#Both situation wise and identity wise

[hdusa]

meeeooooowowoowwoowwww mraaaoo mrrrp

thanks for meowing in my asks. I was gonna use this to talk about the discourse but after writing like 6 paragraphs I got too scared and decided to erase everything. Sorry…

[minniesfiles]

TIARAS AND TUTUS

Kim Mingyu would do anything for his little girl. Even if it meant embarrassing himself in front of the entire kindergarten.

❧ PAIRING; mingyu x reader

❧ GENRE; fluff

❧ TAGS/WARNINGS; established relationship, (girl) dad mingyu, pure fluff, drabble

❧ WORDCOUNT; 1.2k

𐚁₊⊹

▍20 MAY 2029

Mingyu never imagined that at thirty-two years old, he’d find himself standing in a crowded kindergarten classroom wearing a pink tutu and a plastic tiara. Yet here he was, adjusting the waistband of the fluffy skirt while you tried to contain your laughter behind your phone’s camera.

“Gyu, oh my god— I can’t,” you wheezed as you snapped another picture. “You look adorable.”

Mingyu shot you a glare, his face already burning with embarrassment. “I don’t know why you’re laughing. You made me do this.”

“You agreed to this,” you corrected him with a grin.

“For Minji,” he huffed and then looked down at your four-year-old daughter.

Minji, completely unfazed by the ridiculousness of the situation, twirled gracefully in her matching pink tutu. Her tiny crown, slightly crooked on her head, added to her charm as she beamed up at him with excitement. “Daddy, we look like real ballerinas!”

Mingyu sighed, his heart melting despite his efforts to remain composed. “Yes princess, we certainly do.”

The kindergarten was organising a Father’s Day celebration, and for some inexplicable reason — one Mingyu would never comprehend — the teachers had chosen a father-daughter ballet performance as the perfect bonding activity.

When Minji first handed him the invitation, he couldn’t help but laugh, mistaking it for some kind of joke. However, upon looking into her big, eager eyes, he realised that he couldn’t exactly say no.

“Will you dance with me Daddy?” she asked, and denying her request was simply not an option.

He had convinced himself that it wouldn’t be too bad. Perhaps they’d simply wave their arms a bit and call it a day. However, when he arrived at the school and saw a row of frilly pink tutus hanging on the classroom wall, his stomach dropped.

Now, standing in the middle of the classroom with his tutu barely covering his hips, he realised just how deeply he had underestimated the situation.

It wasn’t just him (thankfully) — every father in the room was dressed identically. However, none of them stood out as much as he did.

Mingyu, standing at six feet two inches tall, was easily the tallest person in the room. The other dads were of average height, which made it easy for them to blend into the crowd. However, Mingyu stood out like a giant who had been dropped into a sea of tiny fathers and daughters dressed in tutus.

And now, in just a few minutes, he was going to have to dance on stage. He ran a hand down his face. “I can’t believe I’m doing this.”

“You’ll be fine,” you assured him between giggles. “Just embrace it.”

Mingyu groaned, but before he could express his annoyance further, a small hand grasped his. He peered down to see Minji gazing up at him with big, round eyes.

“Daddy, are you okay?” she asked, tilting her head.

“Of course sweetheart,” he forced a smile.

“But you look nervous,” she frowned.

Mingyu hesitated. He didn’t want to ruin this for her, but the idea of being the tallest, most awkward ballerina on stage was making his stomach twist in knots.

Minji suddenly took both of his hands in hers. “Daddy, you don’t have to be scared. You’re the best dancer ever!”

Mingyu snorted. “I don’t know about that princess.”

“Yes, you are!” she insisted. “And even if you mess up, it’s okay because we’re doing it together!”

Mingyu’s heart fluttered in awe. How was it possible for such a small human to be so wise? He crouched down, meeting her gaze. “You really think so?”

Minji nodded firmly. “Uh-huh! And also, if you dance funny, Mummy said she’ll love you even more.”

From behind them, you burst into laughter. Mingyu groaned in annoyance but couldn’t suppress a chuckle. “Of course she did.”

Just then, the teacher clapped her hands to gain everyone’s attention. “Alright daddies and daughters! It’s time to line up for our performance. Remember, the main objective is to have fun, so don’t worry about being perfect!”

Mingyu took a deep breath and stood up, allowing Minji to drag him towards the stage. The other fathers shuffled nervously beside him, some adjusting their tiaras, while others looked around as if they’re searching for an escape route.

The curtains were drawn back, revealing a small stage decorated with pastel pink and white ribbons. The audience, predominantly mothers, younger siblings, and teachers, watched with amused expressions while holding cameras to capture the moment.

The lights dimmed slightly as soft, whimsical music started to play. Mingyu swallowed hard as he followed the simple steps they had learned during their brief rehearsal. The movements were basic — twirling, raising arms in an arch, and a little plié — but somehow, performing them in front of an audience while wearing a tutu made it ten times more challenging.

He spotted you in the crowd with your phone raised as you documented every embarrassing moment of your husband as well as your daughter’s. He was certain that he was going to hear about this for years.

But then, he looked down at Minji, whose face was radiant with nothing but joy. She giggled as she twirled beside him, holding his hand so tightly that it seemed to anchor him. She wasn’t embarrassed. She wasn’t worried about how silly they looked. All she felt was happiness.

And suddenly, Mingyu no longer cared.

So what if he was a six-foot-two man in a tutu? So what if he looked absolutely ridiculous? His daughter was happy, and that was all that mattered.

His movements became more fluid and confident. He gracefully lifted his arms, exaggerating his spins just to hear Minji’s laughter. When he noticed another dad struggling to keep the rhythm, he gave him a reassuring nod. Because they were all in this together.

By the end of the performance, Mingyu spun Minji in the air one final time, earning loud cheers and claps from the audience. The teacher applauded in response, and the little girls all curtsied, while the fathers bowed (some more dramatically than others).

As they walked offstage, Minji beamed up at him. “See? You are the best dancer ever Daddy!”

Mingyu smiled and bent down to kiss her tiny forehead. “Only because I had the best partner.”

You approached them with your grin still plastered on your face as you held up your phone. “I managed to capture the entire thing, and I’m sending it to Wonwoo and the others.”

Mingyu groaned. “I’m never living this down, am I?”

“Nope,” you smirked.

Your husband sighed dramatically, but when Minji hugged him tightly, all his embarrassment vanished. After all, nothing was more important than making his little girl smile.

╴╴╴╴╴

Later that night, after putting Minji to sleep, Mingyu sat on the sofa scrolling through his phone. When a notification suddenly appeared on the screen.

▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁▁

[13 losers]

Wonwoo: Tell me why my timeline is full of a six-foot-two ballerina?

Soonyoung: YOU WERE AMAZING MINGYU-SSI. TEARS IN MY EYES.

Jeonghan: You’re my hero. I’m making this my profile picture.

▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔

Mingyu let out a groan and tossed his phone onto the soft. You, seated beside him with a smug grin, rested your head on his shoulder. “So…do you regret it?”

He sighed, running a hand through his hair. “No,” he admitted. “But I’m banning you from using your phone during school events.”

You laughed, wrapping your arms around his waist. “I can’t make any promises.”

And despite his embarrassment, Mingyu couldn’t help but smile. Because at the end of the day, he would wear a thousand tutus if it meant making Minji happy.

[redflagshipwriter]

Check Yes (to go on a date with a dead guy) ch3

“So, what’s your deal?” Jason asked, when Danny’s mouth was full of food. “You’re dead, I notice.”

Danny choked. He gave Jason a betrayed look with big blue eyes, a hand clapped over his mouth to contain any mess.

Jason smirked back, unrepentant. “I died once,” he shared. “Got better though.”

“You got be-”

“You were surprised about what it’s like to fight humans,” Jason continued. It was hard not to laugh at the confused outrage on his date’s face. “So that implies you fight someone else? You’re fighting ghosts or something? Or do ghosts have some kinda natural enemy? Vampires or some shit?” He might have been a bit flippant but sue him, it sounded a lot more magical than his daily life.

Danny opened his mouth and no words came out. He looked like he was in pain when he grudgingly admitted, “I do have a lot of beef with this one vampire guy, Vlad.”

Jason threw his head back and laughed. That was such a vampire guy name, what the hell?

“No, no, it’s not funny,” Danny protested. He waved his hands wildly, flinging a bit of bean from his burrito across the roof they were perched on. “He’s also a ghost- well, he’s a half of a ghost, but that’s a long story from when he was in college.”

“The half-ghost vampire has an undergraduate degree?” Jason interrupted. He needed to know what this fucker studied. Was it like, social science? Literature? Theater? That might explain Danny’s implied belief that a theme was an inherent rogue thing. No, wait, business administration?

Danny gave him a withering look. “He’s got a Doctorate.”

Jason flung his hands up in defeat against the world. That made more sense than an undergraduate degree somehow. There was just something about the type of person who got a Doctorate that made them, you know, creeps.

‘Or maybe they’ve just got enough specialized knowledge to act on latent creepiness,’ he mused. ‘...Shit, am I developing an anti education stance? Can I blame this on Crane and Quinn?’

Danny was continuing with his explanation of the vampire’s background. Every word made it nuttier. “He’s a scientist, actually, and the mayor of a small town. And he lives in a cheese mansion.”

This was a sharp divergence from vampire stereotypes and he needed to know everything.

“Is the mansion made of cheese?” Jason interrupted. He was leaning in, intent on every word. Why was this vampire the most interesting man in the world?

He got a weird look for that. “No, it just belonged to the Dairy King,” Danny said, like it was everyday knowledge that you could expect a layperson to have.

“Of course, the Dairy King,” Jason said wisely.

"Enough about me though!" Danny flailed a bit. "How did you get my uh, number?"

Ah. Jason took a big bite to delay while he chose his words.

There was no point in trying to hide his vigilante identity from Danny. The guy probably didn't even understand the concept.

So he might as well top whatever story Danny had.

"The bat guy who taught me all about being a child soldier got grabbed by this group of loser cultists, right?" He gestured in a way that did absolutely nothing to illustrate the situation.

Danny cocked his head. "This is off to a good start."

"They tried to sacrifice him. You gotta remember him - big ugly guy, dressed in black and gray, underwear on the outside of his pants in a way that's never been cool?"

Danny didn't seem to have words, but he lifted his hands to make two ears on top of his head.

He pointed with both hands. "That's the guy," Jason agreed. "At the time, we didn't know what kind of sacrifice it was. We were thinking more along the lines of blood sacrifice?" He shrugged as if the idea of B biting it meant nothing to him.

Danny made a pffft sound of air escaping between his lips. "I tossed him back." He flailed in place. "I- isn't- wasn't that- that was a while ago," he stuttered. "I kinda forgot about him."

