#try putting it towards creating a conclusion youre happy with or engaging in content that someone else made that does

[sakurm]

well while yall gripe with jjk's ending i shall continue my sashisu kaisen. remember: if youre unsatisfied, fanworks are your saviour!

[dailylogyn]

Logyn Meta: Loki & Sigyn’s relationship in the Marvel Comics

Photo Source (by Sexy-Salmon): https://lokisergi.tumblr.com/post/70164902295/siege-loki-problems-it-almost-looks-innocent

Other Logyn Meta’s: https://dailylogyn.tumblr.com/tagged/logyn-meta

Did you know Sigyn was in the Marvel Comics long ago? Did you know Loki had a wife? 

Oh...that’s probably because Marvel wanted you to forget their terrible writing mistakes concerning this great Norse Couple. 

Let’s dive into this exploration of history where the Marvel writers realized they fucked up on telling a perfectly good couples story, and in the process, setting off a spark of rebellion that caused some retconning and a group of fans to demand justice for both Loki & Sigyn -- not just as a couple, but as their own individual beings. 

#JusticeforSigyn #JusticeforLoki #JusticeforLogyn

Where it First Began (Meeting & Marriage of Lies):

In September of 1978, Thor #275 came out featuring the first appearance of Sigyn, Loki’s wife from Norse Mythology. She was introduced as a beautiful Asgardian Loki had randomly come across while looking into a crystal ball inside his castle, wanting to find some companionship to fill his loneliness. 

However, when Loki came with riches and jewels to offer her in exchange for her hand in marriage, Sigyn outright rejected him, stating she would never take someone as vile as him, even stating she was already engaged to an Asgardian Warrior part of Odin’s guard -- Theoric. 

Unable to accept this, Loki came up with a plan to have her fiancee killed during a mission, resulting in the Trickster taking on the disguise of Theoric in order to take Sigyn for his own. Despite having slightly suspicions of her lover being more romantic than before, Sigyn didn't notice that her lover wasn’t exactly who she thought he was.

Now comes the day of the wedding as Odin marries the happy couple. This was when Loki finally revealed his true self and what he had done. Odin tried to null the marriage, but it was against Asgardian law for even the High Father to do such a thing. Hence, Sigyn accepted her fate as Loki’s wife. This caused Odin to name her the Goddess of Fidelity. 

Where it’s Heading (Cargo of Incantation-Fetter’s Arms):

Loki being Loki, he did some shit that ended up with him being imprisoned in a tree by Odin, something that infuriated Sigyn, resulting in her trying to take control over Donald Blake to use over the All-Father as a way to free her husband from his punishment. However, it didn’t work out, resulting in a bunch of other crazy shit happening and putting Thor on their trail.

After Balder was killed, Loki was put on trials for his crimes and received yet another punishment that Sigyn had to protect him from -- having burden over the fact she was “the evil’s wife.” Just like the classic Norse tale, she holds a bowl over his head, shielding him from snake venom and leaving to empty it momentarily when it became full, resulting in Loki cursing her. 

Also, Loki and Sigyn had a child -- Narvi, but they died young, being used as the binding to imprison Loki (following the Norse myth too.) 

Some more crazy shit happens and now Odin has shackled Loki to Sigyn so he doesn’t cause anymore trouble. Loki of course is not pleased about this one bit. Having had enough of this, he went to Odin demanding to be released, only resulting in him being banished to an outpost. 

There Just Might be Hope????:

Some more shit happens again, resulting in Loki being stuck in an astral form and bound to a suit of armor so he could reside in Asgard thanks to Sigyn. A fight happens with Thor, Loki and Mephisto, putting Sigyn in danger. This is when for the first time ever, Loki ends up having a tender confession of love over Sigyn, asking Thor to save her since he could not.

It’s unknown if this is just Loki putting on an act or being real, but you know how the Trickster God can be. 

After the battle, while Loki had released Sigyn from her marital vows, his wife swore to always be there for him when he needed her.

And that’s the last we see of Sigyn’s regular appearance in the comics in 1996. She makes a cameo in Avengers: Unleashed #1 in 2019, but it’s nothing more than a flashback to her time of helping Loki. 

A Hypothesis & Notes on their relationship in comics:

The whole entire plotline consisting of Theoric and Loki killing him in order to obtain Sigyn is just something most of the fandom doesn’t like. Not only does it objectify Sigyn, but it makes Theoric a Pointless character to introduce anyway, only used as a tool for means in which Loki can get Sigyn, when honestly, he could have done so in a different way.

I like that they stick with Sigyn being the faithful wife of Loki (that’s who she is), but they honestly don’t give her any agency in this besides that trait alone. The writers don’t even let Sigyn be her own damn person! She is SO MUCH MORE than Loki’s loyal wife. SHE IS A FREAKIN GODDESS! I know there is more we can do with her.

Instead of pulling the ‘woe is me, my husband is evil and I’ll just go along with it’ card, something else could have been done. LIKE LITERALLY, ANYTHING ELSE! We know Loki can be a troublemaker, but Sigyn knows how to deal with his shit. She isn’t some damsel in distress here! It’s another reason Loki likes her.

Couples can bicker in times, it’s normal in marriages and relationships, but to have Loki whining about how much of a burden Sigyn is is just....WHY? I mean, you went after the woman and killed another guy for her. This is what you wanted! *shakes head at writers*

I will give them kudos though for some of the stuff near the end when Loki actually starts displaying his true feelings of love towards Sigyn. And sadly we only got a little taste of that...and we aren’t even sure if it was an act or Loki being real.

THE FACT THAT SIGYN ISN’T EVEN IN THE COMICS ANYMORE SINCE 1996. She’s only mentioned, but it’s just as a tale, not as an actual person who USED to be his wife. They literally killed her off. EXCUSE ME! #JusticeforSigyn (We’re still waiting for her in the MCU...)

NORSE MYTHOLOGY TIE-INS:

There were some moments in the comics between them that they writers took from Norse Mythology with them. Thought It’d be important to list.

Loki’s Punishment of snake venom dripping onto him while Sigyn holds a bowl to collect it and shield him.

Narvi being Loki & Sigyn’s son who was killed and his insides used to bind Loki for his punishment.

Sigyn being Loki’s wife. 

DIFFERENT WRITERS, DIFFERENT CHARACTERIZATION:

As is the case with everything out there, if you have different writers working on the same project, there is bound to be a difference of characterization and interpretation, resulting in OOC moments or just something completely different altogether. After researching and pondering on this subject, I FULLY believe this is what has happened with Loki & Sigyn’s relationship in the comics. Let’s take a look at the evidence I’ve found:

For the comics Sigyn’s creators were Roy Thomas, John Buscema and Tom Palmer. 

Loki’s creators for the comics were Stan Lee, Larry Lieber, Jack Kirby, Violet Barclay, and honestly, many others.  

My favorite quotes on them from the comics:

Wait? Despite the crappy writing, I actually have quotes I like from the comics? GASP! I call these the only positives from the comics of their relationship. 

“My Sigyn-- the love of my immortal life...” — Loki, Thor Annual Vol 1 #19

“Aye-- For only Sigyn, of all in the realm eternal, feels love for Loki. And among all Asgardians, only for Sigyn does Loki feel...” — Loki, Thor Annual #19

“Sigyn loves me-- just as she is the only thing in the nine worlds that I truly love.”— Loki, Thor #483

Photo Source: https://www.zerochan.net/1262293#full

Fandoms Wish for MCU & Future Appearance Justice:

Fans would like to see Sigyn make an appearance, not only in the MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe), but also the Marvel Comics once again. They would like to see Loki & Sigyn’s characters done justice with proper writing, especially regarding their relationship with each other. 

This is why there is plenty of fans out there writing Fanfiction, making Fanart, Roleplaying and even Cosplaying them, giving their interpretation’s of what their relationship would be like. This is THE VERY REASON this blog and @sigynappreciation​ was created to help spread awareness and unite fans who feel the same way. 

These characters are very near and dear to our hearts. Some of us even worship them in our religions. We would like to see their relationship grow and portrayed in a way that helps fill the pieces of the missing puzzle to how they came to be in Norse Mythology. 

CONCLUSION:

Although their relationship in the comics usually leaves fans grimacing, at least we got to have it explored. Who knows if Marvel will ever touch anything with them ever again, but at least it’s brought together a small community that continues to go strong -- and honestly, that kind of unity is what Loki & Sigyn would want. 

So imagine to your hearts content! Draw that fanart! Write those fanfictions! Dress up in that cosplay! Be those characters! But just remember, you have a family here to love and support you. 

SOURCES:

Sigyn’s info on Marvel Database: https://marvel.fandom.com/wiki/Sigyn_(Earth-616)

Loki’s info on Marvel Database: https://marvel.fandom.com/wiki/Loki_Laufeyson_(Earth-616)

Sigyn on Marvel Universe: http://www.marvunapp.com/Appendix/sigynthor.htm

Logyn on the Shipping Wiki: https://shipping.fandom.com/wiki/Logyn

Loki & Sigyn’s relationship through Media: https://www.alehorn.com/blogs/blog/norse-mythology-loki-and-sigyn

[mylovelies-docx]

Kid Krow - The Story

A/N: Well guys, it's been a pleasure creating this story. I can't thank you enough to all those who left likes and comments on every chapter - you have no idea how excited it made me to read your thoughts and feelings on the project I had started on a whim. 

You guys are the best!

But this is officially the end of Poe and reader's story on this one. The only thing left is a little blurb I wrote for General Hux that I just thought could lighten the mood amidst all the angst of chapter 9.

Again, I appreciate you all from the bottom of my heart.

I don't have any ideas for any more stories, but if you guys want to send something in I might try them out! 

Chapter warnings: some very light smut, pure unadulterated fluff.

Listen to the song here!

Read it on AO3 here!

Taglist: @maraudersandco​ @sociallyawkwardcircus-freak-hi​ @hkmultifandom​ @spider-starry​ @ashleykaiba​ @mayangel19​ @plxstic-rose​

Word Count: 1.2k

Your cheek was pressed against Poe’s bare chest, soaking in the warmth that radiated from him. One of his arms was holding you close, drawing random patterns into the skin of your back. You were perfectly content to stay just as you were for the rest of your life.

You glanced down at your left hand that was resting on Poe’s stomach and a soft smile lit up your face when you saw his mother’s ring on your finger. It had been there for a few months now, but had gained all new meaning within the last few days. You had taken a trip back to Yavin IV with a small group of your closest friends under the guise of a lunch-date for everyone to meet or catch up. 

The conspiratorial air between you and Kes felt similar to the last time you were together, but this little picnic had turned out so much better than the last you two had cooked up -- you would even say this one was perfect.

There weren’t many in attendance, just Zorii, Zalos, and a couple of Poe’s squadron members like Karé Kun, Jessika Pava, and Temmin ‘Snap’ Wexley, so it was easy for everyone to find a seat on the pillows spread out between the Force Tree’s meandering roots. The jungle moon’s weather was perfect for the picnic-turned-wedding that no one knew they were attending. 

You and Poe had decided that only Leia and Kes should be in on your plan, since you needed the help with getting everything together. Kes had been over the moon when he watched the General stand up and explain what was going to happen, grinning from his son and very soon-to-be daughter to the shocked expressions on your friend’s faces. You and Poe had stood in front of everyone you considered family and pledged yourselves to each other for the rest of your lives. And you both intended to keep that promise.

Focusing back on your ring, you couldn’t help but tease Poe just a little.

“You know,” you began mischievously, “it was kind of creepy wakin’ up from a coma to find that I was engaged to someone I hadn’t seen in five years.” You put on a mock-serious face and looked up at Poe, startling him from his own thoughts with your voice. Or you startled him from the beginnings of sleep; you were both exhausted from the day’s activities.

Poe stares down at your face, trying to see if you were serious. He scoffs good naturedly and hugs you tighter into him when he sees the teasing light in your eyes.

“‘Hadn’t seen in five years’. And who’s fault was that?” Poe countered, quirking an eyebrow at you and turning so that you were now lying face to face. His brown eyes were shining with mirth and he couldn’t keep his hands from creeping towards one of your more ticklish spots.

You smirked. “Are you sayin’ it was mine?”

It was nice being able to laugh about how stupid the two of you had been; neither of you felt the sting of pain you used to over the situation. You both had worked everything out those first few days while you were recovering after having many heart-to-hearts and sob fests. You enjoyed the return of your easy friendship with Poe and you especially enjoyed the new facet of your relationship that came along with being together in love. 

“I’m saying we might both be a little responsible,” Poe replied, shrugging the shoulder that he wasn’t lying on. 

He tightened his fingers on your waist and dug in. Your body jerked at the pressure and a laugh escaped your lips. You pretended to glare and brought up a finger to point at him.

“Don’t you dare,” you warned.

“What? I’m not doing anything.” 

It was Poe’s turn to be mischievous now. He poked your sides again and held you when you tried to wiggle away. There was a crooked grin on his face as he watched you. You couldn’t help but cackle as his fingers continued to wiggle against you. 

The sound of your unrestrained laughter and joy caused Poe’s heart to stutter in his chest. He was indescribably happy that you were both on the same page and as in love with each other as two people could be. He stopped his assault on your abdomen and raised a hand to cup your face. Poe brought his mouth down to yours, tasting the laughter on your tongue and grinning against the smile you were still wearing. 

He would never get tired of kissing your lips.

You both melted into the kiss with ease; the months of practice allowing the two of you to push and pull your mouths in a rhythm that only the two of you knew. Your arms slid around Poe’s neck, allowing your fingers to tangle in the short curls at the back of his head. You gave a soft tug and felt the soft groan that escaped from Poe. You grinned and tugged again.

“Princess. I thought you were tired?” Poe questioned, moving from your lips and leaving a trail of warm, languid kisses along your jaw and down your throat. 

You craned your neck to allow Poe better access, relishing in the feel of his soft lips on your delicate skin. “You’re the one that started this, fly boy.” Your voice was raw from your recent laughter, but Poe had never heard anything more beautiful.

He growled into your neck and flipped you onto your back. Poe was on top of you, pressing you firmly into the mattress. No matter how sore they were, you wrapped your legs around Poe’s waist and pulled him into your body. The feeling of Poe nestled between your thighs and pressed against every square inch of your skin sent chills running through you. You whimpered at the feeling.

Poe’s left hand was cradling your cheek, providing himself with a better angle to kiss you. You brought your same hand up to reach across your face and interlace your fingers over top of his. Your wedding bands clinked together with a metallic sound when they met.

You might have been secluded in your shared quarters for nearly an entire standard year already, but neither of you planned on leaving any time soon.

There had been so many things that had tried to keep you separated from each other. The fact that you had grown up together on Yavin was incredible; out of all the planets and moons in the galaxy, Poe had found you lying in the grass not far from his home. And your brush with death while the two of you were separated could have very easily ended the story of your love before its happy conclusion. The universe was a cruel place: it ain’t funny, it ain’t pretty, it ain’t sweet. That’s just the way it works. But sometimes, beautiful things can come from hardship and pain and be all the stronger for it. The universe did not work in anyone’s favor or towards any one goal.

But you think that it could work out for you and Poe.

[mistresseast]

You're right about that, I just don't vibe with most of the fandom so even "the fandom will fix it" doesn't help when I just want confirmation he is alive, when people keep saying he's not, and for him to just have something positive with another character, a friend or something, so he feels human and not just "crazy" like he's portrayed. Or any answers about his past or Shido, it just feels unfinished to me and other characters you at least know how they felt. I think I'm the only one not cont.

