#yes i love the style of ambition!

[acid-ixx]

A little doodle of my neglected y/n + a very rushed doodle of my y/n with bruce

— masterlist !

hold up let me learn how to spell out gorjus... BECAUSE THIS IS !!! i love love love the white streak in the back of their hair ! very reminiscent of jason todd after his resurrection from death but instead of the death being physical, it reminds me more of the symbolic death of mc's love towards their family. they've exhausted the hope, determination, and ambitions they had planted towards their family and what remains is a burnt out young adolescent with no direction in life whatsoever.

but hey! at least this portrayal of the mc makes them look badass with their fashion style! it makes me want to give the mc dangerous habits for coping like surfing through trains or whatnot.

and them trying to kick batman is so adorable like yes, bruce! that's your baby but that's the same baby you haven't acknowledged for a decade and more so no they're also not you're baby >:( tysm for sending this in, i love their style, it screams very street like wear and it's good they're wearing a jacket since the setting for my story is actually nearing winter (we don't have winters in the philippines...)

[muiitoloko]

I adore your writing youve got such an amazing style! I was just wondering if youd consider writing a Karl Hoffmeister story but the reader is a virgin? Maybe his new wife? Obviously your plot lines are always amazing and I'm sure if you chose to it'd be amazing it's just an idea :)

Title: The Arranged Alliance

Summary: A young woman navigates the complexities of an arranged marriage to a powerful industrialist, finding unexpected tenderness and the possibility of love amidst the union born of convenience and ambition.

Pairing: Karl Hoffmeister × Fem! Reader

Warning: Smut

Author's Notes: Thank you so much for your kind words about my writing! 😊 I’m really glad you enjoy my style. Your idea for a Karl Hoffmeister story sounds fantastic, and I hope you’ll love the one I’ve prepared for you. Thanks for the inspiration! 😊

Also read on Ao3

Karl sat on the edge of the bed with a heavy sigh as the two of you entered the bedroom after the wedding reception. The grand festivities had done little to alleviate your nerves. You barely knew Karl, having had only a month to get acquainted. During that brief period, Karl had courted you, giving the appearance that you had a choice in the matter. But the reality was starkly different—your father had made it clear that you would marry Karl.

Karl Hoffmeister, one of the biggest industrialists in the country, was a man much older than you. Your father knew that marrying you to Karl would grant him significant influence and power. He had seized the opportunity, practically throwing you at Karl, who had accepted the arrangement with a calculated indifference.

Now, here you were, in a finely appointed bedroom, the weight of your father's ambitions and Karl's expectations pressing down on you. Karl’s hooked nose cast a shadow over his face as he looked at you with his piercing eyes, his mustache twitching slightly. His baritone voice broke the silence.

"Come, sit with me," Karl said, patting the space beside him on the bed.

You hesitated for a moment, the butterflies in your stomach fluttering wildly. Gathering your courage, you walked over and sat down, smoothing the fabric of your wedding dress nervously. The room felt oppressively quiet, the grandeur of your surroundings doing little to comfort you.

Karl turned slightly, his eyes softening as they met yours. "I understand that this situation is... less than ideal," he began, his voice gentle but firm. "You were thrust into this marriage without much say, and I want you to know that I am aware of that."

You swallowed hard, nodding slightly. "Yes, it's been overwhelming," you admitted, your voice barely above a whisper.

Karl reached out, taking your hand in his. His touch was surprisingly gentle, his thumb brushing over your knuckles. "I will do my best to make this easier for you," he said, his eyes earnest. "You may not have had a choice in marrying me, but I will ensure that you have a voice in this marriage. Your comfort and happiness matter to me."

His words were unexpected, and they brought a small measure of relief. "Thank you," you replied softly, feeling a bit of the tension ease from your shoulders.

Karl released your hand and stood up, walking over to the window. He looked out at the night sky, the moon casting a soft glow over his features. "This union, while arranged for convenience and power, does not have to be devoid of companionship and respect," he continued. "I want us to find a way to coexist harmoniously, to build a life together that is more than just a transaction."

You watched Karl with a mixture of apprehension and curiosity in your gaze, but you said nothing, remaining silent. Your eyes roamed around the bedroom, trying to familiarize yourself with the space that you would now share with your husband. The room was grand, filled with elegant furniture and soft lighting, yet it felt foreign and intimidating.

Karl, in the meantime, began to take off his tie, his eyes never leaving you. He examined you closely, appreciating the sight of you in your wedding dress. You were beautiful, intelligent, and kind—everything he could want in a woman. He had to stop himself from attacking you, tearing that dress, and taking your virginity as he wanted. But Karl was not a savage; he was a gentleman above all. Besides, he could see the nervousness radiating from you, and he didn't want to frighten you on your first night together.

Yet, it was his wedding night, and he intended to enjoy it. His gaze became more intense as he finished removing his tie and started unbuttoning his shirt. "You look stunning, my dear," he said, his baritone voice soft but laced with desire. "The sight of you in that dress... it's almost too much to bear."

You blushed, feeling the heat of his gaze on you. "Thank you," you replied softly, your voice trembling slightly.

Karl stepped closer, his shirt now hanging open, revealing a broad, thick chest. He reached out and gently brushed a strand of hair away from your face. "I want to make tonight special for you," he murmured, his fingers trailing down your cheek to your neck. "But I also want you to feel comfortable. This is as much about you as it is about me."

His touch sent shivers down your spine, a mix of nervousness and unexpected desire. "I... I appreciate that," you stammered, unsure of what to say.

Karl smiled, a reassuring yet predatory glint in his eyes. "Why don't we start by getting you out of that dress?" he suggested, his voice low and inviting. "I promise to be gentle."

You nodded, standing up slowly. Karl's hands moved to your back, finding the intricate buttons that held your dress together. He worked them open with surprising ease, his fingers brushing against your skin, sending electric shocks through your body. As the dress began to loosen, he leaned in, his lips grazing your ear. "You're so beautiful," he whispered, his breath hot against your skin. "I want to see all of you."

The dress slipped off your shoulders, pooling at your feet. You stood there in your delicate undergarments, feeling exposed and vulnerable under his intense gaze. Karl stepped back, his eyes raking over your body with a hunger that was barely contained. "Perfect," he murmured, his voice thick with desire.

He moved closer, his hands sliding over your bare shoulders and down your arms, pulling you against him. You could feel the heat of his body through the thin fabric of your chemise, his arousal pressing against you. "Do you trust me?" he asked, his voice a seductive whisper.

You looked up at him, your heart pounding. "Yes," you replied, your voice barely audible.

Karl smiled, a dark, knowing smile. "Good," he said, his hands moving to the ties of your chemise. "Because tonight, I want to explore every inch of you, make you mine in every way."

He untied the chemise, letting it fall away, leaving you completely bare before him. His eyes darkened with lust as he took in the sight of you, his hands roaming over your body with a possessive, yet gentle touch. "Lie down," he commanded softly, guiding you to the bed.

You obeyed, lying back on the soft sheets, feeling a mix of fear and anticipation. Karl followed, his body looming over yours. He leaned down, capturing your lips in a fierce, demanding kiss, his hands exploring your curves with a relentless hunger.

As his lips trailed down your neck to your breasts, he murmured against your skin, "I will make you feel things you've never felt before. Tonight, you will know what it means to be truly desired."

His mouth closed over your nipple, sucking gently, while his hand moved between your legs, parting your thighs. You gasped at the sensation, your body arching towards him, a newfound desire igniting within you.

Karl's fingers found your core, probing gently, noticing that you were still dry. He didn't worry too much about it, eager to learn what made you excited, what made you wet and ready for him. Karl released your nipple and looked at you, seeing your flushed cheeks as you looked down where his fingers still caressed your folds.

"Have you touched yourself here before?" Karl questioned, his voice a low, seductive murmur.

