#we're excited to dive in deeper >:3

[uhohbestie]

I've been reading TAMN since either chapter 19 or 20. When I first found it, I binge read all the chapters and loved it so much. I have never read anything that has put me through such a roller coaster of emotions like this au, and I love it so much. I can't believe that it's ending, but also, I can't wait to go back and re-read it again (I love to re-read/watch things multiple times). I won't lie this fic has affected me so much that when Grian died, I actually had to take a 2 week break from reading because I couldn't accept that he died. I literally grieved with TAMN!Scar 😂 I also absolutely adore how unique you made the 'immunity' be! How the virus has become a part of them instead of overtaking due to them being immune! I hate how this fic is making me love the zombie apocalypse aesthetic. Every time I see fanart or animation related to TAMN, my love for this story and aesthetic just sparks immediately!

I really adore this fic, and I'm so glad I found it. You guys did an amazing job! Being able to wake up on Friday and read this fic has been my favourite part of the week and my Fridays are gonna be so empty now without a new TAMN chapter to read 🥲 (maybe one day I'll create some TAMN fanart in the future when I gain more confidence :D) Can't wait to see what you come up with next! ~ •☆Anon☆•

omg, this is such a huge compliment but also: I'm SO sorry poor Grian did that to you!! (not gonna lie though, if I had to read the chapter updates in real time and not know what was going on with him, I also would've had to take a break I think. The Not Knowing of that arc must've been bruuuutal.)

I know I sound like a broken record, but we are both so so so happy everytime we hear that someone has enjoyed TAMN, and especially to hear how it's pulled people deeper into a love of zombies! As a non-zombhead myself prior to the fic, it's fun to see people on similar trajectories to the one I went on. <3

We're gonna miss TAMN soooo much, but we're proud of ourselves for finishing, and we're so excited for the other parts of the world we'll get to explore and flesh out (lol, 'cause... zombies) next! <3 <3 -🔒

[rottenraccoons]

Hello, I just bought Obscura and I've been LOVING it, the characters are SO compelling and nuanced, and I love the balance of player autonomy and Vesper's characterisation. Lovingly spinning Fran and Oleander in my brain microwave. Also the ART! The ATMOSPHERE! I haven't played many VNs before - are there any that you or the other the raccoons would recommend/that might fall into an 'if you enjoyed Obscura, you might also enjoy...' category? (Obscura will always be my fave though ofc.) Tysm!! <3

Thank you so much, nonny!

The world of visual novels is vast and extremely exciting, we're so glad you're looking to dive a little deeper into it! I think we'd be very silly if we didn't include Touchstarved as our first recommendation, as it has a similar premise to us of a cursed protagonist going to a dangerous place and meeting untrustworthy men while searching for a cure. A lot of fans of Obscura are also fans of Touchstarved, to the point it's kind of funny seeing the overlap.

And here's some bullet point recommendations from my (Violet's) own library. These all have at least some elements in common with Obscura, at least from my perspective.

Ballads at Midnight by @synstoria

Ebon Light by @underbliss

Pitstop in Purgatory (and the rest of @tymedust's games!)

The Good People (Na Daoine Maithe) (releasing episodically) by @moiraimyths

The works of CONCRETEPARASITE @concreteparasite

Lake of Voices by @gb-patch

Love and Country by @guhuhugames (makes some unconventional choices re: branches and endings, but I think they make it work really well!)

Not a specific recommendation so much as a possible lead, but I'd suggest looking at the games featured in last year's Storyteller's Festival (which is over, but the page still shows participating games) and see what piques your interest there. This year's Storyteller's Festival is also coming soon, and there should be a lot of very cool narrative-focused games to try there, too.

But as much as I try, I haven't played every game! So I think it would be extremely cool for anyone who has a "if you like OBSCURA you might like X" recommendation to add it.

[abitcaughtinthemiddle]

The Hypocrisy of Vex'ahlia

Before you all come for me, I am a Vex stan and I will defend her until I die - she is my favorite Critical Role character and I'm so glad we're getting a deeper dive into her psyche.

The complexities of her character cannot be overstated. She has a lot going on under the surface, and the breadcrumbs of her deep-seated insecurities have been there the whole time.

I'm really excited we get to explore those in season 3 through her relationship with Percy, in a way different than what we've seen in the actual play streams. I want to commend the writers for being able to convey so much in so little time.

We are introduced to Vex as a sexy, confident woman who uses her looks and charisma to her advantage. She takes charge most of the time, being the unofficial "leader" of Vox Machina. She presents herself as someone who doesn't really need anyone else and does not care about anyone outside of her brother. Keyleth even comments on this in the first episode, "Vex and Vax only care about themselves".

This, of course, is a complete fabrication, a mask she wears to hide her insecurities. A mask, she wants no one to see through. The irony here is that she can so easily see behind Percy's mask - "Darling, take off the mask". It takes one to know one, after all.

She so badly wants to get underneath Percy's mask, for him to show himself to her fully. There's something inside of her that sees the guilt and shame inside of him and that resonates with her belief that she is deeply broken. Vex truly believes that something must truly be wrong with her. And why wouldn't she? Saundor, who said he knew everything about her, saw this, too, after all.

Saundor says plainly, "you will never be enough."

So it must be true, right?

Why wouldn't something be so wrong with her? It would make sense. Her father carries no love for her, her mother died, and Vax had to sacrifice his life for hers. She knows Vax loves her, and she believes he is the only one who does. Even Kamaljiori, an ancient and all-knowing Sphinx, fed into this during their test when Vax fell: "you have no family left who cares for you".

Her hypocrisy lies in the facade she built as a woman who does not need anyone or anything. She presents herself as someone who does not need the love of others, when in reality, she desperately wants to be loved.

Saundor saw this as well.

Vex longs to love and be loved. And yet, she cannot allow herself to give up her facade and let Percy love her and admit her love for him.

The last person to see through her walls was Saundor, and we know how that went.

What he said really cut her deep, as we see after the Kevdak fight when she brushes off Pike's inquiries about her experience in the fey realm.

As we see her relationship with Percy move from harmless flirting to physical intimacy at the beginning of season 3, we see her embrace the physical closeness to Percy but starts to block him out the moment he wants to cement their relationship. But she can't let herself tell him how she feels because that would mean admitting her heart is his - and that would be doomed to end in tragedy, as Vex admits later in the cave.

Putting up this emotional wall between her and Percy will not give Vex what she wants: love.

Love is that emotional intimacy. Vex loves to point out the importance of love between other people- in season 2, pushing Keyleth to tell Vax how she feels ("it always matters"), assuring Allura that Kima's love for her will help her endure after Vorugal's attack, and putting faith in the rest of Vox Machina.

Vex understands what makes love so special, and how important truth and intimacy are to real, lasting love.

And while she comforts others and pushes them to be vulnerable and embrace love, her own fears prevent her from fully doing the same. It's ironic and sad, how one of the only people who can see through her mask is the one she's pushing away.

Trauma makes hypocrites of us all.

Image credits @blorbologist @aq2003

[giantmushyfriend]

Welcome back to the Ineffable lyric discussion (can I hear a wahoo)

In honor of the announcement of season 3 of our beloved Good Omens, I find it completely necessary for us to discuss one of the many songs on Aziraphale and Crowley's angelic playlist that made me scream my bloody head off. One of those songs is the one and only The Book of Love by Peter Gabriel. While I UNDERSTAND this song may have just been chosen to spell out SEASON THREE, I think it goes much deeper than that because of all of the parallels it draws to Aziraphale and Crowley. And ultimately, what I think is going to happen in terms of their relationship when they finally sort their shit out. So beware if you haven't watched season 2 of Good Omens because we're about to do a fucking DEEP DIVE into this.

First, the title of the Book of Love feels almost like a call to this looming threat to the Book of Life that was consistently used in series 2. The entire season, Crowley and Aziraphale have to work oh so carefully because with the Book of Life being confirmed, they know that either of them could get the other erased, and whether they want to admit it or not, losing the other is their biggest fear. We've seen this when Crowley believed Aziraphale to be dead in Series 1 when he couldn't feel Aziraphale's presence anymore since he got incorporated. When Aziraphale isn't there, Crowley is a mess. Likewise, we saw how both reacted during the ineffable divorce scene in series 2. Crowley is full-on begging Aziraphale to stay, and Aziraphale has finally admitted that he needs Crowley and full-on mouths for Crowley not to leave him. The Book of Life inherently, from how Neil set it up, feels threatening. The Book of Love, on the other hand, raises an entirely other reaction. Throughout the series, as corny as it sounds, love has been what grounds our protagonists. It is the love of Tadfeild and his friends that keeps Adam from kickstarting the end of the world; it's what keeps him from rejecting his father, the literal devil. It is the love of the earth, of humanity and all its strange creations, and for each other that keeps Aziraphale and Crowley attempting to prevent the end of the world when it could be so much easier to just accept the fate of it all. Love is the key theme that grounds our protagonists, that makes them tick. Love is safe; love is, at times, painful but overall kind. So when we see this title on their playlist, listed amongst heartwrenching tales of grieving a relationship, you could have had, and of loss, it brings a sense of salvation and safety. The Book of Love, unlike the Book of Life, is not a threat- it's a sanctuary for Aziraphale and Crowley.

Now, diving into the lyrics.

"The book of love is long and boring

No one can lift the damn thing

It's full of charts and facts, and figures, and instructions for dancing

But I

I love it when you read to me.

And you

You can read me anything"

The first couple of verses inherently feel like Aziraphale and Crowley's original view on this notion of love. As two supernatural entities who aren't bound by human emotion or logic, love may seem superficial and downright silly at times. The courting procedures that different societies have taken on throughout the centuries and the songs and dances that come along with it may all seem like a big waste. The book of love is a manifestation of love itself, and originally, it seems unappetizing to our protagonists. That is until they refind each other, and love goes from this thing that humans feel and jump through hoops for to this tidal wave of emotions. Love felt silly and unrealistic before, but with each other, they are willing and excited to explore it, even if it comes with things that feel inherently silly.

Also, these verses draw some cute parallels to headcanons and features of cannons. If you've been involved in the Good Omens fandom long enough, you've probably stumbled across the idea that Crowley asks Aziraphale to read to him for a multitude of different reasons. Some people say it's because his eyes aren't meant to read, one of the many punishments that came with him being cast down from grace, or maybe it's just because he finds Aziraphale's voice comforting. Additionally, the line about instructions for dancing is just so heartwarming when we look at the ball scene from this past season and Aziraphale's daydreams of a romance worthy of a Jane Austin novel.

