#in my eyes you are strong and wonderful and by no means inferior :)

[nicoliharu]

Coli!! Hi hi good morning!! Do you have any Headcanons for Ruggie?? Like, when you draw him do you have anything you always include or leave out? Just curious hehe I love your art!! Have a nice day <3 <3 <3

Hi Dede! Thanks for the ask🥺😭💗

I will comment on what I would like to do differently when I draw him cause for me you write him PERFECT and I wouldn't change anything! This guy is precious and needs love to know he isn't inferior to anyone! 😭💗

⚠️ My headcanons (design) Ruggie Bucchi:

So, aren't that many changes, it's just simple, the way I usually imagine him 🥺👉👈

🍩 Skin: Ruggie has more melanin, I personally love Ruggie with any skin tone but forgive me Yana but it's hard to resist painting his skin like that.

I mean, I think it goes much better with his color palette. Personally, I would paint with this palette for him in my fanart and content forever. I want to eternally thank whoever had the idea of giving more melanin to his plush 🥺💗 I don't know if it's my laptop screen that's old, but it looks a little desaturated, but I'll adjust over time.

🍩 Blonde lashes: I still need to practice more cause I love the idea that Ruggie would have some blonde lashes, not gold and flashy but brown light 🥺

🍩 Freckles: Excessive on the nose/cheeks, ends of the arms, and a lot on the back…IT'S CANON IN MY HEAD, YANA YOU FAILED ME, HOW YOU DARE?? HOW CAN YOU NOT GIVE HIM FRECKLES?😭

🍩 Body hair: Well, he's a guy who's growing, he's about to turn 18, there's no chance no have body hair. Besides, I believe that beastmen have more body hair than humans, so for Ruggie I imagine golden hair but if it gets wet it turns a little brown, on the arms and legs 😔👉👈

🍩 Eye pupil: I know that's normal but I like to think that his pupil becomes ''thin'' (how in English is this?) when he feels threatened or annoyed by something and dilates when he sees something that interests/likes him.

🍩 Teeth: Bigger and thicker than Leona and Jack. Please, spotted hyenas have a bone-breaking bite and tear thick skins too. Ruggie canonically said he can easily eat steak with bones…Oh gosh if he likes bite who he lov- STOP NICOLI SHHHH

🍩 Hair: A little rough and messy with some split ends, I don't think he cares much about any special shampoo or conditioner, taking care of his hair. Besides, I think he occasionally cuts it with scissors on his own. I know I could leave it wavy or curly but thinking that rough bristles remind me of hyenas' fur makes me so 🥺

🍩 Body: We know that Ruggie's thin cause his condition but I believe that his legs and arms are ''strong'' of cause the acrobatic way in which he moves, both day to day, running and practicing at the Club. I don't mean bulging muscles but you realize that given his activities and abilities it makes sense!!! 😔

🍩 About the piercing: it was a detail I wanted to add but I don't know if I always imagine him with that or not 🤡👌

Forgive my grammar and English mistakes! These are my humble headcanons for Ruggie's design, if anyone thinks differently this is just fun for everyone, y'all have the right to imagine how they want. And I would like to say one more thing, about other details that I can only talk about better with more drawings, such as excess hair with spots above his tail (I love this detail too). So there will always be changes for everything!

Thank you again for your ask Dede, you're a wonderful writer that I admire so much and love your works! 🥺😭💗💗💗

[hansolmates]

[teaser] fly to my room

banner made by @eerieedits

summary; with a super huge crush on the super student jeon jungkook, you can't help but feel inferior with your subpar abilities when he's the literal hercules on campus. however, with a potential group of super villain students on the loose, you might have to tamp down your feelings to save your school pairing; superhero!jungkook x superhero support!reader (f) genre/warnings; sky high!au, university!au, mha!au, self deprecation lol, hero elitism, sidekicks can get bullied :(, strong man!jk, jk is a lil cocky and flirty, one lil sexy thing BUT that's it >:D w/c; preview is 561 a/n; no words just AAAAA

“Hey, watch out!” 

A metal discus is being blown through the wind, the cause being Jungkook who’s training on the hero’s side of the stadium. You can only stare wide-eyed, focusing on Jungkook’s arms, still poised mid-air from the throw. The discus is shiny and looks like it’s barely moving from the amount of speed Jungkook has curved onto it, but you close your eyes and push your hands out towards the hurling force. 

Bing! 

You feel the heavy hunk pass through your void, a wink in time that has you feeling dizzy as you try to refocus the exit portal. The speed is what gets you, and has you immediately sweating from your forehead as you force the object to rip back into the current dimension, the discus landing right at Jungkook’s feet. 

“That—was great!” Namjoon teleports right in your face, mouth huge with praise. He is grabbing your shoulders, shaking you frantically in his excitement. “Wow, did you see how fast that thing was going? Maybe it was a fight or flight response—obviously, Jungkook would’ve cut your neck open—” 

“Great visual, Namjoon—” 

“But you teleported it! Aren’t you proud?” 

There’s no time to be proud when Jungkook is bounding across the field to meet you in the sidekick section. It causes all the other Superhero Supports to stop a fraction in their training, wondering how this conversation will go. Namjoon continues to stick by you however, knowing how absolutely abysmal you are in the presence of the famed hero. Having talked to Jungkook once or twice in class, Namjoon begrudgingly understands what’s so charming about the guy. 

You’re too focused on the gilded appearance Jungkook brings to the stadium. His blond hair gleams in the sun, and the lightweight metal that protects his arms wraps around his muscles like liquid gold. He’s absolutely blinding. 

“We meet again,” Jungkook grins, “are you okay?” 

“I-I’m sorry?” you fight the urge to wince when Namjoon pinches your waist. 

“You’re a teleporter, right? Your reaction time was insane!” Jungkook is smiling at you, prattling off your stats with a fervor you fail to understand. “Maybe they can bump you up to Hero-Class next exam, I’m sure you’re not far from the cutoff.” 

“No, actually. I’m just trying to stay afloat,” you force a shaky laugh, running a hand through your hair, “thanks though.” 

“I’ll put in a good word to Professor Luna,” Jungkook winks, turning away to return to his training session. 

“Jungkook’s right,” Namjoon squeezes your body again, trying to keep you in this dimension. “Your reaction time was insane. Can you imagine the power you’ll have when you finally gain control? Let’s go to the shooting range right now, test it out!” 

“Oh my god, he talked to me,” you whisper to yourself, replaying the conversation over and over in your head. Namjoon is but a spirit in your vision. 

“I mean, he had to. Like I said, he almost decapitated you,” he waves a hand in front of your face, “c’mon, stop thinking about Jungkook!”

“You're asking for the impossible, Joonie,” you frown, picking up your backpack. 

You take one step at a time, still feeling numb from the interaction. Namjoon insists that you should ride off this high, and train a little more. The only high you’re focusing on is the beating of your heart, and Jungkook’s gleaming grin. 

[missfrieden]

I got bored on my way to work and then on the way home. So here I force a random drabble on you all.

Summary: Let's set the scene shall we? You jabe a random question for Tech, that catches him a bit off guard.

Rating: Mention of sex

Pairing: Techxreader (think I managed gender neutral)

Note: Hope all of you know what dyscalculia is. Because Tech having a partner which is useless with numbers, is endaring to me.

Word count: Listen drabbles are often from my phone notes, so yeah I ain't counting them.

Rabbits

That night, as Tech shook out your blanket, preparing the bunk for the both of you to settle in, you are lost in thought, a playful question forming in your mind. As you climbed into the bunk and snuggled down into the soft covers, you looked up at the man who had become the center of your galaxy. There was a hint of curiosity in your eyes as you turned to him.

“Tech?” you began, your tone light and inquisitive. Tech, always attuned to you, looked over with that familiar, attentive expression. “Yes, Y/N?” You hesitated for a moment, biting your lip, a nervous habit, as you considered how to phrase the question. But then, with a smile, you decided to just go for it. “Have you ever… I mean, have you ever counted how many times we’ve had sex? We’ve been together for about a year and a half now, so I was just wondering.”

Tech blinked, the question clearly catching him off guard. But true to form, he didn’t miss a beat. His mind quickly scanned through the mental data he always kept so meticulously organized, and within a moment, he delivered the answer with his characteristic precision. “Yes, I have,” he replied, almost too matter-of-factly. “We’ve had sex approximately 214 times, and that’s not including the individual rounds within each session, which total to 367.”

Your eyes widened in shock and surprise, mouth falling open slightly as you processed what he had just said. “Wait… what?” you laughed, clearly amazed. “Tech, that’s… we’re like rabbits!” Tech frowned slightly, confused by the comparison for just a moment before realization dawned on him. “Oh, you mean in terms of frequency,” he said, his expression clearing. “I didn’t intend to imply anything, I just… well, I tend to keep track of details like that. It’s a habit of mine.” You couldn’t help but laugh at his earnestness, your heart swelling with affection. The idea that Tech had been keeping such precise count was both endearing and a little surprising, but it was also so perfectly in line with who he was. “Tech, you’re amazing,” you said, still chuckling. “But seriously, why do you keep track of it?”

Tech hesitated, clearly trying to find the right words to explain himself. “Well,” he began, somewhat awkwardly, “I suppose it’s because I’m a person who finds comfort in data and patterns. Tracking these moments allows me to… analyze and understand our relationship in a more tangible way. It’s not just about the numbers, it’s about ensuring that our connection remains strong, that I’m meeting your needs… and, well, it’s just part of who I am.”

As he spoke, he began to stammer slightly, his usual composure wavering as he tried to articulate something that, for him, was both deeply personal and difficult to put into words. But before he could finish, ypu leaned in, placing a gentle finger over his lips to stop him. “Tech,” you start softly, your voice filled with warmth, “you don’t need to explain. I love that you’re so precise, that you care enough to keep track of things like this. Someone in this relationship has to be good with numbers, and if it isn’t me, then I’m glad it’s you.”

You smiled at him, eyes shining with affection. You had always admired Tech’s incredible mind, the way he could handle complex calculations with ease, while you struggle with even basic math because of that stupid dyscalculia of yours. But you had never felt inferior because of it, Tech had a way of making you feel valued and appreciated for who you are, no matter what. Tech’s tension melted away as your words sank in, and he relaxed, returning your smile. “I just… want to make sure you’re happy,” he said quietly, his voice full of sincerity. “That’s the most important thing to me.”

Your heart swelled with love as you leaned in, pressing a tender kiss to his lips. “And you do,” you murmured against his mouth. “Every single day. I wouldn’t change a thing about you, Tech. Not one thing.” You stayed like that for a moment, wrapped up in each other, the warmth of your connection surrounding you like a comforting blanket. When you two finally pull back, you settled against him, resting your head on his chest, closing your eyes, a contented smile on your lips.

“I’m really glad you’re the one who’s good with numbers,” you said softly, your voice tinged with a hint of playful teasing. “Because I know I can always count on you.” Tech chuckled softly, wrapping his arm around you and holding you close. “And I’ll always be here to count on,” he replied, his tone filled with warmth.

As you lay there, the quiet of the night settling around you, Tech couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the incredible person in his arms. You understood him in a way that no one else ever had, and you loved him for exactly who he was, numbers and all.

Main Masterlist

And as you two drifted off to sleep, Tech made a silent promise to himself that he would continue to cherish and protect this incredible bond you shared, ensuring that your relationship remained as strong and full of love as it had been since the very beginning.

Tag: @spectacular-skywalker @neyswxrld @clonethirstingisreal @sleepycreativewriter @moonwreckd @sskim-milkk @heidnspeak

[lemmetreatya]

Hey Mun! Not sure how many characters you take but can you do headcanons of turn ons and turn offs for Geto Gojo Toji and Nanami? Bless 🙏🏻

wgw1!! idk if this req was actually meant for me or nawt but why tf not!! lool lets get into it!

JJK MEN HEADCANONS: TURN ONS AND OFFS

ft. Geto, Gojo, Toji and Nanami (ft. Megumi)

contents: modern au, strong language, slight glimpses of gaslighting idk

Geto

Turn OFFs:

Dislikes strong smells!! deffo think he’d be one to faux gag if something even vaguely annoyed his senses (he can be so childish at times lol).

doesnt even have to be a bad smell, it could literally be perfume

He refuses to say its sensory overload, which you’d even be able to accustom and understand better, but no he literally just… doesn’t like it

“Eurk! Wha’ the fu’k?!”

Geto loudly makes a display of gaging as the two of you were sat on the train. With a face of surprise, you look at Geto with annoyance.

“Really?! In public?!” You hissed.

