#you’re all so talented in ways that I am not my art skills are rusty

[boundinparchment]

I wasn’t sure whether to put this in the ask or submission box so sorry but… your new addition to the heretic and the forsaken little au was living absolutely RENT FREE because it was so cute so here you go 👉👈

His daughter is supposed to be a little older here and she has little celestial pins in her hair because I keep imagining him thinking that she was better than any of the fake ones in the sky anyways…. UGHHSHSHHSH.

This is also filled with my head cannons for him?? Because personally I think that everyone is Sumeru is a little too white (even the people from the forest), and also he has like burn scars along the top and sides of his face from being like chased from his village instead of just a straight singular scar. And his slutty waist. But that’s practically cannon yk yk

So here you go🙏🙏 thank you for all you do it’s literally amazing mwah

They’re so adorable! The hairpins are such a nice touch, oh my gosh.

Your art style is also so soft, it’s very fitting for both of them.

Thank you so much for taking the time to draw both of them. Treasuring this forever!

[musicallisto]

Hello love,

Congratulations for the 800 followers! You absolutely deserve this and so much more! I'm happy to see how your blog grows and that you're still providing all of us with wonderful content. You're one of the first blogs that I've started to follow here on Tumblr and I'm so lucky to have found your blog ♡

As for your celebration event, could I please request a 🍨 vanilla milkshake with a male Peaky Blinders Character?

I'm more on the curvy side (and insecure about it) and I'm ALWAYS wearing black (which I love, no matter what others say or even more if they object). As for my personality, I'm a highly complex, paradox and complicated individium. I'm unbelievable patient, timid, awkward, kind, forgiving, open-minded, compassionate, thruthful, gentle and calm and I've been told that I have a calming effect on others, that I can easily ground anyone and anything, no matter how troubled their mind is. I prefer vintage over modern things. I think rather deep which often leads me to overthinking everything, which in turn leads me to doubting (very much) myself. You would be surprised how timid and reserved I am, I'm sure you wouln't notice me in a room full of people if it wouldn't be for my different appearance (but I like it this way). I'm always well-meaning, yet often misunderstood (maybe because it's hard for me to articulate myself). I can be incredible lazy, clumsy and forgetful. I've always felt like I don't really belong anywhere, so I've started to distance myself from others a while ago. I'm a outsider, weird, a dork, not normal, a loner and I fucking love it, because I like to be different, I would hate to fit into just one box and to be like everyone else. And I like people who are not ashamed to be their 100% true self, no matter how different that is from the mainstream. I'm the most loyal person you'll ever find, once you earn my trust, I'll always be on/by your side, no matter what. That says a lot, because I'm hard to scare away. Sometimes I feel alienated from the people and things surrounding me and I'm sure that I annoy and bore them. I'm very nervous and insecure around others, which is why I try to avoid people and why I'm not talking all that much around them (though, I'm a really good listener). I'm easily overwhelmed by large crowds and much light/noise, that's why I don't like to go outside, I prefer to cozy up at home. I would never intentionally hurt a animal and I'm not eating any meat, which is very important to me. I believe that there isn't a ounce of cruelty inside me. I'm unassuming and understanding, I only believe what I've witnessed on my own and I have endless acceptance for almost everything. Due to my Insomnia, I'm a night owl. I have strong personal values, am very opinionated and I'm really in-touch with myself and even though I'm extremly insecure, I would never reduce or change myself and views/opinions for someone and I neither have a problem to challenge authority and advocating for my beliefs. I'm a perfectionist and sometimes I really hate it. And, as you can see, I'm unable to be brief. My favourite colours are dark green, black, gold and dark purple. My greatest passion is music, even if I can't sing or play an instrument.(I prefer rock/punk/pop/80s/90s) It's the most calming and therapeutic thing when it comes to my anxiety and depression and I could never live a day without it. You will never see me in the street without headphones in my ears and even when I'm at home there's music playing almost all the time. I could talk for hours about music and what it means to me. And otherwise I love to watch films and series (I like fantasy, horror, psychological thriller, science fiction and psychological drama and almost anything from the 70s, 80s and 90s). I love rainy days and to go outside while it's pouring big, fat drops. What I love the most is to drive around without a destination, while talking and listening to music. And I love to spend time with my cat, if I could, I would have endless animals who live peacefully and loved with me. I enjoy to have deep talks and to be challenged to think. I love to take late-night-strolls, while gazing into the sky and watching the stars/moon. I have a fascination for dark and macabre things.

I really hope that's not too much? But thank you anyway ♡

Have a good day!

thank you so much for your kind words, you have no idea how much it means to me to know that I was one of the first blogs you followed ;; here’s your vanilla milkshake - and it’s also my first time writing for peaky blinders, but I hope it’s alright; and I hope finn shelby will find the portrait I paint of him accurate enough...

Birmingham was a drab and disheartening place enough without the war adding to its joylessness; but somehow the streets are even worse to bear deserted than when they’re bustling and fetid. Especially for a ten year old boy who wants nothing but to play with someone, to talk to someone, to see someone.

With his brothers off fighting somewhere in France and his aunt too busy with her businesses (adult stuff that Finn has absolutey no interest in attempting to understand), the youngest Shelby has been fighting off an affliction worse than consumption and measles, because much more insidious for a boy his age; boredom

and he’s so sad, so irrevocably sad, with no one to bruise his knees with and throw mud at, that he just aimlessly wanders the empty streets whenever aunt Polly isn’t looking, to find a semblance of stimulation

(he used to enjoy the solitude, it gave him time to imagine delirious stories in fantastical worlds and read the most enthralling of novels, but not anymore. four years of reclusion is an awfully long time for a little boy.)

and it’s during one of his escapades that he first meets you

you’re a little girl his age, dressed in a pretty dress, wearing pretty booties and holding a pretty little woven basket, but your face is stuck on the most grouchy frown he’s ever seen on a little girl, and you don’t walk, you stomp down the wet pavement like a wrathful titan

And it’s probably the first time in four years that he’s been this close to making a new friend, so he walks up to you, despite how rusty his communication skills have become

“Girls don’t frown. It’s unbecoming.”

(Yes, pretty rusty indeed; but in his defense, he’s ten, he’s bored, he’s lonely, and he’s only ever heard Ada say it, and Ada is the most level-headed of his siblings, so anything she says must be true, right?)

“Shut up.”

(Well, if it was unbecoming of you to frown, it’s even more to rebuff someone so rudely. You don’t even spare a glance and continue walking; he has to hurry to catch up to you.)

“You can’t say that. It’s a bad word.”

“How do you know that?”

“My family says it all the time, but they told me I can’t say it.”

“Well, my family is not your family. And I hate my family!”

You’ve yelled the last words at the sky, so loud that the crows on the neighboring roofs have taken off in a startled flight.

“They want to wear this stupid dress to go to the stupid market to buy stupid meat. I don’t even want to eat meat, that’s cruel! And I don’t even want to wear a frilly dress! I want to wear black!”

And in saying so you tugged at the pink and white ribbons that encircled your waist.

And Finn couldn’t help being extremely intrigued at this little girl who said bad words and refused to eat meet and wanted to wear black. It was the most exciting thing to ever happen in all the duration of the war.

“You want to wear a black dress?”

“Yes, but my mama won’t let me. She says it’s too sad because of the war. But black isn’t sad! Black is beautiful!”

“Maybe I could find you a black dress. I’m sure my sister must have one. Where do you live?”

And, loyal to his promise, the following morning he had run to your doorstep and snuck into your house - a proper Shelby talent, to be able to go unnoticed or make a ruckus depending on the occasion - with an old, crinkled mourning dress of Ada’s, that had probably belonged to his mother and had been mended several times

And it was obviously five sizes too big for you and you looked more like a ghost from one of Finn’s horror novels, your arms floating in the sleeves and the hem of the skirt pooling at your feet, but your smile was the brightest light he’d ever seen in this whole damn town.

“Do you like it?”

(He didn’t really know why he sounds so nervous. Maybe it was having a friend, a real friend, and doing something personal for them... or maybe it had to do with how fast his heart beat, watching you in that gigantic, shapeless dress)

“I love it! Thank you so much, Finn!”

From then on started one of the most wonderful friendships Finn would ever have, and what would bring a ray of light to the grim existence of a little boy in the midst of a global war

Despite the ration cards, despite the loneliness, despite the worry that tugged at his stoic aunt’s eyes for her son and nephews across the Channel... he found an unspeakable solace in your friendship

And one day, without a trace, you were gone

He knocked on your door; gone. He asked all the neighbors what had happened to the family that lived there; gone. He wrote you letters and sent them to the confines of England; gone. He got scolded by Polly for marking numbers at random on Tommy’s state-of-the-art telephone; gone.

