#which are also amazing and keeps everything unique

[planariaareneat]

How The Nocturnal Bottleneck and Nipples Make Us Human

Almost every post here considers what humans do have, really. It’s a little tiring; realistically every world has its harsh environments and vicious species and a sophont to match. We probably wouldn’t be unique for our adaptability or our persistence or even adrenaline

But our evolution is fucked up as hell, to put it lightly.

Mammals went through what’s been dubbed the nocturnal bottleneck essentially since the start of the mesozoic right up until the Cretaceous ended the archosaur’s exclusive hold over the daylight. We lost a lot of things from every mammal spending most of its time in either a cramped, suffocating burrow or scrounging around in the faint hours of nighttime. Our blood cells lost their nuclei to hold more oxygen while we spent time deep underground, we lost protections against ultraviolet rays in our skin and eyes, we can’t even repair our own DNA using the light of the sun. Most aliens probably wouldn’t have such traits unless their evolution followed a very similar path to ours. They’d be able to see ultraviolet and wouldn’t have to worry about sunburn and all the wonderful privileges essentially all fish, birds, amphibians, and reptiles enjoy as we speak. 

There’s also what we gained from spending so much time in the dark.

Brown fat is only found in mammals, it’s a special type of fat which bear cells with several oil droplets and are utterly jammed with mitochondria. This lets it make heat, a lot of it, fast. We don’t even need to shiver to induce this heat generation from brown adipose tissue - factor in our downright hyperactive mitochondria, and we can warm up quickly. Sure, it doesn’t have too much use in adult humans, but it keeps our infants warm and still provides a little boost the whole run we have in this universe.

Unless aliens also went through a time where their small ancestors had to face cold nights, they’d have to produce heat the old fashioned way when chilled. Aliens might have to shiver the whole time they’re in a cold room while the human watches in confusion, quite literally unshaken, and wonders if the room is a lot colder than the thermostat set to 60 says. The aliens stare at their companion in confusion, it’s just a normal temperature to shiver at after all, how is the human sitting so still?

Our small ancestors spending all their time out foraging at night is also why we have such a good sense of touch, smell, and hearing. They were more important senses than vision (we’re lucky to have even redeveloped basic color vision, frankly) at the time and place and simply ended up continuing to serve us well. Birds and reptiles rarely have acute senses of smell and the latter especially are lucky to have acute hearing, and birds rarely have impeccable hearing themselves either. Our skin is free of scales and honed to sensitivity, and our external ears and complicated ear bones provide an immense range of hearing (from 20 all the way to 17,000 hertz!).

Aliens might not be able to pin down the chirp of a cricket or the light click of a lock being picked. The human might be the only one on board a ship that can pick out the finer sounds of the engine’s constant thrum and know the critical difference between when everything is fine and when something is wrong. The human could probably pick out the sounds of an approaching enemy’s careless footsteps - they’re only as light enough for *them* to stop hearing them, after all - and be the one to see the horrified expression (well, more on that later) on their face when we get the drop on them in spite of their perceived stealth. 

But perhaps the most versatile, convoluted, amazing, and utterly unique trait we have is right on your face this instant. Lips.

Lips in most animals are a simple seal to hold in the mouth’s moisture and protect the teeth, even if they’re supple they’re NEVER muscular except in mammals, and we have only one thing to thank for it; milk and nipples. Lips evolved exclusively to allow babies to suckle, it required a vacuum to be created in the mouth, and with no other animal having anything like a nipple it never happened in other animals. Many animals make milk, to be frank, but no other animal has nipples.

Your cheeks and lips are a marvel among tetrapods, no other animal can suck like mammals can. Aliens wouldn’t have straws or even be able to sip from the edge of a glass, they’d have to have a proboscis or simply tilt the whole thing back. Aliens likely won’t have woodwind instruments or balloons you can blow into. We take so much about our lips for granted. Hell, our muscular faces are vital for expressions, we’re probably absolute facial contortionists among a cast of creatures with mandibles and beaks and expressionless scaly maws. Aliens might find us ridiculously easy to read, if anything, compared to their own kind (all the better to deceive them) - or perhaps they’d find us hard to decipher anyways, with our lack of color-changing skin or erectable crests of bright feathers. Baring teeth might not be seen as a sign of aggression in most of the universe, smiling would be all too distinctly human. 

Perhaps with how infectious we are sometimes, that’s what we’d contribute to the universe; others might have to make do with opening their mouths just enough to show their teeth or splaying their innumerable mouthparts with just the right curve, but perhaps we’d teach the galaxy to smile, one ally at a time. 

Wouldn’t that be amazing?

[wafflefries13]

First Date Ideas (Multi TWST Cast X Reader)

Summary: Short drabbles of where you would take your favorite Twisted Wonderland guy on a first date, and where he would take you.

AN: Pseudo part 2 to the asking-out fic I posted. Not really much else to say besides I really liked trying to come up with a bunch of unique ideas. Thanks for reading!

Cross-posted on my AO3 TheGhostInTheKitchen

Warnings: Fluff

Part 1: Asking them out

Ace: 

Where you take him: Arcade

It’s fun, it’s cozy, it’s classic, and it gives Ace a chance to show off. You both get a bunch of tokens, eat greasy pizza, and try your hand at the games. You take each other on in skeeball and Ace tries to convince you to go against him in the basketball game but you argue he has an unfair advantage. So you settle for the racing simulator. After, when you collect all your tickets, you pour over the prize counter, probably ending up with something not very impressive, or maybe a snow cone maker that stops working after the first three uses. But you’ll treasure it since it’s loaded with memories.  

Where he takes you: Carnival 

This boy is already a clown, put him back where he belongs.  Besides the fact that it gives him an excuse to impress you by winning prizes at the games alley, or trying to anyway, a carnival date fits Ace’s high energy. You can share popcorn and cotton candy while watching the circus acts and Ace will whisper to you explanations for the tricks the magician uses. There’s plenty of stuff to do and tons of fried food. It’s a classic for a reason. And he’d love it if you hold on to him on the rollercoasters. He ends up screaming more than you. 

Deuce: 

Where you take him: Petting zoo 

I just want to see Deuce fawning over baby chicks, is that so much to ask? NGL, I think he’d love it. You could go to some sort of tourist farm and check out the cows getting milked, sheep shearing or sheepdog herding, and collect eggs from the chickens (the kind that don’t hatch into chicks). I can also see Deuce getting into a grudge match against a goat that keeps bonking into his legs with his horns. At the end of the day you’ll sit at a picnic table eating some treats made at the farm and watch the sunset. 

Where he takes you: Botanical garden  

Deuce would want to do something classic, a surefire, tried and tested dating spot. I can imagine him being nervous, getting you flowers when you are already going to see more flowers. You’ll hold the flowers in one hand and Deuce’s, slightly sweaty, hand in the other. If they have a butterfly room, even better. They’ll have a little booklet with different species and you and Deuce go on a scavenger hunt to identify as many as possible. Winner gets kisses. 

Trey: 

Where you take him: At home food science experiment kits  

Did you ever see those at home science food kits where you made gummies and foam and other candy, usually themed to something really weird like monsters or worms? Yeah, you do those, half making fun of how weird it looks and half marveling at the cool effects of swirling all the different ingredients together. Will they taste amazing? Probably not, but Trey probably knows a few cool tricks to make everything a little more edible. 

Where he takes you: Chocolate factory tour 

Have you ever been to Hersheypark in Pennsylvania? There’s a whole section with a little dark ride that shows you the history of chocolate (that’s worse since they took the singing cow animatronics out), a cute interactive play, a trolly ride with chocolate samples, and two chocolate making experiences. You can stuff a giant Reese’s Cup (which is way too sweet IMO) or design your own chocolate bar including the wrapping. Anyway, there’s probably not a one-to-one replica, but with all that magic you can’t tell me there’s not something Willy Wonka-esque. You’ll both spend the day learning about the history of chocolate and chocolate making in Twisted Wonderland, capped off by making all kinds of treats. You’ll experiment with typical flavors, like raspberry, caramel, and nuts, to the more extraordinary, like jalapeno, lavender, and cheese. In the end, you’ll go home with a full box and a picture of the two of you, melted chocolate smearing your faces. (Trey will remind you at least three times to brush your teeth properly after all that sugar.) 

Cater: 

Where you take him: Thrift store

Listen, you find the right thrift store and you can find amazing treasures. And if not, well, you still find weird, kitschy stuff you can have fun ogling. You and Cater will take turns finding the best and worst outfits in the thrift store, having a makeshift fashion show by the changing rooms. Cater would, of course, take plenty of pictures for Magicam, labeling them #MeetMyNewPartner, #HeightOfFashion, #BestLookingCouple. You’ll also look through the aisles, coming up with backstories for all the various objects people have donated over the years. Whether or not you actually buy something isn’t the point. You end the day with plenty of pictures and at least three inside jokes that will drive everyone else crazy. 

Where he takes you: Crafting class

There’s been an emergence of cute crafting stores. Make your own bag, make your own candle, paint your own pottery, make a phone case, rug tufting, that kind of thing. Not only are they a cute and totally Magicamable couples activity, it also gives you both something to take home at the end of the day. Whichever you do, I can see you both making a craft for each other. Maybe you keep what you’re doing a secret until the end, filming your reactions when you reveal your crafts. If you pay close attention later on, you can catch him quietly admiring your gift. 

Riddle: 

Where you take him: Escape room 

Back during the NRC Halloween event, when everyone was stuck in the ghost realm, Riddle had a ton of fun solving those puzzles. I think he would love an escape room, finding clues and undoing locks, using logic and guile to uncover the story. He might get frustrated at the harder puzzles, but it’s all worth it when you work together to solve everything.  You get your picture taken together with a “We Escaped!” sign that you frame. It would be something unexpected but fun for the both of you. (TBH, I think he would love the Nancy Drew games. Maybe not the part where you keep breaking into people's things and stealing stuff, though.) 

Where he takes you: High tea and window shopping 

Riddle is going for a classic, something prim and proper for a prim and proper boy. I can see him reserving a table at a high class hotel for high tea, a table set with a beautiful porcelain teapot and a tower of tiny sandwiches and cakes. He’d order a bunch of different teas you could try. Afterwards, you would walk along the street, checking out shops and talking together. Bonus points if you both get to wear something fancy and cute. 

Leona: 

Where you take him: Picnic 

Look, while having the title of Ramshackle Dorm Prefect sounds fancy, you don’t have a lot of extra cash. You would need to do something simple and cheap but still meeting Leona’s royal tastes (You can’t tell me this boy isn’t a picky eater.) Thanks to the Culinary Crucible, you have a few new skills to test out. You find a big blanket in some old trunk in Ranshakle and pack everything together in a cute wicker basket. Maybe you’ll eat in the gardens where Leona always takes naps or go out on the beach to watch the waves. You both end up falling asleep with full bellies. (Leona won’t admit it, but he feels like that was the best food he’s had in a long time.) 

Where he takes you: River cruise with a fancy dinner 

Leona is going to see your cute picnic date and immediately one ups it with a super fancy and elegant river cruise with a full five course meal. It’s on a beautiful private yacht sailing down a river in the Sunset Savannah. You’ll sit on the deck, candlelight table, while perfectly dressed waiters serve you. This would probably backfire on Leona, though, as you tease him for acting the most prince-ly you’ve ever seen him. Not that you don’t have a ton of fun. By the time dessert rolls around, you’ve both ditched the fancy setting and started skipping stones in the wake of the boat. 

Jack: 

Where you take him: Canoeing 

Something relaxing and outdoorsy and fun. I’m thinking you’ll find someplace like the Ocklawaha River or Crystal River in Florida. A beautiful river with plenty of turtles and fish to spot, surrounded by lush forests or Everglades. If you’re more confident on the water, maybe you each can have a kayak, but I imagine something like you both share a boat. It would be fun to have a sort of eye-spy sheet, like who can spot the most turtles, identify fish, maybe catching sight of a manatee, and, wait, was that an alligator? You’ll end your journey at a natural spring. Dumping your stuff in the canoes, you’ll jump in and spend the rest of the day swimming in the cool water. Maybe you find a good vine or rope and swing out over the water. 

Where he takes you: Zip Lining and high ropes course 

More high energy and involved than a lazy day river trip, but it gives you two the chance to be close. I can almost guarantee Jack found out about the place you go to from Coach Vargas. You’ll get hooked up into harnesses and climb up to a vast network of bridges and ladders and obstacle courses hung between the trees like a giant athletic spiderweb. Maybe at one point you slip, and, although you’re perfectly safe with the harness system, Jack still lunges forward to catch you, blushing hard after as he realizes how close you too are. 

Ruggie: 

Where you take him: Food festival 

I imagine something like the Plant City Strawberry Festival, the Wilton Blueberry Festival, or the Gilroy Garlic Festival. Heck, even throw in the Epcot Food and Wine Festival if you want to have another Disney reference. Something county fair-like with plenty of free samples. You’re not sure who convinced who, but at some point you end up getting those cheesy headbands with springs on top and plastic versions of food bobbing around your heads. There always seems to be sketchy fair rides at these things, too, so you definitely cling to each other going down a log flume ride, kind of regretting how much you ate beforehand. But that’s not going to stop you from chowing down after. 