"The book of love is long and boring

And written very long ago

It's full of flowers and heart-shaped boxes

Adn things we're all too young to know

but I

I love it when you give me things

and you

You ought to give me wedding rings"

I'm sure we've all heard this idea that you'll understand love when you get older, but even when you get older, it never seems to make sense. This idea that love is too old for any of us to truly understand, and that humbles us but in the best way possible. There is no point in trying to figure out what exactly love is because you could spend thousands of years feeling it and watching it happen all around you and still not know exactly what it is besides this all-encompassing feeling. And that is exactly the perspective of Aziraphale and Crowley. They have seen countless examples of love, true, unwavering love, and they have felt it for each other. And yet they themselves cannot begin to fathom what love, true unconditional love, is exactly. These two supernatural, ethereal/occult beings are humbled by the very concept of love like humans are- and that love is drawn from each other.

And then there is this notion of giving, which pairs so well with Crowley's primary love language, acts of service and gift giving. If the first chorus was Crowley talking about how he loves it when Aziraphale reads to him and takes care of him, then this is Aziraphale talking about how Crowley displays his love. And this final notion of asking for that final commitment, one of the key ways humans express their love for each other, is just amazing. Because in a way, Aziraphale moving to make this commitment, to fully be on their side in this way, is the resolution we have been wanting since the beginning. For Aziraphale to finally feel safe enough to let go and finally let himself settle to where he finally belongs, on his side with Crowley.

[dichenlachmandaily]

Warning: This post contains spoilers from season 2, episode 10 of Severance.

There is a lot to unpack after the explosive ending to Severance's buzzed-about sophomore season — and star Dichen Lachman, whose dual character of Miss Casey and Gemma was at the center of it all, can finally share her take.

The episode starts with foe-turned-ally Harmony Cobel (Patricia Arquette) helping Mark Scout (Adam Scott) communicate with his innie through recorded messages at the birthing house on Lumon Industries property where innies can give birth so their outies don't endure pain.

At one point, Ms. Cobel confronts innie Mark with the truth about his work on Cold Harbor, the project he's been working on during his time at Lumon. She explains its connection to his wife Gemma (known as Ms. Casey as her severed self inside Lumon). The clusters in each Macrodata Refinement (MDR) project are "tempers," representing the "building blocks" in Gemma's mind. Each time he completes one, a new innie is created.

While talking to his innie, Mark asks him to retrieve Gemma from the floor where she's being held captive by Lumon once Cold Harbor is complete. But Mark S. hesitates because he thinks that rescuing Gemma and leaving Lumon with her would be the end of his life — and his romance with Helly R. (Britt Lower).

Still, he arrives at Lumon's severed floor, he completes Cold Harbor as Ms. Cobel advised and he also goes to great lengths to save Gemma. After successfully retrieving her from the Cold Harbor room, their outies have a brief reconciliation before Mark switches back to his innie. He helps Gemma out of the building through an exit on the severed floor, but instead of leaving with her, innie Mark runs off with Helly R. as Gemma begs him to go with her.

Now, looking back on that shocking moment, actress Lachman, 43, tells PEOPLE about her reaction to it all.

"I think I read [episode] 10 just before we started filming [episode] 10 and 7. I just remember being like, 'Oh wow, this is going to be interesting to see the reaction,'" she says. "Obviously, the fans have spent so much time with Helly R. and Mark S., and so they're invested in that. But after [episode] 7, they're also hopefully invested in Mark's outie's relationship more as well."

"It's a really difficult situation," she adds.

As for what this means for Gemma, Mark and Helly (whose outie is Helena Eagan), Lachman also admittedly doesn't know what's next as she jokes: "Are they going to work out a timeshare?" 

For Lachman, a large part of her enjoyment for working on the thriller's second season has been diving deeper into her dual character.

"It was so wonderful because so much of Gemma for so long had just been little fragments. To really live in that space and lean into that emotional anchor for Mark, outie Mark, it was really exciting," she shares.

"It was daunting because I really didn't want to let anybody down," she continues. "I knew the fans were super invested in the show. I haven't seen people this invested in something for such a long time. The attention they pay to every single detail, like zooming into shots and finding little clues, it's wild."

When asked whether she thinks there will be a season 3, Lachman still remains hopeful.

"Fingers crossed and if we're all lucky enough to go that way, I'm just really excited to see what [creator] Dan Erickson comes up with," she says. "He's such an extraordinary talent and I couldn't be happier for him that so many people around the world have just been completely inspired and captivated by this show."

"It really keeps your attention like nothing else out there," she concludes. "It's almost like going on a ride to me. I feel like it's different watching Severance."

[jgoddesstarot]

Pick-A-Pile: Fall Into Fall | Insights From The Universe About Your Next Romantic Partner

👑Check out my masterlist to see all of my pick-a-card readings😊

✨ Visit my shops at Ko-fi.com or J.Goddess Tarot✨

🔮Disclaimer: This reading is for entertainment purposes only. Tarot readings are based upon my intuitive interpretation of the cards and about possibilities based on your current energy. Energy is forever changing and nothing is set in stone. Always remember, you have your own free will to make whatever decision you feel is best.

🔮How I read: I use a mix of tarot cards, oracle cards, along with my intuitive abilities of claircognizance, clairaudience, and clairsentience.

🔮How this works: Close your eyes and take deep breaths, pick the pile you are most drawn to. If you aren’t drawn to any pile then that’s okay, these messages aren’t for you.

Pile 1

Tarot Cards: Judgement, The Chariot, 10 of Swords, 7 of Wands, The Fool.

Hey there, my enticing Pile 1's. As the leaves turn golden and the air grows cooler, let’s delve into the sultry secrets that the Universe has teased for your romantic rendezvous this season. Hold onto your scarves, for this journey promises to be as unpredictable and tantalizing as the autumn winds.

First up, we're greeted by the alluring Judgement card. As we sip on our pumpkin-spiced lattes, this card whispers of profound awakenings and rebirth. There's an intense transformation awaiting you, my darlings. Perhaps you've been feeling the weight of past entanglements? The Universe nudges you to release them, inviting a love that resonates with the deeper, more evolved you.

Driving into our spread next is The Chariot. Ooh, the exhilarating energy! This card sizzles with determination, control, and rapid movement. If there were ever a time to be proactive about love, it's now. Your next partner might just be the kind to sweep you off your feet on a whirlwind fall adventure, their confidence as magnetic as the dance of falling leaves.

However, a twist awaits with the 10 of Swords. Fear not, for this card, though intense, hints at dramatic endings only to make way for fresher, more passionate beginnings. Any lingering pain or doubt from past heartbreaks? It's time to let them fall away, like the old leaves shedding, making way for vibrant new colors.

Standing tall in our spread is the 7 of Wands—a card of determination, defense, and standing one's ground. Your approaching lover might be someone unafraid to fight for love, to challenge and be challenged, to ignite that fire in you that burns brighter against the odds. The playfulness comes alive with The Fool, teasing us to be adventurous and to expect the unexpected. With fresh eyes and a daring spirit, this love will feel like the first crunch of fall leaves beneath your feet—exciting, refreshing, and filled with endless possibilities.

In conclusion, my sultry Pile 1's, this autumn ushers in a love story that's as multifaceted as the hues of fall—a tale of rebirth, passionate pursuits, endings paving the way for beginnings, fighting for love, and the pure thrill of new experiences. Embrace the season's lessons and mysteries. Welcome, love with open arms, a dash of courage, and a heart ready for adventure. This fall, love isn’t just in the air—it's a passionate storm waiting to envelop you. Dive in and let it sweep you away.

Pile 2

Tarot Cards: Knight of Swords, 4 of Pentacles, 7 of Cups, 3 of Swords, 9 of Cups, 10 of Cups

Warm greetings to you, my irresistible Pile 2's. As the world transforms with hues of amber and burgundy, let's embark on an intimate journey with the tarot cards, unveiling the mysteries of your next romantic encounter. The crisp scent of fall promises secrets, and I'm here to help you unravel them.

Charging forth is the Knight of Swords, embodying the electrifying energy of autumn winds. This card speaks of a partner who's bold, assertive, and invigoratingly refreshing. Their words might carry the weight of intense passion and unwavering certainty. They're someone who knows what they want and isn't afraid to chase after it—especially if that desire is you.

Yet, in the shadow of such ardor, the 4 of Pentacles gently reminds us of the value of vulnerability. While security is comforting, holding onto walls or past fears too tightly might hinder the depth of connection you both could explore. This upcoming romantic intrigue might challenge you to open up, to let the golden leaves of trust fall freely.

But ah, the dreamy 7 of Cups enters the scene, with its intoxicating allure of choices, fantasies, and daydreams. It teases us with the possibilities—the various faces love might wear, the whispers in the dark, the stolen glances across candlelit rooms. Yet, amidst these dreams, the sharp sting of the 3 of Swords can't be ignored. It's the gentle nudge from the Universe, asking us to heal from past wounds, to acknowledge the pain but not let it define our future passions.

As we near the finale, the heartwarming embrace of the 9 of Cups emerges, hinting at contentment, fulfillment, and wishes coming true. Your forthcoming romance promises moments of pure joy, of laughter shared over warm drinks and cozy nights in. And beautifully culminating our journey is the 10 of Cups, the very epitome of emotional bliss, love, and family. This card paints a picture of a love that isn't just passionate but deeply harmonious, echoing the heart's deepest desires.

In the heartwarming embrace of fall, my dearest Pile 2's, your cards foretell a love story brimming with passion, choices, healing, and ultimately, profound emotional fulfillment. As you step into this season, let the winds of change guide your heart, urging you to be brave, to dream, to heal, and to anticipate the love that's destined to be yours. The Universe whispers that love, as rich and warm as a fall sunset, awaits you. Embrace it with all its hues and mysteries.

Pile 3

Tarot Cards: Queen of Cups, 9 of Pentacles, The Star, The Empress, King of Pentacles

Greetings, my sultry Pile 3's. As the world dons its mesmerizing autumnal tapestry, let's dive deep into the depths of these cards, where secrets of your upcoming romantic interlude are nestled like hidden gems among fallen leaves. The tantalizing chill in the air tells tales of passion and connection—let's unveil them together.

Gracing our spread first is the ethereal Queen of Cups—a beacon of emotional depth, intuition, and compassionate allure. This card hints at a lover who possesses an innate ability to tap into the deepest corners of your soul. With just one glance, they'll see the swirling emotions beneath your surface, and with a soft touch, they'll make waves ripple through your heart.

Then, in steps the elegant 9 of Pentacles, cloaked in the luxurious energy of independence and self-assured grace. This suggests that your upcoming partner appreciates the finer things in life—both in material wealth and in the depth of connection. They're someone who has cultivated their own garden of success and now seeks someone with whom they can share the fragrant blossoms.

As we proceed, the shimmering Star casts its radiant glow, signifying hope, healing, and a serendipitous connection. It's as if the universe is aligning every constellation, guiding you toward a love that heals, rejuvenates, and inspires. Your romantic journey promises to be one that feels fated, written in the stars long before your paths ever cross.