Suddenly he was back to the bleak existence he had battled with before meeting you, and the hollow inside his chest only grew wider as the days went on, because he had no explanation as to what had happened to you, and worried every single day

Thankfully, the war ended not long after, and his brothers came back home, all alive and unscathed - well, for the most part

Fast forward more or less ten years, and much has changed in Finn Shelby’s life and in old Birmingham, but the memory of you still stugs at his heartstrings

One evening, he’s tasked by Arthur to run some errands, send a few messages, scout a few places; the most dangerous thing his older brothers will ever let him do

His task leads him to a bar in the center of town, one that pours its joyous light and music into the street outside; he’s there to meet with a client, arrange a meeting; nothing he’s hasn’t done already

But the evening takes a turn for the unexpected when he recognizes the girl sat alone at a table, enjoying the musicians’ jazz with an air of pure bliss on her face

It’s been ten years, of course, but... it’s unmistakable. That face, that silhouette, and the black ensemble from head to toe... and he’s always had a knack for remembering faces, especially those that mark him deeply

Suddenly he’s frozen on the spot, and he has forgotten why he came to the bar in the first place, what his target looks like - all he knows is you, and how beautiful you look in the dim light of the bar, and the undisclosed and unknown feelings he had for you at the time come flooding back.

Except this time, he understands, and he fears them, because he doesn’t have time for any of this, and it’s way too dangerous for you and him

But he can’t just pass you by and not say a word?

He swallows, hard.

And walks up to you.

“Y/N?”

You open your eyes, and your face flashes with recognition, and a little bit of pain as well. Even if you fled without a word, and left him hanging all these years, he’s incapable of rancor

“Finn... wow, you’ve changed so much.”

“You haven’t.”

He gestures at your face, your clothes, how you savor the music like the finest drink in the world, and you laugh and blush, sending his heart into overdrive

“Where were you all this time?”

“I’m so sorry, Finn... my brother died in the war, and... my mom sent me to live with my grandparents in Scotland. We were all destroyed by grief... I needed to get away.”

“Without explanation? Not even a word?”

“I wanted to write to you, so bad, but... I couldn’t remember your address. I couldn’t remember anything about Birmingham at all...”

He nods, slowly, in understanding.

The war opens wounds that never heal, even after all the most beautiful friendships and love stories in the world.

“But I’m really glad I found you.”

His heart is pounding in his throat. Maybe it’s a sign of destiny that he found you here, tonight, alone, and ready to welcome him back. Maybe it’s a word from fate, that you can never truly be apart.

So he takes the seat in front of you, and you smile, that shy but bright smile of yours, and he forgets all about his mission, his client, and his brothers.

They’ll have to understand.

800 follower sleepover

[wastelandlovingscenarios]

Hey! I am really excited for seeing your blog grow and I wish you the best of luck!💛💛💛 I'm bad at requesting, so if you don't feel like doing this one - that's fine~ How would all companions (inc. X6, Preston & Codsworth) react to a Sole being a handywoman on Liziqi level and finding out she spent her childhood in a village after she casually explains to some settlers how to make booze from fruit or how to butcher and smoke brahmin?

i saw her channel and i was like :0 the whole time. i have no time or patience for that kinda stuff, haha. that girl got mad skills. ill make them react to the food she prepares, if it’s okay!

i’ll do this as regular companions and kept it short and simple!

anyways, i hope you enjoy! ❤️

-

he leaned on the wall, watching as sole grabbed a basket of mutfruit from under the table/dragged a brahmin corpse on a rug. he wondered why the people of sanctuary gathered around sole and was interested himself. he decided to observe from afar to avoid interrupting whatever she was doing, she seemed to have a passionate look on her face after all. he pondered on whether sole could cook or not, seeing that all the items near her were food related. his ears perked up, hearing her voice ring throughout the crowd, “okay guys! i’m gonna teach you some stuff i learned when i was a child back at my village. i’m sure this will be useful to you all and sanctuary itself so be sure to carefully look!”

sole grew up from a village? he had no knowledge of that for sure but made a mental note to ask her after her demonstration. sole looked at the settlers happily and demonstrated how to make wine from mutfruit/butcher and smoke brahmin meat. the crowd became invested in her displays, amazed sounds escaping their mouths as sole went through the process step by step in detail. it was beyond unique and something that many people don’t see often in the commonwealth; an art of the prewar times, truly.

Danse:

he would think soles skills were definitely astonishing, seeing that he’s never seen anyone do something like that before. danse would be incredibly impressed and would even jot down those notes mentally to maybe learn it himself one day. as much as he wanted to try and attempt to replicate her skills, he knew he would never be able to but on the other hand, he was way too awkward to ask sole to teach him. lost in his thoughts over soles amazing abilities, danse wouldn’t notice her striding up to him with a smile on her face. “what’s with the look, paladin?” he would jolt on surprise, a small blush spreading across his face as soles eyes traveled to lock with his. it would take him a few seconds to muster a reply. “uh- i apologize if i’ve offended you.” he cleared his throat, adjusting himself so he could stand straight, “it wasn’t my intentions. it’s just.. your skills are certainly impeccable soldier, i’m sure the brotherhood could use your abilities back at the prydwen. they seem to be proven useful.” he then look away elsewhere, hoping his voice didn’t falter in the process. “it would be much appreciated, if you don’t mind.” much to danses content, sole immediately agreed without a second thought. he would then bombard sole with questions about her life while living in a village.

Deacon:

he would be immensely amazed by soles skills and would definitely be gawking at her presentation. how she gained the skills or who she gained it from would be a mystery to him but that was the least of his worries. his priority was to ask sole to teach him how to do something as complicated as that. as sole began putting away her finished products, he walked towards her and wrapped an arm around her shoulders. sole looked at him with a raised brow and rolled her eyes at the smirk present on his face. “what is it this time, deeks?” deacon would use his free hand to make over dramatic gestures as he replied, “you gotta teach me that some day, charmer. who knows, maybe one of these days we’ll open up a restaurant named-“ deacon blabbered on for minutes, making sole chuckle occasionally at his silliness. she turned to face him, resting her hand on her hip. “fine deeks. i’ll teach you on one condition.” he would let out a small, ‘hm?’ as sole continued. “i can name the restaurant if we open it one day-“ sole shushed him as he opened his mouth to retaliate, “- and no. we are not naming the restaurant any of those names that just came out of your mouth.” deacon would throw his arms in the air dramatically but send sole a small smile, “fine, fine, you win..! but you still gotta teach me.” he was totally gonna name their restaurant one day with or without her knowledge.

Maccready:

he’s a child about it. it’s clear that there’s a flabbergasted look in his eyes and mac lets himself become completely submerged in it. he was so excited to see new and foreign ways food could be executed, especially since he’s been living off sugar bombs, nuka cola, and cram his whole life. maccready knew from his core that he could not cook for the life of him and could only go as far as preparing a box of blanco mac and cheese at somewhat decent standards, so something like this easily drew him in. god, he wondered how hard sole worked at her village when she was younger. after all, he didn’t really do anything as a kid and didn’t teach himself many skills that would benefit him in the long run. soon enough, the sound of soles voice dragged maccready out of his daydream. she signaled him to come over to where she was at and grinned as he approached almost shyly. he’d try to act all maintained and calm but sole already saw the excitement he showed during her demonstration. “yeah? she grabbed a bag of already cooked and sliced brahmin meat from the box near the table and opened it. he would feel himself grow hungry at the smell of the smoked brahmin meat. sole popped a piece in her mouth and hummed contently, nudging the bag towards maccreadys direction. “it’s so good, you should try it!” hesitantly, but surely, maccready grabbed a piece and slightly bit it, only to find himself eating the whole thing within seconds. it was amazing! how did sole manage to keep their talent away from him for months?! with a full mouth, macready excitedly sputtered out words that sole couldn’t quite comprehend. she sent mac a confused look, and he blushed in response, rubbing the nape of his neck timidly. “sorry- uh, it was just really good.” sole would shove the bag at him gently, a small smirk playing on her face, “would you like more, mac?” silence filled their air for only a mere second- “yes, please.”

Hancock:

as the applause ended with the crowd, there was only one left that continued to clap loudly, attracting soles attention. she would wave at hancock who looked at her with an entertained and impressed expression on his face. “and just when i thought i knew everything about ya.” sole would giggle girlishly and walk up to hancock, wiping her stained hands with her jacket. “i’m full of surprises, hancock. you’re gonna have to dig harder if you want to know everything about me,” hancocks grin would grow wider as sole bantered on with a cheeky smile, “being over 200 years old makes me far more interesting than many people.” a laughter was shared between the two for a moment. “guess you’re right, sister. i’m guessing you hold a lot more secrets than i expect.” sole would fold her arms sassily and stare up at him with a sly look in her eyes, “you are absolutely correct, mayor hancock.” hancock would immediately detect the friskiness in her voice. “i have no choice but to earn it then, huh?” he said in a joking tone. sole would feel his arm wrap around her shoulder casually, “how’s about we go back to goodneighbor and take a sip of that wine you made? i want to know about your days at the village anyway. sounded interesting.” sole would return his friendly affection, draping on arm on the backside of his torso as she hummed. “that sounds great.”

