#to you that may mean romantic relationship

[ofoceansandtombsanew]

How the Straw Hats Love (As Told By Tarot) Pt I

cw. gn!reader, headcanons, tarot pairing. luffy x reader, zoro x reader, sanji x reader, usopp x reader notes. i've been meaning to this for the straw hats but considering the... amount of crewmates there are lol, i thought why not start with 4 of the bois. next i definitely want to do robin, nami, franky and... hmm maybe jinbei? but to start, our east blue boys! deck. prisma vision tarot, true black tarot

monkey d. luffy

seven of swords, ten of chalices, page of chalices

he isn't just your partner, luffy is your best friend. he knows loneliness and loss too well for comfort and he doesn't want you to ever feel the same way. in a lot of ways, it feels like luffy knows you better than yourself. you never have to question how luffy feels, he's honest and wears his heart on his sleeves. he loves you and he shows it freely through his actions. he doesn't lie to himself and he doesn't want you lying to yourself whether it be how you feel about him or any other aspect of your life. so much love flows from monkey d. luffy and his person for any and everyone, but you're someone special above the rest. you're a treasure among treasures. you're someone who makes him happy and he strives to make you happy. your dreams are just as important to him as his own. what makes you happy might not make always align with his own but he's sure to approach those things with with enthusiasm.

roronoa zoro

three of wands, the emperor, two of wands, six of cups

zoro's dream is to become the world's strongest swordsman. there's not really much else he took into account otherwise as far as what may happen on the path there. he couldn't have predicted luffy, the crew and her certainly never predicted you. in spite of that, zoro hones in on you much like a traveler following a guiding light. his goals allow for much leeway on the path there, there's nothing holding back his devotion and loyalty to you. your relationship is a promise and nothing this man does makes you doubt this promise. there's a tenderness in how he touches you and approaches you but he doesn't doubt your own strength. he trusts in it as much as you trust in his. zoro's is a love that feels like it approaches a part of your lost youth. the things neither of you might have had the chance the done when you were younger but can now indulge in fully by each other's side. enjoy the ride.

black leg sanji

the lovers, seven of pentacles, the fool, the anant

much to no one's surprise, the man's a hopeless romantic. sanji heartily believes in soulmates and fated persons and can only hope he's someone lucky enough to have one of his own. despite being a flirt, sanji isn't one who loves casually. when sanji has his person, he's as loyal and dedicated as they come; investing as much you give him. any love you give him, he appreciates a hundred times fold. if given another chance at life, he truly means it when he says there isn't a thing in his life he'd change if he knows that is the path that will lead him right back to you. there's a darkness to sanji, however. one that doesn't allow him to truly see the value of his person. he stumbles much like a blindfolded child in his yearning in spite of this. he wants so much to make you happy that he needs to be reminded in the importance of his own happiness as well.

god usopp

page of chalices, the tower, judgement, three of wands

usopp's no stranger to unexpected and, at time's disastrous situations. being part of a crew such as his own, he's learned to be prepared for it. there's no rainbow without the rain and if you have no umbrella, usopp is right there to craft one with his ingenuity and the resources at hand. the days of his pessimism and cowardice aren't entirely gone, but when it comes to someone having your back you can count on usopp completely and so too can you trust his affections for you. he might not be the strongest person and he's not the bravest, but his love for you is only ten times stronger. he encourages your creativity and he's tactful when gauging your wellbeing. usopp's desire for strength only stems from his desire to protect those he holds most dear. a brave warrior of the sea won't strive for anything less. out of all the things he imagines for his future, your image is the clearest.

[the-cosmic-cauldron]

Jupiter shows where you tend to overdo things. Here’s a description based on its placement in each house:

1st House

• You have a strong, dominant personality and often want to be the center of attention.

• You can be overly demanding and push too hard for your goals.

• Your fashion style may be excessive, and you might indulge in cosmetic procedures or wear a lot of jewelry and accessories.

• You tend to spend heavily on your appearance and may try to juggle too many things at once.

• There’s a tendency to be overly focused on yourself.

2nd House

• You may hoard items or shop impulsively, often buying things just because.

• There’s a tendency to overwork, possibly juggling multiple sources of income.

• Spending on cosmetics, hair, clothes, and style can get excessive, and cosmetic enhancements may be frequent.

• You might prioritize stability to an extreme and focus heavily on having a structured, set life.

3rd House

• You may talk excessively, engage in frequent debates or arguments, and interact with many people.

• Constantly learning, you may have too many tabs open—both literally and figuratively.

• Your mind is filled with endless ideas, and you might overcommit to various educational programs.

• You could spend too much time with siblings or excessively text and talk on the phone.

• Spend excessive time on your phone.

• Spend a significant amount of time talking to others.

4th House

• You might spend an excessive amount of time at home with family and friends.

• Constant redecorating or buying things for your home is common.

• You may overindulge in comfort activities like staying in bed, cuddling, or enjoying home-cooked meals.

5th House

• You can be overly expressive and may try to juggle multiple hobbies or projects at once.

• Romantic relationships may become excessive, with frequent dating or hookups.

• You might have many children or find yourself in party and nightlife scenes too often.

• Overindulgence in fun, partying, or avoiding responsibilities can be a challenge.

6th House

• You may be a workaholic, often juggling several jobs and constantly staying busy.

• Helping others and being productive might become excessive, leaving little time for rest.

• You could overdo your wellness routine, such as dieting, exercising, or taking supplements.

• Obsession with skincare, hygiene, or maintaining a youthful appearance may develop.

7th House

• Relationships may be a central focus, with frequent dating, multiple marriages, or seeking romance excessively.

• You might rely heavily on others, becoming co-dependent or overly people-pleasing.

• There’s a tendency to overanalyze different perspectives or play devil’s advocate too often.

• Obsession with approval from people who don’t like you could arise.

8th House

• You may constantly crave change and new experiences.

• There’s a tendency toward excessive intimacy, with a high body count or obsession with sex.

• Financially, you might seek wealthy partners or focus too much on joint resources.

• You may overindulge in analyzing people, diving deeply into psychology, or exploring taboo topics.

9th House

• You might pursue multiple degrees, certifications, or philosophical discussions excessively.

• There’s a strong urge to travel frequently or learn about different cultures.

• You may have a lot of beliefs and constantly search for meaning in life.

• Overdoing growth and chasing life experiences can leave you feeling ungrounded.

10th House

• You might be overly focused on improving your career and achieving status.

• There’s a tendency to obsess over your image, goals, and purpose in life.

• You may become fixated on reaching the top of your career, gaining power, or finding your ultimate life purpose, often to the detriment of other areas of life.

11th House

• You could become overly focused on finding friends or fitting into social groups.

• There’s a tendency to immerse yourself in humanitarian causes, fighting for equity, and solving societal problems.

• You may obsess over social media, community involvement, or niche projects.

• Dreams and aspirations could dominate your attention, leaving little room for balance in other aspects of life.

12th House

• You might spend excessive time introspecting, trying to figure out yourself, others, and the world.

• There’s a tendency to become overly spiritual or religious, diving deeply into escapism or dreamlike states.

• Isolation can become excessive, with a strong urge to withdraw from society or live off-grid.

• Addictive tendencies or living in a fantasy world may surface.

• Overindulgence in healing or imagining life as you wish it to be could lead to a lack of groundedness in reality.

[snoopyhughes]

it's you, it's you, it's really all for you (nh13)

Happy winter fic exchange @puckology101 !!! For the plot I had in mind, I didn't think a Swiss Alps trip was realistic but I hope this does the trick. I tried to detail the beautiful Banff scenery as best as I could (especially for someone who has never been!) so I hope you could truly envision that.

As always, @wyattjohnston Demi thank you so much for hosting this event for our community!

This is 2k+ words, I don't believe there's any mentions of any defining traits but I have not done a thorough check to ensure that this is safe for all to read. If you would like me to do that, shoot me a message and I'm more than willing to double check.

Title from Video Games by Lana del Rey (the live version, iykyk) this is loosely edited!

Nico Hischier, in hind sight, was thrilled that Switzerland was not a part of the four nations tournament. His logical, captain sense knows that he should want to play hockey all the time, work on his game, and he does really love international play. However, he needed a break. The high powered, adrenaline filled season had taken a toll on his body and his mental capacity.

