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lumillsie · 7 months ago

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ೃ⁀➷ what kind of partner would suit the from characters best? ˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚

includes: tabitha, jim, kenny, jade, kristi, marielle, randall, donna, boyd, ellis, fatima, sara, nathan

a/n : here's my formal plea for you guys to send in from requests with more characters ! this is just my take and a little exercise in showcasing how I view these characters, but it was fun to write regardless! the order I wrote them in was boyd, sara, randall, jim, fatima, marielle, nathan, tabitha, donna, jade, ellis, kristi and then finally kenny - and you can probably tell that my inspiration started dropping of at the end with how the ellis part turned out, but I still tried my best with all of them <3 I really hope you guys enjoy these, and if you have any constructive criticism and tips on how to improve my portrayals, please let me know

I would also like to thank my friend carla ( @divorcingjimmatthews ) for looking over all of these preferences as I was writing them and helping me make sure that my portrayals stayed rooted in canon, as well as assisting me when I was writing jim's part by providing me with a different perspective on his character. I am so so incredibly grateful 🩷🩷

⚠️ major spoilers all the way up to 3x10 with mentions of canon-typical horrors !!

- ', ꒱ ↷ tabitha.

╰┈➤ tabitha is one of the characters most connected with the strange place the residents of the town are trapped in - from her childhood dreams of the three red stones to the spectral, hyaline children only she and jade can truly see, she's shrouded in mysteries to which not even she herself has an answer. someone curious and with an open-mind, willing to assist her and help find answers and uncover the truth of what's going on would be a person she could easily find herself bonding with. jim's single-minded refusal to come to terms with the fact that circumstances in their personal hellscape don't have to make sense was what severed the marriage already hanging on by a thread and tabitha couldn't handle being with another partner who resists understanding that and tries to back away from all the strageness of their environment. her potential partner should be someone who wholeheartedly wants to know the same answers she's trying to discover, and who would contribute to her search with their own time and effort. from minor things like bouncing ideas of what something could mean to standing by her as she decides to venture into the underground cavern where the monsters rest - the ideal partner for her would be one that could face it all, with her.

╰┈➤ this is a woman that yearns to be listened to, and as the relationship between her and a potential partner develops, tabitha will need to feel seen and understood. her partner encouraging her to share her grief with them and taking the concerns she shares with them seriously would allow for the dynamic between her and someone else to develop from a platonic one to something different. listening to her doesn't simply mean absorbing the things she say and validating them but consequently doing nothing about them - no, it means standing by her as she makes decisions and venturing into the unknown by her side. someone attentive and decisive could do both of these things and that would allow her to realise that they're someone she can share the burden on her shoulders with.

╰┈➤ it's pretty obvious that tabitha doesn't want an overprotective partner - jim's attempts to be that didn't go over well, and all it did was widen the chasm between the two former spouses. she's an adult woman, and standing by her as she ventures into danger would be preferred to attempting to keep her away from potential threats. she will go near them regardless - she needs to. she's decided what her purpose is, what she needs to do and she's strong-willed enough to not be deterred to it. regardless of who her partner is, that won't change. on the other hand, tabitha would appreciate the person she's involved with wanting to protect her children - and trying to bond with them. despite the distance between them, caused by thomas' death and exacerbated by everything that followed, her love for them is infinite and they mean the world to her. no partner of hers should strive to take jim's place in the children's lives - they wouldn't respond well to it, the love they have for their father is immeasurable - but they wouldn't be opposed to having a friendly and even a somewhat familial relationship with their mother's new partner. if they came to know about this relationship after the events that followed jade's violin performance under the bottle tree, they may be initially resistant to said partner - but they would come around to it as long as their mother's partner was respectful to their father and what they've experienced.

╰┈➤ I can see tabitha as being particularly drawn to intelligent people who are well-educated in one field. her first husband was an engineer, and the reincarnation of her first self's husband used to be a successful software developer right before him and his childhood friend made their way around the fallen tree. whether the person she was involved in specialised in a stem science or something else, she would love the way their mind works - the connections they find in the most unassuming of things and the wild, unthinkable ideas that few would be capable of executing. when she listens to them speak, she can imagine a future in which they can simply relax and rant to her about whatever brilliant idea they have in mind. if she succeeds in rescuing the children, perhaps they will someday be able to.

- ', ꒱ ↷ jim.

╰┈➤ a man whose primary priority is his family, I can see jim with somebody who's more family-oriented - whether that be an individual who ended up in town with their family and is fiercely protective of them or simply someone who refuses to give up on returning home in hope of reuniting with their loved ones. while he's not always on the track to a father of the year award, and his actions often come across as misguided and counterintuitive, his love for julie and ethan is undeniable and I can't see him with a partner that doesn't put in effort to bond with his children. spending quality time with julie and coming up with stories with ethan are the way to his heart. if his partner was a single parent themselves, he would do his best to help them out and try to fill that role of a second parent for their child - after all, the role of a family man forms a large part of his identity, and someone who wants that from him would suit him well. dancing to that particular tune - aside from any potential children, whether the family his partner is close with consists of parents, siblings, other relatives, children or even chosen family in the form of friends that became such, jim would put effort into getting to know them well.

╰┈➤one of the main reasons his marriage to tabitha came to an end is ultimately the fact that that they had an incredibly hard time communicating after the passing of their youngest son - grief impacts different people differently, and it wasn't until they were stuck in an unavoidable situation that they discussed it. henry's advice and jade's call-back to reality were what encouraged him to change his outlook and prioritise communication, as opposed to his previous manner of dealing with issues by burying his head beneath the sand and simply doing what he thinks is best for those involved. with this in mind, jim needs to be with someone who's capable of communication, especially when stuck in a death-trap town and navigating boundaries with tabitha as a woman he still cares for as the mother of his children and figuring out what kind of role his partner would have in the lives of his two children. he's recognised what's doomed his first marriage and he's determined not to repeat his mistakes - but he cannot work issues out by himself. the right partner for jim would be one that is open with him and actively talks about the things that bother them and pushes him to do the same.

╰┈➤ jim is the protective type that worries about his partner and while he has learned to take a step back - he'd still fare better with a partner that doesn't mind said protectiveness. he's not going to revert back to threatening other people into staying away from his significant other or discourage them from doing what they think is best for them, but he'll need to be allowed to linger near - to alleviate his fears and lull him into a sense of security. he functions better when he's in a situation where he thinks he can protect his partner, even if that may not necessarily be true in reality. and while he may not even be aware of it himself, he would benefit from someone being protective over him as well - he's used to being in the self-imposed role of the protector and he won't abandon it, but he truly does need someone to look after him tell him that things will be okay, just as he's always convincing the people around him that they will be.

╰┈➤ both him and tabitha have both felt misunderstood and unheard in the final stages of their marriage, and I truly think jim needs to feel valued by the individual he chooses to commit to. seeking out his opinion, keeping him in the loop with what they're up to, doing little things for him and reminding him that they love him are things that would make him feel more secure in the relationship and help him heal from the wounds of the past. eventually, he may even feel seen enough to open up about thomas' death, and his partner may contribute to healing the emotional chasm between him and tabitha and help establish a friendly dynamic that is free of resentment. the support that this kind of relationship with his partner brings helps him to swap out his poorer traits for better ones and to improve as a person. the people that know him best can see the positive changes in him - and they know whose responsible for them. they are grateful for it, just as he himself is.

- ', ꒱ ↷ jade.

╰┈➤ whether they were a resident of the town before he arrived or ended up there with him, any potential partner of jade's would need to be abundantly patient with him in the days following toby's death. from his convinction that the entire situation was a practical joke set up by his childhood friend through his visions of bloodied men all the way to his fixations on the radio, the symbol in christopher's notebook and the bottle tree, the person who wants to be with him can't be someone that gets easily frustrated. early on he's often running around and trying to solve one mystery or the other, and it will take time for him to adjust to the situation - and when he does, he'll be seeking out his partner's assistance to help him untangle the muddled web of mysteries the town is deeply engulfed in.

╰┈➤ jade needs a partner with whom he can be on the same wavelength as. someone who can keep up with his frenzied train of thoughts and come back at him with theories and ideas of their own. additionally, someone brave and bold enough to venture out into the woods and explore to try and discover something new, like boyd fell into the cave with the talismans or kenny and jim stumbled upon the food, would be the perfect match for him. this kind of partner would be courageous enough to venture into the tunnels victor and tabitha found themselves in with him - but reserved enough not to attempt venturing into a faraway tree like dale did.

╰┈➤ up until recently an entrepreneur who had just made it big, jade would prefer a genuine and honest partner as opposed to someone who would sugarcoat things or tell him white lies to spare his feelings. if they think he's acting in a way they don't agree with - whether it's him snapping at victor for refusing to talk to him or skipping town meetings, he'd rather they tell him directly than keep their feelings to themselves. aside from disagreements, this applies to their feelings towards him and the situation they're in, he'd rather be aware of what they're going through than have them suffer through it without a word - even if at times he may not be able to help, he'd do his best to try. in addition to that, he'd find it easier to confide in someone he finds trustworthy - and someone who doesn't lie to him would be just that.

╰┈➤ out of all the townspeople, I see jade as the one who would benefit most from having a significant other whose love language is quality time. he's always up in his own head, plagued by scribbled symbols and haunted by the imagery of the departed, such as the civil war soldier and christopher. his partner knowing when to put their foot down and drag him away from all of that to give his brain a much-needed break would benefit him greatly. whether it's helping out tian chen at the diner, gathering something in the woods or just sitting in their room together, it's still a break regardless. the first few times he actually allows himself to take a break he feels as if he should be doing more, his hands twitching to arrange bottles and his eyes darting around the room at all times. once he realises how much lighter he feels after simply sitting with his partner as they talk about the most mundane things, he initiates these little breaks himself. he finds himself staring at the person he loves as they talk about ordinary things - the food they miss from home, what they managed to help out with around town that day, how they're considering taking up wood-carving. for a few brief moments, all the noise in his head quiets down.

- ', ꒱ ↷ kenny.

╰┈➤ the town's deputy is one of the very few people that was trapped with his entire immediate family. with the language barrier between his parents and his father's progressing dementia, one of kenny's primary goals is to keep them as safe and comfortable as he possibly can. I can see him developing feelings for somebody who bonds with his parents before they bond with him, whether that be someone who helps kristi and gina look after bing-qian or assists tian chen and sara in feeding the townspeople. his parents' fondness of them would naturally make him consider the person a friend, but it would be his own interactions with them that would lead to the formation of romantic feelings.

