#Reignite Action for development

[thewriteadviceforwriters]

Why Writers Don't Finish Writing Their Stories, and How to Fix It

Hello fellow writers and storytellers,

The journey of writing a story is an exhilarating adventure, but it's not without its share of obstacles. Many of us have embarked on a creative endeavor, only to find ourselves mired in the struggle to finish what we started. In this blog post, I'll unravel the common reasons why writers don't finish their stories and explore practical strategies to overcome these hurdles and reignite the flame of creativity.

The Perils of Unfinished Stories

As writers, we often find ourselves in the throes of unfinished tales, grappling with the intricate web of characters, plots, and themes. There are several reasons why the ink dries up and the story remains untold. Let's shine a light on the familiar adversaries that stand between us and the triumphant completion of our narratives:

1. Lack of Planning:

Some of us brazenly dive into our stories without a clear roadmap, resulting in uncertainty about the direction of the plot and the fate of our characters. The lack of a solid plan can lead us astray, leaving our stories wandering in the wilderness of aimlessness.

2. Self-Doubt and Perfectionism:

Ah, the relentless whispers of self-doubt and the siren call of perfectionism! These twin adversaries can cast a shadow over our creative vision, compelling us to endlessly revise and perfect the early chapters, trapping us in a whirlpool of perpetual edits.

3. Time Management:

Balancing the demands of daily life with the ardor of writing can be akin to walking a tightrope. The struggle to find consistent time for our craft often leaves our stories languishing in prolonged periods of inactivity, longing for the touch of our pen.

4. Writer's Block:

The mighty barrier that even the most intrepid writers encounter. Writer's block can be an insurmountable mountain, leaving us stranded in the valleys of creative drought, unable to breathe life into new ideas and narratives.

5. Lack of Motivation:

The flame that once burned brightly can flicker and wane over time, leaving us adrift in the murky waters of disillusionment. The initial excitement for our stories diminishes, making it arduous to stay committed to the crafting process.

6. Fear of Failure or Success:

The twin specters that haunt many writers' dreams. The apprehension of rejection and the unsettling prospect of life-altering success can tether us to the shores of hesitation, preventing us from reaching the shores of completion.

7. Criticism and Feedback Anxiety:

The looming dread of judgment casts a long shadow over our creative endeavors. The mere thought of receiving criticism or feedback, whether from peers or potential readers, can cast a cloud over our storytelling pursuits.

8. Plotting Challenges:

Crafting a cohesive and engaging plot is akin to navigating a labyrinth without a map. Faced with hurdles in connecting story elements, we may find ourselves lost in a maze of plot holes and unresolved threads.

9. Character Development Struggles:

Breathing life into multi-dimensional, relatable characters is a complex art. The intricate process of character development can become a quagmire, ensnaring us in the challenge of creating personas that drive the story forward. (Part one of Character Development Series)

10. Life Events and Distractions:

Unexpected events in our personal lives can cast ripples on our writing routines, interrupting the flow of our creativity and causing a loss of momentum.

Rallying Against the Odds: Strategies for Success

Now that we've confronted the adversaries that threaten to stall our storytelling odysseys, let's arm ourselves with strategies to conquer these barriers and reignite the flames of our creativity.

Embrace the Power of Planning:

A clear roadmap illuminates the path ahead. Arm yourself with outlines, character sketches, and plot maps to pave the way for your story's journey.

Vanquish Self-Doubt with Action:

Silence the voices of doubt with the power of progress. Embrace the imperfect beauty of your early drafts, knowing that every word brings you closer to the finish line.

Mastering the Art of Time:

Carve out sacred writing time in your schedule. Whether it’s ten minutes or two hours, every moment dedicated to your craft is a step forward.

Conquering Writer's Block:

Embrace the freedom of imperfection. Write, even if the words feel like scattered puzzle pieces. The act of writing can unravel the most stubborn knots of writer's block.

Reigniting the Flame of Motivation:

Seek inspiration in the wonders of the world. Reconnect with the heart of your story, rediscovering the passion that set your creative spirit ablaze.

Reshaping Fear into Fuel:

Embrace the uncertainty as an integral part of the creative journey. Embrace the lessons within rejection and prepare for the winds of change that success may bring.

Navigating the Realm of Criticism:

Embrace feedback as a catalyst for growth. Constructive criticism is a powerful ally, shaping your story into a work of art that resonates with readers.

Weaving the Threads of Plot:

Connect the dots with fresh eyes. Step back and survey the tapestry of your plot, seeking innovative solutions to bridge the gaps and untangle the knots.

Breathing Life into Characters:

Engage with your characters as if they were old friends. Dive into their depths, unraveling their quirks, fears, and dreams, and watch as they breathe life into your story.

Navigating Life's Tempests:

Embrace the ebb and flow of life. Every pause in your writing journey is a chance to gather new experiences and perspectives, enriching your storytelling tapestry.

The Ever-Resting Pen: Harnessing the Power Within

Fellow writers, the journey of completing a story is filled with peaks and valleys, each offering us the opportunity to sharpen our resolve and unleash our creative potential. As we stand at the crossroads, staring at the canvas of unfinished tales, let's rally against the odds, armed with the power of purpose, passion, and perseverance.

Let the ink flow once more, breathing life into tales left untold, and watch as your stories triumphantly reach their long-awaited conclusion. You possess the power to conquer the adversaries that stand in your way, and within you lies the essence of untold narratives waiting to unfurl onto the page.

Here's to the journey that lies ahead, the stories waiting to be written, and the unyielding spirit of creativity that thrives within each of us.

Warm regards and unwavering encouragement, Ren T.

[autistichalsin]

A Durge Theory

This is my theory for my Durge, and resist!Durge in general, but obviously YMMV with your own!

So, the core of this is the memories that are unlocked if you either give Durge a noblestalk or use Heal on them. Two in particular are relevant here:

If you eat the noblestalk but haven't met Sceleritas Fel yet, your memory is of murdering a newborn.

If you have Heal cast on you while not having eaten the mushroom nor having resisted Bhaal yet, you see a memory of having murdered a family, very likely the one that took them in.

In the first case, you have a few options for reacting, one of which is, "Delve: why did it die?" The Narrator then says (in a way that indicates it might be your own thoughts): "*Better to die than live on an earth walked by you. Each of your deaths is a mercy.*"

Durge, despite their brutality, despite their affinity for torture, ultimately views their deaths as merciful, because even torture is better than living in the same world as them. That..... is a staggering amount of self-loathing.

For the second option, Durge has a few options, all of which lead to Sceleritas taunting him: "Young Master, precious fledgling, follow ever your heart. In time, your true family will find you." Durge was quite young when their Urge first took over, and it was noted that after this, they tried to fight it off a few times unsuccessfully before giving in fully and entering the Cult of Bhaal.

Further, we also know that Durge has often not been in control of themself while committing murders, though they were for some, too. For Alfira or Quill's murder, they explicitly say it was in their sleep; if they get Steelclaw killed, they have no memory of doing it; if they choose to go to sleep rather than warn their lover after sparing Isobel, they'll wake to find their partner dead.

This suggests to me that in addition to the Urge itself, it is very possible that at times, Bhaal directly possessed Durge to make sure they killed in situations Bhaal wanted them to- particularly when Bhaal wanted them to experience bloodlust, and was angry they seemed to have forgotten this part of themselves.

So... piercing all of this together, we have my heartbreaking headcanon for resist!Durge, and especially for my Durge Kiaran.

Durge/Kiaran was taken in by a loving foster family. They loved to play and were sweet- which angered Bhaal. He needed his spawn to feel bloodlust.

So Bhaal possessed them and made them murder the very family that took them in, quite possibly including a newborn sibling. Durge started to develop an appetite for killing, as Bhaal planned, and was also overcome with grief and self-loathing, feeling they were a monster- which Bhaal also planned. Bhaal made sure the Urge persisted, and all the while, Scleritas kept appearing to taunt and guide them towards their "real family," a group of murderers who understood them better than anyone else.

Feeling there was nothing else a monster like them could do but embrace their nature, Durge finally entered the cult, rose through its ranks, and became feared and admired for their ability to create mountains of bodies. All the while, though, they loathed themselves, feeling that even their worst, most torturous deaths were a better fate than sharing the world with them.

After the Nautiloid, Bhaal tried to reignite Durge's bloodlust with more forced murders, but the brain damage from Orin had truly severed the part of themself that had given in to Bhaal, allowing them to fight back the Urge and become their own person at last.

It fits in so well with the game's themes of gods being willing to completely and utterly fuck over even their worshippers just to get what they want, and many other themes the game hits on too (especially trauma, loss, and accountability for past actions counterbalanced with the ability to change, grow, and be better.)

[mekuscore]

Machu and Nyaan's character analysis

(up to ep6)

(This may be messy and sometimes repetitive, but I’m writing it in the middle of the night and it has been a while since I last wrote something like this, but I hope you appreciate it nonetheless.)

I decided to sit down and pick up my metaphorical pen again to write what basically turned into an analytical essay about Machu and Nyaan—because Gundam Gquuuuuux has reignited my love for character analysis, especially after episodes 4 and 5. So let’s dive right in.

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Machu and Nyaan are two central characters in the anime Gundam Gquuuuuux, each embodying unique aspects of identity, self-discovery, and transformation. Their development is intricately linked to their interactions with each other, the influence of Shuji, and their search for freedom in a world full of limitations and expectations. At the core of their narratives, Machu and Nyaan grapple with their own desires, vulnerabilities, and the concept of growth through adversity. Their narrative intertwines themes of survival, emancipation, and self-assertion, forming two complex and deeply human female portraits. Although both seek freedom, their motivations, methods, and obstacles are radically different. In this analysis, we will delve into their psychological and emotional evolution, the symbolic roles they represent, and how their experiences mirror broader themes of alienation, identity, and self-liberation.

The Struggle for Freedom

Nyaan embodies freedom as a primary necessity, not an abstract desire. Raised in conditions of extreme hardship, her existence is marked by deprivation and danger. In this context, freedom takes on an immediate value: to live without fear, to gain basic rights, to earn a dignified life. Every action she takes is filled with risk, as failure could cost her everything. She cannot choose her path lightly: every step toward a better life is a gamble. Nyaan doesn’t hesitate to protect herself, even at the cost of killing or shielding herself with the Red Gundam (even though she had faith in Shuji’s abilities).

Machu, on the other hand, comes from a wealthy family and lives in an orderly world, governed by strict and suffocating expectations. Her freedom is more abstract: she does not have to survive, but to truly live. She feels trapped in a life that, while materially secure, seems empty. Her rebellion stems from a need to find meaning in a life that is too planned and devoid of true stimulation. For her, freedom is a rejection of convention, it is existential liberation: she wants to shake off the invisible bonds of her privileged world.

Love and Friendship

For Machu, love for Shuji and friendship with Nyaan become spaces for emotional expression and self-discovery. Through these relationships, she seeks authenticity and passion. Romantic feelings become an act of rebellion and identity construction: she wants to experience something that breaks with her family’s narrative of perfection and control. Love is not a refuge but a possibility for rebirth and transformation.

For Nyaan too, friendship and love is a central theme, but it holds a different meaning: it is tied to protection, belonging, and the chance to feel safe in a world that has never granted her anything. Her feelings are rooted in the need for stability, she sees Shuji as someone to rely on—or even use—strategically to survive or an example of what even a poor girl like her can maybe achieve and someone who she can genuinely bond with that shares her own struggles.

Inner Conflicts and Character Development

The differences between the protagonists create tensions and misunderstandings. Despite her privileged background, Machu develops a form of jealousy toward Nyaan, who seems more capable of achieving results, and “mattering” to the group. When Machu discovers that Nyaan could replace her in the Clan Battles, she feels useless, as if her only contribution—money and being Shuji’s Mav—are no longer valued.

