#to see such a contrast between how i know i used to be and how i am now.

[smol-warrior-1258]

#it certainly doesn't help that pretty much the only other fire bender that Zuko's consistently contrasted with#is his extremely talented once in a lifetime level of a prodigy sister#but guys he's still very powerful#and I will bravely propose that#after seeing the dragons#and Zuko is no longer relying on his anger and rage to fuel his firebending#its not a coincidence that the next two battles that he has with Azula either#end with a stalemate (both Zuko and Azula use the same move on the airship and notably she's blown back further from it than he is!)#and then him winning (she's lost her stability while he's finally found his)#(side side note: I'm of the camp that Azula targeting Katara in the Agni Kai made Zuko the automatic victor because an Agni Kai is#(should be?)#between only the two partaking in it and Zuko WAS straight up wiping the floor with her until that very moment where she targeted Katara#which you know great play on Azula part she knows how to manipulate her brother cause once she released she was losing the Agni kai#Azula simply made the choice to get the throne via the line of succession lol)

You can't just leave the essay in the tags

I fear that "fire bending didn't come easy to zuko" and "zuko isn't a prodigy" (both true) has somehow snowballed into "zuko is a bad or at best average fire bender".... which simply isn't true, especially by the end of book 3

[windvexer]

Crafts of the Witch Useful to Learn

Welcome to December 25th, here's some stuff about witchcraft to think about because you're on your phone looking for a distraction :)

So anyway here's stuff that's really useful to learn how to do before you actually need it because putting it all together for the first time on game day is stressful.

Creation and Desecration of a Poppet

A poppet is a deeply sympathetic representation of someone or something (usually another person).

According to the law of sympathy, whatever you do to the poppet will happen to the person it represents. You could cleanse and bless it, or smite it.

Poppets can be made in a wide variety of ways, from paper dolls, to clay figurines, to crocheted stuffies - anything you like. They also must be worked over magically to link them to their target.

The most ideal poppet is decorated to look very similar to the thing it represents, and is imbued with a taglock (such as hair, nail clippings, footprint dust, etc).

Learning Prompts:

The handicraft of creating the poppet - start with any arts and crafts you're interested in and see if they'll work for you

Practice making several poppets - you do not need to consecrate them. How easy is it for you to decorate it just like the real person? How easy is it for you to include taglocks?

Find a disposal plan. ""Voodoo dolls"" are steeped in public awareness; will it be safe for you to throw away the poppet in the trash when you're done with it?

Consecration or enlivening poppet as target. Find or develop a ritual to fill the poppet with magical life so that it becomes the target. Practice this once or twice (perhaps on a poppet of yourself, to cast blessings or prosperity magic on yourself)

Desecration or severing link. Find or develop a ritual to end the sympathetic link between the poppet and its target. Practice this once or twice.

Storage and tending of enlivened poppets. They are alive and they act like it. If you intend to have poppets sitting around for long-term spells or to use as-needed, you will need a system of storing them so that they "go to sleep" and remain undisturbed until you need them.

Consecration, In General

Here I mean "consecration" to be an act of magic which anoints an object as sacred unto a purpose, and therefore primed for magical use. In crude terms: you're making an object magical and giving it a purpose at the same time.

Consecration is a very useful thing to know how to do. In and of itself it can form a kind of minor enchantment (I consecrate this mug of oolong tea to be a potion of survival +1), but it can also prepare the way for powerful enchantments (I consecrate this ring to become a divine protector, ready to receive the powerful enchantment I soon cast upon it).

Learning Prompts:

Find or create a minor consecration spell which can be cast in under a minute. Strive to obtain one which is covert and can be done even in the presence of others. (Perhaps we could call this a 'cantrip'). Such a spell tends to be suitable for moving fate a few degrees over, or to dig a shallow pool in the tides of reality.

Find or create a hefty consecration spell. Consider what abilities or access you have that allows you to redefine the fate and purpose of an object. Contemplation of this spell can provide great insight into one's own belief and path. Such a spell may completely reorient fate, and carve new channels into the waterways of reality.

Practice minor consecrations on 5 different types of objects. Consecrating the tea, that's easy - stir it a few times. But how to consecrate a hairbrush? How to consecrate a mirror?

Practice major consecration twice, unto two very different domains. Perhaps a pepper oil of fiery smiting, and a crystal bracelet of deep soothing. This is an opportunity to compare and contrast the powers you raise when you work within different domains.

Desecration, In General; and Spell Reversal

To make profane; as in, to remove the magic from something and make it no more than a lump of physical matter, or a meaningless event like scattered dust on the winds of fate.

In my opinion, all witches should learn this - "don't raise up what you can't put down" also includes "don't enchant shit if you don't know how to undo enchantments."

To know how to nullify magic also means you can nullify unwanted and harmful things around you, and take the force and energy out of them.

Learning Prompts:

Find or create a minor desecration spell, one that you can cast on the fly and without tools or ingredients. Such a spell may be like a slapping a broom on a dusty rug; it will shake free things not tightly held.

Find or create a major desecration spell. Such a spell is like steam cleaning and shampooing a rug; it must remove every particle of magic and leave nothing behind but stripped fibers.

Practice minor desecrations 5 times in day-to-day life, targeting stank vibes and irritating situations that do not serve you.

Practice minor consecrations and desecrations 5 times by consecrating a stone, candle, etc., unto a magical purpose, and then removing the consecration.

Find an opportunity to cast a major desecration, which you may find the opportunity to do the next time the need for banishment comes up; or when sorting through old magical tools you no longer need, etc.

Find or create a solid spell reversal, one that you can use without having to have physical spell remnants on hand. Note that reverse to sender is not the same as nullifying your own magic.

Binding Divination Tools to Veracity, and Sundry Divination Management

Or if you like, binding veracity to divination tools. Binding is not baneful magic. Binding means to attach one thing to another thing, or to prevent something from being ways.

You can cast a binding on your divination tools to constrain them to only tell the truth, to truly peer beyond the veil, and only deliver what it can see; and never reflect your personal whims.

There's plenty of magic you can cast for your divinatory tools to make your life easier.

Prepare a binding spell to constrain a divination tool to only reflect the kind of truth you want. Do you want a tarot deck to only show your true state of mind? Do you want a set of runes to only read the will of the gods? Do you want your charm set to only read on the future, and not the past?

Find or create a protection spell to stop undue influence on a divination tool. This does not mean "evil spirits are manipulating your reading." Undue influence also means the strong emotions of querents, random psychic garbage, and the like; but it can also have an impact on the way you phrase questions and work with the tool itself.

Find or create a spell to enchant your tool as a magical seer/oracle. You can use a tarot deck out of the box, of course. You can also enchant it to be a magical object that obtains truth from mystical sources. Try it and see if you like the difference.

Find or create a charging ritual to revitalize your divination tools. This is a good opportunity to examine elemental energies; what kinds of energies are best suited to the purposes of divination and seeing beyond? The full moon is classically used for such purposes. Challenge yourself to recharge your divination tools once a month for 3 months, and see if you like the difference.

Blessing, In General

You have the power to generate and coalesce benevolent and helpful energies, and to distribute them into the world around you. You can bless anything you like, and perhaps the more the merrier; it's a very fine way to transform a space, and put love into the world.

Try considering blessings to have 2 parts; the first is to evoke a desirable force, and the second is to apply the force in a certain way: You could evoke the winter dawn as a blessing power, and then ask it to do something specific (provide a calm day, to make wise choices, to avoid bad traffic, etc).

Write your own minor blessing spell that you can perform in a minute or less. Try centering this blessing around a wonderful and benevolent force, whether it be a certain god, mushrooms, unconditional love, and so forth.

Write a separate minor blessing spell using a very different focus. Try the deep blue calming waters of the deep ocean, or the sprightly breezes of alpine hills, or the feeling of the first sip of a perfect bowl of soup; but make it have really different vibes from the first blessing.

Practice both minor blessings and see the difference. Challenge yourself to use each blessing cantrip 5 times. Try clustering the blessings to fill a space with that kind of energy (such as five items on desk blessed under the alpine breeze, and five items in the bathroom blessed under the deep ocean). Can you feel a difference in the spaces as you move in and out of them?

Write a major blessing using the various benevolent and lovely powers of your practice. This is another good opportunity to explore your practice. When you are in need of love, kindness, grace, and softness, what part of your path rises to meet your needs?

The Big Practice

Consecrate a poppet unto yourself. Bind and enchant a divination tool to be a powerful oracle of truth, and read on the most helpful equipment the poppet needs (RPG style: weapon, armor, familiar, potion?).

Whatever the answer, make a tiny container spell which serves the purpose. Consecrate it to be the tool that the poppet (you) needs.

Give the enchanted container spell to the poppet and cast a blessing on it, to be empowered with the new tool it has been granted in life.

Carefully store the poppet and its tool.

Periodically, perhaps between 1 to 6 times a year, recharge your divination tool and discern what new tools the poppet might need. Desecrate the old tool if you need to (or let them stack up), and consecrate new tools.

Keep the poppet and its tools for as long as you like, carefully severing the link between yourself and it when you're done with it.

[scribblesofagoonerr]

first christmas | buddy & monkey: double the trouble

summary: the second part of the flash back to buddy & monkey's first christmas.

double the trouble masterlist

Christmas morning had arrived, and the faint golden light filtered through the curtains. You tiptoed down the stairs, the cosy warmth of the house contrasting with the crisp winter chill outside.

As you reached the bottom of the stairs, your eyes widened at the sight before you. Beneath the Christmas tree, a mountain of presents was neatly stacked up, each of them wrapped in colourful paper.

The room seemed to sparkle with magic, it was the kind you had only seen in movies or dreamed about as a child.

"Woah," You whispered, your voice filled with disbelief.

Leah appeared from the kitchen, holding a steaming drink in her hands that definitely wasn't for her considering she despised coffee, "Merry Christmas, my girl." She said warmly, stepping closer to you.

You blinked, still trying to process what you were seeing, "Are... Are all of these for me?" You asked hesitantly, as if afraid the answer might be no.

Leah chuckled and nodded, "For you, and for Buddy," She said, gesturing toward your favourite little buddy, who was babbling happily on the floor, sitting between Jordan's legs, attempting to chew on wrapping paper.

Jordan grinned at you, "Go ahead and open them, little one." She encouraged you.

You were hesitant, glancing at the sheer number of presents under the tree, "But... But I didn't ask for any of this," You said quietly, your fingers brushing against the wrapping paper of one of the small gifts.

"Well that's okay," Leah said, placing the steaming mug on the coffee table before moving to crouch down beside you, "You've been on Santa's nice list, and luckily, he knew exactly what you would like."

You brow furrowed as you tilted your head, "There's so many of them-- Wait, he knew?" Your eyes felt like they bulged out of it's sockets at those words.

"Yeah, he's been watching you all year round to see whether you've been bad or good," Leah stated, her expression turning playful, "Clearly Santa thinks you've been good this year." She added.

You scrunched up your nose, "He still sounds like a creep," You muttered, making Jordan burst into laughter from across the room, "I don't know what to open first." You added, feeling slightly overwhelmed.

"It's okay to take your time with them," Leah reassured you, "How about you over this side first?"

"Okay," You said, picking up a box about twice the size of your hand as you carefully tore into the wrapping paper, revealing a LEGO set. Your eyes lit up in excitement as you held it up, "Whoa, cool! LEGO! Thanks! I wanted this!" You exclaimed, turning to Leah and Jordan with a wide grin.