Nick Valentine:

he was ecstatic to see that sole still attained some of their prewar skills, it was definitely a rarity nowadays in the commonwealth. it’s been a while since he’s tasted some authentic wine, the last time being with jenny, but even so, that was the old nick and not the one that existed right then and there. he was thrilled to learn more about his partner who often kept her life to herself - it was a nice change for once. nick himself has seen people work in villages back in his day, so he had an idea of what skills she could’ve picked up while living in one. sole caught him walking to her with a smile on his face and she decided to meet with him halfway. “what did you think, nick? i know my skills were probably a little rusty here and there.” nick shot sole a warm smile, noticing the small, shy flush on her cheeks. “rusty? i found it quite flawless,” sole felt her face redden more as nick continued, “for a 200 year old popsicle, you’ve done pretty good, kid. i bet no one could replicate what you just executed.” she chortled at his silly remark, feeling more confident in her own expertise. “i’m glad i was able to impress you. now let’s hope it’ll taste as good as it looks.” nicked grinned, perking up at her comment, “i don’t mind being the judge of that, if that’s what you’re implying.” she smiled softly; it was exactly what she had in mind.

Codsworth:

he already knew of soles upbringing and the impressive skill set she had. codsworth remembered almost everything she had told her husband about her times at the village and was always drawn into her interesting stories. despite that, she’d always use these skills during her times with nate, and codsworth often observed her from afar during prewar times. he’d remember the excitement in her eyes when she used to execute this hobby and had still caught the same passionate glint as she confidently demonstrated to the crowd. as the settlers departed with happy and content comments, codsworth made their way to them with a jovial tone in his voice. “it’s lovely to see that your skills are definitely top notch just like the old days, mum!” sole would grin at codsworth, a happy expression on her face. “thank you, codsworth! it means a lot coming from you.” codsworth would help sole clean up the aftermath of the presentation, rushing to do most of the work so she could rest, “anytime, mum!”

Preston:

he’d be almost speechless at soles talents, nothing more than a soft yet interested, ‘damn,’ escaping his mouth. though he knew sole was a hardworking, humble, and honest person, he was happy to learn that she did reside in a village at one point of her life. it could only mean that she had a vast amount of experience that many people nowadays aspire to have - farming, cooking in unique ways, etc. most people just knew how to use a gun and make money for a living during these hard times. seeing sole smoke a brahmin would definitely leave him awestruck, considering that he’s never seen anyone do that before. ”wow! that’s so cool, ms. sole! i hope to be like you someday.” sole shyly grinned at the child that beamed at her, opening her mouth to respond until prestons sounded throughout the crowd. “that’s the general for you. we couldn’t have found someone better.” sole chuckled nervously as everyone continued to throw strings of compliments at her. “yeah, for sure!” “we have the best leader in the commonwealth!” she would meet his gaze, embarrassed by all the attention she was receiving. preston would tip his hat as sole mouthed a timid, “thank you.” as the crowd cheered on. he would definitely have to try her smoked brahmin after her exhibition.

X6:

though a stoic expression would remain on his face, he would feel a sense of awe as sole calmly explained to the residents how to smoke brahmin meat. for sure, x6 has seen many displays of how to prepare food in the most exotic and unique ways in the institute but would be interested finding out that she had presented a new method of execution he hadn’t encountered during his lifetime. with his eyes fixated on soles hand movements and the materials on the table, he jotted down every action that she made with every second that ticked. his stillness and intimidating presence would creep everyone out and they would feel uncomfortable with x6 just blankly staring at whatever. regardless, the crowd seemed to enjoy the show despite the discomfort. after what seemed like eternity, sole finally concluded her demo and thanked the crowd for giving her their attention. the settlers applauded sole, giving her their final compliments and comments before dispersing. she smiled, proud of what she accomplished and decided to pack everything up before hitting the hay. “ma’am.” she jumped up, getting frightened by the sudden voice that rung behind her. looking over her shoulder slowly, she caught x6 staring at her with a blank expression. she glared at him. “next time, give me a warning, will ya? you almost gave me a heart attack.” x6 simply nodded before continuing on with his statement, “i believe your skills will be convenient to the institute. it’s almost remarkable to discover that you retain something from your prewar days.” soles eyes widened in surprise for a mere moment but collected herself, a small smile growing on her face. “thanks x6.” silence followed after, but x6s compliment was enough to tell her that he appreciated her talent.

[asdllkshfad]

Did u trace anything in ur lacho week art? I'm just curious about ur process. Like does tracing a lot for practice lead to being able to make art like this or is the tracing like a base for ur talent with color and lighting and mood. Either way all your lacho art is Stunning

Thank you so much for liking my art!!! ❤️

Alright, here’s the truth: I traced almost everything! Majority of it is lifted from reference. No secrets there. The faces, poses, lights...I gathered references for them like a madwoman. If I could use them as they are, all the better. (If you’re curious to see some of the chaos that went on behind the scenes: 1 | 2)

At this point, I probably have hundreds of screenshots and reference pics of Lalo/Tony and Nacho/Michael than I will ever have use for.

And yeah..the reality is I had a month to finish what I wanted to make and I have not touched my tablet in ages. I’m out of practice and rusty as fuck. There is no way in hell I could have done what I did without help. No amount of practice in a month can make up for the years of neglect my art skills have suffered.

does tracing a lot for practice lead to being able to make art like this

Personally, it works somewhat like muscle memory. It helped a lot in getting a feel for how Nacho and Lalo’s faces are fleshed out without the hard work of trying to draw them by myself. That makes coloring easier too.

However tracing a face one-to-one doesn’t always turn out well especially when you take a 3D real life image and flatten it to 2D style art. Tracing every single feature would only make the art too busy. In contrast, leaving out too much detail would make a face unrecognizable. I guess the ‘hard’ work in tracing (at least for my style) is finding likeness in as few lines as possible.

Lalo for example: the features I tend to focus on are the general shape of face/head, hairline, his big nose, deep set eyes, the deep creases on the sides of his mouth and on the upper portion of his nose bridge. If I do it right, the end result looks enough like Lalo/Tony.

is the tracing like a base for ur talent with color and lighting and mood

Yes. I am impatient. I love coloring. Drawing, not as much. 

If there is way to make it easier on myself, I do it. Tracing makes it easier, so I trace. I will take as many shortcuts and cheat as much as I can if it means I draw less and color more. lol. Drawing is hard.

[hjh-ceilo-monster]

Hybrid Verse : Bunkermate (JHS)

Y/N Pov.

And again,me myself and I alone.

'Who tell the police that I was here, damnit!'

I curse with myself while walking around like an idiot.Before you start throwing me a lot of questions,I'll tell you a story.

Once upon a time,there was an orphan girl escape from the foster house.She needed to find a 'home' every year.Now she end up on the street again because someone tell the police about her,the end.

I walk down the street and my feet start screaming at me.I don't know where should I live from now.Walking under the sun that hot as hell shine on your head is tough.However, no time to waste.I continue my journey until reach an old bridge.

"Wow fantastic,now I don't need to find a new home for another three years." I settle down my bag and start to explore the area. It's nice actually.There is a river under it and the water is crystal clear.I can see fish and creatures swimming.Both sides of the bridge are forest.I can get as much food as I want.

Night begins and I start to search for food before it's getting too dark.Wandering around the area,from side to the other into it's completely dark.

"At least I get a fish and some berries."

I hum along the way back to the bridge.I see there is the room or two under the bridge.I walk down the old stairs.It makes some creek but it fine.When I reach the bottom,there is a bit of light beaming from somewhere.I follow them till I see the rusty door.

"Lucky me, there's the room for me."

I enter the room.Cehcking my surrounding,it’s so dusty.I try to find something in my backpack and find a mini broom.I clean all the dust off before my allergies spark.

“It’s nice.” I admire the room.‘This is mine.’I repeat it in my head.No one gonna find me here and I’m gonna live here with peace.Although it’s far from the city,I’ll be fine with this.

“Stupid polices.” 

Next day

“Umm,why so heavy?” I roll around my bed.Filling a thing weigh down on my body,wait? A thing? I quickly open my eyes and see a red panda sleep soundly one my body.

“Awe lil baby,how comes you’re here?” 

I look at him,I suppose,which cling on me like I’m a tree.I know I’m flat(if you know what I mean) but,now something appreciate me at least.I push him gently until he lays on the matress.I decide to find something to eat.

“I think I need a camp fire.” I gather the wood and start the fire.Hunting time begin and I explore the area.I’m good with living in the wood since my old orphan neared a wood when I was young.

*scratch scratch*

“Hmmm?” I look down and see the little guy wake up.Scratching gently and cling on my leg,I carry him to big log near the fire.

“Hello,little guy.Wanna eat?” He looks at the grill fish on the stick.Why do I feel like he shake his head? He then disappears which make me confuse.

I eat my grill fish and other things from the backpack.The little buddy pop up out nowhere while carry some fruits in his small embrace.He come close to me and start eating his fruit.Then some of it he put into my lap.

“Do you want me to eat this?” 

*a lil paw pat again on my lap*

“Gosh you’re cute.”

Author POV.

That’s the first time that Y/N get to know her little buddy,red panda.She never know that red panda is something beyond what she called wild creature...

“Sir,our subject 180294 is missing.” A lady in the lab coat inform her leader.

“Go get him,he’s our secret subject that shouldn’t be out of here.”

The lab team start tracking the location of their  experiment subject.The security of the laboratory double up the number of guards.