╰┈➤ kenny is one of the few characters I could see falling in love with a more reserved and withdrawn partner. being the town's deputy, he's one of the few individuals in town that comes into contact with most of its trapped inhabitants - and he's one of the few people that gets the chance to properly meet even those who find themselves unable or unwilling to take the leap to befriend or pursue someone. he's a helpful young man, in the role of boyd's right-hand man out of the pure desire to make life easier for those around him and try and keep this hellish place together. he'd take the effort to get to know someone who doesn't really talk to people much outside of their responsibilities, but who still comes off as a good and kind soul. eventually, they'd let open up to him and let him know who they truly are - their own qualities and flaws, as well as his desire to feel wanted and needed would result in him falling in love relatively quickly.

╰┈➤ his partner needs to be somebody kemny can consider trustworthy - sara's involvement in his father's death and boyd's decision to keep her out of the box and at his side have impacted him profoundly, not to mention shattered his faith in the people around him. his partner should be someone who isn't opposed to keeping him looped in in all of their major decisions and who can share all discoveries they consider important with him. he's not too affected by white lies and sugar-coating - but he does place a great deal of faith in his significant other, and it would be cruel to let him down. obviously, he'd appreciate his partner placing that same level of trust in him, and I can't imagine him doing anything to betray it.

╰┈➤ an aspiring polyglot, an individual with an affinity for learning languages, would be just the right kind of partner to try and help keep kenny tethered. he's one of the few characters with ties to his origin - his language and his culture, despite the fact that he went by an anglicised name to fit into his texan community. learning mandarin would bring his partner close to both him and his family - and bring him and his partner closer as he deals with loss after loss. in the evenings, when the curtains are drawn and the lamp's yellowish hue envelops the room, his partner would sit with their back resting against his chest as they try their hardest to memorise words and phrases - he'd correct then gently when they made a mistake, a warm feeling in his chest and a sense of pride at their effort. alternatively, if his partner was a native mandarin speaker themselves, I can see him having conversations in it more often - hopeful that he'd never really lose that connection to his culture as long as they're around. when death comes knocking and the monsters take the lives of his father and afterwards his mother, his partner knowing at least the basics of his native language allows him that closeness to his parents that nobody else can give him. they've left their impact on his partner too. the conversation he could have in his native language and his mother's unmatched recipes haven't left with them, they live on in him and the person he loves - the person that's now become his only living family. his partner was family to his parents as well - even if they never got to say it outloud. he'll protect what's left of that unit. he'll do it because he loves all of them, because he's not sure he could survive another loss.

- ', ꒱ ↷ kristi.

╰┈➤ a third year med student at the time of her vanishing, kristi's a character painfully aware of what she's left behind and how much she has lost. she's not going to dive head first into a relationship - and if feelings do form, she's going to suppress them out of respect for her estranged fiancee. a friendship with someone who doesn't immediately develop feelings would be the ideal first step towards forming a longlasting bond with her. there initially being no romantic undertones would help her feel more comfortable around this new individual - but them being someone she can freely confide in and emotionally there for her would be the turning point in her developing feelings for them.

╰┈➤ kristi could benefit from a humorous partner who can make her laugh - she's got a front-row seat to all the grim, grotesque aspects of life in the town, from minor things such as sprained ankles and broken bones to the horrifying ones such as burial preparations for mangled corpses and monster autopsies. if anyone needs some light in their life, it's the town's resident nurse. she enjoys listening to them regardless of whether they're silly pick-up lines her partner blurts out at random or exaggerated anecdotes from their life before the township. she may not always have the strength to laugh at them, but when her eyes light up and her lips turn into a half-formed smile - her significant other can rest assured that their attempts at humour have been successful.

╰┈➤ if her and her partner are already involved when the bus comes into town, they'd need to understand the situation and give her some space. marielle is her fiancee, and their relationship didn't end because either of them wanted it, but because they were separated by whatever entity or force has been dragging people into the town. she's naturally going to need some time to figure out how to proceed, and the depth of her feelings towards her new partner coupled with the unresolvable tension between her and marielle would ultimately bring their relationship to its conclusion. that being said, her partner would still need to be someone compassionate, who can respect her past and the fact that her former fiancee is an important part of her life. the pediatric nurse fell back into addiction while dealing with kristi's disappearance, and a partner who can keep a respectable distance from her but still care about her well-being and support kristi in navigating this new dynamic between her and the only person she knew before she was trapped here would be truly a great partner for her.

╰┈➤ circling back to the fact that kristi is one of the few people in town that truly has to see all of its horrors up-close, her partner would need to be someone with a comforting nature, who knows how to offer her reassurance and solace even in the darkest of times. there are times where humour truly isn't going to be anything but a hindrance, and those are the times where she's truly going to need someone to fall back on. I can't see her wanting to be touched in those moments - the images of guts, blood and death overwhelming her thoughts. that being said, I can see her accepting small gestures from her partner. a hot cup of tea, made with herbs randall's found down in the forest. the one blanket she has, draped over her shoulders as she shivers. the gentle murmurs of her partner's voice, spoken so quietly as to not disturb her while she's processing the monstrosity she's had to look at most recently. she's been building a wall between them since day one - they've been tearing it down little by little. at this point, they know exactly how to do it.

- ', ꒱ ↷ marielle.

╰┈➤ a young pediatric nurse battling an addiction, marielle ended up in the inescapable town on her way to a rehabilitation centre. in a world where her and kristi's relationship doesn't survive the turmoil of kristi's disappearance and marielle's subsequent relapse, I can see her being drawn to someone she considers reliable. someone who offers to help her sort out supplies from the ambulance, double-checks all the windows to make sure they're shut as sunset gathers and silently supports her as she navigates life in an environment where murderous monsters are an every-night occurrence and the only person she knows is her ex-fiancee. being able to rely on somebody aside from kristi alone helps her transition into this strange situation and provides her with a support system - while it isn't the same as the proper help she'd receive in a rehabilitation sense, it is still something that makes her want to fight and resist the urge to dig through the medicine cabinet.

╰┈➤ marielle wouldn't want to be with somebody who is constantly hovering over her or constantly fretting over her struggle with addiction. she struggles to acknowledge how much impact it has had on her, and she desires to be treated like any other regular person - she's doing her best, she's a nurse and she wouldn't deplete the little resources they have and she couldn't stand it if someone she cared for deeply, trusted and respected thought otherwise. in addition to that, kristi is still an important person to her regardless, and she doesn't want her to feel responsible for her relapse, and she doesn't want to discuss it with people other than her partner to begin with. it's completely normal for her significant other to be concerned with her wellbeing, but they need to respect her boundaries when it comes to a matter as complex as this. she can confide in them in the moments where she feels at ease enough to talk about it, but she shouldn't be pressured to do so unless her partner notices a genuine cause for concern.

╰┈➤ as the only medical expert in town aside from kristi, marielle has a lot on her plate in her day-to-day life - most notably fatima's strange non-pregnancy. her significant other being a perceptive and helpful individual would help alleviate some of the burden off her. taking note of which medicinal herbs are missing and venturing out to retrieve them from the forest and making sure to drag her out to the diner for a proper meal and a well-deserved break are all gestures that may appear small, but mean the world to her in the long run. little things like these make her life easier in the long run, and it makes her feel supported and cared for. she's grateful for these gestures, and she does her best to make sure she lets her partner know how much she appreciates them and the things they do for her.

╰┈➤ keeping what I said in the second paragraph in mind, I do still see marielle as an individual who would benefit from and enjoy having an affectionate and touchy significant other. she's been starved of physical comfort ever since kristi went missing, and seeking out a new relationship was the last thing on her mind back in the real world - now, however, it's one of the few luxuries she can afford. during late evenings, she buries herself into her partner's embrace with her head tucked tightly into the crook of their neck. death still lurks beyond the front door, but the curtains are drawn and their voices are incomprehensible, and it allows her to shut it all out. the night nicky is killed and she has to patch up randall, her partner holds her hand wordlessly - knowing that no words could truly comfort her in that moment. the morning after she has another nightmare about what she, julie and randall have endured, her partner gently strokes her back and waits for her to start speaking. it's in these touches that she finds the strength to believe that everything might be okay - that they may just make it out of there alive.

- ', ꒱ ↷ randall.

╰┈➤ while randall may initially come across as brusque, aggressive and overall disagreeable, an individual prone to seeing the good in others may take note of his willingness to help jim search for tabitha in the aftermath of their basement caving in or his foolish yet well-meaning attempt to force donna to open the diner door in an attempt to save the distrustful people outside from the dangerous monsters lurking within the dark. a more optimistic individual would be able to look past the rough exterior and see him not as a loose canon and a potential threat, but rather a man worth getting to know.

╰┈➤ upon his arrival to town, he's incredibly distrustful of everyone around him so I think an individual who knows how to keep their distance initially but still lets him know that they're willing to help him adjust would be the kind of person he'd most willingly let in. taking the time and effort to let him know that the offer to show him around the town or talk to him is on the table but still not constantly approaching him enough to make him suspicious of your role in what he originally perceives as some sick experiment is the most successful path to take for him to first tolerate, and then later on enjoy their company. as stubborn as he is, in a situation as horrifying as the one he's trapped in - very few would choose complete isolation over companionship and some semblance of normalcy.

╰┈➤ randall likes his personal space, but as a partner I see him as quite protective, constantly looking out for the person he's involved with. coupled with the fact that living on the bus with no curtains to separate him from the human-like creatures slinking around the town at night, he'd be more likely to want to move in with his partner not long after the relationship is established, and someone who is open for cohabitation relatively soon into the relationship would suit him better than somebody who would like to take their time with it. that way, not only is he able to get away from the creatures, but he's also able to keep an eye on his partner and ensure their safety throughout the night.

╰┈➤ he's one of the few people in town to be directly impacted by the music-box monster, and the only person the monsters left alive after torturing. he survived the worst threats the townspeople've encountered firsthand, and it's plain to see that he felt abandoned by boyd on the night that the ambulance came into town. if he was protective beforehand, afterwards I think he'd prefer to be with a partner who seeks him out all the time and after being left for dead in favour of other people, he needs to feel as if he's somebody's priority. and for the person that does give him that lifeline, that seed of trust they've placed in him would grow exponentially - the person whose priority he is would ultimately be his priority as well. whatever the future holds, whether they're trapped in that hellscape or make it back to the safety of the real world, they're in it together. wherever they go, randall will follow.

- ', ꒱ ↷ donna.

