#when your ambition level be way too high

[crochet-cat-lady]

Everyone pray for me that I’ll be able to finish this sweater in time for Christmas

[moonlight-tarot-11-11]

How Does Your Person View You?

This reading is the subjective point of view from your person. It might be or might not be true.

Pile 1. Pile 2. Pile 3.

Pile 1:

You're always on the move and not very emotional. You go and get what you want and aren't afraid to fight for it. You defend your point of view/ believes , but you don't go out of your way to start conflicts. If you're being attacked, then obviously you'll defend yourself.

They see you're up in your head a lot. Very dreamy, imaginative, full of ambition. A little stubborn at times, but with reason. To them, you're standing on stable ground and have valid reasons to be stubborn.

They see you as a knowledgeable person and that you have so many opportunities to succeed in whatever you put your energy in (however they view success).

They don't see you as an emotional person because you haven't really let them see that part of you. When things are getting too personal, you might change the topic and revert back to the composed you.

They admire you. They see you so high up and that you are capable of achieving anything and everything. For most of you, your person has seen you evolve into this 'new' you. They want to know you better, including your emotional side.

Songs: More Than A Friend - girli | Washing Machine Heart (Speed) - Mitski | Two - Sleeping At Last

Pile 2:

An old soul. You're not new in this world let alone, in this universe. They feel like you've gone through so much, but that you've learned from that and continued your path. You're not living in the past. You reflect a lot, but they see you applying what you have learned, into the present.

They think you're a bit lonely, even misunderstood, for some of you. You're so in tune with nature/universe/spirit - what that might look like for your person. You know what you're feeling, why you're feeling it, and what you'll do about it. They see you as a calm collected person.

There's this fear of getting close to you because they don't feel that they're at your level. They view you as knowledgeable in regards to spiritual topics and your person thinks they aren't so spiritual. They are open to it, but there's this irrational fear of you looking down on them for not knowing much.

Regardless of gender, they view you as a masculine person. You make decisions and act upon them. They're amazed by you and they think that you don't think very highly of them. You might have a bit of a resting bitch face without knowing.

Songs: She Likes A Boy - Nxdia | Miss You - Louis Tomlinson | Magia Blanca - Hermanos Carrion

Pile 3:

You limit yourself a lot but they also see you so free, flowing, and in tune with yourself, but for some reason, you limit yourself so much. Your person is frustrated. They don't know what they can do to help you realize this.

"Why do they stop themselves so much? Why do they hold themselves back so much? Why do they hide so much? Why aren't they showing their authentic self, their talents, their light to the world?"

From their point of view, there's nothing holding you back from doing anything. The Devil and 10 of Swords are in reverse - meaning you are free to do what you wish, but you think so low of yourself for a reason they don't understand or see, causing all those opportunities and freedom from happening.

It seems that you're open and trust your person, that's why they see all these amazing things about you. They have strong feelings towards you, but they feel that if they let you know, you'll reject them because of your poor self-esteem.

You think you're the worst being in the world, but they don't understand why you would think such a thing. They see you as the brightest light. The brightest of them all.

"Why are they looking for a devil that isn't there?"

Songs: I Really F**ked It Up - girli | Chance With You - mehiro | Drinking With Cupid - VOILÀ

~*~*~*~

I hope you liked the reading! Thank you for being here!

[soapoet]

describing the dynamic...

...a requested continuation of this post.

like & rb if it resonates ♡

01.

Shufflemancy: First day of my life by Bright Eyes

This feels like home. It is familiar and it is sweet. The two of you create an air of comfort, which draws in various orphans of the storm. Like a safe haven amidst stormy seas. A lighthouse. This has the blueprint of starting a found family. Your union echos with lots of laughter, the kind that brings tears and stomachaches. The joy here is tangible and it is imprinted in everything. Your dynamic is like an evolved version of puppy love. It's nervous, but adoring. Giddy and rosy. It feels like best friends falling in love. They know you and you know them at a deep level. The foundation upon which this relationship stands could withstand hurricanes, though there isn't much to worry about. Most issues that crop up seem a little silly, and you may laugh about them afterwards. Personal doubts and misunderstandings are the worst that can happen here, which are mostly due to the doglike loyalty and care you have for one another. Ever seen the face of a pooch when they've done something they shouldn't have? They appear so sheepish even though their mistake or mischief really isn't all that bad or serious. We often laugh at our beloved pets when they appear so apologetic because it is so often wildly out of proportion for their actual crime. The same applies to this relationship. Doubts may occasionally become bigger in your heads and cause a similar out of proportion shame or guilt or concern about how the other will react. Many inside jokes may stem from these situations, actually. Despite the occasional and shortlived whirlwind of doubt and concern about the status of the relationship, your communication is very good and open and clear. You might both simply have a hard time expressing yourselves when it comes to negative feelings and experiences, likely stemming from your upbringing. Which brings me to the point of healing. A key feature of this relationship is just that. Healing. The two of you treat each other the way you wish you had been treated growing up. As though you are raising each other's wounded inner child in a much better, loving, and attentive environment. There is a lot of validation and tenderness present. The reciprocation is beautifully balanced. When one is feeling low, the other takes on a guardian role, comforting and supporting them in various ways. Need a doctor's appointment but you're too anxious to call? Your partner gotchu. Next time they're ill you'll be making them soup and wrapping them up in a blanket. The give and take feels natural, like neither of you need to think twice about it, and best of all: nobody's keeping score.

02.

Shufflemancy: High heels by Mando Diao

Once this one gets going, it's long distance, not a sprint. Considering the delays this relationship experiences before it begins, however, the steady movement doesn't feel slow at all. And although this relationship is very spontaneous and fun, there is a balancing act at play wherein plans for the future are made early on. They want to make sure you're both on the same page and have an idea of where the relationship is headed right from the start to avoid conflicting ideas later. There are some traditional elements to this relationship because they lead a busy life professionally. Plans may be made to have you stay at home once things get serious, though they are very supportive of any business ideas you come up with or already have when you enter into the relationship. This person values ambition and drive, probably just as much as you do, and is very supportive of any endeavours you decide to pursue, and is likely to help fund or network to boost your success.

Expect frequent date nights. This person enjoys romance and works hard to keep the spark alive, so long as they don't feel smothered. When given the space and time they love to shower you with gifts and make you feel special. Travelling also figures strongly, and you may cross many destinations off your bucket list with this person. They favour quality over quantity, though, and may make it a point to spend big bucks on a resort for an extended period of time to really make the most of the destination and the time you get to spend together. It's possible the two of you eventually purchase a second home somewhere you like to visit. The two of you enjoy a rich social life as well, and may frequently entertain people in your home or at different venues. Your energy is contagious and other people are naturally drawn to the two of you because of the fun and welcoming energy created by your union. I'm not seeing much in terms of issues, mostly because the element of fun is so strong here. It feels very balanced because each of you gets to be in your favoured energy and feel appreciated for what you bring to the relationship. Very strong mutual respect. Each of you seem to succeed in life and your careers and projects better because the other is by your side. Reaching higher and farther because of the support of the other. This has an air of'us against the world', as though you are building an empire together. Your success is very new-money and modern. Flashy and extravagant, but still down-to-earth and humble in a way in which you really count your blessings and have much gratitude for what you have together and where you came from. The two of you may help or give back to your community, or donate to charity. It's possible they pay off your family's mortgage or do some other big financial gesture towards your family after the two of you commit. There is a lot of passion in this relationship. Very flirty, and there is a strong sexual attraction. The two of you make each other laugh a lot and may pull pranks on each other. Check out Destene and Brandon on youtube, because their dynamic mirrors this group a lot!

03.

Shufflemancy: Mary on a cross by Ghost

This is the one that will feel like things are too good to be true. You will want for nothing. The dynamic here is almost that of a knight and the one they have sworn to protect, or the royal and the peasant they chose for love. There is much adoration here, and it feels old-timey in a way. If you have been kissing frogs before, this one will really surprise you. They enjoy traditional courting and may look down upon the modern era of dating and the attitudes surrounding it, and don't like most of the people making them offers. They also appear to compensate for time spent apart through lavish gifts, and making sure you have everything that you need. There are a lot of calls and messages being sent back and forth, especially during their time away. They're very supportive of your studies or the projects you're working on, and will do everything in their power to create a good environment for you to do what you need to do. There is a strong possibility of them asking you to accompany them on their business travels, in an effort to help the two of you spend more quality time together. You have an energy that differs so much from what they have to deal with in their professional life, and they derive a big boost of motivation and confidence from it. It is almost as though they see you as their lucky charm.

The primary cause of friction appears to come from outside the relationship. You may frequently receive strange looks when you're together, or the way you differ somehow causes tension amongst your partner's peers. They, however, are incredibly proud of you and encourage you to speak your mind and stay true to yourself. They think you're perfect and don't want you to change, especially not through pressure from the kinds of people they find shallow or even fake. There could be instances where people try to steal your partner, but they fail horribly because of your partner's devotion to you. This can also go the other way, wherein people begin to pursue you in an attempt to steal you away from your partner, as if to spite them. You may receive invitations, offers, and gifts from people, especially ones you meet through your partner. This reveals a jealous streak in your partner which is very prevalent, but not in a toxic or controlling way. Because they have such social grace and know how to play the game, they never target you with their jealousy and dismay, but those who try to get in between. They are protective of what's theirs, but are very graceful and strategic in their methodology of solving problems. This also lends itself well to any wrinkles that need ironing in the relationship, because they don't appear to get angry and have a mentality that it's not you vs. them, but the two of you vs. the problem.

This dynamic may sometimes lead to waking up alone, but there is sure to be a lovely note left behind, or they may send flowers. They like to let you sleep in, and find you to be at your most beautiful when you're asleep because of the serene look on your face. You really help them feel at peace, which is something quite difficult for them to achieve on their own. They have trouble relaxing or doing things without it somehow boosting their qualifications or adding to their resume. You help them pick out books to read just because, watch movies regardless of their acclaim and accolades, go thrifting for the fun of it or visit the sweet little side street boutiques and unknown cafés. They really just feel like they have access to more oxygen when you're around, as though they've spent their whole life holding their breath and they can breathe easily and deeply around you.

04.

