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autisticandroids · 4 months ago

Note

14 & 22 for the end of year asks :-)

[questions here]

14. Something new you tried this year

so this was a big year for me for longform explorations of non-destiel pairings. which i haven't really done before.

first was wink, which was kind of in many ways now that i think about it, a trial run for what the year would become. it was shorter and not really on an external deadline in the same way (the other two were for bangs, which are pretty serious, but wink was for @spntoxicfemslashevent, which is as far as i can tell pretty lax about "deadlines" and such) and i think most importantly it was about a character who i didn't have that many pre-existing ideas about? like fundamentally wink is a character study of cassie and i just don't feel like i know cassie that well, so writing it felt like a process of getting to know her, rather than a process of trying to translate thoughts i already had into plot and character beats. i could shape the character i was understanding her to be around the necessities of having an arc and a story, i wasn't constrained by a predetermined specific set of personality traits and prior experiences that i was deeply invested in conveying.

obviously that comes with its own minefield. one reason that i'm often hesitant to play in a supernatural femslash space when it comes to other people's fic is that characters can end up voids of personality, squashed into the same five or six pre-made molds like dolls wearing different wigs. and this goes triple for single episode characters like cassie. so i did work really hard to ground cassie in her canonical appearance. i grounded her arc in the death of her father which is like, the main thing we learn about her in the show. i grounded her in cape girardeau (i actually researched some stuff about the city. not much but a bit). i grounded her in her job. i grounded her in the fact that she was willing to have her skepticism shaken by new evidence. i tried to work hard to produce a character and personality actually based in the character and personality we saw in the episode. but there's still only so far you can take it.

and there were other things that made wink simpler to write. it's got a straightforward horror arc which is really where i prefer to play. actually if you're wondering why so many of my pwp fics play out Like That it's because i use horror arcs a lot. like in the end that's just a very simple style for me to write in.

it's also more a character study than a romance. i spent more time with cassie than actually trying to make you buy cassie/meg, which is much easier for me.

and then of course, i know meg very well but i didn't need to bother to really dig into her or show her complexity at all, so that was easy. plus it was a treat to play in a meg 1.0 space, i never do that. a meg who is actively possessing meg masters and whose father is alive is an interesting doll to play with.

but also in the end meg is straightforwardly the villain of this piece. which means she's a convenient rock to throw at cassie. i didn't have to invent any rocks to throw at cassie i already had one built in.

so that's a lot of reasons wink was a lot simpler than the other two fics i want to talk about.

the second one i wrote was not him/not her/not me and this one was actually the hardest! i'm honestly still not totally happy with it, there was a lot of... i guess... meaning that i wanted to put into it that i just don't feel like got conveyed. i'm happier than i thought i would be, though, i think. if i rewrote this, i don't actually know if i would add any scenes, just make the ones in it longer, maybe. i don't know, maybe have more scene repetition. spend more time with cas' guilt towards her.

anyway, i hear you, you're saying megstiel? megstiel was your most difficult fic of the year? megstiel? the megstiel you've ALREADY written a fic for? that megstiel? and to that i say: yes. the thing about a post-canon megstiel is that... they actually lack a lot of tension? a lot of the tension in their relationship was circumstantial, not actually internal really. things kept happening to both of them to cause problems but they didn't really cause problems for each other. certainly not once they were both on the same side.

and if there were problems, it was cas causing problems for meg. like, she's the one who's embarrassed to have squishy little feelings for him. she's the one causing problems for herself to help him. and she's the one who feels left out in the cold when he goes running after sam and dean. so if one is writing from her perspective, there are rocks to be thrown. but for cas? meg has legitimately been pretty much nothing but a positive presence in his life. which means that the conflict basically has to be externally generated. and i wanted to be in cas' head. so.

the other thing is that, like. this was a reverse bang, right? it was for the @spnangelsanddemons-rb. and i saw this super cool art of cas and meg in the empty by @hawkland and i was like okay fab i love to think about cas and meg in the empty. cas and meg afterlife hangouts has been a frequent topic of contemplation for me since i read this fic. and i was fresh off writing he's gonna take my files for the @deancas-stabfest and i felt like there were still meat on those bones. specifically i had intentionally omitted cas' non-dean related memories from that fic for various reasons, but i felt like if i chose a theme to vamp on, instead of just "general bad memories," i could successfully venture outside that limited scope. but the thing is i didn't realize that putting a different spin on a similar premise is like. really hard. especially because like. personally i honestly think he's gonna take my files is really good? like it's a fic of mine that i like a lot. and i think that set me up for dissatisfaction with not him/not her/not me.

i also struggled with my theme? like the sort of direct parallel [parent figure (evil version) -> replacement god -> each other] was fun in theory but it was hard to make it work. mostly actually because differentiating between meg's relationship to azazel and her relationship with lucifer is kind of hard.

and then also while i was working on this fic i wrote the fic dog pit, mostly because i was already playing in that space for not him/not her/not me, like that's where dog pit came from. and that worked really well but then i had to find a way to not just basically rewrite dog pit for nhnhnm (<- good lord look at that acronym i've never typed it out before).

so really stressful and hard fic experience, like just much more difficult than you might expect.

then of course i also wrote every relationship has its stuff. which was somewhat less difficult than nhnhnm but a lot more work, obviously. it's the longest fic i've ever posted to ao3, which isn't that long, just 10k, but it was a lot for ME.

i ended up having a lot of similar experiences working on erhis as the other two. it has a kind of similar basic premise to wink in that it's about two young people dating in [a twisted version of] a pretty normal way. erhis was actually harder in this regard because at least in wink they were kind of doing girlbestfriendisms? erhis was kind of hard to create meaningful romantic tension because jack was quite literally doing exactly what people expected of him at all times. it's hard to make it clear what he wants and what he's just doing because he assumes he's supposed to because he's literally doing what he's supposed to. the furthest he steps outside that boundary re: harper specifically is 1) lying about her to tfw in the first few scenes and 2) being into it when she gets scary.

and then of course erhis has some intensely similar themes to nhnhnm. they're both basically immediately oedipal stories. they're about how the main characters are doomed to recreate their own worst parental relationships throughout their adult lives. except erhis is more constrained than nhnhnm because i don't really bring up jack's history. (man, that was also like crazymaking. i had to keep repeating trust your audience trust your audience to myself so that i could convince myself that people would like, remember the vibe in season fourteen and get what i was doing).

i've talked about this but it was often a struggle to write the harper scenes because like. i've already talked about this above with cassie, but she's a one episode character. except with harper it's hardmode because 1) she's not the main character of the fic so i have way less opportunity to draw her out, 2) i am trying to actually make her appealing. whatever else is going on in erhis i do want it to be in some way legitimately a romance fic, so i need harper to charm both jack and the audience at least somewhat? in a way meg didn't need to in wink because in the end that's horror. she's the villain. and 3) relatedly i needed harper to be more complex than just like. evil crazygirl. i wanted her to have personality beyond that and also to be grayer than that. in the end it's important that despite the fact that jack is kind of dating a little copy of dean in a lot of ways, he's also kind of getting his freedom through doing that. it's more complex than plain replication and it is a place where jack has power in his life. despite how much dating harper replicates his formative household lol. and i also, like nhnhnm and unlike wink, wanted there to be a degree of mutuality. as much as jack is the guy that went on a second date with the girl who kidnapped him for a first one, harper is the girl who went on a third date with the guy who infodumped to her about killing people with guns for a second date. as much as there is a specific kind of toxicity coming from harper that jack is specifically drawn to because it reminds him of dean, they are both the children of serial killer dynasties and there is a kind of sick innocence to their mutual derangement. neither of them really comprehend the idea that it's bad to kill people on an intellectual level, even as both of them exhibit visceral disturbance reactions to the reality of violence.

anyway writing harper and jack-and-harper was often a struggle. i frequently found myself feeling like the scenes between jack and his dads were tasty little treats to keep me going between the scenes of jack alone in his room or interacting with harper, which were a lot harder. like sam, dean, and cas are all rocks to throw at jack and i know them very well. i couldn't let harper just be a rock to throw at jack she needed her own stuff going on. also this was kind of a low conflict fic.

i want to compare it to i fold in half so easily, because there's definitely a similar vibe there in terms of a quiet domestic holding pattern fic where it's mostly about underlying sickness in relationships, but things are way more understated in erhis, for a lot of reasons. one is that the primary source of rock throwing and the love interest are, y'know, different, so you can't just have every love scene double as a rock throwing scene, lol. another is that i've, y'know, become a better writer. i look back on ifihse and it feels overblown and obvious in a way that makes me cringe, as much as i have a lot of affection for it. so i wanted to be subtler. and then of course there's the fact that in a destiel fic you expect dean dean to be a good guy, you know? he gets some benefit of the doubt. so there is some complexity lent there by virtue of him being the main character of supernatural. but harper is less the villain of erhis than dean is of ifihse, and harper is a minor, one episode villain in the show. she's exactly the type of character a fanfic writer would cast as unequivocally evil. so i had to work harder to avoid that assumption, you know?

anyway that's the new thing i did this year.

22. An idea you had that didn’t make the cut

this is hard because generally speaking an idea hasn't "failed to make the cut" until i've forgotten it, it's just been postponed. however, squeeze, which reached its final incarnation this year when i published it as a fluffy normie destiel smut fic, started out its life as this fic. the one i posted about in 2021 where i was like imagine if it was established destiel but cas told dean he'd watched dean and lisa fuck. but i just couldn't make it work so that fic it still in the pipeline.

#thisisapaige #spn #asks

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sexy-rex · 2 years ago

Text

Male!reader + Rex, Wolffe, Bly, Fox, Echo and Dogma (with cameo from

Aayla), 3500 words

Reader makes a wish to be young again and his wish is granted. This is a fun exploration of how certain clones could be with a baby

@redheadjustin happy 20th birthday 🥳

You are having a hard day, not in the way that anything in particular has gone wrong, but more in the way that your brain has chosen today to be a complete and utter dick.

You remember a time when things were simpler, not simple, because things had never ever been that, but they had been easier.

You’d known what you’d needed to do and you’d done it. The long-necks had made the games and you’d played them all to perfection. But now it’s you making the strategies and the battleplans and there are real consequences.

You’re tired of the weight of it all, you just want to not think about it for a while, so you walk, and you walk, and you don’t know how long you’ve walked for but when you eventually look up you don’t recognise where you are.

“You lost, dear?” A person, could be a man or woman for all you knew, the way they’re bundled up in the cloak, asks you. “You look like you’re carrying the whole world on your shoulders. C’mon, come over here out of the rain for a bit.”

You think for a moment and then shrug because really it isn’t as if you had anything better to do. You are drenched through and regretting that you’d chosen to leave the barracks in your uniform and not your armour. It’s nice to step out of the rain and there’s a small heat lamp overhead which you warm your hands under.

“Thank you,” you say.

“Not at all, dear, not at all. At lot on your mind I should expect.”

“Hmm,” you reply noncommittal, turning around to look back out at the rain. “I was thinking how nice it would be, to just be young again.”

Your companion chuckles. “Oh yes, if only we could turn back the clock”

“Hmm, if only.” You agree, wishing wholeheartedly for it to be possible, as you continue to watch the rain splash up from the puddles. Your attention is caught suddenly by a movement beside you and you turn your head to look, only to have a handful of dust blown into your face.

You step back coughing and choking. “What was that?”

“Just a little something to help your wish come true.”

“My wish?”

You have no idea what they’re talking about but by now you’re starting to feel strange, like your skin is crawling and shifting.

“What did you do?”

“You wished to be young again, I’ve made your wish come true.”

You stare in shocked dismay and horror as you seem to shrink in your own clothes. Your uniform sleeves becoming too long, and the belt on your waist too loose.

“Make it stop,” you demand but by now you’ve lost some of the depth to your voice. This can’t be happening!

“It can’t be stopped once it starts.”

“What?”

Your companion chuckles and as you watch they seem to slowly merge with the fog that has come up around them. You reach out but your hand closes on nothing.

“Wait? How do I undo this?”

“It’ll undo itself, my dear. In time.”

The voice comes back to you on the breeze and then you’re alone, in the dark and rain, and you’re shrinking by the second.

The panic overtakes you and you don’t want to still be out here in this unknown part of the city if you’re going to continue to get smaller. You have no idea where you are so you turn around and quickly start to go back the way you’d come.

Glancing in a few windows as you rush past, you see that your scar is now gone and your hair is shorter, in the more regulation style from your late cadet days.

Oh kriff, you think, this is really happening.

You start to run.

By the time you’re back at the Barracks, how much time later, you’ve reached at least mid cadet age and you duck and dive, trying not to be seen as you make your way to your quarters.

The relief washes over you when you finally close the door behind you and lean against it for support.

Whatever that cloaked figure had done to you it would wear off! You hold that thought close to you as your exhaustion pushes you towards the bed. You’d be back to normal in the morning.

You hadn’t been at the briefing, which is strange because you’re always the first at the briefings. Maybe you’re sick, Rex thinks as he makes his way to your quarters and knocks on the door.

“Y/n, you in there?”

There’s no response, so he knocks again, and this time he hears a shuffling and a thump and then the sounds of little feet, before there’s a flat palmed hand bashing on the other side of the door.

“Y/n?” He asks uncertainly because this is all very strange and urgently he uses the code he’s been given to unlock the door to your quarters.

There’s a little naked tubie sitting on the floor looking up at him and as he stares the toddler shambles to his feet using his hands to push himself up, and reaches with his small arms for Rex to pick him up.

He’s had a lot of experience with nursery duty on Kamino so it's not as if he’s out of his element here, but he just can’t work out what this tubie is doing here and no sign of you.

“Where’d you come from, little fella?” He asks as he lifts the toddler up and carries him carefully over to the bed.

There’s a bundle of your clothes on the sheets, looking like you’ve just disappeared out of them and Rex frowns again wondering about how strange this situation is.

The tubie sits in the middle of the bed, tugging on his little toes while Rex riffles through some drawers and eventually finds a training shirt that should be suitable to dress the toddler in, with a few minor adjustments.

Once he’s satisfied, he settles the child on his hip, not at all surprised when the tubie snuggles into him, but a little surprised by how calm and comfortable the tubie is with him, almost as if they’ve known each other before now.

Rex turns and makes his way back to the briefing room, making faces at the little tubie the whole way. The others are still waiting and when he walks in they all look up and then have the same identical look of incomprehension on their faces.