"...You got offered a cape, then a few weeks later a bunch of others, and you didn't make a mental connection?" Jason checked.

Danny flushed. "Time doesn't match up between the realms and anyway, I'm really busy!" He crossed his arms and accidentally knocked over his drink. "I've got a lot going on in my life. Anyway, for a ghost?" Danny blew a raspberry. "I'm sorry to break your heart, but none of you dress wild enough to stand out in the Infinite Realms. We've got robot dudes and child pirates and giant eyeballs and stuff." He gave Jason a smug look. It was cute.

Jason acted on impulse and reached out to ruffle Danny's hair. He realized what he was doing too late. His hand froze above Danny's head.

Danny tilted his face up and made an inquisitive sound.

"There was a bug." Jason pulled his hand back. What was wrong with him? He didn't go touching other people just because they were cute. "It flew off."

"...Right," Danny said. "You're being very normal." He seemed delighted by this, the little gremlin. "So. You were a child soldier too?"

Jason nearly fell off his perch.

Danny shrieked a laugh and pointed. "Ha!" He crowed. "I win! I shocked you first!"

"There wasn't a competition!" Jason lied. His face was bright red. It was too late to save face. "What do you mean too?" He demanded. "Were you a child?"

"Somewhat recently," Danny said. He gave Jason a catlike smile. "Adults come from teenagers, teenagers come from kids, kids come from babies. Do you need to know-"

"I know where babies come from." Jason cut him off. He tried to look off put at the way Danny laughed at him but fuck it, it was funny, in a dumb way. "Of course you were a kid, that was silly of me," he admitted. "Ghosts are made from humans, right?"

"Well yes, but actually no," Danny said, philosophical. "Some of us. I was. Other ghosts are made from like, vultures, or ideas."

It kinda seemed like ghost taxonomy was more complicated than he was ready to get into at the moment. Those two things were pretty fuckin disparate.

Jason sighed heavily and picked up his food again, just to have something to do with his hands.

A thought occurred. He didn't let it show on his face but he felt sick to his stomach.

Danny was dead. Danny said he'd been a child recently, and a child soldier.

Someone needed their ass kicked.

Danny: we are having such a whimsical time!

Jason: sirens screaming

[bunnysdollette]

˖ . ݁𝜗𝜚. ݁ start acting your age and not your shoe size love 👟✨

⟢ hey my wonderful angels! here are a few tips to start building maturity and stop doing little girl activities. this is your wake up call. the faster you realize this, the better

(also love this photo of brina)

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ GET SERIOUS ABOUT YOUR GOALS

in this life I would say there’s about a 5% of people that actually become successful and fulfilled. which one do you want to be; the person who is happy and living comfortably years from now or the person that chose to follow what everyone else was doing like a sheep and ignored what they wanted to accomplish?

NO goal is too difficult. NO dream is too big. Muhammad Ali once said, ``If your dreams don't scare you, they aren't big enough.'' So get serious about what you want in life or be left behind in the dust.

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ STRIVE TO BE AN INDIVIDUAL

It’s OKAY to be different. Our differences are what make us unique and capable of what the next person can’t. Your strengths and your weaknesses will both push you forward in life if you learn how to use them properly.

You have to strive to take pride in your differences and be confident when people challenge your identity. Because at the end of the day the only person that knows YOU best is YOU. When you develop that confidence and self-assured mindset that nobody can tell you who you are because you already do, NOBODY can take that away from you.

Stop following the rest of the flock. If there’s something you dream about or want to accomplish that’s outside of the norm, that’s where your purpose probably lies. If you are a person different from the collective, you are meant for bigger things.

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ LEARN WHEN AND HOW YOU SHOULD RESPOND

there’s a time and place for everything. I’m not saying you shouldn’t respond to disrespect, because that makes it like other people can do the same to you and you won’t do anything, but depending on the severity of the situation, sometimes it’s just better to ignore that shit.

if there are people you know who are partaking in these little kid activities like making up silly lies about you, trying to get you to fight them or argue with them, DO NOT feed into that.

They will call you scared, stupid, or whatever else, but that’s all because they’re mad they can’t get that reaction out of you. If someone is trying to take you off of your path, the last thing you should do is spend even an ounce of energy on them.

Your energy is sacred. Use it wisely.

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ STAY FOCUSED ON WHAT MATTERS

one of my favorite quotes ever is “it is what it is”. Whoever came up with that quote was extremely wise because it’s the exact embodiment of staying focused and not worrying about little kid shit that nobody will remember in the next five years.

What is Important to you? Drama, trying to conform, chasing things that aren’t meant for you, or reaching your goals, achieving success, and achieving fulfillment?

YOUR values should dictate YOUR life. You can’t say you want to become “that girl” and “level up your life” then turn around and invest so much energy in unnecessary shit that serves you no purpose.

And don’t think I’m saying this with any level of elitism or like I’m better because I’m saying this, I’m not. We all have shit to work on. But some of you have a lot more work to do than others and a lot more work to do to stay on the right path. This is your sign. Stop that nonsense

[noorpersona]

Rivalry: Atsumu Pt. 7

The fluorescent lights buzzed faintly overhead as you and Atsumu stood in front of the pharmacist counter, the weight of the situation pressing heavily against your shoulders. The air smelled of antiseptic and boxed medicine, but nothing could mask the sheer mortification radiating from you.

An elderly woman stood behind the counter, peering at the two of you over the rim of her glasses, judgment etched into every wrinkle on her face. Her gaze flicked between you and Atsumu, clearly putting the pieces together.

You swallowed hard, heat creeping up your neck as you forced yourself to speak, voice barely above a whisper. "I need a morning-after pill."

The old woman didn’t move at first. She just stared, her lips pursed, eyes shifting between the two of you with a look that made you want the earth to swallow you whole.

Finally, she let out a slow, knowing sigh, shaking her head as if she had seen this scenario a thousand times before. Without another word, she turned, shuffling toward the shelves behind her to retrieve the medicine.

The moment she was gone, you rounded on Atsumu, your voice dropping into a furious hiss. "Never. Again."

Atsumu, who had been remarkably smug up until now, visibly gulped, his cocky confidence wilting under your glare. He rubbed the back of his neck, looking somewhere—anywhere—but directly at you. "Yeah… uh. Got it."

Before you could drive the point further into his thick skull, the pharmacist returned, holding a small box in her wrinkled hands. She placed it on the counter with a pointed look, as if silently reinforcing your earlier statement.

"That’ll be 6000 yen," she said.

Atsumu immediately balked. "6000 yen?! For one pill?"

Both you and the pharmacist turned to level him with identical death glares.

Atsumu shut his mouth instantly.

With a dramatic sigh, he pulled out his wallet, mumbling something about a scam under his breath as he handed over his card. The old woman swiped it with a level of disapproval that could curdle milk, then handed him the bag with a slow, deliberate motion.

As you grabbed the bag from the counter, you could still feel her gaze burning into your back. You didn’t even dare look at her as you spun on your heel and marched out of the store, Atsumu trailing behind you like a scolded dog.

The moment you were outside, you turned on him again, gripping the bag tightly in your fist. "I swear to god, Miya—"

"I said I got it!" Atsumu cut in quickly, hands raised in surrender. "No need to threaten my life in public."

You huffed, shoving the bag into your purse, your cheeks still burning with residual embarrassment. "Damn right you got it. Now shut up and don’t talk to me until we’re at least a mile away from this place."

Atsumu chuckled under his breath, but wisely didn’t say a word as the two of you walked off.

The walk home was quieter than usual. The tension between you wasn’t the usual sharp, cutting annoyance, nor was it the fiery, chaotic energy that always seemed to build when you were around him. It was something else. Something unfamiliar.

Your footsteps fell in sync, neither of you speaking for a long while, the distant hum of the city filling the silence. A breeze wove through the streets, the night air cool against your flushed skin. It gave you time to think. Too much time.

Your mind spun, unraveling the tangled mess of your relationship—if it could even be called that. It had started as something simple. Physical. An impulsive way to burn off all the frustration he put you through. It wasn’t supposed to be complicated.

And yet, as you stole a glance at him from the corner of your eye, catching the way the neon glow from a passing streetlamp cast sharp shadows along his jawline, you couldn’t deny that something had shifted.

Did you even really hate him anymore?

That question twisted inside you, unsettling, dangerous. You wanted to say yes. You wanted to reaffirm that this was nothing more than mutual disdain and physical convenience. But something gnawed at you, some unspoken truth lurking beneath the surface.

Because despite how much he irritated you, despite how many times he made you want to rip your hair out—

You kept coming back to him.

And worse? He kept coming back to you.

"I was jealous," you admitted suddenly, voice quiet but firm. "When I saw you talking to her. The way she was looking at you… made me want to kill her."

You didn’t dare look at him, your gaze locked on the pavement ahead, heart pounding against your ribs. If you had, you might have noticed the flicker of surprise in his expression, the way his lips parted slightly before curling into something almost smug—almost.

"I don’t know," he mused, voice lighter than you expected, laced with something unreadable. "She’s not really my type."

That made you glance at him, and what you saw made your stomach flip.

He was already watching you. Too intently. Too steady. His usual arrogance was still there, but it had softened, something deeper lurking behind his gaze. Something that unnerved you.

By the time you reached your house, the air between you was charged, humming with something unspoken. You stopped in front of your door, waiting for him to crack a joke, to throw out one last comment to ruin the moment—

But he didn’t.

Instead, he just kept looking at you.

"I think you’re more my style," he murmured, voice quieter than you had ever heard it, almost careful.

Your pulse stuttered.

"Bitchiness and all," he added, the corner of his lips tilting into a smirk.

That snapped you out of it. You smacked his shoulder, though it lacked its usual force, the movement instinctual, almost playful. He caught your wrist before you could pull back, fingers wrapping around you in a firm but careful grip.

And then, before you could process it, before you could even think about stopping him—

He pulled you in and kissed you.

But this wasn’t like before. This wasn’t desperate, rushed, or fueled by sheer frustration. This was different—deliberate, slow, like he was actually taking his time, like he wanted to remember this. His lips moved against yours with a purpose, drawing you in, pulling you under.

Your breath hitched, your body betraying you as your fingers curled into the fabric of his hoodie. He was warm, his scent wrapping around you, his presence overwhelming. The kiss deepened, but not in a way that demanded, in a way that offered.

And maybe that’s what scared you the most.

When he finally pulled back, his lips barely inches from yours, his gaze locked onto you with an intensity that left your knees weak.

You stared at him, heart hammering, mind racing, but words failed you.

"Goodnight, sweetheart," he murmured, voice smug yet oddly soft, before stepping back and shoving his hands into his pockets.

And then, just like that, he turned and walked away, leaving you standing there, completely wrecked by a single kiss.