Response under the cut for length:

I can tell that you’re really upset and frustrated, so I’m going to be as polite and sympathetic as I can. First of all, no one can tell the future in regards to Atlus’s plans. P5 is massively popular and there is every possibility that they will continue the story or tell more stories in the same universe, but there’s also every possibility that the game will essentially go into Brand Lockdown to avoid alienating any potential customers, so all that will come out of P5 in the future is episodic content like Scramble that doesn’t threaten or add to the lore. Anything is possible. HOWEVER if you are betting your enjoyment of the source material on the possible future addition of more content, and specifically content that satisfies all of your personal needs, you are playing a losing game. From these messages, it sounds to me like you have been around the fandom for a while and you have been failed by the game multiple times at this point, and it certainly seems like you are no longer deriving any enjoyment from the fandom or the game. Forgive me if that’s incorrect, but if I’m right, then I believe you need to start thinking seriously about what you want from your fandom experience. At this point, you can either hold out hope that Atlus will provide what you need and/or that the fandom will undergo a massive paradigm shift and start satisfying you OR you can take charge of your own happiness. How you feel about the game/the content fans create is solely your responsibility. I understand that everyone experiences fandom differently, and I’m very sorry that the circles you’ve traveled in have not had the correct “vibes” for what you need, but personally I have not seen a general fandom trend toward believing that Goro and Akira shouldn’t reunite, nor that Goro cannot heal and find love. Perhaps I’ve been lucky, bc I have certainly encountered those mindsets, in particular the concept that Goro, as he is in the game, is not worthy of happiness and healing until he is punished and therefore redeemed, but I never got the impression that that was the state of the fandom as a whole, and in fact I have only ever consumed/created/promoted content where Goro heals and finds love and I never encountered any derision or opposition, even before Royal.

On the topic of Royal’s ambiguity: it is not cheap writing to rely on subtext. Royal is not perfect. Its handling of Goro and his fate are not perfect. However, the narrative makes it obvious that Goro is alive if you take the time to put the pieces together. Not stating something outright and allowing the audience to reach its own conclusions does not equal “dangling Goro’s survival” in front of the fans. A lot of the details about Goro’s character, including his backstory and his fate, are present if you can interpret subtext. Fandoms as a whole are not very good at doing this, but that doesn’t mean the information isn’t there, and just because the fandom in general doesn’t know Goro is alive doesn’t mean he isn’t. As far as the canon “proving” Goro isn’t just a trigger-happy maniac, I don’t know where you’ve gotten the idea that it doesn’t. Goro in the third semester is controlled, purposeful, and determined. He’s fully aware of what’s going on and he takes responsibility for his choices, recognizing the manipulation he suffered but not using that to excuse his actions. But he also doesn’t waste time on regret. He gets a little wild as Black Mask, but he’s still your navigator, he’s still very much in control of himself. And even before that, in the engine room, he is portrayed as tragic, not crazy. Again, I realize that there are parts of the fandom that have failed to recognize this and paint Goro as a monster, but AGAIN, you cannot blame the source material for the audience misinterpreting something it did everything in its power to make clear. Wishing the game had done more on that front, or any front, is understandable, but saying the canon portrays him as crazy is simply incorrect.

I'm not trying to argue with you, it just seems like you're upset about some things that are not true. I would also be upset if we never learned whether Goro was dead or alive, but we know that he's alive! I would also be upset if the game failed to show how complex he is and only framed him as a bloodthirsty monster, but it doesn't do that! I see a lot of opinions regarding Goro and Royal that are not based on logic or evidence, but rather on how people felt while playing, which is valid, but that does NOT mean those ideas are canon. What the story is trying to say and what you FEEL like the story is trying to say are not interchangeable. Some of the things that are bringing you grief are fixable. The fandom stuff is more complicated, but I promise the content you're after is out there, and there are a lot of fans who think like you. I know that doesn't really help when you feel alone and misunderstood, but at some point you have to ask yourself if you're going to seek out the fandom experience you want or continue in a fandom that seems to make you pretty miserable.

From the way some of this comes off, it kind of sounds like you want to control how people interpret/interact with the characters and the game, and that you can't be happy unless everyone conforms to your ideas, which is a terrible and alienating way to engage with fandom. But I also recognize that if you’re determined to feel this way, nothing I say will change that, and I believe everyone is perfectly entitled to their own bitterness and frustration if that’s how they want to spend their time. However, if you keep coming to me, I’m going to keep refuting you, bc my feelings about this matter are just as strong as yours. If my frankness depresses you, despite the effort I’ve put in to making my positivity accessible, then I’m sorry. I wish I could help everyone be as happy in this fandom as I am, but that’s just not possible, so I truly wish you all the best in finding what you’re looking for.

[selfhelpskillss]

15 Signs He is Pursuing You And How To Make The Best Love - Selfhelpskills

Does he smile at you when he meets you or compliments you much more often than previously? If you notice some differences in his behaviors, these may be signs he is pursuing you.

When you fall in love with someone, you tend to give away your feelings and show what you desire without awareness. 

Do you wonder if he is solely flirting with you or he is pursuing you? Is it a joke, or does he want to go further with you? If you want to know what signs that a man is pursuing you, you are in the right place.

Keep reading the article by Self Help Skills and hope that you can find your other half.

15 Signs He Is Pursuing You And Wants You To Be His Girlfriend

Each person will have unique characteristics and habits, so that there are hundreds of ways to indicate whether a man is pursuing you or not.

So how to tell if a guy is trying to get your attention? In this article, we will discuss the 15 most popular signs.

1. He is ‘accidentally’ touching you more often 

He touches you more

One of the signs a man wants to be with you is that he likes to be close to you. You can see that he grazes your knees or brushes his arms against yours ‘accidentally’ when the two of you are together. 

It may be subconscious actions. He may love to touch you now and then. However, once a man has a deep affection for you, his body language(https://selfhelpskills.net/how-to-read-body-language/) begins showing the language of attachment.

2. His postures are open when you are with him  

Not just touching, he can also show open postures to talk with you. This behavior proves that he would take your presence rather seriously. 

While talking to you, he does not uncross his arms. He also leaves his feet wide apart. All of these signs show that he is available to you. With the open behavior, he is demonstrating comfort as well as revealing his strong feelings to you. 

3. He smiles more brightly when you are smiling 

He will smile a lot when you are smiling.

The reason is that he loves to see you smile. He does not mimic you for politeness but smiles since your happy expressions can engage him. When he is smitten with you, he likes your smiles and then smiles to encourage you more.

You see him smiling a lot and want to go further. Let’s read this post to make him yours.

4. He is looking into your eyes 

When a man looks into your eyes, it is a sexy way of showing that he wants you. When he keeps looking at you in a deep and passionate manner, he is truly connecting with you through his eyes. 

Giving a charming look is one matter but sincerely communicating with a person’s eyes is another. One of the hints that he is pursuing you is whether that man expresses his seriousness through deep eyes.  

5. He carefully sets up many plans 

He carefully sets up many plans for dating.

Men who desire to take things further are likely to hold everything into their own hands. They will not do something like waiting around for chances and circumstances to do some tricks! They are simply making their own. 

If he often sets up plans to elaborate dates and offers recommendations for things to hang out with, he purely craves to meet you and make everything further.

With fun days being together, you have romantic memories and miss him. So how to make him miss you and commit?(https://selfhelpskills.net/how-to-get-him-to-commit/) Read on to have effective tips.

6. He listens to you 

Hw will listen to every word you say. Even though you are talking about a trip you traveled with your close friends, he listens to your fun experiences but also cares about what those experiences say about you. 

Everyone often listens in a scrutinizing way when they are interested in someone and desire to know more about them. 

You can try telling more stories so that you can notice how intently he craves to know most of the things about yourself. He does not do it for politeness but hopes to conclude more of your interest from the conversation. 

7. He tries to hold your hands tightly 

He will hold your hand tightly.

There is a small difference between when a man holds a woman’s hand lightly and holds it more emotionally.

When he holds your hand lightly, it will arise out of joy, good impressions, and purely experiencing a good time. 

But once he is clutching your hands more passionately, that man tends to tell you that you are an important part of his life. It may even be one of the signs he is getting ready to ask you out. 

Then you may accept his strong feelings for you, and the two of you are in a relationship. But how to improve your relationship with your boyfriend?(https://selfhelpskills.net/how-to-have-a-healthy-relationship-with-your-boyfriend/) You will have some solutions after reading this post.

8. He is calling you an endearing name 

Normal encounters will not call you a lovey-dovey nickname. A ‘babe’ word is acceptable, but it will regularly end there. 

One of the signs he is pursuing you is if he has been using a cute nickname to call you. He just shows that he is considering you are close enough to him. 

You like his voice so much. You like the way he calls you with an endearing name. But you want to get rid of it to think more carefully. Read how to get over an infatuation.

9. He gives you more invitations

He tries to invite you over many times.

An invitation after dinner does not seem too serious and possibly just a polite request. But if he invites you over more often to have dinner with you or just to watch a popular film, he may lean toward other things more.

A man only shares the contentment of his home with someone he wants to share it with. He likes to see you in his space since he is happier with you in it. 

10. He tries to take charge around you 

You can call it protectiveness or merely confidence. One common sign that he is pursuing you is when he loves taking charge and towering over you.

A man regularly feels the necessity to be the assertive boyfriend when he is around the lady he likes. 

You like the way he treats you, and you want to become her girlfriend. Look at how to be irresistible to a man to attract him more.

11. He often gives compliments 

When men compliment your appearances like a hairstyle or something very apparent, it may not mean that he will want more from you. It may be barely a remark or admiration.

Yet, if he gives a few compliments about your traits, strong points, and unique skills, it is obvious that he keeps looking at you and loves the way you are. This sign is one of the signs he wants you to notice him as he cannot stop thinking about you. 

12. No lull during conversations

You don’t have any lull in the conversation.

When a man takes an interest in you, he will make sure that all the moments will not suddenly go downhill.

This man will deliberately put much effort into keeping conversations going and keeping you involved. He will show the deepness and gentleness in his voice to make the conversation more interesting. 

13. He shows a little nervousness around you 

It is right. Even nervousness is one of the signs he has feelings for me. You can see that he stutters, is forgetful, tells some weird jokes, or says other things out of place. 

14. He dresses politely 

It is one of the signs he wants to ask you out. If he deliberately makes sure that he will look prim and polite all the times he encounters you, he may try to pursue you.

Men who groom themselves and worry about how they look are people who want to create a lasting impression on you. 

15. Does he still keep in touch with his ex? 

Men who want to pursue will stop connecting with their ex-flames. He desires to proceed to the next step and escape from the past. Being a self-aware man, he will know what he desires and wants to pursue you. 

Conclusion

These things are just some of several signs he is pursuing you. If you are not confident enough, it is better to let everything go on and collect more proof.

Even if your crush does not show any sign that he is pursuing you, you can read how to get him to chase you to make him yours.

So, don’t hesitate or you will miss your other half. Good luck!

Credit by: https://selfhelpskills.net/signs-he-is-pursuing-you/

[camerinhell]

[Hazbin Hotel Meta] Hazbin MBTIs~! Get your fresh Hazbin Hotel MBTIs here~!

I feel pretty…happy and confident about these ;w; I tried to use best judgement, the canonical info we have so far (even if a bit vague, gotta take what we can get!), and took into consideration like…that I’m really trying to be as realistic as possible. I really enjoy keeping to canon and building off realistic expressions of the characters even with a lot of the interactions between them being so bombastic or humorous. This is how I like to go about my writing for them too :)  

Alastor: ESTP - Extroverted, Sensing, Thinking, Perceiving

Al is driven and motivated (on a base level, from what it seems) by pure stimulus. Regarding stimuli in his environment, he’s not looking to gain any philosophical or emotional insight, development or further connection to others from it; he wants to enjoy the experience in and of itself, even more so with the ability to manipulate it or those involved. Alastor wants action, entertainment, and the ability to make decisions, watch others make decisions, and watch the pieces fall where they may (long as that doesn’t lead to actual stability, peace or resolution). He enjoys engaging with others on his own terms/working a room, shaking things up and not just thinking about ‘what ifs?’, but actively creating those situations. He doesn’t want to be restricted, controlled or bored. ESTPs can tend to be impatient, self-important and prideful, have a habit of turning their noses up at others, and can be selfish. All these things definitely pertain or easily could pertain to Al.

Angel (and Cherri): ESFP - Extroverted, Sensing, Feeling, Perceiving

Angel and Cherri revel in dramatics and energy! They are bright, relatively warm (given…where they are, lol), sociable and like to have the spotlight on them. They take pleasure in the things around them and engaging with their surroundings. They’re enthusiastic, loud, active and want to be seen and heard. Real lives of the party that are generally supportive of their friends and unafraid to speak their minds. All this taken into account, some downfalls of their personalities are that they can react aggressively towards critique or inquiry, get bored easier than (most) other types and are easily distracted. Their empathy can also come off as superficial or insincere because of their playful, non-serious attitudes (remember, we even got to see Angel struggle with empathy and support when he was attempting to console Charlie).

Charlie: ENFJ - Extroverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Judging

Charlie is the definition of an ENFJ. She is a benevolent idealist who wants to see the best in people, and honestly believes in the best in people (as we see with her dream/goal for the Happy Hazbin Hotel. She wants to inspire and be inspired. Her type is actually pretty intrinsic to the plot at large). Charlie is unbelievably selfless; her motivations and what she wishes to contribute to those and the world around her are for their betterment. She is infatuated with the thought of things but needs the assistance in executing those thoughts and dreams into reality. Weaknesses that accompany this type and definitely Charlie herself are: not thinking things through, stubbornness/lack of flexibility (particularly for themselves), and being prone to burning themselves out. From the onset of the pilot all the way until the end she’s pushing herself, having difficulty really taking advice/direction and isn’t willing to see beyond her own scope of things.

Husk: ISTP - Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, Perceiving

Coming up with a likely MBTI for Husk was an enjoyable challenge! It definitely put my critical interpreting to the test and also helped me more critically assess the MBTIs for the other characters (though most of those wrote themselves/were much more apparent imo).

Husk is an avid gambler and alcoholic drinker, and these two things guided me in understanding his type. He appreciates tactile interaction and socialization on his own terms (as is required by most gambling), easily comes to decisions/conclusions from changes/information in his environment and is sensitive, for better or worse, to stimuli in his environment as many SPs are, and likely craves it actively or on a base level. Husk seems to be quietly dependable and competent/effective based off of Alastor’s (albeit humorously manipulative) words to him, which is a hallmark for ISTPs. He’s operationally a loner, but not misanthropic, just reserved/internalized unless caused to act. Some obvious issues that can arise with this MBTI and clearly would apply to Husk are: being distant or closed off, potentially risky or self-destructive behavior (yuuup~), and lacking compassion or emotional sensitivity.

Sir Pentious: ENTJ - Extroverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Judging

Pentious is goal-oriented (as are most other NJs), rational, intelligent and clever (despite his loud personality and Saturday morning villain aesthetic lol). He desires order and values exacting organized, calculated plans. He’s rather assertive and craves a high degree of control in his surroundings (I mean he’s a mechanical mastermind hellbent on ruling Hell and attaining more recognition and influence, after all). Being an EN type, he has a natural charisma, and much like many charismatic types, he wants to be noticed and valued. ENTJs have a tendency to desire legacy and recognition for their accomplishments since they are born leaders who enjoy setting all the dominoes in place, this is no truer than for Sir Pen. If he is to set up a lengthy, complex far-reaching plan to exact his visions, he wants to be noted, and noted well for that. Weaknesses that tend to hinder ENTJs are being overly confident and condescending, bossy, inflexible and prone to outbursts/meltdowns. If that’s not our snek idk what is tbh.

