#i am enjoying who i am and the prospect of a future as myself so much...

[knifearo]

i say it all the time but being aromantic fucking rocks actually. loneliness is one thing but being aro + romance averse had me confront the amatonormative expectation of romantic partnering and you know what i'm NOT worried about now? having a partner. sharing a bed with someone. kissing someone. being held by someone. cause all those physical + emotional needs can be fulfilled by all the people i hold dear in my life and it is no loss of mine to not have a partner. and it's so radical and empowering to say that i don't care and i don't fucking want one! i like being by myself! I HOPE I DIE ALONE ‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️

[forever-fixating]

Some Sentences Monday?

Tagged by the ever-awesome @priincebutt

Okay, so I know this is meant for Sundays, but ya boi was destroyed from work and completely overstimulated so I had nothing in the tank. But after hibernating most of today, I am emerging ready to share a new project I have in the works. Getting such amazing response for Love on the Menu has really invigorated my desire to work, and now my mind is running with ideas. I've been toying with the idea of writing a historical AU for a while now, so allow me to introduce:

I don't have an official summary for it yet, but to overhype myself, this story has everything: childhood sweethearts separated by tragedy, rivaling nations full of political intrigue, magick because I've been dying to write a fantasy AU as well so por que no los dos, a tournament where the grand prize of the joust is the hand in marriage of our sweet Henry, a cliffhanger that I am so excited to write but that I know will enrage everyone that reads it...get ready, yall!

Below the cut is a massively long teaser. Forgive the roughness of it. I am just so geeked to share it, but just know I'll be working on it until it's ready. Enjoy! (If you'd like a soundtrack for this, might I suggest Surrender by Natalie Taylor?)

The air was perfumed with the scent of springtime blossoms. Beneath the shade of a great willow tree were two young lovers. One was flaxen-haired, his ivory skin rosy from the sun and littered with constellations of freckles. His body and limbs were slender and knobbly, still in that awkward phase between boy and man. His light blue eyes studied his companion with unguarded adoration. The other young man was shorter in stature, but rigorous exercise had already defined his physique. Atop his head was an untamed mass of sable curls, still wet from swimming. His unblemished skin gleamed a rich russet shade that his fairer companion couldn't stop touching. The pair had completed their lessons for the day and decided to take a refreshing dip in the lake near their school. They were naked, hidden among the willow branches, like two woodland nymphs from a fable and not two princes from separate nations. The dark-haired boy Alex lifted his lover Henry's hand and kissed the signet ring on his pinkie finger. The ring's face held not a family crest but their initials. A promise.

"When we are married-"

"You mustn't say such things!" Henry laughed even as his stomach fluttered at the very prospect. "It isn't proper."

Alex leaned down to press a kiss against rose-petal lips. "A man must state his intentions plainly, and mine are to marry you, cariño."

"You are not yet seventeen, cariad," Henry said as Alex trailed kisses along his jaw and neck. In this sacred space, it was easy to get lost in the rose-tinted fantasy of their future together. He tangled his fingers in Alex's curls, tugging at the roots. "Our parents would say it is unwise to speak of such things at our age."

"Why," Alex hissed as he climbed over Henry's body, "are you mentioning our parents when I am trying to ravish you?"

Henry arched his body into that of his beloved, gasping, "You have ravished me twice already this afternoon. Is that not enough?"

"Never."

As the twin suns began their steady descents into the horizons, the young lovers got dressed and made their way back to the school. Fireflies glowed in hues of pink, orange, and yellow as the pair discussed their plans for the following day. Given their disheveled states of dress, they were wary of running into Headmistress Beaufort or one of their professors as they made their way back to their dormitory. Unfortunately, fate was not on their side, and they rounded a corner and nearly crashed into Professor Wagner. He was a squat toad of a man who taught history and hated Alex for his frequent interruptions during lessons. His face held a perpetual bitter expression, as though he had just sucked on an unripen lemon. He berated them for looking and acting beneath their station and gave them detention for the following fortnight working in the stables with Gerald the groundskeeper. (It wasn't the punishment the man thought it was. They enjoyed Gerald's company, especially when he was joined by Julian, the music professor. Henry was convinced they were in love, but Alex said he was delusional.)

They scrambled upstairs to their shared dorm room to change. Dinner was already in progress when they joined their social set in the dining hall. Alex's older sister June was discussing a novel with Henry's twin sister Beatrice while their best friends Percy and Nora played cards. As Henry took his spot between Bea and Pez, his sister poked at the poorly concealed love mark Alex had gifted him earlier and teased, "My dear brother, it would appear you have been mauled by pixies. Should we alert Gerald of a possible infestation?"

Alex, seated across from him between June and Nora, snorted into his goblet, and Henry kicked his skin beneath the table. Giving his sister a tight smile that told her he knew exactly at what she was playing, he said defensively, "It was only a single, annoying pixie. Hardly cause for alarm."

"Annoying?" Henry's stomach filled with regret the moment the words left his mouth at Alex's fallen expression. He looked away from Henry. "Perhaps the pixie will direct their attention elsewhere if they are such a nuisance."

Alex would not meet his eye for the remainder of the meal. Once Headmistress Beaufort dismissed the students for the evening, Alex was up like a shot. Henry felt the disapproval of their friends and loved ones as he stood and trailed after Alex like a lovesick puppy. When Henry reached the common room of their dormitory, he found Alex chatting with Liam, the son of a nobleman from his home country. While he knew there was no danger of them forming an attachment, jealousy sparked in his chest, hot and ugly. He strode over to them and said, "Alex, I wish to speak with you."

Alex's expression was that of cool indifference. "Yes?"

Ignoring Liam and tugging on Alex's arm, Henry insisted, "In private."

Alex rolled his eyes but stood, shoving past Henry to their dorm room. Henry didn't look at Liam but hurried after Alex. He passed some of their classmates roughhousing in the hallway. Alex's ire was quick to be provoked, but Henry hoped he could dampen it with gentle words of apology and a gift. Their dorm room was on the far end of the hallway to the right. When Henry entered, Alex was sitting on the window seal. Henry closed the door.

"Cariad-"

"You would be wise not to call me that right now," Alex snapped, not looking at him.

Henry bit his bottom lip. Pushing away from the door, he crossed the cross to retrieve a parcel he received earlier that day from his bedside table. Though he protested Alex's pure words down by the lake, Henry's heart ached at the very thought that Alex thought himself alone in this affection. Henry was naturally cautious when it came to matters of the heart. While his parents had a romance for the bards to write neverending songs about and supported his inclinations, his grandmother Queen Mary still held final sway over who her grandchildren would marry. While Alex's country was a rising power, full of untapped resources and potential, Mary looked down her nose at their progressive politics and rising status among the nations. But despite the perceived impossibility of their future together, Henry found himself desperately in love with Alex all the time.

Henry knelt in front of his wounded lover and placed the parcel in his lap. Alex finally looked at him before glancing down and asking, "What is this?"

"An apology and response."

Alex picked it up and tore away the plain brown paper. Revealed was a red velvet bag. Henry's heart raced as Alex opened the bag and pulled out a small golden key on a silver chain. The bow of the key, intertwined in delicate filigree, was their initials, much like the ring that rested on Henry's hand.

As Alex studied it, Henry said, "My words earlier were foolish and hurtful. The truth is that I am afraid of the end of term. Things as they are now seem too perfect and golden. I...I fear once we are parted, reality will make you realize I am not worthy, that you will find someone more suitable for-"

"You believe me to be easily swayed?" Alex snapped. Henry looked up to see frustration and sadness in his eyes. He reached down to yank Henry's hand that held the signet ring to eye level. "Is this not proof enough of my love for you? Is it not enough that I say I love you? If this is an apology, it is a very poor one, Henry."

Henry climbed on the window seal with Alex, desperate to be understood, tears in his eyes. "It is an explanation. I am scared, Alex. I know we are young, but I know in my heart I will never feel for another what I feel for you. But when my grandmother finds out about us, she will stop at nothing to keep us apart. Does that challenge not give you pause?"

"Cariño," Alex whispered, cupping Henry's face, the necklace dangling from his fingers, "I would slay a thousand dragons, cross the Great Salt Desert, and brave the bitterest frozen peaks if that's what it took to make you mine. You may fear your grandmother, but I do not. There is no one else for me but you."

Henry took the chain from Alex's hand and placed it around his neck. Pressing his hand over the key, Henry said, "As you are for me. I want to be brave like you. I want you to know you are not alone. This key is a symbolic gesture, the key to my heart. My promise to be true."

Two young lovers, bathed in moonlight and their love for one another, making a vow as true as the gods had ever heard. Perhaps it was their youth that gave them pause, or the sincerity in which the vows were given. Whatever it was, the gods took note and, in their mercurial way, decided to put that devotion to the test.

The skies were clear that night as Alex and Henry clung to each other, but they could not see the storm brewing on the distant horizon. A challenge.

Tagging @dragonflylady77 @onthewaytosomewhere @theplayfulfairy and anyone else who scribbles and is interested.

