#Importance of Voice Search Optimization

[blanchetteminxia]

rin existed in a world of controlled variables. his training regimen was a precisely calibrated equation, his diet a fuel source optimized for peak performance, his interactions… minimal. he was a lone wolf, self-sufficient, driven by a singular, icy purpose.

then you came along.

you were a force of nature, a sunbeam that refused to be extinguished by his perpetual twilight. you fussed. you cared. you pampered. it was… infuriating.

every morning, a meticulously packed lunchbox would appear on his kitchen counter. "for later," you'd say, your voice annoyingly cheerful. he'd scowl, tell you he wasn't a child, that he could handle his own nutrition. and then, without fail, he'd eat every last bite.

you tried to regulate his sleep schedule, nagging him to rest, to not overexert himself. he'd snap, tell you to stay out of his business, that he knew his limits. and then, when exhaustion threatened to overwhelm him, he'd find himself craving the quiet comfort of your presence, the gentle pressure of your hand on his forehead.

he was a paradox, a contradiction he couldn't reconcile. he resented your interference, yet he'd grown accustomed to the subtle ways you smoothed the jagged edges of his existence.

your anniversary was a fault line. you planned a quiet dinner, a rare concession to sentimentality. but rin had a crucial practice session. a chance to perfect a new technique, to push himself further.

"rin, it's our anniversary," you'd said, your voice pleading, the first crack in your usual cheerful facade.

"practice is more important," he retorted, the words clipped and cold. he saw the hurt in your eyes, the way your shoulders slumped, but he was too consumed by his own ambition to care.

you argued, your voice rising, a rare display of anger. he dismissed your concerns, his own stress and exhaustion twisting his words into weapons. he hadn't meant to be cruel, but the words had flown out, sharp and unforgiving.

"you're being ridiculous," he spat. "i have to do this."

and then he stormed out, the door slamming behind him, the sound echoing the finality of his decision. through his rage, he had completely forgotten about breakfast.

you thought about your exchange the entire morning.

later, the guilt gnawed at you. you, who always tried to understand, to smooth things over. you cooked his favorite meal, a peace offering, a silent apology. you took it to the gym, hoping to catch him after practice.

he was a whirlwind of fury. he hadn't seen you. he felt the familiar pressure of expectation, the weight of your concern, and it pushed him over the edge.

"fuck off!" he roared, his voice raw, his eyes blazing. he hadn't even looked at the food you held out. just the sight of you, the reminder of your constant, unwavering care, had been enough to trigger his volatile emotions.

you'd flinched, the hurt finally outweighing the understanding. you placed the container on a nearby bench, hand lingering for a moment, as if hoping he'd change his mind. then, you turned and walked away, your steps heavy with a sorrow that mirrored his own.

when he returned home, the silence was deafening. the apartment felt vast and empty, devoid of your presence. there was no lingering scent of your cooking, no soft hum of your voice, no gentle clutter of your belongings.

for the first time in months, he felt free- relieved of your attention.

he told himself he didn't care. he was free. he could finally breathe, exist without the constant, suffocating… care.

but then, practice became a hollow routine. he'd zone out, his movements sluggish, his focus fractured. he couldn't shake the phantom weight of your hand on his shoulder, the echo of your laughter.

he found himself inexplicably hungry. a gnawing, persistent hunger that no amount of protein bars could satisfy. he'd catch himself searching for the familiar aroma of your cooking, a scent that had once been a comforting backdrop to his solitary existence.

he'd come home, expecting the usual quiet. but now, the quiet was a vacuum, sucking the very life out of him. he'd wander through the empty rooms, his footsteps echoing in the stillness, a growing unease settling in his stomach.

he was alone. truly, utterly alone. and the relief he thought he felt was a cruel illusion, replaced by a desolation that stretched out before him, vast and unforgiving. he had pushed you away, and in doing so, he lost a part of himself he hadn't even realized existed.

[edenesth]

TWTHH Bonus: The Little Lotus Blooms

Pairing: general!Seonghwa x wife!reader

AU: arranged marriage au (Joseon era)

Word Count: 3.8k

Summary: Life has been hell ever since your mother's passing many years ago. Despite being from a prominent family, you've never received the privileges associated with it. It only got worse with the arrival of your stepmother and her daughters. When the intimidating General Park was in search of a wife, your father seized the opportunity to dispose of you, simultaneously securing a connection with the powerful general—killing two birds with one stone.

A/N: This takes place after all of the members' spinoffs. It's probably best for you to finish everything before reading this, but it can also be read if you do not mind spoilers and have no intention of reading the spinoffs.

Fic Masterlist | Spinoff Masterlist

"Still stuck on the baby's name, I see," came the familiar voice that never failed to both irritate and amuse your husband. Seonghwa smirked, his hand still gently rubbing your tummy. "And what does that have anything to do with you?"

The dressmaker scoffed dramatically, placing a hand over his heart in mock offense as he approached. "It has everything to do with me, especially since I'm clearly going to be the godfather of this little one."

You smiled, but before you could respond, the general spoke first. "In your dreams, Kim Hongjoong. You won't be this one's godfather, so it's time to let go of that fantasy. If you're so eager to be a father, I suggest you focus on having one of your own. After all, you're about to have a Mrs. of your own soon enough."

Before Hongjoong could form a coherent response, he sputtered and flailed, completely caught off guard by the mention of his upcoming wedding. His face flushed a deep crimson, and for a moment, he looked utterly lost. After what felt like an eternity, he finally managed to find his voice.

"T-that's… none of your business!" he stammered, clearly flustered. After all, it had taken him forever to gather the courage to propose to poor Miss Baek. The lengthy courtship had almost convinced the girl's family that the dressmaker had no real intention of marriage, leading to whispered doubts that he was just stringing their daughter along. He hadn't heard the end of it until the day he finally asked for her hand.

Just as he opened his mouth to shoot back a retort at Seonghwa, another voice broke into the conversation.

"About damn time, Kim!" Yunho called out, his deep laughter filling the room as he approached. The physician looked far too smug, and the gleam of amusement in his eyes only made Hongjoong's face burn brighter. The dressmaker shot him a glare.

"Don't get all cocky just because you got married slightly earlier than I did!" the older male of the two snapped, crossing his arms defiantly over his chest. "What are you even doing here?! The dinner isn't for hours."

The general and his wife shared a knowing look, unable to stifle their chuckles as the doctor raised a brow at the accusation.

"I could ask you the same," Yunho replied, unfazed. He gestured to the bags of medical supplies at his feet. "I'm here to ensure the mistress is in optimal condition before meeting everyone, of course."

Hongjoong sniffed, waving a dismissive hand before gesturing to the garments draped over his arm—a collection of beautifully embroidered hanboks. "And I'm here to ensure she looks as stunning as always. Just as important as you, Jung. Don't flatter yourself. I understand good health is essential," he added, glancing the taller man up and down pointedly. "But clearly, a complete lack of fashion sense can be just as problematic."

Yunho's eyes widened in sheer offence. "Excuse me? What do you mean, a lack of fashion sense?! My wife said I looked—"

The dressmaker lifted a hand, silencing him immediately. "Of course she did, my friend. She's your wife; she has to say that. But I'm not, so I can be brutally honest."

Yunho's mouth opened, then closed again, clearly affronted. "You—"

"Don't take it too personally," Seonghwa interjected, his smirk deepening as he rested a protective hand over your belly. "You know how he is. The moment there's even a whiff of competition, he'll immediately declare himself the best at whatever it is."

"Which is everything," Hongjoong sniffed, lifting his chin proudly.

"That's debatable," the general drawled with a pointed look.

Hongjoong's mouth opened, ready with a comeback, but the doctor raised a hand to cut him off, the irritation from earlier melting into weary acceptance. "Alright, alright, let's get back to why I'm actually here—to make sure our dear Lady Park and the baby are doing well."

The dressmaker rolled his eyes dramatically, waving Yunho off with a dismissive flick of his hand. "Fine, do your little check-up. But once you're done, it's my turn. I have real work to attend to—unlike some people who just poke needles into others all day."

Yunho sighed, dragging a hand down his face in feigned exasperation, while Seonghwa and you exchanged amused looks. They were always like this—bickering, teasing, and turning even the simplest interactions into a spectacle of humour and banter.

You smiled softly. Thinking back to when you first met them all, you never could have imagined that your husband's closest friends would become yours too, filling your life with such unexpected warmth.

Jongho sighed heavily as he stepped into the room, his gaze zeroing in on the dressmaker with a look of pure exasperation. "I swear, there can never be peace with you around. I told you to come an hour later, but you never listen—"

Hongjoong immediately raised a fist, eyes narrowing in mock indignation. "Watch your tone! I'm still older than you," he warned, but the assistant only rolled his eyes, unfazed as he reached out and unceremoniously grabbed the dressmaker by the sleeve.

"And if you don't cooperate, I'll tell Miss Baek you were being difficult again."

That instantly shut him up. The effect was almost comical—the once-feisty designer went rigid, then muttered something unintelligible under his breath before letting the younger man drag him out of the room. The rest of you couldn't hold back your laughter, chuckling at how quickly Hongjoong folded at the mere mention of his fiancée. It was a sight that never got old.

"Well," the physician grinned, shaking his head in amusement, "looks like we've finally found his weakness."

The general chuckled, his gaze lingering on the doorway where the two had vanished. "It's not just him. Look at the rest of us," he said, raising a brow knowingly.

You pressed your lips together, trying to stifle a smile as Yunho continued his check-up, his touch gentle and practised as he listened for the baby's heartbeat. He looked so different now compared to when you'd first met—less guarded, more at ease. The once-serious physician now wore a relaxed smile as he worked. Miss Ryu truly had softened him, just like Miss Kwon had done for Jongho.

Your heart swelled at the thought. Absentmindedly, you rubbed your belly, glancing up at your husband with a soft expression. "They've all changed, haven't they?" you murmured quietly.

His eyes warmed as they met yours, his gaze filled with a tenderness that made your heart flutter. "Yes, they have. Just like I have," he murmured, leaning down to press a gentle kiss to your temple. "All thanks to you."

Warmth spread through your chest, and you shifted your gaze back to Yunho, then to the door where Hongjoong and Jongho had disappeared moments before. A sense of anticipation bubbled within you as you thought of the others you'd be seeing later—San, Mingi, and Wooyoung, who had become like brothers to you, and, of course... Prince Yeosang, your dearest friend.

As you imagined future gatherings, you could already see a bustling and heartwarming scene filled with little ones running around, laughter and shouts echoing through the halls, and these men transforming into doting fathers and playful uncles.

Gosh, you could hardly wait to see it all unfold. The future seemed so bright and full of promise, and you knew, deep in your heart, that it would only get better from here.

"What's got you so deep in thought, my lady?" the dressmaker asked with a gentle smile as he carefully painted the signature flower on your forehead—the perfect final touch, as always.

You hesitated, biting your lip. "Do you think His Highness will come?"

Hongjoong scoffed lightly. "I genuinely have no idea, my lady. He seems awfully busy with his new princess," he remarked, and you nodded, a wide smile blooming on your lips.

"He is, and I'm so happy he's finally found someone."

"Then why does it matter if the prince is here?" he teased, raising an eyebrow. "Everyone already knows I'm going to be this little one's godfather anyway."

You clicked your tongue playfully, rolling your eyes. "Here we go again. I wouldn't be so confident if I were you."

He placed his hands on his hips, feigning offence. "I'm your idiot husband's oldest friend; it only makes sense that I get the title. The rest should just accept it and fall in line."

You burst into laughter, shaking your head at his stubbornness. When he finally finished, he stepped back, giving you a once-over before softening, then moved to sit across from you. "You look stunning, my lady."

"Thank you, Joong, for always reminding me of that," you said warmly. "But flattery won't get you anywhere—I've already made up my mind, and it won't be you."

He shot up from his seat, gasping dramatically. "What do you mean it won't be me?! You can't do this to me!"

Before you could respond, the doors to the House of Lotus swung open, and your husband entered. This time, however, he wasn't alone. In his arms, nestled close and bundled in delicate silks, was a little something—or rather, someone—very dear to your heart.

"That's enough, Kim Hongjoong," Seonghwa drawled, his voice tinged with mock annoyance as he stepped forward. "How greedy can you be, huh? You're already Yeonjoo's godfather. I'm not giving you the title again for our next child."

Your heart swelled at the sight—the way it always did whenever you saw your little princess cradled in her father's loving embrace. Her soft giggles filled the room as her tiny fingers curled around his sleeve, and a smile spread across your face. That's right—Hongjoong had been named godfather to your firstborn two years ago. Much to your disappointment, the prince hadn't been able to attend her birth celebration despite his promise, but you understood. He had new priorities and commitments. Still, a small part of you hoped he'd be here this time—for the sake of old memories, and perhaps to provide a sense of closure.

The dressmaker's eyes lit up, and his earlier sulkiness vanished as he nearly skipped forward, excitement radiating off him. "Oh, my little Yeonjoo!" he cooed, his face softening as he reached out to take her carefully from your husband's arms.

"Ugh, fine," he muttered, holding her close and gently stroking her hair as if she were the most delicate thing in the world. "I bet you're just trying to spare my precious Yeonjoo from getting jealous. I suppose one of those other losers can have the honour for the next one," he grumbled, pouting slightly as he gazed down at the little girl.