You looked up at him, your blush deepening before you turned your gaze away, unable to meet his eyes. Your reaction was all he needed to know the answer. He could almost see you tucked under the sheets, your fingers exploring your own body, trying to find pleasure in the secret moments of solitude.

Karl's lips curled into a knowing smile. "So you have," he said softly, his fingers continuing their gentle exploration. "I can almost picture it... you, lying in bed, your fingers slipping between your thighs, seeking the pleasure you so desperately crave."

Your breath hitched at his words, the image he painted igniting a spark of desire within you. Karl's touch grew bolder, his fingers pressing more insistently against your folds, seeking out the sensitive bud of your clitoris. You gasped, your hips instinctively lifting towards his hand, a wetness starting to gather as your arousal built.

"That's it," Karl murmured, his voice a dark, velvety promise. "Show me how much you want this, how much you need me."

He continued to tease and stroke, his fingers becoming slick with your growing desire. "You see, I want to know every part of you," he said, his breath hot against your skin. "I want to learn what makes you moan, what makes you beg for more."

His fingers slipped inside you, probing and curling, finding that sweet spot that made you cry out in pleasure. "I want to be the one who makes you come undone," he whispered, his voice rough with lust. "The one who makes you forget everything but the pleasure I'm giving you."

You were lost in the sensations, your body responding eagerly to his touch. "Karl," you moaned, your hands gripping the sheets as your hips moved against his hand. "Please..."

"Please, what?" Karl demanded, his eyes dark with intensity. "Tell me what you need, my dear. I want to hear you say it."

"Please, make me come," you begged, your voice trembling with desire. "I need it. I need you."

Karl's smile was predatory, satisfied. "Good girl," he murmured, increasing the pace of his fingers, his thumb circling your clit with just the right pressure. "Let go for me. Show me how much you need this."

The sensations built to a crescendo, your body arching as the pleasure overtook you. With a cry, you came, your release flooding over his fingers as waves of ecstasy washed over you. Karl watched you with a possessive hunger, his fingers still moving gently, drawing out every last bit of your pleasure.

As you lay there, panting and spent, Karl withdrew his fingers, bringing them to his lips. He tasted you, his eyes never leaving yours. "Delicious," he murmured, his voice a dark promise. "Now, let's see how much more you can take."

Karl pulled away from you, hurriedly kicking off his shoes before stepping out of his pants. Standing naked before you, he was an imposing figure, his body solid and well-built, his thick penis standing erect. You were still recovering from your orgasm, propping yourself up on your elbows to look at him. Nervousness crept in as you took in his naked form, the reality of what was about to happen settling heavily upon you.

You had never seen a man naked before, but you knew what was expected in sex. Your mother had given you a lecture before the marriage, her words echoing in your mind: “Open your legs, take whatever he gives you, and don't complain. Sometimes it can be good, other times not.” You tried to steel yourself, determined to follow her advice.

Karl positioned himself above you, noticing the fear in your eyes as you looked at his thick penis. His expression softened, his eyes filled with understanding and gentleness. “Do you want to caress me?” he asked softly, his baritone voice soothing and calm.

You looked up at his face, your own flushed and nervous. “I... I don't know how to do that,” you admitted, your voice trembling.

Karl didn’t accept that as an answer. Taking your hand, he guided it to his erection, placing it firmly around his length. “Just do as you think best,” he encouraged, his voice gentle yet insistent. “Feel me, explore me.”

Your mother's words to always obey your husband echoed in your mind as you hesitantly began to move your hand. Karl's skin was warm and smooth under your touch, his size intimidating. He let out a soft groan as your fingers wrapped around him, his eyes never leaving yours.

“That’s it,” Karl murmured, his voice thick with desire. “Just like that. Do what feels natural.”

You tried to follow his instructions, your hand moving tentatively at first, then with more confidence as you felt him respond to your touch. Karl’s groans grew louder, his hips thrusting slightly into your hand, encouraging you to continue.

“Good girl,” he praised, his voice a seductive rumble. “You’re doing so well. Keep going, just like that.”

Your movements became bolder, your hand stroking him with more assurance. Karl’s eyes darkened with lust, his breathing growing heavier. “You have no idea how good that feels,” he murmured, his voice a low growl. “How much I want you.”

His words sent a shiver down your spine, your own arousal building again despite your nerves. Karl guided your hand with his, showing you the rhythm he liked, his eyes locked onto yours with an intensity that made your heart race.

“Now, my dear,” Karl said, his voice a husky whisper. “I want to be inside you. I want to feel you wrapped around me.”

You nodded, your breath coming in short, shallow gasps as you lay back, spreading your legs for him. Karl positioned himself between your thighs, the tip of his erection brushing against your entrance. He paused, his eyes searching yours for any sign of hesitation.

“Are you ready?” he asked gently, his voice filled with concern.

“Yes,” you whispered, your voice trembling but determined. “I’m ready.”

Karl leaned down, capturing your lips in a tender kiss as he slowly pushed inside you. The sensation was strange and overwhelming, a mix of discomfort and pleasure as he filled you completely. You gasped, your hands clutching at the sheets as he began to move, his thrusts slow and gentle at first, then gradually building in intensity.

“Relax, my dear,” Karl murmured against your lips, his voice a soothing balm. “Let yourself feel everything.”

You tried to do what he asked, attempting to adjust to his length, but it felt like he was splitting you in half. He was thick, and it hurt—a lot. But Karl seemed to be enjoying it immensely. You observed him, his eyes closed, chin slack, speaking in German. You clung to his thick body, pressing your fingers into his back, as Karl spread you even wider, pushing your legs flat against the mattress.

"Liebling, du fühlst dich so gut," he murmured, his baritone voice husky with desire. "You're so tight, so perfect."

The pain mingled with a strange sense of pleasure, your body slowly starting to accommodate his size. Karl's thrusts were slow and deliberate, his eyes opening to watch your reactions. He leaned down, capturing your lips in a searing kiss, his mustache tickling your upper lip. "Relax, mein Schatz," he whispered against your mouth. "Let me make you feel good."

He moved his hand between your bodies, finding your clit and circling it gently. The sudden jolt of pleasure made you gasp, your hips bucking involuntarily. Karl smiled against your lips, increasing the pressure and speed of his fingers. "That's it, let go for me," he urged, his voice a soothing command.

Your grip on his back tightened, your nails digging into his skin as the pleasure began to build. "Karl," you moaned, your voice a mix of pain and desire. "It hurts..."

Karl slowed his thrusts, his eyes filled with concern. "I know, darling," he said softly, his fingers never stopping their gentle circles. "But I promise it will get better. Just trust me."

You nodded, trying to relax, focusing on the pleasure his fingers were giving you. Gradually, the pain started to ebb, replaced by a growing sense of fullness and pleasure. Karl's thrusts became deeper, more controlled, his eyes locked onto yours. "You're doing so well, Liebling," he praised, his voice a deep rumble. "So beautiful, so responsive."

The combination of his words, his touch, and the rhythm of his movements drove you closer to the edge. You could feel your body tightening around him, the pleasure building to an almost unbearable peak. "Karl, I... I'm going to..."

"Let it go, my dear," Karl whispered, his voice thick with his own need. "Come for me."

With a cry, you did, your body shuddering around him, waves of pleasure crashing over you. Karl groaned, his thrusts becoming erratic as he chased his own release. "So tight," he muttered in German, his voice strained. "So perfect."

You clung to him, your body trembling, as he finally reached his peak, a guttural moan escaping his lips. He collapsed onto you, his weight comforting, his breath hot against your neck. For a moment, you both lay there, entwined, the reality of your new relationship settling in.

Karl rolled to the side, pulling you into his arms, his hands gently caressing your back. "You did wonderfully," he murmured, his voice a soothing balm to your frayed nerves. "Thank you for trusting me."