“Lil buddy,where are you?” Y/N call the red panda that disappear to nowhere again.They’ve been living with each other for more than a month now.She notices a lot of things about him.He seems to act like a human more than an animal.

Sometimes act grumpy but, mostly sunshine.Prefer fruits more than meats,sleep less than usual red panda and is a ‘hyper’ creature.However,she didn’t really care and take care of him like he’s one of her friend.Treating animal like human might sound weird but,that’s what she’s been doing.

Everything between them seem fine.Once Y/N even told him that it’s them against the world until one day,he’s gone from her.

4 years later :  Jhope POV.

Hi,you might all wonder where am I from.That’s not important since you already guess who I am from the photo above.Now there,let’s introduce myself.

I’m Jung hoseok,Jhope.Used to be red panda but,successfully develop as hybrid human from the lab.The lab wasn’t a nice place in my memory.Thanks to my ‘mom’ who is my creator.She helped me to escape.I’m now a choreographer of HopeOnTheStreet Studio.

“Sir,there’ll be your new assistant in a minute.”

“Clair I don’t know why you quit.Not because of me right?”

“I have a problem with my family sir,no need to worry.”

“Don’t forget,you’re still welcome here alright.”I look at her who is packing her stuff and ready to leave my studio.She’s one of the best assistant.

“Don’t be sad sir,you’ll meet her in a minute.She’s nice,I could tell.”

“I hope she isn’t like the one before you.That time was really like hell to me.”

“I can assure you sir.This girl loves kids.Beside,I’ll be with you today as a final day so cheer up.” I collect my sadness and cheer up for her.She’s more like my noona than an assistant.When our conversation finish,someone enter the studio. My gaze follow at the door that auto slide open.

‘It isn’t her,right?’ The girl walks toward us.She isn’t ‘her’,is she? The question runs in my head and make me feel light head.Her face is exactly like her,her smile too and her scent,god I don’t know what to do right now.

“Sir...Jhope...are you here?” 

“Y..yes noona,I’m here.”

“Hi,I’m Y/N.Thank you for accept me,I’ll work my best.” I chuckle when she gives me a 90 degrees bow that nearly makes herself fall.

“Nice to meet you and work well.”

I dismiss her with Clair.Clair start walking with the girl around my studio.I go the opposite direction and enter one of the studio room.Well,need to get work done before students start class with me in half and hour.

A week later : Author POV.

For entire week,it’s tough for Jhope.He keeps thinking about Y/N and how familiar he feel around her.Y/N thinks different about it.She thinks that he didn’t like her and a bit upset.

She tried her best to work as the assistant for him but it’s hard when she has negative thoughts in her head.Jhope acts seem to affect her a lot but,the question is why?

“We’ll have our studio anniversary in 3 weeks so be ready,now dismiss.”

Jhope tell the students about the news,they all cheer up and quiet excited about the event.First of,there’ll be a theme party every year.Second of all,they’ll see Jhope perform for the ceremony.He’s the hottest and most talent teacher in students’ opinion.There’ll also be other teachers in the studio as well as the artists that he might bring as a ‘surprise’.

“Y/N,is there any class left today?”

“Uh no sir.You only have 3 classes today sir.” Jhope nod.Y/N scroll through the pc screen to check again.

“Go out with me.” All of sudden,he speaks.‘What does he means by that’ Y/N ask the question inside her head.Her eyes widen with the words he says.

“Uhh sir I think it isn-”

“No I mean hang out with me.Well you see I want to talk about the anniversary as well as the dress code and other plans we had in today’s meeting.”

Y/N POV.

‘This is akward.’ I’m now sitting in his car.His eyes focus toward the road.I look outside and the radio of the car is playing.I thought he didn’t like me but here I am in his car.

“You like red panda?” The question pop up out of the blue.

“Yeah,it’s remind me of my buddy.”

I feel sad all of sudden.I miss him and it’s been 4 years that he’s gone.I still see his smiley face when I eat the fruit in my fridge,hug my pillow to sleep like he used to hug me and walk in the park everyday.Everything still remind me of my lil buddy.

“You’re crying.I’m sorry,I shouldn’t bring that up.I just saw the photo in your phone the other day.”

“It’s fine.I really mis him.Me,him,us against the world.”

Jhope then stay in silence.I don’t know if I say something wrong.He looks puzzle but say nothing in return.We both arrive at the mall.Our schedule start from there until it reach night time.

2 weeks pass,everyone in the studio has been working hard for the anniversary day so far.Students will practice night till dawn.Sometime Jhope and teachers need to stay in the studio for a night or two.

For me,the work get overwhelm.I need to mke sure everyone get to practice,the classes’ schedules didn’t cross path.The other assistants also help me a lot with that.

What’s really weird is Jhope behaviour change.He smiles at me every day,greet me when he has a time and hang out of me more often.Some studentsd even tease me and ask whether I’m his girlfriend.

The event day finally arrive.The theme is nice.There are a lot of guests come to the event which surprisingly something I didn’t expect.I’m standing and greeting people like I’m at the studio.When the VIP guests enter,the cheer from students start to go wild.

Author POV.

“Our first performance from the house,please welcome mr.Jung.” The sound from hand claps surround the ball room.Jhope is standing there in the dark, waiting for the spot light to shine on him.

The song play and his body start working through it.He uses his body to create an art and people can’t take their eyes from him.His solo stage is so powerful and it shines.

The others go wild when another famous dancer/choreographer like Park Jimin enter the stage.Both of them combining their skills and perform such a great show.Making the students even more nervous.

The event is running on without a problem.There are a few introduction for each course before the students perform.Nothing seems to be odd and everyone enjoy the show.

“Follow me” Jhope whisper and drag Y/N along with him.She didn’t know what’s going on.They fade from the crowd and no one even notice those two.

“Here sit”

“Okay” Y/N only whisper as a reply.She didn’t know what she has done that make him upset or angry.The husky voice from him awhile ago doesn’t look like something good for her.

“I just want to tke a fresh air.I’m nervous you know,perform like that on stage.”

“But you’re great.”

“You think so?” He turns his hyper mode on which she happened to discover them after that day.

They chit chat outside the room.Y/N gets less nervous and finally can talk normally with him.He open up about his life so does she.That’s when the main point get into the convo.

“If I say I were that red panda,would you believe me?” Jhope clear his head a bit.You notice on his head there’re ears with orange-red color.You caress them gently in your hand.Feeling like the first time you touched them.

“No.....nope.” At first she is so confident but her voice fade away.The eyes that peircing toward her,searching for her soul right now were similar to her buddy. Her little buddy that she miss every day.

“It can’t be..you..Hobi?” 

“I’m your hobi.I’m really your buddy.”

“How?When?” He tell everything to her.Everything out of his mouth isn’t something that should be possible but here she is.Sitting with him and believing in every word he says.

“Finally you’re here.” She cries and hugs him tight.He tighten the hug to make sure she’s relly with him.

“Sorry to interrupt but we need to take him.”

Then the guys wearing suits and all grab Jhope from her.You reach for him but no use.She try to fight with them.One of the guy in lab coat suddenly pointing a gun toward her.

“No what are you doing?”

“Going with us and she’ll be fine.You are our subject after all.”

Jhope loose his faith at the minute and go with them.Fortunately someone rescue on time.Jimin with his girlfriend come to the scene,searching for them to be back inside the event,see what’s happening.

His girlfriend didn’t hesiate to call the police.Jimin knows these people so he run and help Jhope and Y/N.The scene become a mess but no one hurt.4 of them keep everything to themselves with the police that arrive on time.

“Hyung are you alright?” Jimin ask while help him to stand up from ground.

“I’m fine.How bout your girl,she’s running here?”

“We both fine.”

Y/N get to know both of them.4 of them having a chat between each other.Jimin is really concern about what happen and decide to tell the others that you both go back early.He cover everything for you guys. 

Years pass and everything fall back into there places.The incident that night is a secret betwen 4 of you.She get to know what happened before with Jhope and why Jimin also know about it.They both were subjects in lab before.Jimin got out because they thought he was dead and someone save Jhope.

You get to see his mother,the creator.She has already retired from her job and living alone in the house near the wood.Going to that place also bring both of them back to the bunker they used to live.His mother’s house was in the next town near the bunker.

“I still remember the first day that I met you.”

“And I still remember the girl that all of sudden wander into my bunker.”

“Your bunker? It’s mine.”

“No it’s mine.” They’re bickering with each other.Every moment pop up in their minds which bring the smiles on their face.It was a nice memory that they won’t forget.

“Nevermind anything mine is yours.” Jhope claim.

“And why is that?”

“Because you’re my bunkermate.” Jhope hug her tight in his arm.Warmth and love flows in the air.He sniff your scent in and kiss your neck.

“Is this a proposal?” Y/N ask.

“Maybe?”

“Then I’ll accept it.”

“Remember what you tell me?”

“It’s us against the world.” They say in unison.

“Love you my bunkermate.” Y/N kiss him and he bring her closer.

Who knows that a girl wander around places will finally end with a red fluffy ball of sunshine like him.

Aye yo ladies and gentlemen,how y’all doing.I try to finish off this series but well gaint wall has already built in my head.I’ll try harder next time.Thank you for reading and see you next story.Yeet!

