#the new update rekindled my love for him even more

[five-miles-over]

Tom Hiddleston Characters Masterlist

updated January 26, 2024

Multiple Character Headcanons/Listicles

• Tom Hiddleston Characters as Desserts

• How Tom Hiddleston Characters Would Spend the Winter Holidays 

• Tom Hiddleston Characters: How They Act When They Have a Crush (on You)

• Tom Hiddleston Characters on Their Wedding Day (to You)

• Tom Hiddleston Characters: How They Would Propose (to You)

• Tom Hiddleston Characters Celebrating the New Year (With You)

Bill Hazeldine from Suburban Shootout

• She’s a Lady and I am Just a Boy: On the first day of taking ‘Fundamentals of Shakespeare’ at university, Bill Hazeldine finds himself developing a serious crush on you, his drama professor.

• Champagne for My Real Friends, Real Pain for My Sham Friends: A first-year medical student at the University of Surrey, you move into a uni house and meet your new flatmates Bill Hazeldine and Rory Slippery (College AU, crossover with Rory Slippery from Fortysomething)

Caius Marcius Coriolanus from Coriolanus

I’ve Decided, I Will Not Let Your Shadow Separate From Me: After being elected the consul, Coriolanus receives many things - sleepless nights, pointless riots from the lower-class citizens, and you, his new personal slave. While the sleep deprivation and the noise from the plebeians annoy him to no end, he finds himself obsessed with you. (Yandere)

The One That I Desire: A general must always be in control, according to General Caius Marcius Coriolanus . But there often comes a time when even the most powerful general falls to temptation. And for Coriolanus, that temptation is you.

Henry V/Prince Hal from The Hollow Crown

• Fairytale:  While riding upon your horse in the woods, you come across a stranger with a silver tongue and golden curls. And he calls himself “Hal”. (Basically a meet-cute with fluff.)

• You Will Be Mine : The prince of England quickly becomes obsessed with you, a servant brought to his chambers to serve him breakfast. And there is nothing that will stop him from claiming you as his. (Yandere)

• First Time In London: Three days into your new life in London, you find yourself in a café after one of the dreariest mornings ever. Standing behind you in line is none other than Henry Plantagenet, a handsome gentleman with a zest for life and a romantic outlook that feels too good to be real. (Modern AU)

Jonathan Pine from The Night Manager

•So Much More: While holidaying in Switzerland at the Hotel Meister, you find yourself constantly being stood up by each and everyone you meet. And each time, the night manager Jonathan Pine is there to comfort you after delivering the bad news. But it’s really just part of the job…right?

• The Forbidden Room: Part One, Part Two : During a late night alone in the lobby of the Hotel Meister, you - a student at the University of Zurich - meet the charming night manager Mr.Jonathan Pine. And what starts out as simply two strangers getting to know each other turns into something more when Pine shows you a secret part of the hotel.

• My Dearest Diamond : After nearly two years of working for MI-6, Jonathan tried to get in touch with you, the girl who stole his heart when he worked at Hotel Meister. For three weeks, the two of you rekindled your love via handwritten letters, until you booked a five-day trip to London to see him.

As he prepares to make this holiday special for you, Jonathan reflects on his relationship with you…and carries out one last errand before you land.

Robert Laing from High-Rise

• Being Married to Robert Laing would Include...

Loki of Asgard from the Marvel Cinematic Universe

• Heaven Help the Fool Who Falls in Love: You, a lady-in-waiting of Asgard’s Queen Frigga, and Prince Loki have been inseparable for years. What started with a mere look becomes something more precious. (Fluff)

• A Better King: While shopping with Thor in Mumbai (to kill time while Tony Stark is busy with a meeting), Loki learns about the “king” of Bollywood…and decides that he himself could be a better king.

• Take All of Me: Loki takes great delight in “ruining” his innocent, shy girlfriend for the first time (corruption kink, smut)

• Dandelions: Having heard stories about the Norse god of mischief, you find yourself falling in love with Loki despite having never met him. Out of devotion, you prepare offerings that you think he would like, and find ways to express the way you feel. Little do you know that your feelings are not unrequited.

• Beauty is Where You Find It: A journalist for a New York magazine in September of 2012, you come across the opportunity to do an interview from an icon in the fashion industry. Your subject? A rising supermodel from Wimbledon with icy blue eyes and jet-black curls named Loki Laufeyson.

• They’ll Call Your Crimes a Work of Art: A journalist for a small magazine in New York, you’ve been assigned to write a piece about the recent attacks led by Loki. So, you have a look at Loki himself to get your own perspective.

• Little Darling: Living with the God of Mischief in London comes with finding many surprises, and one of those surprises happens to be a four-year-old named Tom Hiddleston.

THE PHANTOM OF ASGARD (THOR: THE DARK WORLD LOKI X READER)

Rumors say that a phantom haunts the darkest hall in the royal palace of Asgard, but is he truly as dangerous as the people of Asgard claim he is?

Part One

Part Two

FOR ALL TIME, IT WAS ALWAYS YOU (TVA LOKI X WIFE!READER)

Imagine waking up in an alternate reality where you and Loki are a newlywed couple living in the suburbs...and everything seems a little too good to be true. (inspired by Wandavision)

Part One

Part Two: Mrs. Laufeyson

Part Three: Happy to Keep His Dinner Warm

Part Four: Kitty Makes Three

THE AGE OF LOKI (LOKI X READER X PROFESSOR HIDDLESTON)

For his second year teaching at Oxford’s English department, Professor Hiddleston hires you to be his first-ever teaching assistant. One night while working late, he shows you the newest addition to his poetry class’s syllabus: the Lokasenna, a poem centered on the Norse god of mischief…and accidentally summons the trickster god himself.

Part One

Part Two

Part Three

Part Four

IF YOU LET ME, I CAN MAKE ANOTHER WORLD FOR US (LOKI x POWERFUL!READER)

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Jaguar Villain Hiddleston from the Good to Be Bad Campaign

• All I Worship and Adore: For a long time, Tom has admired you, an innocent woman, from afar...until one day, he makes his affections known to you. And this time, he won’t take no for an answer (Yandere)

• Your Remedy - He may be one of the most powerful and feared man in London, a terrifying villain to the outside world, but when you’re sick with a cold, your paramour Thomas spends the entire evening by your side taking care of you.

• SFW Alphabet - Jaguar Villain!Tom Hiddleston

YOU'RE NEVER LEAVING (JAGUAR!HIDDLESTON X READER)

You, a budding journalist, have the opportunity of a lifetime to interview the feared and revered Mr. Hiddleston, the CEO of Imperial Pharmaceuticals, Britain’s leading drug manufacturing company. What happens when a few mistakes lead you into the jaws of the wolf, working for the man himself?

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Miscellaneous Hiddleston AUs

• AU: Tom Hiddleston as the Prince of Scotland

• Lessons from the Viscount (Viscount!Hiddleston x Reader, Reader x William Buxton, Reader x John Plumptre): As a debutante in the Regency era, you attend your first etiquette class, along with the other boys and girls of London’s upper crust. Heading the class is the charismatic Viscount Hiddleston, rumored to be a former Shakespearean actor who returned to London to look after his familal estate. And it isn’t long before he takes a liking to you.

[misshoneyimhome]

i love the willy kick you’ve been on but can you do an auston enemies to lovers? maybe she’s will’s best friend in it too?

I can always do something with Auston, bb 😉❤️ And of course, as always, I got a bit carried away - I mean, how can you not love this handsome face 😍

Word count: 4.3K

・✶ ｡ﾟ

I'm so furious at you for making me feel this way

"Ugh, he's just so annoying..." you muttered quietly as you entered Willy’s apartment, returning to his place after a casual dinner with the team.

"Come on, y/n, you have to find a way to be around Auston. He's one of my best friends, and since you're one too, I want you two to get along."

**

For months, William had been trying to build a connection between you and Auston. 

Having just moved to Toronto six months ago, your childhood friend William Nylander had been so kind to introduce you to the city. You had happily accepted a new job opportunity, and within a few weeks, Willy messaged you on Instagram after seeing your post about the move.

As children, William had always been one of your closest friends, but due to his moving around, it was sometimes challenging to meet up. However, thanks to social media, you both managed to stay updated about each other's lives.

And as your old friendship quickly rekindled, returning to its comfortable roots, you swiftly became best friends again.

Soon after spending quite the amount of time together, William had introduced you not only to his closest friends but also to the entire team. However, there was a catch – Although your heart might belong to another team, Toronto had to earn a soft spot as this was your new home.

Fortunately, you clicked well with everyone on the team, including their significant others. Yet, for some reason, Auston had irked you from the moment you met him.

He hadn't particularly done anything against you, but it was his smug expressions and comments about your sudden switch in team loyalty just to impress Willy that grated on you. Then, he had the nerve to suggest that you wanted to cosy up to your "so called" best friends to gain entry into the NHL world and snag hockey tickets.

"Probably just to boost followers on her Instagram," he quipped one evening, speaking low enough for only a few people to catch, yet loud enough for you to hear.

However, your intentions were far from that. Fame or social media followers were nowhere near your goals. All you wanted was to spend more time with Willy, and since you loved watching hockey, you were more than willing to pay for your own tickets.

So, from that moment on, every time Auston was around, you saw red. He exuded excessive confidence and an overall air of being too much. Sure, he was a star player on the team, but he wasn't constantly on top form. He had his off days, yet he was terrible at owning up to his mistakes.

To say the least, your thoughts about Auston weren't exactly positive, and his opinions about you weren't any better.

In his eyes, you were plain and uninteresting. A workaholic who seemed to indulge excessively on weekends, not holding back when it came to alcohol. He observed you flirting with almost every guy when out, and your perpetually upbeat and positive attitude was just too sickeningly cute for his taste.

The only reason he put up with being around you was because he recognised how much you meant to Willy and what a good friend you were to him. That, he could respect.

**

"I can be around him, Willy - I just prefer not to," you quipped, as the two of you headed first to the kitchen to grab a few snacks before settling on the sofa after a long walk with Pablo and Banksy.

"I mean it, y/n/n, I want you two to get along," William sighed lightly, though his friendly smile remained.

"I know, but we just... don't," you attempted to flash a sweet smile as you conveyed your feelings to William. "I can't put my finger on it... maybe it's his terrible moustache that he's always so damn proud of..."

"He's a Movember ambassador..."

"Well, he doesn't limit it to just November," you replied, a hint of disgust in your expression and a sigh. "He's simply not my cup of tea, and I'm definitely not his either."

William regarded you with a thoughtful expression, slowly coming to terms with the idea that the relationship between you and Auston might not improve, although a part of him thought otherwise.

"You know, you two are actually more alike than you think," he chuckled, trying to gently nudge you out of your comfort zone.

"Oh really?" You retorted with a light huff. "And how exactly am I similar to that self-absorbed so-called hockey star?" You raised an eyebrow.

"Well, for starters, you're both incredibly stubborn," William laughed heartily, a point you begrudgingly had to admit he might be right about. "And secondly, you're both insanely passionate about what you do. And you both care about your family and friends..." He continued softly, meeting your gaze as his words began to ease your tense demeanour. "Come on, Auston's a really great guy once you get past that tough exterior of his, and you're a wonderful person too - he just needs to see it. Then, I think the two of you could actually become pretty good friends."

William genuinely believed in what he said, but he was gradually growing tired of the ongoing friction between you and Auston. So, he made an effort to establish some sort of connection.

"Alright," he sighed deeply. "I suppose I can give him another chance..."

"That's all I'm asking for," William chuckled lightly before both of you diverted the conversation and turned your attention to the TV show you had planned to watch.

**

A couple of days later, you found yourself back in your usual spot at the Scotia Bank Arena, where the Leafs were facing off against the Senators.

Despite your efforts over the past 48 hours to shift your thoughts about Auston, making an attempt for the sake of your best friend William, as the players were announced and his prominent face appeared on the large screens, applauded for his talent, you couldn't help but feel a knot of discomfort within you.