Shufflemancy: Me the machine by Imogen Heap

There is a whole lot going on here mentally. The two of you spend a lot of time talking, for hours upon hours. "Is that the sun?" can become a frequent phrase used when time slips through your fingers as you talk the night away to watch the sunrise. The two of you love to debate, especially in regards to matters you agree on, because it seems you reach the same conclusion from different angles and enjoy discussing each other's detours. They love picking your brain and value your opinions. There is a bit of a hopeless romantic in them, which may catch you off guard every time due to their cerebral nature. They might leave you notes or share songs to express their feelings. To them you are an equal, a missing puzzle piece that helps them see the bigger picture. You two are like the seeker and the explorer. They like holding hands and being close to you, but seem a little hesitant, even months into the relationship. You are certainly the more open and affectionate one, whilst they tend to be a little shy. Their awkwardness is quite charming, though, because they do try their best to show their love and support. Support plays a big role here, too, as they have a lot to teach you in various areas of life and you will grow quite a bit during this relationship. They are an excellent mentor and encourage you to chase your dreams, but are also good at holding you accountable. They can be a little blunt and clumsy with their words, but they mean well and wish for you to be the best that you can be and never sell yourself short. They really won't let anybody talk down on you, least of all you yourself. They have very high standards so any self-loating on your part feels insulting to them. They wouldn't date you if they didn't think you were incredible.

They enjoy your company and express genuine interest in your thoughts and ideas. You share many interests and engaging in them together is a big part of this relationship. You two are stronger together and can face many hardships with greater ease due to how you complete one another. Not in that you aren't whole on your own, but that your individual strengths and weaknesses balance each other out. Where you lack, they're abundant, and vice versa. It really makes for a dynamic duo, albeit one that may from the outside appear mismatched or peculiar. That does not stop you, though, and they especially have very little care for what other people think. The two of you may collaborate on various projects, or work together towards both joint and separate goals. Your minds and talents blend beautifully together, and your relationship is potent with inspiration and motivation. Tackling difficult tasks and the daily grind appears easier when you can delegate things depending on your individual strengths. The source of strife mostly stems from misunderstandings. Both of you value communication, but on occasion words are left unsaid or too much is said without prior thought and one of you gets hurt. This does not seem to ever be on purpose, just accidental slip-ups and thoughtlessness.

05.

Shufflemancy: Boys do cry by Marius Bear

Which one of you brought the gasoline? The dynamic here is hot and heavy. Passionate, as though desperation and need is causing you to crawl into each other's skin and wear each other's hearts. It can get a little crazy, fast paced and wild, in most things that you do. And you may get into quite a bit of trouble together, too. When Billie Eilish said 'I'm the powder, you're the fuse; let's add some friction' the two of you were taking notes. There is a lot of push and pull, and the relationship contains a lot of drama. Though I don't feel like that is wholly unwelcome, strangely enough. It seems beneficial for the two of you to keep each other on your toes, like you both crave some explosive feelings to feel fulfilled. This relationship really isn't for the faint of heart. But whilst others watch in horror, you make each other feel alive in this almost feral dance. They are very protective of you, and you of them. It's like you give each other scary dog privilege because nobody else can swoop in to steal a heart while the other stands on watch. You're both a little possessive, but it boils down to the deep connection you have feeling so intertwined with the very cores of your beings that losing the other would feel like losing yourself. Definitely worth checking yourselves for co-dependency to be sure it does not go overboard, but so long as you keep your individuality intact, this one is one hell of a ride. A ride or die, in fact. You are truly partners in crime and feel dangerously powerful together, like you could take over the world and overcome anything.

I won't sugar coat this: there is a lot of turmoil that the both of you conjure up. Most of the issues in this dynamic stem from the heightened emotions you are both capable of, and if either of you start wielding them as weapons it will cause even more explosive emotions. I will say, though, that this only gets physical in the make up part of the show, as the actual strife is emotional and verbal in nature. Because you care a lot for each other, neither would dare lay a hand on the other. The thought of you getting hurt by them or anyone or anything else would upset them greatly, and it's the same in reverse. You mirror each other a lot, and have much to learn from each other. Much of it will feel heavy and burdensome since you will be facing your own demons within the other person, and that's never easy. Fortunately there is a lot of gentle care here, too. Since you both feel things so strongly and have similar experiences in life, it is much easier for you to sympathise with each other and support each other. This is one of those relationships where you truly do not need to hide or be on your best behaviour, because you have both weathered storms and do not easily flinch when the thunder and lightning begin to roar, and you both provide each other shelter when needed.

06.

Shufflemancy: Light by Sleeping at last

I remember seeing a writing prompt once upon a time with the premise of seeing in greyscale until you lock eyes with your soulmate, and this has that exact energy. It really seems as though this person lead a very monotonous life until you barged in, inviting the sunshine into their life. Because in many ways they view you as the light of their life, they are very protective of you. You bring them much joy, laughter, and relaxation, all things they do very little of, at least successfully, and find themselves more able to partake in the joys of life in your presence. You are a breath of fresh air, as though someone finally opened up a window inside a stuffy office. They see stars in your eyes and they want nothing more than to preserve them, and make them shine even brighter. There is a little bit of a saviour complex here. Anything you struggle with they don an armour for to protect and to serve. Because you nurture their soul and heal their wounds with your tender love and care and expand their horizons with your sense of wonder, they feel compelled to take care of you. It feels almost familial, but not in a weird way. It is as if they want to keep your childlike wonder alive and well, and right any wrongs that come your way. They take a load off your shoulders frequently, and may especially take on all your mundane tasks and paperwork. They love your playful energy and can see that the stuffy stressors of life cage that bird in, and they want to see you soar. This is a very healing connection for both of you. You balance each other out whilst being a mentor for each other, teaching each other your strengths so that you two can feel whole and capable all in your own right. You are both willing to bend, to try new things, allow the other to show you new worlds and explore possibilities. Very likely to lead to marriage, and it would be a very happy and functional one because of the growth you inspire in one another both as individuals and together as one. It's like your relationship begins as a little sapling, slow, but once it has been given the space to grow it grows big and strong and will withstand any storm and leave behind a legacy, like your future children putting up a swing for their children on the tree you two once sowed.

[sh0tanzz]

Heyyy! I was wondering if I could request a post on anton’s ideal types / future s/o based on astrology?? I love your attention to detail in your works and just honestly your blog overall!! xx

THANK YOU SM AND HERE WE GO

ANTON'S IDEAL TYPE based on astrology

(reminder that this for fun and astrology is something I study for a hobby, these are all inferences based off of observations and not exact fact unless I knew him myself !!)

Physical Appearance:

Surprisingly I don't think he has that much of a specific type regarding things like skin tone, hair type, etc there's more indicators for aesthetics rather than overall physical being. Anton's Venus is in Taurus + he has an Aries Stellium. He'd be attracted to someone who is confident and comfortable in their own skin; confident enough to try/wear stunning bold makeup looks whilst also comfortable enough being able to go out with their bareface. He could like soft or "no makeup" makeup looks as well. Someone who presents as neat, has good style and wears nice accessories that aren't too flashy but noticeable. Healthy hair with a bounce to it. Someone who'd take HIIGGHH effort into taking care of themselves (skincare,haircare,shower routine). Could be into someone who's curvier or an hourglass figure (Idk why but I keep thinking about Volleyball girls. 😭) His mars is in Gemini which rules the hands so he'd maybe like someone with pretty hands or wears rings + gets their nails done.

Personality:

His Mercury is in Aries and he has the aspect Moon conjunct Mercury so he'd like someone who is very understanding and understands nuance enough so they don't take what he says wrong. (ngl I feel like his moon/mercury aspect gives him his soft soothing voice). Someone who speaks whats on their mind when communicating. Can just ooze healthy confidence and being self assured. A person who has a random/childish sense of humor just like him. Someone who allows him to be independant and can be independant. As said before his Mars is in Gemini which I like to call the sapiosexual placement, he'd want someone who loves to learn new info and has many interest and is able to have intelligent beyond surface level conversations with. Someone who has genuine opinions and can make up their own mind. Enjoys a person that can pursue what they desire and not become too deflated or hesitant about what they want; he just loves a sense of ambition. Essentially has their life together or at least has plans and goals they want to achieve. Can be on the talkative side he wants his own YAPPER.

Mentality/Values:

Someone who understands boundaries and doesn't try to push people with things they can't handle. Someone who practices gratitude and knows that being considerate goes a long way. Can stand up for the people they care about. Can be spontaneous and have fun but knows there are times where being serious and receptive is important.

Extras:

Could find someone who wears various high quality perfumes or scent sets attractive.

Finds flowy dresses and skirts cute perhaps, sundresses or clothes made of satin come to mind.

Someone who knows to be assertive/extroverted but still capable of being gentle and subtle could catch his eye

[randoimago]

May I request headcanons for Astarion and Gale (separate) from BG3 and what would they react to Tav being secretly a god that tags along with mortals for many years for fun?

Fandom: Baldur's Gate 3

Character(s): Astarion, Gale

Note(s): You definitely chose some interesting characters for this request

Astarion

Laughs in your face when you tell him that you're actually a god. He doesn't believe you one bit. Sure, you have some high level magic, but there's no way you can be a god.

In his mind, if you were a god, then why the hell has he suffered for so long? Why are you pretending to be his friend, why have you gained his trust and learned of his past trauma and abuse and nothing has been done about it? If you're a god, then why the fuck didn't you save him?

So he doesn't believe that you're a god, no matter what you tell him. But don't worry, after what he's gone through, he doesn't believe in any of the gods and you're no exception.

Gale

It certainly explains how Tav isn't dead yet. With all the things the group has gone through, he has thought that Tav was a bit different, maybe had either really good or really bad luck. But to be a god?

There's some very mixed feelings from him. He has been groomed by one god already and isn't too trusting of more. You keeping this a secret from him just builds this distrust further. Although, there is a voice in the back of his head that sees this as an opportunity.

While he is enraged and distrustful in the beginning, he begins to accept Tav's presence again. While he's being his old self, there isn't an ounce of trust there as he only hopes to learn Tav's secrets to further his own ambitions.

Taglist:

@reo-the-leo @unhelpfulnpc

[cool-fancier]

Behind The Spotlight

Synopsis: Aespa's rise, a secret love with Bada, revealed in an unexpected album unboxing live.

You found yourself rising to heights you'd never dreamed of in the glittering world of K-pop, where every note was a pulse and every dance movement became a story. You were living a dream that fans all over the world admired as a well-known idol under SM Entertainment and a member of the amazing group Aespa. Despite the piercing lights and screaming audiences, there was a secret, an intimate tune that only you and Bada, your choreographer, were aware of.

Your relationship with Bada was like a dance, with steps that began long before the spotlight found you. It all started when you first walked through the doors of SM Entertainment as a trainee, your eyes wide with excitement and your heart thumping with ambition. Bada, an experienced choreographer recognised for her inventive dances, joined you on your adventure.

