslyme and @copperfirebird

[melrosing]

Ok speaking of changes GOT made… is there any changes you like? I struggle to find big moments, but there are small additions I love. Like Ned praying before he dies, Robb hitting the tree when he finds out, the chemistry that Kit Harrington and Rose Leslie have…. But there are very few structural changes I think improve the story.

hmmm so I can't lie there is a LOT I just don't remember anymore about the show, so wringing my mind a little to come up with something.....

I won't mention things that I think were adapted well (like Ned's execution) as those aren't adaptational changes. and I also won't mention things that I like the idea of (e.g. Jaime's dyslexia) but not the execution (they made out it was part of the longrunning 'stupidest Lannister' joke).

and like.... well I'm stuck already lmao?? I'm not even trying to shit on the show I just feel like it was a consistent exercise in either understating GRRM's work or butchering it entirely. so I can think of only a few things:

I can't find the link to where I talked about this at length but the scene in which Jaime and Ned duel in the streets of KL was a good one imo. I think it was more in character for Jaime to just recklessly fight Ned himself, and a neat parallel to what I suspect will happen between Ned, Arthur and Howland - in that when Ned is attacked from behind by one of Jaime's men in the midst of their fight, Jaime angrily ends the duel bc his man has essentially dishonoured it. I think Ned's fight with Arthur will end as it did in the show (with Howland stabbing Arthur from behind and Ned finishing the job, bc he needs to reach Lyanna), and this is like a parallel to show Jaime and Ned have the same principles, yet each have broken them in times of desperation. My personal theory is that this was a change GRRM recommended - the parallel seems notable to me, and not one that would've even occurred to D&D, esp. given they never gave any particular shit about Jaime's story. And this may sound spurious but I recall that GRRM remembers in an interview, saying the weather was different in the show version of the scene than in the books.... which makes me think he was maybe onset for this one, possibly because of the rewrite??

I'm v much in favour of ageing up the youngest characters. My ideal starting ages for the youngest characters in AGOT would've been Jon/Robb/Dany - 18, Joffrey/Sansa - 14, Arya - 12, Bran - 10. To me they all feel much too young for the roles they play in the story, and it occasionally kills my suspension of disbelief

I way prefer the book’s version of the Red Wedding but I do feel like Catelyn's single cry of despair works better than the book's manic laughter. maybe the laughter was a more vivid image for the books idk

I do actually like how we see Robb's grief onscreen it's very movingly played by Richard Madden. I also love Catelyn's expressions as Robb rides back from the Whispering Wood, like both these scenes are great reminders of their mother/son relationship in a setting where they aren't really allowed to be just that. and like just Michelle Fairley tbh I really like her work as Catelyn even though I don't like how the character was adapted more generally

Breaking the 'concept but not execution' rule just to say I think it was definitely a good idea to explore the High Sparrow as this weirdly charismatic figure so we can see how others might be taken in by him, even whilst we see the extremes of his faith. but that subplot was not executed well at all so fuck it

Yeah I agree that Jon and Ygritte having a slightly more charged romance also works. In the books Ygritte comes and goes quite quickly and I think there is something to be said for lending a bit more gravity to that relationship. I don't think they necessarily had to be the grand romance that the show makes them out to be but I didn't hate it

I might be forgetting other things that worked because some seasons I haven't seen since like 2015, but honestly it just doesn't work for me as an adaptation. things I liked in the show before reading the books feel completely naff in hindsight, knowing how they were supposed to play out, so..... eh

[sugoi-writes]

aaaaaye I edited #25 because I refuse to hear you say any part of your adorable anatomy is not adorable

12. What are your 5 favorite songs right now?

14. Do you believe in luck and miracles?

17. Do you think there is life on other planets?

24. Favorite part of your daily routine?

25. What part of your body are you most uncomfortable with?

Hazel I'm gonna kick kiss??? your ass GDHDHDHDS HOW DID YOU KNOW

What are your 5 favorite songs rn?

**heavy breathing in Sleep Token** JK, Jk, here is my real answer, my love (one that does not include Ascensionism. Keep in mind my favorites shift around a lot):

Cracker Island - Gorillazs (IDONTCAREIFPEOPLEHATETHEIRNEWSOUND. IMLOVETHEM). THE BASSLINE GOES HARD. I FUCKS WITH IT)

The Loneliest - Måneskin

(THE GUITAR SOLO. ITS SO TRAGIC AND HAUNTING, THE WHOLE SONG. I Honestly think of Autumn and Alastor to it sometimes ((Yes yes, Autumn from A Doe in Fall, yes~ I just KNOW we are about to get hit where it HURTS))

Long Nights - Eddie Vedder

(I LOVE LOVE Into The Wild ((the book and movie)), and... GOSH this song soothes me in a way that is almost INSTANT. I'm talking livid tears and self destruction to catatonic. On my bad days, this song gets me to sleep. It's an Earthy song that reminds me that I'm just a person and to go Touch Grass). Could also be a good Alastor song, too, imo. Him just... Being comfortable with Long Nights, and just getting the chance to be himself when he's alone. Gdshhsjs EVERYTHING IS ALASTOR CODED IF YOU TRY HARD ENOUGH???

Never Meant to Know - Tally Hally

(for similar reasons as the song before; but also reminds me of one of my D&D characters!)

Danny Don't You Know - Ninja Sex Party

(HIGE dweeb/fan of NSP. This song is also just... Personal for me and wifey. It's a moral booster. Ever since I've been going by my preferred name, it just gets me more in the feels ❤️)

Do you believe in luck and miracles?

I believe in... Hmm. How do I explain this... There's kind of a balance with the world? Equal weights of good and bad. I believe that putting good energy into the world always comes back to you somehow, but also, on that same hand, no matter how hard someone tries, the bad luck has to come back eventually. Life embs and flows, and we can't always have it good... The world just balances things back out sometimes? Ex: For every 3 good things, 3 bad things will happen. It never has to be major or anything, but like... It could be as mundane as 'I found 5 bucks in my pocket!' to 'I spilled coffee on myself'. This isn't related at all to your question FYCK MEgdhdhdhdb

Luck... Yes, luck certainly exists. Some people come by it more honestly. Some people just stumble face first into it. I also believe there are just some people who are so devastatingly unlucky. I always try to work for what I got, but you'll still find me picking up pennies when Heads is facing up. I'm always looking for a lil bit of luck (and avoiding bad luck).

Miracles, well, the fact that Earth and life on Earth exists is a miracle in itself. It's also a miracle we haven't all killed each other yet. So life is fragile, but by golly, we are lucky and fortunate to be here. Space is weird. ❤️

Do you think there is life on other planets?

I would believe it! Small organisms, plants, and similar things for sure... But, in the infinite expanse of our galaxy, there's GOTTA be a handful of idiots like us who don't know what they're doing. Or even better, an alternate reality of here (which would be neat). Hi Alternate Me!