╰┈➤ aside from boyd himself, donna is one of the town's authority figures as the leader of colony house. those that choose the flower and choose to live under her roof, choose to life for today because tomorrow isn't guaranteed - and I can see donna falling for a partner who shares that stance. she's seen so much loss - from her sister's screams that still ring in her ears to the massacre that followed kevin foolishly opening the window for a monster he'd found himself besotted with, tomorrow is truly never guaranteed. someome spontaneous and lively, who makes the days a little less bleak and the nights a little more bearable may be just what donna needs after all the tears she's spilled in secret. pulling her aside for a lunch date at the edge of the woods and convincing her to take a day to the brundles every once in a while may be just what she needs to soothe her soul.

╰┈➤ following tense situations such as the colony house massacre, the arrival of the bus in town and the harvest of rotten crops, donna's significant other needs to be her rock - someone truly dependable whom she can rely on when the entire town is relying on her. she's rarely ever vulnerable - and when she breaks down, she deserves the luxury of being able to do it in someone's arms. while she does hold a position of authority in town, her hold over the people isn't quite as firm as she would like it to be during times of frenzy and despair. if her partner was to disagree with one of her decisions - it would be wiser to discuss their stance with her away from the mass of people who may already be hesitant to follow orders they have doubts about.

╰┈➤ donna considers the people of colony house to be her family - and her partner would need to integrate themselves as a part of that. they don't need to necessarily agree with or be friends with all of the people there, but they need to have some respect for them - and look out for all of their safety, just as the other colony house members would for them. that's truly one of the things that matters most to donna and it would make her happy to see her significant other accept that way of life, and the only family she really has.

╰┈➤ donna could truly benefit from a partner who often verbally reassures her. I don't think she hears the praises she needs to hear enough - and while I think she initially may scoff and dismiss them, after some time she would come to truly accept them. she doesn't receive much gentleness in her role as the leader of colony house and while all of the residents of colony house defer to her, I would argue that only a few are truly appreciative of all she does - very few take the time to express it, which is understandable given the situation they're in. her partner reminding her that they love her or declaring that they're proud of how well she's handling things despite all the adversity surrounding her may be things that she's not used to hearing, but they are things that she realises she needed to hear. her sister's screams are still ringing in her ears - but a familiar voice pops up every once in a while, repeating declarations of love. these sounds represent two polar opposite memories - and yet, they both urge her to keep going.

- ', ꒱ ↷ boyd.

╰┈➤ as the town's leader, boyd is expected to shoulder the weight of the world - the people look to him to be their symbol of home, to find a way out, to reassure them when the going gets tough. it's a heavy burden, and he needs somebody to share the weight of it with him. he can put up a front to the people around him, but when the night falls and the monsters come knocking at the windows, somebody needs to be there to guide him away from their whispers and the depths of his own thoughts.

╰┈➤ being sympathetic to the losses he's had to endure would go a long way. abby and father khatri both meant a great deal to him, and he's haunted by the memories of them. trapped in a perpetual circle of death and arrivals, it's not like he's had much time to deal with his own grief. being willing to listen to him talk about them, even asking him a couple of questions about things he's never really found the space to talk about could help him start to process all that he's been through. what was abby like before you got here? how did you and father khatri go about convincing the people that the talismans worked?

╰┈➤ the former soldier is also the town's most prominent authority figure, but that's not to mean that his reasoning isn't without flaw. somebody who can present themselves as authoritive and a voice of reason would help boyd with thinking some actions through. when in agreement with boyd, they could help to keep the townspeople safe by echoing and further solidifying his orders. when he's intent on keeping people in the dark to prevent frenzied panic, his partner should be there to remind him to bring donna up to speed - even suggest when the people are relentlessly yelling at tabitha for not seeking help, his partner should be there to reinforce the notion that they don't know enough about faraway trees to attempt trips down through them.

╰┈➤ boyd is fiercely protective of his family, and he would expect the person he's with to care for them as well. ellis and fatima mean the world to him, and he's willing to step over the moral boundaries he's set for himself to protect them. I can't see him with somebody who wouldn't take the effort to befriend his family and I can see him being more drawn to a potential partner who behaves in an approachable manner toward his most beloved. if his partner is around before the arrival of the matthews family, he'd be likely to confide in them about the regret he feels over his torn relationship with his son, as well as rejoice with them when ellis reaches out to attempt to repair it. boyd may have very little time to participate in the impromptu wedding by walking fatima down the aisle, but his partner helping her get ready and lending ellis a listening ear to recite his vows would ultimately draw them into the fold of this small family and solidify their place by his side.

- ', ꒱ ↷ ellis.

╰┈➤ the sheriff's son is an artistically inclined character, and I could see him connecting with someone who also finds comfort in some form of artistry - whether that be painting, writing, pottery, music or a completely different art form. he'd be incredibly supportive of them if they refused to surrender their passion and insisted on perfecting their craft regardless of how long they've been stuck in town, not to mention that it would cause his respect for them to grow exponentially. I can see ellis keeping an eye out for and bringing his significant other supplies - be that cutting down his own stack of paper and coal or discovering clay and gathering some for them.

╰┈➤ ellis is quite possibly the most romantic soul in town - and the most devoted. he'd enjoy spending a vast majority of his time with his partner, and the person he's with should be someone who truly wants to spend most of their time with him as well. he'd plan out dates as often as he could, and they'd range from preparing breakfast in the kitchen together while laughing to cozy, quiet morning strolls in the woods as him and his significant other simply bask in eachother's presence. often, he couldn't care what they're doing - as long as they're together.

╰┈➤ as is made obvious with his appreciation for fatima, ellis has a soft spot for kind and amiable people who try to be helpful and welcoming towards others. an individual that goes out of their way to help new people adjust and lends those struggling a listening ear would be just the kind of person who he'd find himself falling in love with. he would consider himself very fortunate to have a partner like that, not to mention that his significant other would be the person he'd always turn to when he needs to get something off his chest or when he simply needs to feel comforted by holding them close. while his partner shouldn't meddle in his relationship with his father too much - I can see him reaching out to repair it with their support and guidance.

╰┈➤ circling back to the topic of artistry, ellis' is the sort of guy to make his significant other into his muse once he's well and truly head over heels in love with them. he's another character whose love language would be quality time - but in the sense that he could spend hours painting his partner and trying to transfer every feature onto the canvas. he'd try to immortalise whichever features he could - the precise hue of their eyes, the curve of their lips, the bridge of their nose. a partner who could sit with him for hours as he does this, or to be more precise, a partner who is comfortable being his muse would truly suit him better than any other. not only is he immortalising the person he loves, he's immortalising his love for them through his craft. they could both disappear from the world any day now - whether that be at the hands of the vicious creatures that lurk outside the windows or to an unknown entity, but the love they have for one another will remain on the canvas he left behind.

- ', ꒱ ↷ fatima.

╰┈➤ from her first introduction, this beautiful persian woman is presented as welcoming, humorous and full of light. if her future partner was to arrive in town after her, chances are that fatima would be one of the first people to catch their eye. and while she's admired by many, I can see her developing feelings for someone confident, with inner strength to match her own. while setting themselves apart from the other people she's admired by through expressing their interest in her isn't something that would guarantee her reciprocation, it would be something that makes them stand out to her next to all of the other people she's formed strong bonds with. fatima is widely-beloved by her community and the people in it are all very comfortable with her, so if somebody wants her to see them in a romantic light, they have to take the first step towards it.

╰┈➤ fatima is loving and generous, and her character is best seen through her countless gestures to help julie adjust to town and her gifting trudy her favorite sweater. with that in mind, I see fatima's ideal partner as someone truly compassionate - I don't think she would function well with an individual lacking empathy or who has managed to fully distance themselves from the humanity of others, not when she herself feels as deeply as she does. someone who keeps an eye on donna when she's got a lot on her plate or defends victor when new people misunderstand him is likely someone she could connect with much easier than someone whose solely out for themselves and their closest ones. at the centre of that compassion would still be their love for her, and in an environment like their inescapable town, even a person that appears carefree as her needs support. a partner that encourages her to talk to them about how she feels and relentlessly tries to motivate her to keep going, to stay the person she's trying to remain would make life more bearable, even if only by a little bit.

╰┈➤ the daughter of a cleric murdered for his outspoken nature back home in iran, fatima vowed not to allow monsters anywhere in the world to prevent her from living the life. the monsters may come out during the night, but during the day - she's determined to live her life. a romantic partner who puts effort into beautiful gestures would help her truly hold onto that promise. making her laugh with cheesy jokes or organising picnic dates and decorating them with flowers by the brundles are not unachievable - and they ground the relationship as something more than a temporary connection made during distress.

╰┈➤ she would be an incredibly supportive significant other - if her partner was keen on holding onto their passions despite the dreadful situation they find themselves in, she would encourage them to keep pursuing them. whether they were an artist or writer spending the evenings with traces of coal on their fingertips, an aspiring medicine practicioner often revising the things they were taught or striving towards anything else, fatima would be right by their side. she'd take the time to pose for their portraits or to read through their works, to quiz them on the theory of their practice and to make sure that they don't lose hope in those things still being possible. after all, she wants a future with them - and she wants it to be the best one imaginable for both of them.

- ', ꒱ ↷ sara.

╰┈➤ a haunted young woman with an incredibly eerie presence, it's strongly implied that her brother helped her scape an abusive relationship shortly before arriving to fromville. with that in mind, I think sara would appreciate a potential partner who wouldn't immediately insist on a romantic relationship, but rather be her friend first and foremost. she's glad to be out of that situation, but she'd prefer to take things slow, as opposed to rushing into a new relationship. a partner who's content being her friend first and allow for a relationship to develop organically would suit her more than a partner whose immediately prepared to jump into a relationship.

╰┈➤ sara is one of the very few people in town with whom the entities of their entrapment communicate with directly, and it's safe to say that her day-to-day life is directly impacted by this circumstance. an observant partner who can notice the subtle changes in her could help her navigate the struggle of the whispers constantly circulating through her mind. pulling her aside and waiting for the voices to subside, letting her share them with the person she trusts the most makes her feel less alone, finding a way to distract her from the chaos within her mind are all things that could make her life just a little more bearable.

╰┈➤ a figure more feared than she is loved, sara knows she can't take back the things she's done. she can't bring back tobey, gina or bing-qian. she can't undo what she tried to do to ethan. worst of all, she can't bring back nathan - the only family she had. she's riddled with grief and regret, and she can understand the animosity of the people that once considered her a friend and the whispers of people who will only know her as the maddened woman with a trail of blood following her. that doesn't make their loathing and fear any easier to stomach. a partner who doesn't fear her, and reassures her that she can still do good - that she isn't a lost cause, a murderous beast beyond salvation could have a profound impact on her. someone strong-willed and loving, who stands by her even when the entirety of this small world they're stuck in is determined to keep her away.

