#marek: and my sister he was like-

[malikselfindulgence]

D'you mind telling me about Marek?I'm super curious about his lore!!

AGHH THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE ASK!!

Okay I haven't actually. Thought much about Marek teehee my alter Blaze is the lore guy I'm the . Kisses my favorite characters on the lips girlguy. BUT HERES WHAT IVE GOT SO FAR!!

OK this got rlly long my bad ToT putting under a read-more

Marek isn't from Megapolis [because I'm middle eastern so now she is too <3], he's not actually sure where he's from- all she remembers is arriving to the city as a teenager with something or someone urging her along and taking care of her .

This someone turns out to be a spirit- wolf spirit specifically, from thousands of years back into Marek's ancestry. He doesn't remember much either, only that he was called upon to the mortal realm to find a child, abandoned and crying, and he had to help. [Their ancestry and the spirit's origins are explored later on in s4 I'd saayy??]

^ some silly art Blaze made earlier :3 the design is a W.I.P!

The spirit starts out much more hazy, and is usually only summoned by Marek when he feels threatened- the spirit then takes over Marek's body, causing Marek's scar to glow, and her body to take on a more wolfish form :3

During the LBD arc, LBD tries to possess Marek as a way to get to Mei, but with Marek's body already holding two souls in one vessel, it overwhelms her and her consciousness is locked away, unable to be reached by even the spirit. The spirit fights off LBD's possession, but now he's in complete control of the body while Marek's soul remains imprisoned with LBD.

Uhh I haven't yet figured out how the spirit gains his own body but . It happens Somehow after LBD's defeat. Let's say main character bullshit <3 and he starts living his life outside of Marek- which allows them both to develop without the other! Starts out pretty rough but they get there :3

Also Mei and Marek's ship name is grapefruit :3!! Ik grapefruit isn't purple but shshsh it's ok im keeping Mei's fruit theme going with her duo/ship names. They both lowk start out horrible 4 each other because the way Mei and Marek talk about themselves only further perpetuates their unhealthy expectations of themselves- "if she's viewing herself in this way, and I think she's right about everything and pretty well-adjusted, then this way of thinking is obviously healthy!" type of deal

Blaze yet to decide on the spirit's name + who he's gonna date but . We'll get to that when we do proper ref sheets for them both :3 agahxhxh thank you sm for the ask im sorry this got so long TwT!! I think that's enough 4 now- you can ask any more questions if you'd like!!

[scrawnytreedemon]

Hello everyone! I would like you to meet the little guy I have been working on for the past week :)

His name is Mareczek, Blade of Olimar (A.K.A Marek), and as you can see, he is a Yellow Pikmin.

He is pale because I created him in a fit of creative malaise and hellsite-related frustration, and was too impatient to wait before I could get the right shade of yellow yarn. I ran out, and that's why he has this sick graft-arm instead.

I like to think he lost it valiantly in battle, narrowly escaping the jaws of death. "Rendered Unto Mars" indeed 💖

More details beneath the cut~

I did the flower by hacking a coaster-tutorial the very talented Mhalee's Crochet put up on Youtube, doing a row of triple-crochets over each of the petals-- It was so, so very janky. I filled the in the gaps by the edge in tying up the ends; the sewing is what gives it its shape and I'm honestly surprised it looks this good.

I made the floret-disc separately. Also! If you look closely in the main pictures, you'll spot the calyx :) I made using the Summer Flox flower by Pora Pora Crochet on Youtube. She has so many lovely tutorials, it's insane.

Little test flower, with my lovely cat for reference. Ended up being wayyy too small for Marek himself(thus the coaster-hacking), but it's be perfect for smaller Pikmin.

Also, as one final note:

I have this to thank for spurring me into action. Marek did end up needing a wash at one point(alas, it is why he is so baggy), so this meme has well and truly been fulfilled.

I hope you're happy, 4chan Anon. Marek has you to thank for his existence.

[suuuupernovaaa]

zeykoyu

zeykoyu [zɛj.ˈko.ju] n. healer

Anonymous Request: I would like to request a Neteyam x Na'vi reader with the "you'll never be her trope", where reader is promised to Neteyam, but he loves another. He is sort of a shitty asshole to her, a girl who is a quiet not very well known member of the clan; he treats reader with the coldest shoulder. However, he overhears the girl talking to her friends about how she just using Neteyam to gain status in the clan. He then sees reader for the caring person she is, and grovels for forgiveness.

I have resigned myself to my fate.

In what feels like a very short amount of time, I will be mated for life before Eywa, to a man who does not love me. In fact, he barely seems to tolerate me.

He looks at me with disappointment, and sometimes, it even looks like he feels disgusted by me.

It wasn't always this way. Neteyam used to be a friend, and someone I trusted. He was so kind and good-hearted when we were younger, but he has turned his back on me and come to resent our pairing.

As if it is my choice! I am the next Tsahik of our people, and he the next Olo'eyktan. We are promised to each other from youth, and there's nothing either of us can do that would not cause much upset in the clan, and with our families.

Though Neteyam clearly does not want to be mated to me, even more than that, he does not want to upset his family.

The change in his heart happened just a year ago, and it was slow at first. We went from friends to acquaintances to strangers, and now to near enemies, because of her.

I don't really blame her, though. He fell in love with her, and she can't control that. I felt jealous at first, but over time, as Neteyam has treated me more and more coldly, I have started to hate both of them.

If I'm being honest, I understand why he loves her; she is beautiful, and funny, and many men have had their eyes on her. I am plain, and small, and not many people speak to me. She does seem a better match for someone like Neteyam, and I almost wish we could be free of this pairing.

As much as Neteyam does not want to disappoint his family, I don't want to disappoint our people; I am a talented healer and I will serve our people well as Tsahik.

So I have resigned myself to my fate.

Our fate.

--

Neteyam watches Sa'me from a distance, as she approaches the center of home tree with her friends, dropping off a full fishing net from a day's work.

His heart swells with pride at the woman he loves, and then, he gets angry. These two feelings always accompany each other.

Love and adoration for Sa'me, and disappointment towards his fate. It doesn't matter who he loves; he's promised to Y/N, and he can't get out of it. That's just not how it works.

She is the next Tsahik and he knows, despite how he wants things to be, that she will be an excellent Tsahik for their people. He has to put the people before himself.

But he does not have to be happy about it.

He approches Sa'me and her friends, but their backs are to him as they empty their nets, and as he gets closer, he hears their conversation.

"Aren't you worried, about his upcoming mating ceremony?" one friend asks.

To his surprise, Sa'me laughs. "No! I have gotten what I wanted, and I am relieved it will end soon."

He stops in his tracks, listening closely.

"Sa'me!" a friend chastises.

"Well, I have three offers for my hand, from fine men. I owe that to Neteyam. When they knew he wanted me, that made them want me. I think I'll pick Marek - he's handsome and strong. Neteyam is nice, but too boring for me. Plus, the way he's treated Y/N since we started spending time together... I almost feel bad for her. She will have a miserable life."

The girls laugh, and Neteyam spins on his heel, charging away.

--

He expects sympathy from his sister, but earns only an eye-roll when he tells Kiri what he overheard.

"Well, she's right. You knew you were promised and pursued Sa'me anyway, even though it was kind of obvious what she was doing. And you have been an asshole to Y/N. She's really nice to still put up with you - to even speak with you. You've treated her like dirt the last year, and she's never said a mean thing about you. Even though, she would be right to do it."

Neteyam stares at his sister, slack jawed, unsure whether to feel angry or guilty. A fine mixture of both rises in his chest, and he sighs.

"You used to be friends with her, you know. She's so sweet, and so kind. She's only putting up with your behavior so she can be Tsahik, and not because she cares about the title. She wants to help the People, and knows she'll be able to if she's Tsahik. She just has to marry an asshole to do it."

"Okay, okay," Neteyam says, waving his hand in the air, begging his sister to stop.

"Well, I just don't feel bad for you, Teyam. You need to grow up and deal with what you did."

He rolls his eyes, but he can't deny it: Kiri is right.

--

Without her noticing, Neteyam starts to watch Y/N as much as he can from that day in. Her daily routine is simple. She rises early, and heads into the forest to gather supplies she can use in her healing practice. Once she's done, she begins going around to people who she knows need her help, in and out of their homes all day, gaining hugs and smiles and thanks wherever she goes.

She is soft-spoken, and kind hearted, and her small stature only serves to make her seem more gentle, more dispositioned for healing.

He sees the way people look at her as she approaches - they look at her with relief, and hope, and when she leaves, she leaves people better than she found them.

Neteyam feels sick to his stomach.

He tries to remember what it is about Sa'me that drew him in. He sees her beauty, he can't deny it still, but it's clear now that her beauty is only on the surface.

Did she ever compliment him? Support him? Offer him a kind word?

He can't even remember what they talked about... for a year.

"Neteyam?"

He turns from the tree he's leaning against and sees Y/N approaching, a large basket in her arms.

"You look ill. Are you okay?"

Neteyam wants to tell her he's fine, that she should leave, but he feels light-headed and instead, he sinks to the ground, a sweat breaking out on his brow.