Favorite part of my daily routine

TMI, but taking my fucking bra off. I can't wait for a possible future where I may not have to worry about that. But, aside from that, Robin, who usually makes us dinner. Shes a really good cook, imo ❤️ And, well, it's nice to see her smile when I tell her she's doing a really good job.

What part of my body am I most comfortable with

I think 'eyes' is a cop-out, so I'll go ahead and say my hair. I really do enjoy the way it is rn. It's softer, much curlier and healthier than a few years ago... BUT I definitely want to redye it to a funky color soon, haha. But if I had to say most LIKED, it would definitely be my eyes. Lmao

Probably fair you don't ask the inverse of that question, because you would be SOOOO cross with me, hehe ❤️

--

Expect similar questions asked to you, Pookie Bear 🫡❤️

[malapertmarquess]

25 questions

Tagged by @thankyouforyourcooperation

1. Why did you choose your url?

Because at the time of choosing it I had recently played the Marquess of Dorset (amongst other characters) in Richard III and I love that ridiculous boy.

2. Any sideblogs? If you have them, name them and why you have them.

@redpensandplaywriting is where I focus my writing stuff and share posts from my Ghost blog/newsletter of the same name.

@adhdtectives is for stuff about the detective story I'm writing, but I'm not very consistent about posting on it.

3. How long have you been on Tumblr?

Since sometime in 2011.

4. Do you have a queue tag?

Nope.

5. Why did you start your blog in the first place?

My new uni bestie talked me into it (as well as into watching Doctor Who and Sherlock, and listening to Cabin Pressure...)

6. Why did you choose your avatar?

I like medieval drawings, and a snat? Perfect.

7. Why did you choose your header?

I also particularly like the medieval meme of fighting snails.

8. What’s your post with the most notes?

I hopped on the polls train with a D&D themed one when they started getting big, and it travelled quite a ways.

Check yours here

9. How many mutuals do you have?

Technically 20, I think? (I got distracted immediately after counting) A lot of them are no longer active though.

10. How many followers do you have?

79.

11. How many blogs do you follow?

An even hundred, though I don't know how many of them are regularly active.

12. Have you ever made a shitpost?

Not one that took off.

13. How often do you use Tumblr each day?

I usually keep it running in the background most of an evening while doing other things.

14. Did you have a fight/argument with another blog once?

Nope.

15. How do you feel about ‘you need to reblog this’ posts?

I ignore them.

16. Do you like tag games?

Yeh :)

17. Do you like ask games?

I don't really do them anymore; never got much response when I reblogged them.

18. Which of your mutuals do you think is Tumblr famous?

I think @schmergo is the most famous mutual I have.

19. Do you have a crush on a mutual?

I am married to one!

20. What is the last song you listened to?

I don't remember...

21. What are you currently watching?

The second Lethal Weapon movie (it's a brainless movie night).

22. Sweet/savory/spicy?

Yes, yes, no.

23. What is your current relationship status?

@dragonatthedinnertable.

24. What is your current obsession?

Probably the Anne of Green Gables books...

25. What are nine albums/songs you’ve been listening to lately?

You assume I regularly seek out specific songs and albums.

Tagging: Avron already has, sooooo @dragonatthedinnertable? Anyone else who's interested?

[isleofair]

Am I allowed to say Nathan and all of those questions?

(If not, Nathan and idk all the evens or odds.)

MWAHAHAHAHA THANK YOU SO MUCH LOVE 💙💙💙💙💙

(Apparently I do need an excuse to talk about Nathan? At least here? Tragic. Thank you for providing one 💖💖💖)

1. Why do you like or dislike this character?

Oh gosh. I don't just like her, I love her. 😍 She manages to be pretty much everything I'm not and yet she resonates with me so much?!? They initially look like they are one type of character, and then you get to see their layers, and each one is more beautiful and complex than the other? I want to hang out with her, I want to admire her from afar with dreamy/smitten eyes, I want her to be president of the world, I want to give her a happy, serene life forever.

2. Favorite canon thing about this character?

Her whole gender thing (talented, brilliant, incredible, amazing, show stopping, spectacular, never the same, totally unique, and all that), and also her kind, generous, thoughtful, sweet nature.

3. Least favorite canon thing about this character?

Definitely the way the authors had her act with Bison in S1. 😤

4. If you could put this character in any other media, be it a book, a movie, anything, what would you put them in?

HAHAHAHAHAHAHA

(Sorry, that's just what nicoroni and I do in half of our chats, lol)

I think the thing I would most want to put them in is... some kind of fantasy setting? Something like Ladyhawke, or... well, Fire Emblem! 😅

5. What's the first song that comes to mind when you think about them?

Oooh. I've used so many songs as accompaniment for fics about her and Keith, but I don't have one that immediately jumps to mind specifically for Nathan alone. Maybe Titanium?

6. What's something you have in common with this character?

... well, pink hair, now, lol. (And I guess some gender issues of some kind? Although mine are, like, tiny baby ones.)

7. What's something the fandom does when it comes to this character that you like?

Respecting their gender.

8. What's something the fandom does when it comes to this character that you despise?

Treating her as a caricature of herself, or as if The Rising didn't exist (which includes not respecting her gender). (Thankfully I almost never see this happening. ILU T&B fandom 💕)

9. Could you be roommates with this character?

I could, but I think I'd drive her nuts, I'm way too messy.

10. Could you be best friends with this character?

Gosh. Probably not best friends, because we don't have enough interests in common, but I think we could more generally be friends?

11. Would you date this character?

In a heartbeat, but they would not be interested in me for several reasons, so...

12. What's a headcanon you have for this character?

That her fire powers mean she's never cold; mostly based on her walking around half-naked in spring, or with thin mesh shirts under rather open jackets in winter, and also it just makes sense? Apparently the authors have stated somewhere that she's heat-proof (obviously), but also that Rose can cool down with her power, so Nathan probably also can warm up with hers (and just put on whatever she wants forever, lol)

13. What's an emoji, an emoticon and/or any symbol that reminds you of this character or you think the character would use a lot?

💖

14. Assign a fashion aesthetic to this character.

I don't think I need to; they definitely already have one (tight clothes, mesh, vinyl, high boots, glittery jackets, pink feathers... and the occasional bondage-style leather top JFC my poor heart 🥵)

15. What's your favorite ship for this character? (Doesn't matter if it's canon or not.)

FIRESKY FOREVER ❤️💜

16. What's your least favorite ship for this character?

I pray to everything that is holy that no one ever shipped her with any of the other girl heroes because that's a NO on so many levels I can't even count them.

17. What's a ship for this character you don't hate but it's not your favorite that you're fine with?

Mmmh. I'm going to cheat here and say MoonFireSky? (although probably in either an AU where Yuri is less murderous, or in one in which everything is way more majorly fucked up). I also really like the "Kotetsu and Nathan might have hooked up in the past" thing.

18. How about a relationship they have in canon with another character that you admire?

Nathan's friendship with Kotetsu is BEAUTIFUL. I also love their relationship with Pao-Lin (go, go, gender team!)

