#your fave deserves a brighter future

[your-fave-deserves-growth]

ISAAC from THE BINDING OF ISAAC deserves recovery and a brighter future!

[uchihashisuii]

to listen, to suffer. (to entrust unto tomorrow)

Summary: "Have you slept?" Joshua asks, voice hushed as to not break the facade of peace that permeates the air. Because of course he begins with that; Phoenix is ever the healer, the caregiver, the protector. Concerned only for the well-being of those around him and not a whit for his own ills or pains. | Spoilers abound!

Pairing: Dion Lesage/Joshua Rosfield

Rating: Teen

Word Count: 1994

Content warning for introspection, romance, character study, brief mention of suicidal thoughts, and a first kiss long overdue

Author’s Note: rises from the ashes HEH with some brand new nonsense. you ever see two characters you Know are gonna be your faves and you're like. oh i'm gonna make them kiss. and then you discover there's actual substance for aforementioned faves and why they should kiss??? yeah as close to rapture as i'm ever gonna get i wanna thank not only god but jesus for all the joshua and dion content

also the summary lied to you its actually the morning but listen. listen. sunrise is more romantic than sunset fight me on that. plus using eve just sounded better

title is from answers from ffxiv cause i have a disease

Ao3 link

-----

With eyes turned eastward, Dion watches the darkened haze that drapes the world, a startling reflection of that which envelops his heart. Hours, days, weeks; time passes, but even years hence the results of his patricide and his ensuing loss of control will continue to dog his heels, to haunt his every thought.

The clawing shadows of agony swirl around him, enshrouding him; a burden he refuses to allow a moment's respite. For to refuse it, to ignore it - would be as forgetting what he had done. The blood of his father, his people, his home. Red-drenched gauntlets and the wind beneath Bahamut's wings buffeted by the anguished cries of those he swore to protect. Dion resolved himself to ridding Sanbreque of its poison, and instead took that which made her complete. Shining citadels and grand streets could be rebuilt - but one cannot hope to restore the laughter and strength of a people, the love of a father; on Dion's heart will the guilt ever weigh down.

He refuses to dwell on that which he has lost. No, his mind turns only to what he has taken. A home, a people, an emperor. Grieving stars shine through the haze, pinpricks of light weeping for what has been done. There is nothing he could do, no apology or deed grand enough to encapsulate the void of his sorrow, of his remorse.

Dion is not naive nor self-absorbed enough to think throwing himself unto his lance would absolve him, would pay the impossible due of his transgressions. He darent even hope for the opportunity. The unthinkable deeds have been done, and never once would he think himself worthy of forgiveness. There are none left in the ruins of his home even left to offer it. All that remains is the steadfast hope, the will to bring a better tomorrow, reflected in the haunted eyes of Phoenix and Ifrit. And it will cost his life -he hopes, he prays it does- but still he will take to the skies as Bahamut once more, grief punctuating every beat of his wings, as he bears on his back the hope for a future he does not deserve to see.

-----

Joshua finds him still deep in contemplation in the early hours, before the first rays of dawn could break across the horizon. There is a chill dancing about the air, breath fanning forward in pale wisps as they stand in comfortable silence, content to simply gaze out upon the world gone so utterly, ruinously wrong.

He tries not to dwell on it. Where heartbreak threatens to split him in twain, he remembers there is hope. In those surrounding him, in those that look to Ifrit and those whose hands may shape a brighter future. Maybe, even, some hope for him; just a little.

"Have you slept?" Joshua asks, voice hushed as to not break the facade of peace that permeates the air. Because of course he begins with that; Phoenix is ever the healer, the caregiver, the protector. Concerned only for the well-being of those around him and not a whit for his own ills or pains. 

He cares too much for one so young, Dion remembers thinking when they met as children. This small boy, this Dominant of Fire, who kneeled in the dirt and coughed from the dust dispersed. Only stopping long enough to look annoyed about it, before using his abilities as Phoenix to heal the broken wing of a bird. 

Who heals the healer? he thinks now. Certainly nobody he would even allow, insisting others be placed before himself. Dion believes, wholeheartedly, that he'd have made a fine Duke, were things - different. A man he would have been proud to stand beside, uniting their lands and ushering in an era of peace.

He'd left whimsical dreams behind long ago, the only thoughts left remaining were ones of how to ensure Sanbreque's victory and the survival of his people. But something about Joshua -his earnestness, his optimism, his very presence- makes Dion want to believe. Makes him think he's worthy of it.

"A scant couple of hours," is all Dion says in reply once he pulls himself from spiraling thoughts, unable to lie to one so gentle. Gazing out over the calm waters surrounding Ifrit's hideaway in staunch refusal to meet eyes too kind to be cast in his direction. To stare too long would prove his undoing, in more ways than he is comfortable putting a name to. Still, Joshua moves in his periphery, until the press of a bony elbow brushes into his forearm. When he glances a look, just as he expected, Dion cannot look away.

He's beautiful, in the calm of morning. No expectations, no fuss or hassle. The wind tussling his mussed hair, pale eyes bright with something warm. He belongs here, Dion thinks somewhat softly to himself. With the gossamer glow of sunrise bathing him in light, throwing his delicate angles into sharp relief. Impossibly long lashes of burnished gold brushing against the tops of his cheeks, mouth curving up into a secret smile that has Dion turning his attention swiftly elsewhere.

It is a struggle, sometimes, to see Joshua. Unlearning habits take time, but Dion works at it even amidst the fire and flame. His entire life Dion has been defined by simple measures; he is a Dominant, he is crown prince, he is dragoon commander. He is Bahamut, and not simply Dion. A symbol of light, a means to protect the empire. Faceless. A beacon. Simple.

Joshua is not simple. And yet he is; he's merely a man, holding fast to his convictions and his heart. A man with a sweet smile and gentle hands, who loves as fierce as any wildfire. A kind man, who paradoxically keeps any and all at arm's length in the hope that weakness and vulnerability are kept carefully hidden beneath those carefree smiles.

It comes full circle as all at once the taste in his mouth is reminiscent of the ash that blanketed Sanbreque. Dion is no longer any of these things, and those childhood fantasies of finding someone who saw through the gilded silver veneer of an imperial Dominant to unfurl the man trapped beneath - perhaps now, at the end of all things, there is the chance to simply be. Be understood, be - Dion.

Simple, he thinks with a bitter quirk of his mouth, just as I wanted.

"It's a lovely morning," Joshua remarks at his side, leaning just so until he can brush his shoulder against Dion's. Expertly wielding word and action to pull Dion from distraction; his frown shifts into something softer, something worthy of a serene early morning at the side of someone precious. 

When he turns to respond, it is to the sight of Joshua looking to him and not the view. Something clenches just beneath his ribs, and it is only in the quietude of an unassuming morning that Dion feels the world around him fall away, locking gaze with a still-smiling Phoenix.

Dion was never quite able to see himself in Joshua; too starkly different in method if not desire. But perhaps they're more similar than he first surmised, evidenced in the way the younger man studies him awash in the glow of sunrise, in the understanding clear as glass in those lovely eyes. The pressure that comes part and parcel in being fundamentally nothing more than a tool for your people, be it as weapon or shield. The trauma of a lost home, lost family. The guilt of bearing responsibility for so much loss, so much death and destruction. Dion finds himself reflected in those eyes, that have seen and wrought as much pain as he has. But even still, so too is there love, and acceptance, and maybe even peace.

"Lovely indeed," Dion whispers, eyes still locked on Joshua's and soft words nearly lost to the wind.

There are no further words, but none are quite needed. A grin, beautiful with closed eyes and full of teeth and tender joy, breaks across Joshua's face like the dawn. He laughs, very nearly shyly, and brings a hand to cover his mouth. As though he were embarrassed of his mirth, as though he wished to hide from Dion's searching expression. 

It is not a morning for hiding, nor is it one for things left unsaid. Dion doesn't expect to see the next rising of the sun, and shrugs off the idea of his own indulgence. The world and his life have gone to hell, yet the rise of a new day is stunning to behold. Paling very nearly to the pink that dusts Joshua's cheeks, to the way nerves and delight seem to wash from him in near-tangible waves. 

He's beautiful enough to break hearts, Dion thinks. In face and in soul both, in equal measure. His heart must feel much as he does right now; warmth from the gentle light of the sun, filtering through clouds to bathe them, for a moment, in something greater.

Dion feels nearly as shocked as Joshua looks when, not a heartbeat later, his gloved hand moves to curve over Joshua's elbow. The thrum of awareness carries between them, and yet again the world has gone quiet. Breath held, a moment in limbo; anticipation gathers heady around them. Dion cannot move further, cannot make his mouth work to tell Joshua above everything else I see you, I hear you. As you see me, as you hear me.

