#like just waaaaayyyy too far

[meanbossart]

Oh boy, VaM is kind of a trial and error experience LOL I couldn't really show you how to use the interface and stuff without a whole video or something, but it's not THAT difficult to get a hang of if you just give yourself a day or two to play around, not to mention the number of tutorials you find out there. Luckily, if you only want to use it as a reference software that makes the process far easier (to this day I have no idea how to animate on that thing, since that's not what I use it for)

As for how I use it, it's pretty self explanatory - if there's a complicated pose I want to draw but I'm either having trouble with it, or just want to double-check angles/anatomy, I will use it as a resource! I use for most of my "proper" pieces (y'know, the nicer looking ones) and every once in a while for my silly comics if I'm having trouble with a pose.

Lets use this drawing for example (the character on top of DU drow belongs to @namespara )

I don't draw a lot of mud-wrestling (shocking, I know) but I had an idea of the kind of pose I wanted them to be in. So the very first thing I did was make a rough sketch of what I was envisioning:

I often do a rough sketch first, even If I know I'm going to be pulling the program up because A) It's less tedious than adjusting the models over and over again until I pick a pose and B) because sometimes I'll decide I don't need the reference, after all, and so that's 30 minutes I'll have spared myself of playing around on the software.

Now, this is a pretty complicated pose! It's in a weird angle and the bodies are making contact in ways I'm not used to depicting, so I did choose to whip out VaM for this one. I went into the program and after some messing around, I flopped my little dolls together like this:

Now something really cool about VaM is that you can completely customize your models, and if you have the patience, I would definitely encourage you to do so! Obviously, you don't have to make picture perfect replicas of every single character you have, but as you can see here I have made a DU drow "decoy" to help me better understand some of his features when I draw him: he has a strong brow, a short nose, a square jawline - these are all going to look a very specific way from certain angles, and I might not always be sure of how to draw it right! So it's useful to have models that bear SOME semblance to the character so you can better understand how different viewpoints will affect their bone structure and mass.

Also thank fucking god for the elf-ear slider. Figuring out how to draw those shits from certain angles was a huge pain in the ass when I started drawing DnD races.

So, with the reference in hand, I go over the sketch again:

Now you may notice that I don't stick to the reference 100%. There's three reasons for this:

posing on VaM is tedious as hell. You can get something incredibly natural looking and picture-perfect to reference from if you wish, but it's going to take you hours to do. So, for the most part I just slap guys together until the results are "close enough" and use that.

In my opinion, you should always aim to ENHANCE your reference material, not replicate it exactly!

While VaM is a PRETTY DANG GOOD source of anatomical reference, it isn't perfect, I often supplement it with further reference from real life resources or make tweaks based on my own knowledge where I catch it falling short (and, antithetical to what I just said, I sometimes fuck the anatomy up further on purpose if I think it looks better that way LOL it's all jazz baby).

Then lines, color, yada yada. I don't have a tutorial on that and I don't think I could make one, because my process is chaotic as hell, but I do at times use Virt-a-mate as loose reference for lighting too when coloring - waaaaayyyy less so however, because that process is even more tedious and I feel like I often get better results by just winging it. It is a feature of the program though, and I'm sure it would be helpful for someone who has a difficult time visualizing lights and shadows. I only started using this program a few months ago, so I happened to already have a pretty good understanding of that kind of thing and just don't personally feel like I get much out of that particular mechanic.

Here's a few other examples of pieces that I made reference for (WARNING: Suggestive)

Now, for the question many of you may want to ask:

"Can I trace this junk?"

And to that, I say: Buddy, you can do whatever the hell you want with the reference material you created.

However,

If your goal is to learn and improve your art, and to recreate realistic proportions and anatomy from memory, tracing won't help you.

Developing your own style, your muscle memory, and personal technique will all be hindered by choosing to trace instead of drawing from observation, so I would encourage against it. Hell - even when tracing is employed as a technique, it's usually by high-skill realism & concept artists who are looking to either cut some corners, save time, or just double-check their own proportions in order to improve further - if you try tracing as a beginner, you will most definitely find the result to still look stiff and "off".

So trust me, there is so much more to be gained from drawing from observation. Make note of tangents, compare proportions, use all the elements of the picture to dictate where and how things should go - it will be a far more rewarding experience.

Hopefully this has been helpful! VaM is a really cheap program (you get it on the guys' patreon for I think 8 dollars, just google it!) and it's definitely been worth my money as an artist since I found it. Learning to use it can be a little intimidating at first glance, but as I said above you only really need a day plus one or two tutorials to get a hang of the interface.

A fair warning though, IT IS A SOFTWARE MADE FOR VIRTUAL SEX/ADULT ANIMATION So when looking it up expect to see a some spicy content.

#Funfact THIS is the post that got me flagged last time so i'm really tempting fate right now LOL #ask #art #tutorial #resource

[swampstew]

Kinktober 2023 ~ Raven's Bingo Board is back!

Year 2 let's go! I am so proud of how I jumped into this fandom straight with the kinks and I'm excited to finally show off what I've brewed in my cauldron for October this year. Unlike last time, the blorbos and the kinks have been pre-picked but I have not prepared a single thing! Last time I picked waaaaayyyy too many options and overwhelmed myself and even though I still managed to post over 20 posts, I definitely want get them all this time. I will NOT be posting a bingo story on SUNDAYS, just like last year. I have something far tastier in store for that :)

RULES

Every Monday-Saturday of October starting Monday 2, 2023, at 9 AM EST through the 30th, I'm going to screen record using a Bingo site to generate the numbers to pick the day's blorbo and kink. Then, I have until 11:59 PM to submit a post (ideally in by 8 PM cause I like consistency) - it will either be a one shot, head canon list, small drabble, but I gotta post!

We're playing Black Out Bingo which means we gotta hit EVERY tile in order to "win" the game. Winning the game means hitting every single tile (not posting means I'm fucking myself and everyone over) - and since the Bingo site counts how many calls are made, I've created a list of scenarios that could be the final Halloween Day story based on how quickly it takes to win the game.

The Bingo site can make total of 75 calls, so how many will it take to complete the board? Note: my bingo board's highest number is O-73.

# of calls it takes to win:

25 - 41 calls = creepy graveyard scenario

42 - 58 calls = haunted house scenario

59 - 75 calls = Halloween party/séance gone wrong scenario

The Board: Each blorbo above (or below) a column of kinks is that blorbo's tile. So in this case, BINGO becomes - Law, Killer, Luffy, Kid, Zoro as the respective letters. Law's column is Pocket Pussy, Master Servant, Dirty Talking, Forced Orgasm, Pet Play. And since its Halloween, I'm making an effort to make every story stay in theme for the season.

Bring your monster fucker permits!

Edit: added this post which has a pre-recorded video and clarified explanation of how the game will play out if this post was confusing to understand.

ALL PROMPTS ARE SPICY. MINORS DNI

OCT 2 - Killer & Partner Sharing ft Eustass Kid OCT 3 - Luffy & Anal Beads OCT 4 - Luffy & Roleplay OCT 5 - Law + Pet Play OCT 6 - Law + Forced Orgasm OCT 7 - Zoro & Mirror Sex OCT 9 - Zoro & Collaring OCT 10 - Zoro & Total Power Exchange OCT 11 - Zoro & Stuck in a Wall OCT 12 - Luffy & Stockings OCT 13 - Eustass Kid & Cock Cage OCT 16 - Law + Master/Servant OCT 17 - Eustass Kid & Glory Hole OCT 18 - Luffy & Risky Sex OCT 19 - Killer & Shibari OCT 20 - Eustass Kid & Milking Table OCT 21 - Law & Dirty Talking OCT 23 - Killer & Overstimulation OCT 24 - Killer & Cum Eating OCT 25 - Eustass Kid & Con Non-Con OCT 26 -Roronoa Zoro & Praise Kink OCT 27 - Monkey D. Luffy & Triple Penetration OCT 28 - Trafalgar Law & Pussy Pocket OCT 30 - Eustass Kid & Cockwarming OCT 31 - Halloween Bingo Story - Eustass Kid X Demon Reader, trick or treat bag of kinks.

Since we've made 60+ calls, the Halloween Scenario is going to be:

Halloween party/séance gone wrong scenario

#kinktober 2023 #kinktober #kinktober 2023 masterlist #raven's bingo board #raven's halloween party #one piece fanfiction #one piece smut #eustass kid #massacre soldier killer #monkey d. luffy #trafalgar law #roronoa zoro #tw noncon #tw dark content #swampstew stories #swampstew bedtime stories

[avoidingravity]

Okay, so… I’ve just finished the Monster High Live Action and I personally liked it!! I thought it was cute. I’ll leave like… more detailed stuff below the read more thing but just know that spoilers follow after that lmao

So, I want to start off with some stuff I liked:

Frankie, Frankie, FRANKIE they were just soooo cute and had some of the funniest lines I swear. By far one of my favorite iterations of the character- the subtle shade but the genuinely good intentions was golden and their outfits were *chefs kiss*

Abbey. Just… Abbey. Yeah, she didn’t have much dialogue but she was soooo gorgeous.