You chuckled softly at his dramatic tone. Titles aside, it was clear Hongjoong adored your daughter deeply. She looked up at him with wide, shining eyes and a bright smile that could melt even the sternest of hearts, and it was obvious she shared that affection. You watched, warmth flooding your chest, as she patted his cheek clumsily, babbling a string of sweet nonsense that made the man's expression melt into a delighted grin.

"See? Even she agrees," he sniffed proudly, shooting a triumphant look at Seonghwa.

The general rolled his eyes, crossing his arms, but the fondness in his gaze was unmistakable. "Just because my daughter doesn't know better yet doesn't mean I'll indulge you."

"Your appa's just being mean," Hongjoong murmured softly to Yeonjoo, his voice filled with exaggerated sympathy. The little girl giggled, her laughter bright and clear. "But don't worry, sweetheart. You'll always be godfather's number one."

You shook your head, laughter bubbling in your chest as you watched them. "Honestly, Joong, you're going to spoil her rotten."

"Going to?" Seonghwa quirked a brow, looking amused. "He already has." Then he turned his gaze to you, his eyes softening. "But I think our princess deserves to be spoiled a little, don't you?"

You smiled up at him. "Of course. Only the best for our little girl."

"Well, since I won't be the next one's godfather," Hongjoong said, feigning indifference, "who are you going to pick? Don't tell me you're actually considering one of those blockheads."

You exchanged a knowing look with your husband before turning back to the dressmaker, a playful smile dancing on your lips. "Maybe. Or maybe I have someone else in mind entirely."

As if on cue, Eunsook, your head maid, appeared at the entrance and offered a respectful bow, her smile warm. Right beside her was Miss Kwon, the ever-diligent maternity expert, who immediately stepped forward, carefully guiding you to your feet.

"The guests have arrived, master and mistress," Eunsook announced softly.

Hongjoong sighed dramatically but complied, reluctantly handing Yeonjoo back to her father. "I suppose I should join the rest of those ruffians then," he murmured, leaning down to press a gentle kiss to the child's cheek before straightening up with a smirk. "See you out there, General and Lady Park."

With one last playful wink, the dressmaker slipped out, leaving the room with a swirl of elegant robes. Your heart fluttered in anticipation, excitement bubbling up within you. You were going to see all your friends again—the people who had become your family over the years.

As Seonghwa cradled your daughter close, his free hand reached for yours, giving it a reassuring squeeze. You glanced up at him, smiling softly, and he returned the look, his gaze brimming with unspoken emotions. Together, you made your way toward the hall.

"You look well, my lady. Did the medication I recommended help with your sleep disturbances?" Royal Physician Ahn asked as she approached, her voice gentle yet laced with the attentiveness of a true healer. It was the first chance she'd had to speak with you after the initial rounds of greetings exchanged. You had grown fond of her since meeting her at the royal banquet, and especially so after Mingi had begun openly courting her. Since then, she'd been a constant presence in your life, whether by her own will or by His Majesty's orders, assisting in your care both during the last birth and your current pregnancy.

You nodded warmly, squeezing her hand in return. "It did, Physician Ahn. It worked like magic. I've been sleeping like a baby lately, all thanks to you."

Her shoulders relaxed visibly, and she let out a soft sigh of relief. You couldn't help the grin that tugged at your lips as you leaned closer, your tone turning mischievous. "Congratulations on your engagement, by the way. Who would have thought Officer Song had it in him to win you over, hm?"

A delicate blush painted her cheeks as she stammered, utterly flustered. But before you could tease her further, a tall shadow loomed beside her, and Mingi stepped in, a broad grin spreading across his face as he slid an arm around his fiancée's shoulders. "Now, now, Lady Park, let's not overwhelm her," he chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling with affection. "You know she's still not used to all the attention."

"I'm simply complimenting your success, Officer Song," you shot back playfully. "It's not every day someone catches the interest of the Royal Physician."

Mingi's grin widened, but before he could respond, another voice interjected, stealing your attention.

"Look at you, Lady Park. It feels like just yesterday we were celebrating little Yeonjoo's birth, and now, here we are again, awaiting another mini Park. You and the general certainly don't waste time, do you?" Scholar Moon's teasing tone cut through the room as she approached, linked arm-in-arm with her husband, Royal Secretary Choi.

You felt your cheeks flame at the comment, especially when San shot his wife a chiding look and squeezed her arm as if to gently rein her in. "Darling, don't embarrass the lady," he murmured softly, though the amusement in his eyes belied his words.

You tried to sputter a reply, mortified, but before you could get a word out, a familiar warmth appeared at your side. Your husband was suddenly there, his presence solid and reassuring, a small, amused smirk playing at his lips. He looked so effortlessly charming, and it made your heart flutter just looking at him.

"Indeed, we don't waste time," he agreed smoothly, his gaze shifting playfully to Scholar Moon. "But perhaps it's time you and San hurry up and have one of your own as well, Scholar Moon."

Her mouth fell open in shock, eyes widening as she spluttered, "I—! We're not—!"

"I don't think we're quite there yet," Secretary Choi intervened gently, though his strained smile hinted at his own embarrassment. His eyes flicked between you and the general before landing back on his wife, whose face was now a bright shade of red.

Stifling a laugh, you nudged Seonghwa lightly. "Behave, Hwa," you murmured, though your grin betrayed your halfhearted scolding.

"But it's true, isn't it?" he persisted with mock innocence, raising an eyebrow. "Everyone knows San's eager to start a family. Why not make it official?" He cast the secretary's wife a pointed look, making her blush deepen to an alarming shade.

"You—!" she started, but before she could finish, a joyful peal of laughter rang out from across the room. You turned your head just in time to see Investigator Jung cradling Yeonjoo in his arms with his partner hovering close beside him with an adoring look on her face as she watched the two of them.

"Yeonjoo certainly knows how to charm everyone, doesn't she?" Miss Han remarked warmly, her gaze softening as she looked up at the little girl. "Just look at her. She's going to be quite the heartbreaker one day."

Wooyoung chuckled, gently bouncing the child and eliciting a delighted squeal from her. "With parents like these two? There's no doubt about it." He glanced over at you and Seonghwa, his playful expression turning sincere. "Congratulations again, General, Lady Park. Your family is truly blessed."

"Thank you, Wooyoung," you replied softly, watching as your daughter gurgled happily in his arms. Your gaze shifted to Miss Han, her presence calm and grounding beside him. "And I hope it's not long before we're congratulating the two of you as well."

She blushed, her eyes darting to Wooyoung, who just laughed, the sound rich and unburdened. "Perhaps soon," he murmured, a hint of promise in his voice. "But for now, let's focus on celebrating you."

It was then that you caught Miss Ryu's gaze from across the room—her smile brightening the moment your eyes met. Now officially Yunho's wife, she looked radiant as ever as she hurried over, her husband trailing behind her with a knowing grin.

"Oh, you're glowing, my lady. I'm convinced this one's a son," she said, her voice lilting with excitement.

The physician chuckled softly beside her. "She's been saying that for months now," he teased, gently squeezing her shoulder.

You shared a hopeful glance with Seonghwa before turning back to her. "Thank you. We've been hoping for a boy too," you admitted, warmth filling your chest at the thought.

Before anyone could say more, Hongjoong sauntered over, his arm loosely wrapped around his fiancée's back. "I'm sure having a son is nice and all," he scoffed lightly, "but are you positive that's why she's glowing?" His gaze turned mischievous as he leaned forward, clearly fishing for compliments.

Miss Baek's eyes widened, and she gave him a small nudge, cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "Joong, please…"

But the dressmaker, being himself, merely shot her a wink. He cast a playful look at the physician's wife, who raised a brow in challenge. The teasing rivalry between them was no secret, and it extended to their spouses as well.

"If you think it's your makeup skills making her glow, I'm going to have to scientifically explain to you why it's a lot more than just your artificial tools enhancing her appearance," the herbalist shot back with a laugh, her words soft yet precise. Her analytical nature was showing, and it made Yunho's smile grow wider.

Hongjoong's jaw dropped, feigning outrage. "Excuse me? Are you doubting my artistic abilities, Mrs. Jung?"

Just then, Jongho appeared, his hand linked with Miss Kwon's as they joined the growing circle. He rolled his eyes, already looking exasperated. "Please, don't start. I swear, every time you two are in the same room, it turns into a debate."

You stifled a laugh, shaking your head as you glanced around at the gathered group. Yet, despite the lively chatter and warm company, there was still a lingering sense of something—someone—missing. You found yourself scanning the room again, your heart dipping slightly as you realised that perhaps he truly wasn't coming after all. Maybe the promises of friendship had been nothing more than a polite white lie to comfort you back then. Perhaps…

"Apologies for our tardiness! It felt like the entire city decided to celebrate with us today—the crowds made it nearly impossible for our carriage to get through smoothly."

The deep, familiar voice cut through the air, and everyone's heads whipped around in unison. After a moment of stunned silence, they quickly bowed deeply, voices mingling in a respectful murmur.

"These subjects greet Your Highnesses."

Yeosang and his wife exchanged quick, flustered glances before raising their hands to stop the gesture. "Oh no, please! There's no need for such formality," the newly minted fourth princess said warmly. "We're here as friends today."

It was your first time meeting her, but her grace and kindness were immediately apparent, and you found yourself thinking how perfectly she complemented the prince. Your heart, which had felt heavy just moments ago, lightened at the sight of the couple as they stepped forward to join the circle.

The fourth prince's gaze found yours, and he flashed you a familiar, boyish grin. "I hope we haven't missed too much. Please, let the princess and me know how we can make up for our tardiness."

Your smile softened warmly. "Better late than never, Your Highnesses." You glanced at your husband, a sense of peace washing over you as he gave you a gentle, encouraging nod.

"No need to worry," you continued with a welcoming tone. "You haven't missed anything major. After all, the main event can't truly begin without the new baby's godparents present." The royal couple's eyes widened in surprise at your words, while the rest of your friends cheered.

"And you can make up for being late by accepting the role," General Park added with a teasing smile.

And that is all, folks. This is the final chapter and it officially concludes the TWTHH series. It's a bittersweet feeling to end it; it's undoubtedly one of my proudest creations, but I'm also super excited to finally be able to work on newer things!

Once again, I just want to thank each and every one of you for being with me on this journey. I hope this epilogue was decent! Perhaps some of you might not agree with who I've chosen to be little Park's godfather (but my heart wants what it wants lmfao). Y'all, let me know your thoughts! It'd be awesome if you could share a bit about how you stumbled upon this story and what you liked about it! <3

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[bijoutarot]

March Love Predictions 💕

Pick An Image ✨

Hello, beautiful souls! Ready to dive into the energy of love this month? Here are your March Love Predictions, based on the powerful energy of the tarot. Each image represents a specific vibe for your love life, whether you're in a relationship or searching for your soulmate. Let the cards guide you through what March has in store! 🌟✨

✨ Image 1: The Star 🌟

This month, you're likely to experience a sense of renewal and hope in your love life. The Star brings healing energy, suggesting that any challenges you've faced in the past are now starting to fade away. Whether you're in a relationship or single, there's a sense of peace and optimism surrounding you. If you’ve felt distant or disconnected from love, The Star signals that you are now aligned with your highest self and ready to embrace the love you deserve. If you're single, a soul connection may appear when you least expect it, bringing deep emotional fulfillment.

Affirmation:

"I attract love and positivity into my life with ease and grace."

The key for March: Stay open to love and trust that the universe is guiding you toward something beautiful. 🌟

✨ Image 2: The Lovers 💑

The Lovers card is all about partnership, harmony, and choices. March is the month where love truly blooms—whether it’s the deepening of a current relationship or an exciting new connection on the horizon. If you're already in a committed relationship, this card suggests that mutual understanding and affection will strengthen your bond. If you're single, you may face an important decision or crossroads in your love life. Someone may come into your life who aligns perfectly with your values and desires, and it may require a decision to be made about what kind of relationship you want moving forward.

Affirmation:

"I trust in my heart's wisdom to guide me to the love I deserve."

The key for March: Stay true to your values and trust that the love you're seeking is aligned with your highest good. 💖

✨ Image 3: The Moon 🌙

The Moon can bring some uncertainty and confusion into your love life this month. Emotions might feel overwhelming, and there may be moments when things seem unclear or even deceptive. This card urges you to trust your intuition—there’s a deeper truth unfolding, even if it’s not immediately apparent. If you’ve been unsure about a relationship or have doubts, this is a time to take a step back and reflect. The truth will reveal itself in time. Don’t let fear or anxiety cloud your judgment; instead, tune into your inner voice for guidance.

Affirmation:

"I embrace the unknown with courage, knowing that clarity is on the horizon."

The key for March: Trust your instincts and allow the process of discovery to unfold. You will gain clarity soon enough. 🌙

✨ Image 4: The Sun 🌞

Here comes the joy and vitality you've been waiting for! The Sun represents happiness, vitality, and fulfillment in all areas of your life, especially love. This card is a very positive sign, indicating that any past challenges in love will soon be behind you, and you're stepping into a period of joy and light. If you're in a relationship, expect moments of deep happiness, playfulness, and mutual growth. If you're single, new love is on the horizon, and it will be filled with warmth and positivity. The Sun tells you that you are worthy of love and that happiness is your birthright.

