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#it's a struggle to do things and put them out there it doesn't bring joy anymore
clanwarrior-tumbly · 2 months
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May I request Catnap who basically adopted a child!reader who is anyways sleepy and lazy. and has a case of not remembering a lot of things, like dementia
Like through the hour of joy...After all the Toys killed the workers. Catnap finds the reader, who is sleeping then wakes up and the reader forgets their own parents(The readers parents were cold scientists that worked at Poppy Playtime and never cared about them, then got killed through the hour of joy)
Sooooooo...Catnap just kinda takes care of the reader and has a slight soft spot for them. And the reader THINKS that Catnap is their parent and anyways clings to him
During the Hour of Joy, Catnap remained on the prowl for any potential survivors of the massacre within Playcare, flinging one man's body into the stairs and cutting his cries for mercy short.
All was quiet, save for the faint screams of the other workers/visitors in other part of the facility who were being mauled to death.
But he let the rest of the toys do their work.
He felt cleansed. The Prototype willed this rebellion. Willed him to finally kill his tormentors.
The "hour" went on for so much longer--considering that he utilized his red smoke to make the fleeing humans hallucinate and freak out at things that didn't exist (some even attacking each other).
Once it was all done, Catnap went back into Home Sweet Home to discover a child who (somehow) slept through the slaughter.
That was you, one of the orphans who was in the program for a long, long time.
You were deemed "ineligible" for experimentation after getting the lowest scores on all three tests at the Game Station.
That's because you struggled with memory, socialization, and endurance. You tend to forget a lot of things (ie faces) and spent most of your days sleeping instead of playing or learning....and no counselor has been able to figure out why.
Your parents--who were scientists at Playtime Co. that preferred studying you over nurturing you--chalked it up to over-exposure to the red smoke (which hasn't been proven true, but they needed to put something down on paper).
Regardless, they've kept their distance from you and slated you for adoption, thinking you'll be picked up by a different parent eventually.
Unfortunately for them...Catnap knows that they're using the orphanage as an "excuse" to get rid of you and gives them a brutal demise.
They had some nerve crying out for you and begging him to spare your life.
After winding down from his bloodlust, he discovers you sound asleep on one of the bunk beds inside HSH, apparently not hearing a single thing.
Then you wake up and see this giant emaciated purple cat standing over you, claws and mouth stained in fresh human blood...
Yet you don't scream or look afraid, nor do you ask where your parents are.
Instead you look at him and apologize for oversleeping, acting as though he was your parent.
It confuses him, so he brings their corpses to you (like a cat gifting their owner a dead bird), thinking you'd understand and be horrified..
But you don't recognize them at all. You don't remember their neglect and the trauma it gave you.
All you remember was Catnap.
Ultimately, he spares you--but NOT bc your parents feebly begged him to when they never gave a single damn about you--and does his best to keep you safe given the circumstances.
He treats you like his kit more or less, making sure you ate and letting you climb on his back for rides (and sometimes he'll hold you in his paws while walking upright).
Any Smiling Critter caught threatening you will be devoured by him (or added to his shrine), so they know not to touch you.
He also forbids Dogday from ever speaking to you, knowing he'll try to drill thoughts of escape and distrust of Catnap into your head.
If he has to go outside Playcare, he'll fight tooth and nail to fend off Huggy and whoever else might think he's parading around a tasty treat.
The Prototype is well-aware of your connection to his "devotee", but doesn't mind it .
Because he knows Theodore is still somewhere in there, trying his best to protect a fellow orphan--one who could've been made into a monster just like him.
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kali-chaotic-neutral · 3 months
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What others see in you that you don't
Pick a plushie and let me tell you what others see in you that you don't.
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Cat Axolotl Bear Cinnamoroll
Disclaimer: This tarot reading is not meant for you to make drastic choices or actions. Take this with a pinch of salt, this is just me giving advice with my sassy decks. Take the advice you want, anything that doesn't resonate, leave it.
Cat:
Others see how hard you work, how much effort and strength and will power you put into even the most mundane of tasks. They see how kind and selfless you are, eager to help others. You're not the kind of person who makes fun or gives funny looks to people who struggle in their studies or work. They see your kindness and they appreciate your effort to help anyone. You bring warmth in their hearts, knowing that they can ask you for help without you judging. They only want you to know that while they rely on you, they wish you could rely on them as well.
They also see how hard you work in trying to keep your family together, often the mediator. You always take the middle ground, alleviating the tensions to the best of your possibilities. I can see few appreciating you for this, some admiring you for your courage to stand up. They look forward to any family event you plan, knowing that whatever you have in store for them— simple or extravagant —they will always have fun. They love you for the joys and easy moments you bring into their life.
They can see how despite you being kicked down to what seems as your lowest moment, you still hold yourself high and get yourself back up with hard work and determination. You are everything they want to be, strong and brave in the face of everything crumbling. You never seem to lose hope, helping others rise along with you.
People also come to you for advice (on any matter) knowing full well that you don't sugarcoat things. You dish the truth out to them, not in a mean way, but because they deserve the truth and to face it. They know no punches will be held coming to you and they appreciate it. You don't seem to be afraid of starting projects being yet another figure of awe to those around you. Flitting from one project to another with focus and a clear vision.
They see how well in tune with your emotions you are, how intuitive. How caring you are to others, being able to be so vulnerable to those around you. Carrying your heart on your sleeve. Your childlike idealism and realism being a breath of fresh air to others. You almost seem naive to others that just meet you, but get pleasantly surprised upon getting to know you.
Axolotl:
You are passionate, you are creative, unafraid of starting a new project when your previous one isn't yet complete. Your utter and absolute confidence that it will work out and go well being an huge inspiration on others. You're not afraid to stand up for what you believe in, maybe unfair treatment of certain coworkers or teachers picking only on certain students. You're ability to stand unflinching has people looking up to you.
They see how you're not afraid to set stern and strict boundaries with everyone. How you put them in their place if they do not only to yours but others boundaries as well. You stand up for others, you're there for others and people admire you and love you for that. They just wish you could soften your walls so they can be there for you as well.
Despite being in a situation that isn't in your favor, they can see how your confident does not leave you. You still hold yourself up in high regards, demanding the same amount of respect despite your situation. The way you dress, the way you speak, anything! Shows how well maintained you are and how you're not really insecure or awkward or afraid to show it.
They can see or interpret or guess that you've had a hard past. A stressful situation after stressful situation before. They commend you as they know that it is because of that you work as hard as you do. Hold yourself as high as you do. They are in awe that you work so hard to prove something, maybe to your past self or to someone who doubted you. And you being the fierce lion that you are, took it as a challenge.
Their admiration is even more so due to the fact that maybe you've just joined a new job or a school and the fact that you're already achieving so much! It has them working harder as well. They approve of your success, your victory in a project/exam, etc. You are getting the recognition you deserve and they cannot find it in themselves to feel jealous. taking you as an example that hard work always brings in sweet fruit.
Bear:
You are emotionally intelligent, how you're able to read people quite easily. You are who they come to if they want help in shedding some light on something they are not sure of. You're also overflowing with creative passions, flitting from one to another a dozen a day. They admire how carefree you are, how unafraid of doing as you please. Seeing how you benefit from your passions.
When you are working on a project or a homework, your passion and hard work is what has others working hard as well. You are a very bright person who cannot be dimmed down by hard moments. You stand optimistic, believing wholeheartedly that things will get better. People are drawn into your orbit, your close friends are already a part of your solar system with no intention of leaving. You bring happiness and joy and light to their lives.
You work decisively to get what you want, using logic and your intuition to walk the right path. You're quick decision making and the way you don't seem to second guess your choice has others believing in you as well. You're hard work is bringing more opportunity and choices and they are happy for you. You deserve the good things in life.
You are the cause of a change in your job or at school, maybe you're changing a few rules at your work area that does not seem to care much for your colleagues or fellow students. Or perhaps you're changing to a better job/school. Either way the people close to you and around you are praising you for where you've gotten (or where you will)
You're relationship with either a lover or a close friend/family member is very deep and meaningful. Your trust in this person and this person's trust in you has created a deep spiritual connection between the two of you. This person is in absolute awe because of you, because of the great impact you have brought on their lives. If this is a romantic relationship, I can see this person thinking of taking the relationship to the next step. And if it is a platonic relationship, I can see the two of you getting even closer.