The enchanting Empress sweeps in with her nurturing embrace, symbolizing fertility, abundance, and the very essence of love. This potent energy suggests your forthcoming romantic relationship will be deeply nurturing, filled with tender moments and an almost maternal warmth. It's a bond that will encourage growth, mutual respect, and boundless affection. Complementing this energy, the steadfast King of Pentacles arrives, grounding our reading with his aura of stability, reliability, and a touch of earthly sensuality. Together, they paint a relationship that's both passionate and dependable, rich in emotional depth and worldly comforts.

In the embrace of the fall season, my alluring Pile 3's, your cards whisper of a romantic dance that's as profound as it is grounded. It speaks of lovers who understand the depth of emotions, appreciate the beauty in the mundane, and find magic in the simplest gestures. As you drift through autumn, know that a love as rich as the season's colors and as comforting as a warm blanket on a chilly evening is beckoning. This relationship promises to be a harmonious blend of emotional depth, worldly comfort, and divine destiny. Let the leaves guide your path and the stars light your way, for an enchanting love story awaits.

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[thatonefreemanversefic]

Hiii!! Totally read through the fic in 3 days and I'm absolutely in love with it! It's been such a ride and I wanted to let you know how much fun I've been having reading through it :]

As someone who's watched almost all of the guys in the fic itself, I NEED to say how excited and impressed and ecstatic it's made me to pick up on habits!! I adore how Martini and Streamer understand each other's nonsense because they come from the same/similar time (with HLVRAI being a streamed VR series as well). Seeing Zyzx's version from Lythero's vid also made me unreasonably happy because I've watched that thing way too many times and love how chaotic it gets.

Similarly I adore the overprotective and calculating nature of Mercy, in line with how Saintjam went so far to keep all the NPCs alive! He's a great breath of fresh air and might be my favourite just cause of how stone-cold a badass he is, yet happens to be the most considerate towards safety and sacrifice. (Also really loved the scene with 8 choppers where I immediately recognized the grenade hops he used to take one down). Super hype for the future chapters, especially when other characters start to make their appearances. I saw you've been struggling though and have to stress that there's no rush! Take your time. The project is a labour of love, a passion project. Those thrive when you're gentle and kind to yourself :] I hope that it gets better though, and I understand the pressure with so many people enjoying your work. - In a different vein I'd like to thank you and the fic very much. I've had an AU of my own brewing for the months I've ended up in the HL rot. Your fic suuuper got me thinking about it even more! So it's been huge fun to dig deeper into it :D I feel compelled to share with others who really like AUs! Big sorry for the wall </3

Half-Life: Shores (game 1) and Half-Life: Depths (game 2) are the titles. Half-Life but the world flooded horribly many, many years ago. Black Mesa's projects aimed to find an empty dimension they could use to drain the ocean into, to reclaim the continents. Only, things take a horrible turn for the worse when the exact opposite happens, opening to Xyn. An infinite, pitch black abyssal void. Flooding all of Black Mesa in the process...

The Descendant quickly stole the world in the 7 hour war, an alien race living in compact, deep-sea cities where humanity can't reach them. Day by day humans are stolen away to the darkest reaches of the sea, hopeless to escape the enemy's clutches. Who knows what happens to them down there.

Cool diving suits and scary, aquatic horrors!! There's a lot more to it but. Yeahg. This is a longggg message alreadyfgjdfhg... -

BIG, BIG thank yous again. For both the fic being awesome, you guys being awesome and for inspiring me even more!

Hello !! First of all, thank you so much!! I know I say it a bunch but I really mean it every single time!! Hearing that people like it always makes me feel even better about continuing to write it!! (Also binging a fic in just a few days. Very relatable I fear.) I'm so glad other people who've watched just as much (if not more, perhaps) of these silly guys as I have loves what I've done with them!! I've been terrified from the start at characterizing any of them in a way that's just too different for anyone else to get behind. To know that you know all of them prior to this and love them all the same really means a lot!! (also YES!! its so fun treading the line between making them the same person and just. absolutely not. also playing off of the unique differences and similarities each of them have with one another is a real treat! I'm glad it's as fun to read for you as it is for me to write!!) Mercy is definitely like, top three favorites for me! He's very different to write from the rest and I can't wait to showcase that more in later chapters, especially now that we're finally reaching a point where these guys can just flourish and be themselves, show off their personalities without the interruption of fighting and action. I know for me personally, the dynamics between them and their relationships are what I care most about and what I want to focus on in my writing!! (Can you tell Found Family is my all time favorite trope?) ((Also additional extra note. I LOVE playing with the bounds of their reality, pushing it occasionally for both comedic and lore-related purposes >:) )) I cannot WAIT for the time when I have everyone properly include in the story and finally getting screen time. Genuinely I love all of these guys so much, even if they give me a ton of stress at times in terms of. just writing them. I also genuinely appreciate not only your being understanding, but also like. your reassurances? I'm not sure if I would've been able to keep pushing forward like I have been without all of you being so supportive!! I'm writing this fic for myself as much as I am all of you at this point.

[augustyearroundprod]

MOONBURN SEASON 3 -- Fundraising

AYR's GoFundMe is off to a great start, and I couldn't be more grateful for the love and support everyone has shown to get us started! We're almost to 30% of our goal!!

Do you want to help make MOONBURN SEASON 3 a reality?!

We're so excited to continue this wonderful queer, YA story (and so much more), but we need your help to bring it all to life! Any amount of support does so much for us as an indie podcast production company!

If you can, please donate and share the GoFundMe!

All my love,

Robbie

[fosswriter]

Constellation - Chapter 3: Gravitational Pull

Pairing. NCT WISH x STELLAR (Original Female Characters)

Genre. Fluff/Anticipation/Maybe Angst?

Word Count. 6.8k

Summary. NCT WISH and STELLAR begin their first day of collaboration activities, unaware of what was in store for them. Really unaware. What they thought would be simple getting-to-know-you activities quickly becomes something much more intense and personal than anyone expected. As the twelve members are pushed to open up in ways that feel both exciting and uncomfortable, some pairs find unexpected connections while others start to doubt themselves. Will this deeper dive into who they really are be helpful for them as they begin their journey as professional pairs?

Content Warnings. None!

Chapterlist

< Chapter 2 | Chapter 4 >

Author's Note. The third chapter! I'm really blowing through these, tbh. I already have up to Chapter 5 drafted so please stay tuned. To be honest, I'm not sure how I feel about how this chapter turned out. On one hand, I feel like it's necessary information to lead up to the rest of what I have planned, but it also just feels.. I don't know. Please let me know what you think!

The SM Entertainment building felt different at 8 AM on a Thursday morning. The usual bustling energy was replaced by a focused anticipation as both NCT WISH and STELLAR arrived for their first official collaboration filming. Hair and makeup teams buzzed around both groups, preparing them for what would be their first on-camera interaction as partners.

"I barely slept," Seonhwa whispered to Hana as they sat side by side in the makeup chairs, stylists working around them to create natural, camera-ready looks.

"Same," Hana replied softly, watching through the mirror as Sion entered the room, looking composed but alert. God, even at 8 AM he looks like that. Even in the early morning light, there was something undeniably striking about him - the way he carried himself with quiet confidence, how his analytical gaze seemed to take in everything at once. I wonder what it would be like to have all that attention focused on me. "But it's good nervous, right?"

Across the room, the boys were getting their own touch-ups, the atmosphere equally tense with anticipation.

"Do you think they'll make us do embarrassing stuff?" Ryo asked, fidgeting with the hem of his shirt as a stylist tried to fix his hair.

"Probably," Sakuya said with a small grin, unconsciously touching his bread charm. "But that's what makes it fun."

Jaehee nodded toward the girls, his eyes unconsciously seeking out Seonhwa. There's something about the way she moves... There was something graceful about the way she moved, even just sitting in a makeup chair. When she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, he found himself following the movement with his gaze. Focus, Jaehee. You're being weird. "They look just as nervous as we feel."

"That's... actually reassuring," Yushi admitted quietly, though his own attention kept drifting to Hikari. She's really pretty when she smiles like that. She was listening intently to something her stylist was saying, and he found himself captivated by the way her face lit up when she smiled. Stop staring. She'll think you're a creep.

"Alright, everyone!" A cheerful production assistant called out. "We're ready to move to the studio set!"

The filming location was a bright, modern studio designed to feel welcoming rather than intimidating. Comfortable seating areas were arranged in a large semicircle, with cameras positioned at multiple angles to capture natural interactions. Soft lighting created a warm atmosphere, and the overall setup felt more like a cozy living room than a formal interview space.

"Welcome to 'Getting to Know You' - a special collaboration episode!" the director, a cheerful woman in her thirties, announced as both groups were led onto the set. "Today is all about discovering compatibility and building connections between our two groups."

The production crew was small and friendly, creating an intimate atmosphere that put everyone more at ease. Cameras were visible but not overwhelming, and the director had made it clear that this was about authentic interactions rather than perfect performances.

"The concept is simple," the director continued as both groups settled into the semicircle arrangement. "We want to see how well you work together, how you communicate, and what kind of chemistry exists between potential partnerships. Think of this as a fun compatibility test rather than a formal interview."

Both groups settled into a large semicircle of chairs, partners sitting next to each other for the first time. The proximity felt strange but exciting - Sion noticed how Hana smelled faintly of jasmine, a scent that seemed to match her composed but warm personality. She smells really good. Is that weird to notice? When she shifted slightly in her seat, her knee briefly brushed against his, and he felt an unexpected jolt of awareness. Okay, definitely weird to notice.

Hana was acutely aware of Sion's presence beside her. He's so close. Why am I nervous? There was something about his quiet intensity that made her hyperaware of every small movement - the way his fingers drummed silently against his thigh when he was thinking, how his jaw tightened slightly when he was concentrating. I wonder what he's thinking about. I wonder if he's nervous too.

Jaehee couldn't help but observe how Seonhwa's hands moved expressively when she was nervous, graceful gestures that somehow made even anxiety look elegant. When she turned to whisper something to Hana, he caught a glimpse of the gentle curve of her neck and felt his cheeks warm slightly.

But every time he tried to make eye contact, she seemed to look away. Maybe she's just really focused on the activities.

Seonhwa was trying very hard not to stare at Jaehee, but it was difficult. There was something about his natural warmth that drew her attention - the way his eyes crinkled slightly when he smiled, how his voice carried genuine interest when he spoke. He's really... nice.

But every time he looked her way, she felt herself instinctively glance down at her hands. Focus on the director, not him.

Riku found himself stealing glances at Rina, noticing details he'd missed during their brief conversation yesterday. She's different when she speaks Korean versus Japanese. Which one is more her? The way she switched between languages seemed to reflect different aspects of her personality - more formal and precise in Korean, softer and more expressive in Japanese. Maybe they both are.

