#labels are so inadequate sometimes

[sinsolstice]

𝒢IRL 𝒟AD ⋆˚࿔ CHAPTER 02

SINGLE FATHER! MIGUEL O'HARA X TEACHER FEM READER. fanfic series.

𝓼ynopsis : miguel and his daughter are grocery shopping on one weekend, and he didn’t think he would run into you in the grocery store.

𝔀ord 𝓬ount : 2,250

EARLIER CHAPTER . MASTERLIST . NEXT CHAPTER

Miguel knows that it's that time of the month for grocery shopping. It isn't his favorite thing to do, but he understands it's a necessity. He finds himself in the supermarket with Gabriella on one of the weekends. He’s buying the essentials for himself and his daughter: food, something for himself, and anything Gabriella might want. While the world around him buzzes with people, Miguel focuses intently on his shopping list, eager to check off each item.

He's not alone on this trip; his good friend Jess Drew is with him. She has her own list, shopping for groceries for her growing family. They always help each other out, supporting their families. Without Jess, Miguel doesn’t think he could manage as a single father, and he’s grateful for her presence. There are things Miguel feels inadequate discussing or understanding when it comes to Gabriella’s needs. Sometimes, he makes mistakes with his daughter, but he tries his best to be a good father.

“This brand is good for chicken broth,” Jess says, holding up a package to show him. He glances at the brand’s name, taking note. “Have you also thought about what type of chicken you’re planning to cook with?”

Miguel thinks for a moment before answering, “A mix of thighs and drumsticks. I might throw in some wings too.”

“Chicken wings cook faster than thighs and drumsticks, so don’t be surprised if the wings break into pieces,” Jess advises.

“Daddy,” Gabriella calls, and he turns to look at her. She holds out a cereal box with labels like ‘delicious,’ ‘nutritious,’ and ‘cravingly good.’ He hasn’t seen this type before, but he can guess she’ll ask if he can buy it. “Can we try this?”

“Of course, mija. It can go in the trolley,” he says, taking the box and placing it in the shopping cart. Gabriella skips ahead happily.

Alongside Jess, Miguel continues gathering items from his list while keeping an eye on Gabriella. He ignores the side glances from mothers and women who pass by, noticing their interest in him.

“Hey,” Jess says suddenly. “Gabi, isn’t that one of your teachers?”

Miguel hadn’t processed her words when Gabriella yells a little louder down the aisle. Her voice catches the attention of people by the fridge section, who glance between her and him. He looks up to see Gabriella running ahead towards someone he doesn’t recognize at first. When they turn around, his eyes widen.

“Miss [Last Name]!” Gabriella exclaims, waving in your direction. Confusion on your face turns into a bright smile as you recognize her. You embrace Gabriella in a hug, nearly stumbling backwards from her enthusiastic greeting. “Gabi, hi! I’m glad to see you here.”

Miguel watches Gabriella break away from the hug and hears her ask, “Do you come to this Target store often?”

“I do,” you nod. “I needed to buy a couple of things before heading home.”

In that moment, you lift your gaze and lock eyes with Miguel. He doesn’t register what Jess says when he spots the smile forming on your face. Gabriella calls for him again, breaking his attention momentarily. “Daddy, look who I found!”

“Hi,” Miguel greets, letting go of his cart and walking towards you and Gabriella. His mind buffers a bit as he takes a good look at you; you're in leggings, workout sneakers, and a seamless fitness jacket, with your hair pushed back neatly.

If he hadn’t met you before, Miguel wouldn’t have believed you’re a middle school teacher; you look so different compared to the casual yet professional outfits he remembers. He can’t tear his gaze away and prays he doesn’t appear to be gawking. “It’s been a while.”

“Hi,” you say, your eyes finally meeting him. “It has been a while, almost three weeks, hasn’t it?”

“Yes,” Miguel nods. He’s been counting the days since he last saw you, and three weeks feels like an eternity.

“I’m so glad we bumped into you,” Gabriella says with a wide smile, her brown eyes shining with excitement.

You smile at his daughter and playfully ruffle the top of her head. When your eyes meet Miguel’s once more, his throat tightens as he suppresses a hitch. “How have you and Gabriella been since we last spoke?”

“We’ve been doing well,” Miguel replies, his eyes lingering on you. You look almost unrecognizable and well—great, in fact. His mind fills with thoughts of what your life might be like outside of school—a life he isn't aware of but believes must be beautifully content. Which might explain why he thinks your face glows when he looks at you.

“Hey, girl!” Jess says suddenly, approaching you. Miguel watches the two of you embrace in a tight hug. “You look real good, lovely.”

A sheepish smile appears on your face. “Thank you. Just got back from the gym,” you say, glancing between Jess and Miguel. “Are you two doing grocery shopping together?”

“Daddy is planning to make the food Auntie Jess always makes for me after school,” Gabriella explains.

He nods. Miguel considers himself a decent cook, but now that you know he’s preparing a meal, he can't help but show off a little about his culinary skills. He presses his lips together at the sight of your intrigued eyes, noting how your mouth curves into a smile. “I’ve always wanted to try and make your recipes, Jess.”

“Only if you trade me some of your delicious baking treats,” Jess counters.

“I’m altering the marble cookie recipe next week with a new cocoa brand,” you say. “I’ll give you a free sample.”

Jess grins and glances at Miguel before looking back at you. “Have you tried Mexican food before?” she asks. “I can’t remember if you have.”

“Oh,” you look at Miguel with a smile. “Unfortunately, I haven’t had the chance.”

“Mexican food is the best!” Gabriella exclaims proudly.

“You know, if you’re interested in trying some, Miguel is your guy,” Jess says, grinning knowingly at Miguel. He realizes she’s up to something. “He makes amazing Mexican dishes.”

“Oh, really?” you turn to look at Miguel.

Miguel nods, almost stammering—he never does, but he nearly slips up this time. “I can. Let me know your preferences, and I'll do my best to make a dish for you.”

“We can trade,” you say, your eyes lighting up with joy. “You cook a Mexican dish, and I’ll bake something for you.”

“That sounds like a good proposal,” Miguel smiles, his mouth curving into a grin.

Your gaze holds his, creating a moment of calm despite the busy retail environment. You look at him in a way that makes him pause, his chest thumping, and throat tightening, but not unpleasantly. He can’t get over how different you look. How good you look on this mundane Saturday afternoon. His eyes inadvertently trace the curves of your hips and waist, hidden behind the shade of his glasses.

“I should get going; I have another commitment,” you say apologetically. You step back, snapping Miguel out of his thoughts. “But it was nice to see all three of you, especially you, Gabi.”

Gabriella smiles at you despite the conversation ending sooner than Miguel had anticipated. “See you at school, then, Miss [Last Name]!”

“Bye, Gabi,” you smile and wave at her. “And goodbye, Jess, Miguel. I hope we run into each other again.”

“See ya later, girl,” Jess says with a wave. Miguel is so deep in thought that he doesn't notice Jess’s departure until he feels a light nudge on his forearm.

Blinking behind his dark shades, he quickly recomposes himself and nods in your direction. “Hope to see you again soon.”

“I hope so too,” you reply, beaming at him and waving one last time.

Miguel watches you walk away from the aisle. Gabriella chatters about your baking and how excited she is to try a new recipe from you. You're still on his mind when he turns to Jess. “She loves baking?”

“Her baking is to die for. The marble cookies she makes are my favorite,” Jess sighs contentedly. “I hope I get to eat some before I deliver the baby next month.”

Miguel lingers at the spot where you stood, your presence like a vivid memory. The thumping in his chest settles, yet he can't shake off the sensation. You're still in his thoughts when Gabriella calls him to come down the shopping aisle. He hopes to see you again because, after all, the third time’s a charm, right?

⭐︎ ⭐︎ ⭐︎ ⭐︎ ⭐︎

It’s Monday afternoon, and you're in your classroom when Jess Drew stops by as she waits for Gabriella to finish her soccer practice. You feel the tiredness settling in after a long, hard day of teaching and looking after your students. Even though school hours have ended and most of the students have gone home, your workday isn’t over. You still have papers to grade, a classroom to tidy up, and lesson plans to prepare for tomorrow.

“Oh, thank goodness for these,” Jess says as you place a Tupperware of freshly baked cookies on your desk. It always makes you happy to see a smile on someone’s face when they enjoy your baking. “Thank you so much.”

You hear the Tupperware open and know that Jess is taking a bite of your cookies. A contented groan fills the classroom. “You always know the way to a person’s heart.”

Her comment makes you smile sheepishly. “I’ll take that as a compliment, Jess.”

Jess continues to enjoy the cookies, groaning softly with each bite and calling them ‘perfect as always.’ While she treats herself, you reorganize the paperwork piling on your desk. Your plan for the rest of the afternoon is to grade the students’ papers before heading home, avoiding bringing work into your personal time.

“So… tell me. What did you think of Miguel O’Hara the other day?”

“Miguel?” You look up from the papers to Jess. Pressing your lips thoughtfully, you say, “He’s a good father. I can see why Gabi looks up to him so much.”

Jess hums, “Anything else?”

“Nothing else,” you reply, a little unsure of what she means but suspecting the direction of the conversation. Her growing smile makes you chuckle nervously. “I just think he’s a good person who loves his daughter very much.”

“Miguel isn’t seeing anyone, by the way,” Jess adds, raising her hands when you give her an unamused look. “I’m just saying.”