╰┈➤ sara has little left to remind her of life before her and nathan ended up stranded in town. all she really has to her name is a clumsily pieced-together christmas ornament. being loved by somebody who is creative and fond of gift-giving could provide her with memorabilia to ground her and help remind her that somebody actually cares about her. whether it's a scrap of fabric crafted in a vague shape and hung on a thin string or a wooden box made to keep the little snowman she's kept safe and tucked away, little things would help her feel more 'at home' in a partner's presence and tether her to them as her proper, true home - a patch of salvation in a neverending nightmare.

- ', ꒱ ↷ nathan.

╰┈➤ the caretaker for the town's barn animals at the time of the matthews' arrival, nathan doesn't appear to be close with anyone in town with the exception of his sister. due to this, I can imagine his potential partner being somebody who has a pre-established connection to sara - whether that just be a coworker at the diner who drops by their house when she's forgotten something or a close friend his sister spends a lot of time with. seeing as his proximity to them would make this person somebody he encounters on a daily basis, he'd begin to notice them - and while exchanging pleasantries and taking the time to have a quick conversation with him as they go about their day would endear them to him, it's the little things he takes note of over the course of time that ultimately end up drawing him towards his future partner.

╰┈➤ his potential partner would have to be quite friendly and even the slightest bit assertive to really get anywhere with him, as I don't really see nathan as the one who would take the first step to establish a relationship. finding excuses to come talk to him throughout the day and openly admitting that they enjoy his company would draw him towards them, and he would reciprocate that effort by finding some time to go and talk to them, as well as by checking up on them throughout the day.

╰┈➤ while I see nathan as a quite withdrawn and reserved individual, I can imagine him becoming involved with a more outgoing partner - one that would regularly encourage him to get out of his shell. for the most part, that does simply consist of heading off to the diner with him and roping him into a conversation with whoever may be there - but nobody can claim that those attemps were in vain. while the people he's closest to are still his sister and his significant other, he has grown closer with several other people and started considering them close friends - the most notable of those being kristi and kenny.

╰┈➤ a relationship with nathan could be properly defined as 'private but not secret'. the people around him don't really know much about the details of his relationship, but all of them know that both him and his partner are off limits. I see him as the type to enjoy keeping the private details of his relationship between him and his significant other, and I can't quite imagine him with a partner who would mind that. in public, the farthest he'll go is a gentle peck on the cheek or holding onto their hand - but that's not to say that he comes across as cold or uncaring, not at all. the manner in which he talks about the person he's involved with, even if the things he's saying appear mundane, make it painfully obvious how deeply he cares for them - if the thinly-veiled adoration in his eyes and the slight curve of his lips are anything to go by.

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femmefatalevibe · 2 years ago

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Femme Fatale Guide: Tips To Become More Emotionally Intelligent

Embrace self-awareness & self-reflection: Observe how you feel, behave, and how people generally respond to your words/actions in different situations

Practice self-regulation: Learn to differentiate between your feelings and the actions that would be appropriate in a specific setting or interaction. Internalize that feelings are fleeting and non-factual. You're in control of how you respond/(don't) act on these emotions

Engage in active listening: Pay attention to what others are saying with the intent of understanding, not responding

Focus on emotional differentiation: Understand where your thoughts, feelings, intentions, and opinions end and another person's identity/perception begins

Display radical empathy and acceptance: Understand that almost all people's words and actions result from their own beliefs, past experiences, and current life circumstances/priorities. Put yourself in their shoes when attempting to understand their choices, behaviors, and times they come to you to discuss a problem, success, or major life decision. Accept that you can only control what you do. Very little of other people's actions/the world's workings are personal. Things are happening around you, not to you

Let go of your ego: View yourself as objectively as possible with the potential for improvement. Abolish any superior complex or overwhelming desire to prove your self-importance in others' lives and decisions

Remain open-minded: Question your own beliefs and opinions. Stay curious as to why you believe them to be true/authentic to you. Allow your opinions to change or have the capacity to modify your beliefs upon hearing new information. Understand your worldview and values are valid, but they're not definitively correct beliefs, just because they resonate/feel comfortable for you

Be receptive to feedback: Embrace constructive criticism as a self-improvement tool. Approach it with curiosity and optimism, not as a personal attack

Differentiate between your feelings and capabilities: Your thoughts are not facts. Remember you can do things you don't feel like doing most of the time (work, waking up in the morning, working out, etc.). Learn the difference between being a slave to your emotions and genuinely running out of energy

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lotusunique · 1 year ago

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The Engagement pt.1

Armando Aretas x Black Fem! Reader

In which the Reader has to attend Kelly and Dorns engagement party where an ex lover will be attending

Okay so this is my first story, I hope yall enjoy it!

“Well as you’re gonna be my maid of honour, it’s customary that you spend the weekend at the beach house and you can bring a plus one of course.”,Kelly smiles brightly. “Well you know I’m there. You don’t even have to ask.”,you bring her in for a hug. You were so excited that your best friend was soon to be married especially to her soulmate.

Her big engagement party was this weekend and she wanted all her close friends to stay the weekend at she and Dorns beach house. “I just have one question. Is he gonna be there”,you ask, referring to Dorns older brother. “He will. And he’s bringing his new girlfriend”,she fidgets with her nails.

“Im sorry”,she says quickly, seeing the look on your face. “If you want I can tell Dorn to un-invite them.”, She offers. “No. That’s too much. It’s fine. It’s not a problem”,You shrug. “I’ll be there for you and Dorn. That’s it”,You put your feelings to the side.

You could only imagine how it’d feel seeing him again. The searing heart wrenching pain that you experienced during your relationship. Maybe it’d be 10 times worse. Especially since you’d be seeing him with some random bitch.

You walked towards your desk, organizing the files that you were done with, letting out a deep sigh. “What’s your problem?”,Armando asks, looking over to you with a curious expression. “Well basically nothing, just that I have to go to my best friends engagement party alone and see my ex boyfriend there the entire weekend with his new girlfriend. But besides that life is just great.”,you give a sarcastic smirk.

“So don’t go”,he says like it’s such an easy solution. “Um. No. She’s my best friend. And Dorn is like family. I have to go.”, you put your head into your hands. “I mean the solution is obvious.”, he says with a serious look on his face. You give a confused glance.

“Nadie usa su sentido común.”, he mumbles under his breath. (Nobody uses their common sense)

“¿Acabas de llamarme tonta?”, you ask. (Did you just call me dumb?)

“Yo nunca, niña bonita.”, he smirks over at you. (I’d never pretty girl). You blush, feeling your whole body heat up at hearing him. “The obvious solution is to bring somebody else as your date. Just pretend ya datin em”,he gives valid advice.

“That’s kinda smart I’m not gon lie”, you smirk. “Well I am a genius so”,he smiles over at you. “Wait!”,you say getting a bright ass idea. “If I hire somebody is that pathetic?”, you ask half kidding. He just nods with a laugh.

“Take me.”,he says fully turning to you. You let out a laugh before realizing he’s deadass serious. “Oh you’re for real?”,You ask. “I’m dead serious.”,He says. “No you don’t have to do that. I don’t wanna ask that of you. Plus it’s an all weekend type of thing..”,you say sincerely. “It’s no problem. I’ll come pick you up around seven tomorrow”,He smiles over at you.

“I’ll see you at seven then”,You smile before he walks away.

If you like it lmk, any tips, lmk. I’m open to all constructive criticism and suggestions. If yall did like it ima release the part 2 🤭

#armando aretas #bad boys ride or die #bad boys for life #armando x reader

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literaryvein-reblogs · 10 months ago

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Writing Notes: The Five-Factor Model of Personality

Culture is transmitted to people through language, as well as through social norms which establish acceptable and unacceptable behaviors which are then rewarded or punished (Henrich, 2016; Triandis & Suh, 2002).

With an increased understanding of cultural learning, psychologists have become interested in the role of culture in understanding personality.

The 5 Personality Traits According to this Model

OPENNESS TO EXPERIENCE

Refers to a person's imagination, feelings, actions, ideas

LOW score: More likely to be practical, conventional, prefer routine

HIGH score: More likely to be curious, have a wide range of interests, be independent

CONSCIENTIOUSNESS

Competence, self-discipline, thoughtfulness, goal-driven

LOW: Impulsive, careless, disorganized

HIGH: Hardworking, dependable, organized

EXTROVERSION

Sociability, assertiveness, emotional expression

LOW: Quiet, reserved, withdrawn

HIGH: Outgoing, warm, seeks adventure

AGREEABLENESS

Cooperative, trustworthy, good-natured

LOW: Critical, uncooperative, suspicious

HIGH: Helpful, trusting, empathetic

NEUROTICISM

Tendency toward unstable emotions

LOW: Calm, even-tempered, secure

HIGH: Anxious, unhappy, prone to negative emotions

Applicability

The idea that personality can be described and explained by five traits (OCEAN) has important implications, as does the fact that most personality tests were constructed and initially tested in Western countries.

Western ideas about personality may not apply to other cultures (Benet-Martinez & Oishi, 2008).

2 Main Cultural Approaches for Researching Personality

Etic traits - considered universal constructs that are evident across cultures and represent a biological bases of human personality. If the Big Five are universal then they should appear across all cultures (McCrae and Allik, 2002).

Emic traits - constructs unique to each culture and are determined by local customs, thoughts, beliefs, and characteristics. If personality traits are unique to individual cultures then different traits should appear in different cultures.

Using an Etic Framework

Cross cultural research of personality uses an etic framework and researchers must ensure equivalence of the personality test through validation testing.

The instrument must include equivalence in meaning, as well as demonstrate validity and reliability (Matsumoto & Luang, 2013).

Example: The phrase feeling blue is used to describe sadness in Westernized cultures but does not translate to other languages.

Differences in personality across cultures could be due to real cultural differences, but they could also be consequences of poor translations, biased sampling, or differences in response styles across cultures (Schmitt, Allik, McCrae, & Benet-Martínez, 2007).

Personality Test/Measure Used: The NEO-PI

Most of the cross-cultural research on the Five-Factor Model (FFM) and Big Five (OCEAN) has been done using the NEO-PI (and its subsequent revisions; i.e., it is an assessment tool developed to measure the 5 dimensions of personality according to the FFM) which has demonstrated equivalence, reliability and validity across several cross-cultural studies (Costa & McCrae, 1987; McCrae, Costa & Martin, 2005).

Research using the NEO-PI found support for the entire Five-Factor Model in Chinese, Dutch, Italian, Hungarian, German, Australian, South African, Canadian, Finnish, Polish, Portuguese, Israeli, Korean, Japanese, and Filipino samples, in addition to other samples (McCrae, Costa, Del Pilar, Rolland, & Parker, 1998).