The man only held his nose as he sideeyes the lady that just passed him by. Subtly sniffing yourself, you scoff at Geto’s reaction.

“The perfume didn’t even smell that bad. It was kinda nice even.”

Geto disregarded your comment by making even a bigger heaving sound.

“It’s infiltrating my fucking nose, oh my god.

You had to look away with a sigh. He really could be dramatic sometimes.

He gets turned off when a significant other asks for his opinion and does the exact opposite. he says it’s a waste of his ‘sacred wisdom he chose to bestow upon you’

especially if its to make a decision they’ve been pondering on for time. if they do or pick the other option, he feels like his opinion is so bad that in giving the wrong answer, the person chose the right one !!

it gives him a very phat inferiority complex but he wont admit it so anytime he sees it he’s like RedFlagRedFlagRedFlag 😭😭

Turn ONs:

he gets turned on when a significant other plays with his ears.

its kinda weird because he’s very particular about who touches him and its a part of him that normally people would look at in wonder but not go out of their way to ask to touch because he’d probably say no

and in all honesty, he would dsodjsj but if you’re both laid up with each other and you subconsciously do it, he won’t complain

he secretly loves the stimulation of it

With his head laid up in your lap, Geto’s eyes were glued to the screen.

He was so adamant to watch this documentary and you had absolutely no interest or intention in watching it with him. Yet surprisingly, you found yourself rather interested in the topic of discussion and so ended up sitting with him.

Subconsciously, your hand stroked down from the crown of Geto’s head to the shell of his ears, your fingers aimlessly fiddling with the soft flesh.

Geto hadn’t voiced anything about it so you didn’t realise for awhile, but when you noticed it was his ears you were touching, you made a short ‘ooh’ sound before retracting your hand.

“What? What happened?” Geto used his arm to sit up and look back at you, eyes beady as he made sure everything was okay.

You quickly shook your head.

“No, its nothing. I just realised I was touching your ear and I didn’t mean to. Sorry.”

Rolling his eyes, Geto only lowered himself back onto your lap with a huff. He gingerly wormed himself back into a comfortable position as his eyes were already trained back onto the TV.

“I thought it was something serious.” He mumbles.

Oh he loves intelligent conversations — this doesn’t mean the content of the conversation has to be strictly complicated or about something big brained. it could simply be something you’re both passionate about and therefore can talk in great depth about

he loves being able to have bartering points and see different perspectives or discover new possibilities together with someone who knows what they’re talking about!!

Gojo

Turn OFFs:

Excessive swearing

Gojo’s own mouth isn’t the cleanest in the book, but he hates when there’s just too much bad language flying around

In his words: “It disturbs the Holy Spirit in me.”

“And I swear to God! If you ever touch my fucking wife ever again, I promise you I’ll fuck your shit up so bad, you’ll fucking wish you were pissing out your own’s mother’s cunt!”

You were practically on the edge of your seat at the confrontation scene that was going down. The movie had built the climax up so well, you couldn’t believe that this was how it turned out.

However, before you could see what happened next, the TV turned black and you were left with looking at your reflection within the screen.

“Wh—”

You turned round to see Gojo with the remote in his hand as he shook his head in fake solemn conviction.

“It’s just way too much foul language. How are you even watching this?” He sighed.

Leaning up from your seat, you grabbed the remote back from the man.

“Boy, JustGimmeThatShit.” You gave Gojo a stank face before turning the TV back on. Only this time, you lowered the volume.

Big turn off is when people are too much in his business — Which is real contradictory because Gojo’s the King of Tell Me The Drop, but he really believes that he’s superior in the sense that when he knows something, it’s because he rightfully should

Its kinda toxic tho because if you try and pry something out of Gojo because he may well be hiding something, he will vilify you for wanting to know shit from him

Turn ONs:

Kinda the opposite to Geto, but he loves strong smells (but only nice ones)

Use too much detergent in your clothes? Dont worry, Gojos inhaling the scent right tf out of it

New perfume? He notices right away and demands he get to smell all the areas you’ve used it

Cooking something zesty?! Gojo’s first in line to try it out (and sneaks nosefuls directly from the pot throughout the day)

“Gojo!”

Caught red handed, Gojo looked towards you like a deer caught in headlights, his eyes wide as he had the opened pot lid in his hands.

“I saw that!” You pointed.

Dropping the lid and quickly scrambling away from the crime scene, Gojo let out a high pitched cry. Walking over to the abandoned pot with a sigh, you placed the lid back on top to close it.

“We’ve spoken about this.” You say into the air.

You couldn’t see him but you heard the soft sound of pitiful shuffling from somewhere within the vicinity.

“I’m sorry…” You heard whine from a far away place. “It just smelt so good.”

He gets turned on from a good rub session.

It doesn’t even have to lead to sex, but Gojo just loves rubbing up on others and being rubbed on (permitted he likes the person)

Hes got langly arms so hes able to reach all parts of you regardless of your positions

Just being able to snuggle up with each other for hours on end is his thing; to the extent where you have to ask him if he needs to go toilet because he’d rather be busting to go than not suggle

Toji

Turn OFFs:

Things that take too long!!

Hes a very impatient man and wants everything instantly

you sometimes worry about doing things in public with him because his patience is vey minimal

“I’m not waiting any longer, gimme the car keys.”

You were just about getting the last of the items off the shopping list when Toji had popped up in front of you with a very constipated expression.

Sighing, you fling your head back in annoyance.

“I— TJ, just hold on! I only need to get the last of the stuff then we can go. Just queue up in line and by the time it’s our turn I’ll be back with the rest.”

“But I’ve been waiting for too long!”

“And I’ve only been gone for two seconds!” You say with open eyes.

Shrugging, Toji sorts his hands inside your pocket before pulling out the car keys.

“Doesn’t matter. I’m going back to the car.”

You couldn’t even stop him slugging off regarding your hands were full. Looking left and right, you called out to him.

“Wh—So where’s our shopping trolley?!”

Toji shrugs, his back towards you as he made his way towards the exit.

“In line.” He shouts back.

Nagging. This man absolutely hates when people nag him. It’s even more annoying because he will not get shit done on the first listen/ask so sometimes nagging is all you can do

He’ll literally switch off if he thinks you’re nagging him and it’s so jarring when he does because you could be telling him something so crucially important but because he was nagged an hour ago he’s not listening for shit

Turn ONs:

when you automatically co parent with him

now again, yes hes a bit of a lazy guy so any prospects of a potential babysitter guardian for his kids he’ll run at

but its that energy of treating his kids as your own (and no less to your other kids if you have any) that really turns him on

“Alright, ‘Gums, you know how this goes, right?”

The black haired boy nodded, a subtle smile on his face as he met you in the middle to shake hands.

“Of course. Win the match, or at least MVP, and then coerce dad into taking us out for a congratulatory meal.”

With a wide grin, you ruffled Megumi’s hair before patting him on the shoulders.

“That’s my boy. Now go get’em.” Surging him off onto the playing court, you gleamed upwards as you felt Toji come stand behind you.

“What’dyou tell ‘im?” He gruffly asks as he passes you your requested confectionery from the stand.

“Oh, nothing too much.” You grinned. “Just your usual pre-game encouragement!”

turned on by the exposure of flesh in subtle places

hes not talking barely no clothes (which he doesnt mind) or nakedness (which he even more doesnt mind) but when you wear an outfit that is supposed to be modest but theres a lil slip or cut in the cloth that shows just that sliver of innocent skin, hes bearing his teeth in glee

its the prospects that you could be showing a lot more or covering up way less but you choose to go sensible. yet that lil fun side to you still peaks out

Nanami

Turn OFFs:

overworkers

a bit canon yes but he hates when people dont know when to take a break. like my goodness its not everyday work yourself to the bone

hes very serious about holidays and clocking in overtime so the very scent of doing more than you should aggravates him.

“Where are you?”

Nanami’s voice over the receiver sounds plain but you can tell there’s a hint of annoyance in his voice.

“Hey Ken, I’m still at work. I’m just packing up now. You outside?” You say as you hold the phone between your ear and shoulders.

“It’s five past.” He grumbles.

Pausing in your tracks, you make a confused face.

“Yeah, and?”

“You should have been packed up ages ago.”

Noticing where he was coming from, you sighed loudly albeit with a smile tinted on your lips.

“I was just catching up with a colleague. Don’t worry, I’ll be right down.”

There was a slight pause, almost like a thought, before he spoke again.

“As long as you weren’t working past your finishing time—”

“Yes, of course! Never would I ever dare to work past clock-out!” You laugh as you make your way out of the office.

hes turned completely off when people have no regard for others

whether that be not tidying up after themselves or not being aware of their surroundings or even deciding to eat something shareable in the presence of others without othering

hes a very considerate man when it comes to these things and he genuinely hates when people are just really selfish with shit

Turn ONs:

Seduction

Seems quite vague because isn’t that how everyone’s caught?!

But no, someone having confidence to seduce him always works. It doesn’t mean he’ll always be receptive to it but simply having the guts to approach him will definitely have him thinking about it at night

As the music played throughout the apartment, you couldn’t help but dance playfully onto Nanami, backing up onto him as he stood rather distracted with the dishes.

“Versace on the floor, Ouuuh! Take it off for me, for me, for me, for me now girl!”

The man kept his head stoically focused on the dishes, trying his best to not engage with your antics.

“Come on, Ken, dance with me!”

You laid your hand out in his direction, beckoning him to your patronage. Nanami shook his head although he had a slight smile on his face.

“I’ve got to finish the dishes.” He excuses.

Leaning forwards to look at him, you lift your hand up to drag a smooth palm down his chest.

“Forget those for a second, handsome. They’ll always be here. Just come dance with me. for a bit.” You said in a sultry voice, you eyes hooded as you bit your bottom lip.

Nanami looks between the dishes and you three times before dutifully succumbing.

Cleanliness!!

Having a clean place, person and home is very important to Nanami! Even more when it comes to his significant other because he aint going down on nobody with glued shut booty flaked cheeks or poor grooming habits

but in general, just being graced with the cleanliness of others is his thing

[writingquestionsanswered]

I think my ego is getting in the way of my writing. It's confusing, because I doubt my ideas and writing, but I still feel competitive in a way. I don't like reading about others' WIPs, I avoid reading the genre I want to write, and I automatically dislike authors who's already published a book similar to any of my WIPs. I quit the ACOTAR series because the themes were too similar, and I'm scared of Priory of the Orange Tree because the worldbuilding has intense good praise. I need an egodeath.

Case of Strong Ego or Low Self-Confidence?

If you're doubting your ideas and writing, I would question whether it's actually your ego getting in the way and maybe not just good old-fashioned low self-confidence. The reason I wonder is because your dislikes and aversions all sound fear-based to me. For example, if your ego were an issue, you probably wouldn't dislike or avoid authors who did something similar... you'd more likely scoff at their relative inferiority and boast that you did it better. You wouldn't be afraid of a book because its world building received good praise... you'd roll your eyes and say you don't know what people are going on about, because your world building is so much better.

Dislike and aversion instead seem to indicate jealousy and self-doubt. The good news, however, is that low self-confidence is actually pretty typical for writers and it's something that gets better with time.

Here are some things I hope will help boost your confidence, or at least give you hope that it will get better:

1 - Writers with big egos probably aren't as great as they think they are. In reality, storytelling is a craft no one can truly master, because reader appetites, story material, and even mechanics to a degree all evolve over time. What makes a good story is also very, very subjective. There are people who consider Jane Austen one of the best writers to ever grace the Earth, and there are people who think she's one of the worst. I think truly good writers can know that they're good without thinking everyone else is beneath them.

2 - You can't doubt your ideas and writing without understanding where you want your ideas and writing to be. In other words, you know what good ideas and good writing sound like to you, which means your taste and style are intact... you just have a little bit further to go to get your own ideas and writing where you want it to be, but that's okay. Going back to #1 a bit, writers don't hit some magical peak early on and level off at greatness. There's a lifelong upward trajectory with each book being a little bit better than the last. And sure, it's not a perfect upward trajectory. You can have periods of leveling out or even dropping off, but most writers will continue to get better over time. So, again, it's okay that your writing isn't quite where you want it to be, because it's that feeling that drives us to get better and better and better. This shows you're on the right track!