“Jessica,” you sigh, a nervous smile forming. “I won’t take it as a chance just because he’s available.” You wonder if Miguel had been married before, but quickly dismiss the thought. “I care about Gabi too much to risk making her uncomfortable or hurting her feelings.”

“I understand,” Jess smiles kindly. “But I don’t think you could upset her. She looks up to you a lot, you know? You’re one of her role models. I think she loves you as if you were one of her guardians.”

That brings a smile to your face, thinking about Gabriella. Teachers shouldn’t have favorite students, but you can’t help yourself with her. She’s the sweetest girl you’ve ever met. A bright, beautiful child who will grow up to be an amazing young woman. Miguel is fortunate to have such a wonderful daughter. “Well, I do my best to set a good example for the kids.”

“You are a great example,” Jess adds. “Don’t sell yourself short.”

You smile and return to grading the papers. It’s not just her words that make you think about the O’Haras. You recall the unexpected encounter at the store and Miguel. It's been three weeks since your first meeting, and a small part of you hopes the universe will bring another chance to see him again. Yesterday was unexpected, but you’re not complaining because, well, the universe listened to you, didn't it? Even though you were a bit self-conscious about possibly smelling of sweat from exercising, the way his eyes followed you is a thought you can’t shake off—you swear he was checking you out behind his sunglasses.

“He is handsome, isn’t he?” you admit, a smile curving at the corners of your mouth. “With his shades, I mean. Although, I have seen his eyes before. They’re brown, right? But they looked lighter under the lights—almost red when I first met him.”

“He is your type,” Jess grins, laughing softly when you call her out.

“I’m not going to lie, I think so too,” you say, shaking your head, amused by the conversation. “But that doesn’t mean I’m going to pursue him.”

“You think he’s your type? Girl, he is exactly your type,” Jess insists.

Groaning, you playfully hide your face in your arms on the table, grumbling shyly at her teasing. Miguel O’Hara stays in your mind throughout the afternoon. Even when the topic shifts, your thoughts keep flickering back to the single father of your student.

thank you for reading!

[new-tella-us]

Brotherly Beef

Honestly all the brother can get on each other's nerves but there are some that have more beef than others.

For James, it's his concerns with Sam- Sam is, of course, a bit rough around the edges. He leans into his brute side. James projects a lot of his insecurities of being like his father onto Sam which causes him to be extra cautious of Sam's behavior. James cares about his brothers but this plus being so reckless and hard to talk to means most of their interactions are either short or scolding in nature.

Erik and Sam share beef. As children, similar in age and not separated by either parent (at the time) they were really close and were pretty similar. Sam wasn't as angry (as he hadn't started using rage magic) and Erik was quite rowdy as a kid. They got along. But Kalipo would catch them and take Erik away and as they got older, not only did they get distant but they started to dislike who the other was becoming.

Matthew has a good few insecurities related to James- Matthew looks up to James. To him, James represents perfection. But years of being mocked for his imperfections turned brotherly respect into envy. He wants what James has, not truly aware what was sacrificed for James to get to that label. It doesn't help that James sometimes treats Matthew like a child or else doesn't stop the others from (more directly) calling Matthew a child. He just generally feels inadequate.

Damien doesn't really have "beef" with his brothers. As in, he doesn't have a clear resentment of any of them. But he does have a slight distrust of one. Matthew. This stems from Aezera's treatment of Damien and his mother. Of all the moms, Aezera was the most openly resentful and would allow her servants to hurt the duo. Damien doesn't blame Matthew for that, rather he blames Matthew for turning a blind eye to his mother's cruelty. Matthew gives Aezera a great rep when he discusses her and it feels like Damien's pain got shoved to the side so that Aezera could keep her clean rep in Matthew's eyes.

[aspecpplarebeautiful]

Sometimes, I feel like I’m hiding behind the asexual label because I’m traumatized by intimacy. I do often feel attraction, and sometimes have a high libido, which I’ve read disqualifies me from being “actually” asexual. I also have periods of severe repulsion, with crippling physical symptoms.

I recently learned the term “aegosexual,” which is the closest I’ve come to feeling like my asexuality is “justified.” It’s so disheartening when people (even aces) define asexuality as “zero attraction” with no nuance. I feel attraction, but I am scared. My sexuality does not feel normal. Is it stupid to use this label due to emotional barriers, rather than definite inability?

Thank you for running this blog. It has been so helpful in finding a voice for my identity.

Yeah, I feel like the 'no attraction' definition became popular because it was useful for community outreach and clearly explaining the concept to non-asexuals who'd never heard of asexuality before. But as a definition to use within the community, it's completely inadequate. Sexual identity is made up not just from attraction but also sex drive, desire, repulsion, etc. Anyone who experiences any part of sexual identity in a way allosexual people don't falls under the asexual spectrum and can identify as asexual.

So yeah that's a long paragraph to say your experience count as actually asexual, Anon. And people shouldn't be gatekeeping based off a not-great definition that isn't even used by the whole community. (Or really gatekeeping at all.)

For identifying as ace because of trauma, you can do that too. It can definitely get complicated when it comes to trauma, because trauma and recovery from trauma are both hard to predict, but even if trauma is the reason why the asexual and aegosexual labels resonate with you, the point is that they do still resonate and you do still find them useful.

Sometimes with trauma too it can be really hard to tell what part of your identity comes from the trauma, and what is how you might be naturally, and sometimes it never does become clear, no matter how much you heal. So that's another important reason why it tends to work better to base your labels on if they resonate, if they're useful, etc. And so long as that remains true, you can keep using them.

All the best, Anon!

[rinriya]

First of all, I want to say that SoH is an amazing work in overall. It is dramatic, serious, interesting, tragic and soulful. Sometimes bloody, frightening, maddening, mind-blowing. But sometimes funny, colorful, warm and with unpredictable twists and turns. This game has completely unpredictable, intriguing situations, but they all add up to one big, overall picture. Each story chapter intertwined into one incredible book that you read out. You empathize with the characters, you understand them, you laugh with them, you cry because of them and fight for them.

Sure, you can make your MC a bad, rude, bloodthirsty person. You can do bad things and not delve into other people's problems, but what hooked me personally in SoH… is the opportunity to be a real hero without a demonstrative label. I can't stand characters who literally boast about being kind, fair and helpful. It looks so pompous, unpleasant and lofty. As if you are nothing compared to the beacon of justice and law. When a "hero" like this talks, I want to roll my eyes. I love when person shows who they are through their actions, even if, at first glance, they seems most unreliable and immoral.

The main character, ronin, is precisely like that. They don't trust anyone, have a hard time opening up to others, hate themselves more than all their enemies hate them combined… and at the same time, they embody a true talented, wise hero (if you play this route, of course).

Take for example my ronin. Akio. A man who hates himself, carries the weight of responsibility, guilt and a painful past on his shoulders, pushes people away… is incredibly caring, protective and conscientious. At first glance, just a drunkard mercenary, but in fact, a man with a heart of gold. Sometimes sharp-tongued, sometimes straightforward and stubborn. He often hides the truth to protect others and always suffers from some inadequate inner instinct of self-sacrifice for the sake of others. He doesn't think about risks, he just helps. It's in his nature. He doesn't believe in his own importance, but people are drawn to him. He fights, doesn't give up, shows strength, resilience, and will. To put it simply, at the beginning of the journey he is a real mess. He suffers from an innate sense of justice, bleeding heart, self-loathing, and men in love with him. He come an incredibly long way from a dirty dog ​​to a man ready to learn self-forgiveness.

In this wonderful art, drawn by @tokiko220, I tried to show the connection between the past and the present. The way my ronin has changed from first book to the last one. How he looked at the beginning of the journey and where he is now. As you can see the "past" ronin have dark blood under his feet, and the "current" ronin stands on clear water. Streams of blood and water collide, mixing and like a river stream, flow away. The symbolism is that the past and present are inseparable, but now the ronin himself chooses whether the river will be clean or bloody.

I like that the ronin is not a permanently invulnerable hero. He can lose, he can grieve, he can see the consequences of his decisions. He may be in a complete despair, on the very edge. He can be weak, he can be scared. He can be human.

Plus, honestly, it's so funny that MC doesn't believe that someone can love, care and desire them, but most of the characters (both main and secondary) adore ronin with a variety of feelings.

Well, also, this applies only to my personal walkthrough, but after a long time my Akio become calmer, more graceful, more elegant and more wise, as if a real experienced sensei. But despite all his strength, incredible martial talents, leadership, he still revains sensitive and needy of love. I don't know if this could be called as a certain trope, but I absolutely adore when a strong, skilled, fearsome hero becomes soft, gentle and becomes vulnerable/open onlу with the loved one.

To put it simply, I never get tired of taking screenshots of favorite moments and admiring this rare, thoughtful story. The text is well-written, colorful and easy to read. You can understand how subtle the author feels his work, how much attention was put into the details, how much information been studied for the authenticity. The descriptions are captivating, the emotions are touching, the battles excites imagination and every character you met, carries something that you will remember. In your head every word transforms into a breathtaking series (or anime).

The story has exactly what lacks so much sometimes — a real, sincere, selfless kindness and the opportunity to make the world a better place. SoH can be very dark, expose baser aspects of human nature, frighten with real situations and fascinate with mythical mysteries. But among all this struggle and survival, I see a thrilling adventure full of inspiration, friendship and the desire to fight for good. SoH is about justice, about the desire to protect and learn, about hope in the darkness, about the strength born from love, care and protection.