Rina was discovering that Riku's patient demeanor was more compelling than she'd expected. He really listens when people talk. That's rare. There was something about his quiet confidence that made her want to earn his full attention, to see what it would take to make him forget his usual reserve. I wonder what he's like when he's not trying to be polite.

Even reserved Yushi found his attention captured by small details about Hikari - the way she tucked her skirt under herself when she sat, how her eyes seemed to follow movement in the room with an artist's appreciation for visual flow. She sees things differently than other people. There was something almost hypnotic about watching her, and he had to remind himself to focus on the director's instructions. Pay attention to the cameras, not her.

Hikari was fascinated by the contradictions in Yushi's personality - his careful composure contrasted with occasional glimpses of something more playful underneath. There's definitely more to him than the robot thing. She found herself wondering what it would take to see him completely relaxed, completely himself. I bet he's actually really funny when he's comfortable.

"Now, before we begin our activities," the director continued, "I'd like to introduce someone very special. This is Dr. Lee Minsoo, one of Korea's leading relationship and compatibility experts."

An elegant woman in her forties stepped forward with a warm smile, immediately commanding attention with her professional but approachable demeanor. "Hello, everyone. I'm excited to work with you today. I specialize in understanding personality dynamics and how different types complement each other."

Oh great, we're getting psychoanalyzed on camera, Sion thought, trying to maintain his neutral expression.

This is either going to be really helpful or really embarrassing, Hana mused, stealing another glance at Sion.

Dr. Lee settled into a chair facing the group, her professional warmth immediately putting everyone at ease. "What we're going to do today is explore your compatibility through various methods - personality assessments, communication exercises, and some fun games. The goal isn't to judge anyone, but to help you understand each other better."

"Dr. Lee," the director interjected, "could you explain a bit about what you'll be looking for today?"

"Of course. Every partnership has unique strengths and potential challenges. Some people complement each other through similarities - shared values, communication styles, interests. Others work well because of their differences - one person's strength balancing another's growth area. Today, we'll discover what makes each of your partnerships special."

Rina felt Riku shift slightly beside her, and she wondered if he was as curious as she was about what they'd discover. I hope we're compatible. It would be awkward if we weren't. The brief brush of his arm against hers when he moved sent an unexpected warmth through her. Okay, that's... interesting.

"Let's start with something foundational," Dr. Lee announced. "I'm going to ask each of you some questions about your MBTI types, and we'll see how your personalities might work together."

The energy in the room shifted as Dr. Lee pulled out her tablet, and everyone straightened slightly in their chairs. This is really happening, Yuki thought, glancing nervously at Ryo and him returning the same nervous expression. The casual atmosphere became more focused as they realized they were about to learn something deeper about themselves and their partnerships.

___

"Now, I already have your MBTI results from your company profiles," Dr. Lee said, consulting her tablet. "But let's talk about what these mean for your partnerships and how you might complement each other."

She turned to the first pair. "Sion and Hana - you're both strategic thinkers, but in different ways. Sion, as an INTJ, you prefer to analyze and plan internally before acting. Hana, your type suggests you're more action-oriented but equally strategic. How do you think this might work in collaboration?"

Sion shifted uncomfortably, hyperaware of Hana's attention on him. Great, now I have to explain how my brain works. "Um... I guess I do think about stuff a lot before doing anything. Maybe too much?" Way to sound indecisive, idiot.

"I'm like... the opposite?" Hana said, glancing at him uncertainly. Is that bad? Does he think I'm reckless? "I just... go with what feels right. But maybe that's bad?" The movement brought her close enough that she caught his scent again, and she felt her cheeks warm. Focus on the conversation, not how good he smells. "I don't know, maybe you could help me slow down sometimes? And I could... help you not get stuck thinking?"

Sion felt his heart skip at the casual way she suggested they could help each other. She wants to help me? "That... that could work," he said quietly. Actually, that sounds really nice.

"Excellent insight," Dr. Lee nodded approvingly. "Your partnership has the potential for very balanced decision-making."

She moved to the next pair. "Jaehee and Seonhwa - this is interesting. You're both feeling-oriented types, but Jaehee, you're more externally expressive while Seonhwa is more internally focused. How do you communicate when you're feeling overwhelmed?"

"I... I talk. Like, a lot," Jaehee said with a nervous laugh, fidgeting with his hands. "Probably too much. I just... say everything I'm thinking and it probably gets annoying."

Seonhwa barely lifted her eyes from her lap, her voice soft. "I don't think it would be annoying." He seems really genuine when he talks.

"I usually just... hide until I figure things out," she continued, her cheeks slightly pink. "But maybe..." She glanced at Jaehee briefly before looking away again. "Maybe hearing someone else work through things would help."

Jaehee brightened, though he couldn't quite shake the feeling that she seemed more comfortable talking to the floor than to him. "Really? You'd be okay with that?"

"I think so," Seonhwa said quietly.

"Beautiful," Dr. Lee smiled. "You have the potential to help each other grow in emotional expression and processing."

Moving to Riku and Rina, she continued. "You're both feeling-types but with different energy orientations. Riku, you're more reserved and thoughtful, while Rina, you're more expressive. But you both value authenticity highly. How do you handle conflict?"

"I just... avoid it, I guess?" Riku said quietly, his usual patient demeanor wavering slightly. That makes me sound like a coward. "Until I figure out what I'm actually feeling."

"I'm like the complete opposite," Rina admitted. "I probably go too fast sometimes. Maybe we could... find something in the middle?"

Riku found himself drawn to how direct she was. She doesn't seem afraid of confrontation. That's... actually really admirable. "Yeah, that makes sense."

"So together, you could find a balanced approach - neither avoiding issues nor rushing into them without thought."

For Yushi and Hikari, Dr. Lee's expression was particularly interested. "This is a fascinating combination. Yushi, you're very structured and prefer clear plans, while Hikari, you're more spontaneous and intuitive. How do you each approach creative projects?"

"I like to... know everything beforehand" Yushi said carefully, his usual composure cracking slightly. She's going to think I'm boring. "Like, exactly what we're doing and how."

"I'm more... go with the flow," Hikari said with a small smile, noting how still Yushi became when she looked at him directly. He's so controlled. I wonder what would happen if he just... let go. "Maybe that's bad for working together?"

"Actually, in creative partnerships, this can be incredibly powerful. Structure provides a foundation for creativity to flourish safely."

"Oh," Yushi said, sounding almost surprised. So I'm not just the boring robot guy? "That's... good then."

She turned to Ryo and Yuki with a gentler expression. "You're both very adaptable and creative types. Ryo, you're curious about everything, and Yuki, you're skilled at seeing different perspectives. How do you like to have fun?"

"I like... everything, I guess?" Ryo said, his shyness from earlier starting to fade. "Drawing, movies, games. Just... trying new stuff."

"I love stories," Yuki added enthusiastically. We do have a lot in common. "Like, making people laugh and connecting with people."

"You two have the potential for incredibly fun and creative collaborations. Your shared curiosity could lead to really unique projects."

Ryo and Yuki exchanged a look that was part excitement, part nervousness.

Finally, she addressed Sakuya and Mio. "You're both people-focused types, but Sakuya, you're more observant and reserved initially, while Mio, you're confident in expressing yourself. How do you each contribute to group dynamics?"

"I just... watch everyone, I guess," Sakuya said thoughtfully, unconsciously touching his bread charm. "Make sure people are okay."

"I try to make sure everyone feels included," Mio said. He notices when people are uncomfortable? That's actually really sweet. "Like, bring energy when people need it."

"Perfect complementarity. Sakuya's observation skills combined with Mio's inclusive energy could make you excellent at creating comfortable environments for collaboration."

Dr. Lee paused, looking at all the pairs with satisfaction. "Overall, what I see here are six partnerships with incredible potential. Each pair has natural strengths that complement each other beautifully."

The room buzzed with quiet excitement as pairs processed what they'd learned. That went better than expected, most of them thought. The formal assessment had given them a framework for understanding each other, but now came the real test - seeing how well they actually knew each other.

"Now for something fun," the director announced, and the crew began distributing small whiteboards and markers to each person. "We're going to test how well you know your partner with a quick compatibility game."

Oh no, was the collective thought as everyone realized they'd have to guess personal things about someone they'd barely met.

"I'll ask a question about your partner, and you'll write down what you think their answer would be. Then we'll see how many you got right!"

The first question appeared on a screen: "What is your partner's biggest fear?"

Everyone scribbled nervously on their boards, stealing glances at their partners. How am I supposed to know this? was the common thread of panic. The weight of trying to understand someone's deepest fears after knowing them for less than 24 hours felt both impossible and strangely intimate.

"This is kind of scary," Yuki whispered to Ryo, who nodded in agreement.

What if I get it completely wrong and they think I don't care? Sion thought, staring at his blank board. What if I'm not good at this partnership stuff?

What if I guess something too personal? Hana worried, tapping her marker against her lip. What if he thinks I'm trying too hard?

Across the room, Jaehee glanced at other pairs who seemed to be writing confidently. Everyone else looks like they know what they're doing. Am I the only one struggling with this?

"Sion and Hana, let's see your answers."

Sion had written "Not being a good enough leader" while Hana had written "Disappointing the people who believe in me."

Hana's eyes went wide. How did he...? "Wait, that's basically..." She looked at Sion with something like amazement. "How did you know that?"

"I... I don't know," Sion said, looking equally surprised. I just thought about what would keep me up at night. "I just... that's what I worry about, so..."

We worry about the same things? The realization hit both of them at the same time, creating a moment of understanding that felt bigger than the game. Maybe we're more similar than I thought.

Dr. Lee nodded approvingly. "Already showing intuitive understanding of each other."

For Jaehee and Seonhwa: Jaehee had written "Not being good enough vocally" and Seonhwa had written "Letting people down with their voice."

Seonhwa's face flushed as she looked down at their boards, her voice quiet. "Oh... that's..."

"We both worry about the same stuff," Jaehee said gently, though he noticed how she still wasn't quite looking at him. "That's kind of... nice? Like, not nice that we worry, but nice that we get it."

Seonhwa nodded, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. He really does understand. But she found herself studying their boards instead of his face, even though she wanted to look.

Riku and Rina both wrote about language and cultural identity - Riku wrote "Not belonging anywhere" and Rina wrote "Being lost between cultures."

They looked at each other and Rina felt her breath catch. He knows exactly what that feels like. "We really..."

"Yeah," Riku said quietly. She gets it. "We really do."

The shared understanding felt like a secret between them.

Yushi and Hikari had written about artistic expression - Yushi wrote "Not being able to express myself properly" while Hikari wrote "People not understanding what they’re trying to convey."

"Wait, seriously?" Hikari said, staring at their boards. "You worry about that too?"

"All the time," Yushi admitted quietly. She gets it, she actually gets it.