Affirmation:

"I am worthy of happiness and radiant love, and I welcome it into my life now."

The key for March: Bask in the light of your own energy and radiate love into the world. Your bright, positive energy will attract exactly what you need. 🌞

[loveemagicpeace]

🏹Jupiter in Gemini🏹

Jupiter will move into gemini after 12 years.

Gemini is intellectual, expressive, questioning, dual, sociable, liberal. Gemini is a mutable sign and is adaptable. Gemini is the sign of communication and words. They always express themselves through words. They symbolize states of consciousness associated with intellectualization. Diseases associated with the sign of the baby are: asthma, bronchitis, inflammation of the chest and lungs. The bones associated with the sign of Gemini are the carpals and metacarpals, the humerus, the humerus, the scapula, the clavicle and the upper ribs.

Throughout history, the twin symbolizes Eros and Anteros. The two stars that exist in this sign are Castor and Pollux. There are supposed to be flames of fire around their heads and when this happens the storm on the sea dies down. The old Kop name for twins is supposed to be "Pri Mahi" - which means completely connected, united. Vows are associated with Gemini and Mercury.

The sign of Gemini is two-bodied and double. The twins do not hold hands, they are separate souls, they move from left to right. The sign of Gemini is difficult because of its dual nature. This is a multifaceted, changeable personality. Geminis are outspoken, arrogant, hyperactive. They are bright and good speakers. They like artificial gems. They can often be impatient with people because they are very quick-tempered and don't like things to go slowly. They are also very restless individuals and cannot stay in one room for long periods of time. They spend their whole lives searching for an ideal that they cannot see because it is right in front of them.

Best qualities: diversity, willingness to change. Cons: Lack of consistency across the board. They change quickly, as if they have two inner voices: one says do and the other says leave.

Jupiter represents optimism, wisdom, growth, learning, happiness, exploration, charity, compassion, inspiration, meaning, path and faith. It includes believers, rich people, employees, big banks, judges, fortune hunters. It is associated with the liver, bile. Jupiter rules blood, veins, arteries, thighs, hips.

Jupiter can bring the following things to the signs:

Aries Rising

You might become more involved in your community, or even take it upon yourself to learn something new for fun. It can bring more thinking, education in the mental field. You can travel short distances more. More interaction with siblings, relatives.If you are going to move somewhere, you can have better neighbors who are optimistic and friendly, even foreigners. You may accidentally meet some important people or people who will change your way of thinking. This house also represents the cause of the loss of property, the cause of moving away from home, long journeys of the spouse (the partner may travel somewhere).

Taurus rising

Many things can be related to finances, money (in general, property). Jupiter can give you great luck in money and comfort. You can live more luxuriously. You can find comfort in the smallest things. Much more enjoyment and great things. Maybe your inner feelings can start to change more.You can find yourself in areas that you weren't so familiar with before. Spend more time with family friends. Things can also be related to vocational education. Long journeys related to work. If you have a partner, there are also things related to the inheritance that you get from him. If you are going to travel long distances, it is good to take care of your health.

Gemini Rising

Jupiter will bring you a personality transformation. You may change your appearance and style - start looking at yourself and your body differently. You will be more open and direct and have strong opinions. It can also bring some insight about yourself (which you haven't figured out so far). Jupiter gives a deeper and more meaningful way of doing things. It can bring you certain types from your childhood and possibly dealing with it. Connects with the money of a friend and father (you can get money from them both). You can meet someone on a trip who you fall in love with and who awakens a different kind of love in you. You can also find a different love for yourself (in a deeper way).

Cancer Rising

During this time, you will delve more deeply into yourself and your subconscious, thinking more profound things. You will focus more on hidden things. You can meet someone who helped you through things (usually Jupiter brings mentors, teachers and people from whom we can learn). We can spend more time in institutions that are more isolating than hospitals, etc. If you are going through a difficult experience or illness, this is a sign that things will turn around for the better. Since this is also the house of the most difficult battles and tasks, you can fight with yourself a lot. Things that can also be related to secret enemies, residence in a foreign country, ways of release.You may have to let something go in order to move on.

Leo Rising

You will be more popular in society and among people. It is possible that you will meet more people and start socializing more with those who inspire you. You can start putting more on the dreams and goals you have, you can get a new interest in a new thing. You will be more dedicated to yourself and form your own opinion about society and maybe start participating more actively in it. You can buy more or give money more for personal interests. Your loved ones may be traveling for a long time. It can be the affective health of the uncle and aunt on the mother's side.

Virgo Rising

More luck based on your career. Lots of career opportunities and maybe a new path that will change your life. Also something bigger and new that you didn't expect to happen. More acquaintances, especially more interaction with older and authoritative people (more masculine energy). More connection with parents and father (father can help you more or give you money). You can meet more people who are destined to get to know them and get in touch with them. Jupiter can give you lucky coincidences with the people you need. Money can come from abroad and you can start earning abroad or get an opportunity there.

Libra Rising

You can decide to take a long plane trip or a spiritual journey that will give you a new perspective. You can decide on a higher education such as: philosophy, law, religion - or continue your studies / complete your studies. You can explore and investigate new things more than usual. You can think more about what you belong to and what belonging to someone means to you (what it means to you), you can also be more lucky in many things. You can gain a lot through spiritual experiences and psychic experiences. You can come to a greater awareness of yourself and what it means to you. You can take better care of your property and you can get back something you thought was lost a long time ago. There can also be connections with a parent of the opposite sex than yourself. You can do more sports or decide to be more dedicated to it and seek pleasure with one person.

Scorpio Rising

Jupiter will bring you an emotional transformation that will rebirth you and make you a better person. You can experience a deep connection with one person and have a deeper intimate relationship with them. Things can also be related to inheritance, you can get some property or something in you to your advantage. You can gain a lot from other people, especially money from other people is at stake here. Many opportunities and things can come through others. You can also get a lot of money from others and it is also good to invest money. You can gain a lot from a partnership or marriage. If you are involved in any lawsuits now, the outcome of them will be good.

Sagittarius Rising

Jupiter will bring you things related to others it mainly relates to the relationships you have with others (any). If you are already in a relationship, you can get married or get engaged (engagement usually happens under this aspect). You meet a lot of spiritual people who can help you and show you the way or someone who is more open, open-minded, you can get along better with friends. Jupiter represents marriage more, so this can be more in the foreground than the relationship itself (depending on the aspects). During this time, you can also attract someone who suits you more on a personal level. You can get to know your other side better and also notice what really suits you and what doesn’t. A friend with whom you are close can travel for a long time, or someone with whom you are closer.

Capricorn Rising

Jupiter can bring you more opportunities and new things related to your hobbies, entertainment and spending your free time. You can go into a more special relationship or fall in love with someone. You will want to express yourself in some way, and let the world see you. You can be more sociable and if single, meet new romantic partners. You could fall in love during this transit, but if there aren't any other grounding influences. it's most likely you'll just date a lot. You can also have someone who is not from your country or someone you meet on a trip. You can be more creative and do things related to creativity and you can also be more recognizable. A good time also for gambling or any related opportunities. Your passions for what you do will show more. Income can come from real estate and property. U can publish more things. This can also be a good period to have a child/get pregnant.

Aquarius Rising

Jupiter can bring you more joy. You can easily go more outside your comfort zone. You can focus on your routine or things related to you and your things. Artists of any kind are rewarded when they boldly fuel their creations with authenticity and freely express themselves. You will get prosperity and accomplishments with your ability to win over opponents. However, it can give expansion in loan and debt-related issues because of your ignorance. During this transit period, you will realize the value of the financial management.

Pisces Rising

you can go on a trip that will be longer and last longer. Your home can be somewhere else for a while and you might even find a place where you will feel the best. You can find a place that gives you a feeling of home and warmth. It can also mean finding a dream house or making wishes come true and also remodeling your home. You can feel better at home and have a better relationship with your parents (especially with mom). You can also better see things that ended and understand why they ended. Maybe you and your family can have some kind of family tradition about what you will do this time.

🎸For personal readings u can sign up here: https://snipfeed.co/bekylibra 🎸

-Rebekah🧚🏼‍♀️🌊🌙

[aventurineswife]

Hi Kittiki!

What if the roles of the reader and the characters were the other way around? I mean the reader is a character from a video game (like Genshin) and the characters are a big fan of the reader. I think the idea is great ;)

(Please Aventurine, Blade, Mydei, Phainon and any other character You want.)

Between Pixels and Reality

Tags: Aventurine x Reader, Blade x Reader, Phainon x Reader, Mydei x Reader, Character Adoration, Obsessive Love, Unrequited Love, Admiration, Self-Reflection.

Warnings: Obsessive Behavior, Unhealthy Obsession, Fixation on Fictional Character (aka the Reader), Character Introspection, Dark Themes.

A/N: This is a pretty good au ngl

Aventurine had made a career out of high-stakes gambles, but this—this was an entirely different game.

You, the enigmatic protagonist of a wildly popular strategy-based RPG, were his personal obsession. Not that he'd ever admit it in such simple terms. No, no. That would be boring.

He had every piece of in-game merchandise featuring you, from limited-edition figures to posters signed by the voice actors. He kept your theme song as his personal notification sound. He'd even researched your in-game stats, calculating optimal builds and team synergies.

"You're just a fictional character," he'd tell himself while reading through forums, scrolling past debates about your lore. But deep down, he envied the players who had unlocked your rarest voice lines, the ones where you broke your usual witty demeanor to reveal hidden depths.

There was something thrilling about playing the long game—about investing in something others might dismiss as trivial. He was always betting on the best outcome. And to him, you were the ultimate prize.

Blade had never been one for indulgences. But you? You were his one and only exception.

Your game, a dark fantasy soulslike where pain and perseverance were the core themes, spoke to him on a level he couldn’t explain. The way your character staggered back up after every devastating defeat, the way you carried a burden too heavy for one person to bear—it resonated.

Even Kafka had noticed.

"You're watching those cutscenes again?" she teased, leaning over his shoulder to watch you, bloodied and battered, facing down the final boss.

Blade grunted in response, eyes locked on the screen. There was something poetic about the way you fought, how your weapon—much like his own—was chipped and weathered, yet unyielding.

He didn't care about the game itself, only you. The way you refused to break. The way you endured.

And maybe, just maybe, the fact that he could see a little too much of himself in you.

Phainon’s room was a shrine dedicated to you.

Not in the creepy, obsessive way—no, no! He was a dedicated fan, not a lunatic. The difference was very, very important.

Ever since he'd played your game, an epic fantasy RPG centered around gods and heroes, he'd been entranced. You were his favorite character, the noble warrior fated to challenge the heavens themselves.

Your voice lines? Perfect.

Your battle theme? Divine.

Your tragic backstory? Heart-wrenching.

He spent hours grinding for your best gear, optimizing your stats, and writing essays on forums defending your in-game decisions. He debated lore theories and memorized every dialogue option.

And every time he replayed the game, it wasn’t for the different endings. It was for you.

Even knowing how the story would unfold, he kept coming back. Because no matter how many times he watched your journey, his admiration never wavered.

Mydei had never lost a battle—except, perhaps, against himself.

And you.

He first encountered your game through sheer accident, a turn-based RPG where the protagonist, you, was an undefeated champion searching for a worthy opponent. It was a ridiculous premise, but one that intrigued him.

No matter how many hours he put in, he couldn’t beat you.

It wasn’t about difficulty; it was about strategy. You predicted his every move, countered his every attack, adapted to his every playstyle.

At first, he was furious. How could a fictional character best him? But then, his frustration gave way to admiration. He began studying your animations, your fighting stance, your AI’s decision-making. It became an obsession, a goal—to finally defeat you.

The day he did—after hundreds of battles—he put his controller down and let out a slow breath.

And yet… victory didn’t feel as sweet as he thought it would.

Because now, without you to challenge him, he was lost.

Perhaps he had never wanted to win.

Perhaps he had only ever wanted to fight you forever.

[criticallyinneedofadar]

The Weight of the Weary

A/N: Gil-Gadaddy was calling my name. Alliance of Shadows is still on it's way! I just needed to appease the high king a little bit.

Pairing: Gil- Galad X Reader

Warnings: None

______________________________________________________________

Lindon shines brightest in the evening sun, the tree casting the city in its warm glow, its warm light spills into your private chambers where you and Gil-Galad sit together, savoring a rare moment of peace. He’s quiet, his posture stiff, and you can see the weight of his duties pressing down on him, even in this brief respite.

You watch him for a moment, studying the lines of tension etched into his brow. His mind is far away, no doubt torn between Elrond and Galadriel—two of the most important figures in his life, and two of the most stubborn. A soft smile tugs at your lips as you think of Galadriel, so full of fire and willfulness, almost like a daughter to you both, despite being much older than you both. You glance at Gil-galad, raising a playful eyebrow.

“You were a bit harsh on her today, you know,” you say, nudging him lightly with your elbow. “Galadriel might act tough, but even she has her limits.”

He sighs, running a hand through his dark hair, clearly anticipating your teasing admonishment. His lips curve into a faint smile, but it’s tempered by weariness. “I was not harsh, merely... firm,” he replies, though there’s a trace of doubt in his voice. “She needed to be reminded of her place.”