"I'm... okay. My head feels light."

She kneels in front of him, rummaging through her basket. She pours a few things in a cup, and mixes them together with a powder.

"Here," she says, handing it to him. He takes it, his hands touching hers for a second, and he's struck by how small her hands are.

She's so delicate, like a flower, and he has certainly done his best to trample all over her.

The shame he feels is unlike anything he's ever felt before.

The drink is bitter, but it starts working almost immediately, and the faint feeling begins to fade.

"Thank you, Y/N," he says, handing the cup back to her. She takes it with a small smile and a nod, and rises to leave. Neteyam reaches out, grabbing her arm. "Wait."

She turns, frowning down at him. He stands up.

"I want to apologize to you, Y/N. I have been... terrible. I have neglected you, and I have been an asshole. I'm sorry. I would like to start again."

She tilts her head to the side and narrows her eyes, staring deep into him. He wonders if she can see his soul.

--

Of all of the things I thought Neteyam wanted to say to me, 'I'm sorry' was not even on the list.

My instinct is to tell him to go to tell, but there is such a strange look on his face... he still looks sick, and sad, and a little bit ashamed.

Well, he should be. But also - what choice do I have? If Neteyam is offering me a chance to make the best of this situation, shouldn't I take it?

I remember how I felt about him once. Hopeful, excited, nearly in love... but that feeling is so far away now. I'm not sure if there's even a possibility of re-gaining it.

But, it seems smart to try, if we are to have any chance at a happy life.

"Okay," I reply finally. "But I don't think Sa'me will appreciate it."

Neteyam hangs his head for a moment, and then meets my eyes again. "What she appreciates does not matter. You are to be my mate. You are all that matters."

He places a hand over his heart.

I would like to trust him, but it's going to take more than one conversation where he says the right things.

--

It seems I cannot get rid of Neteyam now. When I gather supplies in the morning, he is there. When I make my rounds in the village, he is there. He is always... there.

Not silently, either. He is full of questions. Everything I do and say, he has a question about. If it wasn't endearing, it would be exhausting.

After a week of this, he asks me to take a ride on our ikrans with him - and I can't say no. I have been so busy working lately, that it sounds like a wonderful and welcome break.

Early in the morning, we head out together, and take one of the longest rides I've ever been on. In the air, we twist and turn and glide together, and all the while, Neteyam is whooping and throwing me ear-to-ear smiles.

He gestures to a nearby cave in the floating rocks, and we land together, dismounting. We are both wind-burnt, but smiling.

"I must ask you something," I say.

"Anything," Neteyam replies, chest heaving from the effort of riding.

"Why did you change your mind? About Sa'me?"

His face darkens, and he sighs. "I overheard her talking about how being seen with me has gotten her offers from many fine potential mates, and she doesn't care that I'm promised to someone else."

I wince. Even if Neteyam is a jerk, I don't think anyone deserves to be used like that.

"I'm sorry, Neteyam. Though, that does explain your sudden... interest."

He shakes his head. "No. After I heard what Sa'me said, I went to Kiri and she, uh, pointed out what an asshole I've been. She also pointed out how kind and smart and talented you are, probably to let me know, uh, what an asshole I've been. So I started kind of, uh, watching you. And I realized she was right."

"About what?"

"Well, I am an asshole but... you are the most kind-hearted woman in this clan. And you did not try to withdraw from our match because you deserve to be Tsahik. Not for the title, but because you are best suited to serve our people. You care about them more than yourself. You're selfless. And beautiful. And I was blind to think anyone could be better suited for me."

I bite my lip, and take a step back. "Neteyam, that all sounds very nice, but I..."

He steps forward, reaching out and taking both of my hands in his. "It isn't enough. I know that, Y/N. I don't expect our problems to be solved now. I just want a chance to prove to you, who I really am. What a good mate I can be for you. I can make you happy. I want to. It's all I want."

I can feel the tears gathering in my eyes, and I blink hard to keep them at bay. "I always thought so highly of you, Neteyam. I want us to be happy. I want to try."

He squeezes my hand tightly, pulling me to him.

"I will make you happy. I promise you, Y/N. Please, let me kiss you."

I hesitate for only a moment. The look in his eyes is so sincere, and his eyes fall down to my lips for just a moment, then back up to my eyes, and I can't resist. Everything I want seems to be within my grasp.

He places his hands around my waist, and pulls me in.

"Say yes," he whispers. I can't find my voice, but I nod.

The kiss is explosive. A year of anger, frustration and want packed into one kiss. My body is flush to his, and I feel the tears spilling over, but I can't stop them, and I don't want to pull away.

It feels too good.

I put my hands in his hair, gripping tightly, sighing against his lips, and he groans.

Finally, we pull away, and stare at each other, both breathless.

"I will make you happy, healer," he whispers.

I might believe him now.

[momolady]

2023 Year End Stats

Not to be stereotypical or anything, but for me at least, 2023 was an odd year. I bled for 6 months straight, dealt with the worst pain I still can't comprehend, had a hysterectomy, moved in with my partner, got some cats, dealt with a lot of stress, watched the world burn. Yeah, it's been pretty good to outweigh the bad.

But anyways! I've done the math and put together a list of my stories that performed the best this year. At least in terms of notes anyways. I'm also going to share my stories that didn't perform as well and hope they get the love they deserve.

Anyways, let's get on with the count down. Forty total stories have published on Tumblr this year. Sixty-six were published on Patreon. Top monsters were orcs (7), Vampire (3), Fae, Minotaur, Romm Monster, Lich (all 2).

Top Ten Stories:

10. Kahann the Naga

This one would probably be in my top ten favorites to write of the year. This dark, twisted romance between a lonely, isolated girl shipwrecked on an island with the dangerous and sexy Kahann struck the dark romance itch I've been wanting to scratch.

9. Keir the Orc

Comfy farm romance that features annoyances to lvoers. What else could you want? Orcs are always fun to write, I feel I could do it with my eyes closed, but thankfully I don't wanna do that.

8. Atharo the Lich

The pink lich, this one had imagery in it I couldn't get out of my head. the visions of this pink lich still huant me and I wish I could conjur such sstrong imagery still.

7. Asier the Drider

A simple premise we cann understand. Getting packages and ordering online is probably yhe msot fun we can have without leaving our homes. But what if your neighbor was annoyed by this? And what if that neighbor was a drider?

6. Auberon the Room Monster

The enchanted library. i think I've written more about the romance and mystery of bookstores an libraries more than anything. But this story was special, with lots of worldbuilding wrapped like a blanket around these characters. The room this monster stays in is the library, and who doesn't wanna spend time with that guy?

5. Marek the Vampire

This murky, dark, and swampy tale is one of those that stays with me. The idea of a different sort of vampire, one in the bogs and wetlands of a strange peninsula that gets flooded every year haunts me. The image of him is one of my absolute favorite creations and I hope I get to visit this peninsula village again.

4. Placide the Paralangua

This story marks the beginning and growth of my Charcourt universe. Liek Hearthway Hollow it's a town filled to the brim with straneg creatures, only it's the Paralangua, alligator type monsters who throw a festival every year to celebrate their history and the continued growth of Charcourt. Is it a cult? Maybe. There's a new five part tale of this area up on Patreon now.

3. Ben the Werewolf

Enmies to lovers, I think most people get on board with this trope. This tale of Hearthway Hollow delves into the relationship between two high school enemies who reconnect after years and manage to put aside their competitivness to find one another. The lead in thisstory is also Rowan's little sister.

2. Leraye the Demon

Demons are always fun. My demon characters have ways of weaving themselves in and out of the world we know, sometimes as proper members of society, often not. Leraye is one of those that visits our world as a full time member, seeing out the comforts of a Chinese bakery whose owners are a family with ties into the reality he avoids.

Florenz the Vampire Bat

This would for sure also be on my favorites of the year. This dark story wove together elements of fantasy, horror, and romance that I love to death. The lead is sophisticated and dashing, the lead is adventurous and excitable. The chemistry between the leads while writing this tale was so good.

The Ten Least Appreciated Stories

10. Juniper the Tiefling

I am deeply disappointed this didn't do as well as I expected. This story was based on characters me and my bff made for a one shot DND session. So this story was more personal to me than others. but more than that, I feel it had some of my best banter!

9. Rocco the Guard

Another personal tale based on ideas me and my friend came up with during a visit where we watched the Owl House together. I also greatly enjoyed the leading lady who was smart, spunky, and chaotic in the absolute best ways.

8. Ozzie the Werewolf & Tryfon the Naiad

It has a trans lead, it has polyamory, it was set in hearthway Hollow! I thought this story was serving up gold on a platter. But maybe people weren't in the mood for gold. The comedy in this is top notch, at least I thought.

7. Laertes the Fae

Another story where the dialogue I feel sparkles and pops with every interaction the characters had. This did only recently come out, so maybe it'll grow after this.