The tubie coos and points and struggles to be put down so Rex put him down on his little chubby feet.

“I didn’t find y/n, but I didn’t find him.”

They all watch as the toddler purposefully makes his way to your usual chair and then uses all his strength and skill to lift himself up and sit triumphantly at the briefing table, bashing his little fists on the surface.

“Okay, he’s cute.” Bly says, and they all groan a little because they know how broody Bly is right now and that he’ll get starry eyed about almost every infant thing. It was the curse of being in love it would seem.

“He was just in y/n’s room?” Wolffe asks. “You don’t think he’s y/n’s do you?”

“He’s definitely a tubie.” Fox answers. “Unless y/n stole him from Kamino then it’s doubtful.”

Bly is kneeling down by the tubie and showing him all the cool little things from his utility belt.

“You like that buddy?” He laughs as the tubie picks up his switchblade and Rex takes it quickly off of him.

“Not a suitable toy for a tubie, Bly.” He chastises and Bly looks suitably chastised, looking like he’s making an internal note for future reference.

“What do we do with him?” Fox asks dubiously.

“I guess we look after him till y/n gets back.” Bly eagerly replies. “I can take first watch, I’ve got a free morning.”

“Fine, I’ll take him after you.” Wolffe reluctantly concedes.

“I’m in the senate most of the day but I can take him after my shift finishes.”

The tubie is playing with the lights and buttons on the briefing table and images and graphs keep popping up and enlarging and disappearing again.

“I’ll pick him up from you then Wolffe and drop him off with you Fox.”

With all that agreed they went about their days, leaving Bly with the little tubie.

Bly is as happy as can be as he carries the cooing and chuckling tubie with him to meet Aayla, but the journey takes much longer than expected because every few feet the toddler points at something else and says ‘that’ and then Bly is there for several minutes while the child examines all the colours and texture of the brick wall.

“You’re late,” Aayla quips playfully when he eventually meets her by the fountain, but her whole demeanour changes when sees the tubie. “Oh, how adorable.”

The tubie reaches for her and she takes him and Bly stands there for a moment and smiles at the look of adoration on Aayla’s face. The tubie stares at Aayla with big searching eyes and then tugs on her lekku and she laughs.

“Where did he come from?” She asks once the toddler has had enough of her and is trying to get down to the water of the fountain, reaching with his little grasping fingers.

“Y/n.” He answers with a shrug and the tubie giggles and laughs as Aayla ducks him down towards the water, getting his hands wet before moving him away again.

“Do you want children, Bly?” She asks quietly and as if it’s not an important subject but they both know that’s not true and it’s very important to both of them.

“One day, when the war is over.” He answers honestly.

Wolffe is still reading over data pad reports when he goes to pick up the little tubie from Bly.

“I think he’s hungry,” Bly says as he hands the toddler over, pressing quick kisses to his soft curly hair, before Wolffe walks away with him.

“Are you hungry, little one?” Wolffe asks as the tubie reaches up and touches the scar on his eye. “Ugly, isn’t it?” He mutters. “But don’t you worry, I’m not scary.”

Or, at least, he isn’t scary to this little vod’ika, he couldn’t make any promises to anyone else.

The mess hall isn’t too busy just now and he picks up some food before finding a quiet table. There weren’t many options for a tubie but he thought he could make the soup work.

He settles the toddler on his knee, one arm braced around the child’s torso to keep him safe and steady, while the other hand picks up the spoon.

The child’s eyes dart from him to the spoon and when Wolffe takes too long he moans and shakes his little fists.

“Now, I’ll have none of that.” He warns and the toddler looks at him and pouts but doesn’t put up any more of a fuss.

By the time they are done with the meal, both the tubie and himself are covered in soup and he’s very thankful that he’s wearing armour and could just wash himself down before Sinker and/or Boost see him.

He takes a napkin and clears the child’s face as best he can and the child wriggles and pushes trying to stop him.

“There, all clear again, isn’t that better?” He asks and the tubie giggles at him him before hitting him with the spoon.

Rex isn’t sure what he’ll do with the little tubie, he already has his hands full with his supposedly grown up troopers. Maybe he would deal with both and bring the tubie to the troopers and then he could keep an eye on all of them.

He had to laugh when he sees Wolffe seated at the mess hall table, covered in soup and trying to wrestle a spoon out to the toddlers hand while the toddler laughed and hit him repeatedly on the head with it.

“Having fun, vod?” He asks as he walks up and Wolffe raises an eyebrow at him, before handing the dirty child over.

“He’s all yours, I’m going to clean up.”

Wolffe won’t admit it but he will miss his time with the little tubie.

Rex watches him walk off with a shake of his head and then makes his way to the 501st Barracks. The whole time they’re walking the tubie is trying to grasp handfuls of his short hair and failing, but he seems mesmerised by the blond.

“Do you little it?” He asks. “Y/n likes it too.” He adds conspiratorially and the toddler chuckles and coos like he’s somehow in on the joke.

The Barracks are full of noise and chaos and he tries his best not to see most of what is going on around him. He’d be having a word with Hardcase and Jesse later no matter what.

The tubie clutches on to him and ducks his head into Rex’s neck and he thinks maybe the little one is upset by the noise, so he heads to a quieter part of the room.

Echo is lying on a bottom bunk flicking through a data pad and he glances up at Rex before doing a double take as he spots the tubie.

“What is this?” He asks as he sits up and Rex sits down beside him, bouncing the child on his knee.

“This is our responsibility for the next few hours.”

Echo looks at him with wide eyes and when the tubie reaches over to him, his eyes widen even more and seem to ask if it’s okay. Rex nods and smiles as he hands the tubie over and Echo holds him up under his arms, standing the little chubby feet on his thighs, as they both stare intently at each other.

“Hello, I’m Echo.” He eventually says. “Do you want to hear something interesting about the rules of first contact with a new race?”

Rex scoffs: “Humph, yea, I think he could probably do with a nap.”

Echo glares at him: “It’s actually very interesting, Captain.”

“I’m sure it is, and I’m sure our little charge will love to hear all about it.”

Echo lies back and places the tubie on his chest before picking up the data pad and beginning to read again, softly aloud this time.

Rex doesn’t move from his place on the edge of the bed, but he does lean his forehead against the bunk support and close his eyes.

Listening to Echo read is very soothing to both the little tubie and the Captain.

Echo watches the toddler as he reads, and the toddler watches him in return, and it looks like the only one sleeping right now is Rex.

It’s when he’s finishing up his section that Dogma comes in and throws himself down on the bunk next to Echo, not even looking at him.

“They’re all a bunch of di’kuts,” he whines and Echo nods in both sympathy and empathy.

“Do you want to say hello to my new friend?” Echo asks and Dogma side eyes him before spotting the tubie.

“Is that what I think it is?”

“Sure is,”

Echo sits the tubie up on his chest and Dogma comes over instantly, kneeling down on the floor in front of them both to bring himself to the same level as the toddler and the tubie throws himself forward and into Dogma’s arms, wrapping his small arms around Dogma’s neck.

Dogma freezes not knowing what to do but slowly slowly he starts to relax and in a little while he’s sitting crossed legged on the floor cradling the child against his chest and gently rocking back and forth, muttering quietly to the tubie the whole time.

It’s the crash of something falling and the yelling and shouting that breaks their tranquil moment and both the tubie and Dogma recoil from the noise.

Rex is wide wake and on his feet before he even knows where he is or that his name is. He looks at Echo and then Dogma on the floor with the tubie and then he exhales deeply.

“What‘ve they done this time?” He asks tiredly and shakes his head. “I’m afraid you’re going to have to say goodbye to the little one now, Dogma.” He says reluctant to disturb either the toddler or his trooper when they look so peaceful.

Dogma stands up and unlatches the toddlers arms from around his neck.

“It’s okay, Captain.” He says as he quickly walks away. Rex exchanges a look with Echo and Echo nods getting up to go after him.

Fox is just heading into his office when Rex turns up with the tubie on his hip.

“My turn now, hm?” He asks and reaches out for the toddler who goes to him without a moment’s hesitation. “Trusting little thing, aren’t you?”

“Why shouldn’t he be?” Rex asks. “We’re all vode here.”

Fox shrugs slightly and goes into his office, closing your door behind him.

“Okay you,” he says to the child, holding him under his arms dangling him above the ground. “It’s just me and you now so what’re we going to do?”

In response and right on cue, the tubie pees all down the front of his armour.

Fox stands there for a moment that stretches to two and then three, before he laughs.

“Don’t be shy, let me know what you really think of me.”

The toddler kicks his legs happily.

“I’m so glad one of us is happy.” Fox says his tone light and carefree even though he feels the exact opposite.

“C’mon, let’s get you cleaned up.”

His small ‘fresher is just large enough to fit him with the tubie perched on the side of the sink, his chubby legs hanging over the edge and swinging.

First Fox dries himself off and then he turns his attention to the child, filling the basin with just enough warm water to splash and wash the toddler clean.

The little outfit Rex had made for the tubie is wet too so Fox removes it and wraps the tubie up in one of his towels.

The towel is so large the tubie disappears and when Fox flips it down so the child can see the child flips it back up again and before he knew it they were playing a classic game of peekaboo and the tubie is laughing so hard and happily that Fox can’t help laughing too.

“You funny little thing.” He mutters as he picks the child up and goes back into his office. He has a small cot set up in the corner for those nights when he has to work late and it isn’t worth going back to his quarters.

He lies the tubie down on the blanket and then lies down beside him, curling himself around the tubie. The toddler kicks his legs in the air and waves his arms and Fox watches him until his eyes droop closed and then he watches him some more before his eyes droop closed again.

The tubie falls asleep before his does, but only just.

You wake up with someone’s chest snug against your back and someone’s arm draped over your torso. You have no idea where you are but the office does look strangely familiar.

The more your eyes focus, the more awake you become, the more you realise exactly where you are and that it’s Fox who’s spooning you.

You don’t remember much about your previous day, only strange disjointed images and strong feelings of being loved and looked after by your brothers.

The lost feeling you’d had the night before last has now been replaced by a calm understanding of your place in the universe and how loved you are.

Fox shifts and moves behind you, waking up, and you suddenly notice that you’re literally butt naked. You grab the blanket quickly and pull it around you for modesties sake as Fox opens his eyes and stares at you blankly.

“What is the kriff,” he says slowly, “are you going in my bed, y/n? And where the kriff is the tubie?”

“It’s a long and interesting story, Fox. Let me start at the beginning.”

#the clone wars #clone wars #male reader #captain rex #commander bly #commander fox #commander wolffe #clone trooper echo #arc trooper echo #clone trooper dogma #my fic writing #miiine #Mo #tcw #de aged

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hybbart · 3 years ago

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How do you add so much life to your art! :o it's so good! It inspires me to try harder :D I love your art, the style is so cool. You are very much an inspiration.

Thank youuu, I'm so glad. Honestly I'm super happy people are enjoying this style, I've never intentionally cultivated a particular style before and I'm very please with how it's been going and how my art's improved cause of it even when I draw in my usual style.

Got a little rambly under the cut. TL;DR: It's all about full body emoting and energetic linework.

I don't think I have any big secrets, it's all about putting emotion into every part of the character's body, people are always using their full selves to express themselves, and especially their expressions. It's why I like adding animal ears and limbs. It's another body part that can be used to express, and it's easier to see them as more honest body language since they're associate with animal emotions I think.

The smaller scale, simpler designs, and chunky line art help a lot too, I think. Might just be me but I find it a lot easier to put expression into a picture with easier and simpler line work that can be done in quick strokes. Lines like to keep the energy they were drawn with so the more careful and hesitant the stiffer they come out. (which for me means shorter lines which means smaller scale. That one's a bad habit I need to work past in a way other than just making the lines thicker so I can zoom out more comfortably)

It does mean messier art that's often off-model and sketches that look nicer than cleaned line art, which is the part I'm trying to be better about. Ideally you wanna get to the point where those are intentionally invoked tools and not a by product and I'm not quite there yet... but I like to think I've gotten closer recently.

#ask #I saved this as a draft cause I had to go shopping and forgot to post it sorry

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totheglisteningeasternsea · 4 years ago

Text

So I had this cute golden age headcanon:

(this sprung out on me because of that scene in LWW when they are waiting for Aslan and Jadis to finish talking in the tent and Edmund is anxiously ripping grass out)

okay, this turned out very angsty at the beginning, but it’s only at the beginning I swear

The war is over and Narnia has crowned their new Kings and Queens, even if there is a lot of work to do, optimism is high and the Narnians live in a constant state of celebration, they have to make up for 100 years of winter after all.

Everyone was so busy celebrating that no one noticed that each party, King Edmund started to disappear earlier and earlier or when he started to just avoid them completely.

The parties were for the Kings and Queens, but Edmund didn’t feel like he belonged there at all, he felt like an outsider, and no matter how much the others tried to reassure him, he would always be the traitor whose actions had aided the Witch.

But he was a King now, and he had a job to do, which meant that he had to appear regal and collected, that he couldn’t show his anxiety, trauma insecurities or fears.

He was busy doing royal duties all day long, and aside from sparring and his combat lessons, there was no way he could release his frustration.

He was anxious all the time. He couldn’t sit still in meetings. He couldn’t look at the mountains without remembering that horrible castle (the statues in the courtyard didn’t help either). At night, if it was one of the miracle nights in which he managed to fall asleep, he was plagued by nightmares. Every time he spoke at council, he said every word cautiously, and when everyone listened to him intently, like they valued his every breath, it filled him with guilt.

He was a ticking time-bomb of repressed emotions. He didn’t feel like he deserved to be comforted anyways, and without a release, he started to silently collapse.

Lucy was the first one to notice.

The absences at parties, the exhausted demeanor, the tension in his shoulders, the clenching of his fists, and his fingers that never stopped grabbing and tugging at something (his clothes, the couch, the book he was holding, his skin, his other fingers), trembling and moving with so much tense force that they looked like they would snap at any moment.

One late evening they were the only ones in their private sitting room, him “calmly” sitting on the big couch reading and she at the table writing letters. It was only because she was looking that she knew that what looked “calm” wasn’t that at all. For the past hour his fingers hadn’t stopped desperately tugging at his shirt, it was probably stretched by now.

She went to sit beside him and let him grab her hand instead.

He seamlessly held it and started playing with her fingers, his movements instantly becoming less anxious and aggressive and more methodical and grounded. The tension left his face and shoulders too.

