#how long does it take her to navigate from building to building? is lack of ramps a consistent problem for her too?

[ceramicbeetle]

it has come to me in a vision (Lila using phone AAC app to write her essays when she goes to college)

[winchesterwild78]

Daddy’s Girl pt 7

Master List

Characters: Dean Winchester x Reader (wife), Dean and Reader’s daughter, other characters from Supernatural

Warnings: court proceedings, angst, fluff, slight smut, mention of sexual assault

A/N: Another collab story with @cheekygirl2309. This chapter will touch on the sentencing of the jackasses, how the family is navigating life and other twists and turns. 

This is a work of fiction and does not follow the Supernatural storyline. I do not own the rights to the characters used.

All work is my own and @cheekygirl2309, don’t take it or use it as your own. Reblogs and likes are appreciated. 

Minors DNI 18+

I moved back into the bunker but not our shared bedroom. I slept in the spare room down the hall. Most nights I stared at the ceiling longing for Dean. My heart was still broken from the cruel words he flung at me, the anger he had towards me. 

We had appointments with a therapist. Delilah, Dean and I had our own, then a family appointment and of course one for Dean and I together. I was scared the cracks in our foundation would open up and swallow us whole. 

The day we were due back in court for the sentencing I woke up early. I took a shower and walked quietly to the kitchen. Turning the corner I gasped softly. Dean was sitting at the table. His green eyes flicked up to mine. He looked exhausted and sad.

“Good morning, sweetheart.” My breath hitched and my heart clenched. I missed hearing him call me that and meaning it. “Good morning, Dean. Are you ready for today?” 

“As ready as I’ll ever be.” He shifted in his seat and there was a crackle of tension in the air. “Hey, um, do you think you and I can sit and talk later?” He asked in an unsure way.

I took a deep breath, “Dean, I think we should wait and talk with the therapist. They can help us with communication so we don’t end up saying things we’re going to regret later. Hurt each other more.” 

Dean took a shaky breath and nodded. He stood and walked over to me, cupped my face, “For what it’s worth I’m sorry. I don’t blame you for Delilah. I spoke out of anger. I love you and I can’t lose you.” 

I leaned into his touch, “I love you too, Dean. I never stopped, but we have some work to do.” He nodded and let his hand slowly fall from my face. The warmth on my cheek lingered. 

A few hours later we were sitting in the courtroom. I held Delilah’s and Charlie’s hands. Dean sat on the other side of Delilah and held her hand. 

The judge came in and discussed the trial and what the charges were. “Since both defendants showed a lack of remorse, and it has come to light this attack was not the first one I feel it is my duty as an officer of the court and a sworn protector of justice that I sentence both of you to the max time and you two will have to register on the sex offender registry for the rest of your lives. Bailiff, please take both of these young men into custody where they will be transported to the regional jail.”

We all let out the breath we were holding. The boys were crying and their mother’s were wailing. Delilah looked at me and I leaned over, “Don’t feel bad for them. You did nothing wrong. Daddy and I raised you and Charlie to take accountability for your actions, this is how they take accountability.” 

She nodded. I made eye contact with Dean and he offered a soft smile. I craved his arms around me, his lips on mine. I just wanted us to get back to the way we were. I missed my husband.

The next few days we spent time together as a family. The distance between Dean and I was growing. Sam, Eileen and Jody came over more often and tried to help. 

Today Dean and I had our first therapy appointment together. I was nervous. All the hurt from the past few weeks was taking a toll on us. The ride to the therapist office was quiet. 

When we arrived, Dean walked around and opened my door out of habit. Walking into the building, his hand graced my lower back. Again, habit. It made my heart flutter, a smile formed on my lips. Almost like there was a spark of hope igniting between us. 

When we walked into the room the therapist invited us to sit wherever we were comfortable. Dean and I sat on the couch, but opposite ends. I noticed she wrote something down. 

She started telling us about herself and then invited us to tell her about our marriage and what brought us here today. She already knew about Delilah, but she didn’t know what happened between us.

Dean shifted uncomfortably in his spot. I swallowed the lump that had formed in my throat. “Well, the stress of what happened to Delilah really got to all of us. Dean and I didn’t handle it well, and things were said that led to our separation. When I got into my accident I wasn’t living at home. Waking up in the hospital I saw my babies and Dean. Leaving the hospital I decided to move back home.” 

“I see, are you two sleeping in the same room?” I shook my head no. She wrote something down. She looked at Dean, “So, Mr Winchester, what do you think happened that brought you two here today?” 

Tears filled Dean’s eyes and my heart broke. “It’s my fault. I got so angry at not being able to protect my baby I took it out on my wife. I’ve always been able to protect people. She didn’t deserve the things I said to her. It wasn’t her fault and I told her it was. None of this was her fault. I’m a coward. I got scared and lashed out at the one person I knew who would always love me. She’s seen me at my worst and helped put me back together. I guess I just assumed she’d always be there no matter what. Now I’ve lost the love of my life forever.” 

I gasped softly and the therapist looked over at me. “Mr Winchester.” “Dean, please call me Dean.” “Okay, Dean, tell me when you first knew Y/N was the one. Tell me about the moment you fell in love with her.”

Dean smirked a bit and I looked over at him, wondering if it was the same day I was thinking about. 

“We had just finished a particularly grueling, um week at work.” I smirked at his choice of words. “We hadn’t been dating long, but had been working together for years. The two of us decided to get away for a bit so we went to a friend’s cabin. Y/N didn’t know because I blindfolded her. When we got there I had blankets spread out on the floor, our favorite takeout and pie. Had to make sure my girl got her favorite pie.” 

I smiled thinking about the day. A warmth filling my body.

“Candles everywhere. I went to start a fire and the wood was wet. I ended up chopping wood. She doesn’t know it, but I saw her watching from the doorway. The soft smile that ran across her lips, the way she bit her lower lip.”

I clenched my thighs together thinking about his cutting the wood. His shirt was tight against his body, the flexing of each muscle with the swing of the ax, and the way his strength was on display. I remember how it turned me on and made me feel. Like this man could protect me and anyone else that came along for the rest of our lives. 

“When the fire was lit, I put on some music. I don’t know how to dance, but I knew how much she loved it, so I tried. I took her in my arms. I still remember the way her eyes looked at me. So beautiful, so full of love. We danced and I lost my footing. We tumbled onto the blankets, me hovering over her. Her hair falling in her face. I gently brushed her hair back, looked in her eyes, kissed her lips softly and that’s when I knew. When I knew I was in love with her and would never love anyone else for the rest of my life. I knew she was going to be my wife, the mother of my children. That was the day I told her ‘I love you’ for the first time.” 

By the time Dean finished, tears were streaming down my face. The therapist told us it sounded like there was still a lot of love between us. This tragic incident in our lives tried to create a wedge. So, she gave us some homework, “I want the two of you to spend time together. Just the two of you. No children, no family. Just the two of you. You two need to get back to what made the two of you fall in love. I want you two to go away for a long weekend, or a week. Y/N, I want you to start by moving back into your bedroom with Dean. If this is going to work you have to be back in there.” 

I nodded. We thanked her and left. Walking to the car, Dean’s hand was by his side. I looked over at him and slid my hand into his, our fingers intertwined. He looked at our hands then at me and smiled. 

The drive home wasn’t as tense as the drive there. We talked about the homework and how we would figure out how to get away for a little bit. He took my hand and held it tight, “We will figure it out, baby. I want to make us work. I want to fix us. I will never forgive myself for hurting you. I love you, sweetheart.” 

“I love you too, Dean. I want us to fix us too.” He kissed my hand. We drove home and when we got home I walked to the spare room and started to gather my things. 

Dean came to the door and leaned against the doorframe. “Do you need any help, sweetheart?” I looked up at him and shook my head. He walked towards me and cupped my face, “I’m so sorry, baby.” His forehead rested on mine. I looked up at him, our eyes met and he leaned closer to me. I leaned up and our lips met softly. 

He pulled back and looked at me. Tears in his eyes and tears in mine. His hands moved into my hair and pulled me closer to him and his lips crashed on mine again. The weeks of separation, the anger, the pain, all slipping away. 

We pulled apart when we heard someone clear their throat. We looked at the door and saw Sam. “Well I see therapy is going well.” He chuckled. “Actually yes. We have homework that we need to talk to you and the kids about. First, my beautiful wife is moving back into our room with me.” 

I grabbed my things and walked past Dean and Sam. Sam smiled at me as I walked past and he squeezed my shoulder. 

Walking into my shared bedroom with Dean I felt a sense of peace wash over me. I felt more of the shattered pieces coming back together. 

“Okay guys, we need to talk to you all about the homework our therapist gave us. She wants mom and I to go on a long weekend away. Just the two of us to refocus and work on us, our marriage. So Sammy, if you don’t mind could you keep an eye on them?” 

“Yes, of course.” Jody looked at us and smiled, “Well guys, you’re welcome to use the cabin if you want, and I’ll keep an eye on the kids when Sammy can’t.” 

I hugged her, “Thank you. The cabin sounds great.” Delilah smiled and looked at Sam and then at Charlie. 

“We will figure out a good time for everyone so we can get away. I want to make sure schedules are lined up so nobody is inconvenienced.” 

Sam stepped closer to me, “Y/N, what would inconvenience us the most is if you and Dean separate. Y’all should go this weekend. That gives you a few days to get things in order.” I nodded.

Once it was settled I walked into the kitchen to start cooking dinner. Dean came in and leaned against the doorframe watching me. I was standing at the stove when I felt his arms snake around my waist. “Is this too much too fast? I can let go if you want me to.” “No, Dean. It’s perfect.” I leaned back into him. 

My heart beat wildly in my chest. I craved him. He spun me around to face him and he tilted my chin up, “I will always love you. You are the love of my life and I am so thankful you’re my wife, my partner, the mother of my children. Thank you for giving me a beautiful little girl and a devilishly handsome son. I will spend the rest of my life trying to be the man you deserve.” 

Delilah stood at the door and watched us. She loved watching us and seeing the love between us. Her heart ached at the pain there was between us and she was determined to help fix it. Knowing our love story, and how we needed to get away she talked to Sam and Jody about recreating the magic of that weekend where Dean and I fell in love. Sam and Jody were all for it. Charlie offered to help too. 

Jody and Sam went ahead to the cabin and got it ready. They met with the local florist to have flowers delivered to the cabin the day we were supposed to arrive.

Dean helped me finish cooking dinner and the four of us sat at the table like we used to. I couldn’t help but smile looking around the table. 

“So daddy, can we have a movie night like we used to?” Delilah asked, batting her eyes at Dean. He chuckled, “Yeah, pumpkin. That sounds perfect.” 

The four of us sat around eating and talked. Delilah said she was glad I was back home where I belonged. “I am too baby. I missed you three so much.” Dean lifted his eyes and looked at me. He smiled softly. 

Delilah took notice and looked at Charlie, “Hey rugrat, let’s go get the cave ready for movie night.” “But I’m not done eating.” “Bring it with you.” She said more sternly. She glanced between Dean and I and Charlie nodded. 

He grabbed his burger and headed out of the kitchen with Delilah.

Dean and I chuckled. “She’s not subtle.” He smirked, “No she’s not. I wonder where she got that from?” “Her daddy and Uncle Sammy.” Dean laughed. That deep, head tilted back, full of joy, belly laugh that I missed. 