The linger does not last, Dion jolted from his yet once more spiraling thoughts to find Joshua cupping his cheek. Hand bare, his skin softer than silk. Thumb rubbing small circles beneath Dion's eye, lips parted and something familiarly unspoken dancing on the tip of his tongue. He runs warm, Dion realizes. Some quirk of Phoenix's power, perhaps; or maybe there is some merit to the rumors that all those from Rosalith have fire in their blood. Or perhaps, he thinks, when Joshua leans forward to close what distance lingers between them; perhaps it is simply Joshua. Sunlight manifest. 

The press of his mouth to Dion's feels startling natural. Much like in all other aspects Joshua is reserved, but not timid, when he kisses. Testing the waters, searching for an answer in Dion's reverent silence. And silent he remains; breath stopped short, a gentle gasp stolen with the rush of his pulse. Loud in his own ears, Dion hesitates for barely half a moment before he allows himself to simply feel.

Eyes slipping shut, Dion moves until he grips tight, certain, to Joshua's slim waist. Pulling him close with desperate, grasping fingertips until they are pressed tight enough they threaten to fold together into one. It's heady, made more intoxicant by the way he can feel more than hear the soft moan from Joshua, heat and desire making Dion's head spin. He breaks the kiss, basking and breathing, before pressing another, and another, to Joshua's pliant and waiting mouth. 

He doesn't question, doesn't hesitate. Fate and the future are ever fickle, and whether he deserves even a moment's respite in a question he refuses to entertain at present. Instead Dion savors it, when he grips tight to the hair at Joshua's nape just to hear that sweet sound once more. Perhaps there is nothing that awaits him this day save further agony, perhaps only a quiet death is all he deserves. But for now he has Joshua in his arms, against his mouth. Swallowing down Dion's every small sound, holding tight and refusing to let go. He is no longer shy, no longer gentle; Joshua licks into his mouth and every slick glide of their tongues has Dion falling just that little bit further.

The sun finishes its ascent, blinding even to Dion's closed eyes. The warmth that surrounds him, that resides within him, echoes and builds with every harried pulse of his desperate heart, resonating like the beat of a firebird's wings.

[ao3feed-usukus]

The European Concert

read it on AO3 at https://ift.tt/tN2FIKk by Sodium_NAna The United Nations is a well respected international organization that gathers most countries in existence and tries to make them cooperate towards a brighter future. Or as many of us simple bitches would call it, a whore house in the making. Once a year 194 countries reunite after half a year being apart and try to avoid killing each other in the middle of a meeting, for the lenght of a single fortnight the countries are invited to supervise the development of the discussions. Which often results in very fruitfull evenings, and often times... not so much. If you don't believe me, accompany me to the next two weeks of getting back with your ex spree, unresolved sexual tension, angsty love confessions and battling cheating allegations. Words: 2754, Chapters: 1/15, Language: English Fandoms: Hetalia (Anime & Manga) Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Categories: M/M Characters: America (Hetalia), England (Hetalia), Canada (Hetalia), Portugal (Hetalia), Germany (Hetalia), North Italy (Hetalia), Original Female Character(s), Monaco (Hetalia) Relationships: America/England (Hetalia), Canada/France (Hetalia), Portugal/Spain (Hetalia), Germany/North Italy (Hetalia) Additional Tags: Complicated Relationships, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Fluff, Fluff and Smut, Bunch of that actually, Unresolved Sexual Tension, but resolved, Love Confessions, monaco is my fave, literally she's just a girl, Semi-Public Sex, Sexting, Communication Failure, Idiots in Love, England is a Little Shit (Hetalia), America is a Dork (Hetalia), Canada is Horny, France deserves jail, Portugal idk get it together man, Ludwig has some explaining to do, everyone in here lacks basic communication skills read it on AO3 at https://ift.tt/tN2FIKk

[skzfelixity]

Joo Seokhoon | [The Penthouse: War In Life]

Dating Joo Seokhoon Would Include:

love at first sight

oh boi is he whipped

fave korean tsundere

he cares so much for you

you’re 24/7 on his mind

he can be SHY

HE LOOKS AT YOU LIKE YOU ARE HIS WHOLE WORLD

he always smiles while looking at you

you know those small smiles?

yeah them.

motorbike rides late at night<3

he LOVES back hugs

no one can fight me on this

when you surprise him with back hugs his whole day instantly becomes brighter

he plays the piano and you sing

everyone’s best duo

you spend as much time as possible together

dates after school

there are days when you can’t reach him at all

you just see him at school

he does like to have some space from time to time

will try to text you and call you tho

his family is a mess and he has to protect seokkyung yk

and it’s okay because according to him:

“You’ll see me everyday when we get married.”

oh wow bold

has definitely thought about your life and future together, living somewhere without much to worry about

treating the scars on his back<3

he didn’t want you to find out but

you spilled your drink on him and had him change

boy forgot about his scars and took off his shirt, he noticed you looking at him and then boom it hit him

he panicked and banged his head on the closed door while trying to leave

he’s glad you found out though

he has to be strong in front of his sister and it feels nice to have someone to tell how hurt he is

he doesn’t like burdering you either, he feels safe with you to open up

you can tell him everything and anything as well

he will always listen to you just like you listen to him

fights happen often

he just has a lot on his mind, it’s too much to handle

you know that so you don’t get too upset when fighting

and he will never say hurtful things to you

he’ll apologise after every fight

invites you over to the penthouse when his father isn’t around

he doesn’t want him around you

if he happens to be there, he won’t let you out of his room

you’ve spoken to Mr. Joo less than 5 times

SURYEON LOVES YOU

she welcomes you every time

makes your favourite food

you have her trust

Seokkyung doesn’t really talk to you, you make her brother happy and that’s enough to not insult you

maybe you will be besties in the future-

he gets jealous occasionally

you once fixed Minhyuk’s tie and he loosened his so you could do the same to him

he’ll never admit he is jealous even if you ask him

he doesn’t like anyone messing with what is his

he’ll beat up anyone who talks shit about you

same goes for those who make him jealous

he shows off by boxing

he always makes sure you’re watching

baby is embarrassed when he loses a fight

STROKE HIS HEAD AND TELL HIM IT’S OKAY

he observes your every move without you knowing

you get caught making out a lot

in the community room by the other hera palace kids

in school by ma dooki

ONCE BY SEOJIN AND SHE SPRINTED OFF

you still laugh about it when you see her

now that I said Seojin, HA EUNBYEOL

she has threatened you lol

“You stay away from him or I’ll stab you with the daesang trophy”

has definitely told you that, right?

yeah she knows seokhoon will literally kill her if she tries something like that so she clinges to him instead

at first you found it annoying but it’s actually so hilarious

seokhoon is like: :| while eunbyeol is:🌈💞🌸:D🌸💞🌈

you tease him about her E V E R Y T I M E

“How is your girlfriend?”

“😒”

seokkyung keeps eunbyeol busy so you two can have some peace and quiet

you have matching rings woop woop

matching clothes aren’t his thing but he won’t say no if you ask

also half of his jackets and sweaters are in your closet

IF YOU EVER SEE HIM BULLY ANYONE WITH THE OTHER KIDS, IT’S OVER

silent treatment for a week

like literally you’re so mad at him

“Come on, talk to me”

“I’ll slap you if you keep talking”

bully!seokhoon who? he doesn’t exist anymore

he still beats up people without you knowing

those who deserve it only tho

he would talk a lot about you but he doesn’t like anyone besides his sister

HOWEVER

he accidentally opened up to minhyuk about how much he likes you

idk how that happened and he doesn’t either

now he has a smirking minhyuk teasing him every morning

he can make him shut up but he lowkey doesn’t want to

well I mean it’s a way of thinking about you more without you being there

you sit behind him in class and he always turns around to rest his head on your desk

and you play with his hair while reading the notes for your next class

everyone takes pics and vids of you because you are adorable together but one look from seokhoon and they’re gone

HE HELPS YOU DURING TESTS AND EXAMS

he switches your answer card (?) with his

INTODUCING HIM TO CHOCOLATE MILK and other things he has never tried before or he doesn’t eat often

healthy food dates?

grab a blanket and enjoy your tv show with burgers on the side<3

if food makes you happy, he’ll eat anything you want to

PASTA DATES

his fave type of dates

like feed him with your fork y/n

OR OR OR

DOING THE LADY AND THE TRAMP PASTA SCENE

I think he is into that

into romantic stuff like these tbh

HE BLUSHES OK

imagine him going to suryeon for advice on how to act and treat you

GETS YOU FLOWERS

taking a nap while your couple spotify playlist plays on the background

loves being the big spoon

that type of innocent love with Joo Seokhoon

[edencantstopfallininlove]

To Douse

Content Warnings: night terrors, major character death (but not really), hurt/comfort, Dhar rejects toxic masculinity, tears, A BIG DAMN HUG, WAFFs galore

A/N: Sometimes you just want to comfort your faves, y’know? Set two days after the endgame.