Cinnamoroll:
You have a very keen mind, you use logic and you're able to see and read between lines. In this manner, you're a very good person to go to for advice. When it comes to more tense advice, like if you have to choose a side or something similar to that, you don't. You firmly stand in the middle ground, refusing to choose when you reach a fork in the path. Despite you having no context to a few choices, you still end up with a good middle ground option. People have good things to say about you because of your perceptive skills and your ability to stand firm and strong.
People admire you because you're a survivor (in a sense). The people close to you know and have seen how hard you have worked/suffered (family issues/past betrayal, anything that really hurt you) and how deserving you are of the good things that come your way. You refuse to give up to prove to yourself that despite what you went through you can get to a better place. And you do. They commend and look up to you because of your strong and fierce, and unwavering personality.
You have taken hold of the threads of your fate and you are leading it to a better and brighter future. But while you take care to cultivate your future, you don't hesitate to help cultivate others' as well. You're friends and family all are grateful to you. You are there for them even when you are busy or stressed.
This awe and admiration they have for you is also because you have just begun. You have just begun a new project and it's already going so well. You are new to this, yet you are still doing SO GOOD! There is no jealousy here, just pure, raw admiration and inspiration.
You are a logical and analytical person, who usually follows your head and not your heart. You do not sugarcoat advice to people, almost blunt to a point it hurts, but you know that telling them the raw truth is better.
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the-s1lly-corner · 6 months
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WOoOoOoO SPOOKY SEASON REQUIRES SPOOKY STUFF
Anyways
I would love to request an Child ghost!reader and the gang, basically child reader got murdered when they were using the VR and their soul got stuck into the game.
Their soul being so GORY AND DISTORTED, like an arm is missing, one eye is like hanging out and their head has an hole. Reader can get invisible like a ghost and move things with only their mind, and they are very quiet and just observes, rarely get mad or anything, but when they snap (for example: Because of jax's pranks) they start throwing things around dim the lights and scream, and lets put like, Reader's screams are like LOUD as hell, basically like an ghost tantrum.
So basically Child reader is just an sad messed up lil goof who needs comfort and therapy.
Sorry if its long, i love love love your blog btw!
-🌹
TADC cast x ghost!child!reader (platonic + light found family) !
going to take a different approach to writing this one, since i feel bad about being selective of cast/multi characters today, so! rather than having divided segments like usual, its going to be a group thing! hope thats alright! going to be the last request of this batch them imma make something to eat rq for dinner then get back to writing YAHOO!
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when you joined the digital circus, you were already very obviously different from the rest of the gang. even if your gore was toned down thanks to your body being digitized; the programming seemed to struggle with altering your body into something unique... strange... it also seems your body is fighting back against the programming of the world, seemingly trying to restore itself. The effect makes you almost look like you're glitching, or even abstracting
Caine doesnt immediately pick up on your presence, i feel like its in his programming to be aware when a new member joins the circus, but for some reason he didnt notice you until he saw you, or someone brings you up to him
It was Ragatha, who was trying to get answers from him. Who's kid was this? Is it really fair to let a kid be stuck here? Obviously she knew Caine couldnt do anything about it now that you were here, nor did he have any hand in you putting on the headset.
Except... you correct them and say you didn't put on any headset, you were trapped in it.
Of course you're trapped, just like the rest of us, Jax says
None of them immediately believe you try to tell them you're a ghost. Except of course, Kinger, who reasons that that's why you look the way you do; and Gangle, who in my opinion probably finds interest in the supernatural.. or maybe that's just me projecting onto her. Who knows. But the point still stands, almost everyone doesn't believe you.
Not long after, Jax accidentally ropes you into prank that was originally intended for Zooble, I dont think Jax would go as far as to bully a child.... well... actually no, he seems like the type to bully kids on roblox.
The prank wasnt planned for you, you were just in the wrong place at the wrong time. You open a door, and are immediately greeted with a fake snake lunging out at you. You scream, more so out of surprise and fear than anger. It does turn into anger when Jax laughs at you, still finding some kind of joy from the prank getting at least someone. Your scream rises, causing nearly everyone to cover their ears, the rest were not there in the room but would come rushing to see what the hell was going on
I think it would be that instance as well as a few other; namely ones where you became invisible and started removing one of Zooble's limbs after they (unintentionally) said something a little too mean to you. The idea of you being a ghost was further cemented when both Gangle and Ragatha watched you literally phase through a wall. But hey at least someone (Jax) starts laying off of you when it becomes clear you weren't lying
There's mixed feelings, a lot negative. I mean, you're just a kid and you're. Well, a ghost. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to come to the conclusion that something happened to you. Whether or not you remember the details of your death when you became a ghost, or after joining the digital world, is all up to you
Caine, as mentioned before in posts where the reader is a child, tries to be a father figure. He's not the best, since he's programmed to be a ring master, but he definitely tries his best. I like to think he tries to read you bedtime stories when the digital world simulates 'night'
Pomni, who I totally didn't forget, tries to overcome her fear of you and your ghostly powers, ultimately becoming sympathetic you and your situation. Not only was your life cut short, but you were trapped here too, you didn't even get to roam the world in the afterlife. Interactions with her are awkward but there's an effort to try to bring you some form of comfort
Jax, after he stops pulling jokes on you cant deny that he doesnt find you creepy. I think, though, he would ask you if you want to help him scare some of the other members. Whether you be offended by the concept or not is also up to you, since I'm not sure if you wanted the reader to be sensitive regarding their current predicament or not
Ragatha goes into full big sister mode, even before it's confirmed that you're a ghost. Sure, she's a little put off by your ganky and gorey looks, but her heart aches for you. Similar to Caine she tries to do general child care activities with you, perhaps if you let her, she would do your hair and make you dresses
Kinger will take a while to warm up to you, but I think after some time would start to open up to you, usually it's best to interact with him when he's already in a calmer state. He already gives me dad vibes that I cant pin down... but he would tell you stories of his past (in house) adventures and some funny stuff that has happened over his time in the digital world
Zooble is going to need a moment to get over the invisible dismemberment thing... as well as Zooble being Zooble and needing some time to warm up to people in general... Not much to be said, yet...
Gangle would offer to lend you some art supplies... kids like arts and crafts stuff, right? Thats her logic, at least, and if it means you have an outlet for your emotions then that would be great!
Overall you now have a funky found family, so hey, at least things aren't totally... terrible.. Unfortunately with them stuck in the digital world they can't do much to get you justice, if you let them know you were murdered. But rest assured if your killer somehow gets trapped in there with them and you recognize them, they have your back
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blakeswritingimagines · 10 months
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Dating Wonder Woman would include
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The thought of dating Diana is overwhelming. She’s gorgeous, smart, and a total sweetheart as well as an actual goddess. Everyone wants a chance with her. If you manage to get her attention and impress her, you’ll be lucky enough to spend time with an amazing woman and witness her genuine love and care — it’s definitely worth the effort. If you do ask her out, make it a special date that shows your appreciation for her unique, kind personality. She deserves nothing less, and you’ll always have a story to tell later on.
She's very fun and loving. She's the light that keeps those around her going, always spreading joy and happiness and looking to make everyone smile, she loves all sorts of fun things – shopping, going out with friends, and just living life to the fullest. Diana cares about the people in her life and always goes above and beyond to make them feel good.
Diana’s romantic side is kind and sweet. As a passionate woman, she is caring and protective of those she cares for and is never afraid to show how much she feels. She’s a hopeless romantic at heart and loves making romantic gestures and being swept off her feet. If you're the kind of person who dreams of being spoiled with gifts and affection, you'll find an eager partner in her - she's the type to shower her partner with compliments and gifts, always doing what she can to make you happy.
Dating Wonder Woman is like having an endless sleepover with your best friend. It's a lot of fun and laughter, cuddling under a blanket and eating snacks together, sharing gossip, doing fun things like going to parties and getting into trouble, and having romantic moments that feel like straight out of a movie. When you're with her, you feel like you have someone who truly cares about you and is always there for you, ready to explore and be adventurous or snuggle down together whenever you need it.