You chuckle softly. “She’s not a child, love. You can’t keep her reined in forever. Besides, she’s as much your family as I am. You don’t have to keep your guard up with her all the time.”

He leans back, his expression shifting from playful to weary, his hand rubbing the back of his neck as if to release some of the strain. “I feel stretched between them—between Elrond’s endless optimism and Galadriel’s relentless determination. It is like trying to balance two storms, each one pulling me in a different direction.”

You place a gentle hand on his arm, drawing his attention back to you. “They both want what’s best, but they are different in how they go about it. They look to you because they trust your wisdom, your strength.” You pause, softening your tone. “But sometimes, I think you try too hard to keep them happy, to keep everyone in line.”

He sighs deeply, the sound of someone who has carried far too much for far too long. “I must. I am their king, their leader. If I falter, if I show weakness—”

“You’re not weak,” you interrupt gently, moving closer to him. “But you don’t have to carry all of this on your own.”

Gil-Galad looks at you, his deep eyes searching your face, as if he’s unsure how to accept that offer. He’s always been proud, always the one to shoulder the burdens of his people, his friends, and now you can see how that weight has begun to wear him down. Your heart aches for him, for the man who bears so much responsibility yet so rarely lets anyone see his vulnerability.

“You’re not alone in this,” you murmur, taking his hand in yours. “Let me help you, even if it’s just in moments like this. You don’t have to do it all by yourself.”

He squeezes your hand, his thumb brushing over your skin as he looks at you with a tenderness that’s usually hidden behind the mantle of kingship. “I forget, sometimes, that I don’t have to. With you, I never have to.”

You smile softly, leaning into him, resting your head against his shoulder. The warmth of his body, the steady rise and fall of his breath, brings you a sense of peace you know he needs as much as you do.

“You’ve carried so much on your shoulders for so long,” you whisper. “Let me take some of the burden, if even for a little while. You’re my husband first and a king second. Lean on me as much as you lean on them.”

For a moment, the world outside fades away. There are no councils, no pressing decisions, no wars or power struggles. It’s just the two of you, bound together by love and trust. His hand rests against the small of your back as he pulls you closer, his voice low and filled with a gratitude that touches your heart.

“You are my greatest strength,” he says softly, pressing a kiss to your temple. “With you beside me, I know I can bear whatever comes.”

You lift your head, gazing into his eyes. “And you will,” you reply, your voice full of conviction. “But not alone.”

He smiles then, a real smile that reaches his eyes, and you feel the tension begin to ease from his body as he leans into the comfort of your embrace. You urge him to sit down in front of you. As he does, you begin to brush through his long brown hair, a hum of contentment leaving your husband as he relaxes into your pampering. Allowing this moment of relief, however brief it may be.

[probablyasocialecologist]

This week, a 2,500-page leak, first reported by Search Engine Optimization (SEO) veteran Rand Fishkin, gave the world an insight into the 26-year-old mystery of Google Search. “I think the biggest takeaway is that what Google’s public representatives say and what Google search engine does are two different things,” Fishkin said in an emailed statement to Gizmodo.

[...]

King notes that one ranking feature “homepagePagerankNs” suggests the notoriety of a website’s homepage could prop up everything it publishes. Fishkin writes the leak references a system called NavBoost—first referenced by Google’s VP of Search, Pandu Nayak, in his Department of Justice testimony—which purportedly measures clicks to boost rankings on Google Search. Many in the SEO industry are taking these documents as confirmation of what the industry has long suspected: A website deemed popular by Google may receive a higher Search ranking for a query even though a lesser-known site may have better information.

[...]

In a video from 2016, a Google Search representative declared, “We don’t have a website authority score.” In an interview from 2015, another Googler said, “Using clicks directly in ranking would be a mistake.” It’s hard to make sense of these comments now in light of the leaked documents and Google’s response. “This response is a perfect example of why people don’t like or trust Google,” Fishkin said. “It’s a non-statement that doesn’t address the leak, provides no value, and might well have been written by an AI trained on the past decade’s most soulless corporate messaging.” In the era of AI answers, Ruby notes that the way Google ranks web pages is more important than ever. Instead of a series of links to various perspectives, you might just get one straight answer thanks to Google’s new AI Overviews. However, we’ve seen 10-year-old Reddit posts get strange amounts of authority, telling some users to put glue in their pizza. How Google chooses authority is increasingly important, since the top result may be the only one with a voice now.

30 May 2024

[thequietkid-moonie]

Their cheerful friend says that they want to be dead

[ SCENARIO ] [ Hanako, Shuichi, Ishida ]

[ Jibaku Shounen Hanako-kun ] [ Danganronpa V3 Killing Harmony ] [ A silent voice ]

⚠️ Hidden depression, masking the true feelings and even denying them

I don't know if I had said this before but I been suffering depression for a really long time and I used it to hide it even from me, i used to smile all the time! So much that now I hate my smile

Hanako-kun

Hanako is a really friendly and cheerful person, as long as you don't talk about sensitive topics or try to have problems with him he doesn't have reasons to don't be your friend

Since you yourself are pretty cheerful and friendly you two just match energy and can easily light up the room with your attitude, sometimes playing some jokes to each other or even others from time to time

However being happy all the time could be unhealthy and Hanako knows really well how it is to put a smile in your face and hide all the sadness and negative feelings from the world, he won't acuse you for it right away but there are some things that make him think that it could be something wrong, such as an extreme happiness or not being bothered by the problems in a not so healthy way

As much as Hanako likes your cheerful personality he can't help but feel nervous about it, however he constantly tells himself that is alright and he is probably only overthinking

He end up hearing you say that you want to be dead by accident, maybe he just over heard you when you were just talking to yourself while approaching to you, or maybe it was a slip from you for feeling really comfortable around him, in any case just by hearing those words he is shocked, he didn't expected this, or, at least, he didn't wanted it to be true

He is so shocked by your words that Hanako can't say anything, he just stand there looking directly at you while a quiet "what" escapes from his lips, if you see him and try to brush it off as a joke he will agree but is obvious that the thought haven't leave his head, however if you try to come up with a excuse or play innocent is more probably that he confront you right away

In any case, soon or later, he will talk to you about it, this is something really serious and it isn't common for people to talk about wanting to be dead for no reason, he will talk to you about it alone because this is serious and he will talk from his own point of view as a ghost, as someone who is already dead and, most important, as someone who had taken his own life

He understand if you don't want to talk about this with him or that you don't feel ready to said it out loud, he even understand if you aren't ready to even accept it to yourself but he can't just let this grow or let you all alone to handle it when he can do something to help you, so he will insist on talking to you. The more you try to avoid the topic or insist that is nothing the more desperate he grows, even reaching a point where he is being really pushy but is talking from his heart

Hanako won't force you to talk about this with anyone else but suggest on searching for help, even if is just asking him to be a shoulder to cry or someone to vent with he will be more than happy to do it

After this he will be paying more attention on you, he try to don't be too obvious but to don't let you alone, he continue being your cheerful friend but is constantly checking on you, directly or indirectly. Hanako even start to have little details with you that shows that he cares for you a lot and that he want you to be safe

Shuichi Saihara

Shuichi is more the type to be quiet and go unnoticed, however with the help of his friends he grew more open and confident of himself so that could help for you two to be friends too

For him your cheerful personality isn't strange, he is already used to Kaito's loud personality and Kaede's optimism so it doesn't take him long to get used or to like your cheerful attitude, is pretty plesesnt and even funny having you around

However, Shuichi is observant and perseptive, he can notice things others don't and, even if you try your hardest to hide it or even aren't aware of it, is just matter of time for him to notice the little hints of the true feelings you hide behind that smile you always have, and he grows incredibly worried by it

At first Shuichi tells himself that is nothing, he was probably overthinking or drawing illogical conclusions and he tries to shake it out of his mind, although the bad feeling doesn't really go away and, even when he doesn't want to he can't help but pay more close attention to you, just wanting to make sure everything is alright with you

Getting to heard you say that you want to be dead it could be by accident or not, maybe he was just passing by in a wrong moment or maybe he was trying to find clues about what are you feeling when he had overheard you, but at the end it doesn't matter much how he get to heard you, he did and that is the important

This is something shocking, he never thought you will be feeling so bad that you actually think on dying, he can comprehend feeling down but he had never actually thought on death before (or at least never took it seriously) and knowing that you do make him feel uneasy, he wants to help you but he can't even put his mind in order to be able to say something (if you found him right after hearing you he will try his hardest to come up with an excuse, a terrible one actually)

He need and will think about this whole thing for a little while, your words repeat over and over again in his mind, pressuring him, making him feel like he has to do something and has to do it now, and yet he won't talk to you until he had clarified his mind (at least a little) because he wants to do this right

When he finally confront you he, first of all, apologize for overhearing you but quickly express his concern, he doesn't say more than the necesary about his worries since he doesn't want you to feel obligate to talk or judged, but he leaves clear that he is worried and he is here for you, you can rely on him or in your other friends, he is sure they will be happy to help you

If you aren't even aware of your own feelings he will try his best to help you realize it (probably slowly), he doesn't want to be pushy but this is something serious, if, deep down, you really wish dead is better to take care of those feelings now

He will offer his help, even if he can't do much he still offer you do the little he can do for you, as well he will constantly looking after you, unconsciously paying close attention to you. Shuichi knows pretty well how it is to feel depressed but also knows what is like having friends that help you grow, and that is what he want to be for you, he is determinated to help you because he apreciate you and care for you, he wants to see you smile, but with a sincere smile, one that is from true happiness

Shoya Ishida

It would take Ishida a while to accept the fact that you two are friends, is just that it had been so long since the last time he had someone who he can consider his friend that he doesn't know what to do or even if he deserve it

Your cheerful and undying smile makes Ishida nervous but at the same time it make him feel more at easy sometimes, sometimes he is troubled by it because it could be a little too much (for how new is for him) but other times make him feel like is okay for him to relax and accept the friendship

Ishida sometimes wonder how you can be so cheerful and happy all the time, but he doesn't doubt you or question you for it, he just wonder, also that is why he could be easily tricked if you shows hints of not feeling really well but just brush it off, he prefers to don't say anything about it and just agree with you

However, the more he get to see or notice those hints of you actually don't feeling well the more he worries, at first he tries to don't think further on it, saying to himself that he is probably just overthinking or seeing things where there are none, but not matter what the worry persist

The moment he get to heard that you want to be dead is really shocking for him, he understand that feeling but it never crossed his mind the posibility of someone so cheerful as you, someone so different of him, could ever think something like that, let alone wish it. It doesn't matter if he overheard it or it slips from your lips for feeling comfortable with him

Ishida can't believe what he had just heard, or at least doesn't want to accept it, he is even doubting himself, wondering if he had heard you right and will try to convince himself that it isn't true if you come up with an excuse, however the thought of it will stuck in his mind for a long time

You are his friend and he cares a lot for you that is why he wants to help you, although he has no idea of what to do and will be pretty akward around you the next days, like if he is trying to say something but is embarrassed of it, until he finally manage to buld up the courage to talk to you about this (and yet he is being pretty nervous about it), saying that he had heard what you said but clarify that he doesn't judge you, he is just worried

He doesn't know much what to do to help you so he offer you to give you his fully support and learn together what to do in this situation, even admiting that he had wished the same in the past

Is pretty obvious how he tries to pay more attention to you and be more obvious with how he cares for you, constantly asking you how are you feeling and offers his help and to be a shoulder to cry

With time Ishida will grow a little more comfortable with the topic and he will be able to help you in ways that are more subtle but significant, and probably suggest to search for profesional help together

[thebluewizardlives]

The Well

Chapter 06: Morning Meditation

Ch: 01 | 02 | 03 | 04 | 05 | 06 | 07 | 08

Summary: As Elrond searches for peace, he finds Morinë holding him at arrow point. Somehow, there is little difference.

Tags: fluff, hurt/comfort A/N: Thank y'all so much for the comments/feedback. This is obviously for fun, but I'd be lying if I said reading them didn't make my day-- hope you enjoy this as much as I enjoy writing it. <3

In the wee hours of the morning, the tip of Elrond’s pen hovered above a scroll for what felt like ages. His eyes remained narrowed, fixed on the page in thought before an idea released him from the trance, blinking for the first time in a while. Finding both his eyes and pen dry, he reached to dip the quill in the well. Just as pen and paper made contact, a loud clash came from outside, followed by hushed voices. His hand shot up reflexively to steady the inkwell as he sighed trying again to recapture the thought before another wave of noise resounded through the halls. He presumed the preparations for the event might elevate the usual hum of the palace, but what he was experiencing now felt more like a scream.

The construction for Merendyávië, the fall harvest celebration, was well underway and there was little hope of ignoring it. Perhaps a change of space will help. He thought with a very tentative optimism. While collecting his needs for the day, a familiar glint caught his eye. Pausing, he considered the object, the clatter of the preparations was now a constant thrum of noise. At least for today, it became apparent there was no peace to be found within the palace walls. Leaving his study, he traveled through the long halls, deciding to take a detour in his search for quieter pastures.

Morinë sat side-saddle on a cushion in a small glade, transcribing something of import in her journal. The morning air was still, a comfortable brown overcoat shielding her from its chill; she’d chosen to indulge the urge to watch the sunrise before formally beginning her morning. It was quieter then, when things began.