3 - Those similarities aren't the big deal you think they are... I've been at this a long time, and I'm going to tell you right now: stop worrying about "similarities" in other books. I've posted about this a lot because it's a common concern, but similarities are a dime a dozen in fiction. For every book about a high school girl who falls in love with a vampire, there are a dozen more. For every book about a woman who quits her big city job after a divorce, moves home to her small town, and falls in love with her childhood nemesis, there are at least twenty others. There are countless stories about young women getting wrapped up with fae princes, sad boys/men whose lives are invigorated by a Manic Pixie Dream Girl, murder mysteries set in quiet fishing villages, horror stories set in dilapidated old mansions someone just inherited from a long lost aunt, kids or adult who learn they've secretly been magic all along and get roped into fighting a Big Magical Bad. There are over 100 million books in existence, and that number increases by hundreds of thousands every year. You're never going to write a book that doesn't have similarities with dozens of other books, so stop worrying about it. Remember, it's not the similarities that matter... it's everything else... all the things that only you can do.

4 - Similarities are actually a good thing. The truth of the matter is, similarities are actually a good thing. That's why you can look back through cinematic history and see major trends... monsters, westerns, musicals, disasters, sci-fi, action, epic adventures, rom coms, superheroes... It's why when a book about a young woman toppling a dystopian regime becomes massively popular, dozens of other dystopian books hit the shelves the following year. It's why we gravitate toward favorite genres and tropes and comfort shows. Its why we go to the same restaurants and stores over and over again instead of going to a brand new one every time. Humans like a bit of repetition, and if your book has similar world building to Priory of the Orange Tree, that's a bunch of readers who are going to gravitate toward your book.

5 - There's only so much material to go around. I was interested in the fact that your concern about ACOTAR was that the "themes were too similar," but I promise you, those themes are in a million other stories. When it comes to tropes and themes and character arcs and magic systems and settings and... all of it... there's only so much material. Themes aren't something that are created from nothing. You can't make up an original theme that no one else has explored. Themes are inherent to human existence. They're truths about humanity that beg to be examined and explored. It's not the themes that matter so much as how they're explored and what you say about them, and even if there were similarities there, odds are there were far more differences.

I hope this resonates and helps. I hope I was right that it's more of a self-confidence issue than an ego issue. And if I was wrong, maybe something here will still resonate. You might spend some time in the "writing-related fears" section of my Motivation master list to see if anything there resonates, too. ♥

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I’ve been writing seriously for over 30 years and love to share what I’ve learned. Have a writing question? My inbox is always open!

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[princelylove]

Part two of my interpretations of la squadra esecuzioni. 

Ghiaccio is like a smaller Risotto. He doesn’t have a very distinct waist. He’s so picky with his food that it’s a wonder he even got that much distinct muscle- or maybe it isn’t, cutting is effective (in moderation, starving will only set you back on your progress). He mainly works out for his job, Ghiaccio doesn’t really care what he looks like. 

He has a strong nose, and although his lips are small they aren’t quite in the thin category, he has really nice bone structure… He just doesn’t realize it because he’s horribly insecure and feels inferior. He copes by not trying, so he can always rely on the ‘Well if I actually tried it’d be better’ type of logic. Once a year Prosciutto gets to wax his eyebrows. 

Not only does he know what mogging is but he knows where it originated. Because he was there. I’m dying on the hill that Ghiaccio knows what green text is. He’s appealed countless bans that all sounded like “I’ve never even fucking been on /mu/ you stupid fucks” (that all got approved the night of). He fills his mind with toxic masculinity, but isn’t into alpha male bullshit. Somehow he thinks hunter eyes are a thing but he draws the line at “smooth brained jock bullshit.” 

I cap Ghiaccio’s height at 5’9” or 175 cm. 5’10” or 177 cm with his shoes on. He’s got fantastic posture for someone that sits at a computer all day. Ghiaccio’s sensitive about it, teasing him about his height is a death sentence. What a good way to end up in a freezer. 

While he has a horrible temper, he cools off the second he gets it out of his system. Just moves on after smacking the shit out of his designated rage pillow like nothing happened. At least he’s coping. Not well, but an outlet is an outlet. It’s the same when you piss him off- he gets upset, says things he doesn’t mean, and then moves on. He apologizes like a father would- none at all, but brings you a snack or buys you something you’ve been asking for. He’s a big fan of the “Check if there’s mail.” approach. He genuinely does feel bad, but he’s not a little bitch that’s gonna tuck his tail in between his legs because he made his darling a little sad. 

He smells like absolutely nothing at all. It’s actually a bit frightening. Zero smell presence. 

Melone keeps every medicine known to mankind in his room, under his bed. He’s a great person to befriend if you find yourself in the hands of one of his roommates, but to be entirely honest with you, he’s selfish. He doesn’t really care about your agony because it’s got nothing to do with him, how does it benefit him to give you meds when he doesn’t even know you? (He budges if you belong to Prosciutto or Ris- he’s not pissing off his pseudo mom and dad.)

Melone is thin and mainly gets his exercise from running. His stand takes care of hits for him, he just needs to worry about the set up, so it isn’t really an issue. There’s no need for him to lift heavy, or really lift at all. Doesn’t really matter if he’s stronger, he just needs to be faster than you are. Sure, bash his head in, pick him up, aren’t you getting tired, though? Real sleepy? Go to sleep, it’s gonna be ok. 

Mel’s stand is possessing an actual computer he modified. He runs tests consistently with the blood samples he’s managed to store in his room- he knows the best combinations to get him what the boss wants, and as long as he’s got ample blood left over, what’s wrong with killing a few juniors off in the name of science? 

I classify Melone as apathetic and a bit mean. He’s an asshole. He gets a lot better once he’s comfortable with you, look at how much he plays with the rest of his ‘family.’ It’s just that he doesn’t know you, and doesn’t want to waste time on you if you’re going to get in his way long term. When you do spark his interest, of course, he gets obsessed and oh-so-curious. 

He’s still very playful- Melone likes to hang off of Formaggio’s shoulders and tease Ghiaccio, but he’s calm. He’s not very smiley, he’s not very giggly, he just can’t force himself to react in the ‘correct’ way most of the time, but he’s totally having fun! Melone loves you a lot, he just doesn’t look like he’s having fun most of the time. It’s hard for him to care about things, but you quickly rotted his brain- isn’t that testament enough? 

His seemingly cold nature makes it hard for him to form genuine bonds. Melone thrives with other difficult types- he shares a room with Ghiaccio (alternatively Formaggio) because they’re short on space and Prosciutto won’t share a room since The Incident they get along surprisingly well. 

In the beginning of your new life, it isn’t uncommon to hear Formaggio gently push Melone in the right direction. “Come on, Mel, you’re scarin’ the poor thing. Smile a little.”  (Which is normally met with “I’m running tests, go away, Formaggiooo…”) Melone’s shy- he’ll just stay off to the side, and speaks to you in a very formal manner. You might feel like you’re being tested on by a medical student. Which is wrong! Melone doesn’t have any medical experience! I mean, he’s taken classes, but he’s a genetics student. Oh, yeah, he’s in university. 

Once he gets used to you, he falls into his normal, playful routine. He still doesn’t smile too much, but he’ll speak more openly, which… is it better to not know what the iv in your arm is, or to fully understand? Melone’s quite the talker, and is happy to (over) explain. 

Melone doesn’t hide you like the others would- it isn’t shameful to him to kidnap a whole person, and he needs them to keep you here when he isn’t. Morals aside, you need to be socialized. It isn’t good to keep someone isolated and cramped in a room they don’t like. If you don’t want to talk to him, talk to anyone else. You’ve got options. Maybe not Prosciutto, or Illuso, they’re not going to play host as easily… (Although Prosciutto might ask what Melone’s “little friend” is gonna be having for dinner)

Formaggio’s body type is similar to Guido’s. He’s fairly bulky. Formaggio spends all of his free time playing whatever sport he can think of, neglecting to do his chores (You’re starting to think he likes Prosciutto yelling at him), annoying Melone, and blowing your phone up. He spends a lot of time working out, but he considers that to be more of a daily ritual than a hobby. 

Since his only real responsibility is taking care of his cat and his job, he’s not stressed at all. He’d be a lot more stressed if he had to cook, and clean, and, I don’t fucking know, be an adult or whatever- like the shit Pro and Ris do all day!

If you ever ask him about it, he’ll go “I mean, it sucks that Boss is watching us and all, but to be honest, who cares? You don’t like being on camera? It loooves you.” and leaves it at that. 

His psychology is a bit odd. He seems like a typical, immature guy- the type of guy you meet at college that does sports and seemingly nothing else. No interest in philosophy, religion, general culture, etc. While I think that his personality is close to a casual type like Guido or Squalo, he seemingly lacks any depth at all. There’s no “Oh, he’s actually very smart!” thing going on here, Formaggio is painfully average. There’s no reason for him to be a mafioso other than bad timing and a lack of drive to get away from it.

He’s actually pretty simple. He’s just a guy that wants to relax and have a little fun- who doesn’t like fun? But Formaggio is crazy insecure. He takes almost every negative reaction as a jab- neutral ones, too. If you’re not into his lifestyle, what, he isn’t fuckin’ good enough? Huh? You think he’s some fuckin’ nobody that doesn’t have the real talent it takes to be where he is? 

You can calm Formaggio by stroking his ego, and by that, I mean stroking him. He’ll forget about any transgression if he finishes a few times. 

He only speaks italian, and will “Huh?” you to death if you do not. He’ll buy you an italian-english dictionary to help you understand him, but won’t make any real effort to learn english.  

Formaggio’s kitty was a stray before he snatched her up. She’ll try to comfort you while Formaggio is gone- but she’ll abandon you if he comes back. Little traitor. He calls her a ridiculous amount of pet names- sometimes he’ll reuse whatever name he calls you on her, and will pretend he’s always called her it. Awww, my little pwincess, my cuuuutie, my baby, my angeelllll. He treats her very well- she’s a bit pampered.  While Formaggio’s cat is able to relax fully in his arms, you probably will not, unless you’re a masochist. He loves good, old fashioned sadism- no prissy mind games or punishments, he does it for absolutely no reason other than how funny your reactions are. He’s like that asshole boyfriend that throws a basketball into your face and laughs when you groan. Come on, it’s just a ball, don’t be such a baby. It’s just a joke. Aw, your face stings? You want some ice? Hey, that’s a great idea, why don’t you go get him something from the fridge?

[jangtaerang]

I just saw your reply on that ask explaining further about Mean!Eunseok and his relationship dynamic with the reader. I just wondered what.. makes her stay with him? I get that he loves her and expresses it in a very different way than what you’d typically do. However when kindness is SO important to her won’t she want some sort of that love also given back to her? Can’t she see that Mean!Eunseok doesn’t bounce back the same energy and behavior back to her? Won’t she feel neglected or inferior and does Mean!Eunseok even take that into consideration? Since he loves her.. Idk man they are both complex characters! They have such an interesting story with so much depth into their characters. I apologize if you’ve already left this plot behind! You don’t have to answer it if you don’t want to or maybe there isn’t an answer 😆 nonetheless I hope you know that your fic is BOMB and you made someone (me) want know the bts details of your thoughts on this amazing plot.

English isn’t my first language, hopefully I am understandable.

that drabble was just supposed to be a one shot so it was pretty surface level stuff but ig we're diving into reader and mean!eunseok's relationship 🙏

the short answer to why the reader stays with eunseok is just bc she loves him.

the long answer would be that the reader saw the goodness in mean!eunseok that no one else bothered to look for past his personality, and there's something special in knowing that you're one of the few people he's willing to let his guard down around and getting to witness an undiscovered side of him. you refer to him as a "hidden sweetheart" because while eunseok doesn't offer to hold your hand when you're walking down the sidewalk, he does pull you to the safer side of the road when you're too immersed in talking to realize the speedy vehicles nearing and doesn't let go, spending the rest of your walk with your hands joint anyways. he buys beverages he doesn't drink but he's aware you like them, and when you scold him to not waste it, he tells you, "i don't want to drink it." as he looks at his phone, and out of the corner of his eye, he sees you taking the drink with a sparkle in your eyes at getting to taste your favorite. he's always unfazed and uninterested when you rant to him about a necklace you saw at the mall, but you'll see it on the top of your dresser a week later with a piece of paper with a "for you." written on it.

i didn't intend to write eunseok as a toxic bf. as stated in the ask, he shows his affection differently, and the reader understands this. he likes making you cry because he also knows he's the one who can make it better, but if there comes a time where he makes you cry and you want to run off to someone else, he'll pull all the stops. he's in love with his pretty girl and his pretty girl only.

and i always picture the reader as someone strong, confident, and secure, so while you get sad when eunseok turns away from you, you wouldn't feel inferior or unloved, because when you come back to him later to lie on top of him with your head in his neck, his arm moving to wrap around you as he continues to use his phone, it's a silent confirmation and reassurance of i love you from him.