But deep down, he was thrilled. Because that means he gets to go on a trip with his best friend, Y/N. When some of the guys who weren't going to four nations decided to get a group together and take a trip to Banff, complete with skiing, the beautiful winter scenery, and two hot tubs on the property, he jumped on the opportunity, even faster when he knew Y/N could come with.

Dawson insisted that he invited his girlfriend because he promised her a trip on the all star break but she ended up not being able to go. Soon enough, almost all of the guys were inviting their partners, save for Luke who insisted on bringing his best friend Dylan Duke, never one for formalities with girls.

Nico was chronically single, but always by choice. He does not have enough fingers and toes to count the amount of times he's tried to show you how much he loves you, more than a friend, but it never works. Either you're lovingly clueless or you don't feel the same way, the latter causing a pit in his stomach. That being said, Nico will always pick you as his plus one to pretty much anything. If you ever suggest that he find a real date, someone who he might want to be romantically involved with, he shrugs it off immediately, letting you know that "he doesn't have time for a relationship right now" and that "you make him happier than any relationship ever could."

Everything leading up to the trip was relatively smooth. The private jet flight (that you'd never get used to) was like flying on a resort, you were able to get time off work with no problem, and even the packing didn't seem like as much of a chore as it usually does. But things started getting interesting as soon as you, Nico, and the group made it to the ski resort. You always knew you'd be sharing a room, that much never bothered you. You'd shared hotel rooms with him before, having not been a first timer on an all star break trip, which is essentially what this was. Coincidentally, all of the people on the trip ended up with rooms right next to each other. When you opened the door, you saw one huge king bed staring right at you.

You and Nico shared a look, assuming that your room may have gotten mixed up with the others. Sure enough, when you knocked on everyone's door, they all had the same set up as you. The only room with two beds on the floor, it seemed, belong to Luke and Dylan. You thought of asking them to switch, but you could only imagine Luke's dramatics and theatrics if you tried to suggest switching rooms.

"It really doesn't bother me, Y/N. As long as it doesn't bother you, I'm fine with it. Besides, did you see the size of that bed? It could probably fit a third person in there also." You really didn't know why you were so nervous. Of course, you had known you had feelings for Nico. But you always felt that Nico could never have any feelings for you. You had watched Nico flirt with girls in the bar after games, even on the trips you went on, awkwardly tagging along on his side. It was the same way he flirted with you sometimes. It made you feel like you were just another girl for him to flirt with. He had a naturally flirty personality, and you were just another person who came in contact with that.

As you opened the door to the bedroom again, accepting your fate, you took a second to look around and truly take in the room. You were amazed at what you saw. When you first walked into the room, you could clearly see the bathroom, with a jacuzzi tub and a waterfall shower, and even a double vanity sink. In addition to the huge bed, there was a massive TV set up across from it, some of the softest towels you've ever countered in your life, and a huge glass sliding door. When you moved the curtains, you couldn't help the gasp that had came over your mouth.

Nico had seen tons of beautiful mountain scenery in his lifetime, growing up in Switzerland. He had seen the mountains, the snow, all of it. And sure, you had seen snow. It was usually tinged with grey and brown, tire tracks and footprints ruining its true beauty. This, this pure, unaltered beauty of the mountain scene in Banff, it took your breath away. Nico couldn't help but smile, seeing your pure joy, watching the breath get stolen from your mouth as you observed the scenes around you.

"Nico this is... wow," you gasped, leaning in when he wrapped his arm around you, feeling him rest his head atop of yours. Your heart fluttered, feeling like you were meant to be here. "You're my best friend," you smiled nuzzling into his side. "Yeah, my best friend."

You should've known with the room situation that the guys were up to something. After all, Dawson insisted on booking the rooms, saying that Nico deserved a break from his "captain duties," causing Nico to rebut that "booking rooms on a vacation is hardly a 'captain's duty.'" But when you turned away from the mountains, you were beginning to discover that it was possible that you and Nico had gotten the "honeymoon suite." You had your own private hot tub on the deck of your room, the first floor patio backing up into a beautiful mountain scene. You imagined snow falling onto your face and hair as you and Nico lounged in the hot tub together. Your cheeks heat up at the thought, causing you to pull away from Nico. You couldn't allow yourself to get too caught up in the what ifs. If Nico really wanted to make a move on you, he would make a move, not the same move he had made hundreds of other times.

You found yourself in your bathroom getting ready with the other girls that were on the trip. Nico had already gotten ready and was downstairs at the bar drinking with the guys. Since you had gotten in to the resort after 5, you knew no skiing would be happening, so you made reservations at a nice restaurant in downtown Banff.

"So, how's it going with you and Nico? Do you like the room?" Dawson's girlfriend giggling, nudging you in the side. "I knew that couldn't have been accidental. Dawson seemed way too excited watching me trying to figure out how to unlock the room door," you laughed, nudging her right back. "It's so foolish. You both clearly love each other, but neither of you will make a move. It makes no sense. If you guys won't do it, someone else had to try it." You sighed, putting the cap on your lip gloss.

"I know what you mean, but I really don't think Nico likes me back. He acts the same way with every other girl he's come across. If Nico really wants to be with me, I want him to make it known, make it obvious. Do something that lets me know that it's me only, not me and the girls at the bar, not me and the girls who wait for him after games, just me." Whether you realized it or not, the other girls were silently taking notes, and as soon as you went to the bathroom at dinner, they told Nico.

When you arrived with the girls at the restaurant, you learned the guys were already waiting at a table. Nico's eyes lit up when he saw you, smiling wide and blushing at your prolonged eye contact. As you came closer to the table, he took a step toward you, pulling you into a hug. His large hand ran along your back as he pulled you in close, causing goosebumps to raise up your arms and on the back of your neck.

"You look absolutely stunning," he whispered in your ear, causing your cheats to heat up, a smile just as big as Nico's. Nico only pulled away to pull your chair out for you, again causing your cheeks to heat up, the girlfriends smiling around you, although you had genuinely no idea because you couldn't stop staring at Nico.

They wondered how you couldn't see how much he cared for you, more than anyone, especially any other girl. Even the guys could see how much he cared for you. The girls understood deep down, knowing how difficult it can be to be able to fully trust a man, especially if you had been hurt in the past by one. Because yes, they were taking notes to share with Nico. But they really didn't need to. And everything they told him, he already knew.

He knew exactly where you'd want to eat, knowing that you craved your comfort food when you were tired. It was the perfect place to eat after a travel day, and getting to the hotel when it was already dark. He knew your preferred seating choice, and of course he knew that you would want a table with a view of the mountains. He didn't care how much it cost him, or that he had to name drop himself (and Luke) to get the table with the view. All that mattered was that he could sit across from you, and watch you admire the view, while he admired you, which was really all that mattered to him.

And nothing felt more perfect than when the rest of the couples started either making their way back to the resort or to the next stop on their drinking trip down the Main Street in Downtown, you and Nico stayed. The two of you stayed, his hand softly brushing yours as you talked, him with his back to the window, taking that spot specifically so that you could see the scenery. And even as everyone left, leaving the two of you at the table alone, all he wanted to do was look at you. The way you smiled, the way your eyes crinkled at the corners when you laughed, even the soft yawn you let out towards the end of the night made him smile, his cheeks hurting at the end of the night.

When the uber dropped you two off at the resort at the end of the night, Nico held the door open for you, helping you back into the room. When he moved from the front of your view and you saw what he had done, you couldn't stop the gasp from coming from your mouth. How he had done it while being at the restaurant and you being the last to leave the room, you truly didn't know. But you didn't need the logistics, because it all settled in for you.

It's you. It's always you. It always has been, and always will be. The most beautiful bouquets of your favorite flowers sat around the room, no flower petals on the floor because you both agreed that that was impractical. A bucket of champagne sat cooling right by the glass doors that outlooked the view, the most perfect view. It was then you realized that it was more than Dawson who picked this room, it was Nico, wanting to share the space with you. It was Nico who knew how much you'd love the view. It's Nico. It always has been, and it always will be.

