#I've seen it in so many styles but not this one hope it haven't been done yet

[taffywabbit]

idk if i'm way off the mark on this, but the way some people are responding to that Guillermo del Toro interview about the decline of studio animation is a bit frustrating to me. specifically the bit where he talks about "emoji animation" and how everything is over-animated and pushed too far and things are rarely allowed to not be ultra-cartoony (y'know, because animation always needs to be marketable to children who are never trusted to have attention spans, right?). like, i think he's generally correct about it! but some folks are taking the wrong message away from that.

i've seen people going off about how "soulless" and "corporate" various recent examples are, and talking about these pieces of media as though they're the result of some kind of personal failing or lack of skill/range on the part of the animators, and it's just like. do people realize that's the only animation you're usually allowed to DO in the industry, unless you get incredibly lucky and land yourself on a project/studio that's unusually cool?

when i was in college for animation it was literally drilled into us nonstop that everything had to be pushed more, that exaggeration was not a guideline or a sometimes-treat but a hard rule that always had to be applied regardless of what was going on, because the viewer couldn't be trusted to pick up on subtlety and we sure as hell couldn't be trusted to convey it. you ever wonder why there's such a specific vibe to a lot of self-directed student films, particularly ones that are focused on character acting/interaction or deep emotions and introspection (especially when there's minimal/no dialogue)? it's because for a lot of young animators, they haven't had the freedom to experiment with realism and subtlety up to that point and they're likely not going to have it again for a while (or at all, unless their career path leads to higher positions where they might have more creative direction over the things they work on. which also becomes a lot less likely if they're anything other than a cishet white dude, for what it's worth).

i would LOVE to see more nuanced, realistic, understated motion and acting in animation. i WANT more characters to be able to express what they're feeling through natural body language and facial cues and for scenes to allow me to breathe instead of spelling everything out in giant bold flashing text all the time. what del Toro wants to see changed in the animation industry sounds great, and i hope others join him in seeking to revamp what modern animation is allowed to be.

but as things currently stand, and as they've stood for a long while now, most artists doing the grunt work on the shows and movies you see are completely at the mercy of corporations and networks who have a vested interest in producing a very specific kind of marketable and cost-efficient media all the time. (and by extension that style is ALSO what's taught in most animation schools, because their job more than anything is to grind you down into a perfect little sweatshop worker who will bend over backwards to meet quotas and get your work approved and not question the higher-ups, even if you have little to no personal investment in the projects you're working on, so that the studios who employ you can maintain their good reputations or whatever)

anyways idk what my point was here, this really just sorta became a rant and my views have undoubtedly been coloured by my own personal experiences (this kinda shit is largely why i dropped out before my last year of animation school, for the record).

i guess just be kind to folks in the animation industry? they've had it fucking rough nonstop for well over a century (the majority of them are still not unionized and there's HUGE pushback against doing so in many places). i assure you they are doing their best to infuse the latest uninspired illumination flick or weird spinoff kids' show with literally any amount of soul they can. you don't have to like the stuff that gets produced by any means! be a hater! i'm certainly not gonna stop you. just remember where these creative decisions come from and why these conditions exist, and consider that when YOU watched something and thought "hmm that could've been done better", you can bet your ass someone actually working on it probably thought the same thing but couldn't do anything about it. these things WILL change as the industry itself improves, but in the meantime folks have to pay their rent, and that usually means doing what they're told and working in a way that will minimize revisions and meet quotas so they can keep their jobs. it sucks, but it is what it is.

#buny text #long post #animation #i don't have a rant tag because i don't necessarily want to encourage myself to make posts like this frequently #but this is obviously a touchy subject that's close to home for me and it felt important to get it out #i realize i am on the Getting Super Mad At People Who Make Popular Media website so hopefully this does not bite me in the ass

[stories-in-the-wind]

haven't drawn anything in 3 months now but I'm hoping that I can pick up my scenic drawings again. Here's an old progress gif from my Snowsquall piece: here if you haven't seen it

A lot of people commented about the lighting and colors on the original post so I wanted to take a moment to plug this tiny youtube channel I've been using improve my illustrations: Light Ponderings. Specific video recommendations below the cut but honestly I recommend looking at all his stuff.

His style of video making is part "here's some fun informative facts about light" and then part "let me draw this in real time while I narrate to really explain what the technical part meant" which I find so helpful.

A couple videos I recommend and used in this piece:

^ Light is not about a lighter or darker scale. Shadows and highlights change both the hue and the saturation of the color they affect, they don't just get darker.

^ This one literally blew my mind. I've almost stopped color picking now because I'm getting really good at picking out my own colors to make a cohesive image that doesn't feel like it's got too many different colors going on.

^ This one was incredible for my work because at some point in the past decade I stopped using references because it's "copying" (it's not). Great strategies on how to properly observe and use images you are inspired by.

Hopefully this helps anyone else out there who enjoys lighting as much as I do!

#flight rising #scribbles in the wind #fr tundra #fr mirror #flashing gif #Youtube

[sasukimimochi]

Hello everyone! Happy Holidays ヾ(•ω•`)o ❤ I drew an icon for the winter so I wanted to share it with you guys! I also included my first attempts haha, I hope you guys enjoy your end-of year!

I'll include some wips under the read more line for design stuff i've been working on for Ghost of Mine and The Wild Plum Tree! It's a lot, but don't get too attached to any of it since i'm very much still figuring out what i want to keep. Hope you guys like em though! Happy holidays again!! (ﾉ*ФωФ)ﾉ👻🐇💖✨

Check out my other MDZS stuff here! ❤

So as you all know I've been working on designs for GOM & TWPT and these are what I've gotten done! This first one is a wip of my youth WWX. Some of you that read my fic and see the messages i leave sometimes might have seen it before!

Then the biggest feat I've been trying to get is figuring out my preferred design for Jiang Cheng. I'm pretty satisfied with the progress, but he's still quite difficult for me so only the last one really started to get in the territory i wanted was the last one. I still need to balance this though as its leaning too far into my preferences i think and not enough into the typical style of JC.

So to start, there's the different hair styles i was looking at. I was also experimenting with his body type and the scars, cuz idk exactly how many scars he has, I haven't looked it up（；´д｀）ゞ

Then one of his outfits (for nicer days, not a typical outfit for him). Then another attempt at his typical outfit, which was more towards what I wanted (kind of like the mobile game outfit!) but not quite there.

Then I went back to trying to design his face and eyes again, getting much closer to what I wanted! I still need to adjust it, but this is the closest so far. To get that dark-eyed cat-like look, I decided to sketch his eyes black unless rendering from now on, cuz it brings that look that I want.

Now we move on to Zhu Xiaoyi and Zhu Hui/Xu Shi. They're mdzs OC characters i'm using as extras in TWPT and may also show up in GOM from time to time. Their designs aren't fully fleshed out yet but Adult Xiaoyi is my baby at this point honestly.

That's all for now!! I hope you guys enjoy your holidays v w v ❤👻🐇

#mdzs #mo dao zu shi #the grandmaster of demonic cultivation #wei wuxian #wei ying #wwx #sketches #sketch #jiang cheng #mdzs oc #mdzs art #mdzs fanart #mxtx mdzs #modern wwx #(the avatar is modern wwx) #sobo wwx

[my-writings-and-musings]

(Spoilers for TFE if you haven't seen the newest episode!!!) Could you do a bot! reader x bumblebee, where instead of him she got sent out to find grimlock and ended up getting her energon stolen, instead of his? Thank you!!

I've seen them and I definitely like this idea! I did a little one shot after the fact, I hope you like it anon!

For those who don't know; if you like my writing style you can always commission me!

The last thing you remembered was trying to transform when a wave of exhaustion had taken you offline, the impact of fighting for days without rest finally taking its toll and forcing your battered frame into an emergency stasis after you'd been sure the kids were safe. Recalling the young Terrans and their human siblings brought a flash of alarm to your processor, forcing it to boot up completely as protective programming took control. Only the considerable pain lingering in your battered mesh kept you from flying off the berth you found yourself on, rooting you to the spot with a groan as you settled for cracking open your optics.

A servo was laid over your own as soon as you caught a blurry yellow figure overhead and at your side, but you didn't need the visual to clear before a familiar voice allowed you to identify them.

"Thank Primus you're awake!" Bumblebee said with emphatic relief, his other servo dipping beneath yours to tightly grasp it. Even as the fog of your injuries and long overdue nap kept you from fully catching up to the moment, your worried grimace softened to a smile at his touch, much of your fear evaporating at his presence. The Scout began fretting over you as soon as his wide blue optics met your own. "Does anything hurt? How are your energon levels? We've got you on a drip, but I can top you off."

"I'm fine…" you promised, despite not having the energy to stand. Flinching at the pain of speaking, you brought a spare servo to your throbbing helm, closing your optics before a quick glance around the room increased your confusion. The small medical bay was not Philadelphia, and more resembled one of the many secret safehouses the Autobots had scattered across the globe. "How did I get here?"

"The kids had to tell their parents about their little field trip. Lieutenant Malto called Optimus, and he arranged for you to be brought here. Ratchet just left, he said you'll be fine after a few days." Bumblebee explained thoroughly, going down your list of concerns as only a bot who knew you as well as he did could. The news helped you relax, but the lingering sting of the energon draining needles that had pierced your mesh made you need a touch more clarification. 

"So the kids are okay?" you asked. When he nodded in confirmation, you returned his hold on your servo with a sigh of relief, thankful that the young ones had gotten out unscathed. Things had been dire in the city's depths, and even after they'd beaten Mandroid you'd been too exhausted to ensure they were safe, a fact that ate at your spark. The pain of not being able to protect your young charges was worse than anything you'd endured in the ring.