[isidar-mithrim]

{Once again, Albus Dumbledore changed the course of Remus Lupin’s life when he tracked him down to a tumbledown, semi-derelict cottage in Yorkshire. Delighted to see the Headmaster, Remus was amazed when Dumbledore offered him the post of Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher. He was only persuaded to accept when Dumbledore explained that there would be a limitless supply of Wolfsbane Potion, courtesy of the Potions master, Severus Snape. – Pottermore}

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Note on the story: I was planning to translate other works before this one, but then the amazing FloreatCastellum wrote a piece about Remus meeting Harry on the Hogwarts Express and I felt eager to share this story first ^^ The last bit is an addition to the translation that was inspired by her work! 

Ps: a little heads up – if you’re expecting a fluffy, sappy meeting, you’ll probably be disappointed ^^’ I guess this is a slightly ‘unorthodox’ version of the moment, but there’s a reason for it: I started writing it before Remus biography was released on Pottermore, and I didn’t feel that I could give up on certain aspects of the story that I had grown fond of. I’d still say it’s enough pottermore-canon-compliant, and I promise it’s books-canon-compliants ^^

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Bounty hunter

It was a chill summer evening when Albus Dumbledore, Headmaster of the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Appeared before the gate of a tumbledown cottage that stood out in Yorkshire open country.

Only the rays of the waning moon enlightened the cobble path which led to the door of the shack, but it was enough to step forward with sure-footedness.

Albus Dumbledore pushed the rusty gate inward, making it screech at his touch, then he walked the short path and lowered his fist on the worn wooden door.

A few minutes later he had received no answer, so he knocked again, this time amplifying the noise with a bit of magic.

He had to wait only a bunch of seconds before the door slammed open.

On the threshold there was a man as worn as his home – his eyes marked by dark circles, his clothes ratty and old, his breath short to betray the sudden sprint he must have made to dart at the door.

Yet, the hand that held the wand against Albus Dumbledore was steady, sure, ready.

The Headmaster smiled serenely, looking at him with his piercing blue eyes.

“Remus. What a pleasure to see you,” he said, his gaze shifting to the still raised wand. “I suppose you weren’t expecting my visit.”

The man kept glaring at him. “I thought I’d done a better job with the defenses around the house,” he said sharply. “I haven’t heard you coming.”

“Oh, they are excellent defenses, but I still remember some old tricks, despite the advancing years,” said the Headmaster with glee. “Now, I’m desolate to bother you at this late hour, but there are several topics I would like to discuss with you, if you would be so kind as to invite me in.”

“You know perfectly well I won’t let you in until you’ve proven to me it’s really you, Dumbledore, even if I really wish you’re the only person capable of getting past my defenses without leaving a single trace.”

“Very well, very well,” nodded Albus Dumbledore, smiling gently. “I am pleased to see you haven’t lost your old and healthy habits toward prudence.”

The ancient wizard drew his wand, summoning his Patronus non verbally. A silver phoenix rose majestically in the night, then vanished in a burst of white flames. The Headmaster looked back at the younger man just in time to see a silver wolf running away and vanishing into thin air.

The man lowered his wand, stowing it behind his shabby robes, and he finally let a smile crease his lips.

“I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised to see you here, considering the last news,” he said to the Headmaster, stepping aside to let him in.

The inside of the cottage was semi-derelict as the outside had promised.

Except for the bathroom, whose yellowish sink could be glimpsed behind the door left ajar, the house consisted in a single room.

The furniture was reduced to the essential – a bed, a small wardrobe, a table with two chairs – and eaten by woodworms, but overall the space would have seemed clean, if it weren’t for the chaos that ruled.

The table was doused in crumbled newspapers and tore magazines; in most of them Sirius Black’s moving picture stood out on the front page, while others  had been flipped through to highlight related news.

On the bed, frayed clothes laid messily near an old suitcase that just waited to be packed, and close by were stored several low-quality magical objects and ingredients, such as a Sneakoscope and potion ivy leaves.

On the shelf above the fireplace there was a small stock of food, a tiny pot half-filled with Floo Powder, and an old radio.

It was the house of a lonely, poor man – a man ready to leave.

*

The Headmaster looked around while he approached the chair he was offered. Dumbledore thanked amiably for the courtesy and sat down, but Remus stayed up and hastily collected the newspapers on a corner of the table. He then made the water in the kettle boil with a wave of his wand, poured the hot water in two mugs and put a teabag in each one.

When he sat down, Dumbledore simply stared at him through his half-moon spectacles for a while. Remus held his gaze, and eventually Dumbledore let his eyes wander again around the cottage. When he spoke, he did it with the cheerful tone of someone who is complimenting the colour of the curtains.

“I see you are about to leave, Remus.”

“It doesn’t take your keen intuition to guess that much.”

“Oh, it does not indeed,” said Dumbledore, smiling. “But I believe it is the where and the why the most intriguing part of the matter.”

Remus huffed. “As if it isn’t obvious as well.”

Dumbledore ignored the retort and serenely picked one of the magazines, which titled Sirius Black affected by Stockholm Syndrome?

“Obvious?” he asked, flicking through the pages of the Quibbler before looking Remus in the eyes yet again. “What it is obvious is that in front of me sits a capable, fair and talented wizard that in the past years had very few occasions to prove his worth. A wizard that has lived alone for too long, but has finally found the strength to get out and put his skills at use.”

Remus smiled coyly. He didn’t receive compliments very often, and they pleased him more than he was willing to admit.

“And yet, I wonder…” resumed Dumbledore, “is he truly driven by his noble ideals?”

The Headmaster rummaged around the newspapers, picked a front page with a big picture and stretched it out on the table: Sirius Black had a gaunt face and circled eyes, but he looked at them with a determinate gaze.

“I wonder… what lie convinced this talented wizard that it was right to track Sirius Black down?”

Remus frowned at him, clenching his jaw, but Dumbledore kept speaking, nonplussed.

“Has he told himself it is his moral obligation to capture Black because who, if not him, would be able to understand his moves – to anticipate them, even? Or has he told himself that becoming a bounty hunter he may finally be able to make a living?”

The Headmaster was perfectly calm, but Remus was fuming. How dared Dumbledore judging him?

“Do you doubt I’d be able to find him?” he asked with a harsh tone.

“Of course not, my dear Remus!” said Dumbledore with an amused smile that irritated Remus even more.

“Then you’ll see how catching him is my right and my responsibility,” he said through gritted teeth. “Not to mention that I’d finally have a purpose that would make my useless life a bit less useless, for a change.”

“That would be a very noble purpose indeed, but I believe that if you really felt obligated to help catch him, you would not be here making arrangements – no, you would have already used that bit of Floo Powder you have left to go to the Ministry and tell them everything you know.”

“Pity that the Ministry isn’t interested in tagging along with werewolves,” spat out Remus with resentment.

“I fear this is one of the several lies you are telling yourself, Remus,” said Dumbledore gravely, like if he was giving him an unpleasant diagnosis. “You know perfectly well they would be ready to cooperate with you, in order to put behind bars the first wizard that has ever escaped from Azkaban.”

“Well, let’s hear what this great truth would be, then, since I’m apparently full of rubbish!”

“Oh, the truth is very simple, I am afraid. You want to look for him on your own because you do not want to capture him.”

Remus couldn’t believe his own ears. “No, no, you’re right, I don’t want to catch the man who betrayed and killed my best friends, and who also happens to be Voldemort’s right hand and one of the most powerful and dangerous wizards around,” he said with bitter sarcasm.

“No, you don’t want to catch him.” Dumbledore took a deep breath. “You want to kill him. Stop lying to yourself, Remus. We know perfectly well it is not the moral obligation nor the money to drive you. It is a blind, insatiable desire for revenge.”

The Headmaster had struck a nerve, and Remus felt exposed in a way that put him on the defense. “And what if I do?” he asked harshly. “Not even you, with all your high-sounding names, can dare to come here and blame me. Especially not you, since you know perfectly well how deeply Black ruined my life, and not just mine.”

“I totally agree with you.”

Remus widened his eyes, dumbfounded. He had expected Dumbledore to try to dissuade him, to lecture him… not to cheerfully agree.

“It happens, in fact,” continued Dumbledore with a seraphic smile, “that I am not here to blame you. I am here to offer you an alternative, one that all things considered could… how did you put it? Make your useless life a bit less useless, I believe. One that, all things considered, only I and my high-sounding names can offer. And now, if you would be so kind as to listen to this old wizard a little longer, I will gladly discuss it in front of that cup of tea that I would serve before it gets cold, if I were you.”

Remus sent an inquisitive glance at Dumbledore, eager to find out what this was all about, but the Headmaster kept smiling seraphically, not giving anything away, so he stood up, brought the mugs to the table and grabbed a bowl of sugar from the shelf with the stocked food.

“I’ve got no milk,” he said with an apologetic shrug. “And only one teaspoon. How much sugar do you want?”

“Three, if you please. I’m afraid I can’t help indulging my sweet tooth, despite all Madam Pomfrey’s recommendations,” said Dumbledore with a wink.

They sat quietly for a bit, sipping their mildly warm and probably too strong tea.