_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_

His eyes open slowly as he tries to make sense of where he is.

A dark room. A menacing droning. A circle of deep purple flames surrounding his body, trapping him in the void, forming a single ring of heat amidst the biting cold against exposed skin. They bite and whip at his flesh, taunting him as they go; each mark a reminder that he is expendable. Worthless. A tool. Their cruel, shrill voices grow louder, louder still. He wants to cover his ears and scream, but before he gets the chance-

A flash, and he leaps into the blue sky like a falcon, leaving the room far behind. He draws his sword and aims for the angrier of the two duelling creatures. He's barely breathing, and yet he finds words. He doesn't hear himself speak. He doesn't need to. All that matters is stopping this beast he barely recognises as his leader, his reluctant friend. And yet, from the furthest reaches, on the howling wind, he is rattled for a moment by a desolate scream. A lament, he assumes, for a future that will never be.

Through the wall of stone he constructs bursts an ungodly light, brighter than anything he had ever seen before.

His eyes widen.

Everything burns.

White.

Noise.

....

Dhar awakens with a jolt. His mind races to make sense of everything he had just seen. The contact between his back and the bed is grounding, but does little to ease his shaky breaths and pounding heart. He looks around the bedroom; it's dark, but he can somehow tell it's just as he left it. And yet, his entire body starts to quiver... No. He shouldn't be feeling like this. The best thing he can do is try to ignore it and go back to-

“Dhar?”

His train of thought is derailed by a whisper of his name. He glances left to identify the speaker. In the dark, he can just about make out garnet red hair and kind blueish-grey eyes.

Oh, Heather. She shouldn't be seeing him like this.

“My love, is something the matter?” She asks, voice deepened by the need for rest, but still soft and full of concern.

“I'm fine," Dhar lies. “Go back to sleep, will you?”

“No,” replies Heather, shaking her head. “You can't fool me that easily. I haven't seen you tremble like this before; something must be up. Please, know that you can tell me anything.”

Dhar's body tenses up at the piercing of his defenses. With a sigh, he tries to recollect the ordeal.

“It was a bad dream. I was by myself in a room, pitch black, and then there was this droning noise. I couldn't work out where it was coming from. Then there was, like, purple fire everywhere and the flames were actually lashing at me... I don't know why, but it reminded me of when Ravannavar had cast me away in our final battle. His words were just echoing around me; they were screaming at me at one point.

“Next thing I knew, I was back to when I almost died. My body was just... moving on its own - I knew what was going to happen to me, but no matter how hard I tried to stop, there was a voice in my head that kept drowning myself out. 'All you'll ever be good for,' it said. It trapped me within myself. Then I heard you screaming...” He winces at the thought. “But by that point, it was too late for me to do any more. Everything turned white and it felt like my whole body was on fire.”

Once the last detail has been described, Dhar shifts himself to face Heather fully. “I don't know, it just rattled me so much...”

Heather nods, processing the awful dream her lover had. Before he can apologize, he feels a soft hand cupping his face. He remains tense, desperate to stay in control lest he scare her away.

“Gods,” says Heather, now stroking Dhar's face, “I'm so sorry about that. That I couldn't do anything to save you... But it's over now. None of what you just saw, or heard, or felt, was real. You're safe. I'm with you. And I promise, no matter what may happen from here on out, I'll protect you. You deserve that. I couldn't live with myself if I let something happen to the man I love.”

She retracts her hand, placing both in the empty space on the mattress between the two, then leans back a little. “Do you need a hug?”

Dhar freezes again. A hug. In twenty years, in spite of past lovers and the man he once called a father, those have been hard to come by. The notion was almost taboo. They hardly came around, Dhar reasoned, because the culture of the army led him to believe that so much as needing one made him less of a man.

But that's none of his concern anymore. The army is no longer his home. He belongs by Heather's side and, while her offer came as a shock, it touched him in a way he didn't think possible.

He finally lowers his guard.

His trembling body softens and the tears that long pricked his eyes finally fall, wet and hot against his face. He stays like that for mere seconds before he pulls Heather suddenly and desperately to his chest like his life depends on it, resting his head on her shoulder as his entire being is racked by his sobs. Though taken aback at first, Heather tenderly links her own arms around his torso, tracing slow, deliberate circles into his back. Nothing in this world would harm her favourite person if she could help it.

“Shhh... You’re okay.”

Heather feels Dhar's sobs slowly, but surely, quieten and his breath deepen as she does everything in her power to calm him down, but she doesn't rush him; he needs to know that it's okay to experience these feelings and release them. Eventually, he mutters his thanks as he tentatively releases his grip on her, prompting her to do the same to him in turn.

“Come to think of it,” she says as she does, “That's the first time you've cried in front of me.”

Dhar sniffles and considers turning away. “I'm sorry, should I-”

“No, no. Don't ever apologize for that. I want you to know that it doesn't make you weak. If anything, I'm glad that you feel comfortable enough around me to let that happen. You've come a long way to let yourself be as vulnerable as you just were.” She shuffles upwards to give him a kiss on the forehead. “I'm proud of you.”

The next thing Heather knows, Dhar rockets forwards again, this time so that his mouth can meet hers. His face is still a touch damp from needed tears, but he smiles against his love's lips and his heart flutters blissfully within his bare chest. No other person makes him feel this secure and happy...

“Thank you,” he says in-between deep kisses. “You're so good to me... But promise me you'll be safe, too.”

“If it's you, then I swear it on my own life. Let’s always keep each other well.”

Satisfied that his kiss quota has more than been met, Dhar settles his head onto Heather’s chest, cuddling her from the side. He gingerly shuts his eyes and sighs in contentment.

“You don’t have to try to go back to sleep if you don’t feel up to it, you know,” says Heather, who had shifted onto her back to accommodate him.

“Well,” mutters Dhar, “I want to. I think I’ll feel a lot better if I can hold onto you like this, baby.”

Another first. Heather gives a smile crinkled with tiredness.

“Good. I’ll be here if you need me.” She places a hand in his short chalky white locks, savouring how surprisingly soft it feels to touch. Her heartbeat slows as she continues to sleepily stroke it. “Rest well, Dhar. I love you.”

“I love you too, Heather. I hope you know that. Good night.”

Perfectly at ease, Dhar feels himself sink down onto the bed and his beloved’s body. He is grounded further by the sounds of Heather’s faint breathing. His mind quietens, the memory of his nightmare fading as he slowly succumbs to sleep.

How lucky he is to love, and be loved by, a woman like her.

_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_-_

@ode-to-joie @tuff-and-fluff @polaris-ships @f-orever-and-ever @gorillazgirlfriend @dazailovemail @abigailsfictionalothers @angelfairy-ships @nougatships (BTW, glad I got this done before the end of the Selfship Con!)

[firefrightfic]

Interwoven is like a fist wrapped around my heart and just...squeezing a bit too tight. Bite it Bloody is why I asked for (After) The Bad Guys Win for Sladin week. Accidental Discovery makes me want MORE. Turns of Lavender hits a lot of tropes I love. Light-Years Away I end up re-reading every few months and hoping it's not abandoned XD Taking Charge is one of THE hottest fics around. Grading on a curve because I am trash and enjoy Dick Grayson being manipulated emotionally into sex far too much

LOL sorry, there's more: Road to Recovery I like to read when stuff is bad and it just makes things a bit brighter. Out with the Old is one of my faves and it's good enough for me to keep reading through the gutpunch of knowing Dick's going to lose and Jason deserves things but oops my heart still breaks for Dick. Song of the Sea because SEA WITCHES ARE GREAT (all witches are great). And...I think we're there. I feel very stalkery for some reason? But your fic is great.

Sometimes you get messages that are so sweet and so kind you honestly don’t know how to adequately respond to them, and this is very much one of those. 

You’re not stalkery at all, anon! Knowing you love these stories as much as you do and reread them often is what every fan author out there dreams of hearing, and I really can’t thank you enough for taking the time to let me know this (I’m sure @skalidra will feel the same, as many of the stories you named here are hers as well). Yours is definitely going to be one of those messages I come back to again in the future whenever I need a bump in motivation to keep going with my writing :D ❤

[fictionalrambles]

Shadowhunters Fandom Story - Part Eleven

Submitted by fairphyllis13 

Five Fave Fics:

THE BOUNDLESS SAGA by @povverbottoms and teumessian

A path of birth, rebirth and awareness. I can’t say how much I was hit by this series, one of the first things I read about Malec. A crescendo of fear, awe, stubborness, love and power, all displayed in the amazing chapter in which Alec faces the Irak-Ta, declaring his contempt towards his world taking on the hardest ordeal for a Shadowhunter to become the ruler of his own life, while Magnus can barely cope with his lover’s suffering.

