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You know what’s really disturbing to me? The culture that seems to have sprung up around fanfiction. Writers spend weeks and months working on a story – I think my record is six months on A Place For Us To Dream. And so many times readers expect to just be given a chapter even if they don’t give anything to the writer in return.

I’m going to date myself a bit here, but I’ve been reading/writing fanfiction for ten years. And when I first started it was a wonderful community. There was an unspoken rule – if you read/enjoyed it, you review it. You take thirty seconds to tell an author who probably spent anywhere from three days to a week writing that chapter you just enjoyed to tell them you enjoyed it. Even if it was as simple as “Great chapter, can’t wait to see what happens next!”

Writers spend so much time on stories, and then they post it because they have this thing that they’ve invested so many hours into and they want to share it with the world. They know how they feel about the story, and they want to know how other people feel, what other people think.

And when you read it and don’t review, you know what message you’re sending that author? That they’re not worth your time, or you didn’t enjoy their story. So why should they keep posting it? Yeah they might continue working on it in their own time, for their own enjoyment, but you might never see another chapter again because you couldn’t be bothered to take thirty seconds out of your day to tell them how you feel.

I’ve written stories in eight different fandoms, ranging from very small to very big (I’ll openly admit I wrote Twilight fanfiction once. Once. It was an Alice/Jasper story and haters can hate all they want but I’m still proud of it). I took a break for a few years because I fell out of fandoms during college, and when I came back apparently it’d become the norm to just greedily consume writing without telling writers how you feel. And that is one of the saddest things in the world to me because fanfiction is where I really started getting serious about writing. It’s how I’ve honed by skills and become the writer I am today. And that was largely in part because of all the support I got when I was an itty-bitty thirteen-year-old writing crappy W.I.T.C.H. fanfiction.

Everyone keeps saying “reviews don’t matter, you should just write for yourself.” Well, you’re wrong. Reviews make or break fanfiction. Reviews tell writers whether it’s worth their time to continue posting that story online or whether they should keep it on their hard drives and never share it with the world.

Kill the attitude that reviews don’t matter. Start telling writers you like their stories. And if you don’t, if you all just continue to be invisible readers? Don’t be surprised when that writer disappears.

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Reliving Summer

Brunswick Farms. Finally, a place to rest and get away from this snow. It was a little eerie how it was abandoned, but at this point, Ruby figured it was better than nothing.

They entered the farmhouse, and were greeted with silence. The inside looked just as abandoned as the outside, with dusty old furniture, broken, boarded up windows, no sense of light anywhere. 

“Well, it’s not pretty, but it’ll do for now.” Qrow commented, taking another swig of his flask.

“At least we’re finally out of that snow.” said Blake, rubbing her arms to keep warm despite wearing a coat.

“You’re telling me!” Maria agreed, already making her way down a hallway across from the entrance.

“Where are you going?” Yang asked.

Maria looked back and answered, “To find myself a bath.” and left of her own accord.

“We should all try and find rooms.” Qrow suggested. “It’s gonna be a long night.”

Everyone broke off in search to find their rooms. A farmhouse this big had to have a lot. Thankfully, they were right, and they each managed to find their own to sleep in. After a nice, hot shower, Ruby was grateful to finally be able to get some rest. Though, she was sad their weren’t any bunk-beds this time.

She was also upset she couldn’t sleep. So much happened in such a short amount of time, it was hard to push it all away. Ozpin and Salem, the Gods, immortality and reincarnation, so much was shown at once the moment Ruby spoke Jinn’s name.

The relic stood on a nightstand beside Ruby’s bed, emitting a soft blue glow like its own personal night-light. Ruby kept her eyes on it, watching it, wondering exactly what the final question she should ask be.

Salem was immortal, there was no beating her. Ozpin lied to them with no plan of attack. The most important questions she had were already answered. What else was there?

A knock on the door broke her thoughts, “Ruby?” Yang’s voice called from behind.

“Come in!” Ruby answered, shifting over to sit on the edge of her bed.

The door opened, and in walked the rest of her team, closing the door behind them. Yang, Weiss and Blake stood around Ruby, eyeing the relic.

“Have you thought about what to ask it next?” Weiss asked.

Ruby took a moment, “No.” and hung her head low.

“Well, if you ask me,” Yang spoke, crossing her arms, “I think we should it what to do with Ozpin.”

Ruby shot her head to protest, “Yang...”

“Ruby, he lied to us! He signed us up in a war against Salem, and she can’t even be killed!”

Though they both didn’t like it, Blake and Weiss had to agree. 

“You saw what Jinn showed us.” Blake added. “And you heard what Ozpin said.”

Ruby hung her head again. She understood her team’s feelings, she felt them too. She was angry, and confused, and sad at the same time. How can they fight someone who can’t be beaten? How can they trust someone who constantly lied to them? Ugh, it was all so frustrating!

Weiss must’ve known what she was feeling, as she sat next to Ruby on her bedside, and wrapped a comforting arm around her shoulder.