You nestled against his chest, feeling a strange mix of emotions—relief, exhaustion, and a budding sense of hope. "It still hurts a little," you admitted softly.

Karl kissed your forehead, his touch tender. "It will get better, I promise. And I will do everything I can to make sure you are comfortable and happy."

You looked up at him, seeing the sincerity in his eyes. "Thank you, Karl," you whispered, feeling a small measure of reassurance.

He smiled, his hooked nose casting a shadow over his face in the dim light. "Rest now, my dear. We have all the time in the world to get to know each other better."

You nodded, closing your eyes, feeling the warmth of his body and the gentle rhythm of his breath. Despite the pain and the strangeness of your new situation, a small spark of hope flickered within you. Maybe, just maybe, this marriage could be more than just a transaction. Perhaps it could become something real, something filled with mutual respect and, in time, love.

Translation:

Liebling - Darling

Du fühlst dich so gut - You feel so good

Mein Schatz - My treasure (or My darling)

[unicyclehippo]

ooo maybe perhaps imodna “28. …as a lie.”? love love love your writing style. no worries if this isn’t the vibe! I’m sure anything you write will be phenomenal

‘do you know what your problem is?’ delilah says oh so casually. laudna is busy folding the laundry (lalala!) and her hands keep moving and smoothing each shirt and sock and her magic drips over holes in imogen’s socks and her head turns so she is looking right at imogen with a perfect replica of her smile, over-wide, borderline painful, like all the love in her hurts a little getting out (because? because she has too much of it? because if it doesn’t hurt it’s not love?) but there’s a glint in the gem at her throat and a glint in laudna’s pretty eyes and it could be sunlight but it’s not.

‘you,’ imogen says, like she’s bored. would she buy that, though? can delilah tell how electric she’s gotten? she definitely can. laudna’s eyes go wide and hungry and hot, dragging down imogen’s arms; it feels wrong, like when she was young again and couldn’t get men’s thoughts out of her head (damn the things i’d do to that girl).

‘don’t be nasty,’ delilah laughs, throaty. ‘i’m giving you advice. you should be thanking me.’

‘i’ll thank you to get the fuck out of laudna’s head.’

delilah pulls laudna away from the laundry long enough to wave a dismissive hand. ‘nonsense. she wants me here.’

it sounds true, is the problem. but she’s a liar. imogen shouldn’t be talking to her. it’s early and she wants to be asleep in bed but laudna wanted to wash their clothes properly, the magic didn’t clean things right, it had to be done properly and now she’s folded their small clothes into a bag and delilah is smiling at her like she belongs, like laudna’s just a dress to slip on slip into. and laudna wants her there. does she?

‘your problem, imogen—may i call you that? your problem is a lack of planning. ambition, too. you’re very powerful but what good is power without direction?’ delilah lingers on her scars. the red glow at her fingertips. she licks her lips, or laudna does (lalala).

‘shut up.’

‘you won’t get what you want by hoping. and certainly not by praying these days. why don’t you—‘ she walks laudna’s fingers across the tabletop, across the back of imogen’s hand. vile woman. ‘put all that power to good use? what are you afraid of?’

a city block levelled with a scream. the world gone hot and white, burning away. everyone’s minds open before her like toy chests for her to paw through.

‘are you done?’

delilah sighs. when she speaks again, she’s lost the purr; she sounds more like herself, more like laudna has recently. matter-of-fact. brittle sharp. ‘i’m trying to help you, girl.’

imogen wants to kill her again. laudna’s face doesn’t look like her face anymore; it looks like skull, muscles, skin. eyes. ‘i. don’t. want. your. help.’

‘you’ve scared yourself into standing still. can’t go forward, too afraid of the power. can’t go back because you won’t give up what you’ve gained,’ delilah laughs. ‘you may hate me, dear, but you must know that you’re just like me?’ her hand touches imogen’s cheek, thumb wandering laudna’s favourite line over her cheek, freckle to freckle. it feels like laudna, which is to say, imogen has lost again. ‘she’ll do anything for you. she’s such a sweet girl. and so much more willing to comply now that she has something to lose.’

‘you’re sick.’

delilah tilts her head. a maybe, a yes, a what does that make you? a which one of us hasn’t pulled away?

‘you should ask her what happened to the willmaster,’ delilah suggests. ‘what she did alone in that little hole you all carry when no one was watching. when you do, ask yourself,’ delilah sighs against her cheek, so sweetly, laudna’s breath morning mint fresh. ‘what else is she hiding from you? what else has she given me?’

delilah touches the side of her neck and then—then she’s gone and laudna says ‘oh’ and ‘imogen?’ and ‘i think i…might have lost a moment there, darling,’ and ‘are you alright?’

imogen leans into the hand on her cheek, the thumb that jumps from freckle to freckle. she curls a lightning-warmed hand around the back of laudna’s neck and kisses her, very gently.

‘yeah, honey. all good. you done with the laundry?’

[ascendanttarot]

PAC: Messages From Your Spirit Guides

Hi everyone! This PAC will cover whether your spirit guides have any messages or guidance for you. This is a little shorter than the last PAC but only a little bit, promise! I'll list a few signs for every pile before your reading to ensure you have picked the right pile for yourself. If you resonate with one or more signs, that is meant to be your reading. And! You’ll get a channelled song! :)

Please remember your fate is not set in stone so your answers may change depending on the actions you take and will take if you please. Tarot is not a substitute for professional advice. The images I’ve used are not mine.

From left to right: Pile 1, Pile 2, Pile 3

Pile 1

Signs:

You play guitar or favour the sound of acoustic guitar in your songs

You listen to the following bands/artists: Hozier, Florence + the Machine, Mitski, and other similar artists

This is a weird one, but when cleaning you like buying the sprays/wipes/detergent with a fruitier smell?

You like going on nature walks

You read poetry

Your cards: The Tower, Queen of Cups rx, (clarified by the Six of Swords rx) Page of Wands

Your message: Something unfolded in ways you could have never imagined. It’s like all your backup plans fell apart too, and your optimism has been taken away from you. I just heard ‘victim of circumstance’. This is a difficult message to give, but your guides are saying whatever happened, happened beyond anyone’s control. You tried to shield yourself from these difficult emotions by hardening your heart, creating distance between you and your feelings... but you’re spirit guides are asking you, “Is this really worth it all?”. It won’t be an easy feat to move on from this situation, and your guides understand that. However, they’re saying that when the time comes and the right opportunity is in front of you to take that first step of healing, please take it. The best part of your life requires a childlike sense of wonder. It’s going to require a lot more determination and ambition than what you’re feeling now. Your guides are saying to take your time to feel messy, and when it’s time to heal, don’t rush yourself to do that too. They’re here for you if you ask them. They believe in you even if you don’t believe in yourself, but they are waiting patiently and happily for a time when you’ll start standing by your back too.

Thank you for letting me be your reader, Pile 1!

Song: In Your Own Sweet Time by Zaska, Karen Cowley and Hozier

Pile 2

Signs:

You have an alternative sense of style

You love 80s music. I just heard Wham and The Cure to name a few of the bands that popped up in my intuition

Odd sign to give, but you may have had a vaporwave phase? If you know, you know

You like Fantasy and Sci-Fi books and shows

Another odd message to give here—you may be sensitive to touch, but it goes both ways? Like you can only wear certain fabrics, or you like soft things, but also people may say you give good hugs

Your Cards: 8 of Swords rx, 6 of Cups, The World

Your Message: I just saw the image of your spirit guides popping open a bottle of champagne with a knife before chucking (yes, that violently) streamers and confetti! You know why? Because. You. Did. That. You’ve just come out of a period in your life when you had to do some intense shadow work. You’ve worked on your biases, and have started to fix your flawed systems on your environment and yourself; your spirit guides could not be more proud of you. They’re celebrating 24 hours a day 7 days a week because that chapter of your life is over! This new phase of your life will be given gently to you with the love and compassion you deserve. I think this may be an opportunity to let yourself be seen by others again. At the very least you’ll be hanging out with old friends and making new ones, but at the most, I’m seeing possibly an opportunity for a project to start online. Either way, your spirit guides will have your back for that in the future. For now, though, they’re asking you to put your feet up and high-five yourself for how far you’ve come!