Favourite quote: Magnus running towards a barely alive Alec to free him:

Before anyone reaches Alec there’s a blast of wind and Magnus is there, arms bare and hands glowing blue as the shackles explode off Alec’s wrists.

Until the glory of the last part of the series, that, oh god, can’t be described.

He raises a hand, turns open his palm. There’s one golden spark, and then a purple fire blooms in his palm. Alec glances at it, chuckles, and then it burns even brighter, flames turning to silver and gold.

“Who are you?” Magnus breathes.

Alec drops his hand slowly, ball of magic blinking out as his fist closes around it. He holds Magnus’ eyes as he speaks, open and pressing for understanding.

“I’m Alec. The Alec that does belong to you.”

*

INVICTUS by @lecrit

The art of tattooing: the art of covering - or highlighting - your wounds through drawings and thanks to a strong connection between the artist and his canvas, a body who wants to yell at the world through a kind of psychoanalytic session.

Alec feels responsible for the accident and thinks he doesn’t deserve happiness, he doesn’t want to be happy, trying to atone for the guilt in which he’s drowning. But making his mind in covering his scars highlighting them with a tattoo means a new beginning, just like my tattoos represent a path: knowledge, love, chains, anger, and finally peace, awareness, balance and renewal.

Favourite quote:

To mark your skin with something that will be a part of you because you have decided

That’s it: something you get control upon

*

ALL REALMS OF WHERE AND WHEN BEYOND by @la-muerta

A fantasy tale – what I love the most – which brings out the best qualities of truly strong people: honesty, loyalty, self-sacrifice, love towards those who you are responsible for. Magnus and Alec have a long journey towards each other, learning to be together but never forgetting their duty and their responsibility, and their happiness happens only when they’ve fulfilled what they are expected to do. This is a milestone for me, what I appreciate the most.

Favourite scene: their heartbreaking first time, just before they split.

"Magnus, please," he whispered, not knowing what he asked for, overcome with emotion, but Magnus just hushed him with a kiss, swallowing Alec's cries as he began to rock into him.

The gentle waves of pleasure washing over Alec began to rise and swell into a roiling tempest. They were joined so deeply that Magnus' magic was sparking blue all over Alec, his pleasure feeding Magnus' and Magnus' pleasure pushing back into him, both of them completely lost in each other.

Alec threw his head back against the pillow, crying out Magnus' name as he let Magnus fill him over and over again, until the crest of pleasure broke inside them both, and they both came whole to the night.

Too soon, the sky began to lighten.

Neither his siblings nor his liegeman made any comment that he had only returned to them in the wee hours of the morning, arms laden with travelling supplies and face streaked with fresh tears.

*

BETWEEN THE LINES by @msalexiscriss

An absolutely amazing cop/thief AU, a thread I like so much, in a neverending game between two smart people on the opposite side of the law. Yet, no one is totally right or wrong and our thief is much nicer than we thought; moreover, their continuous challenge makes the story interesting and lively through a series of coup-de-theatre. From enemies to lovers they learn how much love and hate might mix in an explosive blend but eventually morphing into something beautiful. And also how love and hope push you to make amends of your mistakes to gain a greater reward.

Favourite scene: Magnus’ exit out of jail after paying his debts and letting himself love Alec

"I know I have nothing left to offer you, I am an ex-convict without a job, money or any plan for the future, but I love you. I love you with every fiber of my being and that's never going to change. Maybe I'm four years too late, maybe this isn’t what you want. I know that a lot of things have happened since this started but-"

"Yes!" Alec exclaimed, kissing him repeatedly. "Yes, yes and a thousand times yes!"

Magnus smiled, feeling his heart making thousands of somersaults inside his chest. "Risks and all?" He asked.

"Risks and all!"

*

MAJOR ALEXANDER LIGHTWOOD by  caffeineaddicted_malec

A tough military AU, a couple of happy husbands who have been separated by war and then by death. Years of mourning and one day yes, major Lightwood is back, being held captive for 6 years, tortured and abused. The long winding path of two souls that need to reconcile, their deep connection challenged by an awful experience and a resulting PTSD, when love sometimes isn’t even enough. I never experienced PTSD myself: but it made me think about what people I know is going through and made me aware about how much they need love, understanding and support: let’s try to be kind.

Favourite quote: Maryse talking with her son-in-law.

“I miss him sometimes. Our Alec. The one who would have killed Luke yesterday just because I had started dating him”, Maryse sighed and sat down on the table curling her hands together in a fist. Magnus looked at Alec again and nodded, a tint of moisture collecting in his eyes.

“He’s still in there...we just have to be patient”, Magnus assured.

[justallamaimaginingthings]

Our Time [Jaime Lannister x Stark!Reader]

Request: "Hi hi hi could u pretty please write something for jaime x starkreader where after the war the reader becomes queen in the north and it's her coronation and jaime just admires her beauty (she's his wife at this point which also makes him king in the north) and afterwards he just kisses her and picks her up and tells her that he loves her and it's just soooooo fluffy ahh I love jaime and I hate what they did to him in season 8.. btw I love your writing so much!!!! <3" by anonymous

A/n: Thank you so much dear anon 💘 I had so much writing this and I realized I’m totally Jaime trash at this point. Hope you like it and don’t hesitate to leave a comment telling me what you think! Btw the quote in bold is by one of my fave writers/philosophers, Jean-Paul Sartre.

Words:  1400 || GoT Masterlist

The only time a person can be brave is when they are afraid.

The words your father had spoken almost ten years ago replayed in your head as you tried to calm your nerves by taking slow deep breaths. Those days when you were nothing but a young girl who dreamed of a better world seemed like a lifetime ago. Since then everything had changed but most of all, you had changed.

The struggle and hardships you had endured after your father's death had shaped you into a completely different person. Having suffered beatings, torture and the death of your loved ones, the only thing that had kept you standing was those words. Now, every hint of hesitation had faded away, as you carried yourself with a confidence and strength fit for a queen.

Taking another deep breath, you straightened your gown one last time before making your way towards Winterfell's council room. Upon crossing the familiar corridors, thoughts of your father and brother Robb filled your mind. An independent North with a Stark to lead. That was what they were fighting for, what they would have wanted and at that moment you swore you would make them proud.

The second Jaime saw you entering the large hall, his breath got caught in his throat as he found himself to be in awe with you once again. You were just as beautiful as you had been on your wedding day, he thought smiling at the memory. This time, however, your dress was much darker as the metallic stripes all over your chest resembled an armor.

Jaime was mesmerized by the look of sheer determination that shone in your eyes, which only added to your confident stance making your presence capturing. More than beautiful, you looked strong. Passing right in front of the huge Stark banner that was hanging in the wall, the wolf inside you howled with pride as you locked eyes with Jaime, who gave you an approving look. He knew that even though you didn’t want this, the North believed you and he was certain you would carry on the Stark legacy, being a capable and fair ruler.

The moment you sat down every person in the hall kneeled in front of you as Ser Davos slowly placed the silver crown in your head in an almost ceremonial way. Nodding at the man, he resumed to his previous place, next to the throne as every advisor should be. For an instant no sound could be heard in the room until you rose up, eyes stuck on Jaime.

"The War is over" you voice echoed through the halls "We fought both men and monsters and survived. But this is not the end. I can’t promise you safety, for winter is coming. What I can promise you is this: from this day until my last I will fight for you. There may be more beautiful times, but this one is ours. From the ashes we will build a brighter future, just like my brother promised you" At that moment, Jaime realized as the passion in your voice sent shivers down his spine, you were truly a she wolf. There was something so fierce and powerful about you that could make even the strongest warrior bend down to your will. That was what you were meant to be, and Jaime couldn’t be more proud that he had the chance to be by your side in your hour of glory, seeing you finally getting what you always deserved, happiness and acceptance.

"Queen in the North" It started as a mere whisper, but in no time the whole room was chanting and howling in triumph. Jaime raised his sword just like the heads of all the remaining Northern houses had and joined the men.

"Ser Jaime, step forward" you demanded as soon as the cheers began quieting down. Taking a deep breath he followed your request making his way to right in front of you and bowing "As my husband you have swore to stand by me, just as I swore to stand by you. Today I need you to act on those vows. Will you rule by my side? Will you swear to protect the North with your life?" The intensity in the look the two of you exchanged was such to burn through the Wall and tear castles to the ground. In that moment you realized just how strongly Jaime believed in you, causing your heart to threaten to beat out of your chest.