NOTE

Personality tests rely on self-report which is susceptible to response bias like socially desirability responding.

To evaluate this possibility, McCrae and colleagues (2005) recruited students from 50 cultural groups and modified the NEO-PI to be in the third person (i.e., he, she, his, her):

The research participants were asked to complete the form on someone else that they knew very well (McCrae et al., 2005).

The same 5 factors emerged in this study.

These results provided empirical support for the FFM and for the use of self-report instruments when conducting cross-cultural personality research.

There was no reason for the students to respond in a desirable way because they were answering questions about someone else.

Sources: 1 2 ⚜ Writing Notes & References

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unsolicited-opinions · 9 days ago

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Signal > Noise

Gentle, short introductions to media literacy and information literacy

(I keep kvetching about the absence of media literacy and information literacy...and kvetching is useless.

Signal > Noise will be the tag I use for short, digestible intros to concepts in both media literacy and information literacy.

Asks are open if there are specific topics you want covered.)

------

2025-06-18

[Topic: Bias vs Lying]

Our discourse has gotten so ridiculous that we've mostly lost the ability to disagree constructively, think critically, or benefit from the work of smart people with whom we disagree.

We're so fractured and polarized that we routinely say stupid things like:

That source is biased, so it's not valid and nothing it says is true.

If everything is dismissed as bias, and bias is treated as dishonesty, then truth has nowhere to live - leaving us well and truly fucked.

Confusing bias with lying makes us cynical instead of smart. It turns healthy skepticism into hopeless nihilism

"All media is corrupt" isn't enlightenment - it's intellectual surrender and cowardice.

Bias ≠ Lying

A perspective does not prevent a piece of information from being true or useful.

What Bias Is

Bias is all but inevitable and unavoidable, even for those operating at the highest levels of journalistic integrity and discipline. It's baked into how we work.

Below are two paintings of Daniel in the Lion's Den. Same subject, radically different paintings. Is one of them more true? Is one of them less biased?

Maybe photography provides a better analogy. The angle, lighting, composition, saturation, brightness, contrast, and cropping all affect the final image. But the photo is still of a real object, isn't it? Is one of these six photos of the same man in the same room more valid than the other 5?

That's how all media works.

All media selects, frames, and focuses utilizing both conscious and unconscious biases.

That's not inherently deceptive - it's how all storytelling functions. Our brains are wired for narrative, it's how our minds work.

Bias can emerge from:

Cultural worldview (like Western vs. Eastern framing)

Political orientation (like left vs. right vs. authoritarian)

Institutional interest (like corporate vs. activist vs. governmental)

Professional constraints (like time limits, editorial priorities, sensationalism for clicks)

A liberal news outlet might cover climate change in terms of justice and inequality. A conservative outlet might instead focus on economic cost and individual freedoms.

Both might be factually accurate. Both are biased. Both have value.

More examples:

A conservative media outlet may emphasize crime statistics.

A progressive media outlet may focus on police accountability.

A US media outlet might frame a Middle Eastern conflict through geopolitics

A local media outlet might highlight the conflict through individual suffering.

All may very well be reporting true facts, but they frame those facts differently.

If you see journalism without bias, let me know - because that's what I'll read when I need to be put to sleep without learning a single thing.

Lying is a completely different animal.

What a Lie Is

Lying goes well beyond having a perspective. Lying is a choice to mislead - an intentional, deliberate falsehood.

Humans can lie with all media: words, pictures, headlines, graphs, statistics...even silence can deceive.

The key ingredient is always intent. Lies are designed to obscure the truth.

Types of Lies in Media:

Outright falsehoods: "Vaccines contain microchips."

Deceptive omissions: Leaving out exculpatory evidence to frame someone unfairly.

Fake sources or data: Citing studies that don’t exist, or misrepresenting real ones.

Image manipulation: Using photos or videos out of context, or editing them deceptively.

A biased report might emphasize some facts over others, but a deceptive one tries to convince you of something the producer of that media knows to be false.

Framing = Bias ≠ Lying

Framing is one of the most common and most misunderstood forms of media bias.

It's not lying - It's the rhetorical and narrative choices that shape how every story is told.

Examples of framing in headlines:

"Unarmed man shot by police" vs. "Suspect neutralized in police operation"

"Protesters clash with police" vs. "Police attack peaceful demonstrators"

"Israel retaliates after attack" vs. "Israeli airstrikes kill civilians"

The facts might not be in dispute. Someone was shot, a protest occurred, airstrikes happened, etc - but how those facts are framed shapes how we interpret them.

Framing isn't necessarily dishonest. It reflects the values and assumptions of the writer or publication. Understanding framing is essential for media literacy. When you learn to spot frames, you can wring an additional layer of information from the story.

Since it's Unavoidable, Make Bias Work for You

Expecting media to be perfectly neutral is like expecting food to be completely flavorless. It's neither realistic nor desirable. Without a perspective and a framing, a story ceases to be storytelling and our brains...mostly stop processing it.

Every outlet has an editorial mission, an audience, a funding model, a history - so bias is always baked in. That doesn't mean you discard the source. It means you read it strategically, looking for and identifying those biases.

Instead of asking, "Is this source biased?" know in advance that it definitely is.

Instead of asking yourself "should I read this news outlet and regard everything it presents as objective truth"...know that it definitely doesn't, you definitely shouldn't.

Instead, ask yourself questions like:

What kinds of stories does this outlet consistently choose to tell?

Who does the outlet consider trustworthy or quotable?

What kind of loaded language does this outlet use for different groups or events?

Who funds this outlet? Who is its audience? What agenda are they likely to have based on that funding model and target audience?

Bias isn't a disqualifier. It's a clue which tells you more about what you're reading.

Use Biased Sources Without Getting Played

You don't need to trust a source completely to learn something from it. In fact, the most valuable sources are often obviously biased.

1. Identify the Bias

Before even reading, know what kind of outlet you're dealing with. Look at its about page, ownership, funding/revenue model, recurring columnists, and core audience. Does it lean left? Right? Is it globalist? Nationalist? Religious? Secular?

Knowing this lets you anticipate the angle and spot distortions more easily. The more you do it, the easier it gets. After a little practice, you'll see clearly (for example) the huge right wing bias of the Jerusalem Post, the huge left wing bias of Ha'aretz, and how The Times of Israel is mostly pretty disciplined (in their news gathering and framing) about minimizing left/right political biases.

None of these three is perfect, but seeing their usual, institutional biases lets you read them against each other.

2. Use It for Contrast

Biased outlets often highlight stories others avoid or ignore. Fox News may underplay climate change but overplay immigration crime. Al Jazeera will underplay Hamas human rights abuses but spotlight in depth the most embarrassing moments in Israeli politics. The Jerusalem Post will underplay corruption charges against Netanyahu and spotlight the most depraved behaviors committed in the name of Hamas.

Use this to your advantage. Compare coverage across ideological lines. The contrast tells you volumes about outfit AND audience.

3. Look for Hard Facts

Don't quote the adjectives. Quote the data. What happened? When? Where? Who said it? What did the video actually show?

Stop taking an analyst's word as truth - see it as a lens to try on at look at the facts through. If the lens helps it make sense, put it in your back pocket for later use.

Strip away the spin, extract the structure.

4. Cross-Reference Across Angles

Treat each biased source as one side of a triangle. To understand the shape of a thing, you need multiple sides. Balance a left-wing story with a right-wing one. Add an international perspective. Compare them.

Over time, you start seeing the shape of the event instead of the biases of each outfit.

(If you're anything like me, you never want to see or hear another advertisement for Ground News...but still use it sometimes to do exactly this.)

When Bias Becomes Lying

Bias turns into lying when it refuses to admit its own existence or crosses into manipulation. You're dealing with deceptive bias when:

It claims neutrality while advancing a clear agenda

It actively suppresses or distorts opposing views

It refuses to promptly issue corrections or acknowledge errors

It flattens complexity into false binaries like good guys vs. bad guys

It consistently omits key information that would challenge its narrative

It's part of a disinformation campaign (state media, bad actors, bots)

Ask yourself these questions:

Does the outlet ever challenge its own side?

Does it interview or quote those it disagrees with...without distortion?

Does it foster critical thinking or does it push tribal loyalty?

Thesl answers will let you see lying much more quickly.

When evaluating a media claim, ask:

Is this verifiable?

Does this trigger a strong emotional reaction? Was that the goal?

What's missing?

Does this match the tone of propaganda? (overly simplified, emotionally charged, black-and-white framing?)

Is this story meant to inform...or to rally?

And perhaps most importantly:

Do I want this to be true because it confirms something I already believe?

Recognizing your own bias is more critical than spotting it in others. We are all vulnerable to confirmation bias, and most of us seek out what feels good while avoiding what challenges us.

Practice pausing. Breathe a few times between the click and the share. (Confirmation bias will be the topic of a future Signal > Noise.)

Vary Your Media Diet

To understand a complex world, you need inputs from multiple angles.

If you only get your information from one side, you're not informed - you're enlisted.

Real media literacy is not about being neutral. It's about navigating bias with awareness, curiosity, and courage.

That means reading:

Across ideological lines

Across national borders

Across formats (print, visual, audio)

It's not always fun, it takes some time, but it's essential and cwn dramatically reduce your susceptibility to propaganda -

...so go read smart, articulate people you disagree with!

Instead of avoiding bias, learn to read it. Recognize it. Use it. Balance it. Counter it. Triangulate past it.

And when you find actual deception? Name it and reject it.

That's media literacy.

#jumblr #media literacy #information literacy #How to read the news #Signal > Noise #bias vs lying #media bias #media dishonesty #propaganda #Media ecology #epistemology

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immortaledd · 1 month ago

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Do you really feel good about yourself appearing in other people's publications where no one called you out or tagged you to defend a fictional character that others have every right to express dislike and even hate for?

You have fun acting innocent and saying you have good intentions, but you're belittling and devaluing the feelings of people who just want to vent a bit in their own personal space through opinions that don't hurt anyone. And if you find them by "coincidence", you can just ignore them or even block them if they get on your nerves.

I'd totally get it if one of them popped up on your blog or in one of your posts. You'd 100% have the right to defend your favourite baby. But showing up out of the blue in someone else's post, where they're just sharing their thoughts and feelings? And you're basically telling them, in a pretty subtle way, that they're not that clued up about the show or don't get the characters, just because they don't watch them the same way you do? It's honestly so frustrating and cringe. Especially because you hide those intentions behind nice words. Pathetic.

I really hope you're a child, because it's even more pathetic when an adult wastes their time doing what you do.

Whooooaaa.