Vaggie: ISTJ - Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, Judging

Vaggie is logical (if fiery; which should not be confused for Feeling), perceptive (which should not be confused for Perceiving), reliable, detail-oriented and hard-working. She is incredibly dedicated and forward with her intents and expects no nonsense. ISTJs like to keep a keen eye on those in their surroundings and expect those around them to abide by the standards they set as they truly do value the tasks at hand and the well-being of those around them/those they’re in charge of or aiding. If we look at her interactions with Angel in the limo, and Alastor back at the hotel, it is super clear that she is protective personally and professionally of those under her care but also the hotel/Charlie’s endeavors. ISTJs aren’t typically noted as being the guardians and protectors, and that’s usually because others are only viewing those roles from a purely emotional standpoint. Though ISTJs still have feelings like any other human-being, they approach protecting and guarding as a matter of duty first and foremost (that they wouldn’t undertake if they didn’t care in the first place). Very Vaggie. Weaknesses that can befall people of this MBTI are: being stuck in their ways/stubborn, brash and indelicate, and being unable to compromise for/with others.

I hope I did justice to these wonderful characters and helped extrapolate on them some more! With any luck, ya’ll enjoy this and it serves as a great resource for writing these characters and their interpersonal interactions ;w;/ I know there’s no way to confirm any of this as canon, but I’d like to think it’s hopefully not too far off lol Thanks for reading~!!

[knifehecker]

undertale day [long post]

it’s the 15th!! happy 4th birthday undertale!!! normally i try to do a little art or something but this year i decided to do something a little different. there’s a lot of content that’s become core tenets of my experience with the fandom -- changed the way i thought about the characters, how i engage with the fandom, opened my eyes to new ways of writing -- and i thought it’d be neat to compile some of those into one post to share with other people. so without further ado!!!

40-minute Deltarune Piano Medley - FaceImplosion [MUSIC]

ok, i know this is deltarune and not undertale, but this medley incorporates songs from both games so i’m gonna say it counts. and honestly, i could say a LOT about this piece!! i’ve watched and listened to a lot of ut/dr medleys, and this has to be the most lovingly crafted of its type that i’ve ever seen. Ever. a lot of care has been put into the order and combination of the songs (some funny, some sad, some mindblowing, ALL amazing) and the art is so good that every time i listen i find myself watching along. there’s a lot of easter eggs, especially for the attentive listener/watcher, and this medley deserves far more than the 6k views it’s gotten so far.

Undertale Album Project - Various Artists [MUSIC]

Songs From Mt Ebott is a collaborative album project that contains dozens of tracks from a score of different artists. i have a lot of favorite tracks from this album, not to mention the individual track art created for each, and if you’ve never heard of this project before, i really recommend giving it a listen! (FaceImplosion also did a piano track for this album, by the way, which i’m linking separately because it’s one of my aforementioned favorites.)

Chara - tigerblossom [MUSIC]

im not gonna lie. this was my favorite piece of fan music for a long time. it’s a medley mashing a few different songs together, short and sweet, but it comes together in such an incredibly heartfelt way at the end that whenever i end up listening to it i find myself wishing the track was about five minutes longer. they also have an underfell version of your best friend that i recommend giving a listen!

Photographs - FuriousPoplar [FIC]

in terms of “post-paci everyone lives au”s, there’s been a lot of ground covered by a lot of different people, and after a while the concept feels almost a bit...same-y? but this fic covers a sorely-needed conversation between an alive chara and asriel in a way that i’ve never seen approached by anyone else before. it’s cathartic, it’s extremely well written, and it doesn’t shy away from the ugly sides of trauma and recovery, which is so greatly appreciated. it also hit me...REALLY hard, which i think is a testament to how amazing this piece is.

Turn Back - foxsgloves [FIC]

i read this one pretty early on in my time in this fandom, and it’s continued to influence me long after. the premise: frisk keeps loading over the brief time asriel has his body in the epilogue, and simply spends time with him as they both prepare to move on towards the end. it’s sad. it’s cute. it’s amazing. it’s something i go back to reread sometimes late at night when i want to reread something friendly and familiar and a little sad. and its been one of my favorites ever since i read it.

You Wear Your Grief Like a Badge - Draikinator [FIC SERIES]

how do you even TALK about ywyglb? do i talk about nate’s impeccable voice in their writing? how true to character they are with the kids? how they set the scene of a post-pacifist world still shaking with the echoes of the past? the series starts with flowey taking frisk’s soul captive while chara and sans form an uneasy alliance in order to get them back, and then spirals into a tense, sweet, funny, awful, heartbreaking experience that reshaped how i viewed the boundaries of my own writing. draikinator’s writing has been and continues to be a huge inspiration to me, and i heartily recommend giving any of their stuff a try.

A Numbered List of Things That Aren't as Badass as They Sound (ex. Monsters, Suicide, Burning in Hell) - rosyy [FIC]

a brief glimpse into chara and asriel just before It Happens, While It Happens, When It Happens. the prose here is the sort of flowery delirious feverdream you’d expect from a kid dying of buttercup poisoning, and i love it to bits. i also want to mention a dr who crossover by the same author, because it has kris as the doctor and frisk as the stray they adopt, and its also the perfect antidote to the angst the first fic provides.

Risen Up (or, Of Fallen Children and Mountain Kin) - paradoxpangolin [FIC]

oh jeezums, how do i even start with this one? post-paci, frisk comes to the conclusion that the best way to ease the tensions between human and monsterkind is to put on a musical about their time in the underground!!!!.....except this leads to its own host of complications, and things get a bit Messy. this fic hasn’t updated in a bit, but it contains so much in its 140k of already published writing that i feel the need to urge you to read it anyway. i’m really partial to autistic frisks, and this fic has what’s got to be my favorite portrayal of that in ... probably the entire fandom? honestly, most (if not all) of the characters in this fic are autist, and it’s just. very good. i love.

you’re like a mirror, reflecting me - batterytriplicate [FIC]

a daemon au exploring what frisk and chara’s journeys might have been like with the extra distinction between monster dust and daemon dust. i completely forgot about this fic until i was trawling through my ao3 history for this post, and i’m really really glad i found it again. i think i was in the middle of trying to figure out this exact au when i first found this fic, and it did everything i was thinking of (and more) so much better that i felt more than content leaving it at that. so if you like his dark materials and want to see a fantastic little daemon au, give this a shot!

soulless-pacifist - vsemily [ASK BLOG]

soulless-pacifist..... if you’ve never heard of this askblog, you’re in for a treat. i wasn’t with it from the very beginning, but i started reading towards the  middle of its main story arc and stuck with it to the end, and suffice it to say, it has to be my favorite fandom askblog to date, purely for how well its written, how well its drawn, and how it’s one of the....only askblogs i’ve ever seen come not only to a FULL conclusion, but to a satisfying one! the mun also worked with a programmer to create a fangame for its final arc, which is so above and beyond that im still kind of in disbelief. in short: this askblog followed frisk and their passenger after the events of a soulless pacifist route, and continues on with them as they grow together and find their place with a whole host of twist and turns in store.                also, memes.

Shine your light with me, chase all the dark away - FancifulRivers [FIC]

this au follows frisk and chara after the events of the game. unlike most post-paci runs, though, chara has their own body back, while they and frisk are hiding back in mt ebott after the monsters have left to avoid the complications of being runaways and also.... incredible guilt and trauma. things don’t really work out like that, though, and i really recommend this read. fancifulrivers has also been an incredibly prolific writer who’s uploaded a lot of really good ut fics, so this is a great starting point to jump off of for their other stuff!

repercussions - proximally [FIC]

this fic... i think this one fic is the one that’s impacted me the most during my early days of this fandom. it’s short, and sad, and is a twist on the soulless pacifist ending that i was left thinking about literally for months after i first read it. instead of saying any more and risking spoiling it, i’ll just leave the author’s desc:  “You made a mistake, and you pay for it with your life. “

The Great Boondoggle - Masu_Trout [FIC]

the premise of this fic is pretty simple. post paci, frisk is walking home. they come across a Bad Guy. hijinks ensue. but what sets apart this fic from others for me is the way frisk is written here. when this fic was published in early 2016, most frisks i came across were the...sweet harmless woobies that were pretty typical from the fandom. this is one of the first frisks i came across that was kind of mean, and a little cold, and had very obviously had a long upward climb to being the sort of person who chose mercy instead of fight. this portrayal is a lot more common nowadays, which i’m super grateful for, but since this is one of the first fics i came across that really nailed this portrayal, i felt i should leave this here. i also recommend their pokemon/ut au, which is toriel and frisk centric and i also love to bits.

and....well, i was gonna say “that’s it”, but i honestly had to cut quite a few things from this list to keep it from stretching the dash too much. there’s been a lot of incredible content created by this fandom over the years, and this is by no means a comprehensive list of my favorites. but these are some of the ones that impacted me in a really special way, and if you were kind enough to check them out and maybe even liked them, please consider leaving a kind comment for the creator! if you’re the author of one of these pieces reading this right now: thank you so much! im looking forward to finding even more favorites in this year and the next.

[marshmallow-phd]

Memories Past

Part of The Untamed - EXO Wolf Universe

Genre: Supernatural, Wolf Au

Pairing: Kris x Reader

Summary: The last thing Kris wanted was to move on. He was perfectly content wallowing in his misery while pretending everything was okay. But when you come walking into his shop with a broken down car, he realizes the thing he’d been avoiding the most just might be the cure he always needed. He just couldn’t believe that it’d been you all along. Kris had been your best friend when you were kids before he’d moved away without a word of goodbye. Now nearly fifteen years later, you run into him again by pure coincidence. The memories come rushing back to you, stirring something inside. A childhood crush shouldn’t upend your picture perfect life, but sometimes, destiny has other things in mind…

Part: 1 I 2 I 3 I 4 I 5 I 6 I 7 I 8 I 9 I 10 I 11 I 12 I 13 I Final

**

Standing just off to the side of the gate exit, you waited with nervous anticipation. Huan’s flight had just landed about ten minutes ago and now you were searching the crowd of people spilling out of the mouth of the exit that lead back to the other half of the airport where the planes deposited their cargo. The feeling that was churning in your stomach wasn’t one of excitement or happiness. You couldn’t quite pin down what emotions it was made of and that was creating a small twinge of fear alongside it.

If relief was the next emotion you were hoping to feel as soon as you saw Huan’s face, you were sadly disappointed. While your fiancé’s grin was bright, if a little tired from the flight, your own smile was small and forced. As you could feel the uncertainty behind it, you were sure Huan could tell that something was wrong. When he hugged you, you put in just enough effort to return it, but nothing more.  

“Bad week?” Huan asked as the two of you walked towards the parking garage.

You shrugged. “Yeah, you could say that.”

“I’m sorry.” The little chuckle that was attached to the sympathetic apology rubbed you the wrong way. Huan wasn’t supposed to laugh at your sour mood. He was supposed to make it better or at least be sympathetic. “Listen, I’m here now, so we can just enjoy the rest of the evening, okay? I’ll even drive.”

Normally, you would have argued with Huan, saying he would be tired from his flight and you were perfectly capable of driving home. But this time, you let him take the keys, popping the trunk once you reached your car to put the suitcase away, and slide into the driver’s seat while you took the other side.

You didn’t hold his hand like you used to when Huan drove. From the way he was whistling and humming along with the radio, it didn’t seem like he’d really noticed anyway. In your mind, another pair of hands were mocking you, making you wish that it was him behind the wheel instead. Those long, labor-hardened fingers were somehow more appealing than the soft, perfectly groomed and well-kept hands that were currently operating the vehicle.

It was quiet between the two of you as you followed Huan up the steps to your home. He immediately went to drop the suitcase off in your bedroom as you went to the fridge.

“Don’t worry about dinner,” Huan insisted. “I’ll just make something for myself real quick. You’ve had a long day at school.”

Nodding, you sat down at the table and opened up your laptop while he threw a sandwich together on a plate, filling the other half with chips before sitting down across from you.

The whole time he was eating, you sat there in silence, staring at your computer screen.

On Sunday, to try and get your mind back on the right track, you brought up the wedding website you’d made last year soon after Huan proposed. It’d been left untouched since then. You’d wanted to give yourself until the end of your last undergrad semester to start working on wedding planning so you could give it more of your attention. But then Huan got his new job and between the move and Huan’s lack of interest whenever you brought up it up, you’d just let it sit and collect imaginary dust.

Yesterday, though, you gave in and started making “save the dates” with the few engagement pictures you’d managed to have taken before life became too hectic. Considering you weren’t the most artistic person, they were simple, a picture of you and Huan smiling at each other, your names written in fancy script with the date of the wedding left blank.

“Hey, Huan?” You finally got the nerve to speak up just as he stood up from the table was headed for the sink with his empty plate.

“Yeah?” He stopped right next you and you shifted the computer so he could see the screen.

“What do you think about these?” you asked.

Huan stared at the screen for a minute or two, eyebrows knitted together as if he were solving a math problem rather than looking at simple wedding invites.

“They’re pretty,” he finally commented. “What are they?”

You bit back the snappy answer you wanted to give. “They’re save-the-dates. I figured now that we’re settled in, we could start back up on the wedding planning?”

“Aw, honey, I’m sorry,” Huan sighed. “Things are really picking up at work so I might be going out of town more frequently. How about we start talking about dates and venues closer to Christmas?”

The fact that you weren’t entirely surprised didn’t even phase you. Plastering on a very fake smile, you said, “Okay. That’s fine. I mostly did this out of boredom. I needed a distraction from my paper. I’m glad you like them, though.”

Huan just hummed, kissing you on the top of the head before disappearing back into the bedroom. You heard the TV flip on as you sat back in your chair. The happy and in love picture of the two of you now just seemed to be mockery now.

A little harder than you meant to, you slammed your laptop shut. Poor thing didn’t deserve your wrath, but the real person you wanted to punch wasn’t in the vicinity.

This was all Kris’ fault. If he would just keep his distance, if he would stop filling your head with the possibilities of him, then you wouldn’t be overthinking every little thing that Huan did.

Glancing over at the bedroom to make sure Huan wouldn’t sneak up on you, you slowly opened your laptop back up. Hidden in a zipped folder on your desk top, you pulled up the second version of the invites that you had made. Just staring at them, you were smiling.

Your mother had been so ecstatic when you called her. Sunday afternoon phone calls were nothing new between you two, but her voice raised in pitch and you could hear her rummaging around in the background once you told her that you’d ran into Kris and had been getting to know him again. She wanted to know everything that you’d learned about Kris since he’d moved away and if you could invite him to come with you when you came to visit next. It was like Huan didn’t exist for her anymore.

Granted, your mother didn’t like the fact that Huan had kept putting off the wedding. She was a planner and you were her only daughter. She wanted the joy of helping you put everything together and, of course, she wanted you to be happy.

When she’d first asked you about how things were going and listened to you talk, she could tell right away that something was wrong no matter how many times you told her you were fine.

“You just don’t sound as happy as you used to, sweetheart,” your mother insisted. “Maybe moving there wasn’t the best idea after all.”

You couldn’t bring yourself to agree with her nor could you really argue. By conclusion, you decided to change the subject by mentioning Kris, sending your mother on her frantic search for whatever she was looking for as she went on and on about how handsome Kris must look now and how he’d must have grown up into such a perfect gentleman. You hated how much you agreed with her.

An hour or so after you hung up with your mother, a text came from her telling you to open your email. Somehow, she’d managed to track down nearly every picture taken during your five year friendship with Kris before he upped and disappeared.