It became their thing from then on, specially after a particularly bad day, they would sit together in the couch just relaxing, Edmund carefully playing with her fingers or the hem of her sleeve or the scarf she wore when it was cold.

Susan eventually caught on to what was happening and whenever Lucy couldn’t be there she was.

This led on to something else: Since she had started to keep her hair long, it was long enough to reach his fingers now, and he started playing with it too.

At the beginning he just tugged at it gently then eventually he started passing his fingers through it too as if he were brushing it. (This helped Susan relax too)

One day it was just too much and he needed to just focus on something that wouldn’t make him lose his mind, his fingers felt like they were going to snap from all the anxious tension.

He focused on his sister’s hair. Just playing with it at first, then combing his fingers through it, then trying to arrange it in different shapes, and eventually he attempted to put it into a braid like the ones he sometimes saw Lucy wear. He was so concentrated you could only hear his inconsistent breathing as he tried to calm down.

When he was done it was all crooked, with stray hairs everywhere that started falling apart the moment he let go of it, but the tension had completely left his body and he felt some kind of satisfaction from his accomplishment.

Lucy, who had been looking at them all this time, noticed again and got an idea.

She started to teach him how to braid. At first by sitting next to him and braiding Susan’s hair alongside him, showing him the simpler styles for long hair, and eventually by designating time to show him how she made the more complicated crowns with her shorter hair.

He was a natural at it and a fast learner, his fingers just managed to be gentle and careful yet precise and effective at the same time. He loved every second of it.

Besides being good at it, the brushing of his fingers brought peace and comfort and eventually his sisters would refuse for anyone else to do their hair (including themselves). It was a stress reliever for everyone involved.

Whenever the siblings had an early event, he would get up extra early so he could help them get ready by doing their hair.

At some point the dryads taught him some of their braiding techniques and he learned how to add the freshest flowers into the hairstyle.

Once Peter’s hair was long enough, you could sometimes see the High King walk around with a braid crown instead of his usual golden one.

And if when they went back to England he desperately relied on his skills once more like he had at the beginning to try and feel a sense of calm, well, no one complained.

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chrysanthemumgames · 4 years ago

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Hey Jess! Here's something I was wondering, what do the ROs wardrobes look like?

Hey Andrew!

I swear I've done some version of this somewhere but I cannot find it for the life of me, so I'm gonna do it again!

I did a post way back when about ancient Greek clothing styles, with images and all, so I won't reiterate that. Just keep in mind that of course everything I say is within that general framework and we're golden.

So Hades goes for dark neutrals, specifically black and grey for the most part, with touches of silver or gold occasionally. The fabrics are excellent quality, and sometimes the meanders (border patterns) are tastefully embroidered rather than dyed, but for the most part he sticks to the simple, understated kind of quality. He wears almost no jewelry or other sorts of adornment, save the 'laurel crown' of his office, which is sort of a parody of those, made from obsidian and shaped like dead branches in the traditional U-shape.

Hermes is all about colors! He tends towards shorter chitons, for free and swift movement, and occasionally a chlamys-type cloak. He's also the one most likely to wear boldly-patterned stuff. His trademark colors are red, gold, and silver, but he'll wear pretty much any color depending on the day. His favorite wardrobe touch are silly metal wings he wears on his sandals. Pyri made them for him and he thinks they're super cool. Keeps the ornaments pretty simple unless the occasion calls for fancy. Hermes can do fancy.

Charon prefers blues, and tends towards simpler patterns and water-themed meanders. They also wear a long, light grey himation that they have shaped so it also provides them with a cowl. Like Hades he tends towards longer versions of garments. They're also always carrying a while staff/pole thing. Not a lot of jewelry, but the occasional bracelet or armband, and they do have a silver ear cuff they are particularly fond of.

Pyri loves bright colors, especially ones that go with their whole 'fire' thing. Most of the time they're the simplest dresser, happy to call it good with a short chiton in a solid color or with a basic meander, and only maybe shoes of any kind, but they're always wearing some kind of artistic piece of jewelry, be it an armband, a torc, or something else.

Alekto is usually wearing armor. When she's not, she's the most elaborate dresser in the group by far, and though she alternates between short and long configurations, there's always more than one layer, and embroidery is almost certain to feature, as is at least one piece of statement jewelry (she's particularly fond of dramatic earrings.) She wears a lot of rich, jewel-toned colors, especially greens, which bring out the hint of that color in her eyes.

Hekate's wardrobe ranges from very very simple to very very elaborate, mostly depending on whether she plans to be working on anything volatile that day or not. Her hair color frequently changes, as does her selection of accessories. She favors purple, and regardless of anything else she tends towards the long versions of garments—she likes how it feels when they swish. :)

#ask #characters #wardrobe #andrew-pandrew

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enhypenandpaper · 4 years ago

Text

we never go out of style | jake sim

pairing: Jake Sim x gn!reader

genre: fluff

warnings: descriptions of body image (jake basically checks the reader out), mentions of a diet (jake’s, not the reader’s)

word count: 1.3k

summary: in desperate need of some new clothes, you invite your best friends Jay and Jake on a shopping spree for fashion advice. the day is a success, and while you walk out of the mall with a new outfit, Jake has something new of his own that he’s not sure he can afford.

The food court was practically empty.

You and your two best friends were sitting at the cleanest table you had ever seen in a mall; the three of you had last period free, so you were able to get here before the usual mob of high schoolers who left countless straw-wrappers, used napkins, and various unidentifiable foods wherever they went.

The three of you were at the mall because your wardrobe was in desperate need of an update. It was a lot simpler when you were younger, natural growth being an automatic reminder to buy new clothes and change things up. As you got older, it was easier to just throw on the same sweatshirt you wore on your first day of eighth grade and call it a day, which is why you needed some extra motivation in the form of the two boys sitting with you.

“Thanks for coming with me today, guys, I feel like I’ve been cycling through the same three outfits for weeks now.”

“Yeah, I noticed.”

You playfully swatted Jay on the arm. He was the only person you would accept this kind of criticism from, him being the resident fashionista of your friend group after all, but it didn’t mean you always liked to hear what he had to say.

“Like you’re any better! At least I get dressed before my morning classes.”

“Changing into a different pair of sweatpants doesn’t count as ‘getting dressed,'” Jay shot back.

“Neither does tossing a $300 sweatshirt on and walking out the door,” Jake, who was sitting across from you, pointed out.

Jake’s comment made you laugh and even pulled a little smile out of Jay.

“Okay so no sweatshirts and no sweatpants today, that’s the only rule,” you joked, “but everything else is fair game.”

You reached for the bottle of water you had gotten with your meal. No matter how hard you twisted the cap, it wouldn’t budge, even when you pulled your sleeve down over your palm to help.

“Here,” Jake started, “let me-”

Before Jake could finish, Jay plucked the bottle from your hands and opened it with one twist. You and him were unfazed, Jay reaching for a French fry off of Jake’s tray, you taking a sip of your water.

You met Jake’s eyes, noticing his furrowed brows and parted lips; he looked confused.

“What?” You asked, putting the bottle back down on the table.

Jay was staring at him now too, eyebrows raised.

“It’s nothing,” he shook his head. “Where are we off to first?”

“Y/N! Come over here.”

You made your way over to Jay, his height making it easy to see him over the racks of clothes. You had barely stopped walking before he turned you around and started holding up shirts to your back, trying to figure out your size.

Apparently satisfied with his findings, Jay put three shirts, two pairs of jeans, and a thin leather jacket in your arms before turning back around to browse the accessory stand.

“How do you even know Y/N’s jean size?” Jake asked.

Jay just shrugged but you explained, “we’ve gone shopping together before.”

“Oh. I didn’t know that,” Jake said, his voice small.

You frowned, why did he have the same look on his face as he did whenever he was on a diet for soccer and Heeseung ate ramen in front of him?

You were about to ask him what was wrong when Jay was back in front of you, holding various pieces of jewelry up to you and the clothes, trying to figure out what matched best.

“Jay, am I made of money or something? Slow down!”

“I’ll pay for it. Consider it an investment in walking around with better-dressed friends.”

You opened your mouth to argue but your friend had already dashed off, flagging down a store employee to get you a dressing room.

“Do you want me to hold your stuff while you try these on?” Jake offered.

You smiled at the boy, accepting.

He took your bag from around your wrist, underneath the pile of clothes, and made sure not to graze your skin with his fingers lest he start blushing in front of you.

“Can you grab my phone, too? It’s in my back pocket.”

Jake gulped but did as you asked, his fingers reaching around your waist to grab your phone before slipping it into his own pocket.

You flashed him another smile before walking over to the employee Jay had found, giving Jake a chance to breathe and find a way to bring the heat in his cheeks down before you came back out.

The two boys took a seat right in front of your dressing room. Jay immediately went to scroll through something on his phone but Jake stopped him.

“Do you guys, like, do this often?”

The question caught Jay off guard. Why did Jake care how often you two went shopping? Did he…?

Realizing what was going on here, Jay tried to comfort him.

“It’s not really a regular thing, I think they just like my honesty. You don’t have to worry.”

“Worry? I-I…Why would I be worried? I was just… oh.”

Jay moved his head to follow his friend’s gaze.

Jake’s eyes were locked on you as you stepped out of the dressing room. The sight of you was a little too much for him and he needed to remind himself to breathe.

Your shopping trips with Jay obviously paid off because the jeans he picked fit you perfectly, a little too perfectly, hugging your body and making your legs look long, the rips giving Jake a glimpse of your bare skin. The shirt you were wearing emphasized your sharp collarbones, a simple necklace laying between them and disappearing beneath your shirt. The jacket really pulled it all together, the expensive design making you stand with more confidence than usual; it was impossible to look away from you.

Jake wasn’t used to seeing you in clothes like this. Sure, he always thought you looked incredible, but Jay was known for his fashion sense for a reason. He knew exactly what to do to emphasize the parts of your body that had Jake’s jaw practically on the floor.

“How does it look?” You asked tentatively. You thought you looked good but the awestruck look on Jake’s face was making you nervous. Either he really liked the clothes or had never seen something so horrifying in his life, it was hard to tell.

Jay, however, was smirking, obviously satisfied with his work. You looked cool and confident and everything fit you nicely. The necklace he had picked was a little long for the shirt you were wearing, but he decided it was a job well done anyway.

“Great,” Jake squeaked before clearing his throat. “It looks really good.”

Relieved, you turned away from your two friends to inspect the clothes in the floor-length mirror off to the side.

Jay nudged the boy next to him with his elbow.

“Dude, you’re staring.”

Jake snapped out of it and looked down at his shoes to hide the blush that was apparently going nowhere.

Jay had to keep himself from laughing at his friend, he had never seen Jake so flustered before.

After changing back into your original clothes you walked out to join your friends, all of Jay’s findings in your hands.

“Does it all fit?”

“Yeah, that one top is a little low-cut but-”

“Perfect! I’ll go take care of it,” Jay decided, taking everything from you and practically dashing away, leaving you and Jake alone.

“Are you sure everything looked okay? I mean, I trust Jay, but just because an outfit looks good doesn’t mean it will look good on me, you know?”

“Y/N, you looked really good,” his hand went up to rub the back of his neck. “Well, you always do, but especially in that outfit.”

Now it was your turn to blush.

“Honestly, you even looked kind of intimidating in that jacket.”

You nudged him with your elbow. “Are you saying you’re afraid of me, Sim?” You joked.

Jake just laughed at your words, not sure how to explain that while he wasn’t afraid of you, the feelings he had for you were definitely a little terrifying.

A/N: This is obviously a lot shorter than “join me in the sky” but I hope you guys still enjoy it! I feel like Jake would get really shy around his crush lol and when this idea popped into my head I knew it was the perfect opportunity to write about blushy Jake!

#jake sim #enhypen jake #enhypen #enhypen fanfiction #enhypen fluff #jake #sim jake #sim jaeyun #jake fanfiction #jake scenarios #jake fluff

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undertalethingems · 4 years ago

Note

You are a wonderful comic artist and storyteller, do you have any tips for someone looking to start a comic?

heh, thank you ^^

It’s kind of funny, but a random blog i had checked out happened to have been asked essentially the same question, so i’ll echo their reply--first of all, don’t jump right into a huge comic right off the bat. you don’t wanna get 40 pages in and realize it’s not for you, get burned out, and limp along until you eventually have to give up. that sucks for everyone. so, try out shorter comic formats first so you get the hang of it and learn what works for you. unexpected guests isn’t the first comic i’ve done--it’s just the most successful because i’ve learned from past projects. mostly what not to do, but hey, that’s important too.

but for any comic, i think the other most important thing is to have a plan. have a plan for your story, have a plan for your art, have a plan for your schedule.

putting the rest under a cut because it got long =u=;

i’ve mentioned this before, but I didn’t have Unexpected Guests fully written when I started drawing it as a comic. but, I had a good idea of where I wanted things to go and knew it’d be a while before I caught up, so I wasn’t too worried about that. As long as i kept working on the story, i wouldn’t run out of material, and i did eventually finish the story well before the comic met any of the parts i may have gotten stuck at. Having a story or script laid out ahead of time keeps you from running out of material or having to come up with something new for every update. it lets you plan out character and plot arcs ahead of time, and if you do end up having to drop the comic for one reason or another, you can at least let your readers know how things were meant to pan out and give them closure. you can always edit things along the way--nothing’s entirely set in stone until you draw it out and post it, and there are definitely things in the comic version that aren’t in the fic, and vice versa. so being flexible is an important skill as well.

planning your art is important too, and comics take a little more of it than a singular work. there’s a lot that affects how a comic looks--not just the art style of the characters, but the actual page layouts too. each panel is a picture unto itself, but it’s part of a whole, and how you shape and position each one can add--or detract--from what’s going on in your page. And then when it comes to actually drawing the thing, keep in mind that you’ll have to stay fairly consistent. is a full-color, fully-shaded style sustainable for you? or will you get burnt out or potentially hurt yourself with a particularly complex style? could you save that for splash pages and use something simpler for the main body of the work, the way manga artists often do? try to go with what will actually help you tell your story--which may not be a complex style because it takes too much out of you to draw.

unexpected guests looks the way it does not because it’s the best art i can possibly do, but because it’s the best i can draw that’s still relatively quick and easy. i don’t worry about getting it to look perfect, because that’s just extra pressure and time and energy i don’t necessarily have the ability to deal with, and i want to tell my story--and i have a lot of story to get through. so that’s what i focus on. having an art style that supports that goal makes a huge difference, and planning for it ahead of time just as much.