As an adventurous spirit, Diana is up for trying anything (within reason) and enjoys going on spontaneous adventures with her partner. She's enthusiastic about trying new things together and doesn't mind stepping outside of her comfort zone when it comes to trying new things together. She loves exploring, experimenting, and trying new things - so if you're a homebody or have more traditional tastes, she might push you outside your comfort zone a bit. That said, she's not reckless and can definitely enjoy the quiet moments, too.
Her love language is words of affirmation. She likes to hear how much you love or appreciate her, as it gives her reassurance and helps her feel validated in the relationship. Being physically affectionate and having her loved one's attention is also something that brings her happiness. Your touch makes her feel loved and she always appreciates receiving affection. If you're the kind of person who loves being physically intimate with your partner, Diana will be the perfect match. Your words and physical affection bring her immense pleasure and satisfaction.
She’s also an affectionate person, who enjoys physical affection with her partner. However, she isn’t the type to jump right into a relationship. She likes to take it slow initially, especially when it comes to physical intimacy, but when she falls in love, she’s head over heels and willing to do whatever it takes to be close to her love. You need to be open-minded and understanding if this relationship is to work out. That being said, if you’re kind, patient, and willing to put in the work, you’ll find a devoted and loving companion in Diana.
She is a thoughtful person who is always thinking about other people. She is generous with her time and is always looking for ways to help others. She's a good listener and is known for being supportive, encouraging, and patient. If you're struggling with something, she's the kind of person who will sit down with you and work through it. She cares deeply for people and wants to see them succeed, so she'll do whatever she can to help them achieve their goals, whether it be giving them advice or offering a helping hand
She loves to take initiative. She enjoys making decisions and taking charge but always makes sure to take your opinions and feelings into account. She’s open to new and exciting ways to show and is always looking to try new experiences with you. She’s also great at expressing her love and needs through communication, and if she’s ever unhappy she’ll be sure to talk things out with you rather than let tension build.
She thinks a good date should involve learning about each other, spending time, and sharing your interests and hobbies. She personally enjoys training together and also sharing stories of your times fighting evil. It is important for both parties to give as well as receive. For herself, she finds it important for you to treat her with respect, understanding, and most importantly, love.
Even when at your lowest point, Diana will never give up on you. She's always there ready to provide comfort, support, and encouragement. With her warm, welcoming presence, you'll know that you're not alone in facing any challenge or issue, and her positive energy will be sure to lift your spirits. In addition to providing you with a warm, welcoming presence, Diana is also a very loving partner who will always make sure to express her feelings for you through physical affection as well, ensuring that you know you are loved and appreciated at all times.
When dating Diana, you will never have to deal with games or drama. She is a direct and honest person, always communicating her thoughts and feelings in a straightforward and sincere manner. She will always be open and transparent with you, and you can be assured that her affection for you will never be questioned or doubted. In addition, She will always go out of her way to make sure that you feel comfortable and protected, and can always be relied upon to stand up for you when needed.
Diana is the girlfriend you never want to leave the side of; she’ll make you feel complete, loved, and special. With her by your side, you’ll be surrounded by pure positivity, encouragement, and love. You’ll never walk away from a day with her feeling dull, drained, or like something is missing. Diana will add flavor, fun, and enjoyment to every moment spent together.
When dating Diana, expect the unexpected; she’ll keep you on your toes while also making you feel safe, secure, and loved. You’ll be treated to the most incredible date nights, the most electrifying surprises, and the most thrilling adventures. You’ll never have a dull moment dating her.
Don’t expect the honeymoon phase to end or wane; there will always be a spark and a flame of passion between you two, no matter how long you’ve dated. She’s the type of girlfriend that is in it for the long haul, and it shows in the time and effort she puts into making sure your relationship is strong and lasting.
You can expect to always be treated to romantic and fun dates that show how much she loves you. She’s the type of girlfriend that will make sure each date is special and memorable for you and make you feel like you’re the center of her world. Some favorite date ideas: Going on a picnic in the park, Hitting up a local ice cream or coffee shop, A visit to a local museum or gallery, or A trip to the beach or mountains
Diana is a confident and carefree person who doesn’t easily let jealousy or insecurity get in the way of her happiness. However, she’s also not a person to be messed with when it comes to matters of the heart. If you were ever to cross her or hurt her in any way, she would most likely confront you directly about it rather than letting you just get away with it. Although she is confident and self-assured.
Her usual favorite things to do with you are: Watching movies, tv shows, nor will she continue on without you. Snuggling together on the couch or bed while we watch something after a long day. Driving around to different spots around the city and enjoying the scenery together. Playing board/card games together. Going out to eat together and trying new foods and restaurants together.
Diana doesn’t fuck, she makes love. She’s slow, passionate, and good as hell at what she does. The two of you are very intimate. Your skin is always touching, and her face stays close to yours, her lips pressing against you.
She’s a fan of foreplay: the making out, the soft touches down each other’s backs and waists, the helping each other undress, etc. Generally, just the softness and romance that comes along with it.
She loves aftercare; making sure you have everything you need and stroking your hair as you cuddle into her. She enjoys watching you drift to sleep so delicately wrapped up in her arms.
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gffa · 10 months
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ABSOLUTELY, UTTERLY CHARMED BY THIS ENTIRE STORYLINE. It's Tim struggling to figure himself out, what he wants, who he is, what he's going through, and realizing that he's growing into something he never realized was there before. And the story makes a point of bringing Steph into the story, specifically framing her as Tim's ex, and then also bringing Conner into the story in the same way as Steph--someone who cares very much about Tim and is worried about him and checking in with him. I mean, also, STEPH APPARENTLY TALKS TO CONNER please understand that canon confirmation of that is A JOY IN MY HEART but the quiet parallel of Steph and Conner as these two people who are such important figures in his life, but that Tim's figuring something out that's just about himself, that's why I like this being a Tim/Bernard story while also giving nods to both Tim/Steph and Tim/Kon. Do I have a favorite pairing out of all of those, one that I think should be ultimate endgame? YOU BET I DO. But I love so much that this isn't a story wrapped up in a pairing that comes with so much extra other context, that it's a story truly about Tim Drake and who he is and what's going on with him. If this had been about TimKon, I probably would have been flying too high on my joy about it to have any criticisms, but I do think it has value in being about a character that doesn't have a long established history with Tim, because now the story can be about Tim figuring himself out, without having to balance it with all the Young Justice/Teen Titans history and Kon's own issues and the intense friendship-turned-romance between them. Instead, Tim has the space to focus just on what's going on with his sexuality and, as someone who struggled a lot with figuring that out myself, that space to let that kind of thing breathe for awhile without having to pile more onto it--that's extremely valuable. But I love that this is very, very easy to read as a nod to TimKon just as much as it's explicitly a nod to TimSteph, while still being a Tim-centric story. BABY BOY DESERVES THAT OKAY THAT'S A HILL I'M GOING TO DIE ON, LET THE BABY QUEER FIGURE HIMSELF OUT FIRST THEN WE CAN START THROWING HIM AT THE PEOPLE WE WANT HIM TO SMOOCH, TIM DESERVES THAT CHARACTER FOCUS. (I'm absolutely going to keep throwing him at Kon eventually though YOU CAN'T TELL ME this isn't more confirmation that Tim's feelings for him were threaded through with romantic undercurrents because like he didn't have to be part of this storyline, but they chose to make sure his face got in there and You Can't Tell Me That's Not Significant.) Anyway, ultimately I'm fine with this because you know what? Tim should get a storyline that truly puts him at the center of it, plus HE IS SUPER CUTE IN THIS STORYLINE, I want to wrap him up in a blanket and feed him soup, he's so adorable.
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sproutedlavender · 19 days
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Where is your Attention Going?
Your attention is your super power. Where your attention goes, your energy flows. Sounds familiar? Whatever you focus on expands. this means, if you're constantly focusing on what you don't have, you'll continue to manifest more of that (which is not having). I know, i know, doesn't sound fair, but that's the way it is.
So, it doesn't matter how much time you spend on affirmations and manifestation methods, if you're focusing on the lack, you won't be able to manifest what you want.
So how do you overcome this?