"Yeah. I got the summary from Twitch." Bumblebee said with a nod, dropping his gaze and revealing you weren't the only one suffering from regrets. His grip on your servo tightened, thumb sliding across the back of your palm as shame filled his voice. "I knew I should have been the one on that mission…"

You could have predicted he'd blame himself for your injuries. Considering what had happened with Breakdown only a few weeks prior, you weren't surprised the mech was still reeling with guilt, especially as you hadn't had a chance to speak with him in person. "Bee-"

"I'm the one who got caught!" he interrupted, confirming your suspicion as he directly referenced the fateful race that had exposed him to GHOST. Tears filled the corners of his optics as he continued before you could summon the strength to stop him. "I'm the reason we have to work apart for now. If I'd been there, maybe-"

"Maybe you would have been drained, and then we'd be in the same boat, if you could even guarantee we'd be that lucky." you interrupted as forcefully as your aching frame allowed, briefly sitting upright to make your point despite the pain and exhaustion dragging you down. Bumblebee was shocked into silence by your words, though his expression shifted to one of concern when you flopped back on the berth with a hiss of discomfort. Keeping one servo under his, you lifted the other to cup his cheek, calming him and yourself with the long missed contact. "I'm just happy to see you again. Let me have this…"

"I can do that." he sighed softly, returning your hint of a smile as he leaned into your touch. The weeks the two of you had been apart felt like eons, and the Scout took his time savoring your presence, angling his helm to place a small kiss in your palm before he whispered in thankful relief. "Primus, I missed you so much…"

#transformers #maccadam #earthspark #transformers earthspark #transformers: earthspark #bumblebee #bumblebee x reader #transformers x reader #x reader #tf earthspark #tfe #tfes #bot reader #self insert #female reader #earthspark spoilers #tf imagines #tf

[luvhughes43]

devil i know | trevor zegras x reader

suki waterhouse masterlist - luvhughes43 masterlist🌷

note: this is part 2 to nostalgia

summary: trevor finds out yn is engaged, and things escalate

lyrics: "i'm okay with history repeating, tell me i'm the one you can't forget"

"back in hell, at least i'm comfortable. need your body when my fire's cold. hand to heart, i'm gonna stay faithful to the devil i know, the devil i know"

word count: 2.4k

you haven't seen, talked, or checked any of Trevors socials in a while. you moved on. you were engaged to a nice man, and you dutifully accepted his promises of forever. 

your fiance wasn’t like Trevor at all. he was home all the time, he didn’t prioritize anything above you, and you knew he wouldn’t just leave you as soon as he got his dream offered to him. but he also wasn’t the good parts of Trevor either. he didn’t try hard to make you laugh, he didn’t shout out his i love yous for all your friends to hear, and worst of all, he didn’t make you feel those butterflies that everyone tells you to watch out for. you knew you were supposed to go for the guy that makes you feel calm, like your fiance. but you'd be lying to yourself if you said you didn’t want those butterflies that only Trevor could make you feel back.

y/nuser posted one month ago !

y/nuser

liked by jackhughes, yourbff, and others

y/nuser 05/04/23 🤍

Trevor wasn’t going to lie, he did keep some tabs on you. although he didn’t follow you on instagram anymore, his friends did and when there was a major life update they’d update him. It all started with them updating him on your wellbeing, knowing that Trevor was upset with how he broke things off. 

but you knew better. you shouldn’t have messaged him back, especially with your fiance laying asleep right next to you.

Instagram dms

trevorzegras Hey yn… I know it's been awhile but I just wanted to check up on you

y/nuser why? It's been years…

trevorzegras I've just been thinking a lot about us lately

trevorzegras I’m really sorry about how I handled things. I should've tried harder for us

y/nuser you didn't try at all. you literally broke up with me and kicked me out. we didn't even have a proper talk about it.

trevorzegras I know and that’s all on me. I’m sorry

…

trevorzegras Can I see you?

you shouldn’t have opened the first message, but you definitely shouldn’t have responded. And now here you were, debating on whether or not you should go see Trevor. A man you haven't seen in years… your dms with Trevor still lit up your screen, providing you with the light to see the man sleeping peacefully next to you. 

…

y/nuser when would you be able to meet up?

trevorzegras Are you still living in michigan?

y/nuser yes. i live about 40 minutes from the lake house

trevorzegras I can be in mich by the beginning of May

y/nuser I’ll see you then

i'm okay with history repeating, tell me i'm the one you can't forget

“what are we having for dinner?” your fiance asked as he thumped down the staircase. you were fixing your makeup in the living room mirror, getting ready to go meet up with someone you shouldn't. 

“i'm going out, remember?” you asked, turning around so you could fully face your fiance.

“uh, right. with the girls?” he questioned. 

“yeah. we’re going to go hit the bars so i might be home late. You don't have to wait up,” you turned back to the mirror, capping your tube of lipstick and moving on to scrutinise your hair. Trevor always told you he liked it up, so you grabbed an elastic and tried to figure out a style you could quickly do. 

“right. well maybe I'll just order take out or something?” his statement took on a questioning tone and you lightly sighed. 

“yeah that sounds like fun. maybe you can finish that show we’re watching, what's it called again?” you said flippantly, hoping to find something that could distract him from asking too many questions. although you knew there was nothing for him to question you about (it wasn’t unusual for you to go out with your friends) it felt different this time knowing who you were going to meet up with. 

“The White Lotus?” he supplied, but then quickly added “it’s not the same without you. it’d be traitorous to watch without you”. you cringed at the word traitorous but quickly covered it up as you knew he could see your reflection from the mirror.

“maybe you could start a new show?” you stated in a lighter tone “you can tell me all about it when I get back,” you turned around smiling at your fiance. he smiled back and moved over to the couch to find something on the tv. he seemed pleased for the moment and so you decided to make your escape.

“I’ll see you later,” you waved to him from the front door as you gathered the rest of your belongings needed for the trip. 

“no kiss goodbye?” he pouted, causing you to smile. 

“goodbye” you teased, dragging the last syllable out for emphasis. “bye!” he shouted as you shut the door behind you. 

the drive was short, and soon enough you were standing outside of Trevors rental house, unsure of whether or not you should go through with meeting him. you were convinced earlier that you should, but with the deception of your fiance… you felt guilty for what you were about to do.

Trevor opened the door, giving you no more time to question and let yourself be consumed by the fresh waves of guilt washing over you. 

the first thing you noticed when you saw Trevor was his smile. you don’t know what you expected, but he looked the same. he was more grown up of course, but seeing him ignited everything you ever felt for him inside of you. you felt the pain, the heartbreak, and of course the longing and loving that came with being so close to him for so many years. 

“do you want to come in?” Trevor asked in a low tone, momentarily startling you. you nodded in response, and he moved aside to let you in. closing the door shut behind you.

you spent most of the time just talking on his couch. you had gotten the tense apology out of the way, and you couldn’t believe how quickly you were forgiving him. 

“I just think it’s interesting how now-” Trevor leaned over mid sentence, cutting you off with his lips on your own. you didn't pull back, but you didn’t react either, letting Trevor decide how things would go. he pulled away slightly, a soft apology leaving his lips but you couldn’t hear anything.

lust and longing clouded your vision as you pulled him back to you, arm slung around his shoulders as the other lightly caressed his jaw. as soon as you kissed him you started remembering just how Trevor felt before, how often you two would be in situations just like this… how much you had missed him when he left. 

you woke up in the morning in the airbnb bed. 

“good morning” Trevor said lightly as he brushed one of his hands along your hair that was now out of its updo. 

“good morning,” you whispered back as you sat up in bed taking in your surroundings. yours and Trevors clothes were strewn around the room. your body felt on fire once you came to recollect last night's events.

fiance💍🤍: You haven't texted me an update

fiance💍🤍: Are you staying the night with one of the girls?

fiance💍🤍: Message me when you wake up. I love you

you shut your phone back off and groaned. 

“Is that your…” Trevor started but trailed off, becoming aware of what you both have just done the night before.

“my fiance? yeah…” the two of you said nothing, looking away from each other and the mess that littered the bedroom floor.

you quickly got up and ready. 

“please don’t go,” Trevor pleaded as you stood in the entry with one hand on the doorknob. you quickly dropped your hand. 

“i can’t stay Trev i have a fiance at home and-”

“leave him. just stay with me, please” he pleaded, reaching out a hand to grip yours. you didn’t push him away.

there was a brief silence, “tell me i’m the one you can’t forget” you cut through it. 

“what?” Trevor asked in shock, glancing up to look at your face.

“tell i’m the one person you can’t forget” you basically pleaded, no sense of pride left in your body.

“i can't forget you yn. i haven’t and i won't” he said, moving to stand less than a foot away from you. he leaned down so his forehead was resting against yours and you both sighed out. 

“i’ll see you soon, okay?” you whispered, looking up into his eyes. Trevor nodded slightly, pulling his head away from yours and leaving a small kiss on your forehead. he watched you walk away.

"back in hell, at least i'm comfortable. need your body when my fire's cold”

after the first time, you snuck out to meet Trevor multiple times throughout his stay in michigan. things gt tricky with him leaving the airbnb about a week into your rendezvous and moving into the hughes lake house for the summer, but you made it work.

you felt sick admitting it, but you were comfortable with the routine you and Trevor had created. The guilt from sneaking off into the night soon turned into pleasure, and your love for your fiance turned into something meaningless. the vow you were supposed to take in a few short months meaning absolutely nothing to you.

It was one stupid comment made about dress shopping from one of your friends. your fiance had overheard and agreed. he was actually nervous for you. the fact that you might not have your perfect dress weighed heavily on his mind as he kept pestering you to make various appointments at different bridal shops. 

you had tried on about twenty dresses, none of them looking or feeling right. you felt absolutely miserable. the weight of the fabric weighing heavily on your body as the secret you’ve been keeping from you soon-to-be husband weighed on your mind. 

“yn come on, this one looks beautiful on you!” your best friend expressed as your entourage soon became tired of waiting and watching you try on different dresses just for you to reject them.

you smiled lightly in the mirror, letting your hands trail down the dresses bodice and onto the skirt. it would have been perfect if this was what you wanted at all.

“why are you marrying him?” Trevor asked one night. you had your head on his shirtless chest, arm wrapped around him in a makeshift hug.

you tensed at his question. you weren’t even sure why you were going to get married. it had seemed like the natural progression in your relationship earlier, but now with Trevor back… you knew it wasn’t right. 

“i don't know. I feel like i have to” you admit.

“you shouldn’t feel like you have to get married,” he replied, hand resting against your bare back. 