Your first encounter with Bada was a mix of amazement and inspiration. Her choreography pushed limits and defied practises, making her a force to be reckoned with. As a trainee with high goals, you were pulled to her magnetic energy, and the bond between artist and choreographer ignited like a well-choreographed fire.

Days turned into nights of rigorous training, where Bada pushed you to your limits, extracting every ounce of talent hidden within. The dancing studio became a haven for you two, where the language of dance built a silent understanding. The professional relationship grew into a deeper bond that transcended the boundaries of choreographer and artist over time.

Bada stayed after a particularly intense practise one evening, as the city lights glittered outside the studio. The echoes of your dance filled the air, and Bada's eyes met yours in a shared moment of tiredness and accomplishment.

"You have a lot of potential," she added, a rare smile on her lips. "However, potential alone will not get you very far." You must be passionate, dedicated, and eager for the stage. "Are you able to bring that?"

Your response was a firm nod, the tacit agreement made in that dimly lit studio establishing a connection that extended beyond the boundaries of mentorship. Bada evolved from a choreographer to a confidante, a guiding force, and, eventually, the secret rhythm in your heart.

Your relationship with Bada went from mentorship to a hidden love tale at an important turning point when the unspoken feelings between you two could no longer be hidden.

The city lights shimmered outside the dance studio on this cool evening, and the echoes of a good performance lingered in the air. Aespa had just finished a spectacular show that had left the audience speechless. Backstage, the air was charged with a mix of exhilaration and tiredness.

Bada entered the changing room as you were catching your breath, a knowing smile on her lips. "Excellent performance, Y/N. "You had total control of the stage."

You chuckled, still glowing from your performance. "Thank you, Bada. Your choreography took it to an entirely new level."

She moved closer, and the air between you two became electrified with an unsaid force. "There's something I've been meaning to talk to you about."

Your heartbeat sped, a tinge of excitement growing in your chest. "What is it?"

Bada hesitated for a moment before letting out a soft laugh. "I suppose there's no perfect way to put it. For a while now, I've felt something more than just a professional relationship between us."

The confession hung in the air, the weight of unknown words finally given voice. You realised in that vulnerable moment that the dance that began as mentor and student had grown into something deeper, something that went beyond the beats of the music.

"I've felt it too, Bada," you said with a sincere smile. "Maybe more than I should have."

She moved in closer, her gaze fixed on yours. "Maybe it's time we stop hiding from it, Y/N."

A decision was made in that dressing room, among the discarded clothes and quiet murmurs of the bustling backstage. As you and Bada went into unfamiliar territory, the professional boundaries that had characterised your relationship were transformed, and the invisible barrier between mentor and student vanished.

The first date was a peaceful meal in a hidden location of the city where neon lights flickered like distant stars. The talk flowed naturally, moving from dance to dreams, and the unspoken words were finally heard.

As the night became darker, Bada stretched across the table, tenderly lacing her fingers with yours. "I've been waiting for this for a long time," she said, her eyes reflecting your own vulnerability.

You grinned, a mix of nervousness and excitement in your eyes. "Me too, Bada. I never thought we'd be here."

And just like that, the secret love story between you and Bada began to write its own chapters. Late-night rehearsals became shared laughter and stolen glances with the dancing studio seeing a different type of choreography—one that spoke of love, passion, and the path that lead two hearts to intertwine.

Seoul, with its expansive streets and soaring skyscrapers, became the setting for a love story that was concealed in plain sight. Aespa's reputation grew, and your friendship with Bada became stronger, the unspoken bond between you two now coloured with the hues of a romance that had grown in the midst of the spotlight.

As the months passed and Aespa became a global sensation, your relationship with Bada grew stronger. Late-night rehearsals devolved into mutual laughing, and silent glances on stage spoke a lot. The magnetic connection between you two became unmistakable, a secret you kept hidden from fans and the media's prying eyes.

The anticipation of a new album's release influenced the air one day. The world was waiting to see Aespa's latest masterpiece, and the excitement among enthusiasts was considerable. Bada, your choreographer and hidden love, decided to go live on Instagram for a special unpacking session in the thick of it all.

The dance studio transformed into an intimate stage, bathed in soft lights as Bada greeted the fans who tuned in. The comments flooded in with hearts and exclamations of excitement. Bada's eyes sparkled with genuine joy as she began unboxing Aespa's album, the very album she had poured her heart into choreographing.

"Hello, everyone! "I'm here to unbox the incredible album we've all been anticipating," Bada exclaimed her voice brimming with excitement.

The fans erupted in a virtual symphony of cheers, their excitement mirroring Bada's infectious energy. She went through the unwrapping process, meticulously unveiling the album's contents while providing behind-the-scenes details about the choreography process.

"As you all know, this album holds a special place in my heart," Bada explained, her eyes twinkling with passion. "It was both challenging and incredibly rewarding to work on the choreography for these songs." I wanted to come up with movements that reflected the soul of Aespa, and I hope you love the dances as much as I did creating them."

Fans who loved not just Aespa's artwork but also Bada's passion to her profession flooded the comments section with heart emojis and notes of gratitude. Throughout the festivities, Bada continued to chat about the album, occasionally teasing fans with her desire for a certain photo card.

"And, of course, let's talk about this album cover," she said as she held it up to the camera. "Everything is stunning, from the concept to the visuals." Aespa never ceases to amaze, and it is a privilege to be a part of this journey."

You stood back and observed as she continued to unbox and relate stories, your pride and affection for Bada surging in your chest. The studio walls seemed to dissolve, leaving only the virtual link between Bada and the fans.

The atmosphere shifted abruptly as Bada's eyes widened and she cautiously looked around. The realisation that someone was approaching set in, and a faint panic darted across her face. At that point, instinct took over and you entered the frame.

"Hello, Bada unnie! What's going on?" you asked, pretending to be surprised and doing your best to maintain the facade.

Bada's eyes met yours, a mix of relief and awe in her expression. "Oh, Y/N! "I was just unboxing the album and talking with  fans."

"Well, that sounds like fun!" "Do you mind if I join in?" You added, attempting to keep the situation lighthearted.

Bada's eyes opened briefly, but she swiftly recovered, nodding warmly. "Of course, Y/N! "The more, the better."

StarstruckbadaStan:Bada and Y/N, the unexpected dynamic duo. This is iconic! ✨👭

The dynamic shifted once more as you sat next her. The fans were now treated to an unexpected surprise – a live session featuring both the choreographer and one of Aespa's beloved member. The comments section erupted with joy, and Bada resumed the unpacking with ease, her eyes exchanging flirtatious glances with yours.

"And now, for the grand reveal," Bada said, holding out the photo cards. The excitement in the comments section had reached a fever pitch. "Let's see whose face graced my cards this time."

As she flipped through the cards, the inevitable moment arrived. Bada's eyes widened, and she looked at you with a mixture of surprise and delight. "Well, look who we have here. It's Y/N's photo card!"

KpopLover_23:Bada holding Y/N's photo card! 😱 Is this a sign? Aespa's power couple rise! 🌟

BadaIsMyBias:Bada is so supportive! Y/N is lucky to have her as a friend. 😊💜

AlbumCollector_99:I NEED that Y/N photo card! Bada, can you make it happen? 🖊️📀

Y/NsGuardianAngel:Bada, you're the sweetest unnie ever! 😇💕

Fans celebrated the unexpected turn of events with a whirlwind of emojis and exclamations. Bada laughed, participating in the fun. "I suppose dreams do come true!" "Y/N, do you have any words for our incredible fans?"

You smiled, going along with the act. "Wow, what are the chances?" Thank you for your love and support. "We hope you enjoy this album as much as we enjoyed making it for you."

LoveStruckFan:Y/N and Bada, you both look adorable! 💖😘

The live session continued, with you and Bada exchanging honest and lively banter. As it came to a close, Bada addressed the viewers with a passionate emotion. "Thank you for being a part of this unexpected live." Your love means everything to us."

With that, the live session ended, leaving behind a trail of excited fans and a studio filled with the lingering warmth of shared secrets. As the virtual stage faded away, you and Bada exchanged a knowing look, your unspoken bond stronger than ever.

Bada turned to you with a sweet smile in the calm aftermath. "That was unexpected, but enjoyable. I guess our secret is safe for now."

You nodded, your eyes reflecting the shared journey that brought you to this point. "Safe and sound, just like us."

The world outside the studio continued to buzz with the anticipation of Aespa's latest release. Little did the fans know that beyond the dazzling performances and flawless choreography, a secret love story unfolded – a story hidden within the beats and melodies of the albums they cherished. The city of Seoul held its breath, unaware of the intimate dance that continued to unfold behind the stage lights, a dance that spoke of love, dedication, and the unbreakable bond between an idol and her choreographer.

[plutosunshine]

Planets in the 7th house

Where do you need to find balance?

Sun in the 7th house

You need to find a balance between your real self and what you want to show the world. You are a bit afraid that people won't see your talents and true self. That is why sometimes you are trying too hard to show your talents. Also, you need to find a balance between your identity and others. I mean that you have people-pleasing tendencies and it doesn’t allow your inner sun to shine at times. Also, you need to harmonize your level of energy. Sometimes you don’t focus on the right things and your energy just flows away. If you find ways to focus on important things, you may become extremely successful.

Moon in the 7th house

Of course, you saw it coming. Emotions. Feelings. Inner needs. It is where you need to find balance. Sometimes you rely too much on your emotional side and it doesn’t allow you to see the whole picture. Also, you may rely too much on your partner. Moon in the 7th house needs to find a way how to deal with feelings and subconscious needs. Harmonize your irrational side and allow yourself to be at peace with your inner world.

Mercury in the 7th house

You need to harmonize your busy and anxious sides. Let me explain. You have a lot of thoughts that sometimes lead to overthinking and anxiety. That is why you need to find ways to calm your mind down. Any calming and focusing technics may help. Also, when your mind is not busy, you are! You always find what to do even if it is something not so important. And this drains your energy and increases your level of anxiety.

Venus in the 7th house

Venus is all about balance itself. Your life needs to be peaceful and harmonized. Your love life and any one-to-one relationship need to be harmonious and balanced. Also, it is very important to work on your self-esteem because it tends to have its ups and downs. You need to harmonize your system of values so that you can move forward without any hesitation. You may be prone to overspending and this is also the area you need to balance out.