"There's plenty more to open," Jordan said, nodding toward the pile.

You dove back in, picking up another package, this one wrapped in a different kind of wrapping paper, "Cool! I love it, thank you!" You exclaimed, holding up the hoodie in your hands.

"That one is of my parents," Leah explained, smiling softly.

"Really?" Your eyes widened in shock, "I... I never expected it. Can I open the rest?" You asked eagerly.

"Of course you can," Leah said, ruffling your hair affectionately.

Meanwhile, Buddy had found her own source of entertainment: the discarded wrapping paper. She giggled and crinkled it in her tiny fists, clearly more interested in the noise it made than the actual gifts.

"She's more entertained by that than her presents," Jordan laughed, shaking her head in amusement.

"We could have saved so much money," Leah joked, amused with Buddy's antics, "You're not supposed to eat it, bubba."

But you were too engrossed in your presents to notice, "Woah! No way-- I have wanted one of these for ages! Thank you!" You grinned, holding the box of a fresh Nintendo Switch, one that you'd been looking at for ages.

"Don't thank us, thank Santa Clause," Leah teased.

"No way. That dudes' a creep!" You shot back, making Leah and Jordan both laugh, "Can I set it up, now?"

"You still have other presents to open, but in a bit you can," Leah said, shaking her head fondly.

"Can I take it out with us? Please?" You asked, already planning how you'd show off your new toy.

"That's fine, just be careful, okay?" Leah agreed.

"Deal! Thank you-- Whoa, this is totally awesome. Cool, Mario Kart!" You exclaimed, holding up the game in your hand.

"Open the present on your right, little one," Jordan prompted, clearly knowing what it was.

You tore into it eagerly and gasped, "A steering wheel? Awesome!"

"Apparently this is the one that's top of the range at the moment," Jordan explained with a proud smile, "We asked the man himself, who was certain about it."

"So cool!" You said, your excitement growing with each gift.

By the time you had opened all of your gifts, you were overwhelmed with the stacks of presents that you had from Leah, Jordan and both of their families, "I... I don't even know what to say," You admitted, looking at Leah and Jordan with wide eyes, "Thank... Thank you."

Leah smiled, leaning down to hug you tightly, "You're worth it, my girl."

Jordan joined the hug, Buddy nestled in her arms, "Merry Christmas, little one. Welcome to the family."

"Are we there yet?" You groaned, slumping dramatically in your seat as the car pulled out of the driveway.

Jordan glanced at you through the rearview mirror, one eyebrow arched in bemusement, "We've only just left our house, little one. At least wait until we're on the motorway before you start complaining, eh?"

"But I'm bored, and the car is cramped!" You whined, squirming in the backseat for emphasis, you were sat beside Buddy in her carseat, making the space feel even tighter, "How much longer until we're there?"

"About forty minutes," Leah replied from the passenger seat, scrolling idly through her phone.

"Forty minutes? That's, like, forever!" You protested, dragging out the word with as much melodrama as possible.

"Time will pass before you know it," Leah said, resisting the urge to roll her eyes at your dramatics.

"I don't think it will. I'm so bored," You complained, letting out an exaggerated huff and then leaned forward slightly, "I'm hungry. Can I have some chocolate?"

"No," Leah replied firmly, her tone leaving no room for debate, "You'll spoil your dinner."

"But I'm really hungry," You pressed, sticking out your lower lip in an attempt to look pitiful.

Jordan chuckled in amusement, her eyes focused on the road up ahead, "I'm sure you'll survive until we get there, little one."

"I don't think so," You countered with mock seriousness, "I'll starve before we get to Milton Keynes!"

Leah snorted, shaking her head, "You're being ridiculous. You literally had breakfast this morning. You'll survive."

"I'm not convinced," You grumbled under your breath, slumping further in your seat. Turning your attention to Buddy, you wiggled your fingers toward her sock-clad-feet, earning a squeal of delight from the 8 month old, "What do you think, Buddy? Aren't they being unfair?"

"Oh I'm sure she's definitely going to agree with you," Jordan teased, glancing at you in the rearview mirror, a smirk tugging at her lips.

You continued entertaining Buddy, making silly faces and tickling her feet, "Mummy and Mama are trying to starve me," You declared dramatically, "It's an outrage, right?"

Buddy responded with a happy babble and flailed her little arms, which you immediately interpreted as agreement, "See? Even Buddy agrees with me!" You said triumphantly, "So, can I have chocolate now?"

"My answer is still no, Menace," Leah said without missing a beat, her tone firm but playful.

"Ugh, so not fair," You grumbled, crossing your arms over your chest and slouching back into your seat.

You absolutely despised long car rides, and you definitely made sure that both Leah and Jordan were painfully aware of your feelings.

"Are we there yet?"  You questioned no less than 10 minutes later.

Leah let out an exaggerated sigh, "Not since the last time you asked, no."

"I'm bored!" You exclaimed dramatically.

"Hi, bored," Jordan quipped without missing a beat.

"Ha ha ha, you're hilarious..." You muttered sarcastically.

"I know," Jordan replied smugly, "I get that a lot."

You scrunched your face up, "Urgh, you're so annoying, and I'm still bored."

"Hi, still bored," Jordan teased, flashing you a cheeky grin in the mirror as she strummed her hands on the car steering wheel to the music that was playing, and ironically enough it was driving home for christmas.

"Babe," Leah chuckled, shaking her head, "Maybe I should've gotten you a Dad Jokes book for Christmas instead."

"No need, love. I'm naturally gifted," Jordan replied with a wink.

"More like you’re naturally annoying," You muttered, earning a laugh from Leah.

"Alright, Monkey," Leah said, turning slightly in her seat to face you, "If you're going to keep whining, how about we play a game to pass the time?"

"A game? Like what?" You asked cautiously.

"How about the quiet game?" Leah suggested, her lips twitching with amusement.

You scoffed, shaking your head in protest, "That's lame! Can't we play something better instead?"

"Like what?" Jordan questioned.

"Um... I don't know, like 'I spy'!" You declared, your eyes lighting up.

"Alright," Leah said with a sigh, "You start then."

You grinned mischievously, "I spy with my little eye... something red!"

"The air freshener?" Jordan guessed.

"Nope!" You exclaimed.

"The presents in the gift bag," Leah tried her luck.

"Wrong again!" You smirked in amusement.

Jordan arched her eyebrow, "Buddy's coat?" She asked.

"Nope, not even close," You said smugly.

"Something red? There's not much else in here," Leah mused.

"Give up?" You asked, bouncing slightly in your seat with excitement.

"I do," Jordan admitted, using her free hand to scratch the back of her neck.

"Not yet," Leah said, narrowing her eyes as she scanned the road, "Is it that road sign we just passed?"

"Nope! You know, you're both terrible at this!" You teased, leaning back with a triumphant grin.

"Alright, what is it?" Leah finally asked.

You grinned mischievously, glancing between the two of them, "It's Leah's face when she's mad!" You exclaimed, dissolving into giggles.

Jordan burst into laughter, clapping her hands on the steering wheel while Leah groaned, shaking her head, though a small smile tugged at her lips despite her mock glare.

"You are such a little Menace sometimes, you know that?" Leah said, her tone affectionate even as she rolled her eyes.

“We’re here! Finally!” You exclaimed, eager to escape the confines of the car.

“Finally! I don’t think I could handle anymore of your complaining,” Jordan quipped, turning off the ignition.

“Cheer up, grumpy. It’s Christmas!” Leah chuckled, undoing her seatbelt with practiced ease.

“Yeah, Jord, cheer up. It’s Christmas!” You echoed Leah’s words, grinning mischievously.

“Ha ha, very funny. I’ll give you ‘cheer up’” Jordan retorted with mock indignation as she climbed out of the car, “Looks like your mum’s already waiting at the door. How about you get Buddy out, and Monkey and I will grab the presents?”

“Sure,” Leah replied easily, moving to unbuckle Buddy.

You, however, scrunched up your nose, “Do I have to?” You groaned.

“Come on, there’s not a lot,” Jordan nudged you lightly with her elbow as she walked around to the boot, “I promise I won’t make you carry the heavy ones.”

“Fine,” You muttered, taking the smaller gift bag Jordan handed you.

“Merry Christmas!” Amanda’s cheerful voice greeted from where she stood on the doorstep, waiting to welcome you all inside.

“Hi, Mum!” Leah waved as she lifted Buddy out of her car seat, expertly balancing her on hip while shutting the door, “Merry Christmas!”

“Merry Christmas!” Jordan shouted back in response.

“Oh, there’s Nana’s little princess!” Amanda cooed, her attention immediately on Buddy, “Merry Christmas, sweet girl.”

Leah faintly smiled, “She’s been a bit fussy this morning, and she hasn’t napped at all.”

“Oh, is that so?” Amanda frowned, her arms outstretched, “Are we being fussy for your Mummies, hm?” She scooped Buddy into her embrace, cradling with her with practiced ease.

“Just a little bit,” Jordan chuckled, catching up to her with the presents in hand.

“Merry Christmas, sweetheart,” Amanda greeted you, readjusting Buddy her arms so she could envelope you in a warm hug.

You smiled slightly in response, “Hi. Merry Christmas.” You greeted, though, you were still feeling a bit reserved and shy despite the festivities.

“Are they here yet? Are they here yet?” A voice boomed from inside the house as Jacob bolted down the stairs. His excitement was palpable as he skidded to a stop, “You’re here!” He exclaimed.

“Hi, J. Merry Christmas!” Leah greeted her younger brother, but his attention was entirely on you.

“Monkey!” Jacob yelled.

“Jacob!” You parroted with equal enthusiasm, your shyness now completely revoked.

Leah gave her brother an exaggerated look of mock hurt, “Wow. Just forget I exist, huh?”

“Best friend already,” Jordan chimed in, amusedly.

“Come check out the new Xbox game I got for Christmas! You have to see it” Jacob tugged at your arm, his excitement infectious.

You hesitated, the sudden attention making you flinch slightly, “Uh… Can I?” You turned to ask Leah and Jordan.

Leah nodded warmly, “Go ahead, Jacob seems itching to show you it.”

“Dinner’s not for a while yet,” Amanda piped in.

“Come on!” Jacob insisted as he practically dragged you toward the stairs, “Wait until you see it!” He called over his shoulder, practically vibrating with excitement..

Amanda chuckled as she watched you disappear upstairs, “They seem to be getting along already.”

“Like two peas in a pod,” Jordan agreed, settling down the presents in the hallway.

David appeared in a festive jumper, his face lighting up when he saw Leah, Jordan and Buddy, “I thought I heard familiar voices,” He teased, pulling Leah into a hug first, “Merry Christmas, sweetheart.”

“Merry Christmas, Dad,” Leah smiled, returning the hug with the older man, “I love your jumper. Is that a Christmas gift from Mum?” She teased.

“Oh yes, your Mum brought it for me,” David chuckled, moving to exchange a hug with Jordan, “Hi, Jord. Merry Christmas!”

“Merry Christmas, David,” Jordan replied, grinning.

David’s attention shifted to Buddy, “And here’s our little angel!” He cooed, tickling her sock-clad feet, “What’s with that frown?” He wondered, noticing the grumpy expression the 8 month old currently had on her face.