[wordbunch]

countertop confessions (Isildur x reader)

a/n: i noticed a lack of TROP Isildur fics, so I took it upon myself to fix it! fluffy fluff, as per usual! 💞 hope you enjoy my little self indulgent piece, let me know and please be so kind to reblog 😘 it's a little warm up piece after my vacation!!

"You ruined the prospects of your own future employment, and now you are here to ruin mine as well?" you teased upon noticing your favorite long-haired Númenórean at the door of your downstairs kitchen - he had an uncharacteristic pout on his lips.

Before he managed to ask you how you already knew he got thrown out of the sea guard training, you quickly continued: "News travel fast around here. Especially in my house, you know how everyone likes to stop by for a treat and share the latest gossip," you smiled, giving him an explanation. The dough you had been kneading for a new batch of buns was now set aside as you pulled up a chair for you and Isildur, who seemed not to be in the highest of spirits.

"It was the one thing I had really wanted to do," he began, "and to be successful in." He plopped down onto a wooden chair next to yours, his shoulders bent.

"Cheer up," you tapped him on the cheek with a hand white from flour, leaving a trace, "I am certain you could find an apprenticeship elsewhere, even one troublemaker as you." Isildur was fighting a smile as he wiped off the flour from his cheek.

"So, what you are saying is," he began, the mischievous glint returning to his warm eyes, "that you will employ me in your bakery, and then I can bother you every day of the week, and get to eat the best pastries in all of Númenor?"

"Who said I wanted you?" you laughed, making him roll his eyes and playfully give you a gentle shove. "I would never get anything completed were you constantly keeping me company, and getting up to no good."

"I can be good," he pouted, leaning his face closer to yours, "while you are a very evil person. So, the least you can do is feed me right now."

You gave a joyous laugh while Isildur continued looking at you with his best pouty face. "You have only come here to use my kindness in exchange for food, because you know you are my favorite person and that I will most likely fall for it." Although a small smile appeared on his face, it fell just as quickly, but you had gotten up to rummage through the drawers, so you didn't notice. Honestly, you were a little concerned - usually when Isildur paid you a visit, he would talk your ears off, make you laugh, start a food fight or attempt to steal the freshly baked goods, but there was none of that now.

"Are you certain you are bothered only by what happened today, or is there something else?" you inquired, finally managing to find one of his favorite pastries and handing it to Isildur, who muttered a small thanks in return. "Usually you would already be searching for another option, or trying to get accepted back into the sea guard..."

He breathed in deeply, and then slowly exhaled, poking around the pastry in his hand before setting it back on the table. "Yes," he began, not looking you in the eyes, "but we hold the sailors in such a high regard, and they get rewarded handsomely for what they do. And perhaps I just wanted to not live off of my father as much, and finally start to afford us a life that we both deserve. That you deserve," he coughed meekly, giving himself a few more moments to think over his words. You stood leaning back on the counter across him, mouth agape, but evident happiness in your eyes - you had kind of had a hunch that he'd been harboring feelings for you for some time, and you most certainly returned them; you just didn't think you two would be conversing about that with you half-covered in flour, in a messy kitchen decorated by rays of late afternoon sun.

But then again, for the two of you... it was kind of perfect.

"I wanted to build us a house with the best and biggest kitchen where you could make anything you wanted, and everyone would like it, and everyone would like you," he gulped, looking down at his hands and too busy to notice how happily you looked at him, "but I'd be the one who gets to love you."

"What did you say?" you mused with a little chuckle, a tiny bit shocked, but mostly elated. Isildur looked up at you for a split second, looking almost offended, since he didn't think you were taking him seriously. However, your expression quickly dissuaded his doubtful mind.

"I said that I love you," he repeated, with more confidence this time, and it certainly helped that he got up, his full height now towering over you. You really hoped you weren't blushing profusely as you looked up at him with doe eyes. "You heard me."

"I just wanted to make sure," you replied with an apologetic, yet teasing, smile, hands subconsciously traveling over his torso up to his shoulders as you inched closer and closer, "you know I can never tell with you," you joked, and he finally cracked a smile. He found himself wrapping his arms around your waist as if it was second nature; sure, you did hug before, on occasion, but this time it was so much more electric.

"And what a lucky coincidence," you muttered, eyes shifting between his lips and his eyes and then back to his lips again, and you knew he caught on what you wanted, "because I love you too, Isil."

You had barely managed to finish the sentence when his lips met yours with the fervor you expected from someone as energetic and passionate as him, but still it was better than you imagined it would be. He got carried away fast, so that he just had to pick you up by the waist and put you on the counter, never once breaking the kiss. Showoff, you thought to yourself.

To Isildur's great disappointment, eventually you had to pull away for air, but you kept one hand on his chest and one in his unruly hair. He wore the brightest of grins on his face when he finally spoke up again.

"Even without a real job, without our giant family house?" he teased, nudging his nose against yours.

"With or without anything at all," you whispered before pulling him into another long-awaited kiss, but you remembered something very soon-

"Are you going to eat that or can I?"

-

💕 taglist my beloved @lotrnonsense​ @starlady66​ @queenmeriadoc​ @thesolarangel​ @averys-place​ @valkyriepirate ​ @noldorinpainter ​ @asianbutnotjapanese ​ @fenharel-enaste ​ @starryeyedrogue ​ @lady-of-imladris ​ @suncran @asianbutnoteastasian @sweetpea-thoughts

[shallyne]

The Diary of Feyre Archeron Ch 6

CHAPTER 6!!!! EXCITING! This is now the time jump. Reminder: new names because new identities. Enjoy! Whole fic is on AO3

Words: 1.5k

TW: nightmares, mentions of death, mentions of guns

8 years later

November 20th

Dear Diary,

I am back! It's been a long time and a lot has happened but at the same time, not that much. There have been some rocky moments the past years but altogether life was pretty damn normal. Mara, Daisy and I all went to community college. Mara graduated with a degree in journalism and is now working at the Velaris Times while Daisy decided to work at a bakery that just opened in town after graduating with a psychology degree. I, myself, have started a zoology degree but I dropped out in the first year because it just wasn't possible time and money wise. Mara had just started working at the Velaris Times and Elain was in the midst of college so I decided to work instead of studying. Financially it was pretty tight during that time but we managed. We would manage again now that Mara and Daisy are working, I could go back to college but I am not sure if I should go back to zoology. It’s been amazing and incredibly interesting but it just wasn’t for me. There’s still the possibility of art school but I haven’t drawn anything since that day. I can’t paint anymore but the prospect of it is still lingering, hovering over me like the ghost of my old self. I’ll have to think about it but for now I am okay with my perfectly mid job.

Although our jobs haven’t been the only things in our lives that changed, Mara has met two girls who are now her friends, Emerie and Gwyn, with whom she now has a book club and Daisy met twins who she hangs out with all the time, doing her favorite things like gardening and baking. Their names are Nuala and Cerridwen and they work for some rich guy who just moved here.

I also made a friend, his name is Lucien. We met through my boyfriend, Tamlin. Lucien and I couldn’t really stand each other at first, he was such an asshole. Well, he still is but I grew to like it about him.

Tamlin and I met under different circumstances, he hit me with his car. It was just an accident because he was looking on his phone and when he helped me hobble out of the hospital, because he broke my foot, he asked me on a date and I agreed. He’s a perfectly nice gentleman. Of course he has his flaws but don’t we all? Rhysand didn’t. Especially my old friend who lied to me throughout our whole friendship.

Oh! I also tried to get Eras Tour tickets but they were quite expensive, unfortunately. Maybe someone will sell theirs or I’ll get some for a future tour.

Alright, time for dinner.

Later!

November 21st

N Mara brought a vacancy flyer home today for me. It’s for some fancy Lounge in downtown Velaris who’s looking for a waitress. I am absolutely underqualified for this position but she says I should try anyway because it pays well. We wrote an application together that sounded a little more professional than my previous ones, it is necessary if I want to work there.

Getting the job would help us tremendously, we could get a new couch AND afford the good toilet paper, wouldn’t that just be amazing? I can’t let myself daydream too far because chances are high I won’t get the job. Daisy said she’s sure I’ll get the job if they meet me but I’d need a job interview first so that is a big IF.I am trying to hope for the best but expect the worst.

We will drop the application off tomorrow and get a look at the Lounge. Pray that I won't freeze to death, it's COLD.

November 22nd

I haven't had nightmares for two years. I had a nightmare again. I just woke up, I have to write it down.

I was back at home and mom just died, we just got the news. Everyone was in shock, no one moved. It was so quiet.

The doorbell rang, I went to the door just like I did when they got dad. I opened it, I opened the door.

I shouldn't have opened the door.

But I did.

They stormed in, they held us at gunpoint.

I just told Rhys that he's dead to me

I wish he was here

Because I'm going to die. I was going to die, I knew it.

But he was there, I don't know how. I don't know how he did it but he was there suddenly. He would protect me, always. I knew that, I always knew that. I've just been angry. I know it wasn't his fault. He just wanted to protect me. I wished I could tell him, right then. But they killed him, right in front of my eyes. Because he wanted to protect me. He died because of me. It was my fault.