I wouldn’t talk about childish attitude when you walk up to someone anonymously and start insulting them and belittling them back.

You have a completely valid argument if you have proof, and I don’t blame you for thinking like this, but if you want to see something done, give some constructive criticism.

speak without hiding, and actually be constructive.

If you believe I’m doing something wrong, instead of spitting out words like “pathetic” and “I hope you’re a child”, how about saying “Hey, I don’t believe you’re acting appropriately and I believe [this] is a solution.”

I am not acting stern in this post to be stern, but only to match a limited amount of the energy you are throwing at me.

I am not belittling anyone. I haven’t fully talked about this since this is a fresh blog, but I have repeated time and time again whenever I ramble that my “excitement”, my “anger” or other extreme emotions all are fully “in-character”, to which I also haven’t defined on this new blog.

When I am passionate about a certain character, my arguments on them, my analyzing on them, I am speaking of them as if I was a character in-the-show witnessing the same bs I rant about. I do this to combat VA / writer hate, because everyone knows that’s a problem here.

I do not belittle people for having opinions, I make counter arguments. Anyone I reblog and ramble, (1) I disclaim “this just gives me a excuse to ramble”, (2) I always bring up good points or other perspectives to combat my ideas to help give a productive ramble, (3), I disclaim “hey! You don’t even gotta read this!” Because my blog is full of analyzing and rambles, because that’s what I enjoy doing.

If you have any direct evidence to me belittling someone, hating someone, or otherwise, please provide me with evidence, and I’ll correct it either in the post, or in the future.

Whether I have properly disclaimed it in my ramble posts, or I’ve let it slip a few times, here is my full disclaimer.

The interpretations I make of any fictional media are completely and entirely my own. I encourage you to make your own opinions, but to always be open minded to new perspectives. I encourage challenging opinions to embrace new ones - for yourself, and the other.

I am passionate about “my favorite baby” because I directly see myself and my issues through them. I have grown so emotionally attached to Eclipse and/or Ruin specifically because I feel I have lived parallels of their lives, and it makes me feel seen and understood. Therefore, by speaking on their behalf, I have an opportunity to speak for my own.

Reblogs I ramble under have playful replies from OP. I try to be playful back. I like to verbally roughhouse with people to create an emotional bond with someone. I believe it is fun, and I do it in moderation whether I know the creator or not.

Everyone I have reblogged and rambled under (as far as I currently remember, show me if you have evidence otherwise.) has greeted me by name, rambled back, and either returned the playful gestures or has engaged in a full conversation with me, bouncing off both of our opinions, and enjoying our time.

For ANYONE, if I have reblogged to you, rambling, or mentioned you and rambled about your perspective and giving my own…AND YOU FEEL UNCOMFORTABLE IN ANY WAY, please do not stay quiet or play along. Tell me, and I will correct it. I understand not everyone may enjoy it. A lot of people I talk to do.

Ranting is half of this blog. Art is the other. It’s what I enjoy doing. Seeing perspectives is an opportunity for me to fulfill some of the blog. I don’t even do it [reblog + ramble] often, it’s a relatively new thing for me. I typically make isolated rants, and have only started reblogging and replying recently. I rant often because part of being in this show is hyper analyzing characters.

I also enjoy rambling, because comments are something that means a lot to me. When I am reblogged and someone else starts rambling under my own posts, I feel encouraged. I think it’s amazing to see perspectives whether they’re similar or different to mine. It’s how I’ve learned about a lot of character throughout this fandom

I typically only focus on a select few, but I enjoy delving into other characters as well.

I “hate” Moon in-character. I “hate” Moon from TSAMS because of the inaction he did for Eclipse and Sun in numerous scenarios. I still delve into his character, I appreciate his character, and I enjoy making things for said character. From a writer/viewer standpoint, I do not genuinely hate a single character, nor anyone for liking a character I don’t.

I was infuriated with Nexus for a long time from a writer standpoint until a friend of mine helped me further dissect his character. Now I love him. I used to hate Solar with every atom in my body, writer and in-character, and then I learned to realize he’s not just some one-off character I should hate. He, along with everyone else, has effort put into him.

I do not give a single damn if you hate a character I love for whatever reason. My goal is to change your mind, not because “actually you should love this character”, but because

How are you supposed to enjoy anything if you keep finding reasons to hate it?

It doesn’t matter if it’s low effort, sloppy, clickbait, overused.

This is one of the biggest issues here, blunt hate on characters and writing.

You want something done about the content farm slop you’re forcing yourself to gobble? Do something about it. That’s what I’m doing. This is how I enjoy things.

If you are stern in your position, comfortable in it, I’m not going to reblog every single post you have and say “erm actually love this character please please I’m so desperate for you to listen to me pleasee!”

I DON’T CARE??? I would LOVE to influence the fandom considering how downright ass it is - [ Misogyny, ableism, hate, anti-constructive criticism, harmful mischaracterization, etc. ] - but I’m not going to grab every person by the throat and shove my ideas down it.

I am spilling my ideas out into the open, in my own blog. It’s your choice to read it or not.

Respectively, you cannot pray I am an adult, when you yourself, are taking time out of your day to hop on Tumblr, walk to their inbox, put on “appear as anonymous”, and write ~4 paragraphs insulting them and putting them down.

Because ranting at someone in this manner IS a sign of immaturity. Please take that into consideration the next time you want to critique something. Approach calmly with evidence. Drop the subtle insults.

Next time, please be more professional if you have a problem. This is not helping anyone. You have not given me any solutions, nor proof that I am making anyone uncomfortable - which is never my goal.

I am not claiming innocence. I am aware I can be tone deaf sometimes, or act awkwardly under pressure, or get too rowdy. I understand very well I have room for improvement. But I need YOUR help to improve, not just passive aggressive paragraphs in my inbox.

Thank you for your input. I am always open to suggestions.

#Ruin’s announcements #artist responds #eddward rambles #important #disclaimer #is this a real problem?#if anyone else feels like this #let me know #i would like to improve!

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spnjediavenger · 4 months ago

Text

I Need My Brother (Chapter 7)

Title: I Need My Brother (Chapter 7)

Type: multi-chapter; matt murdock x sister!reader, foggy x teen!reader (platonic!)

Warnings: canon-typical Daredevil situations/injuries, blood, angst, like…one swear word

POSSIBLE TRIGGER WARNINGS: none

Spoilers: S2 SPOILERS

Notes: this one’s a little choppy but bear with me

As always, love and/or constructive/friendly criticism is welcome and encouraged!

Word count: 1138

Need to catch up?

(Chp 1) (Chp 2) (Chp 3) (Chp 4) (Chp 4.5) (Chp 5) (Chp 6)

No…no no no no no no no! It happened again…I can’t believe it happened again…Y/n’s gonna hate me…Matt thought as he woke up. He struggled against the chains that held him captive, ignoring the Punisher greeting him. He had to get out of this. He had to let Y/n know he was ok. He at least hoped Foggy would know something convincing to tell her…and that he would be convincing saying it.

This can’t be happening again. Why is it happening again?! Foggy thought as he ran his hands through his hair after seeing Matt had vanished along with the Punisher.

He had to call Y/n.

No. Wait. He couldn’t. She would freak out…but he told Matt he wouldn’t lie to Y/n for him anymore…but she would freak out.

He paced the rooftop for a moment, weighing his options. He at least didn’t have to call her right away…she had to know Matt was out. So if he called now she would get suspicious, right? He nodded to himself and headed back to Karen to try and figure out the situation with their client. He’d talk with Y/n later.

“Foggy? What are you doing here?” Y/n said to the lawyer as she opened the door.

“I was just heading back from work and figured, ‘Hey, I’m in the area, let’s see what Y/n’s up to.’ I mean, when was the last time we had a one-on-one chill sesh, huh?” Foggy put on his best smile and forced his voice to be as normal as possible over his nerves. Y/n ushered him in and closed the door.

“When Matt was dying,” she deadpanned. “What’s going on, Foggy? What happened?” she questioned him, turning defensive.

“Why do you have to assume something happened? Can’t a guy hang out with his favorite teenage non-relative?” he said, throwing his hands up, smile faltering the tiniest bit.

Y/n crossed her arms. “Foggy, stop. I know something has been going on. I know Matt didn’t just have a ‘long night’ the other night. He emptied all the painkillers in the apartment. And even if he was tired after his night, he still would’ve called me himself unless he was hurt badly. And yeah, we haven’t hung out in awhile - ‘cause, again, the last time was when Matt was on death’s door and you stayed to comfort me so that question just proves that something is wrong. I don’t know why everyone is lying to me but that needs to stop now.”

Foggy was speechless as he looked at Y/n. All her points were valid; and he didn’t want to have to lie to her anyway. He closed his eyes and sighed. He opened them again and nodded towards the living room. “Let’s sit down, ok? I don’t want to lie to you; I never did.”

Matt paused outside his apartment door.

Two heartbeats, one stronger and steadier than the other. The second was a little fast. Anxious. Foggy was there with Y/n. And she was upset.

Matt decided to bite the bullet and go inside, ignoring his sore muscles. He closed the door, carrying his mask in one hand, and turned around only to be met by a smack in the face he didn’t expect.

“I hope that makes your probable concussion send ringing to your ears, you bastard!” Y/n yelled, emotion making her voice thick. She had hot, angry tears running down her face already.

Matt did indeed get a ringing through his ears, making him blink hard and pant a bit.

“Why are you even here?! You don’t look like you’re dying yet - that’s usually when you let someone know what’s going on because you can’t hide it anymore! Or maybe getting shot in the head rewired your brain enough to open up to people sooner!”

“Y/n, please-”

“No! I’m not done! Do you have any idea how Foggy and I felt the whole night waiting for you to come home or call one of us?! How worried we were because you vanished with some rampaging lunatic?! Do you know how I felt learning that you guys have been lying to me for days now because you’re not man enough to own up to the fact that you’ve been reckless again?! That you’ve broken your promise again?! I’m sick of it! I’m sick of it, Matt!”

Y/n went to run out but Matt grabbed her arm. “Y/n, please listen to me-”

“LET GO!” she shrieked, looking at him with fire in her eyes. Both men in the room stared at her in shock. Matt didn’t release her but his grip slacked when she yelled. Y/n ripped her arm from his grasp and ran out of the apartment, slamming the door behind her.

“Fog, can you-”

“Just shut up, Matt,” Foggy said, exasperated, having already stood to go after Y/n. He brushed past his friend and slammed the door upon his exit as Y/n has done moments before.

Foggy caught up to Y/n and offered for her to go to his place and then stay the night, to which she agreed. Foggy texted Matt letting him know then shut his phone off for the remainder of the night. He didn’t want to hear from Matt. And he wanted to try and help Y/n relax without having to worry about her brother hounding her with excuses and fake apologies.

