#I THINK THEY WERE TRYING TO BE FRASIER

[baycitystygian]

y’all I am going absolutely feral. I’ve been glued to this one show lately and it’s a 90’s sitcom called Caroline In The City and it’s driving me crazy. I love it. I love the characters (except Charlie but he doesn’t get a super huge amount of screen time so like. whatever) and the main ship is just so fucking GOOD and the writers are dragging this out so bad. literally giving me ship blueballs and I hate thisssssssss just let them be happy already 😭

[justsomeguycore]

i feel like if 911 ends without buddie ever going canon people are going to write dissertation length discourse on how it was queerbaiting and i want you all to know from the bottom of my heart that that’s not true. i have seen queerbaiting. and buddie is not it. it barely qualifies as queerteasing

[branzinos]

seeing sooooo much debate about unresolved plotlines in abbott s3 but i think people just aren't realising that the show is moving in the direction of self-contained, easily syndicatable episodes, like a Friends or a Frasier, where you can turn on a random episode 6 years later without needing to know what's going on in the overarching season plot. it's abc's most watched show in a million years, and they are going to make sure they get their moneys worth out of it. s1 was the show proving its marketability, s2 was the show stretching its legs and seeing if it can fill a full season order, and it did with (mostly) no filler, but i think most of us can agree it did not handle overaching plotlines (like the legendary schools drama) in a very elegant way, just sorta fizzled out. it seemed like they were struggling with whether to have season long arcs, or resolve in one episode and move forward - and i think s3 is the answer to this question. the comedy itself works best when a episode of the day's tension is handled in the course of one episode, because they're not trying to juggle multiple emotional beats. previous stuff can be mentioned in passing, like it can be clear that a character is still processing things, but for the show to be easily picked up and put down, the plotlines need to be self contained, and the jokes need to still stand on their own.

apart from janine, nobody is going to get the satisfactory season-length arc that will satisfy everyone. it isn't an ensemble in the way Friends is, this is Janine's (+Gregory's) story, and her arc is the thread that ties the show together, with the comedy of the other characters happening in the orbit of it. i think the more people come to realise this the easier it is to relax into what the show is trying to be. it's why Smoking hit so well - it was sharp and the pace was fantastic and laugh-a-minute and could be repeated on tv at any time and you wouldn't need to know which season or episode it is. That's the direction I think they're going to be taking it going forward. I saw @serendipitouscontaminant summarise (here) Willard R. Abbott as "An Episode of Abbott Elementary" and not "An Episode of Season 3 of Abbott Elementary" and i think that's a good way of putting it. like in the future you'll be able to watch any episode from S3 and just go "ok, Janine's working at the school district" and you'll know roughly where you stand without having to orient yourself into the other characters' spaces. In a short season order like this one I think there may be some loss of emotional beats just because there's less episodes to put them in, and I assume there'll be some Very Special Episodes with a Message going forward ala "Mom", but on the whole I think Smoking is a better example of what we can expect from Abbott going forward from S3 into S4, from a purely monetizable perspective. I think this is only more proven by the fact they're throwing a million guest stars at it (as announced the other day), to catch peoples' attention in an 8am repeat in like 2029. Basically, going forward, if something happens to a character other than Janine or Gregory, we'll see it in that episode and the fallout from it is implied offscreen, with maybe a joke here and there that can still stand on its own (ala Melissa going out drinking a lot). Obviously this is pure speculation but I really think this is where we're going. Whether it'll hurt the heart in the show I guess remains to be seen.

[acourtofthought]

how high do you think are the posibilites of sarah fucking us eluciens over in order to write winged freaky smut between elain and azriel? i feel like acaf is a lot less romantic and more “spicy”, idk if it just fits cassians personality or if sarah is trying to appeal and sell more to the booktok girlies obsessed with spicy books (i’m leaning more towards the second one). we know azriel is kinky and a bat boy (he def has more girls thirsting over him that lucien) so… what are the odds in your opinion?

I definitely think SF was tailor-made for Nesta's personality even more so than Cassian.

She was the one who wanted to keep things "just sex" and hid behind her anger.

I don't get the vibe that any of the remaining possible pairings would be in it for "just sex". Not that there would shame in that if there were but that's not the vibe I get for E/riel, Elucien or Gwynriel.

With that said, she's already set up both male love interests to be equally as kinky if that's how she wants to write things.

Yes, in one of her live interviews she mentioned Az being kinky but this is what she said of Autumn Court males in ACOWAR:

"Autumn Court males have fire in their blood - and they fuck like it, too."

And.......

"A gag of fire shoved it's way between my lips." "Equal bands of flame wrapped around my wrists, my ankles. My throat."

The gags of fire were from the Eris / Feyre scene however the information can be applied to Lucien. He might be Helion's true son (and all that goes along with that) but he's 50% Autumn on his mothers side with strong enough fire powers that others considered that Beron's throne could go to him.

SJM loves the bat boys no doubt. But Lucien is someone she said has always been one of her favorite characters, who she wrote "My Love" about on a Tumblr reblog, who she based off Sam Heughan's Jamie Frasier who she was obsessed with.

I think she plans on giving each of these guys their time to shine and the best way for her to do that in a way where everyone ends up truly happy is Elucien and Gwynriel.

With those pairings, nobody is rejecting their mate (possible mate), nobody is forced to feel the pull to another while living a life with someone else. everyone can be happy knowing they were worthy of the gift of a soul mated bond.

[randomfoggytiger]

"Something Approaching a Normal Life"

(Fictober, Day 10)

Prompts from @agent-troi ("Scully invites Mulder to Thanksgiving dinner because it’s close to the anniversary of Samantha’s disappearance and she doesn’t want him to be alone" and "Mulder and Scully try to plan and host a dinner party, inspired mainly by the comedy of errors that is the dinner party episode of frasier...") and one of my sisters ("October in Christmas", "Thanksgiving", and "Signs the movie".)

*****

Mulder had another thing coming if he thought he could squizzle out of a foolhardy trip to the Bermuda Triangle with nothing more than a healthy bruise and a sweet word or two.

Although-- truthfully-- the blame lay more with his loopy bedside confession than any earlier, clear-headed, ill-advised action. 

***** 

“Thanksgiving?” 

Scully shifted her stance, heels rocking as she folded her arms a little tighter. “Yes.” 

“With your family?” 

This time she focused on the bullpen carpet, lisping out a softer, “...Yes.” 

Mulder didn’t know what to say. Everything seemed too polite or too ungrateful. 

“I know we don’t usually….”

There were a lot of things they didn’t usually, but holidays were high on the list. And considering the batch of Thanksgivings they’d experienced, always apart-- last year jumping straight from a botched team building seminar into small town shenanigans, the year before that caught up with Krycek and Congress, the year before that strung tight between secrets and diseases carted around in explosive train cars, and their first ever one nearly spent in volcanic quarantine-- broaching him to celebrate this one was…

Unexpected. 

"Are you... sure, Scully?"

“Mulder….” Scully stepped a little closer, craning her head back further. Utterly baffled. “Are you… shy?” 