19. How about a relationship they have in canon that you don't like?

Mh. I guess it used to be the one with Bison in S1, but thankfully we got over the bad authorial choices, so... Apparently Lara's mom was vaguely rude about Nathan's temper once? Yet another reason to dislike her.

20. Which other character is the ideal best friend for this character, the amount of screentime they share doesn't matter?

Okay, this should be a difficult question, because her friendship/partnership with Keith is AMAZING, but... Agnes. Like, one hundred percent. Keith can be her boyfriend instead.

21. If you're a fic writer and have written for this character, what's your favorite thing to do when you're writing for this character? What's something you don't like?

AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH 😍 (I love writing Nathan.)

I love exploring her gender and all her slightly-hidden depths. I love giving her soft, comforting moments (especially with Keith). I love, apparently, making frequent references to her beauty 😅

I don't like how I have to often remind myself that she is that over-the-top in canon and even though the tone of my fics doesn't usually quite match that of the show, I should still try to respect their characterization as much as I possibly can.

22. If you're a fic reader, what's something you like in fics when it comes to ths character? Something you don't like?

Gosh, just write her being her awesome self with appropriate pronouns and I'm already on board. If you put her with Keith I'll die of joy.

Use he/him exclusively for them without a reason and I'll probably click the back button.

23. Favorite picture of this character?

I love the one in my icon, but I might have to go with this moment in The Rising:

24. What other character from another fandom of yours reminds you of them?

Well, the whole "superhero who owns their own company" thing is a fair bit Iron Man, isn't it? But also, and this might be a bit strange, when I imagine Victor Nikiforov in my head now, he sounds like Tsuda-san's Nathan? Make of that what you will.

25. What was your first impression of this character? How about now?

Welcome to the 'irritating stereotypical anime take on queer people' to 'complex, nuanced and gorgeous blorbo love of my life' pipeline.

26. FREEBIE QUESTION!!

Uhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

"Should everyone everywhere love Nathan?"

"Yes."

[magpiefngrl]

mid-year book freak out tag

Let's talk about books! Thanks for tagging me @bloody-wonder ❤️😘

1. Best Book You’ve Read So Far in 2023?

I've read 48 books till now but nothing leaps to mind as The Best. Like a novel that knocked me out, you know? If I had to choose one, I'd say Seven Summer Nights, a romance by Harper Fox, because I adored the first half and because it's the only book so far that gave me a book hangover.

2. Best Sequel You’ve Read So Far in 2023?

The 2nd novel of Alexis Hall's trilogy, How To Blow It With A Billionaire, was delightful. Judging by the title I'd braced myself for angst, but instead 90-95% of the book was Arden and Caspian falling in love and getting closer (until the last chapter and the inevitable heartbreak). It is one of the most skillful, heartwarming and sexy relationship progressions I've read.

3. New Release You Haven’t Read Yet, But Want To?

This has been on my sights since 2021 but still haven't got around to it: She Who Became The Sun.

4. Most Anticipated Release For Second Half of 2023?

There's nothing that I'm truly impatient about. The first that comes to mind is KJ Charles's A Nobleman's Guide to Seducing a Scoundrel.

Also, A Power Unbound by Freya Marske. I can't say I was blown away by the first two novels, but I have a feeling the ship in this one is my kind of ship.

I'm curious for a lot of books, but not eagerly anticipating them.

5. Biggest Disappointment?

Oh boy. I left a long review on GR about it and I still cry bitter tears about how let down I was by Alexis Hall's third installment of his Billionaire series. Like I said above, I really enjoyed the second book. It ended in heartbreak but I assumed we'd see the pairing work their way through their issues together and end up HEA. What I did NOT expect was that they'd be apart for most of the novel, only getting together at 90%. I don't want to be (even more) spoilery so I'll say nothing more. Just that this book had the promise of being truly spectacular and it turned out all over the place, and it hurts.

6. Biggest Surprise?

The Lodestar of Ys by Amy Rae Durreson, a short novel I got because a GR pal left an enthusiastic review and said that it was available for free. I don't know the author and mostly read it for research and was not prepared to enjoy it as much as I did. The writing is solid, the worldbuilding fascinating, the rivalry between the ship is realistic and convincing as is their growing attraction to each other. Good smut, which isn't normally the case with pub romance. Becomes a tad too cute for my tastes towards the end, but still a great read. And free!

7. Favourite New Author?

No one stands out. I guess Amy Rae Durreson (see above) is a new to me author that made me go and check out her other books, so let's go with her.

Oh I'm also really enjoying The Scottish Boy by Alex de Campi so her too.

8. Newest Favourite Character?

Bucky Iain from The Scottish Boy, I guess?

9. Newest Fictional Crush?

No one. How weak has my reading year been??

💕Best Ship💕

Richard and Alec from Swordspoint. I refuse to read the sequels where they (I think?) break up. NOPE.

10. Book That Made You Cry?

I cry pretty easily and I'm sure I cried at a novel this year (if not more) but for the life of me I can't remember which.

11. Book That Made You Happy?

I had the most fun during my reread of Scum Villain's Self-Saving System. Gods, what I wouldn't give for more authors having so much fun with their stories.

12. Favourite Book Adaptation You Saw This Year?

I watched the final season of BBC's The Dark Materials early this year. It makes me happy to have such a great adaptation of one of my fave series of all times.

13. Favourite Review You’ve Written This Year?

I haven't written a lot of reviews this year. In the past there were times when I'd write long essays; now I'm all for short and sweet. Can't be arsed for more tbh. Unless I disliked the book and I need to rant.

14. Most Beautiful Cover?

I mostly read ebooks and I rarely notice covers. I did, however, notice the stunning cover of A Taste of Gold and Iron, which turned out to be a book I hated, so I'm even more distrustful of covers now.

15. What Books Do You Need To Read By The End of The Year?

I have a bunch of unfinished series to complete (see 2023 reading goals), so that's my first goal. My second target is reading some of the dozens of unread books I own (both on the shelves and my ereader). I do need to finish Checkmate, this is getting ridiculous, but I keep getting distracted by romance.

++++++

Overall, it hasn't been a spectacular year. I've read a LOT--esp in June I couldn't stop reading--but I've reread a few series to complete them, which ranged from meh (The Nikolai trilogy and Darker Shades of Magic) to flawed-but-interesting (The Dreamer trilogy) to seriously uneven (the Billionaire series). Early in the year I finished JS&MN and Spinning Silver which were great, but they feel a long time away and nothing amazing has come since. Idk. Some of my reads were unusual and made an impression, but can't say I enjoyed them fully. The most satisfying books these past few months have been a few romance novels. Fingers crossed for a more exciting second half of 2023.

++++++

follow me on goodreads!

2022 mid year book tag

++++++

tagging: @lettersbyelise @tackytigerfic @julcheninred @lqtraintracks @shealwaysreads @the-starryknight @wolfpants @violetclarity

[novelmonger]

For the Random Asks Game: 3, 4, 8-10, 12, 14, 20, 22, and 23, please?