The sets were lovely. I could see there was a lot of love put into them :)

Cleo has BODY GLITTER she literally SPARKLES i love herdhshabjzjajznw

DeUCE’S SNAKES CHILL IN HIS BEANIE!! ITS LIKE A LITTLE SLEEPING BAG FOR THEM IM SOBBING

shoutout to MHLA for actually incorporating Hyde-like traits into Komos!! Hyde was not an attractive character in the book AT ALL so I’m actually vv happy they didn’t thirst trap him. Moreover, Hyde with a mullet!!!! Didn’t know I needed that until now

Ghoulia sleeping in dirt. That’s it. That’s all this bullet is.

Unpopular take but……. Clawdeen and Deuce’s relationship. To me, it came off as Deuce crushing HARD and Clawdeen like “okay ummm that’s sweet but…” which is a very normal dynamic imo 🥴🥴 there’s nothing romantic about their relationship atm other than Deuce being a flirt. Clawdeen thinks he’s cute for sure but I don’t think??? There’s any romantic interest from her at all! I guess that’s why I like it lmfao

The way Cleo roast people and some of the shit she says is so Cleo De Nile that I?? Am pleasantly surprised!

I really appreciate the connection Clawdeen had with Hyde’s story and how it gave her some stuff to really reflect on. She sympathized with this manster she didn’t know and she was legitimately terrified that she’d have the same fate as him. It was dark. It was intense. It has the same vibes as Holt about to get publicly executed- except it was a “this happened before…” scenario. Also the way Komos/ Hyde II acknowledged that and could tell she was scared for HERSELF because she was half human?? It was so so subtle but it was there. I like the indirect connection these two characters have and in another universe, I’d like to think Clawdeen n Hyde II would’ve been able to find a happy ending for them both

Now onto opportunities:

The conflict was resolved very quickly- well, conflict in terms of Hyde II and the whole potion thing. It happened and then BOOM it was over. I feel like a lot more could’ve happened to really emphasize how dangerous that situation was.

Sometimes the pacing felt a little off? But not too much so. There was a lot that needed to be covered but some bits moved on waaayyy too fast and some waaaaayyyy too slow

The ending didn’t really resolve the overall conflict: Monsters hating humans. Great, you pretty much killed Hyde II just like humans did to his dad lmfao that didn’t solve anything but the immediate conflict- there hasn’t been any big resolution to the hate towards humans other than “oh look, Clawdeen is half human! She took out another half human!!” Komos made just a big impression on how monsters view humans as Clawdeen did

That’s all I can really think of right now

The movie wasn’t bad, it provides a lot of opportunities for the future! I’m excited to see how it moves forward. I will also say, it gave the characters a lot of justice while also reworking them into something new! I loved the unfortunate death of Hyde and how that impacted Clawdeen and the antagonist; it was a very neat take! But yeahhh uhhhh Venny out

#monster high the movie #monster high the movie spoilers #monster high g3 #monster high #venny talk

[chiro-asuta-vulpes]

Prisma's Wish🌱

CHAPTER 1: Nanny Bot and Her Lil' Angels✨💗

I was born to make a change and difference built artificially by a man filled with dreams and ambition--...He's a Father with a loving caring Wife, they have 2 children, 1 is the actual child who is their beloved daughter, and the other 1 is an orphan--......a young boy.

These Two Children I watched over them as they grew, Seeing their smiles and laughter was indeed a joyous experience to witness throughout my daily life and existence----...I may be a Bot, but I can feel how these children feel what's inside their heart's content, with the help of my "Empathy Programming".

Their parents are very busy with their work----almost likely they are always absent and never had time to watch over them---... I'm not saying they have bad parenthood...I'm just concerned about this treatment they're giving to their little ones.....

They cant grow up like this without their parents---....Mr. Antonio and Ma'am Rosaline.....pls I can't stand seeing Tate and Winter crying losing hope thus thinking doubting and questioning if you both still love them or not---...because of busyness. I understand your work is very important....and all but your children need your LOVE AND PRESENCE I'm just a Nanny Caretaker Bot---made for your Lil ones, I may exist like this doesn't mean-----...you have to always be too BUSY for YOUR CHILDREN-----......and keep avoiding them thus all your focus is always WORK WORK WORK no more FAMILY BONDING TIME? which is sad----....please your Children needs you...they thirst for attention and love from their parents.....

I was so worried about them they're too young and innocent to think such a thing---Tate always crying and clinging to me all the time and she won't let me go at all every time she's having this mental breakdown, which she never ever had----before! I know Tate as an excellent happy-go-lucky happy girl that always loves and carries her pretty snowdrop flower, and such an optimistic girl, playful and so very responsible too, but this was the first time I have seen her breaking slowly, what? why is it because her parents being absent all the time because of work is having too many side effects on her mind mentally that much? Causing her to break---emotionally experiencing loneliness even tho for the fact she still has her little brother Winter, and there are some points I get to see her talking on her own

Winter, on the other hand, he's waaaaayyyy too far worst than Tate, I'm aware Winter is just a Lil orphan adopted by Mr. Antonio and Ma'am Rosaline, he was brought here at the age of 5 and Tate was about 10 years old, the reason why he's here in the first place is that the boy having abusive parents almost killing him twice because of A FREAKING SIMPLE PROBLEM?! of being DIFFERENT AND SPECIAL?! I mean suuureeeee if you ask me, he's perfect just the way he is. He may be young to have SUCH IMAGINATIVE and ADVENTUROUS trait so early, being A Clumsy, Peculiar, and Mischievous, little boy, doesn't mean you have TO BE SOOOOO BIAS AND JUDGEMENTAL OF YOUR OWN KID instead of BEING A STUPID DUMB BAD PARENT WHY NOT JUST SUPPORT YOUR CHILD AND LOVE THEM JUST THE WAY THEY ARE! Uggghhhhh! HUMAAANNNNS TYPICAL! I hope for the best for Winter----.....and I believe in the boy that he will have a beautiful bright future one day, same goes to Tate--.......

They're my Little Angels, I maybe just a simple Nanny Bot, just an experiment, A project----...Mr Antonio call me "Project Rainbow Wish---" I wonder what that means? I'm no fairy that grants wishes----but I do understand how the two children feel---

.....My wish for them is to never LOSE HOPE----...DONT give up, NOT to give in to fear, pain, the negativity, and cruelty of the world....may be a CHALLENGE and a TEST for them---......

That won't change my BELIEF in them I TRUST, AND BELIEVE these two will grow up into something REMARKABLE, Yes----...they are indeed different WHY? because that's what makes them special and unique----....and I love them......dearly---.......

Tate...Winter I promise----....As long as I still live I will take care of you two---......you both SHAPED MY WORLD AND PURPOSE.....

--PRISMA ILLUMINA🤍💐🌈

#A Promise is a Promise I intend to KEEP #Prisma Illumina's Backstory #Tate and Winter's Past #story planning #my oc story #story ideas #oc story planning #backstory #secret past? #Prisma knows Tate and Winter?! #Comfort Bot #Emotional Support Bot #----Prisma #oc planning #oc tag #oc only #i hope this is okay! #just an idea #just a thought #OC STORY SHARING #fnaf sb au #my oc stuff #fnaf rp #fnaf au oc #my oc writing #oc story

[eroticartofslaughterhouses]

Started The Evil Within 2 and played a couple of hours tonight. Not sure if I'm feeling it. Like, the hotel sequence at the beginning was magnificent, but nothing else since it has really lived up to that. This one has a different issue from the first game in the series, but it's kinda a similar issue. I felt like the first one had lots of tension but no atmosphere, whereas this one has pretty good atmosphere but little to no tension. I think some of my issues with the tension have to do with the fact that you're in a simulation (a trope I generally HATE), but also a lot of it has to do with the gameplay I think. At least from what I've seen so far.

This one also feels much too AAA modern, which was an issue I had with the original too. The original felt conflicted on whether it wanted to be old school or AAA modern, whereas this one is all the way AAA modern. Which at least makes it playable instead of having design elements that totally contrast with each other. I'd MUCH prefer it to just be all the way old school, but whatever.

Also, I'm not at all into the design of the big buzzhand-mutant woman and I'm feeling like she's going to be a recurring thing. I'm waaaaayyyy into the concept of her design, but something about it just isn't taken nearly far enough. I think I'd prefer if it was a bit more sexualized, since that would really heighten the horror of the thing's situation. It's also just... kinda bland. Very generic-feeling attempt at body horror, like the body horror is just there to be weird and because it's nearly obligatory in survival horror nowadays rather than the body horror being there for a reason. The generic-ness is a huge problem I had with the first game too, and the generic-ness of the buzzhand woman thing is made even worse by the fact that you come out of the hotel and walk into an area populated by... generic fucking zombies.

Gonna play some more at some point though. Maybe it'll get better, hahahaha.