6. Ransom the Shapeshifter

Another personal story based around lore me and my bff created for our Stardew Valley characters. It also featured a nonbinary lead and monster, I thought people would be excited for this. I loved playing with the avant-garde sci-fi aspect and being a little weird. But maybe that's why people didn't like it too much lol

5. The Leshy

Another story that would be in my top ten for my personal favorites to write. I loved the complexity of the leading lady and crafting her has made her a personal favorite. The characters and world of this story will be one that stays with my thoughts as I think about the cozy, dark streets anfdthe moss covered steps of the buildings.

4. Jaqueline the Dullahan

This story has it all! Chocolate, Halloween, a sexy dullahan chef, and it's a lesbian romance. Maybe I don't have enough wlw readers but this story came from a ko-fi prompt I wrot and just grew into a full fledged story. I really enjoyed the atmosphere of this story and how it felt like a cozy fireplace with hot cocoa.

3. Beast the Symbiote

Beast is a character I have been wanting to get out into the world for years. She's such a complex villain character, and who doesn't love that. I feel like she is one of my coolest characters. Lucky Devil was also a character I had been dying to get out, she's been in my head since I watched Magi Madoka and she took form slowly over the years. She is in part based on me, and I want to do more with this lovely couple.

2. Fia the Selkie

I'm starting to see a pattern here. Male reader stories aren't ya'lls cup of tea? Too bad, I have some amazing male readers and commissioners I adore working for. Fia was this comforting warm blanket of a story. A struggling musician and the lovely Selkie he's come to be with. I really love this story, please check it out if you want some comfort.

1.Ria the Orc: an AU

I'm actually a wee bit pissed about this one. Another male reader, and Ria is a character I've come to absolutely love. This was written for a commissioner I've come to consider a friend, and writing for him has become an amazing experience. Ria and her beau have also become such real, loving characters in my head. This was an AU of the modern monsters Ria where she is in Obresh and participates in the Reaping. Who doesn't love Reaping stories? C'mon folks, give these ten stories the love they deserve!

Thank you all for an amazing year! Next year I will hopefully publish and you're going to see bigger and grander things from me, I owe that to all of you. Keep a look out for my Ozren novel hitting the shelf soon. Thank you so much and I hope I continue to write stories you love.

[msweebyness]

Miraculous Second Gen

These are the kiddies that Sparky and me came up with for the Miraculous kiddies! Enjoy! @imsparky2002 @artzychic27

(NOTE: These apply and are canon to my MLB canon and all of Sparky and I’s AU’s, meaning Class of Heroes/Villainy, Monstrous Youths, Ghoul Squad, etc.)

Polycule:

Emma:

She/Her

Age 15

Bio parents Adrien/Marinette

Genki Girl, social media influencer

SO MUCH ENERGY

Deals with OCD

Cat holder

Louie:

He/Him

Age 14

Bio Parents Luka/Kagami

Mellow fellow, wants to be a musician

Can see auras

Serious crush on Darius

Ladybug Holder

Hugo:

He/Him

Age 10

Bio parents Luka/Marinette

Bouncing off the walls

Promising young athlete

Emerging himbo™️

Future dragon holder

Alison:

She/Her

Age 6

Bio parents Kagami/Adrien

Cold and stoic like Kagami

Doesn’t speak unless necessary

Crazy smart and mature for her age

Future snake holder

Alyno:

(Twins)

Cody:

He/Him

Age 16

Chillest dude on Earth, into meditation

Wants to be a writer for comics, Marc is a kind of mentor

Also plays the keyboard

HUGE crush on June

Fox holder

Cecily (“CeCe”):

She/Her

Age 16

Super driven, like her mom

Can be a bit too blunt

Constantly bickering with her twin

Runs a feminist news site, Grrrl

Turtle holder

Julerose:

Marek:

He/They

Age 17

Bio mom is Juleka, with a donor

Super shy like Juleka, loves cute things like Rose

Can and has won a knife fight

Babysits his cousin Alison a lot

Tiger holder

Dating Vicki

Myvan:

Juniper (“June”):

She/Her

Age 16

Ox holder

Has a bit of RBF

Super intimidating mom friend

Has…a bit of a temper, but still as kind as her parents

Activist, wants to be a social worker

Returns Cody’s feelings, but unaware of it

Hector:

He/Him

Age 10

Big and bulky, just like his dad

Gentle Giant, really soft-spoken

Likes working with animals

Best friends with Hugo

Future mouse holder

NathMarc:

Elicia:

She/Her

Age 17

Bio dad is Marc, with a surrogate

Lil Sassy Lassy, always has an opinion

Has a passion for sculpting

High-functioning autistic

Rooster holder

Kimdine:

Victoria (“Vicki”):

She/Her

Age 17

Monkey holder

Basically, Kim but with more common sense

Ridiculously energetic, does a bunch of sports

Works as a model for Mari’s fashion line

Dating Marek

Nicolette (“Nikki”):

She/Her

Age 13

Much more quiet and subdued than her sister

Voice of reason in the fam

Super tech savvy

Deadpan Snarker

Future horse holder, Max is mentoring her

Sabrina/Delmar:

Darius:

He/They

Age 14

Adopted at age 7

SUPER organized like his mom

Really good at public speaking

Wants to go into politics to make a difference

Serious crush on Louie

Dog holder

Alix:

River:

They/Them

Age 13

Adopted at 1 year old

Daredevil like their mama

Snarky lil shit

SUPER smart

Rabbit holder

***BONUS MY OC COUPLES!!!!:***

Breckvie:

Destiny:

She/Her

Age 17

Proper lady like Evie

Ridiculously kind, compulsively cares for others

Also can put her foot down

Kind of has a crush on Elicia

Pig holder, Rose is mentoring her

Reagan:

She/Her

Age 12

Herbo™️

Crazy good cook, wants to be a chef

Big daddy’s girl

Milo:

He/Him

Age 9

Wants to be a vet like his dad

Happiest kid in the world

Randomly befriends and adopts animals

Jessthony:

Warren:

He/They

Age 15

Adopted at 3

Shy like Jesse, but quietly snarky like Anthony

Fidgets a lot

Wants to be a designer, kind of a protege to Mari

Loves hanging out with his cousins, June and Hector (Fred Haprele and Imelda Ortega got married during Jesse and Mylene’s last year of Lycee💖)

Goat holder, Nath helped mentor them

Leave your thoughts in the comments and reblogs!

[thecleverqueer]

On Marrok: Why I hated your theories and why I am glad I was right all along:

So, Marrok ended up being literally no one, and this I sort of knew. I’ve blogged about why. I’ve also blogged about why I thought your theories sucked, but let me break it down for you again because I feel like gloating a little.

First, your theories about Barriss Offee:

Barriss was done hella dirty in The Clone Wars. In legends, she was one of the greatest healers the Jedi had. And, to this effect, it would make sense that she would hate the war and what was happening. She felt that shit on a molecular level. Every cell in her body probably pulsated pain from what she was witnessing day in and out on the battlefield. Orchestrating a bombing of the Jedi temple though? Eh? I don’t know. I get WHY she was the choice, but… it still sucked. There is a pretty sizable chunk of fandom that still have a lot of negative feelings about it too (people that the Ahsoka series was made for). And, even on a Watsonian level, Barriss’s reasoning for bombing the temple would suggest that she would never become an inquisitor willingly. It just wouldn’t make sense that she bombed the temple because she was keenly aware of the fact that the Jedi were unknowingly (in their defense) fighting for the dark-side only to later become an inquisitor. She would likely sacrifice herself before it came to that. Never mind, on a Doylist level, the fact that ship has sailed. If Filoni had intended to use her as a mere Inquisitor, he would have already done so in Rebels. Barriss could have easily been the seventh sister, but she wasn’t (Filoni has said so).

Could we still see Barriss? Perhaps. I don’t hold my breath, but I think a lot of folks want to know what became of her. I tend to think IF she shows up in the Ahsoka series, it will be as whatever the hell kind of “Jedi” Baylan and Shin are. While Shin obviously has a sort of dark wild-side, Baylan seems as though he is motivated by something he sees as a greater good. What becomes of this is anyone’s guess, but I could see Barriss trying to better the Galaxy… whatever that may mean for her.

Second, your theories about Ezra Bridger:

So, this one I have not talked about prior, but I still thought it was sort of a stretch. While being the most compelling option if Filoni had wanted to take the “he’s someone important” route, it didn’t make much sense characteristically for Ezra at this point. And, I say that because Ezra already flirted with the dark side in Rebels and gave it up. We saw him struggle with anger and attachments, so much so that he was able to open the Sith holocron, attain knowledge from it, and use questionable dark side powers to help his friends (him controlling that Imperial in the walker in season three was peak; I’m not going to lie, but…). Ezra was already brought back in. He failed epically and nearly got his friends killed, and Kanan was able to talk him off of the ledge. By the end of season four, Ezra was zen in a lot of ways, wise in others and was willing to let go of his attachments for the greater good. He overcame.

Ezra serving the dark side in New Republic times would be a step backwards, and I don’t think that’s going to happen. I don’t know how Ezra is going to get pulled back into the fold, but when he is, he won’t be evil.