SoH makes you think, feel, experience emotions, and only a great book has the power to do that.

Cr. @samuraiofhyuga (Devon Connell / MChoiceStudios)

[zarathelonewolf]

Me when the

✨Aroaceflux✨

hits

( which is all the fucking time)

Romance cool! Sex cool! I want romance! I like the way that guy looks! I wanna kiss that guy so bad! I want a boyfriend! I want that guy as boyfriend! Wait, do I want sex? No, I only want cuddles now that I think of It, I want him to only cuddle me... Or do I? Wait a minute hold on... I do want romance though! But I don't feel the romance right now... Wait I do! Wait I... Don't? Nah nah I do feel romance right NOW, but do I have to buy him bouquets? I hope he understands that I really don't want sex today and tomorrow (maybe the whole week), I'm kinda scared of doing stuff like that with someone else now... Or am I, wait, Is the want for sex back up? Yep it is, lucky me, one less turbulence to deal with! There's too much turbulence anyway though, what the fuck...

Here, Imagine this bullshit in my brain and body throughout the day. I could feel attraction one hour and feel completely different for two hours after that and then go back to feeling it. Below are the specifics of my experience, if anyone cares...

I fluctuate between feeling romantic attraction and not doing so. When I don't feel It, though, I remain romance neutral or favorable, mostly the latter, and I use my platonic attraction to fuel the bond. That means that I should likely end up in a relationship with someone that fluctuates like me, or someone who wants to be my best friend and romantic partner interchangeably. When I feel romantic attraction, being polykin I prefer to express it with animalistic behaviours like rubbing/bumping foreheads together, bumping my head on someone's shoulder, "laughing" like an excited fox and stuff, which can cause disconnect (in a "would anyone actually want a freak like me" scenario). I also want to express myself like this with friends, but in a romantic relationship I would also feel like kissing the person.

My romantic fluctuations are more frequent than the sexual ones. I don't feel sexual attraction often, and I feel romantic attraction often.

I fluctuate between feeling sexual attraction and not doing so. I don't feel sexual attraction most of the time. When I don't feel It, I am either sex positive or something I like to call "real life sex repulsed", because I still can consume sexual content even while repulsed, given that I am alone; if it manifests itself, my repulsion only concerns actual real life sex with another person, or watching R rated stuff with someone close to me. I can also get animalistic when I feel sexual attraction, the behaviours are similar to the romantic/platonic ones but have more intensity; rubbing against a body with my whole body is another sexual behaviour, to which sounds are added. I feel like kissing the person in a lot of places, and even biting them and nibbling soflty. However these urges are muted when my sexual attraction Is absent.

To wrap things up, the "fluctuation" of sexual attraction manifests itself as a spike in sexual attraction and then prolonged periods of abscence of sexual attraction, in which I am moslty sex positive.

I often feel fearful of being a "fake" asexual and aromantic person, but It Is clear to me that I don't experience attraction the same way that alloaro peeps do. When I see an aesthetically pleasing person I feel strong platonic and sensual attraction, sometimes romantic, but never sexual; sexual attraction CAN happen if I have spoken more with the person, but it still fluctuates even then, which is why I don't use the demisexual and demiromantic labels.

It doesn't help that I have a high libido, and that when my sexual attraction is absent, which is very very often, I feel sex favourable a lot of the time and not sex repulsed; sex repulsion is as rare as sexual attraction in me. I am also kinky, I would like a d/s relationship one day with me being the sub.

I feel like I don't fit with alloaro people because if I were in a relationship with one, maybe they could feel inadequate because I don't feel sexual attraction for them, even though I would be willing to have sex anyway because sex looks fun and I like the idea a lot; and even if they accept that, what would happen if I entered a sex repulsed phase at one point of being together? I am scared that finding an alloaro partner physically pleasing and trusting them more than anyone else may not be enough for them. Also my fox behaviours are something that I have been taught are improper, and beastly (derogative), I feel dirty for them (my fox soul cries rn).

On the other hand I often hear aroace people speaking of being sex repulsed and sex neutral, romance repulsed and romance neutral, of not wanting a romantic and/or sexual relationship, and I feel exluded and fake because that is not how I feel most of the time. I am afraid that I am not aroace, actually.

At this point I would simply like to be in a relationship with a very affectionate aroace person on the greyaromantic or greysexual spectrum, but is it wrong of me to want that? Should I also add cupioromantic and cupiosexual to my identity, to avoid misconceptions?

I feel hopeless, like I'll never find someone that can love me as much as I love them. Someone to cuddle with, someone to kiss, someone to rub against and play with. Someone to be my companion.

Sorry, just needed to vent. If anyone wants to write something, scold me, idk, just go for it.

EDIT: I ONE OF THE REBLOGS I EXPLAIN THAT I HAVE CHANGED MY LABELS and understood what actually could be going on with my identity. Turn out there is internalized transphobia at work.

Rewriting my EDIT here (keep in mind nothing is fixed and I still use the aroace flux label for myself, but I prefer other labels which better describe me):

"I came back to this post recently to clarify that I am closer to the labels Heteroromantic/Almondromantic and Bisexual for myself.

I have realized that in my specific case, I was feeling repulsion towards romance and sex due to internalized issues, like internalized transphobia, I believed myself to look like "too much of a woman" to be considered both a woman and a man; and also very very very low self-esteem which made me think myself unworthy of sex or romantic attention... So my brain convinced itself it did not exist in me but it was not true. I know that "aromanticism and asexuality stem from trauma" is a stereotype/incorrect notion, as there are many aroace/aro/ace people who have been this way since childhood without having been traumatized, and they remained asexual and aromantic even when they were traumatized and after healing from the trauma, in my case I am not sure what happened, but I do think the abuse suffered at the hands of my mother and society's predilection for beauty standards and gender roles helped in the development of something akin to these experiences where sex and romance ended up making me repulsed at times."

There was another line in the EDIT but I forget which it is. I remember it said that I still feel sexual and romantic repulsion at times, but maybe that is owed to my neurodivergence (idk what "flavor" I am yet but something is not clicking neurotipically in my brain).

[yohohonabottle]

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The beginning - Prologue

—„We should go to Ryeham! Chippy heard there’s a fire happening!” - A chubby, near fat hamster dressed in knightly heavy armor yelps in valor, his companion humming back. A mage, who appears much more calmer than the superb knight. The bead-like warm eyes deftly scanning over the letter that had arrived at their cozy spire in urgency.

—“Good thing Dolly got the letter Hogan has sent us.” But their words ring distant and much too blurrily muffled in the ears of the person huddled onto the sofa in the small elevated balcony-like space of the tavern’s lounge. Drawing the soft, fuzzy and warm blanked tighter around the shoulders, the figure stares into the cup of quadruple-honeyed caramel and citrus chamomile tea in hand.

It has only been a day he...she..? … had woken up in this familiar place that intuition tells is home. And the red-haired lovely maiden known as Dolly greeted with the two talking hamsters at her sides; Filled him..in on all the events that had transpired in the past, the present, who he...she...is. Or supposed to be—Old memories pieced back into better cohesion. A fragmented mural. The name is Merlin, and a man who is the Archmagus, chief of the magisters’ council in the war against the gods’ avatars...Also known as the Arcane Council, founded towards the Immortal war’s end. The man who found out about the energies, or rather the gods’ residual prowess flowing throughout the world, labelled it with the term Magic, and ways of using it.

Yet it feels… convenient. Falls a little too well into place. That, and as though the goddess Dura, newest of the supreme court or pantheon, had a plan in mind. Blessed him to see that which is unknown to any mortal—The innovation, revolution, the change. And entrusted him with a mission, one he still has no clue what it is supposed to be nor how to be accomplished. Only small, vague hints with the rest being nonsensical. Namely, what to do after leading the respective Divine sword-wielders to their weapon. What then? Likely those Chosen ones will be pulled into another great war, the one that comes and goes perpetually since immemorial. ...As it has been done in every cycle since the very first. And how many lives has it been? Sometimes, it’s one continuous reincarnation. Sometimes, it’s separate people—Each taking up the mantle and becoming a node in the perpetual cycle of iterations riding the sands of time…. And buried underneath all the same, each falling faceless under the title. For solely their deeds echo far in time’s halls, connected to the name of the Chosen Merlin, rather than their own.

Who...was I, am I, really? Other than Dura’s chosen? But there’s not much time to dwell, is there? No, there’s a mission to fulfil – Same as the last cycle. Yet…

Yet I feel like eroding. I must get back my powers, all of my memories into one-- Not just these snippets. But I’m eroding away, I… I can’t carry the torch.. Not for this cycle. –„Magister..? You seem very distracted…” Worried pairs of eyes gaze up at his neutral face and blank stare. Hogan… Forgive me my old friend. Rising onto his feet, the disheveled chocolate-brown hair falls in his face, blanket now on the velvety couch.

—“I can’t bear Dura’s mission this set of iterations. Not with this half amnesia and weak powers, not with barely knowing my own identity and being so...Inadequate.” Dolly eyes her boss warily, hands resting on her apron. There’s no swaying the great Arch-magus once he’s made his mind.

The two faithful familiars look between each other then pad after their owner, their creator. The green-eyed maid following after them with a beat’s pause.