Thank you for letting me be your reader, Pile 2!

Your Song: Blame It on the Boogie by The Jacksons (I’m serious, they’re having a party right now haha!)

Pile 3

Signs:

You prefer the dusk over the dawn

You like RnB, so artists like Victoria Monét and Ashanti might be familiar artists to have in your playlists. I also heard Destiny’s Child and Ms. Lauryn Hill

I feel like you might like, collect, or work with crystals and metals. I just saw some people here may wear protective jewellery

You like sports, or were heavily involved in sports when you were younger, but you aren’t anymore

I just heard ‘helping hand’, so you may just be a really helpful and generous person. You’d be the friend people go to if they need advice on something

Your Cards: 2 of Wands, 2 of Swords, King of Cups

Your Message: Okay this feels pretty straightforward. Your spirit guides want you to know that you’re coming into a divine partnership (not necessarily romantic if that’s not you’re thing or if you’re aromantic, so this could be a friendship or a business partner even) very soon. With the emphasis on the number two in this reading, this may correlate with timings in your life. You may meet this person in 2 weeks, 2 months, or even within the span of 2 years, but there’s a strong message of divine timing working in your favour. I feel you may have issues trusting the people around you to have good intentions because of negative experiences in the past. This person won’t break that mental belief for you, you’ll do that yourself, but they will certainly be the catalyst for it. Maybe the reason why you’re so jaded is because you’ve hoped for this so long the hope soured to cynicism, but this is not the natural state of your soul. This person will offer you the emotionally mature partnership you’ve dreamed of, with a sensitivity for you and your feelings you aren’t used to. Your spirit guides can’t wait for you to meet them because I’m hearing this relationship will be healing for all the parties involved. They’re with you on this every step of the way.

Thank you for letting me be your reader, Pile 3!

Your Song: Love Is on My Side by Brandy

[asomaton]

In light of the news that Nimona got an Oscars nomination I feel I need to talk about the original Graphic Novel, which I love dearly. It started as a webcomic in 2012 and got published in 2015.

Now the GN got picked up by a Fox animation studio Blue Sky in 2015 but Fox was bought up by Disney who later tore down that studio. Perhaps the story of an estranged knight turned to villain because of image branding and dark ambitions of the empire didn’t sit well? At least the story with overt trans and queer-issues didn’t. I WAS surprised when I heard that Disney picked it up and for a time they did work on it. It was 3/4 part done when they shut it down in 2021.

Now that’s a lot of animation work. In comes Netflix (some good animations there) and Annapurna Studios (some good films, GREAT video games) and saves the day. I was happy but cautious. Didn’t like the trailer or the style, but hey it’s happening right?

Now don’t get me wrong. Nimona is not a bad film. It’s quite good and the way it handles gender and HBTQ issues is refreshing but the movie isn’t you know, amazing. (For everyone who thinks it is, good for you but hear me out).

The graphic novel is about two villains, not two misunderstood pure-hearted persons against the world. Blackheart (Boldheart in the movie 😐) is bitter and cold, Nimona is ferral and violent and people who get in their way DIE. They are hunted by the institute, a faceless dictatorship who do inhumane experiments. The King is never seen, a mere media puppet for the institute. It’s the best villain story I’ve read (and yes, I have read Worm)

The character Nimona is the unacceptable other. An anomaly that must be tamed or destroyed. While not as obvious as in the movie Nimona in the GN is of course a symbol for transgenderism. They transform their looks and form all through the book and at times sees themselves as a monster.

Am I sure of this? Well, the author Nate Diana Steveson went from nonbinary to transmasc/bigender and produced She-Ra so my guess is as good as yours.

Now, reading Nimona makes the movie look VERY tame. Was it the rewrite or the short stay at Disney that changed it? How did Stevenson react to it?

Either way, hurray for movie Nimona. Now, please go read the graphic novel Nimona by ND Stevenson.

[thepalerimitation]

This painting murdered me.

So. To business.

I realize in the late afternoon that one of my oldest and dearest friends in the fucking universe HAS HER BIRTHDAY.

TODAY.

(I congratulated her and all that but for some reason I completely forgot to make her a gift). Thus, I must now make the most extravagant gift of all time. I am an artist. I knew what had to be done.

Now, I’m a solid artist in portraits, I can whip those bitches out, fully rendered and detailed in an hour and a half. But nooooo. I must include something about her! Something she loves. WELL WELL VAN GOGH WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE???

(This picture curses my retinas now.) I have the bright idea to mimic his stunning impressionist style in a Spock portrait. Side note: Vinnie wasn’t doing digital art, so maybe that would’ve been my first clue to the disaster I was heading towards.

About three minutes into coloring in the eye, I slowly realized. Vinnie, God rest his soul, did not have to individually find each color on a color wheel. He also did not choose to use the most minute brush size of all time. I only realized past the point of no return how hellishly long this was going to take.

(SpongeBob voice)

“Foure houres lateeeh”

(Please zoom in to see the majesty) You can tell around the neck where I just gave up. But my cruel cruel ambition has me by the neck. I can’t give a portrait as a gift! That would be heinous! Why not just….

Van Gogh it?

UGH.

SIX HOURS. AND TWENTY TWO MINUTES. TWENTY-ONE THOUSAND, NINE HUNDRED AND SIXTY STROKES. (For reference the average portrait takes me maybe two hours and three thousand strokes). Madness. Pure madness. But what makes this even more pretentious.

Yes that is the Fibonacci sequence. She is a massive fan of the Fibonacci bro. What she wants, she gets, right? Anyway, it’s three in the morning and I want to sleep forever.

[fromtenthousandfeet]

were you a jimin fan at some point? or am i misremembering?

I am definitely a Jimin fan. I think he's a rare talent and I sincerely hope he can escape the clutches of HYBE and go to a label that will nurture his talent and support his career properly.

Lots of people like to compare Jimin to Michael Jackson, but I think it's more apt to compare him to Madonna. Yes, she's super creepy these days, but at the height of her career, she was a cultural phenomenon and a style icon. Like Jimin, she started out as a dancer, and like Jimin, she left her dance studies to make it big (she dropped out of the University of Michigan and moved to New York City). She was full of ambition, fresh ideas, and an incredible work ethic. Michael Jackson, on the other hand, had no control over the trajectory of his young life in the music industry because it was all his parents' doing. And to be honest, despite his massive fame and success, his life was mired in controversy. Young people only seem to know about MJ as The King of Pop, but I don't think they realize the way he was ruthlessly hounded by the press - especially the tabloids. And to be honest, it was hard to keep up with some of his bizarre behaviors and his concerning obsession with plastic surgery. Was he a pedophile? Was he framed for money? Who knows, but I wouldn't wish Michael Jackson's life on anybody. I'm grateful for his incredible talent and the music/dance legacy he left, but he didn't have an easy life.

Back in the early days of Amazon Prime Video - when there was absolutely nothing on there to watch - I found an unauthorized documentary about Madonna made by her former boyfriend/housemate/bandmate. He was actually incredibly complimentary of her. He explained that Madonna wanted to be in his band, so she taught herself to play the drums! She wrote her own music. And, he said, she was so driven that it quickly became clear she had outgrown the band, who were happy with just having some modest success in NY bars.