"I swear. From this day until the end of my days" Jaime declared after what had seemed like a century while it was, in fact, just a second

"Arise Ser Jaime, rightful King in the North" you announced. There was a much deeper meaning behind those words and you both knew that. This wasn't about a throne or a kingdom, this was about loyalty and trust. With Jaime on your side, you were certain the future was going to be brighter than ever before.

The feast carried on in an absolute frenzy with countless toasts to the King and Queen in the North and by the end of it, most northerners had either fallen asleep or were positively drunk. Hearing Winterfell's corridors echo with laughter once more caused a warm feeling to fill your heart, reassuring you the worst had passed. Deciding it was late enough, you and Jaime headed back to your chambers. While you were walking, you couldn't help observing him, as the light from the torches made his hair shine like pure gold and highlighted his features.

The second the door closed behind the two of you, Jaime pulled you in for a breathtakingly passionate kiss. His hand tenderly traced your cheekbone before trailing down to the back your neck in order to hold you close. Returning the kiss in an equally fervent manner, you slightly bit his lower lip causing him to smile into the kiss.

"I love you" Jaime whispered after the kiss was broken, the seriousness of his voice taking you by surprise "And I want you to know that even though I didn't know your father well, I'm utterly certain he'd be proud of you. I know I am"

"That's all I need. I love you, Jaime" you replied, marveling at the bright smile that formed on his lips. Hearing him say those words meant more to you than words could ever express, making you forget all your worries. The sweet moment was interrupted abruptly, as Jaime picked you up, bridal style and carried you to the bed "What are you doing?" you asked him chuckling while your hands rested on his chest.

"Taking care of my Queen" he replied upon gently letting you down on the bed and helping you remove the tight skirt of your dress, leaving you in your undershirts. Taking off his armor, Jaime lied down on the bed, arms tightly wrapping around your waist as he pulled you flush against him. Feeling a trail of soft kisses on your shoulder blade, you smiled snuggling closer to him. You closed you eyes, letting the rhythmic sound of his heartbeat lull you to sleep.

"Jaime…" you tried wanting to know if he was still awake

"What?" he replied hoarsely, already half asleep

"No matter how much I love the North, you'll always be my home" you admitted making his grip on your waist tightened. Jaime didn't know what he had done to be worthy of such happiness, but for the first time in his life he knew there was no place he'd rather be than right there. You had made him believe in himself again, saving him from completely giving up and he couldn't be more grateful. So, he silently promised to himself he would try his best to support you in the way a King should support his Queen.

Jaime Lannister Taglist: @cyaa-niide

[qobiin]

weekly fic rec hoard

here's what i've been enjoying reading (and re-reading) this past week for different fandoms across the board! this week features: atla, bnha, good omens, harry potter, marvel, naruto and stranger things  ♡ means: all-time fave, (m) means: 18+ themes 

avatar: the last airbender

♡ first rule of earth kingdom fight club... series by ohmygodwhy  zuko, his stubborn inability to die, and finding himself thru getting his ass kicked 

The Most Ragged Edges by twinfinite  In hindsight, Zuko really should have seen this conversation coming. He can almost hear Li and Lo chanting wickedly about the magic of Ember Island, about waves smoothing away rough edges… 

♡ ribs by ohmygodwhy  The first thing Zuko tells him during their first lesson after the whole Sun Warrior ruins ordeal, is “Fire comes from the breath.” a lesson in learning, and re-learning. 

♡ see your son rising at last by aloneintherain  When Zuko dashes into the sitting room, it is with the same wide-eyed panic that he ran from Azula’s smoking hands when he was a child. Iroh bites down on a smile. Zuko looks the same, even now, a decade later with a scar blossomed over one side of his face, green and brown robes replacing the solitary reds of his childhood. His hair is puffed up around his face. He looks like a very frightened, very windswept turtle-dove. Zuko dives behind Iroh just as Aang breezes to a stop in the doorway. Five times Zuko hid behind Iroh, plus one time Zuko stood proudly in front of him.

♡ the beginning of a new and brighter birth by aloneintherain  “I’m so proud of you, my nephew.” Uncle cups Zuko’s face in his lined hand. The gesture is so tender, his palm so warm, that Zuko has to take a fortifying breath against the sudden swell of emotion in his chest. “I want to be a good leader, Uncle,” Zuko says. “I want to look after my people.” “You will,” Uncle says. “You are, nephew.” In a new era of peace, Zuko works to be a very different Fire Lord than his forefathers.

boku no hero academia 

the stars are floating and we are flying by lunalou  Aizawa starts walking towards the exit, obviously expecting Shouto to follow him, but Shouto's feet are frozen in place. His eyes flicker from the distorted reflection of himself in the ice to where All Might is giving him a long look, eyes kinder than anything Todoroki has ever been deserving of, and he feels sick.  “Todoroki-kun,” Midoriya says gently, squeezing his arm in what Shouto presumes is meant to be a reassuring gesture. “It’s going to be okay.” He doesn’t think Midoriya is in any place to tell him what okay is, all things considered, but he chooses to keep quiet on the matter. 

♡ I’ll share this with you, so leave it behind by yabakuboi  For the sake of the story, All Might is never in need of a successor, and, when Izuku saves Katsuki from the sludge monster, encourages young Midoriya down a different path. Thus, Katsuki and Izuku part ways after junior high, as Katsuki enters U.A. and the Midoriyas move overseas. It’s later that Katsuki realizes that there’s something missing, that he drove that something away. Years after, Katsuki finds him in the last place he looks, in the cereal aisle at the local grocery store of their childhood neighborhood. 

Loose lips Sail ships by Yousayhun  Bakugou is at war with his own fucking mouth and everyone else just seems to be having the time of their lives. 

♡ flare guns go off in my head saying not to call you this late by youreanovelidea  Midoriya beams at him and Tokoyami is suddenly hit with the urge to look away. “So bright,” he mutters under his breath, low enough that Midoriya can’t hear him.  (or, Midoriya is a problem child who just really loves his friends) 

(m) The Devil Blues by iknewaman  The 78th precinct's police captain, Toshinori Yagi, has volunteerd his squad to help implement the mayor's wish of increasing the successful cooperation between the city police and active Pro-Heroes. Each detective is to be assigned a Pro-Hero who will shadow them for two weeks, and the operation has been dubbed the 'Station Cooperation Operation'. Although it is not well-received by those involved, Izuku Midoriya, current detective at the 78th precinct and loyal follower of captain Toshinori's ideals, believes that the operation will be a success. If his captain says it will succeed, there isn't a doubt in Izuku's mind that it will. That is until he meets his assigned Pro-Hero. 

♡ someone is wrong on the internet by rhenna  It’s been a long day. By all rights, Izuku should be falling into bed, half dead. But instead of sleeping, he’s hunched over his laptop at 2 in the morning writing a dissertation about why exactly Ground Zero’s pecs are the best pecs to ever pec, and how dare anyone insinuate that he should lose some of that muscle because don’t you even understand what kind of physique a quirk like that requires? Amateurs.  (Izuku has two jobs in this world: pro-hero and anonymous president of the Ground Zero fan club. What could possibly go wrong?) 

good omens

♡ Divine Intervention (aka God ships it) by TheLadyZepher  There’s a battle strategy devised by humans many millennia ago that's designed to overcome an adversary who is particularly well entrenched. Some walls are too tall and thick for a frontal assault, and must instead be bested through sheer dogged stubbornness. Crowley and Aziraphale didn’t know it, but they were about to be put under siege.  Fed up with an angel and a demon who are still avoiding any talk of Feelings, God starts to interfere. When it comes to the ineffable plan, sometimes things need a bit of a push. 

♡ Slow by write_away  It started like this: A boy with the ability to warp reality met an angel and a demon and he made assumptions.  You might say it started like this: An angel and a demon found a marriage contract hung on the wall of the angel's bookshop. They didn't question it. It also could have started like this: Once upon a time, the angel told the demon he went too fast. The demon took it to heart.  Aziraphale and Crowley find themselves somehow married. Crowley fears going too fast. Aziraphale forges ahead. Neither know how to ask questions of each other. 

