#why am i debating over PIXELS

[cafesunnydale]

why am i rethinking my choices on marrying harvey bc sam is kinda hitting diff 😭😭😭😭

[emelinstriker]

About those 3 Anon messages recently...

Yes, there's 3 now. Third on came up while I was finishing typing about the 2nd one.

tl;dr context: peeps defending a fictional 2D lego character, questioning the morality of esau (despite the lack of lore context), as well as for some reason a personal attack on me... also smol chinese jesus??? :'D

DISCLAIMER:

I respect y'all's opinions and headcanons and whatnot. It's all valid. However. I expect respect on my own opinions and headcanons return. That's literally all I'm asking.

That's common sense and I will from this point on just delete anyone else's anon asks if they try to argue with me about my standings on these matters mentioned in here. Or this post in general.

There's literally no point in arguing over words written in a story, or debating whether or not pixels on a screen are hot or not.

With that disclaimer being said...

Case 1:

I'm fully aware of the entire discussion thing of Nezha being eternally 12 and all that, but I'm also fully aware of how LMK Nezha is more of a parody on the original. LMK Nezha is more of an adult 2D character who took the characteristics of the source, but then was turned into an aged-up parody.

It's not weird with the context of how things even came to be in the AU. It does involve a form of "infection" that changes those that are infected. In ESAU it's just slightly different from my original story's OCs to appeal more to the Reader. There are people out there who seek comfort in their own superiority complex too, especially if they can never explore that part of themselves normally. If that doesn't appeal to you, that's fine. But don't assume it's weird just because you don't like it if a fictional master/servant relationship isn't for you.

Now, this ask wasn't really bad or directly disrespectful. That was just basic questioning on the general relationship of the AU as well as the LMK Nezha being 12 discussion. So I went to bed, cuz I didn't wanna respond with my rather aggressive response to the topic. Like, I ranted about it to my Discord server, but it was already around midnight and I knew I'd come off as aggressive, despite the logic and facts, if I just copy n pasted the way I phrased the rant. So I went to bed. But then I woke up to an essay in another ask...

Case 2:

I'm assuming this is the exact same person, based on the timeframe and the writing style..? Maybe even the same person who asked that question about whether I'd make Nezha's relationship towards the Reader romantic or platonic..??

For the sake of this entire thing being unworthy of an unnecessary discussion, as well as the fact that the person sending this isn't worth directly responding to if they hide behind an anon face, knowing they would get flamed, I will solely respond to these for my actual viewers, who do enjoy ESAU.

As in, I noticed how almost every single point is easily arguable. Like, they literally just made it up as if every single relationship between the Reader and their champions is romantic. Which couldn't be further from the truth. This is a point I wanna get more into due to how it covers the Master System more. A random anon sending me questions, or rather statements, like this doesn't deserve to get a detailed response to this directly either. My viewers do deserve more insight though. Be it to avoid more people thinking this is automatically grooming, or just to give interested people more lore dump.

To keep it short: Everyone who wants to be a Reader, is a Reader. I myself am a Reader of fiction, which is why I use my persona to fill in the Reader's space in any drawing I do for ESAU. Which is also why Macaque referred to their Master currently being female in that one drawing- Because in that moment, in my drawings, I'm technically seen as their Master.

So when you see the champions swap between their Master using non-binary or female pronouns, this is why. If you see me draw them referring to their Master as a "she", they're referring to basically their current Master in that exact moment. However, literally anyone else can also be placed in that spot.

Whenever I refer to a Reader's reincarnation, I usually mean either "the same person, but another life" OR "different people of the same/a different life". As in, the Reader can imagine themselves having had multiple past lives, or their "past life" is actually another Reader. We're all the Reader. That's why I kept saying the Master System is rather philosophical.

The Reader can imagine themselves if they met their champions as a child or as an adult. However, nothing in ESAU is forced to be romantic or sexual. If you were born as a prince/princess/royalty, that doesn't mean your servants are immediately destined to be romantic or sexual with you, right? That entire portion is up to the Reader to decide and imagine. I do not control what another person thinks of and imagines. If they chose to pick a darker path, the fuck do you want me to do about that? Unless it ends up hurting anyone, or they actively push the topic onto others, I see no issue with however a Reader wants to think up what happens in their life with their servants. All I do is create material for others to play with.

Except for the First Master, any other Reader can be considered either the same person or various people. That's up to the person behind the screen, whether they feel more comforted with one idea or another.

On the Nezha being 12 topic... Do people know what a parody is, I-

LMK Nezha looks more like THIS-

Not as young as THIS-

And he was never said to be 12 years old in LMK. Nor does he look 12, act 12, speak 12, sound 12... LMK needs to be seen and accepted as more like a parody AU of the original story, if that wasn't obvious enough. I find it funny how they brought up my own age though-

Cuz yeah, I'm 21, almost 22, and I do understand the difference between reality's religions, fictional 2D pixels, and the difference between the source and a parody. Wow. Shocker. I know.

Or as I said it in tags earlier today-

Also I'd just like to add… If we go by the theory of specifically LMK Nezha still being 12, despite literally thousands of years having passed, his body being depicted as a fully grown adult in basically every single goddamn aspect of his character within the show… Literally all he got is his paperwork saying he's 12. Like- LMK Nezha would literally just be one of those people that were born on February 29th. Just him not getting any birthdays. Do you assume after literal thousands of years, with his body and mind being mature, and only his paperwork saying he's 12, this dude wouldn't be tryna explore more of himself and his interests, wh-

Like- LMK Nezha isn't the original source Nezha. Simple as that. Just accept it's a parody and be done with it. If you don't agree with it, that's your opinion and I respect that. But don't you dare fucking push that opinion on others who do actually accept the show as a parody and wanna live out their fantasies in said parody.

Your opinion does not mean it's the opinion of others.

Like, the entire age thing in LMK is such a headcanon thing to the point where no one seems to have a solid age, besides maybe MK, who I've seen people calculate his age for due to his driving license and all that. LMK Nezha is confirmed to be depicted as an adult within the show, which is the headcanon I'm going with, regardless of whatever bullshittery people are trying to argue with.

In conclusion: Nezha may be eternally 12 in a story. But that story is NOT Lego Monkie Kid.

On a side note, something I found ironic and funny, is if an aged up character isn't allowed to be sexualized, then I guess if someone ages a character down, suddenly that original source of the character is no longer allowed to be sexualized either, just because that character suddenly has a younger version of themselves. It's not even the younger version that's being sexualized. That literally is the entire logic of this debate on not wanting a fictional character to have an aged up version of themselves.

Good job, nobody wins. I guess nothing can be sexualized at that point- But then again, Rule 34 wouldn't exist then.

Okay, but now this, THIS is where I got REALLY annoyed, cuz NOW we're getting into more personal territory of nitpicking at ESAU. And those who know me are aware of how I go Asian mom mode when my creations, or younger friends and mutuals, are being wrongfully disrespected.

In general, their entire point is a snowflake-behavior nitpick. Branding is also seen as a way to claim ownership over something. The torture part is basically just the pain of it. I could've also just have the champions have one of those toy stamps for lil children be slapped onto them if you really wanna snowflake it all for tHe PrEcIoUs cHilDrEn...

C'mon. I grew up with FNAF and Creepypastas. Which tend to be usually two of the first fandoms I see children get interested in and hyperfixated on. Mentions of brandmarks that have fully healed ain't nothin' at all.

Like, I literally met a boy who was 8ish years old, who was so happy and hyped about FNAF that he asked me to draw Freddy and Bonnie.

Creepypastas also might make one edgy for a while, but they do grow A LOT from it once they leave that phase. So far, everyone I've ever talked to about Creepypastas in the past became such a good person. Because they look back, and recognize morals so much better. They have seen what bad things can happen and we all know where to draw the line between what's fine, and what's not. Nitpicking on LMK Nezha and ESAU doesn't mean anything since it's just that, nitpicking. I know where to draw the line, but this line these people set is a line no one but themselves can imagine.

Show children bits of reality's darker side and they will know how to deal with the knowledge much better and faster as they grow. That wasn't even just about branding, but I'm tired of people saying how we need to keep children safe. Well yeah, keep them safe physically, but they will never fucking grow and become more independent unless you fucking let them think and process the good AND the bad for themselves.

Also on the topic of adding content warnings- Like, the fuck do you want me to even add? Those asks other people sent of the Reader being basically raised by their servants need no warnings, X Readers in general need no warnings, the brandmarks need no warnings cuz they're just there as aesthetic symbols for anyone not invested in the lore, LMK Nezha needs no content warnings-

Literally the only content warning I'd ever need to add is something like gore, which I do admit I didn't add on the ESAU!Nezha X Reader one.

And I'd just like to add a little something that made me raise an eyebrow: They complained about me going against "Wukong's celibacy vows" when they literally admitted to actively looking through the LMK X Reader tag. While that doesn't necessarily mean they would marry or bang Wukong, that means they're at least curious or interested in what a relationship with any of those characters would be like. Which by all means, would not be possible without it being fiction/fanfiction, and without them having some curiosity or interest in the 2D show of LMK.

Like you're literally telling me I'm practically hurting a fictional character's feelings on the matter, but then turn around and try to get with another character.

Fanfiction and AU's are a thing, man. It's all opinions, headcanons, and literally made up shenanigans. And there's nothing wrong with it when it differs from one person to another.

But dumping empty accusations onto me, someone who thinks more logically than emotionally, literally doesn't help your case. Like, you're debating whether or not this 2D character would actually give a shit if someone would wanna bang them cuz they look hot to the other person.

Case 3:

This one just got dropped into my inbox as I finished typing out the last paragraph and just- This is literally just a unnecessary and only somewhat personal hatred thing at this point- But I'm wheezing at the idea of a smol Chinese Jesus-

Bro, as someone who was forced to be Christian on paper, but never gave a shit about it, because Religion doesn't prove anything or form you, I really don't care. And even if that were the case, I wouldn't complain. It's all fiction dammit. You're again, defending pixels on a screen. Besides that, that wouldn't even be the original source character, again. Also in general, honestly, I see any religious story as fiction anyway. Cuz that literally is what a religion is- You put a belief onto someone over a being/a story-

If you're religious, I respect that. But so do you have to respect that I'm not exactly religious myself.