Sometimes he forgot that his five-foot-almost-nothin’ partner had his number from day one. “I think a better word would be hesitant. And,” he rushed on, “not without precedent.” 

She was smiling too smugly for him to continue pursuing whatever point he was trying to make. “Christmas in October didn’t count then, Mulder, and it doesn’t now.” 

“‘Well, that’s another opinion--’,” he mush-mouthed. 

“‘And I respect it’, yeah.” Scully leaned even more forward, eyebrow pushing its customary way up. “Are you coming to Mom’s party, or do I have to tell her that you refused a personal invitation to sit at home in the dark?” 

Maggie Scully already knew about his lonely, isolated couch nights-- far more than Scully herself was aware.

Mulder couldn't bring himself to ruin her Thanksgiving, too. 

*****

Twelve hours later he and Scully were setting out dinnerware while studiously trying to ignore the escalating toddler meltdowns howling behind them. 

Her mother's house was packed, sardines of all shapes and sizes amiably chatting, swapping stories, or helpfully guiding the endless schools of Catholic children with admonishments and head pats (though he was amused to notice which cross wearers scowled at each other over unspoken but blatantly different opinions on birth control.) It had been subdued, pleasant even: Bill hadn’t taken the easy Mulder bait, Tara had darted here and there after Matthew, and various faces swam curiously in and out of their bubble to acquaint and chit chat. It had been easy to navigate strange waters-- Mulder kept an aquarium at home, after all. 

The problem started when one little tyke fell backwards against his sister or cousin (or an unholy mix of the two), a loud smack resounding mere seconds before both burst into tears. Then the other children got caught in the emotional tow; and the chaos spilled over until most of the room was either screaming or consoling. 

Scully practically fled the scene, Mulder following in her wake. And now they were setting an already set table together.  

When everyone's emotions began to settle and calm, Scully apologetically sighed. He waited, knowing there was more. 

“‘Christmas in October’.” She ruefully smiled. “How do we do it?”

“It’s part of the job-- the unexplained finds us.” Neither mentioned there wasn’t much unexplained in their current scutwork. “But…” he paused, letting her sweat a bit, “despite a few…”

“‘Unexplained’ things,” she filled in, flatly. 

“--happenings--,” he supplied. She snorted at his exhaustless ability to grab for the last word; and he rewarded it with a soft shoulder tap. “--I’ve been having a whale of a time.” 

*****

The post-turkey tryptophanic haze loosened up Mulder's subconscious mind enough to make a few gnarly connections. 

Tomorrow, November 27, 25 years. Black Friday. 

He looked across the room, locked onto Scully’s eyes and waited until she met his. They immediately confirmed his suspicions-- a good liar his partner was not-- and blinked with indecision, one lash closing faster than the other. But it never took Scully long to recover her footing: she let something like pride (and a sentiment that matched his black and blue cheek) take shape and sparkle at him before ducking away.

Mulder knew her own haunted holiday was coming up soon, ghosts hovering around every corner. He’d have to find a way to return the favor. 

“Who ya gonna call?" he sang under his breath. "Ghostbusters!”

Bill, walking by with three of the messiest children over five Mulder had ever seen, scowled at him. 

Muzzily, he decided relaxing via tryptophan might work if the tv ever went kaput.

*****

Maggie packed her favorite invite two large to-go containers (one filled almost exclusively with sweet potato pie) and waved off his half-hearted volunteers to clean up. “Fox, I wouldn’t dream of having a guest help out. And Dana’s your ride home, so you two better get going.” 

Taking one last look at the aftermath, Mulder understood now why his mother had kept celebratory dinners intimate or large gatherings outside during respectable daylight hours.

He drove on renewed energy from his doze while Scully picked at something she called a cheerio salad and he called a marketing gimmick. 

“You know, Scully…” he mused, waiting for her assenting hum, “I think tonight went well.”

“In what world,” she scowled, digestive funk breath spilling towards him in a huff. 

“Nothing bad happened. No major damage was done. I even have a fan club.”

“Mulder, Uncle Moses taking one look at you, running over, and having the nerve to be naively disappointed that ‘the jury’s still out’ on your ancestry does not even begin to cover tonight.” 

“And then he sat for thirty minutes listening to swamp monster stories."

"He thought you starred in a nonexistent movie called 'Signs', Mulder."

"What I mean, Scully, is that there were good people tonight. Good food, even. Better than my usual fair. It was-- it was nice. Thanks for inviting me over.” 

Mulder suspected she was smiling, widely, relieved and touched. “Any time, Mulder.” 

*****

Over the holiday weekend, he got a call from Area 51. 

Christmas plans would have to wait.

*****

Thank you for reading~

Enjoy!

Tagging @today-in-fic and @xffictober2023 and @fictober-event

[meenah]

this is the most important homestuck discourse ive ever instigated: do you think jake english would have a mullet?

no. i think jake is too wrapped up in trying to perform to societal standards in an attempt to be less lonely and try to connect to the rest of humanity at large. and also looking up to action hero performances from the 2000s-early 2010s when mullets were less in style. he looks up to brendan frasier and whoever that guy in avatar was to have a mullet. he's not a mullet guy. if anything jake might call mullets "gay" and then not think much more about it

the only guys in homestuck who would 100% have a mullet unironically would be equius horuss or caliborn if caliborn had hair.

[baronessblixen]

Saw your tags-- I think you're a writer! :DDD

Kafka trends a lot here on Tumblr, and I see diary entry after diary entry of him struggling to write, feeling like a failure for not doing so, questioning not only his abilities but himself... and I think, maybe, that's why he resonates with Tumblr so much.

I can't think of another community-- outside of communities on the internet, of course-- where the mutual misery of trying and not quite starting but not walking away from a skill or passion or calling is not only recognized but deeply felt. And the fact that this misery stretches back hundreds and thousands of years (and likely longer than that) is encouraging, in its way.

And it's like that one writer in Frasier, don't you think? He wrote one book then stopped entirely; but he was still thought of as a writer. And is that just because he was published and gained the public sanctioned title of "writer", or because he sat down to write? Emily Dickinson is considered a writer (more accurately a poet) though none of her works were published until after her death, for instance.

Wrapping all that up XDDD, you're a writer to me; and always will be-- not only because you've put words out there to be read, but because the spirit in which you write is one I recognize from countless other writers that have published their craft and those who have not. It's the drive, the calling, the temptation to write; to come back to it; to take and idea or a phrase or a sentence or another character everywhere you go in your mind-- even if your thumb never hits another cursor bar again.

:DDDD

Thank you so much for this ❤️ maybe you're right but the main thing why I don't know if I should call myself a writer is precisely the reason that I can't sit myself down and write. Why is that? Why do I always find different things to do? Sometimes I want to write but don't and sometimes I probably don't even *want* to write?

And I know I have people who enjoy my writing. I appreciate every single person who does. It has to come from inside me though. Doesn't it? A lot of the time I don't feel good enough. Like how do I dare to tackle an idea and put something out there when there are so many others who are way better than me? It's a very complicated thing in my head 😂

I do love that we're such a community here. Others feel this way all the time and it's good to know I'm not - and no is - alone in this.