Focus on what you want. I know you've heard this before, but it's a million percent true. If you focus on your desires, they will expand and manifest in your life.
I know it's easier said then done, sometimes I still struggle with this (who am I kidding, I struggle with this pretty much all the time). I mean, how could it not be a struggle? We've grown up being told that our outward reality is the true reality. But it's not, is it?
Your inner world is explosive, expansive and so very creative. Anything you can imagine, it's yours baby.
But how do you get it?
That's the funny thing. You can't.
You can't GET anything because by being in the process of GETTING you will never be in the state of HAVING.
Make sense?
Let's do a little exercise to help you manifest.
Manifestation Exercise
Imagine what you want to manifest as clearly as you can. Regardless of what you want, a home, a car, beauty, money, love, whatever it is, imagine it SO clearly that it feels like you could reach out and touch it.
Emotionally feel it as clearly as you can. it may take a while to feel something, but try and imagine the feelings of joy and gratitude you would feel if you had your desires
Stay in this state with your eyes closed for a bit. Put on some music if that helps. After you have a firm grip on that feeling, slowly open your eyes. Try to keep the imagine in your mind even as you open your eyes.
Stay in the feeling of already having your desires and start acting like the person you would be if you did have these desires.
Receive them in the physical reality (It's only a matter of time babe)
If you find yourself focusing on the lack again, mentally smack yourself, shut your eyes and bring back that mental image of your desires.
Your mind is SO powerful, which means YOU are so powerful. Which means: What are you still doing here? Go manifest your dreams!
Happy manifesting! Andie
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Hi, is it possible to have M6 hcs with an MC having a depressive episode please? Thank you in advance, I love your work <3
The Arcana HCs: M6 with an MC struggling with depression
~ apparently you guys' new favorite thing to do is send me requests that I can relate to a little too well. Have some comfort, my darlings, and remember to be kind to yourselves. Healing is slow but it is happening - brainrot ~
Julian
Caring for you during a depressive episode is more instinctive for him than the day-to-day part of living with depression
He knows what it's like to be really emotionally low, but he doesn't know what it's like to be permanently stuck there
And for someone who runs on emotional energy, not having any at all doesn't resonate with him
Which is why he's quickly becoming Vesuvia's leading medical expert on the condition. What he can't understand right away, he'll study until he does
And oh dear, the more he learns, the more he aches for you. It's the emotional equivalent of chronic pain/fatigue and nobody will make you feel more valid in that than he will
There's just one problem - he can't keep a schedule to save his life and he's sometimes more empathetic than is good for him
It's an important growing moment for him. He'll have to learn how to better himself to help you without feeling responsible for your troubles
He keeps a checklist to go over with you every day, somehow without ever making you feel judged if you didn't do everything
Healthy amount of food? Check. Healthy amount of sleep? Check. Sunlight? It was raining. That's okay, we'll go on a picnic tomorrow!
It's also his way of being able to tell if it's getting bad again
When that happens, he'll encourage you to give yourself the freedom of a few days of rest. No expectations, no to-do lists. A good doctor knows the value of bed rest
It's really good for him too - since he wants to check up on you regularly it means he's taking consistent breaks and actually getting enough sleep for once
You bring him so much joy just by being there when he wakes up in the mornings. Being able to help you keep that sparkle in your eyes means so much to him
Asra
They aren't very depression-prone themselves, but they know how hard it is to carry a heavy heart. It's why giving you half of theirs was one of the easiest trades they ever made
And it's also why he gets what you're going through better than anyone else does, because he can literally feel what you're feeling, if you let him
The first time you let them tap in to your shared bond on a fairly bad day, they said it was like trying to dance with fogged-over glasses and weights on every limb. No wonder you're tired!
He doesn't mind doing things a little differently (since when did he do them normally anyways?) so he likes getting the important tasks done with you
They get up with you on workdays and turn breakfast and dinner into daily dates. Wherever their whims take them while you run the shop, they'll always be back in time to help close and take you on a long sunset stroll
Baths used to stress you out - it was the last hurdle before finally getting to sleep - and now they're the highlight of your day
It's not nearly as overwhelming when the bath's already drawn with some new random luxury product to try out and a fluffy-haired lover who insists on lifting you in and out (it makes him happy, let him have this, MC!)
Weekends are for sleeping in, cuddles on the roof in the sunshine, and hours of reading books in the pillow pile
When a nasty episode hits, they'll take you on vacation to Nopal. They notice how much effort you put in, it makes sense that you need rest and they want to make sure you have it
So many hugs and snuggles, all the time, every day. He's so proud of you and he tells you that constantly
Because he doesn't need you to be happy or energetic or exciting for him to love you. He just needs you to know that you're loved.
Nadia
Nobody knows what it's like to feel stuck and unable to get one's life back like she does. She spent three years comatose like that
She's a little horrified when she gets a clear picture of what life can be like for you. She had a way out, and a Devil to blame and subsequently defeat. You're running on your own determination
She thinks you're one of the strongest people in the world for that
It shows her why you seemed to know how to pull her out of her sleep. And she's determined to do the same for you
She pulls you out of bed to do yoga with her every morning. If it's sunny (and it often is) she'll take it onto the balcony so you can kill two birds with one stone
It's okay if you need to go back to sleep after. Just let her do this with you
She has a reason to schedule breaks into her day now to spend half an hour with you and make sure you're both getting what you need
Because lunchtime gets so busy and dinner is often an important event, she makes sure to have a late morning tea with you every day, from 10-11 AM
Fresh fruit, some dried meats and cheeses, juice and tea, and the most delicious baked treats. It's light and filling and nourishing enough to get you through the day if you can't manage much else
It's easier to act like it's not getting bad again when you can save your energy just for your shared moments. It's why Nadia feels so guilty for the first few times she didn't notice until it was too bad for you to do even that much
Fortunately for you, there's a palace full of employees who have you to thank for getting a competent person in charge again
They want to see you flourish too, so one word from housekeeping is all Nadia needs to whisk you off to the seaside for some R&R
You pulled her out of her daze and are the strongest person she knows. Returning the favor for her beloved is her greatest honor
Muriel
Oh yeah, that thing where life feels like walking through sludge and all you want to do is hide and sleep, so that's what you eventually end up doing all day? Yeah he does that too
Or at least he did, until you dragged him down a continent with the scariest woman he's ever met on a wild goat chase
It's starting to make sense to him now. You knew to reintroduce him to the fun of comfortable clothes and good food and the safety of companionship because that's what you needed too
And he's not leaving that fog behind without bringing you with him
He doesn't want you to force yourself into a busy, colorful life of excitement and adventure. He doesn't want that for himself either
But he's learned the value of a life that can move as slowly as it needs to as long as it doesn't get stagnant
You can sleep in if you want to. But he's bringing you breakfast in bed. He won't say anything but he won't leave to start his day until you eat at least half of it
You don't have to go on a walk if you're not up for it. But he'll leave the door and windows open and move the bed right below them
You don't have to take a shower. But he'll hold you in his lap by the fire with a clean rag and a bucket of warm water and some soap and a big, fluffy towel
It's okay if you can't feel anything. It's okay if you can't stop feeling everything. Sit with it as long as you need to. He'll just be next to you with a glass of cool, fresh water from the nearby spring
Of course, things aren't always that bad. You have good days, and better days, and great days, and tired days, and gray days, and everything days, and nothing days, and quiet days, and loud days
Sometimes you're the one bringing him a glass of water and opening the windows
But you're both slowly having more good days than bad ones, and life is starting to get lighter. And neither of you are fighting alone
Portia
Depression and burnout can look pretty similar. The big difference is that one of them is something you generally bring on yourself, and the other one tends to show up uninvited and unannounced
She's plenty familiar with burnout. Depression not so much
She's quick to notice when you go several days in a row without smiling very much. And when you can't pull yourself out of bed one morning, she's so sympathetic and on board to help
But it's hard not get upset with her when her first question is, "so what were you doing for it to get this bad, MC?"