"Fucking twat," you muttered under your breath, fortunately unnoticed by anyone around.

However, as the game began, you shook your head, attempting to push away any negative thoughts about him. You concluded that he wasn't worth your energy and mental space, but avoiding thoughts of him was easier said than done. After all, you were at a hockey game where he played, and his number was frequently mentioned.

Nonetheless, you did your best to ignore it and enjoy the company of other fans, including girls and families supporting the players. The arena reverberated with cheers and excitement as both teams alternated in scoring and taking the lead, making the match almost unbearably intense to watch.

During the third period, the score stood at 4-4, and with just three minutes remaining, if nothing changed, the game would head into overtime.

Your pulse raced alongside your quickened heartbeat as your eyes fervently tracked the play. And just before the buzzer sounded, number 34 skilfully manoeuvred the puck around the skates of two Senators and swiftly shot it under the goalie's pads, concluding the match with a 5-4 win for the Leafs. Which also secured him a hatty for the game.

"Of course," you thought, lightly shaking your head as the entire arena erupted with cheers and excitement, loud applause echoing through the air, and hats being thrown onto the ice.

Following the game, everyone gathered outside the locker room, waiting for the players to finish showering, attending to media commitments, and celebrations, where Auston was naturally announced as the player of the match.

You were engaged in conversation with some of the girlfriends as the players gradually exited the dressing room. And as one of the last to emerge, you patiently waited for Willy.

"Hey," he greeted, approaching you with damp hair, dressed in his post-game outfit. "I thought you had a date tonight?"

"Oh yeah, but we rescheduled since he had to cancel," you replied with a sweet smile and a light shrug.

"You didn't ditch him, did you?" William chuckled.

"What, no, he just cancelled on me. So, I chose to come here and offer my support to my best friend and his team," you playfully responded with a light smirk.

"Alright, well, I just need to finish up some things with Brad, then maybe we can go out for a late-night snack?" William suggested.

"Sure," you said with a friendly smile as William began to walk away. However, your smile quickly faded as a certain Arizona lad playfully joined your personal space, prompting you to turn and face him. 

"Already tired of your new victim, y/n?" Auston's voice was filled with his signature confidence, clearly relishing the moment, especially after tonight's game.

"What's that supposed to mean, Auston?" Your tone was sharp and fierce as the tall lad stepped in closer to you.

"Well, just seems like you've been through every eligible bachelor in Toronto, and nobody seems to be good enough for you," a smug grin stretched across his tanned face, his ridiculous moustache curving along his lip.

"I haven't been through every bachelor in Toronto..." you retorted defensively. "Besides, there's nothing wrong with having standards - I mean, at least I'm not like you, poking into every available cunt you can find."

Your words seemed to hit a nerve with Auston, yet he responded with a dismissive huff and a chuckle, brushing off your comment.

"At least I'm getting some action - maybe you could use some too," his chuckle was cocky, and you couldn't help but express a disgusted look.

"Well, I'm sorry I don't sleep around like you do and actually prefer to be with someone I genuinely like," you retorted, matching his smug attitude. Though you knew it wasn't entirely true; you were open to casual hook up now and then, but you did prefer to get to know a person a bit before getting intimate. 

"I'm just saying it might be good for you," Auston chuckled. "Besides, didn't you just get dumped last year? I mean, you should be out there, playing the field after ending a relationship."

"I didn't get dumped! And how do you even know about that?" you retorted sharply.

"Willy mentioned it a while ago," Auston replied with a smile.

"Hmm, well, yes, I... we broke up, but that doesn't mean I've given up, you know," you huffed gently, almost desperate to make a point. You understood Auston wasn't the most romantic person, and his confident, boyish manner shouldn't make you believe that all men were like him. "And I especially don't need to go around sleeping with everyone."

You crossed your arms defensively, fixing him with an intense gaze.

However, your stern comment only made Auston chuckle even more. "Whatever, still think it'd be good for you."

And as if on cue, William returned from his chat with Brad, and Auston quickly walked away after nodding to his teammate.

"Hey, you ready?" William asked with a friendly smile.

"Yeah, I'm all set," you replied with a smile, though your attempt to contain your annoyance wasn't entirely successful.

"What was that all about?" He chuckled a little.

"Oh, nothing," you gently rolled your eyes. "Just Auston being Auston."

Knowing you well enough, William merely chuckled and let the matter drop.

**

The following Sunday, you found yourself feeling freezing, sitting outside on a bench and waiting.

Your date had been rescheduled, and now you were impatiently enduring the cold while waiting for him to show up by the outdoor ice-skating rink the city. The first 20 minutes were bearable; you assumed he was just running late. But after 40 minutes with no replies to your messages and no sign of him, you started feeling rather foolish.

This turn of events caught you off guard. Based on your last two dates, everything had seemed to go smoothly, and you'd been texting each other every day for weeks. However, suddenly, for some unknown reason, he appeared to have lost interest in you.

But you wanted to maintain some semblance of dignity, to believe that he had a valid excuse, and that something unexpected had caused this delay. However, you also didn't want to be too naive. And after an hour had passed, you realised it was time to leave. It wasn't a mere mistake about the time; he had indeed stood you up and ghosted you.

And just when you thought things couldn't get any worse, a familiar voice spoke from behind as you stood up from your seat.

"Still waiting for your knight in shining armour?"

It was Auston. Of course, HE was here. And he'd spotted you.

"Shit," you muttered to yourself as you slowly turned around to face the last person you wanted to see right now.

"And what are you doing here?" you flashed him an unsatisfied grin, letting out a deep sigh.

"I was just ice skating with some friends," he simply replied, one hand tucked comfortably in his pocket to keep warm, while the other held his pair of skates. "So, are you here alone?"

"Why do you care, Auston?" your tone softened, yet it held a deep, sharp edge.

"Just noticed you were sitting all alone from across the rink..." he spoke almost gently, taking another step towards you, a smirk still on his face.

"And what? So, you thought I was looking pathetic, and you decided to come over here with your smug face and revel in the fact that I'd been stood up? Well, I'm sorry Auston, but I'm not in the mood for your annoying comments right now," you said sarcastically, feeling your tone might be a bit more aggressive than intended. However, you couldn't seem to control yourself at this moment. It turned out you were more hurt than you initially thought.

"What... no, y/n, I'm sorry, I didn't know you'd been stood up," Auston spoke, his smirk slowly fading as he noticed the genuine sadness and disappointment on your face. "Honestly, I didn't even know you were on a date; it was just a joke."

Your eyes met his, and you found yourself unable to respond immediately. While slowly, you felt tears starting to well up, but you tried your best to hold them back and not let it show. 

"I'm sorry..." you said. "I just didn’t find it particularly funny..." Your arms crossed over your chest, not defensively but more as a way to comfort yourself, as a tear trickling down your cheek, and your heart heavy with disappointment.

Auston's expression had also completely changed. He seemed almost... concerned about you?

In that moment, Auston found himself genuinely impacted by seeing you so vulnerable. You were completely exposed emotionally, and he felt a sense of empathy for you, being treated in such a manner. While you might not have been his favourite person, he also didn't believe you deserved to be treated this way. And it stirred an unexpected urge in him to offer you comfort.

So, without overthinking it, he found himself speaking up.

"Do you want to skate together?"

His words surprised both you and himself. You never expected Auston to ask you to spend time with him, let alone attempt to console you in an emotional situation.

Baffled, you stood there, still in your skates, amidst the cheerful sounds of people skating and having fun around you. You simply stared at the man before you, shaking your head gently, trying to gather your thoughts to respond.

"What?"

Auston chuckled lightly, realising the surprising nature of his question. Yet, a sense of warmth grew within him as he contemplated trying to uplift your spirits.

"I asked, do you want to skate together?"

Though still slightly baffled, you regarded him with a curious look.

"I thought you were here with your friends?"

"I am," he flashed a smile. "But they have each other – you, on the other hand, seem like you could use some company."

You weren't entirely certain what to make of this situation. Was Auston joking? Was he playing around or something?

But oddly, he seemed genuine.

"Why... would you do that?" you inquired, a curious smile forming on your lips, prompting Auston to release a soft sigh.

"Well… maybe Willy has asked me to be a little nicer to you… and, since he's my best friend, and hanging out with him also means being around you from time to time, I figured…" Auston shrugged lightly before continuing, "Maybe I can, I don't know, try and get to know you a little bit better. And since you're all alone, why not now."

You found yourself holding your breath momentarily, contemplating his words. Yet, as you observed him, his smirk faded, gently licking his lips and replaced by a soft smile on his face.

"Alright," you replied softly, meeting his gaze as your eyes reflected the city lights around the rink. “But only if you promise me one thing…”

"Which is?" 

"You won't laugh at me skating…" you timidly requested, a hint of embarrassment colouring your cheeks.

"Why would I laugh?" Auston gently smiled.

"I'm good at skating, but I'm also rather clumsy," you admitted, a small smile forming on your lips, and Auston simply replied with a casual chuckle.

"Don't worry, I'll catch you if you fall then."

After putting on his skates as well, both of you headed onto the ice together with soft laughter. And surprisingly, Auston turned out to be excellent company.

Surely, at first, it was a bit awkward. Breaking the tension that had built up over months between you wasn't easy. But gradually, as you continued skating side by side, the atmosphere lightened. William was, of course, the primary topic of your conversation, as he was your strongest common link. However, the conversation then gradually shifted to hockey – what you both liked and disliked about the sport. And soon, you found yourselves sharing personal details, discussing your upbringing and your personal stories.

Auston even laughed when you shared childhood stories about you and Willy, talking about the times when you gave him advice about girls during your teenage years. He then reciprocated by sharing stories from their road trips and the challenges of growing up while playing in the NHL. He delved into tales about his family, highlighting how supportive they had always been, and mentioned being the protective brother and the struggles he faced in finding close friends with whom he could form genuine bonds.

And this sudden display of vulnerability started to alter your perception of him, if only slightly. As you continued gliding across the ice, maintaining your closeness, Auston began discussing how many people in his life had come and gone, primarily seeking his friendship for the sake of public recognition.

You found yourself developing a small soft spot for him as he gradually opened up, revealing a side you had never seen before, one that he probably never showed to the team or to many others. And despite having tried to maintain a distance from him, you slowly came to realise that you did, in fact, know Auston quite well. You understood that he wasn't comfortable discussing emotions or engaging in heartfelt conversations, so this talk was a significant step for him.

Eventually, both of you skated to the edge of the rink to pause for a moment, a brief silence settling between you before you decided to break it with a soft sigh.

"Is that why you said those things about me when Willy first introduced me to the team?" you looked up at him, facing each other, both resting a hand on the border. "That I only wanted to be close friends with him because of fame."

Auston understood exactly what you meant, and you were spot on. That had indeed been his initial thought about you when you re-entered the life of one of his best friends.

With a gentle nod, he softly replied, "Yes."

Another quiet moment settled between you, and it became evident what this misunderstanding had truly been about. Auston's initial desire to shield Willy from a potentially damaging friendship, and your perception of him as cocky and arrogant because of his defensive stance from the start.

Once again, your eyes locked, a bit more intensely this time, as you both felt the opportunity to break free from this tension between you.

"Well, I hope I managed to prove you wrong then," you sighed softly, offering him a sweet, friendly smile.

And Auston simply matched your expression. "You did," he replied.

With a few shared light laughs, the profound tension suddenly dissipated. And a new sensation seemed to grow between you both – perhaps even a potential friendship.

But just as everything seemed to settle into a comfortable rhythm, someone suddenly appeared out of nowhere and forcefully crashed into you, causing you to fall over and straight into Auston, who lost his footing and ended up falling backward onto his back, pulling you along with him. In the midst of the fall, you accidentally collided, your head hitting his face, resulting in both of you letting out loud yells.