#the evil within #the evil within 2 #survival horror #more like 'survival horror'? #can this one or the original really be called survival horror at all? #not really #re4-style action horror that's trying to be at least a little scary #unlike re4

[calumsyellowhummer]

hear me out

or don’t these tags took way too long

#I’ve never wanted to see what 5sos drives more in my life #like hey baby what’s your daily? #what’s your favorite? #what’s one that you take out for the boys? #like please give me a garage tour I need this #especially you Mr. Hemmings with your cute little sporty ass Porsche #and Mr. Hood with his pretty little Maserati #like this isn’t something anyone else probably needs but me #but like should I start some shit and drive around with like bands or celebs in general #(Jerry Seinfeld vibes like his show comedians in cars getting coffee or whatever it’s called) #BUT instead it’s me and we don’t have to talk shop about cars #but we could #or we could just vibe out while I drive ✨ respectfully ✨ over the speed limit #like legit am going through a period of my life where all I want to be is a personal driver #or continue through my phase of being that guy with the car and a license toting people around and listening to music a little too loud #but having a good time irregardless like ugh we could sit in parking lots or drive through fun cities take your pick #anyway this went on waaaaayyyy too long #like woof ignore me you #if you made it this far I’m so sorry I put you through this #love you though

[the-paris-of-people]

Hi. This is really not a question but more of a rant. A really really long one. I apologize in advance. I honestly care waaaaayyyy too much about this show than I should. Clearly too bored🙈.

After reading people's comments on this show and the ships, there are so many things that irk me and I thought I'd share even if I might get crap for it. So here goes:

1. "Ben only wants Devi when she is with Paxton." I.e. it's about Paxton. Lol people are funny. As though Ben thinks he can compete with Paxton on a social level. He's not stupid, he knows full well he can't. It's about Devi and in part her obsession with Paxton. People don't like thinking about things from Ben's perspective because they just don't like him. He's the one that finds out Devi is cheating, she runs after Paxton at the party ( now granted before she runs out, she's intensely staring at Ben and then realises Paxton is leaving but Ben's not gonna remember that) and she was busy chumming it up with Paxton in episode 3 in front of Ben with absolute disregard for him. So his natural defence is to guard himself and have his walls go up. It is a valid response. He burries his pain (exactly what Samberg said). And does not let his guard down around her romantically until episode 10 when Paxton literally rejects her at school. At the school dance, sparks are flying between those 2. Is Paxton around at the time...Uhm no (I'll get into the whole Aneesa thing). In his mind Paxton is out of the picture and it's like he can almost trust her again. And then when Paxton shows up with Devi, he basically feels like a fool for ever thinking that he was ever something more than 2nd best or sometimes anything at all ( especially considering Devi still wants Paxton after Devi and Paxton's last public interaction that Ben witnessed- I mean he does not get to see the shit behind closed doors). But then when Eleanor spills the tea, that look on his face is disbelief, yes a little bit of jealousy but overwhelmingly heartbreak. He is essentially watching the chance he never knew he had go away. Now you could argue that he should have known that she wanted him back but she broke his trust and does not explicitly say, " I want you back". Ben's not trying to get burnt again based on some assumption/hunch. He has been wrong before.

2. "How dare Ben be upset that Devi is with Paxton when he is with Aneesa". Fair point. Just like how dare Devi be upset and lose her shit over Ben and Aneesa. But yet it still happend. Devi gets 5 episodes allowing her to be upset and Ben can't even have one moment when a firkken bomb gets dropped on him.

Aneesa and Ben should have never date. Everyone knows that. He was never over Devi. He just pushed those feelings down to make him believe he was over her. I obviously don't agree with this. Aneesa doesn't deserve that. Ben needs to go to therapy. He needs an outlet. He is similar to Devi in that he doesn't want to process what happened and would rather move on and react. However, his reactions are far less impulsive/severe as Devi's. Him dating Aneesa is unfortunately a reaction. He didn't give himself time to really process how he feels. People say he dated Aneesa solely to spite Devi which is not true. Is there an element of " you never wanted me but someone else does"... absolutely but Aneesa is also very kind to Ben, they get along really well and she puts him first. Technically what's not to like. I mean if it was just to spite Devi, could he have not tried to hustle his way back in with Shira?? Problem is that dumb dumb didn't work through his Devi feelings and let's just be honest, the same spark and chemistry he has with Devi, is missing with Aneesa. It often feels forced, especially in regards to the pace of the relationship. I so wished Aneesa remained friends with Ben. That's what he needed...not another relationship.

3. "Aneesa is so amazing, she doesn't deserve to get hurt." I agree. She absolutely doesn't deserve to get hurt just like Ben and Paxton didn't deserve that crap Devi pulled. I think Aneesa is a great addition and I like that Devi has someone within her community to connect to. I'm South Asian myself and I genuinely value this aspect of my own life. I mean she is pretty great, kind and the anorexia rumour Devi unintentionally started was pretty heartbreaking. That scene where she talks to Devi at the relay about it, is so sad (especially coz we as viewers know Devi messed up). Now that being said is Aneesa also low key shady? YES. And it's not because she dated her friend's ex. It's because she started dating him knowing that Devi started the rumour about her because she was jealous about Ben and her. How does she think Devi would go from being so jealous that she starts a rumour, to the next week becoming their biggest "Stan". Come on girl. But there was no way Devi could say no after the crap she pulled with Aneesa. Ben did ask her out so if there is blame, he absolutely gets it too but he didn't know why Devi started that rumour (based on his surprised AF face when Eleanor spills the tea). Which leads me to my next question. Why didn't Aneesa tell him? Aneesa said Ben was supporting her through the rumour. She probably told him Devi started the rumour but didn't tell him why? That is odd? Clearly if Ben had known, he may changed his perspective on Devi actually wanting him instead of ignoring his feelings.

Lastly Aneesa knows there are unresolved feelings between Devi and Ben. This is evident from that dance scene. She literally runs to cut in their pretty intense conversation. Like why you running girl? I didn't think much of it at first but coupled with another moment, it makes a lot of sense. When Ben agrees to dance with Aneesa, he looks back at Devi and lingers and Aneesa picks up on this and pulls him away. It's a blink and you will miss it moment but it is there.

Now all of this doesn't mean she needs to get hurt but they probably need to break up. Ben needs to be single for a while and work through how he feels about Devi, Aneesa and most importantly himself. Whilst I don't particularly enjoy their relationship, you never get to see it from either of their perspectives. Maybe that could change things but honestly I just prefer Ben and Devi.

Also can everyone stop acting like Ben is dating Devi's best friend. Being brown doesn't make you automatically best friends and Ben and Devi met Aneesa the same week. People are acting like he is dating Eleanor.

4. "Devi chose Paxton". Please! The only thought through decision that girl made in regards to these 2 boys is when she chose herself and decided not to be Paxton's little secret. I mean in episode 1 and 2 she can't decide so she dates both. In episode 3, she interacts with Paxton because of the whole tutoring thing. He says they don't makes sense. While she seems a bit sad she doesn't seem too upset like she is season 1 and she isn't looking for any opportunity to spend time with him (unlike season 1). Episode 4,5,6,7 and 8 she is losing her mind over Ben. Half way through 8 she knows she has no choice but to let him go. But even after that she doesn't pursue Paxton. He does that at the end of episode 9 when in all honesty she hasn't really thought about him in a while. Then of course Paxton does what he does and she finally choose herself, issuing an ultimatum essentially. Paxton does eventually show up...but it's a choice by default. She just yo-yo's between them. She also needs to be single, deal with her loss, love herself and think about what she wants.

5. "Devi loves Paxton". Sure bud. Does have Devi have feeling for Paxton? Duh! But is it love. Nope. People like to confuse infatuation for love. She has been infatuated with this boy this the 3rd (she knew squat about him). When her dad died, she turns that infatuation into an obsession. It like becomes a full time hobby in season 1. She ruins relationships over it. In season 2 you can argue there is more depth to it and Paxton does grow in Season 2. But somehow she is still fixated on the fact that it's Paxton Hall-Yoshida. I mean she smells him (totally normal), Mc Enroe's comment at the relay was, "did this hunk of beef just say he likes spending time with her", when she breaks up him she says , "you are very good at kissing" not possibly any of his other good qualities. And at the end she says , "I guess I'm Paxton Hall Yoshida's girlfriend now". This boy is so far up a pedestal that if he fell of it, he'd break something. Now granted if he fell of it in Season 1, he'd be dead. So progress I guess...

Maybe the relationship will change in Season 3 and she genuinely falls in love with him. I mean Id be sad but obviously a real possibility. But also that relationship needs to move on from being just the "Paxton project" which it was basically all of season 2. Maybe actually talk about her every once in a while.

Also people who find the ending so amazing because he shows up...bare minimum bro. I understand his perspective, how does it look to go back with someone who cheated on you. Fair point 💯. However she didn't start this shit up again. He did. He liked her so much that he had to make out with her In the middle of the night out of the blue but not enough to respect her publically. That's some BS right there. If he started it, he should have thought it through instead of guilt tripping her. But he is a teenager and ALL of them make incredibly stupid decisions (we all have). Devi messed up big time too and she apologized. The same compassion must extend to him but in no way is it a grand gesture, it's the bare minimum...like her apologies

6. "Paxton forgave Devi forgave Devi so quickly whilst Ben didn't and was so mean". He did forgive her pretty quickly. Good for him. However let's not act like circumstance didn't carve the way for that. They were pushed together because of the whole tutoring thing and he knows that they have to see each other all the time. So logically just makes sense to keep the peace. But still mature oh his part. Also he wasn't as emotionally invested as Ben. Did he have feelings? Yes. However, based on his inner monologue (Gigi Hadid) his ego took more of a hit because how could Devi, the "weirdest girl" he ever liked two time him with Ben Gross. Did his feelings deepen by the end? Yes. But at the start...it isn't that deep.