Where he takes you: Farmer’s market 

Listen, if something is good at a farmer’s market, then you know it’s the best. The big ones not only have plenty of great food, but also local performers and plenty of fun extras to buy. Even if you don’t want to buy anything, it’s fun walking through the crowds and seeing all the different stands. You definitely get some super fancy ice cream, probably with some ridiculous flavors like lavender, parmesan, or licorice. Serving sizes always seem huge too, so you both definitely go home with plenty of leftovers. (You totally don’t notice that Ruggie has been paying with Leona’s credit card this whole time.) 

Azul: 

Where you take him: Game shop 

One of Azul’s vignette stories has him practicing throwing dice so many times until he’s able to completely control what numbers will come up. Sure, he might be in the board game club for fun, but also because he likes to win. So a game shop that hosts weekly game nights would be perfect not only for him to show off and impress you, but also a cozy space to have fun and take the pressure off first date jitters. Whether you have a game with just the two of you or join in with other patrons there, you can team up to strategize and win. I personally think something like One Night Werewolf would be perfect. (He does feel bad when he accuses you of being the werewolf, though. Too bad he’s right.) 

Where he takes you: Fancy restaurant 

It’s nothing compared to the Monstro Lounge, of course, But Azul is putting his best foot forward with a classic first date spot. Azul plans everything down to the most minute detail. He double and triple checks the menu of where you’re going before you even leave to make sure there’s nothing you’re allergic to and there’s something you’ll like. He goes all out: flowers, pulling out your chair, getting a bottle of something fancy and expensive to drink (non-alcoholic if you prefer). Of course, the moment you start complimenting him he turns red and starts tumbling over his words. Maybe you lean into that, enjoying teasing him, the switch from having everything under control to a mess of complex emotions. Still, you slide your hand across the table taking his, and you both have a perfect night. 

Jade: 

Where you take him: Make your own tea blend shop

Jade is an experimental guy. I think if he wasn’t the founder of the mountain lovers club he probably would be in the science club just to mix together every kind of chemical just to see what happens. You would take him to a small tea shop, maybe in town on Sage’s Island or somewhere else through the mirror portal. You would pick out matching tea cups then choose different flavors and leaves from the jars of dried tea. You could make up little packets of different custom blends, some of them stuff you actually think would taste good, some that just sound interesting all together. You and Jade could trade and drink them together back at the Monstro Lounge. 

Where he takes you: Mountain and cave hike 

This is kind of a gimme, but I think he’d want to show off all his knowledge of local mountain flora and fauna. He’s the only member of his club, which gives you plenty of time to be alone together and use the club’s budget however you want. He would surprise you by showing you an undiscovered cave entrance. Hopefully it’s not the kind where you have to crawl on your belly to get in. I like imagining something like Ruby Falls in Tennessee. He’d bring you in, turn off his lantern, and crowds of bioluminescent mushrooms would glow around you. 

Floyd: 

Where you take him: Roller derby 

You can’t tell me this boy would not absolutely love watching a bunch of people going super fast while trying to beat the hell out of each other. He would immediately pick a favorite team and buy all their merch. Even if it’s just a small local circuit he’ll make his own merch for the two of you to wear while you cheer them on. Floyd already likes shoes, specifically sneakers, so I think he would really like the idea of roller skating, going as fast on land as he can in the sea. Your next date will be at a roller rink. 

Where he takes you: Laser tag 

Similar to going to a roller derby, Floyd would love the energy and competition of laser tag. He’d be vaulting over the barriers and launching sneak attacks against other players. Maybe you two would team up and top the leaderboard or maybe he’d hunt you down in the glow-in-the-dark black-light game room. Afterwards you can catch your breath in the lobby and eat junk food. You’re not sure if you’re excited or nervous when he mentions paintball. 

Kalim: 

Where you take him: Hands-on science museum 

Coming up with a first date idea to impress Buys-A-Restaurant-Chain-Because-You-Said-You-Liked-Their-Breadsticks-Once-Kalim is a little harrowing. Sure, you know he would like whatever you have planned, it’s the thought that counts, but that doesn't mean you don’t want to try and show off a little. You eventually find a hands-on science museum. Think the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia or the Tech Museum of Innovation in San Jose or even WonderWorks. It’s something that keeps you active, jumping from exhibit to exhibit to try out all kinds of new things while pretending you're learning. Sure, most of the other people there are kids, but that doesn't stop either of you from having fun. With Kalim’s experience with all his younger siblings, you soon have a small army helping you with the replica dinosaur dig site. 

Where he takes you: Fused glass class 

Kalim’s first instinct is to go big. Throw a parade, rent out a theme park, buy a private island. This little ball of sunshine is way too excited to think anything through. Maybe Jamil mentions that you might be intimidated by such an overwhelming show of wealth on a first date, or maybe he implies you need to work up to something that extravagant. Whatever the case, Kalim agrees to start small. He’ll take you to a stained glass shop that offers classes in Silk City. You’ll take a fused glass class together, where you take shards and rods of other colored glass, placing them gently together in a shape. The owners fire the final product leaving you with a beautiful hand-made ornament. Kalim hangs it by his window back in his dorm room, smiling whenever the light catches it. (He’s still thinking about that private island, though.) 

Jamil: 

Where you take him: Aviary 

Jamil mentioned in one of his vignettes that he would want to own a parrot one day. So why not give it a test run with a variety of different parrot species, and throw in some parakeets, falcons, lorikeets, and canaries while we’re at it? You buy cups of food and the birds will fly down to perch on your arms and heads.  The parrots, in colors ranging from green and yellow to blue and purple and red, show you how they dance and talk. There’s a game you can play with them where you hold up different objects and they’ll tell you what they are and what they’re made of. There’s even a falconry show where the birds swoop out into the audience. At the end of the day, the tour guide makes a joke about lovebirds that you both pretend to ignore. 

(BTW, did you know President Andrew Jackson had a parrot that cursed so much it had to be removed from the room during his funeral because it kept swearing? The more you know.) 

Where he takes you: Dance class 

Mr. Jack Of All Trades, Master Of All over here is definitely going to want to show off. No matter who asked who out first, he wants to reassure you, and himself, that you made the right choice agreeing to go out with him. So he sticks with something he knows best, something he has fun with, and something he can easily introduce you too. Whether it’s a classic ballroom dance, salsa, or classic Scalding Sands folk dancing, Jamil just loves the chance to be close to you. It might be better if you have two left feet so he can show off leading you. By the end, you're both sweaty and exhausted, muscles aching pleasantly, but you're also both laughing and wondering if you should enter a couples dance competition. 

Vil: 

Where you take him: DIY spa night 

Like I said before, you don’t exactly have a lot of extra cash, so I can see you relying on a lot of DIY tricks. You’re hoping to impress one of Twisted Wonderland's biggest triple threats with scented candles (bought half-off at Sam’s), homemade avocado hair masks, coconut oil and honey face masks, and a jade face roller and gua sha set you have no idea how to properly use. Vil definitely appreciates effort, so he’ll love whatever you have set up. He’ll even show you how to actually use that jade roller and gua sha. 

Where he takes you: Private movie theater 

Let’s be honest, Vil isn’t exactly the most humble person. And you, a magicless student with pretty much no frame of reference for any pop culture or just plain cultural insights in this new world, are in the perfect position for him to show off. Vil would rent out a private theater showing the best and most iconic movies in all of Twisted Wonderland. Of course, he also shows you all of his films (Like I said, not so humble). He may give you the side eye when you insist on sharing a bucket of buttery popcorn, but if you gasp and laugh and applaud in all the right places I don’t think he’ll mind. 

Rook: 

Where you take him: Art museum 

Quelle beaute! No matter what kind of art museum you choose, modern, sculpture, impressionist, classical, whatever, Rook is sure to love it. He’d be the kind of person to carefully read each plaque to discover more about the artist and what inspired their work. He’ll praise each and every piece, only to turn around and compare it to your beauty. While this definitely will get you a few looks from some of the other visitors, you won’t mind because you know he’s being completely sincere with every word. At the end of the day, you’ll probably end up with an art book from the gift shop and you get each other prints of your favorite paintings. 

Where he takes you: Zoo 

You can take the boy out of the hunt but you can’t take the hunt out of the boy… Or something. We know Rook has a penchant for stalking the poor beastman students at NRC (I bet they have to warn the Savannahclaw first years every year), so I think he would also love admiring animals in a place where you’re actually suppose to watch them. Extra points if there are baby animals. Extra extra points if the zoo has one of those programs where you can go back and get close up encounters with some of the animals, like sloths or elephants. You both definitely get plushies of your favorite animals after. 

Epel: 

Where you take him: Motorcross 

Give the farm boy blood. We know from his dorm uniform vignette that he can ride a blast cycle. Checking out a motorcross race or just a show exhibition would be a high energy outing for you both. Cheering in the stands gives him a chance to cut loose from the stricter rules of decorum in Pomefiore, and sometimes it’s just fun to watch things go fast with a chance of crashing. Maybe you can rent one, or borrow one from Ingenhyde back at NRC, and go for a drive. He’ll probably go a little too fast, maybe from nerves or excitement or just to have to hold him a little tighter. 

Where he takes you: Ice skating 

Do you know how to skate? Great! He’ll take you out to a frozen lake in the middle of a beautiful forest near Harveston. Some place only the locals know about. It’ll be something right off a Christmas card with glitter snow and a perfect clear blue sky. Don’t know how to skate? That’s fine too! You’ll go to an indoor rink, somewhere where the ice is guaranteed to be smooth and won’t crack under your feet. If you’re just learning, please hold on to him and let him teach you, it’ll make him feel super manly and swell with pride. No matter where you go, you both get hot apple cider after, maybe cuddling together in front of a warm fireplace and sharing a warm quilt. 

Idia: 

Where you take him: Cat cafe 

You’re going to need a good excuse to get Idia out of his room, and this is a pretty good reason. Ideally, you would find a place like Tashirojima, the cat island in Japan, but a good old cat cafe will work just as well. You’ll find the least busy time to go which should help Idia’s social anxiety. But once you both settle into plush low chairs and get surrounded by cute kitties, he won’t even notice anyone else. The cafe sells cute frozen cat treats shaped like cat paws that you buy to encourage the cats to come closer. You snuck in some catnip, and you both spend the day enveloped in cute warm kitty cuddles. 

Where he takes you: Video game night 

The boy is a nervous wreck around other people on his best days, so when he decides to venture on a date he’s going to go with something he’s most comfortable with. You’ll camp out in his room for the date. He’s gone to great lengths to make it nice, plenty of snacks and soft pillows and blankets. He’ll introduce you to some of his favorite but entry level games first. Maybe something Animal Crossing adjacent, but I have a soft spot for point-and-click adventure puzzle games. Eventually, you’ll end up playing doubles on something more action oriented, Idia showing you all the best tricks and combo moves. (Ortho is secretly taking pictures to show at the wedding he’s already planning for you both.) 

Sebek: 

Where you take him: Salmon fishing and grill  

You like it because it gives a chance to get out in nature and be alone together, he likes it because he gets to catch his favorite food and prove he can be a provider. Sure, it just might be a first date, but Sebek likes to think ahead and he’s definitely taking your budding relationship seriously. You two go out into the woods, probably near where Camp Vargus was held, and set up next to a river. While most of the day is hanging out on the bank and talking, there’s always a jolt of excitement when one of your lines starts to tug and you pull out a beautiful gray and pink salmon. Sure, there was that one time when the fish slapped Sebek with his fin until it slipped from his hands, but you both agree to forget about that (you don’t forget, in fact you think about it often). Around midday, you both realize you’re kind of squeamish when it comes to cleaning fish. Sebek puts on a brave face and cuts them up while you make a campfire. Is it the best meal you’ve ever had? No, definitely not. Are you picking fish bones out of your teeth for the rest of the evening? Yeah. Did you two have a ton of fun and are already planning your next date? Of course. 

Where he takes you: Tournament 

Does Twisted Wonderland have Renaissance fairs? Who knows, but considering Briar Valley still has knights, they definitely have tournaments. The Bead Brawl is sort of similar to what I’m thinking, but there’s more of a focus on what we would think of as traditional medieval events. Stuff like jousting, sword fighting in full armor, and archery. I don’t think you go all the way to the Briar Valley for this, it’s probably more of a smaller local fair with less serious competition. I think Sebek will be a spectator at this event, but that doesn't stop him from commenting on the participants. He tells you about his own training with Lilia and Silver. He’ll be boastful and loud, but you know him well enough at this point to tell he’s nervous under all the bravado. He wants to make sure you’re having a good time but is too stubborn to actually ask. There are definitely giant turkey legs, homemade soda and mead, and chimney cakes to stuff yourself with. He’ll enter a visitor competition, something fun and light like an obstacle course, and win you a prize. At the end of the day there will be a traditional dance at the fair and you both twirl together under lantern light.

Silver: 

Where you take him: Bookstore date 

Whether a big chain store or a cute local owned place, the idea is the same. First, you both find the cheesiest romance novel cover in the store. Next, you checked out the cook books, looking for the weirdest and worst sounding recipes (you joke about getting it for Lilia then laugh at the glare he gives you). Finally, you both choose a book for the other that you’ll read then reconvene to talk about at your next date. You find him an adventure book, something you would have called epic fantasy back in your world. He gets you a collection of well known fables and myths from across Twisted Wonderland. He’s slightly worried that you’ll be insulted in his reference to your lack of cultural knowledge of your new world, but you love it, especially the gorgeous illustrations for each story. 