“I missed this, Dean.” “Me too sweetheart.” “I’m going to clean up the kitchen before we start the movie. I should be long.” 

I stood and Dean stood. He took my hand in his, “Y/N, tell me we will get through this. I can’t lose you.” 

I took a deep breath in and slowly let it out, “Dean, we will get through this as long as we’re both willing to put in the work. This, tonight, is a big step in the right direction.” 

He nodded and cupped my face, “We were interrupted earlier. Care to continue what we started?” 

His green eyes sparkled like emeralds in the sunlight. I smiled and leaned close to him. I placed my lips softly on his and my hands found the back of his neck. Dean sighed against my lips. Each time we kiss feels like parts of the cracks start to heal.

The two of us finished cleaning the kitchen and made our way to the Dean cave holding hands. Charlie and Delilah saw us holding hands and exchanged smiles. 

Settling in for a movie, Dean offered me his arm and I slid in next to him. A small olive branch to help mend our relationship. He kissed my head and pulled me close. His fingers draw delicate patterns on my skin. 

Delilah was on his other side. Her usual place since the day she was born. Even as she’s gotten older, her relationship with Dean has gotten stronger. It has changed to grow with her, but there will never come a day where she won’t need him. 

Even in the midst of all of this pain, I am thankful she and Charlie see us working hard at mending our relationship, not just throwing it away. She’s been able to see Dean as a protector and a fighter, and someone who will always be there for her.

I looked over near the end of the movie and saw Charlie asleep on the floor and Delilah asleep against Dean. Dean’s eyes were closed too, his lips slightly parted like he was asleep. I smiled and started to get up slowly. 

With his eyes closed he smirked, “Where are you going?” 

I giggled, “I’m going to get blankets to cover the three of you up.” “I’m not asleep, besides, I’m not missing the first night of you back in our bed.” I chuckled softly, “Fair enough, but I need to cover them up before we do.” 

I stood and he slipped off the couch, carefully laying Delilah down. We grabbed blankets and put them on the kids. Dean turned off the tv and the light.

We went to our bedroom. The door closes behind Dean with a click. I walked to my dresser and pulled out some clean underwear, and an oversized shirt. “I’m going to jump in the shower before bed.” Dean smirked, “Okay sweetheart. Enjoy.” I nodded and walked into the bathroom. Part of me wanted Dean to come in and the other part knew it wasn’t a good idea yet. We still had so much work to do before we had sex again. No matter how much I wanted it. 

When I finished my shower I walked into the bedroom and saw Dean leaning against the headboard. He was shirtless and in his gray sweatpants. The ones that drive me crazy without him even trying. He smiled at me as I bit my lip. “Did you enjoy your shower, sweetheart?” “Yeah, I did. It was great.” 

He pulled the blanket back on my side and motioned for me to slide in. I climbed in the bed and he slid down, taking me in his arms. “Baby, I hope you know I’m not expecting anything. I’m just glad you’re back where you belong. Sleeping right next to me.” 

“I know, Dean. I’ve missed sleeping here. I love you and I know you’re not expecting anything. I do want you, more than anything, but I think we should wait.” He nodded his head in understanding. “Come on sweetheart, let’s get some sleep.” I nodded and snuggled closer to his side.  

Drifting off to a better sleep. Better than I’ve had in a while. 

The next morning Dean and I were packing and planning our trip. I was excited and a little nervous. Dean and I hadn’t been on a trip alone since before Delilah was born. 

“Okay, so you two are going to be okay with Uncle Sammy and Aunt Jody? You have everything you need, right?” 

Delilah smiled, “Relax mom. We are going to be just fine. You and dad need to focus on you two. Don’t worry about us. We are in very capable hands.” I nodded. 

Dean carried out bags out and I noticed the way his biceps flexed under his shirt as he walked past. 

My breath hitched and I licked my lips. Delilah smirked, “Dad’s a total babe, isn’t he mom?” My head spun and I looked at her. My face flushed red, “Delilah Rose!” “What?! I can see how you look at him mom. I hope one day I have a love as great as you two have.” 

I cupped her face, “You will sweetie, I promise.” 

Dean walked in and said “She will what?” Before I could answer Delilah smirked and said “Oh a husband that’s a total babe like you so I can undress him with my eyes like mom just did you.” 

Dean laughed loudly and I covered my face. “That is not what I said.” “You didn’t have to mom.” She winked at me. 

Dean flashed a smile at me and walked over, taking me in his arms, “You were undressing me, were you?” I hid my face in his chest. He smiled as he pulled me close. 

We said our goodbyes and we took off in the Impala. Dean grabbed my hand and interlaced our fingers. “Ready sweetheart?” I nodded and he hit the gas. 

As we drove closer to the cabin, memories of that weekend played in my mind like a silent movie. I looked out the window and over at Dean and smiled. He’d steal glances at me and his memories of that weekend ran through his head too. 

Since that weekend, we’d been through so much, getting married, having babies, raising them, now we were faced with the prospect of our marriage not surviving if we didn’t put in the work. 

Dean was willing to do whatever it took to keep his marriage going. 

I was staring out the window and saw our favorite take out place. Dean saw it too and pulled in. I smiled. 

“Should we eat here or get it to go?” I asked softly. “I think we should get it to go.” I nodded. 

We walked in and ordered the food. Not much had changed in the restaurant. More dust covered items hanging from the wall, the carpet was worn, but the woman behind the register was just as sweet as she had been. 

She remembered Dean and I and asked how we had been. Dean beamed with pride when he told her about the kids and how we were getting away for a romantic weekend, just the two of us. 

She smiled, nodded and held up her finger. Dean and I shared a confused look. 

She returned with a small bamboo plant and handed it to Dean. “This is for good fortune, growth and resilience. You two will be okay. I see love. Strong love.” She smiled at us and Dean thanked her. 

A few minutes later we were back in the car with the food. 

I sat with the plant in my hand thinking about her words. She was right, there was definitely strong love still there. 

We pulled up at the cabin as the sun was beginning to set. Dean and I started to carry things in and as we walked in I gasped. 

There were blankets spread out on the floor, battery operated candles everywhere, and beautiful flowers on the counter. I looked at Dean and smiled. 

Walking to the kitchen I put the food down and grabbed the card attached to the flowers. I read it and smiled. “What does it say sweetheart?” 

I read it out loud: “Mom and Dad, we hope you love the flowers and the blankets. We want you two to be as comfortable as possible while you’re falling in love again. We love you both. Love Delilah and Charlie.” 

Dean smiled, “Those sneaks. I bet Sammy and Jody had a hand in this too.” I smiled, “probably.”

We unpacked the food and Dean carried it to the blankets. “I’m gonna start a fire.” He stood and grabbed some wood. “Huh, there isn’t enough for the whole weekend. I’ll have to chop some tomorrow.” I giggled, “I wouldn’t mind seeing that.” 

Dean looked at me and smirked, “Well then I guess I better put on a show then.” I touched his arm, “I can’t wait.” 

We ate dinner and talked. Remembering the therapist’s advice about talking about us and not focusing all our energy on the kids. At first it was hard but we eventually started talking about us and how we fix our relationship. We laughed and we cried. 

Dean stood and walked over to the record player. He turned on Led Zeppelin’s Since I’ve Been Loving You. He offered me his hand and I stood and took it. 

We swayed and he held me tight as he sang along to the lyrics. As the song ended he dipped me and I smiled. “We made it without falling this time.” “Oh sweetheart, I never stopped falling.” 

My heart fluttered and I gasped softly. Dean leaned forward and kissed my lips. 

Lifting me up he walked me backwards towards the blankets that covered the ground. The light of the fire casting shadows around the room. 

He gently laid me down and hovered over me. “You’re more beautiful than the first time we were here. You’ve given me an incredible life and two amazing children. I love you more than anything. I’ve loved you since the minute I laid eyes on you and I still can’t believe you chose me.” 

I looked up at him. His eyes full of love and regret. Dean leaned down and slowly kissed my lips. The kiss healing more of the cracks in the foundation of our love. I knew he was sorry and he regretted everything he said. It still hurt, but our love was worth fighting for. He was worth fighting for. 

My hands found the back of his neck and I pulled him down. The kiss between us turned heavy and needy quickly. 

Dean’s hand slipped down and to the hem of my shirt. He stopped and I nodded against his lips. 

His hand slid under my shirt and left a trail of goosebumps in its wake. 

Within minutes our clothes were discarded and Dean was hovering over me with lust filled eyes. His eyes scanned mine for any sign of hesitation. I saw his question and cupped his face, leaned up and kissed his lips. “Dean, I’m ready if you are. I love you and I want you.” 

The look in his eyes quickly changed back to need and want. Positioning himself between my thighs he lifted my legs and pushed in slowly. 

My fingers grabbed his biceps and my head tilted back as I moaned his name. 

His head found the crook of my neck as he stilled. “Baby you feel so good.” 

We made love over and over until we were both exhausted. 

“Dean, that was incredible.” I rolled over and kissed his lips. “Baby, I love you so much and I’m so sorry I hurt you. You didn’t deserve anything I said to you. I wouldn’t have blamed you if you had left me for good.” 

I placed my hand on his cheek, “Dean Winchester, you are the love of my life. Yes you can be an ass sometimes, but I could never nor would I ever leave you. I understand why you did it and I forgive you.” 

Dean’s eyes filled with tears and they silently fell. “I don’t deserve you, sweetheart.” “Yes you do. You deserve me, our children, Bubbles, and the beautiful life we’ve built together. Don’t ever forget that. You saved the world. So you, Dean Winchester deserve so much more.” 

Dean pulled me in his arms and threw a blanket over us. “Want to sleep out here tonight?” I snuggled closer and nodded, “I’m quite comfortable right here.” 

The two of us fell asleep, our bodies tangled together in front of the orange glow of the fire. 

The next morning we woke up to the sounds of the birds singing and the sun shining through the large ceiling to floor windows. 

Dean stretched and looked at me. “Good morning, beautiful. How’d you sleep?” I smiled, “Better than I have in a very long time.” He kissed my lips, “Me too, baby. Well I better go chop some firewood. Want to watch?” He wiggled his eyebrows at me and I smiled. 

“You better believe it.” I giggled as I stood up with the blanket wrapped around me. “First I’m going to take a shower. Want to join me?” 

He grinned and as I took off down the hall he came bounding behind me. Our laughter and giggles filled the cabin. When Dean caught up to me he pulled me in his arms and kissed me. Our chests rising and falling, trying to catch our breath. “Sweetheart, I love hearing you laugh. It’s been too long since I was the cause of it. Thank you for not giving up on me or us. I love you.” I placed my hands on his firm chest, “Dean I’ll never give up on you or us. I love you too.” 

Back at Jody’s house the kids were settling in for the weekend. They decided to hang with Jody and the girls since Sammy and Eileen were working late. Jody noticed Delilah was very quiet over breakfast and pulled her to the side to talk to her. 

She hadn’t had a chance to talk to her alone since all the stuff happened with Jaxon and Adam. 

Delilah was sitting on the bed in the guest room and was on her phone. Jody knocked on the door, “Hey sweetie. Can I come in?” Delilah nodded. 

“How are you doing, baby girl? I know a lot has happened lately.” Delilah shrugged, “I guess I’m okay. I just feel so guilty mom and dad are having problems. This almost broke them. They have always been so in love and they almost split up because of me.” Her tears started to fall. 