"Fuck!" Auston shouted.

"Shit, Aus, are you okay?"

Your head was spinning from the adrenaline rush.

"Yeah, I think I'm good... how about you?"

"Well, I did land quite softly," you tried to offer a light chuckle, prompting Auston to do the same.

And slowly, with a bit of assistance from the stranger who had accidentally bumped into you, both of you managed to regain your footing. However, your attention snapped back to Auston as you noticed something alarming.

"Fuck, your nose is bleeding!"

Auston touched his nose, confirming that it was indeed bleeding from the collision.

"Come on, let's get out of here," you suggested, gently taking his hand as you both stepped off the ice and made your way to sit on a nearby bench.

Auston tried to lean back to prevent too much bleeding, while you gently guided him and then applied a piece of tissue to his nose. Thankfully, you had had the foresight to have a package in your pocket, though not specifically for situations like this, it turned out to be quite practical.

Sitting closely on the bench, you carefully wiped the blood off his nose, feeling a twinge of guilt despite knowing the accident wasn't your fault. And Auston's intense gaze focused on you as you attended to him.

"I guess this wasn't how you thought your date would be," he chuckled.

"Maybe not," you gently smiled back. "But despite the blood, I actually think it's been a rather fun day," you softly admitted, meeting his eyes.

Auston reciprocated your smile, feeling your gentle touch close to his face.

"He's an idiot, you know, for blowing you off like this," he gently spoke, causing you to pause and look up at him.

"Thanks, but I suppose it's just my luck… you were right, I've dated so many guys, and although I promised myself never to give up on love, it's just not always easy," you softly admitted.

"Hey, it's his loss – I mean, you're... sweet, funny, and quite good-looking, so if he doesn't want to date you, he’s the one missing out. You shouldn't feel bad about it."

"You really think so?"

"Yeah... I mean... I know I haven't always treated you nicely, but... I've always thought you were hot," Auston chuckled.

"You're not too shabby yourself," you flashed him a sweet smile, eliciting another laugh from him. 

As you sat closely together amidst the vibrant winter wonderland in the heart of Toronto, both of you couldn't help but feel a sense of connection.

It felt odd.

It was as if all previous tension had vanished. You were now just two individuals, engaged in pleasant conversation, enjoying each other's company.

And Auston finally understood what William saw in you. He had never felt this comfortable opening up and expressing his thoughts to someone. No one had ever made him feel so at ease and relaxed during a heartfelt conversation like you. You were certainly something else.

But then clearing your throat, you broke the intense gaze you shared.

"Perhaps I should better get going... it's getting late, and I shouldn't be keeping you from your friends like this," you timidly suggested, looking down at your hands for a moment before beginning to unlace your skates.

With a nod, Auston followed suit, swiftly changing back into regular shoes. Standing with your skates in hand, you exchanged a sweet smile before an unexpected surge of confidence propelled you to lean in and plant a timid kiss on his cheek.

"Thank you, Auston... I really enjoyed spending time with you today," you softly expressed, while tucking a strand of hair behind your ear.

"You're welcome," he replied, exhaling softly. 

But then as you turned to walk away, an unexpected desire to keep you close surged within Auston. And with his free hand, he swiftly caught yours, drawing you back toward him, pressing his chest against yours before tenderly kissing your lips.

The kiss was gentle, yet both of you found yourselves leaning slightly into it. Auston dropped his skates, using his hand to cup your face, holding you just a little closer, before slowly pulling apart.

You exhaled deeply, confusion mingling with a pleasant sensation, ultimately giving way to a smile.

"So, I guess this means we're good?" you tentatively joked.

"Yeah... and the next date you're going on will be with me," Auston stated firmly, wearing a wide grin.

"God, you're way too confident," you teased, playfully rolling your eyes at him.

"Maybe, but I know you like it," he countered, raising an eyebrow before leaning in to connect your lips once again.

[animasola86]

↓ FANFICTION MASTERLIST

(last updated: Apr 19, 2024) > newest marked with ✨

→ TL;DR LINKS-ONLY VERSION

→ KINKTOBER 2023 MASTERLIST

HEADCANONS

Sebastian's Boggart/Patronus headcanons

General Sebastian Sallow headcanons (revisited)

NSFW Sebastian Sallow headcanons (based on the smut I wrote about him)

Headcanon/smut "drabble" (NSFW!) about Sebastian's hands ✨

NSFW Hogwarts in the 1890s headcanons

→ A NIGHT IN THE UNDERCROFT (Read on AO3)

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!mc

Genre: Fluff/Smut/Angst (NSFW!)

Synopsis: After a rather disastrous visit to Feldcroft, Sebastian Sallow needs a hug - or something much more.

→ Part 1 - The Night (1) → Part 2 - The Night (2)

→ Part 3 - The Nightmare → Part 4 - The Day After

→ A BLESSING AND A CURSE (Read on AO3)

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!mc

Genre: Fluff/Romance/Adventure/eventual Smut

Synopsis: Sebastian Sallow is your average teenage boy, who, despite the baggage he carries around with him, has laid his eyes on the new student and he is determined to lay even more on her.

→ A BLESSING AND A CURSE MASTERLIST

Notes: Prequel to A Night in the Undercroft, HL re-write focusing on my Ravenclaw MC Nebbia DeLuca (read her backstory/showcase here), ongoing series

→ THE DARKNESS WITHIN (Read on AO3)

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!mc x Tom Riddle

Genre: Angst/Smut/Dark!Romance (NSFW!)

Summary: He's an Auror, she's a Death Eater, yet in a former life they were lovers. Can they rekindle their love now they're mortal enemies?

→ THE DARKNESS WITHIN MASTERLIST

→ THROW ME INTO THE TEMPEST (Read on AO3)

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!reader

Genre: Drama/Angst/Fluff/eventual Smut

Summary: Your best friend is a sweetheart and you would do anything to protect her. Yet when you get to know her boyfriend, there is little you can do against those feelings he invokes in you.

Chapter 1 -- Chapter 2 -- ongoing

→ IN YOUR CARE (Read on AO3)

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!mc x m!oc

Genre: Angst/Smut/Drama/MODERN AU (NSFW!)

Summary: Living in the same foster home, Nebbia and Sebastian are supposed to stay away from each other, but because they are both troubled teenagers with troubled pasts, they simply can't. But then the past comes back to haunt them, threatening to destroy everything.

Chapter 1 -- Chapter 2 -- Chapter 3 -- Chapter 4 -- ongoing

→ A SPECIAL KIND OF BOND (Read on AO3) ✨

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!reader x A Special Friend

Genre: Smut/Filth (NSFW!)

Summary: After going skinny-dipping with Sebastian, you discover that you took a little souvenir from the depths of the Black Lake with you. And it's very happy to meet you too.

Status: completed! // A SPECIAL KIND OF BOND MASTERPOST

→ SCARS AND PEACE AND COMFORT (Read on AO3) ✨

Pairing: Aesop Sharp x f!reader

Genre: Fluff/Smut (NSFW!)

Summary: He was there to give you confidence, attention, comfort, and you were there to give him peace - and so much more!

This is a series of one-shots! // SCARS AND PEACE AND COMFORT MASTERLIST

↓ PLEASANT DREAMS... AND TENTACLES

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!mc

Genre: Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 3.2k

Synopsis: Sebastian can't sleep and uses his girlfriend's disturbing dream to help him do so. (somnophilia, tentacles submission for Kinktober)

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ NIGHTMARES... AND HELPFUL SNAKES ✨

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!mc

Genre: Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 8k

Synopsis: After that first disturbing dream, Sebastian's girlfriend finds herself in even more disturbing dreams, but this time she has her boyfriend to protect her. But does he really?

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ IT IS THAT TIME AGAIN, DARLING.

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!reader

Genre: Fluff/Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 8k

Synopsis: Your husband wants another child because three aren't enough. (breeding kink submission for Kinktober)

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ COME BACK TO BED, BABY.

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!reader

Genre: Fluff/Angst/Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 10.1k

Synopsis: Dad!Seb is back and he actually managed to put his breeding kink to good use. Or did he?

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ TAKE YOUR ANGER (and stick it where the sun don't shine)

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x m!reader

Genre: Angst/Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 3.9k

Synopsis: You and Sebastian are both flawed boys and there is only one way to let out that pent-up frustration.

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ PAIN RELIEF

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!reader

Genre: Hurt/Comfort/Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 3.2k

Synopsis: It's that time of month and all you want to do is curl up into a ball and die, but Sebastian has another idea of helping you relieve the pain.

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ A BLOODY MESS

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!reader

Genre: Smut/Gore (NSFW!) // Words: 1.7k

Synopsis: Diffindo, poachers and two horny teenagers engaging in a blood covered quickie. (TW: Blood/Murder/Periods)

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ A SCHOLAR AND A PERVERT

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!reader

Genre: Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 10.3k

Synopsis: Sebastian wants to experiment on you. (overstimulation and sex toys submission for Kinktober)

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ THE MAGIC TOY (1/2)

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!reader

Genre: Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 3.8k

Synopsis: Sebastian has gifted you a special toy and one day you find yourself using it to his very own inconvenience.

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ THE MAGIC TOY (2/2)

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!reader

Genre: Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 10.6k

Synopsis: After just having used your special gift from Sebastian, you end up in the Undercroft with him for more toy related shenanigans.

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ AVID READER

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!mc

Genre: Comfort/Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 2.9k

Synopsis: Sebastian has been hunched over Salazar Slytherin's Spellbook aka that damn book for too long now and his girlfriend only knows one way to distract him.

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ IT BELONGS TO ME

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!mc

Genre: Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 2.5k

Synopsis: Sebastian demands a quick bj in the hallway. (semi-public, deepthroating submission for Kinktober)

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ MINE!

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!mc

Genre: Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 6.5k

Synopsis: Sebastian's girlfriend is a bit of a nymphomaniac. And he is not complaining. Or is he?

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ YOURS TO TAKE

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!mc

Genre: Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 7.9k

Synopsis: Sebastian and his horny girlfriend watch the Gryffindor vs Hufflepuff match, but focus on something else entirely. Very publicly.

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ LESSONS IN LOVE-MAKING

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!reader

Genre: Fluff/Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 9.8k

Synopsis: Your boyfriend (not Sebastian) sucks in bed. After you find yourself crying in the hallway because of it, Sebastian finds you and is happy to lend a hand.

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ JUST BREATHE

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x gn!reader

Genre: Angst/Hurt/Comfort/Fluff // Words: 3.1k

Synopsis: After clearing another poacher camp, you and Sebastian fall into a sticky situation that will leave you questioning your and his life choices. (TW: blood!)

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ A FILTHY FANTASY (1/2)

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!reader

Genre: Smut/Horror (NSFW!) // Words: 7.9k

Synopsis: Sebastian asks you for your filthiest fantasy and then manipulates you into wanting to do it. (con non-con, bondage, sensory deprivation, orgasm denial submission of Kinktober)

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ A FILTHY FANTASY (2/2)

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!reader x Ominis Gaunt

Genre: Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 4.6k

Synopsis: After that fantasy you talked about came to pass a little unexpectedly, you find yourself in a Slytherin sandwich. (threesome, oral/vaginal/anal submission for Kinktober)

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ A FILTHY FANTASY: AFTERCARE

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!reader

Genre: Hurt/Comfort // Words: 2.4k

Synopsis: In the wake of what happened to you earlier, you contemplate your life choices and your love to the boy that keeps making it a little bit more difficult.

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ THE HORNY GHOST

Pairing: Richard Jackdaw x f!mc x Sebastian Sallow

Genre: Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 5.3k

Synopsis: Richard Jackdaw watches teenagers have sex and stalks one of them for more. (voyeurism, masturbation, spectrophilia submission for Kinktober)

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ THE GHOST UNDER THE TABLE

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x gn!reader

Genre: Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 2.3k

Synopsis: A bj in the library. That's all.

