#lulu reads unraveller

[libraryleopard]

just read unraveller by frances hardinge and it was soooooooo good. the exploration of justice vs. punishment and anger vs. hatred through the lens of fairytale curses! the purely platonic yet deeply complicated relationship between a teen girl and boy at the heart of the story! the creepy marshes! the flesh-eating horse!

[rubra-wav]

If I don’t ask now, I won’t remember later ANYWAYS

I am just itching for hurt/no comfort for no reason(well there is a reason, I just spent the last hour reading Lucifer x reader angst) I really want just any character of your choosing romantic angst no comfort and maybe a breakup because why not

-🦋anon :3

Lucifer x reader : Twice divorced

A/N I've been itching to write Lucifer more so it's also gonna be about him. Hope you're ready to watch this man fall apart :)(bro watch ME fall apart writing this)

Also new banner (happy happy happy)

Cw: Angst no comfort, gn!reader, both parties are suffering, they don't actually get divorced they just kinda. Agree to separate for a bit?

- You'd been together with Lucifer for a short time before getting married.

- You guessed that was the main mistake.

- It's unfortunate to say, but you underestimated your own ability to properly keep yourself happy and secure in helping him unravel everything.

- 4 months into your marriage, Lilith showed up and shit absolutely hit the fan. Lucifer locked himself away upon her showing up again under the guise of 'not putting it onto you'

- This frankly broke you.

- You'd spent 2 years knowing Lucifer and helping him, and all that was undone in what seemed like 10 minutes of her showing up, spewing some nonsense about how you should get out before he burnt out again like after falling and took you with him.

- It was undeniably her fault. You didn't blame Lucifer.

- But you weren't some unmoving, unemotional wall of a person.

- It hurt so fucking badly being treated like you couldn't handle your own husband by him after his ex showed up.

- You knew you had to get out, or you would go insane.

- You walked to Lucifer's door, suitcase wheels loudly dragging on the floor.

- Lucifer opened the door before you even had the chance to knock on it, hand suspended mid-knock as his panicked expression was revealed.

- He'd heard the familiar sound before from Lilith.

- You watched Lucifers red eyes look down at the suitcase, wide eyes recognising his worst fear being confirmed.

- "Oh.." He simply said quietly.

- You felt your own heart aching at his reaction, as if he was expecting it, but forced yourself to continue. "... Yeah." You said hesitantly.

- The silence beat between you two, and you grit your teeth, a hard lump formed in your throat, and you fought against crying.

- Lucifer let out a soft chuckle filled with no kind of happiness, smiling at you with tears streaming down his face. "You know... I really thought this would be different. I.." he trailed off with a loud hiccup. "I'm sorry." He mumbled.

- You hummed, fighting to find words to say as you blinked hard.

- "I do love you, Lulu. This. This doesn't change that and I don't think anything will." You said very truthfully, voice shaking.

- Lucifer looked back at you in surprise, hope on his face.

- "But, I also love me too. And I think to love me as well I need to distance myself from this until you're somewhat over.. whatever this is." You gestured to his depression storm of a room and then to his messy, unkempt appearance.

- Lucifer wanted to get you to stay. But he couldn't bring himself to.

- It became obvious in that moment how he'd hurt you in his relapse, and he didn't want to hurt you even more by convincing you to be around him.

- It would be wrong to expect you to be able to support him while he couldn't do the same for you at all.

- He gulped loudly and slowly nodded despite the painful emptiness that he could feel consuming him even more.

- "I'm sorry, (name)." He apologised again, "I..." There was so much he wanted to say, but he couldn't put it into words.

- Another moment of silence passed as you waited for him to finish his sentence.

- "Just leave." It came out harsh, and he internally screamed at himself to not, but he couldn't stop himself. "Do as she said, and leave before I hurt you anymore." Lucifer's voice trembled, but anger made itself clear regardless.

- His mind raced in a mess of negativity that he just couldn't think clearly through.

- You felt your stomach drop, hurt hitting through you. Part of you wanted to bite back, but you were just exhausted already from this exchange.

- Wordlessly, you turned away from him, knuckles white from where you were clutching your suitcase hard.

- You barely felt in the moment as you made your way to the heavy front door of Lucifer's estate, spirits at rockbottom.

- You hesitated in front of it, thinking you were making a mistake doing this, then remembered the way his tear filled eyes glared at you as if daring you to fulfill his expectations.

- All he could see was Lilith in you. It was like you didn't even exist.

- Click. Thud.

- The loud sound of the door closing and you taking all the warmth you brought to his home with it.

- Lucifer sat down in the doorway of his room, staring blankly ahead, thoughts an absolute mess.

- He laughed, before letting out a loud shuddering sob as he leaned up against the door frame, hugging his knees to his chest and burying his face in them.

- "How do I somehow manage to ruin everything good?"

Ow 💀

[mediaevalmusereads]

Why Fish Don't Exist. By Lulu Miller. Simon and Schuster, 2020.

Rating: 4/5 stars

Genre: non-fiction (biography/memoir)

Series: N/A

Summary: David Starr Jordan was a taxonomist, a man possessed with bringing order to the natural world. In time, he would be credited with discovering nearly a fifth of the fish known to humans in his day. But the more of the hidden blueprint of life he uncovered, the harder the universe seemed to try to thwart him. His specimen collections were demolished by lightning, by fire, and eventually by the 1906 San Francisco earthquake—which sent more than a thousand of his discoveries, housed in fragile glass jars, plummeting to the floor. In an instant, his life’s work was shattered.

Many might have given up, given in to despair. But Jordan? He surveyed the wreckage at his feet, found the first fish he recognized, and confidently began to rebuild his collection. And this time, he introduced one clever innovation that he believed would at last protect his work against the chaos of the world.

When NPR reporter Lulu Miller first heard this anecdote in passing, she took Jordan for a fool—a cautionary tale in hubris, or denial. But as her own life slowly unraveled, she began to wonder about him. Perhaps instead he was a model for how to go on when all seemed lost. What she would unearth about his life would transform her understanding of history, morality, and the world beneath her feet.

Part biography, part memoir, part scientific adventure, Why Fish Don’t Exist reads like a fable about how to persevere in a world where chaos will always prevail.

***Full review below.***

CONTENT WARNINGS: self-harm, suicide attempt, eugenics, rape

I'm going to be honest: I picked this book up at my local indie bookstore because I saw the title and laughed. I'm not a scientist, so I wasn't aware of the death of the taxonomic category of "fish." I just thought this would be a fun read, somewhat outside my normal go-to genres.

To my surprise, I found this book way more engaging than I anticipated. What started as a kind of feel-good, "inspirational" biography about scientist David Starr Jordan quickly took a dark turn when Miller began to explore his investment in eugenics. The tone shift was abrupt, but entirely appropriate; I appreciated that Miller gave us some kind of whiplash that mirrored her own experience and never shied away from criticizing a figure she thought she had known and admired. For the second half of the book, Miller grappled with Jordan's morality, ultimately asking the question: why did a man so passionate about science and learning become so anti-scientific and hurtful?

The result was less an inquiry about Jordan himself and more a meditation on the human need to impose order on Chaos, to feel secure in a world that places (certain) humans at the top of nature's hierarchy. Miller explores this impetus as a way of dealing with her own shame, guilt, and hopelessness in life, and personally, I found the blend of science, biography, and memoir to be both moving and enlightening. I learned a lot about how humans rely on self delusion to feel good in the world and how slowly letting go of the need for a strict order actually liberates you and allows you to see the world as more beautiful and complex. I'll admit, it was a much better way to motivate an atheist like me to see purpose and meaning in life - by presenting the world as something that exists outside of human understanding, yet will yield its improbable secrets if we keep our egos in check.

If I had any criticisms, I would say that I think the eventual takedown of Jordan didn't feel as impactful as I had hoped. While Miller rightfully condemns him for his eugenics, I did feel a kind of emptiness when she said the ultimate payback was to undo his life's work. I guess that can be a fitting end for some, but for me, I felt a little let down. Maybe part of it has to do with my subjective feeling that Jordan receives much more praise and admiration in this book than he deserves. I do understand that Miller is taking us on a journey and that all reverence and admiration is meant to mimic her impressions of Jordan before she learned about his dark past. But I personally don't know what to do with the fact that Jordan left a painful legacy that we are still grappling with today. Talking about fish (or the nonexistence of fish) doesn't seem to cut it.

Still, this was a moving book, and I found the subject matter compelling. Miller writes beautifully, and her work is enhanced by Kate Samowrth's ink pieces which appear at the start of each chapter.

TL,DR: Why Fish Don't Exist is an interesting blend of biography, memoir, science, and philosophy that interrogates the human need to impose order on the universe. Though I had my personal gripes, Miller's book is a powerful meditation on making meaning, and I would recommend it to readers who are looking for a non-religious reflection on our place in the world.