“I know it’s not easy to comprehend, Ruby, so maybe you can ask the relic a question that doesn’t...” she glared at Yang, “...deal with immortals and Gods.”

Yang could only look at her boots.

“What kind of question should we ask it?” Blake wondered, kneeling down to eye-level with the relic.

“I’ve got one.” Uncle Qrow’s voice took their attention. Of course, he was drunk again. Pushing himself off the doorframe, Qrow stumbled and slurred, “How about you ask it why I spent my life... following a pathological liar. Or, how about why that liar... lied to me? OR...”

“QROW!” Ruby exclaimed, standing up from her bed. Qrow stopped in his tracks. The small leader sighed, “I know you’re all angry. I am, too! But this is something I need to think about! So, please, let me think.”

Every went silent. Qrow sighed, “Do whatever you think is best, kiddo.”

Ruby turned her attention to the relic, taking it in her hands. After a deep breathe, she spoke the name, “Jinn.”

From her hands, the relic floated, stopping at the center of the room. From the blue smoke, the blue beauty Jinn appeared, just as coy as before. “My, this is a surprise! I haven’t been summoned this before! So tell me, what knowledge do you seek?”

Ruby took a moment to think. If she couldn’t ask about Ozpin or Salem anymore, than maybe... “Jinn, you can answer any question.”

“Correct, little one. As long as it’s not about the future.” Jinn crossed her arms.

Ruby’s hand hovered above her chest, her eyes locked on her cape that was neatly folded on the nightstand behind her, next to where the relic was previously. “But you can show the past.” she brought her attention back to Jinn.

“Of course.”

“Than...” it was now, or never. “Can... you tell me... what happened to my Mom?”

The mood in the room skidded and crashed. Everyone was shocked, Yang, Weiss, Blake. Qrow’s flask fell from his hands, crashing to the floor with a clink and a thud. “Ruby...” was all he could say, before everything went white.

“Ruby...?” he called out into the void. “Ruby!” but nothing was there, until a wall of blue smoke ascended around him. After a moment of clarity, Qrow finally began to see where he was. He recognized the wooden structure, he recognized the kitchen, he recognized the furniture and the pictures...

And he recognized the white hood. “No...”

There, standing at the center of the living room with Tai, was Summer Rose.

“Mom?” Yang said in a state of shock. It had been so long since she’d seen her and Dad together.

“Do you really have to go?” Tai asked in concern.

“I’m sorry, Tai, but Ozpin needs me on this mission, and you and Qrow need to look after our daughters.”

Qrow was frozen. Summer was there, right there. He instinctively went to reach out for her, but pulled back remembering, even in his drunken state, he couldn’t touch her.

Tai sighed, lowering his head. “I don’t like it. I should be there with you.”

Summer placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, and smiled. “I know, honey. But you’re needed here. Besides, Yang needs to make sure you and Qrow are kept in line.”

They both shared a good laugh. Qrow actually forgot what her laugh sounded like. It nearly brought tears to his eyes.

When they calmed down, Tai only put his hands around her shoulders and said, “Just... be safe, okay?”

Summer smiled, “I promise.” and they both embraced. They would’ve stayed in each other’s arms forever, had Yang not ran in.

“Mommy! Mommy!” the little blonde in the orange t-shirt and pigtails shouted in excitement, a little Ruby behind her looking nervous. Yang was still, taken aback by how young she and her sister looked. But other than that, “I remember this day.”

Breaking away from Tai and crouching to look at her daughters, Summer asked, “What is it, sweetie?”

“Ruby wants to show you something!”

Summer’s eyes lit up, and her attention was on her littlest one, “What is it, Ruby?”

Yang’s heart strings were suddenly being tugged, “No...” she didn’t want to see it again.

The little Ruby, in her own red t-shirt and black skirt, held a piece of paper in her hands. She looked nervous, as if she was afraid her Mom wouldn’t like it.

“It’s okay, Ruby. You can show me.” Summer assured her, giving Ruby a smile neither Qrow nor Yang had seen in so long.

With a whimper, Ruby held out the piece of paper to her Mom. Summer accepted it, turning it over to see what it had. When she saw, she gasped. It was a drawing of her, and Ruby... together, with the words, “My Hero” written in crayon. 

To anyone else, it would’ve looked crude and sloppy, bu to Summer, it was a masterpiece. One that brought tears to the Super Mom’s silver eyes.

“Oh, Ruby... it’s beautiful. I love it.” she brought her daughter in for a hug.

“Can-can I be like you, Mommy?” little Ruby’s voice tugged at Qrow and Yang’s heart even more, like they were being ripped out of their chests.

“Of course you can, my little petal. And when I get back, I’ll make you all the cookies you want!”

Ruby gasped, her little eyes lighting up with joy, “Really?!”

Summer separated from her daughter, “Yes, sweetie. I promise!” she then looked to Yang. “And you, Yang...” she placed a gentle hand on her daughter’s head. 

Yang didn’t want to hear it again. “Please, don’t say it, Mom.”

“Promise me you’ll look after your little sister, for all your days. Remember, you’re my sunny little dragon, and Ruby is your treasure.”