“She’s grumpy, I think she’s had too much excitement already,” Leah explained, amusedly.

“Oh I see,” David chuckled, reaching out to take Buddy from Amanda, “You want to come to Grandad for a cuddle? Oh, come here–  Are you having a good Christmas?” He cooed to the little girl in his arms.

“Yeah, we’ve tried to eat all of the wrapping paper of the presents this morning, haven’t we?” Leah cooed, gently stroking Buddy’s cheek, “I honestly think we’d have saved money just by giving her that.” She joked.

Amanda chuckled, shaking her head as they all headed further inside the house, “So, how’s it been so far?”

“Yeah, it’s been okay. We opened presents this morning, I think Monkey was a bit overwhelmed with the amount there was,” Leah began to explain in a gentle tone of voice, “But I think she’s liking it so far.”

“That’s good then,” Amanda smiled brightly, “Did she like the hoodie that we brought her, and everything else?” She asked.

“Oh, yeah. She loved it!”Leah replied, nodding in agreement, “She’s obsessed with Shrek so it was perfect!” She added.

Jordan chuckled, “You should have seen her face, it was a picture.”

“And how’s little miss been?” Amanda wondered, gesturing to Buddy, who was wriggling in David’s arms and eager to be close to the tree, “Did she enjoy opening her presents?”

“Oh, I think she was more interested in the wrapping paper than her actual presents,” Leah joked.

David laughed in amusement, “Well that’s to be expected of course at her age.”

"Yeah, she's obsessed with anything that she can grab and put in her mouth at this point,” Jordan retorted as she began to take her coat off, “The baubles and the lights on the tree haven't stood a chance.”

"Still trying to eat everything, huh? She's just like Leah when she was that age. Couldn't leave anything alone," David quipped, shooting a playful grin at Leah.

Jordan smirked, "That explains a lot."

Leah shot Jordan a look of outrage as she took her coat off and hung it up on the coat rack just as Amanda chimed in, "Your Grandma will be arriving shortly. I think she's looking forward to seeing both of the girls again."

Just then, Jacob's voice echoed from up the stairs, "Monkey has just beaten my high score!"

You couldn’t resist a cheeky reply, “Can’t help it if you’re a sore loser!” Your playful tone earned a round of laughter from the adults in the room.

“Well it sounds like those two are having fun at least,” Amanda remarked with a smile.

Leah turned her attention to Buddy, who was starting to squirm and whine in David’s arms, “Oh what’s the matter, bubba?” She cooed, gently taking the 8 month old back from the man.

“I think somebody’s a bit fussy and wants their mummy,” David cooed.

Leah kissed the top of Buddy’s head, bouncing her lightly, “Come here, bubba. You’re tired, aren’t you? There’s just so much excitement going on today, isn’t there? Everyone’s coming round to see you!”

Just then, the doorbell rang.

“Oh, that’ll be your Grandma arriving I think– Or maybe someone else,” Amanda said, heading toward the hall.

“I’ll go and answer it,” Leah shifted Buddy slightly in her arms, “Shall we go see who’s at the door, bubba? I wonder who it could be,” She murmured softly as she approached the door.

Opening it, Leah smiled warmly, “Oh look, it’s Grandma Berny!” She exclaimed, her voice tinged with excitement. Adjusting Buddy to free one arm, she leaned in to hug Berny, “Hi Grandma, Merry Christmas!”

“Hello, love,” Berny greeted, wrapping Leah in a warm hug before turning her attention to Buddy, “And if it isn’t Grandma’s little Christmas pudding! Oh, don’t you look absolutely adorable?” She cooed, gesturing to the outfit Buddy currently had on.

Leah smiled and offered Buddy to Berny, “You want to go to Grandma for a cuddle?”

“Oh, come here, darling,” Berny cooed, taking Buddy into her arms.

Leah glanced at the bags Berny carried, “Do you want me to take anything for you?” She wondered.

“Oh, if you could, thanks love,” Berny replied warmly, shifting Buddy slightly to give her a better grip. She turned her attention to the baby in her arms and smiled, “Are you having a good Christmas, darling? I bet your Mummies have spoiled you absolutely rotten, haven’t they?”

Leah chucked, her eyes full of affection as she watched the two, “She has been spoiled. They both have,” She admitted with a proud smile.

“I don’t doubt that for a second. Where is Monkey?” Berny asked curiously.

“She’s upstairs with Jacob playing on the Xbox,” Leah replied with a small smile.

“Oh I see,” Berny chuckled, knowingly, “Did she like her presents I bought her? Your mum mentioned you’d be opening them at home before you came over.”

"Yeah we figured it would be easier to do it all in one place to save Monkey feeling too overwhelmed, because this is all just so new to her. But she really did love all of her presents," Leah said warmly.

"I'm sure she did,” Berny said reassuringly, “She'll get used to it in no time, love. It'll just take a bit of time, won't it?"

Leah’s smile faltered, “Yeah, I hope so. It just makes me so sad that she's never gotten to experience this all before, you know?"

Berny nodded, her expression softening, “I know, love. But there are still so many years to make up for it.”

"Few years to make up for what?" Jordan’s voice chimed in as she entered the room/

"Hiya, Jord. Merry Christmas!" Berny greeted her warmly.

"Merry Christmas, Berny!" Jordan replied with a smile.

"I was just filling Grandma in on how this morning went with the girls opening their presents," Leah explained.

Jordan sighed lightly, “Oh yeah, I think it was a bit much for her.”

Leah’s jaw tightened, her frustration bubbling to the surface, “It just makes me sad that Monkey never properly experienced this all before, all because of that waste of space.” She said bitterly.

Jordan placed a gentle hand on Leah’s arm, “Careful, Le, she might hear you.”

“I just don’t get it,” Leah continued, her voice low but firm, “That man, honestly! He’s… He’s treated her horribly in the past. You can tell by the way she reacts sometimes.”

“I know, love,” Berny interjected softly, “But she’s a part of this family now, and we’re going to make it the best for her. I know you’re angry, but holding onto that won’t help anything now, will it?”

Leah exhaled deeply, nodding, “Yeah, I suppose you’re right there,”

“Exactly,” Berny said firmly, “Now, I need to go and say hello to your mum and dad. Has anyone else arrived yet?”

“No, you’re the first. But I don’t think they’ll be long,” Leah replied.

From upstairs, you couldn’t help but call out, “Jacob’s crying because he’s a sore loser!”

“I am not!” Jacob’s voice protested indignantly and loud enough to carry through the house.

“Oh, that sounds like trouble,” Leah muttered, wincing at the sheer volume of your teasing, “That’s my cue to go sort it out.”

“I think I’ll join you in the living room,” Jordan chuckled as she followed Berny back into the other room, “Good luck with that one, Le.”

You smirked as Leah’s footsteps approached, “What’s going on up here then?” She asked, stepping into the room.

“Jacob’s crying about the fact he’s losing his game,” You replied with a mischievous snicker, thoroughly amused by his sulking.

“I am not!” Jacob fired back, his cheeks flushing, “All I’m saying is–”

“All he’s saying is that he’s a complete sore loser who can’t handle it,” You interrupted with a cheeky grin.

“No, I’m not!” Jacob protested.

“Yeah, right,” You quipped, smirking at the lad.

Leah rolled her eyes playfully, “Alright, alright. It sounds like this arguing isn’t getting either of you anywhere. Grandma’s arrived if you want to come and say hello.”

You shrugged nonchalantly, glancing at Jacob with a smirk, “To be continued…”

“To be continued,” Jacob grumbled in response, clearly not over the teasing.

As you followed Leah out of the room, she glanced over her shoulder, her gaze softening, “What’s he like, eh? Honestly, such a big kid sometimes. You wouldn’t believe he’s 19,” She joked, noting your distant change of behaviour, “Hey, you alright? You’re very quiet all of the sudden.”

“I’m okay,” You murmured, keeping your voice steady.

“Are you sure?” Leah pressed gently, stopping to look at you properly, “Listen, I know today might feel like a lot for you, and it’s okay if it is.”

“I’m alright, I promise,” You assured her, even though your chest felt a little tight.

Leah nodded, but didn’t move just yet, “Alright, well, if it gets too much then you’ll let either me and Jord know, yeah?”

“I will,” You said, your voice soft.

“Good,” Leah said, a small smile tugging at her lips, “Okay good. We just want you to have the best Christmas this year, Monkey.”

“I’m okay,” You hesitated for a moment before speaking, “I’m enjoying the day… It’s just… Well, it’s a lot. I’ve never gotten anything like this before, and now with all of your family… I’ve just never gotten to experience anything like it.”

Leah crouched slightly to meet your gaze, “I can understand it’s a bit overwhelming for you, my girl.” She said softly.

“A little,” You admitted, feeling your cheeks heat up, “But I’m grateful! It’s just… I didn’t expect to get so many presents. I’m just still trying to wrap my head around it.”

Leah’s expression softened even more as she gave your shoulders a reassuring squeeze, “You’re a part of this family now, Monkey, and you are so loved, my girl,” Her voice remained soft but steady, “You don’t have to try and wrap your head around it all at once. This is new, I know, but you deserve all of it, okay? Every single present, every cuddle and every once of love.”

You blinked, your throat tightening as her words sank in, “Thanks Le.” You managed to give her a small smile.

“That’s my girl,” Leah said, grinning as she pulled you into a warm hug, “Now, come on, let’s head down and see Grandma before she starts wondering where we’ve disappeared to.”

You followed Leah down the stairs, her hand still lightly on your back, grounding you. The warmth of the living room enveloped you as you entered, the hum of chatter, laughter, and the gentle crack of the fireplace filling the space.

“There she is,” Berny exclaimed, spotting you standing beside Leah, “Hello dear! Merry Christmas!”

“Merry Christmas, Berny,” You murmured shyly, feeling a slight blush creep onto your cheeks.

Amanda approached with a cup of tea for Berny, grinning as she glanced at you, “See, Mum? She’s fitting right in, isn’t she?”

“Of course she is!” Berny declared, beaming at you, “This family wouldn’t be the same without her now, would it?”

Leah flopped onto the sofa beside Jordan, while Buddy was nestled against her chest peacefully asleep, “I told you, Monkey. You’re stuck with us forever.”

“Forever,” Jordan echoed with a wink.

“I’m glad to be here,” You couldn’t help but smile a little wider, the overwhelming sensation from earlier ebbing away as you settled amongst the warmth of Leah’s family.

"Oh, I'm so full from Turkey. I don't think I could eat anymore," Jacob complained, slumping down in his seat.

"I'll second you on that one," Ben replied in agreement.

"Oh right, well in that case then, I guess it's more pudding for the rest of us!" Amanda joked, knowing it would spark a reaction.

"Pudding? I always have room for that!" Jacob exclaimed, sitting upright in his chair again.

The conversation continued as you glanced around the room. Here you were, sitting at the large table with Leah's family -- her mum's side at least. You donned an emerald paper hat on the top of your head, the result of winning a Christmas cracker earlier. The joke you pulled out with it had been painfully cringeworthy, yet it still made you giggle. In your hands was a small whistle you'd been blowing occasionally, much to Leah's annoyance. She had already shot you several pointed looks, though the little smirk on her lips betrayed her amusement.

"What's so special  about this pudding anyway?" You asked, leaning closer to Jacob and Ben.

