#please enjoy the longest post you'll get for a while I'm sure

[la-lauren]

We're in the Bay for Thanksgiving, which has been nice. We get to stay at her mom's partner's house by the beach. They live in Southern California and rent out the main house up here but keep the MIL suite empty for themselves when they visit or for us when we're up here. It is so nice to have a whole space to ourselves by the beach without paying hotel prices.

Anyway, as such, we have seen her dad and his family only once and just done what we wanted otherwise. Also very nice. We've been sleeping in until 11. I feel the angels singing, the cells in my body feel like they're finally getting a chance to recover, instead of waking up to walk a dog rain or shine. I do miss our babies though.

We went to Target to pick up the Eras Tour book that was released yesterday, on Black Friday. I am so thankful Black Friday isn't the mob it was 20 years ago. We leisurely walked around Target and the mall, got what we wanted, and it was so low stress. We ended up trying on engagement rings, and honestly, it just made me so sad, because our finances are not anywhere near get-married level, and I don't want to get married or even engaged under a Trump presidency anyway.... which means we likely won't be married in the next 4-5 years. That just breaks my heart. I am also afraid of marriage rights being revoked for couples "like us."

When we got home last night, we put on a documentary called A Secret Love. We knew it was two older lesbians and their lives, but I truly didn't expect it to hit the nerves that it did. They spent 70 years together, the majority of them in closet. They told their families their whole lives that they were just roommates. When they finally did come out, the remaining living family members did accept them, and they got married in the nursing home (I think).

I think it just hurts knowing that the same rhetoric Pat & Terry had to fend off is making a resurgence with the Christian nationalists that are about to be running our nation. They feel so free to harm others in their words and actions. I worry about the raids Pat & Terry saw in their days being a thing again. I don't think it'd happen in Cali, but you never know, I guess.

In California, I've felt a bit silly about the shame I've felt for being gay. In LA especially, it really is celebrated, you know? Accepted. It has become so easy for me to forget my roots, the ones that built that shame from the ground up. I have felt so loved, so allowed to take up space, so wanted -- in a place that I was always told was superficial and demonic.

I don't even just mean with my partner. I mean in public, people are kind to me. As an obese unattractive woman, I am met with kindness in LA. I am seen as a person. No one comments on my weight. I can't say the same about the South, even though the population is largely obese!

I'm sure it'd be a different story if I wanted to act, right -- like I'm not traditional movie/model material, but in the day-to-day, I am welcomed with love by these people. Not the judgment I felt in the South.

Anyway, my body does feel like it's on its last leg (literally because of my ankle/foot problem), and I worry my body may fail before I can marry the love of my life. I'm trying my best to avoid it. I'm trying so hard to be healthier. I wish it weren't this difficult for me.

On the other hand, I've noticed recently that when I'm transferring her between places or when I pick up her wheelchair with one hand, strangers will remark some version of, "Wow, you're strong," and in those moments, I am proud and thankful for my big body and strong muscles. It has been a legitimate concern if I do lose weight, whether I'll be able to easily move her around when needed or lift her chair with ease. For now, though, I am strong and more than capable, and I offer up thanks to the universe for that.

I am holding on tight to my partner, and I am ready for whatever is about to come down the pipeline because I know we're facing it together.

I'd never have dreamed up this life for myself, but I'm so glad it's where I've landed. I hope it keeps getting better. I just wish we'd landed in the Kamala-as-President timeline instead of this one.

[its-time-to-write]

masterlist

i figured it was time to make one. it's in order based on when i wrote it. please, please let me know if a link is broken/mislabeled!!

*82 fics*

All of these are Jamie Tartt x reader

dress

Jamie and Keeley buy you a dress for the benefit gala

three times 'cause i've waited my whole life

secret relationship to engagement

you're losing me

first kid

don't make this any harder

Jamie wants to take you to Brazil, you’re both idiots

would hit him in a heartbeat now

Your ex boyfriend is a footballer and also a douche

silent sleepers

Jamie contemplates your relationship on the team bus

what it is

Jamie is sick ft. Roy

don't go wasting your emotion

Secret relationship + you own a bookshop! Ft. Roy and Keeley

you know, you'll always know me

You’re a famous singer! Congrats!

i don't know how you keep smiling/i'm just choking almost constantly

Jamie’s dad is a douche

i'll still be right next to you my dear

Jamie is a dad

can't really say i'm enjoying it now

Yikes it’s a breakup fic, but happy endings only in this house

mine of you with me

Reader and Jamie go semi-public with their relationship

today's a day like any other

The Tartt family thru the years

there's orange juice in the kitchen

Oof ouch period cramps

i can't breathe without you

Nate kisses you w/o consent

damned if i do give a damn what people say

You’re a theater actress! How exciting!