Third, your theories about Galen Marek (aka Starkiller):

I’m going to be real with you. This seemed to be the most popular theory, and yet it was my least favorite one. Mainly because of the toxicity that would have surrounded this choice on so many levels.

First, Starkiller was grossly overpowered. He brought a fucking Star Destroyer out of the sky with the force, melted an entire legion of storm troopers and wiped the floor with Vader in a duel. Ahsoka wouldn’t have stood a chance in hell. And, folks are like “well he could have been nerfed!” But no, because the toxic element of fandom that truly wanted Starkiller to face Ahsoka would have been pissed that he was nerfed… and they would have bitched loudly about it.

Second, thematically, it made no sense. It would have been the worst possible fan service known to mankind. It would have made virtually no sense narratively, and it would have sent up dozens of questions about canon that would be yet another mess creatives would have to clean up afterward. So, no. Bad. Bad all around.

Third, and this is just me being who I am, but I know good and goddamned well an uncomfortably large set of fandom would have shipped him and Ahsoka. There’s probably a small underbelly of fiction about it that already exists. And, honestly, I’m completely surprised we didn’t get Marrok shipped with Ahsoka (Marrosoka? Ahsorok?) because it feels as if Filoni is purposely avoiding men to ship Ahsoka with in this series. Like, you’re being force to grasp at straws. Regardless, it would have been gross. It would have been problematic on so many levels. It just makes me cringe thinking about it.

In closing:

Anyway, it was good watching Marrok literally go up in smoke. For those of you that aren’t privy to this, that was night sister magic. Marrok was the equivalent of a night sister zombie. If you haven’t seen The Clone Wars, you probably didn’t know that and congrats, Filoni just gave you the finger again for not being in the know. I will say that while this moment seemed insignificant in the short term (Marrok’s existence as an entity), this is going to come back to haunt the heroes later… as there is likely a whole hoard of undead night sister zombie creatures waiting in the wings to wreak havoc on everything and everyone. It isn’t coincidental that everyone stopped battling the moment Marrok went up in a puff of green smoke including Shin. Wait for it.

[bethany-sensei]

I’m not going to finish this drawing. I started it before the ending of my housemate’s battle with cancer. I will include the excerpt that goes with it though.

Marek led the way across the dining hall, where he was heartily greeted by a broad man with graying hair and one sleeve tucked into his belt. “And here’s your sister!” The man gave Dani a friendly thump on the shoulder, which she returned without comment. “And—oho, the king’s new advisor?”

Akieryon itched under the good-natured scrutiny. “Friend,” he corrected.

“He looks a little pale.”

Akieryon felt heat creeping up his cheeks. “The ankle.” He tapped his stick against the side of his leg. “I pushed myself too hard earlier.”

“You should have seen him in the sparring ring,” Dani said with a note of pride and a friendly shove. Akieryon swayed.

“It was a poor life choice,” he said, only half teasing. “I’m Akieryon.”

“Veirn.” He extended his left hand, which Akieryon clasped automatically. Veirn grinned at him. “A warrior’s grip. I like this one.”

“Sir Veirn was commander of the royal guard before me,” Dani said in a tone that passed for fondness.

“Aye, until that last battle.” Veirn lifted his shoulder to make his empty sleeve sway a little. “I like the slow life these days.”

Dani snorted. “That’s a lie.”

“Can you prove that?”

“Wait,” said Dani.

—Balances

[starcrashx]

II.

They are happy your honour.

You could say that Galen was terrible at social interactions. And you would be totally right. After he agreed to be adopted by Anakin Skywalker two days had passed. In those two days he was planning ahead on what he will say to his family. He composed a nice and polite greeting and even planned small talk with the twins and Obi-wan if the latter was present. The boy of course didn't forget his night outs however today his thoughts were occupied by his new family rather than her. He turned his head to the side and searched for the big dipper. He was also kind of afraid that he would forget her.

×⭐×

"Ready kid?" asked Anakin, who was standing before a gray car.

Galen stood before him with just one bag that contained his school supplies and some clothes. The boy's eyes were fixated on the backseat of the car rather than Anakin. The man followed his gaze and smiled.

"C'mon Luke greet him!" said his father and opened the car door.

The blond boy practically jumped out of the car he was smiling widely and his gaze held a curious shine in them.

"Hi! My name is Luke Skywalker. My father told me about you, Galen was it?" beamed Luke.

"Nice to meet you too. I'm Galen Marek." said Galen politely.

"Alright let's go. We don't want to be late after all." said Anakin and Luke jumped back into the car however this time he sat on the other seat, leaving the one he previously sat to Galen.

The boy hesitate a bit. He turned around to look at the orphanage. Some of his caretakers were waving to him and smiled at him. Than he looked back at the car where Anakin already took the driver seat and Luke patted the space beside him gently. Galen took a deep breath and mentally said goodbye to his old life. He sat down beside Luke and closed the car door. He put his luggage down to the car's floor, between his legs. Then Anakin started the car and as the car left the orphanage so did his chance to think twice about his decision.

"You are really skinny." said Luke after observing the newcomer.

Galen looked questioningly at him, not knowing what is the right answer to that question. Fortunately Anakin came to his rescue.

"That was a bit rude, son."

Luke held up his hand in defence.

"Sorry but it's true. But don't worry uncle Obi-wan makes great dishes. Oh and aunt Ashoka's meat ball with tomato sauce is awesome you have to try it." rambled the blond boy.

So there were more people in this family. No worries Galen prepared for this too.

"Hey how about my roasted chicken?"

"Not to be that guy dad but even Leia's weird broccoli shake is better than that."

"Oof that was a low blow." said Anakin and pretended that he got physically hurt by the comment.

Luke giggled and Galen smiled.

"Broccoli shake?" asked Galen curiously.

"Yeah there is a rumor that broccoli shake is good for the skin so my sister decided to test that theory. This isn't even the weirdest thing she's ever done tho." explained Luke.

"Like the one time when she bleached strawberries because one of her classmates said that it was possible to have white strawberries and when she said he was wrong he challenged her to prove it?" chuckled Anakin at the memory.

"Like that. You see Galen, my sister likes to test things out and prove something is right or wrong."

Galen's reaction was a quiet "oh" at the explanation. It really was a weird habit but it was certainly better than his was.

"So how old are you?" asked Luke again.

"I'm 15 years old."

At the information Luke's eyes glint in joy. Galen thought it was rather amusing.

"We are too! That means we are triplets! Right?"

"I don't think that's how triplets work." said Galen carefully.

Anakin laughed at his son's silliness.

"Alright Luke enough questions. You will have plenty of time getting to know Galen when everyone is present."

"But whyyy." whined Luke.

"So Galen doesn't have to tell everything twice." came the simple answer.

"Aww you are such a killjoy." pouted Luke.

Galen smiled again and Anakin let out a small laugh. Maybe this won't be so bad after all for Galen.

×⭐×

Oh boy how wrong he was. When they arrived at a small village that was quite close to the town Galen didn't know what to expect. But whatever he did, it wasn't even close to the truth. Anakin parked before a big farm house. Luke previously told Galen that they were living with their aunt and uncle. But what surprised the boy the most is when they stepped inside the house. They immediately stepped into the living room where there were more people than Galen would anticipate. The little plan that formed inside his head shattered the moment he saw that this was a party. For him. Two girls held a "Welcome home Galen" sign. There was a huge dinner table beside the couch that was full with all kinds of food and drinks. There was also a vanilla cake in the middle with "Welcome" written on it. Galen must have been silent for too long since one of the men (who by the way looked so similar to the other 3 men that were also in the room) asked:

"You don't like vanilla?"

That made everyone chuckle however Galen panicked at the question asked not picking up on the joke.

"N-No that's... that's not it. It isn't at all, pardon my stumbling i-it's just not what I-" before he could make an even bigger fool out of himself Anakin stopped Galen with a wave.

"Relax kid Fives was just joking."

"You made the kid feel shit are you proud?" smacked Fives head the other man beside him.

"Echo language!" said an older man across the table.

"Sorry Cody!"

"God this is a disaster." shook her head Leia.

"I didn't even expect anything else from you guys. Great job." said sarcastically a ginger haired man with a beard.

"How about we sit down and eat? The food will be cold and I don't know about you but putting together that Mac and cheese was a nightmare." sighed the brown skinned girl who held the other half of the sign.

They went through all this trouble just for Galen and he didn't even show any signs of appreciation towards their efforts.

"I'm sorry for the poor reaction. The truth is I'm really bad at talking to people. I was almost always alone as far as I can remember. But I really do appreciate the effort and the work you put into this. Thank you." confessed the boy shyly.

That earned fond smiles from everyone in the room which helped Galen relax a bit. Although Luke was frowning.

"You didn't seem to have communication problems when we talked in the car tho."

"That's because, oh god this will sound weird. The conversation went according to what I planned."

"To what you planned?" asked the man on Cody's right who was the most different from the other 3.

"Yes. I do a graph about the possible questions or topics according to the situation. And then I write answers to them." said Galen slowly.

That earned a suprised expression from everyone one. The ginger haired man looked astonished Cody beside him looked rather deadpaned.