“Don’t worry, Mommy, I’ll be the strongest dragon ever!” little Yang exclaimed, pumping her arms up like a champion.

Those words brought Yang to her knees.

“Yes, you will!” Summer giggled, and brought her beloved, laughing children in for a group hug.

Another cloud of blue engulfed the world, and Ruby found herself in a field. Only... the field was black, littered with... Grimm! 

Ruby suddenly jumped at the sound of a beowulf’s roar, turning around to see it hovering over her, standing on its hind legs ready to strike. Whether on instinct or habit, Ruby went to reach for her scythe, but stopped when she saw a white blur zip past her, cutting through the beowulf like a knife through butter.

The Grimm fell in half, joining the pile, and standing tall, her own scythe in hand, was Summer Rose. Qrow watched his former teammate walk past with such confidence, it was almost scary. So many lay dead at her feet, and she barely had a scratch on her.

An army of Grimm stood before her. Beowulves, Ursa’s, Nevermore’s in the air, boarbatusk’s. It didn’t matter, in the end. As they charged towards the Silver-Eyed Huntress, Summer continued her stride, not a shot of fear evident on her face. She didn’t care how many there were, they would all fall.

To Qrow, watching Summer fight again was like reliving the past. It was as if he was there with her again, as teammates, as partners. The way she sliced off an Ursa’s head, jumped up into the air and manage to cut off a Nevermore’s wing so it crashed into a group of three beowulve’s, and spun on her back like a dance move to use her scythe to slice apart any Grimm that dared to get close... 

For Yang, watching Summer only reminded her of Ruby. The way she moved, the way she fought, the way she smirked in the face of danger. Watching her Mother use her own scythe as a spear to chuck into two Beowulve’s and an Ursa, and somehow manage to dodge every oncoming strike around her like a cat, and then use that Grimm spear to flip herself over to smash it into a charging boarbatusk like a Grimm hammer...

It was like watching a ghost.

A number of Grimm still remained, and Summer found herself swarmed. With no other option left, she decided to bring out the big guns. Flashing her eyes open, just as the Grimm were ready to pounce on her, Summer’s silver eyes flowed, and a flash of light engulfed the area around her. When the light dissipated, all that remained was black dust, floating in the air, forgotten. Summer confidently walked through the darkness, stopping directly, coincidentally... in front of Ruby.

For Ruby... watching Summer... was the hardest thing to do. This was her Mother? This was Super Mom? A Silver-Eyed Warrior? Feelings of pride, of sadness, or joy, and sorrow, they all fought inside Ruby the same way Summer fought off the Grimm.

Summer phased through Ruby, the smaller Huntress never taking her eyes off her Mother, as she confidently made her way down the trail. A puff of smoke appeared in the distance, and in its place, was a massive cave.

Not a second later, the blue smoke took Ruby inside the cave, following her Mother. No source of light shined aside from the entrance, but the deeper they went, the darker it got. After a long trek inside, something rumbled. Ruby, startled, jumped when she heard a deep, menacing growl from the darkness.

That was when the eyes opened. Ruby gasped, watching those all-too familiar yellow eyes dart up high into the air, followed by a menacing claw just barely missing Summer as it stomped its way into the ground. From the darkness, Ruby could finally see what awaited her Mother...

A Grimm dragon.

The beast let out a menacing roar, while Summer readied her scythe, and her eyes started to glow. Ruby watched the whole thing as if it were in slow-motion, her Mother and the dragon charging, head-to-head, in a battle of light and dark, when her Mom’s Silver Eyes bathed the cave with light.

It took a second for the light to dissipate, but once it did, Ruby was left confused. She was... back in her room? Her team and Uncle Qrow with her?

“Wh... what happened?”

Jinn answered, “I showed you what happened.”

While Ruby was still overcoming her confusion, Yang was the first to speak, tears still running down her face, “What do you mean?! That can’t be it! You have to tell us what happened!”

Weiss and Blake were too shell-shocked to say anything. Qrow was left staring at the floor, still trying to come to grips with what he just saw.

Jinn answered, “I can’t show you what happened, because that’s all there was to show, and since you’ve already asked your third and final question, I’m afraid I have to leave now.”

And just like, Jinn disappeared into the relic, an angry Yang darting for her, “NO! YOU CAN’T JUST LEAVE US LIKE THAT! SHOW US WHAT HAPPENED!”

“Yang...?” Blake went to reach for her partner, now on one knee in a crying fit.

“Show us... please...” was all Yang could say.

Weiss turned her attention to Ruby, who hadn’t moved since they returned. She looked so... confused, broken. The red-headed Huntress had this look on her face Weiss couldn’t figure out.

“Ruby?” she carefully stepped towards her partner, just as Blake did for Yang. “Ruby? Are you okay?”

Ruby’s thousand yard stare scared Weiss. Where there was once the happy-go-lucky leader and friend she knew, now there was this... broken, speechless little girl, who couldn’t even form words, as tears ran down her face, and suddenly, the walls Ruby had kept up for so long, suddenly broke down, and she collapsed into Weiss’ arms.