[fapewehapox]

Mathematics and disabilities handbook of nature

  MATHEMATICS AND DISABILITIES HANDBOOK OF NATURE >> DOWNLOAD LINK vk.cc/c7jKeU

  MATHEMATICS AND DISABILITIES HANDBOOK OF NATURE >> READ ONLINE bit.do/fSmfG

            about the nature and classification of learning disabilities (LD), their causes, student performance in language arts, math, and other content areas.educational environment occurs only when the nature or severity of the disability is such that education in regular classes with the use of supplementary Unraveling the Complex Nature of Mathematics Learning Disability: Implications for Research and Practice. Learning Disability Quarterly, 2013. Chapter 3 Understanding and Overcoming “Disadvantage” in Learning Mathematics Lulu Healy and Arthur B. Powell Abstract Past research has largely

, , , , .

[bronson]

“Bullshit.” He laughs a short, sharp, angry laugh. “All you do is sit around and think about your feelings. You’ve got problems. Boo-freaking-hoo,” he says. “Your parents hate you and it’s so hard but you have to wear gloves for the rest of your life because you kill people when you touch them. Who gives a shit?”

[honeykept]

tagged by @tearsofgrace @dreamnovak (and possibly others?? sorry if i missed you but i definitely saw the tag at some point lmao!!)

Rules: It’s time to love yourselves! Choose your 8 (ish) favorite works you created in the past year (fics, art, edits, etc.) and link them below to reflect on the amazing things you brought into the world in 2020. Tag as many writers/artists/etc. as you want (fan or original) so we can spread the love and link each other to awesome work!

oh god. here goes nothin’...just,, a lot of these are from suptober bc that’s when i was Least Busy and wrote a lot so!! yea

get it out - a ficlet i did for suptober20 where dean and cas go on a case and have some serious ust in a bathtub, covered in gross goo and water. (wc: ~1k, teen & up)

melt the ice - hurt/comfort ficlet (also for suptober20 lmao) wherein dean has a panic attack in the middle of a winter storm over a fight he and cas had had.  (wc: ~1k, teen & up)

to switch places - 15x15 coda (sort of) in which Dean accidentally flips a switch that puts him in Cas’ body, and vice versa. (wc: ~2.1k, teen & up)

because without you, i’ll unravel again - my most recent poem, which, i mean. it’s better than some fics i’ve written, so i’ll include it on here for that reason. dean’s pov, destiel, angsty !!

not just a gift - Sam finds out about the mixtape Dean made for Cas and thinks he might just lose it because of how clueless those two are. i do like this one solely because sam is two seconds away from smashing his head against something (wc: ~1.5k, teen & up)

saving grace (and staying put) - i think this might be my most popular ficlet...which is...insane?? it’s a christmassy one, with some presents exchanged, and i’m proud that i was able to actually write some okay fluff! so! (wc: ~1.3k, teen & up)

empty bottles, broken time - 15x19 coda, angst, dean prays to cas, but of course!! (wc: ~850, teen & up)

left ajar - 15x18 coda. dean’s pov and jack’s pov, angsty, but i like my writing in this one, i think (,: (wc: ~1.1k, teen & up) 

i actually forgot that a wrote a lot of these, so seeing them again was a trip!! i’ll upload the ones that aren’t on ao3 yet to ao3 soon, if you want to read them there instead!! ♡ enjoy! i’ll add my tag list just for funsies-

@castiels-a-lamp @jellydeans @writtenmemxries @cestladean @randomblabbling @fluffiestlou @dreamnovak @weird-dorky-little-d @depressivedemonnightmaredean @castiels-pussy @friedchickenangelwings @galaxycastiel @destielle @dickspeightjrs @on-a-bender @organicpurplepants @casbelieves @samuelswinchester @spacegirlstuff @seffersonjtarship @winchester-novak @professorerudite @squintingg @holmesemrys @imnotrevealingmyname @mishha @good-things-do-happen-dean @angxlsgrxce @casandeans @castielscrookedtrenchcoat @destiel-in-its-natural-habitat @gracelesschoice @superduckbatrebel @iheardyourprayer @top13zepptraxx @that-one-fandom-chick @scoobydean @destiels-canonahhhhhhhhhh @maxguevra @cursed-or-not @i-think-im-humanbut-cant-besure @mirrorsball @madilineskingdom @awolfnamedaliac @castee-yel @tearsofgrace @credentiast @fivefeetfangirl @my-favourite-hellatus @gray-is-neutral @sunflower-vol-28 @ensignabby @ar-bi-trary @lulu-zodiac @y-yo-a-ti-dumbass @castielology @nguyenxtrang @destiel-bitches @supergaycas @deancasology @miadeline @save-the-sloths @goblinwritergay @theroguetranslator @imals18 @downtherabbitholeproductions

[jllongwrites]

BOOK LAUNCH: A SLOW-MOTION SUICIDE BY J. L. LONG

BUY THE EBOOK BUY THE PAPERBACK

Sin. Sex. Suicide.

Lonely tween Robbie teams up with exuberant newcomer Stacey to explore the truths of their claustrophobically small town and the varied cast of characters who inhabit it. A national essay-writing contest kicks off their investigations, and their efforts hone in on the rumors surrounding fifteen-year-old Nathan Klein, who may or may not have killed himself a few years ago. As they begin their self-imposed mission, the young pair encounter a number of well-known and well-worn types: The uptight mother. The town drunk. The bombastic mayor. But the deeper Stacey and Robbie probe into their town and their fellow residents, the deeper these people are revealed to be and the more three-dimensional they appear to the two amateur journalists. And the deeper they go, the more everyone's lives come slowly but surely unraveled.

I’m very pleased to announce that my first novel, A Slow-Motion Suicide, has been published through Lulu Books and is now available for purchase. The official book launch and live reading is scheduled for the September Rochester Writers Night event on Thursday, September 16th. The reading will be held at RiverStones Custom Framing, located at 33 N. Main Street in downtown Rochester, New Hampshire, and begin at 6 p.m. An open mic for other writers will follow.

[kbmercer]

Ch.1, Pt.1/2: Long Time, No See

[Life’s A Journey]

Summary:

A lot had happened after they parted ways. Nevertheless, the threads that tie them together remained. From children to adults, a reunion that’s long overdue leads the trio to embark on another journey.

Just like old times.

Word Count: 3k+

The screeching of the rail pulls (Y/n) from their slumber. The train they sat in was slowly coming to a halt. An announcer broadcasts their location while bleary (e/c) eyes work to regain clarity. A yawn releases from the trainer’s throat as a (s/c) hand moves to massage their neck from the soreness of lying back throughout the ride. In a half-conscious state they manage to grasp their luggage, rolling it along the thin rug of the transport and lifting it pass the gap between the train car door and the station floor. The cool air-conditioned atmosphere of the station works to rouse them as they take a moment to stretching in the center of the terminal. With a hum of satisfaction, (Y/n) swiftly checks the time on their Rotom Phone before quickly exiting the building. It’s been a long time since they’d been here…A long, long time.

The dim light of the evening sun illuminates the cobblestone streets of Wedgehurst. The sounds of banter from townsfolk and the chirping of Rookidee bring back memories, some insignificant but heartwarming all the same. The sparse lighting of the overhead lamps speckled the town in white and the fluorescent glow of open businesses show just how much the place has grown. It was very interesting to see how much change Galar had been through since the time they had moved away. Though, what (Y/n) wondered most was how their friends were doing. How much had they changed? Soon enough they would know, for stopping by Wedgehurst for a surprise visit is their way of finding out. They just hoped it wasn’t too late to pop in today.

With renewed pep in their step, (Y/n) walks straight ahead until she is met with a tall structure of brown, white, and violet. The pokéball sign over the entrance indicated that it was indeed the Pokémon Lab. It hasn’t changed a bit save for the vines that grew out and over the windowsills. Giving a tentative knock on the door, the veteran trainer walks through and takes a good look. The outside may not have appeared too different, but wow! The inside had some work done. New technology was a given considering the occupation of science and research, though there was so much more greenery and literature that there was now a second floor. The place could pass for a recreational library if it really wanted to.

“Why, hello there. Is there anything I can assist you with?” (Y/n) turns their head to view a rather plain looking lady. A woman of average height with blue-black hair and glasses stands patiently for an answer.

“Hey-ya. I was looking to see if Sonia or Professor Magnolia were here?” The woman shakes her head.

“I’m sorry. They have left for the day. I stayed behind to organize my work, so I’ll be the one closing for tonight.” A small sigh leaves them in response.

“I did arrive too late, then. That’s not a problem. I’ll just visit them when they’re in tomorrow.” Giving a nod of thanks (Y/n) turns to exit, yet upon opening the door they are met with a familiar face. A teen boy with amber eyes and a head of purple hair. He had a stack of annotated papers in hand; the fluffy figure of a Dubwool stood by his side as it bleated at them in greeting. (Y/n) would have greeted the pokémon back if they and the boy weren’t having a borderline staring contest, both shocked at seeing each other once again. Apparently, the boy was at a loss for words so (Y/n) breaks the silence.

“How’s it hangin’ Hopscotch? You haven’t forgotten about me have ya?” A proud smile graces their face. He’s grown so much from the last time they saw him.

In a split second, the weight of his person clings to them in a tight hug. His shoulders shake with quiet sobs as (Y/n) reciprocates, letting tears of their own slip down their cheeks. It was one thing to talk through a phone screen but seeing each other in-person goes unmatched. It has been years.