—”I have to piece myself back, but can’t let Esperia see or know. Just as I can’t be absent and not resolve this cycle’s sequence of crises.” Thinking aloud under his breath, firm tone and a faint tint of frustration. Maybe even a wink of desperation within the urgency, long strides already having carried the haggard mage to the upper floor and the archives. Somehow his hands know the key to unlock the secret trove of tomes locked behind the innocently unassuming façade of books up for leisurely perusal.

“Humans are off the table, same as Maulers and Graveborn are not even in the question. Especially the Graveborn—Those lot always strive to sap away life. No, they’re unstable, latched onto whatever was dearest to them in life and dying moments, and their psyche got warped around death.”

Grabbing a thick tome and hastily placing it onto the lectern, the deft hands flip through pages. “Wilders are…Admittedly good choice, but will crack. I need someone with powerful magic, core and longevity, who can handle magic in its brunt and not erode. Yes, I need something that is most durable and well-familiar with it.” Names scrawled onto pages, categorized by bloodline and family peer back up at his honeyed eyes. Most have lost their glow, faded away to a faint trace.

-Crimsonfang dynasty is entirely greyed out, every family within it and members of those families as well. Those Blazing stars had chosen to move on from Esperia since the Crusades, have not chosen to return to this day. It happened around the same time the Arcane Council came together, but this race of beings has existed well before that time. The exact era they emerged onto Esperia is unknown, most likely are some of the native species similar to dragons and elementals. I only know it took a century for the Crusades to bring Blazing stars to extinction...I can’t remember when the Temple issued the decree. Not currently relavant.

-Blind Moirai, same as the Crimsonfangs. Brows furrowed, Merlin heaves a long sigh in an exasperated huff. Attaliate Praesidio was one of the best prophets and spell-weavers of her family within the colony. Only bested by the Matriarch and her heirs… The name isn’t entirely faded, color no longer of blues and teals, vibrant as it was when she lived. It’s tinged with red, a color of blood and kin—

Attaliate has a trace. Just as her husband Euthymius. But that thread isn’t within the Moirais dynasty, rather… Quickly flipping several pages ahead in the thick, enormous tome to follow the trace, the magister lands on a particular family. Hestopeous – Hospitality. Often referred to by Hestios for simplicity and ease. A family within the Eclipse lineage, four or five generations away from the progenitors of the dynasty. Jaallanne - Diinqan -Hestios, the herald of Tritonus and later relinquished to Misarte. A smile of relieved cheer spreads onto Merlin’s face.

Jaallanne, or Larra – as how she renamed herself – has that faint trace. Because Attaliate’s husband, Bonded, is actually of Eclipse.

Tracing his finger further down the Hestios ansectry line, the thread leads to one name still alight vividly. A Blazing star, that has not left Esperia yet. A descendant carrying the potential of the Eclipse, Crimsonfangs and the Blind weavers— Ioan – Ekchauh – Hestopeous.

That much I remember like yesterday—He was given to Talene as herald after the Dusk Lord met his end. And the father, the Setting Sun’s Arrow, best Tooth, was given to Dulingr.

The spell was already onto his mind’s eye, as initimately familiar as it is foreign. Stepping out onto the balcony, Merlin stills to concentrate…

“Ωανδερερ φρομ τιμε ανδ κιν λοστ, ηεεδ με.” (Wanderer from time and kin lost, heed me.) “Ασσυμε μψ στεαδ, μακε μψ πατ�� ψουρ οων.” (Assume my stead, take my path as your own,)

A surge of energy pull, burning like Talene's flames and a star shone brighter than the rest on the sky. An answer. A will-o-the wisp floats down, a spirit of shimmering gold, teal, blood-red and yellowish-orange that swirled like wind. And from that wisp, formed a wyvern with flowing runes of sonorous tongue. ᛐᚮᚡᛡᛆᛐᛂᚿᛑ (“To what end?”) The orbs, pits of light bear down onto the legendary mage. Waiting. Eyes aglow gold, the Autumn wind sways the amnesiac’s hair and cloak as he meets the smoldering stare. A simple smile of quiet wisdom and mirth blossoms onto the mage’s visage, feeling the spirit’s emotions flow like smoke plumes and river torrents. Agitation, distrust, exhaustion, traces of sorrow, the desire to move on rather than linger. And a huff escapes the being’s nostrils, skeptical to the offer he extends in turn as persuasion to stay for just one more life.

“σεε τηε λανδς ανεω, φινδ ψουρ ανσωερς ωιτηιν τιμε πρεσεντ.” (See the lands anew, find your answers within time present.) “γαιν ωηατ ψου αλωαψς σουγητ ιν ξψξλες πριορ.” (Gain what you always sought in cycles prior.) “ρετυρν ατ τηε πατης ενδ, ι σηαλλ σετ ψου φρεε το ροαμ ονξε μορε.” (Return at the path’s end, I shall set you free to roam once more.) Still wary, the spirit of flames gripping onto the balcony’s railing blinks once, quickly, then again – Slower. Pensive silence permeates the link of consciousness, considering his words without looking away from his gaze. ...Stern..

….ᛁ ᚡᛁᛚᛚ ᛡᚮᛚᛑ ᚤᚮᚢ ᛐᚮ ᚤᚮᚢᚱ ᚮᛆÞ,ᚲᛟᚾᛞᚢᛁᛏ.ᚳᚻᚩᛋᛖᚾ ᚩᚠ ᚦᛖᚷᛟᛞᛊ. (I will hold you to your oath, Conduit. Chosen of the gods.)

“ι ασσυρε ψου, σταρ οφ εμβερς.” (I assure you, spirit of embers.) “μψ ωορδ ις μψ μοστ σαξρεδ βονδ ανδ ϝοω,” (My word is my most sacred bond and vow,) “ι δοντ γιϝε ιτ ωιτη λιγητ μινδ, νορ ωιλλ ιτ βε τραμπλεδ.” (I don’t give it with light mind, nor will it be trampled.)

A low, thrilling hum of a growl followed by a harsh click of jaws as the wyvern shifts. The rumble, akin to that of encroaching thunder, is accompanied by the beak pulling back into a slight snarl. Bared teeth, a very somber warning. Then the Blazing star huffs, more gruffly this time, the heated air ghosting sharply over Merlin’s face and ruffling his fringe if not very narrowly singing it.

For the very first time the eternally reincarnating spirit of fire and wanderlust speaks, voice an eerie lullaby that echoes. Uses common Esperian tongue in place of Logos, of the psyche-link between them, eyes never leaving his.

“Very well. So be it.” ᚱᛖᛗᛖᛗᛒᛖᚱ ᛁᚩᚢᚱ ᚠᚩᚹᛋ. ᛘᛁᚱᛚᛁᚾ. (Remember your vows. Merlin.)

[mistfallengw2]

In honor of Pride Month, here's a rapidfire ramble about my OCs' orientations and how those and their actual preferences play off with their personalities and shape key moments of their story. Bonus context for my hc on queerness in Tyria.

Aurelia Dragonwings - Pansexual homoromantic Girls are pretty. I mean, boys are neat too, but she only ever had eyes for Ardea and later on Ellara, and that clear preference never had her experiment with the other side. The one and only experience she had with a guy was with her best friend Obsius, specifically when Ardea wanted to have a cub and she took one round "just to try it", only to end up having a cub as well (Adamas is an oopsie baby, yes). In general, labels are very confusing to her and the topic of romance held a lot of grief for years, so she would avoid answering any question on the matter, but if someone were to ask her friends, they'd just say she "doesn't know she's lesbian for someone".

Adamas Crystalsoul - Pansexual He's a pretty boy with great pedigree and had waves of people interested in him, but in the fahrar he was too focused on becoming Legionnaire to entertain childhood crushes, and then his heart got snatched away by Maeveryl before he even considered romance an option, still recovering from the loss of his would-be warband. Countless hearts got crushed by the fact that the Pact Commander's son was open about dating a sylvari and being loyal to them, yet Deryn somehow managed to woo the guy (only because Maeveryl sometimes quite literally pushed him towards her). Overall he has a feminine and androgynous preference, though like his mother he never had a proper chance to explore romance with guys.

Tocchix - Demisexual panromantic (trans guy) He spent most of his teenage years feeling sort of inadequate for romance because he never felt "the full pull" towards anyone (not helped by the comparison to a serial crush-haver like Fynn, his best friend in Lion's Arch), so he preferred to focus on training hard and join the Order of Whispers, figuring that it'd be a problem for his older self. Terrible at picking up on flirting attempts and needing to have it very slowly and clearly spelled out for him, he missed a ton of chances with many, and that was not helped by the fact that when he falls for someone, he becomes the definition of devotion, not seeing anyone else even to his detriment. He only ever fell for Iotta, Poffi and, many years later, Huki.

Maeveryl - Panromantic asexual (non-binary) While they are pan, they do have a strong preference for masculinity, or better, a general aversion towards feminine behavior and appearance. They had their first experience with romance with their saplinghood best friend, Morwen, and they quickly figured out femininity wasn't really for them, both for their own body and in a partner. After that, they only had another experience that ended bitterly, and then Adamas became their heart. Years later, when Deryn joins their relationship with Adamas, they don't share romantic feelings for each other, though they quickly become quite platonically affectionate with each other.

Ellara Echodancer - Homosexual Just lesbian. Girls gals girls. Only women of all kinds. She's totally not a hot mess, because she's got rizz and isn't afraid to use it, even just to have a little innocent flirty fun that totally isn't a distraction.