Mars in the 7th house

You need to find a balance between your passionate desire to achieve things and your lack of motivation. You may feel powerless at times and these swings don’t help you to progress. It is very important to find ways to keep your motivation and drive on one level. You may have an all-or-nothing attitude at times but it only leads to episodes of lack of energy and motivation. Also, the area you need to find balance in is your ambitions. You want to prove to others your worth and it is very good but it is important to find balance here so that you won't be disappointed in the future.

Jupiter in the 7th house

You need to harmonize your tendency to overdo things. Jupiter is the planet of expansion so sometimes you don’t even notice how you are doing too much. Too much food, too much work, too much anything! Because of overdoing things, you feel a lack of energy and motivation at times. That is why it is so important to find balance here! You need to find ways to stabilize this side of yourself.

Saturn in the 7th house

You need to balance out your perception of yourself. You are too critical of yourself at times and it doesn’t allow you to progress and live freely. You need to let go of extremely high expectations from yourself. You are already doing great and there is no need to push yourself too hard. Also, you need to harmonize your critical and at times pessimistic attitude to the obstacles you are going through. Trust the universe and try to balance intuition and logic so that they could work together for the best.

Neptune in the 7th house

You need to find a balance between reality and imagination. You can’t see the whole picture at times and you rely on your intuition too much. I know your intuition is strong and real but sometimes it needs to work with logic too. You need to distinguish what is real and what you want to be real. Also, don’t sacrifice too much for the good of your close ones. It is a good thing but you need to find balance in this area.

Uranus in the 7th house

You need to find a balance between spontaneity and inaction. Your desires appear as quickly as disappear and you need to find ways to catch the ideas and settle them down. It is not so easy for this placement because you want to just follow your sudden bursts of energy but if you find a way to focus on holding it, you can reach great success. I know it is hard and maybe you need to do it with breaks and stops to continue the idea. However, if you work with your idea till the end, you won't feel unworthy and useless.

Pluto in the 7th house

You need to harmonize your all-or-nothing attitude. If you like something, you tend to spend a lot of energy on it until it drains you. It is important to keep energy and passion on one level. This is difficult but worth trying. Also, you need to harmonize your emotional side which is so intense and passionate that you feel overwhelmed at times. In addition, your tendency not to trust your partner may be insane. You need to find ways to create a deeper bond without fear.

[sukunas-wife]

I love Gojo to en extent but I can’t write him for anything 😭🤧

Master list

In this moment you looked like the perfect future bride. You had inherited your mothers graceful and soft features, your fathers stubborn heart and his ambition. Yet here you stood under the cherry blossom orchid with your oil paper umbrella blocking the sun from your eyes. Your Kimonos silk was glowing under the son. Vibrant Red with gold, the only colour you had long ago fell in love with.

That was until you stepped off of the guzei onto one of the small islands and you heard a voice call after you.

It was a boy without a doubt, you stopped looking back over your shoulder with an unamused expression. There he stood, Satoru Gojo, he broke out into the biggest smile, “Here I thought you were going to ignore me.” His head tilted to the side when you rolled your eyes with a smile.

”If you would have been any other man I would have gladly neglected you and have kept on walking. Even then, you are the most self assured, persistent and stubborn man I have ever met. If I had chosen to walk away there’s no doubt in my mind you would not allow me to do so peacefully.” Your words were like the fine notes of a Koto on summer nights played to appease and impress your fathers guests.

“A long time has passed since your last visit, Satoru. I assume you enjoy keeping me waiting like a pet waiting for its master's return.”

His strides were long and elegant as he approached you, he held his head high and his chest out, constantly looking like he was walking with purpose. That was one of his favourable attributes. You turned completely to face him, your paper umbrella twirling slowly behind you in your fidgeting fingers. He stood before you, leaving minimal space, leaning forward at eye level with you. He wore a special pair of spectacles hand crafted for him, they were dark and blocking the view of his face. Your hands came up, finger tips grazing the sides of his face, before they moved slowly over his cheeks to the frames of his glasses, he hummed, “hmm?”

Your lips were parted slightly but the words were caught on your tongue. Satoru brought his hands up over yours guiding them to pull his spectacles down. Looking into his eyes would never not be accompanied by a foreign feeling. Pools of glistening crystal waters under the sun couldn’t compare to his cerulean eyes, the sky in its finest blue would forever be overcast compared to his eyes. It was unworldly how his eyes always seemed to gleam and sparkle. His eyes were ethereal, a capture of heaven, he was a true blessing incarnated to live amongst men.

You didn’t look away from his eyes until you felt his hands slide down your side to hold your waist. You turned your head to look down when he pulled you closer, you didn’t miss the exhaustion in his eyes before you were held against his chest, resting his chin on your head as he crossed his arms over your waist keeping you firm against his chest.

“Now, tell me everything you have done while I was away. I want to hear every detail and every word of your past days, I’m sure you were lonely without my company.” You could hear his heart covered by his cheeky laugh, he was warm and smelt like spring. Still you felt the heat on your cheeks, how could you tell him while he was away you weren't too lonely because you had the company of another man? You hadn’t committed any form of scandalous action, yet even having the red eyed man sneak into your chambers at night to share a bottle of stolen sake accompanied by hushed conversations. You remember the feeling of his lips on yours, trailing over your jaw and down your neck with hot kisses, the feeling of his heat and the way he’d nip at your neck, spreading your Junihitoe open just a bit further so he could kiss your collarbone and shoulders. As much as he loved to bring hell to earth, you were one thing he wouldn’t dare cast into the fires, so he would always settle for bruising and nipping at the skin of your shoulders, and the lowest part of your collar bones that he knew you would never show so freely to anyone.

“I..” you hesitated, “my days were vast and uneventful. I was visited to be fitted for new robes for the summer season, I was given many things to bless our future���” Satoru hummed when you leaned your head against him, you closed your parasol holding it down by your side. “I know Satoru, that in tradition, you would spend days out and nights by my side. But, I really wish you would take some of these gifts to your own family's garden, for when you are unable to return to my side you will have me in memory.” He stayed silent, swaying you ever so lightly. “Choose any gifts you wish for me to take when I depart in the morning and I assure you I will find the perfect place for you to admire them when the chance comes for me to take you to my family home.” You pulled away to look up at him, he smiled down at you, “I will choose the best ones that remind me of home.”

one of his hands ran up your back in a comforting manner, “Let me take you inside, in all this fabric you are sure to faint under the heat of the sun.” You nodded, taking the hand he offered you, letting him walk you back. You smiled, staring at him with admiration as he told you his stories of convincing other nobles that if they were to rise up it would immediately become their downfall.

—- —- —- —- —- —-

You stood by your moms side, yawning and looking around, you looked up at her. You were waiting at the entrance of your family's home. You were tired from having tracked down the fireflies you had set free the night before. Your mother kept her hands tucked away in her sleeves, you still had no idea why you were here, or what was going on until you heard the approaching steps. A group of guards, a Palanquin, Lady servants, another Palanquin, another group of guards. They set the palanquins down, the first one opened, out came a tall man with pale blue eyes and white hair, he was elegant. A handsome man, he turned offering a hand to the Palanquin, a dainty hand reached out to take his, she was a beautiful woman, she had pale blue eyes with long black hair. She was very slender, but looking at her you knew she had an air of confidence, maybe a bit much. She let her husband's hand go; they both did a courtesy greeting. You did the same following your parents' example. Finally the Second palanquin opened, out came a pale boy, white hair and blue eyes, he stood there looking around unimpressed, before he introduced himself in a way that was supposed to be respectful but came off as arrogant, you looked up at your parents and didn’t miss the eyes they gave each other. He was interesting in your eyes, you’d never met someone your age to talk so casually and open in that manner to adults. As if he were in the same ranking as them, maybe even superior. None the less you were intrigued but you couldn’t even get him to look in your direction to wave or smile.

“Thank you for allowing us to host your family Lord and Lady Gojo, it’s an honour to have you congregate within our estate walls.” The palanquin holders were quick to move out of the way at the announcements of a new arrival.

In the eyes of every grown man and woman the sight was an ominous warning. It was a massive shining black palanquin, casting shadows where it passed. It was shaped like a shrine with gold accents. It was held up by 12 sturdy looking men, 6 samurai in black armour with gold trim lead, 6 samurai with black armour and gold trim followed from behind. You couldn’t help but stare in awe, the former family had entered gracefully almost quietly. But this family, they entered boldly, almost demanding attention, as if proving how powerful they were.

Your little heart was beating against your chest, the large black doors were slowly pulled open showing the bright red and gold interior. Finally a large frame came out, You swallowed seeing the intimidating figure. He was tall, broad, he looked as if your father neither Lord Gojo would be able to handle him in battle. He had pink hair loosely slicked back, he had markings on his face, but the right side of his face had scarring around his eye. His robes were black loosely tied, his expression was blank, calculating, casting judgement until he saw your parents, his eyes landing on you, those vibrant red eyes... You hadn’t realised you had moved to stand behind your mom peeking around her. His stare did not move from you, you felt a wind of confidence and moved from behind your mother and smiled at him. The edges of his mouth twitched up slightly in amusement, a sound like a satisfied scoff escaped his chest.

He turned his head to look back at the palanquin, out came a familiar face, long white hair, lifeless black eyes, tall and scary. You ducked your head not wanting to see the man again until you saw a second head of pink moving around. You quickly took your moms hand tugging on it when you saw him, Sukuna. He stepped out and stood by his father, eyeing Imuzu to move away. Imuzu looked displeased but stepped aside, giving Sukuna more space. Your mother was right that night, he was a mini version of his father. He managed to lock eye contact with you, you smiled giving a small wave. He looked a little bi longer, he didn’t wave back but you wanted to say you saw him smile even if it wasn’t noticeable. He was quick to follow his fathers when he greeted your family in a courteous manner. Your father gave them the same greeting adding on “I am grateful to your family, to you, and to your son for helping my daughter return home. You saved us from what could have been grief, anguish, and years of sorrow. For that we are grateful, should you have any request in which I am capable of assisting, please, bring it to my knowledge and I will do all in my power to assist you. Thank you Lord Sukuna and Thank you Young Lord Sukuna.”

Tag: @sadmonke @bumbles277353 🤍

[max1461]

[Rant-post, almost certainly presented in an overly, uh... absolutist way? An overly harsh or inflammatory way? Idk. At the very least there are parts of this I would probably add significant nuance to]

I've never shoplifted, but it's also in a large class of "bad" behaviors that I don't really give a shit one way or the other if people do. Another one of these would be like, cheating in school. And that latter example is one that nominally should come back to bite me, because my current career ambition is, you know, to go into academia (the legitimate way). But I still don't care when other people cheat.