When your eyes locked from across the room, your eyes finally looking up at his, which you knew had been on yours the whole time, you couldn't cross the room fast enough. And when your lips locked with his, everything else floated away. It was like nothing else mattered. As the snow fell in the background just behind you, you knew that it didn't matter where you were, and it didn't matter who came in the way. It was always you.

[jovialsongdefendor]

The idea that Sonic X is the closest to the creator's vision doesn’t hold up because, while it may be a well-known adaptation, it’s not necessarily reflective of the creators’ full intent. Sonic X was made by a third-party animation studio with oversight from SEGA, but it doesn’t mean it aligns exactly with the core vision that Yuji Naka and other original creators had for the series. The creators themselves have been cautious about locking down any romantic relationship between Sonic and Amy in the mainline games or the broader franchise, and Sonic X is just one interpretation of Sonic’s character.

you saying that valuing freedom and committing to a relationship are not mutually exclusive oversimplifies Sonic’s character. Sonic's personality, especially in the games, consistently emphasizes his desire for independence and freedom above all else, which is why he typically resists romantic involvement. The idea that Amy wouldn’t take his freedom away might be true, but Sonic’s reluctance to commit to a relationship has more to do with his personal nature than external factors. Sonic’s actions, such as wearing the bracelet, are often interpreted in ways that reflect kindness or acknowledgment of Amy’s feelings, but they don’t definitively signal a romantic commitment. It’s important to separate thoughtful gestures from clear relationship dynamics. not always is romantic.

Furthermore, you waying that Sonic didn’t say anything about the bracelet if it didn’t mean something more is speculative. Sonic's silence can be interpreted in multiple ways, and just because he didn’t make a direct statement doesn’t mean it indicates romantic affection. It could simply reflect his nature of not overly emphasizing small moments, especially ones related to relationships that aren't central to his character arc.

Questioning Amy's purpose as a character if she wasn’t meant to be more in a romantic sense ignores the depth and complexity of her character. Amy’s creation and development weren’t just for romantic purposes; she is her own character with strengths, flaws, and growth outside of a romantic relationship with Sonic. While it’s true that there have been more playful or teasing moments between Sonic and Amy over time, this doesn’t necessarily mean a relationship is being "confirmed" or that it was the original intent for her character. The ongoing teases are likely more about fan service and providing moments for fans to enjoy rather than signaling an inevitable romantic conclusion. Sonic knows about amys feelings, but dont reciprocate them. about sonadow wiki, yeah. I interacted with them. what about them?

"Sonamy is canon and sonic likes amy back! he is just shy!"

What. Uh. The claim that "Sonamy is canon and Sonic likes Amy back but is just shy" is a misconception because it lacks clear evidence in the games or official media that Sonic reciprocates Amy’s romantic feelings in a meaningful or consistent way.

Sonic’s interactions with Amy across the games show that he cares for her as a friend and ally, but there’s no solid indication that he sees her romantically. Sonic often dodges or avoids Amy when she expresses her romantic feelings. While this is played for comedic effect, it’s far from a sign of shyness. It suggests that Sonic may not share the same feelings or simply isn’t interested in pursuing romance. Sonic cares about Amy’s safety and well-being, but this aligns with his general heroic nature and how he treats his other friends (e.g., Tails, Knuckles, or even strangers). His protective attitude doesn’t necessarily imply romantic feelings. And that some fans doesnt understand.

The evidence that some fans showed is mostly mistranslations that sega of the wester side do it on purpose when in the japanese version, where sonic is originated created, the text is completly different. So yeah, the voice over where tails read the questions about sonic having feelings for amy in the sonic cd resume of amy being sonics love interest they are already spreading wrong information, so yeah. They are literrally spreading a lie the america sega when they dont have any power on it lol. (sonadow wiki next)

"If anyone uses this to claim that it is Sonic saying that he is calling Amy his girlfriend, that is misinformation/disinformation, they are lying and it shows that they don’t know how to read Japanese at all.

This sentence has nothing to do with Sonic calling anyone his girlfriend. And what is in the parentheses is not a part of the sentence, that is a personal interpretation of what the person thought of after mistranslating the sentence.

What the sentence says is this: “Sorry but, I find a girlfriend to be an inconvenience (burden or discomfort).” or “Unfortunately, a girlfriend is something that I don’t want to inconvenience myself with, you know.”

The sentence in Japanese: “あいにく, ガールフレンドには 不自由して いないもんでね”

If you take the sentence apart (which you can see on this website) you will see each word on it’s own to see the direct translation.

あいにく = Unfortunately or Sorry, but…

ガールフレンド = Girlfriend

不自由して = Doing Discomfort or Inconvenience

いない = (something along the lines of) Do not (when paired with 不自由して)

もん = Something/Person/Thing

でね = You know

Another thing to point out is that the sentence in Japanese does not have the word or meaning “have” in it. “Have” in Japanese would involve the character or particle “が.”

One more thing to point out is that with the incorrect translation, if Sonic was saying that, then it does not reflect in the game it is in, nor future medias where he runs away from Amy constantly (like in Sonic Battle) or considers her only a friend."

Even Ian sayed that amys love is one-sided and sonic considered her as a friend, nothing more. Everyone, including employess, are just lying to this point!

And even in the video down below sonic sayed that is nothing complicated, and she is just a important friend that can be difficult to handle sometimes.

"Oh, but sonic sounds like a boy with a crush"

NO. That doesnt mean necesarrily that he have a crush People claiming "he sounds like he has a crush" are basing their argument on subjective interpretation of Sonic’s tone of voice rather than the actual words he says. Tone can be influenced by many factors: Sonic might be playful, casual, or dismissive because he doesn’t see the topic as serious.

His tone might even reflect mild awkwardness—not because of romantic feelings, but because Amy’s affection can sometimes be overbearing or embarrassing for him. When Sonic curtly responds to questions about Amy (like saying she's "an important friend" or "nothing complicated"), some fans interpret his brevity as embarrassment or an attempt to hide his true feelings. However, this interpretation comes from the fan’s desire to see a romantic connection, not from what Sonic is actually communicating.

Without concrete actions to back up this tone, interpreting it as proof of a crush is a leap. So no, friends, not everything has to be romantic.

And even in the japanese sonic channel amy is still saying that she is a "self-proclamed" girlfriend so... yeah.

And about that some fans sayed that in sonic unleashed sonic gets sad because amy doesnt recognize him and walks away, more like sonic gets sad because with that form his friends couldnt even recognize him anymore and thinks he looks like a monster. that doesnt show that he likes her romantically. He is trying to adapt to his new form, so is understandable that he felts sad with his new form if a friend doesnt recognize him. And about sonic flirting with lady percival thing: bro, sonic is acting normal like he do with knuckles, tails and even shadow. what are you into bro.

[smol-bby-bear]

Tips for agere caregivers from an age regressor

I’ve been an age regressor for almost 8 years, and has the same caregiver for almost 5 years. My caregiver wasn’t one prior and became one to look after me, so these are so tips I came up with. Not everything will be relevant to everyone, everyone is different and had different dynamics.

🤍 Give yourself time to think about whether you want to be a caregiver. I understand some people find out their partner is an agere and wants to help, but being a caregiver isn’t for everybody. Do you have the time to be there? Do you have the drive to nurture and protect? Do you understand what an age regressor is?

🤍 Do some research. Learn about age regression, what it is and the benefits.

🤍 Talk to the age regressor. What would change between you? What are the expectations? What does being an age regressor mean to them? What would they need from a caregiver.

🤍 Boundaries, for both the caregiver and age regressor. What’s off limits? What are you happy with or what would make you uncomfortable? Are certain conversations and topics off limits while regressed? Does the age regressor always need the caregiver or do they like to have little space alone sometimes? Are forehead kisses or hugs okay?

🤍 Triggers - Discuss possible triggers so you can avoid them while they're regressed.

🤍 Amount of time regressed. Discuss how often the age regressor goes into little space, how much of that time they’d like the caregiver to be there for little space. How long do they stay regressed each time? Do they want help trying to stay regressed longer?