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ THE GHOST UNDER THE TABLE (PART 2)

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!reader

Genre: Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 4.5k

Synopsis: The sweet revenge. Sebastian returns the favor.

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ THE GHOSTS ON THE TABLE (PART 1)

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!reader

Genre: Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 10k

Synopsis: Sebastian read something in a filthy Muggle magazine...

Read here (or on AO3)

↓ THE GHOSTS ON THE TABLE (PART 2)

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!reader

Genre: Smut (NSFW!) // Words: 10k

Synopsis: They find a table and do stuff on it. You know the stuff.

Read here (or on AO3)

→ JUST ANOTHER ADVENTURE, RIGHT?

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x gn!reader/mc (1st person POV)

Genre: Hurt/Comfort/Fluff // Words: 2.2k

Synopsis: What really happened in the Scriptorium

DIARY OF A SNAKE LOVER (Read on FF.net)

Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x f!mc

Genre: Adventure/Romance

Slow-burn HL re-write with added Sebastian content

[thecoffeelorian]

Fandom Friday, 06/28: Fanart

Hello again, everyone...

*sigh*...

...Okay, I'm afraid that it's time for me to make a little confession here. I wanted so, so bad to do a Pride-themed update for you all. Something like...the first kiss for Codywan; a night out on Coruscant with Osheki; maybe a post-escaping the Jedi party with Barrissoka; and generally a celebration of surviving terrifying situations and building new lives together. Basically a Good Vibes Only kind of fandom party.

But then...the Acolyte show went and did THAT, and my plans took a somber, unexpected, and rather painful turn.

Granted, this show was always going to be 'Kill Bill' with lightsabers. I made my peace with that the moment Mae did a similar unfinished business speech with each new Jedi Master she came to slay visit. I even read a few choice Twitter posts by readers of the High Republic novels that suggested this was actually the norm for Jedi characters rather than the exception.

And yet, even with those thoughts firmly planted in my head, guess what...?

It still hurt. A lot.

So much so, in fact, that...I'm afraid the theme this week will be "To Absent Friends" rather than "The Rainbow Connection", if only as a reminder that not every story has a happy ending.

However...to those who hoped for something a lot more comforting from me, fear not. I should be a bit more in control of myself next week, so I hope you will take the time to tune in then, if you find yourself unable to do so now and need to exit out of your browser window or app for something more to your well-being. I won't begrudge you for wanting that at all, because I know I would do the same if our situations were reversed.

For everyone else, though...here are my fanart picks for the week.

THE ACOLYTE

The Acolyte Fanart--By @thebirdthattoldu

The Acolyte Fanart--By @drawingspaghetti

THE CLONE WARS

The Clone Wars Fanart--By @persimminwrites

REPUBLIC COMMANDO

Republic Commando Fanart--By @mamuzzy-creates-stuff

THE BAD BATCH

The Bad Batch Fanart--By @the-tech-turn

The Bad Batch Fanart--By @apocalyp-tech-a

CROSSING THE FANDOM STREAMS

The Bad Batch/Hades 2 Crossover--By @letshareapapou

In conclusion, as part of my mission to poke around the Star Wars fandom and, on Friday every week, highlight those artists who might otherwise go unnoticed…I hope you will check out the links I have included for yourselves and like, comment on, and reblog them, as well as also giving the artists a few more followers to their Tumblr pages.

Please also like and reblog this latest installment so that these links can be spread around to as many other fans as possible, just in case not all of them can tune in at the same time.

An additional thank you goes to @djarrex for making the divider I used earlier in this post, but still want to give credit for.

And finally, so that I do not forget…this post will be continued in its second half: the Fanfiction Edition. Thank you, good morning, and I’ll see you in the next post!

The No Pressure Tag List: @musicalselaw @gun-roswell @callsign-denmark @melymigo @saphiranishimurashan

@theosb0rnway @hastalavistabyebye @vaderkin-is-a-lightning-rod @vincili @tlmtwelve

@bbtechsimp @thatflatfrog @algo-o-nada @ankossss @tazmbc1

@yeehawgeek @tech-aficionado @exquisitesarcasm @korribanarchive @msknight10

@sharpasanaro @that-gay-jedi @badbatchposts @quietgingerfangirl @sunshinechildskywalker

@universitysunflowers @littlefeatherr @riverside-of-neverland @pastasmoothie @cyberscorch

@ilovemedia @cinnamonsugar-pretzel @brownielocks69 @here-comes-the-moose @skellymom

@lilithastar @maxims-multifandom-corner @serinzatravel-blog @rott1ngbra1n @snap-my-kneecaps and anybody else who might be on the lookout for new and interesting works around the fandom.

[genericpuff]

so, i'd been stalking your blog in silence for the past few days/weeks because i used to be a huge fan of LO (i paid patron, was on the discord, own merch and a volume, spent money on fast past for over FOUR years). but as it happened to most fans, i got frustrated and gave up fastpass, and for a while i was trying to stay away from LO critiques because it just made me mad to realize something that was a comfort thing for me was bad all along (and i didn't wanna go full blown anti-LO) but i just finished reading your analysis on the mid-season finale and oh my god dude.

the retcon on how persephone feels about apollo after over 4 years of seeing her hate him because of what he did nearly pushed me over the edge. i feel sick to my stomach, this has to be among the worst things rachel has done and i just wanna say thank you for bringing it up and talking about it so eloquently. i'm a victim of SA and its comforting to see people in the fandom take it as seriously as it should be.

also LO rekindled is a breath of fresh air, thank you for creating it and putting so much work into it <3

Aw man, it's wild when I see people go through the pipeline of realizing LO has issues, mostly because it's a common attack on the critical community that everyone in it are just a bunch of "trolls and haters", but really, a lot of us started in the same boat as you, myself included. I unfortunately just missed the Patreon era, but I remember when I was a diehard fan of LO, it was one of the biggest facets of my friendship with the person who introduced me to it, I would literally be swiping my app refreshing it over and over again in the last seconds leading up to new updates trying to get the episode to just load, I drew fanart, I even did a tattoo of it once for that same friend who got me into it, and yes, I was really pissed that there was an anti community surrounding it.

It's crazy to think back on those times. I do miss how the comic used to make me feel, but at the same time, I know there's no going back to that time so I try to make the best of what I have now within the critic community, and what I've gained since then in terms of dissecting and discussing literature.

I feel so much for your feelings regarding the SA plot, I'm also a victim of SA so it was one of the biggest plot points that drew me into the comic in the first place, so it was really hard to truly realize what the series had become as the SA plotline took a backseat and the characterizations fell apart. It felt like something that I had gone through - and many others who also related to Persephone's struggles - was being used for cheap drama and that feels especially apparent now with how the series seems to be backpedaling it, or at least, replacing it with different motivations to make Apollo the villain, almost like it's an attempt to distract us from the SA and make us want to see his downfall for reasons that Rachel can quantify in a more black and white "good vs evil" kind of way.

I'm so glad you like Rekindled, I made it for people like you and I who loved LO once upon a time but mourn for what it once was before it turned into what it is now. It's been such a cathartic project for me and I'm so happy that others enjoy it too <3

[theromanticrationalist]

Young Sheldon Season 7 Thoughts. . .

"I've got a hot wife and a Nobel Prize, I turned out fine."

I LIVE. <insert Mushu gif raising from the afterlife> It has been awhile since I have been able to update on here! There are many reasons for this, one of them being my other fandom obsession (Dune, you know the other neurodivergent, genius, socially awkward white boy who thinks he is a god...), but also I've reached the level of obsession with Sheldon Cooper that it is nearly physically impossible for me to watch the new episodes! I hope others understand that feeling. I LOVE THIS BOY SO MUCH. 😭 I am just SO NERVOUS about this season! I don't want Sheldon to experience tragedy. Yet - I have chosen to persevere, and I have now caught up!

And the story has certainly unfolded in interesting directions! 😮 Okay, okay - so the BIG thing - Sheldon witnessing his Father sleeping with "another woman"! I am feeling conflicting emotions - impressed, relieved, and a little upset. I am impressed and relieved because they were able to adhere to the integrity of this show while still allowing established canon to be technically true. However, I am also a little upset because it makes Sheldon's experience less serious and lessens the trauma of it that clearly was established in TBBT. In the episode when Sheldon confesses to Penny about what he saw with his father and how it effected him, that was deeply personal and profoundly impacting. It is what scared him in regards to his relationship with Amy, and kept up his walls against intimacy and vulnerability because he was terrified of hurting her. And it is what made him develop the three knocks coping mechanism. To me the fact that it was actually just a silly misunderstanding (his mother roleplaying) is just another aspect of the writers once again invalidating Sheldon as a character. It is THE main mistake of TBBT, playing Sheldon's personality quirks as primarily foolish and "Hah hah hah! Isn't he a weirdo who doesn't understand social conventions and established normal human behavior?! Har har har!"

"Penny, I'm going to tell you a story that I've never told anyone..." Sheldon and Penny at the ice cream parlor in Season 10 Episode 5 The Hot Tub Contamination of The Big Bang Theory. This was one of the rare moments this show treated Sheldon's character with gravitas. That's kind of ruined now. . . This is a sin that Young Sheldon has not committed until now, and so that really steams my clams! One of the main reasons I love this show so much is because of how it has always treated Sheldon's character with nuance and dignity, showing his complex layers in a deeply human and beautiful way - even while, yes, maintaining the comedic, quixotic charm of the character as well. So, the fact that they've flattened this significant event in Sheldon's life into a ba dum tss moment thrown at the end of the episode last minute is pretty shitty of them. And yet, Mary and George Cooper rekindled their marriage! I thought it was SO SO adorable how they wrote letters to one another while she and Sheldon were in Germany. That warmed my heart. Young Sheldon's thematic structure works and is reliant upon Mary and George Cooper's marriage (something I will go into more in-depth later) so George cheating on his wife just didn't make sense for this story they were telling, or even the characters they had established. So, it's fifty-fifty. I guess it was the best possible outcome given the givens, and certainly makes me happy because I prefer a reality where Sheldon grows up in a stable - albeit dysfunctional - household rather than the heavily implied even more dysfunctional, traumatic one from the TBBT canon. In most of TBBT, Sheldon certainly painted a deadbeat, failure of a father. Such as his mentioning how his father lost a job due to his stealing from the cash register, which Sheldon had been responsible for telling on his father (The Big Bang Theory 9x12 The Sales Call Sublimation) rather than in Young Sheldon, his father losing a coaching job because of his reporting rule breaking at work (Young Sheldon 1x01 Pilot). There has been some significant retconning going on here in this show, but the retconned reality is the one I prefer - so . . . what are ya gonna do? 🤷‍♀️

[oxygen-stealer]

Scriddler fic recommendations!!!

Stay (2017) by iammemyself

Rating: General

49,873 words, 11/11 chapters (discontinued)

Arkhamverse

After Arkham Knight, Jonathan and Edward move to Canada together, where the full weight of Edward's grief crashes down on the both of them.

This fic is fucking miserable in the best way possible. It feels so grey and depressing like almost the entire time even with its ups and downs. Things get better, but it's fucking hard. Legit among my favorite fics. Also Jon's so obscenely old here I love it lmfao. (There's also a Stay (2016) I haven't actually looked at, might be a prequel or smthn idk)

I'm With You by nonbinaryspock

Rating: Mature

50,684 words, 35/35 chapters

Jonathan and Edward rekindle their somewhat messy relationship from their college years. Things are still a bit messy but they've at least got some hindsight.

Hella angsty, they're both so horribly dysfunctional <3 (specifically Jonathan will just say/think the absolute wildest shit and then just go on like that's normal). I really just love how visceral their emotions can be.

Runs In The Family by ChaoticMimzy

Rating: Mature

8,703 words, 5/5 chapters

Edward's father dies and he goes to his funeral (solely to be there for his sister, mind you) where he grapples with past trauma and catholic guilt.