Wheeeee, lots of questions! 8D

3. traveling by train or by plane?

Train, if at all possible. I've been in far too many planes for my taste, and trains tend to be more comfortable. You don't even have to wear a seatbelt! It stays level, it's reasonably safe because it's not like there's tons of chaotic traffic every which-way, and depending on the train, there might even be a dining car! Sleeping in a train isn't much better than trying to sleep in a plane, even if you get a sleeper car, but pretty much everything else is superior other than the travel time.

4. have a scenario: you have to break someone out of prison, and you are allowed a squad of four people. they can be real or fictional. who are you picking?

Hmm...Yelena Belova, Victor Sullivan, Eilonwy, and Edward Elric. Because they all have experience related to getting someone out of prison, and because I think it would be hilarious to see them all interacting XD Eilonwy and Ed would be bickering the whole time, Sully would keep trying to hit on Yelena, and she would be the one reminding them all they have a job to do, while throwing plenty of shade herself.

8. themes and/or character dynamics in media that you are a sucker for?

BROTHERS BROTHERS BROTHERS BROTHERS. But you know this already! Brothers who are also best friends, best friends who are basically brothers, brothers who would die for each other, especially when they say something along the lines of "we're all we've got..." ooof, I'm gone! x.x

I'm also a sucker for father-son relationships, and older brother-younger sister relationships, which for some reason are much rarer to see.

9. favorite ship? doesn’t have to be specific, could just be favorite kind of water/spacecraft.

I have zero opinions about water/spacecraft, sorry.

But for characters, my OTP is and has always been Royai <3

10. name a song with impeccable vibes.

(Okay, just to narrow it down, I'm going to have to go with the classical definition of "song" as one with words. That...doesn't narrow it down terribly well, but whatever.)

Ohhhh, there are so many to pick from, but one that just popped into my head and made me gasp just to think about it is "Kaze no Machi he" from Tsubasa Chronicle. When the music picks up around 2:30 and the other voices join in...chills. Every time.

12. favorite book sequel?

As I said with movie sequels, the best book sequels are the ones that I like even better than the first installment. And there are several of those I can think of, but one that comes to mind is Castle in the Air by Diana Wynne Jones. Everybody talks about Howl's Moving Castle, and rightly so; it's amazing. But my favorite is the second book, not least because it does such a good job of capturing that Middle Eastern, Arabian Nights/Aladdin feel that I so love.

14. describe your current dream house.

I'd want the outside to be blue or brick. Bonus if there's ivy or other vines climbing up. Pretty flowers, maybe some fruit trees, outside. There will be mourning doves roosting in the trees. Preferably a tower room, or at least a window seat. The inside will have interesting colors on the walls, not just white or that drab neutral beige/tan everybody paints new houses these days. There won't be any major issues with plumbing or mold or vermin. I'd have my own room with purple walls, and there would also be a wood-paneled library with floor-to-ceiling bookcases, maybe with those sliding ladders even? Comfy chairs and a chaise lounge for reading, and one bookcase doubles as a door to a secret room - either for the extra-special library, or maybe that's where the video games would be. The other thing I would love would be for the house to not be...regular, exactly. There would be all these steps going up and down and weird little hallways, so you never know quite how far off the ground you are at any given time unless you look out a window. (Basically, if you've ever read a description of Bleak House, I want a modernized version of that.)

20. if you had to pick a country to live in outside of your own, which would it be?

There's a range of countries I feel reasonably confident I could learn to live in without too much trouble if I had enough of a reason to move there. There's all the English-speaking countries, of course, like Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand.... I also feel like I could live in [redacted country I grew up in], Belgium, or Japan. There would be a bigger adjustment, and again I'd want to have, like...a job in place ahead of time before moving there, and the culture shock would probably be more severe, but I think I could do it.

But if I have to pick just one? Canada, where I will be getting a house to live with @rainintheevening - at least until she meets her cowboy in shining armor truck :D

22. favorite ice cream flavor?

Bride's Cake. The only brand I know that has it is Blue Bell, and they don't always have it in the stores, so I always pounce on it when I do see it. It's vanilla ice cream with chunks of white cake, and it all has this angelfood flavoring that elevates it even beyond the various chocolate flavors I like.

23. say you are taking a trip to the zoo, which exhibit do you visit first?

Realistically, I start with whatever's closest. But I always like watching the primates. I don't believe that we're descended from apes, but it's easy to see why some people do, because monkeys look so much like people, a little to the left.

Random Ask Game

[roseeycreates-blog]

Thanks for the tag @witchybitchybisexual So sorry it took so longgg~

Questions For My Mutuals and whoever wants to join!

1. How did you find out about the show?

I saw a compilation video of Dorothy and Sophia's moments on Facebook and decided to watch it. At the time, I had just finished watching The Big Bang Theory and season 10 of Modern Family. This was back in 2020 when the pandemic started.

2. One storyline you’d eliminate?

Hmmm not really a storyline but an episode. The Empty nest episode...

4. Character you most relate to?

I always say this: I am a Dorothy with a hint of Sophia, who shares the same name with Rose, and badly wants to be like Blanche.

5. Favourite character?

B.E.D 😁😍

6. Favourite story of a cast member?

Also the story on how Rue and Betty got their roles :D

7. Which was the episode that got you hooked?

Hmmm As soon as I watched the pilot, I got hooked. But to be fair, it was really that one scene from the video compilation that made me want to watch it.

Dorothy: Well, at least I stood up for my principles.

Sophia: This is the proudest I've been of you in my whole life.

Dorothy: Thanks, Ma.

Sophia: Can you believe it? My whole life and this is the proudest I've ever been.

Sophia:

8. You could wear one girl’s wardrobe for the rest of your life, who would you pick?

Blanche's, though I don't have the confidence or the body for it… Her wardrobe is gorgeous!

9. How many kids do you think they all actually had?

Oh, I don't really know. I think Dorothy got 2, Sophia 3, Blanche 4? I'm not sure… and Rose 1?? 😅😅😅

10. Do you think the actresses would’ve gotten along with their characters if they met in real life? Why/Why not?

They would all get along so well. Blanche and Rue would talk about men and fashion. Dorothy and Bea probably bond over books. Rose and Betty would bond over their love for animals. Sophia and Estelle would probably bond over cooking.

11. What are your other comfort shows?

The Big Bang Theory, Modern Family, Maude, The Nanny

12. Headcanons? (Feel free to list as many as you’d like)

Blanche and Dorothy often go out together to escape the craziness of Rose and Sophia.

Sometimes Dorothy picks up Blanche from the museum, and they head home together.

Dorothy wrote a novel about their adventures but never got it published.

Blanche enjoys sunbathing on the lanai completely nude.

Sophia frequently convinces Rose to drive her around town, visiting places she's never been allowed to go and indulging in treats, making Rose foot the bill.

Once a year, the girls take a vacation to their hometown (for example, they visit Hollingsworth Manor or Brooklyn). Their least favorite town they visited is, unsurprisingly, St. Olaf.