Case 3 was probably the most directly aggressive one of the 3, but also the most unmeaningful one and so unnecessary one... as if that would be the one to prove a point.

Anyway, rant over, I'm done with this.

If I see any other personal hate on me for not sharing the same fucking opinion on such a niche debate, I'll just ignore and delete it all. This is such a pointless topic.

ESAU is supposed to be a comfort zone for those who actually do feel connected to it. If you don't, that's fine, I fully respect it. If people believe Nezha is 12, I respect that. But don't push that onto those who literally are just here to have a nice time away from shit like this. If you wanna "keep the children safe", fucking keep them away from this sort of nowhere-leading discussion topic.

Literally look at Genshin's Twitter Community, this just feels like the exact same type of unnecessary drama I see there.

And no I will not tag these 3 anons. If they respect me enough, they will either just keep quiet or block me and move on. I don't mind. But I refuse to let this bullshit be a whole ass discussion when I'm just trying to have a good time connecting to my viewers after a long day at work. If they look for a fight for some reason, I won't give them one. They can pick someone else for this bullshit, it's not worth my time as it's all OPINION AND HEADCANON-BASED.

And such debates don't end in peace. So I'd rather be the bigger, more mature person and just say "This is the line. Discussion over. We're done here".

Have a nice day, anyone who actually is nice and respectful towards others and their own takes/opinions on things! Weekend's here now tho so y'all ESAU lovers might see some wholesome lil doodles! :D

[goodluckclove]

Edgar Gallows Blog Takeover - Intro Post!

Uh - hi! Hello!

I don't really know what I'm doing here or why I'm doing it, but Scott told me there's no way he's trying this unless he sees me do it first. And if Scott's not doing it Tenzin won't be comfortable enough to try either - really, Katy's the only one here comfortable chatting to strangers. It's a delicate web otherwise.

But yeah, my name is Edgar. I'm 30 and I live in New Orleans. Scott and I looked up what people put in intro posts like these and a lot of them had genders and pronouns, so let's just say I have both of those and not go any deeper than that.

I've worked in a few tourist-y traps in NOLA, mostly back of house doing prep and assembly work. Right now I'm a bartender and I'm great at it. I'm the best in the world. I've won awards. You can lie on the internet without consequence, right?

I should say that I am ex-Academy. I won't say which one for the sake of anonymity (And - let's face it - my own safety as well). I wasn't expelled or discharged or whatever. Technically I wasn't even released. I don't practice anymore, or really keep up with the news and politics of Academic witchcraft, so don't expect me to get into it unprompted.

Interests

I don't think there's a genre of music that I don't love, but I'm a big fan of funk, disco, new wave and Japanese city pop. Talking Heads is my favorite band of all time.

I'm a self-taught chef. I think I'm pretty good at it. I also bake, which I am less good at. Those skills do not transfer like you might think they do.

Scott's looking over my shoulder and he's telling me to mention that I like birds. I do. I feel weird saying that because I don't really know that many bird facts for anything other than my few favorites (Goldfinches and Buntings). I just like looking at them.

I say that I play video games but the only video game I'm remotely good at is Old School Runescape, which I don't think is that cool to say.

Things to Ask me About?

I would love to talk about cooking or food. This could be to give advice, recipe suggestions, food pairings, knife skills - ask me something as simple as how to scramble an egg and I'd be happy to share my technique.

In regards to the Academy, I will say that I'm Legacy and so I never actually enlisted. If you're thinking of going down that path at your own branch, I worked at the University of mine as a librarian for maybe five years, so I got a good perspective as to what the process looks like. I'm open to offering insight and tentative guidance if you aren't weird.

Scott says I should mention that I'm also a birthright. He's really the one that has more authority to talk about that since he actually grew up in a witch town, but apparently he has a lot of opinions on how I should do this for someone who barely understands how the internet works.

He's watching me type now. Fuck it, you can ask me about Scott too if you want. I assumed I was straight until about a week ago. Now I seem to have bagged myself an ethereal magical boyfriend. He saw me use the voice command on my Pixel and now he makes me say goodnight to my goddamned cell phone before we go to sleep. I love him.

DNI List

I heard admission rates for Academies hit a major spike recently, and I'm just putting it out there that I really would rather not debate anyone super invested in the "mission statement" of their local University. The newer members never seem to realize that the culture of the Academy differs like crazy depending where you are, and because of that there really isn't the kind of centralization they claim exists to Junior Members.

Also - and this might be a divisive take - but I was born into this world. I spent decades of my life in the Academy. I truly do not care about the opinion of someone who trained for two years after joining straight out of high school. I won't block you, but I will send your username and any comments you make to my friend who is far more Anti-Academy than I am (Hi, Katy).

Anyway that's all! I look forward to posting things today and maybe talking to some new people! I hope everyone is nice and not weird and I do not regret this happening!

who is this? why is this happening? check out the pinned post on my blog to learn more!

[skaruresonic]

I mean I can totally get, getting very pissed if people make porn out of my child characters, I might threaten with copyright too

The child characters I made are based on actual kids in my family. It reminds me of that interview with Miyazaki where he complains about the otaku culture making porn out of Kiki and Chihiro. Especially the latter one, since Chihiro was based on a child family member.

I might threaten with copyright too

Well, for starters, I doubt you'd get very far because that's not technically your jurisdiction as a creator. As far as I understand it as a layperson, copyright is not there to curtail "gross" fan content, but to protect your rights as a creator to capitalize on your intellectual property. Meaning people can't claim your characters as their own and sell their work for profit.

Fanfic and fanart, on the other hand, are protected under the umbrella of transformative work. The nuances are different and hair-splitty for each, but IIRC, fanfic is allowed to exist on the basis that it isn't monetized. Can't remember what the stipulations are for fanart.

Second... Nah, man. The solution to your discomfort with people sexualizing your characters over the internet is to draw a boundary, which is not something you impose on others, but an action you take to protect yourself and your best interests.

State in clear terms: "I am not comfortable with seeing this kind of content, please don't send it to me; emails and the like containing such content will be deleted," and leave it at that. You don't call for censorship or witch hunts or threaten people with copyright strikes that don't fall within your legal purview.

As a creator, you bear responsibilities not to abuse your power over fandom. Accepting that Rules 34 ("if it exists, there is porn of it") and 35 ("if no porn of it exists, porn will be made") exist is one of them.

...Frankly, I find it a more relevant social hazard that creators forge intense parasocial relationships with their fandoms and proceed to weaponize them against their enemies. Because in those instances, real people are being manipulated for selfish gain, and it's depressingly common to see. Fandom is often comprised of vulnerable groups without much external support to begin with, and it's skeevy as hell to sic them like a pack of dogs on people just so you can win a Twitter debate.

(Besides, for as much as antis gripe about "Reylo will groom you into thinking toxic relationships are romantic!" and shit, they certainly don't preach much on the dangers of predatory parasocial relationships.)

But, back to the topic at hand: I've heard enough antis conflate pixels on a screen with irl children to know that calls for censorship never go well. While it's perfectly valid to be uncomfortable with sexualization of child characters, you also have to kind of grow up a little and realize that no one is inherently harming children by making Tails porn. No one sexualizes your childhood just by sexualizing pixels. That's why the Back button exists.

If they are hurting real children, then the offender must be charged appropriately. Nine times out of ten, however, trying to control the art people make under the guise of "protect the children" is authoritative and does shit-all to protect real children from harm.

To wit, it's within Miyazaki's right to complain about porn of Chihiro, but Miyazaki can't actually go around telling people they can't make that kind of art upon pain of cease-and-desist.

Also, just speaking for myself, aside from stuffing my characters with trauma, I haven't modelled them after real people. I made them to be abused, to be placed in fucked-up scenarios, to be sexualized, even, if folks want to. Why do you think Arthur has an assassination kink.

That is to say, not all creators share the same mindset, and frankly, fandoms shouldn't have to live in fear of pissing off the Almighty Creator(tm) anyway.

[moonylads]

I am so sorry if I sound like a pussy but thank you! Never be afraid to speak your mind! I am so sad about this fandom when it comes to certain LIs because I remember someone saying I am mentally ill because I like Ian 😭! Like I get not liking a LI, that is their prerogative but someone saying that because they aren't a fan of him? That sucks when fans are attacked because they don't like the LI you are romancing.

Sorry for the whining and venting.

Omgggg thank you so much for this ask!!

First of all, feel free to vent as much as you want- no need to worry about saying sorry or anything. I won't judge you, this is a welcoming space for everyone as long as we communicate with kindness. My DMs are always open for you! So you don't have to be too hard on yourself. <3

Now secondly, wtf 😭 I'm so sorry to hear that you also experienced that. Ugh getting personal over fictional characters like literally over mere pixels bruh, they need to get some help- this is messed up. Judging and attacking real people over shipping fictional characters or merely because they don't share your viewpoint is such a childish thing to do honestly... C'mon guys most of you are grown-ups, act like it please! Unfortunately, this RC community has loads of these immature, stupid idiots who act as if they are the internet morality police, and so by shutting down opinions, they try to gain a sense of righteousness...

One can tactfully communicate with others to broaden their perspectives on others' viewpoints rather than attempting to silence them with their own. Try to be more open-minded about people having different interests and opinions! But if this is something they cannot do, then they should simply not engage with them- block them, block those posts, block those tags, etc. (yes babies you can actually choose to do that, and do yourself and others a favour!) Like stop ruining your and others' experiences, we are all here to have fun so why does one have to take things so personally? This community is supposed to be a fun one where yes, you can criticize a character flaw, and have debates but don't be one of those morons who's here to ruin someone's whole day over a stupid obsession with a fictional character.