Of course I'm talking about average cases here; obviously you could generate some sort of exception with an evil scientist and a sensor that blows up the earth if anyone shoplifts, or whatever.

But anyway, I want to go farther than this: it is not merely that I am indifferent to these behaviors, but rather that I think being indifferent these behaviors is a strong sign that your ethical intuitions comport with mine, and indicates that we may get along interpersonally, whereas that being strongly against these behaviors is a good sign that our worldviews are not so compatible (although hopefully we can still get along, of course).

I think that, when it comes to behavior towards others, I value above all else a tendency to non-interference. I have a strong feeling that I do not want to be involved in other people's business unless they give me a good reason to be, and I do not want them to get involved in mine. This supersedes any feeling of any social responsibility to police the behavior of the group for the better, or so on. I like to stay out of other people's business and I like people who stay out of other people's business. If someone in my community, like, commits a murder, the harm is grievous enough that I am sort of impelled to at the very least produce a judgment on the situation, and I will probably be drawn in in some capacity. But if some people in my community, idk, yell at each other or get into a fist fight or whatever, I would like strongly to remain a neutral party. And I do. It is even easier and more desirable to remain neutral when the "harm" of an action is significantly diffuse, as in shoplifting or cheating.

I associate excessive concern with diffuse harms like shoplifting or cheating with a micromanaging tendency, a desire to police the behavior of the group so that it may be engineered towards some positive outcome. I do not like this. It's why I'm a pretty strong of free speech absolutist. Worrying a lot about shoplifting is like worrying a lot about who is allowed to say "queer". You might contend "but shoplifting is actually harmfully, whereas people calling themselves queer or whatever does no harm!" I contend "by even going through the ethical calculation, you're walking a road I won't follow". I don't care if the world is a little worse when the wrong people say "queer". Even if the exclusionists or whatever were right on a factual level I would not care. The would can be a little worse, if that's the price of you not fucking with me and me not having to fuck with you.

I'm a socialist for a lot of reasons. One of them is that I think poverty often rises to the level of "grievous harm", like murder, that we are compelled to get involved in. Another is that I think property rights are often closer to "annoying interference with other's behavior" than they are to "bulwark against annoying interference". This is where I diverge from right-libertarians. You all know this, this is the deadest-beaten-horse on this fucking blog.

At a basic level I don't care what other people do, I truly deeply don't care what other people do, and I truly do not want to care. Leaving people alone is a very high virtue, and I practice it, and I like when people practice it with me.

This is I think the heart of what looks paradoxical to a lot of people in my ethics. Cheat on your test, shoplift, run your shower too long and waste water, yell offensive shit on the street, I won't stop you or try stop you. But I refuse to ever kill a single insect, and I'm dubious about the ethics of training dogs or keeping indoor cats, and I'm kinda on board with the cultures that think its rude to talk to strangers in public. I don't know.

[leonstoenailunderhisbed]

Lately, I’ve been thinking about Leon, Ada, and Claire. Especially on their relationships because I think they’re pretty interrelating so here’s another analysis made by yours truly <3

TW: mentions of mental illnesses, MY OPINION! + observations. This is strictly based on my knowledge. I’m majoring in English- doesn’t mean I’m 100% correct, it just means I’m pointing out some things that I thought were pretty cool. Take this with a grain of salt.

So I actually propose that we bring the color theory into play, mainly between Leon, Claire, and Ada.

In RE2R and in Infinite Darkness (death island too but I’ve yet to watch it), Leon is portrayed as blue. (His RPD uniform and his suit/jacket) back in my English class (film vs book) we talked about the different types of people and how the author/creator purposefully assigns a character a specific color.

By majority belief, the color blue represents sadness and often times calmness as well. However, I have a different view on why CAPCOM seems to love Leon in winter colors (blue/green/purple)

Leon is the definition of the Blue Character Theory- these types of characters are compassionate, loyal, confident, and can manage their emotions (keep it cool in other words) but sometimes these characters are prone to become over emotional (depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, etc.) and I actually wrote a small paragraph on Leon in infinite darkness about this because I found it so interesting that Leon- a cool and reserved guy, has these complicated emotions welled up inside him and one of the only ways we can tell is by the color of his representation. (Think of Euphoria and how colors really affected the way the characters act, especially Maddy and Cassie and how different they are.)

I’m also going to be hella bold and say that his eyes are a CLEAR representation on his character by color analysis. His eyes are blue, not only because he’s a white man- but because the “eyes are the windows to the soul” thing really does help us understand him better. They clearly did this on purpose to let the viewer catch a glimpse at Leon’s raw personality. His eyes are very expressive if you really REALLY analyze them.

And when you bring someone who is represented by the color red (Claire and Ada) there’s already an established connection between the two. Although Claire and Ada are way too different in personalities, I like to believe that they both have at least the same level of ambition, stubbornness and leadership. Red characters are known to lead or take matters into their own hands when the world is against them. If no one is going to help them then they’ll do it themselves.

In ID, Claire did her own investigation. She took charge and decided to that if no one would help her, including Leon, then she’ll just do whatever she can with the power she has. Ada is similar in that aspect. Ada has a way of getting things done her way, just like Claire. She uses the art of manipulation to make sure her plans are fulfilled, even if it means at the cost of others. She’s ambitious and goal-driven, much like Claire.

CAPCOM represents the two women in explicitly red or at least with red items (hair, dress, shoes, etc.) it makes me believe that they know what they’re doing when it comes to giving characters their own individuality.

Now, we know that blue and red are complementary colors based on the color wheel.

But we also know that Leon and Ada don’t really have a healthy relationship (I’ll get to this in another post near the future once I’ve got evidence) which is contrasting to Leon and Claire’s relationship. Which prompted the question: Why?

I mean, yeah Claire is Chris’s sister and by affiliation Leon enjoys her company. But it is also clear that the two of them worked very well back in RE2R (the fence scene) their chemistry and tension was high but when he’s with Ada, it seems different.

It is no doubt that Leon had/has (? I’m just as confused as bro tbh) a crush on Ada. I read somewhere from the notes on Leon that he was actually glad to have seen Ada in RE4R (not too sure for RE4OG since almost everything is about the remake)

CAPCOM purposefully follows the Red Oni/Blue Oni trope (a Japanese folk tale, shout-out to my professor for putting me on that) but what why are there two red ones and one blue one? Is CAPCOM keeping their choices open for Leon’s potential love life? I can’t say for sure what’ll happen or what everything means because this is something I over analyzed.

Remember, I’m only an English major student, I still believe my observations are pretty vague or at least a little bit underdeveloped. Hopefully sometime near the future I can make better analysis 🙏🏼

Also, tysm for all the amazing comments and reblogs 🥹🙏🏼 idk how to reply to reblogs but I really do appreciate the fact that you guys like my fics. I promise I have more to write (I have a list in my notes app lmao)

[galedekarios]

honestly, it's just for a bit of fun and to explore the dynamic! it's not a dynamic i see skipping off into the sunset together, but as incredibly interesting nonetheless.

it started when i was talking with friends about how their dynamic might be and that i'd love to be a fly on the wall when raphael and gale talk.

they both strike me as very refined, very verbose, very intelligent. i think they'd have really sharp and witty interactions, where one thinks they are outsmarting the other.

like i first started to think about the potential in their dynamic after gale's convo where you meet raphael for the first time, seeing right through him and what raphael actually says and wants, and trying to figure out a way to beat the devil at his own game ("what is human is fallible.") and in early access, gale could approach raphael to make a deal of his own if you don't help gale getting magical artefacts to consume.

i can see (an origin) gale approaching raphael to find out more. about the tadpoles. about the orb. especially once the artefacts stop working.

i can see them drinking tea or a fine vintage red together and chatting rather pleasantly, even though it's really like... verbal warfare between a high int, genius level wizard and the literal devil.

raphael is so eloquent, whip-smart and clearly appreciates the finer things in life and gale does as well. literature, poetry. knowledge. ambition.

gale is one of the few companions who will not dismiss raphael's offer at salvation right off the bat, but rather argues that they should look deeper, look into his motives, what raphael wants and how the group can use that to their advantage:

"But let me play the devil deal's advocate:  the man is too eager. Do not dismiss his offer out of hand. Raphael is a cambion, which makes him part human. And what is human, is fallible. Fact one: there's something very strange and very powerful about our tadpoles. Fact two: a devil offers to take it away. What if the tadpole is what he really wants instead of the customary price that is our souls? If I'm right, there's a mighty bargain to be made. Remember his Cormyrian rhyme? 'Down came the claw'. Perhaps we should start growing our nails."

plot twist: gale actually does outsmart raphael, and raphael is like

so, all of that that then led me down the path to more self-indulgent hcs, like "what if raphael and gale knew each other before we meet either of them in the game?" and i thought about two scenarios:

their first meeting at one of those rather fancy wizard balls in waterdeep that gale talks about attending ("mine was a popular hand at the annual blackstaff ball."). we know raphael has portals to all major cities and places, waterdeep included, and is keen on finding people with potential and power, making his connections across the worlds.

perhaps raphael sensed the potential there because we know that gale was brimming with it before being brought down low by the orb.

i had the clearest picture of gale taking a breather gale a breather on a balcony and then there's this sudden acrid smell of sulphur in the air.

"my, my, what manner of place is this?"

(he's a loser and still uses the same line years later in the middle of nowhere, on the road to baldur's gate.)

the other scenario i really enjoyed was thinking about the second meeting perhaps, after gale rebuffed him before, perhaps (stragically on raphael's part) a few weeks after gale has acquired the orb.

"and so we meet again! i can offer you help, my dear, with your... matter of the heart," whether he means the falling out with mystra or whether he knows about the orb remains unclear until raphael taps his chest, the very same spot where on gale's own the scars the orb left behind can be seen.

raphael offers salvation. temptation. yet gale declines for now. he had just made one grave mistake, he's not about to make another just as disastrous one.

yet.

and raphael leaves, graciously accepting the dismissal, but not without leaving behind a little piece of brimstone. a calling card, if you will.

ANYHOW. sorry for rambling you've just enabled my crack ship fixation that i've had since ea came out, lol.

i will leave you with this thought and then shut up:

you know what gale/raphael is prime material for? hand kisses. like, a low bow, a kiss on the hand, and that slow glance up at the other.