“what other choice do i have?” you replied, sighing as Trevors hand trailed up and down your back softly.

“you have so many options,” he whispered. “you could come back to cali with me or-” you sat up looking down at him. there was a slight blush tinged across his cheeks, and the small smile on his face made you a little nervous.

“Trevor…” you trailed off.

“no, please hear me out. you can move in with me, and we’ll figure it all out” he exclaimed, a slight frown taking over his face at your hesitant reaction.

“i’m comfortable doing this with you,” you gestured between the two of you and the room that you were in, “but leaving… Trevor i don't know how to tell you this but-”

“but what? this isn’t what you want?” he gestured to himself, obviously meaning that you didn't want a relationship with him.

“It's complicated” is all you said, but that wasn’t enough for Trevor.

“this,” he gestured between the two of you and the room just like you had done earlier, “is an affair. yn you’re cheating on your fiance” he stated. “you want to hook up with me? have an affair? fine. i agreed to that. but you can't just say it means nothing to you when you're going so far out of your way to meet up with me. To lie to your fiance that you’re perfectly fine with marrying him despite everything going on with us right now” he said more aggressively as he pushed you aside so he could sit on the edge of the bed, facing away from you.

you stayed silent, taking all of his words in. 

“I’m sorry,” you whispered out as Trevor huffed and got dressed. leaving you behind in the hotel as he left. 

“hand to heart, i'm gonna stay faithful to the devil i know, the devil i know"

it was your wedding day. you were in the dress you had picked out, you had walked down the aisle with your dad holding onto your arm. your fiance had cried, you could see your friends and family smile as the officiant kept talking about promises and forever. 

your vows were over and done with next. You watched in silent horror as your finance professed his love to you in front of everyone you knew. he was holding your hands and you were terrified to break away. scared to continue on with the rest of the ceremony and terrified that you’d have to live the rest of your life out with a man you knew you didn’t love.

“if anyone objects to this marriage, speak now or forever hold your peace,” the officiant continued and you turned, almost comically, to see if there was anyone out there who was going to stop this. 

your eyes were big and wide, you were clearly nervous and scared. your hands that were still holding on to your fiances seemed to be slick with sweat. the wedding party looked around a little nervously at your appearance.

“don’t get married,” a man's voice sounded throughout the tense venue and you visibly relaxed as soon as you saw Trevors mop of hair rise from the crowd. “please yn” Trevor pleaded painfully. 

you didn’t even look back at the man holding your hands before you dropped them. shocked gasps and chatter sounding throughout the hall as you took off running towards Trevor.

#suki waterhouse fic list #trevor zegras x reader #trevor zegras imagine #trevor zegras blurb #jack hughes x reader #nhl fanfiction #nhl imagine #nhl fic #nhl blurb

[gothicbarbie]

TOP 30 BL'S OF 2023

It's that time again! The end of 2023 is here, and 2024 is upon us! Once again, we were blessed with some truly amazing BL series and I have tried my hardest to rank them all. I could only narrow it down to 30 this time cuz there were so many good ones. If a BL is not listed, it probably means I haven't watched it yet, but it is likely on a "for later" list.

GOD TIER 10/10

1. The Eighth Sense (KOREA) Absolutely ADORE this series, it was so well done. Beautiful filming and locations, each episode felt very different in terms of setting, the pacing was nice, and the chemistry was really good too between the main pairing. It was great to get some nice kissing moments as well. Def. one of the best KBL's I've seen ever and easily fits into my top 5 BL's of all time.

2. I Cannot Reach You (JAPAN) One of Japan's best series imo. Very cute storyline, I found both characters extremely likable and fun. I love their cute friendship and subtle build up. I really enjoyed watching this one.

3. My Personal Weatherman (JAPAN) Another great one from Japan, with lots of high heat scenes. Parts of the storyline were a little confusing to me at times but I think a change of scenery could have benefited the series, but regardless, I still really enjoyed it week to week.

4. Kiseki Dear to Me (TAIWAN) Probably my favorite Tawain BL ever after We Best Love. I mainly just loved the chemistry between the two couples, they were both really fun to watch and had wonderful chemistry as well as lovely kissing scenes. Def excited to rewatch this one in the future.

5. Our Dating Sim (KOREA) It's hard to believe this was from 2023, but I recently rewatched the whole thing and it held up! It was a very fun and cute series, and the build up with the main pairing was so well done. It really felt like the writers took their time with this series.

TOP TIER 9/10

6. Stay With Me (CHINA) Shocking to see a chinese series on this list, but this is one of my all time favorite BL series. Some people might argue that it isn't BL, but I highly disagree. We got a few "cheek" kisses and most romantic scenes were heavily implied but for me, it was still worth the watch. The ending was rough to say the least, and I really hope we get a season 2 to sort of rectify that, but regardless, I really loved it.

7. My School President (THAILAND) Another series that feels like it was SO long ago, but is def. at the top of my list for Thailand. Gemini/Forth's chemistry was on point and I loved the cute moments and subtle build up in this one.

8. A Shoulder to Cry On (KOREA) My only critique with this series is the lack of a kissing scene. I know for some people that isn't important, but to me it is and I was a bit frustrated to get nothing after such incredible build up, but regardless, the series was really nice and I loved the tension between the main two characters.

9. City Boy Log (KOREA) This one is still ongoing and not quite a BL series technically, but its scripted, and we get lots of BL moments, so I will count it in my list. I am loving the web style filming of this series and both couples a lot. I hope the main pairing gets the opportunity to be in an actual series together.

GREAT 8/10

10. Utsukushii Kare 2 (JAPAN) Sadly haven't been able to see the movie just yet, but the 2nd series was pretty well done. Not as enjoyable for me as season 1 but I still really enjoyed watching the main pairing navigate their relationship.

11. Never Let me Go (THAILAND) One of the better series from Thailand this year imo. I really liked the chemistry between pondphuwin and the episodes were packed with some pretty interesting storylines and build up, it was very fun to watch.

12. Ameiro Paradox (JAPAN) I've seen some people hate on this series, but personally I loved it. I found the chemistry between the leads to be super strong and I loved the build up to them recognizing their feelings. The kissing scenes were great as well. There were a few blah plots but overall I really enjoyed it.

13. Moonlight Chicken (THAILAND) Something about this series felt a bit more mature to me and it was a nice change from some of the cheesier bl's that try so hard to be funny? I really loved all the pairings in this series and the storyline was nice.

14. Tokyo in April (JAPAN) For me this one started out great but then kinda lost me near the end. I did love most of the storyline but other parts were super frustrating to watch. I enjoyed the manga a bit more I think? But still, it was nice.

15. Bed Friend (THAILAND) Loved this one on first watch but on rewatch it was just okay for me. I think some of the plots were just over-dramatic and too depressing. But the friends with benefits plot was well done and the chemistry between the main two was really strong. It was fun.

16. A Breeze of Love (KOREA) I might have enjoyed this one a bit more had I seen the eps slower. Because I binged it's hard to get a good grasp on it but I did really like it. I liked the chemistry between the main couple and there was a sweetness to it I enjoyed.

17. Love Class 2 (KOREA) I think I slightly preferred the overall storyline of season 1, but in this one I preferred all the couples. For me that was the biggest draw. It was a tad bit confusing at first, but then it started to come together near the middle. Not the absolute best from Korea but enjoyable.

Good 7/10

18. Bump up Business (KOREA) Great chemistry between the leads but unfortunately the plot fell a bit flat for me. I feel like they could have done so much more with it. The kiss was also extremely weak, but that was expected. It was a nice series to binge, but not one of my favs this year.

19. Destiny Seeker (THAILAND) Parts of this one were really odd and I think part of my issue was having wonky subs, but regardless, I really enjoyed the series and especially the chemistry between the main pairing. Loved watching their story build, their banter was so fun. I also liked the side pairing but wish they had a bit more focus.

20. Why R U Korea (KOREA) This one did not remind me of the OG at all, which is fine, but overall I found this series to be a tad slow. There were good and bad moments.

21. Love Mate (KOREA) Some of the KBL's this year get a bit confusing and I mix them all together... this is one that sort of got lost in the shuffle for me and I would need to rewatch to give a better opinion on it but I know I did enjoy it.

DECENT 6/10

22. HiStory 5 (TAIWAN) Sadly didn't enjoy this season of HiStory as much as past seasons but it was okay. I think it had some good moments but overall left me a bit underwhelmed.

23. The New Employee (KOREA) Didn't love this one as much as others have seemed to. I didn't find the chemistry to be that strong and I also am not fond of office romances, but it was okay.

24. Dangerous Romance (THAILAND) This one was forgettable but again, had some enjoyable moments. I think I liked it more in the beginning rather than the end.

25. If It's With You (JAPAN) Sweet series that simply just fell flat for me because it just felt too short so I couldn't really get invested in it. But it was cute.

26. My Story (FILO) This one was good, I liked both pairings a lot and there were some decent kissing scenes, but there were also a lot of cringey moments and moments I had to fastforward. For The Philippines I think it was one of the better series this year, but it's not at the top of my list.

27. Sing My Crush (KOREA) Another KBL that is so quick that you can binge in one night... this one didn't deliver for me as much as it did for others. The chemistry was good and it was sweet but I just found myself a bit bored of it. Still cute tho.

28. The Director Who Buys Me Dinner (KOREA) The plot is weird AF and I am not a big fan of like historical past lives romance type of plots but I did enjoy the chemistry between the main two. It might be a bit higher if the ending wasn't so weird...

29. Starstruck (KOREA) Another KBL that is a bit forgettable to me but from what I remember I enjoyed it.

30. Bon Appetit (KOREA) See above. lol.

Honorary mentions: These were good but not quite good enough for my list. I liked them but had small issues with them. Either cheesey or boring plots, or the chemistry was lacking for me. Also they are in no particular order:

1. His Man 2 (KOREA) - Not BL at all, but a reality series which was AMAZING. LOVE LOVE LOVED the ending pair... but couldn't put it on the main list because it's not scripted.

2. Minato’s Laundry 2 (JAPAN) -season 1 was amazing, this one didn't hold up. Hated how awkward they were as a couple and it just felt too unrealistic to me. Regardless, i still love the chemistry between the main two and liked seeing them again.