It was Remus who broke the silence, too curious to wait much longer. “I’m listening.”

Dumbledore put his cup down and fixed him with his penetrating blue eyes. “You have to know, dear Remus, that for the last few decades two have been the worries that trouble me before the new term begins. The first is if someone will finally get me a pair of wool socks for my birthday, instead of the usual, overvalued books,” said Dumbledore with amusement. If Remus hadn’t known him well enough, he would have thought he was nuts. “The second is if this year I will finally have a Defence Against the Dark Art professor actually capable of teaching something to my students – provided that I have one in the first place. Now, I already know there is no hope about my first concern, but I am here to find out if I can sort out the second one.”

Remus’s hearts hammered at the Headmaster’s words, but he didn’t dare take them for granted. “You... are you offering me a job at Hogwarts?”

“Absolutely,” said Dumbledore with delight. “Between us, I am quite proud of my choice. I could have hardly thought of a more fitting candidate.”

“Are you kidding?”

The Headmaster smiled brightly. “Not at all. Of course that would mean you will have to give up your little... hunt, to move at Hogwarts on a permanent basis.”

“Teaching at Hogwarts…” murmured Remus, all the arrangements to leave suddenly meaningless. Could he really do that? It seemed crazy and too good to be true at the same time… It would be the best thing that happened to him in more than a decade… It would be a dream...

“I promise the castle is as welcoming as it has always been, at least until you run into Peeves,” said the Headmaster, clearly enjoying himself.

But Remus couldn’t share Dumbledore’s amusement, because he had just remembered the reason he had always struggled so much to find or keep a decent job – or any job at all, actually.

Was he supposed to transform in the Shrieking Shack? He felt an unpleasant lurch at the mere idea… The last time it had happened, he had had his friends beside him, and the idea of being there without them was painful and terrifying at the same time.

And there was the fact that when he had been a student not everybody had noticed his absences, but as a teacher all the school would have: students were meant to find out, eventually, and the Shack wasn’t even that safe, was it? He had been followed once, so it could happen again…

He swallowed. “What about the full moon?”

“Oh, I am very glad you brought it up, my dear Remus,” said Dumbledore with a pleased smile. “I should have mentioned right away that one of our teachers happens to be able to brew a perfect Wolfsbane Potion, and the school is willing to bear all the costs.”

Remus felt his eyes prickling at the unbelievable news; he blinked hastily, trying to maintain his composure. The Wolfsbane Potion… Merlin, he would be willing to work for free in exchange for a hot meal per day, a proper roof upon his head and a painless transformation.

A moment later he realised which teacher Dumbledore was referring to, and he almost choked on his tea.

“Snape?” he asked, loudlier than he intended. “You want me to drink a potion brewed by Snape?”

“I have complete faith in the goodwill of all my teachers and absolute trust in the talent of some. Severus is among them,” stated Dumbledore, looking truly serious for the first time.

Remus wasn’t very convinced by those words, and from Dumbledore’s look, he knew he wasn’t doing a great job of hiding it.

The Headmaster sighed. “Dark times await us,” he said, concerned. “With Voldemort who I am afraid soon or later will be back and Sirius on the run, Merlin knows how much Harry needs a professor capable of actually teaching him how to defend himself…”

Remus’s eyes widened upon hearing Harry’s name, his heart beating fast yet again. “Do you think… do you think Sirius will look for him?”

“As a matter of fact, I would be surprised if he will not, and I am quite baffled that you had not thought of it, being so determined to catch him.”

Remus could see how silly he had been, now. “I thought he’d be on the track of what’s left of Voldemort,” he admitted reluctantly.

“Oh, I do not doubt that this is one of his next goals, but I will not deny that I would sleep more peacefully knowing I have a trusted man at Hogwarts – one that knows the castle as well as Black, and Black better than anybody else.”

“What’s he like?”

“I should be the one asking you that,” said Dumbledore with amusement.

“I meant… Harry,” specified Remus, despite being sure that Dumbledore knew perfectly well who he was referring to.

“Why ask me when you have the chance to see it with your own eyes?”

Dumbledore put his mug down and smiled kindly before checking his unintelligible watch. “It is running quite late, I am afraid. I am sorry for taking so much of your time. If you are not interested, I will look for another candidate, but it has been a pleasure to s–”

“All right.”

“All right, what?” asked Dumbledore with a knowing smile.

Remus rolled his eyes. “All right, I’ll teach at Hogwarts. But only for this year, giving the circumstances,” he added on a second though. He would love to teach there forever, but he didn’t want to delude himself about it – he had been burned too often to fall in that trap once more.

“Wonderful!” Dumbledore exclaimed cheerfully, clapping his hands. “I will see you on the first of September, then.”

“Yeah… see you on the first.”

Dumbledore had already stood when Remus gave in to the temptation of asking for more. “Hagrid says he looks exactly like James.”

The Headmaster smiled softly. “He does… except for his eyes.”

Remus nodded. He remembered that. “He has Lily’s eyes.”

“He does indeed.”

Finally, Remus was smiling as well.

[creativitywakeup-blog]

How creative am I?

As leaders, as managers, as parents, as contributors to society, we know that creative thinking is an increasingly important skill in this VUCA world. So you may be asking yourself, how creative am I, really? Will I cut it? Do I need to sharpen up?

Firstly let me be clear: by creativity, I don't mean being able to draw. If you've ever said: "I can't draw a stick man" or "I don't have a creative bone in my body" then you've been referring to artistry. Visual, literary and performing arts all take a level of creativity but they don't define it. Creativity is more than artistry. It is the application of imagination to solve a problem or create something useful. So you can struggle drawing stick men, but be a brilliant problem solver and a true creative thinker.

So, how creative are you? If you are a human being, you are creative. That's a given. It's how our brains are wired. But as for how creative are you at this point in time… this depends on what you've been doing with the superstructure in your skull for the years you've been alive. If you're like most adult humans, you have stacked and boxed most of your creative desires, curiosities and passions in a neat mental filing cabinet, labelled Ancient History or For Children Only and let them grow dusty and rusty. You've been trained through your primary education to write in monochromatic (monotonous to your brain) blue or black pen, on straight horizontal lines (akin to prison bars for your mind, according to Tony Buzan.) No doubt, you have continued this straight-jacketed habit, as have I, for most of your adult life.

If at this point, you're thinking, "Are there other ways to write things down that don't involve straight lines and black pen?" then your creativity may be somewhat asleep. If you are wracking your brain trying to recall those imaginary lives you dreamed of when you were young and struggling to locate your true passions now, then I'm afraid your creativity may be in a deep sleep or even a in a coma.

The question you should be asking yourself is not, "How creative am I?", but "How creative am I, now?" I believe that the answer to the first question is the same for all of us: infinitely! I don't think that there is an end to how creative any of us can become. The good news is that developing our creativity is both a process of peeling off what's stopping our creativity, as well as building in skills, habits, practices and influences to grow our creativity. "How creative am I now?" helps us understand our starting point and hopefully give us the impetus to get going on our creative journey.

Here are a few more questions to help you gauge how creative you are now. Do you lean in to discomfort, or tend to take the easy option? Do you flick to your phone calculator rather than add up the bill in your head? Do you ever change up your surroundings or do you like to keep things the same? Do you learn about varied and different things or just stick to the basics you need in your industry or role? Do you record your dreams or not recall them at all? Do you immediately google anything you want to know, or try to recall it or ask a friend? Do you challenge yourself Do you ever experiment with cooking or stick to what you know? Do you take different routes back from work or stay with familiar routes? There are many more, but these should hint at how creative you really are being in this season of your life. You may even be a talented artist, but have become stunted or stale in your creativity. Creative minds are dynamic and energised, and need to be continually stretched and challenge not to stagnate.

[365daysofj2]

Sand and Stone (J2 AU, 7/?)