[katcadecascade]

If you believe the lies I tell

This is a preview chapter of my self-indulgent Snowjanus fic. Some of it has been edited to conceal some other stuff I have already wrote. For the entirety of the fic, I am still writing it and once it is completed is when I'll start posting to Ao3.

That will definitely take a while so I wanted to at least share this fun chapter as a new years special.

-

Coriolanus has to formulate a plan on what to stash away from the dining hall, anything to join the muffin intended for Tigris. He has to make backup plans after backup plans if Clemensia ever interferes. This is all he can think about during their class before lunch hour. 

Their calculus lesson had to take a pause for their professor to receive documents from the ink and printer room. Urban Canvill, top student of the subject, was asked to assist. 

“And there he goes, our calculus genius,” Gaius mourns like a nurse bidding a soldier farewell. 

Apollo taps a pencil on his textbook, “I swear there is a calculator in his head, it’s the only explanation.” 

“Or you’re bad at math,” Diana teased. 

“Hey, I scored higher than you last I checked.”

“Well, twins, you’re both beneath me,” Arachne butted in, believing she was always a part of the conversation.

“Okay, can we just all agree we hate math,” Domitia said.

“Minus Urban Canville,” Festus winked. “Get it? Minus?”

Only Persephone Price laughed. 

Gaius fake-yelled, “Boo! Get off the stage!”

“I’ll be here all week, folks!”

“Besides, I don’t think anyone is gonna out calculate Urban,” Florus said, tapping a pencil on Apollo’s head. 

Diana had to interfere before the boys started sword fighting with their stationary. 

“Really? That’s quite the statement.”

No one expected such a mocking tone from Sejanus. 

Coriolanus feels his eyes burning at the rich boy. He gives the attention no mind, soaking in the way their classmates stare curiously or irritatedly.  

“I’m surprised that none of you have tried hard enough to beat Urban’s score.”

“Excuse you,” Vipsania stands up and points at the mocker, “I am one of the top ranked students here.”

“That doesn’t sound like you’re actually the top student. We all know that’s Coriolanus.”

Eyes flicker to him and Coriolanus burns at the way Sejanus said his name. He’s using his name to further make their classmates inferior. 

It’s a brag, is his delayed thought. It’s equally a praise. 

Coriolanus still refuses to visibly acknowledge Sejanus, so he turns to Clemensia, “Do you have any idea what’s going on? It sounds like a mess.”

She tuts, as if she’s a disappointed mother, “They are a mess.” 

While that further infuriates most of their classmates, besides her, Lysistrata giggles at Clemensia. The girls exchange more laughter, like they’re sharing an inside joke. Coriolanus merely raises an eyebrow at her, surprised that Clemensia’s partaking in the biting comments. 

“They can still clean up their act.” 

Sejanus commands everyone’s attention back to him. 

It’s effortlessly done. 

Coriolanus wonders where Sejanus learned to say all the right words. To manipulate the crowd. It’s the opposite of what Coriolanus does. 

Coriolanus Snow charms the audience to keep everything in order. 

Sejanus Plinth riles up the audience for chaos.

“The upcoming calculus test.” He scans his audience, yet somehow skips over Coriolanus. Air is trapped in Coriolanus’ lungs. “Anyone who replaces Urban Canville’s number one spot gets a Plinth prize of my own.” That gets people to mutter about but once again, Sejanus shuts them up. “Not money, that’ll be real boring. I’m offering up a favor.” 

“What are you on about?” Arachne scoffed, “We don’t need anything from-“

“Shush!” Festus nearly throws his body on top of her desk, shoving a single finger against Arachne’s red lips. “Let the man bake!”

Persephone corrects, “Don’t you mean cook?”

“Yes!” 

His enthusiasm is uninterrupted when Felix strong-arms him off the desk. Festus straightens up and behind him, everyone ignores Arachne dramatically gagging into a napkin that Felix passed her. 

Festus explains, “He’s right, we don’t need his money but making Sejanus Plinth do whatever we want? Now that’s a real prize!”

Persephone winces, “You’re making it sound cruder than it would be, Festus.” 

He winks at her, “Only if you think that way.” 

Besides them, Arachne and Domitia shared appalled, mocking faces. 

“Actually, I'm with him on this. It would be interesting to see Sejanus hold his end of the bargain.” Felix Ravinstill approaches Sejanus Plinth, “Anything we ask?”

“Don't make him do anything illegal,” Persephone warns, proving that she really is the nicest girl in class. “That’ll be too far.”

“We’re not that chaotic, can’t let our families find out after all,” Their class president assures her with a smile, but to Sejanus it is anything but warm. “But, Sejanus, don’t think it’ll be anything simple.”

“I would hope not,” he smiles and reaches out a hand.

The most politically rich boy shakes hands with the richest outsider of all of the Capitol. 

A deal has been struck. 

“Sejanus, why are you doing this to Urban?” Gaius asked, so far the only one willing to defend Urban. 

“I’m not doing this to Urban, this is about all of you.” False gratitude has never sounded so much like a threat before. Sejanus has them all eating out of his palm. “Prove that you really are the best and brightest of the Capitol. Also why not have some fun with academic rivalry.”

“I hate calculus, but I admit I’m intrigued,” Apollo grins even though his twin elbows him roughly. 

“This is what finally gets you to take math seriously?”

“Hey, I’d love to win something. After all, it’s gonna be Coriolanus who wins the actual Plinth Prize.”

A few heads turn to the leading candidate for the scholarship money. 

He only has mere seconds to decide what mask he has to wear. Anything to maintain the image of the perfect Snow. 

“Do you really think that Apollo?” Coriolanus performs with a million dollar smile, “Well, one more test to ace isn’t a real problem for me.”

Now that raises everyone’s ego. The chance to take something away from the untouchable Coriolanus Snow. 

He sees in the way Arachne whispers to Felix. As Florus and Apollo immediately plan a study session that Diana of course invites herself in. Coriolanus despises them a little bit more. They just had to prove his thoughts right. 

Everyone in this school feeds off of others’ failures. 

Urban Canville, the challenge, no - the obstacle, arrives and the tension in the room shifts. 

“Why’s everyone staring at me?” 

“We’re just talking about calculus, buddy,” Festus is instantly at his side, very touchy-feely, roping an arm around Urban’s neck, “and how you’re so good at it.” 

Behind Urban’s back, Festus glares at everyone to not snitch. It's mostly aimed at Gaius who does concede. Class resumes without a hitch. 

Coriolanus has to wait until everyone leaves before confronting the most annoying person in his life. Clemensia needed to be placated with a promise of not taking too long, that he’ll catch up later. 

When it’s just them, there’s no more performances. 

“What the hell was all of that?”

Sejanus squirms in his chair, finally acting like his usual, uncomfortable self. 

Seeing this just makes Coriolanus angrier. 

If this guy can behave two-faced so easily, manipulate their classmates, how is Coriolanus’ own mask believable?

He has the urge to pace around, think of better ways to lie, to analyze how exactly their classmates were suckered in by Sejanus. As suspicious as his actions were, they only focused on their own world. 

Pride on the verge of narcissism. 

It was too well played out but it was enough to pique their interest. Coriolanus would be impressed if not for his irritation over Sejanus. Specifically about how he knows Sejanus better than anyone else. 

And right now, Sejanus knows him better than anyone Coriolanus has allowed. 

He stays rooted in front of Sejanus, needing to figure out what’s exactly in his head. 

Sejanus bites his lip, for once considering his words. If only he was always like this. 

“Sejanus,” the name is harsh on his tongue, “tell me, now.”

The command should make him feel powerful, from just the way the he looks up at Coriolanus. But those brown eyes full of pity sends poison down his veins. 

It almost makes Coriolanus squirm, targeted under the weight of Sejanus’ undivided attention. 

“It was the only way I could think of to-”

“To give me food?” His pride takes over, already regretting this conversation. “You’re telling me that you proposed some idiotic bet for all your enemies on the chance that I would accept your generosity?”

He expects Sejanus to lie to him. Or say something absurd like he’s doing this out of the kindness of his heart. How Sejanus’ sense of judgment and righteousness demands to treat Coriolanus like this. 

That’s a terrifying relationship. Coriolanus refuses to be an object that sits pretty for every compliment, to receive a feast for doing absolutely nothing. 

“Yes, I did.” Something just clicks behind those brown eyes and Sejanus’ expression hardens. “You said it yourself, you’re not spoiled. Coriolanus, you’re hard working and twice as stubborn than everyone else.” He stands up, preparing to leave with his bag slung over his shoulder. “You don’t have to win this competition though, that’s up to you.”

He sees it and he hates it. 

Sejanus is trying to rile him up, trap him into admitting that he has something that Coriolanus Snow needs. 

As if. 

“I don’t want handouts.”

“This isn’t a handout. This is a choice.”

He is right. Coriolanus could choose to not partake in zealous efforts of reaching the top. 

But it is not in his nature to lie down and let his competitors gain what he deserves. 

Coriolanus deflects, “So you made a spectacle? That doesn’t sound like you, Sejanus.”

“I’m just speaking your language.” At Coriolanus’ scoff, a reflex to mask his confusion, Sejanus steps closer. He lays a hand on Coriolanus’ arm. “I know you can beat everyone in this class. Do what you do best, Coriolanus Snow. Be at the top.”

An exhilarating thrill buzzes throughout Coriolanus Snow. 

He does not need Sejanus Plinth’s permission. 

It’s natural for the sun to shine brighter than the stars.

For the ocean to knock down sandcastles. 

For snow to land on top. 

The real Plinth Prize waits at graduation day.

But today?

His classmates saw a chance, no matter how small, to best him. It’s maddening to have a target on his back but at the same time, Coriolanus welcomes them to try. Eager to see them all fall. Graduation and university is too far away. After seeing their glimmer of hope, he craves their defeat now. 

This is more than a predator nature or survival instincts born from starvation. This is what Coriolanus truly greeds for. To actually feel like the top of a mountain peak. 

Anyone else would tear at him with teeth and claws, exposing this bloody animal he locks under a perfect mask. Yet with Sejanus it’s a scalpel, a clean cut. 

In an impossible way, Coriolanus feels seen. Layers of flesh exposed and undone, revealing a hungry creature, a void that will devour. 

Beyond status or wealth, Corionlaus Snow can and will dominate any who opposes him. 

It’s a taste of something better than any food served on a silver platter. 

All provided by one Sejanus Plinth. 

He gives Sejanus one last glare before storming out of the room. 

-

Thanks for reading!

[newtie-patootie-bootie]

Masquerade (Chapter 5)

Summary: This is your third season and your aspirations on finding love are dwindling but news on Lady Whistledown’s society pages say that there is to be a foreign royal in attendance to the season. Could this royal dignitary be the one you’ve been waiting for, or could there be a mysterious stranger lurking in the shadows, waiting to pluck your heart for his?

Disclaimer: I do not own Bridgerton nor The Mandalorian- all rights go to the owners and creators of their separate stories.

Warnings: Descriptions of violence and minor blood and wounds- nothing too major. (I tell you, we’re getting into it, I promise!)

|| Please do not repost or plagiarise my work ||

If you’d like to read more of my works, please visit my Masterlist!

| Prologue | Chapter 1 | Chapter 2  | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4 | Chapter 6 |

Tags: @technicallykawaiisoul @call-me-soap @the-feckless-wonder @elinedjarin @bluevxnus @literallydontlook @sm0l-0ne @1am9root6 @ems-alexandra @notsosecretspy

(If I have forgotten anyone who wished to be tagged, please do remind me~!)

This work is also cross-posted on Ao3 at: pleasehelpmeimstuckinthefandoms

Din rarely lost his composure, mostly maintaining a calm demeanor even when faced with overwhelming trials and tribulations.

This one was one of those times where he had to show the most restraint.

His jaw ticked in irritation as dark eyes stayed pinned on his general and he leant over his desk, hands curled into fists as they rested atop the oak surface. Important documents crinkled under his twisting knuckles as Paz relayed the day’s earlier events. “There was no correspondence ahead of time to warn us of any vessel of ours sailing on international waters. We are lucky that we have not been questioned but I suspect it will not be overlooked so easily the next time.”

“There will not be a next time, Paz. Not if I can help it.” Gravelly and cold, the voice of the true man beneath the royal title and gold-enlaced armour bled through. “What the kriff was she thinking?”