3. Hidden Agenda (THAILAND) - love joondunk and wish they would get a better storyline. This plot was all over the place but the chemistry was there. The kisses were top tier!

4. Only Friends (THAILAND)- i did love the messiness of this one and there were some fun pairings with hot scenes, but overall I felt the SL was a bit chaotic and some characters never really grew. I wish they had leaned into the sexy/messiness of it a tad bit more tbh.

5. Stay by My Side (Taiwain) - cute but a bit forgettable. I did enjoy the chemistry a lot in this one tho.

6. You Are Mine (Tawiain) - same as above, except the pairing wasn't as exciting for me.

7. Our Dining Table (JAPAN) - i know everyone loves this one and it was very cute and sweet, but a bit too slow for my taste.

8. End of the World With You (JAPAN) - some interesting plots and fun to watch, but overall a bit messy and problematic at times? lol.

9. Til the World Ends (THAILAND) - see above.

10. Jack O Frost (JAPAN)- decently cute series but the tone of it was a bit too depressing for me.

11. The Day I Loved You (FILO) -started great but was too emotional/sad for me after a few eps in.

12. Unintentional Love Story (KOREA) - seems a lot of people loved this one but it wasn't really my cup of tea. I found the plot very slow and the main couple was kinda bland imo. But I am willing to rewatch it and give it another chance soon.

13. Between Us (THAILAND) - technically this started in 2022 but it finished in 2023, so I'll include it. It was okay but not great. Much better series for bounprem but still found myself a bit bored.

Watched these ones in 2023 but they didn't make much of an impact in me. They had good and bad bits but to me, mostly bad. lol (No particular order)

1. Jun and Jun

2. Past-tenger

3. Love Tractor

4. Egoist Movie

5. Happy Merry Ending

6. Be My Favorite

7. A Boss and a Babe

8. Step by Step

9. Naked Dinner

10. Wedding Plan

11. My Dear Gangster Oppa

12. Cutie Pie 2

These series were forgettable or annoying imo and and I wouldn’t necessarily recommend them to anyone. However, they might be worth skimming through like I did? Good luck! lol. (In no order)

1. Hit Bite Love

2. Naughty Babe

3. Laws of Attraction

4. Remember Me

5. Love Bill

6. 609 Bedtime Story

7. All the Liquors

8. Be Mine Superstar

9. House of Stars

10. La Pluie

11. Our Sky 2

12. Venus in the Sky

13. Tin Tem Jai

14. Middleman’s Love

15. Future the Series

16. Tie the Knot

17. Luminous Solution

18. Bake Me Please

19. Our Winter

20. Stay Still

Shows I watched in 2023 but that are from previous years:

1. Bad Buddy (loved it!)

2. Advance Bravely (weird but enjoyable)

3. Why You Y Me (good)

4. Ghost Host Ghost House (okay)

5. La Cuisine (meh)

6. Win Jamie’s Heart (forgettable)

7. Kabe Sa Doujin (blah)

8. Catch Me Baby (skimmed for netjames only)

9. 21 Days Theory (what is this again?)

10. Innocent the Series (already forgot it)

Tried and Quit: I just couldn't get into these at all... I will probably not watch these ever.

Crazy Handsome Rich

Dinosaur Love

Low Frequency

Love Syndrome 3

If a show is from 2023 and not listed above, then likely I plan to get to it later. Either I tried the premiere and it didn’t capture me at first, I couldn’t find the episode when I tried to look for it, or I simply just haven’t had time for it yet.

A few on my list that i plan to watch because I heard good things about them are: I Feel You Linger in the Air, Lost in Translation, Beyond the Star, Shadow, My Universe. Plus many others. Let me know if there is a show you really loved that I didn't mention so I can check it out!

Oh, and here are all previous lists since TUMBLR is being a little bitch and not saving the tags.

2022: https://gothicbarbie.tumblr.com/post/705139242020618240/my-top-20-bl-series-of-2022

2021: https://gothicbarbie.tumblr.com/post/705227666795741184/my-top-15-bl-series-of-2021

2020: https://gothicbarbie.tumblr.com/post/705674738528354304/my-top-15-bls-of-2020

2019 and earlier: https://gothicbarbie.tumblr.com/post/705678223200174080/my-top-bls-of-2019-and-earlier

#bl series #bl drama #kbl #jbl #tbl #top bls #bls im watching #the eighth sense #i cannot reach you #kiseki dear to me #our dating sim #my school president #a shoulder to cry on #city boy log #Utsukushii Kare #never let me go #ameiro paradox #stay with me #moonlight chicken #tokyo in april #a breeze of love #bed friend #geminiforth #pondphuwin #earthmix #netjames #love class 2 #destiny seeker

[farfallasims]

Hi Madi! Do you think the simblr community has been a little quiet lately? I feel like it seems like everyone has gotten a little discouraged and there aren't as many posts. I love following you, you're the one who posts most frequently and I'm happy to know that you haven't given up on us 💕

I really want to start posting but I'm afraid of judgment as it's a bit difficult to do they have a different style as everyone uses the same ones cc and presets and among other things. And it always reminds me of something more or less used by someone. Anyway, I feel that simblr is more divided between groups and that there is a lack of unity for everyone to be great one day. I love the simblr community and I love its content. Maybe sending this message here will reach more people in the Simblr community who may be discouraged for some reason, please don't give up, no matter how difficult it is to get likes or recognition, one day we will all have acquaintances and our name. Thank you Madi for encouraging me so much to play The Sims, you're great!

Hi gorgeous!

The community is kinda quiet, I do agree, but it makes sense to me (as someone with a business degree). After Christmas in the business world, money making, all that, a lot of companies experience their worst quarter.

Everyone is drained (mentality & physically their wallet), and they're back to work, school, all that. A lot of YouTubers will also take this time off, usually only January from what I've seen, because it is their least engaging month/quarter. To sum it up, everyone is busy and working, so the community can suffer with some moments of silence.

For the community itself to be quiet it's expected. It will 100% pick back up in the spring/summer, so don't feel discouraged by it. I experience my best activity in the later months of the year, especially the summer when everyone is out of school or on vacation in general, so look at it that way.

It can definitely be discouraging to join the community right now, but don't let that stop you. Sure, we all love engagement, it's why I'm in the position I am today to be able to offer you advice, especially as someone who joined last February. However, I didn't go in worrying or thinking about it. I honestly didn't anticipate nor expect the engagement I got and I am so incredibly grateful for it.

And as for your content, you and so many others need to learn that regardless of aesthetic, we all appreciate the beauty. If you're a beige girly, a maximalist, fully alpha, whatever it might be, it doesn't matter. We as a community accept and appreciate all content, regardless of aesthetic or opinions.

As long as you enjoy what you're making and you're having fun, regardless of the engagement, and are an unproblematic king/queen that's truly what matters.

I hope you have a beautiful day/week and I hope some of this can shed light on the community and give you the boost of confidence to start posting! We all want to see more beautiful content as there is room for you and so many more simmers!

#wcif #love to you x

[grandlinedreams]

Ahhhhh hellooo welcome back! <3 How are you doing? It’s so good to see you in my feed again! :)

Have you seen the game Love and Deepspace that’s been floating around? It’s an otome game for the phone/tablet that kind of reminds me of final fantasy with its game play and animation style. And the guys are just 😍😍😍. I was wondering (if it’s okay with you!) to request what you think Law, Azriel, and maybe Rhysand’s reactions would be to their s/o spending all their time with the characters in the game instead of them? Just some cute and silly jealous scenarios?

!! Hiya!! It feels good to be back hehe, I've missed you all and really missed writing!! But ooh, I'll have to check it out, but yeah, I can do that!! I hope this is to your liking!!

|| warnings: jealous boys, a little suggestive in Rhys', Law is an adorable nerd and so is sulky Azriel

Law ㅡ as a man who has his own interests in comics and coin collecting, I feel like Law sees your interest in the game as cute, especially when he watches your eyes light up as you talk about them to him. It's a two-way street to him because he's spent many a night explaining Sora to you, so seeing you so invested is endearing to him. As far as jealousy goes, I can see it being more of a teasing point for him of "do I need to be more like that character?" and then watching you scramble to reassure him that no, he's the only one for you ㅡ he knows, but your adamant reassurance makes him feel good.

Rhysand ㅡ Rhys absolutely has the time of his life teasing you about it. He'll quote dialogue lines to you, watching your cheeks color and cooing about how cute you are when you're flustered ㅡ the man is a menace, truly. He really isn't genuinely jealous, but he'll make a show of it because he also thinks it's funny to rile you up ㅡ can he help it if you snapping "quit being a menace, Rhysand" has desire sparking in his veins? He tugs your console out of your hand and settles over you, violet eyes bright against the expanding dark of his pupils as he leans in. "Darling," he purrs, "I haven't even begun to be a menace with you."

Azriel ㅡ probably the one your attention shift bothers the most ㅡ it's cute at first, but that little flicker of self-doubt gnaws on him when he hears you gush about the characters, even though he knows they're not real. He thinks it's dumb that it's upsetting him so much, but you're so in tune with him that you pick up on it ㅡ and you gently reassure him that there's absolutely no way that you would ever choose one of them over him. If you tease him gently about sulking, he denies it (but he absolutely was).

#ㅡanswered. #acotar scenario #one piece scenario #trafalgar law x reader #rhysand x reader #azriel x reader

[barbwritesstuff]

i loooove blood moon and cant wait for your future ifs. i know you mentioned that you were planning on a mermaid/siren if (pls correct me if im wrong) but i was wondering if you plan on a sequel for blood moon?

Okay. I'm glad you asked this anon, because it's all a bit messy, and I think it would be good for me to explain this. Bear with me, as my brain is a bit disordered right now, so this may or may not make sense.

Will there be a sequel to Blood Moon?

I dunno. Maybe. I want there to be. But I don't know, which is frustrating (for me, as well as you).

See, it's not that I don't have ideas or anything.

I have this idea for a Blood Moon sequel that I really like. It's titled 'Thicker Than' and focuses on the vampires of the city, rather than werewolves. The MC would be a new vampire with a mission from the Night King: solve a series of murders targeting members of the Night Court.