"Wait do you have those on you? I kinda want to see it." said Anakin while smiling.

"Yeah I'm curious too!" chided in Luke.

"A-Alright."

Fives and Echo made space on the table and Galen opened his bag. He fished around in it for a while before he proceeded to pull out a blue notebook. He opened it and showed some of his work. Luke was bewildered.

"Oh my god. Some of these are exactly what I said! Are you a wizard?"

"No of course not. It's just simple statistics. You can't predict the future because the future changes constantly. However you can predict the most likely question that a person is going to ask based on the situation." explained Galen.

"Jesus kid you should have socialized instead of writing these. At your age I had a girlfriend." said Fives but even he was impressed.

"Fives you are 18. And you never had a girlfriend."

"How would you know Rex! You weren't even there."

"I don't have to be there to know this basic fact."

Everyone laughed at the last comment the tension from before melted away in an instant. After discussing what a genius Galen was (he wasn't he was just desperate for good impressions) they introduced themselves to Galen and  started eating. Galen was sitting beside Anakin and Cody.

"Do you like the cake? We didn't know what you liked so we settled on a basic vanilla cake." said Cody.

"It's really good! It looked so professionally made that I thought it was store bought." said Galen politely.

Cody and his siblings laughed.

"That's because we own the Fett cafe. We also serve desserts not just coffees. It started out as a small business but now we have four shops. One here and there is another in the town too. The other two are a bit far from here." said Rex who was clearly proud of their achievements.

"You look really skinny Galen. Did you eat anything in that orphanage?" asked Ashoka.

"Well yes but we never got much since there were a lot of children and the orphanage's founding... wasn't the best."

"Then eat. You are still growing after all." said Obi-wan.

"Growing? Where? He is taller than me and Leia already." whined Luke.

Everyone laughed at his comment and the rest of the dinner was spent with small talk. Galen stumbled here and there but he thought his performance was okay. After that Anakin showed him around the house.

"Since Leia is in the age of needing her own space, you are going to room with Luke. Hope it's not a problem." said Anakin sheepishly.

"Of course it's okay. I'm used to having roommates."

Galen didn't know what he did to make that impression on Anakin that he would need his own room. He hoped he didn't seem selfish, that would be terrible. When they entered Luke's room the first thing that grabbed Galen's attention was a sword. When Anakin noticed this he said:

"Ah yeah. Back in the days Obi-wan liked to go fencing. He is extremely good at it. I was interested in learning from him just like Ashoka and it became a family thing. If you are interested too, I would be more than happy to teach you too." smiled Anakin fondly at the memory.

"I will think about it." nodded Galen.

After that everyone went to sleep and the Fett brothers left. Although Luke, Leia and Ahsoka begged them to stay, Cody said they needed to open early tomorrow and they had to bake some cakes too. Galen was staring at the ceiling of his newly shared room with Luke. The said boy was happy when his father said that Galen will sleep in his room. Now he was sound asleep. Galen missed his usual night out but he broke his habit for the sake of his new family. So far he enjoyed being with the Skywalkers. And he firmly hoped they felt the same way about him.

[lumilasi]

A character designed together with my friend/mostly by my friend @mad-hatter-rici, though unlike Chiyuri who I consider “joint-custody” character, she fully belongs to her! I just wanted to post her ref after finishing it, given she’s part of my Telepaths story. Also I’ll have access to it then even when I’m not on my laptop, in case I want to draw her traditionally for example. 

Her bio below (also based on what my friend told me)

Name: Rouna

Nicknames: Oneechama (Youko)

Age: Unknown, somewhere around 200

Height: 184 cm

A Chimera with a mission to extract revenge on those who betrayed her clan & find a way to potentially resurrect them

Role: Member of Amalia’s sect

Family: Niece Youko, sister Shika

Love interest: She has a “friends with benefits” type of thing going on with Angus Jaeger, a doctor/Reverence Demon working under Amalia’s GF Belladonna

Friends: She’s fairly polite and cordial with everyone she works with, but doesn’t particularly consider anyone a close friend.

Rival(s): She also has a friendly, playful rivalry with Angus, given they’re both pretty much among the most intelligent people in the group, the two mad scientists with plenty of knowledge about poisons due to their powers.

Powers:

She is very skilled in necromancy, specifically resurrecting beastly creatures she’s killed as zombie servants. She does know other spells and curses too.

Rouna can excrete poison from her nails, lips, and her snake tail’s bite. She can also exhale this poison in gaseous form.

Rouna is very agile fighter, and good with different sort of blades; she’s also fairly stealthy given her background as an assassin.

She can use her tail to see behind her and sense danger

Weaknesses:

She is naturally weak to light magic, which can render her spells useless, and even damage her zombie warriors. As a Chimera, her blood is her major power source, so if she loses too much of it she’ll become powerless, even if physically she’d still be perfectly fine. (so basically no, it is not just case of anemia, anyone with blood would suffer from losing too much of it lol)

Personality:

Rouna is very calm and collected person most of the time, not showing her emotions openly. This often makes her seem distant and cold to others, although she does remain polite and cordial with everyone, sometimes even teasing them lightheartedly. She is very protective over her niece, and would do anything for her sake. She can be a bit touchy about the subject of her sister, Shika, not liking her being mentioned randomly. 

While Rouna isn’t searching for a relationship, too focused on her own goals, she doesn’t mind satisfying her physical needs with someone she finds attractive/intriguing enough. This works with Angus, given he’s not expecting it to be a relationship either, as he in turn is more focused on his own research.

While Rouna seems mostly fearless, she is probably the most cautious/fearful towards their Master, Hanzoku, having a far better understanding of what he is and what he is capable of than anyone else. She also sometimes ends up in his cross-hairs, with her experiments not always matching with his twisted-but-existing moral code. (she doesn’t show her fear openly of course, but it is there)

BG Story

Rouna was one of the 12 children of their village’s chief. One of her sisters, Shika was banished from the village due to being against their father’s experiments on their other siblings (giving them a lot of blood and different beings to devour, as Chimera’s abilities base on the blood they drink), which had led to the deaths of 5 of them already. 

The village had a pact with other nearby human/other spirit & mythical folk ones to protect their secret home from threats, but the Chimeras end up being betrayed due to bias and fear towards their kind, the clan getting wiped out apart from Rouna and his niece, Youko. (and the banished Shika) 

Rouna spends the next years providing for her niece as an assassin, until a woman named Amalia Marek approaches her, offering her a chance to take revenge on the traitors, and perhaps find a way to resurrect her clan. Rouna agrees to it, mainly to have a safe place for Youko to live in.

Fun Facts:

Rouna is a good cook, and often aids their actual chefs despite not being part of the sect (Taiga’s) who are usually responsible for day-to-day things such as meals.

To relax, she likes to polish her weapons and is often seen doing it sunken in thought, typically spooking most onlookers.

Despite being her aunt, Youko prefers referring to her as a big sister.

She’s really good at yoga and can do even the most difficult of poses.

While she seems very in control of her emotion usually, her tail tends to give away what she’s feeling if its more intense (such as fear and anger)

While Youko’s friendship with the corrupted Moth spirit Chouma is a bit peculiar to her, she does not mind it given he doesn’t seem like a threat to her niece. She also isn’t bothered by the fact Angus also has a bit of a physical thing going on with him. (It’s different in nature from theirs, though)

While he seems pretty cold and uncaring outside his sister, Angus tends to be among the first to defend Rouna, whenever she ends up on Hanzoku’s bad side. Not out of any sort of emotional attachment however, but simply because he finds punishing her over her antics a waste of time, given they don’t typically hindrance the group’s goals. (Also Youko’s crying is tiring)

She keeps getting called “scary” by Yoruga, another moth spirit within the group. Rouna can tell however, that peculiarly this one is not actually scared of her at all, despite not even being corrupted. 

[superfluffychickens]

Is it possible to composite samples for Marek's testing? This way you pay for 1 test and it would just tell you if any chicken has it. If it is so contagious, the loss of resolution may not matter.

Well, since I have two coops and two flocks with birds from five different sources, I would like to at least test one bird from each flock, and I’d like to test Clara too since she was Cora’s sister. Since Orville was tested negative, that’s basically just like testing one of my birds since I had him for so long and he was living with Cora. I’d like to do a couple more tests just for peace of mind. In September, about a month of egg sales should pay for at least two tests, so I should be able to afford it if I save up some money.

[kolo50-world]

I always wonder , when it’s the first time transgenders started to “realise “ their real identity ? At what age? What was and how was their first sexual encounter with Other sex partner? I will tell you some brief text about mine.

We were living in village outside Izmir (Turkey ) . Me and my sister who is older than me by 6 years , mother (half Turkish and half Lebanese ) , our unknown father who divorced my mother since we were very young, who happened to be of Russian origin. We have very limited circle of distant relatives that we know but not really seen much . We me and my sister have our own school friends , who were also very limited as mother was not in favour of having them in our house or us visiting them except to do home work together . The only person who is visiting our house is uncle ( as we refer to him ,Marek) . To be frank till today I do not know exactly if he is related to the family or not. He was single ,tall nice looking a body builder , and very generous as every time he visited our home he used to bring in lot of stuff and gifts for mother ,me and my sister. He was very talkative and always tells us a lot of stories and incidents that happed to him or to his team in the oil fields which were somewhere close to one island . My story started one day when when I was about 14 years old and at that time I had a broken right arm after a fall in the school gym when uncle Marek visited our home about four days after the incident . I wanted to have a shower so I asked mother to help me. He offered his assistance saying “your mother had enough today and you are a grown up and if need a help then should be from a man like you” .