Her emotional reaction is also fueled by the realization that Nyaan is gaining a central role not only in the group but also in Shuji’s life. Machu’s jealousy is twofold: she fears being excluded from both friendship and romantic connection. This is compounded by the confusion of her first crush and her struggle to understand and manage her emotions maturely. She feels she is losing the only fragment of true freedom she has ever had: the chance to form real relationships and live a fuller life, it’s also a normal feeling for someone experiencing her first crush. This generates feelings of possessiveness and emotional confusion that influence her behavior. However, this jealousy isn’t baseless or malicious: it reflects her fear of losing something she has only just begun to understand. Machu is on a path toward a new self, but she is still fragile, uncertain, inexperienced. The comparison with Nyaan—more grounded and decisive—intensifies her insecurities.

Idealizing Shuji

Another fundamental element is how both girls perceive Shuji. They idealize him, avoiding a deeper knowledge of who he really is. This is a common emotional defense mechanism, especially during early romantic experiences: one prefers to imagine the other as perfect rather than risk disillusionment. It’s not a lack of affection—it’s a way to protect oneself from emotional vulnerability.

Machu is especially drawn to the mystery Shuji represents and the thrill being with him causes her and her adventures withnhim. Having grown up on Side 6, a peaceful planet free of conflict, Machu has led a predictable life, her curious and restless nature pushes her toward the unknown, the risky, the different. Clan Battles are not just a way to earn money—they’re a rush of adrenaline that makes her feel truly alive and this is possible thanks to Shuji. He becomes, for her, the personification of the intense and authentic life she has always yearned for. Even though she realizes she barely knows him, she sees him as the symbol of a freedom she’s never experienced, and for that reason, she idealizes him.

The Desire for an Authentic Life

Machu does not simply want to escape boredom—she wants to build a real, meaningful life. Her wish to go to Earth and see a real sky and sea is emblematic: she wants to break free from her sheltered life and experience the real world. Her mother, consumed by work, seems oblivious to her daughter’s needs, deepening Machu’s sense of alienation. Her relationships with Shuji and Nyaan become the most authentic parts of her life, and her desire to contribute to the group stems from this deep longing.

Machu and Nyaan represent two sides of the same coin: a fight for freedom expressed in opposite yet complementary ways. One seeks stability, the other authenticity. One fights to survive, the other to truly live. Their paths intersect and clash, generating deep, complex, and realistic dynamics. In a world that often simplifies female roles, these two protagonists offer a multifaceted, intense, and authentic portrayal of the human desire for freedom, belonging, and identity.

Undressing as a Metaphor for Self-Discovery and Female Adolescence

The nudity scene in Episode 4, in which Machu and Nyaan imitate Shuji by undressing, is a pivotal moment in both their personal development and their relationship. This scene is rich in symbolic meaning, representing a moment of emotional exposure and the shedding of past identities. The motif of undressing carries a deeper metaphorical resonance tied to adolescence and the search for the self. It recalls the process of discovering one’s own sexuality, relationship with the body, emotional intimacy, and boundaries. For young women in particular, this stage of life often involves experimentation and comparison, trying to understand who they are in relation to others—especially those they admire, desire, or envy. For Machu, the act is a profound gesture of vulnerability and inner transformation. While Nyaan embraces the act quickly and almost instinctively, Machu hesitates (symbolic detail is the little robot worrying about Machu’s nudity—a visual metaphor for the boundaries that still separate her from true freedom. It’s as if the universe itself is warning her: “If you go beyond this point, there’s no turning back.”). Her initial shock and reluctance to undress highlight her internal conflict—the tension between the desire for liberation and the fear of stepping outside the safety of societal expectations.

Nudity here is not merely physical; it serves as a metaphor for emotional and psychological exposure. Both girls are attempting to strip away the layers imposed by upbringing, trauma, and social conditioning. For Machu, this act becomes a test of how far she is willing to go to discover and affirm her true self. It is a moment of questioning—about her own limits, her fears, and the identity she is still constructing, but some aspects of her life and upbringing are rooted in her and are difficult to shake off, for example the need to fold neatly her clothes that becomes a metaphor of those parts of her life she has a hard time moving on from.

Nyaan, in contrast, undresses with a kind of intuitive boldness. This marks a key difference between the two: Nyaan acts first and processes later, while Machu is still more hesitant aboutcertain things before taking any step toward change, she needs someone to make the first move and then she follows them, for example the scene when she realizes that killing is inevitable for what she wants to achieve. Yet Nyaan’s action isn’t necessarily born from confidence. On the contrary, as someone who has of been forced to adapt quickly for survival, she may feel a deeper urgency to match the boldness of those around her—especially Machu and Shuji. Early in the series, Nyaan is portrayed as more reserved and cautious, even timid when faced with danger or unfamiliar experiences. Her choice to undress may be a way of proving to herself that she belongs—that she is not weak, that she is capable of matching the intensity of those she admires. Both Machu and Nyaan experience a strong attraction to Shuji, but the nature of their feelings is different. Machu approaches the attraction from a romantic and existential perspective—Shuji becomes the symbol of a new, passionate, and meaningful life. For Nyaan, the attraction is a bit less clear, her desire is entangled with her deep emotional bond with Machu, who may be the first true friend she’s ever had. For Nyaan, understanding Shuji means understanding someone who has captivated her friend so completely. There’s admiration, curiosity, and perhaps even a desire to grasp what makes someone so magnetic in the eyes of another. Nyaan also sees in Shuji a kind of strength and self-assurance that she herself is striving toward. In many ways, both girls are using their relationship with Shuji as a mirror through which they reflect their own insecurities, hopes, and questions about identity.

By imitating Shuji, the girls are not just copying his actions; they are trying to understand him, or perhaps more accurately, to understand themselves through him. Yet neither of them can truly comprehend Shuji, because he remains distant, emotionally elusive, and cloaked in mystery. Deep down, they may not even want to fully understand him. There is a kind of protective distance in their idealization: to truly get to know him might mean discovering that he is not as strong, free, or fascinating as he appears—and that realization could shatter the fantasies that have become so important to their personal growth.

Thus, their imitation of Shuji becomes a form of exploration—a gesture toward something unknown, an attempt to map their emerging identities through the image of someone they don’t fully understand and, perhaps, don’t truly want to understand. The nudity, the vulnerability, the mimicry—these are all part of a symbolic rite of passage. Each act is less about Shuji himself and more about the girls’ internal journey toward maturity, authenticity, and self-acceptance.

Symbolism of the Jellyfish and the Medusa and Kira-Kira

The imagery of the jellyfish plays a significant symbolic role in Machu’s character arc. She expresses a desire to become like a jellyfish—a creature that embodies fluidity, resilience, and adaptability. The jellyfish symbolizes the flow of life, the ability to drift with the current, to face challenges gracefully without rigid form. This sharply contrasts with Machu’s previous existence, which is defined by emotional stagnation and routine. Her fascination with the Medusa reflects a deep yearning for transformation: to escape the rigid structures of her daily life and embrace something more dynamic and genuine. This desire isn’t just external—it stems from a need to break free from internal constraints, from her own emotional limitations.

Machu’s relationship with the jellyfish reflects her internal struggle to adapt to change. Like a jellyfish, she must learn to navigate emotional complexity, balancing her longing for adventure with a need for stability. The oceanic symbolism evokes vastness and mystery, echoing her desire to explore a deeper, more authentic connection to the world—something she’s never truly experienced.

More specifically, the Medusa represents the passage of time and the rhythm of life itself—its current, its transformations, and the capacity to adapt and endure. This symbolism carries deep relevance for Machu. Her life, prior to meeting Nyaan and Shuji or becoming involved in the Clan battles, is nearly static. Without these disruptions, she would simply attend school with other students, possibly experience minor excitements like winning a lottery prize, go home, wait for her mother to return from work, and eventually find a job.

But this is not the life Machu truly desires. Deep down, she yearns for a dynamic, ever-changing existence—one filled with adventure, emotional intensity, and growth. She craves a life that demands flexibility, where she is constantly challenged to evolve and learn. Her longing to be like a jellyfish reflects this internal drive: she wants to drift with life’s currents, rather than remain anchored in monotony.

Machu’s resilience and adaptability manifest clearly in the choices she makes. She quickly embraces the idea of fighting alongside the Gundams, despite the risks, and almost instinctively forms bonds with Nyaan and Shuji. These actions reveal not just spontaneity, but a hunger for authentic connection and meaningful change. Rather than seeing her stable life as fulfilling, she experiences it as confining—emotionally barren and devoid of purpose. Her symbolic aspiration to “become a jellyfish” is her way of articulating the desire to escape those limitations.

Despite having a seemingly decent life—she attends a reputable school, has a mother who cares for her, and lives in relative comfort—Machu suffers from a quiet, persistent malaise. Some might see contradiction in this, but it is entirely coherent. She has friends, but they are not truly close; she gets along with her mother, but lacks deep emotional intimacy. She writes “jellyfish” as her career aspiration not out of whimsy, but because she cannot envision a future for herself—she is disconnected from the idea of adulthood, from the linear expectations placed upon her.

Her feelings of entrapment stem from a sense of being fundamentally misunderstood. She is fascinated by Earth, by the notion of a “real sky” and a “real sea,” by the idea of touching something vast and unfiltered. The Clan Battles represent more than war—they offer her a path toward intensity, freedom, and purpose. Her reactions to Nyaan and Shuji are shaped by this same yearning: they are unpredictable, emotional, and untethered from the sterile world she comes from. They disrupt the monotony of her life in profound ways.

Her connection to Shuji is especially significant. Both of them are Newtypes, and this shared identity creates a unique bond. Also,the moment she accompanies Shiiko to the train station and reflects, “She’s so different from my mom,” reveals Machu’s desire to encounter people who challenge her worldview and offer alternative models of connection and strength.

Finally, the “kira-kira” moment, apart from something connected to the nature of Newtypes, can also be analyzed from an emotional and psychological moment of great significance—when she feels an overwhelming euphoria while interacting with Shuji—is a sensory and emotional culmination of her inner transformation. It is described as if she is submerged in a colorful ocean, surrounded by radiant energy and light. This moment is more than aesthetic: it marks the awakening of her emotional self, a vivid contrast to her earlier apathy. Through this sparkling, almost synesthetic experience, Machu feels truly alive for the first time, unconfined by the limits of her former life.

Thus, the medusa, the sea, and the kira-kira together form a symbolic triad in Machu’s development: representing her longing for change, her capacity for resilience, and her gradual journey toward emotional and existential freedom.

Ep.6

We have better evidence that Machu suffers from the lack of genuine emotional bonds and doesn’t know how to handle her anger. She suffers both from closeness and distance with her friends, and she suffers from the absence of her mother. Their group is almost like a family for both Machu and Nyaan, but Machu feels excluded. She is angry and terrified at the thought of proving herself useless to Nyaan and Shuji, and it eats away at her that Nyaan, on her first try, managed to outshine all of Machu’s previous battles, further threatening her position in the group and deeply wounding her pride.

The idea of “swimming on land” returns, which references the jellyfish—and her mother doesn’t understand it. Machu is walking a path that her mother cannot follow, just as her mother never chases after her. When you swim, there are no roads to follow—you can go wherever you want, with complete freedom of movement. Machu also doesn’t have a clear idea on what she wants for herself aside from freedom and thrill, on the contrary we learn that Nyaan actually has clear dreams, as shown by the bookshelf in her room where there is the red book of Zeon University of Technology.