If writing in one's mind counts then, yeah, I guess I'm (still) a writer. I had an idea the other day and it bothers me so much that I don't sit down and attempt to write it.

Your ask sure made me think about things again. Maybe I shouldn't be so hard on myself. Easier said than done though. Thank you so much for reaching out!

[gummybugg]

Do you have any advice on switching between perspectives in a story?

How often is too often, how many perspectives is too many, and how to make feel less jarring when you're suddenly following an entirely different character? Any other tips?

Thanks for the ask! I'll slap a large title here to condense things:

How to Swap Between Perspectives: A Mini Writing Guide

Hmm, advice on swapping perspectives... I don't think there's a "jarring" way to swap between perspectives as long as you do it for a Reason.

I would say, "Oh, nah, there's never too many POVs!" But I feel like there can be to some extent. There's no clear Number I can place as a cap, but I just want you to keep in mind Why you have all these perspectives.

It's worth noting that POV swapping occurs in both 1st Person and 3rd (both I am currently writing). I can use my WIP Crater City as an example for the sake of simplicity. Now Onwards we go!

Ok, I want you to ask yourself this: "Is there something I would Gain by swapping characters?" I personally don't use multiple perspectives for the fun if it, I do it because

The character's emotions/experiences are an important storytelling component. For example: Frasier's perspective is the most reliable when it comes to explaining the ins and outs of Crater City when compared to Blair/Elijah. Only Frasier knows how he feels, and he has very important feelings I'd like to highlight. Otherwise, we would never know because he's typically very reserved. It really comes down to weighing whose perspective is the most Significant for that scene. Sometimes, you can even include more than one perspective for a scene, but that can easily become overwhelming/redundant*.

It can offer a crucial character-building moment. Flashbacks, dream sequences, etc. These can be slipped in between scenes/diaogues (but be careful it's relevant and doesn't break the mood) or put in their own chapters. I'm probably not the best person to ask how to write these scenes, but I can tell you to Write with a Purpose!

Speaking of mood, perhaps you think the scene would sound better in another character's POV due to their personality or what have you. There doesn't always need to be a reason, but I try to be intentional in what/how I write. Example: Blair is lackadaisical, and a scene where he's stuck in an elevator would be much funnier than if it were in Elijah's POV, even though they're both in the same scene together. Alternatively, Elijah’s serious perspective could be used to highlight more serious scenes later on, as opposed to Blair. It's kind of like swapping filters on a stage light. Use your characters' traits to your story's advantage!

Or Sometimes, we need to know what's happening behind the scenes. I would swap to Frasier's POV when I need the audience to know something our heroes do not. Perhaps Frasier is on the phone with Darcy, reporting that he's found something incriminating about Blair. And now we understand why bots were sent out to arrest Blair and Elijah! Oh, the magic of dramatic irony!

*My idea of overwhelming would be too many different POVs for the same scene (in 1st person), unless the perspectives each serve a purpose. Or even too much ping-ponging between perspectives in 3rd person [omniscient]. You want to hone your perspectives, not confuse your readers! Perspectives are a very important part of storytelling and definitely have the power to make or break a scene!

As for making the swap less jarring:

I had to Google this one, and there's no shame in that! From what I gathered, some people like to Establish a Pattern to rotate through perspectives so readers know who to anticipate. Well, I've also seen others Not do that, and instead, follow a Linear Storyline, swapping POVs out when they see fit. Another great tip would be to make it abundantly Clear who is speaking in the chapter/scene. Slap their name at the top, or what have you!

At the end of the day, one of the best ways to know if a swap is jarring/confusing is to have someone else Read your work.

And when swapping between perspectives, always ask yourself, "Why am I using this perspective? What will I gain?" But also: "What will I lose?" Very important things to keep in mind!

And of course, I'm sure I missed some things. But we're all here to Learn, so feel free to Add on!

[theycalledmekay]

This Means War

This is a William Ransom fan fiction work created on Wattpad by me.

Her name was Catherina. Princess of England, daughter of King George.

She was missing.

The posters were up everywhere in England and the 13 colonies. Even in North Carolina, where she was. She was hiding in the woods by a ridge. Frasier's Ridge. The house was beautiful, but she couldn't get close. She stayed in a tree.

Until the fateful night, she saw soldiers. If she were to be caught, they would send her back home, and who knew what was waiting for her there. Cece knew the man who had kidnapped her was dead. Long gone, in fact. Stephen Bonnet had been murdered. She had been glad when she found out.

She laid down on the branch she was on, carefully and quiet. If only the guards hadn't heard the snap. Her eyes widened.

"Who's there!" A not to familiar voice calls. The Frasier's were demanded to investigate. The man, with long red hair, finds her. She begs him to stay quiet with her eyes.

"There is no one here! Just a birds nest." He says the the soldier. "Get down then, Mr. Frasier!" The soldier sighs. "Lord John Grey will visit you in the morrow." The soldier walks off.

"Lass, what are yeh doin' in the tree?" The man asks her finally. "I was trying to nap as I've only stayed in this tree and done no harm." Cece replies. "Got a name, lass?" He asks her. "Uhm..." She couldn't use her real name... could she? No, everyone would know she was Catherina. "Cercei." She responds.

"Come along. Let's get you to the ridge before the soldier comes back." Once bathed and feeling much better, Mr. and Mrs. Fraser fed her, making her feel much better. "I apologize, Mr. and Mrs. Fraser. I didn't realize I was evading." Catherina apologized.

"Oh, it's quite alright, dear. My daughter saw you up there a few days ago. We were wondering why you were hiding." Mrs. Fraser says. "Come now. Let me lead you to your room where you may rest for the night." For the first time in months, Catherina slept well.

Many months later:

"Mistress Fraser -" "Yes, Cece! You can come with! We're sending Briana and Roger off. They are moving!" Claire invites her along. Holding Mandy and helping Jimmy, Cece went along with Bree to grab some items the children and her might need.

"Lord John!" Bree almost bumps into the man. Cece stops and freezes seeing the young British soldier. "Madam." He nods to her. Her breathing almost stops altogether, and she almost faints.

"Cersei!" Jimmy taps her arm. "Are you alright?!" The young boy asks. "Ah yes, Jim. I'm quite fine. Just had a bit of spell." She says softly. The soldier offers her his hand. "I can help you and the children back if you and the other Mistress don't mind."

Shruging his hand off and acting a bit hostile. The words she uttered next made the young soldiers rethink his action as if he had horrified the young woman. "I am fine. Perhaps, if you stayed away-" "Cersei!" Bree shrieked. "We don't speak to soldiers like that!"

"Red Coat!" Cersei hisses. "Rebel!" The soldier hisses under his breath. "She's not too keen on soldiers, I apologize. She claims she was kidnapped from England." The soldier realized who she was. "I understand. No ill intent. I insist on helping though, Miss-" "Cersei." She says softly.

"I do not need your assistance." She bows and hurries off with the children. "Father, how long has it been since the Princess has been missing?" William finally asks before he could be introduced to Bree. "Almost a year now. You don't seriously think that girl could be Catherina, do you?" Lord John Grey asks.