If interested to know how things happened , then write as a comment.

[raptorsandpoultry]

My first chicken surgery!

I got to do my first ever bird surgery while on placements this past summer during my final year of vet med school :)

Lucky is an 8-week-old (at the time) Red Sex-link cockerel with a 5-week history of crop stasis, also known informally as “sour crop”. On physical examination, he did indeed have a distended crop with a doughy consistency (even after he'd been fasted for almost 18 hours before his appointment), and when I palpated his keel I found he had a body condition score of 1.5 out of 5 with quite a bit of muscle wasting, meaning that he was fairly emaciated. His owners also noted that although the distension did not cause him any apparent discomfort, he was smaller and had been growing at a noticeably slower rate compared to his brothers and even his sisters.

First off, what is crop stasis/sour crop? In birds, crop stasis is a common indicator of disease characterized by impaired motility and delayed emptying of the crop. There are several conditions that can lead to its development, including physical obstruction or impaction of the crop, which is typically caused by the ingestion of tough, fibrous vegetation or other foreign material that birb definitely should not have eaten, but did anyway. Decreased crop motility can additionally be the result of high environmental temperatures, prolonged time between feedings, heavy metal toxicosis, Marek’s disease, and many other things.

In order for me to figure out which of these things was going on with Lucky, I offered to perform a biopsy of his crop, which involves surgically cutting out a 1cm x 1cm square of the actual crop. And I figured, while I'm in there anyway, why not do something called an ingluviotomy? "Ingluvi-" referring to the crop, and "-otomy" meaning to cut into an organ or body cavity, usually with the intention of getting a good visual of its interior - and in the case of suspected impaction/foreign body obstruction, looking for said foreign body and safely removing it. (I was going to make a passionate plug in this post about how it saddens and terrifies me that people will attempt to do this "surgery" on their own at home without pain control or maintaining any sort of sterility but this post is long enough and that is a horrifying can of worms that I won't go into today.) Luckily for Lucky (heh), his owners were able to give me the ok to go ahead with this procedure, so I took him back to the hospital, sedated and anesthetized him, blocked the nerves around the area I'd be cutting into, took a biopsy sample, and did the ingluviotomy. This is what I took out of his crop.

Long blades of grass and/or pine needles, bits of sand/gravel, and a whole wasp-looking insect (black thing in the top/middle left). Once I finished digging all of that out, I gave Lucky's crop one last flush with some saline, gave him a dose of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication, and closed up his crop. Here he is waking up from his surgery, still feeling a little high and wrapped up in a towel with some heat pads:

I put the crop biopsy sample in some formalin and sent it off to my school's animal pathology lab, in along with a fecal sample and a swab I'd quickly taken of inside of his crop. The final report I got back a week later wasn't too exciting - no evidence of parasites and/or their eggs in the swab or poop sample, and microscopic evaluation of the biopsy just showed signs that the bird hadn't eaten in a while (which we already knew) and some inflammation, which also wasn't surprising. But here's the histology photo anyway, because it's pretty.

After returning home, Lucky was eating liquid food and taking his oral medications like a champ. The plot thickened though when his crop just filled right back up by the end of the first week following his surgery. So, I asked his owners to bring him back in for another exam. This time, his crop seemed to contain sludgy, liquid content only, but his body condition score was a 2.5 out of 5 and he'd put on a bit of muscle weight. I wasn't happy that his crop was still distended though and wanted to try to get to the bottom of it, so I sedated him again and took my first chicken x-ray:

Aside from the tennis-ball sized crop which seems to be filled with partially digested feed pellets and some grit, this is pretty much a normal x-ray. I was specifically looking for enlargement of the proventriculus or any other section of the GI tract that would indicate that there was a blockage somewhere along the line, but there's no evidence of that here. So, I sent Lucky back home with a prokinetic medication, and recommended that he start wearing a crop-supporting birdy bra (https://crazy-k-farm.myshopify.com/products/birdy-bra-crop-supporter-chest-protector).

It's been 2 months and Lucky's crop is still enlarged, but he looks great otherwise. He's gotten taller and started growing in his big boy feathers, and eats and drinks and behaves just like the other chickens in his flock. So why is his crop still like that? We really don't know. Secondary to crop stasis, the crop can become pendulous, i.e., enlarged and filled with an excessive amount of fluid. The exact cause of pendulous crops hasn't really been scientifically studied, despite their being a pretty common presenting complaint by owners of backyard poultry flocks. A few old studies suggest that there is a genetic component that results in poor muscle tone of the crop. I've also heard avian vets say that even after you fix the underlying cause of crop stasis in a bird, it can still end up with pendulous crop afterward if it was distended for a long enough period of time that the physical stretching and pressure on the crop wall damaged the nerves and muscles within. It's also possible that I might have accidentally traumatized one of these nerves during the biopsy and surgery, to be completely honest. Or, there could be some sort of unknown disease going on with Lucky's muscular system - certain muscular dystrophies in dogs and cats can result in impaired function of the esophagus (which the crop is a part of, in birds).

Whatever the cause, crop bras seem to be pretty popular among backyard flock owners who have the odd chicken or two with pendulous crops. Anecdotally, these birds seem to be more prone to re-developing crop stasis, but can apparently maintain a good quality of life with regular monitoring of appetite and body weight. It's been so far, so good for Lucky, at least!

(All photos belong to Lucky's owners and myself, please do not repost without permission)

References:

1. Worrell AB. Current trends in avian pediatrics. J Exot Pet Med 2012;21:115-123.

2. Morrisey JK. Gastrointestinal diseases in psittacine birds. Semin Avian Exot Pet 1999;8:66-74.

3. Greenacre CB, Morishita TY. Backyard poultry medicine and surgery: a guide for veterinary practitioners. Chichester, West Sussex, UK: John Wiley and Sons, 2021:292-293.

4. Ramesh R, Vijayanand V, Gopalakrishnand A, Ayyappan S. Crop impaction and its surgical management in a domestic fowl. J Entomol Zool Stud 2020;8:259-260.

5. Rigdon RH. Pendulous crop in the chicken: a pathologic study. Am J Vet Res 1961;22:379-381.

6. Rigdon RH, Ferguson TM, Couch JR. Spontaneous-occurring muscular necrosis in the chicken. Poultry Sci 1962;41:398-409.

7. Almeida EA, Silva FHA, Crowe TG, Macari M, Furlan RL. Influence of rearing temperature and feed format in the development of the pendulous crop in broilers. Poultry Sci 2018;97:3556-3563.

8. Brinkley C, Kingsley JS, Mench J. A method for guarding animal welfare and public health: Tracking the rise of backyard poultry ordinances. J Commun Health 2018;43:639-646.

9. Gosbell M, Fowler A. Gastrointestinal obstruction: a review, its diagnosis and treatment. Twentieth Association of Avian Veterinarians Australasian Committee Annual Conference Proceedings 2012:129-136.

10. McAtee BB, Heseltine JC, Guo LT, Willard MD, Shelton GD. Dysphagia and esophageal dysfunction due to dystrophin deficient muscular deficiency in a male Spanish water spaniel. Vet Quart 2018;38:28-32.

11. Gaschen F, Jaggy A, Jones B. Congenital diseases of feline muscle and neuromuscular junction. J Feline Med Surg 2004;6:355-366.

[bh-52]

Jedi on the no attachments rule:

Mace Windu & Vrook Lamar - attachments are forbidden!

Meetra Surik - behold the power of friendship and love.

Obi-Wan Kenobi - Satine, had you said the word, I'd have left the Jedi order. You were my brother, Anakin! I loved you!

Plo Koon - literally has an unofficial daughter, his little 'soka, and several sons.

Quinlan Vos - I kissed a Nightsister and I loved her.

Aayla Secura - Quinlan was like a father to me, and I may or may not be in love with Kit.

Anakin Skywalker - Obi-Wan's like my father. I'm married to Padme, and I have a little sister named Snips. I'd never let anyone hurt you, Ahsoka. I'll turn away from the dark side to save my son.

Shaak Ti - I have 200,000 mother's day cards with a million more well on the way from my sons.

Ahsoka Tano - my older brother's Skyguy, my big sister's Padme, my father's Plo, and my other siblings are the troops and my fellow padawans & younglings.

Kit Fisto - in love with Aayla and isn't afraid to show it, but always respects boundaries.

Depa Billaba - I didn't die saving my Padawan, I died saving my son. My curious little Caleb Dume.

Nomi Sunrider - I love Ulic, and my daughter, Vima.