I tried to move, to protect my sisters. I needed to protect them, it was my fault that Rhys was dead. I have to protect them from the same fate but it's too late. I can still hear the gunshots ringing in my ears. One. Two. Elain, dead. Three. Four. Nesta, dead. I want to scream, I want to rush forward but I can't. I can't.

Then I was looking down the barrel of a gun.

Then I woke up.

I can barely breathe.

November 23rd

I was on a lunch date with Tamlin today, it was fine until a waiter spilled some water on the table and he went through the roof. It was only a little bit of spilled water, it hadn't even spilled on his clothes. It took me forever to calm him down. I hope the waitress is alright, I left her a bigger tip.

When we sat in the car and Tamlin finally calmed down he apologized. Then, which is very exciting, Nesta called me because a letter from the Lounge I applied to arrived just then and I told her to open it and tell me. The seconds she took to open the envelope and read felt like an eternity BUT they invited me to a job interview!!! Isn't that just so exciting? Never in a million years I would have thought they would even think about inviting me but they did! For TOMORROW. The reply and the job interview both went so fast, I can't wrap my mind around it. Tamlin seemed semi-interested in the news but I'm sure he will think differently tomorrow, he had somewhat of a bad day today.

I went home and instantly threw my good pants in the washer, they are drying now. I'm as excited as I am nervous, this job could change quite a lot for us.

I should really go to sleep, I don't want to seem tired during my interview.

I'm thanking the stars that they listened and answered!! Maybe fate DOES exist! (Okay, Feyre, calm down. You don't even have the job yet.)

November 24th

I've got the job.

Tamlin said I shouldn't take it and move in with him, that he could take care of me and my sisters. Nesta said she would rather stab out her eyes.

Although Tamlin and his proposal isn't what's worrying me right now, it's how I got the job.

Why I got the job.

Let's start from this morning.

I woke up at six AM because I've been so nervous. I prepared questions that could be asked and the answers, took a shower, ate breakfast, cleaned my room, put on some makeup and then got dressed and made my way downtown. My whole thoughts were about this interview, because it's important, for me, for Mara, for Daisy.

I was half an hour too early so I went and got a coffee. Unfortunately my nerves didn't let me sit still for more than two minutes so I walked up and down the street until it was finally time.

There was a nice lady, I don't remember her name, who led me to an office in the back because my interview was with the boss himself. The whole Lounge was so luxurious, even though I was wearing my best outfit it felt incredibly cheap in comparison but it was so tasteful, I kind of felt comfortable?

Then the lady knocked on the door and left, leaving me alone as I entered the office.

I knew instantly, right as I stepped into the office. It's been 8 years, we became adults, we grew up, but I knew before he looked up from his paperwork. I knew that a pair of almost-violet eyes would stare at me, a pair that was scribbled all over my old notebooks.

He did look at me, his eyes almost the same, but they seemed more dark and haunted now. But when he recognized me, he lit up.

But I was stuck there because-

What the fuck is Rhysand doing in Velaris????

Excerpt from a chat between Rhysand and Morrigan

Rhysand: I'm sending a car over, you need to come ASAP

Morrigan: What??? What happened?

Rhysand: I can't tell you over text, get in the car and come over here

Morrigan: Jeez, this better be good

Morrigan: I'm delaying my nail appointment for you

Feysand Taglist:

@captain-of-the-gwynriel-ship @starfall-spirit @rhysiedarling @corcracrow @sydney-fae25 @tothestarsandwhateverend @aayo-whatt @dreamlandreader

[lumenflowered]

[A third video file is attached. This one, again, picks up where the preceding video left off. Maria has just won a Pokémon battle against her doppelganger, and as such remains Champion. Though it is dubious whether Dee had any real desire to become Champion in the first place.

"...You did well," Maria says at last. "Very well."

"Thank you," Dee replies, an awkward sort of half-smile tugging at her features. "I knew better than to seriously think I would win against you of all people, I really am not much for battling..."

"You made it here," Maria interrupts. "Didn't you?"

"Well, yes," she admits. "...The first few badges were because I was not permitted into certain areas without first proving I could protect myself. Then... to meet you. I... I needed to meet you. To know who you were, not from what others said but from you. Does that make... any sense?"

Slowly, Maria nods. "What do you know of me, then?"

"I know that you could kill me within a matter of seconds if you set your mind to doing so and that there would be nothing I could do to prevent this." Dee winces. "I... from what else I know of you, I do not believe that you would. But I know very well that you could."

"...This is likely true," Maria admits. "Is that all?"

She shakes her head. "I know that Gehrman... he cared for you, greatly, in his own way. Far more than he ever did for me, when it became clear that I... that I was not you."

"If you know only of me from him," Maria says tightly, "I would advise you to assume everything you know of me is incorrect."

Dee shakes her head again, more emphatically this time. "No, I... there is a Hunter I once knew. A Hunter I still know, in a manner of speaking, though she no longer considers herself one any more than you do. She freed you from the Nightmare your soul haunted, and she was curious enough to look deeper into your past than she might have otherwise when she took note of your appearance being... very much like mine."

"She used an axe," Maria says. It isn't a question.

"She did indeed." Dee pauses, before something resolute passes into her expression. "You should meet her, when we are done here. I believe she will be able to answer more of your questions than I... and she does owe you an apology."

"I would not hold her actions within the Nightmare against her," Maria says unconvincingly. "In that place... I do not know that I was entirely myself."

"I was not," Dee says, "necessarily referring to that. But very well. I suppose... would you like to meet her now?"

"I." Maria looks genuinely daunted at this prospect. "I would not be averse to that at some point in the future, but... I would prefer not to quite yet."

"Ah. I see. Then I suppose—"

"You and I have far more to discuss than that," Maria clarifies. "But I would like to know who you are as well, Dee. I know that you care greatly for your Pokémon, that you have spent much of the time since your arrival researching Pokémon for Professor Oak. I know that you do not enjoy combat in any capacity."

"...It is so obvious?"

"Yes. You rather clearly do not enjoy it, but you were willing to learn how to do it rather well in spite of this. And you have directly aided me on at least one occasion that I am aware of, in spite of the fact that you outright admitted that you were afraid of me."

Dee does not quite conceal her wince. "Yes..."

"You... weren't meant to be your own person at all, were you?" Maria says softly. "You were meant to be me."

"I am not you."

"No," Maria agrees, "and I am glad of it."

She walks forward to take Dee's still-gloved hands in her own.

"Please," she continues, "tell me about you."

Maria is not much for smiling, not even when she is truly happy. It is apparent, after a few moments of quiet shock, that this is one of the places where she and Dee differ.

Dee smiles faintly, with what looks suspiciously like tears in her eyes, and the video ends.]

[scala-ask-caelum]

Xehanort! Got any leads on maybe finding your, uh, dream friends yet?

The longer I spend with my new friends, the more my mind drifts back to my dreams. Those kids I always see in them… Will I ever get to meet them?

If not, I can take solace in the fact that I've dreamed about them, so much so that I feel like their friend, too.

…Maybe I’ll never find out. But my new friends remind me so much of them in personality. Eraqus’s mischief and kindness is reminiscent of what I’ve gleaned from the silver-haired boy, and while Eraqus may be the spitting image of the one in the hat, Bragi fits his secretive and intelligent nature better. Hermod’s volatile temper is like that of the kid with pink hair, while Urd’s consistent steadiness mirrors the cheer of my mother’s twin. Vor’s insistence that she be treated fairly reminds me very much of the blond boy, and Baldr’s quiet, almost removed air is comparable to my mentor’s. I can’t help but wonder who I would match if I were to assign myself one of these people. Perhaps I, myself am but a collection of traits I’ve gathered from these subconscious figures, having grown up with only them and my mentor as company on the islands.

If I were to attempt a search for them, I would need to become a Master, since that rank allows for unrestricted access to the World and the various worlds within it. My search could take me places I’d never dreamed of seeing, much less considered existing! The very prospect is enough to excite me, and the idea of travel itself isn’t so bad, either. While I enjoy Scala and its comforts, it’s an island community like my original home. Will I ever be truly free of that inherent claustrophobia? Are the worlds within the larger World not like islands themselves, floating as they are in what I’ve heard Master Odin call the ‘Ocean Between’?

I cannot allow these questions to plague my mind now, however. Not until I’ve actually achieved my goal of becoming a Master. Only then will I let myself focus on them. Until that time, I’ll study and hang out with my current friends. No need for the past to dictate my future just yet.

[hootfort]

one hit update when??

Hi gamers!

So, if you've interacted with me in any sort of passive way, you'll probably know my life is always some sort of trainwreck. I've had a chapter (well, multiple, given their length) of One Hit ready to go since I last updated, but life has gotten in the way.

For the people who have left comments, sent asks, or messaged me and not received a response, I'm sorry. I see pretty much everything, but mentally, it's hard to find the energy to reply in a manner that feels fair to you. I want to meet you with the same attention and care that you have shown me, but my brain hasn't been up to it.