As a friend made me realize, in this episode we learn more about Nyaan, she might possibly be developing deeper feelings for Shuji as well as Machu, since she blushes because of his compliment and interest in her while she is preparing what I think are gyoza for her both Shuji and Machu, since they were waiting for the latter arrival. Also, she is really sad when she realizes Machu is really upset because of her, and the fact the first thing Nyaan did after the battle was sharing how happy she was of finally be able to understand the kira-kira Machu told her about. I hope that the relationship between Machu and Nyaan will be more developed after they realize that there's no point in being jealous of each other and that nobody will be left behind because there are genuine feelings between them, and maybe will see Machu prioritizing Nyaan as much as she already does with Shuji.

I'm cheering for a poly development, will see, fingers crossed 🤞🏻

I’ve also noticed that Machu is always upside down when she’s at home or in any environment connected to her ordinary life, as a symbol of the fact that she has completely different expectations from those around her and feels like a fish out of water.

At the end Machu feels guilty because she has put her new friends—and her only chance to live the way she desires—at risk. She feels that her place is inside the Gundam, and she finds comfort in its cockpit.

[brittanyearnestauthor]

Writing Character Goals More Effectively

Creating compelling character goals can be a challenge, especially when trying to make a story engaging and realistic. A well-developed goal can drive a character’s actions, shape their growth, and keep your plot moving forward. In this post, I’ll share a variety of goals your characters can have to help them stand out and enhance your storytelling.

Character Goals

Health Goals

Your characters may strive to improve their physical or mental well-being, such as:

- Eating healthier

- Losing weight or getting in shape

- Overcoming an illness or injury

- Building a sustainable self-care routine

Financial Stability

A character working toward financial security adds realism and depth to your story:

- Paying off debt

- Creating a sustainable budget

- Saving money for emergencies or future plans

- Achieving financial independence

Relationship Goals

Developing stronger relationships can be a key motivator for a character’s arc:

- Strengthening friendships or family bonds

- Improving communication in relationships

- Overcoming conflicts with loved ones

- Finding a romantic partner

Career Goals

Career-driven characters often bring ambition and struggle into a story:

- Earning a promotion or raise

- Changing careers for personal fulfillment

- Starting a business

- Expanding professional skills

- Reigniting passion for their current job

- Networking with industry leaders

Personal Fulfillment

These goals focus on self-discovery and inner satisfaction:

- Finding personal happiness outside of work

- Exploring creative outlets or hobbies

- Learning a new skill or trade

- Becoming more confident in themselves

- Practicing mindfulness and meditation

- Becoming a mentor and guiding others

Home and Family Goals

Creating a home or growing a family can add emotional depth to your character’s journey:

- Buying a house or relocating

- Starting a family or having children

- Designing and building their dream home

- Improving family dynamics and traditions

Travel and Exploration

Characters eager to experience the world might have goals such as:

- Visiting a new country

- Exploring local hidden gems

- Embarking on a road trip

- Taking a cruise for adventure or relaxation

Helping Others

Characters focused on making a difference in the world can have motivations such as:

- Volunteering for charitable causes

- Supporting underprivileged communities

- Mentoring younger individuals or newcomers in their field

- Advocating for social or environmental change

Ambition and Leadership

Some characters may strive to leave a lasting impact through leadership and influence:

- Becoming a respected leader in their industry or community

- Developing negotiation and leadership skills

- Fighting for a cause they truly believe in

- Building a legacy through their actions

Lifestyle and Personal Development

Characters driven by self-improvement may aim for goals such as:

- Learning a new language to connect with diverse cultures

- Writing a book to share their story or expertise

- Developing a personal philosophy or worldview

- Practicing problem-solving and adaptability skills

Material and Status-Based Goals

While not all goals are purely emotional, some characters may have aspirations that reflect their ambitions in life:

- Driving their dream car

- Gaining social recognition or fame

- Living in luxury or achieving financial success

- Owning valuable assets

Conclusion

By incorporating strong, realistic goals into your character development, you’ll craft characters that feel well-rounded and engaging. This list offers a starting point, but you should personalize your characters’ aspirations based on your story’s themes and direction. Keep experimenting, and let your characters’ desires shape their journey in unique and meaningful ways.

Happy writing!

[oldphanny]

So it's been a very long time since I've gone back and watched old DanAndPhilGames videos, and I'm honestly shocked in the shift Phil has had. Like, I'm talking about videos from 8 years ago, so they would have been pre-gayness and probably before ii (?maybeidk). Not that Phils personality as a whole has shifted. He's always had that quirky flare, but he just seemed so... flat in comparison. Like either he was getting tired of shielding his complete self, or maybe he was just generally exhausted from the whole peak of the channel. But compare him from those videos to today, and it's like a total rebirth. The smiles and laughs are so much warmer and brighter.

This has probably all been discussed on here a million times before, but I wonder whether that was the point that Dan was discovering himself and coming to terms with his sexuality and Phil was trying to be accommodating to that journey but feeling like he was neglecting a part of himself that he did eventually want to share. From memory, Phil has mentioned never meaningfully hiding his sexuality, but I'm assuming that if he did say that he was gay it would place a lot more pressure on Dan from us as an audience.

I guess I'm in awe of how much Phil has done to create a safe space for Dan to fulfil his own self-development journey. And I guess I wonder whether that's what has fueled Dan to come back to the gaming channel since Phil was the one to spearhead the return. Dan was supported in what made him happy so now he's returning that to Phil with the reigniting of 'Dan and Phil'.

I'm not saying that I think Phil was busting to come out but I'm assuming he may have been more concious about holding certain comments, actions or ideas back as not to out Dan at a time when he didn't even feel confident in his identity. I guess because I hadn't gone back to pre-coming out videos since probably pre-coming out times, I never really noticed how much that had affected Phils on-screen persona, because in these old videos he seems rigid and almost distant in comparison. Maybe at the time it wasn't noticeable but now it's like night and day.

Sorry for yapping, but I just really admire their relationship, and it's unique to see these kinds of developments captured to view over and over. Imma go lay face down now.

[yuna542]

🔙 [12.]

~Gold or Silver~

Pairing: JJ Maybank x Reader/Oc

Genre: Fluff, Enemies to Lovers, Smut, Angst, Drama, Action

Warnings: None

Taglist: Open

Word count: 3k

Summary: The Kook princess is back after a year and reignites the war between Pogues and Kooks on Kildare. But she quickly realizes that after this year, nothing is the same as before. Deception, secrets from the past, and dangerous conspiracies sweep across Kildare, leaving her no choice but to work with the Pogues and her personal nemesis to find the truth and maybe even $8 million. A dangerous treasure hunt begins that turns her world upside down.

Soundtrack:

⏯️Play: Do I Wanna Know by Arctic Monkeys

„'Cause there's this tune I found

That makes me think of you somehow an' I play it on repeat

Until I fall asleep, spillin' drinks on my settee

Do I wanna know? If this feelin' flows both ways?“

Today was the day of the opening of the new golf resort, which was financed mainly by Ward Cameron and Rick. The two of them had already started the project before we moved back to Kildare.

Officially, the Island Club had provided for a renovation and reopening, but every finely dressed guest sipping from their $600 champagne glass knew exactly from whose wallet the funding actually came from.

That's exactly why the Camerons and we had been treated like aristocrats all day. The building was too white and far too plain for me, even the lawn trimmed to within an inch of its life was not to my taste, but the view from the hill overlooking Figure Eigth and the way the beach flickered through the hot air on the horizon was breathtaking.

"Really pretty. Dad and Rick seem like a real dream team," commented Sarah next to me, who was relaxed and swirling a glass of champagne.

I, too, already had my second glass in hand, trying to escape the awkward conversations of Rick's business associates or the many prying questions from the gossips at the Island Club. After all, with our return, Rick's new projects on the island and not to mention my fresh relationship with Rafe, we were the number one topic of conversation not only around the Kooks.

"If you're into artificial turf and expensive holes in the ground," I muttered, sipping the prickling alcohol which tasted better each sip. I had been avoiding Rafe all morning. The fact that we were now in a relationship scared me, but came across all the better to Ward and Rick.

The last week had actually been quite nice. We had often been together on the beach, spent time either on Tanney Hill or in Lionelly Ville, but that awkward distance still hovered between us.

However, only I seemed to still perceive it, or Rafe skillfully ignored it.

Rick and Ward's eyes had gleamed when Wheezie had told them without my consent. The dollar bills had just been spinning in them like a slot machine. For the two of them, this meant a future-oriented collaboration that would bring them even more money than they already had. Now that Rafe was also primed to take over Cameron Development, that was doubly convenient for Rick, too.

For Kildare, a collaboration between Rick's ferry company, Rimshore Cooperation, and Cameron Development would be like a marriage between Elon Musk and Bill Gates.

Both had patted each other on the back fraternally, and were probably already planning the dowry when I was sold off like an expensive racehorse at the wedding.

"Mm. I don't like golf either," Sarah replied and we exchanged an amused smile.

"Oh my god! That dress is stunning!", I heard Rose Cameron shout from behind us and turned around. Immediately I was dazzled by the bright orange of her tightly tailored pencil skirt. Her blouse blew in the balmy breeze and I wondered if such a bright orange should have been paired with an apple green.

I, on the other hand, looked almost boring with the white floral dress. It fit close to my body and I was especially taken with the balcony neckline when I found it among my clothes.

Sarah was wearing a blue linen dress that fluttered incessantly in the wind and Rafe had choosen a simple shirt in the same blue as when I had last seen him a few hours ago.

"Thanks. Your outfit is incredible, too," I fluted exuberantly.

Incredibly ugly, I added in my mind.

Rose beamed and put a hand on Sarah's shoulder.

"Where did Rafe go?"

Like I was his babysitter. Irritated, I brushed a strand of hair behind my ear and covered my bad mood with a laugh.

"I don't know. Maybe he's out in the field practicing already."

That seemed to make sense to her, and she put a hand to my cheek.

"I'm so glad you guys found each other. After all these years. It's so special for our families."

No pressure at all...

I pressed my lips together and she took it as shyness, which is why she raised her empty glass.

"I'll let you girls chat then."

With a wobbly step, she strutted across the lawn like a drunken stork in her high heels. Just the word relationship sent shivers down my spine, but I wanted to give it a chance. So hopefully I would get rid of this strange tingling sensation and weird thoughts of Maybank.

Now everyone was standing in the new birchwood pavilion, drinking and chatting animatedly. Rick had disappeared into the building with Ward, while some of the guests were already trying their hand at golf.

The railing in front of us was adorned with plain laurel leaves, and the put-upon laughter of Island Club members echoed over to us from the blue carpets.

"Is she always this hyper?", I asked, still watching Sarah roll her eyes.

"Only when she's been drinking."

When a waiter came over to us, I unintentionally automatically looked for JJ in his face, but I didn't know the man who took our empty glasses.

Countless times today I had looked for Maybank, but he had not appeared anywhere.

Probably he was preparing the summer fire at the caves. On Kildare it had become a tradition for the young people to have a big party at the beginning of the summer vacations, where big bonfires burned and usually there was even a theme to dress up in.

In the last years the party became more and more important and also the costumes were made with great effort for this day.

It was held on one of the northern beaches, because there were tons of caves that were flooded with water in winter. But in the summer, the tide went out so low that you could get lost in the caves if you weren't careful.

I'd been looking forward to the festival since I arrived, and all day I'd been afraid I'd miss it if we didn't get out of here in time.

"What are you dressing up as? Gold or silver?" asked then Sarah, who must have been thinking the same thing at the sight of the white beach. Gold and silver was the theme for tonight and I already liked it a lot.