"We were not informed that there was any ship scheduled to sail. As such, I have had no reports from our staff or any correspondence from our Naval officers ahead of time that would suggest we are in need of supplies which means-” 

“-this was planned and executed in secret.” Din growled, teeth grinding together as he untied the cravat constricting his throat and tossed it into the corner of his office without a second thought, resuming his previous position as he desperately tried to calm his breath. “I am growing tired of secrets and hidden plots hatching right under my nose.”

“That’s not all, Manda’lor.” Din tensed at Paz’s apprehensive tone, clicking his tongue as he inhaled sharply through his nose, “apparently the other clans are doubting your actions. They question why you did not choose one of our own to be your riduur.”

He exhaled sharply, slamming a fist against the wood. “You mean that my inferior birth must somehow be cleansed with a true Mandalorian? How many of those are out there, Paz?” Din questioned hotly, dark eyes meeting with his vod’s blue and Paz remained silent as his King let out his frustrations, “truly? If they wish for a true Mandalorian, I sincerely hope they enjoy living through another civil war. After The Great Purge and The Night of a Thousand Tears, I can count how many true Mandalorians remain on one hand.” Anger flamed deep within his chest as he continued, “not many of those of true blood remain amongst our people anymore. I did not see any one of those clan members raise their swords to fight the Imperial rule that they allowed to be wreaked upon them.”

“I admit when you first took the throne, I shared their opinions. I shared their doubts. I even issued a challenge because I believed you could not uphold the traditions of our culture and land.” Din remained silent, allowing Paz to speak his mind, “but you taught me that bloodline means little when one is to rule a kingdom.” Paz moved forward and set a strong hand on Din’s shoulder. “You proved your worth to be Manda'lor when you obtained the Darksaber and used it to liberate us from the Imps. This time, I shall fight for you if the need arises."

"Thank you, vod." Din straightened from his hunched position and sighed deeply through his nose, "it seems I must make appearances at more social gatherings to dissuade the lieutenant. I will not allow her to hurt Lady Dalton."

Paz's hardened expression softened to something akin to pride, "you care for her, don't you?"

Another sigh and the King of Mandalore raised his gaze to his clan-brother, voice barely above a whisper, "more than I am willing to admit."

“I believe we must make a statement.” Paz spoke, “the Manda’lor must make a statement.” 

“What kind of statement, Paz? That my affection for Lady Dalton exceeds two personalities that I have been forced to craft, no thanks to my impertinent General?” Din raised his eyebrows while Paz simply rolled his eyes in response.

“I mean, di’kut,” the familiar insult curled Din’s lips into a familiar smile and he gestured for Paz to finish, taking the seat opposite his desk and he leant back, “that we should hold a ball. Open the estate to the masses and allow them to see our culture and our ways.” 

Din sucked on his bottom lip as he pondered the notion. “This could only go one of two ways.” 

“Well, then we make it go our way.” Paz answered simply, “the Manda’lor is still a shadow to most of the ton. It is time they understand the strength and valour he represents. That they understand the reason you are here.” Paz sighed, looking down at his vod with as much softness as he could muster. “You are here to sample western culture and to take one of their daughters for your bride. They must see you for who you are, they must understand the man beneath the helm and the crown. They must see you.”

Din took in Paz’s words, a harsh sigh expelling from his lips and he stood up, moving toward his small cart topped with various alcohols and picked up a tumbler before allowing a large pour of Mandalorian brewed cognac. 

He passed one to Paz before pouring himself one as well. With one hand in his pants pocket, he turned to face Paz and took a sip of his beverage. “Send a message to Karga to prepare himself to sail. I will require his assistance.” 

“Of course, Manda’lor.” Paz pressed a fist to his chest, over his heart before straightening up. “And what will you do?” 

“I will attend the Vauxhall Gardens.” He raised a finger from his glass to Paz and immediately silenced his General’s next words. Din swallowed softly, taking his pen and he took out a fresh piece of parchment before taking his seat once again and placed his cognac beside the stack of paperwork. “You are right. The Manda’lor can no longer hide.”

You basked in the sunlight, standing just off to the side of the lake, your delicate umbrella resting on the base of your shoulder as you twirled it lazily in thought.

The latest Whisteldown had been released and somehow, the details of the Manda'lor’s special attention toward you had caught her unnerving gaze. It didn’t take long for the hoards of mama’s and daughters to make plans to cast Mando’s gaze from you. Little did they know that you did not care for his gaze. 

However, the dream your mind produced last night disproved those feelings:

Your garments piled atop each other in an undignified heap.

You lay on your back, clinging to him amongst the silk sheets. A gentle stream of light beamed across his back from between the gossamer curtains. 

Your hips bucked into his body as his fingertips traced invisible patterns along the sensitive flesh of the back of your thighs. A chuckle rumbled against the shell of your ear as he lifted your legs and made you curl them around his narrow hips, “cross your ankles together, Sarad.” You immediately took to his instruction and locked them together at the base of his back, your core flush with his. “That’s it. Just like that.”

His hands slid from your naked thighs, curling around your hips and waist. He pinched and pulled at the ties of your smallclothes before burying his aching touch into the mussed bedding by your head. His lips began to trail a line of hot, needy kisses along your naked shoulder and throat- tongue curling against your thumping pulse point and your eyes rolled back as his teeth gently pulled at the soft skin before he soothed and suckled around the faint marks he left behind.

He didn’t allow you to feel the bashfulness associated with this moment; this life-changing event that you had been raised for. The moment you’d been unconsciously preparing for with all those years of lessons to be a proper young lady and three whole seasons spent with little to no thought of any suitor that vied for your hand.

Your hands slowly traced the contours of his arms, curling into the dip of his shoulders before slowly coming to frame his jaw and pushed him back slightly to take in his features.

His face mingled between the stoic beskar helmet and Din’s carnal grin.

Din and Mando’s voice melded into one as they both whispered, “Sarad.” 

A loud squeal tore you from your sinful musings and you turned to witness the commotion just as you spotted your youngest siblings chasing each other just ahead of where your family had set their picnic for the morning. 

Ryder lounged on his garden chair, nose deep in the morning’s paper as your mother sat beside him, idly perusing through the latest Whistledown for the third time today.

“Is something troubling you, owlet?” Your father’s voice murmured from beside you and you sighed deeply.

Turning back to the shimmering waters of the lake, you pondered your whirlwind thoughts before shaking your head, “simply reflecting on these weeks past, father. Nothing of import.” 

Thomas’ sigh was a copy of yours and he turned to face the lake. “I understand that the unorthodox amount of attention placed upon you must feel so overwhelming,” he began quietly, “when I had attended my first season I couldn’t even speak to any of the ladies also promenading for suitors.” 

That got your attention and you looked up at your father who sported a small, amused smile. “You, the Duke of Wintere were too shy to socialise with the women of the ton?” 

Thomas simply smiled, “I could not even attend their residence to leave them gifts to even be recognised as a proper suitor.” 

You giggled at the thought of your father stuttering in front of the women of the town expecting the Duke of Wintere to be a suave and confident gentleman. “I can’t imagine you being so anxious, Papa.” Then a thought struck you. “Didn’t you marry Mama in your first season?”

“Your mother brought a side out of me I wasn’t aware existed.” Thomas turned his head to face his beloved wife as she conversed with her eldest son and cradled her youngest child in her lap while their second son sat on the blanket, munching on grapes. “She made me the man I am today.” He slowly turned back to you and raised his hand, gently cupping your cheek, “follow your heart, my dear. It will never steer you wrong.”

You watched your father, a soft smile curling your lips as his words seared themselves in the chambers of your heart. “Yes, Papa.”

He smiled, his thumb caressing the soft skin of your cheek before leaning forward and he placed a soft kiss to your forehead, “that’s my beautiful girl. Never settle for less than what you deserve.”

“Thank you, Papa.” He nodded once before taking his leave and walked back to your family and you turned back to face the water. One hand moved from the stem of the umbrella to curl around the silver locket that delicately hung around your throat. 

You were not familiar with the metal, but the intricate design resembled a hellebore. If it had not been accompanied by a letter then you would not have known who would have been so thoughtful.

At this point, you could memorise the letter word for word, recognise the penmanship almost immediately.

“Sarad,

I apologise for not replying to your recent letters, there have been some pressing matters that required my attention. However, I admit that most of my thoughts have been consumed by you.

Consequently, I hope this small token of my appreciation will win me back in your favour.

I am unsure if I have ever mentioned this, however Mandalore is rich in metals. More specifically, it’s called beskar. It is a highly profitable metal, incredibly durable and nigh impossible to destroy. I will no longer bore you with the scientific discoveries of a metal that I am sure you are no more interested in than those scandal papers you lament over.

I appointed my head blacksmith for this task. I trust her implicitly and I pray you do not find my forwardness too distasteful. I hoped you would enjoy something with a little more familiarity than a simple design that would hold no meaning for you.

However, I would be most appreciative to hear your thoughts in person rather than a scribed letter.

I will make an appearance at the Vauxhall Gardens tonight, I hope to see you there. I have heard it shall be an affair to remember.

Yours,

Mando.”

The smile threatening to split your cheeks hurt but there was nothing that could dim your happiness. 

However, the knot beginning to tighten in the base of your belly refused to loosen considering the event at the Vauxhall Gardens tonight. With Mando in attendance, it would be the first time you’d seen him since he’d walked with you in the park.

Perhaps, the soiree at the Gardens would alleviate some of your anxiety.

[houseoflibra]

Saint Seiya: Dark Wing Chapter 32: The Witch

Page 1

Narrator: - Do not let her youthful looks fool you into underestimating her. - She should be considered extremely dangerous.

Page 2

Yoruhime: - (There is probably more to her plan than this.)

Seirim: - Wow… - You have good eyes, little Yoruhime! - Ever composed, - ever intellectual, - ever calm, - carrying out your duty as Pandora. - I wonder what would happen to Hades's army… - …if you were to get hurt, huh?

Page 3

Yoruhime: - Even though you're supposed to be a warrior of a god, - you use quite indirect tactics, don't you?

Seirim: - That's because scheming and guiding events from behind the scenes… - …is my code of chivalry!

Page 4

Seirim: - Seirim, the King of Diamonds, - is here!

Page 5

Pages 6 + 7

Page 8

Yoruhime: - (What a tremendous cosmo…) - (It's in no way inferior to Soujiro's or Shoichiro's.)

Page 9

Yoruhime: - (It appears to be in the same class) - (as a Gold Saint's.)

Seirim: - Heh heh! - You seem eager, huh? - But I'm afraid it's too bad...

Page 10

Seirim: - ...because the witch's magic… - …has been planted throughout this school all along!

Charlotte: - Huh?!

Seirim: - Paranoia Medallion!!

Page 11

Charlotte: - Aaaah!!

Yoruhime: - Charlie!!

Page 12

Yoruhime: - ! - Is this… - Poison? - No… - It's contact magic… - You get affected by it… - if you touch the floor or the walls, isn't that right?

Page 13

Seirim: - Amazing! - I can't believe you saw through my technique straight away! - That's why it's better not to move, okay? - The more you try, - the more your body will break down from the inside. - And I can target anybody who has touched this school - at any time.

Page 14

Seirim: - Are you waiting for help from outside? It's hopeless! - Because my barrier can never be broken from the outside.

Yoruhime: - Sigh… - If it's just from the outside that it's a problem… - that means it can be done if we work from the inside and from the outside at the same time, right?

Seirim: - You're trying to set something up, aren't you? Hahah! - Sounds fun, but…

Page 15

Seirim: - If you're going to do something, you'd better do it fast! - Or you'll end up covered in blood too.

Yoruhime: - I'm just worried about… - …the cost of the repairs to the school building.

Seirim: - Outside?

Page 16

???: - Greed of Life!!

Page 17

Seirim: - Aaaah!!

Page 18

Chunfeng: - You're a life-saver, Charlie! - Thanks to the help of your ghosts' attack from the inside… - …I was able to break the barrier!

Page 19

Ghosts: - Yay~!

Yoruhime: - You've come at the right time, - Celestial Wailing Star Harpy.

Chunfeng: - Sure thing! The Celestial Wailing Star Harpy Chunfeng - will defeat the enemy!

Page 20

Seirim: - Ah-ha… - I see. - You're a flying type… - This is getting fun!

Chunfeng: - I'm going to defeat you!

Page 21

Seirim: - But I'm too strong to be defeated by a simple harpy!

Charlotte: - (She's right. Chunfeng and I) - (may be Specters, but we're only subordinates of the Three Judges.) - (And our enemy is probably in the class of a Gold Saint.) - (If Chunfeng goes at it on her own…)

Yoruhime: - Charlie.

Page 22

Yoruhime: - Don't worry, Charlie. - Harpy is strong.