Lastly, having a schedule--some kind of structure--has helped me keep up with my comic a lot, and it’s also advice i’ve seen for building a following online. So, having a set date you want to have pages done, and giving yourself enough time before then to meet that date, keeps you on track--and then having a date your fans can look forward to, where you show up consistently in the tags, helps people find you and know you’re actively updating. For a while I could update every week because I had the free time, but after I got a new job, I had to give myself two weeks--and that’s still hard to meet sometimes, even with the art style i use.

Ultimately, what works for you is going to depend on a lot of factors. but taking some time to think about what you want to achieve, and what will realistically work with your schedule and skills, will up your chances of success. Studying comics you like can help you get an idea of what works, and there are a couple books about comics that are often recommended too--’Understanding Comics” and “Making Comics” by Scott McCloud. Both books get into the nitty-gritty of how comics actually work in terms of both art and storytelling, so they might be interesting to you as well as a more general look at comics.

and of course, this is just speaking from my experiences! it may not help you at all, but i hope it gives you something to think about :”D

#undertalethingem chats #art tips with undertalethingems #i'm no expert but i like to think i've maybe learned some stuff that could help other folks =u=;

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painted-crow · 4 years ago

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hey so i'm looking to figure my sorting out. i'm p sure of my secondary but honestly i've gone in circles so many times that i'd believe anything lmao

so i guess to start like. i'm fairly sure i'm an idealist, but with a twist. i care about making the world a better place-- i'm kinda infamous among my friends for being a little TOO outspoken about my opinions. on a small scale, i have strong opinions about a lot of things, but on a larger scale... idk. i don't think any one person can know what an ideal world looks like cause there really is no such thing. there are literally countless variables when it comes to implementing even small systems, countless ways to fuck it up, so i don't think i'd be choosing some grand ideal over the people i love anytime soon.

that being said, i think my idealist streak gets directed into something else most of the time. i'm very focused on understanding myself to a fault. i want to know why i do the things i do, why i believe certain things over others. when it comes to my beliefs about the world, they're strong but take it or leave it, but when it comes to myself they are not a good idea to push. i've ended relationships over not feeling like myself with them or feeling like i'm losing myself or they're pushing me to be someone i'm not. i make strong instant decisions about what the "right" thing to do is when it comes to how it impacts my perception of myself, especially with intimate relationships (i'm a lot less impulsive with things like friends and things i'm less personally involved in). i NEED to know who i am, way more than i care about any one specific person or thing. obviously i love people very deeply and would do just about anything to have both, but if i don't know who i am, if i'm not true to myself, then i have nothing. losing people happens.

the issue is, because i'm prone to doing that and not thinking as much about how it'll impact people, i've been called selfish a lot over my lifetime. recently i've started thinking more about how my actions impact people and their feelings, and i'm feeling a lot more torn. i want to do what i want to do, what i feel is best, but i feel immature for doing it a lot. i've started worrying a lot about being a bad person and hurting people, and i've been thinking about how the "right" way to be is. i went through a phase where i was repressing myself to make the "moral" choice, but i just felt so flat. ultimately i realized that it doesn't really matter how good i am if i have to repress myself to get there, cause then all it is is performance. tldr is i feel super guilty for making "selfish" choices rn, especially as i've gotten more aware of other peoples' feelings.

what i think is probably going on is that i'm an idealist primary with a badger model, but i'm not sure between lion and bird, and i'm still open to badger. pretty sure i'm not a snake.

the section on my secondary's gonna be a lot shorter, sorry this got so long! so i'm p sure i'm a badger secondary. considered lion and snake secondary too. whatever i am, i have a p loud lion model over it. i've always had a gift for making people trust me, for acting. i kinda blend in and become what i need to to both help them and get them off my back so i can do what i need to do. i have a serious passion for helping people with tough love (i like to think of myself as a p good advice giver, since i can both tell people what they need to hear and really get in their shoes and be kind where other people might not). i think i judge myself the least when i can kinda toe that line between pushing boundaries and stepping back-- i track where peoples' boundaries are constantly so i can push them to the limit without stepping over them. i'm very fluid when it comes to presentation in reality, even though i think people actually think of me as kinda controversial. i tend to see people who are ACTUALLY overstepping boundaries as lowkey selfish at times, even though i also really respect them. i like to do things the "right" way as long as i give a shit about them. the catch is, i don't want to blend into the background, and i don't think i do. a partner of mine called me a fox cause he noticed the way i constantly toe that line where i can get people to notice me and still keep them off my back, still make them comfortable. i'm also NOT a planner. people constantly give me shit for only ever feeling things out in the moment, and honestly thinking about the future freaks me out. i don't want to plan how i do shit i'd rather just get in the zone and figure it out from there. tldr i'm pretty sure i'm a badger secondary? but i could be convinced of snake. definitely see elements of both but my gut's telling me badger so take that how you will

anyway! thank you so much for taking the time to answer this, i know it's a lot.

also sorry one thing i forgot to add about my secondary! i think my lion model got so loud because when i do the shifty presentation thing, i have a tendency to lose myself and start perceiving myself as whatever i'm presenting. it's made it really hard to figure out who i actually am and so i started just being as clear about it as possible.

for my primary, i really care a lot about being right. i try to take every side into consideration to make sure i get the best conclusion. i can be super stubborn when it comes to certain things, but i don't want to just... hold to perceptions that are wrong. that being said it's important to me to trust my gut and i take it as a big input. i'm very felt out for most things, don't really have a strong system of how to be. i really wanna be able to trust myself but i just don't. i have a big habit of relying on other people to tell me what to think, which is uh. yeah.

Primary

You're a Bird primary with a Lion model, and you're trying on some Badger ideals. That's one of the easier Sorts I've done, lol! Possibly because your primary and models actually House match mine :p

Your reasoning process screams Bird xD and so does your writing style and just the length of the ask. Birds love self-analysis, it's part of how we make sure our systems stay as close to true as we can make them.

You've got some Lion too, but it's a model. It sounds like your Lion and your Bird have come into conflict before, and like most Birds with Lion models, it bugs the snot out of you when your Lion's intuition (which is important data!) doesn't line up with what your Bird knows.

You've prioritized Bird's conclusions before, but (as with many Birds) you don't entirely trust your own system and you're wondering if your Lion might have been right and you should give its reasoning more weight.

Also, you're consciously deciding that maybe Badgers' way of doing things is more moral than yours, and you're pulling in some of those ideals. That doesn't make you a Badger primary. Birds are notorious for this kind of thing actually 😂

The line between whether some ideals you've pulled into your Bird system vs. what counts as a model is fuzzy. It's up to you really, how important those pieces of Badger are to you.

For me, I think the line might be--is it wired into your sense of self on its own, or does it get filtered through your Bird and Lion? It really sounds like your Lion is a strong part of your sense of self: if you ignore its advice, you feel not totally like yourself. You don't have to feel all your models equally strongly, but thinking of it that way might help.

(It's also hard because Birds often feel like they kind of are their systems, or they are their ability to reason, that's a core part of their identity. ...It's complicated.)

Secondary

You sound really really Snakey. I'm not sure where you're getting Badger, actually!

Badgers are more than the mirroring ability. They also bury themselves in work or community, and it can sometimes look like they're neck deep in so many responsibilities that they couldn't possibly handle any more problems--and then they do have a problem, they do need something, and they stand up and all that stuff they were buried in turns out to be armor and tools.

Snakes, otoh, are improvisational and tend to be very aware of their surroundings. Unlike Badgers, the Snake brand of social shapeshifting involves a lot of keeping track of other people's reactions to what they're doing--trying something and then watching the response, then adjusting, rinse and repeat. You turn yourself into exactly the right person for this situation.

Badger mirroring is usually simpler. You reflect the other person's energy back at them: it's an empathetic response that says we're alike, I accept you, you're safe. A lot of Badgers do this without thinking--it can be hard to turn off.

Snakes also don't go in for prep work as much, it tends to trip them up (Snakes with Badger or Bird models notwithstanding). They're Improvisational secondaries, unlike Bird and Badger which are Built and rely heavily on some form of preparation.

The Lion model sounds legit, but just check for yourself: you might be learning to use Snake's neutral state. Snakes will sometimes drop all their layers of acting and maneuvering and suddenly they're just themselves. Different Snakes have different relationships with neutral state. For some Snakes, it's a relief to drop the mask; for others, it feels vulnerable and they only trust certain people with their full authenticity.

It does sound like you really admire Lion secondaries, though, so you might indeed have a model there! This is just something else you could check on.

Hope that helps!

- Paint

#first post in a while huh folks #gotta remember how to tag...#ravenclaw primary #gryffindor primary model #slytherin secondary #gryffindor secondary model #asks #paint speaks #sortinghatchats

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iluxia · 5 years ago

Text

Unsolicited writing advice???

A ton of you have commented with such kind and complimentary words about my Naruto fic Hiding in the Leaves and its characterization through the shifting POVs. Thank you all! I’m gratified to hear that you’re enjoying it. Some are asking how I shift perspectives and still manage to keep the characters in line. Actually, a fair number of readers have asked for actual advice, so here we go. This is a lot of writing babble, I hope it makes sense but feel free to drop me an ask if anything is unclear!

(1) I read a lot. I read all the time. Easily a book a day, maybe two days. And when I do, I practice critical reading—or as they say, reading like an editor, so I can pick at techniques other writers use. Writing is an art you learn largely by example. A lot of what I read influences what and how I write, so when I need to change my tone or voice to fit a different character, I usually read something that matches what I want my prose to sound like, on top of using techniques like changing tenses and playing with vocabulary choices.

I recently had the chance to flex these writing muscles because I went from writing two very distinct human voices (Tony Stark & Stephen Strange) to writing an alien voice (Loki). It was fucking hard; those in the Marvel fandom might know what I mean. Tony and Stephen are both human, born and raised in America, with specific life experiences that inform their daily decisions and personalities. Loki, on the other hand, is an alien: raised in Asgard, stolen from Jotunheim, well-traveled throughout the Nine Realms, and moreover raised as a prince. Just stop and think about that. When your characters do not have the same experiences that you do, they’re bound to not have the same earthbound concerns that you do. Anthropomorphizing non-human (or even non-living) beings is an age-old practice, but to be faithful to his character, I tried my best to twist my writing voice into a different shape—a shape that more befits the prince of a realm that is somewhat humanoid but very different from what we know on Earth. And in order to do that, I did four things:

I changed my prose from past to present tense; it sounds more immediate and assertive

I read three books, written in present tense, where the prose mimics what I imagine Loki would sound like in his own head

I made a huge spread of everything about Loki (both canon and my own orginal additions) that would inform his motivations, internal concerns, emotional responses, and decision-making processes

I drowned myself in Loki fanwork

Immersion is key! If you saturate your brain in a specific type of rhetoric or style, that’s what’s likeliest to come out of your productive process at the end. So controlling what you read/watch/listen to will help control your writing style too.

(2) This further breaks down what I just said in the third bullet point above. Before I start writing from a specific character’s perspective, I’ll take the time to brainstorm and build that character from the ground up. This might take a day or two and includes a staggering amount of detail—just as much detail as mine or your life might comprise. Silly little things like favorite colors and foods, hobbies, dislikes. Oftentimes, if you’re a fic writer, this is easier because canon gives it to you. Those amazing wiki-pages exist to make your life easier in this regard. (Bless.) What canon doesn’t give you is where you can dig in. Go deeper. Pin your character down. Think about more serious considerations like emotional triggers, conscious motivations, subconscious motivations, coping and defense mechanisms. When hurt or under stress, are they the type to lash out or curl in? Are they the type to hold on to a grudge, or do they prefer to forgive and forget? Do they get hurt easily or do they have a thick skin? I imagine the character’s relationships in life, I rank them and network them in my head. Who do they run to when they need advice? Who do they like hanging out with when they’re happy? Who annoys them, who inspires them, who scares them, who do they want to be like? Even if these questions aren’t necessarily things you might discuss in your fic, it helps inform this person you’re writing about, so it helps you keep a clearer and more consistent mental picture of them as you go.

But most critical of all, I sit and imagine myself in their shoes and think of how they perceive themselves. That is a major factor when writing, because that’s what their head-voice will sound like. And if the story is written from their perspective, then that means you, writer, are writing in that head-voice!

Here’s a more HITL-specific example (I’ll try not to spoil too much lol):

Sasuke

How he sees himself:

Ordinary; not very impressive as a shinobi, but not absolutely terrible either – just ordinary

Average looking

A slow, impatient learner

Awkward with people, but polite and with good intentions

Emotionally stable

A good reader and listener

How he actually is from someone else’s POV:

Incredibly skilled for his age and level as a shinobi

Actually quite handsome

An intuitive learner, very tenacious and will keep at a task forever until he gets it just right; perfectionist much

Quiet, polite, notices a lot about how others act

Absolutely does not handle emotions well

Selective listener; sometimes only hears what he wants to hear

Rationales:

He’s surrounded by a clan of perfectionists and overachievers who constantly laud his aniki for being a genius while paying him no attention. Of course he thinks he’s ordinary.

No one ever compliments him for his looks in the clan compound, and what he sees in the mirror looks just like a younger version of everyone around him. Of course he thinks he’s average, even though he actually has looks.

Because he’s largely self-taught (except for when Obaa-sama teaches him), he thinks he’s slow. (Ever learned a new skill or maybe even a new language by yourself? I have. I can tell you that my perception of how much time I spent learning ‘basics’ was skewed.) He also holds himself to a higher than normal standard because that’s what gets him positive attention (or attention at all) within his family. Add the fact that Itachi was there blazing through everything before him, and it’s suddenly easy to understand why Sasuke thinks the worst of himself as a student. But he (and Naruto) are actually fast learners—we see this even in canon—and both of them boast high levels of natural intuition, or as I (the neuroscientist) likes to call it, pattern recognition. Some people are naturally better at this than others; there have been extensive tests done to show it. But we also know intuition can be trained, so the more Sasuke works at something, the better he gets, and the faster he learns the next skill—as long as the learning is patterned. Which is why Orochimaru, who has picked up on this trait, walks them through learning each jutsu in a stepwise manner every time.