Here's the problem:

I haven't been paid or seen any sales data from Blood Moon, in part because the Australian Tax Office is taking months to organise a document that they said would only take two weeks.

So... without any data, and with everything in life just getting more and more expensive, I literally just can't financially commit to another large project set in this world. I don't mean to be dramatic, but that's the honest truth.

I need to know how many people bought Blood Moon before I can consider writing a sequel (because a sequel is probably not going to sell better than an original). And I just don't have those numbers. I don't know when I'll get them either.

I'm really sorry about that.

Will there be a dark mermaid thing?

Again. I don't know.

I have this really cool idea for a dark mermaid thing that I think people would really enjoy. It involves pirates and ancient sea gods and cannibalism.

It'd also be another full length thing. Eg, around the same size as Blood Moon.

However, I'm holding off on using Choicescript for the reasons above (I need to have sales data).

I've been experimenting with some shorter Renpy games, the first of which I'll release next month on itch.io. If people like the style of those, I'll consider using Renpy as a tool to make the dark mermaid game... if no one buys the short games, then I'll reconfigure and try to come up with a new plan.

*

I'm sorry if all that was a bit blunt. I'm really trying to be forthright and honest about all this. I want people who read my stuff to know what's going on, and I wish there was more to say, but everything has a lot of 'hurry up and wait' energy, which is all a bit stressful.

I'm also querying a prose novel right now (asking literary agents if they want to help me sell it) which also has a lot of 'hurry up and wait' energy, which isn't helping. 😅

Despite all this admin-y stuff, I am still drafting and writing, but it might not be stuff that you get to see for a little while.

I really hope that all makes sense.

#update #my writing #writeblr #interactive fiction

[clavissionary-position]

Clavis x Emma The Rose From Bed to Bouquet

tags: fluff, slight angst, some suggestive content

Clavis

I'd let Emma take me anywhere. I tell Cyran, Jin, hell, I even tell Chev, that I'm waiting for her to whisk me away. What man doesn't want to get lost in chaos and adventure with the love of his life? I don't just love her legs because of how soft and pretty and infinitely comfortable they are. She walked to me on those legs, and one day, I hope, she'll walk away with me. Somewhere far, farther than far. There's so much of the world I haven't seen, the world and its beautiful people and their beautiful lives. I want to show her and I want her to show me.

Surprise me. Don't let me see it coming. That'll be hard, but not impossible. I know and she knows that sometimes I can be... a little...

Anyway, I've already started packing. Revealing skirts, portable cooking set, shovels, med-kit, sewing-kit, a kit for making new kits, special toys. Cyran asks me if I have any self-awareness. He's already gotten bored and left the room by the time I think to answer what I assumed was a rhetorical question.

He's not wrong; is this supposed to be my surprise trip or Emma's? I deflate a little and plop down inside an empty lavender luggage like an oversized clown. I know what the problem is, but actually thinking on it stings as if I were pressing on an open wound. Not a big wound or anything, of course. Or it's that one wound again. The fear that...

Anyway, I'm almost done packing. Emma need not concern herself with this portion of our future someday trip. I am forever at her service, because she's passed every single test so far.

Emma

I can't help but feel my stomach drop a little when I accidentally come upon the small mountain of packed trunks and chests. Dammit, Clavis. Here I'd been, dreaming up plans for a wild, truly crazy adventure, something that would suit my wild and crazy lover. I was going to surprise him with it soon. I'd spent far too many afternoons giggling to myself as I imagined his face going blank and then blossoming into that sweet, beautiful smile that I loved. I hadn't told anyone else. I hadn't left any clues. It was all still in my head, so how did he-

I see a pair of familiar blue boots sticking out of an open trunk. Then I'm standing over him, looking down at him, wondering how he fell asleep contorted like this. Well, it's not that I don't know the answer. My troublesome king still doesn't let on how hard he works himself. I can only imagine all the extra load he took on just to have time to put this mountain of supplies together. I have to laugh, honestly, bitterly. You'd think he was preparing for the end of the world with half the stuff he has in here.

"Mm...a?" A warm hand latches around my thigh.

I flick him lightly on the forehead.

"Ow... don't do what Chev does...!"

I crouch in front of the trunk, reaching inside to loosen his cravat. His skin is reddish-pink where the fabric rubbed him while he slept. The white of his shirt collar is steeped in the sunset coming in from the round porthole to our right. He'd look like a doll shoved into a drawer if he wasn't so animated. His hand keeps finding my leg, my knee now, but the touch feels strangely innocent and vulnerable.

"I guess the secret's out," I say with a sigh that comes out heavier than I'd intended and yet lighter than what I feel. "How did you know?"

Clavis chuckles, still drowsy. "How could I not? After all, I am..." His brows furrow. "Wait, know what? What secret?"

I stare at him. He stares at me. Five or six seconds go by.

"About..." I venture carefully. I don't know why he would lie about this. "About... the trip I was... planning for us...?

Clavis' lashes catch the last bit of sun as he gives an exaggerated blink. "No... I was not aware that..."

I don't know how he finds room for both of us in this trunk, but he does. Two dolls in a sudden, wild and crazy embrace.

--- Thank you for reading! Inspo was Tom Sweterlitsch's writing style ^^

#ikemen prince #clavis lelouch

[maraschinomerry]

Firstly, your fics give me life, they’re incredible! Secondly I was wondering if you could do a Lockwood x sibling!reader fluff? Where reader comes back to Portland Row injured and Lockwood’s worry comes across as frustration and they’re both tense until they eventually both cool down and it’s a soft/bonding moment. Maybe with dialogue prompts: “i’ll do whatever it takes to keep you safe. no matter the cost.” And "it's alright... it's okay... i'm here now. i've got you."?

Tea and Torn T-shirts

Pairings: Anthony Lockwood x gn! sibling!reader

Content: physical and emotional hurt/comfort, blood, Lockwood being a fluffy protective big brother, mild swearing

A/N: thanks for being patient with this, I've been away all week and haven't had as much time to write as I'd planned! This is my first sibling fic so I hope it's okay!

Word count: 1.8k

Tag list: @neewtmas @marinalor (if anyone wants adding to the list, let me know!)

Where was your key? Where the hell was your key?

You scrabbled frantically across your pockets, trying to feel for the lump of your keyring. Not in your jeans. Damn it. Relief flooded you when you found it in your jacket, only to drain away as you tried and failed one too many times to fit the key into the lock with shaking hands. One more try, you told yourself. The key slipped from your fingers, clattering onto the step, and you swore as you dropped your bag and knocked firmly.

George was shuffling out of the kitchen with a glass of water when there came a colossal thudding at the front door. Nothing good ever came of knocking like that, but against his better judgement he opened it.

"Oh shit," he muttered before he could stop himself.

He barely recognised you at first. Your hair was matted against your head with a mixture of rainwater and something dark. That same dark liquid coated the fingers of your left hand, raised level with your weary face as you tried to look nonchalant leaning on the doorframe. On closer inspection, it was a deep red. The bottom of your T-shirt was jagged and significantly higher than it had been last time he saw you, exposing a grubby patch of stomach. What was missing of it was tied around your left leg, above a tear in your jeans from which radiated a large purplish patch, reaching from a little above the tear to almost down to your knee. George swore again.

"George please," you hushed him, doing your best to ignore how much of your weight you were now putting on the doorframe, "I'm fine. Just help me inside." The pressure of the wood digging into your arm subsided as George ducked under your shoulder to take the weight, other arm wrapping round your waist and holding you up as you hobbled through to the living room. The second you were in range of the sofa, you flopped onto it with a wince.

"I'm going to get Lockwood," he announced.

"No, don't-" you began, frantically and in vain; he'd already gone. Great. About the only thing that could make this worse was a lecture from Anthony bloody Lockwood, your overbearing older brother. Your only hope was to get patched up before he got here. There was a first aid kit in the kitchen, wasn't there?

You hurried to your feet, but a dagger of burning pain shot straight up your leg and into your brain, sending you staggering backwards. So much for that plan. Best bet now was to minimise any opportunities for him to fuss. That could work. You set to, untying the scrap of cloth from around your thigh with one hand and brushing your hair into a vaguely normal style with the other. Hasty footsteps hammered down the stairs, and in a last ditch effort you dragged a blanket over your lap.

—

"What the hell happened?" Lockwood appeared in the doorway, casually dressed in a black T-shirt and light grey sweatpants. His hair was unstyled. Had it not been for the fire in his eyes and voiced, he'd have seemed the most relaxed you'd seen him in years.

"Nothing, I'm-"

"Don't you dare say you're fine," he cut you off sharply. "George said you were bleeding!"

You feigned innocence. "George must have been mistaken." Lockwood moved towards you, silent, calculating, and you were attempting to figure out what he was doing when he whipped the blanket away. You gasped, a combination of shock and the lance of white hot pain the sudden movement sent through you. He swore at the patch on your jeans. You supposed everyone else had a go at swearing tonight, he might as well too. All the colour had drained from his face, and he instructed you to stay put as he dashed from the room.

"Not like I can run off anywhere in this state!" you yelled after him. You looked down at the rip and the gash underneath. Thick, dark blood had started to trickle from it once again. You quickly pressed the heel of your hand to it, biting back a groan.

Your brother returned a few minutes later with the first aid kit and a pair of your short pyjamas.

"Thanks." You held out a hand for the kit, but he kept it close and knelt down beside you. "Ant, I can handle it." As his sibling, you were the only person allowed to call him Ant, he was strictly Lockwood to everyone else or Anthony at a push, but under the circumstances even you felt on thin ice.

He ignored your protest. "Jeans off." Debating whether to be stubborn, a wave of exhaustion washed over you and shattered your willpower. You stood, a hand on his shoulder to keep yourself upright, and when the waistband brushed against the wound and you hissed his head snapped up, eyes filled with concern. As soon as you stepped out of the jeans, you wriggled carefully into the shorts and changed your top at the same time before sinking back onto the sofa. Lockwood held up the tattered remains of your T-shirt.