island made of faith

People think Jamie’s dumb, and he’s not

take your time while you're mine

You’re Roy’s other sister ft. all the Kents

honey, i'll give you all my time

Vienna. Enough said.

feeling fragile can't you tell

Jamie gets hurt

wrote all your lines in the script in my mind

Oh no! Some girl kissed Jamie and it wasn’t you! + Colin as the bff

stick together like glitter

Babysitting Phoebe + angst

your mind is not your friend

Angst + comfort after you have a bad hookup

chasing shadows in a grocery line

You’re pretty sure you have a hot stalker

don’t go yet

Tee hee protective Jamie at a club

kicking myself to keep from crying

The morning after your mind is not your friend

i think we could do it if we tried

High school sweethearts reunited after 6 years🥺

i’m glad you exist

You and Jamie go to a wedding

send for me

BREAKING: shit day at work made better by local boyfriend

tell me where to put my love

day off = food + snuggles

bored

The longest angst I’ve ever written. Def not the best angst I’ve ever written.

would it be enough if i never gave you peace

you’ve got baby fever and your pretty sure it’s going to kill your brother

wishing on every one

You own a flower shop. It’s adorable.

lyrical eyes, indigo smile

Bea meets the team for the first time!

something to rely on

You storm the pitch and smooch your bf

flipped the script

Enemies to lovers slow burn (or maybe fast burn, idk)

i fancy you

London Boy by ms. T. Swift

you don’t want to know me

Jamie shows up at your door after s.1 Man City

you’re in the kitchen humming

Post-Mom City

family that i chose

For the child-free girlies!

never wanted you to hate me

Pt. 2 of you don’t want to know me

wonderstruck

BFF Keeley tells you to give her awful ex a chance

in love with an idea

idk it’s like a confession of love? kinda cute

sinking into your worn-out mattress

Touch-deprived therapist! reader

you’re a mansion with a view

just two footballers doing an England promo, nothing to see here

i know what i’m doing

Post-Roy/Jamie locker room hug after Man City

wonder what it’d be like

Jamie tries to win you back

if only love were true

You’re a single mom in dire need of a plus-one

i know now it’ll pass

It’s hard to love someone when you’ve been told you don’t deserve it

the way it goes

The Greyhounds are protective of Jamie

how to love being alive

Idk this one’s like whatever and also supes long

there is happiness

GEORGIE GEORGIE GEORGIE

it’s just wanderlust

Relationship soft launch

glitter on the floor

You like to knit. You also think you’re a comedian.

maybe tomorrow you’ll know

The “he’s a prick to everyone but her” trope

hustling for the good life

I swear this is my last chaptered fic

let’s fall in love for the night

Kent!reader is having a baby

soft hands hit the jagged ground

friends w/benefits

for you, there’ll be no more crying

anxiety at work + bf jamie

smile at me

there was only one bed!!!!

slow motion double vision in rose blush

happy b-day Jamie Tartt

half-moon eyes

it’s just a question!

can’t hear my thoughts (i cannot hear my thoughts)

I’m allowed to write what i want, ok???

here in my arms

more Kent!reader + a baby named George

coffee at midnight

prick coach wakes you up bc of your prick boyfriend

healing me fine

Just a lil engagement fic for ya

i don’t know anything

if you’re interested in Bea

right words at the right time

It’s a wedding fic

move fast and keep quiet

boxer!reader + smitten Jamie

not saying you’re in love with me

You meet over Bantr!!!

we could be so good

Jamie comforts you after a bad date

i hold it like a grudge

i don’t even know how to describe this one but u might cry

there for you

sick fic

before you go

physio!reader

you’ll probably date her

chronic illness + childhood friends. gotta love it

feel it burn

Gym anxiety

play it back

Old movies of bb Jamie

ours

Thanksgivinggggg

light in the hallway

MORE Kent!reader

stuck by you

Bad family + good Jamie = fic

please don’t be

five chapters of sadness that definitely isn’t based on personal experience

[sunshine-vx]

Across Space, Time and Dreams (ASTaD) (Ch. 26- Part 1 of 3)

(Blankshippers DNI)

(Please refer to beginning of chapter 1 post for complete list of CWs/TWs)

(Extra notes: Yippiee, chapter 26 at last! Wow, this one is long! The longest chapter by far, actually. It'll have 2 other parts to it! I hope you guys enjoy!)