Sasuke doesn’t have a lot of social interaction outside of his family. The Uchiha clan in this fic is very segregated from the rest of the village, so if you’re not active as a shinobi, you probably don’t get out of the compound much. Interacting with people probably intimidates Sasuke a lot so he feels awkward about it and reverts back to habits of politeness and silence that he was taught from childhood. That doesn’t mean that he’s not paying attention, however; Sasuke is naturally observant and remembers a lot about how people act (and not so much what they say). I have a theory about this related to the Sharingan but I won’t go into too much here because it would be a straight-up spoiler, sorry. :D

He thinks he’s emotionally stable because he doesn’t remember many incidents of severe emotional upheaval in his life. That’s because he hasn’t had them; apart from the whole thing with Itachi, he’s been fairly sheltered his whole life. But he actually doesn’t handle emotions well—something he’s about to find out soon enough—and for the same reason! He hasn’t been exposed to an extensive range of it.

Because he’s largely self-taught, he has confidence in his reading skills. He also remembers all of Obaa-sama’s stories so he thinks he’s a good listener. Well, he is—to an extent. If he wants to listen, he will. If he doesn’t, he’s just as proficient as Naruto at pigheadedness. (I think it’s an Uchiha trait too lmao.)

That was a lot, right? But you can see that if I’m writing from Sasuke’s POV, I have to keep a different set of pointers than if I’m writing from Naruto’s POV about Sasuke. The way I think of it is like changing lenses or shades depending on the light outside.

A few more techniques/guidelines I use:

Stay consistent with vocabulary. Orochimaru is far more verbose than the rest of them, Shikamaru right behind him, and Naruto uses shorter, simpler words. You can even assign particular words to a character, a word only they would use when referring to something. This applies to how your character addresses other people too, i.e. Orochimaru calls them ‘little ones’; Shikamaru calls his dad ‘oyaji’ in front of his peers but ‘otou-san’ in front of his sensei; Naruto is quick to give people nicknames and most of the time it sticks.

Watch the adjectives; different people describe things differently. Orochimaru uses more nuanced words that can mean different things depending on the situation and mood; Naruto thinks in terms of emotions, a lot of how does this make me feel; Sasuke is very visual and notices a lot of colors.

Use speech habits wisely; how your character talks should reflect their life. Just like accents, speech habits can tell a lot about a person. Sasuke always speaks politely because it’s how he’s supposed to talk at home, otherwise there’d be trouble. Naruto grew up in a poorer district and had no one to really teach him how to talk politely, so he’s very casual. Shikamaru cusses at age eleven because his parents and family are incredibly laissez-faire and honest around him, so he thinks it’s acceptable and normal (and he was never reprimanded for it).

Play with your tenses. Writing in past tense sounds and feels very different from writing in present tense. Depending on your character, one or the other might sound more appropriate. There are some expressions and figures of speech that sound fine when written in past tense but awkward when written in present tense, so that will end up inadvertently changing your prose a bit, which can be useful.

Read your work out loud. Cardinal rule of prose-writing. What looks good on paper doesn’t always sound good when read out loud. If you read it and it doesn’t sound like how your character talks, time for a vibe check. You might need to change a few words and move sentences around, or you might need a complete overhaul… an editor (and I mean an editor, not just a beta-reader) can usually help you out.

A note about editors vs beta-readers:

There is a cardinal difference! A beta-reader is usually not professionally trained but should be experienced enough to point out things that aren’t right. In fandom, I’ve found that beta-readers mostly focus on a story’s general feel, flow and readability, sometimes character consistency, sometimes they point out typos and mistakes. An editor goes further than that. I’m fortunate to have Tria (aventria) who has edited my work for, gosh, 14 years now, fuck, we’re old! I call her my editor because when she goes through a piece, she will fix everything and make my draft bleed and I love it. (I actually get a little upset when she doesn’t fix anything, even if that means everything was good.) As an editor, she does a vibe check and looks for typos/errors, yes, but she also critiques the prose extensively. She can rearrange phrases or entire paragraphs for better flow. She will cut out entire scenes or make me rewrite them if they’re that bad. Like a copy editor, she looks at stylistic inconsistencies, grammar errors, and iffy word use. She’ll usually suggest or replace the offending word altogether. She has a lot of freedom with the work and can actually kick a piece to the curb if it’s really that shitty. She also questions plot progression, character development, and the relevance of a scene. (She’s made me cut out many, many scenes.) – That all being said, it’s not easy finding an editor, much less a good one. It also has to be someone you trust to have this much power over your work. It’s worth it, however, and my writing has gotten so much better because of the help.

If you’ve read this far, wow, thanks! You’re also probably thinking, “Shit, she takes this too seriously. It’s just a fic.”

I have… gotten into fights in the past before because of this. I feel strongly about the stuff I write. Just because it’s fanfiction doesn’t mean it isn’t a labor of love. I’m a perfectionist by nature, so that’s why I put so much time and effort into what amounts to ‘just a fic.’ And you know what? At the end of the day, writing it gives me satisfaction and happiness, so I will keep pouring into it as much as I can. It’s just a bonus to hear that other people are enjoying it too. (Yes, I’m one of those weirdos who intensely enjoy reading my own work…)

Aaand the final point:

(3) I double-majored in psychology for undergrad and have by now accumulated thousands of hours of clinical hours spent using the theories and techniques I learned from those classes on real people. I’m also specializing in neuroscience, so a portion of my time is spent in psychiatry. Characterization was actually not one of my writing strengths at first, but I definitely noticed leaps in improvement after my clinical rotation started. People skills are just that: skills which are honed with practice. It’s amazing how much you learn about how people think and what make them tick when you interact with a whole spectrum of examples: from your neurotypical everyday well-adjusted person, to high-functioning neurotics and obsessives, to patients who have suffered complex stroke syndromes, to encephalitic brains burning under septic fevers, to druggies stoned so high they’ve breached the atmosphere, to patients whose brains are growing insidious tumors, to schizophrenics and catatonics and the depressed. My job also allows me the rare opportunity to interact with people from all walks of life. All I need to do if I wanted insight about how life is for soldiers who served in an active warzone, for example, is to hit up Bill at the ICU and ask for stories about Korea and the Gulf and Vietnam. Or if I wanted to know about how to survive the Rwandan genocide, I could sit down with Amida, who survived it as a barely-teenager with her brother and sister in tow while only “losing my innocence and an eye.” Or I could talk to Heather, who is building a life with her husband and two rambunctious children, for a perspective on the daily concerns and delights of a ‘perfectly normal and ordinary’ working mother. (Her words, not mine; Heather is amazing even if she eats the doctor’s lounge out of Tita Annabel’s cookies.) Anyway, you get my point. When I write, I almost always write about people, so it makes sense that a lot of my inspiration comes from people too. A lot of my original characters—and even some that are not—often speak with the voices and inflections of people I know in real life. You probably have people with interesting stories to tell in your life; you just have to work up the courage to ask and take the time to listen. You’d be surprised at what you learn!

A few helpful writing resources: (most of these are classics)

The Elements of Style by Strunk & White

The First Five Pages by Noah Lukeman

How to Read a Book by Mortimer Adler and Charles van Doren

And more books that helped me get into people’s heads:

Hallucinations by Dr. Oliver Sacks

The Noonday Demon by Andrew Solomon

Far From the Tree by Andrew Solomon

The Lucifer Effect by Philip Zimbardo

Admirable Evasions by Theodore Dalrymple

I hope you got something out of that. Again, feel free to drop me an ask if you have any questions or want to chat!

#fanfic #on writing #fandom: naruto #answers

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kinetic-elaboration · 5 years ago

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October 18: Vague Blog Part Two

I really didn’t accomplish anything this weekend other than a lot of resting, a lot of watching of Project Runway, one walk...and one whole fic. Maybe I needed to do the resting part to manage the writing part.

By which I mean, the Chopped Fic is done. Well, done in draft form. I don’t want to give the word count, obviously, but it’s...a lot for my blocked self to have written in 2 days. I did the math, and all told I probably completed it in something like 5-6 hours, closer to 5. I’ve read through most of it and I do want to do some smoothing of rough edges and style edits and stuff this week, but I’m pretty proud of it! It’s not the fic I initially intended to write or, like, most Chopped fics, the fic I ever thought I would write but it’s a good fic. Imo.

I’m really, really excited to put it out there next week. Along with the Bellarke Halloween fic I hope to finish tomorrow.

And....maybe another Chopped fic? Lol, it’s such a terrible idea. I realize I have plenty of days between now and the deadline and I’ve definitely written Chopped fics in less time but.... work. The grinding down of my spirit every single week. It’s coming for me again.

On the other hand, this other, actually original Chopped idea is like... at first I was really into the aesthetic of it. Then I had this other idea, and at first they seemed roughly equally vague. But then I poked more at the second one and really put my effort toward ironing it out. I thought it wouldn’t work--and then it all popped into place! So obviously I had to write it. The first idea seemed, in comparison, too complicated and too long--with some pretty major problems in terms of plotting. But somehow setting it on the backburner helped my subconscious smooth out all the issues, or at least the biggest of the issues, and now it feels...not completely ready to go, but like it’s squarely in the plausible column, as opposed to ‘uh there’s an idea here but it’s all a great big mess.’ So obviously my original feelings about the aesthetic are coming forward and I’m having some thoughts about specific scenes... It’s awfully tempting.

I’ll try to at least poke at it this week. Maybe without the pressure of it being my only Chopped contribution, I’ll be able to create something without too much...angst. Or I could adapt it into something else, shorter and simpler. Or I could just post it as a Halloween in December fic lol.

#the year 2020 #2020: writing thoughts

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tazrider · 5 years ago

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Allez, pour ta peine : nombres pairs ! Tous.

Ah la vache... Ca fait beaucoup T_T Here we go!

2. How old are you? Between 20 and 40 but not halfway. Might be a multiple of 7. Or not...

4. What is your zodiac sign? Taurus. Been told it’s very fitting...

6. What’s your lucky number? Don’t have a lucky number but I like 3 (dates back to when I first read The Black Stallion when I was a kid and Alec and Black had the number 3 during their first race XD).

8. Where are you from? France, from where France fists Belgium XD (yep that’s a saying here).

10. What shoe size are you? Fucking way too small for my liking, it’s hell to find shoes my style... (37 or 6.5).

12. What was your last dream about? Something super weird (I always have super fucking weird dreams) but I don’t really remember this one. I don’t keep a log on dreams, seems too much work because it always swings between super weird and nightmares so not like it matters much...

14. Are you psychic in any way? Huh nope and don’t believe in these things.

16. Favorite movie? The Fifth Element, it’s not a great movie but it’s like a Madeleine de Proust and takes me back to simpler times. Also fucking funny, sci-fi and awesome music, what’s not to like?

18. Do you want children? Man, kids make me uncomfortable as hell. I prefer horses XD.

20. Are you religious? Absolutely not. I only believe in science and there’s no room in there for an hypothetical superior force, that’s supposed to be all love and shit and yet lets the world in that state.

22. Have you ever got in trouble with the law? Ah, unless you count speeding tickets as getting in trouble with the law...

24. Baths or showers? Showers.

26. Have you ever been famous? LOL nope and don’t wanna be.

28. What type of music do you like? Ooh tricky question, I have rather eclectic tastes in music. Ranges from ancient music and baroque (I love harpsichord, learned to play the piano when I was younger) to post-hardcore / “hard” music and pretty much everything in between. Discovered lately I don’t mind some bluegrass even. What I don’t like would be a way shorter list... XD I’m less a type of music kind of person and more a how that music makes me feel person, regardless of the type of music and the person/band. That said, I abhor bal musette and mostly of what we call ‘nouvelle chanson française’... In general, I like it dark and tortured.

30. How many pillows do you sleep with? 2 and a small one.

32. How big is your house? Tis an appartment and with the new job last year I was able to afford more than just a rabbit hutch! (65m2 yus!).

34. Have you ever fired a gun? Only airsoft and paintball guns, was fun.

36. Favorite clean word? Lately I’ve been saying ‘grave’ a lot, I manage to annoy even myself when I do...

38. What’s the longest you’ve ever gone without sleep? I think it was 3 days or perhaps 4 and not even due to insomnia.

40. Have you ever had a secret admirer? Eh not that I know of lol Pretty sure I’m not the type of person that gets secret admirers.

42. Are you a good judge of character? I think I am most of the time. As an introvert I spend much of my time on the sidelines of social interactions so I watch and analyze people a lot but I’ve been wrong a couple of times (especially if it’s a pretty girl -_-) and that fucking sucked each time...

44. Do you have a strong accent? In French? Nope, I made sure to erase it because I’m a snob like that. In English? Obviously I have a French one (been told it’s cute... -_-).

46. What is your personality type? INTJ, introvert all the way (is that what it’s referring to?) Because if not, I’ve been told by a psychologist I saw as part of something for my job who said I should get diagnosed for ADHD and autism, so...

48. Can you curl your tongue? Yep. Can make a tube with it, can also turn it over but only from one direction.

50. Left or right handed? Right but training the left to not be useless since childhood (you need to have a good feeling of both your hands if you want to be a good horseback rider).

52. Favorite food? Pasta all the way!

54. Are you a clean or messy person? Both. A clean mess XD Seriously, there are still some boxes I haven’t unpacked from moving in last year... My desk at work is a fucking clutter because I manage like 15 projects at the same time and sometimes the files all end up there... But I always end up fed up of the mess and clean everything like a tornado. Especially when I decide I have enough, I can’t do anything else until I cleaned everything.

56. Most used word? Fuck or ‘putain’ and it’s variation ‘putain de merde fait chier’ in French.

58. Do you have much of an ego? I do, it’s big and sometimes misplaced. I try to not let it get in the way though.

60. Do you talk to yourself? Oh yeah, especially when I fucked something up.

62. Are you a good singer? Nope, doesn’t mean I don’t like to sing very off-key when I’m alone...

64. Are you a gossip? No, not really.

66. Do you like long or short hair? In general? Long hair but I don’t care long or short as long as they’re comfortable with it and it suits them.

68. Favorite school subject? Hands down History and geology (wanted to be an archaeologist before I chose geology).

70. Have you ever been scuba diving? I’m a scuba diver (have my first degree, can dive down to 20m). I fucking love it but life happened and I haven’t been able to keep it up :(

72. Are you scared of the dark? No, I kinda like it. Although I don’t need the room to be pitch black to sleep.

74. Are you ticklish? Yeah and since I don’t always control my strength, it can lead to some kind of injuries to the tickler...

76. Have you ever been in a position of authority? I guess? I taught at the engineering school in geology during my PhD, does that count?

78. Have you ever done drugs? Only weed a couple times. I try to stay clear from anything remotely addictive because I have an obsessive personality.