Weiss could do nothing but hold her partner, as close as she could. Blake could only do the same. Qrow could only stand there, watching his nieces break down in front of him, unable to do anything, but pick up his flask... and take another swig.

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After this episode, I feel like writing a follow-up one-shot with Ruby possibly asking Jinn about her Mom and the Silver Eyes.

What do you guys think?

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When you want to write some Greek Gods one-shots

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Imagine: Thor having to tell you about Loki

When you’ve lived for 1,500 years, you learn to accept a lot of things. Death... death was one of them, and for Thor, it became all too prominent. I mean, after all, it’s not every day you see your Mother get stabbed by a Dark Elf, your Father disappear into the either, your entire people slaughtered, and your Brother killed, all happen in front of you in the span of, what, two days?

It was the worst two days of Thor’s life, no matter how many times he tried to hide it behind a smile. Seeing everyone disintegrate before his very eyes, after his last-ditch attempt to kill the Mad Titan failed, should’ve broken him. He knew that. 

Yet, somehow, through some way... they did it. Thanos was defeated, the Gauntlet was retrieved, and everyone was brought back.

...Mostly everyone.

Thor was thankful to Dr.Strange for helping him find his destination, now all he had to do was knock. Easier said than done, though. Thor could just feel his heart and brain arguing with each other, one telling him to tell her, the other telling him to walk away. Otherwise, he was just some muscular weirdo standing outside her door. Taking a deep breathe, and fighting against every instinct in his body, he knocked.

The moment you heard it, you bolted for the door to open it. “Thor!” you breathed, and hugged the God before you.

“It’s good to see you, Y/N.” he said, his voice calm. 

As you let him inside your home, you told him everything, barely stopping to catch your breathe. “Thor, I can’t believe you’re here, I was so scared! I-I-I don’t know what happened! Everyone just started... disappearing...”

As you started to ramble, Thor tried to interject, “Yes, I know... Let me explai... Please, let me...”

“...And I didn’t know where you were, or-or Loki--”

“Y/N, PLEASE, LET ME EXPLAIN!”

The room fell silent. You stared at Thor like he had just slapped you. He never raised your voice at you, but once you mentioned Loki...

The God took a deep breathe, taking your shoulders in his hands, “Y/N... something has happened.”

Maybe it was your emotions running wild, but upon closer inspection, you finally noticed, “Thor, what happened to you? Your hair...”

“A crazy old man cut it off.”

“Your eye...”

“My sister cut it off and I got a new one from a talking rabbit. Listen, Y/N, we stopped Thanos, but...”

“Who’s Thanos?”

“Big, purple guy with a giant glove-- please, just listen.” Thor knelt down so he could be at eye-level. You could see tears begin to well up as he said, “Y/N... Loki...” he swallowed the lump in his throat, “Loki is--”

“Very much alive.”

As if on cue, Thor stood and turned. There, standing at the doorway, with both your mouths hung agape, stood the God of Mischief himself.

“Loki.” Thor said in a whisper, not believing what was standing in front of his eyes.

“Did I miss something? I thought you lost that eye. ” Loki said in that snarky tone of his.

No sooner did the words leave Loki’s mouth, did Thor march forward...

And punch him in the face.

Loki fell, clutching his nose, as Thor clutched his collar and yelled, “WHO ARE YOU?! WHAT HAVE DONE WITH LOKI?!” completely ignoring your protests.

“Thor, please! Stop!” you tried your best to pry the larger brother away, to no avail, as Thor held his younger up by the collar.

“This is not Loki, Y/N. It’s a trick! I know it is! Loki died in front of me!”

The words cut through you like a knife to the heart. “W-What?”

Thor didn’t bother to stop the tears from falling, "If you value your life, trickster, you will reveal yourself to me, RIGHT NOW!”

Loki did nothing to protest. In fact, he didn’t do anything, except disappear. You and Thor backed away, and just when you thought it was over, you heard a groan from behind.

“Ugh, was a broken nose all I get from coming back??”

It was real. It was Loki! It is Loki! Bloody and angry, sure, but still Loki! Thor was the first to initiate the hug between them.

“You’re really here.” he whispered, the tears falling again.

“I told you, brother,” Loki said, wrapping his arms around his sibling, “The sun would shine on us again.” whether it was a laugh, a cry, or maybe both, Thor couldn’t help but smile at his thought-to-be-really-dead brother. A true, toothy smile, brighter than anything. Loki could feel tears begin to well up too as he said, “There it is.”

It was then, the God of Mischief’s eyes fell on you. Shocked, frozen, tears in your eyes, Loki walked right up to you, and wiped them all away.

“Hello.” he said, soothingly.

“H-H-Hi...” you could barely make out a word.

Loki’s shoulders slumped as he sighed, “I realize this isn’t the most ideal situation, but...” he suddenly stopped to inspect the room with a curious look on his face. “Did you buy a new home?”