That was until the sound of rustling came from the thicket. With great alarm, but little hesitation, Morinë dropped her things, rising to draw her bow in a near-singular motion, eyes fixed on the cluster of trees.

“Wait, Morinë! It is I,” a voice exclaimed.

“Elrond?”

“I see you retain your guard, even in the heart of Lindon.” He remarked, emerging from the tree line, hands slightly raised in surrender. “I can also see you may not be particularly pleased to see me.” He quipped, glancing at the tip of her arrow.

Quickly lowering the bow, her eyes rolled. “No, no, it is not that, I just—Coirëamár usually informs me before someone crosses into her perimeter,” she trailed off, glancing behind her in the house’s direction. It was still a short walk off, but Elrond could make out what he believed to be her silhouette. “Even then, rarely anyone has ever come upon us by chance…” She remarked before turning back to him, “Anyway, though a bit surprised, I am moderately pleased to see you.” She admitted, returning the arrow to its quiver.

 “Ah, then I am glad to hear it. You will have to thank Coirëamár for allowing me to find you then.” He replied warmly, imagining she must have come straight out at first light; loose curls peeked from the thick braid flowing over her shoulder, the overcoat more relaxed than her usual robes. There was a moment of silence between them before Morinë broke it.

“So, what brings you here?”

“Well, I was planning to walk the grounds as a respite from the noise, but then I recalled you left your quill and thought I would return it while I was out,” he hoped the reasoning did not sound as lame on her ears as it did his, stepping forward to hand it to her.

“Oh! I must have left it in Gelindhil’s study the other day. Thank you for noticing and returning it.”

“Of course! Of course… In any event, I am certain you are sufficiently occupied, so I shall leave you to your morning meditation. I am quite late for my own,” he replied lightly, nodding to her before turning to leave.

“Wait,” she interjected before knowing what her next words would be,” Would you care to join me? I imagine it might be a touch quieter here.”

“You are too kind, but I couldn’t intrude.”

“Oh, it is no intrusion, nor is it purely kind,” she replied coolly now finding her words,” I was just about to head in to bring the morning tea to the parlor. With you there I could make it in one trip” she smirked.

“Well, I suppose I cannot argue with that logic,” he said the corner of his mouth raising in a similar fashion as he helped gather her things. “Please, show me the way.”

Though she would never admit such, Morinë’s felt the stirrings of nervousness as she sheathed her bow, guiding him down the path to her home. She and Coirëamár had entertained guests before, but something about this felt different; a wave of premonition startled her almost as though this seemingly trivial moment was always meant to come to pass. Is that why she allowed us to be discovered?

Meanwhile, Elrond was admiring the golden leaves framing the path as he trailed behind her, the hem of her gown clearing leaves from the stone walkway. They were headed for a hillier part of the grounds, Morinë cresting the peak of the tallest one before him.

He had heard tale of the Wandering Home, but few could do justice in describing her now. The High King’s thoughtfulness was evident, having chosen a beautiful space as welcome. The meadow lush with grass, peppered in wildflowers, a small stone bridge arched over a pond leading to her entrance. Coirëamár was modest in size, yet regal in structure as though inspired by the castles of nobility; the outer walls were ornamented in crawling, flowering ivy, built with neatly lain brick, framed by larger, smooth stonework. The balcony on the second level was intricately hewn of the same smooth stone, wrapping around the side. Her roof was sloped, its shingles mottled with an ancient patina. Though there were many windows, he could not see through their lattices inside, save for the ones at the top of a spire that appeared to be an observatory. Amidst her beauty, Elrond felt a calm certainty wash over him, as though the image before him was snapping into a long-forgotten place in his mind; a memory he had not seen until this moment.

“If you have changed your mind and have other matters to attend to, I will not be offended,” Morinë called back to him, now at the doorway, wondering if his stillness meant hesitation.

“Oh, no. I don’t believe I could miss this,” He spoke, reassuring both himself and her.

Morinë withdrew a ring of keys from her coat pocket, using one to open the tall slab of baroquely carved wood that was the front door. Entering a small, recessed area lined with a couple shoes, there was the familiar hum he had heard before, reverberating through his chest as he was now within its source, “It seems she fancies you. Coirëamár says ‘Welcome’,” she smiled, translating the sound while lovingly running her hand over one of the walls. Taking off her boots before stepping up and further into the house, Elrond followed suit before following her down the hall. A few more steps in, a large object overhead drew his eyes. A large, ornate spear was hung with reverence atop the doorway, the luster emanating from even its scrapes indicating it had been well used and cared-for.

“I admit I find her quite charming as well. You have a beautiful home; the caliber of her construction is hard to ignore…” He trailed off, though he remained focused on the spear.

“You could probably gather from my amateur swordsmanship, but that is my weapon of choice,” Morinë explained, following his gaze.

“I would not refer to your skills as amateur, but upon recalling your form, it does make quite a bit of sense. Why the lance?”

She paused for a moment as if truly considering the thought for the first time, her brow furrowing for a moment. “You know, I am not quite certain now that you ask. I have simply always been drawn to it, hence the collection, I suppose. What draws you to the sword?”

“Duty, mostly. There were many times I’ve had to pick it up over the last age…Of course, the occasional spirited duel can be rewarding, but I usually much prefer the pen.”

“I’m inclined to agree with you on that front,” she met his gaze sincerely, her eyes widening a bit before turning quickly. Over his shoulder, she caught a glimpse of herself in a mirror not far behind him, chastising herself for not looking into that very mirror before leaving that morning. “Also, my apologies for the lack of polish this morning. If I had known in advance, I would have made myself more presentable.”

“You look perfectly presentable to me.”

She found his assurance did little to alleviate the knot in her stomach, rolling her eyes at the blush creeping across her cheeks. Continuing towards the kitchen, her pace quickened. Though still mystified as to the root cause of her nerves, she did not care to dwell on it, opting to focus on the task at hand.

Walking in, the kitchen was awash in sunlight from two large, stained-glass windows lined in wood arches, matching the hand-carved cabinetry on the furthest wall. Morinë faced the large hearth, grabbing the kettle from the iron stove within it.  “So, today she has prepared… Osmanthus tea—a capital choice, milady.” The last part she directed to her home, oblivious to the look of confusion on Elrond’s face, “And for breakfast, egg tarts and lavender dumplings— oh, now you’re just showing off.”

“Wait, the house made you this tea?”

“She does have a name. And yes, Coirëamár made the tea— egg tarts and lavender dumplings too, as I said.” Raising a brow at his look of incredulity.

“Come now, your h—Coirëamár, preparing your food is not a traditional feature of most homes. I am entitled to my surprise,” another low hum could be felt through the house, Morinë placing a hand on a large stone countertop in the middle of the kitchen.

“Well, she is no traditional home. Besides, we trade off preparing meals, it is not as though I am a layabout” She spoke lightly, gathering the tray for the tea before he stepped in, gently taking it from her hands.

“One, you will have to elaborate on how one goes about preparing a meal for a house in the near future. And two, I don’t believe there is a soul in Middle Earth who could accuse you of being a layabout. Please, allow me,” he replied, before catching her eye. Leaning in to collect the other tray in front of her, the sun cast a glow on his features, his eyes appearing to be the same shade as her favorite days; a sky swathed in clouds just before a long-awaited rain. A calming gray hue that convinced her to count the flits of blue in them rather than form a response. She felt comfortable in her observations until noticing he had not spoken further either, returning her gaze with an unreadable expression. Seeming to find his words, he stood up straight, both trays now in hand, “Now, where should we convene to begin our morning?”

“Hm, let us make our way to the greenhouse. It faces the east so we can finish our audience with the sunrise,” she replied with a humorous lilt to her voice to lighten the mood, leading him in its direction, “This way.”

Trailing behind her down the hall, Elrond found himself keen to look elsewhere, studying the hangings on the walls. Some were tapestries and sketches of places she had been others were lances it seemed she had collected. He smiled to himself seeing bits of her in each piece. It had been over a month since she had awoken yet he found his curiosity growing by the day. It was rare for a human to be allowed in Elvish lands and even rarer still for them to possess such magic without an accompanying lust for power. The hearts and minds of many Elves remained closed, witnessing the darker side of human nature during the war, many siding with Morgoth for security. While he could not fully blame his people, he knew better; humanity was capable of as much good as they were of evil. He counted their friendship chiefly among his evidence to the former.

As they reached the entrance to the greenhouse, he glanced down a short hall to his left, a small alcove at its end. An oval frame hung at its center, draped carefully in deep, heavy blue velvet. The creaking iron doors to the greenhouse snapped his gaze forward, feeling as though he’d just seen something private. He followed her in, grateful she seemingly had not noticed. It was easy to renew his focus, the greenhouse certainly befitting of one branded a smith of the earth. There were two levels, no wood or stone seeming to be in its place by force, all working together to create a rather sophisticated system including a vast nursery and irrigation network. Even in its utility, it was no less beautiful than the royal gardens of Lindon, with such a large array of flora, Elrond was certain he had not seen a number of them before. It seemed as much a laboratory as it was a sanctuary.

“Over here,” Morinë called, smoothing her skirt to sit in a nook near one of the windowed walls. Two settee chairs faced one another across a table of similar design. Placing the dishes atop it, he sat across from her as she began to prepare the tea.

“You will have to forgive me for lingering about, but it is difficult not to be impressed by the care put into your garden. It is remarkable that Coirëamár has been able to move such a space, especially during the harsher ages.”

“Forgiveness will come easily there, my friend; I was taken aback myself when she first gifted it to me.”

“Gifted it to you?” he questioned, ignoring his delight that she believed them to be friends as well.

“Yes, many years ago, soon after we had met. It used to be an observatory—she left the main deck to it in that spire you saw earlier.” She explained, handing him a teacup. “As it seems, each keeper is allowed to collaborate with her to create a room according to their need; the previous keeper mapped the stars. For what I do, a greenhouse seemed most appropriate.”

“Remarkable. Elves can connect to our steeds, our structures connected with our light, yet I still cannot fully fathom being so kindred to another in that way.” He replied, his brow furrowing in thought, intrigued, “How did the two of you first meet?”

Morinë paused, lowering her teacup for a moment before committing to the motion once again, the somber look in her eyes mismatched with her small smile as she gazed at the sunrise for a moment. “That is a rather sad story to burden one with so early in the day. Tell me about this affair with your steeds.”

A look of weariness flashed across his face, sensing her deflection, “Please, do not call it that,” he began, his expression softening. “Though I do not know how telling it later in the day would make it any less burdensome, it is the duty of a friend to help shoulder such things, is it not?” She averted her gaze towards the sunrise once again, sighing. He had not meant to push, though it appeared as though he had, adding, “However, I understand if you do not wish to dwell on it.” He had had an age to come to terms with some hardships, but for her, it may very well have felt like it was yesterday.

She had not spoken that story aloud to anyone. It felt as though it existed only in her mind and Coirëamár’s walls, as though speaking of the past could somehow render it more real than it already was. They sat in silence for a time, just long enough for Elrond start questioning whether their conversation had ended for the morning. Morinë quietly began, endeavoring to keep it short, “Though I do have my opinions of your people, humans could seldom claim to be more accepting. Difference, in many villages, is a hindrance to survival, not a boon; we learned that quickly as my powers grew and people’s tolerance for magic waned. She found me in my hour of need when I was but knee-high to a grasshopper, her murmurings were some of the first kinds words I had heard in years. They did not begin referring to me as the ‘Earth Smith’ until long after I had been cast out.” She scoffed at the memory, her grip slightly firmer on her now-empty teacup. “The arms of those who first called me such did not open until their crops began to grow and their rivers returned, by which time, Coirëamár and I had travelled far with little reason to return. I would not take back a single kindness, but I am an ‘other’—she and I both are, and that comes with challenges of its own.” She continued, clearing her throat with a lighter tone,” That is why our meeting is a rather sad story, though our paths henceforth have been filled with a great deal of joy.”

He studied her for a moment though her gaze was fixed on the grounds outside illuminated by the morning sun, her features schooled but tense. Reaching across the table, he grasped the hand in her lap, seizing her attention as he gently unwound her fingers from the cup. Sitting back, he calmly replenished it, remembering how she had prepared her tea earlier before offering it back. Her expression softened as she glanced at the teacup, shoulders relaxing as she took it from him. As she took a sip, he began,” You know, they found me in a cave.”

An aggressively large bubble of air caught in Morinë’s throat, valiantly attempting to stifle a laugh and save her tea from being spat across the table. Her eyes snapped to his with a retort prepared before seeing the grin plastered across his face, “I was being serious.” She chided.

“As was I.” He spoke, her brows furrowing for a moment in confusion as he continued, “We had been effectively orphaned, and I was found, left in a cave behind some great waterfall. Since then, I have been granted both great kindness and judgment but,” his countenance turned solemn,” … I can assure you; I have come to know difference is not a burden to those who strive for good. The burden lies with those who close their minds to it, something far out of our control. I too am quite familiar with the challenges of being an ‘other’.”

A markedly tender moment passed between them before Morine glanced away, dabbing away the remaining tea she had spilt, “I suppose you always did strike me as a bit odd.”

“I said ‘other’, not odd.” He rebutted.