Where he takes you: Horse riding along the beach 

This can go one of two ways, depending if you know how to ride a horse/are comfortable around them. If you know how to ride, Silver will borrow someone’s horse from the equestrian club for you to ride. If not, you’ll ride behind him, arms hugged around his middle as you cuddle close. Either way, you’ll ride down to one of the beaches along Sage’s Island. You’ll ride along the beach, darting in and out of the waves. Silver will probably have packed a small picnic that you can eat while watching the sunset. He ends up nodding off for a little while you take a break lounging on some dunes, but you kind of like him leaning on your shoulder like that. 

Lillia: 

Where you take him: Concert in the park 

A few steps down from a full on festival, I’m imagining a lush green park, couples and families spread out on blankets, food trucks surrounding everything making the park smell amazing, maybe a couple of craft tents with knick-knacks for sale. There will be a large stage set up for the bands. Lilia prefers heavy metal, but I think he would like any show that plays something high energy. You’ll set up an umbrella to give you both some shade as you watch the acts. Lilia will regale you with tales of his travels and he’d probably love hearing about all the places in your world. At some point, you both definitely spend time dancing ridiculously. Lilia takes plenty of pictures to show off back at Disamonia. 

Where he takes you: Esports competition 

When Muscle Red told his online bestie Gloomamurai he was trying to come up with ideas for a date, the later said, “I got you,” and set him up with front row seats to the premier esports competition in all of Twisted Wonderland. Arriving at the indoor arena, you get a giant bucket of popcorn to share and Lilia buys you some merch of his favorite team. If you don’t know a ton about esports or the game they’re playing, Lilia will be more than happy to explain the rules to you. You’re surrounded  in deafening cheers when your team makes a last minute score to win, hugging each other while jumping up and down. On the way back, Lilia promises to help you set up an account for the online game and teach you the ropes, while trying to remember to thank his friend when you kiss his cheek. 

Malleus: 

Where you take him: Mini-golfing 

You can’t tell me it wouldn’t be adorable to see a giant Malleus hunched over a mini-golf club trying to gently tap the ball into a hole. I can see him at the first hole swinging like a normal golf course, sending the ball twinkling away, Team Rocket style. Mini-golf is a classic first date, and I think he would like the normality of it all. You’re not trying to super impress him, just treating him like a normal boyfriend, a normal date. And it gives you both more time to focus on each other, between desperately trying to hit the ball through the moving fan blades of the windmill hole. 

Where he takes you: Historic castle ruins 

I can imagine Malleus panicking at first about where to take you for your first official date. Does he bring you to a ball in the Briar Valley? A romantic opera in perfect box seats? Do you start picking out your engagement rings? Instead, he finally decided on an old reliable choice, harking back to how you both first started bonding in the first place. He finds beautiful old ruins, either in Briar Valley or somewhere else, and you just stroll and talk. He’ll tell you about the architecture, maybe the history of the location, pointing out whatever interesting gargoyles he spots. You both understand you don’t need grand gestures or impressive and expensive dates. You’re both happiest being with each other.

[bitchy-craft]

PICK A CARD: a message from your soulmate

Hello and welcome to this reading! Here I will give you a message form your soulmate. I hope you enjoy this reading!

masterpost > paid readings > patreon masterlist

The extended version of this reading can be found on my patreon, the link of which is here

Pile 1:

You should keep going. There is so much out there for you; so much beautiful, fun and amazing things you will still have to experience. You are going to be okay. I know it sucks right now, I truly do, but I also know you are a strong person, a strong individual who won’t ever let anyone talk them down; or at least act like they don’t. You won’t let people talk shit about you anymore. From now on you do what you want, don’t listen to anyone else and achieve what it is you want to achieve. Your dreams are in your reach; you can do what you want to do and genuinely be successful in it. You know what you are meant to do in this life and you will have the opportunity to do so. That dream life that you want is out there for you, so don’t you dare ever give up. Not just that, I’ll be there too.

extended reading > paid readings

Pile 2:

There is no one in the world who is as worthy of becoming successful than you. There is no one in the world who is as deserving of love and care as you. You are the most worthy, the most amazing person to ever exist. I envy you, I adore you, and most of all I love you. You deserve absolutely all it is you want in the world and I will make it my number one priority to get you there, to help you get there, to support you in all the ways I can do. I will work hard every day in order to make you feel loved and cared for. Whenever you are ill I will take care of you, I will make you soup and clean around the house. No matter the moment if you are in trouble I will drop everything to come and get you, I will do anything in order to help you.

extended reading > paid readings

Pile 3:

You need to stand straight and start ignoring what the people say about you. You are an amazing person and everything about you is perfect just the way it is; from your cute, little quirks to those traits you would sometimes consider to cause yourself to be boring. People envy your beauty, your unique character, of how complicated and hard to understand you are. Boring people are afraid of your uniqueness, that’s why some people treat you badly. They can’t handle someone with as much personality as you because they themselves have never experienced having one. To me, you are the most beautiful person alive; all those people you are jealous of won’t ever be able to compare to you. You are better in every single way, because to me you are perfect from your head to your toes.

extended reading > paid readings

[everestgale]

Whatever you're trying to do right now, you don't have to do it alone.

------

Happy New Year's Eve, Slay the Princess community!

A long, long message and credits to the designs are under the cut.

[Please excuse any awkward sentences, weird repetitions, and grammatical mistakes, I've been awake for 20 hours or so]

I cannot describe how much joy I feel right now, finally getting this drawing done. I feel nothing but joy when I think about Slay the Princess, and I feel nothing but pure adoration when I think about and spend time in this community. This game and this community truly brought a lot of happiness to me and made this otherwise unremarkable, maybe even depressing, year that much brighter. I wish I had more and better words to describe what I'm feeling right now! Genuinely, I don't have words to describe how much gratitude I feel right now.

And so for my final piece of 2024, I wanted to make a thank you drawing to this community and hopefully express the fraction of love and gratitude I feel right now. And I decided to make that drawing a group photo of 30 different Heroes! It ended up being 29 Heroes and one Opportunist, but I promise there is a reason for that-

If I had more time and energy, I would've included even more people, there are so many skilled artists, writers, and wonderful people in general who ended up excluded, especially due to this drawing being a voice-centered piece. But I'm glad I at least get to highlight some of the wonderful creators and artists in this community! Please check them out and support their work! They are all amazing <3

If you wanted to know who is the author behind each design, I made an annotated version! Sorry if the text is too small, I tried my best to write it as large as I could T-T

------

Now onto the message to the people in the drawing:

First! I sincerely apologize if I missed some details with your Hero design, or if I used an outdated version of it. I wanted to keep this a surprise, and for some of these, I had to dive into the depths of Tumblr to find (hopefully) relevant references. And yes, if you've received a DM from me about your Hero in the past few weeks or so, this project was the reason why! And if you've received an anonymous ask about your Hero, there is a quite good chance it was from me, too <3

And second! I have a message for each and every one of you:

@acethekenku: Your designs are so well-made and awesome! Especially adore your Broken and Contrarian, there's something about them that just immediately catches my eye! Your Contrarian's fashion and DIY skills are also immaculate :]

@artificial-radiance: Your art is absolutely wonderful, whether it's Slay the Princess, Destiny 2, or sonas! I wish I had a better word to describe your art, but the best I got is "delicious" /lh

@beartitled: I adore your StP comics! I adore your drawings of male!Princesses! I adore your non-StP work! Everything you make is so charming, and it's always a joy to see your work <3

@bubblybloob: One of my favorite fanart memes, to this day, is your old "I do not control the speed at which princesses die" meme. I still go re-read it sometimes when I'm not feeling great, it always puts a smile on my face (yes, this is my kind of humor). Though, your new voice designs are SO creative and unique! Love the fluffy Para and the prophetic cage Skeptic especially, but they are all so good <3

@coldranger: Your lads! So simple and yet so well-designed and expressive! That roadrunner Hunted you shared yesterday is so adorable, I can't with him! It is always wonderful to see more of your drawings. Also thanks for gushing with me over mod Owl's designs <3

@cookiealchemieart: I recently mentioned that you are one of my first Tumblr follows, and it's for a good reason! You made a lot of wonderful illustrations, and your three fan princesses are some of my favorites of all the ones I've seen before! And your voice designs, gosh, I am hugging your Contrarian-

@dampfur: Your art is unbelievably charming! And when I saw your Burned Bridges post with redesigns for Cold and Smittten, I absolutely fell in love with them. I will use this space to gush about just how simple and yet adorable and recognizable they are!

@glitchh1337: Always love seeing what you are up to on Discord! Whether it's design concepts for voices or little pixel art animations, they are all wonderful :]

@justcherryqwq: Your animations!!! Cherry, your animations are pure gold. The way you draw voices as little guys flying around the scene/the Long Quiet is just too perfect. I am also grabbing and petting your Paranoid, gently, of course!

@occatorcreator: You have one of the most unique voice designs/representations I've ever seen! Especially in that one post where you drew voices taking over Long Quiet's body, the way you drew the "possession" is just... so unique, so cool! I wish I had better words!

@orcatnip: I cannot describe how much delight your sketches bring me whenever they show up on my dash! And the way you wrote about voices appearing as fractures in Long Quiet's soul! Oh! Genuinely obsessed!!!

@pareidolla: Your voice designs are very pretty and very adorable! As you can see, I immediately had to try drawing your current iteration of Hero because he is SO PRETTY! I couldn't help myself. Sorry if I was too hasty in my decision to include an in-progress design, but I wanted you to be included here-

@remaking-machine: Rema!!! Your voices!!! They are so precious and charming! Love your Cheated, love your Hero, love your Skeptic! You were one of the first people I found & followed on Tumblr, and it's been such a joy to see what you're up to <3 [Also, I still would like a tray of Hero cookies-]

@salty-an-disco: Your writing, at least from what I've seen of it, is awesome! I genuinely wish I had the attention span to read your Heathens AU because whenever I see you talk about it, or draw anything for it, I love it a lot! Hopefully one day I will, but for now, I am here to admire your art :]

@sorry-not-feeling-it-right-now: Hey, who let this bird-fox into this gathering of Heroes-

Jokes aside, I am absolutely obsessed with your voice designs, and I really, really wanted to include you in this drawing, despite the fact that you are still working on your Hero design. Thank you for letting me include your Opportunist in this drawing, I cannot WAIT to see your Hero design <3

@tai-janai: Your drawings are so delightful, and I love the way you draw your voices! Your voice shipping sketches are also so adorable, and your HeA-inspired ParaHero sketch sometimes decides to show up in my head and not pay any rent (I love it a lot)!

@voiceofthebroken: Remember how I mentioned that your Cheated post inspired one of my upcoming projects? Yes, it was this one. You are responsible for this /lh

Don't want to repeat myself too much from the ask I sent yesterday, but I will once again say that I love your voice designs, and I will once again compliment your Cheated and Hunted. They are precious! <3

@wysteriaisapenguin: Your art is so charming and so recognizable! Your most recent HeA drawing is absolutely stealing my heart in a way that I cannot describe!!! I also really like your Hero design, he was an absolute joy to draw <3

------

Oh look, there's more, too!

@sonjalikestodraw: Sonja! Oh Sonja, everything you make is just SO PERFECT, your pieces are always so stellar and carefully crafted, and your voice designs are so thoughtful and so iconic, I love it every time you make a post with a little write-up of your design notes! It's always such a joy to read!!

0th: To say that your designs and your writing inspired my own would be saying nothing at all, they were some of the first I've seen! They will always have a special place in my heart as "the designs" that greatly contributed to my own final designs! And your Swap AU still is one of my favorites in the whole fandom, love all the unique designs you made for it!! Noble my beloved <3

@itsonlypolite: The way your voices ingrained themselves in my brain, I cannot describe it! Your designs are truly some of the most unique, most recognizable designs in the fandom. You deserve every single positive comment and compliment on your art and designs!!! I also love how you reply to people's asks with little drawings of your own. It's so charming and welcoming <3 It's also always pure joy talking to you!

@cammie-yammie: I am very glad that I got over my anxiety and started talking more and hanging out in your thread! I love your art, always so charming, so distinctly you, just such joy to look at, and I'm glad I got to engage with it more, and with you as a person!!! Damn, these sentences are confusing lol Long story short, love your art, love talking to you, and it's just pure joy either way <3

@lavb-b: I am not kidding when I say that your Businessman animation rewired something in my brain, whenever I watch it, I cannot stop myself from laughing, even though at this point I've seen it like 20+ times already. Besides that, your art in general is just such high-quality work, and I love talking to you on the Discord server! Welcoming you with open arms to EG's Yap Central Station /lh

@phantasmatoucan (mod Owl): OWL HOW DO YOU KEEP GETTING AWAY WITH THIS- You have no idea how obsessed I am with your art, you have SUCH a distinct, awesome style, and the way you designed your voices brings me so, so much joy. And not only are you a skilled artist with amazing voice designs, but you are also just such a positive person, too!!! How is this possible!!! What's your secret!!!