TL;DR - One Hit will get updated now that it's summer. I can't promise when, but I promise that it will happen. I'm studying at a place that lied to my face and has driven me to my limit, not academically but mentally. Picking up the pieces and creating a future that I can survive is exhausting, but I'm getting there. The lovely messages and comments are often the highlights of my month, and I am utterly grateful for all of your kindness. All of you are wonderful, and this fandom has been one of the driving forces for me to reach the finish line.

In no particular order, I was and still am enduring a lot of harassment/discrimination in my academic life. It's to the point where I'm facing the very real prospect of having to move to another university to continue my education beyond my current degree, but this final year and the state of my department is... a lot. I'm dealing with the aftermath of turning against a nonprofit that got me started with writing; the cornerstone of my identity since 2017 is in shambles, and that organisation was why I went to university to study what I do.

I don't want to out myself too hard here, but I cannot emphasise how crushing the sequence of events has been. Everything that we were promised when enrolling in this place was a lie. When I last updated, I was attempting to get out of a predatory internship that I had to quit THREE SEPARATE TIMES, and this was an internship shared by my university. I was being felt up, for lack of a better explanation, by a former driving instructor who took thousands of pounds from my family and utterly destroyed my self-confidence and my trust in the world. A large part of who I am and who I want to be is gone, and reconciling that has been difficult.

So, yeah. My life has been a mess. For more reasons than this, but those are my biggest feelings.

I'm getting there. I'm not even sure this is all pertinent information, but I logged into Tumblr and saw all of these alerts, and I feel like I owe it to people to tell them why I was gone. Because I love this fandom, I love the people in it. I love your art, your fanfics, and the countless other things that you do for a world that can seem so dark.

The world is lucky to have you guys in it, and I really want to thank you profusely for what you've done for my life, even if it wasn't visible through updates. My little corner of the internet makes me so happy, and it brings me great peace and comfort to know that now I've survived hell, I can enjoy hanging around a little more for now.

Fingers crossed that it won't take me forever to update this time.

- Min :)

[resurrection-of-soul]

Flashback | BIOHAZARD 5

Writer: Akira (日日日)

Characters: Rei, Koga, Kaoru, Adonis

Koga: Quit messin' around, "Vampire Bastard~!" The hell d'ya mean, pajama party, huh? Rei: My, what a nostalgic form of address. It has been quite a while since I last referred to you as "Puppy," did you miss it terribly?

[ For the best viewing experience, please read directly on my blog! ♪ ]

Time: That night.

Location: The accommodations provided at the AIIE Experimental Facility.

Rei: Yaaay, it's a sleepover with everyone from UNDEAD~ ♪ Fufu. We would have had a magnificent opportunity to host a pajama party during the SS preliminaries, but alas, Kaoru-kun was torn from our midst and cast into the desert. He alone had to suffer undue hardship. I am elated that the four of us can now enjoy a slumber party toge- woah?!

Koga: ......

Rei: Koga? It is impolite to suddenly throw steamed buns at people, yes? Or do you mean to say you wish to play ball with these?

Koga: Quit messin' around, "Vampire Bastard~!" The hell d'ya mean, pajama party, huh?

Rei: My, what a nostalgic form of address. It has been quite a while since I last referred to you as "Puppy," did you miss it terribly?

Koga: It ain't meant to be nostalgic! I'm insultin' ya, you asshole!

Rei: I would truthfully be quite troubled if thou were to abruptly begin disparaging me, so kindly refrain from venting thy frustrations on me. All four of us agreed to participate in this experiment together. What merit is there in complaining about the matter at this juncture?

Koga: I didn't agree to shit! We were basically coerced into it. If we'd refused to be used as guinea pigs, then those innocent Ra*bits would've gotten dragged in instead. Rather than havin' to sit around worryin' over whether someone out there is sufferin' some unknown fate cause a' me, it's way better for my mental health if I just run into the flames myself. Don't forget, I'm not actually on board with this shit at all.

Kaoru: Ah ha ha. This whole experiment thing is definitely a bit shady and off-putting, but don't you think it also sounds kind of interesting? When you hear about "AI Idols" and stuff — it really makes it feel like science has come as far as it can, doesn't it? Like those old sci-fi movies!

Kaoru: If this really had just been a movie— no, even if it had just had nothing to do with me personally, I might have really enjoyed hearing about it.

Adonis: Though I also find this all slightly uncomfortable, I do think it is interesting from a science and technology standpoint. The future which people envisioned when they came up with things like V*caloid and AI art programs is now unfolding before our eyes. When people in the past dreamed of the future for sci-fi stories, this is the world they imagined. For better or for worse, it's like living in a dream. It makes my heart pound.

Kaoru: Ahaha. It's like, totally a boy's romance, isn't it? I don't dislike that kind of thing. After all, I'm the son of a scholar who reached out to the sea in search of romance and mystery.

Adonis: I also do not dislike the idea of venturing out into the unknown.

Rei: Realistically speaking, had we spurned this request, there existed the possibility that our agency would have given up on us. Rhythm Link adheres rather strictly to the dictates of the corporate hierarchy, after all. To not be thrown by the wayside, our participation 'twas a necessary evil. Moreover, should the project prove triumphant, the prospect of substantial reward awaits us. Simply put, we stand to profit. 'Tis true that we still boast a surplus of funds, having garnered quite a considerable sum during SS, so the monetary reward is not so alluring. Yet, if the "artificial idol" experiment is successfully realized and publicized, the spotlight will fall on us as its primary test subjects. Such a scenario would prove quite advantageous for us, yes?

Koga: None a' that has a~anythin' to do with the real problem. They're just tryin' t'buy time cause they dunno how to deal with us. We'd better not end up lookin' like idiots who wasted all our time on this wild goose chase.

Rei: A most salient point. As Koga says, let us all carefully consider how we might solve our fundamental problem. Fortunately, we have plenty of time available to do so.

Kaoru: Yeah… I felt a bit nervous since they called it an experiment, but we, like, basically just have to spend the night here, right?

Rei: Indeed. We have been supplied medicine capable of inducing sleep for around half a day. During that time, data shall be collected through the devices affixed to our heads. While not sleeping, we are permitted to engage in exercise to prevent our bodies from suffering physical deterioration, as well as eat to maintain our vigor. We four shall live together harmoniously. The experiment shall last for approximately one week's time. For the duration of the testing period, all other engagements hath been prohibited to us, for extraneous stimuli may taint the data. Thus, our smartphones and other such devices have been seized, and we shall remain isolated from the outside world.

Kaoru: Kinda feels like we're hospital inpatients, or maybe prisoners… Oh well, it's an easy job where all we have to do is slack off.

Rei: Mm. There would be no harm in taking this chance to relax. 'Tis not a complete waste of time, as we shall receive our due pay regardless of whether the experiment succeeds or fails. Fortunately, the environment we are to live in is far preferable to that of a hospital or prison. Look here, we have been provided with cards and board games to while away the time. Until the time comes for us to work— Or rather, before we must answer sleep's call, let us play together.

Koga: Ain't you actin' waaaay too chill about this?

Rei: 'Tis good if you see it thus. As a child, I always behaved unnervingly like an adult. Thus I lacked experiences such as this, wherein one might have a sleepover with their peers. And so… Though the future remains uncertain, in this moment, I can confidently state that I am utterly delighted ♪

[ ☆ ]

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[actualbird]

Hi Zak, would you recommend majoring in something you enjoy doing?

I enjoy writing (and beta reading), and plan to major in something like liberal arts or creative writing, but I'm not sure if I should.

I feel like I might get burnt out if I choose to major in one of that, but also, I'm worried about my future job prospects.