Jody grabbed her hand, “Hey, no. This isn’t your fault. None of this was your fault. I don’t care if you snuck out and danced naked in the streets, he had no right to put his hands on you. Neither one of them did. As far as your parents, sweetie, they will work it out. I’ve known your dad for years and he can be a jackass sometimes, but he is head over heels in love with your mother. He’s going to do whatever he has to in order to make it right.” 

Delilah took a deep breath, “Thank you, Aunt Jody. This is just so hard.” “I know honey. I went through the same thing. I was about twenty and went to a friend's party. I remember getting a drink, and then the next thing I remember was waking up to a boy on top of me. I screamed and fought, but I passed out again. The next morning I woke up naked and bruised. I was so ashamed, but therapy and a great family helped me through it. You have that right here. So many people love you and are here for you. You’ve got this sweetie. After all, you’re a Winchester.” 

Delilah smiled and hugged Jody. “Thank you, Aunt Jody. Thank you for telling me and reminding me what I have.” 

Sam had stopped by to check on the kids and to make sure they had everything they needed. Charlie asked Sam if he could talk to him for a minute and Sam nodded. 

Sam and Charlie went outside and sat on the porch. “What’s up buddy?” “Uncle Sam, no one will tell me exactly what happened to Delilah. All I know is it was really bad. I just want to know so I can help her.” 

“I get it bud, but it’s not my place to tell you. Just be there for her and help her when she asks for it.” Charlie nodded, “Okay. Thanks Uncle Sammy.” 

Sam ruffled Charlie’s hair, “Anytime buddy.” They stood up and as they got to the door Charlie turned and looked back at Sam, “Uncle Sammy, I might not know exactly what happened to Delilah, but I can promise you nothing will ever hurt her again. I’ll make sure of that.” 

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[madwomansapologist]

Marcille studying how to take care of chickens and using that knowledge to help her clean Falyn's feathers.

light like a feather | marcille donato x falin touden

Navigation | More Farcille | AO3

synopsis: Marcille being hungry for knowledge isn't a novelty. Unless the subject is chickens.

warnings: alright first time writing for dungeon meshi + first time writing a ship. what a month to be sapphic. also i am high on cramps medicines so vibe with me. fluff and an attempt at comedy. non canon compilant. where does it takes place on the story? whenever you want boss

From the balcony, Falin watched as they moved in the forgotten city. Cooking dinner, counting the suplies, mapping the ever changing ways. So concentrated.

She could jump. Falin could land right next to Senshi, nineteen feet bellow the balcony, without a single scratch. Her breath wouldn't even be affected. Althought it would be an easy task, she continued there. Alone, watching over them, very aware that this wasn't some sort of saint-like behavior anymore.

It was the one of a predator.

Falin had a dragon within her. Not human, not monster. She was something new entirely. Falin should be mad. Grieving over herself, over what was taken from her and what was needed to get her back. She didn't.

It was great. To be strong. She never strong before. Laios is the strong one. The fighter, the protector. She knows she is stronger than him now. And she feels... free. Like whatever that was taken from her didn't belong there at the first place. A useless weight that left her soul.

Before she would too watch over the party. It was great to observe, to understand people without being perceived. It was easier like that. People used to think she was too calm, too nice, too great. They would probably say that her stare is off-putting now.

She wanted to jump, but instead walked downstairs. An old building, perfect for them to spend the night and get ready to move for the next layer. The ghosts there welcomed them.

She smelled Marcille before seeing her. It was impossible to not recognize her perfume. The soap — made by the mage herself —, the mixture of flowers, a bit of cinamon. Delicate, as most elfs are.

She didn't mean to sneak into her room. It was just natural for her to not make noise. Watching the long hair dripping against Marcille's nightgown, a glimpse of the book she had on her hands caught her attention.

Chickens: care and reproduction.

"You want to be a farmer now?" Falin sat besides her. "Good thing I haven't bet on that."

Marcille practically jumped away, yelling more than if a lion was attacking her. Falin only giggled.

She always had been prone to exageration. Marcille doesn't lie, not to her. All it takes is one glance and Falin knows what she's feeling. And now she is acting like a child caught stealing from a cookie jar.

"Falin! You scared the life out of me! And what... why would you ever bet on that? I am only interest on... chickens. That's all."

Liar. Horrible liar.

Falin sat besides her, and it barely took a minute for Marcille to grab her hand. Another thing she is glad. She never knows when people want her closer, but Marcille always tells her what she wants.

Squeezing lightly at her thin hand, Falin tried to read the book. "And what about chickens are so interesting?"

"I, humm, I wanted to understand a few things. Just curious," Marcille bit her lip. She seemed embarrassed. Maybe Falin wasn't sneaking, but Marcille was definitelly hiding from something. "About their feathers."

Oh. Sure. Marcille's always talking about how hair can be crucial to magic users. And since she cut her own, Marcille is probably worried about the lack of the resource. Maybe feathers is a substitute for that.

But since they are still so deep into the dungeon, Falin don't think they'll be able to find anything like that. There is no mammals there. Actually, she isn't sure of that. But Laios must know!

Then, what are they both even thinking about. There is a clear, easier solution for that. "You can cut mine. It's no problem."

Marcille stared at her, the embarrassment gone. "What?"

"My hair," Falin said, smiling proudly. "If you ever need more for a spell, just cut mine. It's fine. Don't need to look for substitutes when I'm here."

Marcille closed the book, throwing it away. Laying down at the bed, she pulled Falin with her. Marcille just remembered why she never had the need to hide things from Falin. Always so toothaching sweet.

"I worry so much about you," Marcille got the hair away from Falin's golden eyes. So enchanting. "Do you know how long it took me to align your bones? To put everything at the right place, the perfect order?"

Falin didn't answer. She didn't knew it, but wouldn't open her mouth either way.

"Even when I was done, when I was watching as your skin grew, I wasn't sure if I haven't mistook anything." Marcille held her hand, the touch so delicate. Their finger fit perfectly together. "You're the one to care for our souls, so I will gadly care for your body."

Falin watched their fingers intertwined. She feels so warm around Marcille. Almost as if Marcille is the dragon. So protective, so careful. So perfect.

"And what does that have to do with chickens?"

Marcille laughed. It was loud, and soon Falin was laughing along side her.

"You have feathers now," Marcille brushed against them. "I need to help you with them."

Oh.

Falin stopped laughing. Her feathers. The most obvious trace of the monster within her. And instead of fearing it, ignoring it, hating it; Marcille cares for it. Skin and feathers, teeth and fangs.

She didn't felt like a predator anymore. Just like herself.

"You're so dumb." Falin got up from bed.

"Falin!" Marcille was quick to clumsy follow her out of the room. "You take that back!"

Helping Senshi, she ignored as Marcille tried to understand what she meant by that. Surrounded by her friends, Falin just allowed the truth to sink in.

She wasn't alone anymore.

if you enjoyed, please reblog! i promise it makes a difference ♡

GENERAL TAGLIST: @lovelyy-moonlight

@ madwomansapologist.tumblr.

[unwashed-laundry]

Boo! ─★

You know what would be a real fun idea? ₍ᐢ._.ᐢ₎♡

It’s sounds stupid now that I’m typing it

𝜗𝜚 Honest review of Desmond couples would survive these reality TV shows

How this will work is that I will first describe the show and its premise, picks a couple and write a review on if they’ll survive. My review will be long so this will mostly likely become a secondary series for me. (๑'ᵕ'๑)⸝*

I fear I can do only one couple for one part

Also you can ask for other reality tv shows or movies that I can do! This just seems fun

Love is blind:

"Love Is Blind" is a reality dating show where singles meet and connect emotionally without seeing each other. Participants engage in conversations in separate pods, forming bonds based on personality and emotional connection rather than physical appearance. After a series of discussions, if a strong connection is established, one person can propose marriage. The couples then meet for the first time and navigate the challenges of building a relationship in the real world, exploring issues like chemistry, compatibility, and with the goal of getting married by the end of the season.

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ‎‎‎‎The peaceful couple:

| The couple that simply keeps to themselves and has been recorded to have the least drama from the entire season and cast, despite them being vanilla as hell, they usually get stumped over small and practical situtations the real world

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤWarren x Cupcake

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤIn the pods

꒰ა Warren, 24 (looks 38 ugly ass), a construction technican (brokie), joined Love is Blind after being pushed to join by most of his friends, wasn't looking for much long term and excepted a short fling after the show (bop)

꒰ა Cupcake, 25, recently graduated from her Chemistry major (with MASTERS mind you), just got accepted for a Chemist program out of the country (she get money her body tea), joined Love is Blind to take a leap of faith, after surronding her life with college, she wanted to see what was out there (she stay getting money tho dont play).

꒰ა When they first meet in the pods, they bond over the political stress of the world since Cupcakes is quick to mention her masters and her plans with it. Mainly attracted to one another active listening skill from their first dates, Warren and Cupcake were able to open about one another backgrounds yet weren't close enough to share their traumas, causing distance.

ʚ While in the pods, Warren did speak with Queen Ascendant and VP, considering they the type of women he would attempt to flirt with in the past, he immedaity latched on to them before talking to Cupcake (fcking slut and they tell me to close my legs) ɞ

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ Moving in together

꒰ა When they first met face-to-face, Cupcake felt attracted to Warren and the chemistry was alright, Warren now seeing her for the first time felt their bond growing closer. In confessional, they speak of each other kindly, Cupcake does hold some worry for him in her confessional.

꒰ა Cupcakes job doesn't pose any threat to their relationship, in all honesty, it strengthens it. Warren is constantly trying to help her with paperwork and even learned a small formula or two, in the procress.

꒰ა They stay relativly quiet during the season, they lack the bickering that majority if not the rest of the couples face constantly.

꒰ა Later on, the discussion of mainly the travel of Cupcakes career and where they’ll move in the future, they seem to struggle with how long distance may work for them, since Warren doesn’t work remote.

Marriage?

꒰ა On the final days to the wedding, Warren finally finds the courage to reveal off camera of his family life, majorly confusing the situation of their marriage

꒰ა This news strains their relationship immensely and by the time their at the altar, their probability is 86% (Ok it’s not that bad…)

꒰ა IF they say no; Cupcake reasoning would probably be that logically her job would interfere with their relationship and Warren keeping secrets from her without openly communicating.

꒰ა If they say yes; happily ever after!

At the reunion:

꒰ა They’ll be that couple that is just happy, they’ll have a whole ass montage of how life’s been going, Warren got a new job so he’ll work remote, so he can travel WITH her

꒰ა They have good relations with all the cast members especially Warren, Castin, and Rhett. They probably all go fishing on random occasions.

I had tons of trouble of how to format this and literally everything

ideas sounds nicer in my head but goe forbid I do that shit

So consider this a pilot to the idea GIVE ME SUGGESTIONS PLEASE OLEASE PLEASE

like I need ideas for other shows or movies and just everything! Much appreciated if you do

Credits:

@dollywons

@anitalenia

So this is dishes 4 months later:

im tired and i forgot to post this so forgive me </3 but im watching like my favorite 2000's shows for free time now so im DOING smth...!

also dont mmind my grammar i didnt check im posting this late

anyways bye honeys!

[eclipsecrowned]

True facts about the Merel:

Her earliest memory is taking a little trip across the F0ld. The recurring nightmares incurred builds character!