Shit.

You didn’t even process walking inside, feet moving on autopilot as you shut the door softly behind you. The house was quiet—too quiet, the silence pressing against your ears as you rushed up the stairs, two at a time, heart still pounding from what had just happened.

The second you made it to your room, you closed the door behind you and leaned against it, chest rising and falling rapidly as you tried to catch your breath. Your hands shook as you pulled out your phone, scrolling to Hana’s contact, and hit call.

The dial tone rang, once, twice—

"Hey, what’s up—?"

"I think I’m falling for him!" you blurted before she could even finish.

Silence.

A long, heavy pause, and then a deep sigh on the other end of the line.

"Tell me what happened."

--

Atsumu moved through the house with the carefulness of a thief, his steps light as he crept toward his bedroom. The last thing he needed was for Osamu to catch him sneaking in like some delinquent. The second his door clicked shut behind him, he let out a long, satisfied sigh, stretching his arms above his head before collapsing onto his bed with a grin still plastered on his face.

From the other side of the room, a voice cut through the darkness. "Fucking the manager?"

Atsumu’s body stiffened for half a second before he exhaled deeply, the grin creeping back onto his face. He flopped onto his back, staring at the ceiling, a hand resting on his stomach as he let the reality of it all settle in. No more denying it.

"Yeah," he finally admitted, voice thick with pride and something dangerously close to bliss.

Osamu let out a slow breath, like he had been waiting for this moment. "I knew it."

Atsumu’s brow furrowed slightly, rolling onto his side to look at his twin’s silhouette in the darkened room. "Since when?"

Osamu scoffed. "Since the last time ya had her over. Who has the dentist at nine PM?"

Atsumu blinked, processing that, before dragging a hand down his face with a groan. "Shit."

Osamu chuckled, rolling over in his own bed, clearly pleased with himself. "Night, lover boy." Atsumu just grumbled, throwing a pillow in his direction, but even as he closed his eyes, he couldn't stop the stupid grin tugging at his lips.

[slyfire]

Touchstarved Origins

Okay, so there's been a lot of divisive opinions over the replacement of 'The Hound' background with 'The Exile' background. I have my own thoughts that I wanted to express on the situation, as well as the origin system as a whole.

TLDR: I'm not against 'The Exile' existing, but I do think it's the least interesting and the weakest of the four backgrounds. I'm also firmly against the replacement of 'The Hound'. I also want to talk about how I would add/fix the current backgrounds. Also these are just my opinions - I'm not speaking objectively.

Spoilers ahead!

What's the point of the Origin system?

There's two main reasons for the current origin system.

First of all, each background has a 'perk', which each background can gather different types of information about the world and the love interests. This info may effect player decision-making.

Secondly, the backgrounds allow for roleplay and MC creating. This aspect is a huge part of the fandom, and RSS encourages people to make OCs with the backgrounds as a 'guide'.

How well is Origin system implemented?

I think it's important to keep in mind that it's only a demo out right now. That being said, as of these demos, I do not think the origin system has been implemented very well.

The 'perks' the backgrounds give and the story/dialogue differences are pretty minimal. This means that the way the Origin system currently works, the don't really meet the intentions behind the backgrounds.

The Exile & The Hound

Welp, onto the issue that inspired this post. First of all, I believe that 'The Hound' shouldn't have been replaced at all. IMO it was the weakest in terms of implementation, but that doesn't mean it should have been removed, just made better.

People have been building their MCs/OCs for years at this point, and it's straight up not fair for people to have their backgrounds taken away for seemingly no reason. There was no communication from RSS or even a survey from RSS asking about changing up the backgrounds.

I've also seen people say the backgrounds are 'similar enough', which I can't fully agree with. They're both survivalists, but the contexts are just too different - One is survival in in a socal world, and the other is survival in 'the wild'. Also, I think the biggest appeal to a lot of people about 'The Hound' was the criminal edge and the social intuition, which in a game about character interaction, is a big loss.

There's also the 'balance' of the original three backgrounds. While I don't think the OG backgrounds were the epitome of character building, they were different in the 'right' ways. For example: 'The Hound' is street-smart and familiar with lowtown's entertainment district, 'The Alchemist' is book-smart and somewhat familiar with lowtown's entertainment district, and 'The Unnamed' most likley has some education and isn't familiar with lowtown's entertainment district. They've also all been betrayed, which adds on to their desperation. This also means they learn different information that is relevent to the LIs (eg, 'The Unnamed senses familiar about Kuras, but 'The Alchemist' notices no magic from the reattached limb).

So, what about 'The Exile'? Backstory-wise, there's the isolation of 'The Unnamed' and a parental figure of 'The Alchemist', but no 'betrayal'. It does take some the the social intuition stuff from 'The Hound' (eg. "I've learned to recognise a leader when I see one" about Ais) but for a character that's described to live away from other people (apart from the hermit), it doesn't really fit or make sense. The 'perk' of an 'uncanny intuition' is very similar in flavour to 'The Unnamed' - I can't see why 'The Unnamed' wouldn't also have the red choice to 'move immediately'. 'The Exile' is also fluent in multiple languages, but that seems like something 'The Alchemist' would know.

In short, 'The Exile' feels like a mish-mash of the original backgrounds, lacking a strong identity - both storywise and gameplay-wise. It has qualities that already belong to a background or qualities that should belong to another background. If the goal was to have more 'cohesive' backgrounds, we ended up with a redundant background.

That being said, I do think there's a place for 'The Exile', but as it is right now, it needs a major rework.

Sidenote, blind/new players of Touchstarved aren't going to know what soulless are when selecting the backgrounds, so making it a 'selling point' of the background isn't a great move.

Things I Would Add to the Backgrounds

These are just some moments I could see happening with events that happen in the demo + feel in-tune with the background.

'The Unnamed':

I'll note it's hard to think of moments for 'The Unnamed', since we lack information on how their religion and temple function.

I think 'The Unnamed' should be the weakest fighter out of the backgrounds. Should probably never feel comfortable in altercations.

Should be the most 'aware' on what their curse does to people. Could come with different dialogue during Mr. Chocky's scene or Leander's 'hold back' scene.

Just more references to 'The Unnamed's' old faith. It was such a big part of their life, that it feels wrong to know so little.

Less knowledgeable of 'normal' society. They say the entertainment district in unfamiliar to them, but we don't actually see them go about the place much differently. For example, they shouldn't assume Vere is a sex worker because of the 'parted pink curtains'.

'The Hound':

I actually don't think 'The Hound' needs to be some super proficient combatant, but they should be the most compatent when caught off guard and general 'physical' situations. For example, they don't get knocked to the floor by the 'lowlife' in the bar, and/or their escape from the soulless is more skilful (not just trying to open a door and failing). Mhin would still show up of course.

Let. Them. Steal. The best moment I can think of is after they left Kuras's clinic, they pickpocket someone and use the money to buy food. I think it would make sense because they're already thinking about money in that scene.

Related to the last point, but 'The Hound' should be the most 'comfortable' finanally. Unlike the other backgrounds who have likely not been finanally responsible for themselves, 'The Hound' is used to poverty and low spending power (since most of the money they did have was for a cure). And of course, they have the means to steal. Maybe alter MC's lines about being worried about money.

'The Alchemist':

Not a great physical fighter, but as they get more settled in Eridia, having 'The Alchemist' preparing things such as protection enchantments. If taken off guard, they'll be weak, but if they can prepare for an encounter and such, they'll be in a better condition. That's to say, I don't mind them being 'weak' in the demo.

Some more general history stuff. For example, 'The Alchemist' thinking about how old Eridia is.

'The Exile':

I think if you're going to add a choice to fight the soulless, and a new backgound that's 'familiar' with soulless, I think it's fair to say the MC should have lived in the encounter. It's not like Mhin wouldn't have swooped in to kill the soulless anyways.

Final Thoughts

I do hope RSS come out and explain why 'The Hound' was removed, since I doubt they can add it back in without adding a lot more work the finished game. This also isn't made as a dig at anyone who likes 'The Exile', I just have a Thoughts™.

Also, please tell me if I've missed anything I should have mentioned or if I've said something incorrect!

[cosmicpuzzle]

Who gets best results from Saturn ‎🪐‧?

Taurus Rising: Saturn rules 9th and 10th houses (for this purpose Saturn rules Aquarius). Hence Saturn can best results to Taurus natives especially in its period relating to education, professional success and father's income. Luck directly proportional to hard work.

Libra Rising: Saturn rules 4th and 5th houses. Libra rising benefit immensely from Saturn's energy. Libra may benefit in terms of land, property and education especially those requiring long durations like Ph.D

Virgo Rising: Saturn rules 5th and 6th houses. Virgo has mixed benefits from Saturn. Virgo may benefit in terms of stable work (govt job) and career. Saturn is good for health care professionals.

Aries Rising: Saturn rules 10th and 11th houses. Aries gets slow but steady rise in their career which can be permanent success. Saturn is not a very difficult planet for Aries as people think.

Capricorn Rising: Saturn rules 1st and 2nd house. These people can benefit from Saturn's ability to be responsible for themselves and their family. Not easy not tough but just about the right energy.

Sagittarius Rising: Saturn rules 2nd and 3rd houses. Although this is not a easy energy, Saturn can make them earn wealth especially through self efforts. As 3rd house gets better, it is not too difficult.

Pisces Rising: Saturn rules both 11th and 12th house. Saturn is 50:50 for these people. Saturn will give slow gains but might as well take them away painfully due to ruling 12th house.

Aquarius Rising: Saturn despite ruling 1st doesn't have much to offer for Aquarius except for spiritual development as 12th lord. Very difficult energy as Saturn rules loss of ego and identity for Aquarius. Saturn is purely spiritual energy for these people.

Gemini Rising: Saturn ruling 8th and 9th simultaneously. Some might think it's easy due to ruling 9th but trust me Saturn acts more as 8th lord for Gemini giving extremely difficult situations and crises. Saturn though may give wisdom and spirituality as 9th lord as a result of these sufferings. So, in that way Saturn act beneficially not in any materialistic way! Like Aquarius Saturn is very karmic planet for these people.

Scorpio Rising: Saturn rules 3rd and 4th simultaneously. Saturn may restrict the happiness of Scorpio natives and may give hard thinking but in no way can cause major issues. A so so planet for Scorpio but in 4th can make the native depressed.

Leo Rising: Saturn rules 6th and 7th house making partnerships very inimical. But as 6th house is getting better with time, Saturn can give better results partnership wise once the native pays off any debts to their partners.

Cancer Rising: Saturn rules 7th and 8th and is extremely difficult energy. I think Cancer risings suffer the most from Saturn's energy due to no other house being good or which will get better with time. Saturn may offer nothing from partnerships but only pain and termination.