(This chapter's illustration done by @moonlightalpha666 !)

(Reblogs are appreciated!)

-

Once again, as the days passed, the pattern of Ingo regaining his memories continued. It had hardly been a day or so after he had regained his memory of meeting Chandelure, and Ingo was already eager to regain the next puzzle piece in the timeline.

His third partner Pokémon. Who it was, Ingo knew that much- his Haxorus.

The older twin had expressed the fact that he wanted to regain another memory to Emmet and his Pokémon. Haxorus had popped up, its tail swishing side to side, excited. Emmet was also happy to help, the younger twin and the Axe Jaw Pokémon getting straight to work with helping Ingo prepare for his next adventure.

Ingo would go on to learn that Haxorus was the first Pokémon he had caught on an adventure all on his own, meaning Emmet wouldn't be coming with them.

While that did seem a bit lonely, both brothers knew that it had been and still was necessary to build their skills as individual trainers- as well as the fact that Ingo knew Emmet would never let Ingo go anywhere or do anything that would endanger him. 

Apparently, it had been quite the adventure based on the few things Emmet had told Ingo. Not only that, Emmet- with Haxorus’ help- had also prepared a camping backpack filled with supplies for Ingo to bring. 

Information is important, you can never be too prepared!

Ingo's excitement outweighed his nerves, and he and Haxorus were ready to go!

Emmet had told Ingo that Alvis from the Driftviel City Daycare would be helping him out, and to go meet him there. Emmet had already filled them in, so they should be prepared!

After thanking Emmet and exiting the house, Ingo had made his way to the Driftviel City Daycare, Haxorus having decided to go into its Pokéball for the time being. Alvis had been waiting for him, Ingo making sure to check In with Mrs. Hagen, as well. All seemed to be well!

With all that settled, Ingo, Alvis at his side, exited the Daycare. Curious, Ingo faced Alvis and asked,

“So, where are we headed? What's the place that'll jog my memory?”

Alvis smiled, repositioning the strap of his handbag. 

“Mistralton Cave!”

-

As Alvis and Ingo made their way to Mistralton Cave, Alvis told Ingo a story of a band of thieves that had taken a group of the Daycare's baby Pokémon years ago. 

“Wow, they really did that? How awful.” Ingo expressed, his expression concerned and shocked.

Alvis nodded in agreement, “Indeed- it was quite the situation. Thankfully, all of the baby Pokémon were found safely.”

Ingo let out a sigh of relief upon hearing that, “Well, that's good. Whatever became of the thieves?”

“Some of them were caught, although apparently others weren't, and went on to become a part of Team Plasma.” Alvis explained

Ingo’s eyes widened upon hearing that, “Team Plasma? You mean, the one Ghetsis led? That team Plasma?”

“Right. Although we all know it's been disbanded for a few years now.”

“Yeah. Thank goodness for that.”

Ingo then met Alvis’ gaze, and he tilted his head to the sight a bit,

“Although, I'm a bit confused about one thing…why exactly are you telling me this?”

Alvis hummed to himself for a moment, thinking. Then, he replied, “Usually I'd tell you, but I think this is one of those things I should say ‘you'll see’ to.”

Ingo was a little tempted to ask why, although he decided against it, assuming that Alvis had his best interests in mind.

“Alright then- I trust you.”

As Ingo and Alvis continued down the path, now entering route six, Ingo went on to experience more and more of that familiar buzzing in the back of his head and heart. He almost found himself lost in thought, before he heard a sudden whistle come from Alvis.

Snapping out of his trance, Ingo watched intently as a patch of the tall grass began to rustle. After a moment, a few Pokémon popped out of the grass- including, a Patrat and a Purrloin. The Patrat and Purrloin approached Alvis, who was waving them over. Alvis smiled and crouched down to pet the two Pokémon, taking turns petting both once at a time.

“Wow! Bravo! Can you befriend Pokémon just by whistling at them?” Ingo inquired. That buzzing feeling was getting even more powerful. 

Alvis laughed heartily and stood back up, the Patrat and Purrloin making their way back to the tall grass.

“Not exactly. These two I just happen to be particularly familiar with.”

Ingo smiled, “They seem to like you.”

Alvis nodded, “They're both quite friendly. Maybe you can make friends with them, too- although we shouldn't get too distracted.”

Ingo nodded as well, “Right. It would be excellent to befriend them, though!”

Ingo turned back down the path they had begun on.

“Well- full steam ahead, we go!”