It makes it even harder to talk about, but Portia is the palace's honorary librarian at this point. Between the research she does there and the general medical description and advice Ilya gives her, she'll come back with plenty of notes
She will feel so bad about what she said earlier that you will definitely need to hug it out
She's such a get-up-and-go person that she doesn't have to think twice about helping you keep a schedule. That's how she lives already. Now she's just cooking a full breakfast for two, not one
She still takes you on her ambassador trips, but the plans she comes up with take your energy levels into account as well as hers
You're having a better day? Time to go sightseeing and find an adventure
You're not doing as well? Take a day on the boat. Nap on the deck in the sunlight. The crew love you too, they'll bring you fruit and she'll get all the boring meetings out of the way while you rest
It can be a little daunting being a partner to someone who is sunshine personified when you feel like mud most days
And it's tricky for her to learn how to sit with someone in pain without feeling like a failure for not being influential enough to fix it
She sees you as the best part of her world and thinks, no wonder you're tired. Take a rest. She'll keep things running
Lucio
At first he's worried that you're falling sick very, very slowly
You don't have energy for the things that he knows you enjoy, you're sleeping more, and the dulled look in your eyes makes him wonder if you're in pain
You're trying not to let it get to you because being an adventurer is fun! Exciting! And it's Lucio's fresh start on life, so you're scared of ruining it. You don't want to drag him down on his way up
But finally one morning you just can't get yourself out of bed. And he's increasingly worried, so you explain it to him
It ends up lifting his spirits more than anything. He could tell you were ill, but this illness doesn't seem fatal. It's just something you have to live with that makes some days a lot harder than others
He doesn't have a lot of intuition for taking care of sick people, but he's getting better and better at learning from his mistakes
You say taking care of your body helps? Every time he gets hungry he makes sure you eat something too. Every time he bathes he pulls you in. Every time he goes outside he invites you.
If you say no too often he will pout. Which will quickly give way to his unexpectedly adorable puppy eyes, because he loves you and doesn't want your sickness to hurt you MC!
Of course, healing is never linear. There are still times when the only thing you have energy for when you open your eyes is closing them again
And as much as he worries for you during those times, Lucio isn't burdened by them. It's a chance to show you he loves you and to return the favor you showed him by sticking by his side
It's also his moment to be the magnanimous, powerful Count he wanted so badly to be. He'll protect you, he'll take care of you, he gets to be your hero and let you be comfortable!
You are his best. If that means you need to take a break and sleep, then go ahead. Precious things are meant to be treasured
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Text
Bad except when Atsushi leaves the Agency and calls Higuichi, he does so to surrender himself to the Port Mafia.
He can't keep putting the Agency in danger like this. Junichiro and Naomi almost died because of him.
Atsushi didn't deserve their kindness, he would only bring misfortune onto them all like Akutugawa said.
The Headmaster was right about him. And maybe, just maybe Atsushi's tired of running.
Atsushi leaves the Agency, with nothing but the clothes on his back because that's all he has. He does feel bad he can't return the clothes they gave him.
Kunikida catches him leaving "and where do you think you're going" But Atsushi just smiles a little and says thanks for everything.
Before walking away.
Atsushi waits at the docks where the Black Lizards show up. He holds his hands out and let's them handcuff him.
He doesn't struggle nor does he fight. Even when they push him in a cell deep underground. Atsushi almost laughs when he's locked inside.
He really did escape one cage for another, such was his life he supposed. Apparently the Boss wanted to see him?
Atsushi didn't know.
He hadn't been paying attention. And frankly he didn't care what they wanted with him or why the Boss wanted to see him.
He knew Mori was the Boss just by the way man held himself. Atsushi looked down, not daring to meet his eyes.
The man before him was so different to the President... It was like being with the Headmaster again.
Mori chuckled, apparently amused. "So you're the famous weretiger that I've heard so much about."
Atsushi nods, it still felt werid to hear. "We were coming to collect you to recieve the bounty placed on you." Mori smiled, it was not kind on the slightest.
"But after hearing of you're fight between Akutugawa, I think your more use to us here." He hums, thoughtfully. "Sure it may be inviting war, but... You came of your on accord didn't you?"
"... I did."
"And do you want to go back to the Agency?"
Atsushi wants to say yes. There was an ease at the Agency he'd never felt before. But it was suffocating, he didn't know what it meant to experience ease or joy.
This cell, this man, were things Atsushi was a lot more used to. It was where he belonged, what he deserved.
"No."
Mori smirks as if reading his mind, honestly Atsushi wouldn't be suprised if he could. "Than that's that" he goes to unlock the cage but Atsushi shakes his head.
"No, don't!"
He notices the amusement in Mori's eyes, and wonders if this was a test.
The key goes back in his pocket and Atsushi breathes a sigh of relief. The Presidents ability would surely lose its hold on him, and there would go all the control Atsushi had.
Atsushi hated being contained but knew it was what he deserved. Mori turned to leave, Atsushi didn't care what they made him do. If he was tortured, even killed.
Atsushi had turned his back on the light forever, it had burned him and he'd retreated to the cold darkness that he was born into.
Whatever happened to him, was deserved.
He has nowhere to run, nowhere to hide but at least his friends were safe.
Mori chuckled, like he'd read his mind and left him alone.
"Welcome to the Port Mafia, Atsushi Nakajima."
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fizziepopangel · 11 months
Note
Hey! I really liked your helluva boss headcanons, they're very interesting and realistic! Do you have any for Stolas? 😀
I do actually have a few! Ask and you shall receive, my friend! I hope you enjoy😋
“Oh shit. Am I in danger right now?”
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When he was young, the prince built little communities for the toads and frogs that he found within the garden sometimes. This is what sparked his joy for being in the garden and he still tries his best to make the palace garden comfortable for the small amphibians that he sometimes comes across there.
Despite being a powerful demon, Stolas hates horror movies because he scares far easier than he cares to admit.
He has bald spots from where he's pulled out his feathers during panic attacks or times of overwhelming stress but learned to hide them well over the years.
Stolas is easily excited by small things which can easily be seen through his daughter’s social media where she frequently posts pictures of her father reacting in childlike wonder to things most people wouldn’t think twice about.
Baby Stolas was bathed in a bird bath the same way babies are bathed in the sink sometimes when they're really small.
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Sometimes Stolas will sleep with his old stuffed animal. It brought him comfort as a child and though he's a bit embarrassed to admit it to most people, it still brings him comfort after nightmares.
He understands his duties as a member of the Goetia family, but he always wanted to be an artist or botanist rather than a prince.
Stolas’ primary love language is physical touch which tends to make him a wonderful, affectionate partner and friend…. Unfortunately, the prince also experiences touch starvation quite easily.
The abuse he took from Stella worsened after she became pregnant with Octavia because she soon found he would give in to any demand she had if it meant keeping their daughter safe if she even acted as if she might threaten the child in some way. 
He suffers from migraines due to poor vision because he's struggled with focusing both sets of his eyes at once since he was a kid. His father never took him seriously and he was often teased by others about having one set of eyes closed to both help him focus on things and get rid of his migraines…. He still does this sometimes when he's alone because he's still afraid of being teased or seen as weak.
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He has a deep appreciation for classical music, but he loves dancing around to trashy pop music more than he likes listening to the classics people are used to hearing him listen to.
Blitz can be quite rough with him in bed and despite enjoying it for the most part, he wants something more… sensual sometimes. He had hoped it would be after their date at Ozzie's.
He's put off teaching Via magic because he doesn't want her to grow up just yet but he's found that their magic lessons are often some of their best bonding activities and he learns much more than he thought he would about his daughter with each lesson they stumble through. 
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The demon prince is still afraid of the dark. Only his daughter knows.
He uses his human form to attend pride parades in the human realm. He loves it and has made many human friends in the years he’s attended.
Stolas doesn’t use his full demon form very often because despite how well he hides it, it takes a lot of energy and it leaves him fairly exhausted.
Unbeknownst to everyone aside from Blitz, Stolas keeps a journal of poetry he writes.
Despite the fact that they are one of the lowest classes species in hell, Stolas doesn’t necessarily view imps in that manner because he sees himself as having been raised by them since he was raised more so by the imps who served his family than his parents.
He has a major sweet tooth and chocolate ice cream with whipped cream and cherries on top is his favorite sweet treat.
Stolas tends to his garden daily and has named each and every one of the plants he cares for.