"It's not about the pudding, Monks'," Jacob replied, declaring his own nickname he’d given you for himself, "It's about the tradition. And the custard. Lot's of custard."

"Don't forget the brandy sauce," Ben added with a grin.

"You lot had better save some for the rest of us!" Holly called from the other end of the table.

"What time is the Queen's speech on? We can't miss that!" One of Leah's Aunts questioned, you were a bit unclear on their name though since there was so many of them.

"Oh, it's about to start-- quick, somebody find the remote!" Amanda exclaimed, her sudden urgency making you jump slightly.

"Has anyone seen it?" Leah asked, standing up to help look.

"Found it!" David called, holding the remote up triumphantly.

If there's one thing you had learnt about today, it was that Leah's family was very patriotich when it came to anything to do with the royal family, as they all clustered around the TV.

Buddy, who had just woken up from her nap, was wide awake and wiggling around on her playmat that had been set down on the floor.

At least yourself, Jacob and Ben didn't seem too bothered about the speech though.

"What was so special about a speech from the Queen?" You whispered to Jacob, curious to know what had everyone so hooked.

"It's another tradition," Jacob replied, "Though it's a bit boring, really, if you ask me."

"It definitely is," Ben agreed, clearly unimpressed.

"Shush! It's starting!" Holly hissed, glaring at the three of you.

"Geesh, so serious," Jacob joked, winding his cousin up.

Ben snorted, leaning over to you, "She's always like this when the Queen's speech comes on. One year, she even shushed the dog."

"I heard that!" Holly said sharply, throwing a napkin in Ben's direction.

"Shush, you three," Leah chimed in, sending you a pointed look, but you couldn't help but giggle even more.

The speech began, and the room fell into a respectful silence-- well mostly. Buddy didn't want to be quiet, with her tiny fits and infectious giggles, and seemed completely uninterested in the royal tradition. She was quite happy to babble, grabbing her toys that you and Jacob waved in front of her.

"She's got the right idea," Ben joked, laughing softly as Buddy squealed in delight, "It's boring ain't it, little miss?"

Amanda shushed everyone, but you couldn't help but smile as Buddy wiggled happily, oblivious to the importance of the moment.

"Is it over yet?" You whispered to Jordan, who chuckled in amusement and wrapped her free arm around your shoulder, "How long does this thing go on for?"

"It's almost over, little one," Jordan replied in a hushed tone of voice.

You were most relieved when the speech ended, as Berny turned to the group and sighed contently, "That was lovely, as always. A nice way to reflect on the year."

"Reflect on how I've still never made it through the whole thing awake," Jacob muttered in response.

"Alright, who's ready for dessert, then?" Amanda asked, standing up, "We've got Christmas pudding, mince pies, yule log, and Ben's favourite-- trifle."

"Trifle? I've got room for trifle!" Jacob declared, already heading toward the kitchen.

"Of course, you do," Leah muttered, rolling her eyes.

Amanda caught your eye and smiled warmly, "Do you want to help me serve, sweetheart?"

"Uhm, sure," You replied with a slight bit of hesitance, standing to follow her.

As you helped bring out the desserts, Amanda leaned in closer, "How are you enjoying the day? It's so lovely to have you here with us, you know."

"Thank you," You said, a bit shyly, "It's been nice. It's different from what I'm used to, but still good."

"I'm glad," Amanda said gently, "I know change can be difficult sometimes, but Leah and Jordan, I know they think the world of you. They're so proud of how far you've come."

You felt a lump in your throat at her kind words, "I'm really grateful for them, and for being here with you all, too... And, thank you for my presents. I didn't expect anything, I love my Shrek hoodie."

"You're welcome, sweetheart. We're the lucky ones to have you as part of this family now," Amanda moved her free arm around to give you a side hug, "Now, let's get this dessert out before Jacob starts to raid the fridge now, eh?"

The evening continued with more laughter and chatter as the pudding was served. Buddy sat in her high chair, clapping her hands excitedly as Leah fed her small spoonfuls of custard.

"You're going to spoil her," Jordan teased, watching Leah's doting behaviour.

"She's just enjoying Christmas, aren't you, bubba?" Leah cooed, pressing a kiss to Buddy's cheek.

As the evening began to wound down, you found yourself nestled on the sofa in between Leah and Jordan as the family gathered for a raucous game of charades.

"No, that's cheating-- You can't do that!" Leah shot out in protest.

Ben chuckled, "Why not? It's not in the rules!"

"Yes it is," Leah fired back, her competitive streak showing.

"No it's not," Ben scoffed, "Someone? Help us out here..." He looked to the rest of the family for their help.

Holly glanced over the rules briefly on her phone after a quick Google search, "He's right, Le. It's not in the rules that he can't." She added, sticking up for her younger brother.

"Since when?" Leah muttered in disbelief, arching an eyebrow.

"Since always if you read the rules," Ben quipped, smirking.

"Outrageous that is!" Leah scoffed, crossing her arms over her chest, before it was time to take her turn.

"You call that a gorilla? It looks more like a constipated penguin," Jacob teased as Leah flailed her arms around.

Leah took the chance to throw a cushion at him, "You couldn't even guess 'Kangaroo' so you can't talk!"

You were starting to feel yourself growing tired, opting to rest your head on Jordan's shoulder, "You doing alright, little one? I know it's been a big day."

"M' okay,"  You replied quietly in agreement, not wanting to stir too much attention to yourself, "It's been the best Christmas I've ever had." You added, wrapping your free arm around her.

Jordan smiled, pressing a gentle kiss to the top of your head, "Good, you deserve it, Monkey."

You couldn't help but faintly smile, watching in amusement at the bickering between Leah and Jacob still about the game as your eyelids started to become heavier.

"I think it's time to call it a night," David retorted, motioning to the way you were practically almost falling asleep, "Monkey's falling asleep."

"M' not tired," You protested against the idea, but the way you couldn't keep your eyes open spoke for a lot of things.

Leah turned her attention away from the competitive game, her lips quirking into a knowing smile, "I think you might be right there, Dad," She agreed, taking a glance at the clock, "Alright, time for bed."

You would be spending the night in Leah's childhood home, so at least you didn't have to travel back to London tonight, considering Leah and Jordan had both had a bit to drink and neither of them could drive under the circumstances.

You groaned softly at the suggestion, not thrilled with the idea of leaving the comforting warmth of Jordan's shoulder, "M' not tired." You mumbled again,  though the sleepy slur in your voice gave you away completely.

Jordan chuckled, gently nudging you upright, "You can keep saying that, but your heavy eyes are telling us a different story, little one."

Buddy, meanwhile, was still awake, babbling happily on Amanda's lap, her tiny hands reaching for Amanda's face as she giggled, "I think this one's trying to pull an all-nighter," She joked, bouncing Buddy lightly.

Leah smiled as she approached, effortlessly scooping Buddy into her arms, "Oh, no, missy," She cooed, "It's bedtime, isn't it, bubba?" However, Buddy responded with delighted squeals, clearly not in agreement.

"Come on, little one," Jordan said, standing up from the sofa as she reached out to help you up, her strong arms steadying you as you wobbled slightly.

You sighed, reluctantly letting her guide you towards the stairs, "But it's still Christmas," You murmured, glancing back at the warm inviting living room and the game still going on.

"And Christmas will still be here tomorrow morning," Leah reminded you with a gentle smile as she followed, Buddy snuggled in her arms, "You're exhausted, you need to sleep, my girl, so you can wake up tomorrow and enjoy Boxing Day fun."

Jordan led you up the stairs, her hand warm and reassuring on your back, "Besides," She said with a smile, "We can't have our Monkey turning into a zombie tomorrow, now, can we?"

You mumbled a small protest, but it was half-hearted at best. The truth was, you were far too tired to argue properly. Each step you took up the stairs felt heavier, and the idea of the comfy bed was becoming more and more appealing.

Leah trailed behind with Buddy, who was still wide-eyed and squirming with excitement, "This one's determined to stay awake," She said with a small laugh, pressing a kiss to Buddy's cheek, "It's time to sleep now, bubba. Something tells me we're in for a bit of a challenge with the baby."

Once upstairs, you managed to change into your pyjamas with some help from Jordan, the soft fabric instantly adding to your comfort. You climbed under the warm duvet, letting out a small sigh as you nestled into the cozy bed.

"Are you comfy?" Jordan asked, leaning down to flick on the bedside lamp.

"Mhm," You murmured sleepily, clutching your stuffed animal close.

"Good," Jordan replied, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to your forehead, "Good, I'm glad. Get some rest, little one."

Leah peeked into the room a moment later, Buddy now resting her hand on Leah's shoulder in a cozy onesie, her eyes beginning to flutter closed, "All sorted in here?" She asked softly, her gaze warm as she took in the sight of you snuggled up.

"Le... Are all these football shirts yours?" You asked, your curiosity slipping through your sleepiness as your gaze wandered around Leah's childhood bedroom. The walls were adorned with Arsenal and England shirts, each marking a moment in her career.

Leah chuckled, stepping further into her old bedroom, "They are," She said proudly, "Hopefully more to come." She passed Buddy to Jordan for a moment, leaning down to tuck you in properly under the duvet, "Sweet dreams, my girl. We'll see you in the morning."

"Night, Le. Night, Jord," You mumbled, a soft yawn escaping your lips.

"Goodnight, Monkey," Jordan whispered as she turned off the bedside lamp, her voice soothing in the quiet.

Leah lingered for a moment longer, gently adjusting the covers before adding, "We love you."

Just as they turned to leave, you spoke up, your voice small and soft, "Le? Jord?"

They both paused in the doorway, "Yeah?"

"Thank you... For the best Christmas," Your mumbled, half asleep as you could barely keep your eyes open any longer.

Leah's smile widened, her heart swelling at your words, "You're welcome, my girl." She said warmly.

With Buddy now dozing in her arms, Leah glanced at Jordan as they left her childhood bedroom, "Boxing Day's going to be chaos, isn't it?"

Jordan chuckled quietly, nodding, "Absolute chaos, but that's what will make it fun."

jordannobbs posted

liked by bethmead_ and 1,106 others

jordannobbs nothing better than the magic of christmas time and spending it with the ones' closest to you🎅🏼🎄✨

a day full of excitement for both the girls who have been absolutely spoilt rotten. now all tucked up in bed and ready to do it all again tomorrow! 🤭

merry christmas to you all, from the williamson-nobbs family x

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leahwilliamsonn our two girls 🥹 they really have had the best first christmas 💗

view 11 replies liked by 110 others

katie_mccabe11 merry christmas!! hope the girls have a had a great day x

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bethmead_ oh buddy's little face with her santa hat on! 🎅🏼❤️

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jenbeattie merry christmas girls! is monkey still terrified of the man in red and white? 🤣

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stephcatley spoilt girlies. we love you so much 🥹💗

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© scribblesofagoonerr

[elene78-blog]

I have read some comments about the stress that Cat, Laila and Jeremy cause Jean by trying to find out about her situation. I've read others saying that the way Jeremy informs the group about things that Jean tells him is horrible. Sensitive information about your experiences.

They are negative opinions and I find this super interesting.

I can see a clear contrast between the way the Ravens act and the way the Trojans act here.

The Ravens were intentionally ignoring Jean's situation. We can say that they knew something was happening. They have seen Jean beaten to the extreme. They have seen him continually injured, to the point of saying that “he has fragile bones.” Regardless of whether or not they knew Jean's age when he suffered from AS, they generated rumors that could do a lot of damage. They continue to feed them now.