"I'm afraid you're right. See how defensive she got -" "She could be a rebel, Willie." Lord John Grey interupts. "I believe the Princess is long gone, my boy. She'll never be found." Lord John Grey shakes his head. "Some of us still have hope." William disagrees. He introduces himself to Bree and then walks off.

He sees Cersei again. She seemed in a better mood now. She noticed him again and he saw the guilt in her eyes. She approaches him.

"Good morrow." She chimes. "Good morrow." He bids. "I'd like to apologize about my terrible behavior earlier." She stops walking. Seeing as they are in the middle of a road, he gently moves her out of the way of a carriage.

She thanks him, softly. "All has been forgiven, Miss Cersei." He says, holding her arm steady as she slips in the mud. "I didn't quite catch your name, soldier." She says.

"Leftenant (Lieutenant) Lord Ellesmere William Ransom." He introduced himself. "Lady Cersei of York." She lies. He nods and bows. She gulps, taking a long breath. "Care to accompany me?" She asks.

He nods in agreement, and the two walk around the town. They talk for a decent while until dusk. "I'm afraid I must go, Mistress Cersei. It was quite an honor meeting you." He bows. She smiles.

"Rise soldier. I am no queen." She jokes. He smiles. "Until we meet again." He nods. "Until then, Leftenant." The two part ways. "What was that about?" Bree asks as Cece makes her return.

"Oh, nothing. Had to... Apologize to Lord Ellesmere." Cece smiles. "Did you get too overwhelmed?" Claire asks her. "Well... I believe so. Mistress, he seems.... indifferent." Cece says.

"Oh Pa, should we tell her!" Bree exclaims. "Don't trouble yerself lass. We may 'as well tell 'er." Jamie sighs. "Is it about Lord Ellesmere?" Cece asks. "Yes." Claire sighs. "As you know, I disappeared for almost twenty years. Jamie was serving out his parole in Helwater. A young woman by the name of Geneva Dunsany was infatuated with him. She was to wed the Eighth Earl of Ellesmere, Ludovic Ransom, who could not have children." Claire says.

Cece's jaw dropped.

"Don't say anymore. I think I understand. Cockoldry, correct. He's illegitimate. The illegal son of Mister Fraser and Lady Dunsany?" Cece says. "Yes." Jamie says. Cece thought about it.

As a princess, such a crime could have the man hanged for allowing it, however... No one knew she was the princess. "Your secret shall be safe with me." She nods. She thought back to the Lord of Ellesmere.

He did resemble Jamie very little. He even had the highlander fire in his eyes.

The battle of Saratoga:

Hiding in the trees, Cersei aimed her bow straight and true, waiting for the first brit to fire.

She was committing high treason for the Frasers, and she was damn sure going to keep them safe. The British stood in a line, straight and true.

The slight talking of two soldiers made her look over. She was gonna shoot one. She smirked and took her aim.

One of the Colonials fired. "You dumb shit!" Cece cursed.

She shot the other one, but he moved just as she fired. It took his hat clean off, and she gasped, "Lord Ellesmere!"

It seemed like he heard her cry as his gaze swept the area. His eyes seemingly landed on hers. Her look of shock and his of anger. He was speaking, but the rush of her heart was strong in her ears.

He drew his sword and charged with his men. His screams on the field made her feel guilty. She accidentally shot one of her own, making the brits yell, "Sniper!"

She rained down her army of arrows until she was out. Jamie saw this, and so did William. He fought with his highlander spirit, she could tell.

Jamie was suddenly knocked out, and the battle subsided. Most of the colonials were dead, many brits as well. She gulped, and she watched as all of them as they searched and searched for her.

She prayed that they wouldn't find her, but they did. "Look 'ey here. I say we use her -" "We bring her back as prisoner. You know the rules." William retorts.

"Come on down, Mistress. We won't hurt you." William tries to coax her. "Go away! I'm hunting!" She lies. "Hunting what? The Royal Army?!" One of the soldiers yelled.

"Please, Lady York! It's dangerous!" William sighs. All the soldiers gasped. "No one touch me except for Leftenant Ellesmere, then!" She promises. "Yes, Mistress." They abliged.

She slowly climbs down, sliding on the last moment and landing almost on her behind if Jamie hadn't caught her.

"Be a shame if the lass fell. Right lads?" He asks. He takes off running, most of the army after him, leaving William and Catherina alone. "Lady York, I apologize, but if you don't run now, you'll be hanged for treason." He says. "I know, Leftenant." She sighs. "My condolences. At least I shot your hat off." She jokes.

"I knew it." He chuckles. "I'll be in the trees, keeping you safe when I run." She smiles. "Go, now!" He gently nudges her. "See you again? On the battlefield?" She laughs, running.

"I hope not, Lady York." He calls after her, watching her run. He runs in the opposite direction, chashing after his father.

Jamie survived, and so did Catherina.

The battle of Saratoga 2:

The early morning signals the cries of war.

Saratoga. Another time.

Catherina shared the strategy. "They will be looking in the trees. They caught me there last time. If I make it past the fence and be on their side, they will assume I am with them." She chuckles. They nod.

"Be careful." Jamie warned. She nods. She runs across and finds a tree. Climbing it, she nestled herself into the hollow part where it almost split off.

The drums start, and the battle slowly commences. Waiting until the right time, she notices them trying to shoot and kill General Fraser. Her aim would be true until she notices. "Not again!" She groans. She shoots Lord Ellesmere this time.

In the hand. His shriek made the Brits panic. It wasn't deep, and he released who it was.

"Damn woman." He mumbles under his breath. He fights, pulling the arrow out. Suddenly, they come face to face with each other.

"Cersei!" He grabs her, pulling her out of the way of another soldier. "Kill me." She begs. "I'd rather you than anyone else." William gulps at those words.

Taking a deep breath, he choked her gently, causing her to pass out. He fights until most men are dead. They retreat, and he looks over at Cersei.

"Aye Leftenant Ellesmere killed the sniper!" The men cheer. William sighed and pretended to be happy until one of his men got shot with her arrow.

He turned swift as did the others. "Heed my warning!" He stares at her in shock at her words. "She's just begging to be killed, isn't she!" General Fraser sighs, but then he collapses.

"General!" William rushes to him immediately. Everyone turns to them.

He sighs, "Damn woman!" William curses, again. Everyone agrees with him. They trugg on, eventually forgetting about her, hoping to save General Fraser in time.

Unfortunately, they didn't. General Fraser died not much after they got back to camp. William grieved him.

Camp:

Leftenant Lord Ellesmere was enjoying being out of battle. He really dreaded it. Until a curly haired woman angrily grabbed him. He stared in shock. Mistress Fraser.

".... basic necessities of care for your prisoners. Sir, are you hearing me?" When she noticed his strange face.

"I-" He stutters. He chuckles. "I beg your pardon, Madam. I do believe I know you?" He questions it. "Your Mistress Fraser, are you not?" He smiles. Her eyes sparkled with recognition.