80. How many piercings do you have? None and not planning on getting some.

82. How fast can you type? Average fast I guess?

84. What color is your hair? Very light brown, bordering on blond (I’ve been told I’m blond and it gets even lighter in the sun...).

86. What are you allergic to? Dust and mold which is just awesome for a horse owner, everyday your nose in hay...

88. What do your parents do? Teachers both. My mother’s a History and Geography teacher which means a childhood spent visiting historical sites during any vacation.

90. What makes you angry? Stupidity, incompetence, injustice to name a few. Currently my neighbors letting the front door bang at any hour when there’s a note asking not to (my bedroom’s right next to that fucking front door)...

92. Have you already thought of baby names, and if so what are they? Nope nope but I thought about names for my future horse(s) XD

94. What are you strengths? Loyal to a fault, up front, smart, persevering. I’m fucking funny too.

96. How did you get your name? My father always wanted to name his daughter that way. I always thought it doesn’t suit me though.

98. Do you have any scars? Oh yeah... Left shoulder, both knees, right ankle, shins, nose, chin, hands (not counting the tip of one finger I nearly lost 2 years ago), right shoulder blade.

100. Color of your room? Plain white, I rent the flat so not redecorating.

#eagle-raider #damn dude that took me like forever...#have fun with all those random info #reminds me of the good ol' times of the Warehouse 13 fandom

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mountainbikemtbbd · 4 years ago

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Mountain Biking For Beginners

There are many ways to enjoy mountain biking, and you don’t even have to be in the mountains. Trails vary from pleasant rides on wide, flowing logging roads to high-adrenaline challenges on technical singletrack.

In this article, we'll tell you the basics of what to expect before your first ride, including an overview of different types of mountain bike terrain, styles of mountain biking and basics for getting geared up for a fun time on the trails.

Types of Mountain Bike Terrain 

While you might start out on trails that are relatively smooth and flat, your ability to navigate around—or over—obstacles will develop as you gain experience and becomes part of the fun of the sport. Mountain-bike-specific trails are typically marked by skill level (beginner, intermediate, expert and double expert) and are maintained.

Singletrack, the most common trail type, has a width that varies from just a little wider than your shoulders on up to a track that's just wide enough for two bikes to pass. Many singletrack trails are open to one-way travel and wind their way through the best terrain that the landscape offers.

Doubletrack trails are normally double the width (or more) of a typical singletrack trail with enough room for two bikes to ride side-by-side. Often doubletrack trails follow abandoned logging roads, fire roads or power-line roads, where the tires of vehicles created two single tracks. Doubletrack trails are usually a gentler grade than singletrack and tend to have less-technical features.

Mountain bike terrain parks are popping up everywhere from jump-and-pump tracks under urban overpasses to lift-serviced trails at ski resorts. Expect such features as elevated bridges, half pipes, jumps of various sizes, berms, banked corners and hairy downhill switchbacks.

Mountain Biking Styles

Many bike manufacturers categorize their bikes based on the following mountain biking styles to help you decide what type of bike is appropriate for you.

Trail: This is arguably the most common mountain biking style because the category isn’t grounded in any specific type of racing. If you’re interested in meeting up with friends at the local trailhead and riding a mixture of climbs and descents, then this is the style for you. Bikes in this category place equal emphasis on fun, efficiency and sensible overall weight.

Cross-country: This style of riding typically implies riding fast, with an emphasis on climbing prowess. Distances vary from just a few miles to 25-plus, and bikes tend to focus on light weight and efficiency. These bikes can be great if you’re considering getting competitive or would like a racier ride for your local trails.

All-mountain/enduro: Think of all-mountain/enduro riding as trail riding on steroids, with bigger leg-burning climbs, longer white-knuckle descents and more technical features—both man-made and natural. Bikes for all-mountain/enduro riding are designed to perform well on steep descents while also being light and nimble enough to pedal uphill.

The term enduro comes from the racing world and describes a competition that has timed downhill stages and untimed uphill stages. The winner is whoever has the fastest combined time on the downhills. Enduro riding has become very popular, and the term is now often used interchangeably with all-mountain regardless of whether you’re racing or not.

Downhill/park: This type of riding is mostly done at lift-serviced bike parks (often during a ski resort’s warmer months). You ride big, tough bikes and wear full-face helmets and body armor. The bikes boast more durable components and fewer gears, and the suspension has more travel (the amount of movement in the suspension). All of this helps you conquer jumps, berms, rock gardens and wooden ladders. Given that you’re on a perpetual descent the entire time, you don’t have to pedal much, but you still get a serious workout because you’re constantly reacting to the fast-approaching terrain.

Fat-tire biking: Picture the kind of bike you always wanted as a kid: one with giant tires that can roll through just about anything. Fat-tire bikes are bikes with tires that are at least 3.7 in. wide (and may be as wide as 5 in. or more). They offer excellent traction through snow and sand. Fat-tire biking is not limited to these conditions and has proven to be a fast-growing addition to all-season trail riding. Fat-tire bikes can be a great choice for beginner mountain bikers because they are very forgiving on rough terrain.

Types of Mountain Bikes

What type of bike you ride is usually decided by where you plan on riding. Suspension type and wheel diameter are two key features that determine what type of terrain the bike is capable of riding. You have a wealth of options when it comes to types of suspension and wheel diameter (denoted by such terms as 26, 27.5 (650b), and 29ers).

Suspension Type

Rigid: While not the most common type of mountain bike, “rigid” mountain bikes don’t feature any suspension. They are easy to maintain and usually less expensive, but most riders prefer bikes with suspension for greater comfort. Most fat-tire bikes are rigid, and riders find that the wide tires and low tire pressure provide all the squish needed to absorb bumps in the trail.

Hardtail: These bikes have a suspension fork in the front to help absorb impact on the front wheel, but the rear of the bike has no suspension—ergo a hardtail. Hardtails are typically less expensive than full-suspension bikes, and have fewer moving parts (which often translates into less maintenance). Most hardtails have the ability to lock out the front fork for times where a fully rigid bike is desired.

Cross-country riders typically gravitate toward hardtails as they allow more direct transfer of power between the pedal stroke and the rear tire. Hardtails can also be at home on all-mountain trails, and the lower cost and easier maintenance make them a solid option for everything except serious lift-serviced downhill trails.

Full suspension: There are many variations of full-suspension bikes, but the general idea is for the front fork and rear shock to absorb the impacts of the trail. This drastically reduces the impact on the rider, increases traction, and makes for a more forgiving and enjoyable ride.

A full-suspension bike can soak up a lot of a trail bumps and chatter, but the bike can also “bob” a bit and you lose some of the energy transfer when climbing uphill. As a result, most full-suspension rigs have the ability to lock-out the rear suspension to offer better power transfer and more efficient climbing.

Bikes designed for downhill riding typically boast a lot of travel—the amount of movement in the suspension—compared to bikes designed for cross-country and all-mountain riding. As much as eight inches of travel front and rear is fairly common.

Wheel Size

26 in.: In the not too-distant past, all mountain bikes were equipped with 26 in. wheels. It is still a popular wheel size for its responsiveness and maneuverability, but now when you walk into a bike shop and inquire about mountain bikes, you are likely to be asked, “26 in., 27.5 in. or 29 in.?”

27.5 in. (650b): Offering a middle ground between standard 26 in. wheels and 29ers, these bikes apply a “best of both worlds” solution, more easily rolling over terrain than the 26s, but more maneuverable than 29ers. As with 29ers, this wheel size can be found on both full-suspension and hardtail rigs.

29ers: These bikes feature 29 in. wheels that are typically heavier and a little slower to accelerate, but once you start moving you can conquer considerably more terrain easier than on a bike with standard 26 in. wheels. They generally offer excellent grip and they have a higher “attack angle”—meaning the wheel rolls over trail obstacles easier. These bikes have become extremely popular for the cross-country crowd. 29ers can be found in both hardtail and full-suspension rigs.

24 in.: Kids’ mountain bikes typically have 24 in. wheels to accommodate the shorter legs of children. Most are less-expensive versions of adult bikes with simpler components. Generally speaking, these suit kids ages 10 to 13, but this depends more on the size of the child than the age. Younger/smaller children can get started biking with 20 in. wheels.

For more information, see Mountain Bikes: How to Choose.

How to Dress for Mountain Biking

Bike-specific clothing makes for a more comfortable ride, no matter what style of biking you're doing. That said, different styles of mountain biking will dictate what type of clothing you'll choose.

Shorts: Options for mountain biking shorts range from form-fitting styles (often worn by cross-country racers) to baggy styles with a more casual look and more coverage and durability for snags along the trail. These generally have an inner lining with a padded chamois that helps reduce saddle fatigue and reduces some of the trail impact.

Jersey: Similar to shorts, jerseys range from form-fitting to loose and more casual-looking. Regardless of fit, you still want to choose something that wicks sweat and dries quickly. You’ll also want something you can wash and dry with little fuss. If you plan to carry a backpack, you won’t need a lot of pockets—although some mountain-bike jerseys offer that option.

Gloves: You’ll be surprised how much a good pair of gloves reduces hand and wrist fatigue; get a pair with padding at the palm. Full-fingered gloves keep your hands warmer and provide some texture between your fingers and the grip on the brakes and gear shifters. Both fingerless and full-fingered gloves add protection in the event of a crash.

Mountain bikes are a fun way to exercise and connect with nature. like fatter tires with rugged tread for stability and durability on off-road terrain and a more upright cycling position that lets you enjoy the view.

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icanetwork-customer-acquisition · 5 years ago

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Easy Remodeling Ideas for Your Home

The key is to prepare the project out in advance, employ the ideal individuals, allocate the suitable quantity of time, and make provisions for delays. Try not to make the completion date correspond with your birthday or anniversary.

Don't enforce a time span on yourself or your professional that will develop stress. At the same time, get a clear understanding of for how long the task will most likely take, and when it will start. If it's a three month task and the work won't start until November, your house will not be all set for a New Year's Celebration, unless you're commemorating Chinese New Year ... This is a surprisingly common issue - how much time the homeowner thinks a project will take and that actual work time needed.

There are no Specialist Fairies (and I refer here to the wonderful ones! Ha, ha, ha!) who can slip in the middle of the night and have the job done by the morning, although that would be good! (I'm guessing that there 'd be some truly loud dance music, anyhow, which would just keep you awake ...!) Have your Specialist include a likely time span with the quote.

Have a clear concept of what you desire prior to your contractor comes over. You don't need to sketch out the modifications, however you should have the ability to inform him or her what changes you wish to see. Lots of excellent contractors will have done so lots of reno’s that they will right away understand what requires to be done, the approximate cost and time-frame. When a specialist informs you that 'the little bathroom' will cost about $3,000.00, do not think that your task will covertly just cost about $20.00, possibly a little less ... then be shocked and dismayed when your costs can be found in at ...$ 3,000.00. You 'd be surprised how many individuals have ideas like that. Try not to fall under this trap, or to believe that any modifications you make once the task has actually begun won't affect the price or the amount of time of a job. Always get written quotes for any work you are having done, that way you'll both be clear about the expectations for the job.

If you're actually stuck attempting to figure out how to enhance an area in your home, think about hiring a Designer. They can work within your budget plan, however if your budget plan is actually tight, it's most likely much better to spend the consultation fee on new drapes or a toilet ... If choice making is a problem location for you, and you're able to give up control, then a designer might be the clear option.

Is there a quick repair?

If you aren't dealing with structural changes or a complete transformation, then think about a coat of paint, new flooring, new baseboards, and/or brand-new window treatments. You might desire to up-date your bathroom or kitchen with new floor covering. An actually nice toss carpet can alter the appearance of a space and add new life to an old carpet.

Sometimes an easy change like up-dating your hardware (the knobs in your kitchen - no, not your other half's pals! You may be able to paint your cabinets if you don't desire to change it. They will offer you with a computer printout of what your completed kitchen will look like, if you set up to meet with a Kitchen area Designer and draw one out together.

If you have an old brick fireplace that you do not care for any longer, or want to offer it a fresh appearance, consider painting it. This is not a crime ... painted brick looks excellent!

You can also put a marble tile (slate works well, too) around the fireplace. Utilize the proper tile adhesive (ask at the store) and select a great grout.

You can in fact buy a Fireplace Surround pre-made, or you can construct your own Mantel with Crown Molding and some good lumber. You may want to bring in some aid for this. While you're looking at the Fireplace Mantels, have a look at the cool 'Fireplace Over-mantels'-- they're beautiful! You can have mirror custom cut to fit in the center and make your home look fabulous, beloved!

Altering the lighting can develop a whole brand-new look in your home. Changing the light switches and switch plates can make a huge difference, too. Ha, ha, ha!

Doors have a big effect on how a home looks. Painting old wooden doors (the ones from the 60's and 70's) can add brand-new life to them. Modification the hardware while you're at it, and you'll have a great brand-new door! Switching to French Doors (the ones with the glass inserts) can add extra light to a space. You can get the glass with various looks, if privacy is an issue. If your spending plan will enable, consider altering all the doors to the new white colonial style - that looks nice in just about every house. They're clean and cool, and will illuminate a hallway.

Replacing your front door can provide the house a real increase and probably include a bit of safety, too, because numerous of the new doors are made of steel. If you are attempting to make the task as easy as possible, think about using Rosettes for the corners, then all the cuts will be straight ones.

Altering out the Garage Doors in an Older Home to Update the Exterior look of your house is a great concept. Changing out the Garage Doors can develop an incredible new look for your home.

I'm putting one in the new home, it's so cool! It looks like a fridge-- some the same height and practically the very same size, and some a little much shorter. Anyway, it conserves 'losing' all those products at the bottom of a routine freezer that you can't keep in mind and discover a couple of years later ... Likewise, there are some truly neat brand-new little appliances that will include more performance to your kitchen.

If you have a small space with a closet (front entry, bed room), consider altering the routine doors to mirrored doors. That actually opens a room and supplies more light, quickly.

You can make them out of Crown Molding if you like the wood appearance, or you can develop them out of plywood, cover with cotton batting, then material to fit your space, and staple them at the back. The fairly new wrought iron curtain rods with all the cool accessories are truly appealing, too. Tie-backs can make a real distinction, too, so have a wee look at them.

Furnishings plays a crucial function in the appearance of your home. There are some gorgeous slip covers offered, if you don't want to replace your additional comfy stuff! You might attempt your hand at reupholstering your furnishings. It's not as hard as it looks, however it does take time and ability, but if you're a ready participant and plan it carefully, it ought to work out all. Get a staple weapon to make the job a little simpler.