Can still navigate the B4rrel blind because regardless of how long it's been that was still her earliest memories. Complains if something gets moved or an alley is walled off or similar.

Public Enemy Number One to her father's family. Sure, her mother was the baseborn R4vkan wretch that married their Carolus through her evil foreign magics, but Merel at like 7 was the one who took the bouquet her mother handed her and threw it full force at her step-grandfather when he stood up to object. The other side of the van Breda family do not smile upon Merel.

Despite being a lovely young lady who is going to grow up to be the belle of the ball, she does not think she's that pretty. It comes with the territory of 'Merel's mother is a gorgeous plush blonde with eyes that sparkle and her only daughter is a compact brunette with moody blue eyes.' When she's been comparing herself to her beautiful, vivacious mother, she knows she's lacking.

Has one older step-brother who left home and periodically reappears to beg money off Mr. van Breda. Has six half-brothers off her mother's marriage to Mr. van Breda, ranging from 8 years Merel's junior to scarcely a year old. No I'm certain this didn't contribute to her disdain for motherhood as a calling, why do you ask?

Calls Mr. van Breda Papa. He doesn't believe in the concept of someone else's child, Merel became his baby girl the day he married her mother. Besides, her biodad died when she was a baby, she has no memory of that man, only that her mother waxes poetic how much Merel looks like him.

Obviously, being R4vkan in origin and simply having moved to K3tterdam in her youth, Merel is not her birth name. Carolus gave her the family name and Merel decided that she wanted to be 'properly K3rch.' So she became Merel van Breda legally, and is only sometimes her birth name to her mother -- and no one else.

I like to think she's noticed those three lads that get into mischief and live on her street and likes to throw open the window to ask the trio what they're doing when they roll out, only to get sarcastic responses and just call down 'Alright, die, then.' in response.

[runwithwolvcs]

You Know I'm No Good - Forty Seven

Snow On The Beach

T/W: Drug/being drugged

The beach in the winter is Tallulah's solace. All the crowds that you fight during the summer, the expensive parking and lack of spaces, the burden of trying to have that perfect beach body… they just aren't issues during the winter. Tallulah had been the only person at the beach, allowing her to paint the landscape with only the waves crashing to shore as a white noise. 

She had spent a better part of her day there, taking in the serene environment that she could not replace in New York. Although it was peaceful and she was able to get a few paintings started, the tall figure walking towards her on the path up to the parking lot caused an unmistakable feeling of longing to fill her chest as it constricted. Paul.

Tallulah wasn't surprised he had sniffed out her location, she knew it was going to happen eventually.

He looked bigger than she remembered, more built as if he spent every waking moment in the gym. Though tallulah knew he didn't need to step foot in a gym to have the muscles he did. How does a wolf build more muscle?

“Lu,” Paul spoke lowly. It sent a shiver down her spine to hear his voice. It had been six weeks since she had heard his voice last. Six weeks since she had broken up with him over the phone. Tallulah had tried to see his side of the situation that had caused the breakdown of their relationship, but Paul had made it incredibly hard for her. Not to mention what Lenna had told her.

Talullah was done with him, as she said she would be if he ever betrayed her trust. The only stopping her from making his life a living hell was the imprint bond. It would affect her too.

“What do you want?” She asked, venom lacing each word. Tallulah adjusted the tote bag on her shoulder as she looked him over. He looked the exact same. Black hoodie, beige cargo shorts and his muddy running shoes. The only thing that was different was his hair. He had a Seattle Mariners cap on,  but even though she could see messy waves flowing out from him. Like he hadn’t cut it since she left, which was uncommon for him. Paul had told her he likes to keep it neat, and easy to manage. This was not neat, nor managed.

Paul huffed out a sigh before jamming his hands into the pocket of his hoodie, “You’re not going to make this easy on me, are you?”

“Nope,” She agreed with him, smiling sweetly as she mentioned, “I’m going to make your life a living hell.”

His lips quirked upwards before falling back into his stern look, “If this is some kind of big city, college, rebellion phase that I’m not aware of--”

“Fuck you,” Tallulah scoffed. Was he really going to blame her behaviour towards him on her going away for school?

“What?” He asked, removing his cap to run his hand through his hair. She knew that was something he only did when he was stressed.  Paul adjusted his cap as he continued, which she would have preferred had he just stopped talking, “You moved to New York and suddenly I’m the worst person you’ve ever met. I don't think that's a coincidence.” 

Tallulah wanted to laugh in his face. If New York had taught her anything, it was that she didnt need him as much as he wanted her to. She was independent there, she got herself into trouble, and got herself out of it. She also happened to meet Nell, her roommate who was also from Washington. Nell’s boyfriend went to Boston College so she knew exactly what she was going through in terms of navigating a long distant relationship. Nell was not a big fan of Paul, given his lack of initiative while Tallulah had been away.

The younger girl took a step towards Paul, closing the gap between them. She was so close she could feel the abnormally hot temperature of his skin radiating off him. Tallulah reached out and placed both of her palms on his biceps, squeezing reassuringly. She peered up at him as his breath hitched in his throat at her touch,“You're not the worst person I’ve ever met,” Tallulah licked her lips as she slid her hands down his arms, and when he didn’t pull his hands from his pockets, she let go. Taking a step back, she put her hands on hips, “Top three for sure, but not the worst.”

“Really?” He asked sarcastically, tilting his head to the side like a puppy who was confused. Though she could tell his confusion was real. “How’d I earn a spot in the top three?”

“Oh my god, you don’t know, I know.” Her eyes widened in disbelief. Had nobody told him? She was sure Lenna would have told Josie and those too would have wreaked havoc on him. Tallulah knew a few bonfires had happened while she was gone and the forced proximity would have been a wet dream for Lennas knack of confronting people who had done her wrong. Lenna considered his betrayal a personal attack on their family.

Paul huffed in annoyance, “Know what?”

“I have to go,” She adjusted her bag to pull out her car keys before stepping around him, “Lenna and I have a dinner reservation.”

“Lu,” Paul grabbed her upper arm gently, the heat of his palm on her bare skin nearly made her cave. She had been so cold without him in New York, like she had left all her body heat with him. Since returning to Forks, and subsequently La Push, she had felt a little better but nothing like she had when she was constantly with him. “Come on. What do I have to do to make you forgive me? Hm?”

“Nothing,” She spat out, wrenching his hand from her arm, “Will ever make me forgive you,” She turned to leave before whipping around again, pointing her finger into her solid chest,  “And if it weren’t for this stupid imprint bond, I’d really ruin your life.”

“Just tell me what I did,” Paul begged. Tallulah could see the desperation in his eyes. She wouldn’t fall for it though. He wanted her to tell him what she was mad about, so that he knew exactly how to grovel. He should be apologising for multiple things in her opinion.

“You’re such a jerk,” She said with the roll of her eyes.

“I love you, Tallulah.” Paul grabbed her hand this time, tugging her hard so that her body was touching his. He knew exactly how to keep her attention and overwhelm her senses. Her heart fluttered at their proximity, and she wanted nothing more than to wrap her arms around him and never let go. But she refused to forgive him until she got an apology, and a whole lot of ass kissing from  him.  “You know that everything I do is to keep you safe and happy.”

“Only when I’m in La Push or Forks,” She snorted, sarcastically asking,  “New York is too much work for you, huh?”

“Is this about Lina?” Paul furrowed his brow as he looked down at her. He brought one of his hands to the back of her neck beneath her braid, forcing her to look at him, “What did you want me to do?”   

This was not about her best friend Lina, but if that's what he wanted to start with then sure, she was ready to fight about that. She had been wanting to since the day it happened but he had gone radio silent. “If anything had happened to Jared I would have flown home that same damn day!” Tallulah said angrily,  “You couldn't even spare two minutes on the phone when Lina was…”

Paul shook his head, “She was okay,” 

“It was my drink, Paul.” Tallulah's voice trembled at the memory. They had gone out to celebrate Lina booking a role in the Christmas Ballet, The NutCracker production that she had wanted since she was a little girl, but their night was cut short. Tallulah had ordered a regular cranberry juice, keeping her promise to Paul to not use a fake ID. Lina had ordered a rum and pineapple juice to try but hated the taste so she washed it down with Tallulah's drink. They ended up spending the night in the ER after Lina started to get the spins. Someone had drugged Tallulah's drink. “It would have been me, it should have been me…”

“I would have been there if it was---” Paul started but she didn't want to hear it.

“That's not good enough,” She pushed away from him, pushing against his chest to make sure he didn’t take a step forward. “You were unreachable that entire fucking week.” 

Paul's eyes flashed with something she couldn't point. It wasn't anger. Frustration, maybe. A small growl left his throat as he reached for her again, only for her to step back, “Hey,”

“But you had time for Rachel, didnt you?” Tallulah spat out, she was teetering on the edge of losing her cool,   “I was having nightmares and worrying who slipped a date rape drug into my drink all week, and you were cozying up to your ex girlfriend.” She wanted to shout at him, to scream so that everyone in La Push could hear what she was saying and know that whatever they thought about Paul Lahote, was in fact true. He was a cheater, and a liar. “That's not the guy I fell in love with.” She couldn’t stop the sadness in her voice if she had tried. Tallulah straightened her posture and turned on her heel to head for the car park,  “ I don’t forgive you. I don't know if I ever will.”

[sonicasura]

As you wish.

So like I mentioned yesterday, my mom has basically given me new inspiration while I'm still suffering through burnout on my Kaiju Pet Au. So here is what these talks have done when it comes to the transformation stages from a wild kaiju to a pet one.

So the first year, kaijus don't change a lot on the outside as most of the changes begins inside to prepare for the more drastic ones to come over the next four years. Any real physical change you'd see is that the kaiju grows a bit bigger here and there, which can cause some balance issues if the new hight is a bit one-sided in certain parts. Or worse for that matter.

Remember Ava, Kafka's older sister in my au? Her shell out grew her by a good bit, forcing my turtle kaiju to basically roll everywhere to be able to move. Which was not good for Okonogi as she's not the strongest person around, specially when she needed to give her kaiju a bath cause Ava defently could not clean her shell on her own like this. It was also not helped that Okonogi lived on the second floor either. Her nabors where really confused what all those crash like sounds where at first, until they saw the little kaiju struggling to get up the stairs. Her place did not have a elevator.

Kafka and Yomi also struggled here too. Yomi's mushroom tops grew too wide and forced his owner to have a rope connected to each other when they went outside on a windy day. The little mushroom suddenly found he could fly with how wide they where and stuggled to navigate the house as the new tops blocked a good deal of what was happening above him.

And Kafka? For some reason his tail wanted to be a really long snake and cause many tripping hazard for himself, Mina and her parents. And unfortuantly for him, a lot of people accidentally ended up stepping on said tail or put something heavy on it without knowing it. He is understandably not happy when it happens.

The secon year brings a lot more changes then the first. Once again, a kaiju grows to a new hight, mostly that of a medium sized dog at the most, thinks labs and collies. They also start develop their legs and arms, should they not have them to begins with and various other body parts starts to take on a humanish form too. Though of you kaiju is insect or aracnid based, they will spin a coocon during winter and due most of their changes then instead.