♡ Eziraphael’s Gifts: A History of Queer Faith and Longing, by Natasha Marie Johnson (Beacon Press, 2019). by actualbat  "If Eziraphael has come to be known--in today's language--as the 'guardian angel of sad queers,' then it makes sense for him to have shown up more regularly in the past once that became a recognizable historical category." Natasha is really glad that she's given this talk enough times to be able to do it on autopilot, because those two funny-looking men in the back just made the most absurdly astonished faces. (Or: Not all historians ignore gay subtext, and not all immortal celestial beings have their shit together. Also, voodoo.) 

harry potter 

♡ Apple Slices and Cocoa by FeathersMcStrange  Harry Potter is an abused kid with not an adult in the world on his side when Molly Weasley meets him.  She decides right then and there that if nobody else is going to try and take care of this boy, then dammit, she's going to. 

hello goodbye (’twas nice to know you) by tamerofdarkstars  Draco Malfoy thinks he might know whose thoughts are scrawling themselves on his skin, but that's crazy. Impossible, even. It has to be a mistake.  -  Self-indulgent soulmate AU where the thoughts of your soulmate inscribe themselves on your skin in a shifting magic tattoo 

♡ (m) Men Who Love Dragons Too Much by fencer_x, IDoodleForNoodles  ‘Kill Albus Dumbledore’ is less a challenging task and more a suicide mission, so when Draco Malfoy is presented with the option to either dispatch his Headmaster or suffer an excruciating and most ignominious death of his own, along with his parents, he reaches deep into his black little Slytherin heart and manages to scrape together enough courage to go with option C instead: Spend Sixth Year secretly studying Animagecraft in the hopes he’ll turn into something sufficiently imposing even the Dark Lord himself won’t be able to keep Draco under his thumb. But just his luck, his Animagus form turns out to be a dragon, and a rather randy juvenile at that, intent on finding its mate: one Harry James Potter. 

marvel 

♡ Hard to Love by Gruoch  If someone had told May that Iron Man himself would one day occasionally show up uninvited to her quiet little apartment and intrude into her quiet little life, she would have laughed them out of the room. But then her life seems chock-full of unpleasant surprises these days.  Or, Tony Stark wants a bigger piece of the pie. May Parker learns to accept help. Peter just wants to keep the peace. 

♡ Mr. Parker Declined to Comment by apisdn  The events leading up to the embarrassing moments during the Doomed Field trip, and how Peter Parker accidentally ended up in charge of things. All the while the political machine moves on, the Avengers do not kiss and make up, and the future draws ever closer. 

Another No-Good Field Trip by Muimor  Peter Parker is not having a good day. AKA, Where Peter's decathlon team take a field trip to the Avengers Compound, Vision's a menace, and Peter really doesn't want to go.

naruto 

(m) Resonance by flailinginlove  After being hit by a missing-nin's jutsu, Kakashi's chakra is never the same again. 

♡ (m) What Otter Nonsense by DarkAuroran  “Is that an otter?” Iruka asks as large, sable eyes blink at him and a little whiskered nose twitches curiously. “That’s an otter. Why do you have an otter?”  “I can’t tell you,” Kakashi says with a great amount of dignity for a man cradling a baby otter in armoured gloves. “Classified Jounin mission business.”

♡ Learning Curve by ishiryoku  This is the life she chose: the path of the shinobi. It's either roll with the punches or be left behind by her team—and Sakura's not about to let them go off on their own. 

♡ Roots and Wings by ideaoforder  When Naruto is kidnapped from his orphanage at age three, Kakashi is so done with this shit. He gets Naruto back, tells the Hokage where to go (politely, because he isn't suicidal), and raises the boy himself. Or, you know, tries and is proud when there aren't too many explosions. Then everybody starts to copy him and it's a whole thing. 

stranger things

In Which Starcourt Is a Pun by asexual-fandom-queen (writeordietrying)  “Welcome to Scoops Ahoy. Do you know what you want?”  Nancy and Jonathan visit the Starcourt Mall and corner Steve at his place of work with their feelings, but in an awkward, this-is-still-the-1980s-so-we-can't-be-too-direct kind of way. 

♡ my father comes and he goes by mjolnirbreaker  So, for Max, he doesn’t punch Billy Fucking Hargrove. He just sits there in sweltering heat and listens to the C’s being announced, and when parents cheer for their kids he tries not to think about how his parents are currently in Colorado. 

♡ it’s a risk, it’s a gamble by nondz (pinkjook)  “I think we should pretend to date,” Robin says. "What?" Steve answers. 

one of those new wave boys by glorious_spoon  It probably should feel more awkward than it does. (Or: Steve and Robin go on a road-trip, drink, listen to music, and look after each other. And yeah, maybe there's some cuddling involved too.)

wanna rec me something? head over to my ask or submission boxes! message me even, i don't really mind (: 

and to all my fellow authors who may feel a little down about not getting onto rec lists, this is for you:

[foolish-clown]

Alright, I got a question for ya~~ Who's your favorite Paladin, and why is it Katie? 🤔🥰🤣

No, I'm joking, that's not why I'm here, although I do appreciate any and all flattery you may choose to send my way! 😉💞

In all seriousness, I've been feeling the good vibes as of late, so I wanted to spread them your way! Hope your day is full of sunshine and happiness because I love you very much 🥺💜 I might call myself the queen, but you all deserve as much praise as royalty gets because of how special and important you are to me. I can't wait to see what the future has in store for all of us! 🥰

I hope you'll continue to support and tolerate me as the years go by... because I'm never letting go of you, ever. 👀😶 Sorry about it, buddy, you chose to give me love and affection, so you're stuck with me for life. 💞💞

Love you very much, my dear friend. I hope this message made your day just a lil' brighter! 🥰

Sincerely, The Cute Maknae of the Paladins, Katie ❤️🐼

P.S. - My Dear Pabo And Mother - You're my Favorite out of all of them, but don't let that get to your head, okay? 😉🤣🤣

There's was never any competition, obviously 😌

I am absolutely thrilled to hear you're filled with the happy vibes friend, and I hope they continue because you deserve nothing but good things.

Seeing you in my ask box always brings a smile, and I appreciate the love friend. Sending it right back to you, of course.

Oh they know 😌 I'm too awesome not to be your fave paladin

[your-fave-deserves-growth]

TIM WRIGHT from MARBLE HORNETS deserves a brighter future!

Requested by Anonymous

[archerwindsor]

Celebrating Black History Month: Resources

Black History Month

February’s kind of a weird month. It’s short and usually pretty cold. But it’s also a great time to celebrate! This year, I want to make an even bigger deal about Black History Month so we can participate in it as an LSF community. 

If you’re like me, you might have wondered how, exactly, to celebrate Black History Month. I know there have been years where I’ve been excited about it, but then have spent a lot of the month looking for action items. 

I don’t want you to feel left in the lurch here, so I have one big to-do for all of us during this February: get more educated! Seriously, we have the whole month to learn more from Black creators. And we’ve rounded up some seriously awesome content to help you do just that. 

Beyond that, we’re going to use this whole month to cast the much-deserved spotlight on Black art, Black stories, and more. February might be the shortest month of the year, but it’s a BIG opportunity to help our community move towards greater equality and awareness. 

Are you ready to get started? Here are some of our fave books, podcasts, and movies to dive into during Black History Month. 

Black History Month reading recommendations

Remaking Black Power, Ashley D. Farmer

This book won a lot of awards — for good reason! It highlights the groundbreaking work of Black women activists. To do that, it features their essays and art, showing how these women engaged with the ideals of Black Power, reshaping them to make sure that they and other women got included. 

Remaking Black Power shows that Black women haven’t been working on the sidelines despite facing both racism and sexism. Instead, they’ve been tirelessly creating the best future for themselves and others. 

The Well-Read Black Girl Anthology and book club

Glory Edim compiled this anthology of essays from Black women writers that’s definitely worth the read. The book will expose you to a whole bunch of must-read authors, including Jesmyn Ward, Lynn Nottage, Jacqueline Woodson, Gabourey Sidibe, Morgan Jerkins, Tayari Jones, Rebecca Walker, and Barbara Smith. The focus of the book is finding ourselves in the stories we read. If you’re looking for a place to dive in with Black women writers, this is it. 

But why limit yourself to just a couple of books? You can also join the WRBG book club and get connected to a whole bunch more amazing Black women writers. Each month, the book club recommends one adult and one young adult pick. 

Week 1 Schedule

Podcasts to listen to during Black History Month 

Historically Black 

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more, this podcast centers around objects that people submitted as representations of their Black experience. By examining the objects in this “people’s museum” and the stories behind them, you get an accessible look at plenty of personal histories.

Black History Buff

This podcast was born when King Kurus, the podcast’s creator and host, started teaching his son about his past. Lacking good resources to do this, he realized that he could create something to not just educate his own family, but the world at large. Enter: Black History Buff, which explores the roots of the African diaspora — and where those communities are today. 

Our movie picks for Black History Month

Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom

You guys. This is on Netflix so you seriously have no excuse not to watch it! 

It’s set in 1927 and centers around Ma Rainey (played by Viola Davis), an influential blues singer. It’s also the final movie for Chadwich Boseman, who’s a total legend. 

You get some amazing music and costumes, plus a really frank look at how long and hard the road has been for Black Creators. 

Davis and Boseman both deliver performances that a whole bunch of critics called “powerhouse.” And the film won a ton of awards, too. 