Caleb Dume/Kanan Jarrus - I love you, Hera. My apprentice is my son, my daughter's a Mandalorian. My Master, Depa Billaba, is my mother. Sacrifices himself for his family, their home, and the cause they fight for.

Ben Solo - rejects the dark side to save the woman he loves, and to honour his parents' memory.

Ezra Bridger - no attachments? One of my first lessons was how to form an attachment to another being! And I need to become a Jedi so I can protect everyone I care about.

Ulic Qel-Droma - completely abandons the dark side and the Sith out of remorse for killing his brother.

Arren Kae/Kreia - I would have killed the galaxy to preserve you. I would have let the galaxy die.

Galen Marek - raised as a cold-blooded Sith, dies a Jedi whilst protecting the people he loves.

Bastila Shan - you are singlehandedly the most infuriating, frustrating man I have ever met, now shut up and kiss me (Revan) you fool. Nothing would make me feel safer than being loved by you. Say hello to your son, I named him Vaner.

[suuuupernovaaa]

keftxo

keftxo [kɛ.ˈft’o] adj., intj. unhappy, upset, ‘How sad!’

Anonymous Request: I was wondering if you could do a fic of Neteyam x reader. Nne where kiri hypes the reader up to confess to Neteyam, but when they’re about to reach him, they eavesdrop and hear him tell Lo'ak (or whoever!) that they don’t have feelings for the reader. He only says it so Lo'ak doesn’t make fun of his feelings because he actually likes her, but the reader avoids him out of embarrassment and to lose her feelings.

1,697 words

Kiri shrugged, acting very nonchalant about the whole thing. "Well, I think you should tell him. What's the worst that could happen?"

I hissed through my teeth. "He could hear me."

The two of us were walking back after taking a long ride on our Ikrans together in a rare afternoon spent in leisure. Kiri was trying to convince me, for the 10th time, to tell her brother that I had feelings for him, and I was trying to convince her, for the 100th time, that Neteyam would never be interested in his little sister's best friend.

She threw her head back, laughing. "Listen, I know my brother and I really think it's a good idea for you to tell him."

"Kiri, no. It will be awkward between us and I won't want to be around your family as much, and that would make me sad."

The Sullys had become like a second family over the years. My brothers were always with Lo'ak and Neteyam, and I was almost always with Kiri and Tuk, and anything disrupting that perfect harmony was unacceptable.

Kiri grabbed my arm, stopping us both. "I won't bring this up again, but listen to me. I know it's a good idea. I know it's going to make you, and my brother, very happy, if you do this. Please, just consider it."

I pursed my lips and rolled my eyes, but promised myself I would consider it, for at least a moment.

--

A moment turned into a week, and then two, and finally I decided... to just go for it. If Neteyam didn't like me, we could get past it, right? We were adults now. I wasn't just his best friend's little sister. I was a woman, and I had a right to express my feelings.

Plus, I felt like I was on a timeline now. It seemed like Marek, a childhood friend, was preparing himself to ask me to be his mate. I was worried, if I didn't at least express once to Neteyam how I felt, that I would say yes to Marek and be trapped in a relationship I didn't want.

I was a classic na'vi-pleaser.

So, I plucked up every ounce of courage I had, and made my way to Neteyam's home, where I was hoping he would be.

--

Lo'ak was teasing Neteyam again, and Neteyam was getting tired of his younger brother's incessant torment.

"You know, maybe I'll ask Y/N to be my mate, since you don't mind. I'll have to get in line, though. I hear Marek has eyes on here, and maybe even U'ri. Do you think she'll choose me?"

Neteyam gave his brother a light shove on the shoulder. "I do not care."

Lo'ak rolled his eyes. "You care very much. Why not admit it?"

Neteyam's cheeks heated, but he couldn't explain exactly why he felt shy about admitting his feelings for Y/N. It might have been because they'd known each other since they were little, and until recently, she'd only been his little sister's friend... and now, she was a lot more.

He wasn't the only one noticing, and Lo'ak was right about that. There were many men considering Y/N for their mate, and he was getting nervous about it. Lo'ak's feelings didn't help.

"Lo'ak!" Neteyam exclaimed, "if you want Y/N for your mate, go ask her! Why would I care? She's just a dumb kid, and I'd never want her to as my mate, anyway!"

A small gasp from just outside turns both men's heads at the same time, and they catch a glimpse of Y/N running away.

"Fuck," Neteyam whispers.

--

Kiri found me later that night, sitting on the edge of a shimmering pond with my toes dangling in the water, watching my tears cause ripples in the pool.

"Oh, Y/N," she said softly, sitting down next to me. "What happened?"

I shook my head, and she wrapped her arms around me and put her head on my shoulder.

"Neteyam doesn't like me," I replied after a long pause, the words coming out staccato. It felt like the world was falling down around me, and I felt really dumb for feeling that way in the first place.

"What?" Kiri asked. "He said that?" She sat back up, staring at me with her mouth open.

"He said I'm a dumb kid, and he'd never want me." I wiped my nose, and Kiri pulled me in for a hug.

It helped, but only a little.

--

After that, I had to avoid the Sullys for a while. I hoped it would only be temporary, but any reminder of Neteyam's existence was painful, and made me feel foolish.

What made me think that the eldest son of Taruk Makto would be interested in me? What did I have to offer him? I was no one. I was not the best hunter, or the best weaver on the loom, and I was far from the best fisherman... I was just average. He was right - I was just a dumb kid.

It hurt, not seeing Kiri and Tuk, but it hurt even more to risk seeing Neteyam.

Four nights later, at the evening meal, Marek sat next to me. I was feeling a little lonely, and so welcomed his company. He talked about himself, mostly; his latest kill, his speed and strength, and it was fine to listen to for a while, but eventually, I grew tired and needed to excuse myself to cry again.

I found myself back there, at the same sparkling pool, but this time I decided to dive right in. Taking advantage of the quiet, empty spring, I washed myself from head to toe, scrubbing my scalp for so long that it nearly burned. When I surfaced and re-dressed, I sat next to the water again, letting the warm night dry me off.

When I heard footsteps quietly approaching behind me, I assumed at best it was Kiri, and at worst, it was Marek, come to talk more.

When the visitor settled next to me, it was Neteyam.

My entire body stiffened, and my mouth went dry.

--

Three Days Earlier

Kiri slapped her eldest brother across the head with more force than she ever had before, and in front of the entire family, no less.

"You idiot!" she yelled. Everyone went silent as Neteyam grabbed his sore scalp.

"Kiri, what the hell?" Neteyam exclaimed, standing up in the middle of the family's home.

"You told Y/N she was a dumb kid, and you could never love her?"

Jake winced, and Neytiri hissed. "You said this to her?" Neytiri asked, standing up as well, grabbing her son's arm.

"No!" Neteyam replied, and then realization dawned. "No... but I said it to Lo'ak."

"Is that how you really feel?" Kiri asked. "Because she heard you say it, and now she's devastated."

Neteyam's shoulders slumped forward, and he held his face in his hands. "Fuck," he whispered, and his father shoved him.

"Make it right," Jake said.

But Neteyam didn't know how.

--

There was a long silence as Neteyam settled in next to Y/N. She didn't look over at him. She didn't even seem to breathe.

He noticed her skin was damp and her hair was wet. He was sitting close enough to smell her - she smelled like fresh berries and spring water.

How could he have been so stupid? How could he have let his pride get in the way, and allowed her to be hurt in the process? He had spent the last four days trying to figure out how to apologize, but he still had nothing.

"I need to tell you something," he said finally. His hands were folded nervously in his lap - and so were Y/N's.

"Okay," she replied, her voice very quiet and thick, as if she were about to cry.

"When you heard me talking to Lo'ak... I said something that hurt you."

She sat up straight, but still didn't look at him. "You said, I'm a dumb kid."

"Yes."

She turned away from him, and he could see her shoulders were shaking, and tears sprang into his eyes, too.

He reached out, grabbing her by the shoulders, and was surprised when she willingly fell into his arms. He held her tightly as she cried, desperately searching for the words to make it better.

"Y/N, what I said wasn't true. I don't think you're dumb, and you're clearly no longer a kid. You're... you're a woman, and not just that. You're the smartest woman I know, the funniest, the bravest, and the most beautiful. Lo'ak was giving me shit, again, about how much I like you, and I got sick of hearing it. I got frustrated and I said something I didn't mean, and I wish you'd never heard it. I'd rather die than hurt you, Y/N. Please, believe me."

He held her as her breathing slowed, and his heart rate stayed high.

After a while, she pulled away, just enough to look up at him. He wondered if he could ever forgive himself for making her look this sad.

"I believe you," she said finally, and the corners of her mouth almost turned up in a smile.

"I'm in love with you, Y/N. I have been for a while, and I'm sorry I didn't tell you before. I will never forgive myself for hurting you."

She reached up, brushing a tear that had escaped off of Neteyam's cheek, and she smiled - really smiled, wide, ear to ear.

"I'm in love with you, too, Neteyam."

His smile grew, wide enough to match hers, and he pulled her tightly into his arms again, smelling the fresh berry scent in her wet hair, putting his hands everywhere on her that he could touch, reveling in how lucky he was to be loved by someone who was everything that she was.