The third year is where every kaiju, regardless of type, gets to the middle point and what is commingly know as the awkward stage due to how odd and unbalance they are in this form. They are learing to use their new limbs, they grow again and losses bits and pieces that just would not work at all ect ect. This is where most of the outer changes happens and it leads to a lot of accidents. And if they have powerful abilities as well, haywires can happen for lack of better words.

This was also the year Kafka lost his wings and the tail he has had since the day he hatched. Yomi is the most lucky out of the three since he has a very simple build. Though he does find himself struggling with his own balance as he grows way taller then what is usual for pet kaijus. And take months to learn to duck his head when going through doorways. This is also the stage where they start to wear cloths, albit sparingly until their more humaniod form is more ready.

The fourth and fifth year, the kaijus mostly start growing into adult size, starting out as 7 years olds that looks a little sickly due to the fact that they usually don't have the needed muscle mass for their builds. The finaly few phsycial changes also happens between these two years, with some actually growing an extar set of arms or other much needed parts when needed.

By the time Mina is colleage age, Kafka is his full hight of 200cm. Which can be awkward at times. Yomi has his first canon form at the same hight(at least form what the wiki site tells me) and Ava is a wopping 300cm tall. And yes, she loves to that fact very much, much to both Kafka's and Yomi's annoyence.

I won't lie that I nearly laughed my ass off at the thought of a big cap Yomi just flying away like a runaway kite. Right now it's that time for Sandhill Cranes in my area to have and raise their chicks. You can say it's easy to imagine how awkward pet kaiju look in the middle stage if you see fledging Sandhills.

[drkarenhawk]

Coping with Work Stress and Burnout with Dr. Karen Hawk

In today’s fast-paced and demanding work environment, stress and burnout have become all too common. Long hours, high expectations, tight deadlines, and the constant pressure to perform can take a toll on one’s mental and physical health. Karen Hawk Gilbert, a compassionate psychologist in Gilbert, offers effective strategies to help individuals manage work stress and avoid the crippling effects of burnout. Through therapy and personalized support, Dr. Hawk empowers clients to navigate workplace challenges, build resilience, and foster a healthy work-life balance.

Understanding Work Stress and Burnout

Work stress refers to the physical and emotional strain that arises from the demands of one’s job. It can manifest in various ways, including anxiety, irritability, exhaustion, and difficulty concentrating. While some stress is inevitable in the workplace, prolonged exposure to high levels of stress can lead to burnout—a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. Dr Karen Hawk Psychologist Gilbert works closely with clients to identify the early signs of work stress and burnout, offering practical strategies to prevent them from reaching critical levels.

In her practice, Dr. Hawk helps individuals recognize the difference between healthy stress (which can be motivating and productive) and harmful stress that can lead to burnout. By addressing the root causes of stress, Dr. Hawk empowers clients to make changes that allow them to maintain their well-being while navigating the demands of their professional lives.

Identifying the Signs of Burnout

Recognizing the signs of burnout early is crucial for effective intervention. Burnout often develops gradually and can manifest in a variety of emotional, physical, and behavioral symptoms. Some common signs of burnout include chronic fatigue, a sense of detachment from work, feelings of hopelessness or helplessness, increased irritability, and a lack of motivation or engagement in tasks that were once enjoyable. Karen Hawk Gilbert helps clients understand these warning signs and teaches them how to be proactive in addressing burnout before it escalates.

Through her therapy sessions, Dr. Hawk encourages individuals to regularly assess their emotional and physical states to catch signs of burnout early. By developing self-awareness and practicing regular check-ins with themselves, clients can learn to manage their stress levels more effectively and avoid the more severe consequences of burnout.

Setting Healthy Boundaries at Work

One of the most effective strategies for managing work stress is learning to set and maintain healthy boundaries. Dr Karen Hawk Psychologist Gilbert frequently works with clients to develop assertiveness skills, enabling them to say "no" when necessary and prioritize their well-being over work demands. Setting clear boundaries in the workplace helps individuals create a healthy work-life balance, ensuring that work does not spill over into personal time and negatively impact their mental health.

Dr. Hawk’s approach focuses on helping clients identify situations where their boundaries may be overstepped and develop the confidence to communicate their needs clearly. Whether it’s managing expectations from colleagues, limiting after-hours communication, or ensuring sufficient breaks during the workday, Dr. Hawk guides clients in setting boundaries that allow them to protect their energy, focus, and mental health.

Managing Stress Through Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a powerful tool for managing stress, and Karen Hawk Gilbert integrates this practice into her therapeutic approach. Mindfulness involves staying present in the moment, observing thoughts and feelings without judgment, and cultivating a sense of calm and awareness amidst stressors. Research has shown that mindfulness practices can significantly reduce work-related stress, improve focus, and enhance emotional regulation.

Dr. Hawk teaches clients various mindfulness techniques that can be practiced both at work and in their personal lives. Simple practices such as mindful breathing, meditation, and body scans can be used during stressful moments to quickly calm the mind and restore focus. By incorporating mindfulness into their daily routines, individuals can reduce anxiety, increase self-awareness, and improve their ability to manage workplace stress.

Practicing Time Management and Prioritization

Poor time management is often a significant contributor to work stress. When tasks pile up, deadlines approach, and everything feels urgent, it can be overwhelming and lead to burnout. Dr Karen Hawk Psychologist Gilbert works with clients to develop time management skills that help them stay organized, prioritize tasks effectively, and reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed.

Dr. Hawk helps individuals break down large projects into smaller, more manageable tasks, set realistic goals, and create structured schedules that allow for both productivity and rest. By teaching clients how to prioritize their workload, Dr. Hawk enables them to focus on what truly matters and avoid the trap of trying to do everything at once. Time management strategies not only reduce stress but also increase productivity and job satisfaction.

Building Emotional Resilience

Emotional resilience refers to the ability to adapt to challenges, cope with stress, and bounce back from setbacks. Karen Hawk Gilbert helps clients build emotional resilience by equipping them with coping strategies that enable them to handle work stress in a healthy way. Through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic techniques, Dr. Hawk teaches individuals how to reframe negative thoughts, challenge self-doubt, and develop a more optimistic outlook on their work and their ability to manage stress.

Dr. Hawk works with clients to help them recognize their strengths and develop a mindset that views challenges as opportunities for growth rather than threats. By fostering emotional resilience, clients become better equipped to handle difficult situations, setbacks, and workplace stress without allowing them to affect their overall well-being.

Taking Breaks and Prioritizing Rest

Taking regular breaks throughout the workday is a critical self-care strategy that Dr Karen Hawk Psychologist Gilbert emphasizes. Many individuals push through the workday without taking enough time to rest, believing that working nonstop is the key to success. However, neglecting rest can lead to mental fatigue, decreased productivity, and increased stress. Dr. Hawk encourages her clients to take frequent breaks, whether it’s a quick walk outside, a few minutes of deep breathing, or simply stepping away from the desk for a moment.

Rest and relaxation are essential for recharging the mind and body, and Dr. Hawk emphasizes the importance of scheduling breaks and setting aside time for self-care throughout the workday. By prioritizing rest, individuals can maintain their focus, reduce burnout, and return to their tasks feeling refreshed and energized.

The Importance of Social Support

No one should face work stress and burnout alone. Karen Hawk Gilbert stresses the importance of building a strong social support network, both at work and outside of it. Having supportive colleagues, friends, or family members to talk to can significantly reduce the impact of stress and provide emotional relief. Social support acts as a buffer against the negative effects of work stress and burnout, offering individuals the opportunity to vent, seek advice, and receive encouragement.

In therapy, Dr. Hawk helps clients identify their support systems and find healthy ways to lean on others during difficult times. Whether it’s talking to a trusted coworker, confiding in a friend, or joining a support group, having a strong network of people to rely on can be a vital source of emotional support and resilience during challenging work periods.

Seeking Professional Help

For many individuals, stress and burnout can feel overwhelming, and it may be difficult to manage on their own. Dr Karen Hawk Psychologist Gilbert encourages individuals experiencing severe work-related stress or burnout to seek professional help. Through therapy, Dr. Hawk helps clients process their emotions, develop coping strategies, and create a personalized plan for managing stress. Therapy provides individuals with the tools and resources they need to prevent burnout and regain control over their mental health.

By working with Dr. Hawk, clients can address the root causes of their work stress, improve their emotional resilience, and learn healthier ways to cope with workplace challenges. Seeking professional support is a powerful step toward healing and recovery, helping individuals build a sustainable and fulfilling career while maintaining their mental well-being.

Conclusion: Managing Stress for Long-Term Success

Work stress and burnout are common experiences in today’s workplace, but they don’t have to dictate your life. With the right strategies and support, individuals can manage stress effectively and prevent burnout. Dr. Karen Hawk’s comprehensive approach to work stress focuses on building emotional resilience, improving time management, setting boundaries, and practicing mindfulness. Through therapy, Dr. Hawk empowers clients to prioritize their mental health, navigate workplace challenges, and create a balanced life. With the right tools and support, individuals can achieve long-term success and well-being in both their professional and personal lives.

[slycetheactivist]

No sex in 1 1/2 years. There was a year long break before that.

Fuck all this gender war shit but i have my observations:

Some men are LIVING to humble women & that shit is becoming a disease. It just makes you look hurt.

—-

Most of our relationship problems come from choosing people who don’t like us like that. Or putting people on a pedestals because of their looks or $. It’s really our fault.

——

Women aren’t as money hungry & gold-digging as social media makes it seem, however the average girl is pretty clueless(or willfully ignorant) to how negatively effected they are by European financial standards and how their views endorse it.

many women see this part of the patriarchy from the POV of the protected & don’t have any incentive to reverse engineer the patriarchy past the part where they are to be spoiled. Understandably so. I wish more women were brave enough to challenge it though

——

The “Sisterhood” prevents women from admitting the things women do in mass that negatively affect everybody. Every post i’ve seen admitting the ails of modern women severely lacks feminine input. And admission often comes with “I hate to side with the guys” or some gender war hinting statement

—-

Don’t forgoe your true feelings, or hold your tongue for a woman you like, or to appeal to women in mass.

As cliche as it sounds, DONT TAKE OFF YOUR LEADERSHIP HAT. In work, in relationships. A woman will make a bad decision and the world (including her) will blame it on your leadership.

You are the leader as a man (or the masc if you’re not cis) IDC what anybody says. About every woman who has an issue with that statement will expect some sort of non-reciprocal form of leadership (finances, stoicism, protection, chivalry) from the men they date & lose attraction if you don’t display those things. And that’s okay.

I personally like to live up to hetro-normative expectations. Providing/Protecting/Leading. But if a man dosent align with that, he dosent have to deal with women who expect him have more money, protect with his life, and initiate most conversations. Its a smaller pool but just because you were born with a dick, dosent mean you HAVE to do anything. S/O to the trans folk.

——

A lot of gender outrage is drenched in just as much hate as it is justice. And idc how “righteous” you are.. hate does not do the body good.

—-

Might be controversial. As a boy/man, courting to women you don’t take serious is kind of important. For me this happened earlier in life. It builds confidence, and every woman wants a confident man. The most attractive i’ve been to women is when i didn’t take them seriously.

There’s definitely a connection between the charming man every lady desires, and his ability to navigate ALL women. Some men lose their “MOJO” in a relationship & the woman loses interest. It’s an unfortunate truth that I’d like to hear a feminine perspective on

[vshrproaacademy]

From Thoughts to Million-Dollar Ideas: How Entrepreneurs Turn Vision into Reality

The Hidden Challenge Behind Every Great Business Idea

Every successful business starts with a great idea. But here’s the truth—having an idea isn’t enough.