🤍 Little space and big space. Discuss what things stay in little space and what things stay in big space. Some age regressors may get embarrassed if you mention what they did in little space while they’re big. Some things are only for when you’re big and some for when you’re in little space. (The same way you wouldn’t discuss/do certain things with a child)

🤍 If you already have an existing relationship (Ex. partner, friend, family member), it’s important to discuss what would happen if things don’t work out with you becoming a caregiver.

🤍 NEVER sexualise their little space (regardless if you’re their romantic partner when they’re big). All age regressors do it for a reason, all age regressors deserve to keep their little space a safe space.

🤍 While the age regressor is in little space, make sure they’re in a safe environment to do so, both mentally and physically. For example, work is not appropriate for them to be in little space, so reassure them they can have little space after work. Or if they’re with family who don’t know about agere.

🤍 Maybe prepare a key word that either of you could say if you’re getting overwhelmed. By using a keyword it will make it easier for the age regressor to communicate and understand. Then when the age regressor is out of little space the issue can be discussed and resolved.

Now you know that you want to try being a caregiver, get to know them as an age regressor.

🖤 Be gentle and sensitive - A lot of age regressors use it as a coping mechanism for trauma or stress.

🖤 Be helpful - Depending on the regressors age range, they may need a lot of help. Be there to help your little one for tasks they may find difficult. Like tying their shoes, or cooking food for them, pouring them drinks etc.

🖤 Activities - Learn what your little one enjoys doing when they're small. Do they like colouring? Or watching cartoons? Learn what shows they like, foods they like to eat, drinks they like etc.

🖤 Keeping your little small - Some littles struggle with staying regressed, so learn how to keep them regressed for longer. Does baby talk make them feel tiny? or helping them do tasks? Cartoons? Toys and games?

🖤 Get to know the way the age regressor talks. Some regressors may change words for things. For example, while i’m regressed -

sleepies = sleep

kikky = cat

da = the

🖤 Some age regressors may be non-verbal.

🖤 All caregivers will make mistakes, so don't feel bad if something doesn't go well at first. You're doing an amazing job and you'll be making your little one feel so special and safe.

🖤 If you are unsure about something talk to the age regressor about it when they are out of little space to resolve it.

[cautionwetspiralstaircase]

gonna be writing down some of my favourite bits from pili's out-of-character Q&A today ^^ here's him talking about his character's relationship with pangi and badboyhalo

(source: Dtowngato 22 Jan 2025 TALKING ABOUT MY CHARACTER The Realm SMP --- ( Main Account @/dtowncat ), around 1h9min)

Pili: Talking about Pangi and Pili... I feel like my character definitely senses that Pangi has some sort of, like, feelings (...) that aren’t actually mentioned directly. And he feels like- cause a lot of people are like “Why is Pili flirting with a million people when Pangi is there? Like he doesn’t see that Pangi is literally giving so many clues and things, and (...)”. That’s where the avoidant attachment thing goes through, because since he sees these other things (Pili flirting with everyone) as little silly games (...) and just being silly and whimsical... It’s like, when he’s with Pangi, he knows that Pangi may actually mean it. (...) And that’s where he gets like kinda- push him away, or whatever. 

It’s just like... complicated. So since he doesn’t really want that to happen, he doesn’t really actually want a romantic relationship- (...) that’s where he kinda starts pushing Pangi away. And I feel like a great example for this is that my character does not want deep emotions or attachments to anyone. To anyone at all. Even Pangi. And that’s why he hates him, in a way, and that’s why he calls him his weakness. Because for example, the reason why to this point I feel like my character has been more comfortable with Badboyhalo, telling him more secret things, being more open to him, is because I think my character and Badboyhalo both understand themselves very well in that aspect. And he also knows that Badboyhalo won’t actually get a deep attachment to him. Like if he dies, he knows Badboyhalo will be like “Aww, that’s sad” and then he’ll just move on with his life. Cause that’s kinda like his normal thing to do. He knows that if something happens and he has to ditch Badboyhalo, he won’t have some sort of explosive emotional reaction to it, and he won’t throw his life away, he’ll just keep going. Which I think that’s why right now my character and Badboyhalo are very close, even closer than Pangi and Pili. 

For example, on the first divorce arc, Pangi- it was also kind of a test, because Pili knew that he was gonna go fight people, that he may not come out alive. And he was trying to push him away so Pangi wouldn’t do something stupid to try and save him. (...) Because he knew that Badboyhalo wouldn’t do anything to save him. That’s the difference, okay? Because he knew that Pangi would be dumb enough to act emotionally and try to stop the fight or do something to stop it or like, if he died, he would go crazy. And I think Pangi proved my character’s point, which was- when he tried to push him away, he was like “Alright, that’s it, I’m killing everyone, I’m ending the world, and I’m ending myself”. Which my character really doesn’t like that sort of- thing. 

My character knows that he’s not a good person, he knows that he’s not done good things, he knows that sometimes he’s an asshole, and... he knows that he has insanely self-destructive tendencies. He just has this sort of thing where he keeps putting himself to suffer and suffer and suffer, and that’s part of how he is, all the time. And he knows that Pangi won’t take that well, and Pangi will be like “No, Pili! You don’t need to die! I’ll die if you die!” And that kinda rubs him the wrong way, which is also why he kinda has been more distant with Pangi I think. It’s just too complicated, really. It definitely hurts, cause he definitely knows that he has a weak spot for Pangi and vice versa, and they’re definitely some sort of like, platonic soulmates type of situation.

(chatter mentions his conversation with Pangi on Clown’s tower about not wanting Pangi to avenge him) Yeah. He’s just like, dude, I want to do this, and I’ve been doing this for so long, you don’t need to avenge me, you don’t need to go into this villain arc just because I wanted this thing. (...) That’s why nowadays he- I don’t know if you guys noticed, but my character barely tells any secrets to Pangi, and tells everything to Badboyhalo. Which is odd, cause I feel like technically Pangi and Pili were the closer ones, but it’s more like that kind of- avoidant attachment thing. That is just like pushing him away, in a way. So Pangi doesn’t get hurt, or get involved too much into it.

(chatter suggests that tr!Pili doesn’t like others showing too much emotion) I feel like it’s also a thing like, for example, with Clown, he knows that it’s one-sided, and he likes it being one-sided. Because he- it’s also this thing like, I don’t know how to translate it, but you get the love that you think you deserve. (...) So basically it’s just more like he feels like Pangi is too good for him, and he doesn’t deserve that type of good attention or things. And that’s why he’s always saying like “Oh you should move on with your life, you should find someone else that actually can give you what you probably deserve, because I’m not that person (...). Because I don’t have that sort of behaviour and I don’t have that sort of tendencies and I don’t have that sort of things”. 

(chatter asks how tr!Pili would react to Badboyhalo also becoming strongly attached to him) I feel like in the same way, it would definitely start rubbing him the wrong way.

(chatter suggests that he also pushes Pangi away and refuses to become attached because of his mental health) Yeah. Definitely that is true, I feel like my character has definitely suffered a lot and there’s a lotta traumas and things (...) inside. So I feel like he has repeated the cycle so many times, and (...) he doesn’t wanna keep repeating it anymore. He’s down to suffer and be in pain and whatever, be a masochist, just not that route when it implies other people are involved and (...) suffering because of him. 

(chatter suggests that Badboyhalo has more predictable reactions to secrets while there are more unknowns with Pangi, and more secrets that might cause Pangi to take immediate action) I don’t know. I don’t know how- Pangi is sometimes too chill about this. I think Pangi definitely has a lot of trust in Mocha (note: mocha is his character (the cat)'s name, although ofc everyone on the realm just uses "pili").

[lilacstro]

★this might be the night that my dreams might let me know, all the stars are closer"★. pac: what to expect next in life

hey guys! long time no see! I wanted to post this pac on new years but I just....didn't.

anyways, I hope you enjoy this one. drop suggestions in the ask box!