Several more questions followed, each one revealing surprising insights. How are we this accurate? everyone wondered. With each round, the pairs seemed more amazed by how well they understood each other, and their nervousness gave way to genuine excitement.

"What makes your partner feel most loved?" was the next question, and suddenly everyone looked a lot more nervous. This is getting really personal, they all thought.

Sakuya's pen hovered over his board as he watched other pairs writing confidently. What if I'm not good at reading people like I thought I was?

Mio noticed his hesitation and felt her own confidence waver. He looks unsure. Maybe I'm not as easy to understand as I thought. Maybe I'm not interesting enough to figure out.

Sion stared at his board, thinking about how Hana's whole posture changed when someone acknowledged her leadership skills. She lights up when people respect her judgment. He wrote "When people trust her decisions" and hoped that wasn't too personal.

Hana thought about how Sion seemed to relax when people actually listened to his advice. He wants people to value his thoughts. She wrote "When people trust his judgment" and immediately worried it sounded too intimate.

When they revealed their answers, they both blinked in surprise.

"We really are similar," Hana said softly.

"Yeah," Sion agreed, and something in his voice made her look at him differently. Maybe that's not a coincidence.

Jaehee had written "Honest compliments about her voice" while Seonhwa wrote "When people appreciate his musical knowledge."

"I... you noticed that?" Seonhwa asked, touching her throat self-consciously.

"You light up when people praise your technique," Jaehee said simply, then blushed.. "I mean, not that I was watching you specifically, just..."

"No, I get it, and you’re totally right, I do respond to that…" Seonhwa admitted quietly.

When they revealed their answers across all pairs, the accuracy was startling and created an energy in the room that made everyone more aware of their partners. We're actually getting to know each other, they realized.

"What's your partner's love language?" was the final question, and this one made several people bite their lips nervously. Love language? Isn't that for... couples?

Most pairs were thinking practically - words of affirmation, quality time, acts of service - but there was an undercurrent of awareness about what working closely together might actually mean. We're going to be spending a lot of time together, they all realized.

"These results are really accurate," Dr. Lee observed, noting the heightened energy in the room. "You're all showing a strong intuitive understanding of each other already, this is great for professional partnerships."

The games had broken down more barriers, and as they prepared for the individual consultations, there was a buzz of curiosity and nervous excitement about what they'd learn next. Maybe this partnership thing will actually work, they all thought.

___

"Now I'd like to spend some time with each pair individually to give you more detailed insights about your dynamic," Dr. Lee announced. "We'll start with Sion and Hana."

Oh great, private therapy session?, Sion thought, but followed Hana to the separate seating area. The others settled in to wait their turn, the atmosphere filled with anticipation about what insights they'd receive about their own partnerships.

"You two have what I call a 'power couple' dynamic," Dr. Lee began, settling into her chair across from them. "Both of you are natural leaders, which could create competition, but I don't see that happening here. Instead, I see mutual respect and complementary strengths."

Sion and Hana exchanged glances, both looking uncertain about the "power couple" label. Power couple? We barely know each other, Hana thought.

"Is that... good?" Hana asked hesitantly.

"Let me be more specific," Dr. Lee continued. "Sion, you lead through careful analysis and strategic thinking. You're the type who considers all angles before making a move and have practical approaches. Hana, you lead through observation and decisive action. You're quick to read situations and act on your instincts. How do you think those styles might clash or complement?"

"I..." Sion started, then stopped. She's going to think I'm too slow. "I probably take too long to decide stuff. That might be annoying."

"And I probably decide too fast," Hana said quickly. Maybe that seems reckless to him. "But watching you think things through yesterday... it was kind of... I don't know, impressive? Like you really care about getting it right."

She thinks that's impressive? Sion felt his face warm. "And you... you're not scared to just go for it. That's... that's really cool."

Dr. Lee smiled knowingly. "You're already showing mutual respect. But let me ask this - Sion, when Hana makes a quick decision, what's your first thought?"

"Um... to wonder if she thought about all the things that could go wrong?" Sion said hesitantly. That makes me sound like such a pessimist.

"And Hana, when Sion takes time to think, what do you want to do?"

"Tell him to just pick something already," Hana laughed nervously. God, that makes me sound impatient. "But also... I kind of want to know what's going on in his head."

She wants to know what I'm thinking? Sion thought, surprised.

"Perfect. You're both curious about each other's processes rather than just frustrated by them. That's a very good sign."

Dr. Lee leaned forward slightly. "Now, let's talk about vulnerability. Both of you are used to being strong for others. When was the last time either of you let someone see you uncertain or struggling?"

"Now, let's talk about vulnerability. Both of you are used to being strong for others. When was the last time either of you let someone see you uncertain or struggling?"

The question made both of them shift uncomfortably. Never, they both thought immediately. But the weight of the question hung heavier than expected, cameras capturing every micro-expression.

"I... don't really do that," Hana said quietly. Leaders aren't supposed to look weak, right? The admission felt too raw, too real for a filmed environment. Everyone's watching. The staff, the cameras. What if they think I'm not leader material?

"Same," Sion agreed, his jaw tightening slightly. People expect me to have answers. But saying it out loud made him feel exposed in a way he hadn't anticipated. What if she thinks I'm weak for admitting this?

"But what if showing that uncertainty to each other actually made you stronger as a team?" Dr. Lee asked. "Sion, if Hana came to you unsure about a decision, how would you react?"

Sion thought about it, his expression softening. I'd want to help her figure it out. "I'd... I'd want to help. Talk through it with her until she felt better about it."

"And Hana, if Sion admitted he was overthinking something and felt stuck?"

"I'd probably want to help him see it more simply," Hana said, realizing she meant it. "Or just... be there while he figured it out."

They want to take care of each other, Dr. Lee noted with satisfaction.

"This is what I mean about vulnerability strengthening your partnership. You both have the instinct to support each other, but only if you let each other see when you need support."

As their session ended and they rejoined the group, both Sion and Hana felt like they understood something new about their potential partnership. Maybe this could actually work, they both thought.

___

Next up were Jaehee and Seonhwa, who moved to the consultation area with visible nerves. Please don't let this be awkward, Jaehee thought.

"You two have a beautiful 'harmony' dynamic," Dr. Lee said warmly, and both of them relaxed slightly. That sounds good, Seonhwa thought. "You both value excellence and authenticity, and you communicate in very compatible ways."

"Really?" Seonhwa asked, looking pleased but uncertain.

"Yes. Let me explain what I observed. Jaehee, your natural expressiveness creates a safe space for others to open up. You don't just talk - you invite conversation. Seonhwa, your thoughtfulness means that when you do speak, it carries weight. Together, you create this rhythm of expression and reflection."

Jaehee felt his chest warm. She thinks I create safe spaces? I just talk a lot, though.

"But I want to dig deeper into how you handle emotions," Dr. Lee continued. "Jaehee, when you're overwhelmed, you said you talk a lot. What does that look like?"

"I just... word-vomit everything I'm thinking," Jaehee said with a self-conscious laugh. She's going to think I'm so annoying. "It's probably annoying."

"I don't think it would be annoying," Seonhwa said quietly, surprising herself. I actually want to hear all his thoughts. Actually, I think I'd like listening to him work through things.

"Why?" Dr. Lee asked, sensing something important.

"Because... he thinks about things differently than I do. When I'm stuck in my head, hearing how someone else processes might help."

Jaehee looked at her with something close to amazement. She wants to hear me ramble? "Really?"

"And Seonhwa, when you withdraw to process, what do you need from others?"

"Usually just... space. But..." she glanced at Jaehee. Maybe not complete space with him. "Maybe not complete space. Maybe just someone being there without expecting me to talk right away."

"I could do that," Jaehee said immediately. "I could just... be there. Until you're ready."

The way he said it, so simply and genuinely, made Seonhwa's heart skip.

"This is exactly what I mean about harmony," Dr. Lee observed. "You're already anticipating each other's needs." She paused, watching how they unconsciously leaned slightly toward each other when talking. "I also notice you both have very expressive body language - Jaehee with your hands, Seonhwa with your posture. You're naturally attuned to physical communication, even if you don't realize it."

Both of them became suddenly aware of how close they were sitting, and there was a moment of shy awareness before Dr. Lee continued.

"The key for you two is not getting too comfortable in your own bubble. You naturally create this harmonious space together, but remember to stay open to new experiences and challenges as a pair. Remember, don’t overthink each other’s actions. Honesty in communication works best in this type of pairing."

Riku and Rina were next, and they seemed to relax slightly as they settled in with Dr. Lee, speaking in Japanese now that they were in a more private setting.

"You have what I call a 'deep understanding' dynamic," Dr. Lee explained, though she noted their language switch with interest. "You share cultural experiences that create immediate connection, but more than that, you both value authenticity above all else."

"It does feel easy to talk to him," Rina admitted. Like I don't have to explain everything.

"And you both have artistic souls - his appreciation for storytelling and your wordplay. This could lead to really unique creative collaborations."

"What should we be careful about?" Riku asked. There has to be a catch.

"You might both overthink instead of just experiencing things together. But let me ask about your creative processes. Riku, when you're inspired by a story or movie, what do you do with that feeling?"

"I usually write about it," Riku said quietly. Is that weird? "Like, letters to myself. Just trying to capture what moved me, I guess."

Rina's eyes lit up. He writes letters to himself? That's so sweet. "I do something similar - write lyrics even when there's no music for them."

"Really?" Riku looked genuinely interested. She gets it. "What kind of stuff do you write about?"

"Feelings that don't have words in just one language," Rina said. "Like... homesickness, but not for a place?"

Oh. "I know exactly what you mean," Riku said. "Missing something you never had."

"Exactly," Rina said, and they looked at each other with understanding. But the moment felt almost too intimate for the cameras, too real. Are we sharing too much? What if this gets edited to make us look... She couldn't finish the thought, but the weight of being watched while discussing something so personal made her chest tight.

Riku seemed to sense her sudden tension. She looks uncomfortable. Did I say something wrong? Maybe I shouldn't have understood so easily. Maybe that makes me seem... damaged.

Dr. Lee watched their interaction with fascination. "This is what I mean about deep understanding. You're already sharing concepts that would be difficult to explain to others."

She observed how Riku's usually careful posture relaxed when Rina spoke Japanese, how Rina unconsciously mirrored his more thoughtful gestures. "I notice you both communicate very naturally - not just with words, but with your whole presence. There's an ease between you that's quite rare."

The observation made both of them more aware of each other, and there was a moment of charged silence.

"Your challenge will be not overthinking your connection. Sometimes, just enjoy each other's company without analyzing what it means."

___

For Yushi and Hikari, Dr. Lee's analysis was particularly detailed.

"You two represent 'structured creativity' - the balance between technique and artistry. This is actually a rare and powerful combination in creative partnerships."

Hikari smiled. He probably would bring structure to my chaos.