"I am." "I am Leftenant Lord Ellesmere, William Ransom." He bows. "I visited your home on Fraser's Ridge when I was still a boy." He stopped a moment and noticed a certain look in her eyes. "You saved my father's life." The realization sets in for him at that moment, too. Claire Fraser was a rebel.

"William." She smiles. "You're a rebel?" He asks as he turns back to face her, realizing where she had been. She nods, "Yes."

She feels a bit disappointed. After this exchange, with some bandages and food brought to the prisoners, William was left with his head reeling.

He went to his tent to grab something, and he walked in and saw her.

Immediately, he closed the flap, making sure no one saw her. "Cersei." He glares. "Leftenant-" He covers her mouth.

"Leftenant? Has anyone seen Lord Ellesmere?" He hears someone calling for him. She stares in horror. He silently tells her to be quiet. They sneek out the other side and run to the Forrest not that far at the edge of his camp.

Cersei giggles, "That was fun! Let's do it again!" "I'm afraid not. This is where I leave you." He sighs. "Leftenant!" She grabs his arm.

"Cersei, if you get caught here, you will be captured. I don't want another rebel I know in my prisoner quarters." He sighs. "Leftenant, I- William..." She sighs.

"I just wanted to make sure you were alright." She looks down. "You've never been fond of... what do you Yankees call us British.... Red Coats?" He teases. "Aye, we call them Red Coats. Because they have red coats stained with blood." She pretends.

He smiles. "You should go." He warnes her. "I wanna stay." She keeps her hand entangled in his. "Lady York-" He sighs.

"Lord Ellesmere-" "Run!" He pushes her gently. She stares in shock and suddenly runs off. "What was that about?" One of the other men asks him.

"Just a random girl asking about the war. Such a strange girl." He turns to his soldier. "Leftenant, Mistress Fraser got her items." He nods. "Thank you." William says.

The soldier walks off, and William sees Cersei farther ahead, in another clearing, picking some flowers. He smiled.

That poor innocent girl was gonna get herself killed. He walked back to camp. It was slowly getting later and then he saw her.

Dressed as an Native American. "Cece!" Claire pulls on her dress. "Not a worry, Claire. I can-" She turns and freezes. "Lord Ellesmere." She looks at her feet. "Cersei." He sighs.

Suddenly, a fire starts. He glares. "Take her. I saw nothing." He nods. Cersei helps Claire get to the exit, but not before she runs back to William, who had turned to walk away.

"Lord Ellesmere." He turns to face her. She kisses his cheek and runs off. How.... interesting. His gaze lingers on the exit after he watches her disappear. Interesting.

Many months later, after the war:

William walks inside. "Father-" He freezes seeing.... Mac. His head reeled. For a moment, hearing him speak. A voice so familiar.

"William James." His jaw dropped.

Lord John Grey turned to his son. "Willie-" "You will not call me such a name!" Everyone stared at him. "William-" "I know all I need to!" William goes to storm out. "William!" It was Cersei.

He huffs and walks away anyway. "William!" Catherina hurries after him. He doesn't stop. "William, please!" He turns.

"What do you want?!" He snaps. At this point, they were deep in the forest by Fraser Ridge. "Apologize!" She stops him by grabbing his arm. She had decided not to tie up her hair today. Worst mistake of her life.

"I will do no such thing." He pulls away from her. "William!" She yells at him.

"You can't command me! You are not the king of England!" He yells back. "You are so petulant!" She screamed. "At least I'm not a princess!" He growls. "At least I'm not a bastard!" She responds.

His hand connects with her cheek. She gasps, and he looks at her, horror in his eyes. "Catherina!" He grabs her arm as she goes to run off. "I didn't mean to harm you." He pleads with her.

He gently gets on his knees in front of her. "Get up!" She whispers. "Get up!" She changes her tone to a yell. He gets up swiftly.

"I could have you and your family hanged, but I won't. It's a privilege knowing a princess, isn't it." She growls.

"Such a high rank and yet as a bastard you feel you don't deserve it and -" "Hush." William whispers softly. "You think that one will know-" "SHUT IT!" William snaps.

"YOUR SUCH AN ADDLE PATE!" She screams. "You can be so awful and-"

He shuts her up by grabbing her arms and throwing her forward. Their lips connect, and she freezes up. He pulls away almost immediately, ashamed by his actions.

She stares at him in shock, eyes pooling with tears. "Catherina, I-" "Catherina is in England... Cersei is in North Carolina." She says softly as a tear slowly slides down her cheek.

She wipes it forcefully. "I deeply apologize, Lord Ellesmere. I shouldn't have called you a bastard and such other foul names."

She turns and runs to away from him. "Cersei!" He calls after her. He sighed and sat on a log. This princess was gonna be the death of him.

Part 2?? And for anyone wondering, an "Addle Pate" is a foolish or dumb witted person

[clare-with-no-i]

20 questions for fic writers

Thank youuu @isahorcrux for the tag! it's been so long since I did one of these omigoddddd

1. How many works do you have on AO3?

37!

2. What's your total AO3 word count?

392k. a bit crazy that the next chapter of theogony will put it over 400k. wauw!!!!

3. What fandoms do you write for?

publicly? Harry Potter and Percy Jackson. privately? I have an entire folder on my laptop called 'other shit' which is just one-shots for about fifteen different fandoms which I will never publish <3

4. What are your top 5 fics by kudos?

god. this is really making me look at my statistics page which I actively try not to do lol. but it's one long day, I will carry you, color theory, foreigner's god, and growing pains. what can I say, the ppl love the they lived AUs!

5. Do you respond to comments? Why or why not?

I try to but I'm terrible about it which is a personal failing. I am so sorry. a new strategy that helps with this is that with my WIPs I try to respond right after the next chapter is posted so the person gets a nice lil notif and they have something else to read!

6. What's the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?

oh hmmm. I guess the derelict art of letting go ending was angsty, but the whole thing was angsty. the end was bittersweet. maybe Invictus? ok new problem is I can't remember what I've written

7. What's the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

foreigner's god! it's always clare why did you write all of that sad stuff into foreigner's god clare why did you write their deaths in such brutal detail clare I made my roommate read this and now she won't stop crying blah blah and it's never hey clare thanks for that nice ending scene where they're just married and lying in bed and vibing!!!!!!!!!

8. Do you get hate on fics?

yeah I do and I think under viking law I'm legally permitted to fistfight the commenters!!!!!!!!!!!! step up cowards!!!!!!!!!!!!

9. Do you write smut. If so, what kind?

god. lmao. yes I do! not often, though, I'm afraid. I tend to write an extremely narrow niche which is just exorcising trauma through sex and personal intimacy. I have no chill :)

10. Do you write crossovers? What's the craziest one you've written?

no I actually usually dislike crossovers lol. like theogony is a fusion of the outlander premise but I can assure you that James Alexander Malcom MacKenzie Frasier will not make an appearance. crossovers stress me out and I like to keep my little fictional words separate, if I can. ok edit: on further review I've concluded that I enjoy premise swaps (these are just AUs lol), but I can't deal with characters from multiple pieces of media interacting. it's too much. stay in your lanes, my god. this isn't super smash bros.

