#its cozy and small... epic ...

[todayisafridaynight]

[asapjens]

BONFIRE

PJO: perseus jackson x shy! reader

SYNOPSIS: as you walked back to your cabin, hand in hand with Percy, you couldn't help but smile, knowing that your world had just become a little brighter.

CATEGORY: fluff and cheesy

WORD COUNT: 368

A warm fire crackled in the center of the camp, casting a cozy glow over the faces of the campers gathered around it.

Percy sat near the flames, his eyes reflecting the dancing light as he regaled the group with one of his epic tales. His voice was animated, and the others were hanging on his every word.

You, on the other hand, sat a little distance away, trying to blend into the shadows, as was your usual practice.

You weren't one for drawing attention to yourself, especially not in front of Percy.

You admired him from afar, content to watch him from a distance, secretly doing small, kind things for him without expecting anything in return.

Tonight, however, something compelled you to inch a bit closer to the fire, your heart fluttering with nervous anticipation.

You found a spot next to Percy, feeling the heat of the flames on your skin as you sat down hesitantly.

Your cheeks were tinged with a delicate blush, a clear indication of your internal struggle to be near him.

Percy noticed your presence and flashed you a warm smile, making your heart skip a beat. "Hey, glad you could join us," he said, his voice gentle as he made room for you.

You managed a shy nod in response, unable to form coherent words in his presence. As he continued his story, you stole glances at him, admiring the way his eyes sparkled with excitement and the passion in his gestures.

As the night wore on, you found yourself drawn to Percy's side, your fingers subtly inching closer to his.

To your surprise, he reached out and intertwined his fingers with yours, his touch sending a jolt of electricity through you.

It was a simple gesture, but it spoke volumes, and you felt a warmth spreading through your entire being.

For the first time, you allowed yourself to relax in his presence, feeling a sense of belonging that you had never experienced before.

As Percy's story came to an end, he turned to you with a soft smile, his eyes meeting yours in a silent understanding.

As the night came to a close, you left the bonfire with a newfound sense of courage, knowing that your quiet heart had finally found its rhythm in the presence of the one you admired most.

And as you walked back to your cabin, hand in hand with Percy, you couldn't help but smile, knowing that your world had just become a little brighter.

[amongemeraldclouds]

a cozy adventure

When the rain gets in the way of your afternoon plans, your boyfriend invites you to a cozy, indoor adventure instead (fluff).

a hug from behind | theodore nott | flufftober masterlist | established relationship | 346 words

You watched the rain pelting outside as the gray sky rumbled with the promise of more rain. Brown and orange leaves decorated the small stream flowing down the canals, draining your afternoon plans along with it.

The weather report promised a sunny day. A day for picking apples in orchards and screaming in haunted houses. Yet here you were, frowning by the window.

A pair of hands distracted you from your thoughts and soon you felt strong arms encircling your middle, calming your stormy thoughts.

Theo pressed your back to his body and you savoured just how well you fit against each other. You inhaled the woodsy scent of his cologne as he placed a tender kiss on your forehead.

He leaned into your ear and whispered reassuringly, "it's okay, amore." You closed your eyes, no longer sure why you were so worried in the first place. Theo was here, you had all you needed.

"The book we pre-ordered finally arrived yesterday," he said, his thumb drawing lazy circles on your side as he held you in his arms.

Your eyes lit up. It was the highly anticipated book of the year that promised an epic tale of adventure, mystery, and romance. The book had it all. "A reading date it is!" you exclaimed, rushing to the kitchen to prepare chai latte and snacks. Theo, for his part, lit up the fireplace and prepared the blankets.

You snuggled in the couch together, using Theo as your backrest. He wrapped his arms around you as he held out the book so you could read together. You stopped every now and then to highlight memorable phrases and annotate your thoughts.

You soon found yourselves guessing mysteries together, imagining how you'd be like if you were in the fictional world you were reading about, cheering on the protagonists. So far, the book lived up to its potential.

Outside, the rain continued its onslaught as the wind howled in the distance. But it didn't matter anymore. You were with Theo, warm and dry in his arms, as you lost yourselves in a fictional adventure. There was nowhere else you'd rather be.

[thewriteadviceforwriters]

Character Development in Different Genres: Tailoring Personalities to Fit Your Story's Needs | Part I of Character Development Series

When it comes to writing, one of the most exciting and challenging aspects is creating compelling characters. Whether you're penning a thrilling mystery, a heartwarming romance, a gripping fantasy, or a thought-provoking literary novel, the characters you bring to life play a pivotal role in captivating your readers. However, not all characters are created equal, and tailoring their personalities to fit the specific requirements of your chosen genre is essential for a successful and engaging story.

So, how can you ensure that your characters shine in the context of their genre? Let's embark on an insightful journey into the art of character development across different literary landscapes.

The Foundation of Genre-Specific Characters

Before delving into the intricacies of character development, it's crucial to understand that each genre comes with its own set of expectations and conventions. While a hard-boiled detective might thrive in a gritty crime thriller, they might feel out of place in a whimsical fantasy world. Therefore, the first step in crafting genre-specific characters is immersing yourself in the nuances and tone of the genre itself.

For instance, in a fast-paced action-adventure novel, the protagonist is often characterized by their resourcefulness, courage, and determination in the face of danger. On the other hand, a character in a cozy mystery may possess a keen eye for detail, a sharp wit, and a knack for uncovering secrets amidst the charm of a small town. By understanding the core elements of the genre, you can lay a sturdy foundation for building characters that resonate with the expectations of your readers.

Investigating Character Traits Across Genres

Let's take a closer look at how character traits can be tailored to suit different genres:

1. Adventure/Thriller:

Courage and Resilience: Characters in this genre often face high-stakes challenges and adrenaline-pumping situations. Their ability to confront danger with courage and resilience is a defining trait.

Quick Thinking: Whether escaping a treacherous trap or outsmarting a cunning adversary, characters in adventure and thriller novels are often marked by their ability to think on their feet.

2. Romance:

Emotional Depth: Characters in romance novels thrive on emotional connections. Their vulnerabilities, hopes, and desires form the cornerstone of their personality.

Charm and Passion: A touch of charisma and passion can elevate romantic protagonists, making them irresistible to both their love interests and readers.

3. Fantasy:

Imagination and Wonder: In the realms of fantasy, characters embody boundless imagination and a sense of wonder. Their belief in the extraordinary and the magical defines their essence.

Epic Journeys and Destinies: From chosen heroes to enigmatic wanderers, characters in fantasy often carry the weight of epic destinies and monumental quests.

4. Mystery:

Curiosity and Intellect: Mystery protagonists are marked by their insatiable curiosity and sharp intellect. Their inquisitive nature drives them to uncover the truth hidden within the enigmatic plots of their stories.

Intrigue and Suspicion: Characters in mystery novels often harbor secrets of their own, adding layers of intrigue and suspicion to their personas.

Crafting Characters with Genre-Specific Flair

Now that we've glimpsed into the distinctive traits that define characters across genres, it's time to infuse our characters with that genre-specific flair. Here are some creative strategies to tailor your characters to fit the unique demands of different genres:

1. Know Your Readers:

Before sculpting your characters, get to know your intended audience. Understanding their expectations and preferences within a particular genre can guide your character development process.

2. Subverting Tropes:

While adhering to genre conventions is important, don't shy away from subverting tropes to inject fresh and unexpected elements into your characters. This can breathe new life into well-trodden genres.

3. Embracing Authenticity:

No matter the genre, authentic and relatable characters are the cornerstone of captivating storytelling. Infuse your characters with genuine emotions and experiences that resonate with your readers.

4. Reflecting the Setting:

Characters are not isolated entities; they are shaped by the worlds they inhabit. Reflect the essence of the genre's setting in your characters' mannerisms, speech, and worldview.

5. Dynamic Character Arcs:

Consider how your characters' arcs can align with the thematic essence of the genre. From personal growth in literary fiction to valiant heroism in fantasy, tailor their journeys to harmonize with the genre's spirit.

The Power of Balancing Familiarity and Innovation

While it's essential to cater to the expectations of your chosen genre, it's equally vital to infuse your characters with a spark of innovation. Readers are drawn to characters who feel both familiar and refreshingly unique. By blending genre-specific traits with innovative twists, you can create characters that stand out while remaining rooted in the essence of their genre.

Unleashing Genre-Defying Characters

In the ever-expanding universe of literature, the art of character development is a dynamic and thrilling endeavor. As you embark on the journey of crafting characters for different genres, remember to immerse yourself in the heart of each genre, cultivate characters with depth and resonance, and balance convention with innovation.