In fact, I had already picked out an outfit and I couldn't wait to get ready for the party with Sarah.

"Silver. I have heels to match," I explained, smoothing out my dress.

"Fits perfectly. Topper and I will be going in gold. Rafe, too, as far as I know."

My gaze drifted off into the distance again, and subconsciously I wondered what a certain Pogue would choose.

-

Just a short time later, we stealthily stole away from the golf course and picked up Sarah's things before getting dressed and made up in my bathroom.

Sarah's dress was full of gold sequins from top to bottom, flashing with every movement.

With only my underwear on, I started braiding her hair and worked sparkly gold stones into it.

Britney Spears was playing in the background and we sang along loudly while already pre-drinking with a big bottle of wine.

I had missed such girl's evenings and the togetherness did incredibly well after the week with Rafe.

Just then my cell phone vibrated and with a quick glance at the display, I flipped it over and threaded the next glitter stone into Sarah's hair.

"Who was that?" she asked curiously as she spread gold glitter on her eyelids.

"Just Rafe," I murmured, tweaking my creation a bit.

"How's it going?"

The alcohol didn't allow me to disguise my honest response, so a sigh escaped me.

"It's going well... I think."

Sarah turned around and could immediately read the lie on my face. To avoid her incredulous look, I changed my clothes and slipped into the silver bikini I was going to wear under my outfit. When the light fell on it at a certain angle, it threw back a shimmer of rainbow.

"I know how Rafe can be. What's going on?" she echoed, spreading shimmery lip gloss on her lips.

"He's so...pushy. He never leaves me alone and it's all kind of moving too fast for me."

Now that I'd finally said it, I understood this distance between us, too.

The feelings weren't coming as fast as I'd hoped, which is why the whole situation was making me so insecure.

"I understand that. Have you two slept together yet?"

Immediately I froze, but Sarah was genuinely interested and trying to help her friend, even if it was about her brother. If not her, who else could I tell the truth to?

"No. I haven't felt like it yet."

Not that he hadn't tried. But I had stopped him each time before it could get serious. Sarah nodded her understanding and sat behind me on the edge of the bathtub to tie my hair up.

"That's okay, too. You should just do what feels right and not let yourself be rushed."

Her words calmed me a little, however, the incessant pressure I felt as soon as it came to Rafe did not subside. It seemed like my job to make sure the relationship worked and that was a crappy feeling.

The rest of the time we chatted about unimportant things and when we were done, we looked at ourselves proudly in the mirror.

The silver corsage and skirt I wore over the bikini clung comfortably to my body and the jewelry on my neck and wrists tinkled softly when I moved.

Sarah had tied my hair into a small braid at the back of my head, so most of the curls still fell over my shoulders in chaotic curls.

Around my belly and thighs I wore fine silver chains and around my eyes were lines of plastic gemstones, in the form of waves.

The high shoes with the plateau heels and the little butterflies on them completed the picture and on my dark skin the silver looked as if it would liquefy any minute.

Sarah, on the other hand, shimmered and shone like a golden disco ball and I was already wishing her luck with the thin heels on the sand. We took hundreds of pictures and posted them, looked at other people's instagram stories and as we sat on the floor, giggling while going through posts, Sarah suddenly stopped at one picture. It was from Kiara. It showed the preparations for the party, how everyone was working on decorations, Pope was in the center, lifting a big barrel of beer and John B was helping him. Sarah stared at the picture and I smiled confused, as I realised the blush on her cheeks. But I couldn't think about it any longer, when she swiped to the next pic, which was JJ Maybank with his hair a mess, showing his middle finger to the camera while lifting something that looked like a bench.

His shirt was tied around his hips and the sweat was glistening on his toned stomach.

"Sky?"

"Hm?", I quickly answered and turned my head to the mirror again, as if I didn't saw something interesting at all.

Sarah only lifted her eyebrows and looked at me.

"Did you just check out your enemy?", she asked and I simply shook my head, while concentrating on my lipgloss.

"He looks fit, that's all..."

"That's all huh...", she teased me with a sarcastic laugh.

"What about you? Didn't you stalk John Bs pics last night while we were watching a movie?"

Surprised she just stared at me.

"You noticed?", she looked caught and I smiled evilly.

"Of course! The movie was boring as hell."

She pressed her lips together for a moment and took my hand after a few seconds.

"Let's just never talk about that again."

We both started to giggle and I nodded.

"Deal! It‘s too weird. Pogues are no good.“

Satisfied, Sarah typed a message and just a few minutes later we were picked up by Topper and Rafe on motorcycles.

Both were wearing golden jackets and had neatly gelled hair. As we walked out the door, they were obviously amazed and Rafe let out a whistle.

"You guys look hot," Topper commented, giving Sarah a curt kiss of welcome.

Rafe immediately pulled me close and kissed me stormily before helping me on his bike.

"You look like walking jewels," he commented and I smiled softly.

"Well, of course. After all, I missed the last summer party. I have to catch up."

They started the engines and we drove out to the beaches. You could hear the music and the big fires crackling from far away. Like trees, the burning cones of wood rose into the air in front of the caves, coloring the sand an unnatural orange.

There was a lot of booze and boisterous celebrations. Immediately I was infected by the euphoric mood. Even the caves had been equipped with torches and strings of lights hung everywhere on the palm trees.

A DJ booth and several seating areas made of wicker chairs and small wooden tables had been set up. Directly I got the feeling to be stranded in the Caribbean. Of course, everything was held in gold and silver accents and everywhere were flowers attached, which were sprayed with gold or silver paint in accordance with the motto.

The costumes of the others were in different styles. While some wore fancy dresses and suits, others walked around in garish swimming trunks and ridiculous shirts.

But it was exactly this mixture that made the summer partys charme. Everyone had their own definition of the theme and that's what made it so exciting.

When we arrived at the dance floor, heads automatically turned in our direction and the whispering began. Satisfied, I earned envious or eager looks and let my gaze roam over the people.

At the bar, some were already lining up, as there were obviously delicious cocktails.

Rafe had put his arm around me and pulled me tightly at the hip to show that I belonged to him.

Immediately, a feeling of trepidation spread through me that only got worse when Kelce and Topper's other friends joined us. Most of the kooks were dressed in gold, which made me stand out, but that was just fine with me.

The guys greeted each other with handshakes and laughed loudly. But I was still searching the crowd. For what, I didn't really know.

As soon as I spotted the Pogues in a seating area, a nausea loosened inside me.

JJ was sitting on the back of a wicker chair where Pope sat with a beer-can in his hands.

His blonde hair was sticking up from his head as usual and he wore only a short golden vest over his bare torso.

His shorts were beige, rather than gold, and on his nose he had a pair of gold sunglasses whose lenses were shaped like hearts.

He looked funny, yet I couldn't take my eyes off him.

Kiara was sitting on a bench next to him, wearing silver leather pants and a pretty gray top. Pope had also opted for silver and was wearing a shirt and shorts in the matching fabre.

John B wore a tank top that looked like it had been spray painted gold and simple black bathing trunks to go with it, which gotten some spray paint too. However, he had also a gold cap on his head that was definitely self-painted with little smiley faces on it.

"That sounds good to me. What do you say, Sky?"

Completely perplexed, I stared at Rafe as he snapped me out of my appraisal of the Pogues. I had become dully aware of the conversations, as if I were underwater.

Rafe seemed a bit puzzled by my confused look, then repeated:

"Kelce asked how you liked the new golf course. We spent the whole afternoon there."

"Ah. Yes. Turned out great," I said absently, trying to catch another glimpse of the Pogues as JJ laughed out loud and I really wanted to know why.

"It's really a blessing for the island to have Rick back. Ward and he will definitely start more projects and maybe the Cut will finally go away. Nobody needs that dump."

Kelce's words were directed at the group, but I felt personally addressed. The other girls, who were now also standing with us, agreed with him and Rafe also nodded vehemently.

Maybank stood up straight and laughingly returned a comment from John B. In doing so, he turned in our direction. That's when I tensed as JJ suddenly lifted his gaze and his unabashedly blue eyes scrutinized me.

There was a brief glint of confusion and then disbelief in them, then there was just that cheeky twinkle that blocked the view of his true thoughts like a thick wall.

The sound of the sea seemed to grow deafeningly loud, and Rafe's grip on my waist grew more uncomfortable as JJ came our way with Kiara and John's empty cups. My stomach rotated as if I had swallowed a spinning top and I turned urgently to Rafe.

"Why don't you get us something to drink?"

He smiled and his hands traveled up my back.

"Anything for my girl."

As a parting gesture, he pressed an emphatic kiss to my lips that only served to mark his territory. Because he too had noticed the looks the other guys were giving him, and when he gave JJ a venomous look, it was clear he had seen him too.

The other kooks were emitting whistles and lewd noises. Rafe and I, of course, were quite the latest gossip, especially in our age group.

When he got to the bar, I breathed a sigh of relief. It was as if handcuffs had been removed from me and I risked another glance at JJ, who was now also heading for the bar.

Was it my imagination or had his eyes darkened and his hands now clasped tightly around the mugs?

He rushed past me so that he brushed my shoulder and stared stubbornly straight ahead.

"What's wrong with him?" asked Sarah.

So it wasn't just me who had noticed the sudden change in mood.

⬇️

[13.]

© Yuna542 — 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐝.

[childotkw]

Self-rec time! What are your favorite five fics that you've written and why? After replying to this ask, feel free pass on to five other writers to spread the love. 💗

Oh god, this is like picking a favourite child 😅😅 but I'll rank them from most to least

1. Consuming Shadows

This was my first big story back, after I stopped writing for about six years. I was just testing the waters, having fun, and I wanted to play around with a ship I had only really just started consuming content for. It very quickly reignited my passion for writing, and it's blown up in such a way that I had never anticipated. I love the plot, I love the characters, I love Hadrian's progression from snarky but emotionally distant figure to a genuinely warm and loving friend, I love how well I managed to keep the threads of storylines and foreshadowing together, and I love the slow development of Hadrian and Tom's relationship in a way that's believable and does them both justice. The fact that so many people have resonated with it over the years has really left a mark on me, and I'll never forget all the things this story gave me.

2. you belong to me (i belong to you)

This one really was just my 'haha this is for the lolz' story. It was never meant to be popular or as big as it is. I was just fumbling around, wanting to write a cool time travel story, and then I came up with the Twist and it was no longer a joke 😂 I love the dynamics in it, I love Harry's general vibe, I love Orion and his chaos gremlin schtick. I'm still amazed that I came up with the plot twist (like, seriously, I don't think I can ever replicate that). And the fact that this story grew so popular and that so many people have enjoyed what started as my funny lil project overwhelms me in the best way.

3. The Lone Wolf Dies (But The Pack Survives)

In a lot of ways, this was a love letter to Regulus. I'd never really given him much thought as a character, but I fell in love with my interpretation of him. He's incredibly complex, and the future potential of the story really makes me excited.

4. ruination

Again, it's more the potential of this story that makes me love it. I wasn't super comfortable writing for asoiaf, and the fandom makes me...uneasy in a lot of ways. But I greatly enjoy all the ways this story could go. Lucerys intrigues me, and my interpretation of his character is especially fun to think about. I want to explore the slow but fundamental shift in a character, something that leads to them becoming almost unrecognisable. I love fantasy, and getting to play around in such an immersive world makes me giddy.

5. i don't owe you my forgiveness

It's only one chapter at the moment, but I really really really love the concept of soulmate rejection and the bitterness that is sown by Tom's hasty actions. The inherent power imbalance - originally in Tom's favour and then very dangerously in Harry's - is one dynamic I can't wait to sink my teeth into.