Seirim: - Huh? - The appearance of the Celestial Wailing Star Harpy was unexpected, but…

Page 23

Seirim: - …I won't let you interfere with this sabbath! - I'll show you the witch's magic!

Page 24

Chunfeng: - A tornado?!

Page 25

Chunfeng: - These are… - …clones made of cosmo!

Seirim: - You fool!

Pages 26 + 27

Seirim: - Herodias Chevauchée!

Chunfeng: - Waaahh!

Page 28

Seirim: - A specter on Harpy's level is easy to care of just like that, you see? - Looks like you're out of help, huh? - (She's not at all worried…?)

Page 29

Seirim - Ah!!

Page 30

Chunfeng: - This is the level… - …of the Celestial Fierce Star Wyvern's top subordinate!

Page 31

Chunfeng: - You cannot defeat the Celestial Wailing Star Harpy!!

Seirim: - She's almost unscathed…?!

Chunfeng: - (I'm getting stronger…)

Page 32

Chunfeng: - (…and stronger!) - (All for you,) - (Lord Wyvern…!)

To be continued...

[blackhakumen]

Mini Fanfic #1176: Battle of the Wife-Loving Husbands (Sonic)

6:45 p.m. at the Crocodile's Residence's Living Room..........

Antoine: (Starts Laughing While Sitting Next to Vector on the Sofa) Ohoho nonnn!~ Zat actually happened!?

Vector: (Chuckling Lightly While Nodding) It's the truth! The moment we found out that Eggman was pulling the strings that entire time, Charmy zoomed right on in and started stinging the poor guy without breaking any sweat. The little rascal made me real proud on that day I'll tell you what.

Antoine: Yes, yes, as you should be!~ Any father would be proud to see their offspring give zat fouled wrench Robotnik a taste of his much deserved comeuppance. And I must say, I truly admire the hardwork and dedication you've crafted onto detective agency for such a long time,

Vector: (Smiles Brightly at his Brother in Law Beside Him) Hey, thank man! It's all in the day's work. (Starts Rubbing The Back of his Head Back and Forth) Though, to be honest. I don't even think it holds a candle to how rad your royal guard gig is in comparison.

Antoine: (Chuckles Lightly) Oho I wouldn't exactly say it's the most "raddest" profession out there. But I take full pride in doing what I must to protect the king and the Kingdom of Knothole. (Closes his Eyes Shut and Clasps his Hands Together as He Sighs Very Dreamingly) And I would've never gone as far as I am now if it weren't for my sweet, darling Bonnie being by my side through even the toughest of trials!~

Vector: (Grabs his Chin While Thinking) Hm now that i think about, the agency and my life in general has changed a whole lot for the better since the day Vanilly and I started dating. (Starts Smiling Fondly and Sighing Dreamingly as Well) It's been two years and I still can't believe I'm happily married to that saint of an woman!~

Antoine: Oh yes~ Marrying zat strong, irresistibly beautiful woman was one of-non. It was ZHE best decision I have ever made in my glorious life~

Antoine/Vector: Bunnie is/Vanilly's the best wife that ever lives!~

A sound of scratching record his held in the background as the two husbands turns back to one another right on cue.

Antoine/Vector: Huh?

Vector: (Rubbing the Back of his Head Again) Uh S-Sorry about that. Didn't mean to interrupt you there. (Chuckles a Bit) You know how I get whenever I start talking about Vanilla.

Antoine: (Quickly Shakes Both his Hands in Front of his Face) Oh nononon, it's quite alright! I was just taken aback from what we both said is all. (Starts Twiddling his Fingers While Looking Away For a Bit) Considering how inferior she in the equation of this very topic......

Vector: (Eyes Immediately Starts Widening Up) Who's inferior!?

Antoine: ..........Vanilla.

Vector: (Gives his Brother in Law a Menacing Looking Glare) Are you saying my wife isn't good enough?

Antoine: (Shakes his Head) Non non non. Vanilla is a wonderful, fantastic woman, truly! I just don't think she's necessarily the best compared to my adoring wife.

Vector: (Let's Out a Gasps Before Putting on a More Regular Glare this Time) Excuse you? I'll have you know that my wife can be up to par with yours in greatness! Are we really gonna gloss over the fact that she was able watched over Cream on her own, YEARS before I came along to step up and help?

Antoine;: (Simply Nodded) A very impressive and admirable feat indeed. (Forms a Competitive, Slightly Pompus Smirk on his Face) But MY wife has raised Miles as her own long before we thee wed.

Vector: (Raises an Eyebrow, Unconvinced) Really. How long exactly?

Antoine: (Lowers the of Hand Down Slightly While Hovering the Other Below it) Back when Miles was zis small and Bunnie and I were teenagers. You'd be surprised how knowledgeable she is when it comes to raising a youngling. (Clasps his Hands Together) Hence why I adore her everyday~

Vector: ......Alright, I'll admit, that's impressive. But MY wife used to be part of a vicious biker gang in her college year as Hot Fangz and still as feared and respected in the streets to this very day. PLUS, she was able to take down a group of rival gangs abd street thugs all by herself, with only her fists!.....'Least that's what she told me.

Antoine: Charming. Meanwhile, MY wife has not only managed to demolish a wave of the doctor's robots within a eight to ten minutes, without developing a single sweat, but she was ALSO rightfully crowned as "The Strongest Woman in All of Mobius" thanks to her years of contributing to the Freedom Fighters name. Not to mention the fact zat her strength alone equals zat to an elastic bull.

Vector: Yeah, well, MY wife managed to demolished Metal Sonic once. You know? A near perfect of Sonoc in every way, one of Eggman's greatest and quite possibly powerful creations besides Omega and his own daughter, Sage! In fact, she doesn't even need to fight at all considering her glare alone could make anyone runaway with their tail behind their legs, within seconds, Bunnie included.

Antoine: ('GASPS') I beg your pardon!? (Finally Glares at Vector) Are you implying zat my glorious wife iz a cowardice chicken!?

Vector: (Crosses his Arms) Not at all. I'm just saying her chances of last a second staring into Vanilla's Motherly Death Glare are below zero. (Forms a Cocky Grin of his Own) Even more so considering she's the baby cousin of the two and one of he golden rules of being part of a family is the oldest siblings always goes on top.

Antoine: (Starts Growling in Anger) Baby cousin or not, Bunnie Rabbot D'Coolette will always be the Strongest Woman in my prideful heart and I refuse to let anyone tarnish her name in vain, not even from my one and only in law. (Gets Up From his Seat) Which is why that I, Sir Antoine D'Coolette.....(Points at Vector in Front of Him) Challenge YOU, Vector Crocodile, to a duel of wits, strength, and honor! And that duel......

Antoine got down on his knees and place his elbow on the coffee table with his hand crunch up and a determined look written all over his face.

Antoine: Will be the wrestling of the arms!

Vector: You mean Arm Wrestling?

Antoine: I know what I said! Now will you accept my challenge or forever hold your peace?

Vector: (Shrugs) Sure, I'm down. (Gets Himself Up From the Sofa and Seat Himself Down on the Floor While Setting his Elbow on the Other Side of the Table While Gravving Hold of Antoine's Hand) Just don't expect me to go easy on your cuz we're family, bro.

Antoine: Oh i intend on give everything I got, brother-in-law. Commence battle! In 3......

Vector: 2.

Antoine: 1!

Vector/Antoine: GO!

The two brother-in-laws begin their arm wrestling match, pushing themselves to the absolute fullest.

Vector: (Struggling a Bit by Antoine's Surprising Strength) Argh! I'll be damned.....You ain't playing around tonight....Aren't ya?

Antoine: Not even close, mon ami....It seems the love for my Bunnie given me the strength I need to out best!.....

Vector: Well, ain't that sweet? (Starts Picking his Strength Back Up) But you're not the only one feeling motivated by love right now, you know!....So if you wanna go all out, then COME ON THEN!!

Antoine: SANS PITIÉ!!!

Meanwhile at The Hallway.......

Bunnie: (Standing Behind the Side of the Doorway Entrance Watching the Match Up Going on in the Distance) I cannot believe our two lovers boys are in there bickerin' and arm wrestlin' for our honor and junk.

Vanilla: (Places her Hands on Both Cheeks While Standing Behind her Cousin, Swaying her Hips From Side to Side like a Lovesick Puppy) I know, right?~ It's the most cutest thing ever!~

Bunnie: (Looks Back at the Husbands Arm Wrestling Each Other Before Sighing and Blushing) Yeah, I won't lie. It's freakin' adorable....(Turns Back to her Older Cousin) But the clock's tickin' for us get to that fancy restaurant in time now. How are we gonna get those two to stop fightin'?

Vanilla: Just follow my lead, dear. I have an idea.

Back at the Living Room

We head back to the fierce Battle of the Wives Loving Husbands and our two combatants who are still going out strong, refusing to give in and not letting their wives' name and integrity plummet down to the dirt without a fight.

Speaking of wives........

????/????: Oh Boyyyys!~

The intense match up came to screeching halt as the two competitors gaze their attention and are completely struck in awe with their jaws plummeting diwn on the table at the two ladies making their into the living room.

Vanilla Rabbit Crocodile, sporting a long, sleeved red velvet dress and ahinig red heels with her hair down in the back in the same length as her two bunny ears, and Bunnie Rabbot D'Coolette, wearing a violet dress, black leather coat and cowboy boots, with her her hair being tied up in the bun in the back.

Needless to say, both ladies has dressed themselves up nicely for their scheduled double date for this evening much to their husbands' surprise.

Vanilla: (Giggles Softly) We're ready~

Vector: Vanilla.......

Antoine: Bunnie.......

Vector/Antoine: (Slowly Got Up From the Floor) You look!.....So......

Bunnie: (Forms a Seductive Smirk On Her Face Along with her Older Cousin) Stunnin'?~

Vanilla: Pretty?~

Vector: (Starts Blushing Along with his Brother in Law) Beautiful.......

Antoine: Breathtaking.......

Vector: Classy........

Antoine: Magnificent.........

Vector/Antoine: (Eyes Begins to Sparkle in Pure Awe) AMAZING~

Vanilla: (Giggles Some More) Aww~ You two are the sweetest~

Bunnie: Very much so. (Place her Havds on Both her Hips While Putting on a Bit of a Motherly Glare on her Face) Now, that we finally got your attention, you mind tellin' us why on Green Earth y'all were sittin' on this floor arm wrestlin' when we have a restaurant to get to?

Vanilla: (Clasps her Hands Together While Giving the Men the Sad Puppy Dog Eyes) Are you not getting along?~

Antoine: (Rapidly Shakes his Hands) Nononon! Non, we are getting along, truly! (Starts Twiddling his Fingers) It's just zat....Wellll.....

Vector: We were only testing out our strengths and wits is all. (Notices His Wife Wobbling her Lips Up and Down with the Same Puppy Dog While Bunie Raising an Eyebrow, Unconvinced Before Caving In) ('Sighs in Defeat') As well as battling for your honors before we had this huge debate over which of you two is the best wife. (Points at Antoine) Which he started it, by the way....

Antoine: (Let's Out Another Loud Gasp Before Angrily Points at Vector) COMMÈRE!!!

Bunnie: (Glares at her Husband) Antoine, is what Vector said is the truth?

Antoine: (Starts Chuckling Awkwardly) I-I-I wouldn't exactly say zat....particularly happened.....per say-

Bunnie gives Antoine her signature Harden Glare, In silence.

Antoine: (Spread his Arms Out and Wide in Utter Defeat) Okay, YES! I confess! I started zis charade from the very start! (Clasps his Hands Together in a Pleading Manner) I only wanted to prove to him how magnificent of a woman you are!~

Vector: (Crosses his Arms With a Satisfied Smirk on his Face) Yeah. It was definitely his fault already.

Vanilla: (Finally Gives Her Husband a Her Signature Motherly Glare) Vector!

Vector: (Gets Slightly Frightened by his Wife's Glare Before Lowering his Arms and Sighing in Defeat) But I wasn't any better. (Starts Rubbing The Back of his Head Back and Forth Yet Again) You're the most amazing woman I've ever met, Vanilly, and....I guess I wanted to prove him right....

Vanilla: (Places her Hand onto her Chest as Her Heart Begins to Melt in Pure Happiness) We've married the most sweetest husbands in the world, Bunnie~

Bunnie: (Heart Starts Melting in Happiness As Well) Indeed we have, Cousin. (Turns Back to the Husbands in Question) That's mighty flatterin' of you, boys, but y'all don't need to pit against each other to do so. (Turns to her Husband) 'Specially since you've been wantin' Vector to be the brother ya never had.