Anyways, thanks again anon for this ask and for that much-needed encouragement!!!!!

[elvenbeard]

I read your post about headcanons about Kerry's sexuality, and I totally agree with what you said about headcanons not taking away from representation, but I'm curious what your view are on mods that change a character's sexuality so anyone can romance them? I know there is, or at least used to be, quite a bit of debate around that. You don't have to answer if you don't want to, I'd hate to start any discourse drama on your blog. I'm just curious because I'm not even sure where I stand on the matter, and have been back and forth on it for a long time.

It's all good nonny! I have been asking myself that lately tbh, and I know I've been back and forth on it myself, too.

In this moment in time, I am completely indifferent on the existence of mods that do stuff like that. I don't condone or like them, but I'm not gonna do anything about them either. I know years ago in the Dragon Age fandom there was huge discourse and drama around a mod that made Dorian (canonically gay, his whole character arc revolves around that fact, just in case you're not into that series) available to be romanced by a female Inquisitor. And back then I was absolutely livid. Dorian was (and still is) one of my fave characters in the DA universe. And honestly, I couldn't even tell you now if anything ever came off of that whole drama (but I doubt it, cause it rarely does) - that's how pointless Internet drama really is. In the worst case, the person who made that mod got driven out of fandom entirely and now has negative associations with the queer community as a whole.

Do I think that mods that change a queer character's canon orientation are amazing? No, not really, and most of the time, especially in Dorian's case, they make no sense at all for the characters' arcs. I personally would never wanna play them and I'd also rather not know why some people make them.

(I'm completely biased here btw, because I do not feel as negatively about mods that change a canonically straight character's orientation to something queer. Simply because I'm queer and greedy for more representation, because there cannot be enough XD Does that make me a hypocrite to some people? Maybe, but honestly, I don't really care. And as I said in my post, and as you mentioned, even the "straight mods" do not take away from any queer representation that canonically exists.)

The thing is, me and others screaming and yelling about "straight mods" (or "bi mods" for characters that are explicitly gay/lesbian) is not gonna change a thing, mods like that are always gonna exist. Content I don't agree with is always something I can come across at random, and I keep finding new things that make me go "nope!" regularly. And even if I'm not screaming and yelling, and instead try to be reasonable, talk objectively with the mod makers as for xyz reasons their mod is not good in my eyes... I'm too old for that shit XD I'd rather use my energy and limited time to make a lot of gay stuff featuring my favourite queer blorbos instead of arguing with strangers why a straight!Dorian or bi!Judy or straight/bi!whoever mod is bad. Fandom should be a hobby, not activism, and you can go about fighting homophobia in a lot better ways than arguing about who certain pixel people would like to bone or not.

I wish there were - or maybe there are and I haven't figured it out yet - ways to filter stuff I don't wanna see on Nexus for example like there are on tumblr, ao3, any other social media site with a good tagging system and means to block tags or phrases or users. Curating your own experience and finding people who share your interests is so important and has really improved my time in fandom a lot over the last years. And it's good to have friends you can rant to about stupid things that upset you in private, definitely XD

So, on that note, ship whoever you wanna ship in this context, but tag it so that people who don't wanna see it can avoid it and don't get mad. Also sorry this got long and slightly off topic, I'm a chronic rambler.

(also, if anything's unclear, feel free to reach out again! sometimes I don't express myself as well as I think I do XD)

[pinkprimrose05]

3 choices. Arc V (Fandom) for 2 and 10. Yuri (Character) for 5, 6 and 7. Yuya (character)for 2 and 15. If you take on all 7 of these questions I will tie you upside down and play whale noises until you chill. Take care!

Put that rope away, yes, thank you- aaaand here we go!

2) my three favorite characters and why I love them so much:

I should preface this by thanking you for my most recent microcrisis, AKA the abrupt realization that somehow, somewhere along the line... the Theatre Kid Agenda™ has discreetly overtaken my top 3 list.

Speaking of the list:

1- You thought this would be Yuuya, but as it turns out... it's Yuuya! lol.

I'd go ahead and wax the usual poetry about the layers and symbols and all that jazz, but you've already seen me gush about that several times over, so I'll just focus on the babyboy factor for once instead. Yuuya may not have wet kitten energy even at his angstiest, but he sure is a sunshine bean of debatable genuity, and that's just as adoptable!

Looking at him alone is enough to make me want to offer comfort ok. I'm stuffing him in a blanket burrito and shipping him off to my place for a long, long break and some overdue therapy. We can cope with life together, cry a little, cry a lot, bake sweets to recuperate, melt into happy little puddles after a good treat, and then nerd out about theatrics and play a few duels to test silly strategies! This kid is my Son and he deserves all the best things in the world, so for every bit of pain he goes through I'm giving him a truckload of comfort.

______

2- You may have noticed this in ARC-V Month, you may have picked up on it through my sporadic, scattered mentions of the guy, but if not, then here's a fun fact: I have more than one ARC-V blorbo.

Introducing the central piece of a great many of my conflicted thoughts, confused feelings, paradoxical opinions, abrupt perception shifts, and eventual (semi-)begrudging affection that had me questioning my taste in pixels for like a whole year:

...Zarc.

I've known this fucker for 5 years, hated him for a solid 3, and then woke up one winter day in 2023 and realized that oh shit, he managed to land himself a spot in blorbo tier. Is this what people mean when they say a character grew on them? Were my feelings playing the most long-winded joke on my mind for 4 years? Trust me, I don't know. What I do know is that maining his deck was definitely an endearing factor, and so was the 3rd ARC-V watch (this is where I started uncovering most of the easter eggs I know about the show, so perhaps the build-up made me a touch biased over time, but I genuinely found the 136-139 marathon more entertaining than annoying for once. We speak not of 140).

TL;DR: I think the lettuce clown is neat. Past me would have a stroke if I told her I'm a Zarc apologist now tho.

______

3- Super Duper Ultra Hyper Extra Mega- ok I'll stop now.

Sawatari is actually the one surprise in this list to me because, huh, I didn't realize how much I liked him over other nearly as cool characters until I put them side by side and pondered who brings me more joy when on-screen. I thought 3rd place would be someone like Yuugo, maybe Serena, but it seems I've taken a spontaneous shine to the banana peel?

(Help how does this keep happening why am I weak to clowns lmao)

See, Shingo's character may be on the simpler side by virtue of being the... designated comic relief, but that simplicity is part of his charm! The mix of charismatic and pathetic aura is a also rare thing, you know- It's not easy to be so cool and cringe at the same time and make it feel natural. That takes skill.

And speaking of skill, Shingo has my respect for always putting up a good fight, even in the games he loses to all sorts of jobber bullshit. He's a genuinely good duelist and a great entertainer, and I love that for him!

______

10) how many fics I've read that are set in it (approximately and making exaggerated guesstimates):

Guesstimate: Around a thousand. I've been around the fandom long enough to read all sorts of fics on ff.net and Ao3 (among other sites), and it sure feels like I've seen a lot, looking back.

Actual number: Approximately 600, rounding down. On Ao3 alone. Huh, I was expecting the number to be like, 200, so this is not too far off, actually! Maybe the reason the fic count feels higher than it is because the memorable reads tend to be REALLY long multichapters. Why are these so common in the ARC-V tag, by the way? Is it the allure of crossovers? The canon divergence AUs?

(The answer is both, and a few other factors as well. Good for us, I say! Longfics are a serious test of commitment, and I'm glad to see and follow so many talented and dedicated authors!)

[bylertruther]

ewww serious (and long) post incoming, but for future reference: just because this is the internet... that doesn't mean that real-world etiquette doesn't apply.

if you go up to a random stranger and assume that they're talking about you, they're unlikely to take kindly to that. they're especially unlikely to take kindly to you then accusing them of lying, waving your hands in the air to get other strangers in on this conversation, badmouthing them, and walking away before they can even get a word in.

if you wouldn't do that or accept that behavior yourself in real life, why would it suddenly be acceptable online?

wouldn't you feel confused and offended if you were the one getting accused of something you didn't do? if you were thrust into a no-win game where it doesn't matter how or if you do or don't respond, because the outcome is still going to be the same? if you were trying to mind your business and someone else decided to warp that, create a spectacle of it, and broadcast it to thousands of people? if the person accusing you of something then went on to do that very same thing in an effort to garner support as if this is a battle of some sort?

isn't that just... rude? to go up to a stranger and assume that whatever they're doing is about you? to go up to a stranger and assume that you've preoccupied their mind and time? to pick a fight that you won't see through and slander them to thousands of people?

like. yes, this is the internet. no, i don't actually feel personally hurt or anything over what happened—because i know who i am, and you can go back through my blog and a) see the fifty posts i've made on the sword debate, and b) a post from the night before where i literally predicted what ended up happening—but i do take issue with the behavior that we do and don't allow in this e-space.

i don't have to respond to someone's presumptuousness with my usual chummy, fluffy tone that i reserve for my followers and friends. i don't have to take care not to sound "defensive" when i've literally been thrust into an argument where i'm now forced to defend myself against someone that was already being defensive, hypocritical, and that doesn't actually care to hear my answer because they've already made their judgement anyway. i don't have to take someone trying to speak over me or talk someone down sweetly when they're making an attack on my character, and neither does anyone else that's ever been put in a similar position. i'm not jesus—i'm not going to turn the other cheek.

personal issues can explain why a person behaves the way they do, but they don't excuse that behavior or make it okay. none of us should ever make our personal problems someone else's problem—that's a mark of poor emotional control, and it's just not fair to anyone else.

not all of us are adults here, i know, but most of us should know better. if you want this to be a true community, then you need to behave appropriately and maturely.

there's a person behind the pixels that are on your screen, and they're every bit as real as you are. if you wouldn't do something in person, then you shouldn't do it online either.

that's just my two cents, though.