PS: I saw 9 of cups in all of the piles, and this tells me maybe all the collective together is going to have a wish fulfillment soon! that's so sweet haha

support me on ko-fi

Paid readings open

₊˚ʚ Pile 1 ₊˚ʚ

current energy: some of you here might be quitting something. There is a "bid adieu" kind of energy here. There also seems to be a throat chakra blockage, maybe you are unable to speak, maybe due to throat issues, cold, flu or even could be engaging in frequent arguments. An advice for you regardless is taking time to think before you speak. Some of you here might also be having trauma resurface. There could be trust/confidence issues as well. Some of you here might also be going through third eye activation. There may also be trouble in engaging things you want to, making time and space for things. You may be having nightmares or such kind of thoughts stemming from past, your family lineage or even trauma.

what's next: for some of you here, who were leaving something, or someone behind, good call, it is the right thing to do. I am hearing "everything that has ever been lost will always be replaced by something better". There would be a lot of options making themselves available to you. You have divine luck, divine protection. One more thing that is coming through is that a fake relationship would fall off, especially if it is with a women. Some of you may also have a change of personality, going from a "I'm a boss bitch" types to going into more serene energy, more calm and collected. Mind you, I do not mean to say there's anything wrong with either :) For those of you who want it, there are options in love coming through as well. For some of you, you may as well have many options in love, think clearly though because one of them may end up being your true love. There would be a lot of emotional healing coming through. For those of you who have been "used" to feeling numb, your heart would open again, just use your thinking and think clearly, please. One of your heartfelt wishes, one you had a lot of attachment to may be coming true as well. It is also possible to hear an apology from someone, especially if they are a water sign.

₊˚ʚ Pile 2 ₊˚ʚ

current energy: while shuffling these cards I had a feeling of "money" being important to this group. Either you gained money, lost it, are investing it or maybe you are planning to make a significant purchase. Pile 3 maybe important as well. Some of you may also be in a mental hole. Feeling trapped or burdened by something. Someone here could have also gone through a hardship in romantic connection, a heartbreak or could have seen the options they anticipated not work out, making a wrong choice. Some of you here might also be struggling with making changes in your day to day life, which can be as big as moving countries or as small as working out everyday. Holding on to ideas, people, memories or routines you know you should let go of.

what's next: I see a wonderful opportunity for financial gains presenting itself to you. You may be afraid or nervous to take it, but go after it, Pile 2. Do not get confused though. Apart from this you may also see new bonds being strengthening with friends and people you meet, more confidence and charisma. You'd appear attractive and reliable, and if you are someone who is anxious socially or likes being alone, you would come out of the shell and enjoy life, enjoy people. For people who are going through a breakup, especially, getting over this person may be the best thing to do. It may take a while, but there is wonderful things awaiting you. If you can subscribe to this description of this person being extremely manipulative with their words, it's even more of a confirmation. For others of you, do not sabotage things coming to you. If its love, luck, money, travel. A wish is about to come true but maybe not exactly how you thought it would. For example, money may come in form of an idea, meeting someone important may come in form of having this feeling of going to that place or saying hi to that person etc. So do not sabotage your blessings by being in a warzone mentally always :)

₊˚ʚ Pile 3 ₊˚ʚ

current energy: Some of you here may be working out a lot. Listening to motivational music. Some of you might also be growing more towards calmer things and ideas, maybe yoga, spiritual retreats in mountains etc. I get why there was a connection between pile 2 and 3, because yet again there seems to be a feeling of being deceived in love, or feeling as if the wish came true but it was a façade. Some of you might also have received a promotion at work, or may have been taking too much workload, maybe even creating an imbalance. There could be arguments on this. Some of you may have "severed ties" with something, maybe a habit, an idea, or a person, but regardless it seems for the best. Birds may be important. I would say watch out for people who try to appear "way too sweet" and try to get under your skin the meanwhile. There could have been a connection which was off balance, especially the masculine energy which could've led to the spiritual awakening of the feminine energy.

what's next: There seems to be a LOT of things that seem to be coming for you pile 3. Before I type next, I heard "revolution starts within", makes sense since I am seeing a lot of reversals in your reading. You need to step out of your mind and body for a while, or atleast strike a balance to be able to experience the real world. "You are not running out of time" is one another message I heard. You will find your spark again, very very soon. Being full of energy, exciting things in life, that once felt dull and lifeless. A period of stagnation is ending. You would be given a way to live this exciting time, but you have to act on it yourself. "Do not be afraid of judgement or being cringey" Maybe you wanted to start a venture, an account, YouTube, do it! Because there is indeed some change coming into your career and financial situation which is divine. A wish is about to come true. Do not "force" change or your energy levels on yourself, let it take time. There is a lot of healing happening for you, especially if you were hurt by someone or something in the past. Things are about to get soo good. Spring after a winter.

[ateez-himari]

And if himari dated another idol, what would be the reaction of his members or family members (like hyunjin from skz, since they are Versace ambassadors together, it would be very good to see donatella's reaction) or an older idol/actor like lee taemin, or byeon wooseok/jung hae in

I definitely wasn't expecting this kind of question but it's an interesting one! I can't go through all of the possible alternative love interests but let's go through a few;

Hyunjin (Stray Kids); No one would object to their relationship but they would most definitely be surprised at this pairing as they appear to have a more 'best friends' connection to one another. Donatella would be over the moon that two of the house's ambassadors are dating, she would probably start designing their wedding outfits way before the decision is even made, shower them with gifts, match their outfits at fashion shows, promote collections with them posing together, etc. Himari's brothers would definitely have fun interrogating him after hearing the news - since the two are only one year apart they would be much more strict when it comes to protecting their precious little sister - but would still be very supportive as they have many things in common (and let's be honest they'd make a visually powerful couple)

Jungkook (BTS); This relationship would have surprised absolutely no one in either of their lives as they have been best friends for over eleven years, trusting each other with everything no matter how dark or personal it may be. There would be some slight objection from Yoongi however as despite the fact that his maknae has an amazingly kind heart, he does not see him being able to take care of his younger sister in a more romantic way due to their somewhat similar childish personalities

Older Idols/Actors;

S.Coups - 1995 (Seventeen); Despite the somewhat large age difference between the two, her bandmates and family members would feel rather at peace knowing that she is with someone more than capable of caring for her after the heavy ordeals she has pushed through over the years. Unbeknownst to most people in their lives, they've actually hooked up in the past but have no romantic chemistry - as they stand today they are close and have mostly forgotten what happened back then

Byeon Woo Seok - 1991 (Actor); Hima is twenty three years old now which means that they are ten years apart and this most definitely would spark many questions from the people in her life, along with numerous objections. While it is true that she is capable of making independent decisions, there would be suspicions regarding the actor's intentions with her and pressure from bandmates along with family members would eventually make them break up

Lee Do Hyun - 1995 (Actor); Even viewers adored their chemistry behind the scenes of 'Where We Fall' on which they were co-stars - though it was merely friendship that was over analyzed as she was already dating Mingi at the time - and some of her other idol friends jokingly shipped the two of them. Considering the fact that he seems to be the definition of a gentleman, her parents would plan their wedding the second she would introduce him to them and while her brothers would be slightly on edge about the relationship they would not be able to deny how good of a match he is for their precious sister

Taemin (SHINee); The senior idol has been mentoring her for nearly five years now so he's very far removed from any romantic possibilities, however (hypothetically), if they were to enter a relationship there would be pushback from every single person in her life as there would be questions regarding a possible power abuse. Himari would most likely be encouraged to terminate her contract as record producer with him

If you have any more romantic match alternatives let me know and I'll answer any questions you might have!

[marzshin]

kalim with a goth!reader (romantic)

this is mostly based off the fashion and cosmetic aspects of it instead of personality traits most commonly assumed that a goth person would have.

•honestly it’s a visual shock to a lot of the students attending NRC. A girl dressed in all dark colors, heavy makeup, and just an overall intimidating look to her with a guy that’s pretty much the literal embodiment of the sun? crazy.

•Kalim, however, adores this about your relationship. he loves the dynamic it forms and just how different you are. he’s attracted to your confidence and openness, he likes that you dress the way you dress, and that you choose to continue it even if many of the other people at that school just don’t really understand it.

•he notices your fashion and likes to buy you silver jewelry because it’s just what he sees you wear most often. it’s a small sentiment but it can mean a lot to a person. not to mention, if he sees anything remotely bat or spider like, you best believe he’s buying it for you; it can become quite cluttered with all the decor and little trinkets he’s gotten you so make sure you have plenty of space.