Long story short, I see so many similarities between Jimin and Madonna. They both have a background in dance that makes them incredible performers. I love to watch Jimin dance. He is such a unique talent. Do non-dancers understand this? As you watch him dance, it is impossible to differentiate the dancer from the dance. He IS the choreography. He conveys so much emotion in every movement and every facial expression.

Madonna would completely reinvent herself from one album to the next. Lucky Star Madonna was nothing like Material Girl Madonna, let alone Vogue Madonna. Jimin is the same. From Promise, to Lie, to Serendipity, to Like Crazy, to SMFpt2, to Who, you never know what to expect from Jimin, but you can be sure he's put his whole heart and effort into creating a work of art. I love that fans have no idea what to expect from him next.

I'm rooting for Jimin! I can't wait to see what he does once he's finished with his military service. And I'd love to see him soar as an unfettered solo artist, assuming that's what he wants to do.

[galedekarios]

that interview is driving me insane i've been thinking about it for the past hour and i still can't wrap my head around it. i think what really gets under my skin is it just... contradicts with the text of the game. the most positive possible reading of the ending where gale blows himself up is that it was an unavoidable tragedy dictated by fate but even that's a stretch. to say it's a good ending?? or a satisfying conclusion to his arc?? i call bull. it's more infuriating because there is such a clear good ending for gale's character arc and it's the professor ending! his arc was about learning to accept himself as he was, to value who he is as he is flaws and all, and he's done that in the professor ending! and the god of ambition ending is a bad end for him but still ties into his overall arc in a satisfying if sad way (imo). the ending where he dies just... doesn't. which is fine as a tragedy but to imply it isn't exactly that, a tragedy, is wild to me. and it being so blatantly contradictory to the actual events of the game makes me think that whole thing was just catering to people who hate gale which like... why? people who don't like him don't care about his story so why pander to them like this?

uhg. i am sorry for blowing up your inbox like this i just feel like i'm gonna rip my hair out and need to express that to a fellow gale appreciator. i love gale's epilogue SO MUCH it made me feel for a bit like maybe the writers had actually changed how they felt about him but. nope! silly of me to hope for that. wish i could memory wipe that whole interview from my brain dark urge style.

don't be sorry at all! 🖤 i feel the same way in a lot of ways. altho i feel the need to mention that gale's writer, jan van dosselaer, was not involved in this interview.

i started to make a meta post about this yesterday, but reading things like this from gale:

act ii [after elminster] Player: An old man with a craving for cheese. Hardly the great wizard of legend. Gale: A wizard doesn't reach Elminster's age without enjoying their home comforts. Those who seek danger over cheese don't tend to live as long. Gale: For Mystra to have sent him... The severity of her bidding could not be clearer. Or weigh more heavily on me. devnote: reflecting on mystra sending elminster, of all people - a powerful individual, becoming reflective. Gale: Time seems so infinite when you are young... a month is an age, a year is a lifetime... it is a strange feeling, to realise how little of it one might have left. Player: You're seriously considering doing what Elminster said?   Gale: Of course - he offered the clearest solution to our problem. All I have to do is find the right place and time, close my eyes, and let go... devnote: Trying to sound upbeat, not fully engaging with what he's saying (that he's going to kill himself). Gale: Then the slate will be clean, wrongs will be righted, the Absolute will be gone... devnote: Trying to sound upbeat, not fully engaging with what he's saying (that he's going to kill himself). Gale: ...and I along with it. devnote: Still trying to sound upbeat, though this time the reality that this means he will die weighs a bit heavier

and:

act ii [act ii romance scene] Gale: I am terrified - I will not claim otherwise. My face could scarcely conceal it even if my words sought to deny it. nodecontext: Hushed, vulnerable Gale: There is no point in running from the inevitable. Better to meet it, on my own terms. nodecontext: Resigned

as well as this:

act ii [act ii friendship version] Gale: Yes... but there is so much to live for, and so few moments in which to house it all. Gale: Damn you. Damn you for giving me so much to care about. Our friends, our adventures... this would have been so much easier if it was just me. But it isn't. Gale: If there is a way - any way - to save all that's grown dear to me, I want to seize it. I just cannot fathom what that might be, other than to fail Mystra and condemn the world. Gale: Stay with me, will you? I don't want to think of it any more, but I don't want to be alone either.

act iii [before the netherbrain] Player: Gale... I think we should consider using the orb as Mystra intended. To blow up the Netherbrain. Gale: I'm getting rather tired of how often those I care about seem to reach the same conclusion.

when you have this:

and i just... couldn't finish the meta.

it's absolutely beyond comprehension for me how anyone could try to frame this as an ending that is the right one in "many ways", as the "guy who starts off annoying everyone", eating your "most priced possessions", having to "give back to the world".

for the founder of the company to say he wasn't "ready" the "first time", but he's finally "ready" now.

gale's death isn't only unnecessary, an instruction given to him by his former mentor on the behalf of a goddess, who would've sacrificed not only him but thousands of others to achieve her own goals, he doesn't want to die. he's terrified. he wants to live. he is offering this because he believes that his time has run out. because he wants his death to have purpose if it must happen. because he feels he made a mistake far bigger than he can ever make up for. because he doesn't want others to waste their chance at life like he feels he has. the will he leaves behind in the epilogue if he sacrifices himself isn't finished because he thought there would be more time. i could go on and on.

and again, the question is too... for what exactly does he need to "give back to the world"?

being perceived as annoying after coming out of what is presented as isolation and depression? asking for help with a now chronic impairment that feeds on his very soul and wreaks havoc on his body? for making a mistake? by that logic every companion deserves the same fate.

which brings me to the contrast to how most of the other companions are framed in this interview: k*rlach, "the labrador of the party". l*e'zel, "she's so young". ast*rion, "much of what he does it out of fear". sh*dowheart, "the jason bourne" and "victim of religous trauma". w*ll, "the true baldur's gate hero".

the difference is staggering. there's empathy here. there's at least a surface level understanding and/or appreciation of the characters there.

...and then you have gale.

it's alienating and disappointing to see devs have so little respect and care for their own character, as well as for the parts of their fandom who have grown attached to the character exactly for the strengths and flaws he has, for the struggles he faces and for the healing journey he can have if he is helped and lives.

[aziraphales-library]

hello lovelies!! thank you all so much for all the work that you do!! y’all really are lifesavers.

i was wondering if you had any recommendations for fics that emulate the style of the original book/have a Pratchett-y vibe (footnotes, humour, structure, etc.)? i’d be especially interested in ones that are in this style but exist in the show’s canon rather than the book’s, but I wouldn’t mind either way!

We have a #footnotes tag, please check that out. Here are more fics with footnotes...

A Lot of Space Between Your Ears by nerdsandthelike (G)

“And you expect us to just waltz into Heaven, rob the archives, and walk back out?” “Yes.” “No.” Nearly a year after they successfully stopped the world from ending, Heaven obtains evidence that would result in Aziraphale being recalled from Earth. Crowley and Aziraphale decide to steal it back.

DIY How to build your own Garden of Eden by ximeria (T)

Post-not-end-of-days Crowley feels a change is needed, but he can't do it alone. Not to mention, he's not entirely sure what it is, this nebulous thing that he wants. He just knows it involves Aziraphale.

Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by divisionten (T)

“Well, Pulsifer, I can say with confidence I know exactly what’s wrong with your car.” “Oh? What’s wrong?” Newt peered down, looking at the undercarriage, as most people do who want to help but have absolutely no skill in basic car repair. “It’s shit.” (An anthology collection of the times Anthony J. Crowley, retired demon and occasional slumber party guest, and Aziraphale, forcefully instated Guardian Angel of the downtrodden, get summoned to deal with humanity.)