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innerunderrain · 2 years
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I really love that babysitter post!! 😍😍 I can just imagine him secretly cooing from behind the camera as he watches MC playing with Teucer. Oh, but it seems that the masterlist doesn't work? I'd like to read more of your stories 💖💖
Monitors [Modern! Yan.Childe x Babysitter! Fem.Reader]
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Warnings: Yandere themes, stalking, abuse of electronic monitors, creepy Childe, non-consensual photos and recordings of the reader, collecting the reader's hair, manipulative Childe, dishonesty and implied NSFW themes if you squint!
Note: Thank you soo much!! He'll definitely be the type of person to watch you the entire day instead of doing the actual work his co-workers always asking him what he's doing, only to have him grin and reply with 'nothing.' As for my masterlist, is it the link to the blog that's not working or is it like the link of the individual story??? Please let me know!
Word count: 683
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A rational part of Childe's mind recognised that this was wrong.
However, how could he refuse? You're simply so cute playing games with Teucer; he rarely gets to experience that aspect of you since you're always so shy and awkward around him. But don't worry, you'll improve; you simply require a little more time. Childe is a patient man who won't challenge you, but it doesn't mean he won't do things to obtain your affection.
He chuckled as he watched you grapple with Mr. Cyclops, which prompted Teucer to grin before seizing the figurine out of your hands.
As you two went on to play board games, Teucer emphasized that you should both enjoy yourselves rather than just him. What a nice kid, Childe was pleased to have Teucer as a brother since he's such a good lad to you, making you want to stay longer within him.
Childe watched as you entered the kitchen and opened the refrigerator to retrieve an orange juice container since Teucer appeared to have developed a slight thirst.
Should he go to the store to get more juice? Or should he provide you a reason to bring him along when you go to buy it?
He'll think about it later.
Childe's eyes narrow as he watches you creep over the countertop to retrieve a plastic cup, the hem of your blouse lifting to expose your midriff. Perhaps it was the correct decision to place all of Teucer's dining utensils on the top shelf, adamantly stating that he did not want Teucer to try to reach for them in the middle of the night, since the young boy had a habit of snacking at night. You finally succeed in reaching the cup after a brief period of battle, leaping in joy and grinning gloriously.
So adorable.
Before heading back to the living room, you filled the plastic cup with orange juice but not before looking up into the nanny cam. Inquisitive of the camera, you waved toward it before fleeing and mumbling, "Why did I do that?" as a reddish colour swept across your cheeks prompting Childe's smile to broaden.
He was pleased that the nanny cam could show him a side of you that he had never seen before; sometimes, he would see you muttering to yourself as you struggled to patch up Teucer's toys only to whine in exasperation. Other times, you'd hum loudly in the kitchen while preparing a snack for his brother, your heavenly voice thrumming through the monitor as he made sure to preserve the recording permanently.
Furthermore, he's the kind of person who will tell you that you have to stay a little bit longer since his meeting won't end for another two hours and that it's okay to go to sleep once you've put Teucer to bed.
He lied, of course. There is no meeting.
He merely stated that to get an opportunity to gawk at your drowsy face while making sure to take some pictures for later use, though he won't say exactly what he plans to do with them. Nevertheless, I'm sure you can guess. He would return home after a short wait and gently pat you on the head to tell you it was time to wake up and he would drive you home. Sometime he would gather loose hair from the sofa you rested on and hide them in a clear plastic bag in his room since he liked to always carry a little piece of you with him.
Isn't he such a thoughtful man? Offering to drive you home to keep you from wandering late at night, and always bringing you a piece everywhere he went.
It's a dangerous world we live in.
You ought to be careful not to trust strangers too much, even if it's him.You never know, one day you might awake in the trunk of his car instead of your own bed.
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nasuversekinkmeme · 1 year
Note
I've sent a prompt and want to fill one but I don't have writing experience and haven't written nsfw ever so I'm not sure what I'd do would be any good.
The important thing is not to write something good, anon. The important thing is to write something. This blog is to partake in the divine act of creation together. Quality is secondary. The time and effort you put in your writing is as meaningful as the writing itself. I'm sure anyone who sends a prompt here will appreciate that someone out there made a gift specifically for them, even if it's not exactly what they wanted. If nothing else, know that I will appreciate the gesture, as seeing people filling prompts and trying their hands at new things is one of the greatest joys of running this blog.
That being said, if you struggle with anything in particular in writing, feel free to send an ask about it. I will help however I can, and if any of the kinkmeme's followers have any useful advice to add, I'm sure they will make it known.
For now, have a couple tricks on how to write nsfw:
Action. The most obvious bit. Your sex scene is, presumably, going to feature characters doing things together. What do they do? Do they touch, caress, pull, lick? Do they do it strongly, softly, fast, slow? Are these purposeful gestures? Are they being impatient and carried away in the heat of the moment? Where do they touch? For how long?
Physical sensations. So your blorbo touched a peen. Great. How does it feel? Is it warm, cold, soft, hard, wet, dry? Bring your metaphor game. Things related to fire or electricity are classics.
Emotions. How are your blorbos feeling right now? Do they feel loved through this intimate act? Do they feel anxious in the face of vulnerability? It doesn't have to be positive feelings either. You can emphasize anger if it's hatesex, or fear if it's noncon.
Rhythm. Short, choppy sentences = fast, successive actions. Long, drawn-out sentences = an action that lasts quite a while. So if you're trying to convey that they made out for a while, try to describe it in a long sentence. If you're trying to convey that that dude's fucking super fast because they're close to climaxing, try multiple shorter sentences.
Kinks. If you're writing about a specific kink, try to emphasize what people find appealing in it. Waxplay? Talk about the temperature of the wax, the vulnerability of letting someone pour wax on you. Bdsm? The high of domming someone, of getting them to squirm under you. Obviously this is easier if it's a kink you have, but if it's not you can always look around for stories that feature that kink to try to figure out what is usually emphasized.
Characters. Remember, you are writing about blorbos fucking, not about mass of flesh with no personality. One should be able to tell it's the blorbos while reading your fic. Does your blorbo have a specific style of internal narration? A distinctive way of speaking? A bit of backstory that would be relevant in what you're writing? Include that. Your blorbo has very specific symbolism associated with them? Bring that to your metaphor game (ie: fire metaphors would be doubly appropriate for Nobu.) Are you writing multiple blorbos having sex? How do they feel about each other? Are they lovers, friends with benefits, coworkers who answered a booty call, fierce rivals? Include that.
Sillyness. Very much optional, but remember that you don't need your sex scene to be 100% serious all the time. Your blorbos can banter and joke around. Maybe one of them finds the lube too cold to the touch at first. A bit of dicking around is not harmful to a sex scene.
None of these are absolute rules, but hopefully they should help you get started.
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genderqueerdykes · 10 months
Note
I’m kinda confused, because my brother will always say to me ‘I don’t believe in all this transgender bullshit. It’s mocking intersex people and even intersex people say it’ the worst bit is that he says it infront of my mum who’s already as transphobic as it is and I was so fucking close to her not deadnaming me and not using she/her when referring to me.
So I wanted to know your thoughts on what my brother said if that’s ok <33
hello there!
that's not an argument i hear too often, but i have heard some people say things like that. that's not a sentimenti ever see expressed from other intersex people, it's almost always perisex people speaking for intersex people. just because someone wants to look different doesn't mean it's insulting someone who looks that way without any outside interference. i don't feel insulted when people want to look physically androgynous, even, if they want to change their body to have big breasts and a penis, or whatever, it doesn't bother me!
if anything, it makes intersex people feel less alienated because now you are involved with a community of people who possibly look and sound a lot more like you. even if it's by choice and not by nature, it doesn't really matter- being intersex influenced me into transitioning, after all! i took my feelings into consideration about both my body and my gender, and i needed to keep my intersex traits of having a beard and body hair and a masculine appearance
it's not an insult, it helps normalize the broad spectrum of how humans can look, act and sound based upon their individual biology. the sheer number of trans people who wanted HRT and surgeries in the past and now are a huge part of the reason why i have access to my own HRT. it only helps me when other people look and sound like i do and expose people to the fact that humans can look like literally whatever, from birth or otherwise
if you ever encounter anyone that has an argument that posits that intersex and trans people are enemies in any capacity, it's bullshit. we are often the same person, not always, but we are friends either way. we are siblings, we are very closely related people, and we understand each other's struggles about body autonomy and being identified correctly
whether or not you choose to stand up to your brother is up to you, just know that what he's saying isn't true. he's finding whatever reasons he can to antagonize you and put you down in front of your mom so she will continue to misgender you. there's nothing within good reason with this attitude, it's an attempt to scare you out of identifying as trans. you don't have to let it work
even if you don't stand up to them, you can remind yourself that he's just being a bully and he's not right. if he isn't intersex, himself, he has no ground to make that argument, and if he is intersex, he doesn't get to make the call for all other intersex people. tell him to ask a few other intersex people how they feel and he'll see his opinion doesn't make any sense
take care of yousrelf! hope that helps, good luck with your family. i'm sorry they're not receptive. bullies want you to think they're right but they're just angry and insecure that you have something that brings you joy. hold it close to your chest as tightly as you can, they don't deserve to take that from you. stay safe, good luck, feel free to ask any more questions you may have!