[theambitiouswoman]

Hi, I hope you're doing good. Can you please help me out? I've kinda stuck with this lazy pattern for 6-7 years now and it's kinda scary to think about it now. Before this lazy era I was a really smart kid, i was literally the school model- smart, popular, pretty. But now it's just hard to be that, my first priority is being independent but I've been so lazy and I hate being that but physically can't move past it. Nothing depressing happened, I just stopped putting effort altogether and now have bad past acads and 22 years old with no job. Please guide me?

It sounds like you are a bit unmotivated. Perfectly normal. I think the best thing you can do is dive into trying different things and figure out exactly where you find joy. Typically, the things we are meant to do are a combination of what we enjoy doing, and what we are good at. But ultimately you are the only person who can push themselves and want more for themselves. Remember that no one can do it for you but you can definitely rediscover your motivation and work towards becoming more independent.

Start by reflecting on what you want to achieve and why. What does being independent mean to you? Is it about having a job, moving out on your own, or perhaps something else? Setting clear, achievable goals can help guide your actions and give you something to strive for.

Once you have a goal, break it down into smaller goals. Large goals can feel overwhelming and may contribute to procrastination. Break your goals down into smaller, manageable tasks. For example, if your goal is to get a job, start by updating your resume, then move on to applying for one job a day.

Create a daily routine can help with laziness by structuring your day and making productivity a habit. Productivity breeds confidence. Start with simple things like setting a specific time to wake up, including time for job searching, skill development, and even breaks and leisure activities.

Sometimes our environment contributes to our lack of motivation. Try to create a space that encourages productivity—keep it organized, limit distractions, and perhaps add elements that boost your mood, like plants or motivational quotes.

Physical activity can boost your energy levels and reduce feelings of laziness. It doesn’t have to be intense; even a daily walk or some sun light stretching can make a difference.

You mentioned being smart, popular, and pretty in school—reflect on what made you successful and happy during those times. What routines or activities were you engaged in? Sometimes, reconnecting with past interests and strengths can reignite your current motivation.

You have the ability to turn things around just as you have succeeded before! 💗

[coffeenonsense]

I usually try to stay in my lane most of the time (mostly bc I am far too old for fandom drama) but what the hell, it's friday, let's put that lit degree to use:

the way people are playing morality politics with fiction is really starting to genuinely irk me and I think some of the responses to ascended astarion are a perfect example of why this type of thinking is actually hugely detrimental to one's ability to meaningfully engage with fiction and also to the future of art.

astarion is one of the most well-written complex characters I've seen in recent years bar none (and I'm clearly not alone given the explosion of his personal fandom lol) and he has a truly compelling, emotionally resonant character arc whether you ascend him or not

If you keep him a spawn, you get a deeply touching, realistic character's journey to healing and personal growth where he learns who he is after the experience of his trauma and depending on the player's choice, explores his relationship to sex, romance and intimacy

If you ascend astarion, you get an equally emotional and well-rounded character arc where he chooses the power that allows him to have the desperate freedom and safety he's wanted, but in the process eschews any hope of real healing or personal development, and again, depending on the player's choices, restarts the cycle of abuse by taking cazador's place.

These options offer vastly different paths for the character and experiences for the player, but while yes, ascended astarion is the evil ending, and yes, ascending astarion is a tragedy, and a fucking incredible one (not only do you have astarion reigniting a circle of abuse but you have the narrative weight of KNOWING he could have actually overcome his trauma...hats off to the bg3 team tbh) but that does not mean ascending astarion MAKES YOU AS THE PLAYER EVIL

Ascend astarion because you love tragic story arcs, ascend him because you want to indulge in a master/slave vampire fantasy, don't ascend him because you want a healing character journey, don't ascend him because you want a sweet romance; all of these choices carry the same moral weight for the player, which is to say, none, because they are an exploration of fiction.

I know I'm saying this to the villain fucker website but it bears repeating; just because someone wants to engage with evil, fucked up characters or content does not mean they support evil acts in their real life, and furthermore, exploring dark, taboo or tragic concepts safely is part of what fiction is for. It enables us to look at those things from a distance, work through difficult feelings and develop greater understanding of what makes our fellow humans tick — and before you get it twisted there's also no moral issue with exploring fucked up media bc you're horny or just, because. You can take it as seriously (or as sexily) as you want.

It's starting to really concern me how many people not only do not get, but are violently opposed to this concept, because equating what someone likes in fiction with their real life moral code and actions is an incredibly dangerous and let's be honest, immature way of thinking that not only stunts your ability to engage with fiction but ironically, hampers your ability to deal with complicated issues and emotions in real life.

I don't know what's driving this trend (though purity culture is certainly playing a role) but it's definitely something that's not just impacting individuals but contributing to the commercialization of art, where we get games and stories and tv shows and books that regurgitate the same safe, mass marketable plotlines and character archetypes over and over and over again so corporations can squeeze out as much profit as possible.

Anyway, remember kids: There's no such thing as thought crime, reaching for morally pure unproblematic media is directly contributing to the death of art, and this is why funding the humanities is important.

[tmntforeverinmyheart]

Anyone Remember Bolt?

i just watched this movie yesterday and it reignited a love :)

Essentially this is a movie about an abused dog actor learning to live a normal life, right? Cause thats what i got from it.

Bolt has barely any human interaction, no dog social interaction. He never has moments to play and hes constantly terrified of losing his owner. My personal headcannon for the age old question why Bolt is a much smaller Swiss Shepherd compared normal is that the constant trauma of chasing bad guys and protecting his owner stunted his growth.

Another headcanon I have is that he develops sore joints from the overexertion that came with being an action show actor. I mean it was 2008 so animal cruelty laws were very different. But still, this dog was worked to the bone for that tv show.

[pradnyesh1008]

Embark on a journey to the heart of Veridonia, an empire shrouded in tradition and mystique. The Golden Throne stands as the symbol of power, yet beneath its gilded exterior lies a realm of political intricacies and hidden secrets, waiting to be unveiled. In a world where politics, intrigue, and war are the norm, you must navigate your way through the complex web of alliances and enemies that surround you. This game is for those who love adventure, drama, and intrigue. It is a game where every decision matters and every outcome are different. It is a game where you can shape the fate of an empire and make history.

“Dive into the epic world of ‘The Golden Throne’ with its first book, ‘Crown of Conquest’. A journey you won’t forget!”

In the vast continent of Veridonia, a great empire stands on the brink of uncertainty. Emperor Varian III, the revered ruler who has led his empire with wisdom and strength for decades, finds himself facing a devastating reality.

As his health deteriorates, the absence of a suitable heir threatens to plunge the entire continent into chaos and ignite a destructive war between the kingdoms. Now, facing his own mortality, the emperor grapples with the realization that his thriving nation could crumble without a clear successor.

News of the Emperor’s failing health spreads like wildfire, reigniting ancient rivalries. The various kingdoms, each vying for power and control, sense an opportunity to assert their authority. Fear murmurs within the hearts of the people, and trepidation blankets the land.

Whispers of an impending civil war pervade the corridors of power, and tension begins to mount as rival factions strategize and secretly forge alliances in anticipation of the emperor’s demise. Drawing upon an elite advisory council, composed of trusted ministers, scholars, and military strategists, the emperor endeavours to explore all possible avenues to secure a peaceful transition of power.

Noble houses assert their claims to the throne, while whispers of treachery and deceit echo through the corridors of the imperial palace. A sense of urgency fills the air, as the emperor’s condition deteriorates, and time becomes the most precious commodity.

As the final days of the asserting claims and authority draw near, a solution begins to emerge from the chaos. King Aric, the king in the north, your/MC’s father, emerged victorious, chosen as the heir to the Golden Throne. In this epic tale of power, loyalty, and betrayal, will you succeed in helping your father preserving the legacy of his predecessor, or will Veridonia descend into a dark age of war and destruction? Are you ready to claim your destiny? Will you follow your father’s footsteps and become a worthy successor to the throne? Or will you carve your own path and challenge the established order? The fate of a continent hangs in the balance, and only time will tell. This is the thrilling saga of “Crown of Conquest”.

 A rich and immersive setting inspired by real medieval history, culture, and geography.

 A branching storyline with multiple endings and consequences based on your choices and actions.

 A customizable character with four different personality options and various traits that define your skills and abilities.

 A dynamic stat system that reflects your character’s growth and development throughout the game.

 A diverse cast of characters with their own backgrounds, motivations, and agendas.

 You can befriend, romance, or antagonize them depending on your choices.

 Violence and Gore: The game frequently depicts gory, brutal battles and graphic acts of violence.

 Frightening/Intense Scenes: There are many intense scenes that can be frightening for some readers.

 Graphic Deaths: Characters often meet violent, graphic ends.

 Torture Scenes: There are scenes depicting torture.

 Sexual Content: There will be many scenes with sexual acts.

 Dark Humor: The game contains dark humor, which may be unsettling or offensive to some viewers.

 Sadistic Behavior: Some characters exhibit sadistic behavior which can be disturbing.

 Substance Abuse: Characters are shown consuming alcohol excessively.

Demo:

Forum:

https://forum.choiceofgames.com/t/wip-the-golden-throne-60k-words/142838/59

RO's

Male RO's

Female RO's

[lambilegs]

just found out my gf cheated on me with her friend…is it over ? :/

oh, love :( I'm so fucking sorry to hear that.

I can't tell you what to do, but I'm gonna tell you what I'd tell any friend of mine who comes to me with this kind of news. I think a partner cheating just has so many levels of disrespect to it. for one, there's the breaking of a promise you two made to be only involved with each other in a sexual/romantic way (which I'm assuming is a promise/agreement you and your girlfriend had). and then, there's the disrespect of her doing something she knows for a fact will cause you hurt and a potential loss of trust in the future. someone who respects you, and honours your feelings, would never cheat on you. they would never willingly take an action that they know will cause you such immense pain, distrust and a loss of security.

cheating is never a valid route. like, for example, if she cheated due to a decline of interest or investment in the relationship on her end, or due to being overwhelmed with other factors in her life, there are ways she could've dealt with that with you. healthy, fair ways. like, sitting down with you, having a talk with you about it, trying to do things to reignite the spark, or working on problems that might be causing strain.

cheating is never the way to react to any sort of feeling or experience she is going through. a partner who truly loves, respects and/or cares for you as a human being they are bonded with, would never commit an action that they know will cause you such great pain. and because of that, I truly think you deserve better. like, you deserve a girlfriend who sees you not just as a romantic partner, but also as a best friend and a human being who feels things. because someone who sees you in that way, and is devoted to caring for you and respecting you, would never cheat on you. losing interest, losing the spark, feeling emotions wane -- that's one thing. but, those things can be handled and reacted to in healthy ways. your girlfriend could've spoken to you about whatever shit she was feeling, she could've communicated with you, or she could have just kindly broken things off if she felt she had no desire to work on things. cheating is never a valid option.

ultimately, it's up to you. you know, some people do get back together with a partner after this kind of situation. but, I'm talking to you like you're my bestie, and you know what, us having this conversation does make us friends. and as a friend, I'm telling you -- you don't deserve someone who cares so little about how their actions impact you that they cheat on you knowing it'll have such horrible, life-changing repercussions that fuck you, and only you, over.

it's hard to think of leaving someone you've been with longterm, I know it is. you develop your own language with that person, you guys become attached at the hip, and they're an integral part of your life. but, as someone who recently went through a breakup, I promise you -- your mind and body are made to heal from these things. it feels like absolute hell at first, so if you can, just make adjustments before ending it (if you choose to do so), like taking time off work or school, asking for assignment extensions, getting all your favourite movies and snacks ready, making sure your friends will have time to call and let you vent, etc. but, I promise, that hell-ish feeling will last a few weeks to a few months, and you will feel so good and relieved after. like, even I'm not at that point yet, but I know I will be. and I know you will be too. and with every day, every week, you will feel more and more healed, more and more adjusted to this new phase of your life. and those tidbits of ease, of healing, will push you forward to continue moving on. you had a life before this person and without them in it, and you will be able to live a life after their presence without them in it.

because you deserve someone who literally feels haunted by the idea of hurting you, of damaging their bond with you. someone who feels agonized at the idea of causing you pain. and trust me, you will absolutely find that person. if right now, you feel that staying with your girlfriend would mean sacrificing your self-respect or feelings, then don't do it. if you feel that staying with her makes your idea of romantic love shatter, don't do it. trust me, you will absolutely find someone who fulfills all your needs, including unwavering care and loyalty, without them having to screw up first before taking it seriously.

if you need anything else, whether it be to vent or seek out advice, please, my inbox is always open. like, I seriously mean that with my whole heart, don't hesitate at all. and I'm so, so sorry you're going through this. know that my inbox is always open.