(Y/n) was like a second sibling to Hop; a wayward soul with a sharp wit and open mind. Someone who, despite being rather blithe was also fully capable of giving their 110% percent. Both they and Lee played a part in making who he is as a person, more than they’d ever know. So, when (Y/n) had made the decision to “go on a new adventure”, he didn’t know how to feel. To be in their presence after over half a decade has him floored. When Hop pulls away to dry the remainder of his tears, (Y/n) takes their hands to playfully cup his face.

“Say it ain’t so! I swear it was just yesterday when I had to crouch to look at you.” The boy huffs swatting their hands away.

“Yeah. Time will do that to a person.”

“I swear it was just yesterday when you weren’t as cheeky either.” Hop laughs.

“What are you doing here?! Just a few days ago you said you were in Hoenn!?”

“Well I was, but I also had a flight soon after our call.”

“So what? You just weren’t going to tell anyone that you’d be in Galar.”

“Nope. I wanted to surprise you all. You should have seen the look on your face.”

“Can you blame me? It’s been so long.”

“Nah. If anything, I’m just as excited about this as you are.”

The subtle sound of the lab assistant clearing her throat pulls the two from their conversation. Having witnessed all that occurred she was happy for the two, but she needed to head home and they were blocking the doorway. With a swift apology and the scratch of a cheek, (Y/n) sidesteps as Hop walks into the facility.

             “Sorry about that. I forgot to turn in a report, so I’ll take over and lock-up.” The woman concedes the lab keys to the teen before taking her leave.

             The young researcher swiftly moves around the area. The older leaves him to it as they take a seat at the table. A hefty nudge of the leg gains their undivided attention as (e/c) hues meet the shining eyes of Dubwool. The pokémon bleats loudly and happily in recognition. (Y/n) does not hesitate to stroke his head and horns.

“So you’ve evolved, eh? Last time I saw you, you were just a small as Hopscotch.”

The sound of a drawer sliding shut is followed by the kid rounding the counter he had walked behind. (Y/n) notices the small bounce in his step as he beams at them. If there was anything that hadn’t changed about Hop it was his abundant energy. Aside from his uptick in enthusiasm at their return, the teen had always been a lively person in general.

“Oh, man. I have so many questions, but first, I really wanna see your pokémon. Can I? Please? This is the perfect place!” His exaggerated gesturing elicits a soft chuckle from them. Taking grasp of a pure black crossbody laid atop their luggage, (Y/n) opens a side compartment to reveal an entire team of six. Taking each capsule to fit between their fingers, the veteran tosses them out, summoning the creatures they held dear.

Calls of different volumes and pitches echo across the laboratory as (Y/n)’s pokémon party take in their surroundings. The team consisted of creatures of various heights and statures—two tall, two moderates, and two smalls; 4 bipedal, and 2 quadrupedal. Venusaur, Quagsire, Aggron, Lopunny, Scrafty, and Sylveon. Amber eyes widen in admiration as he identifies the team. Scrambling to retrieve his Rotom Phone and log the pokémon, he begins to feel a soft texture along the back of his non-dominant hand. Removing his eyes from the device, Hop follows the touch. Pink ribbon-like feelers languidly caress the skin skimming over his fingers, down the palm, and to the wrist before unraveling. Sylveon to whom the feelers belonged let out a noise of approval before moving to Dubwool. The teen raised an eyebrow at what had occurred.

“That was Babe. You’ve seen him nose around on video call before. He knows who you are but has never been the sort to outright trust anybody without deciding that for himself.”

Now that the violet-haired teen thought about it, he does recall reading that Sylveon use their appendages to distinguish emotion. It’s to be expected he supposed.

Following Babe to see him sit by Dubwool, the sheep was conversating with Lopunny. The rabbit pokémon appears to be very talkative and attentive, giving Hop’s partner some much-needed social interaction. Bright eyes shift to (Y/n) once more.

“Her name’s Lulu. She’s definitely the most welcoming of the bunch. Not to say the others aren’t. She’s just warms up to people quicker.” With a nod of understanding, Hop turns his head to observe Aggron and Scrafty. The former stood shyly looking to her trainer for reassurance while the latter practically burned holes into Hop with an intense leer. Giving a soft smile to the two pokémon, (Y/n) pats the boy on the shoulder. He had turned stiff from the dark-fighting type’s intimidation.

“Those two are Gina and Scout. Don’t be fooled by Gina’s stature; she’s just the sweetest. As for Scout, she’s quite tenacious but I assure you it’s just because she’s very protective of the crew.”

“If you say so…” he laughs nervously.

Last but not least, the young researcher shifts to view (Y/n)’s Venusaur and Quagsire. Both were simply relaxing, the grass-poison type comfortably lay next to the terrarium eyeing the boy with warmth and familiarity. Quagsire sat close by with an ever-so lackadaisical look on his face. The water fish pokémon makes eye contact with both trainers and waves at them. Of course they both wave back touched by such a simple gesture.

“You remember those two?”

“Never forgot. You’ve had Poppy and Briggs since the very beginning.”

“Yeah… You’d hang with them all the time back when they were just a Bulbasaur and Wooper.”

             Hop would always recollect the day Leon, Sonia, and (Y/n received their starters. He was five years old around that time. Professor Magnolia had recently returned from a meeting in Kanto and bought their regional starters to Galar. Lee, Sonia, and (Y/n) were set to begin their trainer journeys by choosing from the three. Big brother chose Charmander, Sonia took Squirtle, and (Y/n) adopted Bulbasaur. The grass starter’s personality was mellow—a stark foil to a rambunctious young (Y/n). Even so, they were a match bound by Arceus. When they weren’t busy climbing the ranks, the two would drop by Postwick and entertain his antics. Sometimes they’d even go on capers much to his mother’s worry.

It was at one point that an attempt at lake fishing almost yanked him into the water. If it weren’t for (Y/n) and Poppy’s assistance, Hop couldn’t help but to think the situation would’ve taken a turn for the worse. That encounter was when they had met Briggs, an odd little Wooper who had gotten tangled in the line. The battle that ensued and the capture that followed made an impression on his kid self. It was when the League began to get more challenging that Poppy and Briggs evolved. They had grown stronger and the conscious fear of hurting the boy wasn’t a risk (Y/n) was willing to take.

The memory was bittersweet; a nice glimpse back in time when life was simpler, but it was also a reminder of restriction—something Hop was all too happy to have less of.

“Hey, d’you know if they still like feather toys?” (Y/n) guffaws at the inquiry.

“Seriously, Hop?”

“Yeah! What of it, mate? I’m trying to relive the good times, here!”

                The sky was blackened by night and the two remained in the lab. (Y/n) had since returned their pokémon to their pokéballs and continued to talk with Hop, telling him about their time outside of Galar. Despite often speaking about their excursions on call, the teen would always want to hear more. Today was no exception.

“I’ve been traveling between Hoenn and Kalos for the past few months.”

“Sounds rough. I guess it must be important for you to go through that.”

“Yeah…” (Y/n) drawls before a hefty yawn rips from their throat. “I’ve been helping both Professor Birch and Sycamore conduct research about this phenomenon called Mega Evolution.”

The terminology appears to enliven Hop, a contrast to how weary he looked previously. He had only ever heard about Mega Evolution in passing, so any chance of learning more was a plus. Reclined in the seat across from them, curious amber eyes urge (Y/n) to continue.

“Not a lot is known about the subject aside from whatever sparse records we have. However, what we do know is that a pokémon’s bond with their trainer is very integral to their development—so much so that they are capable of evolving further than we originally thought.”

“Woah! That sounds awesome! Have you guys found out anything else?”

“Unfortunately not. We’ve explored different ruins and studied many relics, but there just doesn’t seem to be enough information to make anything concrete.” He responds with a sympathetic hum.

“That’s just by case of piecing together a substantial timeline, though. We know of almost 50 pokémon that can Mega Evolve.” They say it like it’s no big deal but Hop begs to differ.

“W-huh?! That’s great news! Who cares about the timeline??” (Y/n) couldn’t help but to chortle.

“Hey now. Give timelines a little more credit. If we knew more about the origin of this drastic change then maybe we’d know of more than 50.”

A moment of silence passes and another yawn leaves (Y/n). Perhaps yawns were contagious because Hop lets out his own seconds later. Maybe it was time to wrap up this reunion for now. Still, they had a request to make before they called it a day.

“Alright, kiddo. I think I’m gonna hit the hay, but I have a question I’ve yet to ask.”

“Hmm? What’s up?”

“How’s your brother?”

“Lee? He’s alright. Why?”

“Haven’t really heard from him in a while.”

“Really? He’s usually on top of things, but I guess he’s busy. If I’ll be honest, I haven’t seen him much lately either. Lately, he’s been going to work early and coming home late. Maybe something important is keeping him up?”

“I’d say that that’s not healthy, but who am I to say that. I can’t even take my own advice.” (Y/n) shakes their head.

“Anyway, the reason why I ask is because Charizard happens to be one of the known pokémon capable of Mega Evolving. It actually have two different forms surprisingly enough.”

“No way.”

“Yeah dude.”