[crimeronan]

can i ask what amity’s canon deal is?

just read the fragile facade you show to me

oh for sure!! this question Delights me. i actually tried to rein this infodump in but as you can see it got kind of long. obviously spoilers for the whole of toh ahead

canon amity is introduced as an overachieving school bully who is incredibly nasty to luz's first friend in the demon realm, willow. she's being mentored by lilith, who leads the emperor's coven, and is on the path to join + lead the emperor's coven herself someday. this would mean having immense social power but also being directly under the emperor's very fascist thumb.

in the canon, luz stumbles into the isles at age 14 and meets amity at demon high school; amity promptly tries to get her killed due to insane jealousy antics, but then the two of them enter a rivalry-turned-shaky-friendship instead. amity realizes over time that she's been Kind Of The Worst and starts trying to make better choices. she also has a falling-out with lilith when lilith makes her cheat in a witch's duel with luz, bc amity values honesty/fairness A Lot. that knocks her pretty squarely off the Emperor's Coven Ambitions path.

(which is funny given that she's introduced as just being. So Awful. amity please consider any of your unfair biases for 2 seconds challenge level IMPOSSIBLE)

it turns out that amity's mother is a Viciously abusive and classist social climber who has been hyper-controlling of every aspect of amity's life, including who she associates with and what she prioritizes and what her goals are. so a lot of amity's season one arc is about redefining who she is, what she wants, and who she cares about. and distancing herself from her parents. and making amends for her bullshit. and being desperately pathetically Embarrassingly head-over-heels for luz.

season 2 kicks off with amity's mom trying to kill luz, in part over Corrupting Their Daughter. this isn't even a homophobia thing this is just a classism thing. & amity Fully breaking from her parents' influence and fighting back against them to save luz's life. it's incredibly gay and involves her snarling "stay away from MY LUZ" be still my beating heart.

amity meets hunter later as an enemy. canon luz is aligned with wild witches, who are very much traitors to the empire. canon luz loves committing treason and fucking with the empire. amity and luz are dating at this point. amity is therefore now down to aid and abet her in Anything

amity and hunter spend the beginning of the episode psychologically fucking with each other because they both have The Exact Same Neuroses around needing to be Useful and Good Enough. then amity recognizes that hunter is actually Very Very Suicidal and Very Very Reckless in ways she herself once was; she offers him help and is basically like, "hey, i've been abused, too, but it's gonna be okay. come with me and my found family can help you."

hunter, who accepted similar kindness from luz earlier and Immediately got in terrible trouble with belos for it, is like .....hmm... maybe. i'm considering it.

then he realizes that amity has a magical object that belos needs & is like HAHA WAIT. NEVER MIND ACTUALLY. I CAN GET THE EMPEROR'S APPROVAL BACK IF I JUST TRY TO KILL YOU INSTEAD the two of them have a Wild and Desperate fight that ends in amity holding a knife to an exhausted hunter's throat & hunter telling her that if she escapes or kills him, the empire will slaughter luz in retaliation. checkmate!

hunter you suck so bad good god!

amity and hunter bury the hatchet about this offscreen later, though. there's very little ongoing animosity between them in the canon bc from a doylist perspective, there wasn't time to flesh out an entire onscreen talk about feelings; from a watsonian perspective, amity is just like, "yeah man, i tried to kill luz the first time i met her, i get it. you were crazy. i have been crazy before. we're all good"

endgame amity is fighting against the empire and against her mother alongside luz n luz's found family. four years into the future in the show's epilogue, amity is living a cheerful life as a wild witch inventor-slash-adventurer who is in a happy relationship with luz, who has made up with the friends she lost in high school, and who hangs out in giant cuddle puddles of said friends (including hunter) at least once per week, usually more. she's cast off her high school ambitions and is much MUCH happier and healthier.

so the princess AU is basically just positing that if amity DIDN'T meet luz at age 14, she would have continued down the path she'd started out on instead. which would have meant selling her soul to become an emperor's coven soldier and, just. becoming the loneliest most miserable bitch alive.

[thecameronchronicles]

Warmth

TW: Smut. Language. Teasing. Dirty Talk. 

SUMMARY: A midnight rendezvous with your secret boyfriend nearly reveals your relationship to the other pogues on a cold winter night. 

WORD COUNT: 2000

REQUESTED

Crafted for @xtom-darling-x17

Warmth

“I’ve been waiting for this all day…” He spoke nuzzled into your neck, his breath sending your skin to chill beneath his words as he stood behind you within the center of The Chateau. The sensation of his fingers at a rest at your curved hips, prompted you to face him, the lights from the nearby Christmas tree acting as the only illumination to his heartbreak eyes and adorable freckles only visible when standing this close. But in his attempt to connect your lips with the absence you’d both been forced to endure all day, you would retract at the final second. 

“You don’t want to kiss me?” He asked with his eyes stationed at your smirk, widening as he pulled you tighter into him. His entire body collecting you against his tight frame, an arrival of a specific nether rigidity making you blush to know you could excite him this quickly. 

“JJ is-”

“Sleeping.”

“And Kiara..” You looked at the direction of the door. 

“Is back on Figure Eight…and you…” With hands devoted to your body, you were guided to the direction of the couch, just a few meters behind your stationed steps, “Are running out of excuses…”

“I just don’t want anybody to interrupt us again…” You reminded him of the previous day, where you had been intertwined and on the cusp of that orgasmic release, only to have Pope pull him away at the last second. 

“Well baby…” Your calves were now flush with the couch as he guided his pointer finger into a bend beneath your jaw until your wide eyes met with his, heavy with lust, “We just have to find a way to keep you quiet…” Before you could object, you were lifted around him in an effortless ascension before leveling with him as he set you in a straddle upon the couch. Immediately, his lips were at a savor to your own, a tongue brushing your mouth apart to relish in how quickly you were made breathless for him. 

“You’re already shaking?” He teased as you looked to the direction of the window of the Chateau littered with condensation from the shift of weather seemingly approaching overnight. The warm Carolina heat had shifted rapidly into the bitter cold of this winter night, with only his touch acting as a source of heat to an otherwise frigid abode. 

“I’m cold…”

“Good thing I know just how to make you warm…” He explained, lifting you high enough with one arm to lower you back down onto his fingers, “And wet…” He smirked, your cheeks furthering a blush. But as your lips parted to showcase how those very fingers made you feel, the low groan would be a reason he kept you still over him. 

“Baby…Unless you want JJ to wake up and hear how deep my fingers are-” You interrupted him by forcing him further back into the fabric of the couch, your own touch altered from his shoulders and into the material supporting you both. 

“I’ll be quiet…” You spoke quickly, riding into his fingers as he smirked beneath you. He allowed you the pleasure of your selfish ambitions for only a moment before shaking his head. 

“Don’t make promises you can’t keep…we both know you always want to scream for me…” Once again, his quick motions would be a reason you could not respond, as you were rolled onto your back. Legs pulled to his hips, his fingers returned to your sex long enough to source just how wet he’d made you. 

“God, you could take me so deep right now…quick too…But I’m going to take my time…” He kissed you softly while his fingers began to run in a trace beneath your sweater. The idea of being naked beneath such temperatures had been less than desirable, but was quickly accommodated by the heat of his lips in a parade from your mouth and down to your navel. 

“You think you can be quiet?” He asked, removing your plaid bottoms as you swallowed hard. The reason for such nervousness came from the way he looked at you from between your thighs. A soft kiss to the part made by his hips having made you well aware of his own intentions. 

“I-”

“Doesn’t matter…I need to taste my sweet girl…” Your panties were taken to the side, his impatience keeping you somewhat dressed, as his eyes took stock in the sight of your breasts in a heave of anticipation to his lips already approaching your sex. 

“I don’t want you to make a sound until you come…” He explained, folding your legs over his shoulders until they were dependent on his back, your toes already curling to the sight of him licking his lips to you. 

“That way you won’t be interrupted.” You bit your lips closed as your eyes fluttered in a synonymous rest of the feeling of his tongue in stride against your lower lips. He began at a slow pace, running through your lower lips to bask in the way you tasted for him. A taste only he knew. Even if nobody could know this, you both had, and that, in itself, was enough for him. 

As his speed increased, his tongue darting in and out of your entrance to imitate what was to come, your fingers ran through the messy tresses as a way to release your tensions by pulling on his hair. But to further your torment and initial resistance, your hands were taken at a gathering of your wrists and used to hold you flat beneath him. 

“John B-”

“I’m not stopping…So you better be quiet unless you want JJ to see how you look when you come…He’s going to know how you sound here in a minute if you don’t-” You couldn’t take his teasing or his sensations a moment longer. You pulled him to you, taking hold of the tie keeping his sweats in place, before he collected your wrist. 

“I don’t think so, baby-”

“Please…I need to feel you…”

“I know you’re close…I can taste it…” He smirked, proud of his remark, as you bit your bottom lip at the sight. 

“But I think I want to have you warm me up a bit…”

“I’m trying…” You whined, reaching your other hand to his shaft, but he only smirked. 

“With those pretty little lips, baby…I’ve been thinking about them wrapped around me all day.” You were quick to oblige as he assisted you to your knees. 

“Can YOU be quiet?”

“Why don’t you find out?” He leaned forward to taunt a kiss, before you pushed him back to the couch before he could commit. Just as he had apparently thought of this, you had shared this fantasy, making this evident as you took him behind your eager lips. 

Similar to how he had begun, you had done so sweetly, savoring him as he had done to you. But rather quickly, you began a pace that made it difficult for him to remain still, let alone keep silent. Grunts and curses were expressed behind clenched teeth as you ignored that damned gag reflex that seemed nonexistent in contrast to your need to please him. 

“Baby, slow down…I’m gonna come…fuck…You’re too good-” The door to the bedroom JJ claimed as his own crept open as it did nothign to deter you. John B stiffened beneath you as you only shook your head to speak silently how you would not cease for even a moment. Tearful eyes both challenging and submissive would be cause for him to lift you back over him. But this was momentary as you were taken onto your back, his cock at a threat to your opening, as his hand came over your mouth. 

“You make one sound and he’ll know how good you sound finally getting what you deserve.” He looked at the illumination of the bathroom light coming on with the sound of a nighttime release being enough to keep John B stilled over you. But the temptation was too great and you used the wrap of your ankles around the backs of his thighs to pull him inside of you. 

“What if he sees you-”

“I don’t care.” You spoke into his palm that fell loose enough to hear your words. 

“I do. I don’t want anyone else to know how your sound so fucking sweet when you come…and the way your eyes roll when I hit THAT spot…” He moved in slow movements, his cock stretching you in that familiar pull, all while you were forced to endure his dominance over you. “Yes…THAT one…” And just as he had predicted, your eyes pulled into a roll as he returned his hand over your mouth. 