Yes and Please and Thank You by WyvernQuill (T)

"Go to alpha centauri, for all I care! Go now, this very instant, and never return, do you hear me, Crowley? Never!" Due to Crowley's firm conviction that "he need never know", Aziraphale has, for all the time they've known each other, been blissfully unaware of the obedience curse Crowley's been looping holes around since 4004 BC. You can't really blame him, is the point. Aziraphale had no idea what his unthinking words might do, and is already planning to apologise profusely at dinner... ...which might get a little tricky, seeing as Crowley has just been sighted in the vicinity of Pluto, and has concrete orders to never show his face on earth. Ever. Again.

Demon in Heaven, Angel in Hell by Hexqueen517 (T)

When the world ends, Aziraphale will be called back to Heaven and Crowley will be banished back to Hell, separated for eternity - unless they’re willing to listen to Beelzebub and Gabriel’s plan. Which is Beelzebub’s plan, of course, but they need Gabriel to act as a shield against plant misters filled with holy water. But not everyone in Heaven and Hell is on board with Beelzebub and Gabriel’s leadership. When everyone at the top of the Ineffable Bureaucracy has their own ambitions, the chances of averting apocalypse yet again may seem random. You never know who will come out on top when the dice begin to roll …

i have spent all my years in believing you by braveatironheart (M)

This is the story of how Aziraphale and Crowley inadvertently end the war between Heaven and Hell. The story of how they – indirectly, at least – avert the Apocalypse is in there, too, but I suspect you already know that one. If pressed and in an uncharacteristically honest mood, Crowley would have to admit he’d fallen for Aziraphale in the Garden of Eden. Things were not so straightforward for Aziraphale, who spent six millennia trying to ignore his growing fondness for the demon. He supposed the first time he’d felt drawn to Crowley would have been in Rome, eight years after the death of Christ. And what had he done? Invited him to lunch. It was no wonder, really, that he kissed him two thousand years later. How else was one to respond when one’s hereditary enemy saved one’s life and one’s books? 5945 years after they meet, Crowley and Aziraphale confess their love for one another. They certainly aren’t going to let anything get in the way, no matter what Heaven and Hell throw at them. aka Good Omens, except the only plot is Aziraphale and Crowley’s relationship. Complete with original, lockdown-era plot.

- Mod D

[chaosgene]

Title: Different Union

Fandom: Guardian- Priest

Relationship: Shen Wei/Zhao Yunlan

Rating: Mature

Archive Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Tags: Alternate Universe- Dragons, Fantasy, they're all dragons in here, Shen Wei pines, Zhao Yunlan is flirty and thirsty, Courting Rituals, feral! Shen Wei, Implied Sexual Content, Fade to Black

Summary: Shen Wei rises from the ocean in hopes of soaking in the sun. Another dragon comes into his life and begins flirting with him relentlessly. Shen Wei does not know what to do and that was the scariest part of it; their encounters and Zhao Yunlan’s ambition to make him his.

“I haven't seen you around here before,” Zhao Yunlan said with a toothy grin. “a little elusive?”

“I am from the sea,” he replied instead. “You shouldn't flaunt your feathers so readily.” 

“Oh? Why do you think so?”

“It is inappropriate.”

I am back, with both art and fic for a new fanfiction for Weilan. 💖💖 Yes, they're dragons. I wanted to try something new with them and wondered how I could incorporate their personalities and life style as a dragon. Well, this one is it~

Special thanks to @the-marron for being my beta-reader! You're a life saver. 💖💖💖 Please give her fics some love, folks! They're really amazing 🥹

[sailorgoon13]

Anakin Skywalker

Basic Information

Name: Anakin Skywalker

Age: 22

Gender: Male

Species: Human

Birth Location: Tatooine

Current Residence: Coruscant

Affiliation: Republic

Occupation: Jedi Master

Physical Appearance

Height: 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm)

Body Type: Athletic and muscular

Skin Color: Fair

Hair Color: Light brown

Hair Style: Medium-length and tousled

Eye Color: Blue

Distinguishing Features: Has a scar on his right cheek, youthful and handsome

Clothing/Style: Sometimes wears specialized combat armor over his Jedi robes for protection, formal attire he wears more refined Jedi robes or tunics, often in richer colors.

Weapons: Blue blade lightsaber

Force Sensitivity: Yes

Force Affiliation: Begins as a Jedi, before the dark side consumed him.

Personality

Personality Traits: Brave, determined, compassionate, skillful and impulsive. Strong willed, loyal

Strengths: Exceptional pilot and mechanic, quick learner

Weaknesses: Impulsive, emotional instability, attachment, stubborn, fear of loss

Likes: Adventures, engineering, flying

Dislikes: rules and restrictions, manipulation, SAND

Fears: Loss, failure, powerlessness, abandonment

Ambitions: Wanting to be Jedi Master, end slavery and injustice, protecting his loved ones, gaining knowledge and power

Background

Family: -Shmi (Mother), kind and loving, was enslaved on Tatooine. Killed by Tusken raiders. -Padme Amidala (Wife) Former queen and later Senator for Taboo -Luke Skywalker (Son) Born of Padme before her death. Hidden and raised on Tatooine, becomes central part of the Rebels -Leia Organa (Daughter) Luke's twin sister. Raised as the Princess of Alderaan. Prominent leader in the Rebels and later the Resistance

Friends/Allies: -Qui-Gon Jinn (Mentor) The Jedi Master who discovered him on Tatooine, believed Anakin was the Chosen One -Obi-Wan Kenobi (Mentor/ Parental Figure/ "Brother") They had a deep and complex relationship with one another, filled with both love and conflict.

Enemies: Darth Maul, Count Dooku, General Grievous

Significant Events: -Being discovered and taken away from home as a young boy -The death of his mother -Secret marriage to Padme -Knighted as a Jedi -Duel with Dooku -Visions of Padme's death -Fall to the Dark Side

Skills and Abilities

Combat Skills: Exceptional duelist, mastered multiple forms, uses the force

Piloting Skills: His skills are crucial in many of the battles, known as one of the best pilots of his time

Mechanical Skills: Has a deep understanding for mechanics and engineering, allowing him to repair things easily like his starships or lightsabers

Languages: Basic, Huttese, can understand Binary(Droids) Bocce and Shyriiwook (though he does not speak those he understands it) 

Other Skills: Podracing, leadership, charisma, survival and force abilities

Miscellaneous

Favorite Food/Drink: Foods common on Tatooine, like fruits and veggies or spiced dishes. Drinks- Blue milk (all reminding him of simple times with mom)

Hobbies: Strategic games, fixing his starship or droids, flying

Smells Like: Incense, metal and sandalwood

Favorite quotes: "This is where the fun begins." "I don't like sand. It's coarse and rough and irritating, and it gets everywhere."

[b-skarsgard]

That Bill Skarsgård, 34, has a special attraction to the dark should be indisputable, but what is it about him that the characters attach to?

- Maybe it's a bit like falling in love with someone, says the actor himself.

read the rest at the link or under the cut. (translated from swedish to english by browser)

In reality, Bill doesn't look the least bit diabolical. The hair is well styled in a wavy James Dean bangs and is matched for the day by a knitted white polo shirt with a luxurious glossy sheen. Overall, he rather exudes a mystique, a bit like a movie star from Hollywood's golden era.

Nevertheless, he has repeated in many international interviews that it is something in him that these characters are drawn to:

- The clearest way for me to formulate it is that I attract them, and they attract me.

- It is a special process to be chosen for a role at all. You have to be inspired, but also be right for the role. So you attract each other, says Bill, but adds:

- After all, I have done an incredible number of different types of characters in over thirty films. But since the biggest projects are in a certain direction, like "It", you become associated with it.

In "Nosferatu" you are unrecognizable. Do you like to completely dissolve into a character?

- In some way, that is always the ambition. I like to find a voice, a physical expression. Making "Clark" wasn't me in any way either, even though he looks more like me.