With that, Alvis and Ingo started again on their way to Mistralton Cave. As they approached the end of the route, Ingo glanced behind him, spotting the same Patrat and Purrloin, watching him with cautious but inviting eyes. Ingo offered them a friendly tip of his hat, before turning back and entering the exit of the route. 

-

Soon enough, Alvis and Ingo had made it to Mistralton Cave, seeing the natural structure before them come into view as they walked down a dirt road between trees and bushes.

The two spotted a few clearings; for some reason, Ingo swore this place had been a little different then he remembered. Nevertheless, curious as he always was, Ingo decided he wanted to explore.

“Hold on,” Alvis spoke, “we should set up camp first. Or, at least some place for myself and possibly your Pokémon to hang out. I'm not planning on going into the cave with you, if that's alright- I've got work to do.”

Ingo nodded and smiled, not bothered by Alvis’ words, “Sounds fine to me, that's a good idea! Let's see here…”

The older twin scanned the area, looking upon the multitude of clearings that presented themselves. Ingo found himself particularly drawn to a clearing in the southeastern direction. It was a larger clearing, as well as being closer to the cave- plus, it had a berry bush!

“How about over there?” Ingo suggested as he pointed towards the clearing.

Alvis nodded in agreement, “Whatever you'd prefer is fine by me!”

Happy to be on the same page as Alvis, Ingo led the way towards the clearing. When they got there, Ingo removed his backpack and placed it on the ground, crouching beside it and thinking of what to do next. 

Then, he voiced, “I'm only going to put down a sleeping bag. We shouldn't be here overnight, right?”

Alvis said, “Right. I'll be out here working on paperwork, although if you need my help, don't hesitate to ask!”

Ingo clasped his hands together and nodded in response.

"Thank you!" He spoke.

Alvis smiled as he took a hardcover-book, a pencil, and a few sheets of paper out of his handbag.

"Of course!"

Satisfied, Ingo went back to where he had put the sleeping bag and picked it up. He quickly but efficiently laid out the sleeping bag, smoothing it out to make sure it was comfortable. 

Ingo then reached towards his Pokébelt, an idea coming to him. One after the other, he tossed up seven Pokéballs, letting out his entire team, plus one Pokémon that the twins shared equally.

“Everyone, come on out!” Ingo exclaimed; with that, a Klinklang, Chandelure, Haxorus, Crustle, Excadrill, Garbodor, and Gurdurr all formed from their respective blue lights that emitted from the Pokéballs. 

Alvis looked on from the side with wide eyes, although not out of fear.

“Quite the impressive team you've got there.” He stated.

Ingo chuckled happily, grabbing the camping backpack and throwing it over his shoulders, “Thank you! I thought it would be a nice idea for everyone to enjoy their time out here while Haxorus and I went inside Mistralton Cave to unlock this memory! You'll watch over them, right? Is that okay with you guys?”

Alvis nodded, happy to watch over the Pokémon, with the Pokémon all making their own respective noises of agreement and content.

Of course, Haxorus was the first to approach Ingo. It had stepped towards the berry bush and picked off an Oran Berry with its mouth, which it still hadn't eaten. 

A few moments later, Chandelure levitated from the group and towards Ingo and Haxorus. With a jingling sound, Chandelure's flames brightened, and it swung gently side to side. 

“Oh, right! You'll be our light source, won't you, Chandelure? You quite like to do that!” Ingo said. 

Chandelure levitated up and down a bit in a happy motion, and Ingo smiled, glad to know Chandelure was going with him and Haxorus. 

As for Haxorus, it bit the Oran Berry in half, both pieces falling to the ground. It chirped happily, using its tail to push one half towards Chandelure, before wrapping the other half and holding it in its tail, although it didn't eat it. Ingo supposed Haxorus wanted to save it for later. 

The trainer chortled, finding the exchange to be very endearing. Chandelure used one of its appendages to gratefully lift up the half of the berry and swiftly consume it, before making an eager whistle-like sound. Both of the Pokémon turned to face Ingo, excited auras emitting from both creatures.

Ingo nodded determinedly, glad that the both of them were ready to go- and was Ingo!

“Right!” Ingo exclaimed. He faced Alvis and the other Pokémon, 

“We'll be back!”

Then, the trainer turned towards Mistralton Cave and pointed towards the entrance, “Into Mistralton Cave we go! Our track awaits!”

-

Ingo, Haxorus and Chandelure made their way through the caverns and chambers of Mistralton Cave. Chandelure floated at Ingo's side, her flames glowing big and bright, providing the light source they needed.

Haxorus stood at Ingo's other side, making the occasional suggestion in direction with the tilt of its head or point of its tail as they explored the cave.