Words didn’t matter anymore, you realize with a laugh, as you pulled Loki down by his collar to bring his lips to yours. All the pain, the heartbreak, and the joy of seeing him again, was brought into this one kiss.

You both would ask him how he lived later. Right now, all that mattered, was that Loki was here, and never leaving again.

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Ways to Get Inspired to Write That Character

1. Create a Mood Board

A mood board is a collage of images, text, colors, or materials. that are used to “to evoke or project a particular style or concept”. Basically, it helps set the “mood” for whatever you are working on. Mood boards are often used by interior decorators and artists but can also be used for writing. I love creating mood boards for each of my characters. It helps me get a a feel for the character I am writing. For example, one of my characters is an elven swordswoman. For her mood board I used images of trees, flowers, decorative swords, and artwork of elves. It really helps when I’m trying to write from her perspective. 

To create a mood board, simply find images or text that remind you of your OC. I use google images or even pinterest to find images. Its easy and fun. 

2. Take Quizzes for Your Characters

Okay, this may seem a little silly but it totally works. Take a quiz from your characters point of view. Select the answers you think your character would select. I personally like doing this with personality quizzes such as the Myers Briggs tests because I can use the results as a foundation for my characters personality. It’s fun, effective, and actually productive.

3. Create Playlists 

I listen to music a lot because it gets my creative juices flowing. So, if I find myself stuck on a particular character, I make a playlist of songs that remind me of that character. I actually like doing this before I start working on a character so I can listen to it while working on them. It sets the mood and gives you better results. Give it a try. 

4. Study Some of Your Favorite Characters

Sit down, take out a notebook, and start taking notes on some of your favorite characters from literature, TV, or movies. What made you attracted to this character? What made you hate this character? What is your favorite thing about this character? Answering these questions will help see why you feel that way towards your favorite or least favorite fictional characters. Use your notes as a guideline on how to make readers either hate or love your OCs. 

5. People Watch

Yeah, this sounds creepy but it is very effective. Go to the park, take a walk, or simply sit at the window and observe the people you see. Take notes on the little things that they do. Do they walk a certain way? Do they stand up straight or do they slouch? What quirks do they have? Do they drum their fingers while sitting? Do they tap their foot while waiting in line? Write down what you observe and you can apply the results to your characters. It will give your original characters a more realistic touch. 

Feel free to add to this list!  

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Let’s play Writer’s Would You Ever

Send me an ask that says “Would you ever write…” and continue the sentence.

I’ll respond with yes or no and give an explanation as to why if I want to.

[codyswritings]

The Weak-Kneed Goddess

This is something I wrote for my best friend for Pride Month. I’m not sure about canoninity just yet, as i’m still writing the actual story, but I just wanted to write this little piece.

I hope you enjoy it!

Your friend, Cody.

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Alexandria had seen and done a lot of things. Being a Warrior Goddess made sure of that. The constant battles, the warlords, the legions of soldiers. She had faced them all, and always came out on top.

So, why was it this one, single pirate made her so weak-kneed?!

It didn’t make any sense, she mused, watching the young blonde at her studies. The pirate in question had replaced her ruined and tattered gear for a silk robe Alexandria was glad could fit her. But still… how can one mortal do this to her?

At first, Alexandria thought it was mere admiration. I mean, after all, how many people can say they fought against her? And lived? Not a lot, she knew. But this was different. A pirate was a cutthroat, a greed, someone who thought only for themselves. But Ai Komachi, for whatever reason, held something else in her. The Goddess couldn’t tell what it was, but she wasn’t like most pirates. She could see a fear in Ai, and not just from having a sword at her throat.

Then, as time went on after welcoming the young pirate into the city of Arkos, something began to change. As she started to see her more and more, Alexandria found she couldn’t stop thinking about Ai.

Just like right now, while she was standing across the courtyard, letting Ai lose herself in whatever book she was reading. She looked so beautiful, Alexandria could just feel her cheeks turn red.

What is wrong with me?! she wondered. I’m a Goddess, and yet I can’t walk up to a mort… to Ai?

Maybe it was just so she could let Ai have her space. She knew the young pirate loved reading, so interrupting that would be rude, right? Or maybe it was so she could get some fresh air, that’s always a good thing! Or maybe… maybe… it was something else?

… But what?

Her knees started to shake again. A bead of sweat trickled down the side of her head. Her palms were sweaty. It wasn’t even the hottest time of the year! Alexandria steadied herself, and took a deep breathe.

Okay, Alexandria, you can do this. You can do this. You’ve dealt with affection before, you’ve had multiple suitors. Sure, it’s been… 1,500 years, but who’s counting? Standing straight, the Goddess steeled herself, You can do this. And took her first step.

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For Roselyn, there was nothing better than sleeping in. The red, horned Goddess wanted nothing more than to lie in bed all day, especially if it meant staying in with Samara. But alas, her wife, upon turning the opposite side, was not there. Roselyn sighed, guess it was time to wake up.

Putting on her black robe and checking her horns in the mirror, Roselyn set out to greet the day with a grunt.

That’s when she opened the door to see Alexandria, the Golden One, walking in place.