@hello-universe-lovers: Your reblog comments always make me happy, and I absolutely love chatting with you!!! The little interaction you wrote between our Cheateds brought me so much joy as I was finishing this project <3 And even besides that, your art is so charming, and also apparently you are a wizard who draws everything with your finger- I cannot understand such witchcraft /lh

@neverpathia: You are the reason I QPR-ship ParaHero! You got these birds in my brain, and I can't get them out, how dare you (/lh). Jokes aside, I really like your writing, especially the way you write voices, and your art is also very pretty, I love it a lot! It's also such a joy to have you hang out in my art thread, thanks for doing that :]

@disarraydoodlez: Jam! And Kiri! Your art is so iconic, Kiri's desire for perfection never goes unnoticed, and Jam's chaotic silly ideas are always such a highlight (I'm still waiting for you to finish that one Den idea. The one we kept laughing about for like 30 minutes. That one). Thanks for inviting me to the PotC one-shot, I had a lot of fun playing it, and I'm glad we still hang out and chat sometime! Love everything you make, regardless of the fandom, and I can't wait to see what you both will make next <3

@s3viien (they mostly exist on BSky, check them out there!): Sev! My partner in crime! One of my biggest cheerleaders, you have no idea how much how dearly I appreciate it. I love sharing all my random ideas with you, and I love hearing about all of yours! Your art, your videos, and your music are all PEAK, and I'm always happy to see what you've been up to! To our friendship for as long as it lasts <3

@inkedout: And last but certainly and absolutely not least, Ink, my friend, you are one of the big reasons why I feel as comfortable writing all of this right now as I am right now. I cannot put into words just how much I appreciate you as a friend!! it is always such a joy to talk to you, whether it's about StP, or ATR, or a different fandom, or just life in general! I love seeing all your art, your OCs, and anything else you might have <3

Also voice shipping. There are certain ships, you probably know which ones, that are now stuck in my head because of you. I blame you /lh

-----

I believe that should be all I have to say! Happy New Year's Eve again, and I will see you all in 2025!

[certified-bi]

Okay all my thoughts because some people have been saying that not supporting this change is not supporting artist and creators and as an artist fuck that.

1. Audiences owe you nothing. You have to convince them to engage with your creation not the other way around. This is something both the nonprofit theatre I work with recognizes and huge companies realize. It's just part of life. There are so many talented people in the world making amazing art, videos, music, writings, and on and on, and there's only so much time in the day. I'm not saying you shouldn't know your worth, just that being flippant about how little you care about those who can't pay isn't a good move. On that note...

2. PR is everything. If you haven't made a visible effort to push patreon, channel memberships or other avenues of making money, don't be suprised that your creation that was previously accessible to those without extra cash and to those who can't support foreign subscriptions due either to conversions or because it simply doesn't work, being made private isn't popular. There's a big leap from "We want to have more artistic control" to "We can't afford to make our content accessible to most of our audience," and people are smart enough to see this. You either have to make budget cuts or give into sponsors. This isn't unique to Watcher, it's part of literally every production from broadway, to Hollywood, to YouTube. Unless you can fund it yourself or get viewers to pay(which given how many are already strapped for cash...) that's life.

Not to mention they simply do not have enough followers to make the switch to a paid only site(dropping the first epsiode only on YouTube isn't going to draw people in, they're just going to say "oh why start if I'm not going to see the rest" and not watch) especially not one that is buggy and a security risk. Even if the switch had been supported its not going to end well. The only reason services like nebula and dropout work is because of the large amount of series and creators and the fact those creators still are partly on YouTube so new people are drawn in.

3. As for the price, 6 dollars a month is a not a good starting price for only their content and that's as someone who pays for nebula. I'd be paying the same amount for a fraction of the access to others work. Actually it'd be twice as much. And before someone says "it's only a coffee-" that's for you. Not everyone has your lifestyle. And with every other patreon and subscription service that says the same thing, it all adds up and I simply don't think 60 dollars for 48 videos a year on a subscription basis where you don't get to keep the videos if your situation changes, some of which don't appeal to every viewer is a good move. If you were able to buy physical copies of your favorite series they've made that'd be different, but that's not what this is.

4. I do believe that the employees deserve a livable wage. I also did not hire them. It is not on the viewers that they hired more people than they could afford to. They can charge that much if they want to to try and balance this out. They also shouldn't be suprised if not many can or will sign up. They also don't have to be based in L.A. L.A has ridiculous costs associated with it, and quite honestly it doesn't really add much to the content. I'm not saying they need to move to the middle of nowhere Kansas. Simply that living and basing your studio in a super expensive city and then being suprised money is tight is just weird.

5. Something that occurs to me is that they might get more views if their playlists were better set up. Only some series are given playlists. It'd be easier to find all of the series and binge them if they didn't just show off their more popular shows. Honestly the only draw the streaming site has to me is that the series are actually labeled well.

Do I think the weird ass energy towards Steven is necessary? No. He's not the only one at the company and they're all adults. I actually liked grocery run and homemade, and like to see them back. The parascoial attachment to Ryan and Shane is annoying in people's criticisms, but that doesn't make them completely wrong. If you're going to brand yourself as the anti capalist underdogs you can't get away with being dismissive of your poorer fans. The dissonance is what is causing this backlash and makes you look like hypocrites. I definitely think Steven is turning into the fall guy which is fucked up, his statement and the fact dish granted is one of those shows that make people uncomfortable about wealth flexs doesn't help matters.

[melioraskz]

Birthday girl (what they got you for your birthday!)

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶

A/N : so a couple of days ago (on the same day as a certain maknae in fact) was my birthday and I wanted to write this silly thing in celebration, however !!! God has better plans for me because I for the flu and was dead in bed for literally the entire weekend and half of this week which lead to me essentially having to postpone writing this until now !!! Funsiessss

Warnings : mentions of pet names, mentions of sex, fluffy skz

Pairings : ot8 x (fem) reader

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶

Chan :

Chan is a simple guy, keeping it classic, a pretty necklace with a heart on, if it was silver, gold or any other metal is simply decided depending on what you usually prefer, which he of course knows what you wear, he knows you like the inside of his glove ! Even if he knew you’d love the necklace he was probably sweating his balls off in nervousness giving it to you, his ears a pink shade whilst a big goofy smile on his mouth the entire time.

“Happy birthday, babygirl”

“Thank you, Chris”

Lee Know :

Now our guy Minho would probably give you an experience, most likely a trip to a cabin somewhere near a mountain where you two could be alone, far away from the stress of your ordinary life and a place where he can take a deep breath whilst having all his senses focused on you. You’d spend your birthday fishing, having a dinner in front of a bonfire and finishing the evening with sex in front of said bonfire, all his focus on you and only you.

“Happy birthday, y/n”

“Thank you, you really made it special, Minho”

Changbin :

Changbin is loud and doesn’t do anything halfway, he would not only host a party with all your friends and mutual friends with a giant cake for you to blow out all the one hundred candles off, but he would probably buy up a whole store for you, you’d get everything from soaps to dresses and even seven different flower bouquets! He’d be so proud too and wanting to show off how proud he is of you all night, you’re truly the star of the show.

“Changbin, honey… you already gave me flowers an hour ago?”

“So what!? I can only spoil my girl once a year like this! Happy birthday, baby”

Hyunjin :

Hyunjin would probably gift you a painting he has made himself, I mean he is an artist after all. It would be a portrait of you two, he’d use a couple photos he had on his phone for reference so the portrait is a completely unique piece which would have taken him at least a couple of months to put together into perfection! When you unwrap the painting your eyes would tear up, he really saw you this beautiful? It was perfect and would definitely be hung up in your home for all family and friends to witness how talented your amazing boyfriends is.

“It’s beautiful, thank you so much, baby”

“I’m so glad you like it, happy birthday, my love”

Jisung :

Jisung wrote you a song. It wasn’t planned to happen, he was at the studio one day, trying to compose another work for the team when his phone lit up, a message from you asking if he wanted to get dinner after your shift ended, after answering a happy yes to your suggestion he caught himself looking at his wallpaper a bit longer than usual, a photo of you two, smiling. You’re taking a selfie on his phone with a silly filter, kissing his cheek… oh he is smiling to himself and that’s when the idea hits him, of course? He had been stuck with what to get you for weeks now and he had it right in front of him! When it’s the big day and he press play you start to fully cry half way through which makes the poor boy panicking, pausing as he tries in panic to calm you down.

“I’M SO SORRY I JUST WANTED TO GIVE YOU A GOOD BIRTHDAY GIFT I’M SO SORRY I-“

“Han Jisung shut the fuck up and continue with the song before I have a mental breakdown, it’s so beautiful, thank you, I love you so much”

Felix :

Not only is Felix the only member that would actually bake you his own cake in your favourite flavour, but also would make you dinner (or takeout if he fails with the dinner as baking seems to be his strongest weapon in the kitchen). He would probably sneak into your home when you’re at work to set everything in motion, bringing bags of all the ingredients along with a huge bouquet of red roses that he would arrange in a vase of yours prettily on the dining table for you. When you come home from your work, you honestly forgot all about the special day in question he is already waiting in your kitchen, dimmed lit with candles and a romantic dinner setting whilst singing happy birthday to you.

“Happy birthday, my dear”

“Thank you… I can’t believe you made all of this!”

Seungmin :

He is a classic guy I feel, he’d also get you a piece of jewellery like chan, I feel more graduated towards earrings if you’ve got your ears pierced, something simple and pretty like pearl earrings. He would act so casually when he gift you them, like it’s nothing special but in reality he would be having a panic attack in the inside, wanting you do desperately to love his gift. After all he truly wanted this day to be perfect for you.

“They’re beautiful, seungmin! Thank you so much”

“Oh it’s nothing, I’m glad you liked them”

I.N

Now this guy would be panicking weeks ahead of your birthday, asking his members what the hell you give a girlfriend on their birthday! After everyone’s input he would eventually settle for a huge teddy bear, some of your favourite snacks along with a perfume, a scent he specifically picked out for you because he thought it would suit you. He would have forced one of his members to tag along to the mall and be his advisor for that day, both of their noses numb from all the smelling until they found the perfect one.

“Thank you so much, jeongin. I love it!”

“You love it? Really? Happy birthday!”

[amkyor]

S. TODOROKI SHORT STORY

Short note: This short story was originally in mha guys react to reader using a pickup line on them but I thought it deserved its own section so here it is!! This section is still in the mha guys link though!! Also, chapter 21 of my Bakugo x Reader is out. Check it out!! Link at the end of this post!!

Unique Beauty ᡣ𐭩

The warm glow of the small lamp in the corner of the room cast soft, golden hues across the walls, giving the space a cozy and intimate ambiance.

You were seated on the floor in your apartment, cross-legged on the plush rug, with Todoroki sitting directly across from you.

His mismatched eyes watched you curiously, a hint of amusement playing at the corners of his lips as he observed the items you’d brought back from the bathroom.

In your hands were two face masks—both contained in sleek, colorful pouches—and a pair of headbands.

You had been gifted the masks a few days ago by a friend who swore they were amazing for relaxation, and the idea of doing them with Todoroki had popped into your head immediately.

Surprisingly, he had agreed without hesitation, his calm demeanor making it clear he didn’t mind indulging you in small things like this.

"Alright," you said, breaking the silence as you placed everything on the floor between you. "First things first, we need to keep our hair out of the way."

Todoroki’s gaze shifted to the headbands, his brows furrowing slightly. “We’re wearing those?” he asked, his tone neutral but laced with faint curiosity.

You chuckled, holding one up for him to see. “Yes, we are. Unless you want face mask goo in your hair, which I’m guessing you don’t.”

He tilted his head slightly, considering your words before nodding. “Fair enough.”

With a smile, you picked up the other headband and slipped it over your own head.

The stretchy fabric was soft against your skin as you carefully positioned it, pulling back the strands of your hair that framed your face.

You adjusted it a few times, making sure it sat just right, and then tucked any loose pieces behind your ears.

“There,” you said, sitting back and giving him a small grin. “See? Easy.”

Todoroki watched you intently, his heterochromatic eyes following your movements as if committing every detail to memory.

Though his expression remained composed, you could tell he was slightly intrigued by the whole process.

“You look cute,” he said suddenly, his tone as straightforward as ever but carrying a certain warmth that made your cheeks flush.

You laughed softly, brushing off the compliment as you reached for the second headband.

“It’s just a headband, Shoto,” you teased, though you couldn’t help the small smile that tugged at your lips.

He shrugged, leaning forward slightly as you prepared to hand him the other headband.

“Still,” he said simply, and the sincerity in his voice made your heart skip a beat.

Shaking off the sudden flutter in your chest, you turned your focus back to the task at hand, ready to guide him through the next step in your little self-care ritual.

You handed Todoroki the second headband, watching as he stared at it like it was some foreign object.

“Just put it on like I did,” you said, demonstrating with your hands how to stretch it out and slide it over your head.

He gave a small nod and attempted to mimic your movements.

The result was… less than perfect.

The headband sat askew, one side bunched up near his temple, while the other was twisted and barely holding back his hair.

A few strands stubbornly stuck out, and the sight was so adorably Todoroki that you couldn’t help but burst into laughter.

“You’re—” you tried to speak between giggles, “you’re not supposed to wear it like that!”

Todoroki blinked at you, completely unbothered by your amusement. “What’s wrong with it?” he asked, his tone as calm as ever.

You leaned forward, still chuckling. “Everything is wrong with it, Shoto. Here, let me fix it.”

Without waiting for his reply, you scooted closer and reached out to adjust the headband yourself.

He sat still as you worked, his eyes fixed on your face as your fingers carefully untangled the fabric and smoothed it over his head.

The world seemed to slow down as you pushed his hair back, revealing more of his face.

His dual-colored strands fell neatly under the band, and his forehead came into view, unencumbered by the usual fringe of hair.

Your movements faltered for just a moment as your eyes fell on his scar.

With his hair pulled away, it was more visible than ever, its jagged edges a stark contrast against his otherwise flawless skin.

You felt your breath catch in your throat, not out of discomfort but because of how striking he looked.

“There,” you whispered softly, finishing the adjustment and making sure the headband was sitting properly.

You were inches away from him now, your hands lingering near his face.