Dorothy and Blanche have had at least one romantic encounter. Or maybe many times, many many times~ There, I said it… I love them together!

13. What would you change (if anything) about the show/ characters if it was set in the modern day?

Imagine an episode where the girls are on a video call, like that one Modern Family episode. The costume designs would be great too! I'd love to see Blanche trying trendy clothes and getting criticized by the girls. Oh, and Sophia making a Tinder profile for Dorothy with the help of Blanche and Rose would be hilarious!

14. Which other Fictional Characters would you like each one of the golden girls to meet?

I always wanted Blanche and Dorothy to meet Vivian and Maude. That would be quite a dynamic encounter!

15. Who were your favourite duo?

Ha! Blanche and Dorothy~

15. Who should’ve got more 1:1 screen time with each other?

Blanche and Sophia

16. Calmest season?

Hmmmm I don't know. the last 3?

17. Most chaotic season?

Seasons 2 and 3

18. Favorite Season?

Seasons 1 and 2

19. If the girls hadn’t had their established careers, what other ones could you picture them doing?

Hmm, Dorothy as a librarian, Rose owning a pet shop, Blanche as a real estate agent, and Sophia maybe volunteering at a pizza shop or even at the library where Dorothy works—though, let's be honest, Shady Pines always has a place for her, right?

20. Best aspects of the show in your opinion?

Everything~

21. (This question is for my fellow cheesecake lovers) favourite cheesecake flavour?

I'm so sorry but I am like Bea. I'm not particularly fond of cheesecake.

22. Storyline you wished they had expanded upon?

It would be fascinating to explore each of the girls' pasts through more flashbacks from their childhood.

23. Questions you’d ask the actresses?

Oh, I just want to meet them and give them a hug, especially Rue. Also, I want to say I love them all. Maybe I could even ask her if I could be her daughter—my mom and Rue shared the same birth date.

24. Episode that brings you the most comfort?

Episodes where Blanche and Dorothy fight but make up in the end. Their reconciliations are always so sweet.

25. Episode that made you laugh the hardest?

Hmmm, It's a tough choice. I can't pick one

26. Which other work that the actresses did you enjoy the most?

MAUDE and all of Rue's work~

27. Best St Olaf Story?

Definitely the Great Herring War

28. Best slut story?

The one with Billy, or Bobby? Yeah, Bobby. Yeah, it was Bobby... or was it, Ben? Oh, who knows? Anyway, it started with a "B". 😉

29. Best Sicily story?

The story about pepperoni swimming upstream :D

30. Which girl would you be most interested in seeing a prequel of? And at which point in their life?

My Southern Belle, BLANCHEYYY

Tagging: @moun-chan @risingsoleil @eddiemartha @hecatesbroom @eeblouissant and anyone else who wants to join

[nalayaktha]

Welcome trashbags to today's episode of:

Trash Media

A series where the titualar host: bin (where trash is and cones out of), rants and goes off about manga and anime or any other peice of media that has been forgotten, not talked about enough, or generally caught their fancy and strong emotions that they don't want people on insta to know. Hope you enjoy your stay

Today's media:

Soremachi [And yet the town moves/soredemo machi wa mawatteiru]

On an outside view it's very simplistic and doesn't look like it has much to it. Its just a 16 volume manga series that ran from 2005-16 and was generally forgotten for its mediocrity. wWhat really sells the series is the characters and the town itself.

The manga follows hotori our main character around the town she lives in and she's grown up in. It's the feeling of a close knit town where everyone knows everyone. The friends that laugh and knock you on your head. The childhood friend who gets annoyed but still secretly loves you. The older sister figure you look upto who gets you into new books and hobbies. The uncles who greet you and ask about your well-being and studies that you can joke around with. It all reeks of this nostalgic feeling of home. Maybe not one you've lived through but you wish you do.

The homely atmosphere of this comes from how much the characters are seen to care about each other. This is best shown in chapter 13-14 where hotori dies and goes to the modern afterlife and she herself can see how this affects the town. How her parents are in greif and praying to the gods for a miracle to save her. How the shopkeeping uncles are enraged and are close to beating up the truck driver. How her siblings are trying to hold back tears. The disbelief of her friends and asking what she did to deserve this. How even the maths teacher who hated her was crying over her last test. Sanada's regrets over never telling her how he felt. How the grans who employed her prayed for her husband to take care of her in the afterlife.

It shows how much she has touched all of their lives and it doesn't feel out of left field because we spent the time with her interacting with the town residents. But god her reaction? If your heart was wrenched by her dad screaming she was only 16 then her reaction will rip your heart out because she's realising how much everyone cares about her when it's all too late and how much she cares for them all.

The series has its supernatural elements and its silly comedy elements. Its a very light-hearted comfy show that honestly ill go back and read again.

The anime is 12 episodes and done by shaft and hence weird cam angles ensue. But it does have a very short run as it only adapts 24 chapters. But a good watch regardless and sets atmosphere well. The opening is a banger tho.

The manga series ends by not completing every characters arc but hotori and shizuka's arc of hotori accepting that shizuka was her favourite mystery author the entire time. It doesn't end everyone's arc as life keeps moving and each arc would take its own time to end and yet the town moves.

[celesticlnstcrs-aa]

@momijiba asked: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. && 24 :3

you sent all of them-

When did you start writing on Tumblr? December of 2011!

Who was your first muse? On Tumblr It was Kanda Yuu from D.Gray Man hehe

Who are your longest rp friends? The people who have known me the longest are @infintasmal , @orecrowned , & @eraba-reta-unmei ! Met all these weenie's during my Magi days hehe

Favourite thing about roleplaying? I love being able to build up worlds and dynamics with other people. It does wonders to my mental health honestly. It also helps my creative juices come out.

Least favourite thing about roleplaying? The creation of drama over something so small. Like I need people to learn to communicate better if not just block and move on. Don't make a mountain out of an ant hill.

OTP for your muse? My biggest on this blog is MaoRitsu, which Elio is subjected to on a daily lolol. A new one is JingHeng

NOTP for your muse? I wouldn't say I have NOTP's just more of please don't be gross lol

What are some similarities between you and your muse/muses? This one works with Ritsu the best but I'm also a chronically ill person who struggles with old deep rooted abandonment issues. But therapy really does wonders haha. Also according to the internet Jing Yuan and I have the same Personality type same with Rei LOL

What are some differences between you and your muse/muses? I'm too self conscious to be clingy JFIOWFEJ

Would you be friends with your muse if they were real? Jing Yuan & Himeko 100%

Would you write with duplicate characters? How do you think your muse would react? I love writing with duplicates! As for how they would react- it would really vary. I don't think Ritsu would like too see another him stealing his Maa-kun's attention.

Have you any old muses that you’d love to bring back? I've been considering Judal from Magi!

What’s one random headcanon about your muse that people mightn’t know? Jing Yuan enjoys having his hair played with. It relaxes him enough to fall asleep.