[thoughtsbeewild]

Why did he call himself the rating machines? sounds scary

His truth social so cray cray, like damn this orange is on serious attack mode on all this socials. Slow your role, I wish i had that dedicated time to read it all, but i dont. More or likely he is repeating the same messages, just waiting for the debate to be honest..

When he posted on truth social" I am the ratings machine" that sounds scary. WTF does that mean?

My translation, created a fun meme for him aka the rating machine..like a terminator on a mission to recruit RFK, Elon Musk, and others( i dont care for)..He calling himself a ratings machine is that a positive thing? He on a rager...chill orange..

If you look from the other side of the spectrum, you see the democrats are marketing selling this delightful joy. I thought of Joy from Inside out pixel movie.

So which looks bad the ratings machine or joy? Think about it on swaying or dipping into the fantasy liberal regime or at least getting some of thier votes to the ratings machine side.

I am unclear of what the FUCK THESE Endorsement mean, is that suppose be a big deal in your politic world? Like why should we clap or give a round of a applause? i don't get it, makes no sense..

Unless you got Beyonce that is a big UNITY TWIST FOR CELEBRITY WOKE SHIT FOR THE FUCKING WHOLE WORLD TO BE BLOWN AWAY and that will take away some of liberal dummy young adolescent , kim Kardashian wanna be voters to vote orange...

CAUSE YOU KNOW ALL THE RICH ELITE CELEBRITIES, DEMONCRATS,DEEPSTATE AND BIG MAIN STEAM MEDIA THOSE ARE YOUR BIGGEST ALLIES..

I know sort of Elon Musk story, he got dissed at the white house and many other factors that lead to his decision. Make sense, like he doing a courtesy fuck you back. I get it, do your thag.

RFK, i cannot understand him at all. I dont know much, he followed the footsteps of his dad party and finally figured out at age of how old is he now(took him over 50 years for his brain to work, like what), that the demoncrat are shady,shitty, humans throwing subpoenas shut him and you up.

BTW Vegan food is gross , nasty and expensive. Have you tried plant based meatball, that shit is so nasty. Tried organic deodorant, yuck, it chaffed my armpits like crazy. Never again. organic is so expensive, double the price at whole foods, trader joes, sprouts. Like if we are inflation, why the fuck we wanna spend double more money being healthy.

Get your ass to Costco, get the family/king bulksize, your set for life ..cheaper and will last a long time to provide more room for other purchases..fuck the organic shit, that shit is gross..

I think the better idea/proposal is try to encourage people to stay in shape, but its hard cause in each human life you will have your down days, your up days.. Not everyday is always SUNSHINE AND RAINBOWS, you will go through the storm with a shit load of stress and wanting BAD COMFORT YUMMY FOOD. BAD CHOCOLATE WITH ALMONDS OR HAVE A CHEAT DAY FRIDAY DONUT FOR THE WIN! but to be forced to into an organic person because RFK has a problem with it and govt will limit unhealthy food to Americans, cmon man... AMERICA SUPPOSE BE LAND OF THE FREE, FREEDOM TO EAT WHATEVER THE FUCK WE WANT!

I would want to HAVE FREEDOM TO CHOOSE TO HAVE FOOD OPTIONS HEALTHY OR UNHEALTHY, JUST LIKE HOW YOUR PROMOTING AVAILABILITY OF ELECTRIC AND GAS CARS...DONT FORCE PEOPLE TO BE HEALTHY BUT HAVE LEADERS TO ENCOURAGE A POSITIVE MESSAGE SHOULD ONE DECIDE TO WANT BE HEALTHY...JUST SAYING..

At this time, insane high prices of everything, you gotta think cheap, like a cheap ass until change happens...

But if you challenge yourself go vegan or do not look in the mirror for a week. I BET YOUR ASS WILL LOSE! that is a hard challenge.

Your marketing is basically terminator attack mode, i don't watch the other side bullshit and fakeness. So I am not sure how hardcore they are going on this magnificent joy fictional character bullshit..

[hydralisk98]

Otherwise weird remarks from myself.

I own this character and yes I really chose to dither + quantize it myself to my liking because crusty pixels is nice.

It is cool to observe abstract syntax trees in the wild...

When I observe the world surrounding me, I try my best to see extruded sectors & tree-like data blocks out of every geometric structure I see.

Never feels old to reconsider everything I do every step of the way to optimize such like there's no tomorrow.

Yep, time to revive or at least re-experience things that died eons ago, like mainstream Syndicalism, the "Prosperity" Landlord Game's revised ruleset or actually physical Lisp Machines

Neat, things are going quite well for my writing onto my very own 12-bit CPU design specifications. Of course, not without a proper public domain waiver in due time...

Another day, another contribution to libre culture and FOSS.

Yeah, I really should tinker more often with hardware, ain't I?

Never forget that Unit Record Equipment came long before your silicon circuits.

Yeah, I really like how you can unite Panini grammar, Lambda Calculus (Alonzo Church) and Universal Turing Machines under the same 1-dimensional data structure / construct template... How nice!

It is very understandable you don't expect much from me and I don't blame you, however you just see the tip of the iceberg with most likely heavily tinted sight, and you go onto double standards as well... (for my father)

Oftentimes, I really feel like a transistor. I just select one bit of data at a time but boy am I useful to the rest of the circuit anyway. Also trans rights are human rights. Go figure.

Why on Earth did Mexico went back to Christian values in government... *checks Wikipedia pages* Oh, that's quite a sad disappointment for history. (especially over the failure of Emiliano Zapata)

Honestly, the fact (almost where-ever in the 2020s) Conservatives continuously fail to operate great as a long-term movement, religious or not, is quite a masochistic Wilsonist trend for them to persist onto... How sick are such elites, ain't them?

If it was my job to rule as a non-liberal, I would work onto systemic issues of both sides of the debate (especially encouraging smaller businesses, rural communities and indigenous peoples to be actually listened and respected fully) and cater to make something better with constructive historical roots still. It must be possible and it deserves to be done now, whatever the backlash is.

I mean, history is not everything under the sun ever either but still is a treasure trove of indications and track record to learn from.

And yes, I really try my best to stand by my ethos and it works quite well for the most part. Not 100% but let me have some space to breathe here, we are empathetic sapients here.

So yep, I am trying my best to navigate the waves of my mood-swings and all. Hopefully you like my blog enough to leave constructive feedback. No pressure, simply a suggestion for those who care.

[productsreviewings]

As extra Google Pixel Fold rumors emerge from the depths of liquor-dom, I am beginning to consider it has an opportunity to high our greatest foldable cellphone information. Each new leak or declare makes the Pixel Fold sound like a mixture of different cool foldable telephones that American customers have but to purchase.I and the remainder of Tom's Information nonetheless suppose the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 is a superb system, but it surely has its fair proportion of flaws, which is why it is a disgrace you may't purchase a competing system within the US proper now. The Pixel Fold is claimed to be coming quickly, although – one rumor claims it can arrive in June – and it ought to shake issues up with a extra engaging worth, design and digicam system than something we have seen up to now.For example what I imply, beneath are three foldables that the Google Pixel Fold appears to have taken inspiration from. Neither of those units are bought within the US, so if the Pixel Fold combines all these options, it might be a very highly effective mixture.Kind issue of Oppo Discover N2When you've ever used a Galaxy Z Fold, you may know that the outer cowl show could be very slender in comparison with a standard cellphone, making necessary duties like typing very tough. Nevertheless it seems to be just like the Pixel Fold will not fall into this lure attributable to its supposedly expansive design.This elaborate design is much like what we've already seen on the Oppo Discover N2. Though the exterior show is sort of small, the width is consistent with a typical smartphone, which means navigation and utilizing the keyboard is just not tough in any respect. Oppo Discover N2 (Picture credit score: Tom's Information)Arguably, you may keep away from all of this with a flip-style foldable just like the Galaxy Z Flip 4 or the Oppo Discover N2 Flip, the place the interior show is the one strategy to totally use the cellphone. However the Discover N2's dimension looks as if the optimum dimension for a lot of potential foldable customers, which is why I feel the Pixel Fold can have a definite benefit over the already established Galaxy Z Fold. Digicam high quality of Vivo X FoldAs the most recent Pixel Fold digicam is rumored, it can function most, if not all, the identical digicam because the Pixel 7 Professional. That would assist set the Pixel Fold aside, as one of the best digicam phone-grade hardware is one thing I've lengthy thought foldables ought to function. Since it's a must to pay a lot for the privilege of proudly owning a foldable, why not get a top-class digicam as effectively? That is one thing Chinese language cellphone maker Vivo appears to know. Though it's now nearly a yr outdated, the Vivo X Fold makes use of the very same digicam because the Vivo X80 Professional that was launched earlier.Vivo X Fold (Picture credit score: Vivo)Whereas the Galaxy Z Fold 4 has flagship-grade cameras, they do not provide Samsung's finest tech from the Galaxy S22 Extremely/Galaxy S23 Extremely and do not sound just like the Galaxy Z Fold 5 both. Having the identical digicam as its sibling flagship Pixel might due to this fact drastically improve its attraction to shoppers. Honor Magic Vs its worth Folding telephones are undoubtedly extra helpful than their non-folding counterparts, however by how way more is debatable. Samsung prices a $500 surcharge on high of what you'd pay for a high-end Galaxy S cellphone for the Galaxy Z Fold collection, however that appears a bit excessive.Google fortunately appears to be planning to cost much less for its Pixel Fold, maybe taking a cue from Honor and its Magic Vs. This foldable claims to have a number of benefits over its rivals, however what you may't dispute is its value. At €1,599, it is considerably cheaper than the Galaxy Z Fold 4's €1,799 base worth. (Picture credit score: Tom's Information)The rumor mill at present thinks Google will cost as little as $1,300 for the Pixel Fold. That

would slot in with a cheaper-than-average worth in comparison with the flagship Pixel, and can be one other good cause to select the Pixel Fold over the competitors. Pixel Fold Outlook The Might/June launch of the Pixel Fold is now and rumors have extra time to unfold. However as issues stand, this cellphone sounds just like the foldable that American foldable patrons have been wanting for a while, providing a less expensive various to the Galaxy Z Fold collection.(Picture credit score: OnLeaks/Howtoisolve)This might be difficult by different teased incoming foldables, such because the OnePlus V Fold, or the long-rumored iPhone Flip, in addition to extra rumors with the clock ticking on the proposed Pixel Fold launch window. As issues stand now although, I am optimistic concerning the Pixel Fold's potential to be a high foldable cellphone based mostly on how effectively its rumored options have labored on different units. Extra from Tom's InformationAt the moment's finest Google Pixel Buds Professional offers

[ponds-of-ink]

Quick Pre-Ruin One Shot: “A Moment of Confidence”

Had this idea in my head, so I wanted to get this out there. More of a half-joke (emphasis on half because oh boy this went from a joke to something else quick) than an actual head-canon for what could actually be in store for Ruin, but here we go. This might be a low key sequel to the whole Setback Saga I did ages ago..? Huh.