Very very rogues podcast coded (highest compliment). It's mostly Edward-centric and doesn't focus on the scriddler too much but it's still worth a read. Edward's rage towards his childhood circumstances is so potent and agonizing I love it so much. He should get to kill god a little bit imo

(More below)

Let me play you a song on my violin by batmanforeverlol

Rating: Teen

7,206 words, 1/1 chapters

Ghost AU. Edward is a retired criminal turned private investigator who finds himself running through a cemetery, where he meets a man playing a violin.

Ngl I cried super hard reading this but it's also one of my absolute favorites. Why would you write this? Why would you hurt me in this way? (It's really sweet but also really fucking sad, you should read it. Share my pain)

Terminal by iammemyself, promethea (Aerosol)

Rating: General

7,073 words, 1/1 chapters

Edward gets brain cancer again, this time the Lazarus pits aren't gonna help him.

As you could imagine, this fic is just sad from start to finish. I cried so fucking much reading it its not even funny.

He Just Likes The Rush by Human_Resourccs

Rating: General

16,072 words, 9/9 chapters

Jonathan's thrill-seeking brings him some interesting company. (Or, as I know it: the fic where a fucking spider lives in Jonathan's hair for months and Edward still lets him touch him. If that's not love I don't know what is)

Sapiophile by XavIniesta685

Rating: Mature

17,529 words, 3/3 chapters

The Moon Is Not Made Of Cheese by Stry_Shttu

Jonathan has given up in every sense and is about to leave Gotham until a series of events change his mind. A lot of "falling in love within a day" fics can feel kinda forced but this one flows really naturally.

Rating: Teen

7,820 words, 1/1 chapters

Arkhamverse

Edward is lonely, Jonathan goes to see him while also being Jason Todd's really lame dad. A good mix of sweet and silly.

The Boy With The Thorn In His Side by 30PacketsofKetchup

Rating: Teen

21,542 words, 8/? chapters (this fic hasn't been updated in like 5 years so be ready for that specific brand of agony)

Teenager AU. Jonathan meets the mildly annoying new boy in town and they bond.

I looove this fic so much I'm absolutely heartbroken that it wasn't ever finished. Idk the vibes are nice and I love how flustered young Jon gets when he's got a crush.

South of Hell by nonbinaryspock

Rating: Teen

14,194 words, 35/35 chapters

Teenager AU. No one in their awful little town likes Edward or Jonathan, but they've at least got eachother. Very southern gothic.

Exit Wounds by nonbinaryspock

Rating: Teen

18,066 words, 38/38 chapters

Demon/supernatural AU. Edward is a private investor and his demon ex-boyfriend suddenly shows up after 5 years in need of a place to stay. Edward is thoroughly unimpressed.

I'm in love with this AU big time, it's got some pretty neat world building. I also love how distinctive the characterizations here are. BAH I'm not great at describing but it's very angsty and good.

Frighteningly Unprofessional by bookynerdgoblin

Rating: Mature

28,412 words, 11/11 chapters

One of Jonathan's students knows about his unethical experiments, however instead of reporting him, he offers to help in exchange for his partnership. Things spiral from there. Edward is purposefully being super obvious and Jonathan talks to his cat like a person.

Words by scarecrowv

Rating: General

4,651 words, 1/1 chapters

Edward's daughter keeps calling Jon "mama" and he has no idea how to handle it, aka psychology professor Dr Jonathan Crane talks to a 2 year old like an adult.

A Case Study in Step-Parenting by Ifthinkerwrites

Rating: General

16,053 words, 5/5 chapters

Another lil scriddler family fic, Jonathan navigates step-parenthood :)

Sitzfleisch by SproxGrail

Rating: Mature

1,205 words, 1/? chapters

Jonathan is living in Edward's walls and talks about him like a little freak. I need this fic to update again please please please it's so creepy I'm in love with it

Some series to look at as well!

Memoryverse by Enigmatic_Robin

Rating: General

15,393 words, 11 works

A bit more of a psychological horror/thriller than a romance. Jonathan is manipulating Edward into complete dependency. It seems easy while Edward is in love with him, but he'd better watch out for when that veil slips.

Scriddler Family AU by Enigmatic_Robin

Rating: General

17,722 words, 9 works

Scarecrow and Riddler end up raising Stephanie Brown and Tim Drake. And all the shenanigans that come with that.

Love Me Dead by lymongrab

Rating: Explicit

25,624 words, 6 works

Kinda just a nice progression in Jonathan and Edward's relationship with some added spice here and there. Mostly pretty sweet.

Arkhamverse by iammemyself

Rating: General

354,608 words, 28 works

In which Edward and Jonathan's relationship is a bit complicated, but Edward is also a robot dad!!

(Everything from here is nsfw centric)

This section would be longer but i actually found out the person who wrote some nsfw fics i really liked was actually a proshipper weirdo so I'm not including those. Why can't people be normal

Kiss The Go-Goat by korereapers

Rating: Explicit

5,203 words, 1/1 chapters

Demon AU. Edward summons a demon and gets a little carried away

Shout out to this fic for getting me into Ghost, the only band I ever listen to now lmfao. Anyway I'm a big sucker for anything involving monster/demon/creature!Jon

Connected by korereapers

Rating: Explicit

6,458 words, 1/1 chapters

A hookup gets wayyy more emotional than expected. But, y'know, they're not in love or anything. Right?

Comfort by curiouscorvid (prometheanTactician)

Rating: Explicit

4,866 words, 1/1 chapters

Mad Max AU. Edward is traversing the wasteland, where he finds and helps a desperate escapee.

I've found that Mad Max AUs are always so sad no matter what even though the movie itself is kinda silly lmfao.

worldly pleasures by leetheshark

Rating: Explicit

3,227 words, 1/1 chapters

Arkhamverse

Jonathan doesn't really know how to handle any sensation that isn't painful.

[ksmutsociety]

Featured Fics - November

At the end of each month, members have the opportunity to select 1 fic from the last 30 days (or retain the current fic, or a previously posted one, if no new fics have been posted this month) to showcase on this list, as well as on our updated Featured Fics page.

You Drive Me Crazy (But It Feels Alright) ➢ written by: @wooahaeproductions

Pairing: Lee Jihoon x F.Reader Word Count: 15.2k Summary: You and your neighbor, Jihoon used to be best friends as kids. As time passed, unfortunate events and the cliques of junior high tore the two of you apart. Several years later, you find yourselves in the same college but the two of you actively avoid each other and some people would even say you were enemies. As fate would have it, breakups lead you both to wonder if there's ever a chance to rekindle the friendship.

Something Sweet ➢ written by: @anyamaris

Pairing: Kyungsoo x F.Reader Word Count: 3k Summary: You and your friend have started a weekly ritual of baking in your apartment, and you both find yourselves enjoying each others company more and more.

Challenge Me ➢ written by: @seokgyuu

Pairing: OT13 x AFAB!Reader Word Count: 85k+ Summary: Your best friend challenges you to sleep with 13 guys this semester and you end up in the messiest love story of your life.

F*ck My Thighs ➢ written by: @ourdawnishotterthanourday

Pairing: Lee Seokmin x F.Reader Word Count: 17.2k Summary: Ever since you started working at XTREMEGEAR, you’ve been hopelessly obsessed with Lee Seokmin...god damn Lee Seokmin and his fucking divine thighs. You didn’t think you’d ever stand a chance with him. But when your company forces you to go to a sports and wellness retreat with the whole HR department, you discover that you haven’t been as discreet about your little crush as you thought you were.

On The Ropes ➢ written by: @raplinesmoon

Pairing: Seokjin x F.Reader Word Count: 18.1K Summary: Kim Seokjin had been washed-up, run-down, and forgotten by the world of boxing. He’d settled on spending the rest of his life fading into obscurity. What he doesn’t count on is having a new trainee walk into his gym, and meeting you in the process.

Translucence ➢ written by: @icequeenbae

Pairing: Cha Eunwoo x F.Reader Word Count: 4.2k Summary: It’s your first short vacation with Dongmin since you started dating, and you get a chance to stay at an extremely fancy hotel in Jeju. The ocean-view suite is perfect, yet there’s a small inconvenience… or a genius design?

More Than You Know ➢ written by: @beomcoups

Pairing: Vernon x F.Reader Word Count: 2.5k Summary: A night of fright is no delight, as your boyfriend harbors a secret that changes the trajectory of your lives. 

Otherworldly ➢ written by: @kwanisms

Pairing: Minho x F!Reader Word Count: 29.2k Summary: While watching a meteor shower with her best friend, Y/N witnesses a UFO falling from the sky and crashing on her family's farm. The two rush to the wreckage site and find an alien spacecraft with a rather mysterious survivor.

Smoke & Mirrors ➢ written by: @shuadotcom

Pairing: Seungcheol x AFAB!Reader Word Count: 3.6k Summary: You’re feeling uncharacteristically adventurous and your boyfriend just can’t say no to you.

Eros et Psyche ➢ written by: @hobeemin

Pairing: Im Jaebeom x F.OC Word Count: 5.1k Summary: A retelling of the Greek myth of how the God of Love Eros met and fell in love with Psyche.

[highwaytothedangerzone502]

Foxtrot Alpha Alpha - Chapter 27

Pairing: Hangman x Female OC

Word Count: 2074

Warnings: Talk of death, angst

Summary: Hangman learned his lesson a long time ago to never show his true feelings when someone's words or actions hurt him. To do so showed weakness that could be exploited, and Seresin men couldn't show weakness. Of course, there was an exception to every rule, and Jake's always came in the form of women, three in particular: his mom, Juliette Kazansky, and the girl whose name he could no longer bring himself to speak. She was the girl that got away; she was his biggest 'what if' and his biggest regret; she would forever be the ghost that haunted his dreams. Jake believed that's where she'd stay, for he would surely never see her again after what he did.

Or so he thought.

Notes: This is the sequel to India Lima Yankee; I'm using the same callsign for the Female OC as in Ghost Story because I just really like it, but they are different characters; chapters in italics are flashbacks.

Also sorry for the delay in posting this (again). I just got settled into my new place, so trying to get back into the swing of updated. Also happy belated birthday to Juliette and Ghost, who both share my bday :)

Chapter Songs: Stay Blindedsided

****

Ghost and Hangman left Texas the day after the funeral. It turned out to be a rough day for both of them because, after the ceremony, Jake had left the Blackwoods to grieve at their patriarch's headstone in private- despite knowing they would've been perfectly fine with his presence- and strolled through the cemetery until he came to a stop in front of a familiar marble stone inlaid into the soft grass. His body had reacted on its own accord as it slowly collapsed to the ground onto his knees. Hangman's eyes had stared at the engraving on the stone: Natalie Seresin.

He had talked to her, apologized for getting her killed, for cutting her beautiful life short. He told her of the fiasco he'd made of his life: how he'd pushed everyone he ever loved away, how he'd fucked things up with Ghost, how terrified he was to screw it up again, if the fallout would destroy him like it tried to last time. It'd come so close to succeeding before…

Hangman had told her of Michael Seresin's health issues and how Nick was on the lam; how he and Matt were rekindling their brotherhood and trying to be a family for once in their lives; how adorable her granddaughter Sophie was and what an asshole Jake had been to hold off meeting her for so long because of his anger at his father and brothers.

Ghost had found Hangman. She had silently knelt beside him, taken his hand in hers, and waited for him to speak the first word. He didn't remember what he said, but they ended up in his truck mindlessly driving on back roads for hours, sometimes chatting, sometimes not, but those silences never felt awkward, and only when they returned to North Island did Hangman's fear of losing her rear its ugly head again, telling him he didn't deserve her, let alone a second chance.

It was those thoughts that consumed him while he and Ghost sat on his couch with alcohol in hand. She had dreaded spending the night alone tonight, and Hangman was more than happy to oblige her request to stay with him for a bit. They were in the middle of watching the 2005 Pride and Prejudice, which she and Juliette adored. It'd even surpassed Ghost's love of The Notebook, and honestly, Hangman could kind of see why. It certainly had a happier ending!