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen?

not a whole fic but someone basically copy and pasted a bunch of lines from NAR into their story and then a bunch of drama ensued. it sucked and I don't like looking at NAR because it reminds me of it. I still think about the anon who told me about it, though. they were so lovely and so caring and kind to me. I hope they're doing well.

12. Have you ever had a fic translated?

yes! both with my permission and without. ha ha.

13. Have you ever cowritten a fic before?

babes I can't even finish the stories that I'm writing by myself

14. What's your all-time favorite ship?

percabeth or zelink! or any doomed/short-lived/five seconds of screen time couple in a tv show or book. seriously idk why but I always fixate on the less important characters

15. What's a WIP you want to finish, but doubt you ever will?

I renounce this question in the name of christ. amen.

16. What are your writing strengths?

I exist not with writing strengths or weaknesses but instead a secret third thing (stupidly recognizable style)

17. What are your writing weaknesses?

see above

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language for a fic?

I actually have a WIP where James lives in Spain to play quidditch and he speak Spanish in it :) eso me asusta mucho pq no he practicado mi español hace muchos años pero…sea lo que sea

19. First Fandom you wrote for?

percabeth! my ffnet account is still out there somewhere with ~four percabeth stories that are terrible :) just very bad :) no good :) horriblé :)

20. Favorite fic you've ever written?

theogony or foreigner's god! or suze's bday fic but that's because I have never tailor-made something for someone quite like that fic and she was so sweet about it eye can't deal

tagging my internet wife @thequibblah bestie...knocking at ur door...standing outside with an edible arrangement...

[religion-is-a-mental-illness]

This is textbook Judith Butler Queer Theory. Everything’s all about identities, inventing them (especially from mundane personality traits or medical conditions), constructing them and affirming them, specifically for the purposes of conducting identity politics. And explicitly “queering” (their word) everyone and everything.

If you don’t participate, you’re intolerant. If they’ve designated you as part of the thing, you’re a “traitor” to a thing you never had anything to do with in the first place.

For info on 47XXY Klinefelter Syndrome, and a better understanding of why the message is incoherent. see here: “Biology of DSDs (1) Klinefelter Syndrome”

An open letter to all organisations using LGBTQI+

Inclusion is a wonderful thing – and we should all want a world where inclusion is valued, and everybody can be part of public life and free to live without stigma.  However, inclusion should not involve erasing or misrepresenting the needs of marginalised groups of people, tokenising their existence, without trying to understand their needs – especially when their needs are diverse and complex and not easily boiled down to a single letter.

The I does not stand for Invisible!

So, I would ask all organisations adding the I, do you really understand what this stands for and are you really trying to improve the lives of people living with variations of sex development?  Or are you just adding the I because you think this is the best way to look “inclusive”, whilst ignoring their actual needs?

The I also does not stand for Ignoring needs!

I have written in detail about the term intersex https://differently-normal.com/2021/10/25/the-invention-of-intersex/?preview_id=292&preview_nonce=9f62da2a5a&preview=true and probably the first thing to note, is that the majority of people who are living with differences of sex development, do not identify as intersex, may not know the term is used to describe their medical history and may even find the term difficult or even stigmatising.  It is also increasingly common for people without a DSD, to identify as intersex, with even Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome being claimed as the most common intersex variation, even though most women with PCOS would never describe themselves as intersex and this is not officially recognised by any medical organisation.

So, when adding the I, who are you representing?

1) People without a DSD who choose to identify as intersex – or

2) those with a DSD, who may not use or even like the term?

By adding the I, are you erasing the needs of the most vulnerable, including newly diagnosed children and instead prioritising the needs of people who see “intersex” as an identity, for ever more spurious reasons?

So, let’s think about needs?

Surely any genuinely inclusive organisation would want to consider the needs of the most vulnerable as a priority – and when this comes to the I, surely this would prioritise the 0.2% living with complex differences of sex development.  Some of these conditions are listed below:

Klinefelter’s Syndrome

Turner Syndrome

Mixed Gonadal Dysgenesis (Mosacism)

Complete Gonadal Dysgenesis

Partial Gonadal Dysgenesis

Frasier Syndrome

5-alpha reductase deficiency

17-beta deficiency

Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome

Partial Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome

Persistent Mullerian Duct Syndrome

Ovostesticular DSD

Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster Hauser (MRKH) syndrome

If your organisation does not know the names and does not understand the needs of people living with these complex conditions, are you in any way able to advocate for them?

Did you know that Turner syndrome can be associated with significant heart and kidney problems – or that Klinefelter’s can increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes or osteoporosis?

Does your organisation understand that girls with MRKH or Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome, may find out as young teens that they were born without a uterus and with a short vagina and that this can impact on both fertility and sexual function?  Can you provide information about options for vaginal hypoplasia, which can include dilators and surgery?  Can you provide the psychological support needed to come to terms with this information?  Are you aware that she may find her bodily difference being described as “intersex”, incredibly difficult – especially if this is done as part of “inclusivity” training and without understanding anything about her needs?

It may be especially difficult for a young teen, to be faced with their bodily difference being described as neither male or female, as is frequently suggested by lessons using the GenderBread person.  Is this genuinely being “inclusive”, or is this using a vulnerable group of people without considering their needs – and without engaging with expert advice as detailed here. https://dsdfamilies.org/application/files/9116/3519/2768/July_2021_schools.pdf

Does your organisation know that every year in the UK, around 150 babies are born with complex genital difference?  This can be associated with a number of life threatening and life limiting syndromes and further investigations may be needed to determine the cause and in rare cases, whether best to raise baby as a boy or a girl? Do you offer support to new parents facing these issues, so that they are able to advocate for their children?  Are you aware that labelling these babies as neither male or female or a third sex, can increase the risk of unnecessary surgeries?  Do you provide funding so that parents are equipped with the skills to raise confident children living with different bodies?

Does your organisation know that one of the most common causes of atypical genitalia, Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH), is a medical emergency and associated with the possibility of a life-threatening adrenal crisis?  Babies can develop arrhythmias, vomiting and dehydration shortly after birth and will need lifelong medication.  What support and information do you offer to these families – and does your organisation understand that the overwhelming majority of people with CAH, reject the term intersex?  Does your organisation understand that someone with CAH may be sitting in your “inclusivity” training and may be distressed by how you are describing their bodily difference?

When adding the I, without really understanding the I, are you misrepresenting the needs and bodies of people born with variations of sex developments and adding to public confusion?  Are you contributing to these conditions being weaponised and turned into memes that are used to discuss issues around sex and gender, without any genuine interest in needs?  Do you consider that there are likely people working in your organisation, who are living with these complex conditions and may find it traumatic to have their medical conditions misrepresented?

Most importantly, when adding the I, are you removing funding opportunities from the most at need – and are you preventing funding being available to meet the needs of those who are living with complex variations of sex development?

If by adding the I, you are genuinely wanting to improve the lives of people born with variations of sex development, we need more than just a hashtag – we need funding and services that prioritise our healthcare and psychological support.  If you genuinely want to be inclusive, do not misrepresent or ignore the voices of the people you are claiming to support – and do not add the I without first listening and understanding our needs.