His mismatched eyes met yours, and for a second, neither of you moved.

Unable to help yourself, you let your fingertips brush against his cheek, your thumb instinctively tracing over the edge of his scar.

His skin was warm under your touch, and the texture of the scar was slightly raised but smooth.

“Shoto…” you murmured, your voice barely audible.

His eyes softened, and though he didn’t say anything, the way he leaned ever so slightly into your touch spoke volumes.

Todoroki’s mismatched eyes widened slightly at your words, the faintest hint of surprise flickering across his usually calm expression.

He blinked, as if trying to process the depth of what you’d just said.

For a moment, the room was silent save for the soft hum of the heater in the background.

You kept your hand on his cheek, your thumb brushing over his scar again as you offered him a warm smile. “I don’t see a flaw when I look at you; I see a story that’s made you who you are,” you said softly.

The weight of your words seemed to settle over him, and his lips parted slightly as though he wanted to say something but couldn’t find the right words.

“Scars are like badges of courage,” you continued, your voice filled with sincerity. “I can tell you’ve faced something and come out stronger. That scar doesn’t take away from your beauty—it adds to it. It’s a part of you that makes you uniquely beautiful.”

His breath hitched almost imperceptibly, and you could see the faintest dusting of pink creeping up his neck and settling on his cheeks.

His gaze softened further, the hard lines of his face melting away into something so tender it made your chest ache.

“You really think that?” he finally asked, his voice low and slightly hoarse.

You nodded without hesitation. “I don’t just think it, Shoto—I know it.”

For a moment, he simply looked at you, his expression unreadable.

Then, slowly, his hand came up to rest over yours, the warmth of his palm enveloping your fingers. He held your hand against his cheek, his thumb brushing over your knuckles in a quiet gesture of gratitude and affection.

“You always know what to say,” he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. “I… I’ve never really thought of it that way.”

“Well, you should,” you said with a small laugh, trying to ease the intensity of the moment. “You’re pretty amazing, Shoto. Scars and all.”

His lips curved into the smallest of smiles, a genuine one that reached his eyes. “I think you’re the amazing one,” he replied, his voice still soft but filled with a kind of reverence that made your heart skip a beat.

He leaned forward, resting his forehead gently against yours. “Thank you,” he whispered, the words carrying more weight than you could have imagined.

You smiled back at him, feeling an overwhelming sense of warmth and love in the quiet intimacy of the moment. “Always,” you whispered back.

☆ ADULT BAKUGO FANFICTION ☆

[zeropro]

What are your thoughts on transformers prime and transformers one?

TL:DR I liked both! TFP was my first Transformers show that I watched all the way through and TF1 was a lot of fun! Opinions on Starscream under the break pfpfpfpfpfpf

Prime was literally my first Transformers experience (Okay that's not true, I did see the first Bay movie when it came out but lets not talk about that). It's really good! My favorite character was Ratchet, I loved that he's just a tired, grumpy, racist old man and he's a doctor. Knock Out was the best thing to come out of TFP and he really should be in more stuff. Really would have loved a fourth season but it wouldn't have been the same without the children around. I liked what we got!

Prime has an excellent Starscream, Steve Blume does an amazing performance with both his deep conniving gravel and his high pitched terrified sputtering. So much character in his animation too, especially in later seasons, and an incredibly compelling character arc. Prime Starscream is not a good person, but I would burn the world for him, and I like the small moments in the show that hint at something in his character that could be turned to good, but circumstance always works against him in that regard. He's just so pathetic, but also competent and dangerous, all the best qualities of a Starscream and a very unique design!

Transformers One was quite good, I was worried because of the trailers but I was surprised by how well executed it all was. None of the characters were annoying, and making Optimus Prime originally one of the oppressed class alongside Megatron was a good move. The scene where Orion gives Dee the sticker is so cute, I simply cannot. The ending felt a bit rushed but what can you do, it wasnt so bad that it's a problem for me.

I would have loved just a little more Starscream in the movie! Like, I knew he wasn't really gonna be in the movie much so i was prepared for it to be little more than a glorified cameo, but I loved a lot of what we did get and I feel like it was missing just a little bit more! Like, the whole High Guard turned rogue backstory he has is great, implies some honor to his character since he didnt keep serving Sentinal when the guy turned Cybertron over to the Quintissance. I think it's hilarious that Starscream is so much older than Megatron. Like, they gave us a lot of food to make headcanons out of, but then the rushed ending kind of left me with no real reason given for him and the rest of the High Guard to go with Megatron without a fight. Like, I think the reason given was that, because Megatron beat him up that one time, and then killed Sentinal, and since the High Guard became a might makes right society and hates Sentinal, I guess thats why they are loyal to him now. And I guess the one line where Starscream is like "all hail megatron" is supposed to indicate he's 100% behind Megatron now and not just a spur of the moment thing. And I guess them following his command to destroy the city is why theyre being banished. But like...idk, every other plot point was well established and properly played out, and the whole decepticons thing just didnt really feel like enough, and i kind of feel like it should have been more clearly communicated considering its an entire one side of a two sided war? I feel like we werent shown the high guard doing anything egregiously bad besides attacking people because megatron told them to.

Like, there's nothing in the movie to suggest that Starscream and the High Guard arent still loyal to the Primes. So when Orion comes back as a prime, like a proper prime, with the matrix and everything, which everyone knows will make the energon flow again, I'm surprised Starscream didnt at least try to make excuses or worm his way into avoiding banishment? My headcanon is he wanted to kill Sentinal as bad as Megatron and so when Megatron finally does what he failed to do for 50 cycles, he's like aite im ride or die for this guy. Maybe 50 cycles of living in the wilderness doing nothing but scout and pit fight all day changes a guy and they dont wanna live in a society anymore. Why dont they accept Optimus as the new prime? They helped him and Elita save their friends, and unlike Sentinal Optimus has the actual Matrix this time. Idk mang. Woulda liked a bit more.

Transformers One, not my favorite design for Starscream. The head vents going wide at the bottom look weird to me, and his legs are so long and flat.

Thems my opinions!

[ni-kidaily]

NI-KI's interview with News1

part 2

👤: ENHYPEN is receiving a lot of love overseas. As a K-pop artist, what do you think is ENHYPEN's unique charm when it comes to global activities?

🐥:K-pop has always been loved by foreign countries, so its growth isn't solely due to us. But I think ENHYPEN's strength is that we have our own worldview, something not often seen in overseas artists. Since our debut, there's been a lot of interest in our vampire worldview, especially from international fans. I think that kind of story and worldview, which invites interpretation and exploration, is special. Come to think of it, there aren't many groups with such a well-developed worldview. We incorporate those elements not just into our music but also into our choreography, and I think that's where a lot of our charm comes from—it feels like one of our biggest strengths. At first, it was awkward for me too, but as time went by, I started to feel like we're a group that brings something new and different, and I can get immersed in it now. Haha. Since so many people loved it, I feel like this kind of storyline is our special strength.

👤: Your performance at Coachella last month received many positive reviews. How did you feel after being on that stage?

🐥: Since our music has been getting a lot of love overseas, I've been wanting to go overseas and show more people who don't know us yet who we are. I've always had that desire, but it grew even more. (smiles) Personally, I feel like performing in the US gives me the best opportunity to fully express myself. At Coachella, I really felt that all the ambition and confidence I had inside just came out. I think I really connected with the vibe and culture in the US. It felt like the perfect environment to show who I am as Ni-ki. Not only that, but I also hope people in all countries abroad get to know us. I believe that when people who don't know us listen to our music and get to know us, there's definitely a reason they'll end up falling for it. We're only in our fifth year, but after Coachella, what I felt most was a strong desire to keep going for a long time and let even more people know about us.

👤: How do you feel when you go on a stadium tour, beyond domes, in your home country, Japan? What was your parents' reaction?

🐥: When we first started touring, we started at the arena. So, we've become artists who can fill domes and stadiums now. This makes my parents really happy; they're very proud. I think the moment that stands out most for them was our first Tokyo Dome concert in 2023. I had been to the Tokyo Dome before as part of SHINee, but that was the first time we held our own solo concert there. My parents cried at that time, and it really felt like I had achieved one of my dreams. I was so proud of that moment. Since I live in Korea, I can only really find out how things are going in Japan through SNS, so I usually ask my family. My older sister and younger sister tell me ENHYPEN is really popular at their schools, which makes me proud. My siblings dance too, and since they're into K-pop, they even do cover dances of our songs. The members have seen them too. It's so amazing that we're into the same things as a family.

👤: I wonder what you felt was the charm of K-pop while working abroad.

🐥: To be honest, the high-quality music and dance performances are the first thing. Korea's skills in every category are on another level. It's something no other country can quite match; from music videos to stage outfits, everything is top quality. I think that's why so many people love K-pop.

👤: Enhypen is made up of multinational members, so has this been helpful in any way?

🐥:I think every country has its own cultural differences, but I don’t think any of us ever struggled because of that. Learning a new culture, or this country’s culture, has been really great and has had such a positive impact on my life. It’s the same whether it’s Korea, the US, or anywhere else. Discovering things I didn’t know before is such a positive experience, and that makes it even better. Since we have members who speak English, our pronunciation is way stronger, and we end up learning a ton about language. Being a foreigner didn’t make me feel like I was different in a bad way; just as our fans teach us about Korean culture, I really like being able to share my own culture with them, exchanging things with each other like that.

👤: If you could give advice to a hoobae who wants to become a K-pop singer?

🐥:Actually, I think the hardest and most worrisome part is the environment. Leaving the place where you grew up, not even knowing the language—that kind of environment can feel really scary, so I'm sure many people worry about it. But if you truly want this career, I think the best choice is taking action right away. Waiting for the perfect timing can be one way to miss your opportunity. When you have that exact feeling of "This is what I want to do," you might feel scared or anxious, but the best thing you can do is move immediately to make your dream come true.

[wabatle]

.ೃ࿐ Blue Lock boys and their love language .ೃ࿐Featuring: Isagi, Bachira, Chigiri, Reo, Nagi, Rin, Sae .ೃ࿐Warnings: Reader is implied fem in Chigiri's part, other than that gn!reader, this is my first time writing for Sae, so I'm very sorry if he's ooc! .ೃ࿐A/N: I did a little bit of research to figure all of the love languages out, and I’m really proud of the result! Keep in mind that all of them, although they may share a love language, can each interpret and display them in their own, unique ways <3 .ೃ࿐Taglist: @stellas-starry-stories13 (chigiri) @mariaace (everyone) <3

-ˏˋ⋆ Yoichi Isagi ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Words of affirmation, acts of service, quality timeׂ

╰┈➤Words of affirmation

Isagi will 100% make sure you feel secure and comfortable in your relationship. He always makes sure to tell you anything he thinks you need to hear and will talk to you if you have any problems.

ׂ╰┈➤Acts of Service

Though it may not be much, Isagi tries to do whatever he can to take a load off your shoulders. Got a long to-do list? Isagi will check off as many things as he can for you.

ׂ╰┈➤Quality time

Isagi would try to make as much time for you as possible. He wants to be around you and enjoys your presence, so why wouldn’t he want to spend time with you?

-ˏˋ⋆ Meguru Bachira ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Physical touch, words of affirmation, quality time

╰┈➤Physical touch

Bachira is very touchy. He will cling onto you and won’t let go, as well as accompany you everywhere. If there’s one way Bachira thinks he can prove his love for you, it’s with cuddles and attention.

╰┈➤Words of affirmation

If Bachira catches even the smallest signs of insecurity from you, he’s all over you, telling you how much he loves you, how amazing he thinks you are, literally everything he can think of to punch that insecurity out of you.

╰┈➤Quality time

Ditches practice for you. That’s it, that’s the whole thing. Okay, in all seriousness, Bachira wants to spend every second of every day with you. He’s like a puppy.

-ˏˋ⋆ Hyoma Chigiri ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Gift giving, quality time

╰┈➤Gift giving

Chigiri definitely loves to take care of your hair together, so he would gift you shampoo or conditioner, or some kind of hair care product. He would also give you hair ties or hair accessories.

╰┈➤Quality time

Chigiri loves to spend time with you. He doesn’t really care how, whether it’s sitting at home on the couch gossiping, or walking around town together, stopping at random shops. (Hence the gift giving.)

-ˏˋ⋆ Reo Mikage ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Gift giving, physical touch, quality time, words of affirmation, acts of service/all 5

╰┈➤Gift giving

It’s no secret that Reo is insanely rich. Which, for you, means you get practically everything, whether you asked for it or not. If you look at something for just a second longer, Reo’s card is already out, and you’re already exiting the store with a bag in hand.

╰┈➤Physical touch

Reo is also a clingy guy. He loves to be around you and cuddle with you, or simply follow you everywhere, like a lost puppy. It can get overwhelming at times, but he’ll stop if he feels he’s smothering you.

╰┈➤Quality time

Being clingy, that also means he wants to spend as much time with you as possible. He loves to take you out, whether to fancy restaurants or to luxury stores, or even traveling together. Whatever it is, he wants to do it with you.

╰┈➤Words of affirmation

If you feel insecure or some kind of negative emotion, he himself gets very insecure. So, in order to fix that, he assures you how much he loves you, and as you start feeling better, his own insecurities subside. He worries that he’s the one causing you problems, so you’ll have to assure him he’s not.

╰┈➤Acts of service

Reo would hate to see you stressed about anything, whether it’s something big or not. So, he’ll gladly take some, or even all, of the responsibility. I would imagine that sometimes you have to tell him you don’t need his help because he’s so insistent.