That buzzing- that familiar buzzing in his head and heart, had only gotten more and more powerful and present as they had gone. Ingo felt excited, sure that the moment of reckoning was near.

Eventually, Haxorus began to feel more eager, and a bit antsy, as it took the lead, showing Ingo and Chandelure a particular path. Yet again, the buzzing only intensified. 

After a few more turns and twists, Haxorus chirped loudly, hurrying forward down a passageway, almost losing Chandelure's light. In response, Ingo and Chandelure also picked up their pace, the trainer curious about what Haxorus had seen, and excited to know what it was- it was something important, he was sure of it. 

Haxorus was standing still by the time the two others caught up. Chandelure's light revealed that Haxorus had found…

…A dead end. 

Ingo furrowed his brows, certain it couldn't be that simple- that something of importance was surely here. That buzzing, that feeling- it was almost overwhelming. This memory was on the tip of Ingo's brain, if that's how one would say it. They were almost there!

“Haxorus, what have you found?” Ingo questioned. Chandelure emitted a quiet sound akin to that of a soft breeze, her voice knowing. 

Haxorus turned towards the other two, meeting Ingo's gaze. It rumbled gleefully and held out its tail, handing the piece of Oran Berry it held to Ingo, the trainer taking it in his hands. Ingo looked down at the half of the Oran Berry, then back up to Haxorus, who was taking a few steps backwards, before it stopped near the wall of the cave. Ingo was careful to take in the entire scene in front of him, scanning it thoroughly. 

Then, the buzzing stopped, like a snap of one's fingers. It all came flooding back in that instant. 

-

Ingo was walking through Mistralton Cave, Litwick on his head. It was a little silly, Ingo admits- despite having done this multiple times before, Ingo always found himself laughing quietly when he would put Litwick on top of him, but it worked as a fantastic light source. Thankfully, Litwick had understood pretty quickly when and when not to drain people's life force, and was glad to help its trainer. 

Today was Ingo's first adventure on his own, without his twin brother Emmet- he was looking to catch another wild Pokémon to be the third member of his team. 

It was admittedly a bit lonely without his twin, but Ingo and Emmet had to develop their skills as individual trainers, too- and so Ingo was excited.

Ingo turned around a corner in the cave, realizing after a few more steps forward that it was a dead end.

But that wasn't all he saw. 

"Is that..." Ingo murmured. 

A small mass was laying down on the cave floor. It had the shape of a reptile, with tusks and a green hue.

"..an Axew." Ingo completed his statement. Litwick, also curious, scooted itself downwards and onto Ingo's shoulder.

As the young trainer took a few steps to take a closer look, a feeling of worry washed over him. The Axew was sleeping, but it didn't seem like a restful sleep. It had a few cuts and bruises, and while that wasn't terrible, it was still concerning-- this Axew looked to be just a baby. 

Ingo stood still as he contemplated what to do, multiple options going through his head. He could take it to a Pokémon Center or a Daycare, but what if its parents were still around? Then, a thought crossed Ingo's mind– Emmet had a bit of an interest in breeding and taking care of baby Pokémon; what would he do in this situation? 

Ingo remembered a few times when he had seen Emmet take care of baby Pokémon. He always checked their breathing and heartbeats, and made sure they could move okay. 

However, doing this without waking the Axew would possibly be difficult. Ingo didn't want the poor thing to be frightened by him. Still, he'd need to heal it, as well…then, Ingo remembered! 

As someone with a passion for cooking, he happened to know that the Axew line loves berries! An Oran berry, specifically, would do nicely. 

"Litwick, I need to take care of this Axew." Ingo explained, "I have a plan, but I'll need your help- is that okay?” 

Litwick made a whistle-esc sound of agreement, its goopy mouth forming into a smile. Ingo grinned in return, carefully taking the Candle Pokémon off of his head and turning to place her on the ground to the side. 

"Bravo! Thank you, Litwick." Ingo exclaimed, before turning to take the next step to prepare.

Ingo lifted the camping backpack he had brought, filled with supplies, and quietly placed it on the floor to the other side of himself. He opened it, being mindful not to make much noise, rummaging through it for a few moments, and taking out a few items- including an Oran berry.

Then, when he was finally ready, Ingo turned back to the tiny, slumbering dragon.

The young trainer slowly and carefully stepped towards the Axew until he was towering over it. He crouched down and placed his hand on the Axew's upper back. Its breathing seemed okay, and Ingo let out a sigh of relief. Then, Ingo gently shook the small dragon a few times- in response, the Axew shifted before opening its eyes a little, seeming somewhat out of it.