Ultimately, the characters you create have the potential to transcend genres, captivating readers across a diverse spectrum of storytelling. So, unleash your imagination, breathe life into your characters, and watch as they navigate the rich tapestries of diverse genres, leaving an indelible mark on the literary landscape.

So, fellow writers, as you embark on your next literary odyssey, may your characters be as diverse as the genres they inhabit, and may their stories resonate with readers far and wide.

Happy writing! Warm regards, Ren T.

[noideabutsims]

 [Exciting Announcement! 🎉] Donut Co.'s Pre-School Play Set is ALMOST HERE!

Hey Simmers! We know you've been patiently waiting (and we've been sweating) over this massive project... but the wait is ALMOST OVER! Donut Co. is thrilled to give you a sneak peek of the creative explosion that's about to hit your Sims' worlds:

🍩 Donut Co.'s Dream-Build-Play Blocks: Unleash your little Sim's inner architect with this colossal collection of colorful, kid-safe foam blocks. Build towering castles, sprawling towns, or anything their imagination can dream up!

🚗 Build-Your-World Rugs - Explore With Me Edition: Take playtime to the next level with these nostalgic, detailed town rugs. Watch as your Sims embark on epic adventures, cruising through bustling streets and discovering hidden corners.

✨ Little Ones Reading Time Rugs: Make story time extra special with these vibrant and durable rugs, designed to spark imagination and foster a love of learning.

About The Set: Hold onto your hats, Simmers, because Donut Co. is about to revolutionize playtime in your virtual worlds! Introducing the Dream-Build-Play Blocks – a mind-blowing collection of 24 unique block creations that will transform your Sims' homes into vibrant wonderlands of fun and imagination.

Picture this: towering playhouses bursting with color, adorable dollhouses begging to be explored, and stacks of nesting blocks just waiting to be built into towering masterpieces. Your little Sims will squeal with delight as they dive into a world of endless possibilities!

But wait, there's more! We've sprinkled in a rainbow of vibrant hues, a playful nod to Pride Month and a guaranteed way to make your Sims' spaces pop! Toddlers will giggle with glee as they tumble through block tunnels, children will create sprawling cities, and even your adult Sims will be tempted to join in on the fun.

And don't forget those oh-so-cozy reading nooks! Our Little Ones Reading Time Rugs now come in "classroom clean" and "playtime messy" versions, perfect for sparking a love of learning or simply adding a touch of realism to your Sims' homes. Plus, our Explore With Me rugs will transport your little ones to a world of imaginative play, with their charming towns and winding roads.

This set is a Simmer's dream come true, with endless options for customization and play. Whether you're building a bustling metropolis or a cozy corner for quiet time, the Dream-Build-Play Blocks are sure to inspire hours of fun for Sims of all ages.

So what are you waiting for? Unleash your inner child, let your creativity run wild, and give your Sims the playtime they deserve with Donut Co.'s Dream-Build-Play Blocks!

Behind the Scenes:

This project was a labor of love that faced its fair share of challenges. We dealt with so many snags, for a moment we didn't know if this set would be finished or released at all. But a HUGE thank you goes out to @taurusdesign for all the help they have given with this project. They are the only reason this set is able to be released, as they were able to help me fix all the meshing issue and the shadows. From technical hiccups to design dilemmas, we've poured our hearts (and a few tears) into bringing you the best possible experience. But trust us, it's been worth every minute, and the finished product is just around the corner! Truth about shadows: There is one small issue that is noticed, that I can not find a solution for. There are some shadows before placing a few of the objects, but they disappear as soon as the objects are actually placed (Pictured below). I am not sure how to fix this, so this may end up in the final project, unless someone has an idea in which case please let me know! <3

Get Ready to Play!

Stay tuned for the official launch date – it's coming VERY soon! In the meantime, start dreaming up the amazing creations your Sims will build with these new additions.

Thank You!

We couldn't have made it to this point without your unwavering support and enthusiasm. Your patience throughout this journey means the world to us. So, from the bottom of our sim-loving hearts, THANK YOU! We can't wait to see the amazing creations your Sims will build with these new additions.

Stay Tuned for the Big Day! 💖🍩

[imissylou]

 Sims 4 LOTR Legacy Challenge

Welcome to my Sims 4 LOTR Legacy Challenge!

As a lifelong fan of The Sims, I’ve always enjoyed creating unique and immersive stories for my sims. Meanwhile, my boyfriend is a huge "The Lord of the Rings" enthusiast, with an impressive collection of memorabilia and an encyclopedic knowledge of Middle-earth lore. We often share our passions with each other, and this time, we decided to blend our interests into an epic adventure in The Sims 4!

The result? A Legacy Challenge that combines the enchanting world of Middle-earth with the creativity and fun of The Sims 4. Each generation of my legacy family will be inspired by iconic characters and themes from J.R.R. Tolkien's masterpiece, following their own quests and adventures in the game.

Join me as I guide my sims through the trials and triumphs of this LOTR-themed legacy, from humble Hobbit holes to majestic Elven realms, and everything in between. Let's embark on this journey together and see how the spirit of Middle-earth comes to life in the world of The Sims!

(Made by me)

General Rules

Starting Out:

Create a founder sim inspired by a LOTR character.

Move your founder into an empty lot and build a home with starter funds or start with $0.

No cheats allowed (except for resetting sims if needed).

Aging and Lifespan:

Set the game to Normal lifespan. Short if you want a challenge

All aging must be enabled, including NPC aging.

Heir Rules:

Each generation's heir must be directly related to the founder.

The heir is typically the first-born child but can be chosen based on story elements or player preference.

Mods and Custom Content:

Mods and custom content (CC) are allowed, especially if they enhance the LOTR theme.

Avoid mods that make the challenge significantly easier.

Gameplay Restrictions:

No money cheats or other gameplay shortcuts.

Only sell items created or collected by your sims (e.g., gardening, fishing, painting).

The official tag for this challenge is #LOTRLegacyChallenge

Made by imissylou 

here's the DOC

Read the first gen under the cut!

Generation 1: The Hobbit (Frodo)

Starting Out

Create Your Founder: Create a sim inspired by Frodo Baggins.

Aspiration: Outdoor Enthusiast

Traits: Loves the Outdoors, Cheerful, Good

Move In: Move your founder into an empty lot. Build a small, cozy home reminiscent of a Hobbit hole. Use modest furnishings to reflect the humble lifestyle of Hobbits.

Goals and Objectives

Gardening and Fishing Skills:

Max Out Gardening: Frodo is known for his love of the Shire and its natural beauty. Your sim must max out the Gardening skill.

Max Out Fishing: Spend time fishing in local ponds and rivers to max out the Fishing skill.

Form Close Friendships:

Fellowship of the Ring: Form close friendships with at least four other sims, representing the Fellowship. These can be new characters or other sims in the world.

Consider sims with different traits and backgrounds to mimic the diversity of the Fellowship (e.g., a brave sim, a wise sim, a loyal sim).

Adventure and Exploration:

Travel: Visit different locations to simulate Frodo’s journey across Middle-earth. Spend time in Granite Falls (representing the wilderness) and Selvadorada (for a more exotic adventure).

Collectibles: Gather unique collectibles from these travels. Aim to collect all types of frogs, insects, or crystals.

Maintain a Simple Lifestyle:

Off-the-Grid: Enable the "Off-the-Grid" lot trait for a more authentic Hobbit experience.

Small Home: Keep your home small and cozy. Upgrades are allowed, but the home should always feel modest and welcoming.

Storytelling:

Diary: Keep a diary (in the form of a journal or book) where Frodo writes about his adventures and friendships. This can be done by having your sim write in a journal or create books using the Writing skill.

Photos: Take photos of key moments and places visited. Display these photos in the home to create a visual record of Frodo’s journey.

Additional Challenges

Quest for the One Ring:

Find the One Ring: Choose a specific item in the game to represent the One Ring. This could be a unique collectible or a family heirloom. Once found, it must be kept safe and displayed prominently in the home. An idea could be using the crystal creations stuff pack to make your own ring.

Resist Temptation:

Avoid Wealth: Frodo’s journey is about resisting the lure of power and wealth. Keep household funds modest. Any large windfalls should be donated to charity or used to help friends and neighbors.

Hobbiton Community:

Community Garden: Create a community garden on your lot where friends can come to help tend plants and enjoy the outdoors together.

[anxietygremlin7]

BOTHERING YOU!!! DOING MY JOB AS A MOOT!!

Hi pookie, how are you <3

I'm building a bed in your askbox because its kind of cozy in here, you've done so much with the place!!

Do you have any thoughts on Southern Tango Tek, small man in my pocket, and if he would use the word "drunkificate" or "drunkify"? I'm stuck on what to use.