Also it's great and all that he "forgave" her so quickly but he sure did like bringing it up a lot. Like at the relay guilting her, upset at the end of 6 because he failed...I mean wtf girl you owe me- I don't really care what else is going on in your life, again in episode 8 in the car and finally we all know the mess that is episode 10.

In regards to Ben. His anger is justified for reasons stated in point 1. In fact his reaction seems more real because he is deeply hurt by Devi. Do I like some of his reaction (i.e. nose piercing-will discuss this further) ...nope but she only sincerely apologises to him in episode 8 vs 3 for Paxton. He accepts it. People acting like they would be so calm and chill about being cheated on. And yes he did cheat on Shira. He tries to kiss Devi at party twice but apologises that day and the following week. He doesn't try anything with Devi the whole of episode 10 until she kisses him. He acknowledges that it was wrong and immediately breaks up with Shira. Although cheating is not something we should condone can we actually acknowledge that Shira was the worst and doesn't even remember Ben's name. Compare that to Devi's premeditated cheating. Her Eleanor are literally laughing at how amazing they are for pulling it off and Devi didn't care about either of their feelings cause she was going to be India. Sorry but that is far worse. She also thinks she can bullshit her apology with Ben. He isn't here for that...which is fine! He kept trying his level best to avoid her but even that she wouldn't let him do.

7. "Ben is Horrible". Has Ben done some shitty things. Absolutely. People complain that he has never apologised for anything. Fair enough. He needs to apologize for the UN comment and the psychosomatic comment. It was incredibly hurtful. However, no one does call him out of it. Now you could argue he should just do it. Please... have you watched these particular set of teenagers? None of them apologise without being called out on it first(except maybe Fabiola). And you only get called out my your support system ... which Ben does not have. He practically looks like he raised himself. He doesn't have parents to put him back in line or a sister to call him out on his shit. Devi has her mom, cousin, grandmum , Elanor, Fabiola and her therapist. Does she ever listen to them the first time? Nope. And her first time apologies are such messes. She only gets it right the 2nd or 3rd time. All of them have some form of support but not really him. And it is heartbreaking. It's why I genuinely believe he needs to go to therapy. He needs an outlet to express everything he feels. He also needs to be held accountable for those comments and understand the root of it (ok let's be honest Devi even in their rivalry was probably the most constant person in his life, and fighting with her meant she stayed close by- it's a subconscious thing). He should apologize to her and also find better ways to communicate what he is feeling. The nose ring thing was manipulative. I agree. He should apologize. But I'm not gonna lie, it doesn't piss me off as much because I think it's pretty messed that it took that for her to realise how much she hurt him. Also tbh if you were willing to alter your body on a 2 minute thought out dare, you wanted to do it anyway. But again not a healthy way to emote on Ben's part. The David thing doesn't upset me because he knows how to pronounce her actual name. It's not like he doesn't know how and doesn't bother to try. It was part of their rivalry to irritate her. I honestly find it quite endearing as part of their friendship and think Devi does. I may be wrong and she may not like it and in that case he needs to stop and apologize.

I am not upset by him coming over to her house and calling her out about Aneesa. She deserved it. Also if she was that uncomfortable she could have taken him outside to talk like she did with Paxton. She is clearly comfortable enough to have him in the house. And her therapist agrees with Ben. If he hadn't, she wouldnt have known that Aneesa was leaving. Her mom took away her phone. And even then her first attempt at an apology was soooooo bad. And I don't think Ben did it solely to get Aneesa to stay so he could date her. This is Ben, he was willing to do long distance with Devi from India, I think he could have done the same with Aneesa from like the same town 🙄

I genuinely like Ben because he is a good kid. He makes mistakes like they all do. His personality is hilarious to watch but also his and Devi's relationship is so special. Me liking Ben and Devi has nothing to do with what Paxton has or has not done. I just like the dynamic between the two. They obviously care deeply for each other. Their conversations are hilarious. I love their banter. I love how comfortable they are with each and am sometimes surprised by the depth of their conversations. But also they have amazing chemistry. All the jealous looks and angst are between these two idiots pining for each other. I think she does have chemistry with Paxton but it's more because he is PHY, school Adonis. I mean let's be honest, he'd probably have chemistry with Fabiola solely cause he is PHY. The two nerds just match each other and it's so funny how often they are in sync. It's honestly adorable. They just get each other. That bathroom scene was the sweetest thing and also proves he's not this terrible person. She only comes out of the stall because of his support. He is genuinely hurt for her when technically it should have been a great moment for him.

I do believe the two have to be single for a bit before admitting their feelings for one another and moving forward. That's why my main thing for season 3 is that he absolutely cannot interfere in her relationship with Paxton. He needs to give her the space to figure that. Do I think there will be moments between them... absolutely but no cheating please. Everyone needs to move on from that. If they do it...I honestly think il be done with the show.

Anyways sorry for the really long ramble. If you made it to the end thanks for your patience 😌

Thank you for this beautiful masterpiece, I pretty much agree with everything and need to put it out there for the world to see

#im obsessed with benvi and yall KNOW it #ben x devi #thanks for the response i was soooo entertained while reading it #never have i ever

[my-dear-philo]

Philo & Vignette’s Relationship In Carnival Row

GIF by @alwaysalir

Pros

They bond over books. Seriously. My bookish self was squealing over the absolute perfection of these two falling in love while discussing literature and cultural connection. This is how all intellectuals dream of meeting their soulmate.

These are two people who both have serious intimacy issues (fear of it, too independent, etc.) and yet lower their guard and allow themselves into this beautifully intimate relationship.

They watch each other’s backs and protect each other (which backfires when Philo’s selflessness goes too far and he decides to be an idiot).

They still look out for each other even after they’ve gone through the break-up to end all break-ups. No pettiness or spite here (well, maybe a little bit, but it’s one-sided and doesn’t last).

Despite his concern for her wellbeing, Philo never tries to stifle Vignette’s spunk and independent spirit; he never tells her she can’t be who she is.

They accept each other without question or condition.

Enemies to reluctant allies to friends to lovers and all over again.

Sexual tension so thick you could cut it with a knife.

MUTUAL PINING.

The pining gazes, oh my GOSHHHHH!

Cons

Despite the amazing way they bond, their backstory in Tirnanoc feels waaaaayyyy too rushed in episode three. Seriously. There needed to be a montage or something to show them getting to know each other more over a longer period of time.

Where is my slow burn???? Their first kiss is immediately followed by them having sex, and, like? I wanted to enjoy that kiss! Revel in it! But no! Because now they’re suddenly naked and wow this is all happening pretty fast! Writers, you need to make us beg for it; draw out that sexual tension. Would’ve been 10x more satisfying if it’d been done that way.

Sure, you can tell me that there’s no place for cynical realism when it comes to romance, but I’ll admit I do find myself pretty skeptical when it comes to Philo and Vignette being out of each other’s lives for seven years and then getting back together within a week or so. It had been seven years! It may not sound like it, but that’s a long time! I get that Vignette’s been living in what’s basically Nazi-occupied territory and the memory of Philo is one of the few things she has to keep her going. But Philo thought he’d never see her again; I find it difficult to believe he didn’t move on. But no, about less than two weeks after they’re reunited, they’re all “I love you” and I’m just like, uh huh. Sure, hon.

Honestly, no matter how much I enjoy their relationship, I would totally have been on board if they’d ended up with other people. I like them together (with tropes like these, how can I not?), but I wouldn’t have been upset if they chose not to be together because they preferred other people. They’re not a “ship it till I die” kind of ship.

#carnival row #rycroft philostrate #vignette stonemoss #philo x vignette

[zoppzoop]

I had a dream and i want that one to be a reality because in the dream we were in my room at first and Shigaraki (who was waaaaayyyy hotter in the dream unlike in the anime) was our friend and we were all hanging out and he legit pulled out a thing with purple liquid in it which he activated so it glowed and it was apparently a bomb and were were trynna get it from him but then my parents called me and I went to the front door and closed my room door and they said they're going out to get some shoes. When they went I came back to my room and when I opened the door Shigaraki legit hid the gun (disguised as a NERF gun) in his hoodie so that we don't get caught by my parents so while he was struggling with that we all ran to an abandoned building (we being me, Izuku, Uraraka, Bakugou and Shouto). When we got there we fought him and he threw a camera cover at me and it had a similar bomb in it with green liquid and it was already activated and as it was about to burst I shoved myself along with the bomb at him but it was a fake and he had the real one one a half couch thing, between the pillows but then we got a chance to capture him and to capture him I had to pin him down to the half couch thing near a window and shouto flopped down on the other end coz he was tired and deku and uraraka were sitting on the couch and bakugou was just standing. I had to pin him down, which was basically straddling him and he was shit talking and then i told him to shut up and that I'll shove the thing up his ass and that I've read enough fanfics to know where it goes but then the real bomb was about to blast so I took it and kept it on his chest while still sitting on top of him but it didn't blast and then we were discussing what to do with him because I said I've read enough fanfics to also know that he can turn into a good guy and shouto looked at us was like '*nod nod*Yes she actually has read a lot of fan fiction' and it was just all because of AFO that he was bad. And one time in the middle I said the f work and shouto looked at me and shook his head disapprovingly. And then we we're talking and i said 'whatever, it's the same shit' while were talking ab sth happening to me

AND HE LEGIT PUSHED MY GLASSES UP AND TOLD ME 'Its not the same shit sweetheart.' In a VERY LOVING VOICE AND

DO YALL KNOW HOW FUCKING HOT THAT WAS??????? IT LEGIT HAD ME BREATHLESS AND MY HEART WAS THUMPING LIKE AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA. And like while we were discussing that we'll take him far away so the cops won't find him, I got a phone call and it was like we have the recordings ready and they're coming to arrest him and I was legit maD because BRO NO WE ARE GOING TO SAVE HIM NO MATTER WHAT AND we were on our way to become vigilantes but then my brother woke me up lmao

Anyways. The dream was amazing and I don't remember much details but it was amazing. Also If given the opportunity I would 10000000% rewatch that dream. 10/10 would recommend.