So many of them depicted the two of you laughing and playing in the yard or at the playground. One that made you laugh particularly hard was at his eighth birthday. You’d managed to shove his whole face into the cake, covering him in blue and white frosting. Kris was scowling at the camera while you beamed a toothy grin, very proud of what you’d accomplished.

It was payback for your seventh birthday where Kris has “dyed” your hair purple from your own cake’s frosting. There had been no permanent discoloration of your hair, but your mother did have to scrub at your scalp to get all the frosting out. It was only fair that Kris received the same treatment.

With these newly found memories breaking through to the surface, you found you couldn’t help yourself when you uploaded your favorite photos to the wedding website. For a while, you just played around with the pictures, messing with the filters and cute little cut outs. Most of them, you deleted as soon as you were done, but there was one you just couldn’t bring yourself to get rid of.

It was a simple picture, you and Kris were grinning at the camera, each of you with an arm around the other’s shoulders and heads leaning against each other. The picture was so simple, so innocent. White, cursive words danced across the top of announcing the make believe wedding between you and Kris. Staring at that simple little announcement felt so right.

Shaking your head, you closed your laptop one more time before shuffling over to the couch in the living room to turn on the TV. It should bother you that you weren’t in the same room with Huan watching a show together after he’d been gone a week.

But it didn’t.

Now, who was to blame for that?

**

“Why is that men are the ones who propose, but when the time comes, they don’t actually want to get married?”

You hadn’t meant to start venting to Jiyeon. The conversation had started out fairly average and normal. You’d sat down across from her in the student center with your tray of food and asked her how her day had been. Once she was done, she’d simply returned the courtesy, taking it a bit farther and asking how last night went with picking up Huan. Then your rant started.

Jiyeon blinked a few times, the corners of her mouth turned down deep. “He just… dismissed your hard work like that?”

“Yeah,” you huffed. Alright, it didn’t take you that long to make the stupid save-the-dates, but you’d still put a lot of effort into them.

“I would kill Minseok if he ever did that to me,” Jiyeon grumbled. Softening a bit, she gave you a look of pity. “Have you tried talking to him about maybe why he seems to be getting cold feet?”

You lifted and dropped your shoulders lazily. “Kind of. Every time I bring it up, he has an excuse ready: work. And I can’t argue with that because most of the time, he’s working pretty much ten hour days and even bringing some of it home with him.”

With her right index finger, Jiyeon tapped on the table thoughtfully. “Are you upset because he keeps putting off the wedding? Or is it something else?”

“What do you mean?” you asked cautiously. Her second question made you nervous, though you couldn’t explain why.

“Well,” Jiyeon shrugged, “for a while, it’s been kind of sounding like the spark that once held you two together might be gone now. You sound like your pushing the wedding because of the fact that the two of you are still engaged rather than because you want to spend the rest of your life with Huan.”

“But I love him,” you insisted. And that part was still true. You did.

“There’s a lot of different forms of love,” she reminded you. “It’s highly possible to still love him but not be in love with him. The kind that would make you want to be with him when you’re old and gray.”

You opened your mouth to argue, but the words never formed. Just a few months ago, you would have been able to sit in that seat and describe your life with Huan for the next forty years in detail. Everything from your first house to your kids’ first day of school to rocking on the porch in your old age. But now, as you tried to reform those pictures in your head, nothing would materialize. That future had somehow disappeared.

“Is there-“Jiyeon took a deep breath, readying herself for whatever question she was about to let loose. “Is there any chance that maybe you might have feelings for someone else?”

“W-what are you talking about?” Your heart jumped into your throat from beating so fast. Every hair on your arm and the back of your neck was sticking up.

Jiyeon gave you a sympathetic smile. “Its okay, (y/n). If you do, that doesn’t make you a bad person. It happens more than you’d think. Just because you said yes last year doesn’t mean you can’t turn around and say no. It’s possible to fall in love with somebody else.”

“But you can’t just dump the current person because someone else catches your eye or says something nice to you,” you argued. “When does it stop?”

Jiyeon shook her head. “There’s a difference between always keeping an eye out for something better to come along and naturally falling for that new person who landed in your life.”

Throwing your hands up in the air, you gave up. Because she was right. You never looked for someone to come snatch you away from Huan. But something happened in that garage that day you found Kris again. Maybe… maybe it was something that you couldn’t quite explain.

Your conversation with Jiyeon was still reeling in your mind all the way until you were getting ready for bed. Huan had worked late again, leaving you alone for the evening. The two of you had a vague conversation when he came home about each of your days and the coming week, but not much else.

As you shuffled under the covers, Huan had told you that he was getting off early the next day and that the two of you should grab dinner out together. You mumbled a reply agreeing to the date. When you were laying down, back facing Huan and eyes closed, you felt a hand rest on your exposed elbow.

Huan started to kiss your neck, his hand sliding down your arm until it rested on your waist. It didn’t take a genius to understand what he was getting at.

You shoved your face deeper into the pillow, groaning. “Not tonight.”

He sighed. “Okay.” Kissing your cheek, he shuffled back to his side of the bed. “I love you.”

“Hm. Love you, too.”

**

All day at school, you felt a little guilty. Not because of last night, but because of how you didn’t want to go to dinner tonight. You were fairly certain on what you needed to do. You just dreaded having the actual conversation.

Huan picked you up after class, as chipper and clueless as ever. He’d insisted on driving you to the university this morning even though it wasn’t exactly on his way to the office. You didn’t fight it much, but it irritated you.

That time in the morning on your way to school was your alone time, where you could be with your thoughts. Sometimes that meant just letting it wander or maybe calming yourself down before a big presentation or even trying to figure out your own life while your favorite music provided background noise. And this morning was definitely one where you needed to get your mind straight. But with Huan driving, that wasn’t going to happen.

Huan liked to listen to talk radio. In your car, he kept it on the music stations, but in his it was strictly talk radio. That never really bothered you before. However this drive was different. Huan talked over the DJ, chatting about work while you barely managed to hum in response. It was like a haven when he dropped you off near the courtyard. Right where Kris had been waiting for you barely a week ago.

You mumbled a goodbye before nearly jumping out of the car.

“Hey, (y/n)!”

Shifting your facial muscles to make it give a half-hearted smile, you ducked back down to look at Huan through the still open car door. “Yeah?”

“I love you,” he said.

Those three little words. How could they no longer have the same feeling behind them that they once held?

Nodding, you replied. “Me, too.”

For the rest of the day, you couldn’t calm your limbs that were constantly fidgeting or bouncing in every attempt to get rid of the pent up nervous energy. You knew your heart wasn’t in it anymore, but that didn’t mean you wanted to break Huan’s.

You were still quiet on the way to the restaurant, staring out the window. If Huan noticed your lack of enthusiasm, he didn’t comment on it.

This time around, it wasn’t a fancy, five-star restaurant that Huan parked out in front of. It was just a typical family chain restaurant with generic food that was parading around as something more.

The two of you made it all the way to desert with no big issues, mostly because you let Huan talk. You just needed the right time to say it and you felt like that time had finally come. Now you just needed your bravery to stay with you.

“Huan, I have something to say-”

“Wait.”

He took your hand in his, rubbing his thumb over the back of your knuckles. You bit down on your bottom lip, remembering when that gesture used to give you butterflies. Now? Nothing.

“(y/n),” he sighed, “I’ve been thinking a lot about what you said on Monday and I’ve realized that I’ve been… not exactly enthusiastic about the wedding planning. I’ve just been thinking so much about the long run – about after we say I do – that I hadn’t realized how much that event could mean to you.”

For the first time in a while, you felt something for Huan. It wasn’t the intensity that you used to feel, but you felt warm, you felt lighter at the sense that he actually cared. Maybe you just needed reassurance and you had jumped the gun a little bit.

Huan fished around in his jacket pocket until he pulled out a little black velvet box. “Here. This is for you.”

With tentative fingers, you took the box and lifted the lid.

It was an engagement ring. Bigger and flashier than the one that currently donned your left index finger. It was something that you would never have picked out in a million years, but you could let that go as it was meant to symbolize more.

“So, does this mean we can start planning?” you asked hopefully. “Because I have a list of venues that would be perfect and I know a photographer and-”

Huan actually looked taken back. “Oh, uh, no. I’m sorry, (y/n). I just wanted to get you the ring that you deserved. My higher ups have said that I’ll be going on more trips in the coming months so I won’t be around much to help.”

“My mother can help me,” you argued softly, keeping your eyes down on the table. How could you actually let yourself cling to a small sliver of hope when you’d already made up your mind? It just made this crash hurt even more.

“It’s just a few more months,” Huan insisted. “Just wait until after Christmas.”

“Now it’s after Christmas?” You shook your head as you stood up from the table. “I need some air.”

“(y/n), wait!”

You didn’t even slow down as you power walked to the front entrance, shuffling past the patrons that were waiting to be seated. Huan didn’t come after you and for that you were relieved. You didn’t know what to do or say at this moment. You were at your breaking point.

How could he say closer to Christmas one day and then after the next? How long would he continue to push out the date?

You’d walked several blocks before you decided to rest, leaning on your forearms up against a wooden railing that separated the risen walk way you were on from the other shops down below. Closing your eyes, you took deep breathes. You couldn’t go on like this. You were being torn in two and it was absolute torture.

“(y/n)?”

You stiffened. How the hell did he find you?

Straightening up, you turned to face him. Kris came running up the steps to you, concern painted all over his face. Behind him was the group that he was with. To your surprise – and horror – Minseok and Jiyeon were among the small crowd Kris had broken away from. Was there anyone in this town that he didn’t know?

“Are you okay?” Kris asked, a little winded from his jog up the wooden stairs.

“I’m fine,” you grumbled with a set jaw. “Are you following me now?”

Kris scoffed. “No. I just happened to be out with my friends. Is that a crime?”

Folding your arms, you mumbled, “No. I guess not.”

“Hey,” he gently lifted your chin for you to look at him. “What’s going on?”

You turned away from him, trying to collect the words you wanted to form.

“Why?” ended up being your reply.

Kris frowned, confused. “What?”

“Why are you always around?” you demanded. Not exactly the real question that you wanted to ask, but it was close. “Why do you keep popping out of nowhere?”

“Listen, tonight was just a coincidence,” Kris insisted. “Trust me, this time I did not intentionally seek you out.”

Okay. Fine. That made one time. “But every other time, you have. Why? Why does it feel like you want something more?”

Instead of answering right away, Kris took your hand and placed it against his chest. Even through his shirt you could feel his heart thumping against his rib cage. It was beating erratically- exactly how yours did when you were near him.

“This is how I feel every time that you’re around me,” he confessed. “It’s been that way since I first saw you again in my shop. And when I’m away from you, I can’t function. All I want to do is see you again. You’ve grown into this amazing person, (y/n). And I just want to be with you.”

Taking your hand back, you shook your head. You hated how you were unable to verbalize anything that was currently racing through your head.

“Please,” Kris begged. “Give me a chance.”

This wasn’t what you expected at all. Yes, you’d concluded that you just couldn’t be with Huan anymore, but you hadn’t thought about the next step. And Kris was already five ahead of you. You were still shaking your head, more violently this time. “Huan-”

“You said it yourself that you’re in love with me.”

Your eyes grew wide. “W-what are you talking about?”

Kris smirked. “That night I came to pick you from the bar? You told me yourself. You complained about me leaving as a kid and that at first it was just a silly crush, but now that you’re in love with me. It’s the same with me.”

“I didn’t mean it.” Yes, you did. Every word.

“You’re a terrible liar.” Kris wrapped an arm around your waist and pulled you in closer to him with a firm yank until your chest was up against his. Kris’s voice was barely above a whisper when he said, “I know you feel this, too.”

Squeezing your eyes shut, you just gave in. It was too strong to fight it and this embrace that was holding you together felt so right, so safe… so perfect. You whispered, “Why can’t I get you out of my head?”

With a calloused hand, Kris cupped your cheek, caressing your skin and making you open your eyes again. He was staring at you with such an intensity that you shrank back a little. Never had you been looked at that way. His wild, earthy eyes were trained on you, reflecting everything that that was bubbling up inside you and promising a future that would always feel like this.

“Fate’s cruel that way,” Kris replied under his breath.

Before you could ask what he meant by that, he leaned in, closing the minute distance left between you.

[amriteshsdlcinfotech-blog]

5 Best Strategies For Content Promotion To Boost Your Business

Do you create and post high-quality content regularly but are not happy with the response it generates? Then you must not be promoting your material in the correct manner. This means that all the effort that you put in while creating the content is going to waste. You must include the best strategies for content promotion in your marketing plan to expose your material to a wider audience. This will build your reputation as a provider of quality information as well as improve your brand recognition. The content created by you needs to be distributed across multiple channels in a structured way. This enhances its potential for engagement and encourages users to revisit your digital platforms in the future. Content marketing has the potential to support all your digital marketing strategies. Here are a few ideas that will help you get your content in front of as many people as possible.

 1. Link Your Content Strategy to the Marketing Funnel

 The same person will be interested in different kinds of content at various stages of his/ her buying journey. In the initial discovery phase, people want to learn more about a product or service or category to which the desired item belongs. They will like to read blogs and articles which help them understand the various aspects of the item. People who are interested in detailed information will look for guides. Similarly, when they are considering their buying options, they will look for case studies and product demonstrations. Your content strategy must be linked with the marketing funnel so that you understand the kind of material that will resonate with people during different stages of their purchasing journey. You must engage professionals to create content that will attract and interest people and encourage them to take the desired action. The best approach will be to engage a digital marketing company that provides content marketing services.

2. Divide Your Audience In to Various Segments

In order to maximize the reach of your content, you must deliver it to the right audiences. You must divide your users into various segments. Categorizing your audience into groups based on their demographics, interests, behavior, etc. helps in optimizing your marketing efforts. Once you split users into segments, you will be able to identify suitable topics that will resonate with each group. This will allow you to target people in a much more focused manner. Segmentation helps in nurturing each section by feeding them the material they are most interested in. Offering personalized material also improves your chances of conversion. Creating audience segments is also helpful in attracting new people towards your brand who are interested in a niche topic. Regularly publishing high-quality, customized, and targeted content will also boost the relevance of your brand. Maximize the potential of such material by engaging an SEO agency that will provide valuable input for optimizing the content for relevant keywords. This will improve the search visibility of your content and drive in more organic traffic to your website.

3. Leverage Social Media to Expand the Reach of Your Content

Here are a few astonishing statistics:

-          There are over 7.5 billion people in the world

-          Around 3.5 billion of the world’s population uses the internet

-          In 2018, 2.65 billion people across the world were using one or more social networks

These three figures show the incredible global penetration of social media. You cannot ignore such channels while trying to promote your content. In fact, using social media is one of the best strategies for content promotion. Identify the networks that your target audience uses and then create profiles on them. Make sure you post updates about your latest content on all the networks. Remember that the material must be modified according to the nature of the platform. For instance, posting a screenshot of your latest blog on Instagram will not be correct. Create an infographic or another pictorial representation with a link to the article and post it on the visual-based social network. This will expose your material to more people who are interested in the type of information you are offering. Consult social media marketing experts to devise an effective strategy to target your selected networks.

4. Promote Your Content Through Email Lists

Emails are a popular and dependable form of communication. Nearly, every connected user around the globe has at least one email account. Collect the email addresses of people who show an interest in your offerings. Organically build and grow your list and then segment them based on their interests and behavior. People who have chosen to be on your mailing list will be genuinely interested in your content. They will consume the material and are also more likely to take the desired action. Take care and send content that is aligned with the recipient’s segment. For instance, mailing a getting started guide to someone who is still discovering your industry will not be appropriate. You must approach email marketing agencies to devise a suitable plan to promote your content through email.