Love you!! <3

HI SAUCE!!!!!

I'm actually doin pretty well rn, thanks for asking (saw some cool trees today and a very epic waterfall(it wasn't super massive but the hike I went on wasn't supposed to have any water so it was a nice surprise)) I hope you're doin well too :)

oooo yes, you are totally welcome to stay here! I do try to make it as comfy as possible, but feel free to add any decorations or things as you see fit!!

Thoughts on Southern Tango Tek. Well then. I think we can starts with the obvious, that man knows how to charm anyone to death. Literally reading that first chapter and getting to know the characters was such an experience, I've never seen anyone write Tango like that and it just worked soooo well!! And the few "southern-ism's" we've gotten to see do far have been hilarious (like the whole "oil" conversation, had me genuinely laughing out loud) and I can't wait to see more of them!!!! (also as someone who loves ice tea, I can appreciate his obsession with it, even tho I'm not quite on his level lol)

One more random thing here before I get to your actually question (well, actually two things): first, idk how normal this is but whenever I read stuff I'm sort of reading it "out loud" in my head (if that makes sense) but for some reason, I just can't read/hear Tango's dialogue with a southern accent? like, I know what they sound like, and I am well aware he has one (and uses it inappropriately if I may add) but when I'm reading, it just doesn't register for some reason

second, I've had multiple ppl ask me (irl) if I'm from the south/if I have relatives from there because they think I have a southern accent. I have never been to the south, or any place when they have that sort of accent, I have heard ppl talk with those accents irl a handful of times, maybe, yet for some reason, when I'm nervous I slur my words just enough for ppl to think I have a southern accent. Strange thing's goin on in Grem Land! (that was your random piece of unsolicited Grem Lore TM)

Anyways, now to answer your actual question (I do like to ramble don't I....welp lol)

I'm not a grammar nerd like you (/aff (you actually taught me how to use em-dashes and now I use them quite often so thanks for that lol)) but I think it depends on what he's talking about. Like "drunkificate" sounds like he's talking to his friend about going out to the bar and getting drunk while "drunkify" sound more like getting someone else drunk? like maybe during Jimmy's birthday party (if he lets Grian do the bar crawl he wants to) Tango's there and excited and says to Jimmy, "Now it's officially time to drunkify you!" while already being pretty tipsy himself. I honestly could also see him saying "Time to drunkificate you!" as well tho. I would also like to add my own take on this with "drunkification". I feel like this works with the day he talks and could be a good word to use when he's talking about the process of becoming drunk. Like, during this hypothetical bar crawl, Tango walks into the last bar they're goin too, already quite drunk himself, arm around Jimmy who's not immune to the alcohol either, and just shouts at the top of his lungs with the rest of the party crew behind him, "Drunkification time!!!". The rest of the ppl in the bar all look at them for a second and then turn back to their conversations because that's definitely not the weirdest thing they've seen in a college town bar.

uhh anyways, those were my very long winded rambly thoughts, hopefully you appreciated them or at least found them a tad bit funny!!! :)))

love you too <3

(also I've been typing this whole thing during out back-and-forth under your Tango Tek eye color post lol, so thank you sm for that <333)

[thetreehousechronicles]

Healing Week

Summary: When Wally has to return to Australia for a few weeks, Kuki and Hoagie find themselves alone together for the first time since becoming a polyamorous trio. As old best friends turned tentative partners, they begin to navigate what it really means to love each other—not just Wally. With awkward moments, sweet late-night talks, thunderstorm cuddles, and lots of emotional honesty, the healing begins. But when Wally finally returns, the love they all share is stronger than ever. A soft, slice-of-life polycule fanfic filled with hugs, kisses, and quiet nights under shared blankets.

A/N: I'm trying a new writing style, what do you all think? This one okay?

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　

The clock on the Treehouse wall ticked quietly past midnight, but for Wally, Kuki, and Hoagie, time had ceased to exist. Tonight was just theirs, a suspended moment before Wally's flight to Australia. Kuki was a soft weight against Wally’s side, her cheek pressed to his shoulder, fingers lightly tracing the hem of his hoodie as if to memorize its every thread. Wally sat cross-legged on the blanket-covered floor of Kuki’s room, leaning into her comforting presence, his other arm resting lazily behind Hoagie, who was sprawled on his stomach beside them, eating marshmallows straight from the bag.

“This is our last night before you ditch us,” Hoagie declared, his words muffled by a mouthful of sticky sweetness. “We should do something epic. Like—build a jetpack out of spaghetti. Or prank Numbuh 1 into thinking we all got turned into goldfish.” Wally snorted. “You’d miss me if I were a goldfish.” Hoagie leaned back with a dramatic sigh. “Yeah, but I could keep you in a fancy bowl on my desk and feed you like royalty.” Kuki giggled, poking Wally’s cheek. “Don’t let him. He’ll forget to clean the tank.”

“I would not! …Okay, I would. But I’d still love you, fish and all.” Wally rolled his eyes, but a faint pink crept up his ears. They had spent the entire evening squeezing every drop of joy from their last moments: banana smoothies, a backyard stargazing session where Kuki had brought out glow-in-the-dark Rainbow Monkey stickers, and even a dance-off to old mission music that left Wally and Hoagie panting on the floor while Kuki remained gloriously undefeated.

Now, the three of them were huddled in Kuki’s room beneath a colossal quilt fort, a sprawling creation of blankets, twinkling fairy lights, and enough pillows to bury an adult. The floor was a battlefield of half-empty candy wrappers and one abandoned sock. “Okay,” Hoagie declared, flopping onto his back, arms wide. “Cuddle formation. Let’s go.” Kuki was already crawling toward the fort’s cozy center, dragging two plush Rainbow Monkeys with her. “Hoagie in the middle!” “Always,” he said proudly. “I’m the best human heater in the Northern Hemisphere.” Wally groaned as he laid down beside him. “You’re a furnace. Every time I sleep next to you, I wake up drenched in sweat.”

“And yet,” Hoagie smirked, nudging him, “you always end up there anyway.” Wally didn’t answer, but he didn’t move either. His arm simply settled loosely over Hoagie’s waist, and his leg brushed against Kuki’s knee as she nestled in on the other side, her head resting on Hoagie’s chest. “Hey,” Kuki whispered after a long, quiet moment, her voice barely audible. “Do you really have to go?” Wally’s voice was low, soft. “Yeah… Mum’s been asking for months.” Kuki’s fingers curled lightly into the fabric of Hoagie’s pajama shirt. “I know. I just—gonna miss your grumpy face.” There was a pause, heavy with unspoken feelings.

“Yeah, well,” Wally murmured, a small smile playing on his lips, “gonna miss your stupid giggles.” Kuki smiled against Hoagie’s chest, a fragile, sweet thing. “Hey,” Hoagie said, wrapping his arms around both of them, pulling them closer. “You guys know we’ll be fine, right? Wally goes, we hold down the fort, and when he comes back, we’re still us. All of us. Nothing changes.” “You promise?” Kuki asked, her voice small. “I pinky swear,” Hoagie said seriously, wiggling his hand up toward her. She locked pinkies with him, then reached across him to Wally, who reluctantly joined the chain with a grumble and a faint smirk.

“There. Triangle promise,” Hoagie whispered, a sacred vow. Kuki yawned and curled in closer, Hoagie’s warmth already making her eyelids flutter shut. “I love you both,” she mumbled, drifting. Hoagie smiled, his own eyes beginning to close. “Love you, too.” Wally didn’t say anything right away. But a second later, he leaned forward just enough to press a soft kiss to Kuki’s temple… then to Hoagie’s hair. “Love you, dorks.”

And in the quiet of the Treehouse, under a glowing ceiling of blanket light and shared warmth, the three of them fell asleep tangled in each other’s arms. Tomorrow Wally would leave. But tonight, they were whole, a perfect, unbreakable triangle. The sun was barely up, casting a soft golden haze over the Beetles’ house driveway. The Treehouse was quiet behind them. Too quiet. All of Wally’s bags were packed, loaded into the back of the car. His mum sat inside, sunglasses perched on her head and a half-drunk coffee in her hand, granting the kids their precious, final moments.

Kuki clung to Wally like the world might shatter if she let go. Her face was pressed into the crook of his neck, arms wound tight around him, fingers curled into the back of his hoodie as if she were trying to fuse them together. She hadn’t spoken in the last minute—just breathed in the familiar scent of him and held on, desperately. “I’ll be back in a week,” Wally murmured into her hair, his voice gentle. “Not forever, okay?” Kuki sniffled. “But a week is like… fifty-four thousand minutes.”