I've heard of people who majored in fine arts and end up having to do a job they dislike cuz no money for the work, and idk if it's worth it. :(

~ 📝 (is this taken?)

hey there notes!anon (will be tagging u as this!!), ty for the ask!!

i'd like to preface everything im going to say with like, this is my Own opinion based on my own experience, and your experiences may differ, so not everything i say may apply to you and your circumstances. im frankly always surprised when i get asks asking for advice on life stuff, because i myself definitely do not have my life together in any way. still, i hope something in my perspective can be useful somehow to you

i personally am not sure/am not knowledgeable about a liberal arts major (because my college didnt have a course like that) but i CAN talk about the effects/benefits/cons of a creative writing major because i myself am a creative writing graduate

and first off, job availability is not as big of a problem for CW graduates as many people think. lots of industries need creative writers. it may not be the industry you expected or originally wanted, but the prospects are definitely there. when i was job hunting, off the top of my head, here were the jobs i applied to (and thus felt somewhat qualified for, with my CW degree): advertising copywriter, SEO writer, english teacher/tutor, writing for print magazines, writing game guides for online websites, writing scripts for games, copyediting, corporate copywriting. and that is very much the tip of the iceberg, because there are a lot of jobs that i overlooked that i couldve qualified for but i wasnt personally interested in.

now on the topic of burnout......i'll be real with you: no matter what you major in in college, burnout will happen if you dont adequately manage yourself.

burnout is not exclusive to creative endeavors, it's an effect of too much work + lack of control (perceived or real) + a whole lot of other factors that are VERY common to experience in college. essentially, college is a CAUTION: BURNOUT PRONE AREA simply due to how it's designed/structured. so no matter what course you choose, it will be a danger. so it's less of picking a course and more of how you protect yourself against burnout that will help you more in the long run

that being said, i got burnt out a TON when i was in college because of my mental illness(TM) and also because i was generally bad at pacing myself and taking care of myself. but what got me through was my sheer dedication to writing.

one thing about college is that i think you should pick something that you like enough that even when you feel like you hate it to the high heavens (because you definitely might, what with how stressful college requirements are), there is still something stronger about your tie to that course that pulls you through

for me, it was personal passion and commitment to writing. writing has always been the one thing i knew i wanted to do since the beginning of time, so no matter how much i hated it on all nighters i was working on my thesis manuscript, i pulled through

essentially, to prevent/survive burnout: manage yourself + pick whatever course you want where the "but" in "oh my god i hate this course, BUT..." is a strong one. if you have no strong ones as of the moment, thats alright. you can build it up as you go along

now on the topic of "working a job they dislike" i will be real with you once more..............this is a more common reality of life than having a job you do like. i am a statistical anomaly in the sense that i generally enjoy my job, but a lot of the time (based on what my irl friends go through with their jobs) you end up with a job you didnt expect you'd get into and dont necessarily enjoy. but....it pays the bills. it pays for you to enjoy the stuff you do when youre not working. and thats a valid way to get through life as well.

life after college, contrary to what people want you to believe, is not 100% taken up by your job. or at least it shouldnt be. or at least you should work to make sure it isnt. this might be, again, because im coming from a privileged perspective of having the time to pursue other things like hobbies and interests in addition to having a job, but if you also have the resources to do so, then definitely do so.

all in all: "would you recommend majoring in something you enjoy doing?" it.....depends. i recommend majoring in something you feel strongly enough about that you will continue to do it even when it's not enjoyable 100% of the time. but dont worry about jobs, because a CW degree is definitely useful in the job market. and dont worry about burnout, because that exists in all courses anyway, not just CW.

that is!!......all i think i have to say about ur q, i think

i hope some part of this can be helpful, notes!anon. and im wishing you the best in your decision!!! :D

[tequiilasunriise]

Alright, so I just made a Wenclair post but imma make another one right now because oh my LORD I just saw the fandom breaking reviews, so sit down and grab a snack because it’s rambling time.

I see that many of you are discouraged from the prospect of Wenclair not being canon, this is understandable as I myself am really invested in these two. Hopefully this goes without saying, but NO ONE should hate on the show, the actors, etc etc. I refuse to let such toxicity run through this fandom. Like, this is just reviews for the first season. Please, I really, really don’t want a repeat of the Voltron fandom and cries of queerbaiting (and I wasn’t even remotely near being part of the Voltron fandom! It just got THAT bad that even I knew of its notorious reputation). Again, the show isn’t even out yet. Who’s to say Hunter going ‘fighting for Wenclair’ didn’t mean the course of their relationship in future seasons? We only have information on a first season that isn’t even out yet, so please, calm down on any hate and queerbaiting accusations.

That being said- y’all telling me you’re not buckled down for a slow burn? Wednesday is a character who needs a LOT of time and effort to build trust with on a romantic relationship level, so getting Wenclair all in one season would have been cool or whatever, but it also would’ve been pretty OOC since season one has confirmed only 8 episodes. On the flipside, the payoff of Wenclair’s growing friendship, that blooming trust, the eventual deep bond between them that not even Wednesday herself can deny? Is that not peak sapphic experience? Frenemies to begrudging allies to ‘I find your existence… not the worst’ ‘ppfft, thanks, Addams’ to friends to friends who would murder fer each other to ‘you are the sun that burns and enchants me, I hope this drought lasts a lifetime’. LIKE C’MON??? THE FLAVOR?? Don’t give up on Wenclair just yet y’all. (That being said, the line about droughts should be in a fanfic so imma mark that down fer later.)

And like, I think this next point is the most important thing to note. We all acknowledged our love for Wenclair as a delusion, ever since the beginning we knew we were pulling crumbs and making silly little headcanons. Yes, I would love if Wenclair became canon. Would I stop shipping it if it never does, though? Let’s see, I am a veteran Whiterose shipper of several years. Those two barely had a conversation in the entirety of Volume 8 and I am STILL willing to die on this hill fer them. I am a Lightcannon enjoyer despite the next to NOTHING crumbs in the entirety of their respective existences. Oh, you would not believe how many rarepairs I hold dear in the Pokémon world. The list goes on and on and on. Canon is cool and all but I hoard my random ships like a dragon of ye olde. Just look at what we, the OG Wenclair Warriors, made with just a few trailers and interviews and random instagram comments. The lovely art, the heart wrenching fanfics, the god tier headcanons. I dunno bout yall, but I’m not ready to give that all up just because canon said ‘mmmm no’. If no one got me, ao3 got me.

Trust me, I am well-aware the importance of good representation and I’m not saying you can’t be disappointed over this. What I am saying, however, is that you shouldn’t always let canon 100% dictate how you’re going to consume and enjoy a piece of media. So what if Wenclair isn’t canon? Their dynamic is AMAZING and nothing can take that away from me. There’s still potential and writing room for future seasons, and to that I say buckle down homies, we in it fer a long time and a good time.

[invisibleraven]

horse racing / rulie

Julie grinned as Meade brought Dahlia around, enjoying the horse's playful whinny as it caught sight of her in her riding gear. She was sure her family would be scandalized by her competing in the Point de Point, but it was exactly the kind of thrill she needed to shake things up.

Her season in London had been rather dull, but as it was her fourth, that was to be expected. Her tia worried of course, but no young man had yet to catch her eye-not one that would meet her family's approval of course. Though she does think fondly of her time with the gallant band leader Lukas.

Maybe she should take stock of the other racers surrounding her, though she wished they were in their hunting reds instead of the usual browns and tweeds. No one impressive, the usual hoi polloi...

But then she saw him.

Young Duke Peters, the talk of the ton, the most sought after prize of the county, looking very dapper indeed in black riding gear with a jaunty red tie to give it a pop of colour. He was chatting with some deb or another when she caught his eye, and he beamed when he saw her, even wider when he saw the number pinned to her coat.

They had met at parties and the like, exchanged a dance or two, even a shared laugh at a dinner once. But Julie didn't think her prospects were quite good enough for him, given her father was a lower level earl with a modest estate and a decent dowry. She couldn't compete with Lady Wilson whose father was a Marquis and whose dowry nearly tripled Julie's.

But yet... Lord Peters was walking towards her, his smile never fading. "They tricked you into this did they?"

"I like to think I tricked them into letting me," Julie hummed, eyes sparkling as Reggie let out a laugh.

"Well do be a good sport and make sure everyone is looking at you so that when I embarrass myself, no one is looking," he joked.

"I've seen you ride Lord Peters, and you have quite a good seat," Julie remarked.

"Riding is one thing, racing is quite another," he replied. "And it's Reggie, I swear I've told you that a hundred times."

"What would the rest of the ton think if I were on such familiar terms with His Grace?" Julie teased.

"That His Grace must be the luckiest man in the land to have captured the attentions of such a fine jewel," Reggie replied back, gracing her knuckles with a kiss, making Julie flush right to the tips of her ears.

"Well perhaps you could capture my attention after the race by escorting me to the Danforth ball this evening?' Julie said, pushing her advantage.

"Only if you promise me every dance," Reggie said, eyes gleaming.

"That I may have to decline, people will talk if you occupy me so with no understanding between us," Julie said.

Places were called, and Reggie looked regretful as they were directed to their places. Julie could see there was more he wanted to say, so she promised him a chat later, letting herself settle on top of Dahlia, adjusting her hat once more.

The race was exhilarating, Julie laughing as she was the first woman to cross the finish line, trotting off to the side to watch the men's race, cheering for Reggie as he came a respectable fourth.

"Not embarrassing at all Lord Peters," she said over a glass of punch in the refreshment tent.

"I did alright," Reggie said, dipping his head to hide the pink of his cheeks. "Do you still wish to go to the ball with me then?"

"More than anything," Julie replied.

"And perhaps... we might reach an understanding during the waltz?" Reggie proposes.

"With me?" Julie clarifies.

"There's no one else who has enraptured me so," Reggie whispers, stroking her cheek gently before pulling away. "You're enchanting Julie, and I would love dearly to have you on my arm for the foreseeable future."

"Well then," Julie said, clutching her hand to her chest. "We can speak of it at the ball, but you must ask properly, kneeling and all, with my father's blessing, and a ring. I am not so easily woo'd."

Reggie laughed delightfully. "I would expect nothing less." He kissed her knuckles once more. "Until then Julie."

"Until then...Reggie."