"What happened? You loved this top." His voice was much softer than it had been. He was right too - he'd bought it for your last birthday, emblazoned with the logo of your favourite band, and you could barely go a week without wearing it at least once. It wasn't unsalvageable, it would just have to be a crop from now on.

"I made a tourniquet with it."

"Oh, so you're not completely stupid," he smirked, but there was an edge to his words that suggested he meant the last word a little more than normal.

"No, just mostly." You tried to keep it lighthearted, thwarted when he pressed an antiseptic to your leg and a whimper fell involuntarily from your lips. He looked up at you again, worry painting his features, and you watched as those same features hardened. He dragged his eyes away.

"I can't believe you went on a case alone."

You frowned in confusion. "Wait, that's not-"

"I know you're still getting used to having George and Lucy around, but at least take me with you."

"No, Ant, listen-"

"No, you listen!" he snapped suddenly, body jerking upwards like he was reacting to the noise as much as you. His fingers slipped from the bandage he'd just finished tying round your thigh to ball into quivering fists, and his eyes were narrowed. You'd never seen him look so angry, and you shrunk back a little. If he noticed, he didn't seem to care. "Do you have any idea how worried I was when I realised you weren't home? How I've spent the whole evening wondering where you were and if you're okay? How much I'd blame myself if anything happened to you, because you're too young to be out there alone and it's my fault for getting you involved in the agency in the first place, because I was so excited that my sibling wanted to be just like me so I let you. I'll do whatever it takes to keep you safe, no matter the cost, but I can't do that if you go off half-cocked on cases alone!"

"Anthony!" you finally cried. The red mist lifted from his vision, and all his rage left with it when he saw you, trembling and on the verge of tears. Immediately he sank to his knees, hands on your shoulders. "I wasn't on a case!"

Now it was his turn to look confused. You sniffed, rolling your lips in as you persuaded yourself not to cry. A single tear broke the barricade, and in an instant Lockwood wiped it away.

You steadied yourself with a shaky breath, then explained. "I'd gone out for a walk, to the shop across town for that tea you like. I was on the way back when I heard a scream. There was a little girl, locked in the park, she was on her own and it was past curfew. I couldn't leave her there, Ant." Your voice cracked as you saw him nod in silent understanding. "I hopped the fence and boosted her over. There was something coming so I rushed and ended up slicing my leg on a fence spike."

"Was... was the girl okay?" Lockwood asked quietly.

"She was fine, she had no idea how much danger she was in other than being afraid of the dark. But I..." The Visitor in the park flashed violently behind your eyes, mouth warped in a piercing scream and hands reaching, grabbing. You broke down. "I was so scared." Lockwood leapt into action, moving beside you on the sofa and pulling you into a hug. "I didn't have any salt bombs or anything, just my rapier, and I didn't know what to do. I wish you'd been there, Anthony."

Your brother shushed you calmingly, stroking your hair. "It's alright... It's okay... I'm here now, I've got you."

"I'm sorry I made you worry," you mumbled.

"No, hey it's okay. I'm sorry I got mad. You were doing a good thing, two good things actually, and I don't want you to think that's wrong. Sometimes I forget you're not such a little kid any more, but you're the only family I've got. I know we have George and Lucy now, and they love you to bits too, but it's not the same. So I'm going to be the fussy big brother for as long as I can, okay?"

You agreed, then it clicked what he'd said about two good things. "Oh, I almost forgot! Where's my bag?"

Lockwood went to look - George had brought it into the hallway after he helped you inside. You rummaged through it, producing a small pink box with delight. "I managed to get you that tea after all!"

Lockwood laughed as he turned the box over in his hands. "Now I definitely can't be mad at you."

—

You sat together for a while, all frustration having faded away now you'd cleared the air. He told you stories to keep you calm, adventures from cases he'd done without you or memories from your childhood. At one point, once it was clear the animosity was gone, George popped in with tea, and Lucy also came to check on you. Eventually you let out a yawn, and after checking your bandage once more Lockwood helped you up to your bedroom. As soon as you were under the covers, he disappeared. No goodnight, no sweet dreams, nothing. Rude. You were about to call out for him when he returned with pillows under one arm and his duvet under the other.

"What are you doing?" You let out a surprised chuckle.

"Sleepover," he shrugged. You knew what he was really doing: showing he was there to keep you safe, proving he was absolutely not mad at you. He pitched up at the end of your bed, between you and the doorway. You smiled.

"Thanks, Ant. Love you."

"Love you too. Sleep well."

#lockwood & co x reader #anthony lockwood x reader #sibling!reader #gn!reader #lockwood & co fanfic #lockwood & co #anthony lockwood

[lurksunderthebed]

Thoughts on CoD dudebros that attempt to gatekeep their "role" characters? Over the course of last year it's funny how many i've seen upset that Laswell has a wife because they genuinely thought Price was "bonking" her according to them. Even more so going as far as to say that they'd be into experimental poly relationship. And don't get me started on YT side of the base where people say stuff like Soap & Valeria, Ghost & Milena double date, it's hilarious really. But god forbid you post anything about GhostSoap remotelly romantic. It's like hellfire out there.

Oh man that's a good question. I haven't actually thought too hard on that tbh. Funny timing because I literally watched an opinion piece on YT on what they [the male fanbase] thought on mwiii(23).

I think people want to read into things as they prefer. People are so conditioned in these action movie style sort of storylines to assume Man + Women talking = relationship. And in that sense I can see why people would ship Price and Laswell because they do have a friendly relationship, one that implies years of knowing one another. (though Valeria and Milena /soap or ghost?? Why??)

I think the biggest shame is the fact that male and female platonic friendships are so rare in these instances that for a significant part of that vocal fanbase, it blows their mind to have heterosexual friendships that are just that: friendships.

And it's always a bit ironic we have this situation when you have those dudebros pile on the ghostsoap ship and say, "can't friendships just be friendships, stop making everything gay". Can't friendships just be friendships, stop making everything het.

Bro, we ain't making anything gay, it's there in the text. Call the spade a spade. They flirt with each other. I can even pull up the receipts and go through every bit of possibility and still think, wow, even them joking is pretty sus with all the context. Especially when it's Ghost who flirts back, out of all people—the man who is so emotionally constipated that showing his face and letting people use his name is a Big Deal™.

I always wonder what that fanbase would make of these meta posts. In a weird way, I do sort of welcome that critique. It would be interesting to see what would come out of that.

I mean, yeah you can read Ghost and Soap's relationship however you want. But it's definitely not something as clear cut as, "they're just friends. That's what brothers in arms are like. You just don't understand!" sort of thing. I think reducing them down to 'just friends' would be doing a disservice to how much Soap meant to Ghost in terms of the actual codmwii plot line.

The nice thing is that despite all the differences we all have with each other, we as an entire fanbase all agree on this: Codmwiii(23) has the worst campaign out of all codmw games.

The storyline sucked and didn't go anywhere. The ending was there for shock factor. It didn't really add anything to the story aside from making one feel upset. It was sloppy storytelling, and it really felt like it could've been better.

But yeah. Lol 😂 sorry for the rant guys. Hope you enjoyed the Ted Talk.

Btw, much thanks and love from everyone reading my meta posts. All the encouragement fuels me for my next overly long post. 💞🥹

#ask #ghostsoap #soapghost #cod mwiii #cod mw3

[aprillikesthings]

It's Fridayyyyy

TIME FOR MORE SHE-RA

s1 ep11 Promise

oh shit I remember this one it's a heartbreaker

(good stuff for my fic though)

Hey remember when I swore up and down I wasn't going to liveblog my entire rewatch? Good times.

Part of me is like: I would get through these so much faster if I didn't insist on screenshotting them and commenting and making jokes

But the rest of me knows damn well I probably just wouldn't bother watching them?? This way feels a bit like watching it *with* someone, which I always prefer to watching things alone.

Also tbh if I did just marathon them while knitting or something I wouldn't remember anything!! Which would defeat the point!! So here I am.

If you're new to these posts: I am doing a rewatch of She-Ra with the specific purpose of taking notes for a fic I'm working on--but because this is me we're talking about, I also post a ton of screenshots with the purposes of commentary, squeeing at specific scenes, and making jokes. Because it's a rewatch, I don't comment on every plot point and I often mention things that happen later in the show--in other words, these might be confusing if you haven't seen the show yet.

EDIT: yeah this was another one where I hit the image limit, will have to reblog to finish it

I know people have figured out the "alphabet" of the first ones what does this sayyyyy

I mean wouldn't they all be portable in some sense? The one that recharges Glimmer could be taken down and moved somewhere, couldn't it? We know the one from Scorpia's kingdom was taken and moved to the Fright Zone, for instance.

"Query not recognized."

Adora's frustration here is exactly why I don't use Siri, like, ever.