This is legit the second time I'm having a BNHA dream lmfao.

JSGSJA honestly I would write a damn crack fic with this but I'm too lazy to do that lmao

#bnha #boku no hero academia #bnha fic #bnha crack #bakugou #deku #ochako #todoroki #bnha todoroki #mha todoroki #bnha shoto todoroki #todoroki shōto #bakugou katsuki #bnha bakugou #bnha bakugo katsuki #uraraka ochako #uraraka #midoriya izuku #mha izuku #shigaraki tomura #boku no hero academia shigaraki #bnha tomura #tomura imagine #mha tomura #dream #i had a dream #dream like a fanfiction #dreams #dream journal #anime dream

[minsyal]

Mutual Feelings Pt. 9, [Revali x Reader]

Summary: Smart nerdy stuff that smart nerdy people do

“Incoming!” The small metal hinges on your door shook as a heavy foot collided with the old crackling wood, only making its condition worse. The door flew open, slammed against the wall, and rattled the entire room. If the shelves and desk weren’t bolted to the wall, they would have clattered to the ground or move. Purah stood under the frame with the widest smile stretching across her face.

She was nothing but a lit firecracker. Her smile spoke words of mischief, as it always did, speaking essays and forty-minute presentations without her even having to part her lips.

You slid the papers you were working on under a leather-bound book. She wouldn’t like their contents. After all, they were full of information to the Divine Beasts controls that she didn’t know about. Controls that you added. You could imagine the look on her face if she learned that you were going behind her back to answer the Champion’s requests.

“Morning, sleepyhead.” She waltzed into the room with an energy that dumbfounded you. How she managed to stay in a perpetual state of joy was something that intrigued you, but you had no desire to live through yourself. “Brought you more super royal work! I know how much you love all that jazz.”

“You know me better than anyone.” You joked, turning your chair to face her. “What is it?”

“Oh,” she danced around you to slink toward the window. “you know! Just… some stuff.” The pile of papers in her hands didn’t seem like too much work. There were only two notebooks and maybe a dozen sheets of paper with scribbles all over them. There was one thing you took note of, the princess’s perfect cursive that seemed to glide across the page.

“Some stuff.” You repeated, quickly snatching a paper before Purah could protest. “Zelda’s work?”

“Precisely!”

“Why?” There was no way Zelda would want you messing with her work.

“Well. Big boss-man told her to focus on her powers. That means that you and I, more so you,” she quickly added, “get to finish it for her!”

“She would be furious if I so much as touched this.” You speedily put the page back on the stack that was now perched on your desk. “Are you sure we’re supposed to do this?”

“It’s not so much as finish it. Rather,” she leaned to the right and then swayed to the left, “add it to our work! It’s about the shrines and everything. You know? Science stuff.”

“Is she allowed to continue searching for shrines?”

“Probably not. That means less trips with her for you! Maybe more time to spend with,” she waggled her brows in a suggestive manner, “you know who.”

“Purah, let’s not go there.”

“Oh sweetie, you already went there! In fact, you’re way past there! You’re,” she pretended to cast a fishing hook off into the distance, “waaaaayyyy over there! And over there,” she pointed in the opposite direction, “was the point of no return.”

“You’re insufferable.”

“All in a day’s work!”

“Don’t you have other work to be doing?”

“Nope!” She swayed on her toes, the mischievous smile never leaving her face. “So, are you and Revali like, a thing?”

“It was nice to see you, Purah.” You rose from your desk chair and began pushing her out the door. “Please, visit less.” Her feet halted in the hall. “I’ll send a card.”

“It better tell me you and Revali are dating!”

You slammed the door in her face. You could hear her giggling to herself as she left.

Shortly after meeting Keumi and learning of her situation, you traveled alone to Zora’s Domain to obtain updates on how many shines were identified in the surrounding areas from King Dorephan and Mipha. Sidon, who is Mipha’s brother, tagged along but proved to be little to no help as he was just beginning to learn how to utilize his swimming skills.

While there, you met a peculiar older gentleman who gave off an air of wisdom and vast medicinal knowledge. He was kind, quiet, and understated. Unlike the other Zora, he lived in the outskirts of the Domain. His whereabouts remained a mystery to the other Zora, and he was said to only appear when he sensed illness.

It was surprising when he set foot in the Domain seeking you.

You sat with the medicine man, listening diligently as he told you stories of his many travels throughout Hyrule. He had been everywhere you had and more. The ingredients he collected for treating illness were from all walks of the land.

“What brings you to the Domain?” He asked, folding his wrinkled hands in his lap. The two of you sat on the steps of the Domain.

“Research.” You commented.

“Just research?” He implored, eyes leaving you to look off dreamily to the sky. He closed his eyes, taking in the breeze that blew through the canyon walls. “I think you’re here for far more than that.”

“More?”

“You have someone special to you. Very special,” his gaze returned to yours, “and they’re very sick.”

“How do you know that?” You whispered, eyes going wide.

“It’s all over your face.” He smiled, “And I’m not oblivious.”  

The medicine man, Sopho, told you of a mysterious plant with an inimitable name, “Omisaato.” The enigmatic flower heavily resembled the Silent Princess, but with small differences in its shape and the introduction of golden speckling on its petals. It radiated the scent of fresh vanilla bean and only sprouted from the ground once a year in varying locations around Gerudo. Sopho told of its intense healing abilities. When brewed correctly with specific ingredients, it could cure even the most devastating diseases or genetic mutations.

He couldn’t provide you with the exact information you needed but could gift you a descent sized book that he had bought on a trip to Kara Kara. Even if there was no evidence of its existence, it was worth a try.

It could fix her. It could save her.

Though it was only a few days ago, Zelda was growing restless. She was itching to breach the walls and return to the wild where she could spend time with what she loved most. You’d find her lingering in the library for longer periods of time, watching over your shoulder as you sifted through her research notes. She’d practically be dangling from the balcony to see what you thought of her work. It was detailed, far more detailed than you had ever bothered to do. She described the make and model, how many screws and bolts she estimated they have, and where she hypothesized, they led to. With such a small entrance, it had to go down. But where? That was the looming question.

“Why don’t you just join me, instead of scare the hell out of Link?” You turned around to find her wide-eyed, either surprised you called her out or surprised that you knew she was there. With a short nod, she descended the stairs and sat down across from you at the table. Link stood a few feet behind her, looking as uncomfortable as he typically did while he followed her around like a lost dog. “Link, come on.”

He hesitantly sat down.

“My notes.” Her fingers danced across the pages that you piled together. “What are they like?”

“They’re yours,” you let out a tired laugh, “you tell me.”

Many emotions crossed her face in very few seconds. Her eyebrows drew together as she contemplated what she wanted to say next. Link was staring blankly at her, likely wondering the exact same thing as you. Zelda reached out and fixed the stack neatly, ensuring the pages corners lined up perfectly.

“Thank you.” She finally said in a quiet tone. “For saving me when we were in Hebra.”

Catching you completely off guard, you examined her expression, trying to figure out whether or not she was telling the truth. She showed no signs of dishonesty. Her eyes were glossy and large, her fingers rubbed together lightly, and her shaking leg inched the table over with each bounce.

“It’s no big deal.” You gave her a tight-lipped smile. “Guess I didn’t expect being a royal scientist meant experiencing 60 volts of electricity coursing through your veins.” With another smile, she was relaxed and smiling back. “Your notes are good. Detailed to all get out. But we haven’t been able to pinpoint whether the shrines in the different regions vary. I’d like to arrange a trip to Gerudo, sooner rather than later, to examine the shrines there.”

At the mention of traveling, she perked up. Something crossed her face that told you the conversations with her father were resurrected in her mind as she physically slumped a bit.

“We can request it to make ambassadorial relation meetings with Urbosa and for the possibility of finding another spring in the desert. He won’t question that.” You assured her.

“I’ll have it arranged at once.”

The next day you set out with Link, Zelda, and Mipha for Gerudo. Daruk and Revali had decided traveling separately would be faster and more efficient for the group as a whole. Plus, they wouldn’t even be allowed to enter the city so getting there immediately wouldn’t be called for. Zelda was much more pleasant than usual. Her attitude changed the moment you suggested the trip and a way around the King’s tightening rules for the young princess. She didn’t even question the cage you wore on your back meant to house the legendary flower.