Antoine: Bunnie!

Vector: (Turns to Antoine) Wait, seriously?

Antoine: ('Sighs in Defeat') It's true. I've always been fond of the idea of having a sibling or two growing up. (Turns Away While Scratching the Side of hus Cheek a Bit by Using One Finger) So I'd hoped zat during evening together we would....bond as one, even if we aren't blood related.

Vector: (Stares at Antoine For a Brief Second Before Chuckling Lightly) Well, why didn't ya say so from the start? (Starts Patting on Antoine's Back) I'd be down to have strongest guard of the Knothole Kingdom for a brother!

Antoine: (Chuckles Lightly) Come now. I wouldn't exactly say I'm the Strongest out there......

Vector: You say that. (Wraps his Arm Around Antoine's Shoulder with a Big Smile on his Face) But you were definitely giving me trouble in our match earlier.

Antoine: (Smiles Back) Well, I couldn't possibly sat there and not give The Karma Collecting Vector a fair challenge now can I?

Vanilla: (Watches the Two Men Laughing Among Themselves While Gushing Up) They're finally getting along!~

Bunnie: (Smiles Softly) Like two brothers in the northern sky. Now can we please get the hay on outta here to our date night already?

Antoine: Yes, of course!

Vector: Hope we're not too late.

Vanilla: Don't worry, dear. We could get there a little earlier if we ride on our motorcycles.

Antoine: (Grimace at the Thought a Bit) Oh mec......

Vector: ('Gulp') Here's hoping we have the strength to make it through without falling......

Bunnie: (Giggles Softly) Will you boys relax? We ain't gonna ride as well fast as we used to, we know our limits.

Vanilla: Buuut before we go, we want to tell you something right quick?

Vector/Antoine: Hm?

Vanilla: If you boys continue to behave yourselves and get along for the rest of the evening.....(Puts on a Very Seductive Smirk on her Face) We'll be more than willing to give you a very special treat when we come back here~

Bunnie: Yep. Some quailty, fun alone time. (Smirks Seductively as Well) In the bedroom~

Vector: (Eyes Starts to Widened While Blushing Along with hus Brother in Law) S-Speical.... T-Treat......

Antoine: F-Funtime.....In the...bedroom?~

Bunnie: (Casually Shrugs) Yeah, why not? We feelin' a little adventurous tonight. (Turns to Vanilla Next to Her) Isn't that right, V?

Vanilla: (Happily Nodded in Agreement) Indeed we are~ Especially on beautiful night like this. (Walks Over to Vector) And what better way to spend wonderful evening~.......

Bunnie: (Walks Over to Antoine) ......Then to have a little fun with the men we grew to love ever so fondly~

The two ladies kisses their respective husbands on the lips on a bit if a slow, sensual manner, for a brief second before pulling away, leaving the two standing there, stunned and speechless.

Vanilla: Well, now with that's settled.....(Happily Walks Out the Door Let's get our grub on, people!~

Bunnie: (Follows Vanilla Behind) Love Quest Restaurant, here we come!~ YEEEEEE-HAW!~

Antoine: ...........You know, call me crazy. (Turns to Vector) But I feel like I'm falling in love all over again.

Vector: Same.But enought talk. (Turns to Antoine with a Determined Look on his Face) Let's give our beautiful bunnies the best Double Date of their lives.

Antoine: (Nodded in Agreement) Oui.

The two give each a sided fist bump as they both walk out the door as they begin to experience the double date night of the brand new year.

@rechicken-and-waffles

@albion-93

@bestpony666

@ma-lemons

@cyber-wildcat

[thesketchyheartist]

03/26

Kersten- Neo-Nationalism and the "Liberal School of History"; Kobayashi- Sensoron

Today's post would not be an anime but a manga and scholarly article, focusing mostly on the manga.

Fun fact: our professor translated the original for this course because according to Wikipedia, official translations are not a priority. Considering how much early manga (ones that the average international manga reader probably never heard of) got translated about a decade ago, this says something. After reading this, I wonder if "no plans" means there was a plan to avoid translation, whatever that could mean.

The mangaka (is it even manga?) is the self-insert narrator who presents and argues why modern education on Japanese history, specifically from the wars and violence from the past 100 years is both inaccurate and detrimental to Japan's future. While the passion to argue and purpose to the argument is real, I am skeptical on the medium of choice.

Given the time this was written, I know the Internet and colored television should be relatively available. I don't know how scholarly articles were shared in the past, but I imagine books are timeless, and even argumentative essays are more sophisticated than manga. Not to slander manga, but the use of chibi style mixed with black and white photos does not feel like a good contrast to create a mood, rather I feel confused as to what I should consider.

Nevertheless, I can still see a long essay written into a book with the same pictures, and even the same emotional anecdote example to convey a point can still be effective in a book. I imagine the audience, and I believe Kobayashi mentioned it as well, was geared toward younger and a broader audience. Be that as it may, the photos are quite blurry, even for a manga. I know I should research the photos myself and not criticize them without consideration, but I don't think the author knows what he is talking about.

And if a word is mentioned more than three times, it's probably important: the uncomfortable issue of comfort women. Earlier in this course we read about how comfort women were implemented by the Japanese government to pacify the occupied American soldiers post-WWII. However, Kobayashi argues that such a concept does not exist and that women were already selling themselves, so there is no issue outside of their pre-existing presence in history. Of course, to win back the audience he assures the audience that there is sympathy needed given how feminism was not as strong as it is now, but I should say this was the rise, but not the boom, of the #metoo era. Getting back on track, he then goes on to say that by having people argue about the coercion and abuse these women faced, it distracts them from the "issue[s] at hand".

My main issue is really the logic. Say the Westerners want to practice imperialism on the Allies' powers post-WWII treaty; of course, any power dynamic that gives one entity the superior class and another the inferior class regardless of the benefits the inferior class can receive from giving power to the superior class, it still doesn't make it "right' because sooner or later, even a sliver of power imbalance will eventually give rise to the inferior receiving abuse and the superior receiving hate and prejudice.

But his approach to education is faulty. Where have people seen in history a country enforcing its power under the guise of justice and righteousness over another to ensure they will not repeat their sinful mistakes? I expect everyone to name at least a handful because thousands of years of human history have seen this everywhere, every time. And what has the "superior" empire (or its descendants) done? We sweep it under the carpet never to be seen again so as to not "horrify" the descendants' eyes of their cowardly ancestors, but we never see ourselves as "bad" citizens because of them. Ideally, we tell the truth: yes, your ancestors or founders committed an unforgivable sin against these people. You only live the luxuries you have because of that. But, we cannot wallow in guilt or else they will continue to live that way, nor can we ignore it because they will still live that way. We must learn and LEARN FROM OUR MISTAKES.

Likewise the inferior class: it may be easier to play the blame game (it is being played, but that's why learners must seek truth from ALL sides UNbiased) without making themselves look like weak damsels that were "tricked by the conniving [insert superior's derogatory name]." Ideally, people learn not to hate each other for hurting or getting hurt (that easily) because the people who committed those sins are not you. We can only focus on who we are now. I don't know what is the best approach, but I'm glad I learned the one of billions of ways not to heal a generation.

It may be confusing what to do now. All my life I was only who I am because I grew up in where I was. Now I'm here in a place I do not know where. I'm expected to just be happy because I have grown from where I was. But where I was was home for as long as I know. This is not home. At least home was a place I could be, even if not myself. Look around you, you are free as you say you are to be. When you realize you are not, you are still free. Now go be free to make that new world the way you want. Ironically, parties are called "wings" but we are not birds, we are flightless mammals who must depend on others and our brains to survive.

Google had like max 20 photos of this manga, and I'm pretty sure one was from a blogger from this course that I refuse to use. Pretty sure kids would be censored from this stuff, but what do I know? I'm just The Sketchy Heartist.

-03/26/24

[petnews2day]

The cat’s miaow or purr-fect nonsense: can an app translate for your feline friend? | Claire Cohen

New Post has been published on https://petnews2day.com/pet-news/cat-news/the-cats-miaow-or-purr-fect-nonsense-can-an-app-translate-for-your-feline-friend-claire-cohen/

The cat’s miaow or purr-fect nonsense: can an app translate for your feline friend? | Claire Cohen

There are frenzied episodes of growling. Chirps, seemingly in greeting. Purrs of apparent relaxation. And the miaows – for food, affection, to be let out of the window and then back in again. Then out again. Then back in again.

If you live with a feline, these noises will be the soundtrack to your life, something Britain’s 12 million cat owners have become even more familiar with while working from home. Having recently gone freelance, my cat is now my main conversation partner during daylight hours. Except, it’s rather one-sided, isn’t it? I chat away while she replies by sliding her green eyes from side to side, flopping on to a cushion, or noisily licking her backside. Then again, perhaps her name is to blame for the uncertainty: Maybe.

A new app promises help. A self-described “cat translator”, MeowTalk works by identifying a sound from your furry friend and suggesting which one of 13 human phrases it corresponds to. In Japan alone, there have been 17m downloads since launch and 250m miaows recorded. The recently added MeowRoom feature works like Amazon’s Alexa – founder Javier Sanchez was formerly one of its engineers – listening for your cat’s voice in a room and sending the translation to your phone when it’s detected.

I buy the premium version for £2.49 a month immediately.

My husband scoffs. Historically speaking, cats have had a bad press – thought to be the companions of witches in the middle ages and burned alongside them. They are depicted as selfish, vindictive, imperious and caring only where their next meat hit is coming from. On Instagram, owners assign them “Jekyll and Hyde” personalities, painting them as spiteful one minute, adorable the next.

But couldn’t this reputation for fickleness be unmerited? I want to hear from Maybe directly.

A few gentle prods fail to elicit a miaow, so I resort to recording her purrs – which the app’s creators have admitted are harder to translate. Maybe, according to the app, is saying: “Let me relax”, which seems like it could be accurate, seeing as she’s lying sleepily on the sofa while I wave a phone in her face.

Later in the day, I record a few more. What starts as cockle-warming (“You are very special to me” and “We are a bonded pair”) quickly becomes Americanised – “Just chilling!” and “I’m super beat!” – and I wonder whether the app has confused Maybe with Garfield.

The next morning, at breakfast, she miaows loudly. Translation: “Hey baby, let’s go somewhere private!”, which I can only imagine means she’s talking directly to her tin of food. Still, I persevere.

The app’s founders – Sanchez, and Susanne Schotz, author of The Secret Language of Cats – aren’t the first to harness developments in voice recognition technology. After all, the human urge to communicate with animals is strong, if usually anthropomorphic, just look at Dr Dolittle, the scientists who tried to teach animals to talk – from apes to dolphins, and even the popular new Netflix documentary Inside the Mind of a Cat.

They are filling a void. We know relatively little about cats because they’re harder to analyse than other domestic animals. Put a dog in a laboratory and it will usually be fine, but take a cat out of its territory and it won’t act normally, making studies almost impossible. Cats are also bad at showing pain or distress, which is why owners were warned by vets to look carefully for signs of stress or depression during lockdown, when many cats were thought to be upset by the change in routine.

Worried, I downloaded an inferior translation app in the summer of 2020 and followed Maybe around the house in an attempt to see if she could be suffering from mental illness – only stopping when my husband suggested I might be the one showing signs of psychological disturbance.

Overnight, I leave the MeowTalk app running in the bedroom as I sleep. In the morning, my phone has recorded dozens of cat sounds and helpfully revealed that at 6.12am when Maybe jumped on to my face, purring loudly, she was actually telling me: “I need to relax.” I know the feeling.

One quirk of the app is that, by miaowing, humans can trick it into thinking they are cats. I chirp at my phone, “I’m in love!” the screen reads. After several minutes of cajoling, my husband does the same. His low yowl translates as “I’m in a bad mood”, which doesn’t seem altogether inaccurate.

What he does secretly enjoy, though, is listening back to Maybe’s recordings. Sanchez and Scholtz have been contacted by grateful users who have been able to keep treasured clips of their beloved pet after they have died. Others have been able to take their cat to the vet after the app identified possible signs of illness.

As shown by my experience, the technology seems rudimentary. But perhaps they are on to something. Or maybe downloading the software is enough to encourage owners to tune in to what their cats have been trying to tell them all along.

[oshiawaseni]

The unbreakable bond between two disconnected ends

While I do think that Deku is incredibly heroic, I also subscribe to the idea he loses himself the most and goes hardest specifically when it comes to Kacchan, I can’t see him motivated to this extent and acting what appears to be without limit for any other character and between us and Horikoshi knowing this little fact, it makes Bkdk so endearing and easy to rally behind.