“You counted?!”

Wally pulled back slightly, a surprised grin on his face“…No, I Googled it.” Wally chuckled, the sound muffled by her hair. He pulled back just enough to cup her cheeks, his thumbs tracing gentle circles. “I love you, Kooks. Okay? So much. Be good while I’m gone.” She nodded, blinking fast to hold back fresh tears. “Only if you come back with a koala.”

“No promises,” he grinned, leaning in for a kiss. It was sweet, familiar, and warm—the kind of kiss built from years of friendship and love, now laced with a quiet ache of impending separation. He kissed her again, on her forehead this time, and whispered something too soft for Hoagie to hear. Then, with a deep breath, Wally turned to Hoagie. “Alright,” he muttered, rubbing the back of his neck, a hint of awkwardness in his posture. “C’mere, nerd.”

Hoagie didn’t hesitate, stepping into the embrace and letting Wally’s arms wrap around him with surprising tightness. Their chins knocked awkwardly, and Hoagie half-laughed. “You smell like fabric softener,” Wally grumbled, but his grip remained firm. “Thank you. I bathed in it.” Wally huffed out a breath, a sound of amusement, but didn’t let go. As they finally separated, Wally kept a hand on Hoagie’s shoulder, tugging him slightly to the side. “Hey. Real talk.” Hoagie’s smile softened, becoming something quieter. “Yeah?”

Wally glanced briefly back at Kuki, who was wiping her eyes and straightening the sleeve of her green cardigan, trying to compose herself. Then he looked back at Hoagie, his expression serious. “Are you gonna be okay?” Hoagie hesitated, a flicker of understanding in his eyes. He knew exactly what Wally meant. Just a few weeks ago, Kuki had sat on the swings with Wally, her voice quiet and trembling, confessing, “Sometimes it feels like Hoagie doesn’t want me here. Like I’m just tagging along in your relationship. And I know that’s not true, but… it still hurts.” Wally knew it wasn’t true, but he also knew Hoagie could get weird with feelings, that his goofy exterior sometimes covered up how much he overthought everything.

Hoagie swallowed, his gaze distant for a moment. “I’ve been thinking about that a lot. What she said. And she’s right, you know? Not about the not wanting her part, because that’s ridiculous—she’s my girlfriend too. But about me not showing it. Not being as present. I guess I’ve just… been scared to mess it up.” Wally nodded slowly. “So what’re you gonna do?” “I’m gonna fix it,” Hoagie said, his voice firm with newfound resolve. “I’ve got this time now. And I’m gonna use it. I wanna make her laugh more. Take her out. Be more than just the funny guy in the background. I don’t want her to ever feel like an outsider again.” Wally’s lips tugged into the smallest, proudest smile, though a hint of worry still lingered in his eyes.

“Good. She deserves that.”

“I know.”

“And so do you,” Wally added softly, placing a hand on Hoagie’s arm. “Don’t forget that.” They stood in silence for a beat, a silent acknowledgment passing between them. Then Wally stepped forward again, pulling Hoagie into a tighter, more genuine hug. “If anything goes wrong, text me. Call me. I don’t care if it’s three in the morning or whatever. I’ll answer.”

"Thanks,” Hoagie mumbled into Wally’s shoulder. Wally leaned back, then did the most Wally thing ever: he quickly kissed Hoagie on the cheek—fast, but undeniably sincere. “Now go be a good boyfriend before I fly across the world and regret not double-knotting you two together.” They laughed, a shared moment of lightness, and Wally turned back to Kuki. One last hug for her. One last promise. And then, with a final wave, he got into the car. Kuki and Hoagie stood on the sidewalk, side by side, watching as the car rolled down the hill, Wally sticking his hand out the window to wave until he vanished from sight. Kuki’s hand slowly lowered, her arm falling limply to her side. She bit her lip, hugging her arms to her chest. “…It’s weird without him already.”

Hoagie gently took her hand, his touch comforting. “I know. I feel it too.” She glanced up at him, her eyes still a little puffy. “You sure you’re gonna be okay… with just me?” Hoagie blinked, then his expression softened, a genuine smile forming. “Hey. You’re not ‘just’ anything, Kooks.” He squeezed her hand. “I know I haven’t been the best at showing it, but I really do love you. And this week… I wanna do this right. Us. You and me. Not just until Wally comes back, but because you matter. Because you deserve that.”

Kuki’s eyes welled up again—but not with sadness this time. With hope. She squeezed his hand tight, leaned her head against his shoulder, and whispered, “Okay.” Hoagie kissed the top of her head, gentle and careful. And the two of them stood there for a moment longer, side by side, holding hands as the morning breeze carried Wally’s warmth off into the distance—leaving behind two people who were ready to grow into something stronger together.

The first few days after Wally left were quiet. Not the sad kind of quiet—just different. Kuki and Hoagie had always been best friends. They’d known each other for years; she knew when Hoagie was faking a laugh, and he knew which Rainbow Monkey episodes made her cry. But this was different. This was holding hands on purpose. This was brushing shoulders and meaning it. This was trying to turn comfort into closeness. On Day One, they went out for smoothies. Hoagie, in an uncharacteristic display, opened the door for her and immediately stammered, “Wait, was that weird? I don’t usually open doors for people but I thought maybe it’d be sweet but now I’m just narrating it and—”

Kuki giggled, her eyes sparkling. “No, I liked it. You’re cute.” Hoagie blushed to his ears and nearly dropped his wallet. On Day Two, she tentatively asked if it’d be okay to rest her head on his lap while they watched a movie. Hoagie nodded so fast he nearly gave himself whiplash. And when her hair tickled his arm, he sat perfectly still, a statue of quiet affection, so he wouldn’t disturb her.

That night, he texted Wally:

HOAGIE: she fell asleep watching rainbow monkey wars part 2. am i doing okay?

WALLY: she’s sleeping on you you’re doing amazing also that movie sucks

On Day Four, Kuki made pancakes. Not just pancakes—Rainbow Monkey-shaped ones with little syrup hearts. Hoagie helped with the batter and, inevitably, got flour on his nose. Kuki laughed, and without thinking, she kissed it off before freezing, realizing what she’d done. They stared at each other for half a second, the air thick with unspoken wonder. Then she smiled, a slow, gentle blossoming. “That was okay, right?”

“Yeah,” Hoagie breathed, his voice barely a whisper. “That was more than okay.” Hoagie was in the living room, on a video call with Wally. His laptop sat on the coffee table, and Wally’s face flickered with digital static every now and then. He looked tired but happy, the lights behind him showing a glimpse of his old bedroom in Sydney. “Okay, and then she says—‘That’s not a unicorn, that’s just a goat with sparkly depression’ and I swear, I almost choked on my cereal—”

A deep BOOM rolled through the house. Hoagie blinked, glancing toward the window, a casual “Whoa” escaping his lips. Wally’s screen froze for a second. Then—Wally’s eyes widened, a sudden, urgent realization dawning. “Wait. Was that thunder?” Hoagie nodded. “Yeah, why?” The pause was immediate. Heavy. Tense. Wally rubbed his face, his brow furrowed. “Oh, crap. I forgot to tell you... Kuki. She’s… really scared of thunder.” Hoagie straightened up instantly, alarm shooting through him. “What? Since when?”

“Since forever. Like, panic-level scared. I usually sit with her, get her to breathe through it. If she disappears when it hits—check closets. Or under beds. Once she hid in the bathroom cabinet.” Hoagie’s stomach twisted. He stood up, the casual conversation forgotten. “Okay. I’ll check on her.” Wally said. “If you find her, just stay with her, alright? She hates feeling alone during storms.”

“Got it. Thanks, man.” They hung up. Hoagie didn't even grab his slippers—he just ran upstairs barefoot. “Kuki?” he called gently, his voice laced with concern. No answer. Lightning flashed outside, illuminating the hallway in a blinding white. Thunder cracked hard, making the windows rattle. He opened her bedroom door. No one. Her Rainbow Monkeys sat untouched on the bed, silent witnesses. The bathroom? Empty. Then he remembered Wally’s words: “Check closets.”

He moved to the hallway closet near her room and opened the door carefully. “Kuki?” There she was. Curled up in the corner, knees hugged to her chest, her hoodie sleeves pulled over her hands like a shield. Her eyes were squeezed shut, and both palms were pressed firmly over her ears. Her lip trembled, a fragile sign of distress. She didn’t even see him at first. Hoagie dropped to his knees, his heart aching. “Hey. Hey, it’s me. It’s Hoagie.”