Mipha, on the other hand, was curious as all get out. She poked and prodded at it, examining the welding techniques used. Link and Zelda led the group while you walked along side the Zora princess who swam slowly through Aquame Lake.

“What is it for?”

“I’m collecting some samples from the desert to take back and analyze at the castle. Boring stuff.” You laughed it off.

“Fascinating.” She was always so joyful. If there was a definition to innocence, it would surely be Mipha. “I’ve always wanted to do more scientific things. There’s just no time to.”

“You’ve helped me install updates to Ruta. I’d say that’s pretty scientific.” You commented. Mipha smiled, ducking beneath the water for a moment before coming back up.

“I mean with lab goggles and coats!”

“Next time I visit, I’ll make sure to bring an extra.”

“I’d enjoy that!”

#revali x reader #revali imagine #revali imagines #revali #botw revali #botw #botw fanfic #botw fic #botw fanfiction #botw loz #loz #tloz #tloz breath of the wild #breath of the wild #x reader #revali x you #loz fanfic

[noradarhkpalmer]

go elf yourself

Title: go elf yourself

Rating: PG

Pairing: Nora Darhk/Ray Palmer aka Darhkatom

Warnings: None

Summary/Notes: Nora Darhk pulls out her elf costume every year to get her through the holidays, this Christmas though, she meets a special person who could help change her life for the better. (Modern AU)

Day one of the 2019 edition of 25 days of Darhkatom! Feel free to click the through the tag to see last year’s! Basically, like last year, I will be posting all loosely related (unless stated otherwise) fics for 25 days straight!

ao3 link: here

Nora was starting to feel like her ‘starving artist’ motif was getting old. This realization would’ve been much to her parents chagrin, god rest their souls. She’d done a lot of odd jobs to pick up extra cash: dog walker, Swyft driver, and now that the Christmas season was upon them: she was pulling out that damn elf costume. Sure she’d broken it in enough that it was no longer itchy and she loved seeing the kids light up at meeting Santa, yeah, but she didn’t like when the parents would force their kids for a dumb picture they wouldn’t remember, and pay, honestly in her opinion, far too much for one stupid picture.

But it would pay her bills until the new year, combined with watching her friends John and Gary’s cat, Cleo, while they honeymooned in the Swiss Alps, and that’s all that mattered.

Nora shuffled into the mall and listened to her boss debrief yeah yeah yeah there’d be two Santas this year because of pay cuts it was cheaper to pay two at less hours than one for all. Nora stopped listening and re-familiarized herself with the camera, she wished she had enough money to spare for even a basic model of one of those, her hands itching to get back into photography full time.

Finally after redundant training, the workshop was open. Kids and parents lined up to see Santa, an older gentleman who’d done the job for years. She went through the motions for a full two hours until she heard her name.

“NORA! You’re back again this year!”

Nora smiled cordially at her friend Mona who did this job every winter she had. “I am!”

“I’m so excited!” Mona bounced up and down, the jingle bells on her outfit bouncing with her.

“Could you go excitedly redirect the line?”

Mona nodded and sets off getting the line in order.

There’s a full week of this routine before Nora’s life completely changed.

“UNCLE RAY!!! Cmon!!! Santa’s gonna leave before we get to the front!” Nora heard a boy’s voice whine. She looked up to see through the crowd, a boy no older than six tugging on the arm of a man she couldn’t see.

“Yeah uncle Ray! Mom and dad always get here waaaaayyyy earlier!” Another whined.

Nora rolled her eyes and got back to work, at least when the boys get to the front they won’t be pitching a fit about seeing Santa.

It’s about a half hour later when she spotted them and looked up at the face of their Uncle Ray.

And holy mother of baby Jesus, this Uncle Ray is what she’d like to unwrap come Christmas morning.

“Can they get pictures individually and together? Their parents usually do that.”

Nora nodded, vaguely recognizing the boys from years past. “Sure thing.”

The boys scurried up to Santa as Mona animatedly explained the packages to Uncle Ray. Nora instructed the boys accordingly to get individual and then a shot with the two of them.

“This job seems like fun.” Ray said, and Nora realizes, to her.

“Umm yeah I guess! Lines can get a little nuts but Mona is super helpful.”

“Are you always behind the camera.”

“Most of the shift but sometimes Mona is.”

“So they allow you to take breaks? Have lunch?”

“Yeah what do you think we aren’t allowed to sit down our whole shift?”

“No…”

“This job is a lot harder when the pictures don’t sync, when the camera malfunctions, I have to exhaust all options before calling IT or else I’m in hot water. This is a complex job. It’s hard wrangling kids, making them look at the camera, and parents aren’t always nice and neither are the kids.”

“Lady I’m sorry I didn’t…”

“You didn’t think yeah, please take your nephews if you’re not gonna get a package and go elf yourself alright?”

Ray tried to hide a laugh.

“What?” Nora asked with the threat level of an angry bunny.

“An elf is telling me to go elf myself. It’s just funny.”

“Funny?”

Ray can’t stop laughing and Nora realized how ridiculous this whole thing is. She’s burned out from snapping pictures and asks Mona to switch out so she can go on a break. She shuffled with her tinsel between her legs over to Ray once the boys have their photos.

“I’m sorry I snapped.”

“It’s okay. Even elves have their limits.”

Nora glared.

“Sorry last elf joke!”

“Did your nephews enjoy themselves?”

The boys flanking Ray nodded. “Yeah especially when you yelled at Uncle Ray it was really funny!”

Nora’s cheeks flushed red. “Oh umm well.”

“Do it again!”

Nora shook her head. “Sorry boys I try to not lose my temper.”

“Awwwww.” They whined.

“Do elves take hot cocoa breaks?”

Nora looked up at him and Ray retracts.

“Okay that was the last one, sorry it was my lame attempt at asking you out.”

The boys next to them gasped and cover their mouth in scandal and Nora smiled. “As long as you don’t mind that I put caramel drizzle on top.”

“Not at all.”

xxxx

It’s a few days later that Nora finally works a shift with the new Santa. She eyed him, he’s clearly wearing a fake beard, so he’s not old enough to sport the natural face hair of a Santa. She nudged Mona.

“What’s this Santa’s deal?”

“Oh he’s super nice! I haven’t talked to him much but he’s really nice.”

“Why did they hire a young Santa?”

“Most of the kids can’t tell and the ones that do we tell Santa shaved his beard but didn’t want to scare the kiddos.”

Nora eyed her in suspicion. When there’s a break in the day she shuffled over to Santa. She checked her phone, noting no text from Ray. After she’d formally introduced herself over cocoa with him and his nephews, they had exchanged numbers. They’d been texting non stop but today? Silence.

Nora sighed and Santa patted the space next to him. She slumped down.

“Ho ho ho, my elf, what’s got you so blue this Christmas? Is it something a wish to Santa can fix?”

Nora smiled and stared down at her lap. “I don’t know if you can fix this one, Santa, I’m just missing someone which is silly because I haven’t known them for very long.”

“A person can mean everything to you in a matter of days. And that’s quite alright.”

“I think he’s some big tech higher up, I’m just a loser artist, I don’t have a shot in…” she looked around at the passing children, “heck.”

Santa belly laughs again and pats her leg. “I think I can work some of my Santa magic for you, my dear, just you wait.”

She only had to wait a few more hours, after the mall closed. She cashed out the drawers when she heard someone behind her.

“We just closed for the night Santa will be back tomorrow.”

“I’m actually looking for the cutest elf in Santa’s workshop.”

Nora smiled wide, hearing Ray’s voice, she turned around and her breath left her. There he stood, half dressed in a Santa suit, holding his hat and beard in his hand. “You’re the other Santa? Why? Aren’t you like stupid rich?”

“I’m doing this for free so the other Santa who is getting up there in age, can have days off so it’s better on his joints. He gets all my pay though.”

Nora gasped. “Ray… so wait that means you heard…”

“You talking about missing me? Sorry I ran late this morning and well I was doing this all day.”

Nora nodded. “Right yeah… gosh I feel like such an idiot.”

“Don’t.” Ray takes her hand. “Don’t feel like an idiot because I’ve been missing you.”

“Well I’ve been right here all day.”

“But I haven’t been able to do this.” Ray cupped her cheeks in his hands and kissed her softly.

Nora smiled after the kiss breaks. “Is Santa allowed to kiss one of his elves?”

Ray rolled his eyes playfully. “I can stop.”

“Don’t you dare.” Nora poked him in the chest.

“I’m gonna make this the best Christmas you’ve ever had.”

“So does that mean you’re like one-up yourself every Christmas?”

Ray playfully dipped her. “You bet your ass I will.”

Two Years Later

“Did you set the timer?”

“Of course I did what kind of photographer do you think I am?” Nora rushed back over to her family and pulled Tori into her lap so she’s sitting between her and Ray. The baby clapped happily as Nora gently bounced her, counting down until the very last second and stopping so they get a good picture. Nora went to the camera and played back the pictures, they finally got a good one! Nora waved Ray over with Tori in his arms and smiles.

“Looks great, babe.” Ray kissed the top of her head. Nora took their one year old in her arms and kissed Ray properly.

“Thanks, think it’s good enough to use for the website?”

“Absolutely. Have I told you how proud I am of you?”

“Mmmm not today.”

“Well I’m so incredibly proud of you. You’ve come so far.”

“And managed to grow two humans while running a photography business!”