Let's not fool ourselves. The Ravens KNEW someone was hurting Jean to the extreme. His response was to ignore it until it was normalized. They only talked about it with the intention of fueling the torture.

In response, Jean also normalized it.

In contrast to this, we have Trojans, which react in the opposite way.

The Trojans clearly see that Jean has suffered the unspeakable. They see that Jean has great difficulty adjusting. They see that Jean has been tortured when they see his scars. Jeremy finds out some things and discreetly passes it on to his closest friends, who are also the people closest to Jean in this complicated situation. This information is kept in a closed circle, which is the Trojans. It doesn't come out of there (that we know of).

Many people criticize this act.

I think what is important here is the intention with which the Trojans and Jeremy seek this information.

The Ravens interfered to hurt and create a harmful environment. The Trojans intrude to validate Jean's pain and create an environment appropriate to his current needs.

Let's face it; Jean needs help, but he is in a very difficult situation to acquire it, especially because of his own brainwashing. People who have lived with people who want to hurt themselves will know that these people tend to hide the problem (They don't see it or they think there is no solution), and this is one of the biggest difficulties in helping them.

If you don't see there is a problem, you can't help.

If the Trojans didn't meddle, Jean's pain wouldn't be validated. The message would be very similar to that of the Ravens: “we don't care. You don't matter to us”, therefore, Jean would continue normalizing his situation.

By getting involved, you are sending another message: “I care about this situation. What you have suffered is not normal. “You matter and I want to help you, even if I don’t know how.”

Trojans do not fuel rumors. On the contrary, they want to clarify them so that Jean feels accepted (Lucas does not, but because there is an obvious sentimental conflict).

What I want to say is that, although it shocks us and we don't see it as entirely correct, Jeremy's performance is, in part, appropriate. He tries to find Jean's need and conveys it to the people closest to him (Cat and Laila, with whom he lives) so that they know that there are limits and a series of problems to deal with that Jean does not want to confront.

The goal is to “be careful” and “watch out” for a catastrophic reaction. The goal is to create a pleasant and appropriate environment that can “push” Jean to seek the help he needs.

With the little information Jean gives them, the Trojans are creating a safety net that can pick him up and propel him toward help.

Kevin, Renee, Abby and Wymack did something similar. They would not allow Jean to return to the Ravens even though that was what he wanted. They ignored his consent because they knew he was not of sound mind.

Jeremy, Cat and Laila are doing exactly the same thing. Jean may not like it (actually, I don't think Jean is against this, correct me if I'm wrong), but this is what he needs FOR NOW.

Since Jean has had great problems with consent and limits, the fact that the Trojans talk about what Jean experienced without his consent seems like an attack against him, but let's not forget that this will not always be the case. This is an exceptional circumstance.

The ultimate goal is for Jean to be able to say no and establish clear limits, developing autonomy. But right now, if given that facility, we know what would happen.

Jean would not seek help, he would continue to feed her brainwashing, he would continue to think that he deserved the worst and... most likely, one day he would end his life, without caring about Kevin's promise.

Let's not confuse talking about a person's situation discreetly to their close circle with the sole objective of HELPING and SEEKING SOLUTIONS, with generating rumors to DESTROY him.

Let us also not forget that this is a TEMPORARY situation until Jean regains his personal autonomy. The boy is brainwashed. Until this goes away, Jean needs a few very very gentle (keep that in mind, Abby) slaps of reality to wake up.

This is what Cat, Jeremy and Laila are working on in hopes that Jean will get the boost he needs ON HIMSELF.

[shallowseeker]

"We see a glimmer of emotional despair and blame lobbed at Cas which is… fascinating" out of curiosity and for clarification, what was the emotional despair lobbed at castiel? im reading the transcript and am not quite sure

Confession: This is conjecture on my part.

I feel like this scene in Ouroboros is ofc course directed at all of Dean's loved ones, as they were all working to convince Dean to stay alive.

But imho, here: Dean's squared up to Cas.

And Cas squares up to him,

while Sam's body instinctually takes on the body language of a peacemaker between them.

(Also// We as audience have the diner scene between Dean and Cas fresh on our minds: DEAN: "Okay. But if -- if you don't we still have Plan B. ... Coffin. Ocean. Done.")

Sam's not exactly "getting it," but I think his subconscious must understand something of it, maybe...

///

I think the emotional despair that seems be more directed at Cas isn’t blame in the traditional sense but rather a reflection of Dean’s internal conflict.

I think Cas represents something Dean deeply struggles with—his own desires.

Cas, along with Jack, symbolizes hope and the possibility of a particular kind of future happiness, which Dean has been convinced that he’s not "allowed" to want. He has to be covert about it, to take a meager, starved kind of approach to his own happiness. (Note: Dean is allowed to enter family units and support others, but he's rarely allowed to "need" something/someone for himself in earnest.)

There's 14x10's almost-happiness: "DEAN: This bar -- This bar -- This bar -- I've never had anything this nice. Rocky's still isn't for sale."

And 2x20's DJINN CARMEN as she walks up to him, taking his face in her hands, kissing him* CARMEN: We can have a future together. Have our own family. I love you, Dean. Please."

And of course 8x17's DEAN: "I know you're in there. *CASTIEL raises his angel blade, ready to strike.* I know you can hear me. Cas... *DEAN's voice breaks, pleading.* It's me. *CASTIEL stands there, blade at the ready, light glints off the blade.* We're family. We need you. I need you."

And what's even more sickening? AU Michael's words later work to inflame this: "If only Dean had used that coffin when he had the chance."

(Aside/// And likewise, The Empty's deal works to convince Cas of the same thing, that he's not "allowed" to feel personal happiness or express love without dire consequences!)

/// Anyway, I think Dean’s decision not to say goodbye to Cas and Jack in 14x12 does stand in stark contrast to his other behaviors: hugging Sam, eating last meals with Mary and Donna, etc. I think this difference highlights how unique and emotionally complicated his relationships with Cas and Jack are. Dean’s reasoning—“I don’t need to get shaky on this thing”—reveals his fear of losing resolve if he faces them directly. (It's even unlike Lisa, whose goodbye was bittersweet but clean.)

In a nutshell, saying goodbye to Cas and Jack would force Dean to confront the depth of his attachments, making it harder to follow through with his sacrifice. (Or, per the script, it would make Dean himself "too emotional.")

SAM: You know, Mom hates this. I hate this... And Cas and Jack, you haven’t even told them. DEAN: Okay, well, yeah, that’s because I’m not good with the whole big goodbyes, alright? I-I-I don’t need to get shaky on this thing. SAM: Wouldn't be the worst thing.

Overall, Dean fears his resolve will weaken, that his emotions will spill out uncontrollably, revealing more than he intends, or that his goodbye would overburden Cas and cause him strife—because, much like Cas with his Empty deal, Dean doesn’t want to burden him.

Both Dean and Cas share a deeply ingrained sense of self-denial, prioritizing protecting others over addressing their own emotional needs.

I feel like The Gorgon’s line in Ouroboros, “Oh… you definitely want things,” brings this to the surface, as does AU Michael’s taunts. All season long, Michael asked his victims: "What do you want?"

Notably, Dream!Pamela says to Dean: "Why do you always want what you can't have?" And finally, AU Micheal's: “If only Dean had used that coffin when he had the chance.”

:(

////

Cas makes Dean want to stay, a feeling that unsettles him precisely because of how powerful it is. Perhaps, it stirs up frustration because it's something he can't seem to control, even after all this time.

This is a frustration that Dean largely directs at himself, but I think it occasionally spills over into his interactions with Cas because of the vulnerability Cas represents. (Note: All this isn't even factoring in Cas's well-meaning attempts to shield Dean, which winds up making Dean feel shut out.)

///

And of course... all hail 2x20.

John instilled hero virtues in Dean by teaching him that sacrifice and duty were part of being a hero/family caretaker, even at the cost of his own happiness. This mindset is clear in Dean’s painful reflection, where he questions why he has to carry the burden of saving others while his own life and the lives of his loved ones are sacrificed:

DEAN (to John): "Course I know what you'd say. Your happiness for all those people's lives, no contest. Right?" But why? Why is it my job to save these people? Why do I have to be some kind of hero? (begins to cry while talking) What about us, huh? What, Mom's not supposed to live her life, Sammy's not supposed to get married?  Why do we have to sacrifice everything, Dad? (pause) It's... (Dean's lips tremble. Silence. We hear the sky rumbling. Tears begins to falls on DEAN's cheek.)

[legendary-69420]

Chapter 0 : A New Normal

(Racing Hearts : VOLUME 3) EVERYONE SHUT UP IT'S FINALLY HAPPENING!!!

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Charles sat at the café, the steady hum of quiet conversations around him doing little to settle his nerves. His fingers traced the rim of his cup, mind wandering to the events of the previous night. The message from Mark, asking to talk, echoed in his mind. “Hey! About what happened… Can we talk soon? Just us?” It had left him tangled in questions, wondering what Mark meant by it—was this about setting boundaries? Or perhaps something more?

A soft chime at the door pulled Charles from his thoughts. Mark walked in, his familiar presence immediately settling the buzzing anticipation in Charles’s chest. He spotted Charles with a small smile, making his way over. Mark’s casual sweater and jeans were a contrast to the racing suits and helmets they were usually known for, yet Charles felt no less captivated. He slid into the chair across from him.

“Hey,” Mark said, his voice steady, but Charles could see the nervous energy in his eyes.

“Hey,” Charles replied, managing a small smile though there was an edge of tension in the air between them. They shared some awkward pleasantries, neither quite knowing how to begin. Finally, Mark broke the silence.

“So, about… about yesterday,” Mark started, his voice unsure.

Charles nodded, his gaze never leaving Mark. “Yeah. I wasn’t sure how to bring it up either, but I’m glad we’re talking.”

Mark let out a quiet laugh, rubbing the back of his neck. “Yeah, me too. I just… didn’t want things to be weird, you know? We’re teammates first, and a… kiss shouldn’t mess that up.”

The words lingered in the air, and Charles felt a pang in his chest. The kiss had felt like more than just a fluke, more than just a momentary lapse in judgment. But he couldn’t say that—not yet, anyway.

“Yeah,” Charles agreed, his voice steady but tight. “It was unexpected. But we were both just caught up in the moment, right?” He forced a chuckle, hoping it would sound lighthearted, though it didn’t reach his eyes. “Nothing to worry about.”

Mark seemed to study him for a second, his eyes searching Charles’s face as if he could read something unspoken there. He leaned back, seemingly relieved, but Charles could see the hesitation in his smile.

“Exactly,” Mark agreed quickly. “It was just an accident. A funny story for later, right?”

Charles let out a soft laugh, though it felt more forced than before. “Yeah, just one of those things.”

They both fell silent, neither entirely convinced by the words they’d just exchanged. Then, unexpectedly, Mark’s gaze softened, and his voice dropped, barely above a whisper.

“Honestly, though… it wasn’t a bad thing. I didn’t expect it to… feel like that.”

Charles’s breath caught in his throat at the admission. Mark’s vulnerability was rare, and it hit him harder than he’d anticipated. He looked down, trying to steady himself, but before he could gather his thoughts, Mark cleared his throat.