Most aspiring entrepreneurs struggle with two major problems:

They don’t know how to cultivate and develop an idea into something viable.

They have too many ideas and don’t know which one to pursue.

According to Harvard Business School, over 75% of startups fail not because of a lack of effort, but due to poor idea validation and misalignment with market needs. The difference between a failed startup and a thriving business often lies in how well the entrepreneur identifies, tests, and nurtures their ideas.

So how do you move from random thoughts to a structured, high-potential business idea? Let’s break it down step by step.

The Secret to Transforming Ideas Into Business Success

Step 1: Capture and Organize Your Thoughts

Most groundbreaking ideas start as small thoughts. However, without a system to capture and refine them, they get lost.

Research by Forbes shows that entrepreneurs who document their ideas systematically are 33% more likely to start a successful business than those who don’t.

One of the most effective ways to do this is through structured note-taking and using free digital tools that help you organize, refine, and prioritize ideas.

Step 2: Validate Your Idea Before You Invest in It

Just because an idea sounds exciting doesn’t mean it’s the right one for you.

Studies from CB Insights found that 42% of startups fail due to a lack of market need.

The key is to test your idea early—through customer feedback, small-scale trials, or prototypes—to see if it has real demand before you go all in.

Step 3: Align Your Idea with Your Strengths

Not all good ideas are right for you. The most successful entrepreneurs build businesses that align with their strengths and passion.

According to research by MIT Sloan, startups that focus on the founder’s core strengths have a 60% higher survival rate in the first five years.

Ask yourself: Does this idea align with what I’m good at? Can I sustain my motivation for the long haul?

Case Study: How One Entrepreneur Turned a Simple Idea into a $10 Million Business

Consider Sara Blakely, the founder of Spanx. Her idea was simple—creating comfortable, seamless shapewear for women. But she didn’t just stop at the idea. She followed a structured process:

Captured the thought – She noticed a gap in the market and wrote down her observations.

Tested the idea – She made prototypes and gathered real-world feedback from potential customers.

Aligned it with her strengths – With a background in sales, she used her skills to market the product herself.

Took action – She bootstrapped her way to success, eventually turning her idea into a billion-dollar empire.

Your Million-Dollar Idea Is Waiting – Will You Take the Next Step?

Success doesn’t come from having ideas—it comes from learning how to identify, cultivate, and test them effectively.

If you’re ready to unlock your entrepreneurial potential, our Part time Entrepreneur How To Start A Business From An Idea will guide you through the process step by step. Learn how to capture, refine, and validate ideas before you invest time and money—so you can build a business with confidence.

Learn from Top Entrepreneurs Who Turned Ideas into Reality

The best way to transform an idea into a successful business is by learning from those who have done it before. Discover real-world insights from experienced entrepreneurs who have navigated challenges, refined their ideas, and built thriving businesses. Watch this exclusive video where industry leaders share their strategies for idea validation, overcoming obstacles, and turning concepts into million-dollar ventures. Gain the knowledge and tools to move from inspiration to execution with confidence.

How to be an entrepreneur | RMIT University

Besides, these are useful tips if you want to cultivate your skills as a leader:

Leadership Development Guide: Watch Strategy (Yes, it's Free)

Process Improvement Toolkit: Download PDF (Yes, it's Free)

Workforce Flywheel Framework Training: Watch here (Yes, it's Free)

Tools for HR Leaders Access Here (Yes, it's Free)

Part time Entrepreneur How To Start A Business From An Idea: Here (Yes, this is exclusive)

References

Harvard Business School (2021). Why Startups Fail: Key Lessons from Entrepreneurs. Insights into the primary reasons behind startup failures and strategies for success.

CB Insights (2020). The Top Reasons Startups Fail. A data-driven analysis of common pitfalls entrepreneurs face, including market misalignment and poor validation.

Author Information:

My HoaPassionate Learning & Program Officer VSHR Pro Academy

[bellagoths-lobotomy]

𝓜eet, Violette. Violette was born Irina Romanovna T. to Queen Cordelia in 1911 in the Simviet Union, Sulssia. Her only daughter, she was sent to Champs Les Sims at age 17 to have her name changed to Violette and be married to the heir to the throne to forward the royal lineage and strengthen relations between the nations. ...Except, this storyline was depressing. Violette was the first heiress to the Royal Legacy I attempted ages ago, but watching this little girl grow up and autonomously -- albeit demurely -- rebel against the chains that bound her sortttt offffff broke my heart. She was a genius; she enjoyed unconventional music; she maxed out her manners and empathy boxes; mastered piano, violin, ballet, athletics, logic, rocket science, knitting, crochet, horseback riding, and painting; she received the best marks in her classes...all to be...married off? I couldn't bring myself to let her become the broodmare of another sim and abandon her and all of her dreams. I decided that if anyone could figure out how to build and use an interdimensional-travel device, it would be her. So...that's exactly what she did. To the ignorance of her maids, advisors, and endless list of doter-on-ers, Violette built her teensy-tiny piece of technological freedom.

...Only, the fall of technology -- particularly the pedestrian cobbled-togethers of a teenager in the early 1900s -- is that it is persnickety at best. In her only scrap of privacy, in a secret chamber beneath the library where she snuck off to during her lessons, she turned her device on for the first time, and was transported to three separate universes where she had her wish at long last: to be like other girls. The circumstances she began with in all universes were largely the same: she was transported to an abandoned trailer, in a reality where her parents and her were low-income and died in a tragic car accident the night before, slipping into ''her'' place seamlessly. But the way she's navigated each life has varied across the stars. In Pleasantview, year 2000, she fell in love with the equally-broody and proper Alexander Goth, where she now raises their vampiric daughter Briar-Rose on their large Veronaville estate after a long and decorated career as a ballerina. In Bridgeport, year 2011, she accidentally rose to stardom in her pursuits as an actress (''best girl'') where her old-Hollywood charm and eyes reminiscent of Liz Taylor captured to gaze of Matthew Hamming. Of course, as he does, Hamming left her heartbroken and thrust into the limelight after a failure to commit (or further her career). This kicked off a series of toxic entanglements with athletes like Richie Striker and and a career as a model. With a lifelong love for fashion, she made do with this new career path and eventually found true love with Yousef Nagi, a fellow explorer she met on an adventure to Al-Simhara. The two are settled in Northern Bridgeport and are expecting their first daughter. But now, in Willow Creek....? While her story continues in all realities, I'm taking it the slowest in TS4 and will post the most of her from this timeline. Originally, she fell in love once more with Alexander Goth, who's intellect and etiquette ensnared her once again. But it seems their names were not written side-by-side in the stars after all, as this Alexander is... different. Maybe it is the presence of his mother and a life that never lacked love, maybe it is the era, whatever the case may be, he'd gone wrong. Their relationship quickly became physical, with him losing friendship for her at every friendly or quirky interaction she used with him as opposed to romantic. When she graduated and went to Uni early -- answering an add to live with the polar-opposite Pleasant twins -- he went to prom without her. These resentments boiled over when she came home from finals to see Alexander in the dining room foyer, flirting with Lilith. She, of course, broke up with him and naturally, adopted a kitten thirty sim-minutes later. And that's where she is presently! ˗ˏˋ ♡ ˎˊ˗ She is pursuing a degree in Fine Arts at Britechester Uni (which may be a bit too close to home...) in the hopes of becoming a famous runway model afterwards, like the idols of the 90s and 2000s she looked to for maternal guidance in this strange new world. But she may change her mind and decide to be an astronaut later. She has the time and the freedom to be everything she wants to be, she feels. She adores Barbie, the message that a woman can be everything she wants -- to see princesses and lawyers and models and doctors exist within the same woman -- resonated deeply with her. She loves fashion and dressed in her mum's gowns as a young girl, and has taken full advantage of all of the fun she can have with her style when there is no one around to fuss with her hemlines and colour co-ords. She developed a like for metal music and hates the colour yellow. Her kitten Duchess is her only family and truest confidant. With her 20th Birthday and new year at Uni approaching, I can't wait to see where life takes this bright girlie!... ♡₊˚

[renzonav]

Blog #3: Enriching Knowledge through Lecture Series and Navigating Continual Quest to Startup Success

The Startup Sheriffs, Renzon A. Villacillo

We are now down to this 3rd blog in my entrepreneurial journey. Last November 15, 2023, the entrepreneurial mind held a webinar for a series of lectures regarding the subject. The first talk was about "Intellectual Property Rights & Technology Transfer". The first speaker talked about what it's like to have your product or initiative being protected by the laws on intellectual property. She also discussed the kinds of original ideas or patents that can be covered in the said law. She also talked about Trademark, citing many examples of famous brands, and also the rights to copyright which lasts for a lifetime plus 50 years after death. Lastly, the speaker talked about the modes of technology transfer which are deployment, extension, and commercialization. Ending the talk with several technologies that have been commercialized by CMU and has still been used up to today.

Moving to the second speaker of the webinar, she talked about the startup ecosystem. She emphasized why startups need an ecosystem to build a support, gather mentors, find networks, and follow the trends going on. these factors help establish a foundation for a startup to thrive in the long run. She discussed that most of the startups really end up in the valley of death, that is why it is important to have an ecosystem for a chance to survive in the field. She listed down various local government and non government organizations that help startups to stay on track.

The last speaker talked about her journey in taking part of the startup of her cousins which is "Virtualahan". Their startup is a shortcut for virtual skwelahan specifically designed for people with disabilities to match companies and equip them with skills to enable them to work effectively. The startup provided an avenue for PWD's to not only land a job but to also be motivated to live a life with a purpose. Through their startup, they were able to provide jobs for 127 beneficiaries and secure them for a 74% employment rate. They have introduced these people to not only local companies but also worldwide. The story of their startup was an inspiration to many, to help those that are lacking and turn their disabilities into an ability to do something for a change and for the better.

The past two weeks of my entrepreneurial journey has been a hectic one as it was challenged by many deadlines of other academic responsibilities. During those two weeks, our group was able to gather around and discussed on how to better our product the "Musaquito Banish Wax". We were able to create a 2 minute video showing how the product works and its composition. Our product gives solution to dull floors and the rampant mosquitoes. This homemade wax is an organic wax made out of banana peelings and infused with citronella oil. The wax does not only promote environmental awareness but also provides safety to students, specifically young ones from dengue. This revolutionizing product will reduce waste and increase confidence of people of avoiding the said virus. On December 1st, our group will undergo final pitching of the product for screening on whether we'll be able to face the investors on the day of the expo. Tune in to my blog for updates.

[halforcdad]

It's interesting how coming from non-supportive/distant families (only inferred for Whistler) and living lonely lives manifested so differently in Whistler's and Lucy's personalities.

Kate is professional and ambitious to the point of coming off standoffish and unpleasant to most people. They mistake her practicality and efficiency in following orders as a lack of caring. Losing her brother had a serious effect on her personality and her family (maybe to the point where they could no longer be there for her after getting lost in their own grief/pushed all that was left of their hopes and dreams onto her). She's uncomfortable at showing emotions (and dealing with/processing them) and with her almost single-minded focus on work, she's isolated herself and doesn't have many friends.