Ingo lifted his hand off of the Axew, and tried to make his voice quiet and soft, smiling friendlily, "Hello there! My name is Ingo--"

Before the young trainer could continue, however, the Axew's eyes shot wide open, and it quickly stood up as it tried to escape. The Axew turned away and took a few wobbly steps, before realizing it was cornered.

The Axew turned back to Ingo, afraid- it sat on the ground and put its head down, covering its eyes. Ingo felt a twinge in his heart, feeling sad that the Tusk Pokémon felt scared. 

Ingo reached for the Oran berry to his side, taking it in his hand. When he turned back to Axew, it had lifted its head a little and uncovered one of its eyes, taking a peek at Ingo. It noticed Ingo looking at it again and tensed up.

"Hey..." Ingo spoke to Axew, "You don't need to be scared. I know you may have gone through something scary, but I'm not here to hurt you." Ingo spoke in a gentle tone, making sure his body language seemed as friendly as possible. 

After a moment, the Axew uncovered its other eye, but was still tense. 

With that, Ingo slowly took a few steps towards Axew, who scooted back in response- nevertheless, Ingo was able to make an approach.

"Hey, hey, look!" Ingo exclaimed as he held out his arm towards Axew, Oran Berry in hand. "I have an Oran Berry for you. You're probably hungry, and it'll help you feel better, too!"

Axew eyed the berry, but hesitated for a moment. It looked downwards, seemingly thinking.

Ingo sat down, continuing to hold the berry outwards. 

"Hey. You don't have to trust me. But I want to help you, and I can only do that if you trust me. It's your choice, but I'd really like it if you could allow me to help you get better."

Axew looked up and stared at Ingo for a moment, then looked to the side. It made a few squeaky noises under its breath, before it stood up and emitted a happy, chirping noise. 

Ingo smiled as the Axew wobbled towards him, taking the berry from his palm and eating it with glee. Ingo chuckled, happy to see that the Pokémon had decided to trust him. Soon, the Oran Berry was gone- Axew already looked better. Apparently it already felt better, too, because the baby Pokémon squealed happy and stumbled onto Ingo's lap, who laughed in delighted surprise. 

Ingo put his hand on Axew's back, who didn't seem to mind.

"Do you like belly rubs?" Ingo remarked, before scratching Axew's belly. Axew seemed surprised, but not in a bad way. Following a few beats, it closed its eyes and began making a content, soft rumbling noise. After a moment of more belly scratches, Ingo pressed his hand to Axew's chest, who didn't seem to notice at first regarding its lack of belly rubs.

Good. Its heartbeat was normal, too. 

But what should Ingo do now? He hadn't seen any Haxorus or Fraxure. Perhaps it had some family that would return soon. But why had Axew been in that injured state? Maybe there was an emergency. 

He would need to find out.

-

Chapter 25

Chapter 26 (Part 2 of 3)

[haveyouheardthisfolksong]

Addressing potential questions

So, in the last few days, this blog has been picking up. Thank you so much, everyone! I love being introduced to new songs from the submissions, and it's been great seeing people enjoying some of my favorites for the first time. That being said, with the rise in attention this blog is getting, I want to address some potential questions that may arise, as well as some I've been getting.

"I may have heard this song somewhere, but I'm not sure if I've heard it or not. How should I vote?" If you think you've heard a song at least once, you can vote "yes." If you're not sure, you can vote "I've heard of it, but haven't listened to it."

"Are you going to make a masterlist of all the songs in the polls?"

I'm considering it. A masterlist would be a great way to organize the songs in case anyone would like to find one easier.

"How do you choose which versions of songs to post?"

Whenever I have a submission, I always post the link I've been provided with. When I post songs myself, it depends. For some songs, I post my favorite version or the most well-known, but for others, I post smaller recordings. For instance, I'm most familiar with the cover of "Oak and Ash and Thorn" by the Longest Johns, but I posted a vocal-only cover by a woman with a small channel singing into her camera. This is because I want to represent folk music in as many ways as possible; while today, we have successful bands producing high-quality recordings of folk songs, many of these songs were first spread by ordinary people singing or playing instruments without formal training, celebrity status, or modern recording equipment. I want to share both the professional recordings I enjoy and common people preserving folk music traditions, so maybe sometimes you'll see Enya, and other times you'll see some guy singing in his basement.

"Can you post songs from xyz culture?"