"Let me break this down. Yushi, your precision and technical skill provide a foundation that allows creativity to flourish safely. Hikari, your intuitive approach and emotional expression can help bring out the warmer, more spontaneous side that I suspect is there under all that control."

"I never thought about it that way," Yushi said carefully, and for just a moment, there was a hint of something softer in his expression - almost like a suppressed smile. Maybe my rway of thinking isn't boring to her.

"But I want to explore how you communicate," Dr. Lee continued. "Yushi, you're very internal in your processing. When you're working on choreography, what happens in your mind?"

"I... I see the whole thing mapped out. Like, every count, every position. I need to know it's all going to work before I start."

"And Hikari, when you're creating, what's your process?"

"I just... feel the music and move. See what my body wants to do and go with it."

Dr. Lee nodded. "Completely opposite approaches. Yushi, when you watch Hikari dance freely, what do you think?"

Yushi was quiet for a moment. I think it’s beautiful. I think I want to understand how she does it. "I think... I want to learn how to feel music the way she does."

Hikari felt her heart flutter. But immediately, insecurity crept in. What if I can't teach him? What if I disappoint him? I'm not even formally trained like he is.

"And Hikari, when you see Yushi's technical precision?"

"I think about how much more I could do if I had that kind of control," Hikari said honestly. "Like, my ideas could actually become real instead of just... feeling good in the moment." But what if I'm too chaotic for him? What if my lack of structure frustrates him?

"This is perfect complementarity. But let me ask about physical collaboration. Dancing together requires trust and physical awareness of each other. How do you both feel about that?"

Yushi's composure cracked slightly. Dancing with her means touching her. "I... I'd want to make sure she felt comfortable."

"I really appreciate that," Hikari said, then realized how eager she sounded. "I mean, learning from each other through movement."

"Yushi, you're very controlled physically. Would you be comfortable with Hikari adjusting your positioning or guiding your movement?"

The question made Yushi's pulse quicken as he smiled his awkward smile. "I think... I think I'd be okay with that."

"Your challenge is communication. Yushi, you need to share your thoughts with Hikari, even when they're not fully formed. And Hikari, you need to be patient with his processing time."

___

With Ryo and Yuki, Dr. Lee's approach was notably gentler and more encouraging.

"You two have a wonderful 'creative partnership' dynamic. You both love exploring new ideas and making people happy."

"We do like similar stuff," Ryo said with growing confidence. This is actually going really well.

"Your strength is shared curiosity and empathy. You naturally want to understand others and create joy. When you're excited about something new, how do you like to share that excitement?"

"I want to show everyone," Ryo said enthusiastically. "Like, draw pictures or find movies that explain how I feel."

"I want to perform it," Yuki added. "Like, act out the feeling so people can experience it too."

"Perfect. You both process excitement through creative expression. Ryo, when Yuki acts out a story, how does that make you feel?"

"Like I want to draw what she's showing me," Ryo said, his eyes lighting up.

"And Yuki, when Ryo draws something he's excited about?"

"Like I want to bring the drawing to life somehow."

Dr. Lee smiled warmly. "You're already inspiring each other creatively. Your challenge is just being patient with each other as you learn and grow. You're both still discovering yourselves, which makes this partnership exciting."

___

Finally, Sakuya and Mio sat with Dr. Lee, and the dynamic immediately felt comfortable.

"You have an 'observer and includer' dynamic that's really special. Sakuya, you're incredibly perceptive about group dynamics, while Mio, you're skilled at making sure everyone feels valued."

Sakuya looked pleased. She noticed that I watch people. At least it's not creepy.

"But let me dig deeper into how you each operate. Sakuya, when you're observing a group, what are you looking for?"

"Who's comfortable, who isn't, who's being left out," Sakuya said thoughtfully. "I like when everyone's having a good time."

"And Mio, when you're including people, what's your approach?"

"I try to find what they're good at and make space for them to show it," Mio said. "I think that everyone has something cool about them."

"This is why you work so well together. Sakuya identifies the need, Mio addresses it. But let me ask about your individual needs. Sakuya, what makes you feel most comfortable in a group?"

"When I don't have to perform," Sakuya said honestly. "Like, when I can just be myself and that's enough."

"I want to make sure he always feels like that," Mio said immediately, surprising herself with how protective she sounded.

She wants to take care of me? Shocked by the straightforwardness, Sakuya felt warm all over.

"And Mio, what do you need to feel appreciated?"

"When people see that I'm working hard," Mio said. "Not just the final result, but that I care."

"I can see that," Sakuya said earnestly. "It seems like you put effort into everything, even small things in your performance."

The way he said it, so genuinely observant, made Mio feel seen in a way she rarely did. He really does pay attention.

Dr. Lee watched their interaction with a warm smile. "I notice you both have very caring energy - Sakuya, you watch out for others quietly, and Mio, you actively include them. But there's also a gentleness in how you treat each other that's quite sweet."

Both of them blushed at the observation, suddenly aware of how naturally considerate they'd been with each other throughout the session.

"Your challenge might be focusing so much on others that you forget to focus on your own partnership. Remember to take time just for yourselves too."

___

As all the pairs reconvened for the final reflection, the atmosphere had shifted completely from the morning's nervous energy. There was more eye contact between partners, more comfortable body language, and genuine excitement about their potential.

Dr. Lee stood to address the group one final time. "What I've observed today is six partnerships with genuine potential for deep connection and creative collaboration. You all show natural compatibility, but more importantly, you show willingness to understand and support each other."

She paused, looking at each pair. "Remember, the best partnerships and collaborations aren't just about natural compatibility - they're about choosing to grow together. What you do with these insights is up to you."

"And that," the director announced with a smile, "wraps up our morning session. You'll have a lunch break, and then this afternoon we'll be doing something completely different - your paired photoshoot concepts."

As the cameras stopped rolling and the crew began setting up for the next session, the twelve individuals felt less like two separate groups and more like six pairs beginning to discover their potential.

___

During the lunch break, the pairs naturally gravitated toward each other, the morning's activities having broken down the initial barriers and created genuine curiosity about their partnerships.

"I can't believe how right some of those observations were," Seonhwa said to Jaehee as they found seats together.

"I know, right? It makes me actually excited for this afternoon," he replied, then paused. "Are you nervous about the photoshoot?"

"A little," she admitted. "But also curious about what they have planned for us."

Across the cafeteria, Sion and Hana were processing their morning.

"The vulnerability thing she mentioned," Sion said quietly. "That was...yeah, pretty accurate."

"Yeah," Hana agreed. "I never really thought about it, but I don't tend to let people see me uncertain."

"Maybe we could try or practice together? I mean, if you feel comfortable. We do need to trust each other if we’re going to make our collaboration work" Sion suggested, then immediately wondered if that sounded weird.

"I'd like that," Hana said, and something about the way she said it made them both feel like they were stepping into new territory.

Meanwhile, Riku and Rina were having their conversation in Japanese now that they were away from the cameras.

"Did you notice how we kept answering things the same way?" Rina asked.

"It's like we think similarly about stuff," Riku replied, then smiled.

Yushi and Hikari sat slightly apart from the others, but their conversation was more animated than usual for Yushi.

"I never thought about technique and creativity working together like that," he was saying.

"But it makes perfect sense," Hikari replied. "Your technique could make my ideas actually work instead of just feeling good in the moment or being totally temporary."

Ryo and Yuki were already planning beyond the collaboration.

"I have so many movies I want to show you," Ryo said.

"And I want to see all your drawings," Yuki replied enthusiastically.

Sakuya and Mio were discussing their shared people-watching skills.

"Do you think the other pairs noticed how nervous everyone was at the beginning?" Sakuya asked.

"Probably not as much as we did," Mio laughed. "But that's kind of our thing, right? Noticing things."

As lunch wound down, all twelve members felt a sense of anticipation for whatever came next. The morning gave us understanding, they all thought, but the afternoon will be our first real creative collaboration.

The constellation was ready for its next phase, each star beginning to understand its place in the larger pattern that was forming around them.

[emilykaldwen]

💕 Tell me about the latest project you're working on or what you're most excited about creating right now. Send it to as many people as you want. 💕

Morning Ange!! Thank you for this!

The other project I'm working on is my super fun secret project for the hotd big bang! I got some feedback from Alex last night that was really helpful and boosted me up (I was just hating everything I was writing). We've got some medieval fairy tale vibes (which... is my thing? Now? I'm totally owning it). It's very tropey, which is the point, and it's so nice to realize that I don't need to dive in deeper, we're all just here committing to the 'yes let's have them meet and smooch and run off together'.

It makes me happy <3

Thank you so much, Ange! I can't wait for your projects!

[mipwrites]

WIP TAG GAME

Thanks @isahorcrux for the tag!! I love WIP games, and it is nice to check in and let everyone know where youre at in terms of writing! I have a lot in the pipe I haven't even hinted at for writing lmao

Guide:

1. List the titles your top five priorities for WIP updates (link your fics for new readers!)

2. An upcoming scene, event, or detail in each fic that you're looking forward to writing

3. Bonus: make a poll for your followers to vote on which top 5 WIP they are most excited to see an update on!

4. Then tag 10 writer friends!

Titles

A Court of Snow and Shadow Chapter Four -- ACOTAR, Azriel/OFC multi-chapter.

2. Sermon Chapter Eleven -- Batman, JasonEra!Robin Jason/OFC multi-chapter.

3. currently untitled Teen Wolf fic -- Derek Hale/OFC multi-chapter

4. ACOSAS Sequel A Court of Song and Flame -- ACOTAR, IC!Children fic, multi-chap

5. currently untitled Reacher fic -- Reacher (TV series), Reacher/Roscoe whatif! fic - possibly a one shot, more likely short multichapter.

Spoilers Abound Ahead! Turnback now!!!

Upcoming Writing

1. I've been incredibly sick for the last few weeks, so my goal to get chapter four out by the end of February likely will not happen, but I am so excited for this chapter. We're getting into Nyra's POV here, and diving deeper into Winter Court dynamics and her feelings on everything that happened. Her internal monologue has consistently made me laugh while writing, she's hilarious lol.

2. Sermon has been my white whale since 2017 lmao. I took two years (!!!) off because it stressed me out so much just staring at that document, plus everything else going on in my life. But I'm determined to finish it!! and now that actual plot is happening and all the exposition is over, I think that will be a lot easier. I love my lil babies cannot wait to finish their stories lmao.

3. So this one came to me once the Teen Wolf movie came out and uh....I had some issues with it. Namely how this entire series treated Derek. But I also was really interested in the idea of Derek being a parent, and all the questions around that - like who was Eli's mother? Where is she? What would rebuilding a werewolf pack like the Hales *look* like? I delved into it and sadly never found anything concrete enough to plan around, but I may rewatch the series again to get some inspo if there's enough interest.