Roselyn said nothing as she trudged her way next to her dark-skinned companion. Her leader was just… walking in place, not moving a step. Roselyn looked at her feet… back up… towards the courtyard, where Ai was sitting… back to Alexandria… and left without saying a word.

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Being High Fae Sucks Less With You

@aangssquidls In honor of Pride Month, I decided to bring back your favorite Fae, Amren :)

I hope you enjoy it!

Your friend, Cody.

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It made no sense. How could something like this have happened? She was an all-powerful being and yet, here she was, drinking away her sorrows.

Yes, life as a High Fae had been tough for Amren. For one, normal food. Disgusting! How anyone could eat anything was baffling. Ugh, and the blood! Oh, how she missed drinking blood! Much more smooth than this shit wine she was drinking!

But worst of all... she had to be lectured by her.

“Hey, Amren!” speak of the devil who just walked in her door. “Oh, what the hell?!”

Amren raised a glass, spilling some in the process, “Heeeyyy, there’s my favorite mortal!”

You threw your arms up in confusion, “Amren... what is this? And why are you on the floor?”

Amren looked at herself and the bed behind her, “Oh, how did that happen?”

You sighed in frustration, and went to pick her up, “Come on, Amren, let’s get you up.”

“NO!” Amren pouted, pulling you down to her level and nearly spilling all her wine.

“Amren!” you exclaimed. Why was she like this? You could see her cheeks were flushed, and the hint of red wine on her breathe.

“Here...” she reached out to grab the half-empty bottle on the nightstand beside her. “Drink with me.”

“I’m not drinking with you. You’re already drunk enough as it is.”

Amren waved a lazy hand, “Ah, come on, it’s just one bottle!”

You held your ground, “No.”

It took a moment, but Amren eventually confided, putting the bottle down next to her. You asked her again, “Amren, what’s up with you?”

She was silent for a moment, looking down at the floor. It felt like an eternity before she finally said, “Being a High Fae sucks.”

Your brow furrowed, “What do you mean?” I mean, sure, she still hasn’t gotten used to the food, and you’re sure that wine probably didn’t go down so well.

Amren answered, “I mean, the food sucks... this wine is shit! And after saving everybody from Hybern, I make one joke about bringing his head and I get, “Oh, Amren! You can’t say that!” PFFT! Idiots. All of them!”

You rested a hand on her shoulder, “You don’t mean that.”

Amren sighed, “No... no, I don’t. I’m happy we won, even if it did cost me my immortality. This sucks, Y/N. This whole thing sucks!” 

Seeing Amren like this nearly broke your heart. You were about to say something, before she said one final thing that changed everything.

“But... it sucks a lot less with you around.”

You always forgot her eyes were normal. No longer the swirl of silver that once captivated you in the first place. The one problem with them was that you could never tell what they were saying, if she was being sincere or not. But looking at them now, with that loving smile on her flushed face, you could see the sincerity in Amren’s eyes. You truly meant to a lot to her.

You gently brought her in for a hug, “Thank you, Amren. It sucks a lot less with you, too.”

[codyswritings]

Snippet of new story

Today was the day. The day Ai dreaded more than anything. No matter how many times she said no, begged her parents not to let it happen, nothing could stop this day from coming. The handmaidens felt like they were constricting her to the chair, when they were merely just getting her ready. Doing their job.

Just like how Ai felt. A job, that’s what this felt like. She didn’t want to do it, but she had to. “For the good of our people,” her Father said.

For the good of her people…

When Ai first heard the news it was over, she was ecstatic, ready to jump for joy. Years of war and bloodshed finally ended. But when she was told how and why, all that joy just… disappeared.

When that diadem was finally placed on her head, Ai could swear her heart stopped. Here she was, the Princess, prepared for her wedding. A wedding she didn’t want.

She felt herself stiffen further when her Father came into view of the mirror, placing both hands on her shoulders from behind. “You look beautiful,” he said.

I guess, she wanted to say. It’s not that she hated the dress, just the circumstances. The dress was beautiful, if she had to agree. A simple white kimono, with a belt and lining the same sky blue to match her eyes. Simple, but effective.

“I’m very proud of you, Ai.” her Father added, himself in a dark blue kimono, and his hair tied back. “With this, we’ll finally have peace.”

Peace.

it sounded so… foreign. Like a word she couldn’t understand.

“After today, everything will be different. The war will be over, and you will be Queen.”

Queen… a title she never wanted. In the mirror, she stared at the diadem on her head. A simple piece of jewelry. That’s all it was to her. Nothing but silver. No sense of royalty, or honor, or any kind of rule struck her from it. And now, she was wearing it.

“How are you feeling?” her Father asked.

Angry. Saddened. Like I’m being sold. So many answers ran through Ai’s mind. She didn’t bother to answer him. Instead, she sought calm in the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks outside her window.

The open sea. Ai remembered standing on the balcony just to stare out at it, listening to the waves crash, watch the birds fly, and the ships! Oh, the ships! Such beautiful crafts! They were her favorite part… and this may be her last time ever seeing them.