Her eyes fluttered open, blinking through her fear. She didn’t say anything, but her shoulders eased a little, a minuscule release of tension. He didn’t pull her out. He didn’t try to talk her through it, knowing words were useless against such a primal fear. He simply stepped inside the closet, squeezed himself into the tiny space beside her, and slowly, gently, put an arm around her. He let her lean against him when she was ready, offering the quiet anchor of his presence.

Kuki didn’t say anything at first. Just burrowed closer, seeking refuge. Her hands were still trembling against her ears. “Wally told me,” Hoagie whispered after a moment, his voice soft against her hair. “About thunder. I’m sorry I didn’t know sooner.” She nodded slowly against his chest. “I’ve got you now, okay?” he promised, his grip tightening reassuringly. “I’m not going anywhere.”

They sat like that for a long time. Each rumble of thunder was a little less scary when she had his steady heartbeat to focus on. At some point, her breathing evened out. She stopped flinching. Her fingers uncurled from her ears. Eventually, Kuki fell asleep against him, utterly exhausted. And Hoagie stayed there—in that too-small closet, his legs falling asleep and his hoodie bunched awkwardly around her—holding her like she was the most important thing in the world. Because she was.

It was just past midnight. The house was still, save for the hum of the AC and the rhythmic tick of the grandfather clock in the hallway. Hoagie sat comfortably on the living room couch, his favorite worn hoodie draped over his shoulder, laptop perched on a pillow. He looked tired, but in that deeply content way, as if his heart had been overflowing all day. The video call connected with a soft chime. Wally’s face popped onto the screen, the dim lighting behind him suggesting he was in his own quiet space. His hair was still damp from a shower, tousled and familiar.

“You look like you’ve been hit by a love truck,” Wally smirked, taking a long sip of water from a comically large mug. Hoagie chuckled, a soft, fond sound. “It was an emotional lightning storm, actually.” “…So it was bad?” Wally’s brow furrowed slightly. “No, no! I mean—” Hoagie laughed softly, rubbing his eyes, the memory of the night still fresh. “Kuki’s okay now. But yeah. You weren’t kidding about her being scared of thunder.” Wally’s expression softened, the teasing fading. “She hid, huh?”

“Closet,” Hoagie confirmed, a quiet gravity in his voice. “I found her curled up, shaking, hands clamped over her ears. I didn’t try to move her or talk her through it—I just… sat with her. Held her. She eventually fell asleep on me.” Wally leaned back against what appeared to be his headboard, quiet for a long moment, absorbing the image. Then, a faint, proud smile touched his lips. “Good. That’s good. You did good, Hoagie.” Hoagie nodded, a quiet satisfaction settling over him. “Thanks. She didn’t say much, but she relaxed eventually. I kinda felt honored, honestly. Like she trusted me.” Wally’s smirk twitched back, but his eyes remained sincere. “Yeah, well. Just—don’t tell anyone about it, alright? Especially not Numbuh 5.”

“I wasn’t gonna,” Hoagie replied quickly, understanding dawning. “I figured she’d want that private.” Wally let out a slow breath, a hint of relief in the sound. “She’s… always been a little insecure about it. Never told Numbuh 5, not even her sister. She doesn't know why it hits her that hard—just that it does. The fear just… consumes her.” Hoagie gave a quiet, understanding nod, picturing Kuki in the closet. “I get that.” They sat in thoughtful silence for a moment, the unspoken camaraderie between them strengthening. Then Wally chuckled under his breath, a nostalgic warmth in his voice. “I did the same thing once, y’know.”

“Yeah?” Hoagie leaned in, intrigued. “Last summer,” Wally said, his eyes distant with the memory. “Storm rolled in at, like, two in the morning. I woke up and realized she wasn’t in bed. Found her huddled by the fridge—don’t ask why the kitchen, she couldn’t explain it either.” Hoagie smiled warmly, imagining the scene. “So what’d you do?” “Got two mugs of cocoa. Sat with her on the floor till she stopped shaking. Then we snuck back to her room, climbed under all the blankets, and I just… held her ‘til the sun came up.” There was something reverent in the way he said it—a quiet kind of pride, a deep affection that transcended words.

Hoagie nodded, the pieces of their unique dynamic falling into place. “I think I get it now. That kind of closeness. The real stuff.” Wally gave him a knowing look, a playful glint in his eye. “You’re getting there. Slowly.” Hoagie rolled his eyes, a fond exasperation. “Hey, I’m trying!” “I know you are. I can tell,” Wally affirmed, his tone softening. “You’ve been better this week than I’ve ever seen you in a relationship, Hoags. More present.” That made Hoagie freeze slightly, the compliment a quiet revelation, before his face softened into something genuinely humble. “It’s different with you two. You both matter to me. I wanna get it right, really right.”

Wally leaned in toward the screen, resting his chin on his fist, his gaze steady. “And you will. You are.” They smiled at each other for a beat, the unspoken warmth of their connection filling the quiet room. “…She made pancakes this morning,” Hoagie added, his eyes lighting up with fresh joy. “With little syrup hearts.” “Did they look like Rainbow Monkeys or weird frogs again?” Wally asked, a teasing grin on his face. Hoagie snorted. “Somewhere in between. A new hybrid species.” Wally laughed, a genuine, hearty sound. “Yup. Sounds like her.” Another rumble of distant thunder echoed outside, much softer this time, a fading memory of the storm. Hoagie glanced down the hall, a comforting peace settling over him. “She’s sleeping now. I checked on her before I called.” Wally smiled again, a soft, approving look. “Good man.”

“Y’know,” Hoagie added quietly, leaning his head back against the couch, “I think this week… it’s been healing for us. Me and her. Finally getting to be us. I’m glad you gave us that chance, Wally.” Wally’s face softened even further, a deep understanding in his eyes. “I didn’t give you anything, man. I just knew you’d step up if you had the room to. And you did.” There was a comfortable silence between them. Not awkward—just thoughtful, like two sides of a triangle checking in on each other, feeling the strength of their bond. “Miss you,” Hoagie said, finally, the simple words carrying a surprising weight. “Same here,” Wally said, a genuine warmth in his voice. “I’ll be back before you know it.” Then he leaned in closer to the screen and added with a teasing smirk: “Now go get some sleep, lover boy. You got a girlfriend who’s probably gonna tackle you in the morning with glitter and Rainbow Monkeys.”

“Night, Wally.”

“Night, Hoags.”

The call ended, the screen going dark. Hoagie leaned back, the lingering glow of the laptop screen reflecting on his cheeks, a quiet smile still sitting there as he let himself feel the weight—and warmth—of being in this. For real. The door to Kuki’s room was cracked open, a soft, ethereal pink light from her nightlight spilling into the hallway like a comforting invitation. Hoagie knocked gently anyway, a soft rap on the wood, before peeking inside. “Hey.”

Kuki was sitting cross-legged on her bed, already in her pajamas—green flannel pants with adorable Rainbow Monkeys printed all over them and an oversized hoodie that might’ve subtly migrated from Hoagie’s own closet. She looked up the moment she saw him, her tired eyes lighting up, and offered a soft smile. “There you are,” she said, her voice a sleepy murmur. Hoagie stepped inside, closing the door softly behind him, the click barely audible. “Sorry. Was just on the phone with Wally.” She patted the space beside her on the quilt, inviting him. “Did he ask how we’re doing?”

Hoagie climbed into bed next to her, settling in. “Yeah. I told him we’re making progress. Big progress.” They lay down together, facing each other in the soft glow. It wasn’t awkward this time—it simply was. Natural. Comfortable. Her hand found his without even thinking, a quiet, intuitive gesture, and he held it gently between both of his, a silent promise. “Thank you,” Kuki whispered after a moment, her voice barely above the hum of the nightlight. “For last night. For staying.” He gave her fingers a small, reassuring squeeze. “No problem. I just wanted you to feel safe. Nothing else mattered.”

“I did,” she said, her voice a little stronger now. “I do. You didn’t have to stay the whole night in that closet, especially since it was so cramped, but… I’m really glad you did.” Hoagie smiled, warm and sincere, looking into her eyes. “You’re my girlfriend, Kuki. Of course I stayed. There was nowhere else I’d rather be.” She blinked at that, the word girlfriend still hitting her sometimes with a quiet, joyful impact. Not best friend, not teammate. Not just Wally’s. Theirs. His, too. And she believed him, completely. That meant everything. Kuki leaned forward slowly, tentatively, her forehead brushing his, a question in her eyes. “Can I… kiss you?”