-ˏˋ⋆Seishiro Nagi ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Physical touch, quality time

╰┈➤Physical touch

Cuddles. So much cuddling. Even just when he puts his head on your shoulder, he stays stuck to you like glue. He just wants to have you near him when he’s gaming. He wants an arm around you while he holds his controller.

╰┈➤Quality time

The only reason I included quality time is because Nagi insists on gaming with you. Most of your dates are at home where you relax and play games together. But, on rare occasions when you go out, you most likely stop at an arcade at some point.

-ˏˋ⋆ Rin Itoshi ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Acts of service, words of affirmation

╰┈➤Acts of service

Though Rin may not have a lot of time for you, he still tries to do what he can to prove he loves you. So he does little things, like cleaning up the house a little bit or buying you something on his way home.

╰┈➤Words of affirmation

Though he may not be the best at it, Rin knows no better way to assure you he loves you than telling you. Of course, never in front of his team or really anybody, but, rest assured, he’ll tell you once he’s sure the two of you are in private.

-ˏˋ⋆ Sae Itoshi ˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Quality time, words of affirmation

╰┈➤Quality time

Although it may not happen much, quality time with Sae is well spent. Usually, all you do is tangle together while either talking or watching something, but, nonetheless, Sae likes it, and so do you.

╰┈➤Words of affirmation

Despite what a foul mouth Sae can have, he would never use the words he uses to describe other teams or players on you. Most things he says feel and are very genuine, but a few things can come across wrong or sound very possessive.

thank you for reading!

blue lock masterlist | masterlist

[unnpopularpoop-blog]

An Updated and Necessary NaruSasu FicRec Masterlist for 2025.

Ongoing fics:

I rarely read incomplete fics, but these were just irresistible.

1.The Baby Screams by trashygivenchy Sasuke hasn’t seen his childhood best friend—and the only person he’s ever truly been in love with—since they were eighteen; fourteen whole years ago. He has a wife and a successful career; he moved on, accepting he’d never see Naruto again. Until he finds himself in Naruto’s restaurant, confronted by his own devastating passivity.

- Pure desire, sexual tension, and regrets. Modern Setting, AU. I feel like the author kept them in character, but they've been able to add more to NaruSasu.

2. Through the lens by moonshine_dust Naruto Uzumaki never expected a routine school visit to change anything in his life. He was just there to give a safety talk, crack some jokes, and go back to his boring shift. But then he met Menma, a quiet kid with a camera. And when his mysterious, sharp-eyed father walks in, Naruto finds himself tangled in something he never saw coming. Between school drop-offs, accidental run-ins, and stolen snapshots, Naruto starts seeing a different side of Sasuke Uchiha—the devoted father, the tired man, the one he can’t seem to get out of his head. Maybe keeping the streets safe wasn’t the only thing worth protecting.

-

This one is just distilled sweetness. The idea of Sasuke as a parent may seem OOC, but the author clearly knows what they're doing. The writing and pacing are great, too. Also, Police Officer Naruto! 3.Beyond a Reasonable Doubt by slushyluvrr Naruto shrugged, shoving his hands into his pockets. “Nothing really. Passed by, saw you licking your coffee lid like some kind of feral animal, figured I’d stop in. ”Sasuke’s grip on the pen tightened. “I wasn’t licking it.” “You totally were.” “I was preventing a spill.” Naruto raised an eyebrow. “With your tongue?”

-

The description may not give you clues about the plot, but this is a Lawyer NaruSasu fic! They're old-time friends who split up and discovered each other once more when Sasuke goes back to town. The scenes are great, and there is something heartbreaking about them.

Please give all of these fics a read and a comment to encourage authors! I'm always amazed and grateful to be able to read this for free.

Complete fics:

1.After The World Fell Down by zephyras13 Naruto has been fighting a war for the life of his neighborhood for the past four years, with no end in sight. His world is violent, arbitrary, and ruthless, but it is simple. It makes sense. And then Uchiha Sasuke fucks everything up. SN EXCHANGE FIC. - This is my favorite SNS fic for many reasons. Fantastic worldbuilding, character descriptions, and fights! This is a true action-romance drama. Naruto is a tragic character, missing his old life before his city was invaded. The author managed to write a suffocating story with an added hopeful romance plotline. Please, please, read and give it love.

2. That Which Comes Easy by ShimaShips Naruto and Sasuke watch a movie about lost love. The resulting conversation brings up questions about the meaning of love and whether Naruto's feelings for Sasuke are really so brotherly after all. - A second favorite. Feeling realizations kind of fic, Non-AU, and canon divergent. It's sweet, nostalgic, and it respects it's characters.

3.Aftermath by CanineKitten Naruto is tired of seeing Sasuke leave again and again. This time he’s going with him. - A classic.

4.heart for brains by almostprimary A spray of champagne hitting the back of Naruto’s neck snaps him out of his thoughts. He turns towards the direction of fire, and standing behind the bottle is none other than Sasuke himself. “Distracted, Uzumaki?” he asks, a smirk growing wider on his face. Something hot flares up inside of Naruto, a unique brand of rage that only surfaces when Sasuke is around. He wants to wipe that smirk right off of Sasuke’s face. Naruto, shiny new Scuderia Ferrari driver and Sasuke Uchiha, Red Bull Racing driver and Naruto's sworn rival, compete for the Formula One World Driver's Championship. - This is another one of my constant re-reads. I love it when stories show and don't tell, and I think this is one of those authors who manages to convey their intentions through scenes.

5.homesick for a mountain's song by kintou

This one doesn't need a description because it's a LITERARY CLASSIC. But if there's a poor soul who hasn't read it, do yourself a favor.

6.No One is Coming by wedonotsow

In the bleak winter on the frontline there was only dark skies, the smell of gunpowder, unrelenting snowfalls, and the enemy. Thankfully, there was also Sasuke.

Military and Modern AU. Narusasu. TW for brief knife violence and dark themes. - It's PAINFUL to notice this fic being overlooked for so long. Where do I start? Although it is tragic and realistic in a painful way, this short story captures SNS's appeal and love amid a war. It mixes canon themes with its own version of Konoha.

7. Come Spring by Panlock

Four times Sasuke doesn't express his feelings and the one time he does. Every time he looks at Naruto it's like this. There are so many things he wants to say but he always bites his tongue. He never shows his hand. A few times he has put words on paper but these messages were always destroyed before anyone could know their secrets. Those words are clawing at his throat right now, demanding to be set free.

-

Must experience this read with no spoilers or information. Sorry.

8.your love is sunlight by frogsterz

“Does it make you sad?” Sasuke murmured, voice barely louder than the din of the restaurant. “That there’s nothing left of our childhood. How many times can you rebuild the city you lost before it’s no longer the city you love?”

“Endlessly,” said Naruto at once.

(Unsuited to post-war peace, Uzumaki Naruto is waiting for something to happen in his life again. Enter Sasuke.)

-

Annd this is another one of my favorites. I've read it three times since it was published, and I always discover more things to love about it. It is painful; the longing and melancholy can be read through the author's words. Ugh! I fucking love it.

9. everything rough by youngamerican

The first thing that Sasuke says to Naruto after four years is, “I knew they would send you.” The first thing Naruto says to Sasuke after four years is, “You’re an asshole.” - I like it when fics have action scenes, and this one will entertain and fix our broken hearts after that terrible fever dream of an ending.

10.When spring comes by blushyfreckles

“Say, Naruto…what sort of flowers would you give your girlfriend?”

Naruto blinked, his hands tucked lazily behind his head as he shuffled his legs. “Huh? What do you mean?”

“Why are you asking him, he doesn’t even have a girlfriend —“ Kiba’s obnoxious response came right away, without letting Naruto reconsider the question coming from Shikamaru, who scratched at his neck, peeved, his overwhelmed attitude of someone who wasn’t used to gifting women, or gifting anyone for that matter.

Naruto huffed, and turned to Kiba, falling back easily into his provocative remarks and Choji’s nonchalant agreement, while shoving another thin piece of chip into his mouth. “I don’t have a girlfriend yet, but I know damn well enough what women would like unlike you —“

-

This one is short, and so so so sweet. This is an author who clearly knows what they're doing, and I feel like they know Sasuke's character too well, and can capture his essence in a few words. READ EVERYTHING MADE BY THIS AUTHOR!

11. Beneath the Surface by Charlotteee12

The case was simple.

On paper, anyway. Maison Mizūmi, an ultra-exclusive, high-end ryokan nestled in the middle of nowhere, had racked up a string of missing guests over the last month. No leads, no bodies, just eerie vanishing acts. The only pattern? Every guest had checked in as part of a couple.

So here they were. Naruto and Sasuke. Undercover.

As a couple. - This one is a breath of fresh air and just fun fun fun to read. It is a detective AU series, but I haven't read the rest of the fics.

12.A quiet life with you by blushyfreckles

I won't paste the description! Go read EVERYTHING made by blushyfreckles. This human being can narrate a tragic backstory with a few scenes and gives us readers a ton to the imagination.

13. The night is brighter around you by blushyfreckles

I won't paste the description! They are my favorite author, and their writing is subtle, romantic, and deep. I think it's an intense fic encapsulated in a small package. It's a character study and shows, in my eyes, a great understanding of Naruto and Sasuke's relationship. Ugh!! Do yourself a favor and read it.

14. phototaxis by mockingbird_mb

Naruto's hand stays there, hidden by the underside of the table, scorching through the fabric. Neither of them react to it, at least outwardly. So when his fingers scrape gently along the inside of Sasuke’s thigh, it’s like nothing’s happened. Nothing is happening. Nothing ever happens.

-

This one hurts in all the right ways. Human characters with guilt and self-sabotaging behaviors that feel real, relatable, and faithful to canon, with a twist.

15. Five Star Hotels. by trashygivenchy

But Sasuke stopped lying to himself a long time ago, when Naruto uppercut the shit out of him and softly insisted for the millionth time that they were friends with a claim on each other’s pain, despite the missing arms, especially with the missing arms.

The arrangement was nice because of Naruto. He came back to Konoha each time for Naruto and Naruto alone.

Then Naruto went and got a girlfriend.

-

This one made me feel like I was a voyeur watching something unfold (and I shouldn't have, lol). This is yearning personified.

16. before you leave again by moonlithic

Naruto has been in love with Sasuke for years. Even though Sasuke was constantly gone, his feelings never went away.

He kept it to himself. Until this time.

- Just, excellent. Lovely writing. Healing. Skin-cleansing. Revitalizing. Amazing. Beautiful. Realistic.

17. Fate, Don't Fail Me Now by RosaLui (Restricted)

The twin suns rose. Scorched the sand below. Set.

Naruto Uzumaki wore his clothes thin, fixed his droids with callused hands, and brought himself to school. Failed out. Applied to the Academy. Failed out of that too. Worked. Sweated. Stared at the binary stars and dreamed that he was meant for more, for better, than dying here.

-

I am a firm beliaver that we need more AU fics in this fandom. This is a StarWars inspired fic, and it was COOL af. Very sensual too.

18.Long, Long Shall I Rue Thee (a translation) by snowypreyer

"Death comes in phases."

-

This is another one of my top SNS fics. I felt like I was reading an award-winning novella all throughout. The author was immensely creative and decided to narrate Narusasu's story via another character. It is subtle, smart, and heartbreaking, but overall, it is beautiful.

19.Pyretos by Atanih88 (Restricted) Sasuke came to stand closer. Naruto watched him, taking in the easy strides and the way Sasuke’s face remained devoid of expression as he took in Naruto’s wounds.

-

Holy fuck. Tension. Slowburn.

20. where you go, i'm going by anntea

It's been years since Sasuke ran away from Konoha, years since he left the orphanage and his best friend behind. The last thing he wants to do is go back, but he does.

-

Just. Stunning. Modern AU replica (or retelling?) of their stories in canon. Loss. Pain and Longing. 21. The Gaijin and the Rōnin by KoeblDvd

In feudal Japan, Sasuke Uchiha encounters a mysterious man who aids him in navigating the political turmoil of the impending Shogunate.

-

Based on the 6th ending, where they're Samurai. 22. Nescit Cedere by cupricanka If you need someone to save your baby, Naruto is your guy. He, after all, doesn’t know how to give up.

-

It is mostly horror, but the underlying romance complements the creepiness and impact of the fic. The characters are fantastic and well-written. Don't read if you're prone to nightmares. 23. homeward by mnee

Sasuke returns to Konoha.

Or, more accurately, to Naruto. - God. I feel like writing my opinion would mean spoiling this fic. This fic is INTENSE, brutal, hopeful, sweet, delicate, and artistic. This is one of the authors you can use to post deep quotes on Instagram, lol.

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Ok, folks, this is all. Again, I insist you give these authors much love by commenting and leaving kudos, since they've most likely put their most creative efforts and knowledge into these stories. Although some of my descriptions are short, I believe all the fics posted here are amazing and worth reading. Reblog to shareeee.

[kastellaran]

Q&A Translations

I translated all of the Mononoke Question Box Answers that have been posted by the official Mononoke Twitter as of March 26, 2025. I will work on posting the others as they come out so I don't put out such a long post again, but in the mean time here they are:

Q: Is there some kind of magic related meaning in Kusuriuri-san and Shingi-san's clothing? For example, Kusuriuri-san wears women's kimono, and Shingi-san has black cloth wrapped around his arms and legs. A: On the kimono, I believe it serves as the mark of a Medicine Seller, which is why there are a lot of shared elements. It's similar to a uniform.