5. Encourage Your Users To Share The Content

Another effective way to promote your content is to encourage your users to share it among their followers. As mentioned before, nearly every connected individual is active on one or more social networks. Include social sharing buttons in all your posts and make sure they are visible to the visitors. People instinctively like to share material which they find entertaining or interesting. Including sharing buttons will allow you to leverage this human tendency for your benefit. In some cases, you can also incentivize the sharing process by adding an attractive offer. Encouraging your existing users to share will allow you to reach out to like-minded people who will be interested in your product or services. This will not only broaden your reach but also allow you to generate more leads. Adding social sharing icons is not a difficult task and you can approach any reputable digital marketing agency for the purpose.

Conclusion

These are some of the best strategies for content promotion that you can use to devise an effective content marketing plan. You must also innovate and try out new ideas while creating, distributing, and promoting your material. A proper evaluation of the entire exercise is also necessary to measure the impact of your efforts. The best way to plan, execute, and analyze a content promotion initiative is by partnering with a dependable digital marketing company. SDLC Infotech is a leading digital marketing agency that possesses immense expertise in the domain of content marketing. Connect with the firm to maximize the result-generating potential of your content.

Author Bio

Amritesh is a digital marketer by the day and blogger by night. He has spent the past 10 years devising effective strategies for SEO, SMO, PPC, email marketing, and content marketing for businesses located in diverse industries. Amritesh is constantly exploring the different facets of digital marketing and sharing his views through blogs. Get updates about his latest posts by following him on Twitter and LinkedIn.

[ais-n]

Hi, if you enjoy Whyborne and Griffin then I can wholeheartedly recommend KJ Charles to you. Her entire work in general and the Magpie Lord in particular. If you need/want anymore recommendations I can give you some pointers. In any case W & G just got its conclusion recently and I am very happy with how it all ended :D

Thanks! It’s funny because I was recommended Magpie Lord, Whyborne & Griffin, and another series all at the same time so I can totally see why you rec Magpie/KJ too. I think probably a lot of people would agree with you so I do think for anyone who read W&G or Magpie Lord and liked it, you should listen to sianascera :) 

I thought about just saying “thanks!” and not saying more because I hate ever seeming like a contrary asshole, but I’m also way too damn honest and I felt like I’d be lying if I didn’t continue… This worry going back and forth stalled me for days on figuring out how to reply, because I’m a dork ¬_¬

To compromise, here’s a longer ass reply, but I’ll put it behind a cut so as not to bug anyone who doesn’t care.

In all honesty, I actually tried Magpie Lord before Whyborne & Griffin and didn’t like it, sadly, so I don’t plan to read anything else in that series. But I did think the beginning was intriguing, I liked the world concept, and KJ’s writing style was fine from what I recall, so I’ll definitely keep her in mind for other series. It might be that other series she writes will work well for the things I tend to gravitate toward and I just happened to not connect well with that particular series. 

The problem I had with Magpie Lord is a similar problem I have with like 99.99% of BL or m/m, which is why I’m exceedingly picky with things I will read, and then what I like, and especially what I will go on to recommend to others. I don’t know how many series or books I’ve read in the m/m world but for the longest time there was only 2 series I recommended, and now it’s tentatively expanded to 4. Even within those series, I don’t find them to be perfect, but nothing is. Still, something about each of them overran any misgivings I might have otherwise had at any point in time (if any), and for all of the series I’ve read them multiple times which is otherwise not super usual for me.

Your comment caused me to analyze what it is about those 4 series that for whatever reason works for me as a reader that the other series out there I’ve read don’t. It isn’t necessarily about the world, the plot, the characters, the dialogue, the writing voice, the length, any of that. Those are all factors, but they are not the sole or even oftentimes primary deciding factor in whether I will ultimately like, reread, and recommend a story.

I realized that, for me, power dynamics between a couple is really important (especially in any sort of romance or romance-adjacent story), in that I don’t like relationships that don’t have trust, respect, and equality or give-and-take at the center of it. I also really prefer stories where consent is very consciously addressed, both in that it’s given but also that it remains, and if ever something wavers within that, it’s acknowledged and addressed. I really like stories that take their time getting the couple to get to know each other before it’s instasex, and where sex isn’t used as the way to solve or avoid problems without there being consequences, and where it isn’t just automatically assumed that sexuality = consent and interest. Like, I’m gay but I’m also ace. Just because there’s a woman who’s also a lesbian around me doesn’t mean I’m going to instantly want to sex her. Likelihood is exceedingly low for that, in fact, even if I weren’t ace. 

I also like stories where the main characters’ merits and flaws remain evident throughout, but they find ways to accommodate each other, or account for the quirks of the other person. I really like stories where you can tell there’s love and respect and trust between the main couple, and especially when we first get to watch that be earned rather than jumping straight from meeting to xyz.

And then I’m also exceedingly picky outside of that entire topic; I’m a character-driven reader, so I have to connect with one or more characters well enough to stay engaged. I also get bored quickly, so I want the plot to be decent, although a great plot is even better. I like good dialogue or interesting narration. I appreciate versatile writing voices. Most importantly for a series, not only does the series have to be good in each book, but ideally over the course of the series it gets better, AND the ending has to be adequate or at least not frustrate me to the point that it tarnishes the rest of the series leading up to it.

I know I’m super picky about all this and that the majority of stories can’t really meet all those expectations, which is why I don’t read a ton of series anymore because I got kind of burned out over the years. 

Also, to be clear: There’s absolutely nothing whatsoever wrong with anyone who likes all the things I mentioned I like to avoid. When I was younger, my view of power dynamics between a couple was drastically different than it is now. I also felt that at that time we had fewer options out there in general in the whole LGBT field, and one reason I initially got into m/m or BL is because it was the only LGBT content I could find at the time, plus because I was character-driven in feeling that some canon characters who happened to both be male really fit each other so much better than others did for them. 

But the things I tend to like in this regard are not really super popular as a whole across the genre, so it just reinforces to me that I’m extremely picky on this particular topic. Which means that just because I’m too picky for certain things, others may super love it, and that’s awesome! I love that there are so many different stories out there, so many different perspectives both as readers/writers as well as within the stories themselves. It’s so awesome <3

I actually do totally plan to read that one short story that KJ and Jordan wrote together--I took a break from W&G because I’m now rereading for the millionth time the Raised by Wolves series by W.A. Hoffman--but I think it’ll be really interesting to see if maybe that story pulls me into a different world KJ writes, who knows. I think it’s so cute that The Secret Casebook of Simon Feximal was mentioned in W&G as a book Griffin just had lying around. For some reason, that little detail delighted me lol So I’m def curious about the whole Simon Feximal thing. Especially since the art I saw commissioned for it looks dooooope

Oh btw, though - side note, the cover of Magpie Lord is so cool! *___* I love it so much!

Anyway that was my unnecessarily long answer, sorry lol I just didn’t want you to think I ignored you if I never mentioned Magpie Lord again. I was bummed I didn’t like the story, tbh; it started out strong for me and I went into it initially assuming I would love it. Unfortunately, in the end it just happened to be a story that didn’t work for me primarily because of the couple, but like I said, I’m definitely up for trying other series KJ writes, starting with Simon Feximal ones. Depending on how that goes, I’ll see about checking out anything else she does. 

And if it turns out the Simon books also don’t work for me, it’s just a personal thing from someone who’s picky as hell about certain things. It’s definitely not a reflection on KJ as a writer, because you can tell at a glance her works are well-loved by many, and that makes me super happy. I love it so much when there’s a writer who’s able to create worlds and characters for readers in a way that they genuinely love and connect with and want to spread their joy to others. It’s such a beautiful thing :)

Thank you for the recommendation! Sorry I’m so picky I couldn’t take it to heart as much as you would have hoped, but I super appreciate the recommendation, and I hope others are less picky than me and are able to enjoy the series fully because it’s certainly an interesting premise :)

[anupamtechnologies]

5 Ingenious Ways You Can Do With Lead Generation Agency

Regardless of the management, using the supplies of an agency can serve you to develop your business. You can help generate leads by implementing methods to engage and convert prospects and buyers and provide them with the finest benefits.

What Is a Lead And Lead Generation?

A lead is an individual who experiences an influence from your business’s benefits and brand.

Consumers, when transforming from guest to consumer, turn into a lead.

Lead generation is a journey of leading visitors to prospective buyers who have an interest in your product and would benefit from your services.

After getting a consumer, the generation of fresh leads is crucial to the rise and stability of a lead generation agency in US. Stepping away from traditional forms and trying fresh approaches may support lead generation.

Here we consider 5 creative ideas for a lead generation agency:

Establish a Digital Impression

Draw a strategy and work on it. Having a digital presence speeds up the process of lead generation.

Creating opinionated content through hashtags and communities serves to meet with the ideal group of a competent audience.

Educate Your Consumers Through Value-Based Content

Product-based content does not relate to the consumers.

Putting a value-added process beforehand can support your lead generation agency, develop its market and interest potential consumers, and it can still promote your lead generation system.

eBooks, Audiobooks, And Podcasts

E-books are one of the most prominent lead magnets for agencies because the level of insights, knowledge, and authority behind them measures their value.

Podcasts and audiobooks are attractive free products that will help form valuable relations with leads.

Promote Through Client Referrals And Testimonials

Happy customers’ testimonials and referrals always divert attention towards your brand through plans and video testimonials.

Talking about your clients creates awareness about your client's benefit and forms the opinion of your lead generation agency.

Lead Generation Via LinkedIn

LinkedIn is an impressive online lead generation platform. It connects you to the proper community of individuals, refining out diversion of any sort.

It is like sending cold emails that generate prospects on a distinct platform other than their inboxes.

Conclusion:

You will end up adopting a range of lead generation approaches, but remember never to stop testing new ideas. Other sets of content, such as blogs, videos, and infographics, are also being employed for lead generation.

The base of your lead generation strategy must develop relations with the people that are most likely to become leads and consumers for your business.

[seoservicecompany]

Digital Marketing Strategies to Boost Customer Engagement Rates

Marketing is all about selling products at the end of the day. It has been the only motto of any marketing sector for years. But with time, the dynamics in the relationship between the buyer and the seller have evolved. The working process of digital marketing companies has always been smarter than the other forms of marketing. So, without digging any deeper, let us precisely know what is ‘customer engagement rate’?

The simplest form of the definition of ‘customer engagement’ would be the measures taken by the brands to build and strengthen a one-to-one relationship with their customers beyond the bare transactional purpose. This marketing method can prove to be very useful in building the brand’s credibility among the customers, improve customer retention, broaden the up-sell and cross-sell opportunities, foster brand identity, and so much more.

Thus, knowing the effective strategies to boost the customer engagement rates of your brand is vital. Let us explore some of the most helpful strategies you can incorporate in your company to take it to soar heights.

1) Find Various Ways to Interact with Your Customers

Social media is not a business advertisement forum. But people like sharing their experiences with any product or service, whether good or bad. Also, they follow many brands that they might have come across at any point in time of their lives. But as a marketer or a digital marketing company, your aim should be making content to grab their attention and engage with your brand. Initiate conversations with the customers only to evoke a positive response.

Do not forget to comment back when people comment on your posts. Replying as fast as you can to the customers’ complaints is very important to show how much you value them. Track any good or bad response of your customers to let them believe that you are with them on the journey.

  2) Run Different Contests to Increase Engagement

People always love games and contests and find them very engaging because of the adrenaline rush they experience with the very thought of winning and getting rewards. These contests can benefit your brand in many ways, like growing brand awareness, increasing leads, increasing new customers, or re-engage the existing customers to give them a nudge. In order to create a contest, you need to determine an entry method.

You can create a short and catchy hashtag, make a proper theme for the game that relates directly to your brand, communicate a criterion of how people are going to win the contest, and finally choose a prize very intelligently that can be a win-win for both your brand and your customers.

  3) Conduct Surveys on Different Platforms

Conducting surveys on different social media platforms is a great way to comprehend your customer base more closely. And it can also prove how much you value your customers and learn to improve the customers’ experience, thereby increasing their loyalty toward your brand. There are many methods to increase customer engagement through surveys. The leading digital marketing companies follow some of the following strategies:

Set an objective you want to gain from the survey

Choose a useful tool. For instance, you can go for social media surveys or any other devices like google survey or survey monkey.

Choose a peak time to post the surveys.

Make a meaningful and short questionnaire.

If possible, offer something in return for taking the survey.

Set a deadline and send reminders accordingly.

Post the results positively if you want your customers to take you seriously.

 4) Boost Popular Posts and Regram

Your simplest of actions can generate a tremendous response beyond your expectation. The amount of trust and loyalty you can gain from your customers by just sharing your mutual moments or boosting a fairly popular post on social media is unthinkable. Every business owner needs to keep posting ads regularly for their brand. A wise digital marketing company would grab the opportunity to boost a post or ad if they notice it getting more attention than the other. It will immediately amplify the overall reach of the post.

Similarly, if you notice any of your customers mention your brand or your product, you repost it on your page, citing that person. Instagrammers term it as ‘programming.’ This act will connect them emotionally with your brand and increase your follower number.

  5) Give the Customers a Personalized Experience

Every human being feels unique about themselves. If you can modify this fundamental human nature in favor of your business’s growth, you will see the difference. Studies have shown that almost 75% of people are inclined towards brands that offer a personalized experience.

 Although social media is an excellent digital marketing platform, it is not very helpful for giving people a personalized experience. In contrast, the majority of people prefer email for more personalized space. You can target your customers by keeping track of their recent website activity, interests, location, purchase history, job industry, etc.

  6) Improve Customer Support System

Do you aspire to take your business to the zenith of success? Then you always have to put your customers’ satisfaction and happiness before everything else. A flawed customer service system can cripple a profitable business in no time. You always want to make your customers feel valued for you.

Try to encourage every employee to become customer-focused. Engage a human-supported customer support system because that helps people realize that they are actually being listened to and understood. Always treat your customer in a kind and helpful manner. It is your responsibility to make them know that you care for their happiness and not after their money.

   The Bottom line

In conclusion, we can say that customer engagement is not something you achieve one time. It is a never-ending process in order to grow your business. You always have to find new ways to engage more people with your website for more monetary conversions. The strategies mentioned above are some of the prevalent and effective ways to boost your brand website’s customer engagement rates.

Out Origin is a very well-known digital marketing company that provides all kinds of digital marketing solutions, website development, app development, and graphic designing services. If you need any professional help, you can consider assistance from Out Origin.

[mydigisalon]

10 Salon Marketing Trends Ready to Dominate After Pandemic

Keeping up with the latest and constantly changing styles/ trends when it comes to hairstyles, makeup and skincare has been a part of the Salon industry.

But sometimes, due to the ever-growing customer numbers, salon owners do not get time to p[lay catchup. To help you stay put with the latest trends we have compiled a list that is surely going to take over the market.

We all know that the pandemic has stopped life on earth altogether, however, slowly and steadily things are getting back on track.

You must be busy with all the administrative groundwork that is about to go down and time to research new trends might not be a priority right now.

But instead of ignoring it all together, we have arranged this article as a quick read to update you without getting into the basics of salon marketing ideas.

Let’s jump into the world of predicted 2020 trends that will help you dominate the market:

1. Adapt to Clients’ Habits by choosing Booking and Pre-Booking

Booking movie & plane tickets, seats at a restaurant online for lunch dates and dinners, anniversaries have become a thing. Everyone is going digital as customers prefer the most convenient way to do everything.

The easy availability of smartphones and internet connection has helped in bridging the gap between users and customers.

When it comes to beauty salon marketing, you will find a lot of online apps that help you become visible. Pre-booking will also help to minimize missed appointments.