Hoagie’s breath caught in his throat, but he nodded, just once, a silent affirmation. “Yeah.”The kiss was soft. Gentle. Barely more than a breath, a tender brush of lips. But it was real. Tangible. When they pulled apart, Kuki giggled, a sweet, clear sound in the quiet room. “Your lips are warm.” Hoagie blushed, a faint flush creeping up his neck. “Yours are soft.” They both laughed quietly, the sound a shared secret. Then they shifted, instinctively, until Kuki tucked herself under his chin, nestling into his warmth, and Hoagie wrapped his arms around her like it was the easiest, most natural thing in the world. She sighed, content, her fingers drawing lazy, comforting patterns against his hoodie sleeve. “I like this,” she murmured sleepily, her voice drifting off.

“Me too,” Hoagie said, his voice soft, a contentment he hadn't known possible filling him. “I think… we’re getting there. Truly getting there.” “Yeah,” she smiled against his chest, her heart light. “We are.” And with hearts light and limbs tangled, the two of them drifted off to sleep—holding each other like puzzle pieces that were finally starting to fit, perfectly, into place.

The front door of the Treehouse burst open with a resounding creak, followed by the familiar thud of a suitcase hitting the floor and an even more familiar voice yelling, “Oi! I’m home!” Kuki practically flew down the hallway, a blur of pink and green. “Wally!” He barely had time to brace himself before she slammed into him with a full-speed hug, arms wound tight around his neck. Wally staggered slightly, a surprised laugh bubbling out as he caught her, spinning her once in a joyful, dizzying circle. “Oi, don’t knock me over! I just got here!” he protested, though his grin belied his words.

“You’re not allowed to leave for that long ever again,” she huffed, squeezing tighter, her face buried in his shoulder. “Seconded,” Hoagie added, appearing behind Kuki, already stepping in to wrap his arms around both of them, completing the embrace. “We barely survived.” Wally smirked, resting his chin on Kuki’s head. “Bet you did better than you think.”

The three stood there for a long, silent moment, just holding each other. Kuki buried her face deeper into Wally’s hoodie, inhaling his scent, Hoagie rested his chin on her head, a protective warmth radiating from him, and Wally’s arms held them both—like he’d been missing a vital limb this entire time and had finally gotten it back. The quiet embrace spoke volumes of shared history and enduring affection. “Okay, okay,” Wally finally said, reluctantly breaking the hug just enough to dig into his carry-on bag. “I come bearing gifts.”

He handed Kuki a soft, intricately embroidered pink pouch, adorned with delicate Japanese patterns, a vibrant splash of color. For Hoagie, he produced a goofy keychain of a koala holding a hotdog—a perfect blend of Australian novelty and Hoagie’s quirky humor. They both laughed, their eyes lighting up, and immediately showed off their new treasures like prized possessions, holding them up for inspection. “Also got a ton of photos,” Wally said, pulling out his phone, already swiping through them. “Here, this one’s the beach—and that’s my cousin trying to wrestle a goose that clearly wanted his lunch.”

They ended up piled on the couch, shoulders pressed together, a tangle of limbs and laughter, as they flipped through pictures and chuckled at every ridiculous moment. Kuki gasped at each koala picture, utterly enchanted, while Hoagie provided color commentary like a seasoned game show host. Wally, meanwhile, ate up the attention with smug satisfaction, soaking in the familiarity.

The rest of the day melted into a comfortable warmth—movies playing softly in the background, a steady stream of snacks, and Wally’s animated stories catching them up on every weird family tradition, awkward encounter, and airport mishap from his trip. Every time he paused, one of them would instinctively reach out and hug him again, a silent confirmation that he was truly there, tangible and home. That night, the three of them settled into bed, a soft nest of blankets and pillows. Kuki, already worn out from the day’s emotional rollercoaster, curled up immediately on Hoagie’s chest, her breathing evening out almost instantly as she drifted off to sleep within seconds. Hoagie held her close, a fond smile playing on his lips as he looked at Wally over the top of her head. “She missed you,” Hoagie whispered, his voice thick with emotion. “We both did. It was… a long week.” Wally settled in beside them, resting his head gently on Hoagie’s shoulder, a comfortable weight. “You did good, Hoags. Really good.” Hoagie glanced at him, a flicker of vulnerability in his eyes. “Yeah?”

“Yeah,” Wally affirmed, his voice soft but firm. “I can tell. She’s happy. Really happy. And so are you"Hoagie looked down at Kuki, her eyelashes fluttering in peaceful sleep against his chest, then at Wally—warm and close and finally home. A wave of profound contentment washed over him. “She’s amazing.”

“She is,” Wally agreed, then added with a small, genuine smile that reached his eyes, “But so are you, Hoagie. You stepped up.” Hoagie’s cheeks flushed a little, a rare but welcome blush. He leaned forward and kissed Wally softly on the lips, a tender, unhurried gesture. Wally kissed him right back, a gentle press that spoke of quiet understanding and deep affection. There were no fireworks, no swelling music—just quiet love. Real love. The kind that settles deep in your bones and makes everything feel right. They pulled apart and exhaled softly, synchronized, smiling at each other in the dim light. Then, with Kuki snuggled securely on his chest, Wally’s hand in his, and Wally’s head resting gently on his shoulder, Hoagie let his eyes fall closed, utterly at peace. All three of them—tangled up, connected, undeniably whole. Back together. And finally home.

[ultraericthered]

These here are sort of my aesthetics for this year (and counting!) Mentally, I am here:

It's funny since with Borderlands, Fallout, Avatar: Seven Havens, and even Danganronpa outside of Hope's Peak, it's all post-apocalyptic landscapes....and Stardew Valley is there too, all peaceful, cozy and self-contained with its natural beauty, resources and community.

Actually, Stardew Valley has something really bizarre about it that makes it so relatable, and it's something I don't think I've seen done before. The entire game feels like you're in a small isolated piece of a much larger RPG world. There's actual magic in this world. There are your typical JRPG monsters like slimes and insectoids that you can kill with a sword. There are fantasy beings (Dwarves, Goblins, Elves, Fairies, Merpeople, Shadow People, Juminos). There's a random local Gandalf-esque wizard who lives in the valley. There's a religion that worships the creator deity, Yoba. There was an event called the Elemental Wars between the Dwarves and the Shadow People that occured years ago. And in the present day of the game, the larger setting that Stardew Valley is located within, the Ferngill Republic, is at war with an unseen evil empire called the Gotoro Empire.

This is literally the story of some other RPG that's not been made yet, and it's just casually brought up every now and then in this game! It's like this premise and all this expansive lore of this world was thought out and then scattered throughout the game because the actual focus here is "hey, what if we just saw how Regular People (your typical NPCs) lived their lives in a humble small town community where the biggest worry comes from the local corporate-owned supermarket looking to expand its reach, while all this larger, more epic stuff is occuring elsewhere as just a backdrop?" And honestly, that does capture the feeling of what it's like to be living your life during historical times, secluded from all the history-making stuff, something that we are all going through in the 2020s especially.

So whatever goes on with Ukraine and Russia and the MAGA GOP Nazi Oligarchy regime that threatens my own home nation, it's mostly out of my hands. As the world dies around me, all I'll have is my own Stardew Valley.

[1up-girl]

8,15,39 for tloz asks

8. Most underrated Zelda game?

I think I'd have to go with Minish Cap! I think because it's rather small compared to its predecessors, it's easily forgotten, but it's so charming and I loved playing it. MC Zelink is also so sweet!!

15. Favourite location within Hyrule?

Oh lord I thought this was going to be a decently easy question and then I started thinking.... When it comes to spending time places in game, the soundtrack also a major influence. Like, I love being in Gerudo Town at night because of the score, but I'm not sure I would give them same answer if I wasn't thinking musically.

It really depends on my mood, but I find the Faron region and the Spring of Courage really mysterious and interesting. Akkala is so cozy and I love the expanse of the hills. Central Hyrule (+ leaning east into Lanayru) makes me think of my earliest days of playing Breath of the Wild, which is a very special feeling.

Beyond BOTW, I also really love Clock Town in Majora's Mask.

39. Which Zelda game, in your opinion, had the most satisfying ending?

Tears of the Kingdom and it's not even close. Getting to actively participate in saving Zelda, having her retrieval be the ultimate goal of the game, (over defeating Ganondorf), redeeming her of her miserable fate in a way that makes sense, narratively speaking, that honestly kinda sexy rendition of Zelda's lullaby while they're sitting the field of forget-me-nots?? "Tadaima"??? LIKE, HELLO?? And all of that after an insanely epic final boss.