“Nora, we only have one… wait… are you saying…” Ray’s eyes grew wide.

Nora grinned and nodded. “I know you like to one up on Christmas but I couldn’t help myself. Apparently neither could you.” She elbowed him playfully.

“I love you. So much.” Ray kissed her and Tori fussed between them.

“Aww don’t like mama kissing Santa Claus, baby girl?” Nora kissed all over Tori’s face instead, making the girl giggle. “Gonna be a big sister!”

“Does this mean we can do family photos next year with us as Santa and Mrs. Claus and them as tiny elves?”

Nora let out a small laugh. “Sure babe. Why not.”

“Good cause they can’t know Santa fell in love with an elf. Might ruin his street cred.” Ray grinned cheekily.

Nora elbowed him again. “Oh go elf yourself.”

#darhkatom #ray palmer #nora darhk #legends of tomorrow #fanfic #mine #25 days of darhkatom

[neonredglow]

After almost one month of lp1, it’s Liam’s album a certified flop?

no? it’s sold about 2.5 million copies total? it’s close to being certified gold in the us and platinum in the uk? don’t let harries/stan twitter fool you into thinking lp1 is a total failure. 

and i’ve said this before, but i’ll say it again: liam is actually doing alright for a debut artist. it’s just that everyone was wrongly expecting lp1 to sell as many copies in its first week as flicker/hs1/mom which it was never gonna do for a few reasons

1) mom was the first album any of them released and it came pretty soon after zayn left the band, meaning there was a lot of attention on zayn from the media/gp at that time…. which means a lot more people bought that album than may have otherwise if it came out in different circumstances

2) flicker and hs1 had tour ticket bundles mixed in with their sales, which inflated their numbers. also harry sold like 4 or 5 different physical versions of the album (pink vinyl, white vinyl, cd, etc) on his store and yeah a lot of harries bought every version. and i know he did this for fine line but i don’t remember if he did for hs1, but harry had several limited edition merch items that came with a free copy of the album.

3) lp1′s lead single came out over 2.5 years before lp1 did which is waaaaayyyy too long, liam lost the interest of the gp. also the album hasn’t changed significantly from the album that would’ve been released in january 2018 and the music scene has evolved since then while this album did not

4) the 1d fandom is dead, and it wasn’t yet when the others released their debut albums. and even if it wasn’t..

5) liam is and always has been the least liked of all the 1d guys within the fandom. he has by far the smallest solo fanbase, and always has.

6) liam did barely any promo for the album in it’s first week, and hasn’t done any significant us promo since summer of 2017. all of his us promo since that summer has been like 1-2 talk/radio shows + a few online videos that all get released in the same week and he doesn’t come back to the us for months.

even if both ways hadn’t happened and all of liam’s haters didn’t suddenly get an excuse to openly and relentlessly hate on liam, lp1 was not gonna do as well as the other debut albums did. (and it’ll be interesting after walls gets released, cause there’s no way it’s gonna get 100k+ sales in the us in it’s first week either and the fandom’s gonna have to accept that we’re just not as big or powerful as we used to be)

#tho admittedly #most of the sales numbers come from the 9 singles sales #converted into album sales #still counts tho for certifications so who cares #lp1 #asks #anon

[flintsjohn]

people are way too mean to Maria, there's an equal amount of merit to Miluca and it's a good ship and a legit love triangle where both ships have their merit, (lie some love triangles are just like, why? but I get Miluca. I think Malex is endgame, but I like Miluca...).

i think i have made my feelings on miluca clear and i,,, don’t ship them so uhhh so far no, i wouldn’t agree the two ships are on the same level (and i don’t feel the show has put them on the same level yet so ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ ); i would say there’s potential in miluca! i mean sidenote merit-wise all or most ships have merit im no one to say your ship is worthless lmao but i definitely agree that people are waaaaayyyy too mean to maria!

#ask #anon #my feelings on them havent changed so im like ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ it’s always the same answer #at least until s2 comes out and POSSIBLY changes my mind #also i hate love triangles in everything except black sails bc steinberg and levine are literally the only writers allowed to do that 🤷‍♀️

[justheretobreakthings]

I’m Only Bleeding

Written for @knittyninja: some hurt Pidge with caretaker Lance for your reading pleasure!

Read on AO3

“Probably gonna need some backup over here!”

“I’m on my way!” Lance replied into the comm, though Pidge barely heard it over the crackle of electricity as she managed to embed her bayard into one of the sentry bots and give it a good shock.

She straightened up, panting, and turned to face the remaining sentries. On the one hand, it had been nice of the bots to wait until she had finished the file transfer she had needed from the control room before finally spotting the break-in and coming after her. On the other hand, the sentries seemed to be trying to make up for their tardiness by sending a dozen her way all at once. Frankly, she figured she would have preferred their inconvenient timing to their strength in numbers.

She had made it out of the control room, but the numerous balconies and stairwells here in the base’s hub had given the sentries plenty of places to enter from and join the chase, so her attempt to get out of the base and back to Green had been stymied. They had underestimated the amount of security at this little outpost, it seemed. If they had known before how crowded with bots the place was, Allura no doubt would have made it more than a two-man mission.

Fortunately she was at least making progress at fighting her way through them, and Lance had finished his job of incapacitating the live soldiers at the base. Now just to wait on his appearance, a wait during which she concentrated on dodging and blocking attacks as she kept her eyes out for openings catch more sentries with her bayard.

She managed to take down one bot and was in the process of electrocuting another when Lance made his presence known with a blast straight through a sentry’s head by Pidge’s side. She took her eyes off the fight long enough to glance up and see Lance positioned on one of the balconies, holding his rifle steady and gazing through the scope. He gave her a thumbs-up, and Pidge nodded in return before swinging her arm around to pierce her bayard into the torso of the sentry right behind her.

Admittedly she was still taking a few hits, but now that she had her backup, it wasn’t hard to regain the upper hand. Over the course of the next couple of doboshes, the two of them managed to start picking off the sentries one by one, Lance from above, Pidge head-on. Pidge figured she’d be coming out of this fight with a handful of nice bruises, but nothing that wouldn’t be quick to fade.

It was the final two sentries that caused the problem.

Pidge had shot her bayard out to embed into one of the advancing sentries, but this one seemed to have been built with faster reflexes than the others. Or, of course, maybe Pidge was just getting tired. Either way, before Pidge had the chance to shock the bot, it reared, flinging the wire of the bayard in an arc and sending Pidge flying off her feet along with it.

A strange sensation struck her in the side of her abdomen, and it wasn’t until she hit the ground that the sensation turned to searing pain.

She let out a strangled scream and instinctively threw her hands to where the pain was, where it felt like a chunk had just been torn out of her and what remained was on fire. A look down at the site of the wound told her she wasn’t far off: her shaking hands couldn’t quite hide the gash that had torn through the less resilient underarmor just beneath her breastplate, the edges around the tear singed by the rifle blast.

Her head swam for several seconds during which all sound was washed out, but when sound returned, it was filled with the panicked voice of Lance in her comm. “Shit, shit, shit!” he was yelling. “I’m so so sorry, Pidge, fuck, I was aiming for the one behind you! You - shit, you came right out of nowhere! I didn’t mean - I’m so sorry - son of a - Pidge, answer me! Shit, Pidge, are you dead?!”

“‘M not dead,” Pidge managed to grunt out. All her concentration went to pressing her hands against the wound, and she couldn’t help but let out another cry of pain when the pressure sent more fire shooting from the gash to every nerve in her body. Vaguely she could hear Lance continue babbling into the comm, a mix of apologies and curses, and somewhere in the haze she heard the blast of the last sentry being taken out by the rifle.

She was starting to feel nauseous by the time Lance announced in a voice that seemed to be an octave higher than his usual that he was on his way down, and she wasn’t sure if that was due to the dizziness that she could feel blooming in her head, or just due to the sight of her blood dripping out from between her fingers. It didn’t matter, she supposed. She just groaned and curled into herself, shutting her eyes until she felt Lance’s hand prodding her shoulder.

“Pidge!” he was saying. “Pidge, hey, are you okay?!”

“Do I look okay to you?!” Pidge snapped. She hissed between her teeth as the wound throbbed beneath her hands. “Goddamnit, it - it hurts…”

She took a shaky breath, then opened her eyes. Lance’s face was before her, eyes wide, mouth frozen in a tiny O-shape. It took a tick for him to move again, gulping and saying, “Pidge - Pidge, I’m so sorry, it was an accident. I’m so sorry.”

Pidge sighed, letting her eyes close again. “I - I know it was. Shouldn’t have snapped at you, it’s - it’s not your fault. It’s just that… fuck, it hurts, it hurts bad…” The adrenaline from the fight was wearing off by now, and she could feel the sting of tears pricking at the corners of her eyes.

Lance’s voice was breathy as he let out another string of oaths, then he was kneeling right at her side, hands hovering over the wound. “Can I - do you mind if I - ?”

Reluctantly Pidge moved her hands away, and Lance sucked in a breath. “Carajo,” he whispered at the sight of it. “That was - my rifle did that?”