Saturn can be a very karmic planet but especially to Gemini, Leo, Cancer and Virgo.

For Readings DM

[reveryfics]

Tony Stark request,

Him and rival male reader? Similar childhood situations, but reader owns a significantly "larger" company/corp.

I love the idea that reader is a (one of the only) Shield funders, so Tony has to be decent.

Power/ability wise, reader either has none (like how Tony just has his suits), or maybe readers father was a major Shield funder, so reader is an enhanced?

If anything specific, this is based off an OC of mine. "Lockjaw". Imagine Cable (x-men), but some rich guy. That's him.

Rival's Gambit

Tony Stark x Male Reader

Summary: Tony gets invited to his rivals latest launch party.

A/N: I'm sorry this took so long, I was trying to think of how exactly to write this.

TW: None?

The invitation arrived on thick, embossed card stock, a stark contrast to Tony's usual digital notifications. It was for the launch party of his supposed "rival," a tech magnate whose name had been plastered across every tech blog and business magazine for the past year. The event promised to unveil a revolutionary advancement, something that, according to the hype, would "redefine the future." Tony scoffed, but a nagging curiosity, coupled with Pepper's subtle encouragement and the tabloid buzz speculating on his attendance, finally nudged him towards a reluctant "yes."

The party was a spectacle of excess, a dizzying display of wealth and technological prowess that dwarfed even Tony's most extravagant events. The venue, a newly constructed skyscraper, boasted holographic displays that shifted and morphed, creating an immersive, if slightly overwhelming, experience. Tony, despite his initial reluctance, played the part of the charming billionaire, offering witty banter and forced smiles to the endless stream of attendees and press who approached him. He felt like a caged animal, every word scrutinized, every gesture interpreted.

He spotted you across the room, a figure of quiet composure amidst the chaos. You gracefully excused yourself from a conversation, your movements fluid and deliberate, and made your way towards him.

"Glad you could make it, Tony," you said, a genuine smile gracing your lips. You tilted your wine glass slightly, the ruby liquid catching the light.

"Wouldn't miss it," Tony replied, his smile a practiced, albeit strained, expression. He was acutely aware of the undercurrent of tension, the unspoken rivalry that the media had so gleefully amplified.

After a few more obligatory rounds of mingling, you managed to corner Tony, just as he was contemplating a strategic retreat. "I'd like to show you something," you said, your voice low and inviting. "In my lab."

Tony hesitated. The idea of venturing into your personal space, a space where you presumably developed the very technology he was supposed to be competing against, was both intriguing and unsettling. But the glint in your eyes, a mixture of challenge and something else he couldn't quite decipher, piqued his interest. And, of course, he was fully aware that the ever-present paparazzi were capturing every moment, a fact that added a layer of theatricality to the encounter.

Your lab was a stark contrast to the opulent party venue. It was a space of focused energy, filled with the hum of machinery and the glow of holographic displays. Tony's eyes widened as he spotted a familiar suit, or rather, the skeletal framework of one, in various stages of completion. It was unmistakably an intriguing design, but with subtle, yet significant, modifications.

You leaned against a workbench, gesturing towards your latest suit. "Unlike you, Tony," you said, a hint of amusement in your voice, "I prefer to keep my identity a secret."

Tony chuckled. "So, you're 'Lockjaw'?" he asked, referring to the enigmatic vigilante that had been making headlines, their identity shrouded in mystery. "Never would've guessed."

The conversation flowed easily, surprisingly so. You discussed your design philosophy, your approach to technology, and your motivations. Tony found himself drawn into the conversation, realizing that beneath the facade of rivalry, you shared a fundamental passion for innovation. As the conversation deepened, you both shared stories of your childhoods, revealing a surprising amount of similarities, a shared experience of being precocious and driven, of seeing the world in a different way.

Eventually, Tony leaned against the desk next to you, a genuine smile replacing the forced one. "You know," he admitted, "I was wrong about you."

You laughed, a warm, genuine sound. "That must have been difficult for a man like you to admit."

A moment of comfortable silence settled between you. Then, you spoke, your voice soft but firm. "Tony, I've been thinking... would you consider working with me?" You paused, your gaze meeting his. "I believe we could do something great together."

Tony's eyebrows rose. He considered the offer, weighing the potential benefits and the inevitable media frenzy. "I'll think about it," he said, a playful grin spreading across his face. "But I'd like to discuss it over dinner."

"Tony Stark asking me on a date?" you teased, a playful glint in your eyes.

Tony shrugged, a mischievous smile playing on his lips. "Got to keep the press on their toes, don't we?"

[mzminola]

Reread Warrior's Apprentice for the first time in ages, fresh off of Shards of Honor and Barrayar, and see parallels between Miles-Arde and Cordelia-Bothari.

When Cordelia is a prisoner of war about to be tortured, she projects onto Bothari as a form of control over the situation, repeating There are two victims in this room, to herself mentally, and telling Bothari out loud, "I believe that the tormented are very close to God. I'm sorry, Sergeant."

Which is when he recognizes her, and is able to mentally supplant Aral Vorkosigan's Rules For Prisoners over Ges Vorrutyer's rules, first refusing to hurt her, and then stopping Ges from doing so.

Bothari's actions in that moment could theoretically happen even if Cordelia said nothing, if he simply looked at her face and Aral's rules kicked in. And Piotr, at Aral's request, making him a Vorkosigan armsman puts him in place plot-wise to do things.

But Cordelia reaching out to him, speaking, empathizing, is what forms the connection between them, leading to Bothari picking Cordelia as His Person To Make Rules. Their senses of identity & personal destinies are intertwined after that.

Almost two decades later, we get Miles & Arde. Miles is a teenager with a lot of cultural & personal baggage that make flunking out of the Imperial Military Academy entrance exams The End Of The World. He's wrapped his entire identity up in getting in & excelling.

When Miles fails the exam, when that path is barred to him, he has no back-up plan. Nothing. He refuses to consider anything. Full on depression spiral, worsened by his grandfather dying. The space adventure starts because Miles wants to help & impress Elena, but if they'd done that a couple years earlier he wouldn't have shattered his imagined future yet, and probably wouldn't have latched onto Arde.

Arde Mayhew is a Jump Ship Pilot. He has implants in his brain to do this work, he & other jump pilots can never truly describe their experiences to non-pilots. His class of ship is being decommissioned, his ship just got sold to a scrapper, he's medically ineligible for updated implants. We meet him holed up in the decommissioned ship refusing to come out, with no plan, just despair.

Miles feels like his entire world is over. Arde's actually is.

Miles empathizes. Miles projects. Miles cannot change the universe to get back his dream, but he can throw himself into finding a solution for Arde. He shoves himself into the situation, digging himself a deeper & deeper hole, never truly considering backing out until they are all literally in an active war zone multiple wormhole jumps away from home.

And one of the first things he does, to protect Arde from arrest, is swear him in as an armsman.

Arde, for his part, is befuddled by Miles' involvement, but latches on too. Miles gives him the chance to keep his calling, and Arde, in turn, risks that very calling ramming his ship into a hostile vessel to protect Miles. During the course of the book, Arde is slowly reshaping his identity from solely a jump pilot to jump pilot & Miles' Armsman.

Our original misfit Vorkosigan armsman is right there judging both of them for it. Arde doesn't understand Barrayar at all. Bothari is extremely pissed about the entire situation; swearing in outsider Arde is only eclipsed by Miles swearing in military deserter Baz Jesek. Bothari eventually comes around on Arde, thanks to the ship-ramming and Arde's reasoning for it, but never on Baz.

Naismiths: insane levels of projection, insane levels of resulting loyalty.

[thetruequeenoftheabyss]

Its mermay and I have brain worms about these three. (If you see typos in the writing no you do not)

V's design is largley based on Rio from the show although I will be the first to admit I don't know anything about waveriders lore wise (do they even come from the ocean idk and idc)

I choose the mimic octopus for Mel because in the show Le blanc calls her an empath and for some reason in my brain that meant she should be able to shapshift and mimic things or something.

Jayce doen't get fish privlages because I think its funny. (also becasue in my mind piltover would be the land and zaun would be the ocean and since mel is form noxus is the company that ambess runs thats poluting the ocean or whatever)

More ramblings and the sketches for this under the cut

Piltover is a costal nation known for their ocean exports

Zaun is a secret underwater nation of mers

all mers have magic but to varring degrees

going to the surface and interacting with humans is forbbiden due to the dangers of humanity and the fact that they keep poluting the oceans

Noxus is a weapons manufacting company spearheaded by Ambessa Medarda, she has an unusal obession with the ocean and insists on building her factories on the coastal islands surrounding Piltover

Jayce comes to piltover to research the reefs and the wild waveriders found there, secretly he's there becasue as a child he was saved from drowning by a mysterious force while on a family vaction

As a kid he was obsees with the idea of merpople and magic but all he has as "proof" is an unusually shiny scale from the encounter, he wears it around his wrist constantly

He learned to hide his true motivations after being shunned by the scientific community

the only ones hes even mentioned it to in years are Cait, Mel, and his mysterious new friend viktor whom he met after moving ot piltover

He's friends with Mel from collage where they were on the student council together and is the one to call her when he notices sus activity regarding her mothers activites on the ocean and odd corraltions with the growing polution in the surrounding reefs

Viktor had been illegaly sneaking to the surface to research humans and their technology when her runs into jayce and is immediatly facinated by this human, he of course, knows jayce is right about mers and magic, but hides his identity for safety reasons

Jayce is the one to intoduce Mel and Viktor and that meeting triggers Mels own realzations about her mer abilites

Viktor is quick to explain the dangers of ocean life to Mel and cautions her against telling Jayce despite the affections they bothe seem to share for the human

Mel and Vik realise that her mother is up to more than just shady busniness practicaces and is activly posioning the ocean in order to drive the mers out of hiding so she can harness the magic for herself

(Hense why mel has a merform idk if Ambessa just made a shady deal with a seawitch or if she got sum of that fish dick but yeah shes got a magic daughter now)

Shenanigans ensue with Mel and Vik trying to dismantel Ambessa all while keeping Jayce oblivious and safe

Cait probably gets roped into things via Jayce being like "Sprouttttt my two really hot friends who i'm definatly not in love with are hiding something from me do you think they hate me 🥺" and Cait is like "well now I gotta pull up becaue you're really smart when it comes to fish and really dumb about situational observation so clearly there is somehting bigger happening"

She ends up meeting Vi because Vi followed her rebelious sister jinx/powder to the surface and ended up getting arrested by surface police and forced to stay on land for stupid reasons

Vi ends up revealing Zaun to both Cait and by proxy Jayce (get some booksteet duo in there) and Jayce ends up feeling hurt by the fact that nither Mel nor Viktor trusted him enough to share this with him

Meanwhile MelVik are both sweating like damn we fucked up

Idk what happens after that or how any otf this resolves but somehow everybody gets a happy ending and Jacye gets fish wife and fish husband and Cait also gets a fish wife and Vi reunites with her sister and everybody lives and everybody is happy

[cloakedsparrow]

Commissioner Jim Gordon figured out Bruce Wayne was Batman early on in their partnership but he needed all the help he could get cleaning up Gotham, so he figured he’d let it go as long as he maintained plausible deniability and as long as Batman didn’t do anything too reckless or damning (like killing someone or getting a civilian killed).