- The challenge is that it is me who expresses the character, while none of Bill must be there. Nothing of a 32-year-old guy from Södermalm can be found in a 400-year-old Transylvanian count.

You usually succeed. My son has a fear of clowns because of you. On the other hand, it has saved me many visits to Gröna Lund...

- Haha. Is it that bad? Clown phobia? But I apologize. One of my childhood friends got it from the previous "It".

- I don't think I've told anyone this, but when he married my cousin, who is like a sister to me, we organized a kidnapping attempt for the stag party where all his best friends were dressed up as clowns. It was the thing he was most afraid of in the whole world. Someone thought it was too shitty, and that he would break down. But it went well. Then I forced him to attend the premiere of "It", and now he is not afraid of clowns anymore.

Does exposure therapy work?

- Yes, that's a tip. Haha.

But "Nosferatu". Of course you were in the running as Hutter, but then the role went to Nicholas Hoult?

- I actually got it. Several years ago. Then the "Nosferatu" fell apart.

How did you react to the news that the role was no longer yours?

- I was broken.

- I would actually have been in Robert Egger's "The Northman" in the role of Gustav Lindh, Bill continues and then describes how pandemic-related circumstances led to a schedule conflict where he prioritized "Clark" and said no to Eggers.

- "Clark", which I helped develop and produce, felt to me personally as a bigger challenge.

- So I explained that I was sorry, but that it was like this. But I didn't know if he was offended.

- Then "Nosferatu" was on again, and he cast Nick and then Aaron (Taylor Johnson) as Harding. So then I wrote an honest and pretentious letter to Eggers with the title "Wisborg in flames".

It pays to be desperate?

- Yes, if the desperation is motivated by something that is true. I meant every word I wrote in that letter, and I think he felt it.

I interviewed your brother Alexander after "Northman". He described it as isolated. How was your Eggers trip?

- It was up and down. I was also very isolated. Self-isolating.

- I lived in a hotel suite in an 18th-century building where Mozart had lived, and you feel that he is sitting in the walls. I walked around this attic and went a little crazy.

- But there was a madness in Orlok that was worth facing. I've talked a lot about my technical methods, but it was also a psychological journey.

The relief after the recording

How has it been to leave Orlok?

- An enormous relief. You don't always feel that way, but the last day of filming was a really tough fucking day. Not performance-wise, but because it was twelve hours in that outfit, and the soles of my feet were the only thing on me that wasn't covered. It means that the body cannot breathe.

- I was close to fainting and had heat stroke. My heart just skipped a beat, and I started thinking about that gold-covered woman in "Goldfinger"…

Who would have been suffocated by the paint?

- Yes, that's not true. But I thought about it. So when I was done, I was so grateful to be free of this evil entity.

What's next for you?

- I'll be home for a couple of days, and then I'll go to Los Angeles and New York for the premieres there, and then home to celebrate Christmas.

The Skarsgård Christmas is supposed to be something really special?

- This year it is split. Everyone is married and has a partner, so you have to take it in turns, and this year it's just been that everyone is with their respective ones. But last year we ran Skarsgård Christmas, and now we will all see each other in the days in between, so then it will be Skarsgård Christmas!

[thefudge]

challengers thoughts, fresh out of the cinema:

so this was a very understated experience. i mean it was so mild??? good mild, even great mild, but still quite mild. the way the film was marketed and the buzz around it, i was expecting smth way more risque and ballsy about the triangle/threesome, but it was all very low-key and elegant and maybe ultimately a little thin, but still worth seeing

i really liked the almost-bursting eroticism of every scene, the way each frame, especially on the tennis court, was so raw and intimate. i do think the eroticism was more enhanced when it came to the men and their half-repressed desires for each other, but i hunger for films that embrace eroticism as visual and tactile language

that being said, i do think this movie held back a lot. i loved the sensual style, mixed in with the sort of aggressive punchiness and frustration of three people who can't bear to be with or without each other, but i don't think this triangle ultimately works because the desires are unequal and the dynamics are not equally compelling

tashi/art needed to have more spark, imo; for the triangle to work all sides need to be interesting. even if the passion has sort of fizzled between art and tashi, their dynamic should've still conveyed some kind of compulsive need. it's not enough for art to be 'pathetically' submissive to her, we need to see why tashi likes that submission, why art can still get under her skin. and i don't think they delivered on that

yes, patrick is the agent provocateur, he's the one who rattles art and tashi, but art has to rattle tashi and patrick back, and while there is a sort of attempt to do that, it doesn't quite land for me.

that's why tashi feels left out of the movie, at times, because when the boys are left to their own devices their chemistry is more interesting than tashi's chemistry with art (and even her chemistry with patrick)

yeah, tashi/patrick was hot and well done and i obviously fuck with them and will be writing smth about them for sure, and that scene where patrick grabs her face in the car and they're basically going at each other, having a mini tennis match and they're not even fucking yet? cinema 10/10. ditto the scene where tashi basically tells him he'd be better off with a gun in his mouth. that's romance babey. but even so! i still think they needed a little smth extra, a little oomph, if you will. we needed to spend more time on the toxicity, on why this pairing didn't work when they were young. i really liked that one fight they showed us back in college (can u tell i liked all their scenes) where they get into the nitty gritty of winning and patrick lets her know he's her peer, not her fanboy, and i wanted more of that!!! more heated discussions about who's in charge, more back and forths about their ambitions and obsessive tendencies, more twisted moments of tashi trying to get in his head by using art and patrick doing the same to her. where's the toxicity!!!! where's the metaphorical tennis!!!

(incidentally, you can see that tashi/patrick and art/patrick scenes play out like riveting and sometimes literal tennis matches, but art/tashi....doesn't. that's why i'm saying this triangle didn't work)

anyway, even with all that, i appreciate the fact that this movie exists and i love that zendaya as tashi was allowed to be really messy and vulnerable but also in charge of her own mistakes. i do agree with folks who say that she was a little sidelined, but i love that she was just as morally devious and hungry as patrick, for instance.

big pluses for the soundtrack, the sound editing and directing. the way luca guadagnino had those boys moan every time they hit the ball lol sir, i see you. i also like that the final act was basically a long, sublimated threesome and the climax was the coming together of all three parts, and the winner didn't matter anymore, because it was always about these three finding a balance, finally tennis became a relationship, like tashi said in the beginning (i just wish the movie had dwelled on this more in order to earn this final scene)

but shooting a tennis match from the POV of the ball??? yesss, this is what i go to the movies for. give me more creative batshit camerawork like that

loved the little things that were communicated entirely without dialogue, things that were planted early on and brought back visually, just the sensual language of cinemaaaaa

so to conclude, i did want more from this experience but i'm glad ppl are still making psyschosexual dramas of this caliber. we desperately need more interesting and three-dimensional media that tackles the intricacies of desire. and we need more crazy camerawork set to trent reznor and atticus ross!

[brynnterpretations]

I love seeing more Bowers gang content! Request: what would their ideal partner be like?

THE BOWERS GANG'S IDEAL PARTNERS ☻

Belch Huggins

Someone sweet and tender, but still assertive, confident, and self-assured. It's very important to Belch to have someone to "hold her own", especially with his position in the gang as, essentially, the "yes-man". Someone with good communication skills, too, is important; Belch has good communication when he's not with the guys, and though he has a lot of anxieties concerning relationships, he prioritizes trust and communication. Good music taste is also a must; if Belch does not vibe with your music taste, he does not vibe with you. He loves piercings, dyed hair, shortness, and "alternative" fashion pieces of the late '80s, like flannels, ripped jeans, plaid skirts, denim jackets, and combat boots.