“Not that it means anything,” Mark added hastily, “I mean, we agreed, right? Just a one-time thing.”

“Of course,” Charles replied, his voice sounding rougher than he’d meant it to. “Just an accident.”

But before either of them could say more, Mark closed the gap between them, his lips finding Charles’s in a tentative, slow kiss. This time, there was no rush, no panic. It was soft, but the depth of it hit harder than the first. It wasn’t a mistake. It was something more—something that neither of them could explain away.

When they finally pulled apart, both of them were breathless. Charles’s cheeks were flushed, his mind racing. Mark’s lips were still slightly parted, his eyes wide with surprise, but there was a soft acknowledgment in his gaze.

“So…” Mark started, his voice trailing off as the kiss lingered in the air between them.

Charles didn’t know how to respond. The world felt quieter now, the café’s hum fading into a distant murmur. He didn’t want to break the moment, but neither did he know how to move past it.

Mark pulled back first, looking down at his hands, his gaze unable to meet Charles’s. The smile that had played on his lips was gone, replaced by a subtle unease. Neither of them spoke, the silence stretching uncomfortably between them.

Charles shifted in his seat, his heart still racing from the kiss. He wanted to say something—anything—but nothing felt right. So he stayed silent, his mind swirling with what had just happened and what it meant. Neither of them had said it aloud, but they both knew that what had just occurred wasn’t a one-off. It couldn’t be. The kiss, though brief, had felt too real, too undeniable to ignore.

Mark broke the silence after a long pause, his voice quieter than before. “Well… guess that was… unexpected.” He cleared his throat, the words awkward, but there was something in his eyes that told Charles he wasn’t talking about it being an accident anymore.

“Yeah,” Charles muttered, his own gaze dropping to his coffee cup. “Definitely unexpected.”

For a moment, they just sat there, both trying to act like nothing had changed, but everything had. They weren’t sure what was next, but neither of them doubted that this wouldn’t be the last time their lips met.

With a final, hesitant glance at each other, they both stood up, paying for their drinks in silence. They walked out of the café side by side, the weight of the unspoken words hanging between them, but the comfort of each other’s presence undeniable.

Neither of them said anything more on the walk back, but Charles could feel the electricity in the air—the knowledge that whatever this was, it wasn’t over. And though they hadn’t put it into words, there was an understanding that this awkwardness wouldn’t last forever.

--- (I'm so sorry I had to make some final edits and It took some minutes)

[buglass]

Lonely Man - A Christmas Oneshot

Summary: A passive and respectful fan encounters a lone Elvis Presley on a beach in the Bahamas while both are on Christmas vacation in 1969. Jackie debates whether or not to bother Elvis, but feels drawn to keep him company.

Pairing: Elvis Presley x Jackie!Black!OC

Chapters: 1/1

WC: 907

Warnings: Insinuation of depression, general fluff and kindness, lack of holiday cheer

A/N: Not a big fan of the holidays myself since I’m always away from family since I was in the military. Still feeling it a little bit this year so this is how I’m coping lol thanks for reading!

Inspired by this and a few other photos from E’s time in the Bahamas October 1969.

December 25th, 1969

❆   ❆   ❆

When she spotted him, she didn’t think it was actually Elvis Presley. The black dress shirt he wore was a stark contrast to his skin and white trousers. Keeping up with the whereabouts of celebrities wasn’t her forte and this man, only seeing him from his side profile, looked slightly less like the spruced up version the world had come to know. Don’t get her wrong--she still thought the man seated in the sand was handsome but a lot paler than she would have expected for a Bahamian vacation in the sun. 

Elvis hunched forward with his feet buried in the sand, his sleeved arms wrapped around his pant-covered legs as he looked out to the water. Jackie was between a rock and a hard place on the mostly empty beach. When a woman and her family came from the opposite direction, they didn’t waste time to make their approach to Elvis. It wasn’t their fault they stumbled upon him either. Because they too were on vacation, they actually had a camera on hand to commemorate the once in a lifetime event. 

Jackie slowed down, busying herself with the wispy skirt blowing in the wind and the straps of the shoes she held. She faced the water as she took the hair tie from her wrist and tied her hair back into a ponytail. There were a total of three snaps she could hear from the camera, Elvis standing there for each picture both posed and candid. Elvis hunched over, waving to the blonde little girl who was probably only about four years-old. As the fans left, he stood up straight and looked around as if he were expecting a floodgate of fans to follow. 

They were alone again.

Jackie started down the beach again, veering toward where the water could wash over her feet. When she glanced up again, Elvis was looking at her. His hands were at his back, sliding lower into what she assumed was his back pockets. She became highly aware that he was overly dressed for the beach while she wore a bikini, her lower half shrouded by the long, breathable skirt that in the right light showed some leg. Elvis moved in her path and her heart rate picked up knowing that her only option was to walk around the singer. 

Her eyes dipped toward his chest and the hair there, coming back up the closer she got to him. When the two of them were face to face, Elvis’s mouth curled into a smirk. 

“What do I owe the pleasure of your attention, Mr. Presley?” Jackie spoke casually as if they were old friends. 

“I was gettin’ ready to ask you the same. I saw you down the beach before all of that.” Elvis admitted, dropping his arms to his sides.

“I think you’re the one stopping me for my attention now,” she laughed, stepping around the man for the sake of making him follow. “I will leave you to it.”

“Hey, wait-wait a minute,” Elvis said, turning after her to walk at her side. “Can’t you stay for a while?”

“I was just making sure you didn’t feel obligated to have company, Mr. Presley--”

“Elvis, just Elvis.” He put up his hands.

“Alright, Elvis. But, as I was saying, I don’t want you to feel…bombarded.” Jackie said. She slowed up to face him, admiring how he towered over her and his general warmth. Fuck, he was good looking, she thought.

“It’s never any bother, but I could use the company. If you don’t mind?” Elvis gestured toward the sand. 

Jackie squinted up at him, skeptical of what someone of his caliber would want with her. She swept her skirt as she lowered into the sand, dropping her sandals at her side. Elvis followed suit only after she was seated and he sighed as he looked out toward the water again. 

“What’s your name?” Elvis asked.

“Jacqueline, but I prefer Jackie.” She explained softly.

“Well, Jackie, what’s more fittin’ of the Christmas Spirit than spendin’ time with a stranger?” Elvis chuckled.

“I… I think some would say the opposite, but ‘tis the season.” Jackie laughed. She was pleased by his easiness, the way he was turning a moment that clearly bothered him into a positive. She looked at him square in his face and furrowed her brows after a second. “So…why are you alone out here on Christmas?”

“Sometimes it’s good to learn to live with yourself, honey,” was all he said at first. “... But I s’pose I’m not very good at it after all.”

Jackie gave him a sidelong look for a second longer before slowly reaching for the exposed part of his arm. She understood the dreariness of the holidays tended to outweigh the excitement of gift-giving and cheeriness. When she looked at him, she saw a man that was far, far away. Elvis finally looked at her and she caught the sadness in his eyes. She would have thought someone as successful as him was immune to feeling down. But when she squeezed his wrist and his arm moved so they were holding hands, Jackie was reminded of just how human the superstar was.

“You’ll be okay, sweetheart. This is just a bad day, not a bad life.” She promised gently.

“Thank you, Jackie. Merry Christmas.” He gave her a small smile.

“Merry Christmas, Elvis,” she said, leaning over to press a reassuring kiss to his cheek.

[asarigg]

Inside the Character's Mind: Part 2

IMPULSIVENESS AND REBELLION

I speak of Koujaku as a gentle person, consciously controlling his appearance and behavior knowingly and yet he is known as the brawler, impulsive of the group. And the truth is that it’s kinda sad, because just like the issue with women or the sword he carries on his back, it could have been built better. In his defense I must say that the only times he is seen being aggressive or taking the initiative in a confrontation in any case is with a previous provocation either towards him or because someone is hostile to Aoba. However, NC’s mistake, due to how the VN is made, is that it becomes something that happens all the time as soon as they introduce the rest of the characters.

As a child and teenager, Koujaku externalizes his rebellion and impulsiveness, and it’s a magnificent contrast to his adulthood to see how his behavior has changed after the life he had with his father. Those two characteristics of his personality haven’t gone anywhere, but they are much more controlled, watered down. This is so important for his character that it saddens me that they use it so often only to show his anger and rage instead of exploring other facets of that impulsiveness, especially when you are supposed to get to know him as a reader, it downplays when he really gets angry and his mood changes when you get into his route. The difference is still there, of course, his anger is much lighter than when he talks to Virus and Trip knowing that they “are yakuza” or when he loses his mind.

Impulsiveness doesn’t always have to be related to negative emotions, but positive ones too: when it comes to saying something, expressing his feelings for Aoba, he sometimes stumbles or doesn’t know what to say and tries to reword the sentence instead of thinking about it first, the inability to keep a cool head when Aoba needs help is not out of anger, but out of worry, stuff like that.

STORY OF SOULMATES: THE BEGINNING OF THE ROMANCE. THE INTIMACY OF THEIR FRIENDSHIP

I think it’s time to talk about his relationship with Aoba in more depth. I’d like to start by highlighting how the romantic feelings between the two of them develop. To be honest, it doesn’t really seem like there are any purely romantic scenes between them, especially when we enter Koujaku’s route, it immediately jumps to tension and mystery, seen in a superficial way one could think that there really isn’t any interaction between them to develop a relationship beyond discovering the truth about each other. But the answer is already given to us by them when they confess their feelings.

It’s not just Koujaku, but Aoba too who had these feelings way before everything. When he says that “at some point” he feels the same way, he’s not referring to any point in the route, but much earlier. What happens in Koujaku’s route would be more like an awakening, it’s the moment when Aoba realizes his feelings, how important Koujaku is to him that, at a moment when he feels like he could lose him forever, he puts everything else aside (meaning: the safety of the entire island) to focus on helping him.

Of course, this thing about not having a moment where their “friendship” develops I mean it, for example, like when Aoba has the chance to get to know Clear or Noiz better in scenes that are pretty easy going, because they are already friends before the game starts, so the kind of development they need is different. The only time something like that happens is when Koujaku carries Aoba on his back, but even then it doesn’t last long, and even during the scene Aoba still has doubts about Koujaku in his head that he doesn’t know whether to ask or not, and immediately afterward they return to the tension.

With this I don’t mean to say that this is a negative thing at all, what I want to emphasize is precisely that this kind of relationship with romantic connotations does not happen in his dedicated route, but in the common route. The “point” in which Aoba is falling in love with Koujaku happens before any of this, and it’s not until his route that he begins to realize it and finally gives it a name and it’s impossible to deny it when Koujaku confesses his own feelings. 

Obviously where this is most noticeable is in the balcony scene. Physically nothing extraordinary happens in which they say “Wow, well that just happened...”, but mentally, from Aoba’s point of view, pretty intimate things are revealed.

It’s only with Aoba that Koujaku allows himself to relax, and Aoba knows it. It must be special to him too that despite being surrounded by people, this man only lets himself be seen in front of him. This is also the reason why upon meeting him at the beginning of the game, Aoba says that he’s just acting and that fake smile only works with those people, more on this later. It’s a symbol of their intimacy, and it’s a place where they can relax without having to worry about anyone watching them. And that’s precisely why Koujaku doesn’t care that there aren’t any good views there.