He could tell that Batman genuinely wanted to help and he honestly grew to respect him, so he decided if it ever looked like he needed to pull the plug on Batman, he could just quietly inform him that he knew his identity but he wouldn’t have to pursue it if he just stopped.

He almost did just that when Robin entered the picture. Because that was not a grown man with training and intellect in a combat-ready suit. That was a child in a leotard and pixie boots. Of course, Robin was obviously Dick Grayson, Bruce Wayne’s new ward. And, yeah, the kid was a remarkably gifted acrobat, but still. What the fuck was Batman thinking?

A few captured crooks and a couple overheard conversations later and Gordon realized that this was Bruce attempting to reign in Dick. He decided he’d let it go for a while and see if the situation didn’t just take care of itself.

It did, but not in the way Gordon had assumed, where Bruce eventually got Dick to stop. Instead, the kid turned out to be a brilliant vigilante. So as much as the idea of a kid fighting criminals in a leotard upset him, Gordon decided to let it go as long as the boy seemed more or less safe (and also didn’t cross certain lines).

Then Batgirl appears and Gordon is even more concerned because Batman also doesn’t seem to know who this girl is. That’s concerning. She’s wearing his symbol. One fuck up from her could ruin everything Batman (and Gordon) have built. All the goodwill with the non-corrupt detectives and citizens of Gotham could be destroyed overnight. There’s no way to prove she has nothing to do with Batman shy of unmasking one or the other or both.

So Gordon decides to look into Batgirl, because that’s the lesser of two evils at this point, and it turns out she’s his daughter. Because of course Barbara would do something like this. Fuck his life.

Then Nightwing enters the picture. Before Gordon can worry about this new vigilante too much, Nightwing shows him the cute little deputy badge he’d given Robin and repeats some of his own words back to him, proving Nightwing is Dick Grayson. Which, good for him. At least he came up with a better suit. Gordon hadn’t wanted to say anything, but he’d been getting a little too old for the pixie boots.

Then there’s a new Robin, which is obviously Bruce Wayne’s newly adopted son, Jason Todd. Barbara is still acting as Batgirl, so Gordon figures he doesn’t have any room to be judgmental of Batman’s parenting choices at this point. At least Batman keeps his kid with him while he’s fighting crime. It’s more than Gordon can claim.

Then, the worst comes to pass. Jason Todd dies.

Batman tried to kill the Joker, so there’s no point in guessing how that happened. Gordon feels terrible. He feels even worse when Batman is clearly losing it and, as much as he understands (Barbara could have been killed instead of crippled, and just for answering her father’s door), he can’t let it continue. He’s going to have to show his hand and threaten Bruce Wayne.

As if by some miracle, Batman starts getting better before he has to act. Gordon assumed he’d either sought help or just worked through the worst phase of his grief…until another Robin shows up.

The kid is wearing a different suit that covers (protects) more of him. He’s constantly perched on something so Gordon can’t get a definite estimation of his height. The hair could always be dyed or a wig. Overall, there’s not much to go on identity-wise. It’s certainly not Jason Todd after faking his death or being revived somehow (it’s Gotham, stranger things have happened). This is definitely a different kid. He’s smaller, younger, paler, and he doesn’t move or sound like either of the previous Boy Wonders.

Bruce Wayne does not have another son. He does not have another ward. No nephew or godson or the like. So who the fuck is this kid?!

The new kid is really good. Batman is doing really good with him. Gordon would be very happy with this progress except that he still has no idea where the kid came from. He’s taken to going over missing person reports, but it’s Gotham (there’s a lot) and he doesn’t even have a decent description of the new Robin to work with.

He tried saying something to Robin once, after Batman ditched them on the roof of GCPD. The kid had stopped him and told him that he’d given the adults their chance to fix it but they didn’t, so he’s taking care of it now. Then the unknown child jumped off the roof and fired off a grapple to follow Batman. Gordon has no idea what to make of that but he feels like he should be a little ashamed, at least.

After what feels like a year of mental torment, Janet Drake is murdered and Jack Drake is left in a coma that he may or may not recover from. Then Gordon learns that Bruce Wayne has quietly assumed custody of their son, Tim Drake.

There is no paper trail of any kind between the Drakes and Bruce Wayne. If the Drake boy is Robin, then Gordon has no idea how that came to be. If he isn’t Robin, then he still has no idea who the current Boy Wonder is.

The mystery of this particular Robin will continue to haunt him for years.

Bruce loses custody of the Drake boy, but there doesn’t appear to be any change in Batman and Robin.

Suddenly, Robin is gone with no explanation and there’s a girl in the role for a couple weeks but then she’s fired and starts a gang war that claims thousands of lives including, apparently, her own. Then maybe-Tim-Drake-maybe-not Robin is back.

Bruce takes permanent custody of the Drake boy, and there still doesn’t appear to be any change in Batman and Robin.

Then there’s a new suit but it appears to be the same Robin, just sadder. Then Bruce Wayne’s biological son shows up and, lo and behold, there’s a new Robin. With a chip on his shoulder the size of Wayne Manor and a fucking sword. Gordon actually misses the Robin that had been confusing the hell out of him for the past several years.

Then there’s a Red Robin. Then he's gone and there’s two very different Robins operating at the same time. Gordon’s pretty sure the one that isn’t Damian Wayne is the one that’s been a constant source of headaches and nicotine cravings for the past four years, but he still can’t be sure who the little shit is.

[the-art-of-witnessing-the-cosmos]

Planets in 7th house.

The mirror of self

Sun in 7th house

🌻The personality with Sun in 7th house wishes to know itself, it's identity through the mirror of others. It deeply searches for its own identity, essence , value in the definitions , thoughts , feelings of others about them.

🌻It finds completion and true fulfillment in the company of its beloved .

🌻Can be very self sacrificing or can have ego issues . Balancing is the key. Do something creative everyday. So that you are more dependent on yourself.

🌻Looks for a radiant, confident , regal , creative partner , why ? Because he is looking for his unconscious part to become conscious in the material life.

Moon in the 7th House

💚Here the personality desires the reflection & experience of an instinctive , beautiful, intuitive , beautiful, feeling , emotionally intelligent, emotionally attuned , nurturing partner .

💚In her , he finds his reflection of his emotional needs , in her , he learns about his emotions , the care , devotion , emotional attunement he wishes to get is the unconscious reflection of his anima.

💚The unconscious childhood enactment with mother is wished for to reach a sense of completion within.

💚A tendency of neediness and codependence can form sometimes.

💚Moodiness and nourishment happen in waves.

💚Developing a consistent spiritual practice will help beautifully balance this placement.

💚Emotionally attuned soulful relationship can happen if the personality learns to focus his attention of himself, his beloved , his spiritual practice & stays loyal.

💚Moon related business will also bhi helpful.

Mercury in 7th house.

⭐The personality with mercury in 7th house desires a friendly beloved . The one who he can chatter with , funny batter , intellectual stimulation, discuss business ideas .

⭐He searches for a childlike , youthful, logical , analytical partner who can reflect his unconscious so that he feels complete fulfilled within & outside.

Mars in 7th house.

☘️Here the personality finds its vigour , assertiveness, competitive spirit becoming active in its close partnerships, within the company of the other.

☘️He looks for a courageous, bold , dynamic , athletic partner who wakes up or reflects his own courageous dynamic qualities . Thus a sense of completion and fulfillment is felt within & without.

☘️Can have some clashes with partners , but these can be resolved with understanding.

☘️Playing active sports with one's partner will also be helpful in making the use of this energy.

Saturn in 7th house.

🤍The personality with Saturn in 7th finds itself in a dilemma , to be close or far away , to open up or not .

🤍Close relationships have been marked away with restrictions and a sense of emotional coldness.

🤍The personality desires close soulful relationships but finds difficult to be vulnerable with its close partners.

🤍The personality in its earlier formative years is forced to grow up , restrict its inner child so as to act mature for the situations it is placed in to face , experience & deal with.

🤍Thus bringing up the courage to open up , be vulnerable , to let your inner child feel nourished & itself again , & to allow others to see yourself for your needs & desires too .

🤍To accept change & to grow together.

🤍Better relationships happen with time .

🤍Spiritual practice is deeply helpful.

🤍A responsible, mature , sensible , fair partner fills the mirror image . ⭐💗

Jupiter in 7th house.

✨Here the personality aspires to find a wise , guiding, spiritual, religious ,teaching presence in one's partnership.

✨A spiritual relationship where both can be themselves , grow & mature into their true selves.

✨Expansive relationships , soulful connections are searched for.

✨Guard against multiple relationships.

Venus in 7th house

💗The personality with Venus in the 7th house desires the romance , loving , sensual, beautiful experience of a true soul connection.

💗Balance , fairness , negotiation, a penchant for beauty & harmony within and also in relationships is desired .

💗Quality time spent , luxury , beauty , sensuality & heart to heart feelings are desired.

Rahu in 7th house.

💫Personality desires the excitement of close relationships, business avenues wealth . Partners of different origin , culture , background, of exotic origin find his attention. Choose your partners wisely.

💫Never let your close partners take advantage of your yielding nature. Do your spiritual practice.

Ketu in 7th house

☘️Personality is self focused this lifetime & is detached from close relationships , business etc.

☘️A spiritual meditative partner can be a good choice .

☘️Having a spiritual base to the relationships , marriage & business will help chanelise the energy towards its best use.

☘️Regular spiritual practice will also be beneficial.

DM for readings

[warabidakihime]

Rules and Roses Chapter 2

★ characters: kibutsuji muzan x reader x akaza

★ plot summary: Kibutsuji Muzan has finally decided to expand his empire, and the way he intends to do so is by running for the highest political position. With you, his darling wife, at his side, he believes he can achieve and have everything the world has to offer. He is, after all, the Phoenix of Phario.

★ fic playlist: sometimes, same day, as time stops, wolf’s song (this is also the vision board for the fic). 

★ content warnings : implied violence and abuse, profanities, toxic relationships, smut.