Hel Ravenlost - Homosexual G g girls... pr... etty... Don't worry, after losing Sieran without having been able to tell her how she felt for years, she does get better at not completely hiding her feelings. Luck isn't on her side, but third time's the charm, I swear!

Bunnie - Pansexual demiromantic (non-binary) She likes to sleep around, so anyone willing and compatible (both personality-wise and physically) is fair game for her to have a little no-strings-attached fun. As for the romantic side, I elaborated on it a bit here, but in short she does want romantic relationships and isn't afraid of showing the kind of interest in others that could lead to that, but she always had issues with developing feelings of the romantic kind and having them last, so she tends to coyly hide behind a bit of an emotionally-nonchalant facade until she feels safe to love someone.

Ethanryel - Asexual aromantic (agender) Just never felt anything of either kind of attraction, and that's very much fine for them. Bunnie once explained queerplatonic relationships to them, but that ended up being a sore point for them. The closest thing to that could have been their bond with Grace, a Zephyrite gal who had taught them a lot about healing and voiced for them to join the Zephyrite on their last travel. She had a pretty evident crush on them yet she was the first that didn't make them uncomfortable, but before they got to talk about anything of that matter, she was mortally wounded in the crash in Dry Top, and they never forgave themselves for not having been able to save her. Years later, when Aurene branded their arm to save them, Ethanryel took the title of Grace of Aurene in memory of their friend.

Deryn - Pansexual Gender doesn't matter to her, if one is a nice and hot charr, they're a nice and hot charr. Probably if Mae were a charr she'd have made a move on them as well, but after the initial fascinated curiosity towards the very concept of sylvari, only strong platonic feelings towards them are left.

Markus Blake - Bisexual Due to his parents being in a queerplatonic relationship and being told since really young that he'd have assured the freedom to choose they nearly didn't get (Nora and Lionel were childhood best friends who married each otherso that they could have the kid they both did want and be done with further family expectations, with her being lesbian and him aroace), he never really thought much of romance, thinking he'd just know when he found "the one". When he met Kai, he thought he'd found that one and hoped she'd eventually return his feelings for years, failing at being clear with her about it while ignoring what he felt towards Fynn, the best friend he had found at the same time. It took him a while, but, by what felt just short of divine intervention, he eventually figured out that the "one" was actually "two".

Nari - Bisexual homoromantic Gals is where it's at. She does find feminine people hot in general and had a few experimental flirts across the gender spectrum, but proper relationships are something she knows she wants only with gals. She believes that such kind of strong confidence in her own ideas was what caught Hel's attention in spite of not being norn, not realizing that Hel prefers non-norn until much later.

Iotta - Pansexual demiromantic Her opinion of romance is that it sucks, like all that comes with it. Sure, people can be hot in ways that make sense from a biological standpoint, but for her whole life she couldn't imagine willingly being in a relationship, because everyone else is grossly incompetent and, at best, more annoying than what she could deal with on a daily basis. Being in a relationship with a dork like Tocchix only confirmed that she hates it, because that kind of implicit vulnerability and distracting fondness for someone else goes against everything she knows to be safe, and she utterly despises the fact she wants more of it and that she played herself into it by getting that brilliant idea of manipulating him in the first place. And then being "left behind" shattered any positive perception of romance nearly irreparably, and it drives her mad that she can't get that yearning blade out of her heart so it can rot in peace. So yeah, romance sucks, and it sucks that she fell for it that one time.

Poffi - Demisexual biromantic Growing up in a small krewe that was part of the same polyamorous pod for years and that treated her like their own progeny, she was exposed to plenty of relationship examples, so she thought she had a pretty clear idea of what she was like by the time she left home to join the Order. Sadly she never got the chance to test her theories due to her general insecurities, and she also missed the pretty important part where maybe some girls can be just as romanceable as guys. (hey, at least AU!Poffi gets to go through quite the poly rollercoaster)

Daunte Burstspell - Homosexual He's a simple charr: he liked his guys hot like his fire, and life was not a little fun without the risk of burns. Verge was his flame since childhood, and they openly shared their warmth with many others. Daunte continued doing so after losing him, and even though it was never the same, he did genuinely care for the young norn he so gleefully annoyed to no end.

Hagan Wesson - Pansexual Forced to run away from Hoelbrak and break up with his childhood sweetheart, Gretna (Hel's sister), he eventually tried to get over it in some way, and ended up having some... positively revealing experiences. Swinging for years between times where he wanted to enjoy himself without attachment and others where he tried to ignore everything else to focus on his duty in the Vigil, after Daunte's death he's been more open about enjoying other people's company, and eventually ended up being reunited with Gretna after he had already settled with Flom.

Flom - Pansexual Good thing he likes everything and is quick to like others, because he genuinely believed "beggars can't be choosers" for the longest time. Even better thing, he now has people he likes and who chose him first (and a demon in his head who regularly calls him out on bs he should unlearn).

Zehmik - Homosexual (masculine non-binary) Guys are just neat, sorry gals. Lost count of how many flings he entertained during his years in the Mist War, always keeping feelings at arms' length due to the risky nature of their situation and a heartbreak he never recovered from. The occasional experiment only confirmed his very serious case of gay gay homosexual gay.

Edraas Noiza - Asexual aromantic (?) Due to being a highly experimental hybrid, its body is a biological mess that may have yet to fully mature and its perception of emotions is different from that of all other sentient species, so the concept of romance or anything of that nature is downright alien to it.

Lenorey - Asexual ?romantic She doesn't really get what the big deal about romance is, not beyond just preferring someone's company over others', while sex is just an activity that can be fun. In general she cared more about getting high off of toxins, so it's all of little interest to her. Now, finding a weird little asura that is literally toxic, gives you more toxins as part of the experiments she asked to perform on you, and you get just a little bit high when you kiss her? Maybe that's what love feels like.

[hiuythn]

Have you watched the Haikyuu movie? Do you enjoy it? I love it !! For me, my top fav Haikyuu ships are : KageHina, IwaOi, KuroKen, & BokuAka. (And you're Iwaoi fics are my fav until now, thanks for sharing them).

Now, can I ask your thoughts, please? Iwaoi and Kuroken are childhood friends to lovers ship, what made those 2 ships different to you? What made Iwaoi more famous? Also, what do you think of Ushijima/Oikawa and Oikawa/Kageyama ships?

Since which moment that you ship Iwaoi? What are your fav Iwaoi moments?

Sorry for my long ask, feel free if you want to answer or not.

guys with all these delicious asks you're sending in, I'm going to be stuck on my couch for the whole night...keep em coming

YES I enjoyed the dumpster battle movie, the animation was so good, the story beats and sfx and kenma's POV and idk how they managed to make a volleyball rally seem like a fight to the death but my god. I wanted to eat the movie

I think iwaoi and kuroken are different in that iwaoi are very much "equally pulling on each other's hair and spitting into each other's desserts and running after each other with a worm on a stick" type of dynamic. it makes for a very turbulent and fun pairing, and adding to that, the angst that inevitably comes along due to oikawa being so passionate about vball and iwaizumi...iwaizumi being Just Good Enough to play with him until the end of highschool. add to that the angst of oikawa being recognized as The Grand King setter, while iwaizumi always seems like a footnote. ah the childhood friend, ah the grand king's first wing spiker yes—but not his best. although iwaizumi himself has never once said he felt inadequate or left behind, you just can't help but wonder, can't help but feel it yourself, this gulf that spans the point from oikawa to iwaizumi. I don't think iwaoi is more famous in the way that means they're better, I just think it shows that people like it when things hurt hahahah

kuroken I would say is like a ball of fluff, like cotton candy, easy to swallow and easy to enjoy. or no, maybe you could say they're definitely simply just childhood friends, without all the drama that oikawa brings to iwaoi HHAHA. I wouldn't call the ship bland though, because if you peel back the layers of fluff, you rmr it's not just about quiet x loud, or small x big, or gamer x hot guy, which are labels that kuroken is often find themselves in—but that actually, kuroo has such an understated comprehension of how kenma has such a killer instinct, that kenma actually can get Serious, if you manage to get him in the zone. people will tell him kenma doesn't seem to like vball much, or that kenma seems too frail or too lax or too unsuited to exertion, and kuroo will just hum and smile like, well. if kenma didn't like it, he wouldn't do it. and that easy acceptance, that unspoken understanding that kenma never even had to tell him—somehow it just gets me. sometimes easygoing ships just hit different, when they're so comfortable with each other. like how kenma will tease kuroo with a blank-face by giving him mint candy when he knows he doesnt like mint. like they're already settled in together, what more can you say about them. also kenma being younger than kuroo is kinda cute, considering how shy kuroo was when they first met.

as for ushioi and oikage, I can definitely see where fans of those ships are coming from. I mean I once read a Yamaguchi/Oikawa fic and i rmr it being surprisingly good. the sheer amount of content, conflict and drama that oikawa brings with him to any ship is just so typical of him. of course he has to bring out the best in everyone he's matched with, that's just what a good setter does. ushioi and oikage are so rife with history and bad blood and competitiveness and hurt pride, I can only imagine how so good it is to write and read about the journey they take to make it to an end where the 2 characters are together and united. sometimes the journey fraught with strife is just as delicious as the happy ending.