[ohworm-writes]

As I reach my nearly two-year anniversary of this blog, which will be on February the 28th for any who are curious, I thought it would be appropriate to share a list of blog recommendations. Whether it simply be blogs I am enjoy currently, in the past, or anything else of the like, all deserve even more recognition, believe me.

So, without further ado:

@egcdeath -- By the gods, words cannot describe how absolutely awestruck I am by your work. The way you articulate emotion and action and just- everything? It's a work of art. I fell in love with your 'Love In Bloom' work months ago, and finding you again with your Soccer Parents series makes me ecstatic. I'm always left rereading and hungry for more of your work because it's just that good.

@robynlilyblack -- My absolute favorite Harry Potter writer I've ever read from. You have singlehandedly made me fall for characters I never would have thought about falling for. The emotion you put into your work leaves me weak at the knees sometimes, and the angst, oh boy, does it hurt when I read it. And there's so much comedy in your works, at times I find myself giggling whilst staring at my screen.

@quirkfics -- You write for some of the most underrated characters and I'm so happy that you do just that. I have, many a times, scoured the internet for works relating to specific characters that, unfortunately, almost nobody writes for. And then there's you! I cannot tell you how many hours I've poured into reading and re-reading your works because, truthfully, it's a little embarrassing.

@tired-teacher-blog -- My favorite Aizawa blog bar none. The way you write is, truly, mesmerizing. Every time I read something from you I'm always left in awe, whether that me with a grin or a flustered face or anything else of the like. You are doing the work of the gods.

@simpliao -- One of my favorite jschlatt authors on this website. Everything you write is adorable and fills me with warmth every time I have the blessing of reading through your blog. Everything you do is stunning and I am in love.

@jschqtt -- Another stunningly amazing jschlatt author, though I do love your other works with all the same adoration. Your works are so adorable and I cannot stress how seen I feel with some of your works. The prompts you write from just hit so close to home and the emotion behind them make them all the better.

@slxthxrxn-sxmp -- I initially found you from your Jurassic Park works and by the gods I fell in love with your writing so quickly. Just- every word I see on my screen when I read through your blog is captivating. I truly need to read through all of your works some time because I know how beyond worth it it will be.

@jschllatt -- My favorite jschlatt author on tumblr, easily. Though your blog is/has been, for the time being, inactive, I hope you know how much you, both as an author and as a friend, have impacted me. I still strive to write as amazingly as you do, though I reckon I have quite a bit of work to do before I create such art. You singlehandedly made me fall for more people than I can count by your work and I hate you for it. /j

@dreamwvrld -- The best author I've ever had the chance of reading from. And I mean that in all facets. You have been my idol ever since I started reading from you. The way you create such vivid scenes and the emotions you give the characters in your work leaves me at my knees. I still aspire to be like you, and even though you have left the fanfiction community, as I've told you, I can't wait to see and support you and your future endeavors. You have a fan for life here.

Writing, especially for a niche group as fanfiction writing is, is difficult and at times grueling work. The prospect of creating something designed specifically for a group of people to enjoy can be filling, but it is important to note the time and effort that goes into such work.

I'm apart of such a wide variety of fandoms and seeing so many people create content for them, spilling their thoughts onto a screen- it's beautiful. I'm sure many authors have seen me ramble in adoration about their works before, but it's important (at least in my eyes) to yell to the world 'look at this person and their amazing work!' from time to time.

To every author on this list (and to those who aren't yet), even if you're not currently or no longer active, even if you're only written a small number of works, even if you don't think your work is good (stop that, it is good and so much more), I, as well as the community(ies) you're apart of, adore you. <3

[sitp-recs]

hello, im new to drarry fanfics and i’ve found myself to love the ones where they’re in their 8th year or the ones where one of them loses their memory! i wanted to ask you if you have anything to rec with these ‘tropes’ ? or if you have a tag i can search for! thank you for your work!

Hello anon, welcome to the Drarry side of the force! I definitely have some recs to share, hope you enjoy :)

Twist of Fate by Oakstone730 combines both tropes and is an incredible ride, I’d definitely start with it if you haven’t read it yet. I have a few reclists for the 8th year trope:

8th year: 1 | 2 | 3

As for amnesia, I could swear I had a reclist but unfortunately couldn’t find it. I don’t read it much but am linking some titles below:

the shape of memory by hogwartsfirebolt (2022, T, 3k)

Harry's brush with death has left consequences. Thankfully, Draco is there to help him navigate the uncertain waters of his mind.

fermata by onewhodiedyoung (2019, M, 6.5k)

Or, Draco, after and before he forgot Harry, after and after he lost his mother.

It'll Come Back by vukovich (2021, E, 16k)

Draco Malfoy wakes up in the Thickey ward not remembering anything except that the Auror in front of him is his husband. But he's not.

Ship of Theseus by GallaPlacidia (2020, T, 18k)

This fic was taken down but you can access it on the archive made by @geesenoises

When Harry gets amnesia and forgets he and Draco were ever married, he refuses treatment to remember.

Sleeping Dragon by Omi_Ohmy (2012, E, 20k)

When Draco loses his memory, Harry struggles to recognise the man he loves. As they get to know each other again, can Harry overcome his sense of loss? And will Draco ever remember that he loves Harry?

In Pursuit of Lost Marbles by Theartfulldodger (2021, T, 22k)

Every night after work, Healer Malfoy follows the same routine, beginning with a familiar flight of stairs that leads to the Janus Thickey Ward at St. Mungo's. With an air of professionalism, he introduces himself to Harry, his husband of seven years, when a memory curse makes Harry look at him like a stranger.

The Four Doors by fluxweed (2020, E, 50k)

It’s been four months since Harry lost his memory. Four months of dead ends and no answers. With time running out until his memories are gone for good, Harry agrees to a course of Legilimency therapy with a renowned specialist: Mind Healer Draco Malfoy.

Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by November Snowflake (2012, M, 57k)

When the long-missing Draco Malfoy turns up at a Ministry field hospital with amnesia, bitter Auror Harry Potter must confront the shadows of their shared past to shed light on a potentially deadly mystery.

Nor All That Glisters by sweet_s0rr0w (2021, E, 110k)

Lonely and frustrated on house arrest, with no prospects for the future, Draco begins brewing Felix Felicis in an attempt to improve his lot. Just in the short term, of course. He isn’t a total idiot.

Kiss Me (Under the Light of a Thousand Stars) by Iwao, Sophie_French (2015, E, 114k)

Harry rescues Draco Malfoy from Azkaban, where he has been imprisoned for three years after the war. Draco is not as Harry remembers, as Azkaban leaves its mark on even the strongest of wizards. With no memory of who he was or how he came to be in Harry's care, Draco needs Harry's help if he is to have any hope of making a full recovery.

There Is Always the Moon by firethesound (2016, T, 159k)

Draco's life after the war is everything he wanted it to be: it's simple, and quiet, and predictable, and safe. But when a mysterious curse shatters the peace he'd worked so hard to build, there's only one person he can trust to help him. After all, Harry Potter has saved his life before. Now Draco has to believe that Potter will be able to do it one more time.

[mama-qwerty]

I have officially walked across the stage.

I'm scared for the future

- 🦊 anon

First of all, congratulations Foxy!! 🎉🥳🥳

Finishing school and getting that diploma is a HUGE accomplishment, and you did it while scared and unsure of things. You're braver and stronger than you think to have stuck with it even though the prospect of what came after scared you so much.

I am so, so very proud of you.

Second, the future can be scary. The world in general seems to have no shortage of bad going on, and it sometimes feels like there's no point in even trying when there's so much greed and selfishness and hate. And, more specifically for your situation, when your parents seem to think that not having some iron clad plan for the rest of your life is something to be ashamed of.

It's not.

Take a moment to breathe. Focus on the now. You've gotten your diploma. Celebrate that accomplishment, as not everyone has gotten where you are. Seriously, be proud of yourself for where you are! You deserve some happiness for that!

As for what comes after? Take it one day at a time. Sit down with your boyfriend (if you haven't already) and really talk about what your hopes are, what your dreams are, and what worries and scares you. Be honest. With him and with yourself. Sometimes just giving voice to our fears helps us see them in a way that makes them not so scary. Or they can help those who love us understand us better.

Once you've verbalized what you're feeling, then maybe you can sit down with your parents and have a real, honest-to-goodness adult conversation about your future. Maybe they'll listen, maybe they won't. But your life is yours, and you need to do what makes you most comfortable and happy.

As I said in a previous response, sometimes people get stuck in their own history when it comes to expectations for others. Maybe your parents had a steady job with a good income and got married and a house and a kid at suchandsuch age, but the world is vastly different now than it was just 20 years ago. The economy is so, so different. Job hunting is much harder. Everything is so much harder now. And it's very possible they just won't see or admit that.

I don't have all the answers for you. I don't have an easy response to what you should do if your parents continue holding this need for a 'plan' over your head. It sucks, I know. I'm sorry.