★ Previous Chapter

a/n:

hello!!!

first of all, i am so sorry for taking so long to update this story. ٩(ˊᗜˋ*)و ♡

life happened and i got sooo busy. the time i uploaded this fic was when i just started at my new workplace and shortly after a few weeks, i was already preoccupied with work. at first, i was laser-focused on getting used to my new work and the culture. then later on, i found myself playing a more important role in the office that required my undivided attention lol. besides that, so many things happened in my personal life as well that i didn't have the time and energy to write.

btw i'm now a writer by profession as well so oftentimes i would feel drained af after writing corporate write-ups. tbh, i also got hit by writer's block, especially for this fic because the plot i have in mind for it is lowkey intricate, and for the most part, i haven't decided on what route i should take story-wise. so during those 2 years, i was constantly trying to reconstruct the story in my head, and here we are!

i'm back but i'm not so sure about updating regularly as i'm still incredibly busy, but i will do my best! the latest kny seasons inspired me to write again (aka my crush for muzan lol).

hopefully, everyone is still here to read this. ٩(ˊᗜˋ*)و ♡

as always, comments and kudos are highly appreciated!

happy reading!

-

"Can you outline your key policy platforms should you be elected President of Phario? Given your extensive background in the human resource industry as well as your rich connections owing to your business ventures in Obelisk Kibutsuji, do you first plan to address the pressing issue of the national unemployment rate?"

"Indeed, that's correct. As President, one of my top priorities will be to strengthen our nation's workforce, which is crucial for advancing our economy. I have a comprehensive plan focused on job creation, vocational training, and support for small businesses. These initiatives will not only reduce unemployment but also stimulate innovation and competitiveness within our economy.

I also aim to implement policies that ensure equal access to education, equipping our citizens with the skills needed for the evolving job market. Healthcare reform is high on my agenda. I'll ensure healthcare assistance is accessible to everyone, public hospitals are well-maintained, and healthcare workers are fairly compensated and protected by the state in any dire situations. Additionally, I'll push for technological advancements and infrastructure development to attract both local and foreign investments.

Addressing social issues is equally important, and as a devoted ally of these communities, I'm committed to fighting all forms of discrimination, especially against women and the LGBTQ+ community. We must ensure everyone, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or identity, has equal opportunities and protections under the law.

Moreover, I'll advocate for the rights and welfare of people with disabilities, ensuring they have access to the necessary resources and support to lead fulfilling lives. This includes improving accessibility in public spaces and promoting inclusive employment practices.

Animal welfare will also be a significant focus. We need to enact and enforce laws that protect animals from abuse and ensure humane treatment.

Lastly, I'll champion the rights of minorities and immigrants. Our nation is built on the strength of its diversity, and it's imperative we create an inclusive society where everyone feels valued and respected. This includes reforming immigration policies to be fair and humane and implementing programs that support the integration and empowerment of minority communities.

In essence, my administration will be dedicated to creating a sustainable and inclusive economic environment where every Pharian has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to our nation's progress."

Muzan stood confidently at the podium, a modest yet proud smile gracing his face after addressing a journalist's question amidst a room bustling with media personnel.

Today was the day where presidential candidates shared their platforms, which also served as an open forum for engaging with the press and fielding inquiries on a wide array of topics—from current events to personal matters.

With his seasoned composure before cameras and crowds, Muzan navigated the spotlight effortlessly. His articulate delivery drew admiration from all corners as he outlined his plans for the presidency, filling you with pride as you watched from the audience.

Among the attendees, your smile beamed with pride and unconditional support for him. Akaza, who is sitting right beside you, maintained a stoic demeanor outwardly, though inwardly, he couldn't deny a hint of impressed regard. Muzan's comprehensive platform and commanding presence left an undeniable impact on him.

Eloquence had always been Muzan's forte, a skill honed through years of being a businessman and somewhat of a public figure, as among his peers and in the business landscape in general, he is well-revered and widely celebrated.

Beyond his ability to articulate ideas, he possessed a magnetic charisma—an invaluable trait for navigating the intricate world of politics and public service.

Several hours later, the policy speech slash press conference finally ended, and now you were on your way to meet up with Muzan at the lobby of the hotel where the gathering was held when a few journalists spotted you among the sea of people who were also exiting the function room.

Akaza was right behind you and is also on full alert, an important instruction your husband told him when he appointed him as your personal bodyguard a few years back. Committed to his duty, he stood there in a stance where he is ready to take action should anything happen that is out of the ordinary.

Mics were stretched out and placed within just a few inches of your face, and one of them took the liberty to ask you a question: "What are your thoughts on Kibutsuji Muzan's campaign platforms?” 

Very much like your husband, you also wore a modest yet confident smile on your face as you held eye contact with the journalist who asked you that question before displaying your own version of eloquence as you answered,

"To say that I am proud while listening to him share and advocate for the causes he wholeheartedly believed in would be the biggest understatement of the decade," you said with a fond chuckle before continuing, "even before he filed for his candidacy and even way before he became the man we all know now, he has always been outspoken about these things. He would always share with me his desire of making significant changes in the world, hoping no more children would have to endure what he did. As many of you know, Muzan, my dear husband, came from very humble beginnings, and unlike me, he has faced challenges far beyond my own. His vision and intuition surpass that of most, and so, as cliché as it may sound, his words and strong convictions carry a weight and authenticity that are strong enough to enable him in doing the impossible and inspire others to believe that a better future is within our grasp."

Akaza listened intently to your answer, finding himself captivated by your words. The way you addressed the press made you sound like a candidate yourself who's also sharing her platform. In that moment, he couldn't help but feel an overwhelming surge of pride as he continued to absorb your statements.

The journalists surrounding you mirrored his sentiment, clearly impressed by your response—no surprise from the esteemed Ballerina Queen of Phario.

It had been quite some time since you last entertained interviews, having retired and chosen to stay away from public engagements.

"Among the plethora of initiatives he wishes to take action on once he's elected, what resonated with you the most?"

You paused, contemplating the list of campaigns your husband had presented earlier. Just as you were about to respond, an arm encircled your waist and gave it a tender squeeze.

It was Muzan.

"Knowing my wife's love for animals, I'm certain she's most excited about what I have planned for animal welfare," Muzan interjected warmly.

You playfully rolled your eyes, eliciting amusement from not only your husband and your respective bodyguards but also the press. "You say that as if it's a bad thing," you quipped.

Muzan chuckled fondly. "Not at all, my love. Your passion for animals is one of the many reasons I fell for you."

The same journalist who had asked you the second question now directed his attention to Muzan, eager for his response. "Based on the most recent public survey, you're likely the most favored candidate to win the elections. What can you say about that, Sir Kibutsuji?"

Muzan smiled bashfully at the reporter, his eyes reflecting a mix of humility and determination. "I'm incredibly honored and thankful that our fellow countrymen have placed such faith and confidence in me. It's a humbling reminder of the trust they have in our vision for a brighter future. This campaign has always been about bringing real change to Phario, addressing the pressing issues our nation faces with innovative solutions and inclusive policies. The support we're seeing reflects not just my efforts, but the collective desire of our people for progress and unity."

He paused briefly, his gaze sweeping across the room, before continuing with renewed conviction, "Though I would like to emphasize that I don't take this trust lightly, it actually fuels my commitment to serve with integrity and purpose, to listen to the voices of every Pharian, and to lead with compassion and foresight."

By now, the press was highly satisfied with the answers both of you had given, granting you the freedom to depart. Clearly spent after the eventful day, you exchanged farewells and well-wishes before going your separate ways.

With Muzan's arm still draped around your waist, he guided you towards the grand entrance of the hotel. Meanwhile, Akaza made his way to the basement parking lot to retrieve your car, preparing to drive you both home. Kokushibo remained close to Muzan, ensuring your security as you awaited the car's arrival.

Turning to Muzan, unfazed by the bustling activity around you, you placed a tender kiss on his lips, smiling warmly. "Great job out there, my love. You did so well today. I'm incredibly proud of you."

Clearly elated, Muzan mirrored your smile and returned your affection with a gentle kiss on your forehead. "Thank you, darling. Your support means everything to me."

"Truly, I was beaming throughout your speech. You were absolutely amazing. Phario is fortunate to have such an admirable leader like you," you praised sincerely.

Right there and then, Muzan couldn't help but raise his eyebrow and playfully smile at you, prompting a confused raise of your own eyebrow.

"What's that look for?" you asked.

Muzan shook his head with a playful smirk before replying, "You're not showing favoritism now, are you, my love? I know you adore me, but let's keep it fair, hmm?" he teased, his tone light-hearted and affectionate.

You rolled your eyes at his playful accusation. "Ha-ha. Very funny, Muzan. I'll take it back, then."

Muzan laughed wholeheartedly, drawing attention once again. "I was just joking!" He then smiled warmly at you, his eyes reflecting pride. "Thank you," he said sincerely. "Hearing that from you means more than any applause, you know?"

You reached out to pinch his cheeks. "You play too much sometimes, you know?" you said with a chuckle before continuing, "But like I said, hearing you speak today—and in all those times you shared your aspirations with me from when we were students up to now, as you finally have the opportunity to make all come true—it's evident how deeply committed you are. Beyond your skills and capabilities, your passion is what makes you so compelling, Muzan. It's what makes me believe in you, too."

Minutes later, while waiting by the entrance, Akaza finally pulled up with the car. You and Muzan bid farewell to those around you before stepping into the comfort of your vehicle.

As the city lights blurred past the windows, you reflected on the day's events.

"You know," you began, glancing at Muzan beside you, "I have a feeling your speech today touched more hearts than just mine."

Muzan smiled softly, intertwining his fingers with yours. 

"I hope so. Though the election is still months away, and who knows how things might shift, that's why I don't want to take any of this for granted. I'm in this for the long haul. You'll be there with me, won't you?"

He looked over to you, and in that moment, despite his big words, he looked absolutely adorable, with his ruby eyes shining at you and his lips slightly pouty as he waited for your response, which you gladly provided through the means of placing yet another sweet and passionate kiss on his lips and squeezing his hand reassuringly. 

"I'll always be here for you, Muzan, through every challenge and triumph."

"I love you," he whispered lovingly, his expression sincere and heartfelt.

"And I love you," you replied with equal affection.

With a comforting squeeze of your hand, you nestled against Muzan's shoulder, feeling a sense of contentment as the car navigated through familiar streets towards home.

Meanwhile, in the driver's seat, Akaza's face remained unreadable. He was outwardly indifferent to the tender exchange between you and Muzan, but inwardly, he was seething with rage.

You think you're so clever, spouting all those promises and pretty words, playing the saint for the public eye. But I see through you. You're nothing but a manipulative snake, a liar wrapped in a facade of righteousness.

His gaze hardened and his grip on the wheel tightened as he stared ahead, the streetlights casting shadows on his determined expression.

One day, your mask will slip. 

I will fucking rip it off your face, even if it's the last thing I do.