I can't rmr the exact moment I started shipping iwaoi, just because it was so long ago, but prbably...I think it was probably when iwaizumi stopped oikawa from going to jail by committing manslaughter on poor little tobio when they were in middle school. and then yelling at him to go home and take care of his knee. iwaizumi's palpable concern masked as anger was so...yeah, i was like damn oikawa if you don't wife that guy up, I will.

and lastly, all iwaoi scenes are my fav, just bc we get so little, but my favs have to be the "you're a partner I can be proud of" scene; the "when oikawa feels threatened, there's only one person he sets to" scene, set up by Kageyama himself; the scene where oikawa points at iwaizumi for his last ever set in highschool and then proceeds to do an insane long ass set from across the court straight to iwaizumi: and lastly, the little sketch where iwaizumi is showing oikawa a book of fish and there's one named 'oikawa', looking so pleased with himself while oikawa is just like "..."

[fillejondrette]

So what does your job entail exactly? Are you defense for the family? The kids? The state? I'm a lil confused.

Do you share the feeling that family is always better? I've got quite a history with family court, my sister (addict) lost custody of 3 living kids and another that she hadn't even birthed yet. Every person I have ever spoken to of this responds like the court is some great evil for separating a mom from her babies. Is this common? Do you feel like there's more bias against the courts or the parents in your experience?

so about half of my work is representing kids and parents in child welfare cases. in my state, all parties in a child welfare case get a lawyer. often the children share a lawyer, but they'll get different ones if they have different positions (e.g. one sibling wants to go back to living w/ parents but the other sibling wants to keep living w/ the relative who the child welfare agency has placed them with). as children's lawyers we represent what the children tell us they want, not what we think is in their best interest - it's the judge who determines what is ultimately in their best interest.

the other half of my caseload is representing kids in "status offense" cases, i.e. cases where the behavior is only a problem because of someone's status as a minor. so that includes truancy, running away from home, not listening to parents, getting in trouble at school a lot, etc.

there are definitely some cases where children need to be removed from their caregivers, sometimes temporarily, sometimes permanently, but many of the removals that i see are not, in my opinion justified. i think circumstances that justify removing a newborn from her mother are rare. removal is usually traumatic for children, and most kids who are removed want to go home. i feel that the child welfare's agency's most fundamental problem is that they don't balance whatever harms they're worried about with the certain harm of removal and possible harm of being abused in foster care, being moved from home to home, etc.

i think people's opinions on child welfare agencies depends largely on class. i think among poor people, there is more hostility to CPS/DCF, because it's usually poor people who have their kids taken away, often due to poverty that is labeled as neglect. and then if the child is put into foster care, their foster parents get $$$ every month instead of the $$$ being used to help the family. the vast majority of child welfare cases do not involve any accusations of abuse. most of the time, they're solely about neglect, which in reality means poverty + some kind of combination of mental health issues, substance abuse issues, domestic violence (with victims as well as perpetrators being penalized), inadequate housing, etc. one of the clients in my office is a baby who was removed at birth because her father attacked her mother during her pregnancy. the father is now in jail and the mother has ended her relationship with him, but they still won't give her her baby back just in case she decides to get back together with him.

i'm actually very family-critical in a way that makes me feel politically homeless. some people in my field will refer to themselves as "family defenders" etc. - i do not bc i think it makes it sound like you're part of the heritage foundation! so it's not that i think family is always best. it's just that removal and foster care are demonstrably harmful to children, often more harmful than whatever they were exposed to at home in the first place.

[firstprince-ao3feed]

out of curiosity

by keyyring_ (death_blossom) Alex is a pretty vanilla guy. It’s not that he’s against other kinds of sex or kinks or anything, he’s just never ventured with it. Sure he has preferences but like- why bother with labels? Well regardless, he knows that Henry’s experienced. Which is fine, like perfectly respectable. He just doesn’t know a damn thing beyond like… dildos and vibrators and fleshlights. But now he’s with Henry and he fucking loves Henry and Henry loves him and it’s all so gross and sweet but Henry’s so experienced and sometimes Alex can’t help but think he’s inadequate.   or ,, alex tries sounding Words: 2594, Chapters: 1/1, Language: English Fandoms: Red White & Royal Blue - Casey McQuiston Rating: Explicit Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Categories: M/M Characters: Alex Claremont-Diaz, Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor Relationships: Alex Claremont-Diaz/Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor Additional Tags: Established Relationship, nonfamous au, slightly ooc but idc, Plot What Plot/Porn Without Plot, Location: Brooklyn Brownstone (Red White & Royal Blue), Fluff and Smut, They're In Love Your Honor, minor D/S elements, (nothing strict or well defined), Dom Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor, Soft Dom Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor, Sub Alex Claremont-Diaz, Top Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor, Bottom Alex Claremont-Diaz, Sounding, sounding rods, everything is very consensual, POV Alex Claremont-Diaz, Stoplight System, Praise Kink, Alex Claremont-Diaz Loves Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor, Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor Loves Alex Claremont-Diaz, no beta we die like my sleep schedule via https://ift.tt/IAdyPtb

[jewishbarbies]

Hey so https://twitter.com/brdgesbvrn/status/1676670061250064384?s=20

this discourse has been going on for a while and i am soooo confused. I am a lesbian, always have been and my partner came out as trans and that didn't change my love for him, we are still together. But- i am still..a lesbian? That's what i have always been, that's why i was taken to the church, was threatened with corrective bullshit and - not my proudest moment - but as a kid i have envied bisexual people a bit because i was so scared of my identity that i thought that if i was somehow capable of loving men i would never have come out and would have felt safe. Now obviously i realise how that's not how that works but i have always been a lesbian, that's a label that has shaped by life experiences so much and I don't want to change that. I know where this conversation is coming on but they are being too - simple? Into robotic boxing definitions? It's not that simple to me. It's not that simple to my partner either. He himself identifies as both a lesbian and trans and it's just idek the internet is agreeing on such a massive scale that our opinion is wrong i am having second thoughts?

I guess the question would be, would you still be attracted to him if you met him now vs pre transition? sometimes love doesn’t have anything to with sexuality in the sense of a situation like this where you’ve already fallen in love with the person, and you love them enough that the transition isn’t effecting your attraction to them. I think this is probably the exception and not the rule and I think that’s where conversations like this come from. the vast majority see the labels as they are and it’s only some people here and there that have these different experiences where the labels feel inadequate. sometimes your identity itself can feel like a part of you, so it’s hard to come to terms with it changing or evolving because you’ve spent so much time as that identity. it’s really a person-specific situation and I think it’s invalidating to try and change the definitions of the labels to apply to those few instances, but also people in these situations should be allowed the grace and time needed to figure out where they’re at. as I understand it, lesbians are people who identify as women who are only into women who also identify as women. that includes trans women. and from what I’ve heard, you really can’t use the lesbian label if you identify as a man and/or are into people who identify as such. which is where the question comes in. bc if not, you’d still be a lesbian probably, but if you’d date him if you met him now, you might be bisexual/pansexual after all. it’s really something you have to figure out within yourself.

[sameeranawaz]

Why High-Quality Patent Drawings Increase Approval Rates

When filing a patent application, inventors often focus on the written content — claims, descriptions, and legal terminology. But one critical element can quietly make or break your patent’s success: the quality of your patent drawings.

Patent drawings are more than just illustrations — they’re a core component of how your invention is understood, evaluated, and ultimately approved by the patent office. Whether you’re filing for a utility or design patent, high-quality patent drawings can significantly increase your chances of approval.

In this article, we’ll explore the importance of professional patent drawings, their role in the patent application process, and why startups, inventors, and attorneys rely on expert patent illustrators to get it right the first time.

What Are Patent Drawings?

Patent drawings are technical illustrations that visually represent your invention. They showcase its structure, functionality, and design in a way that words alone cannot.

Depending on your patent type, these drawings can include:

2D line drawings

Cross-sectional views

Flowcharts or schematic diagrams

Perspective views of the design or components

Exploded views for mechanical or electronic inventions

The USPTO and other international patent offices have strict guidelines about format, style, labeling, and clarity — which means sloppy or unclear drawings can lead to delays, rejections, or added legal costs.

Why Patent Drawings Matter More Than You Think

1. They Clarify Your Invention for the Examiner

Even the most detailed written description can be misunderstood without a visual reference. Drawings give patent examiners a clear, immediate understanding of what you’re claiming.

Help reduce ambiguity

Make technical concepts easier to grasp

Reinforce the scope of your claims

The better your drawings, the easier it is for an examiner to interpret your invention — and the smoother your review process will be.

2. They’re Often Legally Required

For many types of inventions, especially mechanical or design patents, the USPTO requires drawings. If they’re missing, inadequate, or non-compliant, your application will be rejected or delayed.

For example:

Utility patents often need multiple views (front, back, side, cross-sections)

Design patents rely almost entirely on visual representation

Incomplete or poorly labeled drawings may violate 37 CFR 1.84 (USPTO guidelines)

3. They Strengthen and Support Your Claims

Drawings are not just add-ons — they enhance your patent claims by demonstrating specific features or mechanisms.

For example, if your claim says “a locking mechanism with dual springs,” a detailed drawing of that mechanism supports your claim with a visual proof of concept.

Without a clear drawing, your claims might be seen as speculative or unsupported.

4. They Help Avoid Rejections and Office Actions

One of the most common reasons patent applications face delays is due to errors in the drawings. These might include:

Improper line weights

Shading that implies material, not shape

Inconsistent numbering or labeling

Missing views (e.g., top, bottom, isometric)

These technical issues can lead to office actions, meaning you’ll have to respond, revise, and wait longer — sometimes months — before progressing.