As a result, she's become self-reliant and used to being on her own (not because she wants to be mind you). She likes keeping her life private and separate from her work, wants to hang out with her coworkers, but also wants them to not know too much about her.

So it's very likely that she's not used to receiving affection or support (finding a lot of her value in being good at her job and getting praise and recognition for that) and brushes it off on instinct. Even when she's bruised and hurting, she insists that Lucy go chase after the suspect (even when Lucy's worrying about her and focusing only on her for the first time in forever) and brushes off Lucy's mother-henning. After Lucy and her boss both give her the "you made us worried sick" one-two punch, she looks like she's been sent to the principal's office. When ASAC Curtis tells her to go to the hospital immediately and lectures her about going in alone, she deflates immediately, feeling defeated and taking it as  her not being good enough and being the reason the suspect got away rather than Curtis being worried about her wellbeing first and foremost after having just lost an agent.

The first time we really see her drop her guard emotionally is when Lucy takes the initiative and goes out of her way to thank her privately and unexpectedly. In that moment, when Lucy extends the olive branch and admits that her team has been hard on Whistler, acknowledges that she sees the heart behind that mean cop persona and how she did a big thing for them despite their treatment, does Whistler meet her halfway and show a little vulnerability. She admits that she actually envies Lucy and her team and how it sucks being known as nothing more than the chick who ruins the fun. The shots you take as the messenger take their toll eventually no matter how strong your walls are.

She closes herself off and pushes people away when they start to get too close and ask for more because she doesn't know how to navigate that uncharted territory. She's a perfectionist. It scares her because what if she lets someone in and she's not immediately good at handling it on the first try? What if she screws up and they leave? The walls she's spent so long building are so high now, it's hard figuring out how to deconstruct them. She's not good at this and the prospect of failure and disappointment weigh heavy on Kate.

Whereas Lucy is open and wears her heart on her sleeve. Throughout the season, she's been shown to give victims and witnesses the benefit of the doubt, becoming invested in them even when they might not deserve it (Lucy worrying about the armored truck driver (102), wanting to believe the recruiter was a good guy (103), regretting being so nice to clarke lohan because she thought he was the victim (110) etc). She shows her affection easily and often, making her easy to talk to and likeable. Her poking and prodding comes from a place of care rather than for the sake of gossip like when she asks about Kai’s dad or Ernie’s divorce.

We know Lucy has troubles with her family and they don't approve of her decisions. There's likely a history of Lucy having to hide and repress herself to appease them, that still carries on with her to this day. She's become a pariah both of her own choosing and from her parents' rejection. She most likely didn't have a lot of friends who weren't using her for her wealth and power, she "didn't get out much in college," probably went through tough times trying to become something away from them and their money and has her own history of being alone while trying to be self-reliant. Even so, she's unabashedly herself and is understandably tired of hiding it to please people. That earnest integrity and transparency of hers are known charm points.

Now, she's been able to find her people in Hawai'i; the team is her new family and have made it clear they love her for who she is no matter what. She actively seeks out connections and relationships: always asks her coworkers to hang out, tries to get Kai to open up more, goes to a bar occasionally to socialize (and compartmentalize), keeps worrying about Tennant and wanting to check up on her after the Maggie thing and is the one to make the first move with Kate (twice!). Part of it is probably in due part to her wanting to fill the void and not go back to an empty apartment with just her thoughts for company at the end of the day. And she'll put on a brave face to assure her friends she's fine and okay, also in an attempt to convince herself. She has her own history of failure and feeling like she isn’t good enough, and doesn’t like bringing people down when they’re just trying to sympathize and encourage her. That’s likely a big reason why she’s quick to think Kate doesn’t want to be open about her because she’s embarrassed by her.

Still, in the absence of affection from her family, the hardships she went through with them, she's developed a kindness that she shares in abundance with her chosen family always wanting to make sure they're okay (even at her own expense), going into caretaker/protector mode when they're hurt or in danger (crossing the ocean to find Jesse and making sure he had back up (115), fussing over him after the car crash (118), literally everything that happened after the Kate injury (120)). She's worked hard to build this new life and these new bonds and she'll fight like hell if you try to take them away from her. 

Literally the definition one of those quotes that's like "they went through so much, but it just made them kind." Her refusal to believe Ernie's cynicism spiral about love being pain even in the face of immense heartbreak is very telling of Lucy's character. She always wants to believe in love, to believe in the good in people and she wants to be a part of that. 

Kate "I'm fine, I can take care of myself I'm used to it" Whistler and Lucy "I know what that's like and it sucked so just let me take care of you already" Tara

[pangolinheart]

Because the page I turned to had some really great questions on it:

Where is home? What does it smell like? Have you been there recently?

What's an adventure that you'd like to have again?

What's the most trouble you have ever been in? How did you get out of that situation? What consequences did you have to face afterwards?

(Bonus) If they had a playlist for their life what would it look like? Why?

Feel free to take your time on these. Think how Z'rhiki would respond to these questions and the why.

Where is home? What does it smell like? Have you been there recently?

Hmmm this is a difficult one, because Rhiki doesn't have a backstory (and, barring divine intervention, it's possible she never will lol). So, it's hard to say if she would have a home from before the MSQ to go back to, though I lean towards "no."

At least during the main story, Rhiki never really has a home. She doesn't really feel comfortable at the Rising Stones and never really has. She enjoyed spending time at Camp Dragonhead, then at the Fortemps manor, but I think she still often felt like a guest rather than a resident. During the Ala Mhigan/Doman Liberation, she never really stayed anywhere long enough to settle in. As nice as most people were, she felt like a total prisoner in the Crystarium (and. between ghosts, ascians, and a catman with a crystal ball and a poor understanding of boundries, she pretty much never felt like she had any privacy.)

If she had to pick the place she feels the most at home, well... she would probably say it smells like sweat, stale alcohol, and maybe a little bit like vomit depending on the day. It's not really a place you go for the ambiance. As to whether or not she's been there recently, she'd probably say something along the lines of, due to the actions of a certain totally unhinged catboy who shall remain nameless, no.

What's an adventure that you'd like to have again?

The first thing that came to mind with this question was the treasure hunt with Alphinaud and Arenvald. Most of her adventures are, um, of a highly traumatic nature. They do have their elements of beauty, awe, and fun, but those are usually tinged in hindsight with all the blood and suffering that surrounds them. But looking for a mad king's treasure was just fun. She got to see new and interesting things, fight weird monsters, and find real treasure (the friendship we found along the way is also nice, but actual treasure is pretty cool.) And, though there were dangers, the stakes were pretty low. There was no threat of another calamity, of the fall of a nation, of the deaths of thousands, of the end of the world. Given her confidence in her ability to best regular monsters, dodge traps, and navigate ruins, the worst thing that could really happen was that they didn't find what they were looking for, which would be a bummer, but also not literally the end of the world. Other candidates for "adventures she'd like to repeat" are some of the Beast Tribe quests - particularly the Namazu, the Qiqirn, and the Dwarves. The namazu are cute and funny and just so dumb. She got to have fun planning a big festival and she laughed a lot. It was silly and fun. With the Qiqirn, she was very into the Great Serpent of Ronka, once again because the whole thing was... kind of silly, really. Compared to all of the doom and gloom of the first, it was so bizarre and incomprehensible that it really ended up being a good time. (Plus she got to dress the Great Serpent in little hats!) Building a tank with the dwarves was great mostly because they started fermenting their own alcohol really early on. She stuck around less for the thrill of innovation and more so she could get smashed with the totally-not-just-lalafels.

What's the most trouble you have ever been in? How did you get out of that situation? What consequences did you have to face afterwards?

This one is also kind of hard due to the aforementioned lack of backstory. It feels like cheating to pick something from the MSQ, but I have to imagine, given the connotation, the most trouble she's ever been in would have been when she was much younger, but the nature of it and her reaction would kind of depend on what kind of upbringing she had. She starts the MSQ in her early twenties, so while she could theoretically get in trouble with people of higher station... it doesn't really count. Maybe she's been scolded for not acting appropriately dignified at a diplomatic function? Or for repeatedly forgetting the names of strategically-important Garlean enemies? Or for faking an Echo episode to get out of listening to one of Urianger's boring explanations of magical theory?

If they had a playlist for their life what would it look like? Why?

Once again, I can't say I know what a playlist for Rhiki's whole life would be, because I have no idea what her whole life has been like. I do have a playlist for Rhiki, but it mostly reflects her time since becoming an adventurer. It's hard to describe what it looks like, though? There's not a lot of genre consistency. I guess I would say it's a mix of peppy, upbeat, optimistic tunes and songs about dealing with grief and anger?

[ladychaos]

Let’s Build Newcrest: progress

Hi everyone! ✨

I hope you’re doing well. So it’s easier to follow my progress on the Newcrest save file I’m creating, I thought a little recap post would be cool. I'll try doing the same for Windenburg, but the world is so big that it may take some time.

I’ll update this post every time something new come up! I already created all the residents and started working on rest of the builds, and I hope I'll find some free time to finish and share everything.

Take care and stay safe. 💜

The residents

The Burton Family

The Burtons seems to be the perfect family. Molly is a well-known surgeon who loves her work, where she spends most of her time. Her husband, Thomas, is a dedicated politician with an ego almost as big as his ambitions. One thing is sure, the kids are certainly closer with their nanny than their parents. Collin, the older one, just began university. His brother and sisters are still going to school, trying to navigate their life the best they can.

The Daoud-Lunde Family

Wadia and Elijah met when they were students. Even if they didn’t have lots of things in common, they both had big ambitions for their professional life and worked tirelessly to succeed. Wadia is now a renowned interior designer, while Elijah is a local politician. The couple has been married for many years and have four children together. However, with time, as their careers progressed, their relationship faded. They’re still trying to make it work for the kids… But for how long?

The Sweet Family

When Catherine and Gloria announced they were getting married just two weeks after they met, everyone warned them not to do it. But for both of them, it was fate. They never hesitated and they were right. And look at them! Happy as ever. Gloria spends her time knitting beautiful creations while Catherine paints and draws. A few years ago, they decided to move to the suburbs in Newcrest to raise their three kids away from the city. And what better place to do it than in a vibrant yellow house?

The Bremseth Family

Asta Bremseth is a world-famous author, known and loved by lots of people. She spent her life writing novels, and even now as an older woman, she still does. She met her husband Jon at a meet and great in a book store many years ago. But the gardener was not here to see her, he was just buying a book! He had no idea of who she was, and that’s precisely why Asta said yes when he asked her out. They had a full life of adventures and travels and had two kids together, all grown up now.

The Beaumont Orphanage Residents

Anne-Claire Beaumont is a very dedicated woman. Her goal in life is to take care of children in need, and that’s what she does every day. She runs the Beaumont Orphanage, one of the oldest institutions in Newcrest. She does everything, from cleaning to teaching, and spends all of her time watching out for the kids, making sure they’re happy. All of them have to deal with grief and loss, but can find comfort in this special place, where home has a real meaning.

The Silver Utopia Residents

If you ask the artist Philomena Tilden about the residents of the retirement complex where she lives with her granddaughter, she would simply tell you: “You wouldn’t believe the drama!”Are Eileen and Maurice having an affair? Lately, the nanny has been fishing with him a lot… Good on Barbara for spending so much time in her garden that she doesn’t notice anything. She’s good friend with Rupert and Percival, though. Not a thing in common, together for 60 years. Amazing!