[nellasbookplanet]

hello, have you read any science fiction or fantasy novels written in the past 10 years where the government is actively trying to improve the lives of its citizens? (and not in a creepy “we think they’re being helpful but actually they’re not” way)

Hm, that's tricky. Pet by Akwaeke Emezi is billed as utopian and mostly seems to fit, but most that I can think of either boil down to "shitty situation and everything sucks, but everyone including the government are trying their absolute best", or "not really about the government specifically helping so much as a general theme of cooperation and togetherness to solve conflict rather than fighting". Both these categories tend to blend bleakness and hard choices with hopefulness and togetherness.

In the first category: The Touchstone trilogy by Andrea K. Höst (teen girl walks through a portal to another planet, where she's roped into helping fight against extradimensional monsters in a special task force trying to keep the population safe); The Annual Migration of Clouds novella by Premee Mohamed (after societal collapse, a small community works together to regain their feet) & Terra Ignota series by Ada Palmer (humanity has rebuilt itself into a utopia, but the threat of war risks this; very complex books that question the very nature of whether humanity can choose to become better than it is while still remaining human, definitely has some creepyness to it though)

Second category: The Children of Time trilogy by Adrian Tchaikovsky (epic sci-fi, humanity is fleeing the dead remains of Earth seeking a new home; on another planet, sentient spiders are evolving; will the two societies find common ground?), Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir (frankly this one could go in both categories; Earth is threatened by a cosmic threat - as governments come together and race to buy time, an astronaut is sent far away to find a solution to save all of humanity, only to find unexpected help in an alien species) & Vagabonds by Hao Jingfang (human societies on Earth and Mars try to find common ground; a story that recognizes that there's no such thing as a utopia, and that human societies will always have to strive to be better and adapt to new situations and environments).

I would also suggest looking into books described as 'cozy' (not entirely my vibe, but more likely to check your boxes) or slice of life, especially Becky Chamber's Monk & Robot duology and Wayfarers series! The graphic novel Always Human may also check out.

[boushwrites]

97.

You, me, our house, far away from this world's noise,

Where nothing can disturb our peace.

Nestled in a quiet neighborhood, serene and still,

Surrounded by lovely neighbors, kind and warm.

Our little haven, where dreams take root,

And the world outside feels distant and small.

A home built not just with bricks and stone,

But with love, understanding, and endless calm.

You, me, our world,

Where you can truly be you,

Dress as you , live as you dream,

And I can be unapologetically me.

A world where we exist in harmony,

Bound by love and shared freedom.

A solid family of you and me,

Unshaken by the tides of time circumstances.

You, me, our home,

My coat hanging beside yours,

My shoes resting next to your sneakers at the doorstep,

A quiet symbol of lives intertwined.

My clothes and your clothes,

Tumbling together in the same washing machine,

Spinning a rhythm of togetherness.

You, me, our room,

A space where your world and mine intertwine

Your current belongings resting beside my scattered cosmetics.

A warm home, crafted by your touch and mine,

Echoing with laughter, love, and quiet comfort.

Your cool gaming room, a sanctuary of your own,

And yet, even there, traces of us remain.

A place where your individuality and our togetherness coexist,

A home where every corner speaks of you and me.

You, me, our home

In the kitchen, waiting for dinner to cook,

Singing and spinning to a random tune,

Laughter echoing through the walls.

The sound of happiness I always longed for.

You, me, in our living room

Slow dancing on a rainy day,

The world outside fading into nothing,

While the storm becomes our symphony.

You, me, on the open road

You at the wheel, I, the creator of melodies,

Singing too loudly until your voice joins mine,

Our harmony filling the space between us.

You, me, sharing a bed forever,

The left side mine, the right side yours.

Wrapped in each other's warmth,

Cuddling every night, every moment is ours.

A haven where I can lay my soul bare,

Speak of my past suffering that I kept without fear or shame.

With you, my pain becomes lighter,

And my love, my everlasting flame grows bigger.

You and me, coming home

From long days, to our haven,

To each other, to the warmth of us

You, me, our cozy shower,

Taking a bath together

The world fading away.

Our tired bodies finding solace each other.

My skin against yours,

The day’s weight melting with the hot water's flow.

In that quiet embrace,

Peace replaces every chaos we ever knew.

You and me, walking through our city

Our pet leading the way,

Our footsteps in sync with the rhythm of the streets.

You, me, at the city hall,

My simple white dress, your suit and our eternal love.

Signing the promise of our forever,

Your last name becoming mine,

Two souls bound as one, always together, Finally.

You, me and our little someone

Who has your mesmerising brown eyes

Teaching their tiny lips to say “Mommy,”

Watching our world grow in the reflection of their eyes.

You and me, living the simplest life,

Every day, side by side.

Watching time sketch its story on your face,

As I fall in love with you,

Over and over, in every new trace.

Dreaming of it once lifted me to the seventh sky,

It nourished my soul with strength, patience, and purpose.

It gave me the hope you lighted in me,

The fire that kept me alive.

It was why I fought fiercely

Against every storm I faced,

Why I rose again, every time I was brought to my knees.

I wonder what it would have felt like to touch my daydream.

Now, it's nothing but a faded illusion,

A dream I lived in for years but wasn't lucky enough to hold,

A beautiful story that never found its rightful end.

Maybe, in another universe, my love,

In a universe where we are whole,

A little stronger and much softer,

A universe where we are saner, healthier.

A universe where you see me and I hear you,

Where you feel me better and I understand you more.

A universe where we deal with everything differently, where we communicate differently.

A universe where our epic love heals us, again and again.

A universe where you fight differently, and I fight gently,

A universe where I never have to lose you,

A universe where you and I are the only forever.

A universe where love doesn’t come laced with pain,

Where our souls don’t shatter and tear apart.

A universe perfect in its simplicity,

Where our forgiveness is endless facing anything,

Where we love each other through everything.

A universe where our paths always end up crossing,

No matter the distance, no matter the time.

In that universe, we would be infinite,

And our love, unwavering.

But in this universe, Goodbye.

♡

[destinygoldenstar]

It's INSANE how well this animation still holds up.

I mean Episodes 2 & 3 look better. I don't think anyone will argue about that.

But the Pilot's animation is still smooth as butter. It's bright and lively without hurting your eyes (MY eyes at least), and is so expressive.

I was showing my GF's family this show a couple weeks ago, actually. And WITHOUT seeing Episodes 2 & 3 yet, they said me the animation style was very unique and expressive and well done.

Granted, I would NOT be surprised if THIS is the weakest looking episode of the entire show. (Hell, I wouldn't be surprised if this is the weakest written episode too) But I say weakest and not worst, because to me, worst implies it's bad. AND IT'S DEFINATELY NOT.

But FOR ME, it's kind of a non-issue to me.

Even if it LOOKS dated NOW because we've been spoiled by future episodes, there's something quality writing-wise about it that makes its dated look WORK.

The very plastic-like texture of everything aids in the uneasiness about getting transported in this new world. Obviously it's a cartoon so you expect it. But being transferred INTO one is another thing. You have to capture that feeling so right.

And while other shows go for this grand epic scale because that's what those shows stories are trying to portray, Digital Circus benefits from this animation style by letting you FEEL the world first in your SUBCONSCIOUS before you get that many establishing shots on the setting.

AND ONCE YOU DO, THERE IS SO MUCH GOING ON AND THERE'S WAY TOO MUCH TO TAKE IN.

I heard the criticism 'the circus tent is too busy looking and too bright'. And I think that IS a valid criticism. And I cannot counter that objectively.

SUBJECTIVELY though, it doesn't bother ME.

I think that's because it AIDS in the ENVIORNMENT it's trying to tell.

Pomni in this episode is a stand-in for us the audience. We don't know what's going on here. There's SO MUCH to take in and it's OVERWHELMING. It aids in the feeling of "What is going on? What am I looking at?"

But it's not SO overdone that you can't understand what you're looking at altogether. I can see where every character is standing just fine. I can follow the action just fine.

Also helps that these set pieces are aiding in that storytelling.

LOOK AT HOW SMALL POMNI IS COMPARED TO EVERYTHING ELSE AROUND HER IN THIS SHOT.

Her room is the first case of set pieces in the circus that is to her size, so there's A BIT of hominess to it.

But there's still so much going on in this room and the small size can only do so much.

Then you get Kaufmo's funeral stand. The first non-large non-busy set piece item in the circus.

The same scene that comforts Pomni in her place in this world.

And then they made this cute small simple lounge spot in Episode 3 to hang out in. It's small. It's simple to look at. And in that scene you suddenly don't feel overwhelmed anymore. It's COZY.

GOD I LOVE IT.