Later that night after having spent the day together, Y/n and Foggy were sitting on his living room couch watching Star Wars. Y/n leaned into Foggy’s side as he had an arm around her shoulders, a blanket over both their laps. While she wasn’t as upbeat and bubbly as she normally was watching her favorite movie, Foggy could tell she was definitely calmed down from earlier.

Y/n grew tired and rested her head on Foggy’s shoulder, cuddling into him a little more. Said man couldn’t help but smile. He rested his head against hers as they focused on the TV.

“Foggy?”

“Yeah, kiddo?”

“Thank you for letting me stay tonight.”

Foggy was silent for a moment. “I know I’m not your brother…he should be the one doing this with you…”

“It doesn’t matter. You are. And that’s enough. You’re always here for me when he isn’t…If that’s not a brother then I don’t know what is.”

Foggy smiled a bit and hugged her into his side. “And I always will be here for you. No matter what.”

Y/n’s eyes began drooping. But she had one more thing to say before she let sleep take her. “Love you, Foggy.”

Foggy used his free hand to wipe his eyes so he didn’t cry on the girl against him. “I love you, too, kiddo.”

(Chapter 8) ->

Taglist @babybeeelle

#fanfiction #fanfic #x reader #daredevil #daredevil x reader #daredevil x sister!reader #daredevil x teen!reader #matt murdock x reader #matt murdock x sister!reader #matt murdock x teen!reader #foggy nelson #matt murdock #matthew murdock x teen!reader #matthew murdock x sister!reader #matthew murdock x reader #foggy nelson x teen!reader #daredevil fanfiction #daredevil fanfic

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ao3-shenanigans · 9 months ago

Note

i wish there was a subtle way of adding a caveat to “i’m open to constructive criticism” that the first comment should not be critical in any way, helpful or kind or otherwise. i am fragile and must be loudly and unequivocally validated first, then i can safely receive comments on how my characterization or my plot concept were lacking /hj 🤣🤣

Aurgh! For real! I am but a humble author! Be nice to me!

#silly #ao3 #fanfiction #archive of our own #fanfic #ao3 shenanigans ask #fandom #writing

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oraclepop · 3 months ago

Note

Sunghoon ideal type please??🥹‼️❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥

sunghoon (ENHYPEN) ideal type tarot reading

personality

ace of swords, queen of wands, six of wands reversed, the world, five of cups

someone who is able to communicate clearly, doesn’t allow for misunderstandings and clears them up immediately. a person who is confident in themselves and self-assured. they may have a charismatic personality. maybe a person who is the ‘underdog’, not recognised for their efforts or someone who flies under their radar - sunghoon might be the type of person who wants to notice the potential someone has before anyone else, or a person who he can encourage to be better. he seems like a person who likes giving constructive criticism, and this person could be open to that, and won’t just be offended by him because of the way his words can come across. sunghoon likes somebody who seems content with where they are in life regardless of other people not seeing it - not seeking other’s validation. someone whole and well rounded, with unique experiences. his ideal type may also be someone who has experienced the feeling of disappointment or loss in their life, maybe because he has too. he wants somebody well rounded and confident, but also humbled by life’s challenges.

physical appearance

ace of cups, king of pentacles, three of wands, five of wands reversed, page of pentacles

someone who looks approachable, inviting and calm. they have a welcoming and soft aura. someone who appears dignified and secure in themselves. they look reliable and dependable. sometimes they could look like they’re off in their own world. this person may not engage in arguments much, and look fatigued or “over it all”. or like they dislike conflicts. his ideal type could be someone who is also youthful but mature, and can look curious sometimes, and not overly flashy but more modest. they look open.

#sunghoon #enhypen sunghoon #enhypen #kpop tarot #kpop #tarot #tarot reader #tarotblr #tarotcommunity #tarot reading #tarot cards #kpop bg #kpop idols #kpop boys

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hobis-hope95 · 10 months ago

Text

Blessed by the Gods pt.2

fancast!Benjicot Blackwood x Bracken!fem!reader

Part 1

Summary: You and Benji decide that, for the better or the worse, you'd follow through what you began. So, with a little help and some persuasion, you pursuit the permission you need to try for a happy ending, with Benjicot Blackwood always by your side.

Warnings: 18+ (minors, please DNI), some fluff (more than the last one), minor fighting description (no blood mentions though), swearing, smut, oral (f receiving), fingering, p in v, unprotected sex, kinda breeding kink, praising kink, mentions of pregnancy and a few self insertions from yours truly.

Authors note: Hey guys, so... I know I took long enough with this one and I'm sorry if I made anyone wait for so much time (I am a reader as well and I know how it is to wait that long). First I want to apologize for the format that this is being delivered (this is how I normally start an idea, but with so much that is going on in this final part I could not get myself to write it "fluidly", so I thought that this would be better than nothing, I'm so sorry ;-;), second is that I work in two hospitals and the free time I have I struggle to organize between sleeping, watching Kieran's tts, reading other fanfics, writing my own, having some quality time with my mom, playing with my dogs and studying for my postgraduate course (I don't know if this is how it's written but I think you get it) so it's a lot. But enough with all the excuses, I hope that you like it, even though I think I could've done better, and I'd love to get some opinions, because all constructive critics are valid and I'd love to know what can I do to get better!!

After all this blabber of mine, enjoy your reading! 🌻✨

Word count: 3.716

You both stayed in each other's arms for a while, talking about the future and kissing, before Benji decided that it was time they went to Raventree Hall to then head to Riverrun.

He stood, put back his breeches, and helped you stand, but as you did, you felt the ache in the middle of your thighs, your legs almost giving out as he held you firmly against his chest.

He didn’t say it with all letters, but he did feel his ego inflate in knowing you were struggling to walk because of him. But because of that he had to carry you on his back.

So, he covered you in his cloak, smoothing your dress and trying to sweep most of the dirt from it, before he knelt in front of you to carry you on his back (come on, bridal style may be more romantic but is way harder guys)

All the way to the castle you both teased each other “If you wanted me that much you could’ve asked, didn’t need to stalk me to the weirwood tree” He laughed, a smirk on his lips, and as you turned your face to take a glance at him, you sighed in disbelief “As if I would do such a thing, the one that doesn’t stop looking at me in the assizes and the boundary is you”

As you get to the castle, he orders you to cover your face with the hood and stay quiet. He gets inside without anyone questioning who he’s caring (but ofc with some staring at his back from the guards) and right after he gets to his room, closing the door and placing you seated in his bed, his aunt gets inside and you panic, facing the floor and pulling at the hood of the cloak.

“Who is that and why does the guards say they saw you carrying her from the woods, Benjicot?” She demands, her voice unaltered but her tone imposing respect, and he scratches his chin awkwardly “Uhm, that’s the daughter of Amos Bracken and, well, she fell in the woods”

You take the hood off, looking at the Black Aly, and admit “I am the one to blame, I went to the woods that I knew were in Blackwood territory, but still didn’t care for, then Benji found me and...”

You stopped talking, your mouth opened but extremely embarrassed to voice the rest of it, your cheeks blushing and feeling hot – even though the day wasn’t that warm – as you looked to Benjicot

“And we may have engaged in some more... let’s say... private activities” He awkwardly finished the thought, his brows furrowed, and you covered your face with both hands

“So, you are telling me you just couldn’t control yourselves and engaged in intercourse in the middle of the woods?” As Alysanne concluded, one hand massaging the bridge of her nose, Benji’s eyebrows shot up

“Well, putting it like that makes it sound-” You interrupted him as you stood up and hugged yourself

“Stupid and inconsequential, yes” You looked at him, accusing eyes making him point to himself as he mouthed an ‘me?’ but he didn’t stop your next words “He started the whole thing, but it wasn’t something that I didn’t want as well”

The older woman sighed and asked “What are you two going to do about it?” And for that Benji quickly responded “She’s going to need another dress, but the plan was to go to Riverrun and ask Kermit for him to engage us, so her father may accept it”

“I don’t know if you agree, but I found this as being the least conflicting way for us” You argued right after he stopped talking and Aly sighed

“I have to say that yes, it may be the best option, so I’ll help you. First, your clothes, come with me. You send a raven to Lord Kermit and ask for three horses to be ready in 15 minutes” The older woman said as she went to you, resting a hand on your back, and pointed to her nephew, who quickly went to his table to write the message

You went to Lady Alysanne’s chambers and changed to a black and red dress that was the closest to your size, her only arching her brows when she saw the ripped golden dress she’s just so done with their thoughtless actions

And soon enough you three were riding to Riverrun Benji was just so whipped to see you in his House colours and smirked when he saw you shift uncomfortably in the saddle

The ride was short and silent, and you thanked the gods when you arrived and had no sign of your father or any Bracken in there

When Kermit saw you walking to him together with the two Blackwoods, he rubbed his eyes in annoyance “Please do not tell me that it is about the boundary stones again”

“Actually, it isn’t. The matter is that we want to be wed, and we were willing that you could perhaps convince Lord Bracken to accept it” Benjicot said, and Lord Tully took a minute to process it all, his eyes widening as his brows shot up

“Okay, now I wished for it to be about the boundary stones” The poor Lord only wants to not deal with Bracken and Blackwood shit anymore, give the man a break

“Please, my lord, you are the only one able to convince my father and...” You shifted, nervously and embarrassed to what you were going to say “And?” He asked, but you just looked at Benji, who held your hand in his

“And we may expect for a pregnancy in the next few moons” A few of the servants that were in the room gasped and Kermit let out an incredulous laughter

“So you went that way, then? I truly cherish you, my friend, but why must you make my life so much harder?” He sighed before he called his maester inside “Please, send a message for Amos Bracken that I need to discuss urgent matters with him, with haste, and later send another message for house Frey, apologizing and saying their Lord Paramount had a change of plans”

“I’m really sorry, my lord” You took a step forward and bowed in apology, but he dismissed it “I knew one day or another this would happen, so do not worry, I just wished it had happened sooner, for now I must arrange another marriage for Forrester Frey”

After that you were all dismissed to rest until the arrival of Amos Bracken and you grabbed Benji's arm with a strong grip, mumbling as you turned to leave the hall “You made me sore, you idiot”

Benji almost choked trying not to laugh and replied “You have no idea of how it pleases me to know that”

And as soon as you are out of the great hall, Benji asks for a servant to take you to a place to rest and the servant complies, saying that it has already been arranged as she takes you to another room

After a couple of hours, you are requested to get back to the great hall for your father had arrived and when you get there he frowns in confusion

When Benji arrives right after you, his expression turns to pure rage

“Lord Amos, I know that I have granted you permission to marry your daughter to Forrester Frey” Kermit started as you placed yourself next to your father “But it seems to me that this union is not to be blessed, and another proposal seemed more reasonable”

“Excuse me, my lord, but what exactly do you mean by that?” Your father enquires and you feel your throat dry

“Lord Benjicot came to me with a really good proposal of bringing peace to both your families by marrying your daughter and me, as your Lord Paramount, see this as a good opportunity, one we should not miss because of our ego or unsolved matters of the past”

“You expect me to give my daughter to this- this boy who knows nothing about honour and will most likely corrupt her into hating her own family?”