[yourdeepestfathoms]

I was staking your ur yaelokre tag and I swa you were a published author and???????????? Would you mind me asking what exactly you published? (Infodumping encouraged!)

i’ve only got one published book out right now, which was done through self-publishing on Amazon, but i’ve sent two of my three manuscripts off to two different publishing companies to hopefully get them picked up and published! fingers crossed!!

my current book out is called Servant of Evil! it’s a historical fiction tragedy about the Salem Witch Trials, told from the perspective of one of the afflicted girls, Mary Warren. it details her involvement in the trials and how it rapidly tore the town of Salem apart, as well as detailing her slow descent into despair as the overwhelming guilt of her actions rips at her mental state.

the story is very grim and had me crying on several occasions, and i’m the author!

i wrote the book because i was hyperfixated on the Salem Witch Trials, which started when i was a junior in high school when we read The Crucible. however, it wasn’t until a year later that i actually started to do something with said fixation, as my mom took me to Salem for a graduation and 18th birthday gift, which reignited my passion for the event and got me writing! SoE was finished within two months, but it wasn’t actually published until January 2023.

here she is!

if you wanna buy the book, you can get it here!

do be warned, though, as the book is very heavy and covers a lot of serious subjects such as: self harm, suicide, sexual assault, abuse, and torture.

my other three finished manuscripts are:

Medusa’s Child, a three-part historical fiction series about Medusa raising a human child named Theodora (Teddi for short), who goes on to avenge her when she’s killed by Perseus. i have another account sharing details about the books: @mommy-medusa! (this is the one i sent to a publisher!)

Fog Makes People, a psychological horror-thriller duology about a fictional town called Lochmere that is haunted by a strange fog that causes people to go missing. sixteen-year-old Beatrice “Bee” Lamb is returning to Lochmere after spending some time away with cousins due to constant harassment from the community. she was the sole survivor of a fire at school that killed nine other kids, eight of which didn’t die from the fire itself but rather from being taken by whatever is in the fog. however, the night of her return, she begins to get texts from one of the fire victims, and she starts to realize that maybe the people who go missing in the fog aren’t actually dead. this send her down a rabbit hole where she desperately tries to save her friends, which is difficult in and of itself, but things get even more complicated when she officially discovers and subsequently meets the mastermind behind it all: an enigmatic, horrific creature known as the Rorschach. (this is the other one that’s been sent to a publishing company!) (this one is my favorite, i’ve spent so long developing it.)

and Hell or High Water, a survival horror-splatter punk set on a cruise ship called The Grey Palace, following a teenage girl named Violet Nicotero. this cruise ship gets hijacked by some maniacs and stranded out in the middle of the ocean, where the passengers are slowly picked off by these mask-wearing freaks. (i hate this one so much. it was my first ever book written, and it was supposed to be my debut novel, but i started to resent the whole thing after editing it so many times. i got too frustrated with it, so i put it aside to work on SoE instead, and it’s been in timeout for about two years now ever since.)

they’re all my babies, and i hope to get them all out in the world one day, including all my works currently in development hell!

[satoshi-mochida]

Echoes of the End launches this summer - Gematsu

Cinematic third-person action adventure game Echoes of the End will launch for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC via Steam this summer, publisher Deep Silver and developer Myrkur Games announced.

Here is an overview of the game, via Deep Silver:

About

The world ended long ago. We’re only living in its echoes. Echoes of the End is a cinematic third-person action-adventure game. It blends a deeply personal, character-driven story with thrilling magic and sword-based combat, engaging traversal and thought-provoking puzzles. Inspired by Iceland, this epic adventure offers a mature, rich and immersive experience in a breathtaking and original fantasy world.

A Heroine’s Journey

Step into the shoes of Ryn, a vestige wielding volatile yet powerful magic, as she battles to save her brother from a ruthless totalitarian empire. Partner with Abram Finlay—a scholar and explorer haunted by his past—to uncover a conspiracy that could reignite an ancient conflict and plunge Aema into chaos. Immerse yourself in a heartfelt tale of trust, redemption, and sacrifice in a world on the edge of war.

Key Features

-Dynamic Combat and Exploration

Master Ryn’s prowess in magic and swordsmanship to defeat unique enemies and face epic boss battles.

Harness a vast array of devastating powers as Ryn grows in strength and confidence throughout her journey.

Team up with Abram to combine forces in combat and traversal, unleashing creative combos and interactions.

Explore breathtaking environments inspired by Icelandic landscapes, from fiery lava fields to icy mountain peaks.

-Puzzles and Traversal Challenges

Solve engaging puzzles with Ryn’s powers, including gravity manipulation, destruction, and illusions, through collaboration with your companion.

Navigate the world with a diverse range of traversal mechanics, such as double-jumping, dashing, and gravity control, with each chapter introducing fresh, unique challenges.

-Cinematic Visuals and Realistic Fantasy

Echoes of the End immerses players in an original, grounded fantasy world brimming with depth and detail.

This character-driven adventure features motion-captured performances, intricately designed character models and stunningly crafted environments, delivering a truly unforgettable and heartfelt experience.

Explore the hidden history of Aema, forge unbreakable bonds, and embrace your magical potential as you shape the destiny of a nation.

Watch a new trailer below. View a new set of screenshots at the gallery.

Reveal Trailer

[lunaewriting]

The Healer: Xavier x OC

Chapter 3: Props and Mayhem

1935

After much deliberation, the pair settled in a developing area called Linkon City. Soon after, they opened up a storefront: Art & Apothecary. Given the plethora of antique art Sirona had collected, creating an exhibition of 'never before seen pieces' from the last 200 years was easy. Sirona's garden had housed all manner of plants, some with medicinal properties. The plants she had brought with her in the move, combined with Sirona's natural healing abilities, made her a favorite among the city's denizens.

Decades passed, and as they did, the light in Sirona's eyes gradually reignited, just as Xavier dreamed they would. However, with the city's rapid growth came an exponential increase in crime. Xavier knew that both himself and Sirona had a passion for protecting others. Though Sirona was already overwhelmed with the influx of injured and dying, and he… was bound to a code that many of the backtrackers had long since stopped believing in, but it was one that he followed all the same. However, his faith in that code began to falter the first time he witnessed Sirona surpass her healing limitations.

That day years ago, a gas leak and a lit cigarette had caused a catastrophic explosion at the bank down the street, injuring or killing at least 50 people. When Sirona heard the blast, she snatched her first aid equipment and bolted.

"Xavier, hurry!" She shouted at him, panicked. He ran after her without a second thought.

When they reached the scene, it was chaos. Bodies scattered the area. The survivors cried out in pain. Xavier looked at Sirona; he watched as her eyes rapidly assessed the situation. About 40 had survived, and several were critically injured.

Her eyes snapped to his, "Take this and try to stop the bleeding for the people that are conscious," The large first aid kit was thrust into his arms before Sirona rushed towards one of the gravely injured survivors. She skidded to a stop and began to pour her power into him; his wounds stopped bleeding almost instantly.

Xavier burst into action, working his way through the crowd, helping the injured. Sirona had taught him basic first-aid skills, so he was well-equipped to tend to their injuries.

"Please, help my child!" A woman caught Xavier by the leg desperately. He crouched before her, beginning to dress and disinfect her wounds,

"Where were you two standing before the explosion?" Xavier asked her firmly.

It was clear the woman's injuries impeded her from movement, "By the desk," She gestured feebly. All that was left of the desk was a pile of rubble, Xavier cursed under his breath. With the mother's injuries taken care of, he rushed towards the front desk in hopes of finding the son unharmed.

Xavier's eyes scanned the vicinity. Hidden in a nearby alcove created by the blast lay a bruised and bloody little boy. His chest rose and fell weakly; he was beyond Xavier's abilities. The child needed Sirona.

"Sirona!" he called. His eyes left the boy's crumpled form, searching hurriedly for her.

There she was, her steps faltering and unstable; she looked so frail, gaunt— surely he wasn't only imagining that her skin had lost its luster. She crouched down to help another survivor. Sirona's eyes seemed to sink into their sockets, and her cheeks began to hollow out as she siphoned her power into the person.  

"Sirona!" He called again, closing the distance between them. 'What's happening to her?' He thought, but it didn't matter now. That child would die without her help.

Xavier grabbed her hand; it was freezing. He shook off his worry; she'd be alright. When Sirona used too much energy to heal people, she got fatigued. He convinced himself there was nothing to worry about besides saving the lives of the people around them.

She lurched after him, her steps labored. "Xavier, I—" Her voice was drowned out by the crowd's screams. Finally, they reached the little boy.

"Here!" Xavier said, relieved to find the child was still breathing.

Sirona dropped to her knees beside the child. Her hands hovering over his tiny body, "Shit! He has a head wound, he's lost a lot of blood," Taking a steadying breath, she began siphoning more of her energy into him. Xavier realized too late that the woman in front of him, the woman who meant more to him than his morals, his code, even his life, currently looked like a corpse. The boy's breathing grew stronger, but Sirona's became weaker. Something was very wrong.

"Xavier..." She barely had enough life inside of her to muster the words, "I can't... There is nothing left," Xavier dropped down beside Sirona just in time to catch her before her body gave out.

"Sirona, what do you mean? T-talk to me!" His hands squeezed her shoulders in an effort to jostle her out of her stupor, to no avail. Sirens sounded nearby. The authorities would ask too many questions, and he needed to get Sirona to safety.

'I pushed her too far,' Xavier realized, 'I'm a monster...' Scooping her into his arms, he realized how emaciated she had become, as if the very soul within her had left. She was skin and bone, far from the woman he knew, so full of life and light. Sirona's head lolled to the side as if she were a ragdoll.

"I'm so sorry Sirona... God, I am so sorry." Using his power, he blinked them back to Art & Apothecary, carefully laying her on one of the clinic beds.  

He let himself fall into a chair at her bedside. 'What have I done?'

Xavier gazed at her, searching for any signs of life—Nothing, save for the weak rise and fall of her chest.

Xavier let out a long and shaky breath. 'She's going to be okay; she has to be.'

It still haunted him, the silence that was created in her absence. Living through that week without hearing her laughter, without seeing her smile. A week without waking up next to her in the morning. Agony was what it felt like. Seeing her laying there, knowing that there was nothing that he could do to help her... it knocked the air right out of his lungs.

When she finally awoke, she immediately asked about the survivors of the explosion. She did not seem to care whether she lived or died, a trait that had been apparent in so many aspects of her history. She would always give her life if it meant saving another. Xavier knew then that it was his job to never let that happen.