Light Hope reminds me of a specific model? actress? from the 1980's but I can never remember who and it drives me CRAZY

*does some googling*

GRACE JONES I AM THINKING OF GRACE JONES

TELL ME I'M WRONG

Grace Jones also did disco music, TIL

back to cartoon lesbians

yeah that couldn't have been important for anything no worries it's fine

you didn't notice anyone else there until She-Ra destroyed something lolol

ehehehehehehh

Look I know it's the point of the whole show but I grin every time they're supposed to be on opposite sides and one saves the other's life (Does Adora do it more than Catra does? surely someone kept count)

don't mind me

little shit

🎵BUT YOU DID IT ANYWAYYYYYY🎶

"how many times are you going to make that joke" well how many times does Catra say it lolll

"where are your friends?" "you mean the ones you KIDNAPPED and CURSED???" "uh, yeah?"

lol

I just like the art style here

Okay so I can't screenshot audio, but that little moment of Catra saying "Adora? Adora???" where the tone goes from "hey look at this" to that almost-panic and then she turns around and it's kid!Catra is just so, SO well done.

ugh these scenes are such a punch in the gut

I'm not getting emotional at cartoon characters remembering the happier bits of their shitty traumatic childhood together, YOU ARE

;_;

man this shot is just good, ugh, you can see so much of their characters on display: Adora's self-righteousness vs Catra's sullen defensiveness

anyway they should've made out

lol

they're 1:1 so far this episode

(even though this cliff probably isn't even real)

"Did you really think I'd just let Shadow Weaver erase your memory like that?" oh so she DID know

Adora: "I don't know, probably" I mean I thought she would

I've been CALLED OUT lol

Adora: "Can you blame me? Catra: "*scoffs* Not really"

😏

John Cena.gif

BABIES (okay a little older like maybe 13)

(still babies)

I mean, true

I'VE HIT THE IMAGE LIMIT FOR THIS POST lol I knew I would

gonna post and reblog

#april rewatches spop #promise

[erporo]

when it comes to other sovjet animated shows and movies i also love the bremer town musicians, leopold the cat, i also watched puss in boots but i cant find the name of that now lmao, i also wanna see cheburashka (i own a few plushies lel) do u have some favourites too? 😊, i associate gena the crocodile w my dad because he knows how to play that instrument too, also same name LMAO

you've mentioned a few of my favs actually

i adore bremen town musicians too. i mean, this film's got it all: its got fun style & funky designs, the songs here are. top notch. what else could you ask for

also. leopold the cat. what an absolute icon this guy is

this iconic line he says ("ребята, давайте жить дружно!") has always stuck with me. words to live by right here actually <3

it's been such a while since i've heard about kot v sapogah that.. you've legit had me confused for a moment; i had to google for screencaps to see what you mean LMAO

and like. wdym- you've seen all the prev ones, but you still haven't seen cheburashka n his bud gena in action bolt?? MAAN. 0_0

sry, that's just so wild to me- that one's like Soyuzmultfilm's biggest classic (i bet it is anyway)

(the fact that your dad's so similar to gena's adorable tho, hope he's also. yk. just as nice as him /gen)

i also personally love Flying Ship (for so many reasons, ya have no idea), Blue Puppy, Winnie the Pooh.. just to name a few

#que #b

[rene-is-an-insomniac]

Sentient Chapter 2 ~ Selfish

Team Comp: Wanderer, Kazuha, Nahida and Shinobu

I tend to refer to Kuki Shinobu as “Kuki”

Wanderer is given the name “Masha.”

Story takes place in January

Fic is either 1K+ or 2k+ don’t remember

I worked very hard on this, so I hope you enjoy it!

If you would like to be tagged for this series just let me know~

This is my beta reader @bornofchalk (thanks for the help)

If you have trouble finding the next chapter, check the tag at the bottom called "Rene Genshin Fics." You should be able to find it there.

Previous Chapter

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Selfish(adjective)  arising from concern with one's own welfare or advantage in disregard of others

The night screen of Genshin flashes in the darkness of the room. You sit at your desk, as the game loads.

 The camera pans in on Wanderer, now known as Masha, fighting the Nobushi.

You watch him stomp down his enemies, collecting the handguards that he needs.

 Nahida's voice chimes in, as the camera pans towards her. "(Player name), you're here." 

"What happened while I was gone, Nahida?" As she explains, Kazuha and Kuki appear behind her as they walk into the cutscene. They pause for a moment, noticing you; they wave as they disappear off screen again.

As you go to click on Masha, you see the new mail indication.

 Rosaria gives a message for her birthday and presents. Returning to the screen, your missing party member appears next to Nahida.

Masha glares in your direction as you click on his name. He is brought to the front as the leader as your other three-party members go off screen and back into their positions.

 You nudge him forward with your keyboard as he takes flight. He stands in place, as a text box appears.

Masha: I was farming handguards so I could ascend. You need 14 more to level me up.

 The bubble dissipates, leaving you in silence. Normally, this would have freaked you out; however, this new play style has become normalized over the past couple of weeks.

 You pass by Byakko Plain, taking down the Nobushi and gathering as many handguards as you can.

 Looking down, you see the speech bubble appear again.

 Masha: You need 10 more. There is more Nobushi by the ocean near Ritou; go quickly!

 You roll your eyes, ignoring his attempt at ordering you around. You did not spend money on Masha for him to boss you around.

 Reaching the beach, you roam around trying to find the Nobushi. Unfortunately for you and Masha, they were nowhere to be seen.

 "Did you kill them today?" Masha shakes his head, turning to face you.

 "No, only the ones on the outskirts of Inazuma City." You hum while teleporting to a different location.

   The sounds of the beach fill the speakers as the game loads Watatsumi Island. Taking Wanderer to the cliff, you see two Nobushi chatting and others meditating underneath the waterfall.

 "Alright, let's go!" Your front door dings just as he's about to take off. Sighing, you rise from your chair to check the door.

 ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

 When you open the door, you see your friend standing on the porch.

F/N smiles, trying to ease the tension. You take a step back, greeting them in the apartment. "Hi, Y/N."

 "Hello F/N." Your eye twitches as they sprawl themselves out on your couch.

 "So, what brings you here?" You frown at their concern.

 "Y/N, I haven't seen you in weeks since the Wanderer incident." You laugh nervously, closing the door.

 "That's because I've been busy." You smile, making eye contact with the wall.

 "Busy with what? Kissing Wanderer through the computer?" You glare at their smug look.

 "He's not real, so why would I kiss him?" F/N laughs. "Really? Reality didn't stop when you were crushing on Sugawara Koushi or Alphonse Elric." Your face burns as they continue.

"I remember you acting like, "F/N, I don't care if they're fiction, I adore them more than anyone else in this world."

 "Can we please stop talking about my teenage crushes?" F/N grabs one of the photos from the table, mocking you further.

 "Alright, alright!”  “So, I was wondering if you wanted to come to a party with me." They show you the invitation they were sent.

 You grimace, looking away. "Uh, I don't know; I'm not really one for parties." They laugh lightly, but you can't help but notice the look of disappointment on their face.

 "Oh, come on, Y/N! You don’t know if you don’t go." F/N clings to you childishly, trying to persuade you.

Between the two of you, F/N is more extroverted. They’re the ones that get you involved in activities other people your age is into, as sad as it is. But despite their enthusiasm for trying out new things, you're hesitant to join them this time.

 "Maybe next time? I'm really not in the mood for socializing." F/N frowns as they stand up and grab their things.

"Geez, you’re such a bore; why do I even hang out with you?" The door closes as you hear them enter their car and leave.

 As you watch them drive away, you felt a twinge of guilt.

'"I’ll take care of that later." You sigh, going to lock your front door and return to your room.

   As you approach the computer, you see the phrase, "Your account has been logged out."

 "What the hell?" you mutter as you approach the computer. As you click on the game, it reloads into the main menu.

Clicking on the door loads you back into Teyvat. Masha and the company become perplexed, and before they can inquire, you are logged out for the second time.

Could this get any worse?!

///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

 "What the hell?" He mutters, seeing an unknown person staring down at them in excitement.

"How much money would they be worth on eBay?" he hears in the distance. The person goes through the menu, checking through “(player Name’s) things.”

 The menu flashes away as they are dropped back down in Inazuma. Masha blinks as he's forced behind Kazuha.

 "A Kazuha?'' Masha watches them run Kazuha into place. Clicking again, Nahida was now the main leader. "The unknown player" gushes over her before rushing her off the cliff and into the ocean. She forcefully swims in circles. Masha sees the exhaustion hit her face as she is dragged down.

 "Stupid loli." The “player” mutters as Shinobu is brought out last. Masha turns seeing The Dendro Archon slumped on the ground.

 Shinobu barely gets a glance before she becomes the leader. She gets pushed forward to fight the Nobushi.

 As they approach, she uses her ult to electrocute them killing them quickly.

 The camera pan closer to her as a shriek was heard. Masha hears their scream of excitement as they check her artifacts and constellation.

 " A C6 Shinobu? Let’s go test out how strong you are.” They barely had time to think before they were teleported.

  The staff of the Golden House eye them, before allowing them entrance. Turning back to the screen the symbols were loading much slower.

 "Is everyone okay?" Kazuha breaks out of displacement, exiting the group. He pulls out a medical kit inspecting everyone's injuries.

 Masha shakes his head when Kazuha reaches him.

 "I'll be right back." Masha enters the golden house leaving Kuki and Kazuha. Walking further inside, Childe spawns in the middle of the bank.

 "Ah, you're breaking the system again, comrade?" He approaches, flicking Masha's hat.

 "The (player name’s) game got hacked." The smile dropped from his face.

  He scowls as his expression grows serious. "Today?" Masha nods. The domain chime catches their attention.  Kuki, who is being controlled, rushes forward, trying to strike down the Harbinger.

 Chide jumps back, gaining distance from them. He draws his bow and shoots at the sky, causing the player to scramble. Instead of doing his usual side step, she teleports from behind smacking Kuki before backing away.

 "The fuck?" The “player “exclaims as Kuki’s health depletes.

 "How amusing! Are we getting tired?" He mocks breaking his dialogue.

The whale appears, hitting Kuki and turning her into stardust.  Childe laughs further enraging the player.

   Masha stands on the sidelines with a busted-up Kuki, who is clutching her head. Kazuha walks over with his first aid kit.

    Masha stares defiantly at the screen as "the player" clicks on his name. Instead of moving, he stood, adding further to their anger.

 "Work, you stupid game!" Masha, Kuki, and Childe stop to watch the distressed hacker try to fix the game. Masha winces at the keyboard being banged and the excessive clicks. 

The hacker stops moving when they notice Childe wasn’t attacking. As they make eye contact, The hacker shuffles back, falling out of their chair. Childe, Kuki, and Masha stare in disbelief at the "player’s" behavior.

 "What the hell?" Childe holds his stomach, laughing at their pain. Masha scoffs, his gaze drawn to the sidelines, where the awakened Dendro Archon and the Samurai are conversing. The "player" stares back at them in bewilderment.

 The player slowly gets off the floor muttering to themselves. They walk in a circle seemingly trying to make sense of the situation.

 "The player" lets out a small laugh.''Holy shit! I can become famous from this.' Masha frowns at the greed their eyes reflected.

The "player" rushes out of the room, coming back with a camera in hand.

"Hey guys, I just discovered something weird that happened to my game." They press the camera against the screen. They point at each character, explaining the different dialogue they had. 

"Childe and my team either have new dialogue or are self-aware.” The player chuckled mockingly, noticing the characters' upset expressions.