Both Kusuriuri and Shingi's forms change as they mark the passing of history on their bodies, so as for the black cloth, there is probably some story there.

Q: Did Kusuriuri-san buy the love potions from England himself? I was wondering if they do business with foreign countries.

A: They do. It seems more research is needed on the question of if Medicine Sellers are unique to Japan.

Q: Does Kusuriuri-san need to eat? Did he eat the hoobamiso onigiri after Karakasa?

A: Medicine Sellers don't need to eat or sleep. They don't need to gain nutrition with their mouths. But they do understand taste, so sometimes they pretend to eat. This depends on the personality of each Medicine Seller, so even I don't actually know if the Medicine Seller of Kon ate it.

Q: Were there any points during the production of Hinezumi that made you be like "This came out super well! I love it!"? Also, are there any points where you're like "Open your eyes and watch closely!!!"? It was fast-paced this time so I'm not sure if I'll be able to follow everything, but if there are, I really want to try and keep an eye out for themmm!!!

A: Director: Suzuki Kiyotaka I won't be able to write everything because it's too detailed, sorry. In my opinion, our team was super competent and it feels like each person's skill came through in the film, so thank you to all the staff. To touch on the contents, I guess I really liked the balance between reality and memory. Because it's a movie, we had them come up with all sorts of ways to increase the climax in the latter half. I hope you enjoy it with your eyes, ears, and heart.

General Director: Nakamura Kenji The collaboration between the storyboard and the screenplay. We had Atarashi-san, the writer, look over the storyboard and edit the dialogue. After the framework of the Mononoke and the set were decided, the action was adjusted to work within the space, and there was also revision during ADR (from the time of Karakasa) with updates piling on top of each other. There are quire a few difficult spots, but it seems like it should be normal from here on out.

Q: In the movie, the Sword of Exorcism and the trunk seem to move with a mysterious power. Is that Kusuriuri-san's power? Or does it come from Shingi-san or the Sword of Exorcism?

A: It's the power of the Medicine Seller, but there are many scenes where the tools use their situational awareness and move on their own. I think they're all probably working together.

Q: With regards to Karakasa and Hinezumi, I want to hear about the scenes that gave you the most difficulty.

A: General Director: Nakamura Kenji For Karakasa, it would probably be the part from Kusuriuri's transformation to when he says "issen!" and Kitagawa's first appearance. For Hinezumi, I'll pass to the director, Suzuki!

Director: Suzuki Kiyotaka For Hinezumi, constructing the parallels in the drama between Fuki and Botan around solving the Reason was kind of difficult. And the part from the transformation to "issen!" was difficult because of the quantity, but we got through it thanks to our amazing staff.

Q: When the giant eye appears, Kusuriuri-san says "The Karakasa is manifesting in the utsushiyo*," but it actually seems like the dimension that Kusuriuri-san, Saburoumaru, and everyone else is in has changed. Is the world in which the Karakasa has manifested also the utsushiyo? *Buddhist term referring to the current life

A: Very good question, yes, the utsushiyo also includes the yellow sky where the mononoke reveals its true form, and the anomalous space (is what we call it) of the outer wall. The world is structured like a millfeuille, with layers on layers (so it could also be thought of as a separate dimension).

Q: Directors, who is the character you love the most in Mononoke? Mine is the scales.

A: General Director: Nakamura Kenji I love them all so much; I'm always crying while cutting their scenes and lines. I'd like to have the scales be more active too.

Director: Suzuki Kiyotaka It's not love, but with regards to the movie, I started to sympathize with Botan and feel like she was kind of similar to me. Other than that, I like the funny and cool Sakashita, and the funny and cute Kume-chan.

Q: When did Saburoumaru and Hiramoto develop their current dynamic? They originally had different social standings, so maybe they weren't able to banter like they do now...

A: We actually just published a short story on WEB where you can read about this, so please check it out. Hiramoto is actually the type to live by his own values and thoughts, regardless of the people around him, so he would speak directly with Saburoumaru instead of holding onto any strange prejudices. Hopefully they'll continue to be buddies.

Q: In the anime, I had the impression that Kusuriuri-san and Shingi-san were like mirror reflections, inversions of each other, but in the movie it seems like they're complete opposites. Are Kusuriuri-san and Shingi-san designed with the pair in mind? There are a lot of parts that are fiery, like the hair and the sword, so I'd like to know if there was some design motif being referenced.

A: Basically, the Sword of Exorcism and Shingi are a set. You may wonder, "Then, shouldn't Kusuriuri's body and form match the sword?" but we haven't advanced that far in the research of the Sword of Exorcism. I'm deeply ashamed.

Q: There are a lot of movements that are flashy in a kabuki way, like sheathing Sakashita-san's katana with his foot or jumping off the roof spinning. I'm interested to know if you had any references.

A: It wouldn't be that cool if Kusuriuri-san moved normally, so everyday we would think about how to make him more ostentatious, how to add more theatrical flair. So a lot of it is from imagination. But kabuki, noh, tokusatsu, or any videos where men have beautiful movements might also serve as a reference.

Q: Kusuriuri-san's trunk seems awfully heavy; I wonder how heavy it is? The scales are on the bottom, the sword is on the top, so I'm curious what else is in there. On that note, in the movie Kusuriuri has some pretty flashy action scenes, but wouldn't it be bad if the medicine in there got damaged?

A: The inside of the trunk is like a different dimension, so it's take care of. There's no way all the scales could fit in there, so it connects to another dimension. It's like a magic item. So, you don't need to worry; but if we tried to lift it, it would probably be about 200 kg.

Q: Utayama-sama was shown to be self-conscious of her hands; was she conscious of her age? Did she perhaps think about how she had been in the Ooku the longest? Also, I want to know more about her. Anything's fine; her birthday, height, favorite food......please tell me anything you can!

A: I personally think that life is shown in the eyes or expressions and age is shown in the hands. Utayama-san feels that in the near future she will not have the power to carry out all of her duties within the Ooku. With regards to her birthday and favorite food, the results of the investigation have not come back yet, so all I can say is she doesn't like or dislike anything (investigation ongoing).

Q: In the movie, Kusuriuri-san wields the Sword of Exorcism with his left hand even though he seems to be right handed. Is it because Shingi-san is left handed, so he holds the sword in his left hand to match?

A: The hand that the medicine sellers use to wield the sword depends on the sword. Apparently the Sword of Kon wants to be held in the left hand.

Q: When it's time to decide the nighttime companion, the ochuurou are lined up in the Osuzurouka. Is the order they're lined up in predetermined? Also I'd like to know the order in which they became ochuurou.

A: It is predetermined. I don't actually know the order in which they became ochuurou either, but Kiyo was definitely the last. She's a new ochuurou-san compared to Fuki.

Q: Is the Medicine Seller of Kon's hair long!??! Is it short!??! Please tell me!!!!!!!

A: The Medicine Seller of Kon's hair seems to be short. There might be times when he wants to grow his hair out, so I think it changes from time to time.

Q: I've heard that ideas can come to people at different times, like in the bath or on a walk. At what kind of time do the directors think "That will be the mononoke this time!" or "The Medicine Seller should do this in this scene!"? If that's too difficult, please tell me what candy you've been into lately!

A: General Director: Nakamura Kenji I'm not always doing my work or taking baths; when I'm particularly in pain I try to take showers, and since I'm changing my clothes at the same time I like clothes that are easy to launder.

Director: Suzuki Kiyotaka When I'm waking up or in the bathroom... It seems like it's mostly in the morning, but ideas come to me when I'm away from the desk.

Q: During the flashback scenes, these pentagonal shapes are floating around. Is there a reason for those shapes? Or are they an artistic element?

A: We call them "flashback clouds." We really wanted to make sure people noticed when it was a flashback, so when they appear, it's a flashback scene. There is one mysterious depiction of the past which is not actually a flashback, so they don't appear there (sorry if this is confusing). We wanted the shapes in the clouds to be kind of cute and look like candy. Those shapes are stored alongside many people's feelings and memories of the past. There may be more elements like this in the future.

Q: What are the cute decorations that look like taiyaki in Karakasa... I want one. Even though they're soggy.

A: General Director: Nakamura Kenji I want merch of them too. I'd like to put them on a bag or something. Those "fish" are actually made of wood, so they dry easily. If Kame-chan had secretly done her job in the middle of the night, she probably wouldn't have been found out,,, That aside, I wondered what they were, so I interviewed Katouno-san from the art department. ...Katouno-san, what are those fish?

Art department: Katouno Youichi They're hanging dolls. I think they're probably the goldfish type. They've been around for a long time, and since they always convey an auspicious feeling, I thought that if something happened around them it would be even more emotional, so I referenced them. General Director: Nakamura Kenji I see,, I get it!

[flyingwargle]

august fanfic recommendations!

this is indeed going to be a series. check out july's recommendations!

(also, feel free to give me recs! i'm kind of picky, but i promise to look at what you suggest before adding it to my 80 tabs of fics hehe. rec your own fics if you want 😎)

some of these fics are rated e!

sakuatsu

Take My Hand (Take My Whole Life Too) t. 6.1k. sakusa gets hung up on the idea of indirect kissing and indirect hand holding and becomes enamored by the idea of holding atsumu's hand. lovely prose, sakusa is insane in this (affectionate) and atsumu is very loving.

Watching You for Love t. 6.6k. sakusa moonlights as a dj and atsumu finds him out. THIS FIC!! amazing prose and imagery, and sakusa falling for atsumu is also beautiful. please give it a shot <3

Hall Pass t. 6.8k. sakusa and atsumu discuss one another's hall passes and sakusa gets hung up on why atsumu's is saeko. i admit, i still don't know what a hall pass is despite reading this, but it depicts a somewhat jealous sakusa and saeko kissing atsumu, which is more than i could ever ask for.

atsumu, atsumu, let down your hair t. 7.1k. sakusa and atsumu move from fwb to being in a relationship but it's hard to be domestic after being physical. we love healthy communication in a relationship in this house.

the 28 postcards you left me t. 8.3k. after breaking up, atsumu leaves postcards for sakusa in animal crossing. this hurt to read, especially with how in love they were, until they weren't. there's a happy ending, though <3

The Jacket In Your Closet t. 8.6k. once upon a time, atsumu gave sakusa his newly purchased jacket because he saw him uncomfortable in a crowd. atsumu's forgotten about it but sakusa never did (and continues to have a crush on him).

stuck between a rock hard place, or something m. 10.4k. atsumu starts popping boners whenever sakusa opens his mouth. hilariously written and sweet <3 this made me so glad that i like girls because the way sakusa is described here is just. wow. he really is attractive. good for atsumu.

Situated Motionless in the Center of the Heavens t. 15.1k. "For a very long time, Atsumu could barely stand Sakusa. And can you really blame him? It’s Sakusa, the human equivalent of the feeling you get when you bite into a chocolate chip cookie and realize with profound disappointment that it’s actually oatmeal raisin instead." if that doesn't convince you, just know that atsumu is dense af but he ends up realizing his love in the end.

From Afar t. 17.4k. i could probably make a list of skts fics where sakusa has some kind of ability and intends to keep everyone at arm's length until miya atsumu ruins everything. the ability that sakusa has in this is unique and plays into his mysophobic tendencies beautifully. the way he and atsumu compromise with his gift is a delight as well. just beautifully written overall <3

Again, until it's perfect. t. 18.2k. sakusa and atsumu accidentally pull off a minus tempo quick and they start practicing it. i read this after situated motionless in the center of the heavens, and let me tell you - going from dense atsumu to dense sakusa is so, so good. they're so dumb, i love them /affectionate

One Track Mind m. 18.8k. suna and osamu publicly break up and sakusa is left wondering if it's a good time to tell atsumu that he loves him. hilarious, introspective, with some spice. a perfect blend for an excellent fic <3

In Pursuit of Happiness t. 19.1k. modern magic au where sakusa works at a magic shop after selling his happiness, and atsumu is a pest trying to make him feel happy again. lovely worldbuilding and slowburn!

Better Find Another Superstition t. 21.3k. 7/7. another modern magic au where sakusa and atsumu are forced to work together to resolve an issue with the city's magic supply. hilarious prose, and very light-hearted with a cool magic system in the background. one of my favorites <3

how can I not be moved (by you) t. 26.4k. 3/3. an achingly beautiful magic au where sakusa runs an apothecary and atsumu is a warlock. the worldbuilding is rich and the slow burn is delicious. absolutely beautiful and fluffy <3

pascal's wager t. 34.1k. 6/6. a sakusa character study and his obsession with superstition from atsumu's pov. beautiful writing, lovely wingmen to help atsumu (gourd bless osamu, akaashi, and bokuto) and lovely prose <3

the awful daring of a moment's surrender m. 34.2k. 7/7. in which sakusa lies to himself that he wants nothing with atsumu but atsumu is persistent. beautiful prose (i read so much of this writer's works, they're all so good) and lovely ending <3

Teach Me, Tune Me, Tempt Me e. 38.8k. 10/10. sakusa asks atsumu to teach him about the many firsts needed to enter his first relationship. oh, the pining, the angst, and of course the smut was on point.

sunaosa

working backwards till it rhymes t. 4.2k. gin congratulates suna and osamu on their anniversary, except they aren't dating. or are they? hilarious prose and premise, absolutely loved it.

reasons to microwave an elixir t. 8.2k. university au, modern magic au, roommates to lovers galore. i absolutely loved the prose and how sunaosa developed over the fic. definitely one of my favorites!

you never have to wander, wonder t. 22.6k. suna is the cameraman for the twins' buzzfeed-like worth it youtube series. lovely, lovely pining and prose.

iwaoi

What spring does with the cherry trees e. 7k. pwp with lovely prose and so much love between iwa and oikawa. reading it made me feel soft and fluffy.

galaxies, within you t. 21.1k. makki and mattsun are the absolute best in this. i love the seijoh4's banter and friendship, and how iwa and oikawa eventually confess their feelings for each other. the prose is hilarious and beautiful!

bokuaka

35mm t. 20.9k. 3/3. another fic where akaashi and bokuto slowly fall in love through high school but more movies, akaashi is a movie buff, and lovely prose <3

other

but i am strong (strong enough to carry him) t. 5.3k. atsumu gets a call that osamu has a breakdown and he, aran, and suna comfort him. a beautiful brotherly fic and the helping hands around osamu.