[cozywriter]

🥮 ~ Cozy Corner’s Grand Menu ~ 🥮

🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮 You were walking down the cobblestone pathway of your town, adjusting the strap of your bag as the hustle and bustle of the street puts you on edge. Sure, there were the everyday pickpockets and thieves, but you couldn’t be too careful nowadays. Every street you turned down, it seemed to get busier and busier, which meant more people. And more people meant the increasing inevitability of trouble. Not wanting to get swept up by the crowd — or worse, stuck in it — you quickly spotted a little café. It was tucked away in its own little corner along the road and from the looks of it, no one else was in there. Deciding to wait for the masses to pass before making your way back home, you quickly made your way through what little space the people left for others to pass by and started shuffling hurriedly towards the café’s doors.

Upon entering its threshold, a soft chime rang through the empty establishment. The scent of fresh bread and coffee wafting through the air. You look around and quickly realize no one is here. Not one customer, barista or baker in sight. You step further into the shop, only to realize you don’t hear the busy clamor of the outside world. No honking cars, no muffled speech from passersby behind the door. Not even shadows crossing the color tainted glass windows. You decide to book it before some psycho pops out from behind the counter, but just as you turn on your heels to run for the door, all you see is white.

In a panic, you stumble backwards, only for the next thing you see to be the mahogany ceiling, a stinging pain making from your bum making itself known. Groaning softly, you sit up, trying to rub the pain away, cussing out some choice words. Slowly rising to your feet, you’re met with a small circular coffee table that seats one, your bag already propped on top of it and leaning against the dirty green walls. Utterly confused and a tad perturbed, you whip your head around, still finding the cafe empty. Hesitantly, you look back and blink twice as you find a leather bound menu, conveniently placed so that the establishment’s brand faces you. 

Figuring that one peak couldn’t hurt, you hesitantly sit down on the wooden stool that had been previously pushed in before opening the menu, reading it over…

🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮

🥮 ~ Legend ~ 🥮

🎂Made to Order = Commissioned Requests

🍡Manager’s Pick = Self Commissioned 

🍓Spicy = Smut

🍨Sweet = Fluff

🍹Strong = Angst

🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮

🥮 ~ Appetizers and Soups ~ 🥮

Green Tea Ochazuke (Bungo Stray Dogs) Ciorba de Burta (Castlevania) Beef Wantons (Lego Monkie Kid)

🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮

🥮 ~ Main Dishes ~ 🥮 Moussaka (EPIC: The Musical)  Fish and Chips (Moriarty the Patriot) Boeuf Bourguignon (The Case Study of Vanitas) Traditional Pepperoni Pizza (Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) Deep Fried Arctic Char (Fate/Grand Order)

🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮

🥮 ~ Drinks ~ 🥮

Matcha and Cherry Fizzy Soda (Seraph of the End: Vampire Reign) Bloody Mary Cocktail (Blood Blockade Battlefront) Red Mystic Liquor (Bastard Warrior)

🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮

🥮 ~ Desserts ~ 🥮

Jelly filled Donuts (Trigun: Stampede) Manju (PROGENITOR on YT) Dark Chocolate Pie (Bastards VS Zombies)

🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮

🥮 ~ Manager’s Notes ~ 🥮

~ The Staff have the right to turn down any dish if it makes them uncomfortable to make.  ~ Kindly keep any and all orders relating to politics and religion out of this establishment. This is meant to be a safe space you can unwind and have fun. ~ Other than that, please enjoy your meal!

🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮🧋🥮

Although the cafe’s food choices were… random, at least they had variety, right…? I guess now, all that’s left to do is place an order…

[checkoutmybookshelf]

Alaskan Shifter Romance

It is a truth universally acknowledged that a person who is raised in Alaska must eventually develop either a deep soft spot or deep hatred for Alaskana in all its forms. I was raised in Alaska and I'm literally writing a blog post about how much I adore these Alaska-themed paranormal shifter romances, so you do the math on that one while I talk the Alaskan Totem Shifters books.

There are probably spoilers below the break, so just a heads up!

For those of you who follow this blog pretty closely, this series is set in the same universe as the Gladiator Shifter books, but without the gladiatorial backstory and localized to small-town Alaska. The vibes are on point, which is only to be expected since Murphy Lawless lived in Alaska for a while. (True Story: I once ran into her at a Barnes and Noble on a random day when I was buying Urban Shama, and she was absolutely lovely and signed my book. I was a speechless mess.) These books scratched an itch for home that pops up for me every once in a while; there really and truly is nowhere quite like Alaska on this earth.

Raven Heart follows Elena Peratrovitch as she works with her community, the government, and a bunch of billionaires to maintain conservation of the land versus exploitation and developement. This is somewhat complicated by small town dynamics, Alaska small town dynamics, and Richard freaking Yale, billionare Raven Shifter. Elena and Richard are basically fated mates, although I actually don't think the book uses that term.

Beyond the romance and the Alaska small-town vibes, the book also has a legitimately interesting contrast between Richard and his fellow shifter (albeit grizzly bear, not raven) and billionaire developer Derek Crown. Richard is all about sustainable, conservationist development, whereas Crown is all "drill, baby, drill" up in here, and he is very much not above kidnapping and murdering the opposition to get it done.

I was not expecting a shifter battle at the end of the book, but I was absolutely not mad about it either.

Overall, Raven Heart's 2016 publication date (four years before Gladiator Bear and a whopping seven years before Polar Heart) means that it doesn't slot terribly neatly into the shifterverse that Lawless would develop later, but it's not so far off from it that it's not clearly related, and Polar Heart is a really excellent bridge between the Gladiator Shifters and Raven Heart, so everything has a nice continuity and shared shifterverse.

Polar Heart follows Davinda Jackson (Elena's college bestie) and Isiah Moses during Shkalnik's mayoral election. Davinda is a wildlife photographer, which fully endears her to the shifter community when she offers to do portraits of them AND their shifted forms in what is one of the sweetest, most community-driven scenes I have ever read in any book ever, end of sentence. Where Elena and Richard felt very isolated, Davinda and Isiah are deeply embedded in the shifter and Shkalnik communities in a way that felt so Alaska. So honestly, this book is cozy in a way that Raven Heart wasn't, and actually manages to have a cozier community focus than the Gladiator Shifter books, which are all about the shifter worlds and communities.

On top of that, if Garius Beren (of Gladiator Bear fame) was the most bear a person could be, Isaiah is EVEN MORE BEAR. He is literally a giant polar teddy bear of a man, and his house also looks like a polar bear, which is just adorable. It even has EARS.

In addition to the sheer cozy adorableness, this book ends on just THE most epic takedown of a literal Outsider Karen politician who is trying to expose shifters to the world. This takedown is epic, utterly gratifying, and quite frankly the best thing I've read in a WHILE.

Overall, I very much hope we see more entries in the Alaska Totem Shifters series because both these books have been incredible in their own ways, and I would happily read more.

[lifesnapshots07]

A Magical Journey to Niagara Falls

Buckle up for the ride of a lifetime as my family and I hopped on the WhimsyRail—yes, that's the official name now—and set off on a whimsical journey to the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls. Little did I know that this adventure would be a rollercoaster of laughter, surprises, and a revelation about my seriously questionable pool-playing skills. Spoiler: I'm not destined for a career in the professional pool.

As the WhimsyRail chugged along with its charm cranked up to eleven, we braced ourselves for a day of pure enchantment. Cozy compartments, giggles in the air—it was the perfect recipe for an extraordinary escapade.

Our first pitstop? An arcade! Cue the sibling showdown, where my brothers triumphantly won teddy bears for me. Who knew a little friendly competition could be so heartwarming?

And then there was my epic pool failure. Let's just say my pool skills are more mythical than those of the Loch Ness Monster. But hey, who cares when the arcade is echoing with laughter?

Fast forward to a colossal ice cream cone, front-row seats to a golf game, and a 3D zombie apocalypse. Losing was never this much fun, trust me. Virtual zombies? Check. Real screams? Double-check. 

Then came the pièce de résistance: Niagara Falls! The roar of the falls drowned out everything else, and the sight was so jaw-dropping that I momentarily forgot about the missed zipline and boat ride. Note to self: Next time, plan better. Or not – spontaneity is fun too!

Post-falls, we made a pitstop at the best Indian restaurant in Canada. Food coma? Absolutely. A post-meal stroll? Picture this: a person waddling because they've eaten enough for a small village. Hilarious, right? 

As we boarded the WhimsyRail for the journey home, the day's laughter echoed in our ears. Niagara Falls, with its magical charm, has woven a tale of joy and discovery that I'll cherish forever.

So, fellow adventurers, if you're ever daydreaming of a magical journey, hop on the WhimsyRail and let the enchantment of Niagara Falls unfold before your eyes. It's not just a destination; it's a whimsical necessity for every fun-seeker out there. Get ready for a story that's as wild as the falls themselves!