⭒✦✵✦⭒

Xavier and Sirona returned from a long day at the shop. Sirona was staggering, barely able to stand. Xavier offered to blink her to the apartment, but she stubbornly insisted on walking the short distance from the apothecary.

As soon as they entered the room, Sirona collapsed onto their sofa, defeated. She closed her eyes, trying to relax despite her racing thoughts.

She abhorred her ineptitude. How many people will die tonight because I couldn't save them? 

It was that thought that haunted her every waking moment and the idea that kept her awake at night. She couldn't take it anymore. It felt as if the guilt was eating her alive. The words were out of her mouth before she could stop them.

"Xavier, it kills me to know that people are dying out there because I'm too weak to save them," Sirona lamented. Xavier's eyes widened as he fell onto the couch beside her.

"What do you mean?" Xavier asked carefully.

"No matter how many people I help, there will always be some who slip through the cracks. What good am I if I fail at the only thing I am good at?" Sirona sat up straight so she could look her companion in the eyes.

"Sirona, you almost kill yourself every day to help these people. If you give them any more of yourself than you already do, you will die." He resisted the urge to reach out to her, knowing all too well why she felt this way, wanting desperately to strip that guilt away and for her to realize that she had saved more lives than most would ever dream of saving.

She looked down, aware of her limitations but uncaring. Absentmindedly, Sirona reached for the fabric of Xavier's sleeve, trifling with it in a self-soothing gesture. "I know… I can't save them all... but maybe we need to prevent them from getting injured in the first place? Xavier, you know we are both capable fighters, we still spar every day to keep our skills sharp. I don't see any reason why we shouldn't stop the people who hurt others."

Xavier pondered the idea; he knew he had no right to fear for her safety. She had fended for herself for nearly 150 years before they even met.

He, too, was well-versed in combat. He admitted to himself that he missed the thrill of the hunt. Despite his eagerness, he wrestled against himself. Too cognisant of the reality his non-interference pact presented. Being from another world and another time, he did not want to risk jeopardizing the timeline, but if the choice came down to protecting the timeline or protecting Sirona… he would choose her. He would always choose her. 

The future scared him. Sirona's power would be highly sought after in the aftermath of the Chronoshift Catastrophe. People would want to exploit her. If they knew someone like her existed, she would be hunted; they would need to keep their identities a secret. She had far more power than she realized. She was… incredible. 

Xavier had kept the knowledge of what he was and the things yet to come from Sirona for all of this time. He would try to keep it that way for as long as he possibly could. She needn't carry a burden that was intended only for him. He was trapped in a perpetual tug-of-war between his duty and his heart.

This idea contained far too many risks. What if she was hurt? What if he failed to save her? "Sirona, this idea is... reckless," Every part of him wanted to say no, understanding the potential consequences. "We shouldn't do this." But he knew arguing with her would be pointless. Her mind had already been made; for his conscience, though, he needed to be able to say that he tried. 

Sirona rolled her eyes. "There is no way you are talking me out of this. You can either come with me or stay here."

Xavier knew his answer, "You know I'd follow you through anything."

Xavier resigned himself. I am going to regret this…

⭒✦✵✦⭒

The next night, they set out to destroy the transgressors who thought they could prey upon the weak. Those people would meet their consequences. Xavier and Sirona donned masks from a masquerade ball they had attended years ago to conceal their identities. As with their attire, they also took new names. By day, they were Sirona and Xavier, the proprietors of Art & Apothecary; by night, they were Seraph and Lumiere.

As the two listened to the police scanner they'd procured from Jeremiah earlier that day, they realized the gravity of the endeavor they'd taken upon themselves. Times had changed since the late 1800s when the pair had met. Now, vigilante justice was looked down upon by law enforcement. This meant they needed to conceal their presence and avoid unnecessary bloodshed. Everything they did had to be quick, quiet, and efficient. 

"Attention all law enforcement units in the area, reports of gunshots have been received from downtown." The scanner droned. Xavier and Sirona looked at each other. The hunt had begun.

The sound of gunfire quickly drew them to a derelict factory in the underdeveloped part of the city.  Inside, the once industrious space now felt cold and oppressive. Bound, terrified hostages huddled together in the center of the room. The criminals, equipped with firearms, paced nervously. Every so often, a shot rang out, and one of the hostages fell, adding to the hideous sense of dread.

Xavier and Sirona crouched at the side entrance. Sirona looked at him, eyes lingering for a moment. He appeared equally enraged and electrified, but his demeanor was confident. He was a terrifyingly beautiful warrior. His silver hair gleamed in the moonlight, and the edges of his mask seemed to glow. The ferocity of his expression nearly took her breath away.

Sirona stood beside him, growing more agitated with each additional shot that sounded. Her gaze was grim, undoubtedly tormented by the ghosts of the people she had lost. Xavier knew how agonizing it must be for her to wait while people were being slaughtered.

Sirona adjusted her grip on her dagger, its blade glinting in the flickering light above them.

"We have to move fast," she whispered. "Every moment we delay, more people will die."

Xavier nodded, his own hands already gripping his sword. "I'll take the direct approach. You come in from the shadows."

They surged into action. Xavier burst through the threshold, his light blinding and disorienting the criminals. The room lit up as if a star had exploded, forcing the thugs to shield their eyes. While they were incapacitated, Xavier shot towards them. He maneuvered his blade with acute precision, disarming and dispatching two gunmen with seemingly effortless strikes.

Sirona slipped in behind him, her movements languid and silent. She approached another criminal from behind. With a touch, she siphoned the man's life force, draining his energy just enough to render him unconscious. She hadn't drunk lifeforce in so long; it was exhilarating, and for a moment, all she craved was more. But— the hostages needed her. She forced herself out of her aura of ecstasy. 

Now aware of the extraordinary powers against them, the criminals scrambled in confusion. The leader of the group barked orders, but his commands fell on deaf ears. His eyes narrowed when he spotted Sirona and fired a shot in her direction. Sirona felt searing pain as the bullet tore and lodged itself into her shoulder. The sound of the gun almost stopped her in her tracks; the last time she'd been shot—

The memory of William's corpse threatened to tear apart the resolve she so carefully mustered. She will never forget that day. She shoved the painful memory aside and persisted towards the hostages.

"Seraph!" Xavier roared, his voice filled with horror and desperation. He'd seen her falter. Their eyes met; pain was evident in her expression, but she nodded, adamantly signaling to him that she was all right. Xavier struck out; he almost glowed in the dim light of the factory as he dispatched another thug with a mighty swing of his sword. The room seemed to pulse with light as he fought, each blow a beacon of hope for the terrified hostages. Xavier mowed through the grunts, working his way towards the leader. How DARE he harm the woman I love.

The hostages had been beaten badly, some to the point of collapse. She moved among the injured, cutting their binds and siphoning her energy into them one by one. Each injury she healed drained her strength, and she staggered slightly but continued, driven by the urgency to save lives. Her vision filled with black spots. No matter how desperately she wanted to heal them completely, she knew she could not. 

Attempting to take another step, Sirona stumbled again. 

Seeing his men falling one by one, the leader desperately moved. Before Sirona could regain her balance, he lunged at her, grabbing her violently and twisting her arms behind her. In her vulnerable, dazed state, she couldn't fight back. 

His eyes darted around wildly as the leader aimed a gun at her head. "Stand down, or she dies!" he screamed, mania evident in his voice.

Xavier could no longer charge in blindly. The leader endangered Xavier's raison d'etre, his reason for being. 

"Seraph," he rasped, his voice wavering. His abject panic caused his loathsome body to freeze. The thought of losing Sirona was horrific. His worst nightmare was on the precipice of being realized. 

Sirona's eyes locked with Xavier's. Despite the situation, she looked calm and focused. "Lumiere, you are the light of my life; never forget that," she said with an edge of gravity. 

It took Xavier a moment to notice her intentional emphasis on the word. He knew what he had to do; all that was left was to trust her.

Before the man could move a centimeter, Xavier summoned a flash that momentarily blinded the leader. As the villian staggered, his grip on Sirona loosened. 

She seized the opportunity to overpower her attacker. Her hands slid out of his grip, and she clamped her hands upon his temples, claiming his life force as her own. His death rattle echoed throughout the warehouse; a husk was all that was left of him. After all the suffering he had wrought, he had ended up the same as the rest. The room fell silent except for the heavy breathing of the pair and the muffled sobs of the freed hostages.

"Time to go," Xavier whispered urgently. He supported Sirona as she could no longer run. They could not allow law enforcement to see them. Without another thought, Xavier teleported them to an alcove tucked away in a corner of the warehouse's ceiling.

Sirona, exhausted, leaned heavily on Xavier as they watched the police arrive from their unseen vantage point. Law enforcement quickly took the criminals into custody, and the hostages were ushered out, their lives saved.

"We did it," Xavier said softly, his voice filled with relief and pride. His eyes studied her intently, drinking in every detail. Every piece of her is beautiful.

Sirona smiled weakly, "Of course we did! I never had any doubt." 

She looked at him. Her eyes had a fire in them, an invitation. Xavier brought his hands up to grasp the back of her neck. The electricity that sparked between them was palpable. Xavier dipped his head, leaning in closer. Her eyes closed in anticipation— but the contact never came. Sirona opened her eyes.

His hands ran across her body, affectionate but clinical; Xavier inspected her for injuries, paying particular attention to her shoulder. His eyes held an air of mania, desperate to prove to himself that she was safe. Sirona's eyes dropped to the ground, slightly ashamed for assuming such a thing. I'm such a fool. 

She laughed despite herself, seeing the state of her companion. "Xavier, I'm alright, I promise!" 

She caught his wandering hands in hers, stopping them from their frantic journey. 

"Let me see your shoulder," Xavier said gently. Sirona rolled her eyes. And with a wince, she lowered the neckline of her shirt to expose her bare shoulder. Sirona admitted to herself that it hurt—badly.  

Xavier breathed in sharply through his teeth, his hand tenderly resting on her shoulder as he examined the wound more closely. "It looks like the bullet is still lodged in your shoulder. We need to get you home." Xavier took off his jacket and draped it over Sirona's shoulders. 

Sirona cast a sidelong glance at Xavier. "Fine," she groaned. "This is going to be terrible." 

⭒✦✵✦⭒

At their apartment, Xavier ushered Sirona back in and cleared off the kitchen table. 

"Sit down," Xavier instructed as he walked into another room. Sirona obliged, plopping herself onto the table. A minute later, he returned with a first aid kit, a shot glass, and a bottle of whiskey. 

"What's that for?" Sirona asked, eyeing the whiskey. Her eyes followed Xavier as his lean, muscular form quickly and efficiently laid out his tools. Sirona opened her knees, allowing Xavier better access to her wound. He settled himself between her legs.

"The pain," Xavier said. He was so close to her that she could smell his cologne; Sirona knew the scent would be more intoxicating to her than the whiskey. She could feel his body heat radiating from him, the fervor filling the space between them.

Sirona knocked back the shot Xavier poured for her. It was a good distraction. She poured herself another, for good measure, the liquor stinging her lips.

The warmth of the whiskey settled in her stomach.

Xavier cleared his throat, "I need to remove your shirt so I can get access to the wound. Is that okay?" He asked in a steely voice, but his eyes and the raggedness in his breath betrayed him, revealing the gap in Xavier's resolve.

"O-of course," Sirona stuttered, raising her good arm above her head. Xavier grasped the hem and began to lift it, using extra care around her injured shoulder. His knuckles grazed the plains of her abdomen. A breath escaped her lips. He slipped the shirt slowly over that arm first, then carefully weaved the shirt off of her injured one without causing much pain. His eyes carried a hungry haze, telling her it was becoming difficult for him to maintain his composure.