"Okay, Mr. Darcy-" he began, pointing at the TV with his whiskey glass and nearly sloshing the liquid out- "or Noah Calhoun?"

Ghost groaned in despair. "Why would you do this to me?"

"Because I love you." The truth slipped out so casually, but Ghost would never suspect he meant it as anything more than platonic. She had never figured it out after all these years, and Hangman was content with the situation because it let him get his feelings off his chest without any risk of getting his heart well and truly broken by her inevitable rejection.

"That kind of question makes me think you hate me. If I had to choose…" Ghost bit her lip and then took a sip of her Bailey's and whiskey. "Darcy. I'm such a sucker for the brooding type."

"Is that why you fell for Rooster?" Hangman teased, bumping her knee playfully with his.

She glowered at him, but the hint of a smile tugging on her lips took the venom out of it. "We were both in shit emotional states, and he looked a lot better brooding than I did."

Hangman's face fell into one of disagreement. "I hold an informed opinion when I say you look better brooding. This may have to do with me having to watch Bradshaw pine for Juliette from the moment he saw her when we arrived for the training. Don't get me wrong; I get it with their history, but still, annoying to deal with on a daily basis. Especially because those lovesick puppy eyes were involved."

Ghost raised an eyebrow at him. "You staring at Rooster's face a lot?"

"I had to gauge my competition, both for the training detachment and romantically. Bradshaw wears his heart on his sleeve, and you can see whatever he's feeling. From the first night we arrived, he had his eyes set on her. I had history to contend with, and I figured out pretty quickly winning her heart was a lost clause."

"You really liked Juliette, didn't you?" The question came out more of a statement, and Hangman winced at the sound of it. "I knew you had a flirtationship, but I never realized you had genuine feelings for her."

Hangman shrugged to give an air of indifference. "It is what it is. My family isn't exactly lucky in love, except for Matt."

"I've seen the way girls look at you. You could have any girl you want. What gives?"

None of them are you. "Haven't found one I clicked with in a long time," he replied, eyes trained on the amber liquid in his glass before knocking the rest back. "You want more to drink?"

Ghost nodded and followed him to the bar, where he poured their glasses fuller than he should've. He probably didn't need more, considering the strong buzz he currently felt, so Ghost had to be buzzing as well, although if she was, she didn't show it outside of talking more animatedly. She'd always been able to hide her drunkenness well. Sometimes too well.

"Who was the girl you clicked with?" Ghost prodded. "Was it back at the Academy?"

"Yeah, but she didn't feel the same. We shared one drunken kiss, and that was it. I was actually doing it to save her from some creep." Jake bit his tongue, realizing he might've said too much. Ghost would figure out he spoke of her if he said anymore. He had to move past it. "It is what it is. Besides, I'm happily married to my job."

Ghost leaned against the bar on her forearms. "Did I know her?"

"Yeah, you knew her." Hangman hoped his short response would end that topic of conversation.

Ghost had other ideas. "Who was she?"

"I don't see the point in saying it since it's in the past, and telling you now won't change anything about it."

"Well-" Ghost began matter-of-factly- "she missed out, but I think you got it wrong about her not returning the feelings. All the girls at the Academy had a crush on you at some point. Hell, I'm pretty sure a few of the instructors did."

Hangman searched her eyes, and a certain amount of anxiety crept into his heart. She knows. She knows I'm talking about her. But why isn't she saying that aloud? Is Ghost trying to save me from the embarrassment? Or maybe... is she trying to save herself from it? 

Hangman decided to play the game. "All the girls," he echoed, straightening and stepping closer to her. "Does that include yourself?"

Ghost stood but still leaned against the counter. He saw her breathing hitch a little, giving him his answer. "Like I said. All girls had a crush on you at some point."

He took another step toward her, so close now that one deep breath from either of them would cause their chests to touch. "And now?"

Do not start anything! This is a bad idea. Abort mission. Abort! Abort! Abort! The warning bells clanged loudly in his head, but seeing Ghost's eyes drop to his mouth wiped those thoughts from his head in one fell swoop. 

"Jake-"

His name rolling off her tongue broke him. Hangman leaned down and pressed his lips to hers, soft, restrained, and questioning, giving her the opportunity to pull away in case he'd horribly misread the signs. In case he'd overstepped any boundaries.

Ghost hands found their way to his face, gentle but firm. Hangman's willpower caved at the green light she'd granted him, his arms wrapping around her torso to pull her close to him, her soft curves flush against his solid abdomen. He couldn't get enough. Couldn't get enough of the taste of his whiskey on her lips, the smell of her Jo Malone perfume enveloping him, the softness of her hair as one of his hands tangled up in it. 

"Stop." Ghost's quiet voice dragged Hangman out of his euphoria. He leaned back to look at her, wondering what happened, what he had done wrong.

"What is it?" he asked, carefully brushing a stray piece of hair from her face.

Ghost disentangled herself from his arms, leaving him feeling cold and empty. She backed away while shaking her head. "I can't- I can't do this."

"I'm sorry. I- what did I do? Did I misread-" Hangman started reaching out for her but immediately stopped when she stepped back.

"It's not y- I can't do this. We just..."

"What is it?" Hangman inquired, dreading where this was going.

The pained expression on her face only deepened. She opened her mouth but closed it just as fast, searching for the words she wanted. "Why? Why did you leave me?"

He blinked, processing her question, fearing the route he knew they were heading. "What are you talking about?"

"After the accident, when I was clinging to life in sick bay, when I had just lost my best friend, where were you?" Ghost demanded, taking a challenging step toward him, fury temporarily wiping away her sadness. "I died and came back, I waited for you, I asked Coyote where you were, begged God for you to come see me, and you were nowhere to be found. For fuck's sake, even Cyclone and Warlock visited me despite the shit they were dealing with in the aftermath of the accident to see how I was holding up. Phoenix, who I barely knew at the time, came to check on me. Coyote was at my bedside every day and tried to cheer me up even though he was reeling from the loss of his girlfriend, and you-" Ghost's breath hitched- "you were nowhere to be seen. Why?"

Hangman gulped, desperately trying to gain control of his mind and block out the horrific memories and thoughts that plagued him from that time. In a strained voice, he replied, "I thought you didn't want to see me. I thought- I thought you blamed me for the accident."

"Blamed you? Jake, I know Javy told you I wanted to see you. I even asked fucking Cyclone and Warlock to send you, but nothing! Why would I ask for you if I hated you? Why would I defend you in the trial for the accident if I blamed you for it? And I know you avoided me before the trial, how you always managed to disappear before I could reach you from across the room. So, I'm not buying it. There's something else that stopped you. What was it?"

"I- I can't-" Hangman found himself at a loss for words; the images of what he'd seen, of what it reminded him of, rendered him speechless, incapable of defending himself against the barrage of valid fury and hurt Ghost hurled at him. God, he wanted to tell her, to tell her everything, but he couldn't. Hangman couldn't bring himself even to the edge of that long, dark hole of endless despair he'd spiraled into after Ghoul's death. If Hangman did, he was terrified he wouldn't be able to pull himself out again.

"I have never needed anyone in my life," Ghost said, her voice cracking. Tears brimmed her eyes, threatening to cascade down her flushed cheeks. Barely able to get the words out, she whispered hoarsely, "But I needed you then, Jake. When I needed you most, you left me alone. Why?"

I loved you. That's why I couldn't be there. The words lodged in his throat, paralyzing fear taking control of his body.

Ghost scoffed in disgust. "Even after all this time, you still can't tell me. I should've known. Goodbye, Jake."

She turned on her heel, grabbed her purse, and exited his apartment, leaving Hangman rooted to the spot and realizing that goodbye had been final. She'd given him a second chance, and he'd blown it. She handed him the perfect opportunity to explain himself, and like the coward he was, he clammed up. 

The black hole of despair he'd escaped for years finally won as he tumbled back into it.

****

Tags: @lgg5989 @shanimallina87 @polikszena @summ3rlotus @icemansgirl1999 @supernaturaldawning @thedarkinmansfield @lyannaforpresident @lapilark @getmyprettynameoutofyourmouth @simpofthecentury @shadeops21 @pansexualwitchwhoneedstherapy @double-j @bradshawsandbridgetons @catsandgeekyandnerd @peachiicherries @multifandomcnova @fandomsstolemylife00 @bookloverhorses @mak-32 @midnightmagpiemama @luckyladycreator2 @ellamae021 @kmc1989

Chapters: Chp 1 Chp 2 Chp 3 Chp 4 Chp 5 Chp 6 Chp 7 Chp 8 Chp 9 Chp 10 Chp 11 Chp 12 Chp 13 Chp 14 Chp 15 Chp 16 Chp 17 Chp 18 Chp 19 Chp 20 Chp 21 Chp 22 Chp 23 Chp 24 Chp 25 Chp 26 Chp 27

If you're not on the tag list and want to be, just let me know :)

[lepardlover]

FELLOW WYNNCRAFT PLAYER ON TUMBLR DOT COM?

yeah!!! i love wynncraft!!! ive been playing on and off since before gavel, but the last few months i really put my nose to the grindstone and decided to see how far i could progress since ive never actually gotten to max combat level before lol

right now i have like, two main characters and two side characters, all four of them are melee because i was a chronic assassin main until about a week before rekindled, but im so glad i decided to try warrior!!!

my first main is an acrobat assassin named lyon that i play with my gf and her arcanist mage elora, and my second is a paladin warrior that i play solo who doesn't have a name because he started as a side thing to fix the fact that lyon and elora got desynced on a quest but then after leveling a paladin from 0 to 65 in like three days i realized i really liked playing him, more than my previous solo main

my two side characters are my old main, a shadestepper assassin named leone that i created before the prof update and played on and off ever since, stopped playing him as much bc i got too used to the mechanics for acrobat and paladin, which are VERY different from shadestepper. my other side character is a fresh warrior who im still workshopping a name on, but i created him when rekindled released to check out the new earlygame with my gf! we're still only like. in the 20s or something so no real progress towards any archetypes, but the plan is to have my guy go full fallen and her girl angel go lightweaver!

i like this game so much i care SO MUCH about the world lore even though i have only ever gotten to level 68 :[

[swimmingwolf59]

Okay. I've just about finished rereading yotsuba and I HAVE to ramble about Yanda and Koiwai's relationship because it is utterly baffling to me. (And it doesn't help that Koiwai always describes his relationships with people so vaguely lol)

When I first read yotsuba, I accepted Koiwai's vague description of Yanda as "my junior" to mean he's someone who started later than Koiwai at the same company, and they haven't known each other for very long. But upon my reread, I've realized that can't possibly be the case.

Yanda is first mentioned in CHAPTER ONE - that blew me away when I saw that. Koiwai asks Jumbo where Yanda is and Jumbo tells him that something came up and he can't make it (and that he's worthless lol). So apparently Yanda is close enough to both of them that he was expected to help Koiwai move and to give Jumbo that update, not Koiwai.

AND IT'S NOT JUST THAT. In the yakiniku chapter, Jumbo brings up someone who Koiwai says "he hasn't seen in a long time." Yanda also seems to know this person. In the camping chapter, when Yanda shows up on his scooter, Koiwai says "You're still riding this thing? That takes me back!" Both of these things seem to imply that Yanda has been part of the group for a while. Also, Koiwai's mom knows Yanda by name.

So my new conclusion is that Yanda is actually a pretty close member of the friend group, and they've been friends for a long time.

So now, the truly baffling part - he has never met Yotsuba. She doesn't know him, and he doesn't know her. He can't even remember her name. When he first meets her, he's surprised to see her answer the door! How can a close friend of Koiwai's not know his daughter lol???? Jumbo has obviously known her her whole life.