•the one thing he likes most of all is your makeup. he’ll sit there next to you and watch every line you draw on your face with eyeliner and how elegantly you apply it with a beaming smile. he may not want to wear it himself all the time but he’d definitely let you do his makeup when you wanted to (maybe just to feel your hands on his cheeks as you guide his face side to side but he still enjoys it nonetheless). in the shelter of your own rooms, he’ll beg you to kiss his face with a deep red or black lipstick on just so he can relish in the sight of your lips imprinted on his brown skin.

sighhhh he’s so cute🥲 sorry if it might be a bit out of character and it’s very self indulgent; im still not confident in my writing capabilities. anyway! i hope the other kalim fans enjoy this as much as i do.😙���� love you all!

[nellasbookplanet]

Book recs: monster romance, part 1

Do you prefer your monster relationships platonic? Check out this list instead!

Do you love The Shape of Water and Beauty and the Beast? Do you always find yourself romancing Garrus in Mass Effect? Enjoy movies and tv-shows like Warm Bodies, He is Dragon, Trollhunters and In the Flesh? Are you intrinsically drawn to Imogen and Laudna in Critical Role? Do you like your relationships complicated and maybe a bit fucked up? Then do I have the rec list for you!

Bonus reading: check out these video essays by la'ron readus, lindsay ellis and princess weekes on the subject of monster romance!

A note: the criteria for “monster” are subjective. I mainly separated monster romance from paranormal romance (meaning vampires, werewolves, fey, etc are excluded unless the book does something especially interesting and non-human with the concept). I may have included books you feel aren’t monstrous enough, or excluded ones you feel are sufficiently monstrous but I don’t agree about. Again, it’s subjective.

A (second) note: I do not as a general rule care for smut, and intentionally curated this list to not focus on erotica (though there are some exceptions). The books are mainly fantasy, horror and scifi with romance subplots or romance subtext.

Axiom’s End by Lindsay Ellis*

It’s 2007, and a leak has just confirmed that the US has reached alien contact. Cora wants nothing to do with it, but as her absent father is the whistleblower who dropped the news the media won’t leave her alone. Even worse, she soon finds herself meeting and being pursued by the alien presence itself as it tries to remain in hiding - and discovering that there is a much larger threat on the horizon.

Dawn by Octavia E. Butler*

After a devastating war leaves humanity on the brink of extinction, survivor Lilith finds herself waking up naked and alone in a strange room. She’s been rescued by the Oankali, who have arrived just in time to save the human race. But there’s a price to survival, and it might be humanity itself. Absolutely fucked up I love it I once had to drop the book mid read to stare at the ceiling and exclaim in horror at what was going on. While it does feature human/alien relationships, it also features themes of coercion and consent, so read with caution. This is NOT a fluffy or traditionally romantic.

Bonus: Butler's Survivor also features a human/alien relationship

Strange Love by Ann Aguirre

After having failed to find a nest guardian several Choosings in a row, Zylar has only one chance left to find a mate. Desperate, he uses a matching service and finds a potential partner off-planet. But something goes wrong, and instead of picking up his intended he accidentally abducts Beryl Bowman and her pet dog from Earth. With it being uncertain if she can ever return - and not having much going for her on Earth, anyway - Beryl decides to take part in the Choosing alongside Zylar. Perhaps, together, they can build a new future. Unlike most other titles on this list, Strange Love does feature a fair amount of smut, but it is creative and alien about it.

The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers

Sapphic. Rosemary Harper just got a job on the motley crew of the Wayfarer, a spaceship that works with tunneling new wormholes through space. With a past she wants to leave behind, Rosemary is happy to travel the far reaches of the universe with the chaotic crew, but when they land the job of a life time, things suddenly get a lot more dangerous. A bit of a tumblr classic in its day, this is a cozy space opera with an episodic feel and vividly realized characters and cultures. While the romance plots aren't the main focus, there are multiple human/alien romantic relationships.

Cottonwood by R. Lee Smith*

20 years ago, aliens arrived on Earth, neither invaders nor diplomats but refugees. Now they are being kept in integration camps away from the human population, meaning Sarah has never met one before getting a job as a social worker in one of the camps, at which point the true treatment of the aliens at once become horrifyingly clear to her. Sanford, single father, has a decades long plan to flee the prison that is Earth, and maybe with Sarah's help it can finally reach fruition. Includes dark elements such as torture, sexual assault, and pet death.

Bonus: I believe The Last Hour of Gann by the same author is also an alien/human romance

The Summer Hikaru Died by Mokumokuren

Gay, manga, eldritch horror. Six months ago, Yoshiki's best friend Hikaru went missing in the mountains. When he returned, he claimed no memory of his time missing, and went right back to his old life. But Yoshiki knows better. He knows that his friend is dead, and that the creature that returned wearing his face and speaking his words is anything but human. But even knowing this, Yoshiki won’t turn his back on Hikaru, whatever he truly is.

East by Edith Pattou

Young adult, retelling of East of the Sun, West of the Moon. Rose and her family have been hit by hard times; her sister on the brink of dying from illness, food and money running out, and their farm taken away. When a talking white bear appears at their door, claiming the family's fortunes will turn if only Rose comes with him, she can’t refuse. Taken to a strange and near empty mountain castle, Rose must find out the truth of the bear and what he wants from her - and perhaps save him in the running.

Girl, Serpent, Thorn by Melissa Bashardoust

Sapphic, young adult. Soraya may be a princess, but she's also cursed, her very skin poisonous to the touch. When a demon is brought to the dungeons, Soraya hopes to gain from her knowledge of how to be freed from her affliction. Meanwhile, a boy enters her life, not scared of her like others but rather understanding of who she is. Between them, Soraya will have to choose who she is - princess or monster.

Spinning Silver by Naomi Novik*

Historical fantasy with strong vibes of the Rumpelstiltskin fairy tale. Miryem's father is a moneylender, but his inability to collect on debts has left his family on the brink of ruin. Desperate and ruthless, Miryem steps in to take his place, and suddenly the family's luck has turned. But Miryem's reputation of being able to turn silver to gold catches the attention of the Staryk King - a dangerous creature who seems made of ice in body, mind and heart. In her schemes to survive the King's demands, Miryem's actions ensnare a local farmer's daughter as well as the new wife of the tsar. As their fates are bound together, the three girls may change their land forever, for better or for worse.

A Curse so Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer

Young adult. A retelling of beauty and the beast, where ‘beauty’ is a girl brought in from our world to a fantastical one and the narrative focuses a lot on what actually happens to the kingdom when the royal family suddenly disappears, and whether it’s even possible to fall in love with someone you know is deliberately trying to seduce you to break a curse. While the male lead spends most of the novel in human form, there are some scenes which are sufficiently and intriguingly monstrous that I had to include it.

Curses by Lish McBride

Young adult, reverse beauty and the beast. After being conned into falling in love with a man after her money and refusing to marry the much older man her mother chose for her as a result, Merit is cursed by a fairy godling into being a beast. Her curse will only be lifted if she marries someone who actually loves her or of her mother's choosing before her 18th birthday. Scared of being fooled again, Merit employs the charming conman Tevin to help her choose which of her prospective suitors is most likely to make her happy. Of course, nothing goes to plan.

The Cloud Roads by Martha Wells

Moon doesn't know what he is. Having lost his family young he lives on the move, shifting his shape to hide his true form. The only ones similar to himself he's ever encountered are the vicious, bloodthirsty Fell, but he knows he cannot be one of them. When chance leads to a meeting with someone like him, he hopes his days of loneliness are over. But his new people stand against a dangerous enemy, and not all of them welcome Moon's help. A departure from other titles on this list in that it features only creatures, with not a single human on page.

Rose Daughter by Robin McKinley

Beauty and the beast retelling, stays fairly close to the original story but with some interesting twists and well-written characters. After a merchant loses everything to creditors, he and his three daughters move out to a cottage on the countryside, where one of his daughters revives the cottage's rose garden. After he makes the mistake of plucking a rose from an enchanted beast's home and calling its rage upon him, one of his daughter's take his place as prisoner. There, she takes it upon herself to revive a second rose garden.