If you are claiming to stand against interphobia and really want to end discrimination, please start by ensuring you don’t make the I invisible by ignoring our needs.

And finally, if you are serious about inclusion and your organisation really believes that we are more than just a hashtag, consider donating to our needs https://dsdfamilies.org/donate

==

Stop using intersex people as pawns in identity bullshit. Particularly when you don’t know what it means.

For more information about DSDs, aka “intersex,” see: “Biology of DSDs - Exploring the basic biology of eight congenital conditions of sex development.”

[multifandomfix]

Frasier Crane Fluff Alphabet

A = Aroma (What do they smell like?)

Frasier smells of sage, pine and sherry.

B = Babe (What would they use as pet names? Do they use them a lot?)

He’s not one for overly cute or cliche pet names. He’s much more into the classics. Dear, darling, etc.

C = Cuddles (Do they like to cuddle? How would they cuddle?)

He does like to cuddle, especially in the morning before the both of you have to get up. He loves having your head on his chest.

D = Domestic (Do they want to settle down? What would they think about living together?)

He definitely wants to settle down at some point. Despite his divorce, he does long for that sort of intimacy and domesticity again.

E = Emotion (How affectionate are they? How do they show affection?)

Frasier shows his affection in any and all ways he can, but not so much that it overwhelms you. He’s pretty much a master at all five love languages and balances them all perfectly.

F = Flirt (How do they flirt? Are they smooth or awkward?)

He’s a pretty smooth flirt, though sometimes he’ll try too hard and spice up his vocabulary enough that the actual intent of his words are lost on you.

G = Gifts (Are they a gift giver? What kind of gifts do they give?)

He does give gifts, and great ones too. Typically he reserves them for special occasions, but occasionally he’ll just come home with a present for you behind his back.

H = Hugs (Do they like hugs? How often do they do it? What are their hugs like?)

He does like hugs. To him they’re warm and comforting. He typically gives you a hug goodbye, accompanied with a kiss on the cheek.

I = I Love You (How fast do they say the L-word?)

At least four months in. He has to be sure he’s ready to say it and also fairly confident that you’re ready to hear it. He’ll plan a whole date for the day he’s going to tell you.

J = Jealousy (How jealous do they get? What do they do when they’re jealous?)

He doesn’t get too jealous, typically. If it’s a friend or a rival of his that’s trying to flirt with you, he will get a little steamed and maybe, possibly cause a scene which he’ll have to apologize for later.

K = Kisses (What are their kisses like? Where do they like to kiss you?)

Frasier’s kisses tend to be very sweet and filled with romance. He’s fond of kissing your cheek and also your hand like the gentleman he is.

L = Little ones (How are they around children? Would they want some of their own?)

He’s fine with children, though sometimes a bit awkward when attempting to communicate with younger ones who may not always understand him. He’d definitely like to try again and be a better, more present, dad than he was/is to Freddy.

M = Meet (How did they meet you?)

He met you at Cafe Nervosa. You were ahead of him in line and were ordering the same thing he was going to, so he struck up a conversation and ended up asking you out.

N = Nurture (Are they good at taking care of you if you’re hurt/sick?)

Honestly, it’s one of his weaker points. He’ll order you soup from any restaurant in town and make sure you’re well stocked with supplies to keep you comfortable, but he really doesn’t love spending time around sick people.

O = Out (What’s a typical date night with them like?)

Typically dinner, maybe followed by some dancing, or a trip to the opera. There’s also a fair amount of events and galas he takes you to as his date.

P = Propose (When do you/they propose? How does the proposal go?)

He proposes after about a year and a half together. At this point he knows he’s serious about you, and decides it’s time he proved it. The proposal, though meticulously planned, was an utter disaster, but you still said yes at the end of the night anyway.

Q = Quirk (What small habit/feature/quirk do they have that you find especially endearing?)

You love his radio voice. He sometimes teases you about it, but it’s honestly so soothing and he sometimes uses it to lull you to sleep.

R = Routine (What does a typical day together look like? Routines, schedules, habits?)

You don’t tend to get ready with one another in the mornings, but the evenings will often see the two of you cooking together or going out, and spending some quality time together before bed.

S = Security (How protective are they? How would they protect you?)

He’s protective, sure, but not in any sort of dramatic sense. He’ll keep you out of the majority of his limelight if you’re not comfortable sharing it —and your relationship— so publicly.

T = Try (How much effort would they put into dates, anniversaries, etc?)

He puts a good amount of time and effort into most things when it comes to you. He wants you to know he cares and that he’s lovingly put in an extra special touch just for you.

U = Unique (What’s something they’d only do for you?)

Frasier isn’t much for dirtying his hands, but if you wanted to take up something like gardening, he’d support you and join in when he can.

V = Vulnerable (How long does it take them to feel comfortable being vulnerable around you?)

Frasier might be a tad too comfortable being vulnerable around you. He likes to be a fairly open book and has a tendency on occasion to overshare.

W = Wardrobe (What would they wear to impress you?)

There’s hardly anything in Frasier’s closet that doesn’t impress. Yet seeing him dressed more casually is actually the thing that never fails to surprise you and make you smile.

X = Xtra (A random headcanon for them.)

He loves playing games. Card games, board games, chess, etc and it’s even better if you can give him a run for his money while playing.

Y = You (What are some things they would like in a partner?)

Frasier wants someone who is open and honest, willing to communicate and not keep their feelings bottled up.

Z = Zzz (What are their sleep habits?)

He’s a pretty consistent sleeper, keeps a fairly regular sleep schedule when possible and does, occasionally snore a bit.

For @bell-of-indecision

Frasier Crane: @softmalldrifting

[ivan-fyodorovich-k]

I abandoned academia about 7 years ago. I have an MA in history and was teaching adjunct classes for peanuts with no benefits or anything of the like and no guarantee of a job when the semester was done. One summer after the 2nd summer session ended I put in for a job in construction specifically dirt moving (building roads) due to needing the money and haven't looked back ever since. Im currently a heavy equipment operator and foreman. I make more money annually than a tenure track professor makes at the college I was at; the benefits are great with a 401k and health insurance; I still get 3 months off out of the year due to weather (in northern North America you can't do effective dirt work in the winter) and an added bonus of when I'm off the clock at 5:30 pm or during the weekends I'm off. There's no students or students parents to deal with after hours, no tests to grade, no papers to work on, no lectures to write, no faculty meetings or "mixers" etc... Maybe take some of the time between semesters to try something different, you never know you may find it works out to be something you enjoy more. If not I'm sure academia will still be there to go back to.

A lot of people tend to bring up the embarrassingly low pay of college professors as if this were a rhetorical slam dunk but generally people trying to be academics are well aware that it doesn't pay well and despite this poor payment there is still an amazing surplus of people who want to do academic work for the number of postings available (the low wages are therefore no mystery); I make more doing ____ isn't inherently compelling. I would make as much as a low-level draftsman as I can expect to make starting out at most colleges with a tenure track position.