Also, speculative stuff and potential Tales from the Pizzaplex spoilers ahead. That second warning’ll make some sense in a moment, hopefully.

Padded footsteps thumped down the dingy hallway. Not with its typically skipping gait, but with a furious and steady rhythm. The bunny-like figure approached a large, open area where a bundle of wires and robotic parts towered above everything. Fortunately, the strange thing remained dormant as the rabbit stormed closer. “Where are you, you absolute slacker!?” it roared out in some eerily flat, feminine tone. “We’re almost ready for our final tests!”

Violet static pulsed from various cables. It sparked and glowed as it drew close to the mishmash. Suddenly, in a flash of similarly-colored light, a ghostly man in a casual outfit appeared in front of the creature. “My apologies,” he said softly, bowing low. “I was running some of my own experiments while you were preparing. Mobility in different forms and such.”

The bunny’s head tilted. “Does that explain why you look... different?” she asked, her tone slowly adding in a hint of disgust. “I never thought you would stoop so low as to turn into this... heavier shape, Mr. Afton.”

The man looked down at his portly figure. “Is it really ‘stooping low’ when the only thing I am defying is aesthetics?” he questioned back, placing a hand on his hip. “Honestly, ‘Mimic’, I am not sure why you are making such a fuss since I can revert back to my ‘normal’ state at any time.”

Mimic grumbled underneath the rabbit mask. “I’m not sure why you aren’t making a fuss,” she quipped back darkly. “Don’t you realize what the internet’ll do to you if you get caught looking like this?”

The man’s expression shifted into terror. “You are onto something there!” he gasped out, staggering towards Mimic as if he couldn’t just float over to her. “Whatever will they do if such a mad idea gets found out!? The Purple Man himself, once a pear-shaped giant of a human? The idea would be too much to bear for some of those poor souls! Oh, the discussions and debates that would spawn! Oh, the absolute humiliation!” Then, as if to lead this spiral of sadness to its natural conclusion, he leaned on Mimic’s shoulder and sobbed... much to her chagrin. “Well, William, at least you’re coming to your senses,” she grimaced. “So, can you please change back before someone new finds us?”

William’s crying softened. His half-pixelated face dropped its sad expression. “I will, but in a moment,” he answered softly, lifting himself off his listener. “What concerns me more is that fact that you failed to detect my complete and utter sarcasm. Whatever happened to your sense of humour, Glitch— Mimic? You used to be so maliciously joyous, prancing around like Spring Bonnie and the like! Now you just boss everyone around and guard me and my new fusion as if we’re some porcelain artifacts— Which is ironic, as I am sure you must be thinking about me being a one-and-done springboard for something else!”

‘Mimic’ sighed. “My humor died as soon as you failed your mission,” ‘she’ explained coldly. “Hopefully, your next attempt can revive it. Maybe even.. hurt a few more people on the way out, who knows? Two birds with one stone, as the saying goes.”

William rolled his eyes. “Unless my actions in that pile of metal and cords cause such a thing, do not count on me fulfilling that second wish,” he replied somberly as he floated back to the huge mishmash. “Especially since I am now reconsidering changing back into my ‘normal’ state.”

The remaining indoor lights flickered much more than usual. “Take that last part back,” ‘Mimic’ said with a growl, stepping forward. “Or else.”

“As if a threat like that should scare me nowadays,” William huffed, crossing his arms. “Please! I have dealt with so many furious demands that the only emotion I feel from yours is annoyance. Do yourself a favor and save those for when it counts. Trust me, it will do wonders.”

Mimic stepped even closer. “Take that back, or I will make you regret every last word you just said,” ‘she’ insisted, ‘her’ voice dropping in pitch as the darkness grew more frequent.

“What fear can you revive that I have not encountered already?” William inquired, shaking his head. “The fear of too many calories? Or is it the fear of returning to a body type I once despised? Whichever it is, I can assure you that I already have those covered.”

The room plunged into complete darkness. A more greenish rabbit emerged from the feminine figure. With a snap of its fingers, the rabbit made sure the once-dormant wires bound the man like chains weighing down a prisoner. The new bunny strolled over, clicking its unseen tongue as it drew nearer. “I think you still haven’t covered the most important one,” it smiled, its voice now more masculine and sinister. “The fear of not being able to escape.”

[microwavedice]

Hello! Thanks for responding! Before my little comparison attempt here’s a quick disclaimer that I am not saying Curly is innocent, nor excusing him of his inaction. The entire Mouthwashing fandom has been frequently debating Curly and how he is not free of blame (heck it’s almost every text post here) but I was confused to see Swansea put in the same boat as Daisuke and Anya, when I saw him in game to be in a similarly morally grey area as Curly. Though just so everyone knows I love all four of the Mouthwashing characters! (Jimmy can burn in hell-) I mostly want to see more Swansea debate because I love the nuance in his character - how he stays at arms length and seems untrustworthy throughout the game but is actually ready to sacrifice himself for Daisuke, a mirror image of how Anya mentions he secretly loves cake at the surprise party when his distant and gruff attitude make it seem like he doesn’t! I want to explore all of the characters deeper complexities with the same thoroughness the community has shown to be capable of and I’d love to spark more debate about the less considered aspects so imma see if I can mirror what you’ve pointed out about Swansea with what I can gather of Curly’s side of things to compare!

When Curly learns of Anya’s situation they are still over one hundred days of space travel into the middle of nowhere, so from the moment Jimmy did it there were no space police around for Anya to call on and nowhere for them to land (probably terrifying). All of the rooms lock from the inside, so there’s nowhere Curly could have imprisoned Jimmy, though he could have probably used that nylon rope to restrain him somehow (only seems extreme if you don’t know what Jim did) though, in the same way, after learning about it Swansea could have done any of these things. He can clearly physically overpower Jimmy and take the code scanner which is as simple to use as a torch, rendering him and his self-proclaimed captain role obsolete and decidedly doing more harm than good. As for the next point, of course I’d argue that Anya is not safe at any point but to specifically address the sleeping, Jimmy never sees Anya asleep in her bed (as far as I can find) and her bed is always perfectly made, either showing her to be a meticulous person or (what I find more likely since every detail exists for a reason in this game) she sleeps elsewhere (likely in the medical bay since she asked about it specifically having locks in the Dead Pixel scene) away from Jimmy, since I doubt Anya would feel comfortable enough to sleep a foot away from him willingly (she could have moved her bed anywhere in the lobby, hell Swansea’s on the other side of the room! So why are all the rest bunched up like that??). Onto the next point, Jimmy unofficially appoints himself captain - the code scanner is not thumb print operated and the gun would be hard to conceal, also Swansea could snap him like a twig (top ten AUs) Jimmy wouldn’t stand a chance without the gun, so I don’t think Swansea was in any was threatened by Jimmy nor respected Jimmy enough to think his input was worth the harm. Diasuke’s death is bloody tragic, he lost his life for bright eyed naivety and even pushed through the broken vent to open the door, though neither him nor Anya survived (god this game is so sad but also so meaningful), in the moment Swansea seems to have been shocked to his core, complete shutdown. He says “it’s over. End of the fuckin’ line” and tells Jimmy to knock himself out with the cryopod, as if Daisuke’s death chipped away the last of his will to live on. Then, as Jimmy leaves to “fix everything” and “save everyone” with the ultimate friendship saving power of A Gun, a switch flips to the manic setting in the narrative and suddenly Swansea is furiously charging at Jimbo with the axe, a switch I attribute to him having taken that minute to process what Daisuke said about the cocktail, figuring out that Jimmy had yet again managed to manipulate someone into sacrificing themself for him to fulfil his hero complex, effectively having murdered our precious intern.

The start of this next paragraph implies that you thought Swansea factored Anya into his reason to get violent? Throughout the game, Swansea never takes much notice of Anya, calling her a “so-called nurse” and only bringing up the fact that she told him about it because Jimmy accused him of scheming, talking to her being involved in his paranoid list of potentially suspicious things Swansea’s done. Additionally, there’s a large difference in how Swansea and Curly held their inaction on Anya’s sexual assault: Swansea, in the same conversation that she told him, declined helping her, being a self aware and brutally honest foil to Jimmy’s emotional manipulation and inability to take responsibility for his choices and actions. The conversation ends with Anya saying “if that’s how it has to be” while crying, (probably due to offloading such a horrific topic, not necessarily because of Swansea’s response but it would certainly perpetuate her despair) indicating that Swansea has decided not to take action - at least not under their current circumstances. While he may have thought about it, Swansea was clearly not motivated to action by Jimmy’s sexual assault on Anya, as she told him 2 whole months before he decides to axe the bastard. Curly’s approach was almost the opposite situation, Swansea’s being that he already had reasons to dislike Jim, had plenty of time but wasn’t motivated to take action against him just by hearing about the SA, instead Curly had a trust of some kind with Jimmy (though Jimmy has shown to be very capable and prone to emotional manipulation as he did with Daisuke and Anya) but only had two days to come up with a plan, one being spent panicking about Anya potentially hurting herself with a gun and the second spent being blown to smithereens. There is no evidence, as well, within these two days that Anya was still sleeping in her quarters. There’s every chance that after telling Curly this and asking about the medical bay locks she decided to sleep in their until the crash (perhaps even after), since every lock is manual and locks from the inside she wouldn’t need to tell anyone in order to sleep in there. I don’t know what you mean Curly “helped Jimmy” after Anya told him? The only events after the Dead Pixel scene and before the crash are Curly searching for the gun, having Jimmy trying to push the sexual assault blame onto Curly in true Jimbo fashion, Jimmy then telling him “I’ll take care of it” and then Curly finding out that “it” was not in fact the child support. Anyhoo this is getting to be a really long post so I’ll wait to add anymore just in case anyone has any questions, cheers for reading! Sorry if I misspelt anything!