You can always get in touch with clients to confirm their appointments beforehand. In the case of cancellation, you can give the slot to a new client.

Getting on a salon app is not only beneficial for the clients, but it makes your job easier too. You and your team will be able to focus more on providing quality services as the monotonous repetitive tasks will be handled by the app by following a few simple steps.

You do not need to keep a person on call at all times, as the users can get in touch with you via in-app chat features. Keep the option for users to book online via app, website, social media, and texts apart from the traditional calling route.

Try to incorporate pads and tablets instead of paperwork to come across more professional and it will also reduce your paper pen management.

2. Strengthen Client Retention with communication

Salon owners need to connect with their clients regularly and finding the most secure and fastest way will be the second new trend. Nobody likes to wait, right?

Clients usually spend a lot of time researching reviews and prices online to select the best salon. Due to which we recommend that you keep your website and social media channels updated.

The navigation should be easy and seamless. Try to add genuine reviews and real client images and your stylist bios to make a connection online.

Give chatbots a try for online booking. It will change your whole outlook on the way technology can be helpful. All this will help you to improve your retention rate and increase new customer acquisition.

A Must-Read for Salon Owners: 8 Winning Hair Salon Appointment Ideas To Bring More Customers

3. Keep Your Productivity High With Salon Apps

Salon apps can help revolutionize your salon’s productivity. Real-time updates, built-in task cards, and appointment calendars can help the staff, owners, and managers to optimize their workflow. Everything will be on your fingertips and you will be able to adjust it according to the demand.

Sharing real-time analytics reports about your salon ROI and an increase in client retention can help motivate your staff. You can add it to your monthly newsletter or push notifications for transparency that will help gain user’s trust and boost retail sales.

4. Maximize Your Social Media interaction

Pick your favorite social media platform(s) and start posting your work on it. Try to engage more with your users on a daily basis to ensure that you are responding to everyone. People are anyways not interested in one to one interaction offline due to COVID-19. You want your brand to be established and to have accounts across most, if not all, social media platforms. Get your team on it to help you manage better. Social media is such a powerful tool that can help improve your online visibility.

Incorporate hashtags in your salon marketing strategies. Create hashtags for your brands that are exclusive and ask your customers to tag you whenever they post their pictures after a session. Use this hashtag on all printouts, websites, stations, newsletters, texts, etc.

Ask your stylists to create a page on social media and use these hashtags to promote your salon.

Try to post every day. Be it nails, hair, skincare, makeup, etc. you can give a shot to My Digi Salon’s inventory to get high-quality images and videos. It will also give you an idea about the type of content that you can share.

Make sure you are addressing both positive and negative reviews. Try to understand the issue from the customer’s perspective and then respond with a viable and appropriate response. It will increase user retention and get you more loyal customers if they are happy with your services.

5. Diverse Offerings

Everyone has different skin, hair texture, preferences, etc. as a salon you should invest in providing a wide range of services to target the masses in your vicinity. Tr to grow your salon’s depth and breadth with high-quality services. In order to win the race against your competitors, you need to be the best in town and be inclusive of all types of services people might require. It will help you build your brand image and attract new customers. There’s a whole user set out there that you can dive into and increase your ROI.

6. Invest in online retailers:

Increase your market share by competition for products with online retailers. You can sell exclusive hair care ranges and products on e-commerce platforms. People prefer to buy online because it saves time, effort, and now as a precautionary measure due to Covid-19. Salon booking software like My Digi Salon can help you guide in creating a perfect strategy to increase ROI, too.

7. Online Consultation:

Pairing consultation and product offerings will be a popular trend because the body wants to risk getting infected. Proper precautions are necessary. Try to incorporate online consultation to your services. Be it on call, texts, video sessions etc. you can get your expert stylists to take these calls and upsell wherever possible. Try to refer to good products that will actually help your clients rather than just selling them.

8. Webinars:

Just like online sessions, webinars are more or less online sessions where multiple people can join and discuss, Try to get experts on the panels to talk about certain topics e.g. How to take care of hair at home, makeup basics 10. You can promote these on your channels and ask people to join. Can be paid or free but if you make it exclusive then people are more likely to join as they will be intrigued about these sessions.

9. Spa Amenity Salon Trends

Spas and salons were different earlier. However, salons have rubbed that line off. These days salons provide amenities that were earlier associated with spas. Relaxations and beauty under one roof is a convenience that customers like. However, you need to make sure that proper sanitization is maintained. Make sure that your customers are aware of all the measures you are taking to ensure maximum safety.

10. Organic Product Lines

Including an organic brand as a part of your inventory is a great salon marketing strategy at this point. These days users are more conscious about what goes into the making of products. They want their products to be free of harmful chemicals like parabens, alcohols, and other comedogenic ingredients. This Is the reason why customers are shifting more towards organic products that are safer, environment friendly, vegan and not tested on animals.

Conclusion:

This ever-changing salon industry pays when you keep updated on exciting new changes. Going digital in all aspects will be in trend this year as people want to minimize contact until absolutely necessary. You need to keep ahead and gain a competitive edge to survive during these hard times. New tech, business processes, high-end tech tools and customer services are being developed at a really fast pace. This is going to impact both small scale and large scale salons. Investing in an online salon app now will save you from tons of hassles later. If you feel you need more input, get in touch with us at www.mydidisalon.com. we’ll help you pick the best option that suits your requirements.

Originally published here: https://www.mydigisalon.com/blog/10-salon-marketing-trends-ready-to-dominate-after-pandemic/

[intj-esque]

5 Crucial Differences Between INTPs and INTJs

"1. INTP vs INTJ: Different “Driver” processes

The Driver process can also be called the “dominant cognitive function.” It’s the mind’s first point of contact and the primary lens through which everything gets filtered.

For an INTJ, this dominant process is technically called Introverted Intuition, but we’ve nicknamed it “Perspectives.”

Perspectives is a learning function (technically called a “perceiving function”), and works by watching one’s own mind form patterns. After years of use, eventually Perspectives begins to see the ‘pattern of the patterns’ and understands that what is happening inside of themselves cognitively is also happening for other people.

INTPs, on the other hand, lead with a process called Introverted Thinking, which we call “Accuracy.”

Accuracy is a decision-making function (technically called a “judging function”), and works by creating a framework and then sifting through all the data within that framework, scanning for incongruities and inconsistencies. Its ultimate goal is to find things that make sense to the user, and once clarity is gained then the INTP knows the right course of action to take.

Because both are Thinking types – meaning, they both make decisions based on impersonal, analytical criteria – it’s important to both INTJs and INTPs to be intellectually honest. And while both have this same desired outcome, there’s an important nuance between the relationship each has with data.

Since INTJs are leading with an intuitive process there is more credence given to creative internal thought. They aren’t scanning for content that could be wrong, they’re scanning for new patterns that could be right.

This is why INTJs must pair their Driver process with the Co-Pilot of Extraverted Thinking, or “Effectiveness.” The only way to truly know if those patterns have merit is if they play out in the ‘outer world’. If they work, awesome! That was a great new pattern. If they fail, then it’s back to the internal drawing board.

For an INTP, the outer world isn’t where thoughts are vetted. In fact, INTPs couple their Accuracy with Extraverted Intuition, or what we call “Exploration.” The world outside of themselves is where intriguing new patterns are observed, and it’s up to them to make sense of what those possibilities could mean.

A logically consistent argument is the proof that supports their speculation.

This is why INTPs must be so ruthless with their content and data. The criteria isn’t necessarily provable to an outside observer, and so an internally consistent argument may be the best they’ve got to give credibility to their conclusions.

Think of it in terms of Nikola Tesla (most likely an INTJ) and Albert Einstein (most likely an INTP).

Tesla thought up extraordinary new technologies, but the real test was whether or not those inventions actually worked.

Einstein, the on the other hand, saw patterns in the outside world and mulled over them until he culled from the herd everything but the most internally consistent reasons.

Tesla could point to the invention. Einstein had to point to the math.

This results in two very different relationships with data.

For an INTP, ‘clean’ data is of the utmost importance. Personal biases, what we want to believe, and social attachments to concepts muddy the waters. This is why there’s always some attraction to math, formal logic and/or binary code for an INTP. These are disciplines that tolerate little to no personal interpretation, which is hugely satisfying.

An INTP will unconsciously vet people for when they can and cannot be trusted with data. For example, they may have a good friend who always knows when someone is being fake, but can’t seem to wrap their head around time. When talking to them about motivations and intent the INTP knows they’re a trusted source of information, but they will dismiss that person whenever they talk about how long it will take to get somewhere.

There is such a thing as clean data, one just has to be ever vigilant for it.

For an INTJ, there is no such thing as data separate from the person holding that data. That is to say, our perceptions will always color the information we carry and so data is never clean. This is why an INTJ will frequently counter an inquiry for a piece of data with the question, “Why do you want to know?”

The context changes the content, and so if they don’t know why you want to know they can’t produce the data. (Not that it matters, but this can be maddening to an ENTP. Or, at the very least, to this ENTP. :p)

No matter! It’s not the empirical nature of the data that’s important, it’s the result it produces that’s the important thing. Which is why INTJs unconsciously vet people for their usefulness, not the data they hold (unless that’s how the person is ‘useful’).

Understanding the difference between these two Driver functions is crucial to understanding the difference in types.

2. INTP vs INTJ: Two different intrinsic insecurities generate different strategies

Even when we’ve graduated beyond our insecurities, the fact that they existed at some point influences our early strategies for navigating the world.

It’s been said by some that both INTPs and INTJs can come across arrogant, which I think is a surface understanding of what’s going on with both types (even when they’re at their “I’m going to strangle you now” worst).

As mentioned before, an INTP is constantly scanning for the cleanest data possible because they can’t actually show proof for their conclusions. Accuracy is by definition a subjective criteria: “it makes sense to me.”

Like Authenticity users (as mentioned in the INFP vs INFJ article), if the audience isn’t getting it an INTP can become (in order) confused, frustrated and ultimately cynical. There is always some insecurity about others invalidating their arguments and conclusions, but instead of staying in the realm of hurt (as an INFP may), the easiest solution is to just assume everyone else is an idiot.

Harboring insecurities is just another way for indicating immaturity, and an immature INTP will show up as The Authority On All Subjects, assuming they are right and you are wrong. When an INTP is accused of arrogance, it’s generally because they have a growing pathology toward being right at all times.

Conversely, the more mature an INTP becomes, the more they’re delighted at being proven wrong. That’s the outer world helping them cleanse data they may have grown attached to / become biased toward!

This is generally done through the development of their Co-Pilot process of Exploration, a function that opens frames and actively looks for more information to plug into existing frameworks.

They also become more cheerful as they develop, losing their grip in cynicism and enjoying a naturally egalitarian disposition where anyone at any time could offer interesting perspectives and content.

Of course, that doesn’t mean an INTP won’t still engage in argument and debate. Iron sharpens iron, after all, and debate is anything but personal.

For an INTJ, there is little to no insecurity about being right. If you don’t agree with them they might debate with you about it, but they understand that perception defines reality and you may just be seeing things fundamentally differently.

Ultimately, the proof is in Effectiveness, and you’ll see how wrong you are when the outer world plays it all out.

The insecurity an INTJ faces is more of a well guarded secret. INTJs are surprisingly sensitive, and as mentioned in our article about the INTJ personality type, anyone they let in can do real damage.

The insecurity lies in just how amazingly vulnerable they are to others. For a hardcore Thinker, it’s incredibly disconcerting for the INTJ to realize they are wired to be sensitive without the benefit of commensurate (natural) emotional intelligence.

The arrogant front an INTJ puts up isn’t to deflect being proven wrong, it’s to deflect against the hurt and pain another person potentially represents. It’s a true wall, an impenetrable domain around the inner sanctum that you may or may not ever be invited into.

The more insecure and immature the INTJ is, the thicker and more impenetrable the wall.

Conversely, the more mature an INTJ the more they understand that their personal happiness is directly linked to their willingness to be vulnerable. They may still be protective, but they don’t close themselves off universally. The INTJ builds healthy boundaries which allow special people in, who are the lucky recipients of their extraordinary understanding.

If you’re trying to determine your type between INTP and INTJ ask yourself: are you more put-off by being wrong, or by being vulnerable?

3. INTP vs INTJ: How emotions show up

No matter what your type and no matter how much of a “Thinker” you are, you have emotions and feelings. Being a Thinker means you use impersonal criteria to evaluate situations, which generally results in putting emotions as a lower priority. But they still exist.

When you look at the car model for each of these types (or, for Myers-Briggs geeks, when you look at the cognitive function stack) you’ll notice that the INTJ type has a more conscious relationship with their emotional side, whereas an INTP’s emotional awareness is more unconscious and a blind spot.

Not only are the Feeling processes in different positions in the car, they are also different expressions. For an INTJ it’s Introverted Feeling, or Authenticity, and for the INTP it’s ExtravertedFeeling, or Harmony.

Authenticity (at its core) is about understanding the emotional impact something has on you as an individual, and what’s in alignment for you as a person. It’s quiet, reflective and introspective. In fact, I’ve heard it described by Harmony types as “numbed out,” a misunderstanding of how the process works but an apt illustration of how inwardly turned the process appears from the outside.

Harmony (at its core) is about the emotional impact something has on others, aka the group, and checks in with social truths (like how we should behave and what people’s reputations are). It’s also outwardly expressive and emotive.

INTJs have a more conscious relationship with their Feeling process, which is in part why they’re sensitive. They’re often very aware of how things are impacting them emotionally, though they don’t always know what to do about it.

INTPs, on the other hand, have a very unconscious relationship with their Feeling process and a much higher threshold for tuning it out. Once it gets triggered, though, it’s anything but quiet.

When we go to our 3 Yr Old process (also known as our ‘inferior’) it’s generally in times of deep stress. (We can develop strategies to give our 3 Yr Old some attention to prevent it from controlling us, but most people only figure this out over time and through the concept of “failing better.”)

This is called Being in the Grip, and it’s never a pretty sight. For a generally rational and straight-faced INTP this can look like a full on temper tantrum. Uncontrollable crying isn’t just a possibility, it’s a probability. And the INTP – having no clue what the hell is happening to them – is swept up in the ride.

(When an INTJ is In the Grip it shows up as childlike self-indulgence – too much food, alcohol, sex and/or any other favorite expression of sensory pleasure.)

An INTJ will rarely temper tantrum. They’re more likely to get prideful as a first line of defense, and then move on to sulky and mopey. They may get angry, though this will generally be a controlled internalized version of the emotion. When an INTP gets angry, it’s more like a powder keg of explosion.

Understanding each type’s relationship with their Feeling process isn’t just a great tie breaker when profiling yourself or others, it’s also an important way to hold space for a loved one who may be one of these two types.

4. INTP vs INTJ: Hygiene, organization and status

When one has a purely theoretical understanding of Myers-Briggs it’s easy to rely on things like, “Oh, the INTJ is a Judger, so they’ll be organized and the INTP will be messy.”

If only people would just closely follow stereotypes we could lock this thing down and all go home.

Unfortunately, it’s not so simple.

As mentioned before, the INTJ is leading with Introverted Intuition (Perspectives) which is technically a ‘perceiving’ process. That means their flow state is learning and thinking creative thoughts.

Organizing their outer world is absolutely preferential as the more organized things are the more they can mitigate distractions and stay Perspectiving, so to speak.

But that means getting out of Perspectives to go organize, and sometimes that’s about as unappealing as an idea gets.

They also couple Perspectives with Effectiveness, a process that naturally thinks in terms of delegation. I’ve known INTJs that wished someone would just come along and organize their space for them, but until that happened they were merely going to shut off sensory awareness and not acknowledge the disaster around them.