Bonus: this is McKinley's second batb retelling, the first and more well-known being Beauty

Bryony and Roses by T. Kingfisher

Beauty and the beast retelling, featuring a more lighthearted and modern tone and some hints of horror. After nearly perishing in a snow storm, Bryony takes shelter in a strange magical mansion. Upon leaving, she picks a single rose, putting in motion a dangerous series of events and trapping herself in the mansion alongside a terrifying beast. But the beast is more than meets the eye, and Bryony soon comes to suspect that he is as much a prisoner as she is. Can she figure out and lift the curse that traps them both?

In the Vanisher's Palace by Aliette de Bodard

Sapphic beauty and the beast retelling, novella. When the failed scholar Yên is sold to the dragon Vu Côn to pay off her village's debt, she expects to be killed for the creature's amusement. Instead, Vu Côn whisks her away to a dangerous palace in the spirit world, asking her to teach her two unruly children. There, Yên finds herself growing complicated feelings for her jailer.

Providence Girls by Morgan Dante*

Sapphic horror re-imagining of several of H.P. Lovecraft’s works from the point of view of the women sidelined as victims in the originals. Forced to abandon her not-quite-human children to escape a cult seeking to sacrifice her, Lavinia nearly dies from exposure in the woods. She’s saved by the prickly Asenath. The two women find themselves growing close as Lavinia regains her strength. But Asenath’s own dark past is catching up, as she too begins to transform into something not entirely human. Beautiful and unsettling with heavy body horror as well as more human horrors such as emotional and sexual abuse.

Our Bloody Pearl by D.N. Bryn

A siren who’s been held captive by a pirate is freed, but too injured to survive on their own as their tail has become paralyzed. Another pirate captain decides to help them out and has to work to win their trust. Fairly fluffy and light on worldbuilding and plot (though there is a bit of a revenge story in there), with a focus on character and recovery. m/nb romance with an asexual love interest.

The Shape of Water by Guillermo del Toro & Daniel Krauss*

In 1960s America, Elisa works as a cleaner in a government facility when a strange fish creature is brought in to be studied. An immediate connection sparks between the two, but the creature's time is running short as plans are to vivisect him. Alongside her colleague and her reluctant neighbour, Elisa must find a way to save him before he's laid under the knife.

Cold Skin by Albert Sánchez Piñol*

Horror. A young man fleeing the horrors of war arrives at an isolated island near the south pole, where he is to spend a year as wheater official. His only neighbour is the asocial lighthouse keeper Gruner - at least that is what he thinks, until night arrives and he comes under siege of bloodthirsty monsters from the sea. Now he must find a way to work with Gruner for both of them to survive the year. But as isolation and desperation sets in, sea monsters becomes the least of their worries. Probably the least romantic title of this list. There isn't really any monster romance, but there is monster fucking; do with that what you will.

Mrs. Caliban by Rachel Ingalls*

Novella, 1980s classic. After the death of their son, housewife Dorothy and her husband has begun drifting apart, leaving her lonely in her mourning. When a strange, frog-like sea monster appears in her home, having escaped a science institute and seeking refuge, Dorothy is quick to offer him sanctuary. At once tragic, mundane, and beautiful, Mrs. Caliban will make you question what's real.

Monstersona by Chloe Spencer

Sapphic, young adult. After disaster strikes and her town is terrorized by a monster, sixteen-years-old Riley goes on the run with her dog Tigger and her traumatized classmate Aspen. With a conspiracy afoot and air travel grounded, the two girls set out on a cross-country road trip to reach Riley's dad. But Aspen has a dangerous secret, and the two keep finding themselves followed by a mysterious SUV. Will they reach safety before the harrowing truth catches up to silence them?

The Company of Death by Elisa Hansen*

For those who yearn for a death and the maiden type dynamic. A wild mix of genres, where a zombie apocalypse has struck and vampires gather up humans to keep their food source from going extinct, a robot travels across America with a young man she’s tasked to keep safe, and former-vampire-hunter-recent-zombie Emily teams up with Death himself to stop the apocalypse. Features bi and ace characters!

Bonus rec: the author also runs the youtube channel Maven of the Eventide, where she talks about various vampire media. Check it out!

Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion*

R is just your average zombie - maybe a bit more philosophical than most. He spends his days hunting humans and eating their brains for a fleeting glimpse of life, and hanging out in the abandoned airport with the horde. But when eating the brains of the human Perry gains him the memories of Perry's girlfriend Julie, R finds himself unable to kill her. Instead, he hides her from the other zombies. The two grows close, but the war between their kinds is threatening to pull them apart forever.

Hearts Still Beating by Brooke Archer

Sapphic, young adult. Three years after a zombie apocalypse hit, seventeen-years-old Mara comes back to life thanks to a new medication. Still struggling with the guilt of what she did as a zombie, Mara is sent to live with the family of her best friend, who has since turned cold towards her. But with the zombie threat ever-present and one missed dose away from a relapse, public opinion towards the altered is dangerously low, and the two girls' messy feelings are the least of their troubles.

The Hob's Bargain by Patricia Briggs

Living in a land that fears magic, Aren has spent her life quietly hiding her ability as a Seer. But things change when her village comes under attack of raiders - killing Aren's husband and family - and the magic of the wilds becomes unexpectedly unlocked. To save her home, Aren must now not only rely on her own magic, she must also employ the assistance of the newly awakened Hob of the mountain. But the Hob is the last of his kind, and for him to help Aren must first agree to pay his price.

The Unspoken Name by A.K. Larkwood*

Sapphic, orc main character. Csorwe was never meant to live. Raised to one day sacrifice her life at the Shrine of the Unspoken, her world is shaken when a wizard appears at the end of her intended life and offers her an alternate route at his side. Leaving her old life behind, Csorwe trains to become his loyal servant, fighting and spying on his orders, seeking the approval only he can grant. But he is hiding something, and with the help of the young mage Shutmili, maybe Csorwe will find out what before her life, once again, reaches its end.

Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree

Sapphic, cozy fantasy. Viv is done with adventuring and bloodshed. She wants to try something new, something peaceful, and so she hangs up her sword and opens a coffee shop. But running a business comes with its own challenges, especially in a city that's never heard of coffee before. To succeed, Viv will have to build new skills and new relationships, especially as her old life comes knocking.

Honorary mentions AKA these didn't work for me but maybe you guys will like them

Someone You Can Build a Nest In by John Wiswell

Sapphic and ace. Fantasy horror featuring a The Thing-like monster. Tries too hard to be fluffy and validating to work for me, but the monster lead is truly creative.

The Misadventures of an Amateur Naturalist by Ceinwen Langley

Sapphic beauty and the beast, historical young adult fantasy. Again, too fluffy and lacking in conflict for me.

Secunda by Joanne Kwan

Body-sharing and venom vibes, but too much erotica too soon for me.

Transmission Lost by Stefan Mazzara

A human cargo pilot and an enemy alien soldier get stranded on a dangerous planet and must work together to survive. Interesting premise, but frankly I found the writing to be subpar.

The Orc and Her Bride by Lila Gwynn

Sapphic romance featuring an arranged marriage between an orc and an elf. If you enjoy traditional romance narratives more than I you'll probably like it.

Legend of the White Snake by Sher Lee

Young adult. Gay retelling of the old Chinese legend in which a snake spirit falls in love with a human.

[kairithemang0]

Do I not ship tadmore romantically because it's straight? yeah probably. they will stay lesbian and bisexual besties with Tadius having feelings for a bit that he gets over and they're just good close friends until the end of time thank you good night <3

[mamawasatesttube]

honestly the most "yikes!" thing to me about ~timkon clone baby~ aus isn't even how insanely out of character they all are. it's the way every single post i see about them really just tells on the op so hard about how much they have NOT unpacked re: the nuclear family model and consent in relationships

[paimonial-rage]

lol yeah ok - how about 12 and 13 instead? - last anon

[Character Analysis Ask Meme]

What is Neuvillette’s love language?