She couldn’t allow that. She had to see them one last time. Removing herself from her spot underneath her Father’s hands, Ai walked towards her balcony. She could smell the salt in the air every time a wave crashed, or hear a bird chirp as it glided past her vision into the open sky. When she finally made it, she felt the warm sun grace her with its presence. From below, she saw a few ships docked, people loading and unloading their cargo, talking about whatever Ai imagined sailors talk about. Adventures, battles with pirates, what places they’ve been to.

If only she were down there, with them. Instead, she was up here, her Father standing next to her.

“Ai…” her Father gently turned her body towards his, putting his hand under her chin so she could look him in the eye. “This is for the good of our people.” those words again. “Everything must be perfect.” he slowly brought her into his arms, as if it were a comfort. “You must be perfect.”

[codyswritings]

Things to do as a famous writer;

Make a “fan blog” of ur book of Tumblr and stalk ur fandom from within.

Go to a book store, find ur books, sign a copy, then leave.

Write purposefully bad fan fiction of ur book and post it anonymously.

Buy a copy of ur own book and write commentary in the margins, then sell it online.

Cosplay ur own character to a con, don’t let anyone know it’s you.

Using your “fan blog” befriend another fan online. Ask them to video chat you, record their reaction.

Draw purposefully bad fan art and post it anonymously.

Read ALL of the fan fiction of ur book, then declare random ones you like as cannon in the comments.

Talk to aspiring writers online or at schools and encourage them.

Become a beta reader for one of ur fans.

Hold long in depth conversations with a fan who doesn’t recognize you, disagree with everything they say.

Ask to talk a picture with people who recognize you on the street before they have a chance to ask you first.

Anonymously commission artists to draw ur characters, then surprise them by posting it to ur “official blog.” Make sure you credit them so you draw more attention to their amazing artwork!!!

Tease ur fans about the next book coming out.

Tell ur fans a character is gonna die in the next book, but not say who. Watch them squirm.

[codyswritings]

Fanfiction is easier to write than original because the world is already established. If you’re someone who’s giving up on their dream of writing original fiction because it’s not flowing like the former, remember that, please? Write shit. Write freely and terribly. Write a first draft that’s everywhere and nowhere. Because once it’s done and you’re left with a mess, you’ve also established yourself a world. And the second and third drafts will follow with much more ease. Let yourself be messy in creating your own worlds.

[codyswritings]

Person: Your writing is so good!

Me:

[codyswritings]

the 7 deadly sins of being a writer

self-doubt

procrastination

sleep deprivation

jealousy

wailing (despair)

notebook lust

horrifying comma use

[codyswritings]

Resources For Describing Emotion

Emotions

Without Making Your Character Feel Too Self Aware

Showing Emotion Without Telling About It

Emotions Associated With Body Language

Telling Readers What The Character Doesn’t Want To Show

Hiding Emotions

Expressing Cardinal Emotions: Masculine vs. Feminine

Writing Extreme Emotion Without Melodrama

Specific Emotions

Conveying Shock

Conveying Embarrassment

Conveying Disappointment

Conveying Love/Attraction

Conveying Annoyance

Conveying Relief

Conveying Uncertainty

Conveying Impatience

Conveying Shame

Conveying Resentment

Conveying Panic

Conveying Guilt

Conveying Desperation

Conveying Sarcasm & Verbal Disrespect

Conveying Confusion

Conveying Stubbornness

Conveying Frustration

Conveying Indifference

Conveying Indignation

Conveying Confidence & Pride

Conveying Smugness

Conveying Enthusiasm

Conveying Curiosity

Conveying Hopefulness

Conveying Unease

Conveying Reluctance

Conveying Worry

Conveying Humility & Meekness

Conveying Happiness & Joy

Conveying Amusement

Conveying Disgust

Conveying Resignation

Conveying Jealousy

Conveying Anticipation

Conveying Contentment

Conveying Defeat

Conveying Excitement

Conveying Fear

Conveying Hatred

Conveying Hurt

Conveying Being Overwhelmed

Conveying Sadness & Grief

Conveying Satisfaction

Conveying Somberness

Conveying Sympathy & Empathy

Conveying Wariness

Conveying Defensiveness

Conveying Desire

Conveying Doubt

Conveying Energy

Conveying Exhaustion

Conveying Hunger

Conveying Loneliness

Conveying Physical Pain

Emotional Wounds

A Role Model Who Disappoints

A Sibling’s Betrayal

A Speech Impediment

Becoming a Caregiver at an Early Age

Being Bullied

Being Fired or Laid Off

Being Held Captive

Being Mugged

Being Publicly Humiliated

Being Raised by Neglectful Parents

Being Raised by Overprotective Parents

Being So Beautiful It’s All People See

Being the Victim of a Vicious Rumor

Being Stalked

Being Trapped in a Collapsed Building

Being Unfairly Blamed For The Death of Another

Childhood Sexual Abuse (by a family member or known person)