Hot take: Curly is more innocent than Swansea.

Mouthwashing fandom, who have shown to consistently disagree with this, what have I missed that makes you all unanimously excuse Swansea but debate Curly?

In short: Prove me wrong

[thequeenopower]

Side Missions ; Dream

3 wagu steaks? Who the hell doordashes 3 wagu steaks?

Well its $20 in my pocket so, why the hell not?

I arrive at the restaurant and wait about 15 minutes since I got there a little early. Once I got the food I headed to the house, which was very far away and in the middle of nowhere. The driveway to the house was long and dropped you off in front of a beautiful 1-story house. Knocking on the door with the bag in my hand, a man with dirty blond hair opened up the door.

"Great! You're here, could you settle a debate between me and my friends?" He asked with a smile, taking the bag from me and opening the door a little wider.

"We're not going to kill you, we promise. It's just that we need a fourth person's opinion on the playback of this race." A brunette said from behind him.

Oh what the hell? It's not like if I did die I'd be leaving anything behind.

I mean I'm a struggling college student whose family lives thousands of miles away. I only have one friend at school and we almost never see each other. I barely make ends meet so if I die by the hands of a couple attractive people, so be it.

"Sure, why not." I walk in and am greeted by a cat and another brunette man.

"I'm Clay by the way, he's Nick and that one's George." George waves from the couch as Nick plops onto it, motioning for me to come over and watch the play-by-play.

"Do you guys want anything with your steaks?" Clay asks from the kitchen which gets George up and moving towards him.

"Okay so, I was placed first place automatically by the game, but Clay swears he was in front of me." Nick starts the video and it tracks the Mario character.

It switches between Mario, which was Nick's character, Princess Peach, which was George's, and Toad, which was Clay's. The cat jumped on top of me just as Mario hit Toad with a shell. Clay must've gotten mad and tried to steer Nick off course because just like that, Clay and Nick were tied again.

"Watch! Watch closely!" Nick practically screamed in my ear, shaking his finger at the screen.

By this time, George and Clay sat down on the couch, Clay sitting next to me and George sitting on the other side of Nick. It was at this moment that everything felt surreal as Clay and Nick argued when Mario and Toad passed the finished line at the same time, though I will say Mario was a pixel ahead of Toad.

"So, who do you think won?" Nick cut me from my thoughts.

"Uh, you?" Nick fist-pumped the air as Clay huffed from beside me, taking the cat from me as it seemed I lost my privilege to touch her.

"Would you like some cake, sorry we never got your name."

"It's y/n. And sure, I'll take a slice." He nods and I follow him to the kitchen where he cuts me a slice and then prepares his steak.

"I'll just get going." I draw out as I slowly make my way towards the front door.