Smiling, she finished her cup, heartened by his presence. The sun had risen well-passed the horizon before Elrond realized his detour had gotten slightly out of hand. Morinë too had meant to begin her work long ago as they quickly cleaned, and he gathered his things. Though he would prefer it otherwise, the celebration was a few days away and he had his obligations. An impulse crossed his mind as they stood at Coirëamár’s threshold to say goodbye.

“You will be joining us at the Merendyávië, yes?” He asked simply.

“Oh, um, I hadn’t decided yet. The High King sent an invitation though to be honest, I’m not sure whether it was sent in expectation or as courtesy,” she chuckled.

“Would you like me to escort you?”

“Hm?” she blinked, all words having fled her mind.

“Since we did not actually get to work together today, it will be the perfect time for you to debrief me on your findings. Besides, you will have an easy out if you wish to leave and the High King will remain unoffended.”

“Ah, yes of course. In that case, you may escort to your heart’s content,” she shook her head internally clarifying, “I mean, I look forward to it.” She waved as he turned to leave.

“As do I.”

Tags: @valar-did-me-wrong, @orehuna, @xcrybaby555x

[dazailover4ever]

Unintentional Silence

Oikawa x gf reader

Summary : On what should be a special day, Oikawa's obsession with volleyball leads him to forget his girlfriend's birthday. Heartache ensues, but when he realizes his mistake, can his heartfelt apology and a promise to never forget again heal their strained relationship?

You rolled over in bed, smiling as you grabbed your phone. No messages. No missed calls. It was early, so you brushed it off, assuming he was probably still asleep. You sent him a quick text, a simple *Good morning,* hoping it might jog his memory.

The day stretched on, and your excitement slowly began to wane. Oikawa had always been busy with volleyball, but he was never too busy for you. Or at least, that’s what you believed. By the time afternoon rolled around and you still hadn’t heard from him, a sense of dread started to settle in the pit of your stomach.

You tried to stay positive, convincing yourself that he was just caught up in practice. He was the team captain, after all. But as the hours ticked by with no word from him, that optimism began to fray.

In the evening, you decided to head over to the gym where you knew Oikawa would be. Maybe he had a surprise planned, and this was all part of it. The thought of seeing him after the long, silent day lifted your spirits just enough to push you through the gym doors.

When you arrived, the sound of volleyballs hitting the floor and the boys’ voices echoed through the large space. Your eyes immediately sought him out, and there he was—Oikawa, leading the team with his usual intensity, completely engrossed in the game.

You waited by the side, hoping he’d notice you. But practice went on, and you realized that he wasn’t going to stop anytime soon. The minutes dragged on, your heart sinking with each passing second.

Finally, as the team took a break, Oikawa caught sight of you. His face lit up with that familiar, charming smile that always made your heart skip a beat. He jogged over, wiping sweat from his brow with the back of his hand.

“Hey, babe,” he greeted, leaning in to give you a quick kiss. “What are you doing here?”

His casual tone stung more than you expected. You forced a smile, trying to mask the disappointment. “I just wanted to see you,” you replied softly.

“Ah, that’s sweet.” He grinned, ruffling your hair. “But I’m kind of in the middle of practice, you know? Is everything okay?”

You hesitated, searching his eyes for any sign that he remembered. But there was nothing—no recognition, no hint that today was anything other than ordinary for him.

“It’s my birthday,” you finally said, your voice barely above a whisper.

Oikawa’s expression faltered for a split second before he quickly masked it with a nervous laugh. “Ah, no way! Really? I totally knew that—I just got so caught up with practice. You know how it is.”

His words felt like a slap. You could see the guilt creeping into his eyes, but it wasn’t enough to erase the hurt that had settled deep in your chest. You had wanted today to be special, to feel like you mattered to him as much as volleyball did. But now, all you felt was forgotten.

“Yeah,” you replied, trying to keep your voice steady. “I get it. Practice is important.”

He reached out to take your hand, but you pulled away before he could. His face fell, the realization of what he’d done hitting him fully. “I’m so sorry,” he whispered, his voice heavy with regret. “I didn’t mean to forget. I just… I’ve been so focused on this upcoming match…”

You took a step back, tears pricking at the corners of your eyes. “I know volleyball is important to you, but today… today was supposed to be important too.”

“I’m sorry,” he repeated, his voice breaking. “I’ll make it up to you, I promise.”

You nodded, but the pain didn’t dissipate. “I just need some time, okay?”

He watched as you turned and walked away, his heart sinking with every step you took. He knew he had messed up—big time. The weight of his mistake settled on his shoulders like a heavy burden, one he didn’t know how to lift.

---

The walk home was a blur. You felt like your heart was shattered into a million pieces, each one lodged deep within you, causing a pain you hadn’t anticipated. You knew Oikawa didn’t mean to hurt you, but that didn’t make it any easier.

By the time you reached your apartment, the sun had set, and the night sky was a dark, inky canvas. You collapsed onto your bed, letting the tears you’d been holding back finally fall. You weren’t sure how long you cried, but eventually, the tears stopped, leaving you feeling empty and exhausted.

Hours passed, and the apartment was silent except for the faint hum of the city outside your window. You were about to drift off when you heard a soft knock at your door.

You hesitated, wiping your eyes before dragging yourself to answer it. When you opened the door, Oikawa was standing there, holding a small, slightly crumpled bouquet of your favorite flowers. His eyes were red, and his usual confident demeanor was gone, replaced by a vulnerable, almost desperate look.

“Can I come in?” he asked, his voice soft.

You nodded, stepping aside to let him in. He handed you the flowers, and you took them, feeling the cool petals under your fingertips.

“I’m so sorry,” he started, his voice trembling. “I know I messed up, and I don’t deserve your forgiveness, but… I love you. More than anything. And I hate that I hurt you.”

You looked down at the flowers, feeling a fresh wave of tears threatening to spill over. “I know you didn’t mean to,” you whispered. “But it still hurt, Tooru.”

He stepped closer, gently taking your hand in his. “I don’t want to lose you,” he said, his voice breaking. “Please… let me make it up to you.”

You could see the sincerity in his eyes, the raw emotion that he rarely showed. He was trying—really trying—to make things right. And despite the pain, you knew you still loved him.

“I just want to feel like I matter to you,” you said, your voice shaky.

“You do,” he insisted, squeezing your hand. “You matter to me more than anything. I’ll do whatever it takes to show you that.”

You looked up at him, searching his face for any sign of deceit, but all you saw was the boy you fell in love with—the one who was imperfect, but who loved you with everything he had.

“Okay,” you whispered, stepping into his embrace. “But no more forgetting, okay?”

He wrapped his arms around you, holding you tight. “I promise,” he murmured into your hair. “I’ll never forget again.”

And as you stood there, wrapped in his arms, the pain began to fade away, replaced by a soft, warm glow. It wasn’t a perfect birthday, but in that moment, it was enough.

—THE END—

[pax-of-the-moon]

✩☽⋆To Follow A Feeling⋆✴✩

This is an ongoing story. Part's will alternate between being posted on Pax and Moon's pages. All available parts will be linked. As always events occurring on either page may effect how the story progresses. With that...sit back, relax, and enjoy the story in real time.

TW ~ Mentions of blood and pain. Read at your own risk.

600+ Word count. Not Proofread.

To Be Cursed | Fear of the Fearless | Testament of Resilience | To Follow a Feeling | Back to Where it Began | The Past Always Returns | Ascension | The Pride in Burden

Things only continued to deteriorate.  With her dwindling mana, the cursed energy in her body was attempting to take over, the darkness in her left arm creeping further. 

Her body began to reject Pax’s magic.  Not just his magic though.  The potions she had made turned toxic, the plants in her garden now harmful to be near.  If it wasn’t of Moon’s own magic, it was rejected.

The attacks didn’t stop, the escalation of it all continuing.  Only now Pax was completely unable to assist, leaving Moon to handle this situation mostly alone.  While he could still offer emotional support, that was all he could really do.  

It was hard to watch.  Seeing her go through the stages of her suffering as the time ticked on.  Knowing he would be subjected to that had it not been for her.  So, he would do what he could for her in this time.  Bring her whatever she needed, make her tea, and tend to her injuries without magic.

๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆ ⁺₊ ๋ ࣭ ⭑₊˚ . ⋆

“Figure anything out yet?” Pax asked, watching Moon stare at her opening and closing left hand.

“Nope.” Moon popped the ‘P’, not bothering to look up.  She was eerily calm for still having blood dripping from her eyes.  Pax quietly crouched down beside her, using a warm cloth to clean the crimson stains.

“So…” He trailed off, waiting for her to fill in the blank while he continued to clean.  

“I’m done searching, it’s yielding no results and is wasting time and energy.  Give me some time to prepare and then we’ll leave.” Moon watched the movement in her fingers.  

“How long exactly?” Hesitation coated his every word.

“A few more days.”  Pax’s face contorted at her words, all movement halting.  

“Won’t that put you in the red zone?” He was quiet, his brows furrowing.

“Yep.” Once again, popping the ‘P’.  Her eyes never once left her hand.  Slowly closing and opening.  

“What’s the plan, Moonlight?” He asked with a curious optimism.  Her gaze finally met his with a coy smile.

“To go beyond the red zone.” She hummed as if it was obvious before looking back to her arm.  He remained still, just observing her.  Has she gone insane?

“Why?” Pax’s brows furrowed impossibly more with the whispering ask.  Her movement’s paused.  Silence taking over the already quiet room.  After a long while, she spoke, her voice barely audible.

“I don’t know.” It was almost like she was confused herself.  To understand Moon meant that sometimes you had to accept that you couldn’t understand her, because sometimes she didn’t understand herself.

She didn’t know why.  This was one of those moments, Moon had a feeling that she couldn’t quite place.  A gut instinct with no knowledge or reasoning behind it, just a feeling.  Right now, something was pulling her towards this decision.  It was like when she lost her memories and was staring at her alchemy table.  At the time, she didn’t know why it was important, just that it was.  This was another one of those situations.

Pax knew her better than anyone, sometimes better than she knew herself.  He watched the way her brows furrowed slightly before relaxing as her mind wandered.  The way she lightly scrunched her nose when a thought didn’t make sense.  The way she bit her cheek when she was extra deep in thought.  He could read her like a book.  Right now, he knew that there was something she needed to chase and it revolved around everything happening.

With a clap, he flashed her a warm smile.  Her attention moved to him at the sudden action.

“Alright, a few days it is.  What’s the plan in that time?”  He hummed with a beaming smile.  Moon stood up, cracking her neck before a soft smile fell to her face.

“I need to use up my mana reserves.”

[black-arcana]

GARBAGE Announces New Album 'Let All That We Imagine Be The Light'

GARBAGE will release its eighth studio album, "Let All That We Imagine Be The Light", on May 30. The LP was recorded at Red Razor Sounds in Los Angeles, Butch Vig's studio Grunge Is Dead, and Shirley Manson's bedroom. The record was produced by the band and longtime engineer Billy Bush.

"Let All That We Imagine Be The Light" is the follow-up to 2021's critically acclaimed "No Gods No Masters", which charted at No. 5 on the U.K. album charts and led to some of the best reviews of GARBAGE's career.

Speaking about GARBAGE's new album, singer Shirley Manson says: "Going into making this record, I was determined to find a more hopeful, uplifting world to immerse myself in. The title of the album, 'Let All That We Imagine Be The Light', is the perfect descriptor for this new record as a whole. When things feel dark it feels imperative to seek out forces that are light, positive and beautiful in the world. It almost feels like a matter of life and death. A strategy for survival."

She adds: "Our last album was extremely forthright. Born out of frustration and outrage — it had a kind of scorched-earth, pissed off quality to it. With this new record however, I felt a compulsion to reach for a different kind of energy. A more constructive one. I had this vision of us coming up out of the underground with searchlights as we moved towards the future. Searching for life, searching for love, searching for all the good things in the world that seem so thin on the ground right now. That was the over-riding idea during the making of this record for me — that when things feel dark, its best to try to seek out that which is light, that which feels loving and good.

"When I was young, I tended towards the destruction of things. Now that I'm older I believe it's vitally important to build and to create things instead. I still entertain very old romantic ideals about community, society and the world. I don't want to walk through the world creating havoc, damaging the land and people. I want to do good. I want to do no harm."

"Let All That We Imagine Be The Light" is unmistakably GARBAGE. All the hallmarks and signatures for which they are known are present here. Big angular guitars, precise, propulsive beats and cinematic soundscapes all lurk beneath Shirley Manson's unmistakable voice, her lyrics bristling with attitude. This is the sound of a group at the peak of their creative powers — characteristically harnessing sonic juxtapositions and moods to create an album that thrums equally with both light and shade.

Butch Vig says: "We used a lot of analogue synths and sound design on the album, as they seemed to fit the dystopian vibes we were all experiencing. We started recording the album with a clean slate, although given what's happening in the U.S. and the rest of the world, it's inevitable that the madness starts to infiltrate the songs. But we definitely wanted the record to have some hope, some light, to convey the feeling that people have the power."

Speaking about the album's opening track "There's No Future In Optimism", Shirley says: "I really wanted that song to open the album. It starts out with an anthemic call to arms, a clarion call. It's pretty much a rallying cry to all likeminded people. If you are interested in meeting this world with love, if you are willing to invest in tenderness and not violence or hate, then we are with you. You should come with us."