Henry Bowers

Someone who is gentle, nonjudgmental, and most of all, obedient — sorry, but the gender roles of his father were hammered into Henry's brain. He'd be fine with an occasional deference — typically it helps him get out of his cycles of rage and tunnel-vision — but Henry needs someone he doesn't feel like he has to argue or fight with. He definitely wants a girl at least 3 to 4 inches shorter than him (he's very insecure about his height of 5'8, feeling it makes him less "masculine"). He loves a feminine, "trad" look that isn't too modest but isn't too showy (those gender roles again), meaning at-the-knee dresses, pleated skirts, mary-janes, and anything floral (but not garishly so).

Patrick Hockstetter

The same thing that he views as the best quality in a person: the ability to keep him entertained. Patrick is the least concerned about morals, looks, and personality; whether they're uppity or adventurous, as long as they amuse Patrick and put out (or provide a fun challenge to getting them to put out), he's set. He loves trad-goth and punk looks —he's a sucker for a good dye job and piercings — just as much as he loves preppy, goodie-two-shoes sort of looks, as Patrick loves corrupted people as much as he loves corrupting people. He prefers thicker body types because "it's something to grab on to" (vomit).

Victor Criss

Someone who is ambitious and driven, but still willing to go with the flow and relax at the end of each day. Victor is naturally drawn to go-getter types not only for their ambition, but because of the moments of vulnerability he gets to share with them, where they realize they're not. Having someone with differences that work together for the better is. Victor is mostly unconcerned with style as long as it's not too-in-your-face (looking at you, Greta Keene), but prefers taller to average girls (though shortness isn't a dealbreaker) and a more natural look, like nude makeup and unstyled hair.

[jyeshindra]

ALL ABOUT ARIES ASCENDANT

Here we go! Pt. I of my ascendant/rising series...this time we're covering the stubborn rams of the zodiac; Aries.

Remember, the ascendant is our mask. It's how others perceive us and the first impressions we make in our environment. It denotes our appearance, our way of doing things, and how our personality is expressed in all environments of life.

Whenever I talk about ascendants, I love to start with the chart ruler. You see, every sign is linked to a planet (sometimes two!), and that planet's symbolism can say so much about the sign's behavior and motivations.

For Aries ascendants, your chart ruler is Mars, so this fiery, red-hot planet says much about who you are and your aura. Aries ascendants are independent self-starters who approach life with much vigor and determination. These people set goals and they're likely to achieve them with a quickness and a brashness. Perhaps their way of moving is a bit clumsy or disorganized, Aries-types aren't much for planning or taking their time. Like the Ram, they like to barge in to situations without thinking and improvise from there.

Mars is inceptive. Its primary motivation is to act, to intercept, to invade, to conquer. It's assertive and bold, not afraid to stand up for itself or for someone else. All of these qualities are given to the Aries Ascendant and make for ambitious, hungry individuals. All Aries Ascendants know they are truly 1 of 1, and they're not afraid to live it!

Aries Ascendants often have a unique sense of style, favoring dark clothing, leathers, and reds. Your head/forehead/eyes may be your most prominent features, for Mars often gives a sharpness and intensity to the eyes. Can you see the fire burning in those pupils? I wouldn't be surprised if these Risings also go bald at some point! (for the men in particular). These natives have an intimidating aura, and you can often sense their ambition and independent nature from a mile away. You kind of just know they don't need anyone.

Now Aries is symbolized by the ram generally, but the lamb is an appropriate symbol as well. We forget Aries has a soft, child-like nature to them. They're curious and naive and so are the Ascendants. Life can feel like a playground to some of these natives and their curiosity can get them into lots of fun and lots of trouble.

Where these natives struggle the most is often in the arena of relationships. Aries can be too independent, refuse the help of others, and fail to see the value in cooperation. Their desire to act in accordance with their own interest often alienates them and forces these ascendants to walk a lonely path. These ascendants must grow their wisdom and learn from their 9th house in Sagittarius. You do not have all the answers. There is great wisdom to be gained once you step outside of your comfort zone and open yourself up to learning from others. There is so much power to be claimed by these risings with their Scorpio 8th House. They have the ability to break down any wall and lead armies in the name of great, noble causes.

Aries Ascendants, you are natural leaders. You take charge and you have both the energy and the vision to reach your goals. There's a natural understanding here with the Capricorn Midheaven that it takes time to achieve the recognition and status you know you're worthy of. You will put your nose to the grindstone and sweat to make those dreams come true.

You want the stability and security you know life can bring you. This is represented by your 4th house in Cancer. It's where your true self flourishes. You crave warmth in your environment, a place where all of your emotional needs can be met and attended to. Status may come, yes, but Aries Risings will always want some level of privacy and shelter. Then, the armor can come off and they can truly be the fuzzy lambs we know them to be.

I'll stop here. Let's recap; what I've gone through with this Ascendant is your chart ruler and your angular houses (1st, 4th, 10th, 7th). Through doing this I've dissected your style, your approach to life, areas for growth, how others perceive you, and deep truths about your nature based on the environments you favor/create for yourself if you have an Aries ascendant.

You see? The Ascendant is truly a vehicle of creation. So much of our soul and what our soul makes for itself can be seen through it.

But that's all for today folks. Have a wonderful Thursday.

[mrynnn]

R.F KUANG Books- my thoughts

I just finished reading all of RF Kuang’s work, a while ago and I have to admit, I have some pretty mixed feelings. On one hand, I totally get why she’s praised: her ambition and the themes she writes about like colonialism, identity, and power, are undeniably important. She doesn’t shy away from addressing these big issues, which is bold ofc. But at the same time, there’s something about her execution that really didn’t land for me. I wanted to connect with her characters and stories more than I actually did.

The Poppy War, for example. Rin’s journey is intense, and the story itself is brutal in a way that forces you to confront the cost of war and trauma. But for me, Rin’s character arc felt more frustrating than complex. I get that she’s supposed to be flawed and deeply affected by everything around her, but her decisions often felt predictable. By the time I got to the later books, especially The Burning God, I found myself less invested in her fate because it all seemed like a downward spiral with no real moments of reflection or growth. Yes, it’s tragic, but without that emotional depth, it became exhausting rather than impactful.

Then there’s Babel. This book had so much potential, especially with the setting in academia which i love, and the themes of colonialism and language. The concept itself is super interesting for me, and Kuang clearly has a lot to say about the exploitation and erasure of cultures. But again, I felt like the characters took a backseat to the message. Especially Robin’s struggle to reconcile his love for academia with the reality of its colonial roots is central, but his character felt flat to me. The dynamics between him and the other students had so much potential for complexity, but they nothing ever developed in a way that felt natural or believable . It was like everything was building up to this explosive conflict, but the tension wasn’t fully earned. Instead, it felt forced.

That said, I do like how Kuang challenges the reader. She’s not afraid to dig into uncomfortable topics, and her books definitely make you think. There’s a lot of depth in how she tackles themes of identity and belonging, especially in Babel, where Robin’s experience of being an outsider in an institution that simultaneously reveres and erases his heritage feels very real. But sometimes the way these themes were presented felt too heavy-handed for me. It was like the messaging overtook the story, and while I appreciate the points she’s making. Whats the point of the story if the message is the story, i want more moments where the characters could just breathe.

I think that’s where my main issue is,

I wanted more from the characters themselves. I know they’re meant to be complex and morally ambiguous, but a lot of the time, they felt more like vehicles for the plot rather than fully realized individuals. Nezha, for example, starts out as this arrogant figure you almost hate, but then we get glimpses of something deeper. Still, it felt like we never really got to explore that complexity in a meaningful way.

Kuang’s work is undeniably ambitious, and I respect her for that but I couldn’t fully connect with her stories in the way I wanted to. The themes and the politics are important, but they ended up overshadowing the characters and the emotional core of the narrative for me. I know she has a big following, but personally, her style and approach just didn’t resonate with me as much as I’d liked.