Be gentle with yourself. Break things down into more manageable timeframes--what do you want to do in an hour? Tomorrow? Next week? Every journey starts with a single step, as the proverb goes. Focus on the next few steps, instead of staring at the horizon, worrying about how you'll get there in XX amount of time.

You'll get there. And even if you don't get to a specific point, maybe you'll find a detour along the way you'll enjoy more.

There is more to life than checking off a list of Things To Accomplish To Be A Success.

I don't have any specific over-arching goal I want to accomplish in my life. There's no big Thing that will make my life have meaning or purpose. I don't consider myself terribly special, or smart, or talented by any means. I'm just me, and I'll never be anything more than that.

I simply want to leave the world a little better than I found it. Maybe make someone's day a little brighter, if I can. Either by offering help and support, being the ear they need when they're having a hard day, or making people smile with a joke or silly stories about a cartoon echidna.

And maybe that means when I die my obituary won't be full of impressive achievements and acknowledgements and titles and successes. Maybe the only people who'll really miss me are my family.

But maybe I'm okay with that.

Because living your life following the expectations of others isn't living. Even if those others are your parents, or significant other, or friends, or whomever. If you're making decisions based on what other people think or expect you to, you're making the wrong ones.

Live for YOU, Foxy. Find your path. I believe in you, and I know you can do it.💗🧡💛💚💙💜

[kamiversee]

GAHHHH, I’M GRINNING EAR TO EAR LIKE A GUSHING IDIOT ILY—I’m beyond happy to hear you liked the song suggestions <333!! I wholly agree about Passionfruit; that song is a masterpiece by Drake. Now that I’m thinking further, there surely is a couple songs from The Weeknd that would’ve attributed nicely, however that matter stands for another time 😌😌😌

Can’t believe we’re approaching the end! Amongst anything, you should feel proud of yourself at minimum, Kami!!! You truly outdid yourself with this book. Seriously, I tend to catch myself snooping around here often to see if another chapter is released. Seldom are instances that fanfic writings elicit my attraction and peak my curiosity. Suffice to say, you’re one of the authors that appeal to that exception, so I thank you sincerely ^^ Your writing is nothing short of an indulgence and harbors a boundless haven to which I mindlessly dwell deeper within upon each reading. It is rooted through your sheer talent that prosperity imparts itself to you in tenfolds. On that note, I eagerly look forward to reading more of your promising future works!

+ Could’ve sworn you or someone else briefly brought up a prospective cowboy fanfic with hot bae gojo⁉️⁉️⁉️ Currently foaming at the mouth over that concept. I’d kill to get a taste of cowboy satoru 😫😫🙏

- 🧠

If you start breaking down The Weekend songs ima lose it 😍, there’s a looooot by him that could apply to this fic tbh

Also, ty for the praise, I’m really am ecstatic & beyond grateful to everyone who reads & enjoys what I publish ^.^

& yes, I do have a cowboy Gojo fic planned ><

[strwberri-milk]

Passing Hands: Chapter 5 - Idle Meddles

Bridgerton!AU || Diluc x Fem!Reader || Drama, Falling in Love, Slow Burn || 3 421 words

a/n - OMG IS THAT DILUC FROM HIT GAME GENSHIN IMPACT

When you arrived at the Duke’s palace you expected to be greeted with the best. After all, where else would one of the richest men in the country live if not a majestic palace? In spite of that, actually physically being present in front of the grand estate knocks the air out of your lungs. You feel underprepared, knowing that because this was one of the Queen’s dresses made for you that it should be socially acceptable to wear to this ball but you can’t help but feel like you stick out wildly. 

Your hesitance is quickly spotted by other attendees who slip past you to enter the estate, snickering to themselves and you quickly snap out of it. It is imperative that you do not let any weakness show, especially when everybody and their mother will have their eyes on you. Literally. Perhaps the Duke’s presence at this ball will be distraction enough that it won’t be as bad as it was when you debuted, but of course you cannot count on that as a certainty. 

Making your way to the entrance, your hands tighten around the papers that prove your allowance into the venue. No matter how much you will yourself you find it difficult to relax enough to avoid wrinkling the pages, presenting them to the staff at the door to allow you entry. They look to the side of you, clearly trying to find your chaperone to which you shake your head slightly, curtsying politely. 

“It’s just me I’m afraid,” you laugh, sounding much more confident than you feel. 

“You must be Lady [Name] then. Here, I was told to deliver this to you.” 

A letter is pressed into your hand and you refrain from squealing giddily. You had no idea that you’d be receiving a correspondence in person, not to mention just mere steps away from the man himself. He returns your invitation and letter to you in addition and you thank him profusely, stepping in and immediately going off to the side to read the letter. Of course you could wait until you got back but how could you hold off the excitement of reading a letter by his hands? Not only that, but it’d be utterly humiliating if he talked to you as though you read the message, forcing you to reveal that you hadn’t actually done so. 

Dearest [Name], 

By the time this letter has made its way to you I hope that it will be when you are attending my ball. I know that this is not the most traditional way to do things but I fear that I am incredibly nervous at the prospect of meeting not only my admirer, but the Queen’s Diamond herself. Even a man such as I can find myself at a loss when faced which such a beauty. 

For formality’s sake please forgive me if I come off coldly. This is the norm for someone of my position for going too eagerly into any sort of conversation can  cause scandal, as does appearing too cold. There are many intricate routines that come with my status that you might become privy to in the future. 

I hope you enjoy yourself. Perhaps if I find the time I’ll be able to come thank you for arriving personally. 

Diluc Ragnvindr 

The thought that he would personally come to find you has you holding onto the wall for support, very much so feeling like a damsel in distress. It was too much, everything was getting overwhelming in the best way. Your confidence skyrockets, tucking the notes and invitations into your dress and making sure you look presentable before attempting to follow the milling crowd. 

You watch mothers strategically place their children in front of acceptable friendships or potential matches, doing their best to show off the fruit of their loins in the best light. Every move is planned out down the crook of the pinky and it's almost dizzying how they manage to control everything. Perhaps they could stop the sun’s ascent into the sky so long as they willed it so. 

The music pairs perfectly with the dancing and you watch, astonished at the perfect lines everybody is in as they move to and fro, swapping partners and returning home elegantly. There is nary a step out of place and you wonder how many hours these people spent in their childhood perfecting their steps. You were subjected to a few hours a day with the staff learning how to participate, picking it up quickly enough that you wouldn’t make a fool of yourself. However, you doubt that you could look as elegant as these people all did. 

Your dance card had a cautious list of names on it, not even half full considering that there were a great number of people you had no idea existed. You had hoped that you’d be able to fill it in as you go throughout the night, adding slight notes to them underneath their names for your personal reference later. To combat your lack of knowledge you paid close attention to the conversations, trying to distinguish titles and names in the low light of the hall, quickly finding yourself totally lost. 

“Hello there, I don’t think I’ve seen you around before,” a voice says beside you. 

Turning and curtsying you expect to see a man, hiding your surprise at the sight of a skirt. You look up at a woman around your age, smiling at you from behind her fan. 

“My name is [First, Last Name]. Pleased to make your acquaintance Miss…?” 

“Kholer. Lady Kholer is just fine,” she responds, laughing a bit. “You don’t belong here, do you?” 

The entire room goes cold. You knew that you stuck out like a sore thumb but thought that you had done well enough to at least look much more confident, struggling to speak. 

“I - well, I’m new to the area,” you say instead, hazarding a guess that she had no idea who you were. 

After all, she was the only one who approached you first despite the wide berth everybody else was giving you but strangely enough she introduced herself to you. 

“Do you not have a chaperone? Or has she gone off to get refreshments?” 

“I came by myself.” 

At this her eyes widen. 

“How daring. I didn’t even know you could get in by yourself. Were that the case I would have come in alone as well,” she huffs, dark eyes looking over the crowd and presumably looking for her chaperone. 

“I suppose that’s just a result of the Ragnvindrs’ eccentricities. Neither of them have even made their appearance yet.”

Swept up in all the excitement you forgot to remember that you probably should have looked for the host of the ball to try and thank him, perhaps draw his attention to the fact that you and him were exchanging letters and see if you could secure him as a caller to your home. The two of you look together, seeing if you can spot the head of the home and sigh in defeat when you fail. 

“Honestly. They throw a huge ball like this and can’t be bothered to show up. Typical.”

Her words are harsh and you look around worriedly, wondering if being with her was going to further draw attention to you in a negative way. 

“Oh well. Might I ask you where you’re from if not here? Considering you don’t have a chaperone I assume that you must be that new person the Queen personally brought up from outside the community. How fun!” 

Her voice remains light, clearly not caring about any negative repercussions fraternising with you could bring about.

“You’ve got that part correct,” you concede, deciding that at least one friendly person was better than none. 

“Fun, it is not.” 

Lady Kholer nods in agreement, fanning herself in the heat of the room. You notice her fan dance card is empty save for one name, her eyes following yours as she closes the accessory. 