Who is an author that inspires you? Rick Riordan! I grew up on a lot of his books.

What do you look for in a rp partner? Someone who is willing to listen and participate with my brain rot. I tend to be more invested when people talk to me about our muses.

Favourite trope? You'll see the trend but Childhood Friends to Lovers.

Least favourite trope? There's not a specific one, but I get uncomfortable with the uh...weird ones.

Are there any AU’s you’d like to explore but haven’t had the chance to yet? Honestly I've done so many au's you don't even know-. But I'll always do Royalty, Single Parent, & Soulmate.

Do you listen to music whilst writing? If so, what kind of music? I do! I usually listen to MafuMafu soundtracks. If not him then character specific playlists I make.

How do you overcome writer’s block? I give myself time to do other things and then come back later! Forcing yourself to overcome it isn't going to help. Let your brain recover from overuse!

Are there certain characters that you gravitate towards? I would say no but my friends would say otherwise EWIJFIOEJ

Short, medium, or long threads? I prefer Medium and sometimes short cause my attention span is god awful. But I don't mind long ones when I get into the mood.

Do you ever get jealous when rping? How do you handle this? I used to during my earlier days of rping, but I just remind myself that my way of writing my muses is different then another person. There's no need to compare myself. You also can't force people to pay attention to you.

What about your muse are you most proud of? I do a lot of research into the muses I write! A lot of thought goes into each character I portray hehe

♡ Munday Meme ♡ ;; accepting

[a-shakespearean-in-paris]

Author Interview

Thank you for the tag @galadrieljones!

1. how many works do you have on AO3?

111 (I wrote a lot of one shots back in the day)

2. what's your total AO3 word count?

1,226,141

3. what fandoms do you write for?

I have written for Dragon Age, Resident Evil, Red Dead Redemption 2, ASOIAF/GOT, and recently Baldur's Gate. Also, the The Mirror Visitor book series, and another certain video game fandom that we now don't talk about, heheh.

4. what are your top five fics by kudos?

-Love Song on Sapphire Isle, Jaime x Brienne, GOT/ASOIAF

-In Waking Dreams, Cullen x Quiz, DAI

-The Sweetest Sorrow, RDR2, Arthur x Charlotte,

-Voila, Leon x Ada, Resident Evil

-Our Immortal Longings, Connor x OFC, DBH

5. do you respond to comments?

As much as I can! If someone leaves me a string of comments in succession I'll usually reply to the most recent.

6. what is the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?

There was a one-shot where I explored the Inquisitor losing Cullen, and nothing will top that. However, in my small series Leon and Ada fics there tends to be a note of sadness in each one, even if the main fic has a happy ending.

7. what's the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

Most of my longfics have happy endings, but I find it doesn't ring true to life if everything is happyhappyjoyjoy. It probably also depends on what your definition of happiness is. Probably Love Song on Sapphire Isle because Jaime and Brienne get married and literally have a pack of children and travel the world--the ending written solely to say Fuck you to the GOT writers for doing that to Jaime and brienne, and at this point I can't count on GRRM for a happy ending for them.

I mean that's what I want, so I would say this ending. (I'd prefer 2/3 kids however, LOL.)

8. do you get hate on fics?

I've been fortunate but I've had a few frankly very stupid comments over the years. One person claimed I was a fetishist because I noted Cullen and Lydia gain weight when they retire but they still think each other is hot. It's more accurate to say I've received unsolicited concrit, which I'm sorry, is and forever will be annoying when you don't ask for it. concrit is helpful, but don't give it when the author doesn't ask. Trust me, we will ask when we want it from people we trust.

9. do you write smut? if so, what kind?

I used to write a lot...and I used to enjoy it a lot, but frankly at this point in my life I find I don't enjoy writing it as much unless there's a character exploration to it or something else beneath the surface. I joked a while ago that falling for an IRL man killed my smut writing career, but I think it's more accurate that as I started writing original fiction again I learned to be more purposeful with sex.

10. do you write crossovers? what's the craziest one you've written?

No, but there is a scene in In Waking Dreams that is an homage, if not outright rip off of my favorite scene in one of my favorite movies, That Hamilton Woman. It's the scene before he gives her the coin when they're staying at in inn

11. have you ever had a fic stolen?

Not that I'm aware of!

12. have you ever had a fic translated?

Also not that I know of. I'd honestly love it!

13. have you ever co-written a fic before?

No

14. what's your all-time favourite ship?

Cullen x Inquisitor for getting me into writing again, but it honestly fluctuates.

15. what's a WIP you want to finish but doubt you ever will?

I am quite proud of myself for finishing most of the fics I've begun. The one fic though I'd love to finish would be my Morrigan x warden fic simply because it's not a ship I see often. At this point however I'm not going to say I am done with fanfic, but my priorities have shifted.

16. what are your writing strengths?

I have been told it's lyrical, poetic writing and characterization.

17. what are your writing weaknesses?

I like to rely on dialogue and my descriptions tend to me minimal. There is a fine line of course, too much description will bog a story down.

18. thoughts on writing dialogue in another language in fic?

Should be used sensibly and sparingly and you should know what you're doing. Read a book fairly recently where the characters were bilingual, Spanish and English, and as someone who grew up with a lot of Spanish speakers it rang hollow to me.

19. first fandom you wrote for?

Dragon Age

20. favourite fic you've written?

Why is this so hard? I like them all to a certain degree. There's just something about my one shot Leon and Ada fic Barcelona though. I hadn't even been in the city yet and I still think I got it down so well. The utter helplessness, the slight angst, the longing, the pinning. It reminds me of a version of me that I can't go back to, a version of me so etched in that certain point in time, and yet you wouldn't know it unless you were me. You'd just read it and say "yes."

tagging @myreia @verai-marcel @fiannans @wintersongstress and anyone else!

[echolipse]