Maybe you're in the market for a new head board? Turn it on its' side to create the look you're after.

If you 'd like a softer headboard, try covering a sheet of plywood with a reasonable little cushioning, then cover with product and staple. If it's big enough, you may be able to simply sit it behind the head of the bed, or you can attach it to the frame.

Release your old ideas about painting wooden furniture - it can actually bring it into today (particularly if it's that truly dark wood so preferred in the 70's ...). If you are painting a hutch, keep in mind to paint the interior to keep it looking light. Adding additional lighting is easy with the brand-new 'stick on lights' available at regular retail outlets. Smear Vaseline on the windows of the unit before you paint it to make clean up faster and much easier.

You can replace the hardware, too, or paint that, also. If you truly wish to be daring, you could tile the top of your dressers and end tables with a great marble or ceramic tile.

New Bedding can actually alter the feel of a bedroom. Attempt adding a Duvet Cover over an old comforter for a different appearance. You can get matching Pillow Cases, too, that'll really complete the look.

Mentioning Tiling, if your Kitchen Countertop has seen much better days, you might wish to think about tiling it. This is really a surprisingly low-cost venture, especially if you can do it yourself. Numerous arborite counter tops have a little 'lip' at the outer edge, which you will most likely need to plane down to produce a smooth and square surface area in preparation for the tile. You can also get rid of the old countertop and replace it with 3/4 plywood (have it specially cut to fit), then tile on that. There are numerous gorgeous tiles to choose from, that the possibilities are limitless. Take a look at all the different sizes of tile, too. Individuals typically think about the small tiles, or the 4" tiles, for a Countertop, but you can go much bigger. The tile we picked for our next kitchen (you can enjoy this process by clicking on the Tiling box) is a 13" X 13" Green Marble Ceramic Tile - beautiful. Real marble tile is great, too. There is an unique grout to utilize for counter tops, so make certain to inform your merchant what your job is. Using a thin grout line will make a genuine difference.

Many people have successfully painted their tile. The bath tub can be painted, too - there's a service that specializes in this, so inspect your regional papers. Changing the counter top, sink, toilet, tub or fixtures will actually enhance the look of the bathroom.

Shelving can make a remarkable distinction in the feel of you home if space is a concern. Examine your closets to see if there's an area at the extremely leading where a rack might be added. Can you develop racks into your Kitchen to make more space for canned products?

A truly basic way to alter the appearance and feel of your house is to reorganize the furniture. Sounds painfully easy, but it can breathe new life into a space.

Significant Remodellings

Ha, ha, ha! If you race through a task, you'll have lots and lots of time afterward to look at all the mistakes. If you have the Walls and the Floors on the same list, do the walls first - it'll be less stressful when the paint splashes!

If it's a substantial remodeling task, think about how you will handle all the mess. Do you have another place where you can live throughout the restorations? How about a little area of the house that you can keep as a sanctuary? Give this some major thought prior to starting. It can be surprising how challenging life can be during a reno project. If you happen to have an RV, this is most likely a good time to 'camp out', if only for a little break from the mayhem.

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something-tofightfor · 6 years ago

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Christmas in Wyoming - Two

Pairing: Logan Delos x Emma .... Logan Delos x Reader

Word count: 5330

Rating: M (language)

Author’s Note: Here we gooooooo

Taglist: feel free to ask me to remove you… or to add you!

@banditthewriter @breanime @obscurilicious @madamrogers @suchatinyinfinity @chibiyanai @songtoyou @ethereal-heavcns @editboutique @marauderskeeper @drinix @ilkaeliseb @delicatelilyflower @king4thesirens @blah-blah-fuckit-shit @ymariejp @mr-robot-x @rageshots @shinebrightlikeafanbase @littlemermaidprobz @introvertedlibrary @writing-for-a-chance @yesixoxo @ilikebeachessushiandsmallanimals @likeorions @swiftyhowlz @dylanobrusso @benbarnestongue @its-my-little-dumpster-fire @the-blind-assassin-12 @dreamwritesimagines @waytoobsessedwithmyfandoms @lexxierave @ms-delos @elanor-of-imladris @lynne1993 @dreams-with-thoughts @fireeyes-on-teller-dixon-grimes @mfackenthal @traeumerinwitzhelden @bucky-is-my-precious @weallhaveadestiny @ladyblablabla @sweetybuzz25 @luminex3 @christinawxxx @thesumofmychoices @audreychaz @tc-elliot @kind-wolf @gollyderek @honeyydippaa @thesandbeneathmytoes @malik-payne @geeksareunique @bellastellaluna @agentlingerie @elioelioeli0 @wangmangagavroche

“So you’ve lived here with your aunt and uncle for most of your life?” Logan brought the coffee mug to his lips, sipping it. “Your uncle wouldn’t stop talking about you.” Really? He laughed before he continued, Logan’s eyes flicking around the semi-crowded room. “Says you’re a huge help to them, that you’re going to run the place when they retire.”

“He talks a lot, Logan.” You picked off a piece of the lemon muffin that you’d ordered with your coffee, popping it into your mouth. “But yeah, I came out here with them after I lost my parents, and when I turned fourteen or fifteen, they started having me do work around the place - cleaning up the campground and cabins, checking guests in and out, doing the shopping for the resort…” You shrugged. “Made choosing where I went to college and what I went for much simpler.” He quirked a brow at you and you continued. “Two degrees; one in business, one in hospitality.”

“Damn.” He said the single word softly, shaking his head. “There good schools around here, or…”

“No, I went to State in Pennsylvania and Notre Dame, so I had to leave here for a while, but I came back during the summers… we’re really busy then, and Brandon and Elle needed the help.” The story was one you told often, both to guests that you befriended and the friends you had. “It makes sense for me to take over for them, they’ve owned it for decades, and want to keep it in the family. I’m the logical… well, the only choice.” Logan smiled at you, and while you both ate and drank, you took the opportunity to look him over more closely than you had before.

He’d shrugged out of his coat as soon as he set his tray down, pulling the hat from his head and stuffing it into the front pocket before sitting, his posture on the chair casual. Though his cheeks had been reddened from the cold while you waited in line, they weren’t anymore, his skin pale and smooth above his beard - which he’d trimmed to a much shorter style than it had been previously. It looks better this way. In the light of the bakery, Logan’s eyes were still dark, but you saw that they were more brown than black, softened slightly as they fell on your face. How am I here with him now? “What?” The smile had turned back into a smirk, and you shook your head, bringing yourself out of your thoughts. “You can take your coat off, you know. Stay a while.” He glanced down into his mug. “I might even get another cup. You want one?”

“I… sure.” You nodded. “C-”

“Cold brew with cream and salted caramel, right?” Blinking quickly, you nodded at him as he stood, heading back to the counter with your empty cups in hand. I didn’t realize he listened to what I ordered. Huh. The line was shorter than it had been, but you knew it would still take Logan a few minutes to get the drinks, and you drummed your fingers on the table as you waited, chin in the other hand. The conversation you’d had with Logan - him asking you questions and listening intently had been nothing like you expected - and nothing like what the tabloids and Internet made him out to be. There hadn’t been a good moment for you to bring up the fact that you knew who he was, but you knew that before you separated, you had to. Be honest about it. I’m sure he already thinks you know. Taking a deep breath, you stood, unzipping your coat and sliding your arms out of it, draping it over the back of your chair - much like he’d done. “You really do dress for the weather out here, don’t you.”

You froze, turning back toward Logan, who was standing on the opposite side of the table, holding both of your coffees. Shit. “Yeah, Logan.” You collected yourself quickly, reaching out to take your drink from him before you sat, careful not to touch his hand. “Some of us prepare accordingly when it’s supposed to be below freezing.” You’d thrown on an oversized sweater and a pair of insulated leggings with your boots that morning - an outfit that you figured none of the women Logan associated with would be caught dead in, but still, he eyed you with a little appreciation, eyes moving downward from your face and then back up.

“This place isn’t what I expected.” Logan took another drink of his coffee, shaking his head before he ran a hand through his hair, pale fingers visible through the long, dark strands. “People are friendly, the scenery is beautiful, the food’s been good so far…” Logan shook his head. “There are worse places to spend the holidays, I guess.” Is that a compliment? I can’t tell. “Nothing against you or Fireside or … but like I said, I’m used to warmth and… God, the last time I saw snow had to be years ago.” Logan fell silent, staring down at his mug, and you noticed that his fingers were tightly wrapped around the container, brow furrowed.

“Where do you usually spend Christmas, Logan?” You were genuinely curious, though you didn’t really expect him to answer. “You said you’re used to sun and sand and warmth, so -”

“Wherever my family isn’t.” He offered you a tight lipped smile, shaking his head. “We’re not that close, especially since my sister got married to... “ He stopped, taking a deep breath. “I… it doesn’t matter. But this… I needed to get away, and I figured that putting myself in the middle of nowhere would be a good break.” Oh, Logan. You thought back to the stories that you’d read, the things people said about Logan and his father and his brother in law. It’s serious. “You don’t want to hear about that, though, I’m sorry.” It’s time to tell him. You closed your eyes, squaring your shoulders and then took a long drink from your straw.

“Logan, I need to be honest with you.” He looked confused for a second, but you continued. “I… know who you are.” You watched as he stiffened briefly, waiting, the look on his face changing. “I didn’t at first, when I came to get you? But after I went home last night, a friend of mine called, freaking out because you were at Snow King yesterday.” You leaned back, but Logan stayed silent, watching you. “When she mentioned Westworld, it kind of clicked, because I’ve heard of the park before, but…” You shook your head, looking down. “I looked you up online, because I couldn’t believe it - why would someone like you stay at a place like Fireside? All of the resorts are so much more … fitting, I guess? We’re nothing compared to them, and you’re one of the wealthiest men in the world, so why would you pick a place like ours?”

“That’s what you’re worried about?” His voice was low, and Logan leaned in over the table, closer to you. “You looked me up online and saw… whatever it is that you saw and you’re worried about why I picked your place over one of the others?” He laughed, and you took a breath, surprised at the sound. “That’s the question you ask me?”

“Well, yeah.” You frowned at him, meeting his eyes again and not looking away like you’d done before. “What else would I worry about? Your personal life? Your … extracurricular activities? That’s none of my business, Logan.” He looked surprised, but you continued. “All I need to worry about is whether or not we’re doing what we need to do to make the time you spend with us what you hope it will be, nothing more.” He was silent for a while, watching you, his face giving nothing away.

“So you’re friends with Emma?” He asked the question casually, and though you hadn’t expected it, you were able to keep the flinch contained - barely.

“We were friends once, yes.” Biting down on your lower lip, you thought before continuing. “It’s hard to be friends with someone when they’re constantly trying to one up you and your business. And it’s fine, she’s focused on Snow King and her family, and she should be, but we’re… so different, that it shouldn’t matter.” Logan had leaned in again, watching you as you spoke. “It wasn’t her that called, Logan, it was a mutual friend.” He nodded. “You being here in Jackson Hole is a big deal, apparently. Everyone’s curious. We don’t get as many celebrities as Aspen or Vale or -”

“Celebrities?” He laughed again, tossing his head back. “I’m not a celebrity, I’m just a rich prick with too much money and not enough good sense to spend it well.” Logan grinned. “Did you tell your friend I’m staying in one of your cabins?”

“Of course not, that’s not… I wouldn’t ever. I don’t care who you are, you’re a guest, and you’re entitled to your privacy while you’re here. All of our employees know to keep quiet about it, too.” He considered your words carefully, wetting his lips with a few quick swipes of his tongue.

“I’d like to keep it that way, if possible.” That’s what I just said, Logan, I won’t say a word. “I’m… meeting your… meeting Emma for dinner tonight.” Logan’s fingers played with the napkin on the table, eyebrows knit together. “She asked and I didn’t say no, but… I’m assuming it wouldn’t go over well if she knew where I was staying, would it?” You shook your head, deciding not to try to hide things from him.

“It won’t, she’d try to convince you to stay there the rest of the time if she knew.” And we need the money. “She’ll show you a good time, Logan.” The words came out before you could stop them, and you widened your eyes, hand going to your mouth. “I shouldn’t have said that.” He laughed again, leaning back in. “She’s not a bad person, Logan, she just…” You’re an idiot. You basically just told him he was going to get laid if he wanted to.

“No, stop.” He winked at you, and you felt your breath catch. “I know what you’re saying, and I got the same vibe.”

“That why you agreed to go out with her?” You spoke again without thinking, and even as Logan laughed, you put your face into both hands, groaning. You’re so goddamn dumb. “That’s none of my business, I’m sorry.” You peeked up at him, finding that he was watching you closely, one thumb pressed against his lips, teeth just visible as he chewed on the nail. Glancing behind him, you were surprised to see that it was almost 2:30, and that just under two hours had passed with him. “It’s late, I think I should get going.” He frowned. “They close at three, Logan, I don’t want to be those people.”

After putting your coats back on, you collected your trash and empty plates and made your way toward the front of the bakery, Logan nodding to the young woman and man behind the counter. When you stepped outside, you watched as he pulled his hat on, covering his ears. “Thanks for this.” He shook his head, stepping closer to you as a gust of wind made you shiver. “Halfway figured you’d say no… I’m surprised you didn’t, knowin’ what you do about me.” No way.

“Of course, Logan, maybe you’ll let me repay the favor before you leave Wyoming.” He raised an eyebrow, turning to look at the highway and then back at you, eyes moving over your face. “There’s a restaurant I think you’d like, but it’s a little bit of a drive.” He nodded twice, opening his mouth to speak. “Hey.” You closed your eyes. “I hope you have fun with Emma tonight.” He looked shocked as you continued, his mouth closing. “I’m not surprised that she asked you out.”

“Why’s that?” I’m not going to give you the satisfaction. He waited, biting the inside of his cheek as he watched you.

“Despite what the tabloids might say about you - and what you say about yourself, Logan Delos, I think you’re actually less of an asshole than you pretend to be.” He laughed again, shaking his head and muttering the word ‘wow’ under his breath. “But I still have some work to do this afternoon, and you have a date to get ready for.” He rolled his eyes.

“It’s just dinner.” And some drinks, I’m sure. And shameless flirting on both ends.