I post both user submissions and folk songs that I know. Most of the folk music I'm familiar with is either Celtic or Eastern European, but I'm always happy to expand my tastes. If you'd like to see a specific song represented in this poll that I haven't posted yet, just submit it to the blog, and I'll try to add it as soon as possible. If you don't have a song in mind but would like me to look into the music of a particular culture or language, I'm happy to do some research; just DM me and I'll try to find at least one song.

"You got this detail wrong about the song/language/culture of origin."

I never want to offend anyone, so if I made a mistake and misattributed a song, please send me a DM and I'll look into it. If I'm not 100% certain about a song's language, culture, and history, I'll look it up, but I may make mistakes.

"How do you find the folk songs you know?"

I've been interested in folk music for years. Most of the songs I know I just found on youtube, but some of them were introduced to me by other people- for instance, my Russian professor taught my class "Moscow Nights" and "Smuglianka," and one of my friends sent me "Di Katerinke". I have a playlist for folk music that I've been updating all the time; it started out as Celtic only, but has slowly expanded to lots of other musical traditions. It still needs to be updated, and there's some shanties and Klezmer I like that I have saved to my Spotify, but not to Youtube, so I'm sort of all over the place. It's really fascinating to me how the internet has impacted the spread and creation of folk music, and for it to be shared and learned on a much wider scale than ever before.

[thrill-seeker-vn]

I posted 1,090 times in 2022

775 posts created (71%)

315 posts reblogged (29%)

Blogs I reblogged the most:

@thrill-seeker-if

@manonamora-if

@king-of-autumn

@hauntthebodies

@narrativefoiltrope

I tagged 919 of my posts in 2022

Only 16% of my posts had no tags

#not if related - 424 posts

#thrill seeker if - 133 posts

#ro asks - 101 posts

#ch: n - 96 posts

#ch: oli - 90 posts

#anon - 84 posts

#ch: hannie - 83 posts

#ask aalaa - 74 posts

#lovely anon <3 - 45 posts

#<3 - 42 posts

Longest Tag: 139 characters

#we were like reviewing our tor as we go into another work year and she had been showing our plan for the next year and as we're talking she

My Top Posts in 2022:

#5

Please don't write another IF. You're already lazy enough writing this one.

I don't really know what to say to this one. But, then again, I don't really owe you any sort of explanation. You have no idea who I am or what I've been through these last few months, so I really don't know where you get off of that you can speak to me so harshly.

I have very little time to myself, and I am making this IF for free. Between this, I've been helping my Ukranian family seek refuge here. I am paying for their stay. I'm working and studying, too. I get very little free time for this IF. I understand if you don't want to read it, or any of my other WIPs, but I don't think you have the right to talk to anyone this way regardless. I do not owe my time to you. I am not your personal content machine.

If you think you can do better, I truly encourage you to try. Maybe you can take this stick out of your ass while you're at it.

71 notes - Posted April 18, 2022

#4

I’ve collaborated with the incredible @aikhako again for N’s birthday celebration! They've, of course, blown it out of the water yet again!

One thing I'm excited to announce for this celebration as well... I have finally moved the demo from inkle to twine! I have edited chapter 1, so it should hopefully flow better now!

You can play the game from this link. Hope you guys are having a great day!

Also, make sure to check out Aikhako on insta, they post more often there!

75 notes - Posted April 12, 2022

#3

this is so funny to me.... i love blade so much but he really went out and spoke about their trauma and was like 'and i.... yeah me too i guess!'

91 notes - Posted November 10, 2022

#2

5000 views and 2500 plays celebration!

Hello everyone! I actually can't believe it, but today, we passed 5000 views and 2500 browser plays for Thrill Seeker!!

First of all: thank you guys so much. I literally wouldn't be here without you guys. The support I've gotten from you amazing folks is staggering. I really want to thank ALL of you for supporting Thrill Seeker, you guys are so lovely and to be honest, the love I've gotten here has gotten me through some really tough times. The friends I've made here are absolutely wonderful.

I love talking to you guys, seeing your art and hearing your theories, and I love hearing what you look forward to. Thank you for listening to my ramblings and being so lovely!! I'm so happy to have people like you engaging with Thrill Seeker and I appreciate every single one of you.

So, to thank you all, we're going to have a little celebration!!

Until then I’d just like to do something fun for you all! Ther are three There will be three prizes for everyone who wishes to participate

1st prize: Portrait of your MC and preferred RO & Longer Drabble created with your preferred RO

2nd prize: Medium length drabble written with your character & smaller portrait of your preferred RO

3rd prize: Option to create your own character who, although small, will play a role giving information to the MC & moodboard of preferred character

To win, all you have to do is reblog or comment on this post (not like!!) and you'll be in!!! This will be open to anyone until about mid September, so you all have plenty of time!