High-quality, compliant drawings reduce the risk of rejections and increase your chances of a first-time approval.

5. They Boost the Professionalism of Your Application

Your patent application is a legal and business document. Submitting clear, consistent, and accurate drawings shows that you take your invention seriously — and so should the USPTO.

Professional drawings:

Create trust with patent examiners

Look stronger during IP litigation or enforcement

Are easier to understand by potential licensees or investors

If you ever plan to license, sell, or defend your patent, your drawings will be one of the first things others evaluate.

Real-World Example: Good vs. Poor Drawings

Let’s say two inventors are filing for similar mechanical devices.

Inventor A submits hand-drawn sketches with unclear components and inconsistent labeling.

Inventor B submits professionally prepared, computer-drafted illustrations that meet USPTO standards.

The examiner is more likely to move forward confidently with Inventor B’s application — because it’s easier to understand, has fewer technical issues, and reflects attention to detail.

In a competitive patent landscape, this can be the edge that wins approval.

Why Work with a Professional Patent Illustrator?

Creating patent drawings isn’t just about graphic design. It requires:

Understanding of USPTO and WIPO guidelines

Familiarity with technical design and engineering concepts

Consistency with the written claims and descriptions

At Patent Drawing Experts, we specialize in turning rough concepts or sketches into USPTO-compliant, high-quality patent drawings — on time and with precision.

We’ve helped thousands of inventors and attorneys create drawings for:

Utility patents

Design patents

Provisional patent applications

International (PCT) applications

Whether you have a napkin sketch, CAD file, or just an idea — we translate it into drawings that strengthen your application and improve your approval odds.

How to Get Started

Here’s a simple breakdown of the patent drawing process:

Submit your invention details: Provide a rough sketch, product photos, or written concept.

We review and consult: Our illustrators ensure your invention is understood before drawing.

Receive your drawings: Delivered in USPTO-ready format, typically within 2–4 business days.

Revisions if needed: We offer free minor revisions to ensure satisfaction.

Final Thoughts

A well-written patent application needs more than strong claims — it needs strong visuals. Investing in high-quality patent drawings doesn’t just check a box. It improves clarity, reduces risk, and increases your chances of a faster and smoother approval.

If you’re serious about protecting your invention, make sure your drawings reflect that level of professionalism.

[workscounselingcenter]

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as a Counseling Student Intern

As I reflect on my journey as a counseling student intern, one thing stands out: the constant feeling that I don’t belong or deserve to be in this position. This feeling is often labeled as imposter syndrome, a psychological pattern where individuals doubt their accomplishments and have a persistent fear of being exposed as a “fraud,” despite evidence of their competence. For me, navigating imposter syndrome has been both a challenge and a catalyst for growth.

What is Imposter Syndrome?

Imposter syndrome can manifest in many ways. It may show up as a sense of inadequacy, the belief that you don’t have the skills or knowledge to perform well, or the fear that others will eventually discover you’re not as capable as they think. As a counseling student intern, these feelings can feel particularly isolating. You’re working with real clients, and the pressure to provide competent, ethical, and compassionate care can exacerbate the internal voices that say, “You don’t know enough” or “You’re not cut out for this.”

How Imposter Syndrome Has Affected Me

During my time as an intern, there have been moments where I felt overwhelmed by self-doubt. In sessions with clients, I sometimes question whether I’m truly making a difference or if I’m merely going through the motions. I’ve also found myself comparing my progress with others, especially my peers who seem so confident and capable. They don’t appear to wrestle with the same fears or self-criticism that I do, which only fuels the idea that I must be somehow lacking.

At times, I have second-guessed my academic work as well. When I receive positive feedback, I often think that perhaps the professor or supervisor just didn’t see how inadequate my performance really was. These thoughts make me feel disconnected from my accomplishments, as though they don’t truly reflect my abilities.

The most challenging aspect has been in the one-on-one sessions with clients. Sometimes, I fear that my responses might not be helpful, or that I’m not yet skilled enough to support them in the ways they truly need. The weight of my own self-doubt can sometimes make me question my value in this role, which only adds to the pressure.

How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome

While imposter syndrome can be difficult to manage, there are strategies that have helped me confront these feelings and build a more compassionate and realistic view of myself as an intern.

Acknowledge and Name It

The first step to overcoming imposter syndrome is recognizing that it’s happening. By acknowledging the thoughts and feelings associated with imposter syndrome, I can begin to separate them from my reality. It’s important to remember that these feelings are not reflective of my abilities, but rather a normal experience for many people, especially those in demanding or new roles like counseling interns.

Seek Support from Mentors and Supervisors

Supervision is essential in the internship experience, but it’s also a powerful opportunity to address feelings of inadequacy. My supervisors have been instrumental in helping me reframe my thoughts. They have assured me that self-doubt is a part of professional growth, and that their role is not only to guide my learning but also to help me build confidence in my skills. Their encouragement helps me see the progress I’ve made, which sometimes feels hard to notice in the midst of self-criticism.

Celebrate Small Wins

It’s easy to focus on what I haven’t done right or where I’ve made mistakes, but I’ve learned that celebrating small victories can make a big difference. Whether it’s successfully navigating a tough client session, receiving positive feedback from a supervisor, or simply learning something new about myself as a counselor, these moments are worth acknowledging. Over time, they help me build a more balanced perspective and remind me of my strengths.

Reframe the “Imposter” Narrative

Instead of seeing feelings of inadequacy as a sign that I’m not cut out for this work, I try to reframe them as opportunities for growth. Feeling like an imposter can be a sign that I am pushing myself outside of my comfort zone and developing new skills. I try to shift my mindset to embrace this discomfort as a necessary part of learning and becoming a more effective counselor.

Understand That Perfection is Not the Goal

One of the hardest lessons I’ve had to learn is that perfection is not the goal in counseling. Clients don’t expect me to have all the answers, and in fact, they often value my authenticity and willingness to be present with them. Recognizing that my role is to support clients through their journey—not to fix everything—has helped ease the pressure I place on myself to always “perform perfectly.”

Practice Self-Compassion

The most powerful tool I’ve found in combating imposter syndrome is self-compassion. Instead of criticizing myself for not knowing everything or for making mistakes, I’ve learned to treat myself with kindness and patience. Just as I would encourage a client to embrace their imperfections, I remind myself that it’s okay to be a work in progress. Self-compassion allows me to grow without being paralyzed by fear of failure.

Here at Works Counseling Center, we strive to create a safe space for you to do the work needed in therapy.

[rwarbhistoryhuh]

out of curiosity

read it on AO3 at https://ift.tt/TFAs5jf by keyyring_ (death_blossom) Alex is a pretty vanilla guy. It’s not that he’s against other kinds of sex or kinks or anything, he’s just never ventured with it. Sure he has preferences but like- why bother with labels? Well regardless, he knows that Henry’s experienced. Which is fine, like perfectly respectable. He just doesn’t know a damn thing beyond like… dildos and vibrators and fleshlights. But now he’s with Henry and he fucking loves Henry and Henry loves him and it’s all so gross and sweet but Henry’s so experienced and sometimes Alex can’t help but think he’s inadequate.   or ,, alex tries sounding Words: 2594, Chapters: 1/1, Language: English Fandoms: Red White & Royal Blue - Casey McQuiston Rating: Explicit Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Categories: M/M Characters: Alex Claremont-Diaz, Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor Relationships: Alex Claremont-Diaz/Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor Additional Tags: Established Relationship, nonfamous au, slightly ooc but idc, Plot What Plot/Porn Without Plot, Location: Brooklyn Brownstone (Red White & Royal Blue), Fluff and Smut, They're In Love Your Honor, minor D/S elements, (nothing strict or well defined), Dom Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor, Soft Dom Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor, Sub Alex Claremont-Diaz, Top Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor, Bottom Alex Claremont-Diaz, Sounding, sounding rods, everything is very consensual, POV Alex Claremont-Diaz, Stoplight System, Praise Kink, Alex Claremont-Diaz Loves Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor, Henry Fox-Mountchristen-Windsor Loves Alex Claremont-Diaz, no beta we die like my sleep schedule read it on AO3 at https://ift.tt/TFAs5jf

[thepatentexperts]

Why Patent Replacement or Objected Drawings Are Required: A Complete Guide | The Patent Experts

Introduction

In the patent application process, patent drawings are not just decorative illustrations; they play a crucial role in the evaluation of the invention. These drawings serve to clearly demonstrate how an invention functions, its structure, and its innovative aspects. They are an essential component that helps patent examiners and patent applicants understand the invention better. However, in many cases, patent drawings may be rejected or objected to, causing delays or even a denial of the application.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore why patent replacement or objected drawings are required, the common reasons for objections, and how to properly address them to ensure a smooth patent application process.

Why Are Patent Drawings Important?

Before diving into the reasons why patent drawings may be objected to, it's important to understand why they are so critical to the patent application process. Patent drawings are meant to support the written description of an invention by illustrating key aspects visually. The USPTO and other patent offices around the world rely on these drawings to gain a clear understanding of the inventions technical features, its functionality, and how it differs from prior art.

Patent law requires that the drawings should:

Accurately represent the invention: The drawings must clearly depict the invention as described in the written part of the application.

Show novelty and inventive steps: Drawings help demonstrate what makes the invention unique, which is crucial for obtaining a patent.

Be compliant with formal rules: Patent offices have strict formatting rules to ensure clarity and consistency, and non-compliance can lead to objections or rejections.