“Where are you taking her?” You held up a finger. “Wait, let me guess. She picked the place… and it’s…” You thought, closing your eyes for a second. “Hayden’s, right?” He nodded slowly. “Figured. She’d want to be seen with you in her own resort’s restaurant.” Logan didn’t say anything and so you continued. “It’s a shame, really. The food’s alright, but there are plenty of other places to go that are just as good.” Before you could stop yourself, you reached out, squeezing Logan’s arm through his sleeve, surprised to find it much smaller than you’d imagined. He’s thin. “Thanks for this afternoon, Logan. See you around.”

“Yeah. Hey,” he called after you, following you down the steps. “Really, it’s just dinner. I just figured -”

“You don’t have to explain yourself to me, Logan. You’re an adult.” You paused, a hand on your door handle. “Maybe I’ll see you tomorrow?” He gave you a tight nod and you turned away from him, opening your door and climbing inside. You warned him without warning him. Whatever happens, happens. By the time you’d pulled out of your spot and were preparing to turn left onto 390, Logan had pulled behind you, blinker on to turn right. Raising a hand to him in the rearview mirror, you watched as he did the same, a small wave visible before you edged forward and out of the parking lot.

---

But you didn’t see Logan the following day, though you noticed that his lights were on in the cabin when you showed up for work just before 7. Jeep’s windows are frosted over… means he’s been back for a while. There were no extra tire tracks in the fresh snow behind his car either, and though you didn’t know why, it filled you with relief. Brandon kept you busy, sending you out in a different Jeep for extra supplies for the cabins that would be filled the following week, and when you got back a little after five, Logan’s car was still parked - still frosted over. Lazy day for him, I guess.

You helped your aunt and uncle unpack, promising that you’d be back early the next morning to sort through the items that you’d purchased and get them to where they needed to be, and even though Elle told you that someone else was capable, you waved her off, Logan’s face in the back of your mind. After stopping home to change, you got back in the car, driving to meet Gina and Ana at Snake River Brewing, where an order of nachos and a beer were already waiting for you as you slid into your seat. I needed this.

The three of you talked for a while, ordering entrees and a second round of drinks, and you forgot all about Logan, about the issues at the resort, about the unease you’d been feeling for the previous few months. I needed this. By the time your food came, you were relaxed, listening to Ana talk about something that her husband had done the day before - until a voice cut in from behind you. “I didn’t get an invite?” Shit. You closed your eyes, beer glass frozen halfway between the table and your lips. “Can I sit?” Ana’s eyes flicked to you and you nodded minutely, gesturing to the empty seat across the table from you. “Thanks!”

Emma dropped gracefully into the chair, looking over her shoulder as the waitress came back to the table, taking her drink order. Though you stayed quiet for the first few minutes, only offering a response when it was required, you studied your former friend. Her long, dark hair was down around her shoulders, the sweater she was wearing expensive and perfectly suited for her body. Wonder what she wore last night. “How’d your date go?” Gina finally asked the question that Emma had been waiting for, and the brunette leaned in, one hand wrapped around her beer glass, perfect manicure on display. Here we go. Though you hadn’t wanted to admit it, you were curious to know, too. Did you impress him? Did he impress you?

“Well.” She grinned, biting her lip and looking around, eyes falling on each of you in turn. “I don’t know if Gina told … everyone, but I went out with Logan Delos last night.” She paused, taking a long drink. “He showed up in the ski shop the other day, and I couldn’t not ask him out, right? He was even better looking in person than in pictures, and, I just…” She sighed, shaking her head. “He’s not staying at Snow King, but I’m sure he’s somewhere in town - he wouldn’t tell me where, though, and I tried everything to get it out of him.” She frowned, twisting the ends of her hair around her fingers. “We went to dinner at Hayden’s, had some drinks, and… he’s incredible.” She leaned in, a knowing smile on her face. “If he’s here alone, and I definitely think he is, he’s gotta be interested in investing somewhere, and my parents would kill me if I didn’t make him see how great our place is.” Sure. Like you need more investors.

“Isn’t Delos mostly tech-oriented, though?” You finally spoke, head tilted to the side. “What kind of technology could a ski resort use that it doesn’t already have?” Emma rolled her eyes, but you continued. “Maybe he’s just here to get away for the holidays.”

“It doesn’t matter.” Emma shrugged, one finger moving up to her lips as she wiped away a few wayward drops of beer. “I don’t care why he’s here, I’m just glad he is.” Gina leaned in, asking a few more questions, and you caught Ana’s eye, shooting her a deadpan look. “He kissed me goodnight.” A few minutes later, your attention went fully back to Emma and you felt your stomach drop. He did? “Well, he kissed me back, I guess. When I kissed him.” She giggled. “I invited him back to my place but he said no, said that he didn’t want to give me the wrong impression.” She grinned, eyes falling on you. “He’s not usually like that, he must actually like me, playing hard to get.” Or maybe he wasn’t interested. “Anyway, one of the resort photographers got a few pictures of us eating, and those are going to go up on the Instagram page in a few days. What great publicity it’ll be for us - Logan Delos of Delos Inc, on a date with me? We’ll book the final few rooms for the holidays no problem.” Oh, how dare you.

After that, you tuned out completely, only hearing a few of the words that Emma, Ana and Gina said, asking for the check the next time the waitress came to the table. “You seeing him again, Emma?” You finally spoke again as you stood, pulling your coat on, fingers going through your hair as you pulled it from beneath your collar. “Seems like you had a good time.” She laughed, pressing her plump lips together and looked up at you.

“We are. He said he’d call, but when he does, I’m going to make sure to show him a real good time while he’s here, show him what I can offer him.” She raised an eyebrow. “You know what I mean?” Oh, I do. “I’d suggest that we all meet up together, give him a taste of Jackson Hole, but...wouldn’t it be awkward for you?” Gina hissed Emma’s name, reaching for the girl’s arm, but Emma waved her off. “I mean, since you and Colin broke up, it’s not like we could go on a group date or anything.” Rather than respond in the way you would have liked to - picking up her drink and throwing it into her face or punching her - you just shrugged, pulling your keys from your pocket and taking a deep breath through your nose.

“We broke up over a year ago, Emma. It’s not a big deal. And I very highly doubt that Logan would want to meet a bunch of your friends on a second date, anyway. He doesn’t seem like the type to get attached.” She recoiled, and you looked away from her, saying goodbye to the other two before you turned and headed out to your car. So he kissed her, and they’re planning on going out again. Without waiting for the car to warm up, you put it in reverse and pulled out of the parking space, hands gripping the steering wheel tightly. Good for him.

---

The following morning, you woke up determined to get everything done for the coming guests before heading home for the weekend, since you’d be handling more than a few new guests the following week. You were looking forward to the time off, thinking that you’d get more done around the house as well as finish up your Christmas shopping, but mainly, you were excited to be away from Logan, especially knowing that he’d apparently hit it off with Emma. It doesn’t matter. I just don’t want to hear about it.

Pulling down the drive toward the lodge, you glanced over, seeing Logan’s jeep missing from it’s spot, even though it was early. Oh. Parking and letting yourself into the lodge, you busied yourself with making lists of the individual cabin needs, separating out the items that had been specially requested and designated for delivery. Emma and Brandon were gone for the day, and the rest of the staff knew what they were supposed to be doing, so you worked in the comfort of the main room, phone playing music as the boxes of items were packed. “Good morning.”

“Shit!” His voice startled you and you looked up from your place on the floor, eyes wide. “What are you doing here?” Logan was standing in the doorway, a small smile on his face as he held two cups in his hands. Where’s his coat?

“Brought you coffee.” He licked his lips, stepping into the room. “Your aunt and uncle told me they had the day off today, and I figured that meant you’d be here.” What? “Ordered you the same thing you got the other day, I thought…” He trailed off, eyes on you. “What’s wrong?” Logan pulled a seat over from the lone table, settling down and holding the plastic cup out to you.

“Nothing, Logan.” You accepted the coffee from him, feeling his chilled fingers brush yours for a moment. It doesn’t matter. “Thank you. You didn’t have to…” He shook his head, looking around the room. “I figured you went out last night and hadn’t made it back yet.”

“That why you’re so annoyed with me?” Logan shook his head back and forth slowly. “You think I’m stayin’ out all night with someone after only a few days here? That what you think of me?” He paused, shaking his head. “Actually, don’t answer that. I’m sure that’s exactly what the tabloids would have you believe.” Logan sighed. “No. I woke up early and went for a drive to look around, and then stopped at that bakery, because it was good.”

“Logan,” you said, uncrossing your legs and drawing your knees up. “I’m sorry, I don’t know you, I shouldn’t have…” He waved you off with one hand, eyes moving around the room again.

“What do you guys use this room for?” He sipped his coffee, gesturing with a long finger that he uncurled from around the cup. “I see the tree an’ the lights and decorations, but…” He sucked his lower lip into his mouth. “This would be a good place for groups to gather, like... “ Logan trailed off. “For events and shit?”

“That’s exactly what we do, Logan. When we’re booked, we usually have tables and stuff set up in here, and Elle does meals, or we have movie nights, or crafts for the kids.” You took a drink of your coffee, shaking your head. “It’s busier in the summer, like I said, and... “ Your eyes moved around, looking at the boxes of items for the cabins, remembering the previous summer months. “We do a Christmas brunch, so if you want, you’ll see it full then.” As you looked back at Logan, you saw that he was still looking around the room, eyes lingering on the corners, the windows that overlooked the trees and the empty RV lot behind the building.

“What are you doing today?” He spoke suddenly, snapping your attention back to him. “I mean, after you’re done here? With this?” You looked around the room. Though there were only ten cabins to prep, you figured you’d be busy until at least noon, especially since you had to lug the boxes into the different units. Wait, why is he asking? He’s …. Emma.

“Logan.” You looked directly into his eyes, shaking your head. “There’s no reason to…” You stopped, rubbing your hands over your face. “I went out with my friends last night, and Emma was… there.” He stiffened. “She told us all about your date, about how you’re going to see her again, about how you… about your kiss.” You almost couldn’t get the words out, but you forced them. “She seemed very sure of -”

“Of what?” He stood, glaring down at you. “Of the fact that she kissed me? That she propositioned me in the restaurant?” He shook his head, pushing his sleeves up to just below his elbows as he spoke. “I donno what you read about me, but there’s more to me than booze and sex and…” He shook his head, hair falling over his eyes. “I have no intention of seeing Emma again, but since you’ve already made up your mind, I guess that’s all I need to know.” He shook his head and you felt your heart hammering in your chest. Stand up. Stop him. “Enjoy your coffee.” Logan turned and began walking out of the room, but you were on your feet before he’d taken more than a few steps, following him.

“Logan, wait. Stop.” You reached out again, gripping his arm just above the elbow. “Please.” He did, turning to face you with disappointment etched across his features. “What you do is your business, but I know Emma, and…” You shook your head, trying to reconcile that he was only inches from you, that he smelled incredible, that you could see the freckles on his skin clearly - one beneath his right eye, another high on his left cheekbone - that he hadn’t pulled his arm away from your grasp. “I like you, Logan, and she’s… she might seem…” You shook your head without breaking eye contact. “It’s not real, Logan. Everything she does is…”

“Fake?” He licked his lips, taking a fraction of a step closer, his body shifting. “She practically screamed at me when I suggested we go somewhere else for dinner to keep it low profile.” Logan shook his head, glancing down for a split second. “You were right that she… she wanted to be seen with me.” I knew it. “And you warned me.” He laughed, and your eyes were drawn to the corners of his eyes, skin wrinkled, the same true of the bridge of his nose. He’s… I can’t, I need to step back. But you didn’t, waiting for him to speak instead. “I thought it was just you bein’... a typical woman, right? Jealous or whatever, since you two don’t get along.” Seriously? You opened your mouth to speak but he stopped you with a raised finger. “I did say I’m an asshole.” You chuckled, surprised that you were responding coherently with him so close. “But when she wouldn’t go somewhere else, and hinted before we even got our food that she was willing to show me her place, I realized you were right.”

“Logan, you don’t have to…” He licked his lips again, shaking his head as his raised finger turned into two, and they moved closer to your face, stopping just before they touched you.

“I do, though.” He took in a breath and slowly let it out, eyes never leaving yours. “I don’t want to be that guy anymore.” Oh, shit. “None of these people know what I want, an’ they just assume.” You felt him touch you, fingertips against your hair, his face impossibly close. “She kissed me, and it surprised me, and I kissed her back.” Of course you did. But the moment wasn’t broken and Logan continued, the arm that you were still holding rising, hand settling at your waist, his fingers gently curling into the material of your hoodie. “But it won’t happen again,” he said softly, leaning in, lips pressing against your cheek once before he moved them to your ear. “Because I’ve got enough people usin’ me at home, and I don’t need that here, too.”

All you needed to do was turn your head slightly and your mouth would meet his - and in that moment, you realized how much you wanted it, how attracted to him you were. I shouldn’t, I can’t. Frozen in place, you felt Logan’s palm on the side of your head, his hand tugging you closer at the waist, breath warm on your skin. “Logan.” Your voice was thick and you swallowed, using your free hand to push against his chest - gently but firmly. “I don’t… we don’t know each other.” His hands didn’t move but he allowed you to move his body backwards. He’s surprised.

“Can we change that?” He cleared his throat, finally dropping his hands from you and Logan looked down, staring at his feet for long seconds. “You know what the Internet says, and a lot of that shit is true, but…” He stopped, eyes back on your face. “There are things to…that you should hear from me, not from a newspaper or a gossip column. And if I tell you, and you don’t… you still want to know me, at least it’s ...” You wanted to say yes, wanted to agree to get to know the real Logan Delos, but you couldn’t form the words. He’ll be gone in a few weeks, and it’ll be like … he’ll go back to his mansion, back to his life, back to… “Hey, everything alright?” He was still standing there, still waiting for you to respond - and after another few seconds of staring into his eyes, you made a decision.

“Yes.” With a nod of your head, you continued. “I’d like that, Logan.” He again seemed surprised but the smile that he gave you in return was dazzling. Eye crinkles and all. “What does ‘getting to know Logan Delos’ entail out here in the middle of nowhere?” He laughed, stepping back and running his hand through his hair.

“Well, in Los Angeles, I’d take you out somewhere obnoxiously expensive, show you that I don’t care what I spend on a date, that we can go anywhere, even without a reservation, because I’m Logan Delos.” Bigshot. “But… A, I don’t think that would impress you, and B, I don’t think that there’s anywhere here like that… so…” He sighed, reaching down to run his knuckles over the back of your hand before he closed his fingers around yours, squeezing. “You mentioned that there was somewhere you thought I’d like?”

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