I’ll warn you: this movie doesn’t give you some sappy, happy ending. It’s worth the emotions it will call up for you, though. Ultimately, watching this movie will be an hour and a half of your time well-spent. I definitely recommend it. 

Hidden Figures

If you’re looking for a more uplifting watch, Hidden Figures delivers. You can rent it or watch it free if you have a Disney+ subscription. 

This movie has it all. It centers around super empowered and inspiring Black women and their contributions to none other than NASA. It’ll make you feel like you want to do more math, too, which is pretty crazy. It was nominated for Best Picture and won a SAG award for best cast in a motion picture. And, I mean, with Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe, that’s really no surprise! 

Even if you already saw the movie when it came out a few years ago, I recommend a rewatch this Black History Month! 

Overall, these are just some suggestions to get you started, girl. February is an awesome opportunity to do your own research and start educating yourself. 

If you’re a Black woman, this is a time to celebrate yourself and your history!

If you’re not Black, join me in putting in the work this month. If we all celebrate the history of Black people who have made this country what it is today, we help ourselves move toward a brighter, more equal, more inclusive future. And I know that’s something we can all get behind. 

So happy Black History Month to my entire LSF community!

The post Celebrating Black History Month: Resources appeared first on Love Sweat Fitness.

Celebrating Black History Month: Resources published first on https://olimpsportnutritionuk.tumblr.com/

[the-lions-mouth]

my fave merthur fics, all first time/getting together

Come back to the source to reblog as it gets updated occasionally!

Long Canon Era: 

The World I Built For You: 32K, T, If I told you to execute Mordred, would you do it? Merlin wondered, losing himself in the blue of Arthur's eyes. Can I save you like this, even if it damns me? you didn’t think s5 could get any more emotional but u were wrong

Touch My Skin To Make Me Whole: 64K, E, The Kingdom of Essetir has once again fallen under new rule, and Arthur travels to visit its new king, determined to make peace. The new king is treacherous though, and he may have just found the one weakness that will force Arthur’s hand. Note: AU Post Season 4 the ultimate hurt/comfort

Short Canon Era: 

The Coming of Spring: 10K, E, Kings, even new ones, were not supposed to long for their menservants.

Golden Threads: 12K, E, When Arthur drinks enchanted water Merlin does everything that is in his power to save his king, even if it breaks his heart.

Visiting Hunith: 9K, T, Five times Ealdor had visitors.

Beauty in the Ashes of Our Lives: 22K, T, After Merlin is executed for Uther's murder, Arthur's world falls apart.

Apotheosis: 9K, T, magic reveal, love vs destiny

Dying to Return: 20K, T, after Merlin leaves, a mysterious sorcerer comes to Camelot

As a Sea Shell: 13K, T, When Arthur discovers Merlin’s magic, he banishes him from Camelot. But Merlin is destined to serve Arthur until the day he dies. sorry team i’m gonna shameless rec myself

Modern AU:

Serious Eyes, Suddenly Smiles: 11K, E, When you are young everything seems definite. You are either in or out. Finishing up at university or messing up your whole future.

Unsteady: 10K, T, merlin is a private investigator for arthur, who’s dating sophia (a bit dark at points, read tags)

Perfect: 15K, E, infidelity, internalized homophobia

Reincarnation:

Do Not Go Gentle: 5K, T, “Don’t you understand?” He shakes her. “I cared more about him than I did about his kingdom, more than I ever cared about magic...I didn’t care about Arthur the King of Camelot. I only cared about Arthur the man.” His chest is hurting. He can’t get enough air. “I fucked up, Gwen, and I’m sorry. Do you want that in writing?” 

The Heart You Call Home: 16K, M, Arthur writing about stories he can only barely remember, Merlin, depressed and with major survivors guilt, finds them, much angst

Historical AU (honestly i love historical aus, that’s why there are so many here):

Gaudy: 6K, G, political AU in the 1960s thru 1997, honestly the best characterizations of all time

A West-Country Romance: 91K, E, Poldark AU, the slowburn “Arthur as the lord, Merlin as his servant” historical au you deserve

True Heart of Wexford: 21K, E, Wexford, 1798, Merlin is the Catholic groundskeeper on a manor belonging to Anglo-Irish aristocrat Arthur Pendragon. While Merlin's day job entails looking after Arthur's property, he's also involved with the United Irishmen. Political upheaval is about to plunge the country into turmoil. In the midst of all this stands Arthur Pendragon, who's become Merlin's staunch friend in spite of everything that divides them: faith, class, position, and obligation.

Something Worth Fighting For: 21K, E, Set during World War II. Arthur is sent to the front lines to fight for Britain, while Merlin is left behind, struggling to cope with the absence of his best friend. Seeking to give Arthur some comfort, Merlin begins to send him pieces of a story, which tells of a legendary King and his devoted manservant.Through their letters, Arthur and Merlin grow closer, and perhaps begin to discover feelings that they could not put into words before. 

Yet The Man Would At Once Run Away With Your Heart: 4K, M,  Mordred comes to stay at Avalon Hall and takes a shine to Merlin. Arthur is most unimpressed by this turn of events.

High school/Teenage AU:

Out of Body: 53K, E, Finding out that his best friend is gay shouldn't be a big deal. But then, catching Merlin wanking to gay porn shouldn't turn Arthur on, either. With his plans for uni in shambles and his position on the high school footie team lost to injury, Arthur's determined not to disappoint his father any further. Running away from Merlin seems like the easiest thing to do, but his denial might cost him everything. the teenage au you’ve been dreaming of

Should You Choose to Accept It: 11K, T, so pure, childhood friends to falling out in middle school to falling in love in high school

A Personal History of Midwestern Running: 20K, T, hahah the ending kills me every time, the one where arthur teaches merlin how to run

Beyond the Neon Trees: 56K, M, Falling in love with your best friend is never easy; especially when you’re living in the deadbeat rundown Holly Street Estate in East London.

Canon Era AU:

Gadarene: 77K, E, Arthur is the regent but Agravaine has the power, merlin is sold to arthur, I was dubious of the set up but this is a v satisfying well told story

Smut:

Merlin’s Place: 3K, bath

Brighter When We Come: 4K, bath

Night Sky Changing Overhead: 5K, bath (there’s a theme here sorry)

What I Want You’ve Got, It Might Be Hard to Handle: 3K, magic made them do it (100% consenual tho)

The Dirty Little Things You Say: 9K, arthur gets so turned on from merlin’s dirty talk

At Our Best When It’s From The Hips: 13K, loss of virginity

Solace: 1K, bath

Love is a Doing Word: 4K, role reversal 

Embrocation: 7K, massage

For Want of Wreckage: 27K, the one where the druids give Arthur a tattoo that makes him wet and horny but highlight is the massage scene

Forgive My Thoughts When I’m Asleep: 4K, angsty huddling for warmth

[serendibidibidis]

Bias tag

The wonderful (my favorite) @forvictorymyeverything tagged me... (I don't know how the fuck it's gonna work HAHA)

But the rules are list 10 biases from 10 DIFFERENT groups (WHEN they already found my loophole) I high key found a loophole and it's in italics. Because those aren't actually apart of the list.

(These aren't in any order or anything)

1. Gfriend - Yuju (she's probably the closest thing to a bias I have lol)

2. Bts - (the only time I have a slight fave is when) Suga (raps ngl)

Exo - Suho

Exo M - Lay

Exo K - Kai

Exo Cbx - xuimin

Block B - Zico

Block B balstarz - Ukwon

3. 4minute - HyunA

Triple H - E'dawn

Pentagon - Hui

4. Super junior - Cinderella Kim Heechul (LATELY THO I'VE BEEN MAD SWERVING AND I'm READY TO FIGHT)

5. Block B (shall we dance era) definitely Ukwon. (Lmao every era lowkey. But the whole group is my bias. I just cry a little bit more when I see him. I think it's his dogs tbh)

I'M GENUINELY STRUGGLING

Seventeen... lol

NCT.... haha

6. Got7 - Jaebum (it changes. So fucking fast, I'm so unloyal to my "Bias")

7. Day6 - listen. I knew who young K was before he was even in Korea. But no I had to fucking bias the one who "left" then I was like alright jae we're allergic to the same stuff.. But then you got the rest of the band fucking Roasting jae's ass. And telling him to speak in Korean (my favorite) not to mention Wonpil's smile that is fact check: brighter than my future. But Young K is the real reason I even know about Day6 so at the end of the day Young K has to take the title...

8. Exo - my og bias left, then my 2nd bias left, then my 3rd bias left... y'all are tripping if you think I'm willing to risk it by picking a 4th

9. Topp dogg - all of my biases fucking left my dudes. But lowkey have biased everyone that's left because they're all angels who deserve love and support so please stop sleeping on them.