As that he does not have a way with human relationships, Neuvillette shows his feelings best through acts of service and gift-giving. After all, words are difficult and easy to construe. Quality time often leaves him at a loss for the very words he has a difficult time with. And physical touch? That’s simply too intimate for him. So what better way to show how he feels through something concrete? Surely if he gives of his time and resources for the people he cares about, they will understand how high of a regard he holds them. At least, he hopes. 

What is Neuvillette like in a relationship?

As unfamiliar with human emotions as he is, you notice Neuvillette’s feelings for you long before he does. How can you not? You see it clearly—the softness in his eyes whenever they fall upon you, the fondness in his smile, the requests for you to stay if not just a moment longer. You are taken by surprise the day he notices. He approaches you with a troubled, albeit bashful expression. He says that it was brought to his attention that he has feelings for you. Adorable as he is, what else can you do but accept them?

Much to your expectation, there is a hesitance in his step after he begins to court you. He has never been in a relationship before. He doesn’t want to mess it up. So how close is he allowed to walk next to you? Is it proper to offer you his arm? Will you refuse him if he asks you to accompany him to a show? But your presence at his side leaves him light-headed. How many times this has lead to social gaffes and things of the sort? But when you laugh, how can he not chuckle to himself in turn?

With Neuvillette, you will find no bombastic displays of affection. There will not be poetic words of love and adoration. After all, Neuvillette is a simple man and will show his love through simple, yet earnest ways. He will want to spend time with you. He will want to do his best to communicate and be honest with you. He will want to make you happy in any way you see fit. He will do his best for you.

Zhongli's below the cut!

What is Zhongli’s love language?

Anyone close to the Geo Archon knows his penchant for gift-giving. Really, it often catches many by surprise the sheer thoughtfulness and rarity of the gifts he gives. Not only are they often pricey, but also chosen with the receiver specifically in mind. It’s not rare to see people moved to tears upon receiving them, touched by the amount of care he puts into each one. As with gifts, Zhongli is also liberal with the words of affirmation he gives others. He does not hesitate to state a person’s strengths, nor how high of a regard he holds them. With him, there is no room for doubt. 

What is Zhongli like in a relationship?

You don’t exactly know when you both became an item. As wordy as Zhongli is, he never bothered to tell you his feelings plainly. He even rejected you at first, stating he didn’t see you in that way. But then he said he’d try, didn’t he? And from that point, things began to change. How he’d invite you to Miss Yun’s performances, or offered his arm for you to take while he’d walk you home. How he’d tell you the most outrageous stories with a straight face, then laugh with an amused glint in his eye when you took him seriously. Somewhere along the way, the wall he kept began to fall.

Still, it is hard to tell his feelings as he never becomes the most physical with his affections. He does not hug you, nor does he hold your hand when you walk at his side. Sparing the moments when you’re the most endearing, he does not often kiss you of his own accord. Still, there is a level of familiarity and intimacy that he displays with no one else. You’re the only person he’ll let by his side on the days he wants most to be left alone. You’re the one whose opinions matter the most. You’re the only one he’ll tease as mercilessly as he does. You’re special.

With Zhongli, you realize that your relationship with him is not primarily one of romance, but of companionship. He does not simply view you as a friend. No, you’re much more than that. Out of all the things that come and go in his life, you are and will always be the only constant. You are everything to him. Even if you may part ways for a time, the place by his side will always remain yours. A relationship with you is a contract, one that he will always uphold. 

[incesthemes]

"their relationship is romantic" "their relationship is familial" "their relationship is platonic" you're thinking too narrow. their relationship goes beyond labels. the family is inherently queer. their platonic love is romantic. the erotic is familial. each one is the other and the other is them

[brofightiscancelled]

ok kind of an insane ask so feel free to ignore but would you be able to translate "友達バリア" by deco*27? i can't find any translations online and i wanna see if i'm right about the song kind of fitting the matsus... it's also a banger imo

- vocamatsu anon

omg.... tbh i have a feeling deco will make a video for this one which means we'll get an official english translation of it, rendering this completely redundant, but i'm really cheesed to have been asked, so i gave it a shot for you anyways <3

Friend-zoned, love fire, sparks flying HIBANA We're ready, set to lock horns, love's ultimate showdown I'm outmatched- but it's not over yet! I won't let this end! With a dazzling, never-give-up attitude, I'll break through your defenses!

The despair of never getting anything more of this Your behavior, nor what's going on in your head- I can't read it at all! I can't help but envy the kindness you radiate Omnidirectional compatibility- it's just not for me

Carefully-picked down-played words The outcome: A bloody heart True feelings double-crossed by embarrassment; how frustrating, I'm changing sides But that won't fill up my heart What I want is nothing more than to be by your side If you've got something to say, then say it- 'til I defeat you, that is! 3, 2, 1!

Friend-zoned, love fire, sparks flying HIBANA We're ready, set to lock horns, love's ultimate showdown I'm outmatched- but it's not over yet! I won't let this end! With a dazzling, never-give-up attitude, I'll break through your defenses!

I want you to like me! I want you to like me! Friend-zoned, love fire, hey, say "I give up"! With a dazzling, never-give-up attitude, I'll break through your defenses!

Fun things, good feelings- without you, they have no taste at all Sadness, jealousy- if they're cuz of you, then I don't mind them Let's throw down, bro! Better to regret doing it, than not doing it at all! A feeling like I won't need any special moves, YEAH I'm sure everything will be OKAY With an endless supply of love, you're undefeated, AYE Play dead, BYE BYE I'll be the one to throw the first punch

Friend-zoned, love fire, sparks flying HIBANA We're ready, set to lock horns, love's ultimate showdown The lonely and timid me is already no more! With a dazzling, blazing flair, I'll burn through your defenses!

Do you like me yet? Do you like me yet? Friend-zoned, love fire, now, let's immerse ourselves in love! With a dazzling, blazing flair, a never-ending HAO sweetener battle!

Do you like me yet? Do you like me yet? Friend-zoned, love fire, now, let's immerse ourselves in love! With a dazzling, blazing flair, a never-ending HAO sweetener battle!

------

my notes:

my overall interpretation of this song is "I'm trying to break through the friend zone (friendship barrier) so that you like me instead of thinking of me as a friend", so any vagueness in translation went in that direction

The use of "lock horns" in the official translation snippet + the HAO motifs give me the mental image of like, a hand-to-hand kung fu battle, so I leaned towards that imagery whenever there was vagueness (as opposed to like, a military campaign, for example)

deco's official english translations tend to be very liberal, so i tried to keep my translation a little more literal

[howthesleeplesswander]

@sansgout bc Rody wanted to do something sweet 🥺 but naturally in the dumbest way possible X'D

It was really weird to be here so late.

Sneaking into the restaurant after midnight was a new, strange experience that Rody had never expected to have, but he wouldn't let the uncanny vibe stop him! Not when he was on a mission that would make it well worth it.

With the dining room cloaked in darkness, Rody tiptoed at a snail's pace. He didn't think Vincent would still be down here at this hour, but even if not, he was just upstairs. Rody couldn't afford to make a peep if his surprise was going to work. One arm cradled a vase of flowers while the other felt around blindly for obstacles. After what felt like a lifetime, he finally made it to the kitchen without incident. He poked his head in, and, after making sure the coast was clear, ducked into Vincent's...thankfully unlocked office. (He hadn't thought far enough ahead to what he would've done if it hadn't been open.)

Relief rushed through him as the door swung shut. (Strong enough that he didn't question why the light was already on when he entered.) That was the hardest part out of the way—the rest should be a piece of cake! There was a giddy little bounce in his steps as he approached the desk at the center of the room. Some paperwork was strewn across it, so Rody shuffled them into a few messy stacks with his free hand. But once he cleared a space at the center—

The click of the door handle nearly made him jump a foot in the air. He spun around just as it opened, hiding the flowers out of sight with both arms behind his back.

"H-hey, Vince!" he squeaked at a much higher pitch than usual, all while trying to look casual despite the tension stringing his shoulders and how odd it was for him to be here. Still, Rody's smile was warm and genuine, if not a bit strained. He may have been caught in the act, but seeing Vincent was always a happy thing. And besides, he could still save this! All he had to do was play it cool! "What, uh...what are you doing here so late?"