In short, patent drawings are vital in ensuring that your patent application is well understood, properly assessed, and likely to be approved.

Common Reasons for Patent Replacement or Objected Drawings

Understanding why your patent drawings may be objected to is crucial for addressing the issues promptly. While each patent office has its own set of guidelines, the most common reasons for objections to patent drawings are generally related to clarity, completeness, and compliance with the formal rules.

1. Lack of Clarity

Clarity is one of the most common reasons why patent drawings are rejected or objected to. The purpose of the drawings is to present the invention as clearly as possible so that even someone unfamiliar with the specific technology can understand the design and function of the invention.

Typical issues leading to a lack of clarity include:

Unclear labeling: Labels or reference numerals that do not correspond to the features in the description can cause confusion.

Incomplete diagrams: The drawings may omit essential details that are necessary to fully describe the invention.

Poor presentation: Drawings that are difficult to interpret due to messy lines, unclear shading, or lack of contrast can be objected to.

In these cases, the examiner may ask for more detailed drawings or revisions to ensure that every component of the invention is depicted clearly and in relation to the written description.

2. Inadequate Detail

Another common objection arises when patent drawings do not contain enough detail to demonstrate the scope of the invention. Patent law requires that all elements of the invention, especially the critical parts, are illustrated in the drawings.

A few issues that may arise from inadequate detail include:

Missing features: If a component that is essential to the invention is not depicted in the drawing, the application may be rejected.

Overly simplistic diagrams: Sometimes, overly simplistic or abstract representations can make it difficult for examiners to fully understand how the invention works.

Lack of scale: Accurate proportions and scaling are key to ensuring that the invention is clearly understood, and failure to maintain scale can lead to objections.

Detailed drawings that are comprehensive and provide a complete picture of the invention are critical for ensuring the patents acceptance.

3. Non-compliance with Formal Rules

Each patent office has strict guidelines regarding the format and presentation of patent drawings. These rules ensure that all applicants are adhering to a standard that allows the patent examiner to quickly and easily interpret the drawings.

Common formatting issues include:

Incorrect paper size or margins: Most patent offices require drawings to be submitted on specific paper sizes with defined margins.

Inconsistent line thickness: Lines that are too thick or too thin may make it difficult to discern different parts of the drawing.

Improper use of symbols: Specific symbols and hatching are often required in patent drawings to indicate materials or dimensions. Failing to adhere to these conventions can cause objections.

Patent offices often provide detailed guidelines on drawing standards, so it is important to follow these to avoid rejection or delays.

4. Mismatch Between Drawings and Written Description

Patent examiners expect the drawings to correspond closely with the written description of the invention. If the drawings show something that the written description does not mention, or vice versa, it could raise doubts about the validity of the application.

For instance, if the written description includes certain components that are not visible in the drawings, or if the drawings include features that were not described, this could result in an objection.

The Role of Patent Drawings in the Patent Application Process

Patent drawings are more than just visual aids—they serve several important functions in the patent application process. They help demonstrate the inventions technical aspects, its uniqueness, and its alignment with the written description. The role of patent drawings is not just to illustrate the invention, but to ensure that it meets legal requirements and supports the patentability of the invention.

1. Supporting the Written Description

Patent applications must contain a clear and complete written description of the invention. However, words alone are often not enough to explain the complexity of technical inventions. This is where patent drawings come in. They provide visual clarity, making it easier for the examiner and the public to understand the invention.

Drawings can help fill in the gaps in the written description and show how different components of the invention interact with each other. For example, a detailed drawing of an invention might include several views (e.g., top view, side view) to fully explain how it works.

2. Demonstrating Novelty and Inventive Step

Patent offices grant patents to inventions that are novel (i.e., new and not previously disclosed) and inventive (i.e., not obvious to someone skilled in the art). Patent drawings play a crucial role in showcasing the novelty of the invention.

By providing a clear, visual representation, patent drawings help to distinguish the invention from prior art. A well-drawn patent application will allow the examiner to see how the invention is different from existing technologies or solutions, which is essential for establishing its patentability.

3. Clarifying Technical Features

Inventions, especially those involving mechanical systems, electronics, or software, often have complex features that require a visual representation. Patent drawings can break down the inventions components, showing how they work together to achieve the desired result.

Drawings may also help identify potential infringement risks. If the invention is not depicted clearly, others may find it difficult to understand, leading to potential disputes or issues with infringement later down the road.

What Happens When Patent Drawings Are Objected To?

When a patent examiner objects to the drawings, they will typically issue a formal objection notice, citing the specific reasons for the objection. This notice will include details about what is wrong with the drawings—whether it’s a lack of clarity, inadequate detail, or non-compliance with formal rules.

Responding to an Objection

Once you receive a rejection or objection regarding your patent drawings, you will need to correct the issues as soon as possible to avoid delaying the overall patent application process. Here’s how to respond effectively:

Review the Objection Notice Carefully Ensure you fully understand the nature of the objection. Is it due to clarity, formatting, or missing details? Identifying the core issues will allow you to make precise corrections.

Consult with a Patent Attorney or Professional Draftsman If you are unsure about how to address the objection, consider seeking help from a patent attorney or professional draftsman. They can provide valuable insights into how to revise the drawings according to patent officers guidelines.

Revise and Resubmit the Drawings Based on the objection notice and professional advice, revise your patent drawings accordingly. Ensure that all required details are included, the formatting meets the guidelines, and the drawings align with the written description of the invention.

Submit Corrected Drawings After revising the drawings, resubmit them to the patent office for review. Make sure the corrected drawings meet all the technical and legal requirements to avoid further objections.

Steps to Correct Objected or Rejected Patent Drawings

To ensure your patent application proceeds without unnecessary delays, follow these steps to correct objected or rejected drawings:

Obtain Detailed Feedback: After receiving the objection notice, carefully review the feedback from the patent examiner. Take note of the specific issues that need to be addressed.

Work with Experts: In many cases, working with a professional patent illustrator or patent attorney can help resolve issues quickly. They can ensure that revised drawings are accurate and comply with patent officers formalities.

Make Precise Corrections: Correct the issues in your drawings with precision. Whether it’s adding missing features, adjusting the scale, or improving labeling, ensure that the new drawings reflect the inventions true nature.

Re-submit the Application: Once the drawings are corrected, submit the updated version along with any required documents to the patent office. Be proactive and respond as quickly as possible to avoid unnecessary delays.

Conclusion

Patent replacement or objected drawings are a common occurrence in the patent application process, but they should not be seen as a major obstacle. Ensuring that your patent drawings are clear, complete, and compliant with formal standards is essential for the success of your patent application.

By understanding the reasons behind patent objections and how to correct them, you can streamline the application process, minimize delays, and increase your chances of obtaining a patent. Remember, accurate and detailed patent drawings are vital for protecting your invention and securing intellectual property rights.

Need Professional Patent and Trademark Illustrations?

Ensure your patent or trademark application is complete, accurate, and compliant with all legal standards. At thepatentexperts.com, we specialize in creating high-quality patent and trademark illustrations that meet the requirements of patent offices worldwide.

Whether you're filing a patent or a trademark, our expert team will help you navigate the drawing process with precision and clarity. Don’t let incorrect or incomplete drawings delay your application!

Get in touch with us today at The Patent Experts to ensure your patent or trademark is properly illustrated and ready for submission. Share

[gotoppr]

What are common mistakes that a PhD student might make while writing their first paper?

Some students may also misuse prepositions or omit them entirely. Spelling mistakes are also quite common due to poor lexical choices. Students sometimes find themselves including anecdotal information that has no value to the research paper instead of simply summarising the study.

Writing your first paper as a PhD student can be challenging. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

Common Mistakes:

Lack of Clear Structure:

Solution: Follow a clear outline with sections like Introduction, Methods, Results, Discussion, and Conclusion. Ensure logical flow and coherence.

Insufficient Literature Review:

Solution: Conduct a thorough review of existing literature to provide context and justify your research. Cite relevant and recent studies.

Weak Thesis Statement:

Solution: Develop a strong, clear thesis or research question that guides your paper. Make sure it is specific and focused.

Inadequate Methodology Description:

Solution: Describe your methods in detail so others can replicate your study. Explain your choices and justify them.

Overly Complex Language:

Solution: Write clearly and concisely. Avoid jargon unless necessary, and explain terms that might be unfamiliar to readers.

Neglecting Data Presentation:

Solution: Present data effectively using tables, figures, and charts. Ensure they are clear, well-labeled, and directly related to the text.

Insufficient Analysis and Interpretation:

Solution: Go beyond presenting results. Interpret your findings, discuss their implications, and relate them to your research question.

Ignoring Feedback:

Solution: Seek and incorporate feedback from advisors, peers, and reviewers. Be open to constructive criticism.

Poor Referencing and Citation:

Solution: Use a consistent citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago). Ensure all sources are correctly cited both in-text and in the bibliography.

Rushing the Writing Process:

Solution: Allocate adequate time for each stage of writing, from planning and drafting to revising and proofreading.

Neglecting the Abstract and Conclusion:

Solution: Write a concise and informative abstract. Ensure the conclusion summarizes your key findings and their significance.

Overlooking Formatting Guidelines:

Solution: Follow the journal’s or conference’s formatting and submission guidelines meticulously.

Get more details about your research kindly follow our onsta channel:

https://www.instagram.com/researchhelp12/