It doesn’t really matter what’s on the other side of the balcony, but what’s next to him, Aoba. Being able to have a moment when he can let his guard down and not be on alert for everything and keep pretending, and it’s with someone so important that he can share a laugh with and be able to forget about everything for a moment, almost as if he could go back in time.

Koujaku said he’d stay the night but says that he remembered he had something to do, we never know what it is. We don’t have any clues if it might be about his mother, it’s never said, so I doubt it. It might be because of the reaction he had when he saw Aoba sleeping, or it could be that they just cut that part because they thought they were giving Koujaku too much time. Cowards, they’d sleep together.

Before he goes out onto the balcony, Aoba stares at him, observing his expression, and observing his hands, mentioning how pretty he thought they were, that even he himself finds it strange to think like that, despite them being full of ugly scars.

Obviously it’s not just about Koujaku’s hands alone anymore, but also about what joining their hands means to them. As children they always grabbed their hands and for Aoba that was a way of knowing that someone was with him, that he was no longer alone, it was a relief. And now that they are older it has other, much deeper romantic connotations, but not so far away.

Their hands have a romantic and vital meaning for them. But Koujaku also uses his hands as a sexual game. And when those two things come together, it becomes an especially intense moment for both of them, because they both overflow with their feelings. Aoba feels loved, wanted, needed, it makes him feel accompanied, it gives him the security that what he feels for Koujaku is completely reciprocal. It gives him support, it gives him stability.

He also sees Ren in his arms, and he trusts him to hold him. Knowing the importance of Ren for Aoba, since he is the companion who’s always guiding him, and who he can always hug when he’s not feeling well, this is even more relevant.

I think the contrast is funny because both of them grab Beni like a ball and throw him to each other. Ren is getting fluffy privilege.

If you ask me, I find it curious that in the same scene Koujaku also mentions how beautiful he thinks Aoba’s hair is, because there’s some kind of reciprocity created. Of course if Aoba is in love with Koujaku’s hands, he is in love with Aoba’s hair, both being a strong emotional connection between the two.

Once he steps out onto the balcony and catches Koujaku’s eye, he smiles at him. Well, you can see for yourself that he seems quite flirty, when he could have been drawn literally any other way.

And it's not the only time he has a flirtatious attitude towards Aoba, and he’s not seen doing this with other men, even if it was just for fun. Entre broma y broma la verdad asoma.

Aoba keeps an ashtray just for when Koujaku comes over. He doesn’t even smoke in his room, only on the balcony, he could just let the ash fall on the street or just not smoke at all but.

In the end, it’s these kinds of details that give us an idea of the romantic connotations, and knowing what’s behind them and how it connects to the ending, it becomes obvious that not only Koujaku, but also Aoba has been deeply in love with Koujaku for a long time. But they couldn’t make them too obvious because it’s the common route, and there are four other characters with dedicated routes.

In a way, they reflect a symbolic state of their relationship beyond their reality, and with this I mean that during the common route Aoba and Koujaku could be considered somewhat of a couple, and I say this mostly because of their later content. The route would be a break-up arc, it could even be interpreted as infidelity (which actually it is literally infidelity, but not sexual or romantic infidelity as it can be interpreted in a second reading. Although it focuses more on the doubt and distrust about a possible betrayal than “cheating” itself). After overcoming the problems comes the reconciliation, and I consider that there are quite a few elements that resonate in Reconnect, the Drama CD and the SSS that, some more obvious and others not so much, could be interpreted as their marriage or engagement. You probably already know what I’m talking about, but more on that later.

I know Koujaku’s traditional corny ass would NOT not ask Aoba in marriage, but there are many things that are rather done than said, and these are some of them.

[earthlybeam]

🎄🎁Merry Christmas everyone🎉✨

✨☀️🏵️ 𝓖𝓵𝓸𝓻𝓯𝓲𝓷𝓭𝓮𝓵 🏵️☀️✨

how would the elves react to this?

↓

↓

↓

Glrofindel Version below. (reader/you are his lover). Featuring what I wrote below is: Building a Snowman (With a Twist), Snowball Fight, Sledging Adventure, Snow Angel.

☀️𝓖𝓵𝓸𝓻𝓯𝓲𝓷𝓭𝓮𝓵

Building a Snowman(With a Twist):

𖤓 The sun hung low in the sky, casting a soft, golden glow over the snowy landscape as you and Glorfindel worked together to build a snowman. His graceful movements were surprisingly nimble for someone so accustomed to battle, his long elven limbs sweeping through the snow as he rolled the largest of the snowballs into place. The deep, resonant laughter between you two echoed through the silent forest, a contrast to the otherwise peaceful, frozen world around you. Glorfindel, with his regal poise even in the simplest of tasks, knelt carefully to add the snowman’s head, brushing away any stray snowflakes as if he were crafting a piece of fine art. His golden hair, now slightly tousled from the work, shone like the sun against the white expanse of the snow, and his sharp blue eyes sparkled with a mix of pride and amusement as he placed the head atop the body. “Perfect,” he said with a satisfied smile, standing back to admire the snowman, his posture as dignified as if he were surveying a mighty work of craftsmanship. “I think we have a fine creation here, don’t you, meleth?”

𖤓 You stood beside him, admiring the snowman with equal pleasure. It was an impressive sight—his features delicately sculpted, the snow compacted just so, and the overall shape standing tall and proud. But despite how perfect it was, you couldn’t help but let a mischievous thought bubble up. With a smirk, you quietly moved behind Glorfindel, watching as he adjusted the snowman’s features, totally unaware of your intent. The moment was ripe, and you couldn’t resist. As Glorfindel bent down to pick up a carrot to use as the snowman’s nose, you quickly snatched another carrot from the nearby pile of snow provisions. With quick, decisive hands, you placed the carrot between the snowman’s legs, positioning it just right. Then, with a flourish, you added two perfectly round pebbles just beneath it.

𖤓 There it was: a snowman with a very distinct characteristic. You couldn’t help but stifle a giggle as you stepped back to survey your work, your heart racing with excitement at the mischief you’d just instigated. Glorfindel stood up straight after securing the nose, wiping his hands off, and turned to admire the creation he’d helped build. But as his gaze swept over the snowman, it landed on the rather unconventional addition you’d made. His posture froze for a split second, a slight widening of his eyes betraying the surprise he felt. Then, ever the master of his emotions, he lifted a single, golden brow—perfectly arched, as only Glorfindel could manage. His lips quirked upward in the smallest of smiles, but his gaze was fixed on you, sharp and amused.

𖤓 “I see where your mind is at,” he remarked dryly, his voice laced with both incredulity and admiration for your boldness. Despite his attempt at seriousness, the corners of his lips betrayed him, twitching as he tried to hold back a full grin. You, however, were doing your best to feign innocence, though the mischievous glint in your eyes was unmistakable. With a raised eyebrow, you looked at him and said, “What? I’m just helping him fit in.” The mock seriousness in your tone only made the moment more absurd, and your heart pounded in anticipation of Glorfindel’s next move. He stood there for a moment, his arms crossing in mock disapproval as he surveyed the snowman and then looked back at you. His laughter bubbled just beneath the surface, but he held his stern gaze, maintaining his façade of dignity. “You’ve certainly given him… character,” he said, shaking his head in exaggerated disbelief. “You know, my heart is moved by your creativity, meleth, but this is a rather… unorthodox approach to snowman building.”

𖤓 You couldn’t help but burst into a fit of giggles at his words, your hand flying to your mouth in a vain attempt to stifle the laughter that bubbled uncontrollably from within you. Glorfindel’s face softened, and for a brief moment, it seemed like the weight of his age and experience vanished in the face of your antics. His eyes danced with the same warmth and amusement that had first drawn you to him. With a sly grin, he stepped closer to you, his boots crunching through the snow as he leaned in, his voice dropping to a playful whisper, “Should I be worried that I am beginning to see a trend in your behavior?” Before you could answer, he scooped up a handful of snow and tossed it playfully at you. The cold hit your face, and you gasped in surprise, laughing as the snow splattered over your cheeks and down your collar. The moment of mischievousness had shifted into an all-out snowball fight, the air now alive with snow flying in all directions.

𖤓 “Oh, you’re impossible,” Glorfindel laughed, his voice rich with affection, but there was a glint of challenge in his eyes as he threw another handful of snow at you. You tried to retaliate, but the lightness of the moment swept you both up, and soon you were laughing harder than ever, tangled up in the snow, with no care for the cold or the mess. His golden hair shimmered like a halo in the dimming sunlight, his smile brighter than the wintry landscape, and in that moment, Glorfindel was simply perfect—not as a lord, not as a warrior, but as the playful elf who had swept you into this wintery adventure. The snow settled around you both like a blanket, a soft cushion for your laughter, and for a fleeting moment, all that existed was the warmth of shared joy between the two of you.

✦•┈๑⋅⋯ ⋯⋅๑┈•✦ ꕤ ၄၃ ꕤ ✦•┈๑⋅⋯ ⋯⋅๑┈•✦

Snowball Fight:

𖤓 The snow was falling softly over the valley of Imladris, blanketing the evergreen trees and rocky slopes in pristine white. The crisp, cool air carried the sound of Glorfindel’s laughter, light and melodic, as he moved effortlessly across the snowy expanse. His golden hair shimmered even in the pale winter light, catching on the snowflakes that drifted lazily from the sky. Despite his layered cloak and boots, he moved with the unearthly grace that only an elf could muster, dodging each snowball you hurled at him with an almost theatrical elegance. He weaved and spun like a dancer, his laughter spilling into the frosty air. “Surely you can aim better than that!” he teased, crouching briefly behind a snowbank. His head peeked up over the edge, bright blue eyes alight with mischief. “What happened to mortal ingenuity?”

𖤓 You launched another snowball, this time a little quicker, but he sidestepped it with ease, throwing his arms out wide in mock triumph. “I fear this is hardly a fair match,” he called out, ducking low again as you sent another flying his way. “You’ll have to be faster, stronger—oh, and a bit more creative if you mean to catch me.” You gritted your teeth, balling another handful of snow with determination. The smugness on his face, even from behind the snowbank, was insufferable—but endearing. Glorfindel clearly delighted in this playful exchange, his golden hair whipping with every graceful dodge, the tips of his pointed ears peeking from under the fur-lined edge of his hood.

𖤓 Then came your moment. He popped up suddenly, perhaps overconfident, intending to deliver yet another smug taunt—but his timing was off. You’d already taken aim, the snowball flying through the air before he even registered it. It hit him square in the chest with a satisfying thud, scattering white powder across the deep blue of his cloak. For a moment, he froze, blinking in mock surprise. Then, with a theatrical gasp, he staggered backward, clutching at his chest as though he had taken a mortal wound. “Alas!” he cried, his voice full of exaggerated despair. “A mortal’s mighty aim has felled me at last!” He collapsed dramatically into the snow, lying sprawled as though the blow had been fatal. “Tell Erestor I died with honor,” he added with a faint, tragic whisper.