4. Okay, so yes, I haven't even finished ACOSAS yet, why am I thinking about a sequel lol. Honestly, I just got really interested in what the Inner Court's children would be like, and quickly found myself pulled under lol. A Court of Song and Flame focuses on [SPOILER] Azriel and Nyra's daughter, Aella, and her relationship with a certain son of an Autumn Court Prince. It sort of turned into a buddy cop/romcom/mystery and I really, really love the idea. Just gotta finish ACOSAS!!!

5. I. Love. The. Reacher. TV Show!!! I found the first season so fun and compelling, and just absolutely fell in love with Roscoe. I had this idea of "what if, after leaving Margrave, one day a blonde teenager comes calling to find a father her mother only had stories of. Chaos ensues. I only have the first threads of it but I hope to expand it later.

Tagging a whole host of people that I'm sure might have already been tagged: @thequibblah @clare-with-no-i @emeralddoeadeer @sunshinemarauder @noneedforbloodpressure @acourtofwhatthefuck and anyone else who'd like to do the wip tag!

[sassystarfarerglitch]

Move-In Ready: How Our Cleaners Prepare Your New Home

Introduction

Moving into a new home is an exciting chapter in anyone's life, but it can also be overwhelming. From packing up your old space to settling into the new one, there's a lot to juggle. One crucial aspect that often gets overlooked during this transitional period is cleaning. This is where professional cleaning services come into play, especially if you're in Dublin. Imagine walking into a sparkling clean space that’s ready for you to make it your own. In this article, we're diving deep into how our cleaners prepare your new home to ensure it's move-in ready.

Move-In Ready: How Our Cleaners Prepare Your New Home

When you decide to move into a new place, there's an innate desire to start fresh. But what does "move-in ready" actually mean? It means the space is not just tidy but thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. Our team of cleaners in Dublin specializes in making homes truly move-in ready by focusing on several key aspects of cleaning.

1. The Importance of Move-In Cleaning Services

Moving in can be a mess—literally! Many people overlook the importance of thorough cleaning before unpacking their boxes. Move-in cleaning services in Dublin provide peace of mind and ensure that you're stepping foot into a space that's not just visually clean but also hygienic.

What Do Move-In Cleaning Services Include?

Our move-in cleaning services cover:

Dusting all surfaces Vacuuming carpets and rugs Mopping hard floors Wiping down kitchen appliances Scrubbing bathrooms thoroughly

The objective is clear: we want every corner of your new home to feel welcoming and fresh.

2. Why Choose Professional House Cleaning in Dublin?

You might wonder why opting for professional house cleaning services in Dublin makes sense rather than doing it yourself. Here are some compelling reasons:

Expertise: Our cleaners are trained professionals who know the best techniques for different types of surfaces.

Time-Saving: Cleaning can take hours—time better spent on setting up your new life.

Comprehensive Approach: We don’t just do surface cleaning; we get into the nooks and crannies.

Eco-Friendly Options: With our eco-friendly cleaning services available, you can rest assured knowing that no harmful chemicals will be used.

3. Understanding Your Cleaning Needs

Before we even begin our work, understanding your specific needs is paramount. Whether it’s an apartment or a multi-story house, each environment requires a tailored approach.

Assessing Different Spaces

Apartments: Smaller spaces often need efficient use of time and resources.

Houses: Larger homes may require deeper cleaning methods for areas like attics or basements.

By evaluating these factors upfront, we https://pipewiki.org/wiki/index.php/Deep_Cleaning_vs_Regular_Cleaning:_What%E2%80%99s_Best_for_Your_Dublin_Home%3F ensure that our services align perfectly with your expectations.

4. The Checklist for Move-In Ready Homes

Having a systematic checklist helps us deliver consistent results every time:

| Task | Status | |------------------------------------|---------------| | Dust all surfaces | ✅ Co

[theblindmachine]

"# Another Decade of Gripping Documentaries: A Journey Through Truth Welcome to WatchMojo! As we dive into the realm of compelling storytelling that stretches beyond fiction, we're excited to count down our picks for the best documentaries released since 2014. Buckle up, because this isn’t just a stroll down memory lane—this is a thrilling ride through real lives, real events, and the unscripted truth that shapes us. Documentaries have an uncanny ability to enlighten and challenge our perspectives. From the haunting echo of a tragic life lost to the revelation of societal issues, each film leaves a lasting imprint. Among our standout favorites is **"Amy,"** a mesmerizing portrait of Amy Winehouse that not only captivates with her unparalleled talent but also provides a raw glimpse into the struggles that consumed her. It’s a sobering reminder of the price of fame and the fragile human spirit. Then, there’s **"O.J.: Made in America,"** a sprawling epic that does more than recount a high-profile trial; it examines race, celebrity culture, and the American justice system with the scrutiny it deserves. This multi-part documentary immerses viewers in the complexities of a case that polarized a nation, leaving us with a deeper understanding of the divisions that persist in our society. We can’t forget **"Won't You Be My Neighbor?"**—a heartwarming tribute to Fred Rogers that reaffirms the power of kindness in our fractured world. This documentary serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and connection, urging us to be better, kinder humans. With every frame, it reminds us of the simple yet profound messages that shaped an entire generation. These films, and many more, have impacted us in ways we might not fully grasp. They challenge us, teach us, and at times, push us to confront uncomfortable truths. They raise questions about everything from societal norms to personal accountability. What did you take away from these extraordinary documentaries? How have they influenced your views or inspired action? We want to hear from you in the comments below! And if you're craving more gripping content, check out our other documentary-themed videos, including the **Top 20 Hardest to Watch Documentaries** and the **Top 10 Shocking Moments in Documentaries.** Prepare for an emotional rollercoaster! Want to dig deeper? Become a channel member for special perks and exclusive content that goes beyond the surface. And hey, don't forget to flex your trivia muscles! Join our live trivia games at 3 PM EST for a chance to snag some cash prizes. Your ideas can become a video, so if you have a topic burning in your mind, share it with us! Subscribe now for more incredible content and visit our shop for some awesome merch. This is your trusted authority for Top 10 lists, reviews, tips and tricks, biographies, origins, and all the entertainment news you crave. Let’s celebrate the power of documentary films together! #documentaries #2010s #documentary #bestdocumentary #movies"

[a10legacy]

Discover A-10 Legacy: Your Destination for Timeless Collectibles

Welcome to A-10 Legacy, where nostalgia meets passion. Whether you're a seasoned collector, a fan of rare finds, or someone who cherishes pop culture history, A-10 Legacy is your trusted source for authentic vintage trading cards, magazines, autographs, and memorabilia.

We don’t just sell collectibles—we preserve moments in time. Let us take you on a journey through decades of iconic history, one collectible at a time.

Our Mission: Preserving Nostalgia

At A-10 Legacy, we’re more than a store. We preserve stories, memories, and legacies for future generations. Every item in our inventory is carefully selected to reflect a piece of history. From unopened trading card packs to graded vintage magazines, our goal is to offer unique treasures that bring joy and lasting value.

Our mission is simple: to make collecting exciting, accessible, and rewarding for everyone, while ensuring authenticity and quality in every product.

What Makes A-10 Legacy Unique?

1. Authenticity You Can Trust All our items are authenticated by trusted third-party services like PSA, CGC, and Beckett, giving you peace of mind with every purchase.

2. Rare and Curated Products Our inventory includes non-sports graded cards, sports cards, magazines, and autographs that are as rare as they are meaningful. We source only the finest collectibles from trusted networks.

3. Nostalgia Meets Lasting Value Whether it’s a Time magazine commemorating the Apollo 11 Moon Landing or a sealed Garbage Pail Kids pack, our products appeal to collectors seeking iconic and meaningful additions to their collections.

Our Collectible Categories

Vintage Trading Cards Unopened packs from the most beloved franchises:

Marvel, Star Wars, and more

Garbage Pail Kids and other '80s/'90s favorites

Lord of the Rings, Jurassic Park, Indiana Jones, and more

Graded Cards (Non-Sports & Sports)

Explore non-sports PSA-graded cards

View our sports graded vault

Graded Magazines Preserve pop culture history with CGC-graded vintage magazines from Marvel, Star Wars, and major newsstand events.

Authentic Autographs & Memorabilia Own a piece of history with authenticated autographs and memorabilia — perfect for display or gift-giving.

Our Commitment to Collectors

At A-10 Legacy, we understand that collecting is more than a hobby—it’s a lifestyle. That’s why we’re committed to:

Dedicated Support: Have questions? Need advice? Our knowledgeable team is here to assist you.

Quality Assurance: Every item is inspected before shipping.

Customer Satisfaction: From secure packaging to prompt delivery, your satisfaction is our top priority.

Why Collect with A-10 Legacy?

1. Build Your Legacy Collectibles aren’t just items—they’re timeless pieces of history and culture. A-10 Legacy helps you build a collection that reflects your personal passion.

2. Relive Iconic Moments Rediscover your favorite franchises, historical events, and pop culture milestones.

3. Trustworthy Guidance As collectors ourselves, we know what matters most: authenticity, rarity, and trust. That’s our foundation.

Join the A-10 Legacy Community

Whether you're searching for that one elusive trading card pack or just beginning your collection, we're here to help. Read more on our story here: About Us

Explore our full catalog at a10legacy.com, or dive deeper with our feature blog: 👉 Discover A-10 Legacy (Official Blog Post)

Sign up for our newsletter for updates on new arrivals, exclusive content, and collector insights.

Collect. Preserve. Inspire. — The A-10 Legacy Team

Originally published on our blog at A-10 Legacy

[rbtpracticeexamus]

The Autistic Lived Experience: A Deep Dive (no, like, a real one)

Let's talk about autism.

not the clinical, textbook, "here's a checklist of deficits" version. let's talk about the actual, lived, day-to-day experience of having a brain that's wired differently.

because being autistic isn't a bug. it's a different operating system.

and navigating a world that wasn't built for your OS is a constant, exhausting, and sometimes beautiful process of translation. if you're neurotypical and here to learn, welcome. if you're autistic and here to feel seen, hi, i see you.

for the foundational 101 on autism, this article has the info.

but we're going deeper. let's get into the nitty-gritty.