When an INTJ exercises the Effectiveness process this is less likely to be the case, but even then ‘cleaning and organizing’ has to be considered a high leverage activity. Which it may or may not be.

Generally the biggest give-away between an INTJ and INTP (when taking into consideration that one is a J and the other is a P) is in personal grooming.

An INTP – having Harmony as their 3 Yr Old process – has an exceptionally easy time of just not giving a rat’s ass about how they appear to others. Actually, more accurately, they don’t give a rat’s ass if they’re socially acceptable. They may care how they come across, but that’s generally to send a message of not caring.

For the INTP, status is a game other people play, and dressing up just to suit others almost feels icky.

For an INTJ, on the other hand, status is a resource. And resource is always on the radar of Effectiveness. Playing a status game doesn’t feel icky, it feels like a necessary part of life. And it’s not so much that they dress for high status, but that they understand just a little effort goes a long way.

Unless they’ve given up, and then they turn into the Comic Book Guy on The Simpsons. When an INTJ devolves they start looking more like an immature INTP.

Alternatively, when an INTP matures they stop seeing hygiene and personal grooming as “being under the thumb of society” and more as a way to connect with other people. They dress for leverage, or self-expression, or a number of other perfectly acceptable reasons to attend to their appearance.

5. INTP vs INTJ: Why we need them both

I’ve found INTJs to exhibit amazing intellectual integrity. I’ve found INTPs to exhibit extraordinary radical honesty.

For a society to exist well we need to have people who won’t bullshit themselves and won’t bullshit you. We need creative thinkers that question the status quo, implement new technologies that improve our lives while at the same time whistle-blowing and calling out that the emperor is, indeed, naked as the day he was born.

When an INTJ develops into the best version of themselves they are the walking think tanks of sustainable systems.

When an INTP develops into the best version of themselves they are the innovators of new paradigms, literally altering how we understand and see reality.

Both types are imperative, and if you are either type please understand how important you are. Develop into the best version of yourself by exercising your Co-Pilot process of either Exploration (INTP) or Effectiveness (INTJ).

And hug yourself for me. Cause I’m a fan.

-Antonia"

https://personalityhacker.com/intp-vs-intj/

[swanandapirate]

Seatimes (1/2)

Happy (belated) birthday to @villains-happy-ending! You were my first fandom friend, Aimee, the first one to welcome me to this crazy nook of the internet and you were the one that introduced me to a lot of people people that are nowadays extremely big parts of my life too. So for all of that, and because you’re such an amazing person in general, I’ve written you a little (cough cough) birthday gift. (Prepare for a lot of nautical puns)

A Podcast AU (inspired by an actual podcast I came across a couple of days ago) where Emma gets obsessed with Killian’s maritime podcast Seatimes and of course life finds a way to make their paths cross

~4,600 words

ff.net

(The italic bits are little fragments of Killian’s podcast. Non-italics are Emma’s pov)

She stumbled upon Seatimes as she was researching a case. The skip was a selfish, misogynistic prick that wore Lacoste polos tied around his neck, a $200-dollar salmon-colored shirt, and a pair of shoes that was probably worth twice, if not thrice, the amount of money his shirt cost. He got thrown into holding for embezzlement of his own company’s funds, owned an actual boat and still ran away from every attempt made to make him settle up; he kept and kept on refusing to pay his bail. And so, Emma was brought into the picture.

Following his movements, both real life and online, like a hawk, Emma came to the conclusion that the rich, embezzling jackass was in search of someone to cheat on his wife with. He wasn’t even trying to be coy about his search for a mistress. Every picture on the account he had set up on some sleazy dating site were either of his precious boat or of him bare-chested and holding in his stomach on his precious boat.

Not a lot more backstory was needed to figure out the way to crack this case. Emma had to become the woman of all women to him. The one that, unlike all the rest of womankind according to him, had knowledge of boats and how currents worked, and all of that and not to forget a pretty face and nice figure. Luck would have it that Mother Nature and a lot of exercise had granted Emma the latter but the former… not so much.

She sadly– not very sadly if it meant staying clear of Mr. Douchebag– belonged to the general, uninteresting part of her gender, so she was forced to gain a life worth of knowledge in a short period of time. Three days to be more exact, because her skip had agreed to a date in four. Three days to become an expert.

“Welcome to Seatimes. I am Jones. Consider me your Captain to cross the wild and murky waters of naval and maritime knowledge. Each week will feature a guest as well as some must know things about the soaring seas and the ship sailing them. I hope that by the end of these podcasts, you will consider yourselves more of an expert on the subject.”

She tried it on her own in the beginning; her eyes skimmed the internet for reliable sources and when those turned out to be pure gibberish to her, she attempted to read every possible Wikipedia page. Emma read about ships and currents and flags and boats and every other thing that had to do with the sea. It was an overload; a tidal wave of content Emma’s brain hadn’t been able to thoroughly prepare for. The matter entered and seeped back out, only leaving behind small traces of its presence. The typed letters on her bright screen started to blur and all of the remaining information began to collide with each other, the internal battle creating, even more, chaos than resided before.

Emma needed to switch tactics, to come up with a different game plan for this case or her cover would come into deep waters. Her mouse clicked on tons of links and her cursor browsed various videos and articles, but none were to Emma’s liking. Either they treated her as a child, explaining everything in a sugary, condescending voice, or they click baited her into picking a video and then persisted to talk about something completely different. Frustration arose and she was this close to giving up until a link on page twelve of Google’s results caught her eye. The site was simply called Seatimes and the description talked about a maritime podcast. Perhaps this would manage to remind her which side was port and which one was starboard.

“The confusion between port board and starboard is amusing, to say the least. I can’t tell you how many a tourist I’ve seen completely freeze and just stare at me with wide eyes when I mention one of them. I completely understand, however, that if the difference isn’t embedded into your head from a young age like left and right are, you get confused. I always remember the little mnemonic that my brother taught me when I was a little lad and that was that drinking a lot of port never made you feel right, but being a star did. So, port board is left and starboard is right.”

Mr. Douchebag had completely fallen for her act, had stared at her with an amazed and slightly turned on gaze as Emma excitedly talked about coastal navigation and how using charts was better than using a GPS. The job had been smooth sailing; the perp overpowered and imprisoned in no time. It was one of the easiest ones she had ever had, her cover fitting her perfectly (like her dress), and a lot of that, if not all, could be attributed to Seatimes. It had taken Emma one day to listen to seventeen episodes and each one had her yearning for more. She was eager to learn, something that she hadn’t experienced for years. So, even though the case had been closed and sealed, Seatimes became a part of Emma’s weekly routine.

It even became the highlight of her week. Forty minutes a week were completely dedicated to Seatimes. No distractions; just Emma, a muted phone, her computer and a glass of wine.

The doorbell rang, and rang again since Emma decided to ignore the sound, preferring Jones’ British cadence over it. No interruptions. After a third ring, a familiar voice drifted through her door and into her apartment.

“Emma!” Emma sighed and forcefully pressed pause. “I know that you’re home; your Bug is out front.”

A groan escaped; there was no going back now. Mary Margaret was, as the relentless ringing had already betrayed, an adamant woman. Emma threw her head back, her locks flying around with the jolt. She loved her best friend dearly, but how did she not understand that if Emma wasn’t opening the door, there probably was an underlying reason. Like her sacred Seatimes times.

With hasty steps, she approached the door and swung it open. It revealed Mary Margaret, a small smile on her lips and hands folded over her protruding belly.

“What?” Emma greeted, her tone not welcoming at all and her word choice quite curt.

“You could be a bit more kind to a pregnant woman.” Her raven-haired friend raised an unamused eyebrow.

Emma supposed that Mary Margaret was right and that she could be more kind, or at least less pissed off.

“I’m sorry, Mary Margaret, please come on in.” Her hand gestured to her apartment as the guilt crept up on her.

“I was just joking,” Mary Margaret assured as she entered. “It’s totally alright. Sorry to barge in.”

Emma shrugged in response, showing that it was quite alright.

“What were you doing?” The curiosity filled the room as Mary Margaret peered around. She found it void of any other people or proof something suspicious was taking place and turned back to Emma.

“I was just listening to a podcast,” she answered. “Relaxing.”

Emma didn’t know if her friend had noticed the small jab in her answer.

“So nothing much,” was Mary Margaret’s conclusion. “Good. I’m here to ask you if you’d like to visit an art gallery a friend of mine is opening. She’s really talented and it’s supposed to be one of the most hyped events of the month,” she explained with excitement, bouncing on the ball of her feet.

Emma’s response came instantaneously; she didn’t need any time to think about it or consider going.

“No, thanks. I think I’ll pass.”

Her friend clearly wasn’t expecting that answer as she looked confused.

“Emma.” Her brow creased and her mouth was set in a discontent scowl.

“I don’t feel like going out today,” she tried to reason. She usually didn’t feel like it, the coziness of her home beating any overtly loud and awkward socializing, but especially today (and every other Wednesday), it was out of the question.

“But there’s going to be free food and free drinks. If I can’t take advantage of free alcohol, you definitely should.”

Emma shook her head, already bracing herself for what would follow. She knew what this meant, declining one of her offers yet again. She would receive one of Mary Margaret’s ‘way too invested in your social life best friend’ speechesTM

“Emma,” she began speaking, her tone motherly and at the same time disciplining. “You should go out more. Meet new people. Start dating again.”

There was no use. Not since Walsh had completely destroyed her last remnant of hope towards love by cheating on her while they were engaged. Why keep putting herself out there, keep taking part in pleasantries that lead to nowhere? Why should she continue risking her heart if it never worked out?

“I’m not like you, Mary Margaret. I’m not social and bubbly and whatever else belongs to your characteristics,” Emma specified. “There’s no use in trying to get me to go places. I need a break of at least a year from life, because it’s frankly quite exhausting and I want to catch my breath. Everything’s fine how it is. I don’t need love.”

“My only love is the Sea, Eric.”

“Jones, don’t hold it against me that I’m married.”

“I’m not. I’m not. As some of you might know Eric’s wife is professional swimmer Ariel Andersen. I would imagine that she understands your dedication to the sea and your research.”

“She does. She is my biggest fan. I recently even named an algae I discovered after her.”

“Did she feel honored that there’s now, of everything in the very deep sea, an algae with her name floating around?”

“I wouldn’t call it particularly honored. Disgruntled is another word for it.”

“As I suspected.”

Weeks passed and she kept listening. At this point, Emma wasn’t fooling herself anymore. This wasn’t about the content of the show, hadn’t been about that for quite some time. Her attentive listening was because of Jones. His voice, the soothing melody, and his passion. Every word dripped of love for the subject, of pure enjoyment. That was what he transferred onto Emma. That was what made her tune in week after week.

Her curiosity got the best of her one day and the desire to know more about him as well. The man was an enigma, a mystery. The only thing she could derive from the podcasts was that, if his accent told her anything, he had to be UK based.

There were a lot of people that bore the name Jones across the pond and trying to find him among them would be an impossible endeavor. Emma had one last trick up her sleeve, one last asset she hadn’t utilized yet; her bail bonds knowledge. Though “bail bonds knowledge” wasn’t anything specific or a program she could run, it was more being persistent and scrutinizing every nook and cranny of her resources.

She checked everything but there was nothing. Every possible connection to Jones was always carefully through Seatimes. The contact email address was just called Seatimes, the site was registered on that name, the Facebook didn’t have any personal mentions about the person managing the account. It was a dead end. At least she discovered that the page often posted little previews of episodes to come, so she liked it to be kept up to date.

“I know I’ve been quite secretive about who I am, where I live, what I do but that’s simply because I don’t think that would add anything to this podcast. A lot of listeners have sent me an email recently– which you can if you have any questions, the link is on the site– about the dangers of sailing. So, for the first time, I’m feeling inclined to share a very personal story.

“A couple of years ago, a younger, more carefree version of myself went out for a sail. I was boisterous back then, overconfident about my own capabilities as a sailor. A storm was predicted that day but I didn’t heed the forecast’s warning, I simply ignored it and continued with my plans. The storm was terrible; as terrible as the forecast had predicted it to be and I got into trouble. The boat I was on was completely wrecked and my left hand was completely crushed which lead to the stump I know have.

“This story isn’t to scare you away from touching or setting foot on a boat ever again, because I didn’t. It cost me blood, sweat, and tears but I am able to live without my hand now, am able to do what I love most which are sailing and making this podcast. There are dangers to sailing like to the rest of life, but a lot of them can be prevented. Be smart, listen to weather forecasts, check everything, double check everything before you leave, make sure that you are one hundred percent capable of sailing, and most importantly: be safe.”

“Happy birthday!” Mary Margaret beamed with joy, throwing her hands up in the air and welcoming Emma for a hug.

The loft that Mary Margaret shared with her husband David (and Emma’s other best friend) was adorned with little lights and balloons and filled with many familiar faces.

She smiled in return, letting the happy atmosphere of her friends and family in the room catch on. Emma normally wasn’t a fan of birthday parties; a small and quiet dinner usually sound far more alluring but she knew that, with turning thirty, a party would be inevitable. Surprise parties were even less enjoyable to Emma and Mary Margaret knew that, giving the birthday girl a much-appreciated heads up weeks in advance. Emma had embraced it, forced herself to not be a negative Nellie when the notorious day arrived and to actually enjoy herself.

Crossing the entire loft, she greeted everyone, thanked them for coming and flashed them brief smiles as a thank you for their birthday wishes.

Everyone was chatting, a drink in hand and some quiet music floating through the room. It was in that moment, the start of a new decade of her life that Emma decided to change, that she made a vow. To be more open again, to go out again, to stop locking herself in her apartment while she had so many people that loved her and wanted the best for her. She’d let the past control the present too much and this was the end of it.

“Alright,” David interrupted Emma’s thinking and the others’ small conversation. “It’s time for Emma to open her presents.”

The room erupted into cheering and Emma felt the blush creep onto her cheeks.

“David and I’ll go first,” Mary Margaret announced, approaching Emma with a small blue envelope in her hands.

The couple looked at her expectantly as Emma accepted the gift and slowly opened it. Her fingers revealed a card written in Mary Margaret’s swirly handwriting with only three words on it.

“The Sailing Brothers?” Her brow furrowed as she questioned the message. “What’s this?”

“Well,” Mary Margaret started timidly, turning the card in Emma’s hands to reveal the backside. There was more written there. “I’ve noticed that you’ve been quite interested in sailing and boats lately so I thought you might enjoy a small sailing trip.”

Staring at her friends, back at the blue card and back at her friends, Emma narrowed her eyes.

“How did you notice that?”

Before, Emma had been certain that her Seatimes obsession was something concealed, something locked between the four walls of her apartment.

“Facebook?” Her answer resembled more to a question. “You’ve been liking a lot of nautically themed posts. Was I wrong to assume you would like this? Because I can still change it if you want.”

“No, no!” she protested. “It’s amazing. You’re both amazing.”

“Oh good,” Mary Margaret sighed in relief. “Just let us know when you’d like to go and we’ll take care of everything. You should probably go as soon as possible, before winter truly sets and everything becomes cold. I doubt that a sail will be enjoyable when you’re freezing.”

“Honestly, I am not a winter person. There’s just something far more alluring about sailing in the summer when it’s warm, the sun is shining. Even though summer gets my preference, I don’t stop sailing during the winter. Only when the weather forces me, when it’s too cold or stormy. There’s just something about the cold wind racing and sweeping through your hair, coloring your cheeks that makes it worthwhile.

"As you might’ve guessed; today is all about how to prepare yourself and your boat for winter.”