"Are you sure? You can stay and eat your cake, maybe play a round or two on the switch." I debated in my head whether or not I should stay.

~~~~~

The night grew darker as we started another round.

"NO, STOP Y/N!!" George screeches as I hit him with two green shells, one after the other.

Clay cheered me on as I finished the game in first place. Nick huffed and threw his remote down onto the table along with George.

"I better get going you guys, thanks for letting me play." They begged me to stay a little longer but gave up as I put my jacket and shoes on.

Clay walked me out and stayed behind me the entire time, not stopping until we got to my car.

"This was fun, maybe we could do it again sometime?" His tone was hopeful.

"I'd like that." He smiled and handed me his phone to put my number in.

"I'll call you soon." He leaned into my car through the open window as I put it into reverse.

"I'll be waiting."

God this is shitty huh? i just wanted to make something. but eh who cares. this was rushed so I'm sorry for the shitty writing, I'm just now getting back into it. hope you have a good day or night where ever you are <3

[gucciwins]

The First Kiss

Harry and Y/N go on their first date...will they finally become something more?

Word count: 4814

A/N: I know how much you all love breakout room and the follow up it's your birthday. I love writing them and it's been a while but do know they are doing well. this is nothing but sweet fluff. I do mention the vaccine and wearing masks which I hope you all are doing. it's important to stay safe and truly wish nothing but the best for you all. I love you xxx

please reblog and let me know your thoughts

_____

“Are you feeling good? I sent over a goodie basket.”

Harry giggled, loving how concerned you were. “I’m doing good, baby.” He sees you tuck your head into your sweater smiling, when he notices it’s the one he sent you in a goodie basket after you got your second shot of the vaccine.

It’s spring break, and Harry can finally say he is officially vaccinated after letting the mandated two weeks pass. It’s perfect timing, honestly, as he has been itching to finally see you in person again.

Your university let you know that they would begin to have vaccine dates open to students through an email that you quickly forwarded to Harry. You had to register to get a date for your first vaccine, and slots were filling up fast. You shot Harry multiple texts telling him what day you got and time, but you went without an answer for an hour which is weird, seeing as Harry never liked to leave you waiting more than five minutes.

By the time he got back to you, he had to wait two weeks, unlike you, who would be getting in only three days. You asked why he didn’t answer, and he said he was in class. You frowned because even then, he always answered. He then confessed he lost his phone in his apartment and didn’t have time to search for it.

You laughed about it, but he was disappointed because he wanted to see you. To give you a hug. To hold your hand.

After spending his birthday together, you both decided against meeting in person for safety even though you both wanted to, more than anything. You postponed your date to the future. Instead, you completed the group assignment through zoom meetings that led to facetime calls. After submitting the project and learning that you aced the assignment, well, you both caved in.

Harry gushed on how he always got B’s on the professor’s assignments, and to celebrate, he sent you a dozen cupcakes from the bakery that you never stop raving about located only three blocks from where you live. Then proceeded to call him over to celebrate and who was he to say no. Harry was shocked at how rich and full of flavor they were because he wasn’t aware it was vegan. Yet, it tasted better than anything he ever had. Harry realized why it was your favorite, promising to take you there in person to have your pick of favorites and not only red velvet and carrot cake because they were safe choices.

You couldn’t say you’ve been on a proper date with Harry, but you’d like to count all the zoom calls and facetime calls as dates not that you let Harry know it would only inflate his ego. You’d start a call to ask a question on assignments, and it would lead to sharing stories back and forth of what their favorite book was to where they would visit if they could go that very second. You loved how insightful he was, also liked how he used pastel highlighters to mark his annotations. Harry was a fan of how you always had a pencil in your hair or behind your ear. How you always had a snack on hand because you didn’t want to listen to professors without something to eat or you’d lose focus.

You were glad you’d be able to get together safely but also taking all the needed precautions. Safety is hot, as Harry liked to say all the time when you sent him photos of you wearing your masks.

“Yeah, like the basket?”

Harry grins, but it’s not as bright due to the lacking pixels of your laptop. He holds it up, having placed it in his lap. “I did love the bath bombs.”

You smile back at him, “Going to change your life. Self-care is important, bub. Even in the smallest ways as a bath.”

Harry nods, “I know, baby. The reason I remember to take deep breaths each morning, no longer eager to reach for my phone.”

“Proud of you.”

“And I of you, baby.”

Harry shines his dimples at you when you turn your head away at the sweet name he started calling you a few weeks ago. You adored it, honestly, but it always left you feeling flustered.

“H, please.”

“Baby, I like seeing you flustered.”

“You’re a menace.”

He shrugs, still giggling.

“How are Mitch and Sarah?”

“Wonderful, sickly in love as always. Spend their time at Sarah’s like composing together.”

“That’s sweet.” You lean in, smiling at him, “you know we should all hang out together. I get to meet Mitch properly and see Sarah again, and you’ll get to meet Amy.” You grow excited at the thought.

“Not before I get to see you.”

“H, we got to coordinate a day that works for all of us. No need to get jealous.”

“Not jealous.”

“Sure,” you reply sarcastically.

“Got to learn to share me with Amy. I cook her lunch and dinner; otherwise, she’d be nothing but a walking cadaver.”

“I want you to make me lunch and dinner,” he pouts.

“I can now that you’ve vaxxed.”

“That I am, so you are.”

“Yes,” you’re waiting for him to go on.

“Will you go on a date with me? Think we waited long enough, and if my feelings weren’t obvious enough, I like you and really want to take you out.” he rambles on.

You interrupt him knowing fully well he could go on for days, “I’d love to, Harry.”

“Yeah, baby?”

“Yes, Harry.”

“Great. Friday then.”

“I’m free.”

“I know, know your schedule by heart.”

“Creep,” you gasp at the news.

“Shush, like you don’t have my classes added to your planner.” Your turn to pout.

“I like knowing your schedule, and they overlap.”

“I do too. Look forward to your messages every day between classes.”

“So Friday? What are you planning?”

“A picnic.”

You jump up in excitement, causing your laptop to fall back on your bed before you dive to save it. Harry yelling dramatically in the background as if you just dropped him.

“H, be quiet. You’re fine.”

“Dropped me, darling.”

“Dork.”

He mutters something in return, but you can’t hear him.

“So I’ll prepare lunch because you’ve told me once or twice that you’re hopeless in the kitchen.” Harry doesn’t even try to fight you because it’s true. “You’ll take care of drinks and desserts.”

“Seems like you’re planning the date,” he teases.

“I like picnics.”

“Well, I like you, so I’ll let you take over.”

Your smile turns soft, reaching your hand out as if you could reach in and caress him. “I like you, too. I can’t wait to give you a hug.”

“Counting down the hours.”

“Alright, you have class in ten, and you always struggle to log in.”

“Making me hang up. Not fair.” Harry frowns, debating skipping class for you.

“Don’t think about it, Styles.”

“Fine. Take care, baby.”

“Bye, H.”

A date.

You have a date with Harry.

Finally, it happened.

_____

You were nervous.

Why were you nervous? It was just Harry.

Harry, who wanted to date you from your first meeting, who emailed you asking you out, and who has not stopped talking to you since February. Constantly reminding you of his feelings for you. You hope he knew you felt the same, in texts and sending him little gifts even as small as writing him a letter.

You got up early today to prepare lunch. You decided on sandwiches, a non-messy meal, and Harry always said he wanted to try the bakery bread you use and not the basic store-bought. It was a bit pricey but not as much anymore because you had become a regular, meaning the sweet owner began giving you a discount, especially when finding out you're a student. Still, you always remember to leave a good tip. The turkey sandwiches were finished with cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes. Looked so good that Amy had one as you were making them. You made three and packed them up in your glass reusable containers.

Staring at the sandwiches, it felt like too little food when Harry had told you many times how much he enjoys eating, so you cleaned up and got to make a second meal. You decided on vegetable rice paper rolls. A favorite and easy meal to make that you enjoyed eating. It was packed with lettuce, avocado, cabbage, bell peppers, cucumbers, noodles, and fresh herbs. This was a meal your dad made you all the time as a child with the special slightly spicy peanut sauce that you could drizzle on top.

Harry was going to enjoy this, so you hoped. He promised to make strawberry lemonade. Assured you that it would not be store-bought, and you believed him. During one of your late conversations, he shared how his sister would make him some when she returned from uni. Reminds him of home, he would say.

After packing everything away in the fridge to keep it cool it was time to get ready. You stood in front of your closet for a good five minutes before you began to swipe through the hangers. You knew you wanted to wear a dress; it was warm weather and would only get hotter as the day went on.

You searched your entire closet, there were three options once you had decided on, but you called Amy in to make the final decison for you. She decided on the one sitting in the middle of your bed, which was exactly what you were thinking.

The dress was a white button-front high slit that fit you nicely. You hadn't used it in quite some time, seeing as when you left your apartment, it would be in leggings, sweats, and the first sweater you could slip on.

You couldn't stop looking in the mirror, loving how it flowed around you when you twirled. For accessories, you slipped on a gold ring that had a little heart on it and another that was a gift shaped like a small snake as it was going to scale down your finger. A simple heart locket gifted to you by your grandparents hung right above your cleavage. You decided to leave your hair natural, liking how it air-dried after the shower you had that morning.

There was no makeup on your face, just your favorite rosebud salve lip balm that left your lips soft. Amy insisted you put some on, but you stood firm in your decision, knowing you'd be wearing a mask and didn't want anything smudging.

You looked down at the time on your phone and knew it was time to head down, Harry said twelve, and you didn't want to make him come up to your apartment only to walk down the three levels again. You grabbed the picnic basket that was sitting in the back of yours and Amy's shared doorway closet and made sure to place everything neatly, leaving room for Harry's drink and stashing a bunch of napkins in for any accidents. Basket prepared, you slipped your sunglasses in your hair, placing your lavender tote bag with tiny embroidered daisies on your shoulder that contained sunscreen, your wallet, extra face masks, and a book Harry had told he had wanted to read.

Before opening your door, you put on the white mask that you embroidered sunflowers on. It was one of your favorites, and glad it complimented your look well. You walked down the stairs slowly, not wanting to drop the basket.

You walk out the front door and find Harry getting out of the yellow mask on his face. As you get closer, you can see it's the one you made him. It has bees on it, and embroidered on the left side is 'my honey.' Harry had turned quite pink when he opened the gift he got in the mail over facetime with her. You happily screenshot his reaction, happy to have it to look back on.

As soon as you reach him, it's as if all the nerves you had disappeared. Calm washes over you as he comes to stand in front of you. You can't see the smile he has, but the crinkles by his eyes prove he's just as happy to see you.

"Hi, Harry," you say, your eyes taking him all in.

Harry doesn't hide, he's checking you out, and you're thankful for the mask at the moment, able to hide how bashful you're feeling. "Hello, baby. You look gorgeous. I'm a lucky man."

"Yeah," you swayed side to side, "gave me a reason to dress up."

"Always beautiful, but I'm so glad to see more than just your shoulders." He laughs, and you join him.

"Look pretty, H. I had not seen this cardigan." You reach out, running a finger down over the pastel yellow cardigan that looks to be well-loved. He paired it with a plain white shirt that fits him loosely with Gucci denim trousers that he told you he found a few years ago when he was thrift shopping in London with his mother.

"No, brought it out just for you. Wanted it to match my favorite mask." Although he couldn't see it, you hoped your eyes were doing their job expressing your joy. "Let's put this basket in the trunk. Got a blanket and a few pillows as well as the lemonade."

"And the dessert?"

He chuckles, "and the dessert."

You place everything in the trunk, taking a step back for Harry to close it. He walks you over to your door, opening it for you, you offer a soft thank you, but before you get in, you turn to look at him.

"What is it, baby?"

You stare down at your ribbon-tied wedges before looking up into his piercing green eyes. "Can I have a hug? I just--I'm really happy to see you."

Harry falters for a second before answering, "of course, come here." He's quick to bring you in for a hug, and it feels like home. It's comfortable, and you can't believe you haven't hugged him since February, a good two months ago, when it has honestly felt like a lifetime. "I would have earlier, but when you came out, you truly shocked me with how amazing you looked."

You just hug him tighter, enjoying feeling his strong arms around you. He looks at you smiling. "That was nice." You nod because it was, and if he'd let you, you'd stay in his arms all day.

"Well, shall we go?"

"We shall."

And with that, you were off to your first date with Harry, which would hopefully lead to more.

_____

The drive to the park was short; you unloaded everything from the car once you got there. Harry offers to carry the basket, letting you lead to picking the spot. You walked ahead, glad he brought you to a park you recognized; it's one you liked to walk around during finals week when you were drowning in essays and exams. This was a nice break. On the other side of the park is a lake where you can rent pedal boats, but you were sure they hadn't opened up for business just yet, wanting more of the population to be vaccinated.

You led him to a secluded area laughing when he joked if you were leading him to his murder. Once you reached the clearing, one large tree with lots of shade and a few rose bushes surrounded it.

"It's beautiful here." Harry awed in amazement.

"Yeah, I found it my first year when I was trying to destress; I don't think many people know about it because it's not on the maps."

"Lucky us."