The Block Residents

Stefan Bremseth is the son of the famous author Asta Bremseth, but he hasn’t talked to his mother in years after a big fight about his life choices (or lack thereof). The Dávila sisters are the owners of The Treasure Chest, a cool antique store on Ridgeline Drive. The Williams have been living here for a long time. Coda and Felix love their neighborhood, and decided to raise their daughter Addy here. Leila Bennouna is a student in Culinary Arts. She hopes to open her restaurant one day.

The neighborhoods

Bridgeview

The Beaumont Orphanage [Residential]

The Beaumont Orphanage was created a long time ago by Marie-Louise Beaumont, and is now run by one of her descendants, Anne-Claire. The magnificent and enormous building is a tangible reminder of Newcrest’s rich history. More than once, the institution almost closed. Fortunately, because of Anne-Claire’s determination (the kids call her Miss French), it’s still open to all the children who need a home, but also care and love.

The Dream House [Residential]

Don’t judge a book by its cover, and don’t judge a house by the big hole in its roof. Just looking at it, this building seems like a lost cause. Everything is falling, cracking, breaking. But… What if you were to renovate it? Don’t believe what the people from Newcrest say about a horrible murder happening here, which would explain the low price and why no one wants to buy it… You like this house? It’s yours!

Newcrest Basketballcourt [Generic]

When you don’t know where to go on a sunny afternoon, just ask the Newcrest residents for some tips. The basketball court is one of the most popular spots in town, enjoyed mostly by children and teens. It’s the perfect place to hang out, eat some amazing food and play basketball, of course. The city hall also invites street artists regularly to paint beautiful murals and bring some colours to this public place.

The Block [Residential]

The Block is one of the oldest buildings in Newcrest, thought it was partly modernized recently. It’s run by the city, which provides decent and safe housing for everyone who needs it. All the apartments are very affordable, and some of their residents have been living here all their life. Just next to the Block, you can find the local basketball court and the Beaumont Orphanage. Bridgeview is one of the most lively neighborhoods in Newcrest, full of stories and people.

Ridgeline Drive

Silver Utopia Village [Residential]

Getting old is a beautiful thing, and everyone should be able to spend the rest of their life in decent conditions, with a roof on their head. The Silver Utopia Village is one of the many public housing projects developed by the city of Newcrest. This retirement complex is very affordable, and the houses have everything you’d need. The seniors here come from different ways of life and enjoy a beautiful sense of community.

Smooth Brew Coffee [Café]

If you like music, and especially jazz, Smooth Brew Coffee is the perfect place for you. On Thursday nights, you can enjoy live shows in the main room. You’re looking to spend a romantic time with someone or just try the best cappuccino in town? There’s no other place like this in Newcrest! And you might even meet some locals, just doing their laundry on a Sunday afternoon in the building next door.

The Treasure Chest [Retail Store]

If you’re looking for unique furniture and objects, The Treasure Chest is for you! This antique shop is a family business. Owned by two sisters, Liliana and Minerva Dávila, the boutique seems frozen in time. Its beautiful blue facade is the first thing you’ll notice walking down the street. In Newcrest, everybody knows this place and enjoys dawdling in the store, or even just stop for a drink.

Llama Lagoon

1 Rainbow Lane [Residential]

You don’t have to look for it anymore: this is the perfect family home. That’s precisely why the Burtons decided to buy it a few years ago. Located near a little park, this large house is quite charming. It has everything you’d need, even a pool and a spacious garage. Rainbow Lane is one of the most famous streets in Newcrest, tourists come from all around the world to see the colorful houses, dreaming of a quiet life in the suburbs.

2 Rainbow Lane [Residential]

When visiting Newcrest, everyone loves to come see the colorful houses on Rainbow Lane. Home of two local celebrities, this blue suburban mansion is the most impressive one. It was renovated with taste by the interior designer Wadia Daoud-Lunde, who decided to buy it a few years ago. The architect now lives here with her husband, a local politician, and their four children. It has everything you could ask for: five bedrooms, three bathrooms, a garden and even a pool!

3 Rainbow Lane [Residential]

Who wouldn’t want to live in a beautiful yellow house? Situated in the suburbs of Newcrest, this house is an eye-catcher. All the tourists who come here to see the famous Rainbow Lane stop and admire its glorious and vibrant facade. A few years ago, Catherine and Gloria Sweet decided it would be the perfect place to raise their three kids: Anna, Uxia and Adan. And if you have the chance to go inside, you’ll marvel at all the art created by the two artists.

4 Rainbow Lane [Residential]

Don’t be fooled by the exterior of this modest little suburban house. It belongs to the world-famous author Asta Bremseth and her husband Jon, a retired gardener. This family home is where they raised their two children. They’ve been here for many years. If tourists love to come to Newcrest to see the colorful houses on Rainow Lane, they also come hoping to see Asta. But after a life of adventures, spent traveling all around the world, the couple just wants to be left alone.

[chefdoeuvre]

Pushy

Jay Halstead & Will Halstead

Pairing: Jay Halstead x Sister!Reader, Will Halstead x Sister!Reader

Description: Some guys don’t know when to take a hint.

Words: 1,116

Requested: yes by anonymous; hey i have a halstead sister request? i don’t know if you’ve seen outer banks but there’s this scene with one of the female protagonists where she’s making out with her boyfriend (who’s sort of like the pushy controlling type) and she says she’s ready to have sex but then backs out and he gets mad at her and i was wondering if u could write an imagine where the same thing happens to y/n with her boyfriend (the girl in the show is like 16 so i’d love it if she was that age- u don’t have to write any descriptive smut obviously cause that’s not really the point) and then she gets home and is super upset but when jay asks what’s wrong at first she doesn’t say anything and tells him he won’t understand but then confides in him and he gets protective and caring? sorry if this is really descriptive but i also really want an imagine where it touches on y/n growing up without a mother or female figure in her life and how it can be hard to discuss some things with brothers but they love her so it’s fine? thx so much 💗

Warnings: mention of sex, an annoying Topper-like person, language, Will and Jay Halstead together (because they need a warning when they’re put in the same room).

A/N: I just watched Outer Banks last week (‘coincidentally’ after getting this request) and I might be a little obsessed. For anyone not familiar the scene this is inspired by is between Sarah and Topper in s1ep3. I apologize in advance for any grammatical errors.

—

Parties. They were all the rage with summer now coming to an end. Everyone wanted to get in their last huzzah before the school year started up once again. You and your boyfriend were at pretty much every single party this summer. Of course, he would drag you along with his friends with empty promises of a good time. You and parties never mixed well, especially because all you could hear in the back of your mind were Jay and Will’s voices harping on you being safe. You were currently sitting on a couch on the back porch while you nursed your first and only cup of beer for the night. Your boyfriend had soon waltzed his way into the seat beside you. He swung an arm over your shoulder and whispered a few words into your ear. His breath smelled of tequila and vaguely of lemons which were probably from the shots he had just been doing.

“Let’s head somewhere more quiet.” He gestured his head toward the door leading back into the house.

You nodded your head and followed him as he led you to the balcony upstairs. The balcony overlooked the backyard where most people stood, did a few shots, and chatted. The two of you took a seat beside each other on the small couch they had set up. After a few moments went by the two of you leaned in to share a kiss.

The kiss quickly became heated as his hands began to roam your body. Pulling at your top eagerly.

“Are you sure?” He pulled back with a breath after you gave him no sign of stopping.

“Yeah.” You nodded and leaned back in.

As the two of you continued to make out the overwhelming feeling you always got in this situation came creeping back. The feeling caused you to pull away as you shook your head.

“No, no I can’t.” You scooted a few centimeters away from him.

“Of course.” He huffed, “you always say you’re ready and then can’t continue. Make up your damn mind already.” He stood up and walked back into the house, most likely to find his friends once again.

You let out a sigh and ran a hand over your warm face. You laughed humorlessly at your luck in guys before standing up and making your way out of the house. Crossing your arms over your chest you started the short walk home to yours and Jay’s apartment building. Thankfully, Jay and Will would be home by the time you made it back to the apartment. Even with how overprotective Jay is he trusted you not to get shitfaced and throw yourself into trouble at parties. Of course, as long as you made it home by your curfew, which was decently reasonable. Your two brothers had already made plans to watch the game at Jay’s apartment together while they would wait for you to make it home.

After walking in through the door you threw your shoes to the side and flopped onto the couch in between Jay and Will with a huff. The two of them exchanged a confused glance before looking at your somewhat pouty and pissed-off face.

“What’s up, kiddo?” Will asked with concerned eyes.

You sat there silently seething while also feeling the need to cry your eyes out.

“Y/N, what’s wrong?” Jay turned to face you.

“You won’t understand.” You shook your head, your voice was clearly upset.

“All right, so it’s about a guy then?” Will considered.

The two men sat there blankly staring at each other, communicating with their eyes on how to approach this. They stilled when they heard a soft sniffle come from you.

“My boyfriend sucks.” You sighed.

Will and Jay looked up at each other with wide eyes, already assuming the worst.

“What’d he do? Did he hurt you?” Jay questioned.

“No. Unless it’s emotionally then the answer is yes.” You wiped your nose with the back of your hand.

“Emotionally, how?” Will tilted his head.

“I can’t tell you, it’ll be weird.” You scrunched your nose at the thought of telling your older brothers about your sex life. Or lack thereof.

“We promise we won’t be weird. Right, Will?” Jay reassured you as he glanced up at the oldest of the three of you.

“I’ll even pinky promise.” Will held out his pinky toward you, eliciting a small laugh when you connected yours with his.

“The floor is yours.” Jay gestured outward with his arm.

“No being weird.” You warned.

“No being weird.” The two men nodded simultaneously.

“So my boyfriend and I were at a party, as you know.” They gestured for you to continue, “and I said I wanted to do it but when I changed my mind he got all pissy about it. And he does this every time I think I’m ready but back out.” You explained quickly.

Jay pursed his lips as he shared an awkward look with Will who held a similar awkward expression at the topic of conversation. After a few silent moments, Jay cleared his throat before speaking up.

“Trust me when I say this is as awkward as it is for me than it is for you. Especially when Mom would’ve been better for this conversation, but we love you so I guess Will and I will have to do.” Jay laid it all out.

“Fair enough.” You nodded slowly.

“First of all, screw him. He doesn’t deserve you.” Will began which made Jay scoff, “damn right he doesn’t.” Jay added.

“Secondly, if you don’t feel like you’re ready he should be able to respect your feelings and your decision. But clearly, since he lacks functioning brain cells he was being an ass. Which no person should ever do to their significant other.” Will explained calmly after giving Jay a smack on the back of the head.

“Seriously?” Jay questioned as he rubbed the back of his head.

“Advice first, overprotective brother second.” Will narrowed his eyes.

“I can multitask.” Jay mumbled snarkily.

After both brothers offered you some much-needed and surprisingly helpful advice they squished you in between the two of them for a hug.

“Hey, even if you think you can’t talk to us about something I promise you we will do our best.” Jay pulled away to look at you.

“All right?” Jay asked.

“Yeah, I got it. Thanks.” You mumbled into Will’s arm, which he still had wrapped around you.

“Don’t worry, it’s our job to give you life advice.” Will rubbed up and down your arm comfortingly.

Who needs a mother figure when you have your annoying older brothers to help you navigate life?