"I'll make it up to you," he whispered, "for the rest of our lives, if you'll let me."

She squeezed his shoulders tightly, and he felt a warm kiss pressed into his shoulder.

"I'll let you," she whispered, and his heart soared.

[aciidgala]

The campaign i’m playing in has reached Season 3 and is gonna end soon i’ve become so attached to the team so i’m not gonna rant about the characters on here akshdkdh OUR TEAM NAME IS SO COOL TOO ITS, The Miseries KSHDJFHFN

Luna Tsuki, The Conflicted Champion

-Lavender tiefling

This is my character, she goes by the name Tsuki. She was a cleric and was very close to the goddess of the moon, Hecate (we used the real goddesses name but not the actual goddess❗️). She was considered the goddesses Champion and wielded the champion’s weapon. She was connected to Hecate ever since she was murdered and revived by her at 15. At age 20 her powers got recognized by the king. She became a royal healer and apart of the royal court. There, she met Ashimi Wong a castle chef. Long story short Ashimi left with no note, goodbye, or anything for Tsuki to go off of. Soon after the king passed away due to poisoning.

Short backstory over

During a session, The Miseries got transported to a facility underground by the main villain, William Kordstaff. After fighting some of his undead soldiers suddenly we all woke up back at the castle we were originally at and told its been two weeks since we went missing. Tsuki was also told that her weapon(a rapier) was not transported back. Out of panic she stumbled out of bed and down the stairs and run outside. She was met with a full blown war happening. She went back inside and the prince’s assistant told Tsuki stories of how, when a champion dies the weapon is given to another. At that moment Tsuki heard Hecate’s say “I’m so sorry.. I had no idea.” Meaning another champion was chosen and her rank was stripped from her because Hecate had thought she died. After that (and a few mental breakdowns from Tsuki), The Miseries went out to go help the war. Tsuki casted spiritual weapon and instead of it being her usual rapier it came out as a razor-edged poison rapier with the symbol of a waning moon. The team won this battle and got the enemy to retreat. We went back inside with the prince and discussed new plans. But Tsuki heard a voice in her head

“Oh you look like fun. I see my sister has abandoned you. Let’s see where this goes.”

This turns out to be a forbidden god by the name of Marek. He promises Tsuki control and power if she frees him. She goes outside after the team are done chatting and she starts to doubt her actions. But Marek tells her to cast a spell and see for herself. She does and only a spark of magic comes out, so now she’s thinking “Shit, I have to do this, magic is the only thing keeping me alive right now” (ref to the backstory). And so the sensation of searing burning hands presses onto her shoulders and then lets go. The DM asks me “Do you resist him, or Hecate?” MY SOUL SHATTERED AT THAT MOMENT MAN. Tsuki chooses to resist Hecate, believing she had lost interest in her. All of the moonlight began to suck out of her and she crumpled to the floor for a moment. As she got back up, her blood went cold, and her heart stopped beating. She was now undead due to Hecate’s magic not keeping her alive anymore. Marek tells her to cast a spell now and she does. Shadows from around her zip to her hand and crawl up her arm like veins and the spell she casts works. The shadows return and she looks in the reflection of a nearby mirror, her usual pure white eyes are now a pale cream color and her holy symbol now a waning moon instead of a full one. She is now a warlock.

OUR DM IS SO GOOD GUYS YALL DON’T UNDERSTAND WE HAVE CRIED SO MUCH

aNyWaY when the others found out this caused a fight with her and another character named Daniel. After they had JUST gotten close and trusted each other this fight broke out and ruined that. The prince decided to give Tsuki another chance instead of not letting her help and this caused Tsuki to have a bit of a change of heart. At the end of the last session we had an insane battle i couldn’t do it justice if i tried. She’s now gotten back to her normal self (minus the being undead and having different powers part) and she’s learning that she actually enjoys her new powers.. but misses Hecate..

I have a theory that she’s gonna end up learning to balance the power of Hecate AND Marek 👀

expect more rants about this campaign dkdhdj

i don’t know if any of this made sense i was listening to music while writing this i probably sound like a crazy person but i honestly don’t mind

Pictures i’ve drawn of Tsuki

[msweebyness]

Miraculous Second Gen- School for Monstrous Youths (My Characters)

Hey, ya’ll! These are the first set of kids from the Monstrous Youths AU! I figured I’d let Artzy post the kids for their OC couples on their own time! Enjoy! @artzychic27 @imsparky2002

Polycule:

Emma:

Voodoo Doll/Human Hybrid, Adrinette

She/Her

Age 15

As clumsy as her (bio) mom

Still has a ton of energy, but must be more careful due to voodoo powers

Struggles with some OCD

Influencer for monster-made products

Louie:

Vampire/Dragon Hybrid, Lukagami

He/Him

Age 14

Can see people’s auras

Musician like his (bio) dad, super mellow

Struggles with hoarding like his bio mom

Kinda the family therapist

Hugo:

Voodoo Doll/Vampire Hybrid, Lukanette

He/Him

Age 10

Emerging Himbo still

Wants to play sports, but can’t do contact due to voodoo powers

Sometimes forgets about said powers

Loves going bat mode

Best friends with Hector

Alison:

Dragon/Human Hybrid, Adrigami

She/Her

Age 6

Only hoards items that symbolize significant memories

As stoic as Kagami

Intelligent for her age but doesn’t talk much

Scariest dragon glare ever

Alyno:

Cecily “CeCe”:

Ghost/Stein Hybrid

She/Her

Age 16

Super driven, like her mom

Has a bit of a problem with remembering to knock before phasing through a door

Runs a monster activism news site

Always arguing with her brother

Loses track of her limbs often

Cody:

Ghost/Stein Hybrid

He/Him

Age 16

Gives off ectoplasmic static when excited

Really chill, but does meditation to help with anxiety

Plays the keyboard, and writes a comic series about a group of hybrid monster spies

Really wants to ask June out

Julerose:

Marek:

Vampire/Angel Hybrid, Bio Mom Juleka with a donor

He/They

Age 17

Incredibly shy like Jules, but has a love for all things cute

Flying helps him calm down

Learning guitar from his uncle

Will stab someone who threatens their loved ones

Dating Vicki

Myvan:

Juniper “June”:

Plant Monster/Yeti Hybrid

She/Her

Age 16

Mega blunt like her father, but with her mom’s caring demeanor

Has a fierce yeti temper and WILL throw rocks

RBF for days

Activist for the environment and monster rights

Gets tangled in her vines

Wants to ask Cody out but nerves are a thing

Hector:

Plant Monster/Yeti Hybrid

He/Him

Age 10

Gentle giant like his dad

Speaks too quiet to hear most of the time

Loves working with plants and animals

Fidgets with his vines when nervous

Best friends with Hugo

NathMarc:

Elicia:

Moth Creature/Werecat Hybrid, Bio Dad Marc with a surrogate

She/Her

Age 17

Sassiest lil missy, must be the werecat genes

A very talented sculptor

High-functioning autism, limited emotional expression

Spooks at loud noises, like Marc

Has a crush on Destiny

Kimdine:

Victoria “Vicki”:

Aquatic Monster/Werewolf Hybrid

She/Her

Age 17

Has the energy of three people

Fastest swimmer in the region, and a track and field star

Models for Mari’s fashion label, has a good number of fans

Herbo, but like, book-smart

Dating Marek

Nicolette “Nikki”:

Aquatic Monster/Werewolf Hybrid

She/Her

Age 13

Much more subdued and reserved than her fam

Voice of reason mixed with deadpan snarker

Really tech savvy, makes her own software

Really fast swimmer like her sister, and super agile

Besties with River

Alix:

River:

Manticore, Adopted at 1

They/Them

Age 13

Snarkiest lil shit, it’s why they and Nikki get along

Daredevil like their mama, they do extreme sports together

Really smart, makes top grades

Wonders about their birth parents sometimes, but loves Alix and wouldn’t trade being with her

Has to be careful with their tail spines

Breckvie:

Destiny:

Centaur/Siren Hybrid

She/Her

Age 17

Only one of the three with the power of siren song

Loves to sing but has to be careful with her powers

Proper lady like her mama, manners are impeccable

Sweetest girl alive, takes care of people out of instinct

Has a crush on Elicia

Reagan:

Centaur/Siren Hybrid

She/Her

Age 12

Only one with the full lower body of a horse

School’s sprinting champ

Herbo™️

Crazy good cook, big Kronk vibes

Daddy’s Girl

Milo:

Centaur/Siren Hybrid

He/Him

Age 9

Wants to be a vet, adopts random animals

Ray of sunshine 24/7

Has hooves and wings, and a good singer

Very perceptive for his age

Jessthony:

Warren:

Daemon, Adopted at 3

He/They

Age 15

Super shy, but has a quiet snarkiness

Mari’s design protégé, fashion sense is on point

Always fidgeting, usually has stim toys

Starting a foundation for abandoned daemon kids like himself and his Dad

Leave your thoughts in the comments and reblogs! Enjoy the monster kiddies!