𖤓 Your victorious grin faltered just slightly as you took a hesitant step toward him. ��Glorfindel?” you called, unsure if he was truly unscathed. “You’re not—” But before you could finish your thought, his eyes snapped open, alight with glee, and in one smooth motion, he sprang up and lunged toward you. You had barely a second to react before he stuffed a handful of snow down the back of your coat. You let out a sharp yelp, the icy chill racing down your spine as you squirmed, trying to shake the snow loose. “Glorfindel!” you shrieked, your indignation only making his laughter more uncontrollable. He fell back into the snow, arms wrapped around his stomach as he laughed heartily, utterly delighted by his victory. His golden hair fanned out around him like a sunlit halo, a stark contrast to the snowy backdrop, as he wiped a tear from his eye. “Ah, forgive me,” he said between chuckles, though his mischievous grin betrayed no real remorse. “But you did challenge me to a snowball fight, and you must know by now—I always play to win.”

✦•┈๑⋅⋯ ⋯⋅๑┈•✦ ꕤ ၄၃ ꕤ ✦•┈๑⋅⋯ ⋯⋅๑┈•✦

Sledging Adventure:

𖤓 The crisp winter air wrapped around you as you stood at the top of the gentle hill, watching Glorfindel scrutinize the sled in his hands with the intensity of someone preparing for battle. His golden hair glowed in the weak sunlight, and his usual regal composure had been replaced by an almost childlike concentration as he turned the sled over, inspecting its every curve and edge. “You’re sure you’ve got this?” you asked, a playful edge to your voice. You couldn’t help but raise an eyebrow as he adjusted the rope handle, his brows furrowing in deep concentration. He glanced up at you with a confident smile, the hint of a mischievous gleam in his eye. “Of course, meleth,” he said, his voice light but assured. “How difficult could it be? A bit of balance, a bit of speed—simple enough, even for an elf.” His voice carried the same self-assured tone that you’d heard in countless council meetings, as though he were about to deliver some great command or embark on a daring quest.

𖤓 You couldn’t suppress a small laugh. “Well, if you say so. But I’ll be here in case you need rescuing.” You winked, leaning against a snow-covered tree to watch the spectacle unfold. With a final glance at you, Glorfindel stepped onto the sled, still looking utterly confident in his abilities. And then, in an instant, the sled lurched forward, far faster than either of you had anticipated. Glorfindel’s eyes widened in alarm as he scrambled to steady himself, his graceful elven reflexes working against him in the face of the unexpected momentum. “Ai, Eru save me!” he yelped, his voice a mix of surprise and panic as the sled bounced erratically down the hill, zigzagging in every direction, its wooden runners scraping against the icy snow with a high-pitched screech.

𖤓 You doubled over in laughter, your breath coming in bursts of mirth as you watched him flail, arms windmilling in a desperate attempt to regain control. His usual composure was nowhere to be found now—he was just as flustered as any mortal in the face of this child’s plaything. Glorfindel’s laughter echoed through the air as the sled careened toward a snowbank, and in the next instant, it collided with the mound of snow with a violent thud. The force sent him flying forward, his body twisting mid-air before he landed headfirst in the soft snow, the sled tipping over beside him with a soft thump. For a brief moment, there was only silence. You couldn’t help but stand there, gasping for air between your uncontrollable giggles, watching as the great warrior—leader of the House of the Golden Flower, slayer of Balrogs—lay sprawled out in the snow like a clumsy child.

𖤓 You hurried down the hill toward him, still laughing, though concern flickered in your eyes. When you reached his side, you found him half-buried in the snow, snowflakes caught in his golden lashes, his face flushed from both the cold and the absurdity of the situation. He groaned, rolling onto his back, and when his eyes met yours, there was no sign of the fierce elven lord you had come to know so well. Instead, his lips were quirked in a half-smile, the familiar gleam of mischief returning to his eyes. “Well then,” he said with mock gravitas, brushing the snow from his cloak, “perhaps I underestimated this mortal contraption.” You stifled a grin, crossing your arms over your chest as you looked down at him. “Still confident?” you teased, the humor evident in your voice despite your concern. “It looks like you might need some practice.”

𖤓 Before you could say anything more, Glorfindel shot you a sly look, and before you knew it, he had grabbed your hand with surprising strength, pulling you down beside him into the snow. With a shriek of laughter, you tumbled onto the soft, cold ground, the world spinning in a swirl of white and gold. Glorfindel lay beside you, both of you laughing so hard your sides ached, snow clinging to your hair and clothing. His laughter, rich and infectious, blended with your own until you could hardly tell where one ended and the other began. After a moment, Glorfindel propped himself up on one elbow, gazing down at you with an expression of playful warmth. His breath was warm against your skin, the soft glow of the winter sun catching his golden features, making him look almost angelic in the pure, snowy landscape. His smile softened, and without a word, he leaned in, brushing the snow from your face before placing a gentle kiss on your lips.

𖤓 When he pulled back, his eyes were twinkling with a teasing mischief. “Next time, meleth,” he said, voice rich with affection, “we ride together—if only so you can share the blame when we crash.” You rolled your eyes, still breathless with laughter, but before you could respond, Glorfindel sat up fully and reached for the sled, determination flashing across his face once more. “But,” he added, grinning wide, “next time, I will conquer it.”

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Snow Angel:

𖤓 The snow lay undisturbed, glistening like stardust across the meadow as you both collapsed side by side, breathless and laughing from the earlier snowball fight. Glorfindel’s golden hair fanned out against the white ground, a halo of sunlight in the midst of winter’s chill. His cheeks were flushed a faint pink, both from the cold and the lingering laughter that refused to leave his face. He turned his head toward you, his bright blue eyes sparkling with a playful light, and grinned. “Now,” he said, his voice warm and lilting, “it’s time to teach you a proper elvish art form. Snow angels.” His tone was mock-serious, as though this were a skill of utmost importance, but the teasing curve of his lips gave him away. You raised an eyebrow at him, skeptical. “Snow angels are an elvish art form? Really?”

𖤓 “Of course,” he replied, the corners of his mouth twitching with suppressed laughter. “You mortals think you invented them, but I assure you, we perfected the craft centuries ago. Watch and learn.” Glorfindel stretched his arms wide and began to sweep them through the snow, his legs moving in unison. The sheer grace with which he moved, even while lying in the snow, was almost comical—he made it look as elegant as a dance. After a few moments, he stopped and turned his head toward you, a proud smile on his face. “There. The wings of an angel. Now, your turn.” You rolled your eyes but couldn’t help smiling as you mimicked his movements, sweeping your arms and legs through the snow. Glorfindel watched intently, his golden hair catching stray snowflakes, his expression somewhere between amusement and admiration. He leaned over slightly to adjust the angle of your arm, his fingers warm even through your layers.

𖤓 “Slowly,” he murmured, his voice soft as snow. “You must move like this, see?” He guided your arm gently, his touch firm but careful, his gaze flicking between your movements and your face. “There. Perfect.” When you finally stopped, you turned your head to look at him, triumphant. “How did I do?” He sat up on his elbows, peering down at the two snow angels carved into the ground. One was flawless, its wings sweeping out in perfect symmetry, while the other was… a little crooked. He chuckled, his melodic laughter filling the quiet meadow. “Ah, your wings are almost as radiant as mine,” he teased, his tone light and playful. He reached out, brushing a strand of hair from your face. “Almost.” You feigned a pout, narrowing your eyes at him. “Yours looks better. Are you even trying to make mine look bad?”

𖤓 Glorfindel gasped in mock indignation, sitting up fully now. “Sabotage your snow angel?” he repeated, his hand over his heart as though wounded by the accusation. “I would never commit such a grievous crime.” You opened your mouth to retort, but the mischievous glint in his eye silenced you. Before you could say another word, Glorfindel leaned closer, his expression softening as his voice dropped to a teasing murmur. “But,” he added, his lips curving into a cheeky grin, “perhaps I’ll have to kiss you for forgiveness.” His hands, warm despite the chill, cupped your face with gentle reverence, his thumbs brushing lightly over your skin. Time seemed to slow as he leaned in, the world shrinking to the space between you. His lips met yours, soft and warm, and for a moment, the cold vanished entirely. The snow fell gently around you, blanketing the meadow in silence, as if even nature itself was holding its breath for this moment.

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[herbariumua]

I know it's just another joke moment, but I want to say that I really like how far Homer and Waylon's relationship went. Of course, I don't think when they make the series, they think about it this far - but if we look on everything that happened between them, it's actually something that has some continuity.

We know that Homer and Barney bullied Waylon as teenagers - at least once Homer seriously beat him up, which makes their fight scene in the episode "Homer the Smithers" feel like a nice revenge. Their meeting in the flashback episode where Homer was trying to get a job didn't do anything positive for their dynamic either; Waylon openly despised him for his incompetence. In the early seasons, Waylon himself was more mean, prickly and sarcastic towards the others, and their particular friction was with Homer: still due to his incompetence, or in those moments when Mr. Burns briefly directed his affections towards Homer - making Waylon very jealous.

But in later seasons, Waylon is still written as very intelligent and professional, but suffering from OCD and anxiety, vulnerable and very lonely. He becomes increasingly contrasted with Mr. Burns' aloofness as he tries to introduce social benefits and normal working conditions during his management of the power plant (which backfires on him).

Because Waylon is changing so much, their relationship with Homer is also getting a lot better. Waylon seems to have somehow come to terms with how stupid Homer is - but still asks him for help or favors, like inviting guests to the party (who actually exist or haven't died yet). Homer finds him both boys: both Julio and Michael - the first for selfish reasons, the second - because he really felt sorry for how lonely Waylon is.

I recently watched an episode (yes, I still haven't finished the whole series, I'm so sorry) where Homer suffered a traumatic brain injury that put him on 2 months off. And I feel like in the early seasons Waylon would have supported Mr. Burns that Homer should go back to work instead of arguing that Homer was seriously injured. It really shows his development as a character and the development of their relationship: they can both feel sympathy and genuine compassion for each other.

It's just musings on musings, it's just that I found this scene even cute in a way - and it inspired me to write this post. Maybe somehow it is worth writing a big post-analysis about their relationship, where they - although in the background - but still evolved from the attacker-victim in adolescence to enemies (?) in adulthood to friends now.

P.S. Also, I love that Waylon and Marge are best friends, I really wish the show would remember that and give us more hints that they see each other regularly. The next episode is all about the two of them, which I can't wait for.

P.P.S. And yes, I write about him in his first name, what you gonna do about it, I'm in another country :D

[rotisseries]

planet of love

[stagefoureddiediaz]

Thinking thoughts about Abuela being back and with this backstory about her being taken in by charlatans and Eddies whole catholic guilt thing and how the two things kind of play into one another as an exploration of faith and being taken in by something.

Abuela giving all her money to the tarot card readers etc because she was searching for something - for connection (with Abuelo) - trying to recapture what she had lost, and How Eddie has spoken about trying to re-find the magic he had with Shannon - how Eddie hasn't actually fully reconciled the Shannon of it all when it comes to relationships and how his Catholic guilt connects into that.

How Marisol as a physical representation of Catholicism is part of that narrative - how Eddie is entering a place where he has to chose his path - in order to move on from Shannon he needs to fully square the hole - catholic or non catholic. And how that needs to happen first - before he can begin his queer journey!

[averlym]

,,, sun-dappled sheets...

[theotherrichardpapen]

...because any moment may be our last. everything is more beautiful because we're doomed.

[jaevy]

your room was square

i once noticed from there

in your bed, as you slept

and i held my breath

everything had its own place

and i wondered what space would i take

in the order you kept

[lonepower]

I think the thing about the wardor games is that they are good games, made by people who are excellent at making video games, with a good story, told by people who are absolutely terrible at telling a story