She adds: "I have to believe that music and art can still impact culture. I know it still impacts me — that mysterious power which no government on earth can co-opt or buy. Great music exists entirely within its own microcosm in a way — without any interference or corruptive influences. That's what always makes it so pure and precious. Even though all the pointers in our society say otherwise, I do feel music still has the power to shift atoms, shift thinking and shift positions."

Discussing the record's final track, "The Day That I Met God", Shirley adds: "This is the opus on the record and explores the grand theme of great love, something I haven't written about very much before now. The idea came to me when I was recovering from major surgery and I felt so raw, vulnerable and scared. I was on the treadmill for the first time following an operation when I suddenly felt this powerful sensation of healing love around me — it was a moment that uplifted me. It took me out from what had felt like hell. The vocal you hear is the writing demo, the first take. Just me sitting on the edge of my bed, in recovery, singing into a handheld microphone. I was feeling so vulnerable and I think that's what lends the song added poignancy. It's really a song about mortality but it's also an expression of gratitude. Gratitude for getting older, gratitude for the longevity of our band, for good health, for the great mystery and for the ongoing, creative adventure of life."

GARBAGE consists of all four original band members, Shirley Manson, Duke Erikson, Steve Marker and Butch Vig. Over the 30 years since their inception in 1995 they have sold over 20 million albums. Their unique sound, songwriting and electric live performances have inspired worldwide adoration, chart success and critical acclaim. They are considered one of the most influential bands of their generation.

"Let All That We Imagine Be The Light" track listing:

01. There's No Future In Optimism 02. Chinese Fire Horse 03. Hold 04. Have We Met (The Void) 05. Sisyphus 06. Radical 07. Love To Give 08. Get Out My Face AKA Bad Kitty 09. R U Happy Now 10. The Day That I Met God

[gioboni]

Whispers in the Darkness, chapter 1

Summary: Livia wants a fresh start.

Chapter 1 - Chronicles of the Wedding

There are few things in the world more uncomfortable than a long flight. The food tasted like warmed-up cardboard; the constant drone of the engines buzzed in the back of my skull like an unrelenting drill; and the seats—hard, narrow, and designed by someone who clearly hated passengers. But worst of all, the one variable that could make any journey unbearable, was the company. In my case, the company was Beatriz. Beatriz, the other wedding godmother. Beatriz, the goody-goody. Beatriz, the moralist. Beatriz, who now sat next to me, with her perfect posture and serene expression, as if tolerating my presence was an act of mercy.

When Bianca, our mutual best friend—and the bride—decided it would be a "great idea" to put Beatriz and me on the same flight, I thought she was drunk on prosecco. The bride was the queen of optimism, believing that togetherness would "strengthen our bonds." But what she didn’t know—or pretended not to know—was that Beatriz and I didn’t have bonds. What we had was an old, fraying rope, always on the verge of snapping.

And still, I tried. Because if the wedding was important to Bianca, then I would make the sacrifice. "Do you think it’ll rain on the wedding?" I asked, forcing casualness. It wasn’t the most brilliant conversation starter, but it seemed safe enough. Beatriz didn’t even lift her eyes from the book she was holding. She just replied in a monotone: "It’s Scotland. It always rains." Great. A promising start.

I took a deep breath and persisted, trying to sound nonchalant: "I had to buy a new suitcase for this trip. My old one wouldn’t close anymore." This time, not even a grunt. Just the crisp sound of a page turning. "Right. Cool." I murmured to myself, leaning my head back against the seat.

The world outside the window seemed vast and inviting, a sea of clouds stretching to the horizon. It was more welcoming than the atmosphere between us. Beatriz had a way of ignoring people that felt like an art form. She didn’t need to say anything to make me feel inadequate; her cutting silence was enough.

"Bianca will freak out if the rain ruins the decorations," I tried again, throwing another line into the void. "She’s practical. She’s probably planned for it," she replied, still not looking at me. "Bianca is practical? Do you even know her?" I couldn’t help the sarcasm, and the corner of her lips twitched slightly, as if she was considering smiling but gave up at the last second. "You don’t need to be cynical, Lívia," she retorted, finally glancing up for a split second before returning to her book.

And that was that. Another failure.

I gave up trying. I reached into my bag and searched for my anxiety meds. Long flights always made me nervous, and sitting next to Beatriz only worsened the discomfort. "You’re taking that here?" her voice cut through the silence, without even glancing up from her page. I froze for a moment, breathing deeply to avoid sounding rude. "Yes, I am." "You know it’s unhealthy, right?" Ah, of course. The veiled judgment. That neutral tone that said more than any direct criticism could. "Beatriz, do you prefer I sleep or spend the next six hours trying to talk to you?" She blinked slowly, closed the book with exaggerated calmness, and finally looked at me. "Sleeping would be ideal." "Excellent. We agree on something." I flashed a fake smile as she went back to her book with the same indifference as before.

I asked the flight attendant for water, who handed it over with a kind smile. At least someone here had traces of humanity. I swallowed the pill, leaned my head back, and closed my eyes. But I couldn’t relax. My heart felt too heavy, my mind spinning with thoughts I didn’t want to confront. It was impossible not to think about how this wedding, this trip, was more than just an event for me. It was a pause. A chance to start over.

After that night…

No. I didn’t want to remember. Even now, months later, I could feel the texture of the pajamas clinging to my body, the sticky sensation on my hands, and the bitter taste of dread. I could hear the muffled sound of the door slamming behind me as I ran into the nothingness, with the echo of the scream still vibrating in my ears.

A tear slipped out before I could control it. "Are you okay?" Beatriz’s voice came as a shock, making me open my eyes quickly. I looked at her, expecting to see some kind of empathy, but her face remained impassive. Just curiosity, maybe a hint of genuine concern. "Yes. I’m fine," I lied, quickly wiping my face and closing my eyes again, more to avoid further questions than out of exhaustion.

It was impossible to say if this trip would truly be a new beginning. But something had to change. Bianca had found something good, something real, and maybe, just maybe, I could find a fragment of that for myself. Even if it meant enduring Beatriz.

xxx...xxx

Arriving in Scotland felt like stepping through a portal into another world. The cold, damp air brushed against my face like a breath of new life. The endless green hills stretched out as if someone had painted the horizon with a palette of green and gray. It was a place where time seemed to slow down, almost pause. Scotland had that magic, a kind of beauty that didn’t need to try too hard to impress. It wasn’t forced or exaggerated; it was real, with its rustic details and the simplicity of something that had withstood the test of time.

At the airport, Bianca’s fiancé was waiting for us with a sign bearing our last names, an old-fashioned gesture, yet somehow charming. He was everything I expected from a well-mannered European: elegant, smiling, and utterly unintelligible.

When he turned to guide us to the car, I noticed his broad shoulders and the way he moved, with a natural elegance that seemed choreographed. For a moment, I caught myself admiring his masculine beauty. Lívia, stop that. He’s Bianca’s fiancé! I thought, immediately chastising myself.

That thought didn’t stop me from casting sidelong glances at Beatriz, who seemed perfectly at ease beside him, conversing fluently and naturally. With every exchange of words in German, my discomfort grew.

I watched them interact as if I were watching a foreign play. "You speak German?" I asked Beatriz, unable to hide my tone of surprise. "Yes," she replied, with the same lack of emotion she used to comment on the weather. It was as if speaking a language I could barely pronounce was as effortless as breathing. "Of course you do," I muttered to myself, awkwardly waving at the fiancé. He smiled politely, probably not understanding a word I said, and returned his attention to Beatriz.

The drive to the estate was, to say the least, surreal. His family’s manor looked like something straight out of a fantasy novel. Stone walls covered in moss and ancient trees lined the path, creating the impression that we were entering a magical place where even the air felt denser, laden with history.

I couldn’t help but stare out the window every second, captivated by the scenery. "Girl, you hit the jackpot," I joked when Bianca came to greet us at the entrance, radiant as always. She laughed but shot a quick look at her fiancé, clearly worried he might understand. He didn’t seem to notice, busy organizing the luggage.

Beatriz, of course, was perfect. She made the right compliments, with the right tone, behaving like the ideal maid of honor. "The place is wonderful, Bianca," she said, with sincerity and a softness I could never hope to imitate.

I, on the other hand, was more interested in the grandeur of the manor and the fact that Bianca was actually about to live there. "How did you manage this? Does he have any single brothers?" I asked, laughing as I pretended to look around for other European men. "Lívia!" Bianca exclaimed, laughing and shaking her head.

Bianca’s mother appeared shortly after, her face slightly pinched, as if she couldn’t believe I was really there. It was no secret that she didn’t like me. Her nose wrinkled slightly as I greeted her with a polite smile. "Lívia," she said, her voice dripping with condescension. "How was the trip?" "Smooth. Thanks for asking."

Her eyes swept over me from head to toe, evaluating, judging. Before she could say anything else, Bianca swooped into the conversation with her usual energy: "Did you know Lívia now volunteers at the church? And get this, she even helps at a nursing home!"

The silence that followed was almost comical. Bianca’s mother offered a smile so fake it almost made me laugh. "That’s nice, dear," she said, with the most condescending tone I’d ever heard. "Yes, it’s something that really inspires me," I lied, trying to sound convincing, but Beatriz’s gaze felt like a spotlight on my words.

Then came the inevitable question. "And your husband, Lívia? He couldn’t come?" My mouth went dry instantly. "He was recently promoted. He’s busy with work and couldn’t take time off," I replied, my voice steady, though nervousness bubbled inside me. It wasn’t true, and Bianca knew it.

Bianca said nothing, just smiled, perhaps accepting my response to avoid ruining the moment.

As we walked through the manor’s grand hall, with its walls adorned with antique paintings and furniture that looked like it belonged in a museum, I tried to focus on the present. This trip was an opportunity. Maybe if I could convince Bianca to let me stay a little longer after the wedding, I could start figuring out what to do with my life.

Going back to my town wasn’t an option. Not when every corner carried a judging stare, not when even my own family had turned their backs on me. That incident at home had changed everything. It was as if the person I had been before that night had been erased, replaced by a distorted version, defined only by rumors. I could feel the weight of the stares, hear the whispers, even when they were far from me. It was a constant burden, a reminder that I no longer belonged in that place.

My own family had done nothing but reinforce that. When I needed help, support, they stepped away. Not to protect themselves, but to avoid any connection to the scandal.

That night, I had left home with nothing but my pajamas on and… blood on my hands.

I blinked, forcing myself to push the thought away before it could grow and consume me. This was a new place, a new chance. Scotland could be a refuge, even if only temporarily. Bianca was happy to have me here, and even if Beatriz was an obstacle, maybe I could find a way to turn this trip into a beginning.

I just had to figure out how.

If you need the rest of the text translated, let me know!

xxx...xxx

Later, as we got ready for dinner, Beatriz and I found ourselves alone in our chalet. She was fixing her hair in the mirror, every movement precise and flawless. I, on the other hand, was struggling not to ruin my dress while adjusting my shoes, cursing the heels that seemed to have been designed by a sadist.

“You seem nervous,” I commented, more to break the silence than out of genuine curiosity. “I’m not nervous,” she replied, not taking her eyes off the mirror. “Of course not,” I muttered. “You’re never nervous.” She gave me a look through the mirror but didn’t respond. “I just find it funny…” I continued, knowing I was poking the bear. “You speaking German and all. It’s impressive!”

Beatriz turned slowly, her eyes narrowing slightly. “I had the time to learn. Maybe if you used your time for something useful…” My stomach clenched. “Oh, right. Because volunteering at the church and helping the elderly isn’t useful.” “That’s not what I meant,” she sighed, clearly irritated. “Then what was it, Bea?” I challenged, crossing my arms. “What did you mean?”

She opened her mouth to respond, but the door swung open, and Bianca entered in her gorgeous pink dress, bringing a burst of energy and joy with her. “Girls, it’s almost dinner time!” she exclaimed, oblivious to the tension in the room.

Beatriz smiled at her, that perfect, practiced smile that always annoyed me. “We’re ready, Bia.” Bianca hugged us, and for a moment, the tension dissipated. In that embrace, everything felt simpler, easier. That was why we were here. For her.

“You’re the best,” Bianca murmured, holding us a little tighter. “I don’t know what I’d do without you.” “Neither do I,” I replied, trying to ignore Beatriz’s gaze over my shoulder.

When we finally joined the others for dinner, I tried to forget the disagreement. I looked around at the beauty of the place, at the people laughing and chatting, and allowed myself to relax a little. Even if Beatriz was a thorn in my side, in that moment, all that mattered was Bianca’s smile. Maybe, just maybe, I could find my place here. After all, if Bianca had found love, who knows what Scotland might bring for me?

xxx...xxx

The expansive lawn at the back of the manor looked like something out of a dream. The tables were arranged in elegant rows, adorned with white linen tablecloths that rippled gently in the evening breeze. Candles flickered in crystal holders, casting golden reflections on the champagne flutes waiting for toasts. In the distance, the Scottish hills looked like a painting in constant motion, the gray sky dissolving into softer hues as night approached.

I stood there, a glass in hand and a forced smile on my lips, taking in the scene as if trying to absorb the perfection of something that didn’t feel real. The bride’s mother, impeccable in an ivory dress, rose from her seat at the head table, immediately commanding everyone’s attention. “Welcome,” she began, with that authoritative, precise voice only matriarchs seem to possess.