(Y/n) swiftly reaches into a different compartment of their trainer bag to pull out what appeared to be a golden brooch. The prominent jewel in the center of the accessory glistened with the colors of the rainbow its luster shining brightly underneath the light. (Y/n) moves to pull out another jewel, but this one’s attached to a golden necklace. The colors are also different, taking on the colors of black and blue.

“These are a Key Stone and Charizardite X, items worn to trigger Mega Evolution.” They carefully hand the items over to Hop to which he takes in kind, as if he were scared he’d break them.

“When you see him, just hand ‘em off. If he doesn’t already know what they are then don’t tell him. And if he asks who they’re from don’t tell him that either.”

“(Y/n), you’re scaring me. What is this, some kind of back ally deal? Why can’t I tell him that they’re from you?”

“It’s too late. If Leon knew that I was here, I don’t think he’d hesitate to track me down and I want to sleep.” Hop wanted to argue but they both knew they were right.

“You don’t have to tell him today. Tell him tomorrow,” (Y/n) drowsily checks their Rotom Phone. “Or rather later in the morning. It’s past midnight.” Hop gasps.

“We’ve been here too long! I have to get home!” The teen secures the stones in his jacket before grabbing the lab door keys. (Y/n) follows him out the door as he turns off the overhead lights and fixes the door tight. He turns to the older once again.

“Where are you staying?”

“I’m gonna kick it at the pokémon center down the road. I still have yet to give Sonia and Prof. Mags a visit. I’ll likely be over at their pad bright n’ early.”

“Cool. Send me a notif and I’ll be there. Let’s make this a reunion a good one.”

“Ha. If your reaction was anything to go by, it won’t just be a good reunion. It’ll be a great one.” Giving Hop a hearty pat on the back, they nod down Route One from where they currently stood.

“You go get some shut eye. I don’t want to hear you complaining about being tired tomorrow. Tell your mom I said hi.”

“Will do. See you tomorrow then.” With a quick goodbye hug, the teen turns to leave and (Y/n) assumes their destination to the pokémon center.

                The road to Postwick from Wedgehurst is a short one, so Hop makes it home in no time at all. Entering his abode, he takes a deep breath and exhales as he removes his shoes at the door. His bright eyes look over the living room. To his relief, no one was downstairs. Though luck is not on his side when he moves to make his way upstairs, to which he is effectively blocked.

“Hop, it’s super late! Where were you?” The mix of worry and relief was evident in Leon’s voice, but the look on his face showed that he was evidently peeved.

“At the lab. I got held up, it’s not like I was going places I wasn’t supposed to.” He rolls his eyes. The younger understood why the older would worry, but he could take care of himself fine. Leon scrutinizes Hop. The answer wasn’t good enough for him, but he’d give his little bro the benefit of the doubt. He sighs.

“Hey, it’s fine. Just say something next time so you won’t give mum and I a heart attack. Alright?”

“Yeah. My bad…” Hop half-heartedly apologizes. Nevertheless, it seems enough for Leon as he moves for Hop to pass and ascend the steps.

“Oh. I almost forgot.” Hop stops before he reaches the top. He reaches in his pocket and pulls out the Key Stone and Charizardite passing them to Leon. The former champ gingerly takes them in his hands before briefly inspecting them. They looked oddy familiar, but he just couldn’t remember where he had seen them before.

“It’s a little gift for you and Charizard. Take good care of ‘em.” Turning to reach the end of the stairs, Leon gives him pause with a question.

“A gift from who?” Hop smirks, a small puff of laughter leaves his lips. Looking over his shoulder to give his sibling a knowing smile he answers.

“I’ll tell you tomorrow.”

Leon was left to guess as his eyes followed Hop retreat to his room. Just what exactly had he been up to?

[officiallynuts]

A/N: Hi there! It’s been so long since I’ve written anything, like really written anything. and so I’m going to pop in with a little fanfic for you guys. So I’m going to start this off with a little fic of Elu from Skam France! (Yes, I know, cliche ship to start with but I would be more than happy to do the others as well if anyone would like me to! Even the friendships too! Or when my own inspiration strikes. Anyway, enough rambling, sorry). So I hope you guys enjoy! 

(Note: I do not own the characters. All credit goes to the creators and showrunners of Skam France) 

Word Count: 2,888.

Dark. Never-ending darkness. Reaching out all around him. All-consuming, gripping hold of his heart. Tightly, squeezing, never letting go. No release for the wicked. He couldn't breathe, couldn't feel, could barely move. All he felt was cold. Cold as everything was a slush, moving slowly as if he were underwater. No sense of what was up, nor down, he had no choice but to go forward. But there was a force pushing him back, it made him grow weak. Tired, too tired to move anymore. And so he floated. Arms held out beside him, hair floating up as he felt himself sink. Lower and lower, as his visioned blurred. He felt his last breath escape through his lips in a bubble, rippling away as he felt too weak to reach for it. Too weak to do anything but close his eyes one last time.

Hands. Hands were the first thing he felt. And soon they were all around him, sliding around his chest in a strong grip, pushing against him till he had no choice but to open his eyes, his mouth opening in surprise, feeling the gasp engulf him as water rushed through his turning blue lips. Blue was all he saw when his vision cleared, blue, maybe gray as well, eyes and brown hair that glowed like caramel as a light shone behind his savior. Closer the light came, till he was suddenly able to spit out the water he collected. Gasping for air, he let the hands led him to shore. Where his panicking friends were yelling out his name.

"Lucas! Merlin, are you okay?!" Worried voices called out as more arms helped pull him out of the water and to the soft grass. The drowning boy, Lucas, feeling as blue as his own eyes and scarf that felt like was strangling him, only coughed in response as he shivered harshly. He could barely speak, barely move. Even as everyone longed for him to say something, anything, to show that he was already. But he wasn't. Lucas was entranced in shock.

"The scarf." A rough, new yet familiar, voice spoke calmly. Possibly the only calm one there; Lucas appreciated that for a moment. Only a split moment, as he found a distraction. The body of his savior kneeling in front of him, hands reaching for his neck. Slowly, as if not to startle the shivering boy, he unraveled the scarf around his neck and laid it aside. "Lucas.. you're okay now. Can you breathe?"

Breathe, right, he could do that, Lucas thought to himself as he felt another wave of shaking cold rush through him. Closing his eyes, he tried to push through everything and focus. Focus... fo-

"Focus, Lucas," The voice continued as if he could read the other's mind. There you go, you're doing great. So great, Lucas. Yann, get me my wand, it's in my robes." His voice took on a demanding turn, still as soft but left no room for argument.

"W-wha..." Lucas was able to rasp out as he felt his breath coming back to him. He watched with wide eyes as his savior took the wand that was held out to him, then proceeded to wave it over Lucas's body slowly with murmurs of spells. Gasping out, Lucas felt his clothes dry as well as heat rushing back to him. He could feel the heat rushing to his face, turning his cheeks a slight pink. Feeling warm all over, like he was never in a cold, black, lake in the first place.

"There we go." His savior spoke softly, again, as he set his wand aside, his hand reaching out to hold Lucas by his cheek. "How are you feeling?"

"Better..." Lucas breathed out, sighing as he slowly pushed himself in a sitting up position. "What happened?" He frowned, looking from blue/gray eyes to the eyes of his friends standing around with freaked out eyes.

"The idiot-"  Arthur started, pushing up his falling glasses as he sighed with a shake of his head.

"Hey!"

"Got excited when he saw a certain blonde-haired Hufflepuff and tried to impress her with a spell, only to have it backfire as always." He continued as if he wasn't interrupted, sending a look to the one who yelled out. Basile, who was frowning at the other.

"You were walking towards the Lake, we were supposed to meet for a study session, and you walked right into the spell. Sent you flying." Imane, the only one who probably took their studies as seriously as he did, pipped in as she knelt to look him over. "Are you okay?"

"I'm fine, Imane. Really. Don't feel like frostbite so that's a plus." Lucas shook his head, grateful for his friend's concern as he rested a hand on her shoulder for a moment.

"Speaking of which," his last friend, and maybe best friend out of them all, Yann, spoke as he turned to the boy who had saved him. "We have Demaury to thank for that. Seriously, man. You reacted faster than any of us. How did you even know it was going to happen?"

Demaury. Lucas knew the name. And the face. He was two years older, a Slytherin that came in the middle of the year mysteriously. He was quiet, kept to himself, but was one of the friendliest around. And maybe most beautiful, too, Lucas thought to himself. Everyone loved him, wanted to know him. Even Lucas did, secretly. But he could never suck up the courage to speak to him. Someone as... entrancing as Eliott Demaury was, didn't become friends with boys like simple Lucas.

"Oh." Eliott coughed as he shifted in a more comfortable sitting position. "I was drawing when I heard Basile yelling out his spell. Saw Lucas walking, put two together and... yeah. Here we are." He shrugged almost sheepishly, almost shy like as he turned his head. Like he wanted to avoid everyone looking at him. But his eyes met a certain set of blue, Lucas's.

"Well, still. Thank you for saving our Lulu! We'd be lost without him." Basile cut in with a wide smile on his face, only to frown again when Arthur reached to hit his arm.

"No thanks to you! Come on, you owe Lucas an apology dinner. And to explain to the professors why he won't be in class for the day." Arthur didn't give him a chance to deny the request, turning the curly hair boy around and away from the crowd. Back to the castle.