A part of me feels that Kacchan sees all of Deku’s actions for him only as his reckless heroism, and that Deku would be like this for anyone… and this might be why they haven’t come to truly understand one another yet. Like is it really such a big coincidence that with the exception of Katsuki Bakugou Rising, Kacchan and Deku have never shown each other their heart and how strongly they feel for one another? Whether it’s simply batting in their corner to others or this deep emotional connection they have causing them stress and worry about the other, tirelessly wanting to get Deku back to the point of sleeplessness, even breakdowns and Deku’s quirk awakenings over Kacchan.

Hence Izuku’s shock with the apology and not accepting being called Izuku by him right away. That was surely because he doesn’t understand the scope of which Kacchan has fiercely worried over him and how that worry is now coming from a love for Izuku that’s probably always been resting inside him. 

But we all know that rather than plain and platonic heroism, that likewise, when it involves Kacchan, Deku’s own loud actions have been coming from a place in his heart occupied by this unchangeable pure love for him and also Deku’s complete inability to accept his own existence in the world without Kacchan somewhere within his reach. Think of “Give him back!” That was the stubborn side of Izuku that wouldn’t let Kacchan go to a place where he couldn’t see him, watch over him and confirm his existence that’s right in front of him. What incredible attachment he has always felt towards him, despite everything.

Izuku kept tabs on Kacchan to the point he knows when he last spoke to him. To Deku, it didn’t matter what Kacchan was doing, as long as he could ascertain his presence nearby and that he’s okay, even if they weren’t necessarily on friendly terms. And Kacchan very much felt the same thing about Deku. “Watch me, Deku.” Watch how strong and cool of a hero I am, watch my back with those big eyes of yours and praise me like you always do. But when he realised Izuku was no longer in his reach, Kacchan fought in earnest for a chance to get him back again, to not just trailing behind him but by his side. Which is why their distance being removed and them communicating like best friends again is such a big deal and would absolutely mean the world to both of them.

I’ve always had a vague sense that Kacchan had been running away from Deku. Which side of Deku had Kacchan been running away from all this time? Heroism? Love? Both? Because Deku’s heart scared him. He didn’t just envy it or feel inferior to it - he also feared it. To me, Kacchan rejecting Deku’s kindness feels like someone saying no to a warm hug from somebody they care about on a freezing winter’s day.  It made no sense. He pushes affection away so much to the point that he’s virtually touch starved now. So why did he really do it? It’s one of Decchan’s mysteries that I wish was explained fully.

And on the other side of things, Deku’s actions towards Kacchan felt more and more nonsensical as the story unfolded. There’s this confounding enigma that despite Kacchan treating Deku awfully for years, Deku has consistently always jumped very strongly to Kacchan’s defense - which makes you wonder what it is about them that allowed Deku to carry his four year old self’s pure and positive feelings towards Kacchan for so long. (This is why middle schooler bkdk is top tier dj for me, they often come up with their own answer to fill the gaping hole of missing context in this complicated bkdk puzzle.) And while I can’t consolidate in my head the truth to the mystery of their past that became such a complicated relationship in its current state (at least not a truth that belongs in a shounen… unless..? haha), I do know that Kacchan is now acutely aware of the fact this entire time he has been loved, not looked down on, by Deku and realised when Deku almost died that he also possesses feelings of love and attachment towards Deku too.

This revelation honestly affected him in a big way. It broke Kacchan’s hardened walls down piece by piece over time, until there was quite literally nothing left but his own exposed heart that he plainly laid out for Izuku.

The shot of the wound from his sacrifice that reopened - bleeding, vulnerable. A beautiful metaphor for his exposed heart and truth that he openly gives to Izuku for the first time in front of everybody. Because he realised Izuku is more important to him than his guilt and his shame and his pride. 

And because they are such an iconic and invincible duo who above anything else, want to take care of each other, this does have me hoping Izuku will take his vulnerable heart and treat it gently at the end of everything, shounen or not.

But as of now, we’re at an emotional stand-still from Izuku’s side.

Kacchan’s words aged very well, past hundreds of chapters because despite being the protag of the story, we are always left wondering how Deku really feels. Kacchan’s frustration at Deku and characterisation of him here is so accurate lately 😅

I get the sense that all of this ambiguity they feel from the other has been written there for a reason and will have a meaningful climax where they will come to understand each other in the coming fight. Horikoshi places purpose behind all of the dialogue he writes - so with the dialogue between Deku and Toga in mind, when it comes to Izuku and Kacchan’s history and both not being fully aware of how much they care for one another, I think in the near future, they will acknowledge the inspiration and strength they’ve found in each other. “Don’t you also want to share the same heart?” Kacchan has been doing this with Izuku ever since DvK2 and we all know Izuku draws his own powers from Kacchan since the very beginning because he sees Kacchan not only as his personal hero, but as the embodiment of strength and confidence and overcoming one’s hardships. He watched him for years win against his biggest one of all: himself.

Because it’s not only All Might he’s been wanting to become more like, but someone else even closer to him. Someone who, without fail, has always motivated him to go beyond, above himself and even all logic and reason. And that someone has always been Kacchan. Ever since they were little. So now I am hoping they come to understand what’s inside each other’s hearts (especially Deku’s which is always shrouded in mystery.)

They understand each other’s strategies perfectly, and yet Izuku and Kacchan have always had this big gap whenever it came to knowing their true feelings. So as an answer to their disconnect over the years, an answer to their relationship which contains a mysterious and profoundly deep bond that leaves us wishing their gap to close even more, it makes sense that a moment will come to pass where they’ll really see and understand each other for the first time, without all of this evasiveness we’ve gotten used to.

[i-write-boop-spoops]

Guzma w/ a Professor! S/O headcanons

I think Professor! readers might be my favourite kind of readers and it's totally not because I like to self-insert myself as a pokemon professor/researcher😅

just wholesome fluff, with a little bit of insecurity on Guz's part but not too much.

Enjoy!

You are Guzma’s favourite professor ever!

Which I guess isn’t that much of a feat now that I think about it

Since he only really knows Kukui and Burnett

While he doesn’t really mind Burnett on principle

She is married to Kukui

And he hates Kukui’s guts with a passion`

So she gets a bit of downgrade in his eyes

Oh, and don’t even get him on started on those Aether motherfuckers

Worst decision he ever made tbh

His best decision ever though?

Asking you out :)

You had a kind of strange first meeting

He was just out by Po Town

Hunting for bugs as usual

When you just popped up out of nowhere

Muttering about something really complicated

With leaves in your hair and some strange instrument in your hand

The scientific kind not the musical kind

But can you imagine???

He just kinda looked at you for a moment, too surprised to say anything right away

And also immediately down bad lol

Arceus, you just looked so adorable!

You apologised to him, explaining that you were researching an interesting phenomenon regarding bug types

Honestly he was curious about it, since it was about B U G S

And did I mention, you were just so cute?

He asked if you wanted to get coffee sometime so you could tell him more about your research

Wild, because my man sustains himself solely off (Pocket)Monster at this point

You’ve been inseparable ever since :)

Even though he has no scientific background whatsoever he loves helping you out when he can

Usually it’s just carrying equipment around for you but he doesn’t mind

Plus, it means he can show off how strong he is to you

And ward off any of your colleagues that might try hit on you

You’re HIS boo and he ain’t leaving until everyone else knows it

A lot of the stuff you research is quite complicated, so it often goes over his head

Though he still tries to listen when you excitedly gush about a new discovery

He thoroughly appreciates it when you make topics easier for him to understand

You sometimes have to go on trips abroad for research/conference purposes

And wow, you’ll never guess who’s your plus one

Spoilers, it’s the big bug man

He just kinda follows you around and helps you take any notes

My man’s front row whenever you have to give a presentation

Giving you encouraging smiles and thumbs up

Telling the scientists next to him “See that super smart professor up there, that’s my baby right there!”

He finds it hard to admit, but he sometimes feels like an idiot

Likes he’s way too dumb and goofy to be dating someone as amazing and as intelligent as you

You’re a professor! You have a PhD!

And he doesn’t even have a high school diploma

It’s not that he feels inferior in the way that he has to better to you

He just believes he’s no good for you

Obviously, you totally disagree!

You think he’s brilliant! So amazing and caring and fun and handsome and wonderful!

Sure, he doesn’t have a PhD, but your big bug man’s quite the smart guy anyways

The lack of a certain piece of paper doesn’t diminish that

As you’re so amazing, you help him become more secure in himself and his intelligence

Also you have a team-skull themed labcoat, which makes him even happier!

[tojisun]

Since the Hurting the Fushiguros agenda is going strong, it’s time to hurt the Gojos too (hehe). Since the story is in the jjk canon(verse?) what do you think will happen at Shibuya? Does Geto/Kenjaku know about Gojos kid? Wife? Since Gojo has such obvious weaknesses now does he do something about it?

I love your writing so much like this story’s been keeping me going for days. I’ve rambled abt it to like everyone I know. And the angst and the drabbles are just perfect. Thank you so much for writing them

not gonna lie but this one was so good to imagine and it's a different flavour of angst and i am living for it!

and thank you so much ahsduab <333

i hope you'll like this one! as usual, i butchered the jjk universe to fit my narrative so i'm sorry if it's wayy canon divergence!

cw: not descriptive but character death (including a child whose age is unspecified but do be warned)

[how we break masterlist]

┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈

kenjaku did not know why it took him this long to find gojo satoru's weakness.

weaknesses, he corrects as he gazes at the pair standing in front of him, trembling and distraught. the kid in your arms is wailing, hiding his face at the crook of your neck as though you could do anything to protect him; as though this is but a nightmare.

"suguru?" you ask, a sob breaking your voice at the end. "i—we thought you're dead."

kenjaku wants to laugh. you don’t know! he should thank satoru for making this easier.

"oh dear," he giggles, "this is even better."

he summons a curse, smile blooming when your son's eyes widen in terror as he watches the curse solidify behind kenjaku. he turns to you and almost scoffs when he notices that you cannot see what he’s calling; what your son is so afraid of.

geto suguru was right, kenjaku thinks as the curse bows to him, non-curse users are miles inferior.

your son screams, tiny lungs trying their best to relay his terror. it is a disgusting noise but kenjaku blooms at the fear, letting the wailing sounds thrum over his skin like water. the confusion in your eyes further excites him, giddily watching as you try to ease your squealing son and crawl away from kenjaku's line of sight.

but it is useless.

a heartbeat and everything is silent.

when the curse is stored away and the pavement is dyed red, kenjaku wonders if satoru even knows that his son could see curses.

he trudges past your bodies, humming lowly as though he could taste satoru's anguish already.

┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈

“you should’ve heard their shrieks, satoru,” suguru says wistfully and satoru’s body locks in place.

no—

“well, your son was loud that’s for sure. but your wife? oh satoru, she didn’t even know what was happening!” suguru chuckles, sighing as though he is remembering something funny.

satoru’s voice is stuck in his throat, heart thundering as pain scratches at his chest and courses through his veins. he flinches when the seal crawls on his skin, tugging and compressing him down.

satoru wants to escape. he needs to escape.

suguru’s wrong. there is no way that you and nen are gone. he’s done everything to keep you and your son safe—everything to hide you from prying curses and vengeful humans.

suguru’s wrong. he has to be.

satoru tries teleporting away, but he is bound and helpless and hopeless and—

it hurts.

“suguru!” he yells, thrashing, “what do you mean? what do you mean?!”

suguru laughs and laughs and satoru is yanked away, darkness creeping on his eyes and blinding him slowly. he flails, doing anything and everything to escape.

“suguru please! please not them—” satoru cries, “i’ll come quietly. i won’t escape, so please! please suguru—”

darkness engulfs him whole.

“no! nonono! suguru no—”

he screams, crying.

┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈

“my love,” he sniffles, “you are the love of my life. my everything. i vow to protect your happiness, all the while making you the happiest person ever. i vow to love you unconditionally and to always be by your side. i will love you faithfully through the difficult and the easy. i marry you with no hesitation or doubt, and my commitment to you is absolute. i love you, my dearest.”

┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈

“megumi,” shoko begins, her face turned to the floor, not meeting his eyes. megumi thinks he knows what she will say but he remains silent, unwilling to acknowledge what is done.

“gojo satoru is sealed,” shoko says. megumi nods even though shoko cannot see him. “gojo y/n and gojo nen are dead.”

megumi nods, this one slower, causing his tears to trek down his pale cheeks and onto his trembling lips.

i know, he thinks.