The more she thought about it, the more Emma had been dreading this getaway sail. It meant being alone for several hours with a random person who was supposed to teach her how everything worked. And as one might’ve noticed, Emma and socializing didn’t usually go hand in hand.

There was her resolution, however, to be more open to new people and new things lingering in the back of her mind. Plus, she couldn’t let down Mary Margaret and David by letting their probably quite expensive gift go to waste. So, after a lot of pep talking herself, Emma had chosen a date, had sent it to M’s and had let her book it. This way, she’d be forced to go.

The day arrived and Emma rushed to her window, hoping the sky would be dark and gray, predicting a looming storm. The sky her eyes witnessed was anything but. It was sunny and only a few puffs of white decorated the blue background. Of course, today the weather gods decided to forget that November meant fall, not summer.

Slowly, she got dressed, ate a small breakfast and made her way to the docks. M’s had texted her the address and the Bug reached the destination fifteen minutes before her sail was scheduled. Emma stayed in the car for five additional minutes, fiddling with her fingers before deciding that she had waited long enough.

A large sign told Emma that this was indeed The Sailing Brothers and she pushed the door open, triggering a bell. A man a bit older than her thirty years walked towards her with a kind smile that made crinkles appear around his blue eyes.

“Hello.”

“Hi,” Emma spoke. “My name is Emma Swan.”

The man nodded before Emma could continue explaining that it was Mary Margaret that had booked the sail for her.

“Very nice to meet you, Ms. Swan.” He offered his hand and Emma grabbed it, shortly shaking it. “My name is Liam. Welcome to The Sailing Brothers.”

Emma muttered a small thanks in return, but sensed that her dread towards the trip had lessened considerably by meeting Liam and getting a glimpse of his personality. He seemed like the kind of person that wouldn’t let the sail get awkward, something Emma would really appreciate.

“Mary Margaret told me this was a birthday gift.” His eyebrows rose slightly, checking the piece of information with Emma and dropped again as she let out a confirming hum.

“Happy birthday to you,” he congratulated before getting back to business. “The sail will take about three hours and includes an introduction to sailing, but seeing that Mary Margaret told me you’re quite interested in the sea, a lot of it will probably be repetition. There are complementary drinks and snacks on board, so no need to rein yourself in.” He threw her a fast wink.

Sounded like Mary Margaret to tell her entire life, her interests, and aspirations to a virtual stranger.

They had started moving, left the building and walked towards the ship Emma assumed was going to be the one they were going to use.

Suddenly, a figure appeared on the deck of the ship, carrying a rope and throwing it from one side to the other. The man was clearly preparing it to leave the docks.

Liam must’ve noticed Emma’s curious glance as he replied to a question that was only asked in Emma’s mind.

“That’s my brother Killian, the actual sailing brother.” He chuckled. “I take care of the business side and he gets all the fun.”

It was a bit disappointing to hear that Liam wasn’t going to be accompanying her on her sail. She’d just gotten used to him and was beginning to look forward to all of it.

A phone rang in the distance and it made Liam look up. His eyes moved between the small distance between the ship and Emma.

“I should probably go and get that. It was very nice to meet you, Ms. Swan. I hope you enjoy your sail.”

And with that Liam left her standing alone on the docks, running back to his office to answer the ringing phone. Emma closed the previous distance and halted right before the ship. She didn’t want to assume she had permission to come aboard, so she waited until she was noticed.

The wait gave her time to observe the man hastily working. His hair had the same shade as his brother’s but lacked the small curls. He was muscular, the movements in his shoulders and arms betrayed that, and younger than Liam. His very defined jaw was dusted with light scruff that changed color when the sun hit it.

Killian suddenly stopped moving, his eyes settling on her, and flashed her a grin while motioning her on board. Emma let out a small, preparing breath and stepped on the wooden plank.

His eyes were blue as well and absolutely took her breath away.

Crap. The guy she was stuck on a ship with for three hours was absolutely gorgeous.

“Emma Swan, I presume?”

“That’s me,” she replied.

It proved far too distracting to focus on his eyes so Emma chose to lower her gaze to the floorboards instead.

“Welcome aboard.”

He extended his hand and Emma tried to ignore the little jolt of electricity tha ran up her arm as their palms touched.

“Nice to meet you. I’m Killian Jones.”

Emma stilled.

That voice. How he pronounced Jones. It seemed awfully familiar. She softly shook her head, trying to get rid of her feeling. It was not because his last name was Jones and that he was British, that he was that British Jones.

But she had noticed something else. Killian’s left hand was missing. A metal attachment in the form of a hook replaced it. Missing a hand was a bit rarer than being called Jones and being British and the concurrence of those three was probably not very common.

“Don’t worry about it, lass,” Killian said, noticing her lingering eyes and holding the hook up. “I’m perfectly capable of steering the ship without it.”

“No it wasn’t-” Emma remonstrated. “I wasn’t doubting that.” She shook her head.

She should just ignore it, pretend it’s a very coincidental coincidence. That he was called Jones. And was British. And he loved sailing. And he didn’t have a left hand.

“Even though the weather is quite good today-” Killian continued, undeterred. “-there’s quite a lot of wind today, but don’t worry, wind isn’t always bad. Especially when it comes to sailing.” He bared his teeth in a grin. “To start your sail, I will need you to go to starboard and fetch a rope for me.”

The thought that this might be Jones was still haunting Emma’s mind, slowing down her reaction and making her seem confused about star- and port board. She knew which one was which, thanks to Seatimes.

“It’s confusing, isn’t it?” Killian said. “My brother taught me a mnemonic when I was small to remember and it was that drinking a lot of port never made you feel right-”

“But being a star did,” Emma intervened, familiar with the mnemonic and everything he was probably going to say on this sail.

It was him.

“Aye,” he said taken aback. “How did you know that?”

Emma wasn’t buying his act; he had to be perfectly aware of how she knew that.

“You’re him.” The corners of her lips curled but it was more in a grimace than in a smile.

All of this reeked of Mary Margaret meddling.

“Him?” A crease appeared in Killian's–Jones'– forehead. “Sorry, I’m afraid I’m not following.”

The confusion clouding her mind completely disappeared, Emma becoming bolder, straightening her back.

“Jones.” Her hand gestured towards him. “Seatimes. How did Mary Margaret put up you to this?”

Emma was getting angry now. How could they trick her like this? She already knew it was weird for her to be so obsessed with a stupid maritime podcast, but this only made her more aware of it, only made it more embarrassing. She would think Jones would have enough integrity not to do this to an unsuspecting woman.

“You listen to Seatimes?”

“Yeah,” Emma almost yelled in exasperation. “That’s why I’m here right? For some fangirl sail.”

“No, I’m pretty certain it’s just an ordinary sail or maybe the fangirl upgrade package didn’t get through to me.” Killian smirked. “But I am excited to meet my first official fan.”

“Oh.”

Emma’s face fell and her eyes widened. Shit. While she thought she was being embarrassed, she was actually embarrassing herself. The heat rose to her cheeks and Emma had an intense urge to run as fast as she could and sever all ties with Seatimes. No way in hell she could enjoy listening to it anymore. “I’m not doing this.” Turning around, she walked away from him and any further shameful situations.

“Swan,” he yelled and repeated as he caught her hand. “Swan. Don’t leave. Everything has been paid for and I’ve just completely prepared the Roger. You got her all excited to go out.”

He couldn’t make her feel bad about a ship. Things didn’t work like that, did they? She did feel a tinge of guilt but if it was because of the ship or him or her best friends, was up for debate.

“The Roger?” she questioned. “As in The Jolly Roger?”

“The one and only.” He smiled proudly. “So what do you say?” His head tilted as his blue eyes perused her face.

“Alright.”

Emma returned and went to starboard to grab the rope he needed. He sent her a thankful look as he continued to prepare the Roger.

There was not a lot of use for him to teach her things about sailing because she already knew them, so they just sat in silence next to each other when the Roger was well underway, neither of them knowing what to say.

“I thought you lived in England.” Emma looked at him.

“Moved here seven years ago with my brother.” He shrugged after explaining his accent.

The silence returned and the wind wisped around, sending Emma’s locks flying.

“So, if you don’t mind me asking, how long have you been listening to the podcast?” His expression was curious.

“About three months, more or less.” Emma’s hand tried to tame her locks, pushing them behind her ear. “I needed to do some research.”

Killian stood up and went to stand behind the helm.

“Are you writing a book?”

“Oh no,” Emma was quick to correct him. “I’m a bail bonds person and I had a target that loved sailing and women who were into it.”

“Ah.” He turned the helm, but only barely and its creaking was the only sound again. “Did you get him?”

“Huh?” Emma asked, attention focused on the openness of the sea and not on his words.

“Your target?” Killian clarified. “Did you catch him?”

“Oh, yeah.” Emma nodded, walking around and tracing her finger along the railing. “I did.”

“Good.”

Major thanks to Ruhi ( @ofshipsandswans ) and Selina ( I didn’t tag you, are you proud of me?) for their enthusiasm, encouraging me to write this and for editing this *smirk* Other people who occasionally like to be tagged in things I write: @shady-swan-jones @the-reason-to-sail-home @artandteaandstuff

[renmaru]

you know. sometimes i love something a lot so i need to scream about the things that piss me off about it. i don’t think this is a particularly negative post but it’s just like sheer frustration and if you dont get some satisfaction from articulating your frustration into tumbler dot coms longposts and destroying the capital of this website because you are not a gemini sun then like fair i guess feel free to disregard this. tonbokiris kiwame is cool go look at that.

now to the lukewarm tea ive been simmering for five years. the one thing i always think about all the time is that tkrb is a popular game despite itself. the piss poor gameplay with only the barest of bare QoL in the five years its been up, the seeming complete lack of direction and the frankly nonexistent worldbuilding is held up purely because of its attention to detail and reverence to the original culture and history of the swords combined with some very good character design and subtle but nuanced character writing that can be openly interpreted. just enough flavour to imply something larger but chickening out on actually making anything y’know. concrete. basically allowing the fans to draw their own conclusions. but even then a game like that would not survive cause there have been countless, hundreds of games with high quality and fervent attention to detail and respect for the source material that just died completely because they have such little to actually offer in terms of engagement. i think the main thing that bugs me about tkrb is that it has one of THE most creative, dedicated and strong fanbases of this genre of game who go out of their way to engage with any and all of the content and the devs seem kind of oblivious to this.

in comparison to modern gacha style games, touken ranbu releases barely any new content and frequently recycles content but somehow it’s still relatively popular with approx. 1mil active players daily but the maddening thing is that tkrb can reach much MUCH further. the fans are there, the curiosity is there, it’s just the game content is not fucking there. it does not put the effort into commissioning seasonal art, pushing new events with actual plotline/story content, creating promotional materials, tie-ins etc. but somehow its still in the top 5 comiket circles for nearly five fuckin years straight. here are your badley compiled receipts: c89(w2015), c90(s2016), c91(w2016), c92(s2017), c93(w2017), c94(s2018), c95(w2018), c96(s2019)

 it can launch itself from laughably low in the appstore ratings, hovering in the middle of the 200′s to TOP 30s in the appstore at the flick of a switch. what is this magic button that fucking quadruples revenue and skyrockets your app into the top 50 grossing apps? 3/4 of your characters getting static CGs that you cannot use at all anywhere in the game but will do a powerpoint transition and appear for 5 seconds at login. oh and like a few free mats i guess. and i kid you not it fuckin worked.

wanna know why that worked? it’s cause otherwise characters, especially fan favourites just don’t get anything at all. it’s like most characters outside of the very popular ones rarely get new art, new recollections, new anything outside of their kiwame upgrade which is more often than not years down the line and only recently, four years in, they decided to add alternate costumes but even then there’s a catch which has me feeling some kind of way.

and yes, i fully understand that tkrb is a multi-media franchise, i get that it’s got its fingers in so many pies like the stageplay, musicals, various manga anthologies, the animes, hell its even got live action but man, would it hurt to give some love in game? i’m not asking them to go full fgo route and commission the industry creme de la creme to make 6 full CE illustrations, lots of promo art and tonnes of new merch every single month. but the fact is for such a big franchise, reusing the same sprite art on nearly every piece of official merch, going so far as to add NEW costume art which is just the heads of the old default sprites edited onto new bodies? it screams cost cutting, it screams lazy, the path of minimum effort. it’s almost like the game itself and the original materials are an absolute afterthought at this point with only the most dedicated hanging on to it. i guarantee that the majority of people still playing tkrb are the committed day1 players and the actual rekijou cause it’s just painfully offputting to new fans, with other fans even going out of their way to specify the game is not integral to enjoying the series which sucks, but it’s true.

its a real damn shame to think that something you are so invested in is not particularly invested in itself. sometimes, just sometimes i wish they dev team for tkrb was more hands-on, more adventurous, more willing to listen to players, invest in the game and genuinely try and make the game the best it can be. i’m not asking for balls to the wall summer events, beautiful animated CMs from the likes of the industries best animators, i’m not asking for pages of supplemental lore compiled into books, character backstory novels or whatever i’m just asking for the lore and the characters that we love to sometimes occasionally be remembered in the actual game outside of like ... the two years between their kiwame and the vague possibility of a recollection. i want to feel like this game puts as much effort into itself as the fans do towards it.

it’s a painful truth but there’s one shining light which is that the fandom for tkrb is genuinely one of the most committed and transformative ones ive ever seen. i have never been involved with a fandom that varies so widely and puts in so much effort for these characters and this world. tkrb exists solely as a popular franchise due to the sheer legwork of the fans carrying it on their backs collaboratively. ultimately, tkrb is very very lore-light, there’s so much thats missing and the characters in-game rarely rarely interact with each other. the characters are contained solely in however many voice lines they get at implementation, their kiwame letters, and their updates kiwame lines and the only interaction they get with other swords is recollections or depending on the sword, the odd custom sparring lines.

but despite that there has been so much fan effort to explore everything in so many different varied ways, and amazingly there are certain tropes, relationships, lore etc. that have started off fanon and become canon. the fan community, especially the fanartists, doujins, writers, animators etc. being given a small indulgence by the anime is one of my favourite things about tkrbs relationship with its fanbase. that’s not to say that the fans dont give back in kind a hundred fold.

there’s so much i love about tkrb fans going out of their way to go SEE historical swords in japan, single-handedly reforging swords using crowdfunding and revitalising lots of small-town tourism having real world impact. shit makes me unbelievably happy. the stage plays and musicals are always met with warm reception and are always well attended and even though its hard to access, there are lots of western fans who have dived into a whole new MEDIUM that most of us arent really familiar with but out of their love for tkrb theyve done that. they have hosted the musical as far out as india and france, making tkrb a truly worldwide franchise and there theyve met full seats! as far out as india! then theres the fantranslators, who always have the drive the commitment and energy for the thankless work, the wiki always always is well maintained and they have new content up so fast, and there are so many people willing to help you out. even when crunchyr*ll got hanamaru s2 (i think) a week late and we were left without subs for the premier episode for a whole ass week, fantranslators who had never subbed before stepped up to translate a whole episode for FREE, encoding, subbing and timing it all despite never having done so just so others could understand the episode faster than cr*nchy themselves could. even, as well, it’s made so many history nerds out of a whole bunch of people, it’s created an appreciation for nihontou and japanese history that would otherwise probably never be in their orbit because of how inaccessible it is, especially in english. even on a personal note, i started learning japanese primarily so i could understand tkrb and the history behind it better and to read jp fanart/interact with fanartists.

 no matter what, i am forever warmed by how much i love tkrb and its fanbase and im glad that tkrb is still going strong, even despite itself sometimes and i hope that moving on tkrb tries new things, and becomes better for everyone.