Fuck. Xavier thought. Seeing so much of Sirona's bare skin made it hard for him to focus. His hands rested on her shoulders, and he couldn't help himself from running his hands slowly, torturously along the length of her arms, from her neck to her hands. Sirona shivered under his touch. 

She was so tempting—Xavier shook himself out of his trance. He had a job to do. 

Sirona watched as the fog in Xavier's eyes cleared, and he reached for the gauze and tweezers. 

"This is going to hurt, Sirona. If it becomes too much you can squeeze my arm." Still situated between her legs, he leaned forward for better access to the puncture. The edges of his pelvis brushed against her upper thighs.

Sirona squeezed her eyes shut and reached out to hold Xavier's elbow. He used one arm to keep her steady while the other made its insertion.

Sirona gasped sharply as the tweezers entered the bullet hole. The wince caused her thighs to compress around Xavier's hips. The pain was hard to take. Sirona's grip tightened on Xavier's arm. She felt his tweezers make contact with the bullet and begin the extraction. They scraped against the interior of her injury, and she whimpered, trying to remain totally still. After what felt like an eternity, Sirona heard a clink as the lone bullet dropped into the discarded shotglass.  

Sirona released a deep breath that she did not realize she was holding and nestled her head into the crook of Xavier's neck. The pain was gone, and her regeneration could finally work at its usual unobstructed speed.

Xavier held his breath, not wanting to reveal how much she was affecting him. Each point of contact set his skin aflame. His fingers instinctually moved to stroke her hair as she leaned against him. 

"Thank you, Xavier," Sirona breathed heavily. Already beginning to feel the sinew of her skin begin to knit back together. Her fingers intertwined with his hair, brushing through the strands gratefully.

He smiled to himself. "Anytime," he whispered as he dipped his head to lean against her own. He savored his time with her and their contact, knowing how fleeting these intimate moments could be.

⭒✦✵✦⭒

1975

The past several weeks had been suspiciously calm, almost sinisterly so. In all her centuries, Sirona had never seen a city this quiet. It was disconcerting. Xavier and Sirona huddled around their police scanner, but nothing could be heard, not even the usual chatter from the officers on duty. Miraculously, the police had come to respect the phantom fighters, not impeding their ability to respond to a crime. They even gave them a nickname: the Hunters. 

Suddenly, the scanner droned to life, "We are receiving a series of troubling reports from all across the city. This appears to be a coordinated effort from multiple gangs. All officers report to the station for assignment immediately."

Sirona knew they had to act quickly. They looked at each other for a moment, knowing what needed to be done. "We need to split up, we can cover more ground that way."

Xavier knew she was right, but the thought of battling apart thrust a stake of fear into his heart. Still, he thought this was larger than either of them, and Sirona would always put the well-being of others over the well-being of herself. There was nothing he could ever do to stop her from acting on that. 

"Okay," Xavier said reluctantly. He felt dread, eradicable, ghastly dread. I do not want to be away from her tonight. He shook it off. He was just being neurotic.

It was their first time fighting alone since they started living together. Xavier would head towards the industrial district while Sirona would make her way to the city center. Sirona looked at him meaningfully before pulling him into a hug. She breathed in his scent; it always settled her. Her eyes drank his in.

"We'll meet back here in two hours, okay?" She rose onto the balls of her feet and gave him a tender kiss on the cheek. "I adore you…" Without time to say another word, Sirona bolted towards her intended destination.

Dumbfounded but optimistic, Xavier made his way towards his goal.

As Xavier approached the center of the district, he heard nothing, saw nothing. It was odd. Usually, there was some sort of activity going on within the area. He investigated the usual criminal hotspots, but all were empty. 

Finally, he came to the last remaining area. Once I finish patrolling this district, I can return to Sirona. 

He entered the building and closed the door behind him. That was when the light on the ceiling burst to life. With the entire warehouse illuminated, he could finally see how many men he had opposing him.

One of them spoke above the rest. "Lumiere, you and your companion have been a thorn in our side for too long. Tonight we will finally gut you both like the animals you are!" Xavier's blood ran cold. He realized that the APB was a ploy to split themselves apart from distract law enforcement.

Xavier attempted to keep himself composed, but the threat to his... Sirona... was too great, "If any of you have so much as touched Seraph, I will disintegrate each and every one of you."

"It's a little late for that, my old friend." Xavier's breath quickened. "She's already gone, I only wish that I could have seen your face as you discovered her body, but orders are orders..."

Xavier did not believe them for an instant. They were bluffing. Of course, they were bluffing. They had to be bluffing. 

"Fire!" The leader shouted, signaling with his hand for the bombardment to begin. Before a single shot could be fired, the room filled with a brilliant light. Xavier never gave them a chance to scream, nor did he stop to look at the carnage before bursting out of the warehouse. There was only one thought occupying his mind, Sirona.

⭒✦✵✦⭒

Sirona couldn't believe she had actually kissed him. She had loved him for almost a century. Now, she ran with a new sense of purpose. It was all she could do to keep herself from squealing with joy like a—

"Help!" A bloodcurdling scream pierced the otherwise silent night air, stopping Sirona in her tracks. Sirona immediately traced the sound to a nearby street. A woman faced the far wall of an alleyway, crying loudly; without thought, Sirona rushed to her.

"Are you alright?" Sirona approached with a kind smile.

The woman whipped around to face her, and Sirona felt the cold touch of gunmetal against her forehead. Before she could react, the woman smiled wickedly and pulled the trigger. 

⭒✦✵✦⭒

Frantically, Xavier blinked to their usual meeting point. 

"Sirona!" he screamed. That terrible pit in his stomach intensified. He tried and failed to stay calm. As he neared the city center, he heard what sounded like a riot emanating from a nearby alleyway. What he saw when he rounded that corner would haunt him for the rest of his eternal life. A group of about 10 men were all beating a small, motionless body. Please… anyone but her. 

Dazed, Xavier commanded his legs to carry him through the tightly huddled group. When he reached the center, time itself stopped. There lay his greatest fears manifest, his Sirona.

When he saw her head, he nearly vomited. Brain matter spattered the pavement. It looked like a hole had been punched clean through her skull, staining her beautiful chestnut hair a sick shade of crimson. A man crouched near her unsheathed a knife. The crowd, distracted by the display of desecration, had not yet noticed Xavier. They jeered raucously when they spotted the weapon.

"Let's take the bitch's head!" He smiled sickeningly as he moved to hack at her neck. Xavier had been paralyzed, but when he spied the knife in that man's hands, his vision went red.

 You deserve to die in agony, bastards.

Xavier collapsed onto his knees. Unconsciously, he conjured a cylinder of light, separating the attackers from Sirona's body. No more. No more will touch her. The crowd quieted in confusion. They quickly realized precisely who had stopped their sadistic revelry. He could see nothing else but her. His eyes studied her, desperate for any indication of life.

Unable to stand, Xavier crawled to her.  His heartbeat had become a roar in his head. When he reached her, he realized the extent of the damage. It appeared that almost every bone in her body was broken; she had been beaten brutally. The gunshot to her head was what killed her. They'd executed her.

"Sirona?" he rasped, to no response. Xavier's body doubled over her as if to shield her from harm. He leaned his head to her chest. Nothing. She was still, completely and irrevocably. When he raised his head once more, tears streamed down his face. She felt so cold; she hated being cold. This is a nightmare, just another nightmare, just wake up!

He pulled her limp body into his lap, cradling her in his arms. Staring up at the night sky, he felt nothing but torment. He let out a broken, mournful scream.  

As he began to scream, so too did the infernal crowd. Without thought, Xavier's anguish had reached a crescendo as his light erupted into a tempest. Tendrils lashed out, grasping at the limbs and torsos of Sirona's killers. They were being ripped apart slowly. The light was rendered crimson as the blood and viscera filled the air. Xavier was only vaguely aware of the carnage. Xavier could not tear his eyes from Sirona's body. She's not breathing. Her beautiful face was still, so still… They lay there in the eye of the storm as the screams faded into silence.

"Please, please, please come back to me. I can't lose you," Xavier begged to be struck down alongside her. He begged to be woken from this nightmare, begged to wake up next to her for one last morning. I can't leave you; I won't. We promised we would never leave each other. Why did you break your promise? He held her in his arms for hours, praying for her to heal. 

The light of his world was gone. He was never able to tell Sirona how much he loved her. No longer would he have someone to share his lonely existence with. He had failed. He was supposed to protect her. Nothing mattered without her. 

He had every intention to sit there in that alley until the world ended. But… he knew Sirona would never have wanted that for him. He knew he had to live on for her; no matter how painful it would be, he would do it for her. He grimaced as the sun began to peak over the horizon, knowing this would be the last sunrise they would share. 

But in that moment, he felt something—a heartbeat. Stupefied, he pressed his ear to Sirona's chest again and held a finger to her neck. Where there was once stillness, he felt it—LIFE. He thought he had imagined it. A grief-addled brain could be cruel, but there it was again, faint but there. 

He knew that no matter how long it would take, he would be by her side until she could wake to bring her beauty, warmth, and light to his life once more.

[jbk405]

Okay, here's what I would have done to restructure Furiosa to properly set up Furiosa's development and plotline in Fury Road.

First off, I would have made Dementus a "starter villain". It can still be his gang which first captures Furiosa from the Green Place and kills her mother, but his downward spiral should come a lot faster than it does in the released film. Immortan Joe held on to power through a combination of controlling vital resources and instilling a religious obedience to his rule. Dementus doesn't have any resources, and his nihilistic view of the Wasteland doesn't inspire any loyalty to him or his goals.

The fracture should have come either in the last sequence with Young Furiosa, or the first sequence with Older Furiosa. Without any involvement by the Citadel his gang should have descended into anarchy and civil war, and just like in the released movie Furiosa could have gotten the final kill against him after his rule has already collapsed due to his own incompetence.

Free from Dementus and planning to return to the Green Place, now is when Furiosa should have been captured by the Citadel. Maybe rounded up by a random scouting party, just like Max was in the opening sequence to Fury Road.

As just one more slave in this horrific society, the film should have shown her committing her own desperate acts in order to survive. Perhaps she overhears a few War Boys whispering blasphemous doubts about Immortan Joe and she turns them in to demonstrate her loyalty. Or maybe she discovers a beautiful woman hiding and captures her for Joe in order to prove her hunting value. These actions secure her physical safety and earn her a position of trust in the Citadel hierarchy, but they are also exactly what she's trying to find redemption for in Fury Road.

After so many years she's given up any concrete plans to return to the Green Place. Maybe she still thinks about it, or maybe she's nearly completely forgotten about it except as a childhood fantasy. Until one day she's out hunting or raiding and they stumble across another refugee from the GP, or maybe just somebody who's heard the legends. This reignites her desire to go home, and she begins planning to escape. But the climax of the film comes before she's ready and has her committing another atrocity on behalf of Joe (Maybe putting down an internal rebellion? Slaughtering an entire caravan of people passing through their territory? Something bad, whatever it is). That one last evil action done at Joe's orders is why she decides to do more than just escape. She wants to earn that redemption, so she plans to rescue the worst victims of Joe and his whole sick world, and she decides to bring the Wives with her.

By showing her doing horrible deeds in service to Joe, and by showing what she suffered beforehand to make those deeds look justified in her eyes, it connects perfectly with Fury Road. We see why she hates Joe himself so passionately on a personal level, why she hates the entire Citadel society, and we also see why she hates herself so much. Dementus is almost a footnote. She hates him for the violence he did against herself and her mother, but she hates Joe for what she did to others on top of what he did to her.

I think these changes would have transformed the film from "Pretty good, but not up to the standards I was expecting" into "Wow, they really knocked it out of the park here".