“Pay no mind. As I’m sure you’ve gathered, I too have some strange habits, making me most likely to not fear approaching you. I saw you standing over here like a fish out of water and decided that I could, at the very least, give you an in to begin socialising with all these eligible bachelors. I would offer you my Valet but I fear that with your already precarious situation being seen dancing with the help - that isn’t even yours - might continue weighing heavily on your social presence. You’d have to dance with someone truly spectacular to make yourself become that much more intriguing to the masses.” 

Her fan taps against her chin as you realise she’s trying to help you but it seems as though her presence is already an asset rather than a burden. The men begin whispering to each other, eyes firmly landing on you as they appraise you in whatever way it is that they seem to want to before turning back to their companions who do the same. Some seem to even be venturing a little closer to you, as though finding the bravery to near you. In your joy you’re about to reach out to Lady Kholer and thank her when her eyes light up, disappearing into the crowd and reappearing with a familiar face. 

“What - I didn’t even know you were here, what are you -” you hear him say before he looks over at you, recognition dawning on his face. He gives you a charming smile and looks at you expectantly, Lady Kholer clears her throat and you curtsy with a start, turning back to her gentleman friend. 

“This is [First, Last Name]. This is Lord Kaeya Alberich. Perhaps to keep the beginnings of this positive attention on our new friend the two of you could spend some time getting to know each other. I promise you that you have nothing to worry about in his presence,” she says happily, pushing the not so perfect stranger towards you. 

“A pleasure,” Lord Alberich says, bowing politely before turning back to the Lady. 

“And where will you be going?” he asks. 

“I have to go find my Valet. Most likely he’s going to be very upset I slipped away. Perhaps I’ll see you both on the dance floor later. It was lovely to see you My Lord and lovely to meet you Miss. Take care - and do remember not to go anywhere alone together. I am not in the mood for a scandal.” The words seem directed towards the Lord who feigns hurt. 

“Have you so little faith in me, My Lady? Surely you can trust me,” he implores, to which she waves him off and leaves. 

“Well,” he huffs, turning back to you. “I’m glad to see you were able to make it. Upon hearing that you confirmed your attendance to this ball I found it absolutely necessary to attend myself to see you again.” 

His gaze is still just as intense as you remembered it, boring deep into your soul and making you step back just the slightest bit. 

“Yes, I believe we saw each other at the debut?” you ask, to which he nods. 

“Indeed we did. You were quite intriguing. I find it hard to ignore the most unique of all debutantes so I just had to meet you properly. It seems quite lucky to have you be an acquaintance of Lady Kholer’s - otherwise, I fear the only way we would have been able to introduce ourselves would be if His Grace came out of his study to speak personally.” Your face falls a little, missing the way the man’s brows quirk in interest. 

“I suppose he’s too busy to even enjoy a ball he’s hosting, isn’t he?” you sigh. 

“Well, that’s just how His Grace is. He can throw all the lavish banquets he wants and withhold his appearance just as easily. But never mind him. Would you be willing to join me for a dance? Do not worry - despite what common etiquette states, if the offer is that offensive for you you may decline. I will not take it personally.” 

His words are charming and pretty, suave voice tinged with a touch of mirth making it clear to you that this was a man who was desired by many. Not only that, but his clothes reeked of wealth, suit perfectly tailored to fit his lithe form. He offers you his arm and leads you to where everybody else is dancing, taking you through the steps easily. Even your slightly clumsy feet are no match for him as he subtly corrects your steps, sparing you any sort of embarrassment that might be present. 

“I hope you don’t mind my prying but I just have to know. Have any of the gentlemen here caught your eye? His Grace is well acquainted with a wide variety of people after all. There must be someone who you think is intriguing. Perhaps I’ll be able to introduce you,” he begins, talking to you after it seems you gathered your wits.  

“While that is incredibly kind of you My Lord, I couldn't possibly ask that of you. Unfortunately, the only gentleman who might catch my eye is apparently absent from this gathering.” He catches on quickly. 

“You wanted to see Duke Diluc Ragnvindr, is that it?” 

You feel yourself flush a little at the blunt question but nod anyway. 

“I did hear that he is a very elusive man so perhaps I should not be surprised that I will not be able to meet him tonight but I was still hoping for the chance to see him.” 

“Perhaps you shouldn’t be, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have given yourself the chance to hope. It’s quite lovely after all, imagining the meeting of someone you thought so far beyond yourself that the universe would never be able to bring you together.” His words are quite dramatic for a simple inability to see someone but they still strike you at your core and you nod. 

“The image of him I’ve drawn up in my head is quite extravagant. Most likely he will be unable to exceed this strange pedestal I’ve placed him on,” you chuckle lightly, glad that Lord Alberich was leading you through the steps of the dance so elegantly. 

“You’ll see that he’s quite different from what you expected I shall think,” he responds.

“After all, he is but a mere mortal. A Duke, but a mortal nonetheless if you’ll be willing to believe me.” 

His grasp is slightly cold in your palms but the warmth of his voice combats it, making you feel truly at ease for the first time in a while. Not only that, but his jokes and jabs at not just the Duke and also the other gentlemen around you makes you laugh. The dance ends nearly too soon and you find yourself hoping that he’ll ask you for a second dance to pass the time more quickly. 

When you two bow and step off the floor he comes off to the side with you, leading you over to the refreshments table. You’re glad that he isn’t leaving you to totally fend for yourself, making sure to keep a respectable distance from him. 

“Well, considering that you subjected me to a flurry of questions would it be possible for me to do the same for you?” you ask him. He nods in response. 

“Of course as long as it isn’t something to scandalise me. Lady Kholer will never let me hear the end of it,” he smiles, perusing the refreshments as he waits.

“Do you know the Duke personally? You seem to, considering the very colourful ways you chose to describe him.”

Your words are slightly hesitant, hoping you didn’t somehow cross a line.  

“You could say that we’re very close. Like brothers,” he chuckles, sipping lightly on a glass of wine. 

“I’ve known him since I was a young boy. That’s why I knew that even though he said he’d attend the ball today there was a very good chance that he’d get too busy to step out for a moment. And what a shame that is. He’s missing out on some very good conversation with you that he could be having himself.” 

The Lord ends his statement with a wink, making your face warm again. 

“You flatter me so. But if that’s the case then…” 

You struggle with yourself a little, fiddling with the skirt of your dress. 

“Would you happen to know if he is courting someone? I believe I may have heard rumours that he is exchanging letters with somebody at present.” 

“Oh? Is that so? Would you happen to have these letters?” 

“W-what would you make you think that I have them?” you stutter, not expecting the line of questioning to go this way. He gives you an expectant look. 

“Do you really think I’m dense? Sure I’m a pretty face but I promise you I’m much more than that. Produce the letters and I’ll answer your questions.” 

He reaches for you and gently tips up your chin, forcing you to look up at him. 

“I’m a very impatient man. Don’t take my kindness at face value,” he says softly, giving you the vague feeling that you’re being threatened. 

“Do you really think this is the proper way to behave?!” you retort, pulling yourself out of his grasp and stepping back. 

He stares at you, blinking in confusion. Thankfully, nobody seems to be paying attention to either of you and you scowl at him.

“I have no idea what you think you’re playing at but I will not let myself be bullied by a man I’ve just met. If this is some sort of setup to catch me falling out of step then I promise you I will not give you such satisfaction,” you hiss. 

“We haven’t known each other that long and yet you’re already so willing to think so lowly of me? Why does everybody do that? I’m harmless, totally innocent. Nothing more than a little fly on the wall,” he sighs, not really seeming as offended as he makes it out to be. 

“The mere fact that you’re thinking you can touch any woman that comes within your presence as casually as you just did is insult enough to me. If I were of a much more delicate disposition there’s no telling what I would have done in response to your advances!” you continue.

“I was not trying to make any sort of advance. I simply saw an unchaperoned young woman who was not being invited to dance and tried to make things right for her. Is that not the chivalrous thing to do?” 

The Lord’s total lack of empathy for your position makes you see red and you wish that you were in some dark alley with him, able to treat him the way that he deserved to be and chew him out properly. Instead, you fix your hair and smooth down your skirt, getting further incensed by the light sounds of his chuckling. 

“A feisty young woman you are,” he comments, eye glittering with mischief. 

“Absolutely perfect if you ask me. Perhaps we shall meet again?”

Just hearing his offer and knowing that he could show up at your doorstep at any time makes you realise that you have to firmly put him off of you. 

“If I were to meet you on my deathbed it would be far too soon Lord Alberich,” you say coldly, watching as he brings a hand to his chest. 

“How you wound me. And here I was hoping that I’d be able to make your acquaintance, at the very least. Are you telling me that’s off the table? How unkind of you. It would do you well not to make an enemy of me,” he says darkly, stepping closer to you. 

You’re about to retort again, really ready to make a scene as you continue to try and escape him before bumping into another person. Turning around, you’re ready to blurt out an apology when you realise who you’re looking at, words completely escaping your brain. Behind you, Lord Alberich makes a sound of amusement and you hear him step back from you, beginning to speak.

“Ah. Miss [Name], would you do me the honour of allowing me to introduce you to His Grace, Duke Diluc Ragnvindr?”