Life at home settles into a comfortable routine. Jared gets Jensen set up with a mic and his laptop, and Jensen starts working on a new demo. He practices for an hour and a half and then records for another couple of hours. He also asks Jared to get him some colored pencils and a sketchbook so he can work on a cover. That forces Jared to get in his car so he can drive to the craft store. When he sits down behind the wheel, he can feel the panic hovering just at the edge of his consciousness, like a thick fog. He takes a deep breath and grasps the wheel in one hand and Sadie’s neck in the other. He’s got her belted in a harness in the passenger seat, sporting her work jacket and leash. He takes a deep, shaking breath and turns on the car. The car rumbles to life beneath him. He does the 54321 exercise, focusing on the five things he can see (the steering wheel, the dashboard, Sadie, the clock, and the gearshift lever), four things he can hear (the engine hum, the radio, Sadie’s breath, and his own breath), three things he can smell (the acrid dust from the unused heater, the leather of the steering wheel, and Sadie), two things he can taste (the remnants of coffee on his lips, and the cold air from the vent), and one thing he can touch (the steering wheel). He swallows hard and eases the car away from the curb. He doesn’t encounter much traffic on the way to town, for which he’s grateful, and he parks in the back of the parking lot, away from all the other cars. He and Sadie walk the full length of the parking lot to get to the store, and Jared can feel his heart slowing as he takes slow, deliberate steps. He finds the watercolor pencils Jensen asked for, and buys him a set of sketch pencils besides, just in case. He also buys a large top-bound sketchbook with a black cover and a pencil sharpener that runs on batteries. He knows Jensen will protest that Jared spent too much money on him, because Jensen thinks even a couple dollars is too much, but Jared’s happy to do it. Having Jensen around just adds so much to Jared’s life. He didn’t realize just how much he needed another person in his life. When he moved out of Anaheim, he left behind all the friends he made there, and he hasn’t kept in touch at all. He occasionally talks to his college friends on Facebook, but they’re scattered across the country. Jared pays for the purchase and the young cashier gushes over Sadie. Normally Jared would be annoyed, but this time he just thanks her and promises to give Sadie a few extra pets when he gets home. He smiles at the young woman and leaves the store with a large bag. When Jared gets back to the apartment, the red bandanna that Jared asked Jensen to tie around the doorknob when he’s recording is still in place, so Jared takes Sadie on a small jaunt around the neighborhood. When they get back, the bandanna is gone, so Jared unlocks the door and goes in. Jensen’s sitting in front of the laptop when Jared and Sadie enter. Jared takes off Sadie’s leash and jacket and nods to Jensen. Jensen looks up, startled. “Oh, wow, I didn’t hear you come in.” “You were busy,” replies Jared. He hands over the bag. “I got everything you wanted, and a little more besides.” Jensen opens the bag and goes through it. “You really didn’t have to, but thank you.” Jared grins. “You’re welcome.” He extends a hand. “You want to take a coffee break?” “I think I’d rather take a beer break, if you’ve got any.” Jensen accepts Jared’s hand and lets Jared pull him to his feet. Jared chuckles. “Yeah, I’ve got a six-pack in the pantry and some mugs in the freezer.” Jensen smiles. “Lead the way.” Jared retrieves the frosty mugs from the freezer and opens two beers. He pours them out and hands one to Jensen. “Thanks, man.” “No problem.” Jared sits down at the kitchen table with his own beer. “How’s it going?” Jensen nods. “Not too bad. I’m a little rusty at mixing, but it’s coming back. I think I should be ready to burn them by Wednesday night.” “That’s great!” Jared sips his beer. “Right on time, then. How many copies were you planning to make?” “Just fifteen or twenty to start,” replies Jensen. He takes a long draught of his beer. “If I run out, I run out, but I doubt that’ll happen. I don’t think RJ Claske is going to be that popular.” Jared frowns. “What?” “My stage name,” says Jensen. “RJ Claske. I just rearranged the letters of my real name.” “I don’t even know your real name,” Jared replies softly. Jensen shakes his head. “It’s safer for both of us that way.” “I know,” says Jared, “but I hate that.” Jensen sighs. “I do too, believe me. It’s not a fun way to live.” He looks up at Jared and gives him a halfhearted smile. “But at least I’m not alone anymore.” “No, you’re not.” Jared smiles. “And neither am I.” Jensen sips his beer. “You want to go down to the beach when I’m done? We can take sandwiches and make a night of it.” Jared nods, still smiling. “That sounds great.” He stands up. “I’ve got a box of pasta salad in the cupboard. I’ll get it started.” Jensen finishes his beer. “I’ve gotta get back to it. Thanks for the beer.” “Anytime.” Jared retrieves the box from the pantry, and then steps behind Jensen and and clasps his shoulder. He leans down and kisses him on the cheek while taking his empty mug out of his hand. Jensen grins and tips his head up to kiss Jared’s jaw. That makes Jared grin as well. Jared takes the empty mugs to the sink and washes them out while Jensen goes back to the computer. Jared busies himself with preparing food and listening to the scraps of music that come from the laptop in the living room. Jensen takes his art supplies to the beach with them, and once they’ve eaten and played with Sadie, he pulls out his colored pencils and sketchbook and flips to a blank page. Jared watches as Jensen starts drawing the jetty in sharp, dark lines, and then begins to fill in the colors of the setting sun in both the sky and the water. Jensen blends colors beautifully, skillfully. Jared raises an eyebrow. “I didn’t know you could draw.” Jensen shrugs. “I’m just playing around.” “It looks really nice,” says Jared. “Thanks,” Jensen says absently, not really sounding like he means it. Sadie flops down beside Jared and he starts petting her as Jensen continues to color. Jared thinks about the great meals Jensen cooks and wonders what other skills he hides because he thinks—or more likely, he’s been told—that his efforts are subpar. Jensen finishes the drawing. “Can I see it?” asks Jared. Jensen reluctantly hands it over. “This is beautiful,” breathes Jared. “You gonna use this for your album cover?” “I might.” Jensen looks out at the ocean, at the sun sinking into the waves, and leans back on his elbows. “It’s so beautiful here. I can barely do it justice.” “No, you really did,” argues Jared, handing the sketchbook back to Jensen. He closes it and sets it aside. “You’re a lot better than you think you are.” Jensen ducks his head. Jared moves to Jensen’s side and puts an arm around his shoulders. “I swear, I’m not just saying that,” he murmurs in Jensen’s ear. “I really think you’re talented. And I hate that you don’t agree.” Jensen shrugs. “It’s just—he put me down so much, I started to believe him. He seemed so much smarter and cooler than me, so I thought he knew what he was talking about.” Jared pulls Jensen close and rests his chin on the crown of Jensen’s head. “Monday morning I’m going to therapy and I want you to come with me.” Jensen hesitates. “Okay,” he finally says, sounding unsure. “And after that, we’re gonna take this—” He taps on the sketchbook cover, “to the print shop and get the covers made.” Jensen nods slightly, mindful of Jared’s head on top of his own. “Sounds good to me.” Jared grins. “Stick with me, kid. We’re gonna make it—together.”

[ask-the-phan-site]

Phan Cam: Horizon Heist: Felicia Hardy/Black Cat

>The Sanctum Sanctorum, Greenwich Village. Black Cat and I came here. What is she up to? Good thing I asked Spider-Kid to stay close by without Black Cat knowing.

Here it is. Your final test.

I don’t know. You want me to steal from there? Pick pocketing in the park, snatching purses in Hell’s Kitchen, and hijacking ATMs is one thing. But stealing from a superhero? Particularly one that has mystical powers? Don’t you think that’s a little... Grand?

Black Cat: Oh, please, it’s not like I’m asking you to take one of Strange’s mumbo jumbo. Believe it or not, this place has a gift shop. Just pick up a couple of shirts and maybe an SS Ring. They won’t even miss them.

Ren: (sighs in defeat) Alright. (whisper) Miles, don’t lose us.

Black Cat: Now, I can’t go in there because I’m too easily recognized and Strange has magic that can counter my powers. Succeed, and your training is complete.

Ren: Alright. Wish me luck... The good kind.

>I take a deep breath and go inside. Nothing weird so far. Except for the strange aura just from simply being in the foyer. Then, I noticed the entrance to the gift shop. I try casually to walk there without arousing suspicion. Inside the shop was just as empty, even the cashier wasn’t there, so taking somethings won’t be that hard. But just to be sure, I make sure no one was around. Before coming here, Miles installed a communications device in my glasses.

Ren: (whisper) Miles, can you hear me? I’m inside.

>Outside...

Hear you loud and clear... But I’m afraid I’m going to be a little late.

Ren’s voice: Why? What’s wrong?

Spider-Kid: Let’s just say... I’ve got company.

>Indeed. Spider-Kid was on the wall outside of the Sanctum. And staring at him from the window next to him was... an Asian man with a stern face.

Spider-Kid: (chuckling nervously) Hi.

(the only picture I could find) ... Hello.

>Back inside, I can sense Spider-Kid was going to be busy. Then, I sensed something else right behind me.

I knew you would find out sooner or later.

>I turn around.

Yes, I sensed your arrival as well, Ren Amamiya... Joker of the Phantom Thieves.

>I wasn’t that surprised that he knew. I am talking to someone with mystic powers.

Ren: I’m glad to see even you know about us.

Dr. Strange: Yes. I also know why you are here.

>With a gesture, Dr. Strange pulls Black Cat inside. Then, Spider-Kid comes in with Wong.

Spider-Kid: This looks bad, doesn’t it?

Black Cat: You had him watching us!? ... Couldn’t you have had Spider-Man come, instead?

Wong: You do know he’s only 17, don’t you?

Black Cat: Oh... A girl can only dream.

Ren: I think we have bigger problems. We’ve been caught.

Dr. Strange: True... However, I will chose to look away this time. Mostly because of what you did for both Peter Parker and Harry Osborn. I sense that they will need you in more ways than one. However, should you ever try to steal from me or this place again, I won’t be so forgiving.

Black Cat: Can you blame me? Being a thief is in me. You have my father to thank for that.

Dr. Strange: I know. You became a thief in order to find out what happened to him in the past.

Black Cat: Well, I’ve already figured that part out. Back in World War II, he witnessed something that would change the course of history and possibly win the war for the Allies... The birth of the First Avenger.

Spider-Kid: (surprised) For real!? Your dad saw Captain America born!?

Black Cat: Well... He saw the formula used to make him.

Dr. Strange: Yes. The same formula... He gave your mother while she was pregnant with you.