"What? I'm not?" Lucas frowned, watching his two friends leave before looking to the others.

"Are you kidding? Lu, you nearly drowned! Take the day. Imane will fight off any angry teachers." Yann scolded lightly, patting him on the shoulder as he turned his body to leave as well. "I'll see you at dinner, yeah?" Waiting for the nod of approval from Lucas, Yann looked from him to the last boy of the crowd, Eliott, then back at him to wiggle his eyebrows once before walking away.

"Feel better, Lallemant. I need you in top shape for the potions assignment next week." Imane talked as if she was demanding, but Lucas didn't feel threatened. He knew better. He could see the soft, relieved, look in her eyes as she stood up and left.

"She secretly likes me, I promise." Lucas let himself joke, to break the silence that seemed to take over once there were two left. He turned to the other and almost felt his breath leave him once again. Eliott was looking at him, staring at him. So close, so intensely, he felt like someone was casting the heat charm on him all over again. "So, um.."

"You scared me." Eliott started, not once looking away. Like the thought of taking his eyes off the boy physically hurt him. "Seeing you fly into the water like that... I didn't think I was going to reach you in time."

"But you did." Lucas put in, straightening his back to watch him. "You saved me, Eliott... Thank you. Seriously." He whispered by the end, his eyes wide as he felt the gratitude rush all over him. There he was, Eliott Demuary, saving Lucas Lallemant even though the two never met before. Never before now.

"I only wish I had gotten there earlier, save you the trouble from almost drowning. Before you hit the water, if I had run faster, or cast a levitation spell, or-" Excuse me, what? Was he seriously trying to blame himself right now?

"Eliott, no. Stop." Lucas shook his head slowly. "You couldn't have gotten there in time, I'm sure. Diving after me in the water... was probably the safest way. Who knew what spell would react to Bas's. It could have made things worse." Lucas felt himself wanting to reach out, to reassure the other. But he kept his hands to himself. He didn't deserve to touch.

"Still I-"

"Saved my life, thanks to your quick thinking," Lucas butted in before he could finish speaking. "I wouldn't be here right now if it weren't for you. Thank you, Eliott. Take it." He spoke strongly, not giving any room for a rebuttal as he moved to stand up. Eliott stuttered as he scrambled to stand up, taking Lucas's arm to help him. Just in case he would fall. If Lucas was shocked by his actions, which he was, then he didn't show it.

"I'm not sure you should be standing right now.." Eliott frowned, looking down at the boy. Which was something else, their height difference. Lucas knew he was shorter than others, and usually, he hated it. Still did. But having to look up at Eliott, who still had that glowing light behind him, he found that he didn't mind as much.

"Probably not. Which is why I should get to my dorm, to lay down." Lucas informed with a small smile, shaking his head. "I could use a nap after the near-death experience. And I'm sure you have a class you should go to."

"I can skip it." Eliott put in quickly, shaking his head as he took a small step to him. "Let me walk you back. Just to be sure."

"I.." Lucas bit his lip, licking them once, before shaking his head. Now that the shock was running down, back came the wall. Lucas could feel himself closing in, could feel everything coming back. So used to admiring Eliott from afar. But now he was so close he could just reach out and touch him if he wanted. But Lucas couldn't. He didn't have the right. They didn't know each other.

"Please." Eliott gave it one last try, sounding like he was practically begging the other. For what, Lucas didn't know. More time with him? He wished. But that couldn't be it.

"Alright." Lucas finally caved, letting himself smile a little when Eliott shot him a blinding grin. Biting his lip, he let the older gather their things, handing everything back to Lucas. All but the Ravenclaw scarf, Eliott rolled it up before putting it into his own bag. Saying he knew of a spell that would never let it get wet or something like that. He didn't know, Lucas still felt a little dazed by everything.  But after gathering their things, together they started their journey back to the castle.

The walk back was quiet, mostly. Lucas could feel himself getting awkward, not knowing what to say. But he also kept stealing glances at the other. If this was a once in a lifetime experience for him, being so close to Eliott, then he didn't want to miss a moment. He wanted to cherish it while it lasted.

Eliott, on the other hand, was secretly waiting for the other to speak. Come on, Lucas, what does it have to take to get you to talk to me like you do with your friends, he thought to himself, shooting the other silent looks. He, himself, didn't want the time to end. He wanted it to stretch on forever if he could make it. But as it always seemed to happen, time went by fast. Too fast. The portrait leading to the Ravenclaw common room was right up ahead, coming closer into view. The painting watching the two students come to it, no doubt waiting to speak the perfect riddle for them to answer.

"Well, this is me." Lucas cleared his throat, coming to a stop. He turned to Eliott, once again having to tilt his head up to look at him. "Thank you for walking me back, though you didn't have too."

Eliott, letting out a soft, almost disbelieved laugh, shook his head as he stepped forward. He reached up, taking a strand of Lucas's hair and brushed it back. "It was my pleasure, Lucas. Thank you for letting me." He spoke softly, letting his voice drop into a whisper. Like he was sharing a secret for just the two of them. "I'll see you around, yeah?"

"Yeah.." Lucas whispered, his eyes had fallen shut the moment Elliot touched his hair. But the snapped open when he heard the latter take steps away. If he was going to leave, Lucas needed to at least watch him go. If this was going to be the last that they saw each other, despite the promise just made, then he wanted to memorize everything about the moment.

"Good." Eliott smiled at him, still taking small steps backward, not wanting to look away as he left the younger boy standing there. But he soon came to a point where he had to turn around. But as he did, he was stopped by a voice calling his name.

"Eliott." Lucas started, pressing his lips together with a small frown as he waited for him to turn back. There was a question on the tip of his tongue, ever since he came to his senses. Ever since he realized who saved him, and that they knew him. Everyone knew Eliott, everyone always knew the new kids. But how did he know him? "How did you know my name?" He finally asked, letting out a breath as if the question hurt him to say out loud. He probably sounded crazy. Merlin, he probably scared him off now.

"Lucas Lallemant. 6th year Ravenclaw. Bluest eyes I have ever seen in my life," Eliott started with a small laugh. The silly boy. How could he not know? He could he not see before? "You were the first I saw when I accidentally bumped into you in the hall on the way to the Great Hall. You were with your friends, so you didn't see me. But I saw you. I only saw you. And since then, you are all I can think about. Drove Imane insane until I got her to cave, telling me your name."

Lucas was speechless after that, not knowing what to say. His lips fell open slightly to show his surprise, watching as Eliott gave him a soft smile and laugh.

"I'll be seeing you, Lucas. Have a good nap." Sparing him from what Eliott could guess would be a stuttering mess if the flush to his cheeks was any indication. He gave the boy a wave before finally leaving, walking away down the hall.

Slowly, Lucas started to smile to himself and turned, walking to the painting of a bronze eagle waiting for him. Answering the riddle after a second thought, Lucas walked through the opening portrait, and the next thing he knew Lucas was in his bed. He felt like he was in a trance, replying the day, the encounter, over and over in his head. Not believing any of it, but the missing blue scarf was the only indication that it was real.

If it wasn't the scarf, it was the warmth that enclosed around him. Where Eliott had touched him before, from inside the water, to his cheek, to his arms, everywhere. He never felt so warm before. It was mind-blowing and soothing. And cold, as the reminder that he wasn't near the other, made him feel cold all over again.

"Oh.. I'm in trouble," Lucas whispered to himself with a sigh, already feeling his heartbeat a little faster the more he thought of the Slytherin. While he was used to that reaction, it was different now. He had the sound of a voice to go with the mental image of him, and a feeling of touch to go along with. It made his heart race faster than before. That alone scared him, almost terrified him, how affected he was by the first meeting.

"Okay.. okay. Breathe. You need to get some sleep. Calm down." Lucas continued to whisper, sighing as he shifted. Moving to lay on his side, he closed his eyes. It took some time, Lucas never did fall asleep easily. His mind was always racing. Thought after thought. Daydream to nightmare, whatever it may be, sleep was hard for him to come under. And a nap was no different, only this time his mind only had one thing in mind. Blue/gray eyes. Eyes so intense, they somehow lulled the boy into a slow sleep. And soon, Lucas was out. Dreaming of his savior, saving him even in his sleep.

[ussjellyfish]

5, 8, 9, and 25 for writing asks <3

5. What’s the fic you’re most proud of?

Right now it’s Firefly, followed by Fun Times, which is funny, because I’m terrible and I like the most current thing, but Firefly is so fun for me. For older things...I love Uncharted, it’s one of my best, and Her Majesty’s Mercy.

Firefly is just so close to my heart and so much about relationships and quiet feelings and I love it.

8. Which character(s) do you find easiest to write?

Tilly, she’s wordy and emotional and silly and she’s just easy for me to write, so it’s really fun to be in her head. Yes, she’s way smarter than I am, which is always the Trek problem (everyone is a genius) but she has self-doubt so it’s more closer to me. She’s also just a fun voice for me to find. 

9. Which character(s) do you find most difficult to write?

Captain Georgiou. I’ve written Emperor Georgiou enough that I have an idea how she works, and she is VERY complicated, but I think I’m getting closer to unraveling her. Captain is so heroic and so good and I’ve written her less so she’s harder to nail down. I’d love to write her more but she’s a tough one for me.