(I feel bad for the lack of girl groups on my list but I can't pick girl biases, they're all my bias.)

10. Monsta X - Wonho gets me in my feels a lot because he talks about wanting a partner who loves ramen noodles a lot.. And that's basically all I eat so I feel like I bias his ramen more than I bias him (mainly cause I don't fucking bias him. I.m. lowkeys been giving me a run for my money lately.. & I don't even have any money. So that says some shit.)

But yeah that was the hardest tag of my life. (Pls don't actually take it seriously and come for my throat thx)

I'm gonna tag anyone who i remeber asking me 'who's your bias' because I'm petty that way.

@mybrainsamess (didn't ask I'm just genuinely curious), @wonpillily , @day6ibnida , @brownpigment , @thecoolmrsokamura15 , I feel like I'm missing someone... But yeah that's it be safe have a good day/night.

[blessedmoonsoul]

ok im literally about to get on a long ass flight rn & im finally posting this cos it has been on my to-do list for way too long & it’s v overdue think of this as like a follow forever/long appreciation post for my beloved mutuals & friends. im making this cos ily all and u have all in some way you don’t realize really helped me not dread coming on this hellsite every day so in no specific order here goes!

@seimoneaugustus LEGS ❤ it’s funny cos we’ve only been mutuals for like what 9, 10 months?? but i truly do feel like I’ve known you for sooooo long cos like idk if this makes sense but i never feel even the least bit misunderstood when we talk & i truly have the best time anytime we interact either through pm’s, replies or whatever & i can’t wait to meet u irl (so i can fight you yes but mostly to finally taste your amazing cooking) you have an A+ taste in music & and an equally great blog you just are a really cool, fun & down-to-earth person, never change 💞

@beyshara ANA 💖 you’re literally the only online friend I’ve ever met & hung out with irl & everytime we do i just realize how much i really like just being with & talking to you whether we’re looking at cool art at the museum or watching amazing movies. our friendship means a lot to me & im looking forward to all our future hangouts ❤

@varxne CATHY 💕 my ghanaian sis i love your #relatable personal posts & hate your club lmao but seriously you make me laugh whenever we talk cos you are so real you don’t ever try to be anyone but yourself and that is such a gift cos your light shines through and makes my dash and my day a bit brighter thank you for existing 💞

@fifawomensworldcup MISELTA my naija spice 💗 you are also not on here that much anymore smh lmao it’s cool tho you & i have been mutuals foreverrr & you were the first person i talked to when tumblr introduced the personal messaging option (random ik but i remember) it’s always such a fuckn pleasure to talk with you especially when we vent together abt our annoying country & it’s even more annoying national teams lmaooo. im so glad i know you stay blessed sis 💞

@joshukimmich IVE 💗 you are literally never on here anymore i miss you tho i know you’ll rise when the buli season starts lmao anyway we’ve been mutuals for sooo long and you make the hell that is football tumblr a lot more bearable (though your nuts are…questionable to say the least) you’re truly one of my best friends/mutuals (who would’ve known a macedonian and a nigerian would somehow get along so well lmao) i cant wait for us to support (but also drag) our stupid club together this season ❤

@antoniorudiger AUDREY ❤ lemme start by saying you really were one of the first non-bayern football-related blogs i ever followed and tho i hate literally all your teams i have never once regretted hitting that follow button even when there’s drama with our clubs lmao. the nastiness of football tumblr is disgusting but it is always twice as bad for us fans of colour esp. us black fans & being friends and mutuals with you has really helped me have a great time on here despite the nastiness we face everyday. also i love screaming abt gorillaz with u lmao thank you for existing 💖

@kenyan-bitch REHEMA ❤ you are one of my earliest mutuals (3 years!!!) & i literally love you sm?? i like seeing you go off about basketball & analyse shit & the way you root for our thunder boys inspires me everyday to be a better basketball fan. seeing you on my dash always makes me happy you are such a gem & i am so glad i know you. stay blessed sis 💗

@finnapologist ROMI 💕 my sister wife in our marriage to john lmaooo i want you to know that w/o you i really would’ve never known about so many cool movies, tv shows like i was just scrolling through our conversations before i typed this & reliving our shocked messages on the best day of my life aka when moonlight won best picture & i just wanted to say thank you for introducing me to that amazing film in the first place. your love for beautiful cinema is such a gift & i hope you know that 💖

GOD my dad is yelling at me from downstairs to hurry up cos we have to get to the airport now ajsnksk

@transscorpio felix we literally watch the exact same shows & that is truly a testament to how great you are lmao but seriously tho you are such a great guy with an equally great blog 💕

@training-to-become-an-assassin my first bayern mutual ❤ you are also hardly here on anymore smh but truly being mutuals with you has been such a dream like you are so cool & you deserve sm happiness 💖

@mbappe anu aka literally the only bvbee i follow lmao we just became mutuals like a 3 months ago but i already lov u sm u are so funny & such a cool person to talk to thank u for existing 💞

@leosleogf mikayla you’re a star 💞 (i just wanted that to rhyme pls ignore me) but truly I’ve also been mutuals with you for a few months but i can already tell we are going to have the best time together in this hell called football tumblr lmao 💕

@fussballgoth here’s a FACT for y'all this blog is truly 1 of the best blogs in football tumblr and im not even exaggerating. berrak you are so funny & so cool & im so so so glad to know you & be mutuals with you thank you for all the laughs & for making football tumblr a lot more bearable 💖

@levvandovvska nadiaaa my lov 💕 being friends & mutuals with you has been a blessing you are such an amazing person & you always make my dash a little better everytime you’re online 💞

@wlwmomo jo!!! you’ve fully morphed into a kpop blog & i 100% support you and your iconic football sideblog as well lmao it’s always fun seeing u liveblogging on my dash during bayern matches & I’ll never forget the days when we used to cry over daddario lmaksnsk 💞

ok now i really have to go but i refuse to leave w/o shouting out these guys aka my faves who are just the absolute best

@solesoffire veda i know you’ll be back when buli season starts but i miss u ❤

@bayonsenoals dan you are so iconic ily but stop cursing my team! 💕💕

@vakhshi ayilah ily & your amazing blog sm 💞

@lonan-rynch desiree my first book tumblr mutual ily sis💖

& my fav blogs whose notifications of interactions (that sounds so weird but you get what i mean) always make my day

@kesus  💗

@filipeluis 💝

@coentro 💕

@foodball  💖

@alienrumi  💞

@paranoidgoddess  ❤

& thank you sm to all of you for following my trash blog!!!!!❣❣❣❣❣❣

[kolhearted-archived]

disney

THIS IS A SHOUTOUT TO MY FAVES™

                      OUT. || @asundrop • @bcastmade • @bcautymade • @finalpetal • @soprincely • @ashiidanza 

@asundrop We’re going to start with the baest. LISTEN. I have followed Apollonia for literal YEARS. I have admired her for SO LONG and I finally got the opportunity to speak with her, and it was even better than I could have imagined. They always say don’t meet your heroes, but she was someone I major-league looked up to as far as writing went. She has such a powerful voice, a well-established way of writing Rapunzel, and a beautiful way of doing it. She’s always been #goals. And now? NOW I GET TO TALK TO HER ALL THE TIME. It’s even better than I could have hoped, because she’s even brighter, even funnier, and even kinder off the dash than she is on, if that’s even possible. An amazing addition to any dash, any fandom, any day.@bcastmade Listen. LISTEN. Brit is perfect. From MCU to Disney, I have had the opportunity to watch her grow and develop as a writer and as a character. She’s bright, talented, and one of the funniest people I’ve had the opportunity to talk to. And then we’ve got@bcautymade. Katie is just. WOW. I have known Katie for so long now. When we met I was finishing up school and she was figuring out what she wanted to do. Now I’m a career woman and she’s out there protecting the country. So like… #growth. She’s so talented it physically hurts. She’s so kind and genuinely good that you’d swear she was Steve in a different life. And she is my FRIEND, and I am so honored to say that. @finalpetal. I’ve known Emma forever now. I have gotten the unique opportunity to really, REALLY get to know her. There was a time when we didn’t go hours without speaking to each other. And while we don’t talk every day anymore ( I wouldn’t be opposed to going back to that!!! ) I get the absolute privilege to watch her find this really massive success on a muse I can tell she’s in love with. She deserves every bit of love she gets, and she gives so much to us all. @soprincely I only just met Capricorn, but she’s brilliant. First of all, I ADORE Ben and I have since Descendants came out. She is so perfectly matched for him. I really hope we’re able to do more together in the near future, but till then, I am always delighted when I see her on the dash. @ashiidanza there isn’t anything I could possibly say other than GOALS. Writing goals, humor goals, life goals.