Discovering One’s Parent is a Monster

Discovering One’s Sibling was Abused

Experiencing a Miscarriage or Stillbirth

Failing At School

Failing To Do The Right Thing

Financial Ruin Due To A Spouse’s Irresponsibility

Finding Out One’s Child Was Abused

Finding Out One Was Adopted

Getting Lost In a Natural Environment

Growing Up In A Cult

Growing Up in a Dangerous Neighborhood

Growing Up In Foster Care

Growing Up In The Public Eye

Growing Up In The Shadow of a Successful Sibling

Growing Up with a Sibling Who Has a Chronic Disability or Illness

Having Parents Who Favored One Child Over Another

Having To Kill Another Person To Survive

Infertility

Infidelity (emotional or physical)

Losing a Limb

Losing a Loved One To A Random Act of Violence

Making a Very Public Mistake

Overly Critical or Strict Parents

Physical Disfigurement

Rejection By One’s Peers

Telling The Truth But Not Being Believed

The Death of a Child On One’s Watch

Victimization via Identity Theft

Watching A Loved One Die

Wrongful Imprisonment

Spending Time In Jail

Suffering From a Learning Disability

Motivation

Achieving Spiritual Enlightenment

Avoiding Certain Death

Avoiding Financial Ruin

Beating a Diagnosis or Condition

Being Acknowledged and Appreciated by Family

Being a Leader of Others

Being the Best At Something

Caring for an Aging Parent

Carrying on a Legacy

Catching The Bad Guy or Girl

Coming To Grips With Mental Illness

Discovering One’s True Self

Escaping a Dangerous Life one Doesn’t Want

Escaping a Killer

Escaping a Widespread Disaster

Escaping Confinement

Escaping Homelessness

Escaping Invaders

Finding Friendship or Companionship

Finding a Lifelong Partner

Having a Child

Helping a Loved One See They Are Hurting Themselves and Others

Obtaining Shelter From The Elements

Overcoming Abuse and Learning To Trust

Overcoming Addiction

Protecting One’s Home or Property

Pursuing Justice For Oneself or Others

Realizing a Dream

Reconciling with an Estranged Family Member

Rescuing a Loved One From a Captor

Restoring A Name or Reputation

Righting a Deep Wrong

Seeking Out One’s Biological Roots

Stopping an Event From Happening

Trying Again When One Has Previously Failed

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[codyswritings]

New Phone, You’re Back

You know, killing people’s hard work.

You got to think of who, where, when, and why. Fortunately, for me, I have all of those.

Cable and... I don’t know, he wants to kill me or something? Okay, so I don’t have everything. But I will once the movie comes out! That’s why I have this gun here. Now...

“Why does Cable want me dead?!”

The guy I was holding up looked ready to piss himself. I could already smell the shit. “I-I-I don’t know--”

“Tell me why that roided up, rickety-boned Bucky Barnes cosplayer wants to kill me, or I’ll blow your fucking brains out! Why! Does! He--” X Gonna Give It To You! What! “UGH! For FUCK’S sake! Could-could you hold on for a minute? I just need to-- OH MY GOD!”

“AHH!”

In my excitement, I accidentally shot my vict-- hostage. “Oh, my God! I‘m so sorry! I didn’t mean to-- ah, shit!”

“You shot me in the knee!”

“Well, I'm sorry I love my girlfriend! Now, if you could just excuse me for just one moment? I need to take this.” I turned my back to him, and read the text.

Hey Wade, it’s Y/N! Guess what? I can text again!

Simple enough. Now, what to say back? Ooh, I know!

Y/N! It feels like we haven’t spoken in over a year! It’s almost like you didn’t have a phone all that time, or Cody was just too busy thinking of his “original” shit to write a story about us!

Perfect!

After a few minutes, I got another reply.

Haha! Yeah. I finally got a new phone, and wanted to see how you were doing.

I gasped. “Aww, she really does care! You see that?” I turned to my hostage, showing him the text. “She got a new phone!”

“Please, I’m bleeding out!”

I decided to ignore him, and went back to the convo. Ah, you know, same old, same old. Killing and “All That” reruns. Oh! And I’m on the hunt for a bounty hunter from the future!

“You think that came out a little too strong?” I asked myself. “Nah, it’s fine! Ooh! Another text!”

That sounds cool! It’s been stressful lately. New place, new job and everything

Wait a minute... “Woah, woah, woah! New place? New job?!” What do you mean?

I got my own place now! I’m living with a friend, and work’s got me beat

I can’t believe it. “A new place with a roommate? A new job? Goddamn, what have I been doing all this time?”

“Can you please help me out here?!”

“Oh, right.” BOOM! Headshot. “There you go. Now, where was I?”

Well, I might still be in the neighborhood if you want me to stop by? I know a way to relieve some stress.

Oh, do you? ;)

You know I do ;)

I’ll break out the costumes.

I’ll bring the games. Get ready, babe. This is gonna be the sickest D&D session you’ve ever had!

YAASS! I CAN’T WAIT <3

Be there soon <3

I put my phone away, and breathed a sigh of relief. “Ah, yeah. This is gonna be magical!”