1. Socializing on Hard Mode: Communication & Relationships

for neurotypicals, socializing is basically on autopilot. for us? it’s like doing advanced calculus. in a language you don’t speak. while on stage. and you forgot your lines.

it’s not that we don’t want friends. we do. it's that the unwritten rules of NT social interaction feel completely arbitrary.

please just say what you mean, i am begging you.

we tend to be literal. direct. honest. sarcasm, vague hints, and idioms? they don't compute automatically. they're a manual override.

if you ask "can you pass the salt?" our brain might just confirm that, yes, we are physically capable of this task. it’s not malicious compliance, it’s just… literal.

we're not being rude. we're being clear.

that awkward moment when you're using 80% of your brain to decode their facial expression and you miss what they actually said.

so much of NT communication is nonverbal. a raised eyebrow. a shift in tone.

trying to track all of that while listening to the words is a massive cognitive load. it's why we might seem aloof or miss the point. we're not uninterested, our CPU is just maxed out.

the sacred infodump.

conversations are supposed to be like tennis, but sometimes we don't know when it's our turn to serve.

or, when our special interest comes up, we get so excited to share that we deliver an entire Wikipedia article's worth of information. this is not selfishness. this is pure, unadulterated joy and a sign of trust. it's a gift.

masking: the ultimate long-term performance art (and it's exhausting).

to survive, many of us learn to camouflage. we manually perform "normal" social behaviors.

forcing eye contact (painful), mimicking expressions, scripting conversations, suppressing stims.

it's a survival skill, but it drains our social battery to zero. after a day of masking, we need to be alone in a dark room for 3-5 business days to recover.

autistic friendships are top-tier.

they're often built on shared interests, not small talk. just vibing in the same room, doing separate things, in comfortable silence? peak friendship.

it's about finding someone who gets it. where you can finally take the mask off. pure acceptance.

2. The Sensory World: Everything is Loud and/or Not Loud Enough

imagine your senses have volume dials. neurotypical dials are set to a comfortable 5. our dials are all over the place. some are stuck on 11, others are on 1.

this is not a preference. this is neurology.

Hypersensitivity (aka the world is TOO MUCH).

this is when normal input feels like a physical assault. it's life without a filter.

Sound: Fluorescent lights hum like angry hornets. A clock ticking is a torture device. A crowded room is just a wall of noise.

Sight: The sun is a laser beam. A cluttered room is visual chaos.

Touch: A tag in a shirt is made of sandpaper. A light, unexpected touch is a jump scare.

Taste/Smell: That person's perfume is a chemical weapon. Food textures are a nightmare.

Hyposensitivity (aka i need more INPUT).

this is when the brain is under-responsive and needs more sensory data to feel regulated.

Sound: Loves loud music. Might not hear you calling their name.

Sight: Loves bright, flashing lights and visually busy things.

Touch: High pain tolerance. Craves deep pressure. This is why weighted blankets, tight hugs, and crashing into things are a vibe.

Taste/Smell: Needs extremely spicy or sour food to feel anything. Might smell things to understand them.

3. The Autistic OS: Routines, Executive Dysfunction, and Big Feelings

if sensory is the hardware, this is our unique operating system. it's precise, but it's prone to crashing when things change.

routines are not about being stubborn. they are about survival.

the world is chaotic. routines make it predictable. they reduce anxiety and free up brain power.

when a routine is broken, it’s not a small inconvenience. it’s a system-wide error message. it's panic. it's "what do i do now?"

executive dysfunction is real and it's not laziness.

executive functions are the brain's CEO. ours is... often on a coffee break.

Task Initiation: The infinite space between knowing you have to do the thing and actually doing the thing.

Planning: Seeing "clean room" as one giant, impossible monster instead of a series of small steps.

Working Memory: The brain's RAM is tiny. Instructions? Gone. What was I just doing? No thoughts, head empty.

Flexible Thinking: Plan A failed. There is no Plan B. System crash.

ah yes, the Spoon Theory.

shoutout to Christine Miserandino. you start the day with a limited number of spoons. every single task costs spoons.

showering (sensory hell): -2 spoons

small talk with coworker: -3 spoons

unexpected change of plans: -5 spoons

when you're out of spoons, you're out. you can't just "try harder." the spoons are gone.

meltdowns and shutdowns are not tantrums.

when the system is completely overloaded, it either explodes or powers down.

Meltdown: An external explosion of distress. Crying, yelling. It’s involuntary. We've lost control.

Shutdown: An internal collapse. Going non-verbal, still, withdrawn. The system is offline to prevent further damage.

alexithymia: "i feel... a feeling. it is... bad."

this is a fun one. it's the difficulty in identifying and naming your own emotions. you know you feel something intense, but you can't tell if it's anxiety, sadness, or just that you need to eat. it makes everything... complicated.

4. Co-Occurring Conditions: The Side Quests You Didn't Ask For

being autistic rarely comes as a standalone package. the stress of it all means we often collect other conditions along the way.

Anxiety & Depression: a classic duo. when you spend your life feeling misunderstood and overwhelmed, this is basically the default outcome.

ADHD: The AuDHD experience is a whole vibe. It's your brain wanting strict routines (autism) while also craving novelty and being unable to focus (ADHD). It's a constant internal paradox.

GI Issues: our guts are often as sensitive as our brains. IYKYK.

Sleep Disorders: our brains just... don't turn off. either that or the texture of the pillowcase is a sensory crime.

Conclusion: It's a Whole World In Here

the autistic experience is a tapestry. it's woven with intense perception, deep logic, passionate joy, and the constant work of existing.

it’s a world where a shirt tag is torture, but the way light hits a dust mote is art. where small talk is impossible, but a 4-hour conversation about mushrooms forges a bond for life.

understanding us means setting your NT defaults aside. it means being patient and listening.

the goal isn't to make us fit into your world. it's to make the world fit for all of us.

for more on spotting the signs early on, this guide is super helpful.

reblog if you felt this in your soul. add your own experiences in the tags.

#autism #actually autistic #neurodivergent #a deep dive #autism acceptance #sensory processing disorder #executive dysfunction #stimming #infodump #special interest #audhd #masking #autistic joy #spoon theory #mental health #say the thing #educational

[leejenowrld]

hi bb here is a bunch of my brain rot thoughts because I need time to process everything…

1. jaemin disappearance is INSANE…but i believe that’s how he cope with the news of a sudden child. but, correct me if i’m wrong, dod he find out about haeun shorty after the funeral?

2. nahyun is a bitch. copycat bitch. bitch with mental issues. #freejeno #save jeno

-president of yn protection squad

4.but yay jeno refusing to knock up nahyun when they have sex and he doesn’t want to get tied down by that bitch ‼️

3. jeno a part of me will always hate you for choosing nahyun and making yn thinks that she is not enough.

5. this list is definitely not send in order but i loce the new york gang ❤️

6. omg yn and seulgi…their conversations never fails to tear me up idk why. i will make her the vice president of yn protection squad!!

7. exchange between mark and yn. thank you mark i love you for being thay person who try to wake jeno up from god knows what dream. youre the real one. the kidney reference again, she’s lighrs to how borh brother feels.

8. yangyang omg 😭 thé second male lead syndrome hitting tough here. baby come to me i will love you back ❤️

9. coach suh i love you. (no explanation needed)

10. manipulative af. hope nahyun never comes out from jail and keep her father in it too

11. kinda break my heart too when yn cliched and asked for mark and karina instead…but tbh i would have done the same. (hehe bur could we dive deeper into how jeno communicated to mark and karina and how they comfort yn? + jeno’s and thé friend group reaction. but if you’re not free it’s ok though! i just want to see how the friend group dynamic plays out here :) )

12. okay yangyang say rhe word and i will marry you

13. the way jeno tried to redeem himself with the bracelet. also the scene where yn just hold onw to the bracelet. it felt like it was the only thing that kept her grounded during thr post college era. it’s like a reminder that jeno was once there. for it to be destroyed by thay crazy bitch is insane. it’s like the hope she was clinging to broke when the bracelet broke ☹️

13. the jaemin and yn moment omg 😭

SO EXCITED FOR PART 11 HEHE

but can’t believe we are nearing the end…i really hope they get together this time though…they been through so much

-with love (always) 🎀

i can't believe we're nearing the end too AHHH the day it ends you guys will have to hold me cos i will sob. i don't want it to end, i'm crying thinking about it. i love you for sending me all your thoughts along the way, this is everyone's sign to do the same !!! i'm gonna address it all one by one.

jaemin’s disappearance truly was feral behavior. but it's so him. emotionally unavailable king said flight response only. and did he found out about haeun shortly after the funeral. there’s more to unpack about the timing and how that grief collided with the pressure of sudden fatherhood, but you clocked it exactly. he didn’t vanish out of indifference. he vanished because he didn’t know how to show up as the version of himself he wanted to be yet.

nahyun… yeah. no words, only sirens. the copying. the manipulation. the complete psychotic break in front of everyone. like girl we were rooting for you to get therapy not to go full exposé director with a mic pack. she’s actually terrifying. #freejeno indeed.

listen. that line — “a part of me will always hate you for making her feel like she wasn’t enough” — that could be the thesis of y/n’s heartbreak. you said it perfectly. it’s not about the choice. it’s about the message it sent. and she felt it in her blood.

jeno refusing to breed nahyun during sex was such a quiet victory for everyone. like yes king please escape this woman’s fertility trap before it’s too late.

the new york gang is chaotic and healing and a little dysfunctional in the best way. they're your messy found family with at least one group chat that never stops pinging. you’re so valid for loving them. (rq a gc post for them pls babe)

y/n and seulgi... they always get me too. seulgi is the only adult who knows how to speak to y/n’s pain without minimizing it. and she does it without trying to fix her. just holds her. listens. says the right things. yes to her as VP of the yn protection squad.

mark trying to snap jeno out of his guilt coma… we thank him for his service. and the kidney line??? mark knows exactly what she means to them both, even when they don’t want to say it out loud. he’s such a grounding force. he makes the pain feel bearable just by naming it.

yangyang. our collective ache. he said you don’t have to love me, but i’ll still hold you when you break. he’s too good. second male lead syndrome hitting like a truck.

no explanation needed. coach suh supremacy.

manipulative and delusional. her AND her father. i promise you the prison arc goes crazy.

that moment when y/n flinched and asked for mark and karina instead of jeno? it broke everyone. she just couldn’t bring herself to turn to him. not after all that silence. and yes love i’ll absolutely write the comfort moment for you — how karina and mark took care of her, what jeno did after hearing her choose someone else, how the rest of the group reacted. you’re not annoying at all, that’s exactly the kind of emotional aftermath i love to dive into. send me a separate ask and i'll try my best to deliver.

yangyang marriage proposal accepted. the line starts behind me.

the bracelet… you saying it was the only thing keeping her grounded during the post-college years?? you’re exactly right. it wasn’t just an object. it was proof that someone once chose her. something that stayed when everything else left. and nahyun destroying it was like breaking the last piece of evidence that jeno ever meant it. i’m holding your heart so gently right now.

that jaemin and y/n scene was everything. two people who’ve been there for each other in quiet ways, just letting it ache for a moment. they deserve a future too. they all deserve peace.

i’m so excited that you’re excited for part 11. i’m terrified and grateful and full of love because you’re still here. and maybe after everything they’ve survived, they get to choose each other one last time. but nothing’s guaranteed. you know how this story goes. always with love. always with pain. always with you. with love (always), soph. 🫀💌🎀