I hope you guys enjoy!! Thank you guys so, so much for sticking with me and giving so much love to Thrill Seeker!

See the full post

93 notes - Posted July 26, 2022

My #1 post of 2022

Your favorite IFs? I don't remember if you have already answered something like this and I'm looking for something to get addicted to.

I've actually been looking for the post I made about this exactly, but here's a bunch more!

@reincarnation-if - A RESURRECTION STORY, BABY!!! I love the author AND the story, I'm totally obsessed with it!! The demo isn't out yet, but I literally can't wait!!

@manonamora-if - I cannot recommend this author enough. Check out her IFs here. I don't even know how to begin describing how amazing she is-- it seems like she can literally do any genre!

@attollogame - I'm sure everyone knows this incredible if but, if you don't, definitely check them out RIGHT NOW! They're going to celebrate their two year anniversary soon, so this is the perfect chance to read the work and find out more about this awesome game!!

@jaunefleurwrites - another one I mention a lot. But she has so many amazing WIPS and IFs and I'm not sure if all my audience knows about it!! You can check Jaune's masterpost for all their amazing IFs (my favorite is definitely A World Without You!! There's just a certain warmth in Jaune's writing that I absolutely love!)

@magiciansvoyage - Yet again someone who shows up on the blog a lot-- I'm getting my favoritism out of the way, don't worry. Arlo is such a lovely writer and person, and Magician's Voyage is easily one of my favorite ifs. Arlo's writing is so immersive and I love fantasy, so easy rec from me!

@parkerlyn - The Nameless is literally one of the best IFs out there and you are missing out if you're not reading it. They are also celebrating their second anniversary soon so send them some love!!

@anathemafiction - If you're looking to buy an amazing, immersive game, this is the one to get! It's fully released, incredible quality, and you can download it on mobile or desktop. I would definitely recommend checking them out!

@thefallendivine - I love betrayal stories. You play as the heir to heaven and hell, but your family has been killed by your peers. You're in a situation where you're not sure who to trust anymore. I absolutely love these kinds of stories!! I think if you like Thrill Seeker, you'll enjoy this is!

@sevensdeadly-if - You get to interact and romance the seven deadly sins. How much better can it get, man??? Is there anything more I need to say to sell it?? Chapter one was released recently, so an excellent time to read it.

@nextinline-if - Are you looking for an if with DRAMA?? ROYALTY?? A STORY THAT MAKES YOU LOOK WITHIN YOURSELF, THAT MAKES YOU WANT TO BE A GOOD RULER??? then look no further than this amazing game!! Constantine has my heart and I will love him till the end of time, so if you do play, pick someone else, because he is MINE!

@lifesupreme-if - There are defiitely not enough sci-fi if's out there, and this story is based in the world of Cyberpunk 2077, so it was an automatic win in my eyes.

@when-life-gives-you-lemonssss - This is nothing like Thrill Seeker, and I love it. It's a cute slice of life with a bunch of awesome ROs. I love domestic games, and this covers all the boxes in the cute game checklist!

@whenbodiescollide - when i saw the synopsis, it immediately caught my attention. the entire aesthetic of the blog plays in so well with the story that i can't recommend it enough!!

@vendetta-if - another awesome synopsis bro. I love revenge stories, and this is probably the best IF you're gonna find of it, baby!

@lacewing-if - Their if doesn't have a demo yet, but I already love the premise. Keith has my entire heart and I can't wait until I can get to romance him properly LIUHDFSSDFHUI

@thehunt-if - Another concept I love a lot-- you play as a hunter for supernatural beings!! But then!!! YOU GET POSSESSED BY SOMETHING YOU HUNTED, AND NOW YOU HAVE TO WALK A MILE IN THEIR SHOES!! i cannot stress how much I love this hehe

@hummingbird-games - Moreso a VN, but still such a cute game and I just love it sm!!! The art is so gorgeous and it's just so nicely done!!

@if-whenthesunrises & @if-mirrormine - both are excellent stories!! The lovely author is on a hiatus right now, but I would still recommend checking out their work!!

@unwilling-souls-if - The premise is just so insanely good I can't even explain it. Check it out and you'll get it, LMAIUHDSFUHDFIU. Xander-- watch out. I'm coming for you.

There are way too many talented authors to mention in the word limit, so let me know if you want a part three!! Thank you for the ask Eva <3

339 notes - Posted August 23, 2022

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