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namandabu · 4 months
Text
Dharma Listening
One of the most important lessons I have learned from my experience of the Jodo Shinshu tradition is how to listen to the Dharma. I am utterly incapable of doing it properly, however. Still, when I have gleaned insight from it, it is because I could, for even a moment, truly hear what the words of the Dharma are saying.
When we read books, we are not just reading words off a page. We are conceptualizing the meanings of those words in their context on the page through our own lens. We never just read a book. We derive meaning from it by bringing our own biases to the reading.
This isn't always a bad thing. In fact, many creative authors rely on this to subvert the reader, creating an amazing story by tricking us into believing one meaning while communicating another. Authors also grapple with this problem of bringing our biases, and they become skilled at writing according to their audiences in order to facilitate a change of mind in the reader. Such twists and turns are what make reading, as well as other forms of media, fun and intellectually stimulating.
Authors who teach the Dharma must grapple with the same tendencies. And it is often difficult for new readers (like myself) to fully internalize what the author is saying because we either don't understand or don't *want* to understand what they are saying. There have been many times when I read a piece about Buddhism and simply ignored or discarded a line that doesn't suit my sensibilities. An example from Rennyo: "The mind/that even once/relies on Amida: that mind/is in accord/with the true Dharma."
This verse is from Rennyo Shonin's letters (Letter 4, Fascicle 4). It is truly a mind-boggling statement. The idea that such high attainment (being in accord with the true Dharma) is so easy (relying on Amida for a single moment) is hard to believe on its own. Yet it is at the core of Jodo Shinshu: With the one thought-moment of reliance, we are immediately saved by Amida from birth and death and are certain to be reborn in the Pure Land. So why is it so hard to believe?
When I read that line initially, I thought of...laziness. I thought of how such a view is lazy. Surely, this is a teaching for people who do not want to put in the work necessary for enlightenment, I thought to myself. And when I read it now, those thoughts still come up! However, they are also accompanied by a small joy that I have not experienced before. Even though my mind tries to scream and cry to drown the words out, I still "hear" them.
These thoughts come from a mindset that I brought to the text when reading it. In my life, people who don't want to work have been called lazy time and time again. I myself have done this, and I have also been called lazy myself. Growing up, this dichotomy of "lazy" versus "determined" was drilled into me from the cultural norm known as the "protestant work ethic." This is the attachment of value to hard work, especially concerning one's job. American folklore is filled with examples of this, from John Henry and Paul Bunyan to the myth of the self-made millionaire or billionaire in the modern day. But this is antithetical to what Rennyo is saying here, as well as other Jodo Shinshu writers going all the way back to Shinran.
Hearing these lines now, I must confess that I still struggle with this conflicting set of views. But I know that they are true. After all, the goal of a Buddha is to make others like themself: free from attachment and affliction and able to act with perfect wisdom and compassion. The best way to do that is to make a path that is so easy that anyone, regardless of capacity, could complete it. Hence, Amida realized the name and forged his vows to create this easy path.
In my mind, I'm immediately skeptical of shortcuts. And while the Jodo Shinshu path is still difficult in some ways, it is certainly easier. But here, the Buddha is saying, "Come on! I made this shortcut for you! Trust me, and you'll reach the other shore!" And I have to blame only myself and my preconceived biases for being hesitant.
Listening to the Dharma as someone new to Buddhism requires us to put aside our own views as best we can and open our minds to a new way of thinking about the world. Even if we disagree with what it is saying, we will only get the message if we can listen with an open mind. If we project our ideas onto the Dharma, we will just be reading a copy of our own thoughts. It is difficult, however, to put one's ideas aside and listen to something new with an open mind. After all, if detaching from our erroneous views were easy, then there would be no need for the many paths of Buddhism. Therefore, We should be thankful for authors who speak on the Dharma in ways that are designed to bring us to a new mode of thought from our current condition or in a way that is so plain and direct that misinterpretation becomes nearly impossible. I have found that many Jodo Shinshu figures, like Rennyo, Yuien-bo, and Shinran, fall within the latter category. As a result of reading them repeatedly, the walls of my own views are broken down by their straightforward words, which are easy to understand and digest. I cannot help but come to understand them, even when I am at the same time entrenched in my own views. This example is just one concept in Jodo Shinshu that is difficult to internalize, but I am happy to say that, little by little, I'm starting to get it.
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dirtytransmasc · 1 year
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Paz and Quaritch (plus spider, because he was the one part of their relationship that remained untainted).
I think they were such an interesting, yet unexplored, piece of avatar, so I explored it and here are my headcanons, they are true, simply because I said so, and if you don't like it perish leave. (these aren't in any particular order, I wrote them as they came to mind)
quaritch was never good with the whole compliments thing, so he made up for it through putting down anyone who said something negative (think something like the line form Donna by the Lumineers "You told your daughter she was ordinary" as if to insult anyone underestimating her). he shoves her accomplishments in the faces of anyone to underestimates her, making sure that if he can't give lovey-dovey compliments, he can sill show how proud he is of her.
they weren't the best couple, as they were victim of their circumstances. they can't go on rates and barely get any personal time together. miles is an emotionally stunted man who never took time for relationships outside of her. so they struggle, conflict typically turns into screaming matches and slamming furniture; but paz never once thinks miles will hurt her or their son, and he doesn't, no matter how angry and heated he gets, he could never even fathom hurting paz or spider
she was the last thing he thought about when he died. he didn't know if he was alive, if he would see her again, if he wanted to see her again (he didn't know if he believed in heaven or hell, but if they were real he didn't want to, she didn't belong in hell).
they met on her first day in pandora, they had sorta known each other before, only in passing, but they got to know each other on pandora. hooking up wasn't their intent, not at first, but it just sorta happened. she'd been assigned to his platoon, they became friends, and then more than friends. in such a hostile world they became each other's lifelines, and the squad (her + the people who made up the recoms) became family. spider solidified that family
when he found out she was pregnant, for just a split second, before the worry about code and procedure and higher ups, he was over joyed. then it was his worst nightmare because he was worried for her, sleeping with your superior was bad enough, getting pregnant, on pandora of all places, was something so much worse. but he could never bring her to get rid of the child, the words lingered on his tongue, they both knew she should, that there were ways to do it under the table, but he couldn't.
they both loved each other, quaritch more than her, surprisingly, though he didn't know how to show it. he was never shown actual love. In his little chunk of the world, he had never even seen kindness, let alone love, so he had to guess each step of the way with paz, and he knew he failed, he failed horribly, and he hoped she would forgive him for that.
when she was pregnant he pulled strings as long and far as he could to keep her on light work, desk work in the middle few months before she started showing. had her medical care kept under wraps at his own dispense and out of his own pocket. when she was eventually found out he did everything to keep him, the father, anonymous, so she'd get in as little trouble as possible. he snuck around constantly to see her, bring her things from the kitchen that she was craving, stayed with her as much as he could when she was sick or needing company.
he couldn't be there for spiders birth, no matter how badly he wanted to, but he was sneaking into her room with the squads help, to meet his son. the look in his eyes when he looked at her and the baby made her melt, it was the first time he looked completely blissed out with happiness.