My theory is that Koiwai and Yanda met in college, maybe they were in the same department or even while Koiwai was a grad student and Yanda was in undergrad (making stuff up, but Yanda has always seemed much younger than Koiwai). They became good friends, enough that Yanda joined the friend group with Jumbo and met Koiwai's parents. But after graduating, Koiwai began working abroad, presumably where he got Yotsuba, or maybe he worked in a few different places. Regardless, I don't think Yanda would've had enough money to visit him. As he is now, he eats cup ramen all the time and apparently doesn't have access to hot water (???), the guy may even be living out of his car for all we know lol, but I don't think he has a lot of money. I don't think he would've then, either. So he didn't see Koiwai while he was abroad. Even when he came back to Japan, I feel like Koiwai might have lived at home with his parents until he was able to rent this current house. His mom knows the person who's renting to them, talks about them as if they're a friend, which makes me think she helped him get that current house. And considering the fact that they don't visit each other often, Koiwai's family home might not be very close. So, again, Yanda couldn't feasibly visit that often. Now that Koiwai's a lot closer though they can hang out again, hooray! Time to finally meet that daughter he's heard about and obviously wasn't paying attention at all when Koiwai talked about her! (Though it's still baffling to me that Yanda just shows up one day to have lunch without even announcing he's coming over but anyway LMAO.)

I love them. I love thinking about them. Mainly because it makes no sense so it's fun having like a conspiracy theory board trying to figure this out LMAO.

If you want my insane theory, Koiwai and Yanda dated in college but broke up six or more years ago (hence why Koiwai's mom knows him and Jumbo complains about him like that close friend who hates their friend's partner but can't trash talk them until they break up). HOWEVER Koiwai is the only one who knows they broke up, Yanda missed the memo (it happened in the yakiniku chapter, he has a track record lol), and now he's trying to rekindle the romance by showing up for lunch all the time. I may or may not be writing a fic about this.

[nightimedreamersworld]

Six Sentence Sunday

Thank you for the tag dear @artsyunderstudy your work is lovely as always 🥰

So I've been in that weird limbo where you think a lot about writing, but without doing any actual writing. Oh well.

I've been thinking a lot about Every little helps in particular (and sweating about the fact that I haven't updated it in almost two months 😰) and I have good and bad news about it:

The good: I finally figured out what was troubling me about it

The bad: I scrapped almost everything I had written already. (It's fine, as it was mostly filler that didn't go anywhere. It still hurt tho)

Anyway, here's to hoping a fresh start will rekindle my inspiration...

As for A Charity Case: more bad news on this front. Namely, the massive plot hole I found in the planning of Simon and Baz's date - at this point I'll either have to ditch one of their stops, or I'll have to go back and change a few details on the first chapter, just to make everything fit into one damn night.

Here's an excerpt from when both Simon and I thought this date was going oh soooo smoothly:

So, yeah, I don't mind a bit of reckless spending if it means treating myself to a nice dinner out with the boy I'm trying to woo. And this is the Mage's money, anyway. I'd rather blow through this cursed inheritance as quickly as possible. (I've got enough of it saved to pay rent for several months, and a job lined up to start after the New Year. I'll be fine.)

So I drink the wine. I talk to Baz. And I watch him. 

Merlin, he looks gorgeous, all lit up by the warm streetlight coming in through the window. He's looking out, twirling his glass, and I want to devour him.

-

And last but not least: I've started on my Secret Snowflake fic! This is very draft-y and so might change later, but for now have a snippet that hopefully doesn't give the prompt away:

Somehow, I'd convinced myself we were past that. It's been months since either of us broke down during sex, and even when it happened, we learned quickly how to soothe each other. How to communicate our needs and get to the bottom of the problem. How to overcome whatever it was together. 

Now, though, as Simon retreats into a cup of tea, holding himself tightly across from me on the kitchen table, I feel a pinprick of dread. 

We've been getting bolder in the bedroom, trying out new things every week. As I wait for Simon to gather his words, I go through my mental list of kinks, wondering what could be setting him off this time.  

I feel Simon's foot resting over mine; I'm wearing socks, he isn't. It's the first time he's reached out to me since I got home. 

“Don't worry yourself to a strop," Simon says, lowering his mug. He hasn't actually drank the tea. “I'm fine. Just embarrassed, really." 

I hum. "I know. I can almost taste the blood on your cheeks."

I'll tag: @bookish-bogwitch (pls give me more RoN) @cutestkilla @you-remind-me-of-the-babe @palimpsessed @captain-aralias @confused-bi-queer @martsonmars @whogaveyoupermission @chen-chen-chen-again-chen @facewithoutheart @ivelovedhimthroughworse @ionlydrinkhotwater @larkral @aristocratic-otter ❤

[khalidplsstfu]

The succession finale ruined my life

The title of this essay is not an overstatement. Somehow, against all odds, three fictional nepotism babies have taken things from me over the course of one episode that have yet to return. In this essay, I will focus on that finale episode of the series.

The episode begins with audio from a news report detailing the current situation. Waystar Royco, a legacy company owned and built up by now deceased Logan Roy, is set to be purchased by GoJo, a company owned by eccentric billionaire Lukas Matsson. With this audio playing, we join Logan’s son Kendall as he heads to the office. Once there, he asks about an upcoming board meeting, which I always found fascinating on Succession. The crew’s work brings such gravitas and drama to something as mundane as a board meeting. It sometimes feels like whole seasons lead up to these characters just sitting together in a room. And the actors’ performances in these scenes are phenomenal. The way Kieran Culkin looks physically ill with fear as Logan berates him in S1 E6 feels like a mob movie, not a show about the wealthy elite.

But back to the episode at hand...

Kendall enters the office where his team waits with more bad news (Kendall getting his bubble popped is almost a cliche in this show). Kendall has lost the votes of two key parties needed to stop the acquisition of his father’s company.Starting the episode this way give the writers a chance to slyly tell us directly: “He doesn’t have it. We know you love this rich loser and want to see him succeed, but we promise, he doesn’t have it.” The audience ignores these warnings, just as Kendall ignores the staffer trying to give him a fair warning of impending doom. "I got this," he falsely assures the man who will likely be fired when, not if Kendall fails.

Then the entrance theme starts.

and then we join Lucas Matsson and Shiv Roy, Logan's daughter and Kendall’s sister has conspired with Matsson to assist in purchasing Waystar Royco so she can become CEO. Her desire for Matsson's approval likely connects to her need for validation from her now-deceased withholding father. As they scheme, the conversation turns to Shiv's husband Tom Wambsgans, who runs Waystar’s news organization, and his future role. Shiv advocates firing Tom, calling him a corporate bootlicker metaphorically and a “highly interchangeable modular part” literally. Moments later, Shiv gets a call and we have the first plot twist: the third Roy sibling has been found.

En route to convince her brother to take her side, Shiv calls Tom and shares updates, including on their crumbling marriage. Shiv seems open to rekindling things but doesn’t know how. Even expressing vulnerability, she speaks in the Roys’ calculated way. When she finally cracks and asks if Tom will have a real relationship with her, his ambivalent "I don't know" breaks her heart and mine.

When we rejoin Kendall, he is leaving cringey messages for his friend, unaware Roman has been found. Learning Roman’s location, both siblings head his way.

Roman Roy, the youngest sibling, is at their mother's house. Shiv arrives, then Kendall, and they are ready to rumble. After getting beaten up at a protest, Roman seems to have had an awakening. In his own weird way, he tells Kendall he wants out. He sees their corporate world as bullshit, Kendall as desperately trying to fill undeserved shoes, and doesn’t want to participate anymore. With messy hair and a t-shirt instead of a suit, chilling at mom’s house, his contrast to his polished siblings is subtle but loud. Kudos to him for being over it all.

I won’t delve too deeply into the great Tom and Greg relationship here, so back to the siblings sitting together. This time it’s closer to sibling chatter than rumbling. Roman expresses wishing he could help both, while Shiv is confident she’s on the winning team. She tells them not to make this a reason for her future kids to lose their uncles. “Take it like men,” she arrogantly says, “because I won.”

In the very next scene, we learn Shiv is “pulling a Kendall.” Tom attends a tense dinner with Matsson, feeling his head is on the chopping block. This was a masterclass in Tom Wambsgans. He kowtows completely to be the ultimate corporate tool, and what does it get him?

The fucking CEO job offer, right under Shiv’s nose.

This was the first moment I ever considered someone besides a Roy becoming CEO. Here, a small-town buffoon proves hungrier and more capable than those born for it, which absolutely gutted me. Some things should be sacred, like a man’s birthright. If Kendall or Roman can’t have it, at least Shiv would through cunning. That would be appalling yet understandable given the stakes. But imagining Kendall futilely resenting his father until death without achieving his life’s mission? We must imagine Sisyphus happy.

Remember that Tom-Greg dynamic? Tom brought Greg, who sneakily got intel on Matsson snubbing Shiv using a translation app, then reported it to Kendall at the family dinner table. Before the bombshell, Greg nervously asks Kendall from the bathroom:

“Can you guys win?”

Kendall swiftly springs into action upon learning Matsson is trying to screw over Shiv, who doubts it initially then realizes it's true. Suddenly, the Roys unite like Voltron, full of fire and brimstone to stop the company sale through calls and plots. Cue “The Boys Are Back in Town”

In the next scenes, we get some of the finest family relationship development i've ever seen in media, as the Roys actually bond and enjoy each other’s company for once, like a real family. From preparing a “Meal Fit for a King” to conversing with their mother, this new dynamic humanized them. They depart as a cohesive Roy Voltron.

First stop is getting cherished items from Logan’s possessions, where we see the conclusion of Connor’s storyline. His prostitute wife very likely used him for money, and they’re splitting after a two-week marriage. RIP Connor. As they sort through Logan’s things, they share a somber moment watching home videos and silently grieving together, a surprisingly human moment. Afterward, Tom drops the bomb on Shiv about being offered CEO. Shiv reacts typically, calling Tom an “empty suit” with the man himself mere feet away. The hurt on both their faces is palpable.

The battle lines are drawn with 20 minutes left in the finale.

For context, when I started Succession, I assumed I knew how it would go. Kendall Roy would rightfully become CEO after learning tough lessons. I related to him, so when he humbly asked his siblings’ blessing before taking his father’s seat, it felt real.

Much happens in these gripping final minutes that I won’t delve into here. Please watch the brilliant finale and podcast for the full emotional weight. We fast forward to the pivotal board meeting and shareholder vote.

Kendall confidently walks in ready to claim his birthright, all charm and politics. After pleasantries, he demands that approving the deal requires firing him first. He pushes for an immediate vote, and quick no’s sound off until Shiv’s turn, when she walks out. When questioned by her bewildered brothers, she utters Kendall’s worst fear:

“Uh, I might’ve changed my mind.”

“What the fuck?” Kendall replies.

In the last 15 minutes, I watched my favorite fictional family implode. From rehashing past wounds to Kendall lying about a big secret to the childish fighting, this was clearly the point of no return that severs the family indefinitely.

In the end, they sell the company. Tom assumes the CEO role. Kendall grapples with suicide by a river. Roman grabs a drink at a bar. Shiv becomes a CEO’s wife. Nobody got what they wanted except the corporate yes-man. And yet...

Seven stars on the high-speed scale for this devastating finale.

[genericpuff]

Do you have any current voice claims for the Lore Olympus : Rekindled characters you've introduced so far?

Also, kinda just curious, you can ignore this one: Are you slightly worried about Rachel finding out you're reworking her story, seeing how she doesn't take criticism well?(genuine q)

LOVE your art work, btw!

Fun question, but unfortunately I don't really have any sort of neat answer to it. I don't tend to think in the realm of voice acting/live action when I think of the characters I write, it's just not really where my brain goes. When I read scripts internally to myself, they tend to just be default imaginary voices that I use. The technical sound of the voice itself isn't so much important to me as the line delivery and how they communicate (so like, 'voice' in the sense of writing rather than auditory). So like, how often do they pause, do they use lots of filler words, do they breathe heavily in between sentences, do they speak in short or long sentences, do they get to the point or speak in run-on sentences, do they speak eloquently with bigger words or do they prefer fast-paced conversation with slang, do they have a stutter or any other vocal block/impediment, do they approach conversations with cockiness or modesty, that sort of thing.