Beside her, a tall and elegant translator repeated her words in German for the groom’s family. Now that’s fancy, I thought, impressed. A bilingual dinner at a historic manor. It’s not every day you get to experience something like this.

“This dinner is a celebration for everyone to get to know each other,” the bride’s mother continued, her tone firm yet courteous. “Throughout this week, we will dedicate ourselves to organizing an unforgettable wedding. On behalf of my daughter, Bianca, and our future son-in-law, I deeply thank you all for being here.”

A polite, restrained round of applause followed as she sat down again.

Then Bianca, radiant as ever, stood up. She looked stunning in her dress, her hair styled in a loose bun that managed to look both effortless and impeccably calculated. “Well, after all these formalities, I think I can lighten the mood a bit,” she said, with that trademark half-smile that always signaled something interesting was about to happen.

The light tension in the air began to dissipate as everyone turned their attention to the bride. “After dinner, we have two destinations,” she explained, her tone casual. “The men will go one way, and the women another.”

There was a wave of laughter and curious murmurs among the guests. I, of course, got excited immediately. Without thinking twice, I downed the rest of my champagne in one gulp and gestured for a waiter to refill my glass. “Finally,” I murmured to myself, barely containing my enthusiasm. “I need to get out.”

Being with Bianca was perfect. Amid all the chaos my life had become, she was the anchor that reminded me not everything was lost. And a bachelorette party sounded exactly like the distraction I needed.

Catarina, Bianca’s cousin and one of the other bridesmaids, was sitting next to me. She looked just as excited as I was, her face lighting up as she murmured, “I hope it’s something fun. It’s been ages since I’ve done anything truly celebratory.”

I nodded, leaning closer to her and whispering, “If Bianca’s in charge, I bet it’ll be amazing. She never disappoints.”

Before we could get too carried away with our excitement, a familiar voice interrupted our moment. “You both seem excited.”

Beatriz.

She appeared beside the table, as flawless as ever, with that neutral smile that always seemed to hide more than it revealed. “Why wouldn’t we be?” I replied, my tone slightly defensive. “Well, because…” she began, casting a brief glance at Catarina before continuing smoothly, “I’m sure the bachelorette party will be exactly Bianca’s style.”

Catarina and I exchanged glances immediately. Grimaces, actually. Because what Beatriz had just said sounded… worrying. “What do you mean by that?” Catarina asked, her curiosity evident.

Beatriz took a step closer, leaning slightly over the table. “I mean that Bianca was very thoughtful in planning an intimate and enjoyable event. Something that truly reflects her personality.”

My stomach twisted. “Wait,” I interrupted, crossing my arms. “Are you saying you helped plan the bachelorette party?”

Beatriz just smiled, which only made my irritation grow. “Of course,” she replied, with the utmost nonchalance. “Bianca wanted it to be special, so I shared some ideas.” “Right,” I muttered, turning to the waiter who had just refilled my glass. I drank half the champagne in one go before continuing, “That explains a lot.”

I wasn’t mad. Catarina looked more confused than annoyed, but she clearly wasn’t about to let the opportunity slip. “And what kind of ideas did you share?” she asked, her expression far too innocent to be genuine.

Beatriz either didn’t notice the trap or didn’t care. “Well, simple things. Interactive games, ambient music, something that allows people to connect…”

“Interactive games?” I interrupted, laughing dryly. “Are we going on a spiritual retreat or to a bachelorette party?”

Beatriz merely raised an eyebrow, unfazed. “I didn’t know you were so attached to traditions, Lívia. I thought you liked trying new things.” “I like fun,” I retorted, gesturing with my glass. “And honestly, I doubt your idea of ‘fun’ matches mine.”

Catarina, likely sensing the conversation was about to escalate, tried to smooth things over. “Well, it sounds like it’ll be a surprise,” she said, casting a quick glance at me. “Who knows? We might end up having fun after all.”

Beatriz smiled again, as if she had won some invisible battle. I, on the other hand, remained silent, finishing the rest of my champagne as I questioned, for the first time that night, Bianca’s absurd decision to involve Beatriz in planning the bachelorette party.

A mulher mais chata que existe planejando uma despedida de solteira? Isso tinha que ser uma piada.

xxx...xxx

After a few glasses of champagne and many failed attempts to figure out what Beatriz had planned for the bachelorette party, I was caught off guard by Bianca, who appeared with that mischievous smile only she could pull off. “Lívia, there’s someone I want you to meet,” she said, grabbing my arm and pulling me along before I could protest. “Now? I’m not exactly in the mood to socialize any more…” I began, but Bianca was already dragging me across the lawn toward a small group of men.

At the center of the group stood a tall man, broad-shouldered and completely bald, who stood out effortlessly. His smile was so wide it seemed to contain every tooth in his dental arch, and as soon as Bianca reached them, he surged toward me like a hurricane, arms wide open. “Ah, bella! Finally, I meet you!” he exclaimed in heavily accented English.

Before I could process what was happening, he pulled me into a tight embrace, wrapping me in his strong arms. The overpowering scent of cologne nearly made me cough, and the unexpected closeness left me uneasy. “Hi…” I murmured, trying to smile as I discreetly stepped back, putting some distance between us. “Nice to meet you.”

He seemed oblivious to my discomfort, still grinning as if we’d just reconnected after years apart. “I am Lorenzo! Your partner for the wedding!” he announced enthusiastically, puffing out his chest like he’d just won a trophy.

Bianca was holding back laughter, and I shot her a warning look. “Italian,” Bianca explained, still smiling. “And it seems he already likes you.” “Yeah, I noticed,” I muttered, crossing my arms as Lorenzo returned to the group of men, gesturing animatedly while speaking a mix of Italian and English.

“He’s a nice guy, Lívia,” Bianca said, nudging me lightly. “Sure. And enthusiastic,” I replied, trying not to laugh as I recalled the exaggerated hug. “Seems like he’s here for the drama.” “He’s intense, but he’s a great partner. He’ll make your life easier at the altar.”

I sighed, resigned. Bianca always saw the bright side of things.

When dinner came to an end, Bianca stood up again, this time to gather the women around one of the tables. “Alright, ladies, it’s time!” she said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “We have three cars waiting for us. We’ll all go together, and trust me when I say this will be a night to remember.”

The women began murmuring among themselves, excited. I, on the other hand, was more skeptical, especially when Bianca dropped the next bombshell: “Oh, and don’t worry about anything. The entire evening is on Beatriz.”

My expression hardened instantly. It was as if the whole evening had been wrapped in a cloud of disappointment. Not even the champagne I kept drinking seemed to ease my irritation.

Beatriz, of course, looked perfectly pleased with her generosity. She smiled serenely, as if completely unaware that I was likely judging her for the millionth time that night. I couldn’t help it. The idea that I couldn’t even offer something as simple as a good night for Bianca stung.

“Shall we?” Bianca asked, grabbing my arm again. “Yes. Of course,” I muttered, downing the rest of my champagne before joining the group heading to the cars.

When we arrived, I saw that the vehicles were spacious and tastefully decorated. Perfect for the occasion. But as I approached, I made a point of avoiding any car that contained Beatriz or Bianca’s mother. I wasn’t in the mood for more judgment, implied or otherwise.

I ended up in one of the middle cars, where some of the other bridesmaids were already seated. Catarina, always cheerful, was in the seat beside me, while two other bridesmaids chatted in the back row. “Any idea where we’re going?” I asked, trying to sound casual. “Not a clue, but I hope it’s fun,” Catarina replied with a smile. “With Beatriz in charge?” I shot back, raising an eyebrow.

Catarina laughed, but her laughter was restrained, as if she didn’t want to be overheard by the others.

As the car moved through the city’s quiet streets, I looked out the window, trying to ignore my growing unease. The scenery was beautiful—the city lights reflecting softly off the old buildings and cobblestone sidewalks—but I could barely appreciate it.

The conversation in the car continued, but my mood remained gloomy. Every laugh from the other women felt like a reminder that, no matter how hard I tried, I would never be like them.

And yet, there I was, heading to a bachelorette party planned by the most boring woman I knew, trying to convince myself that, in the end, it might just turn out to be a memorable night.

[famouslyemptyquest]

How will digital marketing change in the future?

1. AI and Automation:

AI-Powered Personalization: Artificial intelligence will be used to analyze vast amounts of data and create highly personalized marketing messages and experiences for individual consumers. 

AI Content Creation: AI tools will assist in content creation, including writing, design, and even video production, making it easier and more efficient for marketers to produce high-quality content. 

AI-Driven Conversational Marketing: Chatbots and AI-powered assistants will become more sophisticated, enabling more personalized and efficient customer interactions. 

2. Immersive Experiences:

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): AR and VR technologies will be increasingly integrated into marketing campaigns to create engaging and immersive experiences for consumers. 

Interactive Content: Interactive content, such as quizzes, polls, and interactive videos, will become more prevalent as a way to boost engagement and capture user attention. 

3. Video Marketing:

Short-Form Video Dominance: Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts will continue to be popular for marketing, with a focus on creating engaging, snackable content. 

Live Video: Live streaming and live shopping experiences will become more integrated into marketing strategies. 

4. Social Media Marketing:

Multi-Channel Marketing: Brands will need to be present and active on a variety of social media platforms, tailoring their content and strategies to each platform. 

Social Commerce: Social media platforms will become more integrated with e-commerce, allowing users to purchase products directly within the platform. 

Influencer Marketing: Influencer marketing will continue to evolve, with a focus on authenticity, micro-influencers, and niche collaborations. 

5. Data Privacy and Ethical Marketing:

Prioritizing Data Privacy: Consumers are becoming more aware of data privacy issues, and brands will need to be transparent about how they collect and use data. 

Ethical Marketing Practices: Consumers are increasingly looking for brands that align with their values, and ethical marketing practices will become more important. 

Sustainability: Brands will need to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. 

6. Other Important Trends:

Personalization at Scale: Beyond basic personalization, brands will need to leverage AI and data to create highly customized experiences for individual consumers. 

Voice Search Optimization: With the rise of voice assistants, optimizing content for voice search will become increasingly important. 

User-Generated Content: Leveraging user-generated content (UGC) will be a key strategy for building trust and authenticity. 

Omnichannel Marketing: Creating seamless and consistent experiences across all touchpoints, both online and offline, will be crucial for success. 

Focus on Customer Experience: Providing a positive and seamless customer experience will be a key differentiator for brands. 

[shabinv]

Top Digital Marketing Trends to Watch in 2025

As a Best Freelancer Digital Marketer In Palakkad we step deeper into the fast-paced digital world, 2025 is already shaping up to be a game-changing year for marketers. Technology, consumer behavior, and global dynamics are evolving rapidly — and so should our strategies. Whether you're a business owner, a startup founder, or a fellow digital marketer, staying ahead of the trends is essential.

Here are the top digital marketing trends to watch in 2025:

1. AI-Powered Marketing Will Be Mainstream

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a buzzword — it's the engine behind everything from customer service chatbots to personalized content recommendations. In 2025, AI tools like ChatGPT, MidJourney, and automation platforms will be used to craft content, optimize campaigns, and enhance user experience in real-time.

Pro tip: Leverage AI to automate mundane tasks and focus on strategy and creativity.

2. Hyper-Personalization Will Drive Conversions

Generic messages are dead. Consumers now expect brands to understand their preferences, behavior, and intent. With the help of advanced analytics and first-party data, brands will create ultra-targeted content, emails, and offers.

Example: E-commerce platforms will serve unique homepages to different users based on browsing history and location.

3. Voice Search & Smart Assistants Are Growing

With the rise of smart speakers and mobile voice assistants, voice search optimization is a must. In 2025, more than 60% of searches may be voice-based. Brands need to optimize for conversational keywords and FAQs.

Action point: Start creating content that sounds natural when spoken aloud.

4. Short-Form Video Remains King

Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, TikTok — short-form video is here to stay. In 2025, expect platforms to double down on this format with new monetization tools and discoverability features.

Strategy tip: Invest in authentic, value-driven video content. Consistency is more important than perfection.

5. Privacy-First Marketing Will Dominate

With increasing regulations like GDPR, and the phasing out of third-party cookies, marketers must prioritize ethical data use. First-party data collection (via signups, polls, etc.) will be more important than ever.

Solution: Build trust by being transparent with data collection and use tools that comply with privacy laws.

6. Influencer Marketing Gets Niche

Instead of chasing big influencers, brands are now working with micro and nano influencers who have loyal, engaged communities. In 2025, ROI-focused influencer partnerships will outperform one-off brand deals.

Idea: Partner with local creators who align with your brand values.

7. SEO Evolves with AI and Semantic Search

Google and other search engines are becoming more sophisticated. In 2025, keyword stuffing won’t work — semantic relevance, user intent, and E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) will be key.

Tip: Focus on helpful content, not just rankings. Google rewards real value.

Final Thoughts

Digital marketing in 2025 is all about authenticity, adaptability, and agility. As a freelance digital marketer based in Palakkad, I’ve seen how local businesses can thrive when they embrace innovation early.

If you're a brand looking to stay ahead in this evolving digital landscape, now is the time to upgrade your strategy and ride the trends — not chase them after they’ve peaked.

Let’s connect! Feel free to message me if you need help implementing these strategies for your business.