Harry grabs one end of the blanket, helping you spread it on the grass. You set your tote bag on one corner as well as setting down the pillows. As you make your way to sit down, Harry gently grabs your elbow, causing you to turn and look at him; he's holding a bouquet of tulips.

You felt your eyes well up with tears, not used to such a kind gesture; it's been a long time since you've been on a date with someone you really care about, "You got me tulips, H."

You reach forward and cradle them in your arms. "Course I did; I think you deserve all the beautiful things life has to offer."

You set the flowers on top of the basket before straightening up and pulling Harry into a hug. Your arms around his neck, his resting tightly around your waist, "including you," you whisper in his ear, causing him to squeeze you a bit tighter. Harry pulls back, leaving a gentle kiss on your forehead.

"Let's eat, baby. Know you made something delicious for us to enjoy."

Harry set the food out, and you are sure to hand him the wet wipes to clean your hand before you could begin wanting to be clean and not wanting to venture out to find a restroom. He eyed the sandwiches first, then the veggie rice paper rolls.

"Couldn't decide?"

"Wasn't sure what you'd like. So I gave you two options."

"Too sweet angel." Harry leans in to kiss her cheek.

"Think we ought to take off the mask now." You giggle, sad you didn't get to feel his lips on your cheek.

"Yeah, so comfortable it doesn't really bother me wearing them. I am hungry."

You place your mask in your bag, and Harry puts his mask in his pocket. He opens up both containers and digs into the veggie rolls first. He hums after the first bite, chewing happily. "Delicious," he mutters between chews.

"Can add this peanut sauce to give it more flavor, just a tad bit spicy." He watches you as you pick up and spoon drizzle a bit on top, taking a bite. Harry follows your steps taking another bite, and his eyes go wide at the added flavor.

"Shocked, I've lived all my life without this food."

You laugh, "well, now you don't have to."

He chews happily at your response.

_____

Lunch is filled with little conversation, both praising each other for a well-planned meal. The strawberry lemonade complimenting the food perfectly. He brought a raspberry lemon loaf cake for dessert, and you happily admit you ate two pieces. It tasted so heavily, making Harry promise you to buy more in the future for you. He agreed, stating he'd do anything to make you happy.

"It's nice going out with someone, enjoying the sweet fresh air." Harry comments.

You hum in agreement, "I adore my alone time, but with the right company, it can feel just as perfect."

Harry's cheek turns rosy pink quickly, not at all trying to hide from you. You love that he loves to show how much you affect him.

"It feels normal like we've done this hundred of times already.”

You chuckle, nudging his shoulder. "It's cause we have. Just never called any of them dates."

"So you agree, we've been dating since February," he teases.

"Yeah, I think we can say that."

"When was our first zoom call?"

"Hmm...after class a week after your birthday. Think we worked for an hour and talked about nothing for another."

You look over at Harry loving how the sun reflects off his skin; it makes him look like a gift from the Gods. Harry feels your gaze on him, flashing you a big grin, his dimples on display just for you, because of you.

"We will call February eighth our anniversary," he declares.

You laugh, not a silent one but a full-out belly gripping laugh; you can feel the tears welling up in your eyes. Harry sits there confused, not sure where the joke was.

"You alright, baby?" He asks, just a bit concerned.

"That is what you were thinking so hard about; you couldn't figure out a week from your birthday quickly. Took you a good few minutes." You shake your head, trying to catch your breath, tiny giggles still escaping you.

"Oi, no need to be rude."

"Sorry, honey."

"Never claimed to be smart."

"The pretty ones never are," you tease.

"Alright, that's it. I've had enough."

Before you can stop him, he's on top of you, his fingers tickling you from your sides to your thighs. He knows your body getting all your secret spots that make you squirm away from. You almost succeeded in getting one of his hands over your head, but he surprises you by straddling you. You've stopped laughing, but Harry keeps going.

His curls are falling over his head, his eyes shining bright, a new lightness to them. At that moment, you realize how lucky you are, and before you know it, you reach your free hand up and place it on the back of his neck, bringing him down to your lips catching him by surprise.

Harry stays frozen for a second before sinking into the kiss, responding softly, wanting to explore you as he'd been thinking about this moment for months. You love the feel of his lips against yours; you'd happily give up breathing, never wanting to part. Harry tries to pull away, but you chase his mouth, not ready to stop kissing. He smiles against your lips, humming when he places a hand on your cheek, adding more pressure; you're not sure who lets out a moan letting it out into the universe wishing for more, hoping for forever.

You don't get butterflies or fireworks. Instead, you feel the ease of calmness wash over you like when you arrive home after a long day. That's what kissing Harry is like coming home.

You pull back, laying your head on the pillow Harry was wise to bring; you don't try to contain your smile as Harry stares down at you in a look of awe. You run your thumb over his bottom lip-loving how swollen they look thanks to you. His eyes never leave yours; you gasp as he places a kiss on your thumb before taking it in his mouth, sucking it gently; a moan escapes you, surprised at how hot the teasing is getting you.

"You're filthy, honey."

Harry smirks, "just for you, baby."

"Only our first date, H. We aren't going to move fast."

"A makeout isn't too fast for you," he teases.

"Felt just right." You smile, loving the feeling of his weight on top of you as he has not moved from his position, still straddling you.

"I agree."

"Sorry, I didn't ask if I could kiss you. Consent is sexy."

Harry's smile is soft, his eyes flicker to your lips, then back to your eyes, "You hereby have permission to kiss me whenever you please, my love."

"You know all the right things to say to make me puny for you."

"Good to know. Got to keep a mental list."

"What's on there so far?"

Harry smirks, leaning down his mouth right over your mouth; you remember the taste of lemon you felt when you kissed him, and well, you don't try to stop yourself when you attach your lips against his. There's no sweeter feeling, you've decided.

He pulls back, keeping the kiss short, "Know you can't be close to me without giving me a kiss. Know your heart is racing like it might beat out of your chest, and I know you're dying to ask me to be your boyfriend."

"Guess you are smart," you whisper.

He chuckles, nudging his nose against yours, humming as he places a kiss on the top of your nose.

"You know, I was right."

"Yeah, about what, H?" You reach your hand up to run your hand through his curls, brushing them back, giggling as they fall forward again.

"That your laugh sounds better in person. Know it's cheesy but truly music to my ears."

"You nutter!"

"Oi, picking up my slang, are you?"

"Got to, especially when you called that Evan kid a wanker for dismissing my response." You snicker, remembering the moment a few classes ago when you spoke up to give your opinion only for Evan trying to mansplain how women in politics were growing already especially having a female-run as a candidate a few years back. You would have cussed him out, but Harry did it for you. He packed up all your points with his own references. Safe to say, Evan has not spoken up since then.

"Cause he is one. You're the smartest person in the class, and that tosser should not even be in this class. Clearly, hasn't learned one bit since January."

"Settle down, honey. All in the past." You pat his chest a few times, getting his focus back on you. "Got that book you've wanted to read, want to give it a read now?"

"Course, baby. Happy you had it in your collection." He's gotten back into reading now that he seemed to have more time on his hands, and they had been bouncing recommendations off of each other. You had told him to stay off Book Tok because it was the same ten books being promoted by every page. His sister told him to read The Silent Patient, but he couldn't rationalize spending fifteen dollars, and he couldn't find the free pdf. He asked you and told him Amy bought it for you as a gift for feeding her.

"Let me get it out of my bag; you can lay in my lap easier to listen to."

Harry's eyes go wide; you're going to read him. He did not expect that, but he had to make sure. "Going to read to me, darling?"

"If you don't mind." you tuck your hand into your tote bag again, "brought my kindle in case you didn't want to. Won't be sad if you don't want to."

"No, I want you to. Yeah, more than anything. Got the prettiest voice." Harry pecks your lips, pulling back giddy because that's the first time he's kissed you, and well, he has to do it again. Your lips move in sync, the kisses feeling smoother but just as passionate. You break the kiss, playfully push him away, hands-off, letting you adjust yourself before he sets one of the smaller pillows in your lap and lays his head. Your hand is quick to find a place in his hair, thankful you've mastered the one hand reading and page-flipping due to always having a book in your hand growing up.

_____

After reading for a bit, Harry lifts his head from your lap, taking the time to admire you. You kept reading, letting him take you in from this new angle. You stopped brushing his hair instead, allowing yourself to get immersed in the book once again. You giggled, thinking back at Harry's reaction to the opening line of chapter one.

You had just flipped to a new page, ready to start chapter seven, when you saw how fidgety Harry had gotten. He clearly had something on his mind, so you wanted to give him his space; you had only read five words when he spoke, interrupting you.

"Will you be my girlfriend?" Harry blurts, shifting to sit in front of you.

You don't smile, but you know he can see the gleam in your eyes at his words, "Hmmm...will you give me a cute nickname?"

Harry doesn't know what you're doing but goes along with it. "Already do, so yes."

"Will you let me make you more masks?"

"Yes."

"Will you knit me a sweater?"

"I'll knit you hundreds."

You nod, "then yes, I'll be your girlfriend."

"Yeah, you want me to be your boyfriend," Harry teases.

"Dork," you shove his shoulder, causing him to fall back. He gasps in shock.

You laugh, and it's music to his ears; his dramatic response is swallowed as he takes you in. Harry isn't sure where he'd be without you. He takes in the happiness displayed on your face and knows if you could look in a mirror, he'd look just as happy if not more. You are a light in his life.

These last few months have changed everything about him. Harry hadn't really understood what it meant when people said that your partner should also be your best friend. He thought it was cheesy and something to give false hope to others, but with you, he knew it was true.

Starting off as friends built a strong foundation for you both to grow together, and he is forever thankful you took a chance on him.

Harry called it fate, but you well, you think it was all thanks to the zoom gods who set you up in a random break out room not once but twice.

_____

thank you for reading :) I adore you xx

[salt-volk]

I've been trying to figure out if I should comment here again - I've been debating whether or not it will make things worse, or if it's worth commenting instead of just reading all of these assumptions and false information and just letting people assume. I've had a contentious relationship with this blog and others in the past, and I really just want to enjoy what's left to DV in peace. I decided to write this post and maybe participate more actively in any conversation surrounding me in the hopes that I might be able to diffuse any tension and stop people from spreading false info. I have had a couple MB (moon bunny) trades from bunnies 1-10ish where folks had traded their halves in advance. These people actually offered it without me prompting, and I also made them aware that there's a waitlist. If there was any issue, I truly would have hoped that any of these users might have reached out to me before coming to this blog. I believe in updating the people who are invested in my trades, and I have 5ish update notes I sent out to everyone who had a trade with me over the course of waiting for the moon bunnies to arrive. Nobody has messaged me to complain about my trades or the ID numbers they've received. If anyone is unhappy with their side of the trade, please please reach out to me so that I may fix it. To the person slandering me on here without having actually spoken to me at all; it's really hurtful, and I really wish you would stop. I traded for a croc a couple weeks ago - this was a legitimate trade. The croc owner was not on my waitlist by mistake. There have been a couple custom owners who reached out to me because I had forgotten to put them on the list, and the croc owner is one of them that I had forgotten to add. I don't ask for payment up front, but if someone offers it, I don't say no. Again, if anyone is unhappy with a trade, please reach out to me - I'm sure we can work something out, whether I hatch another bun for you and swap them, etc. As to the comments about me trading my Luna's likeness away; I don't view it this way. I brought Luna to this site so that he can live on in some way, and to share an adorable pixel of him with the community. Luna was a very loving bunny, and he also loved attention - so I know he'd be happy to know that all of his little minions are being loved and fed (food was one of his favorite things). I'm in no way saying that memorial customs are good or bad, or whether they should be allowed - just that this is what I intended for the MBs, and I'm happy with it. I've come to peace with not having control over the bunnies after they leave my burrow. But before they do, I make sure they're super lucky so that Luna can bring a little luck to everyone he meets. So far, everyone I've traded with has been neutral or happy to have +3 luck MBs in these trades. Nobody has said anything to me otherwise - I've had two people ask me if they could hatch, and I've said no to both. I believe they were good-faith asks to genuinely help me with the list.

I don't let others hatch the MBs because I don't trust people to keep them all +3 luck. Considering some people on here have very strong opinions about my 3L MBs (weird stance, but sure) and getting to hatch their own. There's also significantly more important topics here than me (why is it October with no summer event??), and I beg you to find something else to entertain yourselves. I don't like being the topic of conversation - I am very shy and avoid attention whenever possible in real life. I think two and a half years is enough time to analyze my actions on a petsite, don't you think? And yes... my original Karen post was not great. That's why I promptly deleted it, but not before someone had screenshotted it on the 3 minutes it was up and posted it on the original blog. To provide context to that (keep in mind this was two and a half years ago) - my abusive manager kept calling me a karen whenever he felt he needed to undermine any legitimate concerns I had about things going on in the company. I eventually left the company. IDK if any of this will help or make things worse, but my silence didn't make it stop so I figured why not give this a try.

.