1. What is your romantic/sexual orientation? Panromantic asexual 2. Are you out? To whom? I'm not even sure. I'm not hiding it but I haven't done a formal "hi this is what I am" lol. 3. How old were you when you realized you were asexual? What made you realize it? I knew it was something weird with me sexually at like 13, but I didn't realize what exactly until I learned about asexuality at the age of 20. 4. Do you identify as a part of the queer community? What communities do you identify with? Yes. Mainly just LGBTQ+ in general, but for more specific ones it'll be the asexual and trans/enby communities. 5. Tell the story of the first person you came out to. I came out to my mom as bisexual when I was 14, that's what I thought I was back then (I just knew I liked both binary genders), I didn't know there were more specific things than straight, bi, gay. I told her in an SMS from my bedroom lol. She replied that she loved me regardless. 6. Have you faced oppression because of your asexuality, whether institutional or societal? I'm not sure. 7. Who’s your favorite Doctor? (Or, do you have a favorite asexual character?) David Tennant. 8. Do you believe there should be asexual pride? What do you imagine it being like? I mean, just celebrate pride with the general LGBTQ+ movement. 9. What does being asexual mean to you? Sexual attraction is little to non-existent. 10. What have other people said about your asexuality? Not much tbh. 11. If you’re out, talk about the most accepting person you’ve come out to. If you’re not out, talk about what you would hope a coming out experience would be like. Most people in my life are very accepting of LGBTQ+ as a whole. 12. Your favorite asexual Tumblr site. Don't have any. 13. Your favorite asexual website. Don't have any. 14. Tell us about a time you met another asexual, whether in real life or online. Don't remember. 15. Your favorite asexual character/celebrity/person. I like that guy on tiktok that calls himself tiktok jesus, he's asexual and pretty funny. 16. Your favorite “asexual” book (as in, sex and/or romance are not the main focus). A good girls guide to murder. 17. Your favorite “asexual” movie. Can't decide on a favorite. 18. Tell us a funny joke about asexuality. No. 19. What do relationships mean to you? Haven't been in one in 9 years, don't even remember anymore. 20. Tell us about your partner(s). If you are not in a relationship, tell us about your best friend(s). My best friends are great. I don't know what to say, I just think they're great and I'm happy to know them. I don't have the energy to write a lot about each of them (even tho it's just 2). 21. Your favorite asexual quote. Idk, maybe the classic "I'd rather have cake" 22. What do you believe causes asexuality? No clue. What causes gayness? 23. What is your favorite asexual pride image? Probably one with a dinosaur shape colored with the ace colors or something. 24. Write something or post a picture about asexuality that upsets you. It's hard finding love... not that I tried that hard, I'm lazy and don't like people lol. 25. What is the worst argument you’ve heard against asexuality? "You're not a plant" 26. Who is your biggest ally? My best friends. 27. What is your favorite types of cake? Carrot cake. 28. What is your favorite type of pie? (Or, is pie an acceptable replacement for cake?) No. 29. Where did you first learn about asexuality? I think it was here on tumblr. 30. Tell us anything about asexuality that you want to end with. I'm tired of writing now.

[officerjennie]

tagged by @the-evil-stick - thank!!

List 5 favourite shows (in no particular order) and answer questions accordingly.

I don't watch shows? So uh

The Witcher

The Last of Us

Avatar: The Last Airbender

Fucken, idk, Spongebob?

I have about 20 anime I could put here but I don't remember more than like. One character from any of the ones I've watched

1. Who is your favourite character in 2?

Joel. I love that old man so much

I couldn't fix him and actually I don't want to

2. Who is your least favourite character in 1?

Of the main characters? Yennefer. Mainly because of how some in the fandom treat her character, refusing to see any flaws, calling her perfect, acting like any slight to her character in canon or fanon is toxic. She is inherently flawed like all good characters should be and people acting like that makes me want nothing to do with her.

If it weren't for that, she'd be fine, even if her and Geralt are truly awful for each other.

3. What's your favourite episode of 4?

The campfire episode ig

...I'm taking this opportunity to rant about TLOU cause it's my post and I can THE FIRST EPISODE IS AMAZING OKAY. The character introductions, the reintroduction to Joel, the world building, the slogan of the fireflies matching Joel's journey, Joel searching for Tommy because protecting his people has become his whole purpose, just. Someday I'd like to write an essay.

4. What is your favourite season of 5?

The ones where boys kiss boys

5. What's your favourite relationship in 3?

I wasn't really a fan of most of the canon ships honestly, but since it's Relationship and not Ship then Iroh and Zuko. I love that Iroh shows Zuko how he can be a non-toxic man in a world where they were both taught just toxic, power hungry and angry masculinity.

6. Who is your anti relationship in 2?

what does that even mean. like... the ship I hate? the NOTP?

fucken idk man. I just ship old man Joel with an OC. everyone can fuck everyone for all I care

7. How long have you watched 1?

Early 2021 probably?

8. How did you become interested in 3?

It was on TV. That's about it.

9. Who is your favourite actor in 4?

The talking sponge?

10. Which show do you prefer 1, 2 or 5?

It will come as a surprise to No One that has talked to me in the past month that I'm gonna say The Last of Us, considering I'm on watch through like...9.

11. Which show have you seen more episodes of 1 or 3?

I think ATLA has more episodes?

12. If you could be anyone from 4, who would you be?

David Hasselhoff

13. How would you kill off your favourite character in 5?

This question list is really thrown off when you haven't watched 5 shows in recent memory

14. Would a 3/4 crossover work?

If they can crossover uncle grandpa and steven universe, any crossover can "work".

15. Pair two characters in 1 that would make an unlikely, but strangely okay couple.

Ciri and Eskel, and if anyone comes at me all "EW GROSS THAT'S HER UNCLE" I'm going to smack you with a dildo. They interact like twice in book canon, 0 times in show canon, and game canon makes it perfectly clear that it would be NORMAL AND PERFECTLY ACCEPTABLE for fucking GERALT to be in a relationship with her. Get your fanon out of my canon

also it's fiction so anything goes

16. Overall, which show has the better cast, 3 or 5?

oh huh I guess I could have put game of thrones on the list, that would've made this easier. too invested now. anyway the voice actors for ATLA were great

tagging no one because the kitten is making it hard to type, if you wanna say I tagged you go for it

[laceghost]

End of the year ask

1

2

3

8

9

11

12

13

14

18

19

20

21

22

25

I'm so late but ty for the ask!! <33 1. Song of the year? That's so fucking hard to answer?? I think it's a tie between Spillways and Griftwood

2. Album of the year? Legally obligated to say Impera. cmon

3. Favorite musical artist / group you started listening to this year? Very end of the year find but House of Harm is becoming a favorite of mine really quickly

8. Game of the year? I barely played anything this year tbh :/ I'll say Omori bc I finally finished it and it was super good!!

9. Best month for you this year? So glad that I had such a good year that it's hard to choose lol my whole summer of july to september were the absolute best, I got to spend a lot of time with my best friends, traveled to visit some amazing places and saw some really cool bands! I can't just choose one bc these three months felt like a whole year to themselves

11. Something you want to do again next year? I went to a very cool underground bar/venue in my town for the first time and I really hope I get to go more often!! I really want to see more little shows this year basically

12. Talk about a new friend you made this year HI HIIIIII @niimuue !! Ok so technically we've known each other since before this year. BUT. I didn't meet anyone new and I feel like we really got to know each other this year!! I'm so glad we started talking more,, not to be sappy but you're a literal ray of sunshine in my days when I talk to you. ok i love you

13. How was your birthday this year? Pretty fun! We had a picinc at the park with my friends and I got to eat some good cake :) Didn't cry this year wich is an achievement (yipee)

14. Favorite book you read this year? Oh Gideon The Ninth hands down. I jumped head first into tlt and I don't regret anything (currently working on a Harrow cosplay too!!)

18. A memorable meal this year? Oh I got a real stupid one for this. My bf and I went on a trip to Italy this summer and on our last day we were eating outside and we had?? a french youtuber stumble and almost fall RIGHT beside our table it was such a weird moment of recognition I was stunned because?? is this who I think it is that almost ate shit right beside me?? in Italy of all places???? And when I asked my bf if he recognized the guy bc I wanted to be sure of who I saw, he didn't even know him.