[lu-is-not-ok]

LCB Regular Check-up trailer is here

You know what that means. I'm gonna try and analyze the trailer as much as I can.

Here's the thing for those who have yet to see it.

Done watching it? Good. Let's get into things then.

First thing to note about this trailer is some overarching stylistic choices. Mainly the purposeful pixelated low resolution of the story-related bits, as well as the bits showing cutscene talksprites being placed in a 3D space. That doesn't tell us much on its own, but it is something to note nonetheless.

The first scene we see in the trailer is an exchange with Vergilius and Faust, where they both announce that today is the day for Limbus Company's LCB regular check-up. Notably, I find Verg's phrasing of his first shown line here to be interesting. "Yes, I knew that this day would eventually come." Obviously we won't know what the vocal delivery of this line is until the rerun, but to me this line reads as exasperated. As if he was just asked a question or was being reminded and he's just answering that yes, he expected this to happen at some point.

Next up we see the new Event Identities, both being the LCE equivalent of LobCorp E.G.O Identities - LCE E.G.O Lantern Yi Sang and LCE E.G.O Ardor Blossom Star Faust.

Visually, LCE's E.G.O suits appear to be similar in base to LobCorp's E.G.O suits, that being three piece suits with fairly long jackets and an armband representing their department, in this case being LCE. They also appear to have E.G.O gifts in the form of head accessories like LobCorp agents as well. Unlike LobCorp's suits however, these ones appear to have more... features, so to speak. Specifically, Yi Sang's Lantern suit includes a branch with a fairy lure, while Faust's Ardor Blossom Star suit can manifest wings.

Voicelines-wise, the ones we got from Yi Sang don't give us as much info, so let's start with those.

The two initial lines show Yi Sang as acting somewhat similar to the Faelantern Abnormality, luring someone else in with the promise of rest while in reality trapping them with him, as well as becoming confrontational when a person tries to get out of the situation. The main difference here is that Yi Sang is hilariously luring people in so that they help him with his work.

The last bit of dialogue from him shows us a bit of what LCE does, that being experiments with handling this type of E.G.O gear. Notably, I think the latter part of this dialogue is also somewhat of a reference to Faelantern, specifically to Gregor's Lantern E.G.O where the lure appears to be telling stories - Yi Sang seems to also be a storyteller, and thus struggles to concisely explain the events that took place.

Faust's voicelines are far more intriguing.

First, we see what appears to be a reassesment of Ardor Blossom Moth's current classification. There are two important bits of information here. One - Abnormalities in Limbus are likely to have their risk levels changed, as currently ABM's classification is HE, while the voiceline says its final designation will be WAW-5. Two - it appears that the new classifications might not only designate risk levels, but the Type of risk as well, considering Faust's musing on ABM's self-destructive tendencies. The -5 at the end of the designation could represent that specific risk of an Abnormality self destructing.

The next bit of dialogue shows a bit of interesting insight into LCE's E.G.O gear. The thing with the E.G.O gear in LobCorp is that their somewhat conceptual nature doesn't require the user to have any actual combat experience to wield them proficiently. Simply wearing them confers certain traits and abilities of the Abnormality onto the E.G.O's user. Based on this dialogue, LCE's E.G.O gear might have some shortcomings compared to LobCorp's, as the ABS E.G.O gear requires some practice when it comes to using its wings due to them not originally being a part of human anatomy. Also, there is the very hilarious implication that Faust's initial trial run of the E.G.O gear resulted in her crashing into the ceiling.

Then the last voice line is interesting. It's not unlikely for this to be one of the Stage Victory voicelines, implying that part of LCE's responsibilities isn't just experimentation with their E.G.O gear, but also experimenting with Abnormalities and similar entities. Specifically, combat might be the way they analyze how different entities act in specific situations.

Gonna also make some brief comments on the gameplay mechanics. Lantern Yi Sang appears to have a counter, Aggro, as well as some sort of unique mechanic upon death based on the particles that emanate from his corpse. Judging by their shape, it might have something to do with E.G.O resources? Ardor Blossom Star Faust on the other hand is shown to have some sort of empowered Skill 3, which can in certain circumstances result in her dying. Really funny to see both of the new Identities just fucking die in their showcases not gonna lie.

Back to the story-important bits, we're introduced to who appears to be an important side character to this Intervallo - Hohenheim, who says he's the chief researcher of Limbus Company. Judging by his silhouette including bolts and small electric sparks, he's likely wearing LCE's version of the AEDD E.G.O. The name Hohenheim itself is likely a reference to Paracelsus, or Theophrastus von Hohenheim, a historical philosopher and alchemist. Notably, this would make him our second important person in LC who has ties to alchemy, the first of course being Faust herself.

The camera turns to show Heathcliff trembling in anger, threatening with violence and expressing a want to get this whole thing over with as soon as possible. It's a little bit unclear if this outburst is directed specifically at Hohenheim, or if it's Heathcliff being generally impatient with the circumstances the Sinners have found themselves in. Either way the juxtaposition here is notable, as Heathcliff is one of the two Sinners to actually have AEDD as one of his E.G.Os, so I don't think his placement here is coincidental.

Then we get another interlude, this time to show an event E.G.O - Thoracalgia Ryoshu, based on the Abnormality Sleeping Bag of Olden Days. Thoracalgia is a word referring to chest pain, one that is commonly accompanied by shortness of breath. Some interesting observations about this E.G.O:

One - Ryoshu's vocal delivery here is unlike that of any other E.G.O. She's noticeably lacking energy in her lines, having a flatter and deeper tone, with her moment of intensity being considerably subdued compared to some other E.G.O.

Two - the visual design of the E.G.O, both awakening and corrosion, has a similar appearance to that of a ribcage. The claw-like potrusion in the back are the ribs, the containers with liquid are the lungs, and Ryoshu stands in place of the heart. Notably, one side of the ribs for Ryoshu is completely burnt off, in both her awakening and corrosion. Another detail I find interesting is that Ryoshu has the breathing mask off in her awakening, in favor of smoking a cig, while in her corrosion she has it forced onto her face, unable to take it off due to being a disembodied head. One last interesting visual detail is that in her awakening, her main outfit has a resemblance to a straitjacket.

Okay, back to the story bits. We're shown footage of Hong Lu and Sinclair fighting Wrath Peccatula as Hohenheim continues, explaining that they're first going to be testing the Sinners' responses to emergency situations. However he cuts himself off in the explanation and talks about something else - that he needs an assistant.

This is where the visuals get very, very interesting. The 3D aesthetic of the cutscene segments pays off here, as we see what appears to be a 3D POV sequence of someone walking through the test chamber and being swarmed by Wrath Peccatula. Now. I don't think this is just for the trailer. I believe this is a part of what we'll see in the Intervallo. Whether it's an actual playable 3D segment or simply an animated cutscene (remember, we did see some 3D animated cutscenes in Canto 5, of the busboat stage assembling itself and the Whale of the Porous Hand grabbing the boat), I think the implication of this sequence is clear - Dante is not exempt from this check-up. They too are likely going to have to go through similar tests as the rest of the Sinners, and that includes being locked up in one room with a bunch of Peccatula.

The dialogue we see during this sequence further makes me sure that that is the case. Hohenheim explains he needs someone to help him smooth out testing procedures and says he'd like for one of the Sinners to help for the duration of this check-up. Notably, in a blink an you'll miss it bit of dialogue, Hohenheim says in bolded text "Yes, you, good man." We have confirmation that whoever Hohenheim picked as his assistant is a man, which not only limits who among the Sinners can become the assistant, but also specifically rules out Dante, as PJM has been extremely consistent when it comes to referring to them with gender neutral terms. With Dante not acting as the assistant to Hohenheim, the chances of them having to go through the same tests as the rest of the Sinners is drastically increased.

Finally, there's the last bit of dialogue on an empty screen. Notably, the speaker here is obscured, showing neither the name nor the sprite. While it's easy to assume this is also Hohenheim speaking, we can't actually be sure. The speaker explains that they have collected enough data to compare the Sinners' current states to those of how they were pre-employment. They tell everyone to pay attention, explaining they too want to be done with this check-up, only for us to hear the sound of some mechanism (likely a large door) opening instead of the results.

Then, we get the title image for the Intervallo, with each Sinner being highlighted one by one.

So.

Here are my predictions for this Intervallo:

The Sinners are going to be tested, primarily on their combat abilities and responses to threats, thus explaining combat stages. At some point something might go wrong, potentially some sort of a breach, as implied by the noise of a mechanical door opening at the very end.

One of the specifically male Sinners is going to either have their tests be saved for last or end up completely exempt due to being picked by Hohenheim to be his assistant. I believe this is likely to be a Sinner who has some sort of plot-relevant secret regarding their current physical condition, thus keeping us from being able to learn it immediately or at all yet.

Dante is likely not going to be exempt from the tests, and we'll see a POV sequence of them being put in the chamber just like the rest of the Sinners. Whether this sequence will be just an animated cutscene or a fully playable if brief bit of gameplay is yet to be seen.

We might get some more info on the new classifications for Abnormalities and related entities, alongside some reclassifications in a similar vein to Ardor Blossom Moth changing from HE to WAW-5.

With one of the main points of intrigue being the comparison of pre-employment Sinners to their current states, we're likely to get a not insignificant insight on Don Quixote, Ryoshu, and Gregor. Especially Ryoshu, considering the fact that becoming a Sinner weakened her was brought up as early as Canto 2.

Please Hong Lu foreshadowing. Please.

[a-bad-case-of-the-stephs]

i’ve been thinking abt this for a while and i want ur opinion. do you think characterization-wise stephanie would’ve kept her pregnancy if dixon wasn’t so staunchly anti-abortion? im kinda torn… and ik they retconned it entirely in newer reboots, but i would’ve loved to see her taking care of a kid since she’s good with them

Ok first of all thank you so much for asking me abt this. I actually have so many opinions about Steph’s pregnancy “arc” and I love yapping about her so appreciate this ask a ton.

On one hand, it’s really hard to entirely separate Steph from Dixons conservative values. She was created by the guy and she reflects a variety of semi conservative views in Robin 1993.

Some of these things are deeply connected to her character, for instance her punitive and callous attitude towards criminals. Of course, this attitude absolutely changes over time, but it makes a lot of sense for her to have this conservative approach early on in her crime fighting career, it directly reflects her anger towards her abusive dad.

Others are less grounded in things we know about Steph and more so just throwaway lines, like the joke Steph makes about the Clintons.

What I’m trying to say is it’s hard to determine what Steph would do if she wasn’t being written by Dixon, or if Dixon wasn’t as conservative on reproductive care, because some details about her are both entrenched as part of her character and also potentially influenced by Dixons politics.