“Well, yeah…” Pidge narrowed her eyes at Lance through the tears of pain. His eyes were still wide, and he had paled significantly, and she wasn’t sure whether he was shaking or her vision was, but either way, it didn’t look great. Which was not good. Not only because the wound must be nasty one in order to leave Lance looking ill, but also because she needed his help now. And this uncertain, worried, tentative Lance was not the Lance she needed. She needed energetic, cocky, confident Lance.

“Lance?” she said softly.

Lance shook his head hastily. “Right. Right, I need to - I need to bandage this - I need something to bandage it with, why the fuck doesn’t our armor come with cloth?!”

“Lance,” Pidge grunted. “You have shitty aim.”

Lance paused. “Um… what?”

“Yeah. You shot me in the side, and my head is waaaaayyyy over here.” She managed to lift her hand to point. “Like, you weren’t even close.”

“I - what are you on about, Pidge?! I wasn’t aiming for your head! It was an accident!”

“Okay, but that’s not what I’m gonna tell the others,” Pidge said. “I’m gonna tell them you panicked and mistook me for a sentry, and you were trying to shoot me in the head like you do for the other bots, but your aim was just that terrible. You’re never gonna live it down.” She mustered up a smirk. “See, this is your punishment for shooting me: I get to embarrass you. So unless you figure out some other way to pay me back…”

“Oh-ho-ho, no, you are not getting that satisfaction,” Lance said. “You want me to make it up to you? How about the best damn rescue and medical care this side of the Milky Way?! That’s what you need!” He stretched his arms out. “I’m taking you to Green, we’ll get you bandaged up and on our way back to the castle in no time. Hang tight, this, uh, this might hurt.”

“I’m ready,” Pidge set, setting her jaw. Lance scooped her into a bridal carry, and she managed to keep most of her pained yell down, although a bit managed to slip out of her throat.

“You okay, Pidge?” Lance asked. “I’m sorry.”

“I’m fine,” Pidge said. “These are tears of happiness because we’re finally leaving, that’s all.”

Lance snorted. “Whatever you say. Let me know if I’m jostling you too much or anything.”

Pidge nodded, and Lance set out, arms tight around Pidge’s back and legs. The wound throbbed with every step he took, but the fire had backed off for the time being. Pidge could deal with this pain until they reached Green, she was certain.

“Hey Pidge?” Lance said as they rounded a corner. “I really am sorry.”

“Quit apologizing,” Pidge muttered.

“But it was my fault you got injured. If I had been keeping a better eye on your position - ”

“Hey, it’s just as much my fault. If I had been quicker to shock that sentry it wouldn’t have managed to throw me. We’re both at fault.”

“Still, I just wish I could - ”

“Hey,” Pidge interrupted. “I don’t hold it against you. You’re doing enough.” She sighed and rested her hand against Lance’s chest. The blood loss was really taking its toll on her; she was utterly exhausted.

“Don’t you go fainting on me,” Lance said. “I don’t need you becoming a deadweight right now. Damn, you are heavy in your armor. My arms feel like they’re gonna fall off.”

“You know,” Pidge said, “Keith once carried me across the castle in full armor after training, and he said it felt like I barely weighed a thing.” She smirked to herself as Lance instantly picked up the pace, fully reinvigorated. Implying that Keith could pull off something was always the easiest way to give Lance a boost of determination.

They let quiet fall between them as Lance carried her the rest of the way to the Green Lion. The lion lowered her jaw to allow them entrance, and Lance lifted Pidge into the cockpit. “I’m, uh,” he said. “I’m not sure how we’ll get back, seeing as you’re her pilot and you’re kinda - ”

He stopped as Green gave a lurch and her dashboard lit up. A fraction of a tick later, they had lifted up.

Pidge simply smiled. “Green is smart,” she said. “She knows what needs to be done.”

“Good. I’ll get the first aid kit.”

Lance lowered Pidge gently to the floor and hurried to retrieve the kit, and Pidge felt herself shiver against the cold metal of the cockpit floor. Side effect of the blood loss, she figured. First it makes her sleepy, now she was feeling a chill as well now that she didn’t have another body against her. Gaping wounds, she decided, were not fun.

“You holding up okay?” Lance asked as he knelt next to her.

“Yeah,” Pidge whispered. “Just tired. And… kinda chilly.”

“Hm. There’s a bit of temperature regulation stuff in the paladin armor, right? Is it not working?”

“I dunno. Uh, do you think - maybe you could…?”

“I could what?” Lance asked, tilting his head.

Pidge huffed out a breath. “Well, I was warm enough until you put me down.”

“Oh. Oh, okay, I get it.” Lance edged forward and lifted Pidge up to pull her into his lap, and she let her head flop against his shoulder. “Better?”

“Yeah.”

“Good, because this bit’s gonna hurt like a bitch.”

“Go for it.”

Lance fumbled in the first aid kit for a moment before pulling out a bottle, and before Pidge had time to do more than set her jaw to prepare, he was pouring disinfectant into the gash. She let out a cry and instinctively grabbed on to Lance’s other wrist, squeezing it so hard she was frankly a little surprised that she didn’t feel bone break beneath her hand.

“Sorry about that,” Lance said.

“Don’t be,” Pidge panted. “Worst of it’s over, right?”

“Should be,” Lance said with a nod. He pulled out the gauze and bandages next and Pidge held still as she could as Lance maneuvered his arms around her to start bandaging up the wound. His left arm was at an awkward angle, reaching around to the wound while still cradling her, but Lance didn’t complain.

They both let out simultaneous sighs of relief when Lance finished and dropped the remaining bandaging back into the kit. “All right,” Lance said. “Should I hop into the pilot’s seat, help keep an eye on Green’s course?”

Pidge let out a little whine. “Do you have to? I’m tired… and you make a surprisingly good bed…”

Lance snorted. “Well, I have been told in the past that I’m an excellent cuddler. I take it you agree, then?”

“I mean, you’re no Hunk, but you’ll do,” Pidge said, a hint of a smirk peeking out. “Stay?”

“All right,” Lance said with a little smile. “No worries, I’m staying.”

“Good.” She nestled closer to his chest as best she could and allowed herself to relax against him. Her eyes drifted closed as Lance began idly carding his fingers through her hair. “Hey Lance?” she said softly.

“Yeah?”

“On our next mission, I get to take a whack at you with my bayard. We’ll call it even.”

Lance let out a little laugh. “Okay. Sounds good, Pidge.”

#vldgen #pidge #lance #platonic plance #vld fic #my writing #fic: i'm only bleeding

[collectallthefanfiction]

Writing is hard.

I am in no way a professional writer. I hated creative writing in school. BUT FOR SOME REASON I KEEP WRITING ANYWAY. Here are some things I’ve found difficult so far:

Staying in the same tense? Why is that so hard? I know how to conjugate verbs. I teach grammar to children, you guys. This shouldn’t be hard.

Using metaphors. Like, my descriptions in general need a lot of work, but I’m so. Bad. At. Metaphors.

Using a variety of words instead of “says”. I try, I really do.

When the fuck do I use a comma vs. a period when characters are having a conversation? Why have I never noticed this?

Coming up with a character flaw for my love interest, whether it’s an OC or a character I’m just borrowing. I make them waaaaayyyy too perfect. 

#writing support

[drinkupthesunrise]

If you feel like answering any of those fanfic asks, what about 1, 8, and 50? :)

1. What was the first fandom you got involved in?

Okay, so here’s the thing:

I don’t remember.

If there’s any evidence I’ve been pootling about on the internet for far too long that’s probably it. There’s some old fanfic posted on my now defunct ff.net account that I can’t quite bring myself to delete, but I know I was writing before that and posting on other sites that didn’t have quite as stringent age limits before that, and that is all lost to the ages.

The first fandom I didn’t just pootle about doing my own thing in, though, was probably Fullmetal Alchemist (waaaaayyyy back when the first anime had only just become a thing, god, Brotherhood was a revelation let me tell you). I made good friends there and participated in LJ comms and wrote fic and discussed things and claimed pairings for the 30_kisses comm (god REMEMBER) so yeah.

*looks at current fanfic* also yes I think we can safely say that FMA had a lasting effect on my tastes.

8. How did you get involved in your latest fandom?

I decided I’d go and see Star Wars: The Force Awakens solely because I wanted to understand what the fuck people were talking about at every convention and social event I attended from now until forever. I think I’d seen the original films, but in like - I don’t think I’d ever sat down and paid attention to them? My interactions with Star Wars fandom up to this point was with the gate-keeping male side of it, and I didn’t like it. I think I crashed my sister’s outing with her friends to see TFA.

I came out with like, the world’s most horrendous crush on Poe Dameron and a deep desire to learn everything I could. I also adsorbed every fanfic I could, amongst them Penelope at her Loom, which led me to my current Wedge Antilles hell. Haven’t regretted going to see it.

50. How did you get into reading and/or writing fanfiction?

As you might have guessed by my answer to the first question, like, stupidly young. Like I’d been doing the writing stories and imagining characters in situations for forever, but I found fanfiction at the tender age of twelve, and have been reading and writing it ever since. It just made sense. I’ve fallen in and out of it over the years, but at this point I’ve been doing it like, basically half my life. 

[ fanfiction questions ]

#glassprowlers #ask #*pokes at memory some more* #... there might have been some code lyoko fanfic at some point? #i had a lot of very intense code lyoko feelings y'all #but yeah sorry i don't actually remember where i started