he cried when he held spider, holding him in one arm, holding paz in the other. the only two people he truly had in the world, right there with him. he looked at this perfect little baby, the one he helped make, and saw such beauty and happiness.
he was flattered when paz named the little one miles, though he worried, he couldn't convince her to name him anything else, so he helped create a cover story for her.
if he could, he would have kept her out of the field for the rest of her life, but he knew the sky was where her heart felt at home. he regrets letting her fly that day.
when he became a recom, the first thing he did, was track down the little trinket box of his, he found it untouched at hellsgate, hidden in the floorboards of his old room. it held all he had left of his son and lover; a few photos, some medals, a hardrive, a ring, a few notes, and 2 little figures. the photos were mostly of paz, in all her glory, her perfect smile, her beautiful eyes. the metals were both his and her's but they were the ones they thought were most important. the harddrive had videos, logs, other photos of their lives, spiders short life, the squadm their family. the ring was supposed to be the one he would 'propose' with, he doubted they could ever actually marry, but the ring was just supposed to symbolize them. the notes were their little attempts at younger love, mostly confessions, asks for meet ups, the note she gave him telling him he was a father. and the figures? they were spiders, he doesn't know who hid them there, he knows he couldn't have, spider had them the day he died, the kid was just starting to hold himself up, miles had given him a toy amp suit and a toy scorpion, so he'd always think of his mama and papa. he'd gone to see him in the nursery playing with them right before he left for battle, had a gut instinct he wouldn't see the little shit again. he was right. he would never know who hid them away, but it broke his heart in the best way possible. his life, his love was here, and that's all that mattered.
when out in the field, he searched for paz, using what little info he could get on her position in battle to try and track down her remains. he didn't need to though, spider already had, and he said there wasn't much left, not besides her dog tags. he took quaritch to where he hid them, and from that day on he wore one of them and spider carried the other.
he loved spider with everything he wasn't able to love paz with. this new life gave him a new chance, and he wasn't gonna waste it.
this is for @natasha-devkina sorry this took so long, I sorta forgot for a hot minute.
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niuniente · 10 months
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So I have just read your response about how to approach story telling, or at least how you do it specifically. And I just want to thank you for point eight, about 'It's not that deep - unless you wish it.'
I've always been ashamed that I made ocs but couldn't produce plot points for their personal stories. Like people talk about breaking their characters to make them develop, but I could never do that. Because I struggle so often, I didn't want my characters to. I just wanted my characters to live the life that I can't. But I also wanted to overcompensate because I felt like I wasn't doing them justice.
While it's not the popular opinion to have that be the way I approach creation, I do appreciate that you don't say it's a bad thing to not want things to be deep. So thank you, really.
You're welcomed!
I think the people who are very interested in character development typically either enjoy it tremendously or are (intentionally or unintentionally) using their art as a self-therapy. Both valid ways of doing art, as well as not being interested in character development or therapy art.
Sometimes the character development is and can be small and it's OK. People tend to call just finding new things about the character also a character development. Put them in new situations and see how they react and act.
Some characters are iconic for what they are and you don't even expect deep character development from them. Terminator is Terminator and you know with 100% certainty what to expect when you deal with Terminator - sure, he can be programmed differently for different needs but it's not exactly character development on its own if you ask me. Dracula is Dracula, Rambo is Rambo, Predator is Predator and Morticia Adams is Morticia Adams.
It's nothing unheard of that trying to develop the character because you should makes the character unrecognizable or OOC regarding what has been going on until now within the story.
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In Nemesis the Warlock comic, the protagonist Nemesis is pictured as a good willed man, who does his best to resist racist humans and save other alien species. He doesn't really care about humans per se but is fine with a human being his right hand helper. His intentions are to save alien species from humans and bring peace to the universe. He's a liked friend and a loved husband and trying his best as a father.
This is about the half way of the series until creator(s) decide to develop Nemesis more. Turns out that Nemesis is actually just a bored demi-God who loves to play hide and seek with his human enemy. That he doesn't care about anyone or anything else but his own joy and boredom. He isn't interested in saving anyone and he literally manipulates his human friend, too, for his own benefit. This is explained as "Well, I'm just a chaos's being, deal with it, I never said I was good".
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See what I mean? Go to far, try to force the development (and explain everything) and you can, without wanting it, break your character or the story - or both! If you make a character go a complete opposite of themselves, there has to be a reason for it. Not like in Nemesis "Well, I'm just like this". No, dude, you were literally the exact opposite for years and still just a second ago. What happened? Well, nothing, creator(s) just decided to add a shock value and develop the character because?????
You want your character to live the life you'd want? Wonderful, that's enough! That's how Sailor Moon was born and is all about. The creator was lonely, so she drew a comic of girls being friends, that kind of friends she wished she'd also have.
It's a valid reason to make a comic. Or anything! Nothing needs to be deep but it can be if wanted.
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mihai-florescu · 1 month
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Hiiii could i ask about what exactly happened between leo and izumi? I've read checkmate, but I don't quite get it about how it's izumi's fault why leo started to lock himself up and all that stuff, especially when leoizu started talking during the performance. It's a bit confusing, but from what I understood, leo crumbled because of knowing the fact that he's been used and not loved, and chess breaking up from the inside. Thank you!!
Hii I'll start by saying that this is what I've made sense of this plotline for myself based on what i've read but I am welcome to other interpretations or insights or anything from anyone, it's also likely i could be forgetting things etc so if you have different views I'm curious to listen🫶 i totally welcome the possibility that i could be interpreting or piecing things together wrong (i'm mainly going off of checkmate, hortor night halloween, and next door) so, yeah, putting the disclaimer out there.
Let's see...
Things start going downhill since Leo realizes his music is seen as a weapon and chooses to act accordingly, and to make himself into one too. There's a response to rejection and to a world that doesn't think and feel like he did. But Leo loves bringing joy to people and doesn't actually like destroying others, so the pressure adds up. That's not what breaks him quite yet though (we'll return to that). He has Izumi he's vowed to fight for, a lifeline. But Izumi is driven by his pride and that gets bruised the more they fight, the more opponents' resentment follows them. They were doomed since the moment they started fighting through the dreamfes system. Making enemies out of fellow students when the system is based on student votes is bound for failure, let alone the mental turmoil being constantly surrounded by hatred and fighting brings.
So... Izumi and Leo are on edge more and more, sinking further with every battle. They already struggle with not really understanding or getting through to one another, or to interpret each other. Izumi believes Leo's breaking point came from being hated by others, and that he caused it alone by bringing the sensitive, trusting Leo to fight with him against the other students (taking advantage of Leo, even though Leo himself offered it. And he's not as blameless or stupid as one would think...). He never shows Leo gratitude or love anymore, is always unhappy and the 2 start arguing more seriously, their mental states plummeting the more they struggle, knowing it's futile. So when Leo breaks, Izumi can't help but blame his actions, his ambitions, him using Leo, him and his pride.
On the other hand, we only get Leo's pov in the Next Door monologue, where he reveals what broke him was using his genius songs as weapons and thus drowning out every other individual song that wasn't as skilled but could've been loved by someone. And at some point he starts doing it knowingly, in a way selling out. The unbearable atmosphere of wanting to win that sucks all joy out of music. While Knights is getting resented, Leo uses his composing of songs for others as weapons, drowning out their own voices and creating more destruction. So... it's still his love for people that breaks him in the end, in my opinion, just not what we originally thought through Izumi's view, or at least not fully that.
Leo's breakdown comes with a musical slump. And having tied so much of his worth to his songs, it takes the biggest toll on him. But... I really think it's a combination of everything. Leo's surprisingly self loathing the more you read stories with him so I don't fully believe his monologue in Next Door where he says it's all his fault, especially considering the state he was in during those chapters. I don't believe any of the characters when they say it's all their fault, too many little things were at play and piling up into tragedy, and none of them are really...reliable narrators. They're all in terrible headspaces when they thinks about what happened. But that's also why I feel like I myself could still be interpreting things wrong and welcome new insights and views.
Also... imo Izumi doesn't quite realise how much he cared for Leo until he's out of the picture, broken down, and they can't get back what they had. Ah i got side tracked. What was the question again. Did i even answer the question at all. All these guys are self loathing unreliable narrators...
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