A Full Stomach g. 6.9k. kageyama notices that hinata is eating less and less these days and intervenes. hinata protection squad arise! so much fluff to the hurt, my son deserves everything that karasuno gives him <3

if it's me, it'll be okay t. 9.1k. yachi discovers she's aromantic and goes through it. also, she's best friends with sakusa and it's the best thing ever. a lovely exploration of aromanticism, please give it a shot <3

city's on fire t. 10.5k. cyberpunk au where the twins can hack into memories and rewrite them. the worldbuilding is unique and the twins' relationship is achingly tender but painful with a happy ending.

An Opponent Is Announced g. 13.1k. sakusa has no idea who oikawa is while the rest of the jnt does, hence commencing a (non-serious) investigation into him. love the character dynamics and plot, just a fun, light-hearted read.

a best man's worst problems t. 14.1k. kagehina. tsukishima is asked to be kageyama's best man at his wedding and to give a wedding speech. lovely outsider pov of kagehina's blooming relationship through the years from one very exasperated salty dinosaur.

Safe & Sound t. 17.3k. 5 times kitagawa daiichi ignored kageyama's suffering and 1 time karasuno didn't. oh boy, this hit me in the face with the ANGST and then the comfort. emotionally prepare yourself for this (i wasn't, and my heart shattered in a million pieces).

Common side effects m. 89.9k. 16/16. kuroken. THIS FIC WAS SO GOOD. kuroo is a depressed 30 year old reconnecting with kenma after 3 years of silence. it depicts the monotony and depression of adulthood so well, and the cast is so loving and supportive of kuroo while he was going through it. please give this a shot <3

[1dcommunityficrecs]

Fic Rec: Series!

Welcome to April, and no fooling, we have 10 amazing series for you -- and I don't even know how many fics between them! To quote Harry:

Anyways, as usual -- please read, reblog, kudos, comment, show the love, and look out for the next category!

Vexxieverse by SomeDovesFly/@somedovesfly (616774, Explicit, Niall Horan/Zayn Malik/Liam Payne/Harry Styles/Louis Tomlinson)

Fluff in handcuffs! Healthy bdsm and poly relationship

Reccer says: It's full of trust and love, and shows healthy dynamics both for a polycule and a BDSM relationship

The Duke and the Poor Sods Who Work For Him by LadyLondonderry/@londonfoginacup (8683, Teen, Multi) – fic post

Duke Louis decides he needs a hermit for his woods and his long suffering butler Liam must find one for him. Also, Duke Louis tries to woo tailor Harry in increasingly desperate but unhinged ways.

Reccer says: This series was so hilarious and unhinged and I loved every word of it!

where the lights are beautiful by twoshipsdrifting/@polkadotlou (48935, Mature, Harry Styles/Louis Tomlinson) – fic post Warnings: Dubcon due to omegaverse heat

An omegaverse, accidental bonding fic where alpha Harry has the wrong idea about omega Louis

Reccer says: This fic makes me cry every time I reread it when Louis' thoughts just hurt in the best way. And the continuing series of fics adds amazing depth and insight to the first fic.

stand on holy ground by wishingforloushair/@wishingforloushair (17322, Explicit, Harry Styles/Louis Tomlinson) Warnings: religious themes, debauchery in the church

harry is a priest and louis is a sinner who goes to harry for guidance. they also fuck.

Reccer says: this fic series taught me how to pray the rosary. no i am not kidding. i don’t think id be able to do it right now but i know how to do it!

Please Remain on the Line by fckingfreakshow (24441, Not Rated, Harry Styles/Louis Tomlinson)

harry’s looking for love, or at the very least a date that doesn’t make him want to walk off the brooklyn bridge. his friends call him a serial dater, but he prefers romantically persistent. he believes in the process and sometimes, you gotta kiss a few toads and pay sketchy astrology sites for the answers. what he really wants is simple. someone fun, who keeps him on his toes, who doesn’t take themselves too seriously. someone who’ll flirt shamelessly, make him laugh, maybe even whisper sweet nothings into his ear… he just didn’t expect the last part to be so…literal.

Reccer says: Killer banter. Unique concept. Disaster gay Harry. It’s so, so fun.

Down the Line by sunflouwerhabit/@sunflouwerhabit (280000, General, Harry Styles/Louis Tomlinson) – fic post

Star shortstop Louis Tomlinson only finds solace between the white-chalk lines of a baseball diamond, until Harry Styles- the absolute bane of his existence and (probably) the worst pitcher in Major League Baseball- becomes an overnight sensation in the city Louis calls home.

Reccer says: (Almost) one million words about baseball and Harry and Louis. Brilliant OT5 rep. The most exciting fic(s) ever written about Ohio. Brilliant, devastating writing.

Come As You Are by Stylinsoncity/@stylinsoncity (77439, Mature, Harry Styles/Louis Tomlinson) – fic post

louis is a professor of literature at oxford and harry is his newest and most eager protege. both are caught in a story about forbidden love, loss and second chances, in which one is on the brink of heartbreak and the other comes along when he's needed most.

Reccer says: Forever and always in my top 5. Searingly, achingly gorgeous writing.

All in the Golden Afternoon by Leighllbealright /@leighllbealright (126040, Explicit, Harry Styles/Louis Tomlinson) – fic post

When Louis Tomlinson needed to find a new preschool for his daughter, he wasn't expecting the one across the street to be everything he and Goldie ever needed. Or: the one where Louis is closed off, Harry is the weirdest person ever, and Gemma may as well be a psychic.

Reccer says: A brilliant found family fic. Quirky but real characters.

1957: Here to Take My Medicine by Zita17/@louisandtheaquarian (2657, Explicit, Harry Styles/Louis Tomlinson) – fic post

Beat poets Louis Tomlinson and Harry Styles blow off some steam before a reading. Very loosely inspired by Howl, Ginsberg, Cassady, Kerouac, and the asterisks in Medicine.

Reccer says: This fic (and the other 4 in the series) are intense historical studies/smut. Cannot stop thinking about them!

Bitter Ends Turn Sweet by Allwaswell16 /@allwaswell16 (30164, Explicit, Harry Styles/Louis Tomlinson) – fic post

It had been four years since Harry first heard the song his ex wrote about him and far longer since they broke up. He forgave Louis long ago, and now his life was focused on his career, his family, and especially his son, Max. But Louis was back in Chicago, after all this time, and he’s not an easy man to ignore.

Reccer says: It’s so rare that a famous/non-famous love story ends before it begins. I love that this fic goes there!

[modmad]

Hi Modmad!

I wanted to send a note as a massive thank you for everything you do and make, your comics have become a massive source of inspiration to me. Its so amazing to see someone else with a sketching type of style in their art, which is really something I dont see a lot out there, so its pretty cool. I've found the courage/confidence to start really delving into chronological art as well and honestly not sure i would've gotten to that point otherwise =]]

I also was also curious if you dont mind, how do you plan the compositions for the comic pages you create, if you do plan them? I've been stuck in the sort of pannel/strip format for a while and they way you break borders with the art itself to create a flow across the page has stuck out as something really unique and cool as a way to bring the characters on the page to life in a very stellar way. I also apologize if this question is on an faq somewhere that I didn't see as well!

All this to say, your stuff is awesome and thank you so much. i have been binge reading and working through it all slowly bc you clearly a mad(mod) genius ahaha

Thank you for your time!

-03

gosh, not sure how to answer it'd take a while. sometimes I put my process on patreon, but I'm not very good at explaining how I do the layout of comics- what I can say is that I've learned by reading lots and lots and LOTS of different kinds of comics. I suggest getting out there and trying new things! comics from different countries and genres from your usual, comics from a different point in time can give a lot of insight too- get out there and start digging!

as for the sketching that's great! I love sketches, and it's really nice to know that people are enjoying mine. let's keep making and learning together!

[cyberclouddream]

Your Philosophical Dance

Aries in the 9th House (Leo Rising)

You’re all about chasing experiences when it comes to learning. Like, if it doesn’t get your heart racing, you might lose interest pretty quickly. One minute you're diving into a wild philosophy course, and the next, you're off on a spontaneous trip to explore something completely new. You thrive on hands-on adventures, so seek out opportunities that let you learn through real-life experiences. Just keep an eye on what really lights you up; that’s where the magic happens.

Taurus in the 9th House (Virgo Rising)

You love your comfort zone, especially in learning. There’s something cozy about sticking to familiar topics, but sometimes it can hold you back from discovering something fresh. It’s like binge-watching your favorite show on repeat instead of checking out that new series everyone’s talking about. While you can really dive deep into what you love, it’s good to mix things up a bit. Every now and then, try stepping out of your bubble—you might find something that surprises you.

Gemini in the 9th House (Libra Rising)

Your mind is always buzzing with ideas, and while that’s super fun, it can also get a bit chaotic. You jump from topic to topic like you’re flipping through a playlist, which is exciting but can leave you feeling scattered. You might start reading one book and then suddenly want to dive into another before finishing. It's cool to be curious, but maybe focus on a couple of things that really catch your interest. That way, you can really dive deep instead of skimming the surface.

Cancer in the 9th House (Scorpio Rising)

For you, learning is an emotional ride. You pull from your feelings and memories, which can give you some unique insights but might also make things feel a bit heavy sometimes. It's like your past experiences are nudging you while you’re trying to explore new ideas. Your emotional depth is a strength, especially in areas like spirituality or psychology. So, remember to balance those feelings with fresh perspectives—it can lead to some truly enlightening moments.

Leo in the 9th House (Sagittarius Rising)

Learning feels like a performance for you, and you love being in the spotlight. While you shine when you express yourself, you might find yourself getting caught up in topics that impress others instead of what genuinely excites you. Think of those times you debated a theory just to show off your knowledge instead of really engaging with it. Tap into that charisma and focus on what you’re passionate about—it’ll make your educational journey way more fulfilling.

Virgo in the 9th House (Capricorn Rising)

You take a super analytical approach to learning, which can be both a blessing and a bit of a drag. You get so into the details that it sometimes feels more like work than fun. Picture yourself knee-deep in textbooks, stressing over every little fact instead of enjoying the ride. Your knack for digging deep can lead to some awesome discoveries, but don’t forget to find the joy in it, too. A little creativity can go a long way in making learning feel more exciting.

Libra in the 9th House (Aquarius Rising)

You’re all about balance, but that can make it tricky to figure out your own beliefs. You might find yourself swaying with the opinions of those around you, which can leave you feeling a bit lost. It’s like being in a conversation and just agreeing instead of sharing your own thoughts. But your quest for harmony opens you up to a ton of ideas that can really enrich your understanding. Embracing your own voice while staying open to others can lead to some amazing insights.

Scorpio in the 9th House (Pisces Rising)

You dive deep into life’s big questions, and that intensity can bring you some profound insights. But, honestly, it can feel a bit heavy at times, like you’re carrying a lot on your shoulders. You often explore complex ideas that make you rethink everything, which is awesome but can be a lot to handle. Leaning into that emotional depth can lead you to amazing revelations. Just remember to take breaks when needed—sometimes, stepping back helps put everything in perspective.

Sagittarius in the 9th House (Aries Rising)

Learning for you is all about freedom and exploration. You thrive on new experiences, but that can sometimes make it tough to stick to one topic. It’s like you’re always on the lookout for the next adventure, ready to discover something new. While your enthusiasm is infectious, try to find a balance between your desire to explore and the need to dive deep into what you love. That sweet spot between adventure and focus can lead to some really rewarding experiences.

Capricorn in the 9th House (Taurus Rising)

You take education seriously, often treating it like a job to get done. While your ambition is impressive, it can sometimes drain the fun out of learning. You might focus so hard on reaching your goals that you forget to enjoy the journey. Think of it like ticking off items on a checklist instead of savoring each experience. Remember, education should inspire you, so allow yourself some freedom to explore—you might just uncover something that truly captivates you.

Aquarius in the 9th House (Gemini Rising)

You’re all about challenging the norm, which can lead to some pretty exciting educational paths. While it’s awesome to embrace the unconventional, don’t completely dismiss traditional ways of learning. You might find yourself gravitating toward unique subjects that spark your curiosity, but there’s value in the classics, too. Think about how blending old wisdom with your own fresh perspective can create something special. Keeping an open mind will enrich your learning journey.

Pisces in the 9th House (Cancer Rising)

You often drift into your daydreams when it comes to learning, which can be both a gift and a challenge. Escaping into your imagination is super tempting, but it might pull you away from practical knowledge. It’s like floating on clouds instead of focusing on what’s right in front of you. Your intuition can guide you to incredible insights, so finding a balance between your dreamy thoughts and grounded research can help you navigate both worlds smoothly.