I think if I wanted to chase money I would try to find something that would involve less time outdoors in the summer. I also don't think I would fit in well with the people who do that for a living, having done some blue collar work in the past I don't really want to live the Frasier-in-Cheers life of being reminded I'm a faggot for having a PhD and enjoying reading

In fact I went to academia in part to escape that. If I were the kind of person who was happy punching the clock for a decent wage I would still be doing that, but it bores me to death

It occurs to me however that the spirit in which this is written is less " do construction" than it is "there are other good things to do and what you might like may surprise you," which is a point well taken, but I do not think I have the luxury of too much experimentation at this point as I am in my mid-30s with much student loan debt and many dependents

I think my next thing kind of has to be my thing

famous last words

[supersabbatical2024]

4/15/24: Take OFF

We had a sabbatical with our kids 10 years ago, but we always new we might be heading off on our own on the next sabbatical. Here we are, flying duo, and feeling incredibly grateful to be meeting up with Mari a couple times during this multi phased trip, and also knowing our son is holding down the fort, caring for our special loved ones, including our dear Normie, and yes, Oreo, who seriously injured his back 48 hours before we left.

Was really intense heading off, away from Normie, not to mention our ailing dog, and the idea that anything can happen at any time. Life is funny that way, so you really have to remember to live and find joy. —-Quote from a not particularly famous daughter, mother, wife, dog mom, and home health aide, Sara Goetz

Claude upgraded us to Polaris on Untied to Nice, and that is fully half the fun of a trip — faucet OPEN. We each had our little pod, we had wine with dinner and ice cream sundaes for dessert, with hot fudge AND caramel —now THAT is living. And then Claude slept. I used the restroom, pulled out my drawing stuff and a magazine and my headphones and struggled with the tray table, used the bathroom, tried to read my magazine, watched 4 four episodes of the Frasier reboot show (and used restroom), tried to read my magazine, watched a movie, messed around with the lie-flat seat controls (…could it be that not flat was more comfortable than flat flat? Let me try that again…); had to pee again and then got myself situated again, tried to read my magazine, used the bathroom again; messed around with the remote control, located Relaxation DeepSleep mode, tested out the various video options combined with various audio options, but “mediation” music was kind of scary sounding, nature music was repetitive, classical (never truly calming for me, I think it dates back to when my dad would lug his 2 foot tall stereo speakers right up to the kitchen doorway and blow us all away with the classical radio station); ambient music was oddly bouncy and upbeat; switched to cities video, and “chill beats” which were not that chill, and the cities on the screen were too bright for sleeping, and my headphones were too bulky to lie on my side for sleeping, so I switched to Mari’s old airpods (which only have sound when twisted into a very specific position in your ear); then tried to get comfortable again, went to pee again, and then moved the seat up and down and determined that slightly less than full flat was truly the most comfortable; and then I got hot and changed out of my jeans right there under the blanket and THEN, I slept for a couple hours before we landed. And you know what Claude was doing the whOLE time…?

We rented our car and Claude drove us the 1.5 hrs to Aix to find the dump of a place that Claude picked out this time…all terraces and private gardens and beautiful arty decor, a pool complete with lion’s head fountain, chaise lounges, and a glorious minstrel breeze in the morning (Claude tells me it’s actually called a “Mistral” wind, which makes way more sense). If ya like that sort of thing. Seriously, though, it was just GORGeous!

We took naps and then dragged a ourselves out to dinner armed with a few suggestions from our lovely host Carole, and a will to meander. We ended up at Fauborg 46 (F’bg), where I had a fine Daurade and Claude had a steak. I had a Chardonnay, and actually said to the waiter, “un vin blanc, si vous plait” (just like Saski taught me before I left). French wine—Dee Lish OUS. Very hard to concentrate as we sat on the couch back at our place. I tried to read a kid’s book, T’Quipo about a not human but not quite bear with a red circle for a nose. Claude perused the tour guide for what to do tomorrow. He was looking for something slightly more specific than our general goal to eat as many croissants as possible in the next few weeks. I love staring at my husband sleeping, and I love when he wakes up, and I feel really really lucky to be on this trip, and this whole life’s journey, together with him.

[lavellenchanted]

9 Fandom Peeps to Get to Know Better

I was tagged by the lovely @emilykaldwen 💛

3 ships you like: Zutara, Clerith, Alicole

First ship ever: Usagi/Mamoru from Sailor Moon, or Serena/Darien as they were in the English dub I watched when I was 6. They imprinted on my wee developing brain and formed the blueprint for so much of my tastes.

Last song that you heard: Orpheus by Sara Bareilles.

Favourite childhood book: Oh, trying to pick just one is nearly impossible, but I think I probably have to give it to Anne of Green Gables.

Currently Reading: League of Dragons by Naomi Novik.

Currently Watching: I'm watching Season 5 of The Crown with my mum (literally watching an episode as I type this), and doing a joint rewatch of Frasier with some friends.

Currently consuming: A diet coke, and I just finished a chocolate bar.

Currently craving: A very long holiday. For all the many fics in my head to write themselves. My phone back from the repair shop.

I'm tagging @wheremermaidsdwell, @thesokovianaccords, @minim236, @misscrawfords and my meme bestie @theawkwardterrier (if you want to do it!)

[gummybugg]

Hi! Happy WBW! This week I've been thinking a lot about religion so... What is considered sacrilegious in your world? Is it common to encounter such a thing or is it punishable (or maybe both)? How do religious institutions react?

Happy wbw & its been a while so hello again. been busy with my life & am not the most active online person but do try :')

There are currently 2 religions in the story: the Brotherhood of Mars Lake & The Motherboard. None of the cast from Crater City are religious that I know of, except forrr Desmond, who eventually escapes his religion (the former) over the course of the story. Don't think I mentioned him at all on here, though. For this ask I will talk abt the Mars Lake cult bc I feel like it.

A little background about it before the questions...

The Brotherhood of Mars Lake was founded by an unknown man who was rumored to have survived the first apocalypse by using the lake's resources alone. The Lake is magic by all those who worship it. It is said to cure ailments if dunked in its water. Followers can be initiated into the religion by being dunked into the water by a leader (Desmond) or by drinking its rusty water. The "chosen one" is deemed to be Frasier after he mistakenly wandered into the area & followers caught a glimpse of him while followers were stuck under the lake's "charm" (they were suffering from radiation poisoning). He avoids the lake to this day regardless of the gifts and letters he keeps receiving to save the world. Darcy thinks it's funny he still gets "fan mail" to this day.

What is considered sacrilegious in your world?

Disrespecting the lake, calling the lake "Lake Menses" due to its red color, disregarding the intrinsic value of the lake, polluting the lake, denouncing the legend of the founder and/or chosen one.

Is it common to encounter such a thing or is it punishable (or maybe both)?

Yes for both, many people make fun of the religion all the time outside of it.

How do religious institutions react?

If you speak poorly of the religion, your tongue can be sliced off and used as fish bait for the next feast, you can be held in the lake for over 30 minutes resulting in death, or you can be excommunicated

Anyway that was fun, so thank u for the ask! 🎉🪲🎉