Also, I think because I don’t ship her with Michael there’s just less fic for me to read about her because there’s not as much fic with Captain Philippa that’s not romantic that way.

25. Have you ever daydreamed about side adventures/spin-offs from your fic? Tell us about them!

Currently, whenever I’m stressed or bored or just need an escape, I wonder about Firefly ‘verse, and what’s going on there. I ramble that to you often, and you’re so kind to listen. I love the idea of what happens in the far future, and how Lulu grows up in space, because we’ll never see the show go on for decades, but in fic you can think about it.

What is it like for Philippa when Lulu dates? What does Lulu tantrum about? Does Philippa help her with her homework? is that Tilly? What’s Auntie Michael like? Do Joann and Keyla ever have kids? What other kids does Lulu play with?

There are so many questions, and thinking about family and happiness and how the universe fits together is very soothing for me.

Thank you, thank you!

35 questions for fanfic writers

[aurlu-gives-me-full-life]

Auron/Lulu Fluff #1 | “Respite”

Just a little Auron/Lulu one shot! My brain gave me this idea that no one asked for lol xD first ever ffx fiction i’ve posted so pls be kind but hope you enjoy the fluff ^-^

Auron peered through the doorframe and found Lulu sat on the bed with a slightly scowled expression, immediately telling him that something was wrong without even needing to say a word to her. He removed the shades from his eyes and pocketed them, wanting to see Lulu as clearly as he could to determine what the problem might be; as he was observant, he was always doting and could usually read her emotions though she tried to be stoic. No-one ever saw him without his shades but her, as she was the only person to whom he could reveal his vulnerabilities - one of which being how deeply he cared about her.

“What’s wrong?” he asked as he entered the room, remaining composed but unable to fully conceal his concern for her.

“Nothing,” she replied, but she almost spoke through gritted teeth.

“You know you can’t fool me,” he reminded her as he approached, “I can tell when something is bothering you.” As he clambered onto the bed beside her, her hand moved to her forehead as she winced and Auron began to realise what the problem was. “Headache?” he guessed from observing her pained expression and the massaging motion of her hand.

“Yes,” she answered somewhat abruptly, “But I’m fine.”

“Allow me,” he offered, and Lulu lowered her hand to her side. Auron gently began to massage her forehead, and a sigh left her as she started to relax. “How is it?” he checked.

“Nice,” she exhaled. “You’re good at it.” As he massaged her, he took in her body language and soon realised that she appeared rather tense. His hand moved to her shoulder, and his other followed to her other side once he had taken it out of his haori. Slowly, he worked his hands into her shoulders and she sighed as the knots began to unravel beneath his palms.

“You’re stressed. Aren’t you?” he figured, gently but firmly massaging her.

“Mm,” she hummed in agreement, although the tension was starting to dissipate from her.

“It’s alright,” Auron reassured her, a gentleness to his voice. Lulu began to bow her head with closed eyes as she grew calmer, her shoulders continuing to lower underneath the guardian’s hands. Once she became at ease, her crimson eyes gazed at him with a twinkle and her lips slightly curled into a smile.

“I love you,” she told him softly, before her eyes slightly widened as she realised what she had just said out loud for the first time. Auron was stunned a moment, both of them sharing in a silence as their hearts fluttered, but then his face completely softened and his eyes glowed at her as he cupped her cheek with a gentle hand.

“I love you too,” he murmured, unable to stop himself from beginning to smile at her, before the two of them shared a tender kiss. They gazed at one another for a moment when they broke apart.

“I’m not so stressed now,” Lulu remarked fondly, before leaning into him and snuggling into his body with contentment.

“You’re comfortable, aren’t you?” he observed, an affection laced with playfulness in his tone while he put his arms around her.

“Very much so,” she smiled as she cuddled him.

“How do I compare to one of your toys?” he teased her with a slight smirk.

“I’d rather cuddle you,” she answered as she coyly nuzzled him. Auron’s little smile didn’t leave him, only softening with his love for the mage he held, and he began to run his fingers gently through her the black hair on her head. As his fingertips slowly moved across her scalp, Lulu relaxed even further into his embrace. Her focus shifted to the sound of his heartbeat, which seemed to slightly race while he held her, and she was so at ease that she closed her eyes.

“I love you,” Lulu whispered, and she noticed Auron’s heart speed up a little at her words.

“I love you too,” he echoed softly, noticing his heart thumping in his chest, and he planted a gentle kiss to her head. With all that had been going on in Spira, the two of them were exhausted and it was now in their respite that they were starting to notice. It wasn’t long before Auron felt Lulu’s arms loosen, her breathing slow and deep as she succumbed to her weariness, and he began to feel the heaviness of his own eyes. He fought to keep them open to gaze at the beautiful sight of the black mage he adored, still gently moving his hand upon her head, but the motion began to slow until his hand rested still. His tired eyes remained softly fixed on her, not averting for even a brief moment, until they slowly drew shut and his hand gradually slid down and rested loosely around Lulu. His pulse slowed, as did the rising and falling of his chest, and his head slightly fell to the side towards his shoulder as it became heavy. Thinking of her, peaceful in the love that they shared, he allowed himself to drift to sleep and a blissful dream of her welcomed him. 

[casscutting]

Cass’s Cover Do Over: Round One

Welcome to Cass's Cover Do Over, the new monthly series where I take books who’s covers I feel could better represent the story and give them a fitting makeover. Originally I wanted to call this series Extreme Makeover: Book Cover Edition, HOWEVER, Disney owns the trademark rights to “Extreme Makeover” and I REALLY don’t want to get sued by Disney.  

Now before I get into the meat of today’s post I want to give a disclaimer. I am in no way shape or form mocking or making fun of any cover designers and or authors who put their own time into making the original covers. If the authors do happen to see these posts and like what I have done I will give them the high quality images free of charge. This series is to help authors both established and aspiring better understand the do's and don’ts of Cover Design from the perspective of an aspiring author and established graphic designer.

Let’s start at the beginning WHY should you hire a designer to design your cover? Whether we admit it or not the first thing that draws your eye to a book, be it online or in a store, is the cover. I, like many others, have bought or borrowed a book because I liked the cover. I also, like many others, have kept a book because of the cover to spite the contents of the book.

The book cover is your first line of attack when trying to obtain a new reader. If the cover is eye-catching it brings that person one step closer to picking up your book. A cover should envoke the overall feeling or theme of your book and a designer will (SHOULD) be able to do that.

I see so many authors, I’m speaking about the Indie Authors though there are some questionable covers that have come from the traditional world, however, traditional authors have a minuscule amount of design input if any at all. Indie Authors are the sole decision makers when it comes to their books.

An author has put in months if not years to writing this book then if they go about things the RIGHT way they put in hundreds if not thousands of dollars (insert applicable currency here lol) into editing and formatting. Then comes time to hit the publish button and send your book baby out into the world but wait you need a book cover.

I’ve seen authors talk about this on their blogs or their youtube channels they’ve put little to no thought into the book’s cover with their first book or first few books. I’ve seen people say they just grabbed a Royalty Free Stock Photo or used Kindle Drect’s or LuLu’s cover editor to make their covers. Or even worse I’ve seen authors say they just googled pictures and find one they like and slap it up there vualá they’re done.

I am going to say this loud DON’T USE PICTURES FROM GOOGLE AS YOUR BOOK COVERS!

A: those pictures could be too small making your book cover blurry and bad. Most importantly B: You don’t know the legal ownership of that photo. Best case scenario you, by some miraculous chance, get a Royalty Free Stock Photo but most likely you will choose someone else's design or photograph and that person will be entitled to sue your ass off.

When I was still in school for graphic design we were given articles to read, wish I still had them, where authors were sued because they used someone else’s photo. Not only did that author need to pay out a percentage of back earnings the rightful owner of that photo was entitled to a percentage of that author’s royalties for the lifetime of that book or until such time as the author changed the cover image.

So I reiterate DON’T USE A RANDOM GOOGLE PICTURE.

Now on to the Cover Do Over’s

I want to note that I have NOT read these books the designs I came up with are based on a few criteria. 1: Title, 2: synopsis, 3: Genre and Age Groupe, and if I needed more to go off of 4: Reviews

White Rabbit by John Stanley

Synopsis:

All his life Gabriel has struggled with childhood memories. Or better said; the absence of them. Now a young man and married to the beautiful Alaina, the memories begin to surface in wild and terrifying nightmares. Tormented by the dark images of a faceless man, he discovers an inner strength found only in the delicate fibers that connect what is real and what is not.

A thousand miles away Professor O'Bannon, Homicide Detective with the Los Angeles Police Department, is hunting a sadistic and cunning killer who preys on the city's most innocent. He too, tormented by a faceless man who displays his victims with devastating affect. Soon fate intervenes, and worlds of the Professor and Gabriel collide in a jarring, mind-bending thrill ride that will change both their lives forever.

I believe I saw where the author/designer was going with this cover but I feel it came across more cartoonish which made it feel less thriller to me.