There’s two main themes that come up during Steph’s pregnancy which I think are very in line with her characterization and support the idea that the choice she makes is (fairly) in character: her sense of responsibility, and her protectiveness over children as a reaction to how she was not protected.

The idea that Stephanie fucked up, that she made a stupid mistake and her pregnancy is the “consequence” (an insanely horrifically gross premise, for the record) is espoused by her throughout the pregnancy arc.

This is pretty in line with her characterization.

Steph places a strong emphasis on the idea of internal strength, it’s something we see her value in others and something she commits to herself.

(Her father is "weak" because he succumbs to his criminal tendencies, her mother is "strong" for overcoming her addiction, other drug addicts are weak for failing to do so and turning to crime, her mom is "weak" for grieving Arthur, Steph is called "brave" for keeping her baby, Steph has to be “the brave one here” because Crystal won’t kick Arthur out, etc etc)

Potentially connected to this mindset is how Stephanie is also kind of prone to taking responsibility, and in some cases, taking blame for things that actually are not her fault.

Easy example of this is how she talks to Tim about how he might have cheated and wanted to leave her while pregnant, she takes the blame and responsibility for his (assumed) actions. It’s her fault for being so “fat and disgusting”. She understands why he might have cheated on her.

When Batman tells her Tims secret identity (something she didn’t seem to realize would hurt him and which Batman presented the urgency of the situation under absolutely false pretenses) she immediately takes the blame for Tim’s anger, directly condemning herself and centering Tim’s feelings even when Tim is clearly angry at Bruce and hardly acknowledges her at all during the confrontation. She continues to blame herself for this later even after being reassured by Tim.

And a huge example, how Steph believes straight up that she has “a lot to make up for” because her dad is the Cluemaster. This is a consistent part of Stephs characterization, seems to somehow blame herself for Arthur’s actions, or at least not being able to stop him. Steph holds herself to an unfair metric, she takes on this unwarranted responsibility and blame.

It makes sense to me that Steph would adopt a similar mindset in the case of her pregnancy. She’s quick to assume this responsibility and deride herself and her actions because that’s what she’s always done.

The second factor that I think is playing a role here is Steph’s desire to protect the innocent, especially children, as a reflection of the way she was never protected as a child.

Steph is, as you pointed out, shown to be good with kids. And, I think it’s absolutely worth mentioning that she sometimes projects her own experiences onto them. Not in like a bad way, in a: ‘no one protected me, I want to protect them’ way. This is a super strong protective instinct.

This protective instinct is what (I believe) causes her to befriend Damian during Batgirl (2009): she sees that he was missing out on a normal childhood, something she could relate to, and we see her try to help him experience one.

It’s also why she chooses to let her baby get adopted instead of keeping it: we see her convinced by Tim’s arguement about how her baby would grow up without two parents and compares that situation to how Steph grew up with her dad in jail. (By the way, this is just propaganda, the issue is Steph would have to forfeit her teen years taking care of a baby if she kept it, which she is not old or mature enough to raise effectively and which would doubtlessly have terrifying consequences for both her and her baby, not that the baby needs two parents, and one of them has to be a man. But that’s besides the point.)

The point is, Steph’s shitty childhood makes her protective over children and strongly moves her to ensure similar situations don’t befall them.

I think she’s doing a very similar thing when it comes to her pregnancy.

The whole conclusion to her story in the Secret Origins 80-Page Giant is her telling her unborn baby about her childhood, and hoping the baby will get a better childhood than she did.

In the same way Steph is dedicated to stopping kids from experiencing what she experienced, she feels like she has a duty to her baby to protect it in specific contrast to her own shitty childhood where she was not protected.

We see this idea explored again in Steph’s hallucination/dream while giving birth. Her nightmare is centered around Steph’s fear that her baby would end up in the hands of Cluemaster. She's terrified by the idea of this innocent child getting abused by the same man she was.

Also, notice Crystals role here. Crystal's enabling of Arthur's abuse and general shittiness is something we see explored a few times. Steph identifies that Crystal is willing to be blind to the obviously shitty behavior of her brother, Steph's Uncle Dave, and compares her inability to see the truth to how Crystal apparently acted with Arthur in the past. There's more examples, but the way Crystal facilities Arthurs abuse (which Crystal was a premiere victim of for the record) and is unwilling to hear out Steph in her nightmare is clearly a reflection of Stephs own childhood. She is projecting her shitty past onto her baby again.

How does this factor into her choice to not get an abortion? As explored, she has this tendency to project herself and her experiences into kids she sees as in similar situations, and try to protect them where she was not protected. I can see this inclining Steph to 1) see the fetus as a baby and innocent life and 2) feel a very strong protective instinct towards it which think would make her unlikely to abort.

So again, we have this projection where Steph sees the baby as A) her responsibility and B) in need of the protection she did not get.

Both of these factors are undoubtably parts of Steph’s character. So, I’m inclined to say Steph’s pregnancy arc is based in her character.

It comes down to how Steph sees her fetus. If she, like she does in Robin 93, immediately conceptualized the fetus as a separate person, an innocent life, I think her feelings of responsibility and her protective instinct for the innocent and young children would make it pretty much impossible her to end up choosing herself and her own wants over the fetus. I don’t think Steph could ever do that, unfortunately.

On the other hand, if Steph didn’t immediately think of the fetus as a baby, (something that would come with Dixon being less conservative on reproductive rights) I could see her getting an abortion. I do think she’d still feel guilty however, like she’d shirked responsibility somehow.

In conclusion, it’s complicated, but Steph’s feelings during her pregnancy are grounded in her characterization. I think if Dixon was less conservative, we might be able to see how these traits come into play and have Steph maybe learn to prioritize herself despite her self sacrificial qualities, and we could manage not have the 15 year old give birth.

(Okay that was the analysis, now I’m lowkey just going to rant about how I personally feel about the pregnancy arc.)

On a personal level, I think someone should have sat Steph down and explained to her the that she has every right to want to abort? Yes. Do I think Crystal should have had a long talk with her about how Stephanie doesn’t owe this fetus anything and she has a right to be 15 and look out for herself for once? God, yes.

I’m honestly just disgusted by the very concept of the “pregnancy arc”. No amount of cute moments with Tim or attempts to make Steph’s convos with her mom heartwarming will override my disgust at the fact that they made the 15 year old pregnant. It’s not "cute" that she had to deal with pregnancy induced nausea and her math homework. It’s genuinely horrific. It’s not "nice" that Tim uses his Alvin Draper disguise to brings her to Lamaze classes. It’s horrifying that Steph has to ask her boyfriend who has to wear a disguise to drive her to birthing classes because her mom is busy working night shifts at the hospital to support them. It’s not "sweet" when Tim reassures Steph she’s beautiful and Steph playfully threatens to hit him with a teddy bear, it’s sickening that she thinks so lowly of herself in the first place. And it’s definitely not anything but genuinely disappointing that Steph’s next appearance in Robin 93 after giving birth is her jogging to lose the weight she gained from her pregnancy. Just wow.

I love that Steph is good with kids and whenever I see those cute ‘Steph keeps the kid’ au drawings I will admit that my heart is warmed . But at the same time, I'm just personally never going to be in favor of Steph being forced to carry a baby at 15 years old as a "consequence" so we can moralize to the audience about teens having premarital sex. It was not done well. I don't know if it could be done well.

I don’t really think her pregnancy should be decanonized either per se, because I think DC should have to own up to their sexist treatment of Steph (and many many other female characters) instead of getting to pretend they were always perfectly feminist. (This happens a lot with her time as Robin a lot but that’s another post). However, I kind of never want to see that baby appear again in any comic.

When it comes to current comics canon, even if the pregnancy has been retconned, I have this sinking feeling that it’s only a matter of time before that baby shows up as a minor character and becomes a vigilante or some shit. This is the dark timeline to me. The evil universe which I lie awake terrified of but I know is distinctly possible. If this happens, this is my "I told you so" moment.

For me, the “good ending” when it comes to Steph’s pregnancy is she should’ve aborted it. Just no baby, no pregnant 15 year old. She could have even participated in NML in this alt universe (which is another another post). I don't know. I think Steph could be a fantastic mom, but I wouldn't want her to have to be one at 15 or 16.

Thank you again sm for the ask, love ranting about Steph. Totally open to hearing other takes on this arc and Stephs character as always.

[novembermorgon]

Can we hear more about Daenys the Myrielle daughter? I love hearing your oc thoughts so much

yes!!!

daenys ... she kind of exists in a bit of a vaccum where idk if i want to throw her in the main timeline of events in my mind but it doesnt matter i like to think about her anyways .

in the situation that shes around shes kind of like a baby made out of spite . which is really funny but i imagine it’s right after aerion gets back from lys with aerea and myrielle is really really upset and he keeps climbing on her which only makes it worse so she decides that the best course of action is of course to craft her own bastard . not that she’d ever tell him or admit it to anyone but well

i haven’t completely settled a year for her to be born but i imagine shes about 4 years younger than aenys/maegor and one year younger than aerea . shes born and shes really big and looks like that so everyone is kind of looking around like are you guys seeing this .

but aerion doesnt respect daeron nearly enough to seriously consider the idea that his wife is cheating on him with this guy so it’s in the back of everyone’s mind but nobody has cause or proof enough to make a fuss over it . maekar probably runs summerhall like the navy i wouldn’t say anything either . someone coughs a bit and is like well she looks just like dyanna and everyone just goes with it . makes sense i guess .

i imagine shes very similar to myrielle both appearance-wise (well . her features etc…) and takes on a lot of her spoiled only daughter-personality points . shes sweeter than mom but also very stubborn and needy and a bit headstrong . most people probably struggle to deal with her and can’t wrangle her into going to sleep on time and eating her veggies or whatever but shes very close to myrielle and just like with her other kids theyre kind of attached at the hip . her only daughter of course shes going to dress her up every morning and make sure shes never hurt or inconvenienced or troubled by anything ever .

shes really into astronomy and stargazing and reading and sitting up late at night to ponder life as if she’s not like 6 years old . myrielle doesn’t get it but she’ll still sit around with her and uncle (cough) daeron and listen half-heartedly while they talk about the stars until she decides that’s enough and insists that daenys should go get some sleep instead of sitting up all night staring at the sky .

hermmmm… she lives the longest out of myrielle’s kids and goes with her to casterly rock after aerion and daeron die . probably struggles to really live her own life because myrielle is so dependent on her when everyone else is dead that she can’t really do much on her own . maybe marries one of gerold’s sons but it’s more of a formality because she’s at an age where she should be having a life and an identity of her own. spends much of her adulthood making sure mom doesn’t kill herself or crash out over everything going wrong all the time in her life . sorry everything always just kind of ends miserably ….

as always an unorganized braindump but i think shes fun and cuteee i like her very much