“I wanted to take my time with you…” His second hand came to your breast, elbows supporting him from crushing you, as he remained close enough to feel the jackhammering excitement of his heart. 

“But you just had to take me like that on your knees, right? Couldn’t help yourself for making me wanna come?” You nodded. 

“So you’ll understand why I’m not waiting another fucking second.” He rutted up into you, your body at the mercy of the couch and his merciless mistoning. Meanwhile, JJ was at risk of observing any of your motions as a curious squeak of the couch caused by your mutual weight was reason enough to look beyond the curve of the hallway. But as he emerged to return to his slumber, John B removed his hand. 

“If you want your brother to hear you, that’s up to you,” He spoke breathlessly. “But either way, you’re coming for me…Whether we have an audience or not…” Your back attempted to arch to the connection of his fingers to your clit, ambitious and direct, as you trembled beneath him. 

“John B…I’m gonna come-”

“Say it again.”

“I’m coming…” You gasped, trying to remain silent as he only quickened his motions. 

“Fuck, you’re gonna make me, baby…You’re so fucking tight for me…”

Your nails against his arms, clawing into the bare skin, had been an outlet for the vocality you couldn’t allow. Not if you wanted to keep John B in tact as you knew JJ wouldn’t let this continue if he knew. And for that, you used every muscle to keep from being discovered. Even as he continued through your high to find his own, your body granting it to him rather quickly, you managed to do so. 

“Sweet jesus…” He rested his forehead against your chest, kissing just above your heart, before leading those kisses up your neck and back to your lips. A deep french kiss would leave you breathless once again as he adjusted you against his chest. 

“Are you warm now, baby?”

“More than.”

“Yeah…And soaked…” You blushed. 

“Whose fault is that?” You retorted as he smirked. 

“But you’re still shaking,” He cast his jaw to the side as his fingers climbed your hip and back between your sex. 

“Looks like you're still a bit too cold…” Your hand wrapped around his wrist. 

“It’s too sensitive…” But he only forced your legs apart wider by the use of his own as it had been your thighs in such a way that made this possible. 

“But I’m still cold, baby…You made my face warm and my cock is definitely toasty…but my fingers…see how cold they are?” You groaned to the slow penetration made by his digits. 

“This time, you make a single sound and I stop…I want to watch you come for me…” And you would. Twice over as once was simply not enough. The lights from the tree mirrored in your lust-blown eyes as you were taken tighter against his chest as you were too spent to move. 

“There. Perfectly warm.” He rubbed his hands down your arms until you fell asleep on his chest shameless to be seen this way if it were to come to that, as you were too wrapped in admiration for the man you loved to care. 

Taglist: @hopebaker @iovdrew @penny4yourthoughts @magnificantmermaid @pickingviolets @lovedetlost @trikigirl271 @maybankslover @slut4starkey @slvtherinseeker @obxiskewl @bluesongbird @slut-era @ailee-celeste @camilynn @sweetestdesire @onmykneesforrafe @drews1love @phildunphyisadilf

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[elysiansparadise]

Hi, I have a doubt with regards to astrology. I have my Sun in Taurus, Saturn, Jupiter and Mercury all in my 11th house in the sign of gemini. I've never had a lot of friends, never been community oriented and been a loner for most of my life... This is why I can never take astrology seriously. Cause my chart doesn't even resonate with me at the most basic level...May I have your thoughts on this, please?

Chart type: Western, Placidus

Hello, I would like to give you my point of view on this.

The first thing is to understand the basics. The 11th house is the house of Aquarius, so the energy is similar in some aspects. Aquarius energy, although it’s said to be extroverted, is a sign that is independent par excellence and usually needs time alone. 

A house covers different aspects of the native's life, so summarizing the 11th house to be the house of friendships or communities would be leaving various aspects aside. The next thing would be to understand that other aspects govern the 11th house. Here are some other themes that are attributed to this house:

🟫The internet and technology: This house can represent from how much time we invest in the internet, to how we project ourselves on the internet. A stellium in this house could indicate a person who tends to spend a lot of time using social networks or whose hobbies are related to the use of some technology.

🟫Our long-term goals: Being a house that is not only originally ruled by Uranus, but also by Saturn, the issues of both houses are mixed, in this case the plans [Saturn] and the future [Uranus]. This house can represent what your long-term goals are, how you feel thinking and planning in the long term, or what your criteria and priorities are when making a plan.

🟫Aspirations, ambitions and desires: It represents those things that you want to achieve, create or even be out of your own conviction and not because of what someone dictates to you.

🟫Earnings, wealth and sources of income: That's right, money is not only a matter of the 2nd house, this house usually represents both in Tropical astrology and in Vedic astrology what your main sources of income can be.

🟫The causes you support: In this case, they are the ones that you fight the most to support or the ones that you fervently defend, it can even indicate charity.

🟫How do you perceive humanity: It is a general vision of society as a whole, it indicates your opinions regarding the society in which you operate, the people and the world.

The next thing is to understand what effects having a Stellium in this house can have. It should be clarified that the Stelliums are neither good nor bad, rather they tell us about a sector of life that defines the native a lot or something in which the native focuses a lot throughout their life.

Feeling like an outsider: The native may feel that he does not fit in with people of his age, community or any group to which he belongs. A feeling of not being understood or integrated by others.

Ambition and desire to go far: It is likely that they manifest as a person who places high expectations on themselves and on what they want to achieve. They have long-term plans and want to do a lot of different things.

Anxiety and fear of the future: You may feel doubtful about the future and have a tendency to want to know what is going to happen. By having so many planets in a house that speak of the future, the native can focus too much on what is to come or it can happen that they limit themselves to living in the present.

Various economic incomes: These are people who are more likely to have either several jobs or obtain money in many different ways. They can be people who make money very easily [especially if Jupiter, Venus or Sun are involved]. It should be added that this can be when they start their professional life / when they are adults.

Popularity: This can be in their social life or in the internet world, natives can become recognized for some skill, for their charm or whatever they do on the internet.

The last thought that I will comment is that if you feel that you don't relate with Placidus, you can use whole signs. If we use whole signs and you have a Cancer rising, your planets in Gemini are placed in your 12th house, which could be more related to you, since 12th house energy is introverted and/or isolated.

Hope this helped, have a nice day ahead.

[ywpd-translations]

Ride 725: Towards a new trial!!

Pag 1

1: Sohoku will become even stronger!!

An injection of will-power to power up!!

Pag 2

1: The Izu Peninsula is a group of massifs perched on the Pacific Ocean, with a view of Mt. Fuji and Hakone

2: In the center of the peninsula there's the hot spring Shuzenji

3: Since a long time ago, a railway for the hot-springs has been made

4: And it made it prosper as a tourists attraction

5: About 10km east of Shuzenji, climbing a ridge in the mountains

Pag 3

1: There's the sports park circuit for bicycles

Pag 4

1: Ohh, woah.... it's so huge, teh

Waaaaa this is incredible Rokudai!!

2: A huge pylon!

It looks like an hotel from that anime with the cars

3: It's- it's huge, teh

Where should we run, I don't kow this level!

4: You've never come here, Kinaka-kun?

I... I've ran in races, but I only went as far as Saitama, it's the first time I come here!!

Pag 5

1: This is Shizuoka!!

When we in the car, we even saw Mt. Fuji...!!

2: Th-th-th that's Mt. Fuji, teh!!

Wooah, it's true! It's so huge! It's more huge than in pictures

3: The camera makes it look smaller

You're right, teh

5: They're in high spirits, those two

Yeah

Pag 6

1: They were chose for the quaolifiers.... and won...

Of course they're excited

3: Let's go, the meeting is soon, Furuya

Yeah, Murakami

5: From now, for the next four days, the training camp will start!!

Pag 7

1: Those of you who get injured or don't feel good, report it immediately

There's no need to overdo it, you can retire in the middle

2: So we can retire, too?

Yeah

I'm glad

3: However

4: This training campalso serves as a selection for the six members who will participate in the Inter High

5: Those of you who want to run in the national competition, the Inter High

6: those of you who want to make a name for themselves, those of you who want to contribute to the team, and those of you who have the secret ambition of playing a flashy active role....

Pag 8

1: Run with everything you have!!

Squeeze out beyond your limit!!

This training camp's finishing order...

2: The first

3: six people

5: Will be the Inter High members regulars!!

Pag 9

1: This course has a 5km long climb

The practice menu for these four days

2: is to run

Pag 10

1: 1000km!!

Pag 11

1: 1000km!

1000km

1000Km!!!

2: Running 1000km is the only practice menu!!

3: Kinaka-kun....!!

4: 1000km... don't tell me

5: Yeah, it's an impossible number

My father's family home is in Aomori, so every year we go there by car, and to go there by car it takes half a day

6: How far do you think it is from Chiba to Aomori!?

Pag 12

1: It's 700km!!

3: 1000km is 300km longer than that!!

4: It's longer.... than from Chiba.... to Aomori.... teh

5: And tht's not all

10: This training camp is simple but intense

Naruko-san said it

Pag 13

1: This electronic scoreboard will show the distance and number of laps accumulated

2: There's a chip installed on your bikes

3: So you'll know the individual number of laps and ranking

4: So I don't have to count them myself?

I'm glad, it'll be comforting

1000km, so, uhm...?

5: You can check after every lap

How many laps you did

6: And how many laps did the others!!

Pag 14

1: “How many laps the others did”..... that means that you can see your own rank on the eletronic scoreboard!!

You have opponents to fight.... in other words, this is a “race”!!

2: During this training camp

A race of 1000km....””

3: It's not just running, it's about how to reach the goal faster than the other members

4: We're being tested!!

5: No!! Wait, Kinaka- the third years are included too, and including both the second and third years, there's no way we can be in the top six!!

Furuya

6: If it's just running... then isn't this training camp is useless?

7: We're too much at a disadvantage!!

It's too much for us first years!!

Pag 15

1: No.... I don't think we have no chances at all!! At the end Naruko-san talked about “requirements”

I think those might become our breakthrough!!

2: Requirements”!!

3: Breakthrough!? How!?

Well.... somehow- I've been thinking about various things...

See, as expected it's impossible

4: As nexpected, Kinaka-kun is thinking about how to make a breakthrough, teh!!

5: The “requirements” for the training camp that the Sohoku racing team organized to work towards the Inter High....

6: How to run during the training camp is basically up to you

Think for yourself and run

Pag 16

1: But there is one “requirement”

Huh? A requirement, what is it!?

Like they'll give us handicaps?