So I created a stylized rabbit head on a dark cracked textured background with a deliberate light source and jittered text to envoke the ominous and unsettling feeling that John Stanley alluded too with their synopsis.

The Culling by Anthony Hulse

Synopsis:

A series of child abductions are linked to Jules Devlin’s touring circus. A team of CID detectives are deployed and attempt to unravel the mystery. The performers, including a clown, a lion-tamer, a fire-eater, a dwarf, and conjoined twins harbour a terrifying secret. Jimmy Crawford, an ex-CID detective turned private investigator is hired by the parents of a teenage girl, who believe her disappearance is linked to the circus. Crawford is aided in his task by a child psychologist and a priest. Through a handicapped boy, they discover that the circus is not what it seems. DS Jenny Stiles, believing Devlin is the head of a paedophile ring, soon discovers something more sinister. Could the evil carnival be responsible for the burning of churches and their priests? The Culling is a supernatural thriller set in Whitby and Dartmoor. From Edinburgh, Cleveland and Lourdes in France, strange and unexplainable episodes occur, which leads Jenny to believe that Devlin is indeed evil.

In my eyes they only thing that tells me this book is a Mystery/Thriller is the foggy road and no I did not use a low-quality image here every image of this book I’ve found has the same low-quality image. From Google to Amazon to Goodreads it’s the same.

Aside from the SLIGHT reference to the Mystery/Thriller, I would have no idea what this book was about without reading the synopsis and there is nothing about this cover that made me as a reader want to learn more about it.

So after reading the synopsis, I saw the Mystery/Thriller aspect of this story revolves around a creepy traveling circus and missing children but like I said I didn’t get that from the original cover. So I created the circus tent and found several royalty-free stock images that would work as a background when stitched together.

I chose to go with a more circus-themed font that I created for this project to tie in the title and author name to the theme because the juxtaposition between the creepy circus background and any flat color for the typeface would have thrown off the whole feeling.

Now I have almost 20 variants of each design and the ones I’ve chosen I feel best to represent the themes as stated in the synopsis. And so you know for when you’re choosing a cover designer they, after the consultation, will go and design, depending on the designer, 3-5 or 3-7 different designs with a handful of variants for each design. I personally offer in the 3-5 design range. What I mean by variant is the designer will move around the typeface or other elements of the design and or give you different typefaces as options as well to give you more to choose from.

Also of note and again every designer is different, but every designer will offer a set amount of Revisions where they will change something you, the client, have changed your mind on. This is usually anywhere from 1 - 5 revisions before charging extra with most I’ve seen offering 3, I personally offer 5. There are also Fixes if there is something the designer fucked up they SHOULD redo it and it SHOULDN’T count towards any of the revisions. During the consultation, a designer worth their weight will take extensive and detailed notes on what you want in order to prevent having to make to many fixes or to prevent a shady client from getting more revisions than they deserve.

How do you get your designs? Throughout the process, the designer is sending you a lower quality watermarked image so they can show you the design and get your feedback. Once the designs are done and payments are paid IN FULL the designer will send you the full HD images and they are yours to do with as you see fit, unless otherwise stated.

Now let's talk about price, again here is where every designer differs but I have seen designers offer flat rate payments and usually, that is paid upfront before the designer starts working. There is a second version of a flat rate payment where there is one flat rate but you pay 50% upfront and the other 50% when the designs are signed off on which is the payment method I use. There are hourly billed payments, where you as the client are to pay for a set number of hours upfront and the rest of the payment is to be paid in full before you’re given the final product. 

I’ve wanted to do this for a while now and I am glad I finally did it. One of my goals this year is to start designing book covers and I thought this would be a fun way to get my name out there.

Question of the day: Do you sometimes buy a book just because you liked the cover?

[fulgensun]

T I D U S

T :  TRUE LOVE. does your muse believe in true love?

He might have never thought too much about it as love has barely been a priority most of his life. And ‘true love’, the kind people speak of in fairytales and old legends, has been mostly a foreign concept to him, back home – when it comes to romantic, true love per se, Tidus really has no opinions about it. If it happens, it happens – it just means it is simply supposed to be that way. He’s never experienced anything even similar to such a pure and strong bond of love before arriving in Spira. With Yuna things do change, and he really thinks of it as ‘THE love’. Perhaps not at first, while attraction is undoubtedly there from the very start. But, as a writer of this particular muse, I have to admit that sometimes it’s hard to talk about Tidus without any mention, any reference of Yuna whatsoever; it’s a clear sign of how tied the characters are, how they stories unravel together and how important she is for him. I don’t know if, by Yuna’s side, he’d call that ‘true love’, but it definitely feels like one.

I :  I LOVE YOU. does your muse find ‘i love you’ easy or hard to say?

Pretty easy, when true to his feelings. He’s not the one to hide his thoughts and being quite the emotive and sensible guy, he’s also aware of the importance of such a confession, when done with the heart (coughcough eng ending dialogue, anyone? coughcough). If he means it, if the situation and relationship allow it, then he has no ‘I love you’s to hide !

D :  DATE. what is your muse’s ideal date?

He’s not one with high and mighty pretences or wishes, honestly, especially when it comes to dates. He may attempt to flirt, or better– he may look like that. He may sound cocky and a bit too full of himself at times – but as plenty of occasions did show us (despite the dire situation of ffx and blahblah) he ends up being the awkward one too when in presence of his loved one.Anything lively, anything entertaining, he’s in for it as long as his partner is too; that’s part of who he is and of course he’d found those types of date good. But even more private, quiet types too aren’t a bad choice, maybe spent even just talking or enjoying the other’s company.

U :  UNREQUITED. has your muse had their heart broken?

I doubt he’s experienced any serious broken-heart episode back in Zanarkand - in terms of love. As for his time in Spira, excluding the wedding at Bevelle (which really doesn’t count since, yeah, Tidus liked Yuna but the whole ceremony was forced and so on), romantic broken heart really hasn’t affected him. I know speaking of the audio drama is like committing a sin inside a church or something, but we can assume Yuna breaking up with him to be a sort of broken heart – although… although… to this day I still cannot believe people really think Yuna has dumped him for good. Read through the lines, the answer is there… and inside Lulu’s words too.

S :  SWEETHEART. did your muse have a childhood sweetheart?

I’d like to quote Jecht here but that’d be cruel hhh. But the true answer is no, haha !

☀  @siamxshade  ☀  Valentine Alphabet :  accepting

[theeddiewarnerstory]

IndieView with Imania Margria, author of The Pacemaker

The Pacemaker was based off a nightmare I had. I wrote most of what I could remember down, and it transformed into this.

Imania Margria – 19 December 2019

The Back Flap

Minerva Walsh forgot everything about her life before her eighteenth birthday. Since then, betrayal, hardship and strife plagued her life over the last five years, and good fortune was never on her side. However, when Minerva receives a full-paid scholarship to the most prestigious school in the country, Calendula University, and is given a chance to restart her miserable life, she feels her luck has changed.

But after arriving, the dark shadows and deadly secrets looming underneath the serene façade of this academic paradise shows Minerva that her new life is far from the peaceful escape she thought it would be. She learns about the curse haunting the university and claiming innocents’ lives in unusual accidents. Minerva also gains a strange power which lets her control the heartbeats of time and space and enter a world outside of reality. To solve the mystery behind Calendula’s curse, Minerva must use her new powers to investigate the secrets surrounding this elite school before the curse claims the lives of those close to her. But as she draws near the truth, pieces of her missing past come to light. Can Minerva unravel the mystery behind her forgotten memories and the school’s curse? Or will she become its next victim?

About the book

What is the book about?

The Pacemaker is about unlucky, amnesiac Minerva Walsh winning a full-paid scholarship to the college of elites, geniuses and scholars, Calendula University and having to learn to adapt to her new home. She soon learns it’s not all glitz and glam when she discovers this academic paradise is swarming with dark shadows and deadly secrets. One of these shadows is the curse which is responsible for claiming the several victims’ lives in unusual accidents. Not soon after learning about the curse, Minerva develops a strange ability that lets her control the fluctuations of time and space and enter a world outside reality. Minerva must use her new powers to investigate the truth behind this curse before it claims more lives.

When did you start writing the book?

January 2018.

How long did it take you to write it?

​ It took a bit over a year to finish The Pacemaker.

Where did you get the idea from?

The Pacemaker was based off a nightmare I had. I wrote most of what I could remember down, and it transformed into this.

Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?

The dark scenes were difficult for me. I’m very sensitive to circumstances like that. So, if I write a dark, depressing scene, the character’s feelings transfer to me, and I’ll be in a heavy mood for a while.

What came easily?

The romantic and action scenes. I’m better at writing romance and action (mostly supernatural or fantasy) scenes than dark scenes because they can be emotionally draining.

Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?

All characters are fictitious.

Do you have a target reader?

My target reader is late teenage years about 18+. Mentality wise someone who likes supernatural or fantasy mixed with some psychological thrills, romance, some sex, and lots of drama

About Writing

Do you have a writing process? If so, can you please describe it?