19. What’re you excited about for next year? Seeing Ghost again lmao. Also getting more tattoos!

20. What’s something you learned this year? Kinda learned to set better boundaries! It's helped a lot to be able to protect myself and not let people walk all over me, and being able to communicate in a healthier way when ppl I care about are hurting me and not realizing it

21. What’s something new about your place of residence (room, home, or general location) now vs the start of the year? Umm acquired more trinkets and Miku figures lmao,, Oh I also reorganized my print wall but other than that not much has changed!

22. Favorite place you visited this year? Edinburgh for suuuure I really fell in love with the whole city but the castle was especially beautiful

25. Did you create any characters (in games, art, or writing) this year? Describe one Yeah I made a few new characters for my graduation portfolio :^) I don't want to spoil too much so I'll briefly talk abt Josué! He's a member of my main cast of monsters and he's a cool guy with 4 arms ans that's all you'll get for now!! I'll post about them all when I make full illustrations hehe

[psychicbluebirdmiracle]

Oh! Ima answer these for Robin Hood since he's my most developed character!

1. He has a older sister but they aren't too close he's closer to her son and his nephew (Will Scarlet)

2. Really close he takes care of her since he's all she has besides his sister who is preoccupied with her family

3. Horrible since he's illegitimate and his dad's david earl of huntingdon (you know the basically Scottish royalty guy who is the ancestor to robert the bruce) and his dad doesn't really acknowledge his existence

4. I'm still working on a beginning so this one's still in workshop mode but something will change him and get him to become the robin hood of legend when I come up with it lol

5. Well he doesn't have pockets but you'll find knives any kinda food he has been able to find and any medical herbs and other necessities he needs in his bag

6. Probably not lol I don't really focus on dreams in any of my stories

7. Same answer

8. Bahhaa these are not made for the year 1190

9. He went from poor yeoman who was basically shunned cause he was illegitimate to living in the woods so

10. Idk

11. Book is still in early stages so not planed out yet but will probably be something to do with some of his loved ones almost dying or could have something to do with torture who knows it's 1190 england

12. Same but with being with his loved ones ones not them almost dying

13. Bahahhaha absolutely not he's immune to it he's seen so much blood in his life

14. Faces

15. He does struggle with wanting to keep the money he steals for himself but always gives it to the ones who need it most (even if it drives a wedge between him and his friends)

16. Happiness

17. Idk a stick he was poor probably played knights and outlaws with his bestie

18. As a ambitious person he values both but mostly intelligence

19. He isn't easily trusting but when he does trust someone he can trust them too much and it makes it hard for him to give his trust to others and makes it so much harder when those he trust betray him

20. Both really the only person he ever worries to compare himself to is his father who does not want to become

21. Caused he is quick to blame himself for everything

22. Selflessness

23. If they're stuck up and think they're better than someone else

24. Not at all its very hard for him to trust anyone

25. Fairly quickly not like jumping the gun or anything just if they acting sus they acting sus but if it's someone he trust he will be blind to it till its to late

26. He's great with kids he doesn't know how or why but kids love him

27. Not well

28. He will be quick to get in a fight

29. He wanted his father to accept him so they could be a family no that didn't happen he just grew more bitter towards his father

30. The priest stuffing their pockets with the peoples money and doing whatever terrible thing they want to and blaming God for their actions

31. Sitting out in the woods with enough clearing for the sun to shine on him while he has Marian and his wolf pup with him

32. Idk I can think of a lot of things that would make most people uncomfortable lol

33. All three in stages

34. He'd keep trying a few times but would then move on to the next plan

35. His arrogance gets turned up times ten

36. Very hostile he will let you know quickly he does not like you

37. Neither matter to him

38. Remove the problem/threat (unless it's a person he won't kill a person)

39. Uh well if he has it didn't affect him

40. He's poor and it's 1190 everyone he knows are the servers

41. If we're talking his main goal from the series that just to help people who are suffering so

42. Not that I've given him yet who knows if I will change my mind on this one tho

43. I'm assuming this means someone that they both depended on each other and that would be his childhood best friend Gilbert Whitehand

44. Fairly average he won't say it unless he means it but once he knows he means it he will say it

45. He's a Christian so he knows he will go to heaven and so no he has no fear of dying

Character Development Questions: Hard Mode

Does your character have siblings or family members in their age group? Which one are they closest with?

What is/was your character’s relationship with their mother like?

What is/was your character’s relationship with their father like?

Has your character ever witnessed something that fundamentally changed them? If so, does anyone else know?

On an average day, what can be found in your character’s pockets?

Does your character have recurring themes in their dreams?

Does your character have recurring themes in their nightmares?

Has your character ever fired a gun? If so, what was their first target?

Is your character’s current socioeconomic status different than it was when they were growing up?

Does your character feel more comfortable with more clothing, or with less clothing?

In what situation was your character the most afraid they’ve ever been?

In what situation was your character the most calm they’ve ever been?

Is your character bothered by the sight of blood? If so, in what way?

Does your character remember names or faces easier?

Is your character preoccupied with money or material possession? Why or why not?

Which does your character idealize most: happiness or success?

What was your character’s favorite toy as a child?

Is your character more likely to admire wisdom, or ambition in others?

What is your character’s biggest relationship flaw? Has this flaw destroyed relationships for them before?

In what ways does your character compare themselves to others? Do they do this for the sake of self-validation, or self-criticism?

If something tragic or negative happens to your character, do they believe they may have caused or deserved it, or are they quick to blame others?

What does your character like in other people?

What does your character dislike in other people?

How quick is your character to trust someone else?

How quick is your character to suspect someone else? Does this change if they are close with that person?

How does your character behave around children?

How does your character normally deal with confrontation?

How quick or slow is your character to resort to physical violence in a confrontation?

What did your character dream of being or doing as a child? Did that dream come true?

What does your character find repulsive or disgusting?

Describe a scenario in which your character feels most comfortable.

Describe a scenario in which your character feels most uncomfortable.

In the face of criticism, is your character defensive, self-deprecating, or willing to improve?

Is your character more likely to keep trying a solution/method that didn’t work the first time, or immediately move on to a different solution/method?

How does your character behave around people they like?

How does your character behave around people they dislike?

Is your character more concerned with defending their honor, or protecting their status?

Is your character more likely to remove a problem/threat, or remove themselves from a problem/threat?

Has your character ever been bitten by an animal? How were they affected (or unaffected)?

How does your character treat people in service jobs?

Does your character feel that they deserve to have what they want, whether it be material or abstract, or do they feel they must earn it first?

Has your character ever had a parental figure who was not related to them?

Has your character ever had a dependent figure who was not related to them?

How easy or difficult is it for your character to say “I love you?” Can they say it without meaning it?

What does your character believe will happen to them after they die? Does this belief scare them?