2: Until now, in mine and Hotshot's personal experience in Sohoku training camp

3: many things were used to bind us and made each of us stronger

4: But we talked about it and decided not to use them this time

Those who want to do it can do it on their own accord

5: Instead of that

6: For the next 15 minutes, discuss with each other and choose a partner

Huh, a partner!?

Pag 17

1: The onw you choose will be your buddy for this training camp!!

3: Buddy!?

4: They a partner... who you'lll... run with?

Among us!?

Can I choose anyone?

5: What do we do?

Can we choose someone who's around as strong as us? How about that

6: Sure

Pag 18

1: “Fighting in pairs”

This is this training camps “requirements”!!

2: Kinaka-kun!!

3: Rokudai!!

Pag 19

1: I'll say it once again!! Will you run with me, Rokudai!?

Okay!! Yeah, teh!! Kinaka-kun!!

4: The stickers on their helmets!!

5: To make it easy to identify your chosen buddy, stick the same stickers on your helmets

6: Ugh... the two who participated in the qualifiers

Furuya, we can't lose either

Nogami!!

Pag 20

1: Being a pait means that we can protect each other from the wind

That's right

2: And we can cooperate with other pairs, as four people!!

Alright!! Let's settle aqnd run!! No, as six people!!

I have a feeling this is gonna be okay

4: The other first years wioll be a bit of an hindrance

I want to scatter them as soon as possible

5: Can I ask you that?

6: Kaburagi-san!!

Pag 21

2: As expected

3: I guess they started already

We're a little late

4: Sorry, Danchiku

No, it's alright....

5: Uhm... so it's really.... not good?

7: Yeah

It's better to stop

[dostoyevsky-official]

How Merve Emre became the hottest — and most divisive — name in literary criticism

Wherever Emre goes, for better or worse, she tends to turn heads. "Merve is the kind of literary 'it girl' of the moment," the senior editor, who's worked with Emre, said. "Everyone's jealous of her because she's extremely prolific, extremely productive, extremely beautiful. And she also is very polarizing. And I think that she is polarizing in great part because she is so prolific and so beautiful." 

[...] "She's somebody who shows you why you might really love something rather than show why you shouldn't love it at all," Michael Roth, the president of Wesleyan University, said. Reading Emre on an author she loves is like listening to someone describe the honeymoon phase of a new relationship — her criticism has an erotic charge to it.

[...] Over the past few years, Emre's reach has grown such that she has the power to represent her field in the public imagination much the way Alison Roman has become shorthand for "cookbook author" or Frank Gehry for "architect." It leaves her in both a prestigious and precarious position, with seemingly as many people in the cutthroat literary world cheering her on as rooting for her to fail. "Academics can't bear it when someone does popular work," her friend the philosopher Jason Stanley said. The stench of misogyny, too, is hard to ignore. As trite as it is to dismiss someone's haters by saying "they're just jealous," her friend Anna Shechtman, the writer and crossword designer, noted, "it may actually be true when it comes to Merve."   

Courting an audience and wearing one's ambition as openly as Emre does is "a complicated variable for a lot of academics," one Ivy League professor noted. "It's a moment where your weird little closed world suddenly gets cool on the outside, and is it gonna get cool in a way that ruins what you love about it?"   

[...] Emre sees her role as part of a larger mission to democratize criticism beyond the walls of the academy. She wants to be "the Avon Lady of criticism," she joked.

[...] Emre is the eldest of three girls born in Adana, Turkey, to two doctor parents who emigrated to the US when she was 3. [...] In 2007, she graduated from Harvard and went to work as a management consultant at Bain & Company in New York. She made a lot of money and was "very, very, very bad at it," she said. 

Her ex-colleagues remember it differently. "Of all the people I've recruited to Bain in the 30 years, and this is in the thousands, she is one of the brightest," said Chris Bierly, her mentor at Bain, who called her "other-level intelligent." Still, he said, "she was impatient with learning the job from the bottom up." When she was toying with leaving the industry a few years later, he asked her why. "She said, 'I want to do your job. I just don't wanna do all the jobs in between,'" he recalled.

After a year and a half, Emre fled the consulting world and applied for a Ph.D. in English at Yale. "Going to graduate school in literary studies was a form of rebellion," she said. "I suspect I got as much pleasure from it as I would have been if I'd been getting wasted in high school." [...] It was there she developed the sociological approach to criticism that informs much of her work; her thesis, "Paraliterary," was about the idea of "good" and "bad" readers and how literary critics need to draw the circle wider in order to keep their field relevant.  

[...] She reads as many as two books a day. For every book she writes, she gets a tattoo of its call number in the Library of Congress on her side. 

[...] She moved to Montreal to teach at McGill in 2016, with Nakarado and 1-year-old Aydin in tow. "The students loved her. She had a line outside her office door," her former colleague Ara Osterweil said, recalling the excitement that surrounded her glamorous, brilliant colleague who wore stilettos to her lectures.

She also rubbed some people the wrong way. "She thought she was Beyoncé coming into the department," one former colleague said. "She didn't want colleagues or students. She wanted an audience."

Even more so than in consulting, there is a fixation in academia on bureaucratic rank that Emre has little patience for. "I was never someone who was going to be comfortable with highly hierarchical and patriarchal institutions," she said, explaining that one of the reasons she never learned to drive was because she couldn't tolerate being taught by her father. "So now my husband drives me," she noted with irony. 

[...] "She should not be in academia because there is a measure of burying your own opinion in order to mentor, and she does not have that capacity," the colleague who thought she acted like Beyoncé said. "She liked to talk about the money she was getting for the book on personality traits, and that was just so hilarious to everyone, because she was so un-self-aware of her own personality."

[...] But not everyone liked Emre's way of doing things. Last year, someone sent an anonymous note about Emre to half a dozen professors around the US with no return address. It's titled "ME, a short biography" and reads: "Daughter of rich doctors with vacation homes in different countries claiming poor immigrant status tears through Ivies like the Ivy pricks she denounces finds tall, useless pretty boy husband to have some children to lie about." Typed out in flowery word-processor cursive, it continues: "Lives eats breathes shits on social media for a decade, wanted by no university in the United States, writes click bait books to become filthy rich to buy followers and bribe half her profession to pretend the emperor has clothes on, badmouths every place she's worked" and "still cannot shake the absolute thirst." 

[...] "People in this business can be really weird," [Michael Berube, a professor of English at Penn State] said, though he noted that they generally don't resort to real violence. "They just tend to be sort of textually obsessed."

Emre was shaken by the incident. "It was hard for me to imagine how thwarted" someone must feel to send something like that, she said. Still, she tried to have a sense of humor about it. "The author probably meant to use the word 'slake,' not 'shake,' since thirst is not something you shake." She has no idea who's responsible. "My sense is that only an academic could imagine that essays on James Joyce or Simone de Beauvoir were driving The New Yorker's advertising revenue," she remarked, noting that the postmark on the envelope suggests it was mailed from near Fordham University. At least, as one of her friends noted upon receiving the letter, "even your haters can't deny that your man is hot."

[...] As Emre became increasingly frustrated with academia, she began pouring herself into her writing career. "When I imagine the way that Merve thinks, it's like the spreading branches of a tree — everything can take you somewhere," her friend the writer Sarah Chihaya said. "She's not always interested in getting from point A to point B but rather in helping to open up all these expanding questions." She did the edits for her first New Yorker web piece in the hospital the day after giving birth to Altan back in 2017. Other academics resented seeing Emre's byline everywhere. There was a bit of a feeling, like, "Why does she get to write for The New Yorker?" her friend Anna Shechtman said.

The media world first really started paying attention to Emre after she panned writer Durga Chew-Bose's 2017 essay collection, "Too Much and Not the Mood." That piece "put her on everybody's radar," said the critic Christian Lorentzen, which is "rare for something in the Boston Review." In it, she laid out her concern that today's personal essayists are concerned not with judgments about "the formal or stylistic features of prose" but with "pretty phrases that mean nothing and teach nothing," whose only purpose is to confirm the "author's status as a beacon of complex selfhood."

Emre was blasted for being anti-feminist; Lena Dunham, a friend of Chew-Bose, tweeted that the review was "rude, patronizing bullshit." Nowadays, Emre is trying to move away from writing about books she doesn't like. "The easiest way to get attention is to have a kind of contrarian take about another female writer," she said. "It is not challenging to get people not to read something. People are not reading things all the time."

[...] The discussion segued to her Twitter presence. Did she feel there was any tension between her philosophy of criticism, which encourages the evacuation of the personal, and her more confessional use of social media? "These are two totally different genres that we're talking about," she said, as we scaled the steps outside the Yale Science Building. The idea that "high-quality criticism" and "canny self-promotion" are trade-offs "seems to rely on an error, which is the belief that just because something is popular, or is marketed well, it can't also be good."

"But the other thing is like, I don't actually think that the work relies on the evacuation of subjectivity," she continued. "It is impossible. So then I think the question becomes, what does it mean to make style charismatic through an act of withholding access to the personal in one genre, and then giving or creating the appearance of giving people access to the personal in another kind of genre?"

"So are you saying this is all a calculated dance?" I asked.

"Everything's a calculated dance," she shot back. "It would be foolish for anyone to think that what happens in a form of writing, whether it's a long-form magazine piece or 140 characters, isn't in some way calculated. I wonder what pure authenticity would even be."

[...] Emre's calling, as she sees it, is no less than the wholesale reform of higher education from the ground up. She is preoccupied with two interconnected crises. The first is an economic crisis of the humanities: Higher education is overpriced yet underfunded, there aren't enough jobs, and college degrees are increasingly devalued. The second is what her friend John Guillory has dubbed a crisis of legitimation within the profession: that literary criticism has become trapped in English departments, talking only to itself, rendered useless and separate from the reading public. Her goal is to make the practice of teaching criticism, which she sees as a public good, accessible to the wider world.

"I understand the purpose of literature as a kind of meeting place between reader and writer. It's the romance of that imagined meeting place, and it's the romance of all of the possibility that still lives there," Emre said. "One very cynical way to think about life is that it's a series of reducing possibilities. And one way to think about what criticism does is that it's a place where possibility is left really open-ended."

[...] These grand ambitions, she suggested, are why she has let herself be profiled, despite her distaste for the endeavor; she's savvy enough to know that building a brand is necessary to her larger mission. Twitter, for instance, "is a way of addressing a very different kind of public" than one gets to address at Yale or Wesleyan or The New Yorker. "We are people who are supposed to be preservers and disseminators of literature or literary culture, and we're not actually engaging people to read," she said. "If you're not trying to get people excited about it, then why are you doing it?"