For real?

Black Cat: Well... Now you know how I got my powers.

Ren: I see.

Dr. Strange: Though I have to say, it is rather bold of you to come here to steal shirts that are barely $5 and a ring that’s not even real silver. It’s pewter.

Black Cat: Well I had to come up with something for Joker’s final test. Just be thankful I’m not asking him to take any of you magic trinkets. Even I know better.

Dr. Strange: True. I should be grateful. Still, you should consider who you steal from. Let’s consider this test... Passed.

Black Cat: Really? How so?

Dr. Strange: Because while we were talking... Joker has already taken the ring.

>He was right. I reach into my pocket to show the ring.

Dr. Strange: It is rather odd my powers alerted me after you took it. Either I’m getting rusty... Or your talents as a thief has improved.

Ren: That’s good to hear. Thank you, doc.

Black Cat: Well done. I guess I’m out of a job. But at least you still helped me with my work in digging into my father’s past. I know my father copied the formula, I need to find it. The world already has Captain America and myself. I don’t think we need three Super Soldiers in the world.

Spider-Kid: Yeah, imagine what someone like HYDRA would do.

Dr. Strange: I think I can. I’ve seen it. And it’s definitely not a pretty picture.

Ren: All the more reason why I think we should let S.H.I.E.L.D. in on this.

Black Cat: ... I’ll think about it. Right now, you just passed the final test. There’s nothing more I can teach you. And in return, not only did that girl in blue paid me a lot, you also helped me learn more about what my father did when I didn’t think anyone could.

Well... Thank you, milady.

Black Cat: And to reward you for your hard work... I'll let you keep that.

>She pointed to the ring I took. Dr. Strange and Wong looked sternly at Black Cat.

Black Cat: What? I’ll pay for it... Eventually.

>Black Cat gives me the Sanctum Sanctorum Ring.

Black Cat: The hunt for the secrets of John “The Cat” Hardesky goes on. You’ve given me the strength to go on with it. You have my thanks for that.

>I can feel Felicia’s happiness become stronger than ever.

I am thou, thou art I… Thou hast turned a vow into a blood oath.

Thy bond shall become the wings of rebellion and break the yoke of thy heart.

Thou has awakened to the ultimate secret of the other Fortune, granting thee infinite power…

Rank Up!

Confidant: Black Cat

Arcana: Fortune

Rank: 10 (MAX)

Ability: Improved Gentleman Thief

Can use Pickpocket with Persona Skills.

Black Cat: You know, if you were a few years older and had other interests, I think I would fall for you... But from what I’ve heard, you’re already taken.

Ren: It’s true... I’ll do anything and everything for that artistic pretty boy. I can’t imagine my life without him.

Black Cat: I can tell. You two are very lucky.

>With a smile, Black Cat tried to make an escape. However, Wong quickly ran after her... But not for long.

Black Cat: Sorry, monk, but I’m in a rush.

>The lights suddenly go out. Before he knew it, Wong was just hopping around looking for Black Cat. Then, he grabbed someone he thought was her. But when Dr. Strange lit up the room again with his powers... Wong saw he caught...

Wong: Forgive me. I thought you were Black Cat.

No, but I’m a hip cat.

Spider-Kid: Yikes! Remind me to bring a lot of mirrors next time.

Dr. Strange: Probably. Wong, please show Mr. Stark up. I’ll be with you later, Tony.

>With that, Wong shows the multi billionaire up the stairs.

Ren: We better go, too.

Spider-Kid: Yeah, even this gift shop is giving me the creeps.

>With that, me and Spider-Kid leave. Dr. Strange sees us out in the foyer. Then, he turns around... He wasn’t surprised to see the door to the Velvet Room open and Lavenza comes out.

You were right not to punish them. For what is to come, Peter Parker and Harry Osborn will need their support.

Dr. Strange: There is no doubt about that.

>Dr. Strange looks down at his amulet, the Eye of Agamotto, as it glows... Seeing what will come.

[taesthetes]

hi, cutie pie, vn army anon here~ oh wow my asks get so long, I'm so sorry:( and not at all! omg I'm such a bother to you, sorry again for such long asks! and I'm not talented, vietnamese is my mother language so ofc I'm fluent in it, then I moved to europe since a kid so the language of the country I live in is like my 2nd language. eng+german is taught at school and I've watched german channels since I was a kid so these languages are not that hard to me:) and that's great you know spanish!:o–

–I’ll probably never learn korean tho:)) I’m not in college yet, I’m a senior on business academy high school and I don’t really enjoy it so hopefully I could graduate and get on a college in the field I’d enjoy. oh wow you can do both, I’m impressed! and yes, make a choice you’ll be satisfied with, if you enjoy something else more don’t hesitate and go for it, who knows maybe you’ll like it more:) I read the tmi series till part 5 and to me it was good but I wouldn’t go back to it. and yes,–

–cassandra clare had various diff series (the infernal devices, the bane chronicles, etc.) & I see, I was into fantasy a lot back in earlier days so that’s why. oh, talking about cooking shows there’s a comedy sitcom called “young&hungry” with emily osment as female lead and it’s really funny! there’s maybe s5 already but ever since I was into kdramas&kpop I dropped all my amr shows. each ep lasted only smth over 20 mins tho so it was fast. oh, you were into exo? are you still into them?–

–I checked your bts police masterlist and it all sounds interesting, I’m excited to read other members! the police au is a good insp for gfx^^ also I wanted to tell you that jilt killed me&cerise was so fun to read, I really enjoyed it! I was also struggling the 1st time I used PS and still am tbh. I still have a long way ahead to learn:) and I’m not sure yet, like I do enjoy it but idk if I should study it, I’ll see. I enjoy reading your messages&talking to you too💕 ikr they were my otp so I–

–was happy hearing about them dating irl, pity their relationship didn’t last longer. it was actually that idea I had that I shared with you:) I’d like to write a series based on this form in future. have you watched “stuck in love” yet? and I recommend POBAW movie! I loved the friendship between emma watson, logan lerman&ezra miller in the movie. I hope I’ll gather my courage one day&come off anon but I’m still not feeling to it yet😅 have a wonderful day&I’m sorry for my long asks once again❤️

hi, raindrop!! ahhh, it’s totally okay, you don’t need to apologize for that! you are not a bother at all, and i like reading your asks and talking to you, so please don’t worry about it! 💕 and my answer got long again oops, so i’m putting it under the cut; i hope you don’t mind!

omg you were taught two languages in school though, like that’s so impressive!! :o and speaking german is amazing wow my friend tried teaching me a few words before, and i completely butchered the pronunciation 😅 and i would probably be too overwhelmed to be studying two languages at once akdjfalskjf and you’re already speaking two other languages at home- how do you not mix up your languages?? i sometimes slip back and forth between english and vietnamese haha and don’t give up on korean! since you’re so proficient in language and are interested in them, i’m sure you’ll be able to easily learn it :D

is your high school specialized for students studying business only? :o i didn’t know they have that- that would’ve made choosing majors much easier for me aha. but yes, i hope you’ll be able to study what you like next year in college!! 💗 and yes! i really love studio arts, but i know it’s hard to get a job in that field, hence the business major as well.

yeah, i saw she had a lot of series, and they all look super interesting, but the thing is, when i start a series, i binge read the entire thing, and i don’t have time for that ): i really enjoy the fantasy genre, too! i just loved the idea of magic and being able to control it. oooh, no i haven’t heard of that show; i’ll check it out!

and yes, i am an exo fan! i used to be really into them, but my biases kept leaving and i was the biggest exo m fan, so i kind of gave up on them.. i still do listen to them, and i watch exo showtime and their other guest variety shows when i’m feeling nostalgic, but i don’t actively follow up on them, like i do with blackpink or bts. are you an exo fan? :)

and thank you!!! i’m really excited to write the other members for the bts police au 💓 adjkfjalsk omg police!bts gfx– i need to brush up on my PS skills so i can attempt to make some. and thank you so much aksjdhfaksf 💘 i like jilt because it was fun to write a cliche scene from a different perspective, and omg cerise– i just really like writing embarrassing scenes lmao

ahaha i’m sure you’re much better than me at PS though because i haven’t touched it in a while 😅 and you should definitely try designing! maybe take a couple classes to see if you like it? but omg yeah, lily collins and sam claflin were really cute together 💗 and yes, i remember! i hope you do write it, and i’m really excited for your future series!! do you have any idea which member you’ll write it for? :)

and yes, i watched “stuck in love”! i really enjoyed it, and it really did seem like there should’ve been a book version of the movie too!! i thought it was really cool how each family member was like a parallel of each other, like how bill was sleeping with a married woman, while erica was a married woman who slept with another man and rusty likes a girl who isn’t the best with relationships and sam is a girl who avoids relationships and ends up with lou, who’s like one of those “hopeless romantics” she tells her brother about. i’m excited to watch “the perks of being a wallflower”! i really like all three actors/actress starring in that movie. and that’s completely okay! please keep staying on anon if that’s what you feel comfortable with :) and there’s no need to be sorry! i really like talking to you!! 💞 i hope you’re having a good day and night, too! how was your day? did you do anything fun and exciting? :D