​Yes. I have a process. First, I write out a general outline and figure out the titles of the chapters and how many there will be. Next, I write out the separate outlines for each chapter and make chapter checklists for writing, editing, reading, rewriting, final editing, and final reading. And finally, I start writing everything out mostly in pen and paper first. I like to have a first draft for my records, and it makes easier for me when I type it up later. I used to not have a process, and it drove me mad. It took me forever to get anything done. Whenever I organize what I need to write or make checklists of what I need to get done, it makes accomplishing those goals easier and motivates me to finish them.

Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?

I do outline and make checklists. I figure out the overall outline of the story then the chapters’ names and finally their individual outlines. I also make checklists for writing, editing, reading, rewriting, final editing, and final reading.

Do you edit as you go or wait until you’ve finished?

I would edit after each chapter. Then I read through the entire book and do a point edit before doing a final edit, rewrite, and read.

Did you hire a professional editor?

Yes.

Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?

Yes. I do listen to music. The kind varies depending on the story and scene. But I normally make playlists, under the names of the books I’m working on via YouTube of the music I listened to while writing. I make them public while I’m editing and marketing the books.

About Publishing

Did you submit your work to Agents?

No, not really.  Since I’m not interested in working with a major publisher. I will hire a PR agent for my upcoming works to help me market my books from Sep 2020- on.

What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?

I decided to go indie because I like being in full control of the publishing and marketing process. I also like to have complete ownership of my work and not worry about it being tied to a specific publisher until my contract runs out or when I get lawyers involved to retrieve all rights from that publisher. It’s been a hard, long learning process, but I love the freedom of being my own boss.

Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?

I use a professional. For The Pacemaker, Panagiotis Lampridis from https://bookdesignstars.com/ made the cover.

Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?

I try to create a marketing plan, but it depends on my budget. For now, I’m kinda improvising.

Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?

Plan everything. Not just the book you’re working on. Plan out the costs for book cover and interior design. Plan the costs for editors and publishing (if you don’t decide to use Amazon and use Ingram or something). If you use a service like Ingram, plan the name for the publishing name you want to use (because you are the publisher if you use their service and buy your own ISBN and barcode). Most newbie indie authors think you just need to write your book find a publishing company and release your book, then you’re done. (I’ve been there done that.) They don’t realize that’s the easy part. The most important part is marketing your book and getting it to potential readers to get those first reviews and sales. Planning out a thorough marketing strategy and executing it is crucial to the success of your book. Because as an indie author, unless you’re publishing with an independent publisher (not Amazon, Lulu or Ingram), you have to be the writer, editor, PR agent and so much more. You don’t have the same liberties that traditionally or indie authors published by an independent or hybrid publishers have.

About You

Where did you grow up?

I’m Jersey girl born and raised. I was born in Livingston, spent my first 12 years of my life in East Orange and then the rest in Kearny, NJ.

Where do you live now?

I still live in Jersey.

What would you like readers to know about you?

​I’m a down-to-earth person who’s kinda shy. I’m just recently becoming more active in social media and literary events like poetry reads. I’ve been absent on there for a while, because I’ve been caught up finishing The Pacemaker and learning to stand in front of a crowd again since I tend to do in-person events for my upcoming 2020 novels, Eyes and Scarlet Moon. Follow my social media for more updates on locations: https://linktr.ee/imaniamargria .

For this new year, I want to connect more with my readers, and let them get to know more about who I really am. I’m going to try and be more active on social media and even make a vlog so they can see a little into my process and life. I also want them to become more involved in my development as a writer. So, I made a Patreon page where my readers can subscribe for as little as 3 dollars and get one-on-one contact with me, access to exclusive canon content that won’t be released to the general public, opportunities to get a sneak peek at chapters of upcoming books or becoming a beta reader or an ARC reviewer. This not only helps me connect with my readers but helps me get an idea about what they want, receive direct feedback, dedicate all my time to them and my writing, and create new high-quality content. Link to join is https://www.patreon.com/imaniamargria .

What are you working on now?

Currently, I’m doing final rewrites and edits on my romantic suspense novel, Eyes, so it could be released in the coming spring.  https://linktr.ee/eyesthebook It will be available everywhere books are sold.

End of Inteview:

Get your copy of The Pacemaker from Amazon US or Amazon UK.

source http://www.theindieview.com/2019/12/19/indieview-with-imania-margria-author-of-the-pacemaker/

The post IndieView with Imania Margria, author of The Pacemaker appeared first on The Eddie Warner Story.

from WordPress https://ift.tt/2MduZrd via IFTTT

[finnsgrin]

Bellamy Blake - “Isn’t this what you wanted?” Part 1

Bellamy Blake x reader

From my Wattpad: inanoncriminalwayy

GIF: kris-lulu

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Word Count: 928

Published on: August 26, 2020

TW: None

Spoilers: S3

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

♡Masterlist♡

Bellamy Blake

“Isn’t this what you wanted?” Part 1

With shaking hands, you scooped up your few belongings that currently resided in your shared flat with your boyfriend of three years, Bellamy Blake, and stuffed them in the tattered beige crossbody you had swiped at Mount Weather. Your mind scrambled itself as you unraveled your next move.

What would you do? Where would you go? It's not like you could just hop on a plane and fly to the other side of the country, like people used to do in the old books and films that were read and shown back up on the Ark in space. You were stuck in Arkadia.

Taking a moment to collect yourself, you gazed around the room and the memories that lingered.

The threshold of the sliding door where Bellamy carried you over the first day you were assigned your living quarters.

The small desk wedged in the corner where you sat sorting through papers and working on Ark files. Bellamy would often attack you with tickles when you got too stressed out.

The queen sized bed where the both of you shared intimate moments. Where laughs, and tears, and secrets were exchanged...

You fell to your knees, picking up one of Bellamys pajama shirts which he had carelessly tossed onto the floor this morning. You inhaled deeply, savoring the lingering scent of pine, and gun powder that you oh so adored...

Your shoulders began to tremble with sobs, and regaining the ability to stand on your own seemed impossible.

Finding a place to stay wasn't your biggest worry. Your best friend, Harper, would gladly take you under her wing. She was aware of the situation with Bellamy and fully supported you leaving him.

Leaving the room in the same condition as it was now seemed cruel, so you busied your mind and your hands as you picked up Bellamys dirty clothes, your crumpled up papers, and smoothed out the bedsheets to a crisp.

All there was left to do now was leave. It was both the easiest, and hardest part.

Slinging the bag over your chest, you triple checked that the note explaining everything was in its rightful place on the desk, and you slipped the promise ring off of your finger and placed it on the paper.

The familiar sound of the pin code being punched into the keypad next to the door outside made you freeze.

Bellamy stumbled in, clearly exhausted, and maybe even a little drunk. The night shifts weren't easy, but he wasn't supposed to be off work for another three hours.

He leaned in for his usual kiss, but immediately sobered up as soon as he took into account the state both you, and the room were in.

"What's going on?" His voice was gravely, and he swallowed a yawn.

You opened your mouth to explain, but, how were you supposed to explain this?

Bellamy figured it out for himself as his eyes focused on the silver ring he had found in the forest one of the first nights on the ground.

"You're leaving."

It wasn't a question.

"Bell-."

"Why?" His voice was both dead, and filled to the brim with pain.

You swallowed, your throat tight.

"You know why."

The ground had changed the both of you, no doubt in that. The ground had changed everyone. But Bellamy... wasn't Bellamy anymore.

He was silent for a moment, taking in the severity of his past actions.

"It had to be done." He spoke in a monotonous voice.

"Bullshit!" You stormed, tears springing in your eyes.

"He died a hero." Bellamys voice grew thick with emotion.

"A hero that you killed, you bastard!" You shoved Bellamy harshly, his bulletproof vest sturdy underneath your hands.

"He was your sister's one true love, and you killed him!" You screamed.

Bellamy blinked, several emotions registering across his face all at once.

"I can't do it anymore, Bellamy." Your voice was just above a whisper.

"Isn't this what you wanted?!" Bellamy retorted, his face burning with rage.

"What is that even supposed to mean?!" You yelled, tears streaming down your face.

Bellamys fist came in contact to the wall above your head, and you flinched beneath him.

His expression immediately softened once he saw your frightened one.

"They killed Finn, (Y/N)." He told you.

Although you had been trapped in Mount Weather of the time of your best friends death, haunting images plagued your mind as dreams fought back and forth relentlessly with how it played out... What you could have done... How it could have been avoided...

"No. Clarke did." You spoke through clenched teeth.

Although you didn't hold a grudge against the girl for what she had to do, you still said this to get the point across Bellamys thick head.

"They were going to torture him!" Bellamy reminded you of the necessary fact.

"And we're gonna blame Lincoln for that?! His people did that, not him! Maya's people took our bone marrow, not her! Finn killed 18 innocent people, not us! You can't blame everyone for the actions of one!"

Bellamy put his head in his hands, and began to pace the room, something he always did when stress overwhelmed him. When his tear filled eyes finally met yours, he began to plead with you.

"Please, (Y/N)... I need you." His voice cracked at the end, shattering your heart furthermore.

But this needed to be done. You would not support his actions.

"Pick, Bellamy. Me, or Pike?"

His silence spoke enough, and you left without a word not even looking back.

♡Masterlist♡

[bronson]

can someone give Juliette a crash course in Wtf Is Going On bc I’m tired of a narrator who doesn’t know anything