  "I've got you now,the whole world will know." They tease further. The others look at each other in worry before turning to Masha, who in turn glares at the player.

 "Log out and turn the video off now." Masha responds angrily. The player simply laughs and smiles.

 ''Or what? '' Masha opened his mouth to speak when the screen turned blue. An error message popped up on the screen with a sad face.

"What the hell?'' They bang on the keyboard trying to restart the computer.

The computer loaded slowly until it turned off completely.

"Is it still filming?'' They check their camera that was still filming the table. Tapping on the on switch, the computer loads normally.

"Come on, Come on." They mutter signing into the computer again.

After multiple attempts they restarted the game. Just when the door appears an error message pops up as well.

 "Error 4201. Failure to connect to the server? "Please check the internet and try again."

"What?!''

 ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

 "Y/N I said I was sorry." Rolling your eyes, you avoid the pleading expression f/n wore.

 "What are we, 11? Spreading rumors? " As red appeared in their cheeks, their humility faded.

 "I'm trying to be nice for once, and you're going to sass me?"

 F/N was always like this; they didn't like whatever you did. They would find a way to gaslight you into doing what they wanted. Unfortunately for them, this trick can only work a handful of times before it gets old.

 "Goodbye." You deadpan locking the door. Not even a footstep later, you hear shouting from F/N. Hesitantly, you turn to grab the door handle, before walking off to your room ignoring her.

 Entering the room, you turn on the game to try to log in as the error message pops up.

Just what in the hell did you do for your account to get hacked?

You go over the reasons others have gotten their games hacked, but none apply to you.

 Most said it was co-op sessions, which you didn't do. Others claimed it was from their "hoyolabs" account getting hacked, which also wasn't something you had.

 A ping from your email caught your attention. A message from Hoyoverse was brought up.

  "Congratulations, we have retrieved your account."

  A smile broke out as you went to log in with the password, they gave you. After changing the password and reconnecting your email and phone, you logged into the game.

 As the symbols loaded, you saw your characters and Childe having a picnic in the mountains.

 Masha stares in irritation at Tartaglia's teasing, while the others three watch in amusement.

 Nahida greets you gathering everyone’s attention to the camera. The look of relief passes over almost everyone's faces. 

  Masha rolls his eyes, standing up. "You took too long."

 "Sorry, I was talking to a… friend." His eyes narrow at the hesitance in your voice.

 You smile, changing the atmosphere of the group. “So, what happened to the hacker?"

 Taglist: @akirasgalaxy @leftdestiny-posts @teyvattales @pochipop @the-psychotic-blueberry (reminder if you want to be tagged for this series ping me or ask me in dms)

to follow the tag for this story its going to be #scara sentient

It will be listed below

#sagau #self aware au #Wanderer has a name #wanderer #kaedehara kazuha #nahida #kuki shinobu #self aware genshin #minty writes #this chapter was tedious as hell to write #kunikuzushi #scaramouche #scaranation #sentient fic #rene genshin fics #scara sentient

[ubercharge]

im not sure if anyone asked you yet, but thoughts on the dunmeshi anime?

thanks for asking! sometimes i forget i exist here as a person cuz i just log on to queue random stuff without making posts 💀

it's pretty rare for me to watch an anime without ever reading the manga, and there've been stellar adaptations recently. ONK, kisekoi, BTR, frieren, CSM just to name a few. in a landscape where we're used to being disappointed as readers who have a frame of reference before watching a show, i had very, very high hopes for the dunmeshi adaptations that weren't quite fulfilled.

i'll dump everything under a cut since i actually have a lot to say, sorry if you were expecting it to be brief 😎

the lines in the artistic style are good, nicely translating the characters into animated format. really no notes there. definitely a nicer comparison for char designs between manga and anime vs. tonsuki and tensura who both have incredible manga styles that the anime stumble over (though in the latter's case, i don't think they were aiming for it sadly)

the shading has been fine, but weakened by the colour choices. some of the dungeon scenes (e.g., living armour stuff) are lit with a medium blue which helps to sell the idea of the scene being in a place not lit by fire (and contrasts it with the making camp & cooking scenes), but the lack of dark shading flattens some of these very well-drawn images.

the earlier chapters don't have the same level of detail as newer ones, but the art style is still fantastic - it's expressive with high contrast and shows action and impact perfectly well. manga will often times have a naturally easier way with contrast due to it being in black & white, but i don't think that means anime should just give up on contrast in favour of playing ineffectively with colour.

here's a night shot of fern from frieren. the choices made here allow for the shading to stand out from the flats and give her more definition overall while still being relatively simple (just flats + shading)

when dunmeshi has more "normal" lighting conditions, it does a lot better. similar to fern up there, there's about the same amount of difference between the flats and shadows, so i really wish they did a better job on the dungeon scenes since they're going to have to deal with non-torchlit scenes plenty. i won't argue that the living armor scene certainly has some kind of a sickly, alien mood to it, but tl;dr i think it should've had darker shading if not also being less green. this largely applies to every other blue-green lit scene they've done.

looking at kui's coloured drawings in the ed gives me an idea of what could've been and it makes me sad to lose out on colour choices more similar to that (even if they obviously can't have her level of detail on top of it)

some of the backgrounds haven't been too interesting but some have been good, overall it's probably fine. plus you can only draw and detail repeating bricks so many times before the viewer gets bored of looking at them anyway, i guess.

the animation is really fun and expressive. it's trigger, so they don't keep scenes stiffly on-model when they want characters moving around. this is good because it helps to sell both action and comedy moments!

the music overall i haven't really cared for? the BGM has not been particularly moving, interesting, or memorable - mostly generic. and i've seen too many fantasy shows for my own good, so i might be harder to impress (but i even remember tenken had a good BGM song or two to make a fight dramatic and that show was barely above average at best)

i'm biased not being particularly into bump, so i would've selected a different artist for the OP (i actually did like the bump OP from SxF though, come to think of it). before anyone makes a wisecrack based on what i've watched lately, no it doesn't have to be yoasobi.

i maybe feel the ED song would've been better for the OP, i don't like the largely peaceful bit of the OP with very still visuals. the OP is where you reel people in! it should be an eye-catching hook, representative of what to expect with some extra sauce on top.

the ED is great, total bop. it's a fine time for slower visuals as an enjoyable wind-down from the episode, so less or no animation is no big deal. plus kui's art is absolutely gorgeous! it all perfectly fits that "end of work" fun and lighthearted mood they were going for.

i largely enjoy the voice acting. i would've personally gone for a less "old man" voice on senshi because he's really not that old for a dwarf, but they obviously wanted to make it clear he was the older, wiser, knowledgeable character.

this might be my own personally most blasphemous opinion, but i would've picked a different VA for falin. i want to make it clear i absolutely adore saori hayami - she's incredible and one of my faves. with that said, her voice fits the character, so maybe it's just because i've heard her too often which is not her fault by any means! i love the voices for laios, marcille, and chil.

it seems netflix's subs go off of the official EN TL of the manga, which makes sense, but i've talked about how i don't like it more than ehscans' TL (which is one of the single best TLs i've read for a series, official or otherwise) and that holds true for the anime ("mad sorcerer" is cooler AND less clunky than "lunatic magician"). i prefer less localisation stuff and/or quirkiness in my subs and more direct translation for both manga and anime.

as for the changes/additions they've made to the show, some of them have been alright and some i didn't care for. they really want to sell marcille as the funny joke character which is why they had her being chased by the basilisk instead of having doni & fionil like it was in the manga which was better for the pacing and had good impact vs a funny clip of marcille running back and forth.

i don't dislike when adaptations add or change stuff, but placing them cleanly is important. dunmeshi is already really funny! i don't think it needs help being funnier by reaching for the cheap laugh. when laios sees two people running for their lives from a basilisk and he just goes "wow that's a bad way to run from that monster", it's already lowkey hilarious - all the more so followed by marcille telling mr. monster-know-it-all to go rescue them if he knows what's up and him rescuing them by making himself big and chicken squawking real loud (which embarrasses marcille and chil, but c'mon guys, at least his idea worked!). i feel like the comedy in laios' funny hero moment is undercut by forcing the marcille butt of the joke moment in the anime.

dunmeshi is already incredibly good at just about everything it does. i feel if an adaptation wants to add or change something, it's often better amplifying a strength or shoring up a weakness in the source material. BTR adds a lot to the source (not hard considering the source is a 4koma) and makes already funny things even funnier. the "we should all get social media" scene is elevated to iconic status with the visual of bocchi glitching out + the VA's inhuman screech. i can't say where i'd really want to change or add stuff to dunmeshi, since it really feels so good and whole, but i'm sure there's room in the process of translating manga panels to animated scenes, and i think the direction overall could've been better (comparing most shows to BTR isn't fair i know because BTR is directed & adapted so well it's hydrogen bomb vs. coughing baby territory)

i've mostly said negative stuff, but i don't want it to sound like i hate or even really dislike the adaptation. i think when it comes to a series you really love, you want to see the best adaptation possible within reason, and the disappointment of stuff not being quite what you were hoping for is amplified by so many other recent adaptations being so good.

dunmeshi does not have a bad anime by any means, but a lot of that is thanks to the source material's quality. if they do another season, i hope they have more time/budget/whatever because i think a lot of the parts it does have are good parts! but in this case, i wasn't hoping for good; i was hoping for great.

trigger makes great shows with wacky storylines (in some ways, the same one wacky storyline, but that's a different discussion) and dunmeshi, being directed by someone who's worked on a bunch of trigger stuff (largely sci-fi leaning), maybe needed some more direction from people who've worked on fantasy stuff? i can't say for sure what would've been enough to take the show over the top, but though i generally don't hope for much from adaptations, i really did have higher hopes for this one than it ended up achieving.

overall it seems i'll end up scoring the show a 7 or 7.5 when i finish the season, though there's certainly still room to wow us all. whatever you feel about the adaptation, whether you liked it or not, whether or not you've read the manga, feel free to comment your thoughts below or in my inbox. let's keep it free of manga spoils for anime-only watchers, though!

#sorry this is REALLY long #ask answer #anon #i've been busy with TEA in ffxiv but i'll try to post more!