You lowered your head when your father talked about corruption, remembering how just a couple hours ago you were more than eager to let yourself be bred by a Blackwood - and him only - and to carry his babe, and your face turned red with embarrassment

“You may find it surprising, lord Amos, but I do not care or have any intentions on corrupting anyone” Liar, you thought, but wouldn’t dare to pronounce the words, as you lifted back your head to look at Benjicot, who had stepped closer to your father and yourself “I wish to marry her mostly for the prospect of peace and for that I would respect any of her wishes and let her as close to her family as possible”

“And why should I agree with it if you can possibly change your mind and just have her as someone to torture and use as a threat while you do as you please?” You wanted to say to your father to trust him, but that would sound as childish words with no guarantee whatsoever

“Because your daughter may, at this very moment, already be carrying my child and despite of what you believe, I do have honour, as I would not let this baby live without a father and I would never do any harm to the mother of my children”

If Amos Bracken was angry with Kermit’s proposal, now he was furious with Benji��s words, so much so that his face was becoming red

“What in the seven hells did you say about my daughter?” He turned to you, and you could not hide your fear, your eyes widening “What is he insinuating?”

After a moment of hesitation, you took a deep breath and answered, your hands closed in fists beside your body so tight that your nails were hurting your flesh “He is right father, I willingly laid with him and I do not wish for the child to grow apart from his father if I’m truly pregnant, but I would never stop loving my House and family, I swear”

In a fit of rage, lord Bracken turned back to Benjicot, grabbed his sword from his hips, and tried attacking the younger man

You were glad that lord Blackwood was as good with a sword as the rumours said, for his reaction was quick enough that before the blade could hit him, the loud *CLANG* of swords resonated through the hall

The guards wasted no time and in a moment were around both men and Kermit Tully raised from his seat

But before any men could react, you screamed as hard as you could, and took the advantage of their confusion to stand between your father and your lover

“Enough!!” You said – tired of being the good daughter and polite lady, moving with the adrenaline of it all – and turned to your father, letting Benji face your back “I know that what I did was not the best decision I could have done, but I did it, we did it, and I have no regrets”

“This feud between our Houses has been going on for too long and it’s time for some change and a bit of peace. We came to lord Tully for his approval, which he gave, and like it or not, my lord father, we are going to get married”

“I love you, mom and our family and I love our House, but- but between a marriage with someone twice my age for just another senseless alliance of yours and a Blackwood, I prefer the one with an alliance that would truly benefit both”

All men in the room with swords in hand lowered their arms, Benjicot being the first one, and after a few long seconds with your eyes on his, your father gave in

“It had to be a Blackwood?” He asked, his sword lowered next to his body, and you answer “I know, I’m sorry father, but you can’t control one’s heart”

You and your father have a cute little moment, he hugs you and all, and after all calmed down, he apologizes to lord Tully and agrees with the proposal

Your engagement would last 3 weeks, so it could be properly arranged, which made you grunt a little but accept it anyway

That night all of you feast on Riverrun – as it was already too late to get back – and to your surprise, after the first minutes of awkwardness, your father and Benjicot started getting on seemingly well

You and Benji had time to get to know each other better, forgetting the rest of the world as you laughed at his stories, both whipped as hell

And when he discovered that you actually frequently went to that one clearing, he praised your hiding abilities

And for the next three weeks you spend all the time you can together in your short courtship, but rarely alone

When Benji would come to Stone Hedge, one of your father’s guards or your mom’s servants would follow you and never lose sight

When you went to Raventree Hall, Black Aly would make sure that the same happened

Even when you’d meet outside, near the boundary or walking through the woods, someone would always follow

Still, that didn’t prevent you to hold hands, sit on the grass with your legs touching or him to bring your faces together for a delicate kiss to your lips

All the light touches, the way he would lick his lips and open a smirk while looking at yours and the way he would purposely choose narrow paths in the woods to guide you from behind – his hands never leaving your hips and his mouth blowing on your ear every time he spoke – were driving you crazy, leaving you lightheaded and with reddened cheeks

And he adored your reactions, proudly smirking when you shifted on your seat or avoided his gaze the devil in disguise, that little shit

And speaking of this, he loved when you tried to provoke him as well, with your lingering touch on his arm or chest, the way you’d lean down and your chest would be on full display, and how you’d kiss his cheek for longer than necessary

By the day before your marriage, both were desperate for one another, but still kept it on those soft touches and light kisses

After two weeks you sadly discover that you aren’t pregnant, for your monthly comes one day after waking up and feeling cramps on your lower abdomen. Even so, that was long forgotten, and you knew that soon enough you’d have more than enough times to try for a pregnancy

The Wedding Day

You both decided that the ceremony would be held by the Old Gods tradition, but instead of choosing the Godswood in Stone Hedge or Raventree Hall, you agreed it would take place on that beautiful clearing in the woods

The ceremony felt almost magical, the moon so beautiful in the night sky throwing rays of light between the leaves, and Benjicot felt like his heart could just jump out of his chest when he saw you dressed all in white

As your father and the guests held torches to guide you to your groom, who was standing right in front of the weirwood tree next to his aunt, you felt the happiest woman on earth

As Alysanne Blackwood started the ceremony with the question “Who comes before the Old Gods this night?” You felt like you could burst, your heart beating as fast as it could be

As the few sentences are exchanged between your father and your aunt-to-be, they both turn to you, who quickly answers Aly’s last question “I take this man”

The ceremony continues and soon enough you are lifted in Benji’s arms, your faces just a breath away, as he carries you to the wedding party, being the last ones to leave the clearing

“Who would say that this clearing could bring a couple together?” You asked after taking a last glance at the place

“We may never know how the Gods work, but they do find their way to bring people together” He smirked at you as you blushed, remembering that day that already felt long gone, and he leaned in to kiss you, your hand on his nape as you gave in to his sweet lips

When you both arrived at the feast, the guests all cheer and soon enough you both are dancing, feasting and talking to some of the too many faces in the room

Most of the night Benji is right next to you, a possessive hand on the small of your back, and you are glad to see that he pays no attention to other women present there, safe from his aunt and your mother

After three or four hours of all that, noticing that the guests are far from leaving, you quietly ask your husband “Do we need to stay any longer?”

“I was about to suggest for us to leave, actually” He answer as the hand on your back starts to lightly push you towards the small door in a corner of the big dining hall

“Don’t we need to inform anyone about us leaving?” You ask, quickly looking through the room, but he just says that your absence would be noticed soon enough

Your steps are quick, both too eager to get to your shared chambers to actually care if anyone saw you both almost running through the halls which a few servants did, but no comments were made apart from something on the lined of ‘oh, those youngsters in love’

Barely making an effort to close the door behind you, Benjicot lost no time before hovering over you, his hands on your hips pulling you as close as he could and his lips smashing over yours

Differently from your last time, your husband now took his time on undressing you, taking care for nothing to rip apart or hurt you in the process

And after both of you were fully naked, his warmth welcoming you closer, he took you in his arms and lied you on the big bed

“Now is when I break your father’s hopes of not corrupting you, for I want to hear your sweet voice saying you’re all mine, wife” He said as his lips roamed through your skin, leaving love bites and kisses along the way until he got to the middle of your thighs

He ate you out like you were his own private feast, each moan and little quiver making him more invested on making you cum

When one of your hands pulled on his hair, he moaned against your cunt, the vibrations hitting right at your clit, and you moaned his name like a prayer

Not long after he squeezed two fingers inside you, hitting the spot that made you see stars repeatedly, curling them inside you as his tongue worked on your clit

Soon enough you nearly screamed when your orgasm hit you like a powerful wave, your whole body turning into melted iron

Benjicot didn’t stop right away, slowly and carefully reducing his pace, and only then did he lifted his head, your fluids leaving almost half of his face glistening

“Husband, please, I want you inside me now” You whined, feeling a slight breeze hit your sensitive core as he moved back to be face to face with you

“So bossy and so beautiful” Benji said as he saw your expression, blown watery pupils looking at him, pleading for him to take you “My lady Blackwood, do you want my cock that bad?”

“Yes, I want you, please” You begged, your hands reaching for any part of him you could touch

He leaned down to kiss you, your taste on his tongue, and he stroked himself before aligning his tip to your entrance

And when he got inside you, oh Gods how you loved this

This time with all the time in the world, he made love to you, shifting his pace every so often to make it last but also giving in to his desires

In no time, both of you started to moan each other’s names, talking about belonging to each other and exchanging sloppy kisses

When he felt your walls tighten around his cock, he hurried himself and soon after you came together, your moans mixing when he kissed you

After catching his breath, he held your hips and rolled you both on the bed, lying on your sides and retreating from inside you, your legs tangled in a comfortable position

“I love you” After a moment of silence you let out, your eyes scanning his in fear of rejection, but all you saw was a soft expression, a bright smile on his face that brought butterflies to your stomach

“One month ago I would’ve rejected the idea of even liking you, but now I cannot think of living without you” He brushed a lock of your hair out of your face and kissed your forehead “In these three weeks you taught me to love you, to crave your attention and your smile and now I can’t wait to form a family with you”

“I can’t wait to bear your children, husband” You said, pressing a gentle kiss to his lips, and he pulled you closer by the hip, a smirk on his face

“So we better not waste any more time, wife” Benji said before turning you on your back again

The two of you loved each other for the rest of the night and all nights that followed, so soon enough your pregnancy was announced and the promise of a family finally came to fruition.

The love for each other only grew as time passed by and a peace that few believed to be possible was finally a reality in the Riverlands.

So that's it, again I'm really sorry for the way I delivered this to y'all, but I just couldn't delay it anymore trying to fit it all together like a full text.

Thank you for all the likes, reblogs and comments in part one and feel free to leave a comment, I'd love that! 🌻✨

Tag: @jevoislavieenrouge

#benjicot blackwood #benjicot #bloody ben #benjicot blackwood x reader #hotd fanfic #hotd imagine #hotd smut #hotd #house of the dragon #Isa🌻✨

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