More often than not my inner voice when reading dialogue to myself just tends to be variations of my own voice lmao My brain doesn't have much imagination in that department unless I'm imagining a specific person from the very beginning (so if you ask me to imagine Will Smith's voice in my head while reading dialogue, yeah, I can do that just fine, but if you ask me to do it in reverse by assigning a specific person's voice to the characters I write, I'm just gonna draw a blank LMAO) The only other voice that pitches in on the reading process is my husband when he's doing dialogue exchanges with me (so basically I'll read a few lines of dialogue to him, which will turn into him going "lol imagine if it went like this..." which then turns into us doing casual improv, it makes for a great way to come up with organic conversation or re-write punchlines). But my husband's voice definitely doesn't pop into my head when I'm reading my dialogue to myself, again my brain just automatically defaults to my own mind voice.

If there's a specific actor you imagine when you read Rekindled, though, I'd love to hear it!

Regarding question #2, yes and no? I'm less worried about her (because legally there's nothing she can do about it, it's literally just fanfiction lol) and more worried about her fanbase, people call ULO toxic all the time and yet it's the fanbase who have historically done all the shitty things like doxxing people, witch-hunting, dogpiling, bullying, etc. so I'm basically just waiting for the day that I get a flurry of asks or hate directed my way and I can go "yep, they found out about Rekindled" LMAOOO

But on the other hand, it is just on Tumblr and it's not even really parodying LO, it's basically any other AU fic with the exception of it being in comic form. Like, if someone found an excuse to bully Rekindled on the basis of it just existing, it would be pretty hypocritical (and hilarious) when AO3 is full of LO AU's from people who detest what LO has become just as much as I do. As much as Rekindled was born out of criticism, the comic itself is still just its own thing, telling its own story, none of what's in it is meant to directly mock LO or even outright criticize it - it's just aiming to take things in a different direction than the one LO took, with the motivation of giving the fans who have dropped off LO due to its lowering quality some catharsis (and a new reason to look forward to Saturdays). I think the pettiest thing about Rekindled on its own is that it updates 15 minutes before LO does LMAO

Of course, all that stuff about Rekindled not generating hate will only last if I stick the landing. So far so good, but we'll see how it goes as it diverges further away from OG LO (mostly with the plot as it drops a lot of the things that seemed to be used as distractions especially in S2 onwards, and we're not even really tackling S3 because of how much of a mess it is; we're still very much in the 'prologue' section of it where a lot of it is closer to the OG version, but we'll start seeing more diversions as it goes on).

So, yeah, I am a little worried sometimes about the "what ifs", but it's not a constant fear that lives in my head rent-free. I was definitely more anxious about it when I started, but so far it's been great and I know ultimately that when people do act out in my inbox, often times they're just fundamentally misunderstanding what my intentions are or the fact that I'm not trying to make them hate LO or "dethrone Rachel" (though I do make jokes about that LOL) I'm just doing what many artists have done before me - expressing myself and doing something in my own way with the disappointment I've felt over the past year due to LO.

Frankly, I also don't think any of the problematic stans of LO are even on Tumblr. I find most of the toxicity so far has been on reddit and Facebook (°ー°〃) So I think Tumblr has made for a very safe platform to post it to. I think if it were on Webtoons it would ABSOLUTELY generate a lot more hate, there are other H x P comics that have nothing to do with LO that get harassed by the LO fans just because it exists and happens to be about H x P (as if Rachel herself invented the myth).

[ultraericthered]

Anime Update V2 34

Wolf’s Rain - You know shit’s hit the fan when the guy we thought was getting set up as the main villain gets offed at the start of the episode. Yeah, Lord Orkham got assasinated by the forces of the as of now unseen Lady Jaguara, and Hubb Lebewski, who was taken captive by the late noble’s forces, is now on the run, while his ex-wife is still held captive by our other main antagonist, Lord Darcia. And oh man, Darcia shows just how scary and efficient he is here, and by the end has Cheza back in his possession and has thwarted the four main wolves on what could’ve bene a clear pathway to Paradise.

Hunter x Hunter - Caught up to the second anime’s version of where the first anime ended, and then Chrollo used the fortune-telling ability he stole from Neon to read the futures of all Troupe members while Kurapika finally recieves Hisoka’s text message that the Spiders aren’t really dead. And so we’re approaching this arc’s real ending!

Fruits Basket - The episode that introduced Rin Sohma, the Zodiac horse who unfortunately does not meet our main characters this time and doesn’t even transform. The episode was mostly about how Hatsuharu was dealing with his and Rin’s breakup, and how his angst and potential danger to even his loved ones is paralleled with Kyo. Yuki also resolves to return to the Sohma family estate to visit Haru, which took a whole lot of courage and maturity on his part.

Rozen Maiden - My fears were confirmed - “middle school Jun” who has been communicating with adult Jun is not really middle school Jun, but Kirakishou decieving adult Jun into making a body for her. The real middle school Jun is trapped in another realm with Canaria and has been recieving adult Jun’s replies to things he never sent him to begin with! The one character who catches onto what’s really going on here is Suigintou, who of course proceeds to not alert Jun or Shinku to this because she wants to fight Kirakishou when she emerges so that she may claim her Rozen Mystica, oh you evil little shit! This is “Vegeta allows Cell to reach his Perfect form” stuff here! 

Fate Zero - Not much in the way of plot advancement this week, just more solid interactions between Saber and Irisveil, and between Gilgamesh and Kirei, who continue to provide some of the best stuff.

Revolutionary Girl Utena - 'Twas the series finale, what all can I really say about it? It was trippy and mind-blowing and eye-opening and heatwrenching and inspiring and...well, revolutionary! And I just loved the conclusion it came to. The Rose Bride/”princess” role truly is worthless to the girl who has it and only benefits the Prince, the “Prince” role itself is toxic and ultimately incapable of breaking through the Rose Gate, Anthy’s lack of self worth and internalized sexism failed her as much as Utena’s own wrong-headed idealism and aspirations to be a Prince failed her, what actually saves Anthy is Utena reaching out to her not as a Prince trying to save the damsel in distress, but as herself believing in her friend, as one young woman in need to another - one lover to another, as their hearts and hands connect. And getting to see Akio get exactly what he deserved twice was so damn satisfying. In the end, Utena did bring the world revolution, but not in the way Akio had ever understood or intended. Everyone’s own “world” is now in revolution, the Rose Bride is slave no more, and Utena is out there somewhere, waiting to be found...

Senki Zesshou Symphogear - The last thing I’d been expecting after last episode was Chris getting taken to Miku’s house and becoming her new friend, that was so sweet! And seeing Chris step up to protect Miku and other civilians put in danger from the Noise attack, Genjuro coming in to protect Chris (who takes off afterwards), Miku taking action to protect others including her estranged friend Hibiki, and of course, Hibiki coming to her rescue as the two of them rekindle their beautiful friendship afterwards. The OTP sails again!

AMC: Tengen Tonpa Gurren Lagann - Got to episode 5, which introduces characters that aren’t exactly favorites of mine, but had a central conflict that was interesting enough to hold my attention the whole way through. Kamina immediatey hating on the high priest due to him reminding of his old villages leader was hilarious, and while he’s left unable to really understand the ways of this village, he turns out to not be entirely off the mark - the high priest essentially is just the village leader disguised by religious doctrine and beliefs he doesn’t truly hold dear. By far the weakest part of the episode was the fight. I could barely make it out, the lighting was so dark and dull!

AND

Akudama Drive - Had to watch this in addition since I’d have no room for it anywhere later in the time remaining of this year. And yeah, I’ve certainly reached the halfway point of this one cours anime. I know this ‘cause main charactes have begun to fucking die!

[top-the-cat]

I've bought loads of records since I last did a vinyl update and to be honest, there has been a lot of bargain basement bullshit in there... Don't get me wrong, there have been a few diamonds in the rough and at a couple of quid a pop, they are even more precious when you find them!

But I'm not going through them today as there are loads to fuck about with and I would need to go through them all to remind myself what's worth listening to again, and what's worth just chucking...

So we will start with my two latest acquisitions from Ninja Tune:

First off, a slice of sample heavy Polish trip-hop jazz from 2003. This was right from when I had my love affair with Ninja and greedily hoovered up most of their offerings; some I paid for, some I acquired via certain file sharing facilities, and then later ended up working for them so got them all for free!

I bought this mainly as it was cheap on their website and it meant I would get free delivery on my next record. But yeah, it's cool, jazzy, quite drum heavy, but not heavy drums, if that makes sense? More easy/swing style breaks and loops, with plenty of double bass and bits of chopped up piano and vocal snips. The sort of thing you could play to the father-in-law, who likes his jazz classic and easy, but appreciates that it evolves over time... (I played him the video of Kid Koala doing his Drunk Trumpet routine the other day and he was well impressed)

Skalpel by Skalpel

Now this, I could probably play a couple of the tracks to the father-in-law, as it is very much a jazz inspired album... but some are more towards the Venetian Snares end of the jazz spectrum, than the Ramsey Lewis end!

This was one of the albums that really defined my listening habits in the early 00's and opened me up to all sorts of jazz, drum & bass, trip hop, and breakcore sounds that I still blast to this day.

Originally released in '98, I think it was most likely Sordid that I first heard on one of the Zen compilations and was hooked on this slow, dark, jazzy, breakbeat sound and needed more. So I got hold of the Album and full on ingested it at every opportunity. This then led on to a full-on obsession with Amon Tobin where I actively sucked up all his stuff for quite a while. But like all good love affairs, it can only last so long and eventually we parted ways after five albums, two EP's a live mixtape, and getting guest list passes to his album launch party.... Which was a wicked night out, but he essentially played a hard electronic drum & bass set, which wasn't where I was at, so we called it a night.

I would check in occasionally, but he was living in the wilderness with some chap called Double Click and going by the name Two Fingers by then, making atmospheric dubstep sounds. Although that partnership didn't last long, his new found atmospheric dubstep thing continued and we were moving in different circles by then.

He did pop up on the theme tune to Orphan Black a few years later with a dainty fairy tale inspired snippet of music, and I tried out a few of his newer offerings, but the Goddess Tatiana Maslany was on the scene by then, so we wasn't going to get a look in anymore!

Anyway, twenty odd years later and I get an email saying that the latest classic Ninja Tune album to be repressed with a fancy updated artwork and coloured vinyl is this; Permutation. (I picked up Out From Out Where on gold vinyl, last year) And I'm all giggly at the thought of rekindling a lost love, even more so when it's on deep purple, heavyweight vinyl and comes in a die-cut sleeve with posters and enhanced artwork by Openmind/DJ Food....

Until I found out it was only available in the US and it would cost me £80 to get it shipped over!

Maybe it was a sign? I didn't need to relive that part of my life to that extent and £80 is a lot of money to spend on a single record that I already have on CD and haven't listened to in years anyway.

And they do say that you should never go backwards to an old flame...

On the other hand, the standard black vinyl still comes with the artwork and die-cut sleeve and it wasn't eighty fucking notes! So I threw caution to the wind to see if there was still a spark between us and you know what? It's still there...

After all these years, he still makes me feel giddy when those gentle easy going jazz loops get darker and moodier and those drums come in and get chopped up and roll and the bass wobbles my balls!

I've listened to it start to finish three times in the last few days and it's like nothing has changed between us in all these years. The track list has been changed and there is a bonus tune on the end (which I knew but was never on his albums) which has made it the same, yet totally new and I'm all in love with the god damn Brazilian break charmer all over again... let's just hope he doesn't break my heart this time!

Permutation by Amon Tobin