#it's the difference that creates the separation

[wuffgang-ameowdeus-moozart]

shallan and kaladin are like two sides of the same coin

> both take responsibility for things that were outside of their control in order to create the illusion that they had some measure of influence over horrific things that happened to them (because the alternative is too unbearable)

> both have hardcore main character syndrome - which is just reaffirmed by the narrative again and again lol (like, it is true that they do happen to be main characters in a book series. but even if they weren't they would still feel like that imo)

> both feel the need to take care of others and hate being the one that is taken care of (but despite how uncomfortable it is for them they still somewhat crave it)

> both have a very strong sense of justice (even if their ideas of what is right and wrong don't exactly align)

> both have put a lot of time and effort into one specific skill that they then use to define their entire sense of self-worth

> both try to view who they are on bad days and who they are normally as two separate people (i just say "the wretch")

> on that note: so much mental illness lol

> both absolutely abhorr failure

> connected to the above: both are willing to do slightly insane things in order for things to go according to their will

the main difference is that everyone views Kaladin as somewhat above them ("Stormblessed") even though he genuinely just wants to be one of the guys. He is just like everyone else! By the Almighty please stop worshipping him or seeing him as somehow better than the average soldier !! 😭

while Shallan is viewed as meek and somewhat weak and all around not something all too special (cue kaladin's absolute shock when she tells him her backstory) even though she really really really needs to be seen as something special. she knows in the end effect it benefits her if she doesn't stand out too much or if people underestimate her (their looks of wonder when she surprises them is always great) but damn it she went through hell and pulled through - pulled her brothers through, that are older than her - and still people can never properly appreciate her 😔

#furthering my shallan has covert npd agenda #also both are basically canonically trans in my mind #shallan davar #shallan kholin #kaladin stormblessed #stormlight archive #cosmere #brandon sanderson

[arrgh-whatever]

Do you have any OCs from your childhood?

Yep I have two! Kate and Alfa (they're from two different stories) Both of them were created when i was 12-13 y.o.

I still draw Kate, she's a 12 y.o. kid who's on an adventure to return her soul. Since she has no soul at the moment she can fuse with spirits which changes her form. (There's a lot more to this story but it'll take forever to explain everything)

Alfa was created a bit earlier than Kate and is from a story I was writing with my friend. For some reason I can't find any drawings of her...

Anyways she's (technically she has no gender but in the story she looks like a girl) an alien, her race is like a giant intergalactic Wikipedia. Each individual is a part of a whole system (something like mycelium), they come to planets disguised as one of the living things and just collect information about absolutely everything.

In the story she was collecting information from Earth and at some point a few teenagers tried to make friends with Alfa which led to her developing individual thoughts and feelings and later becoming a separate independent being. And then getting a girlfriend.

(I'll add drawings of her if I'll find them)

#ask vovk

[universalitgirlsblog2]

🎀🍓⚞🎀・◦・⚟ YOU ARE NOT A VICTIM.🎀🍓⚞🎀・◦・⚟

🍓REALISE THAT LIFE IS A IMAGINATION.

You going to your job. Your job is your bosses imagination. He imagined a company that he wanted to create and then he put it into physical realm. So you are basically working towards your bosses imagination.

Countries are not real. We all collectively imagine a border but it's not real. It's all earth. Everything is earth but we imagine that those countries are separated.

Money is also imagination. It's just a piece of paper. We imagine that the amount of money in our bank is worth that much but it isn't. If tomorrow a big corporation says that the money in your account isn't worth that much or the money isn't in use anymore . It's not.

All this means that we all are living in a imagination. A dream . A game . Matrix. Whatver you want to call it.

We imagine everything we do. We imagine our future and dwell in our past which also doesn't exist. Future and past doesn't exist. Only this moment exists.

🎀REALISE THAT YOU ARE THE CREATOR OF YOUR IMAGINATION.

We can create this imagination or dream however we want it to be.

🍓QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF

How do I want to create my game , my dream ?

How do I want my imagination to look like ?

Who do I allow into my imaginations ?

How do I behave ? Who am I? What does my character look like ?

🎀BEING A VICTIM MAKES YOU FEEL SAFE

Being a victim is the most comfortable thing because you don't have to do much. Your life is a circle. Everything just keeps moving in the same way , in the same circle. But this is comfortable for you. Why ? Because you know what is going in happen in the circle. You don't have to take risks. You don't have to deal with different people.

🍓CHANGING YOUR LIFE AND STOP BLAMING OTHERS

To take a leap of faith , you need to be brave. It takes guts. Everyone wants to blame everyone . At the end you will be left no one to blame but yourself. Your life is shit because of you. People don't care about your victim mentality. You know when they care ? When you get out of it. When your life becomes a success story. David Goggins is not David Goggins without his success. No one would care if he was the same guy before.

🎀YOUR LIFE WILL ONLY CHANGE IF YOU CHANGE

Everyone moves on and you will be left behind. NO ONE IS GOING TO SAVE YOU. WHY ? BECAUSE NO ONE CAN SAVE YOU. The only person that can save you is you. No one is going to make you change.

🍓GROWTH IS : 2 STEPS FORWARD AND 1 STEP BACK.

Everytime you learn something,it's one step forward because you have more knowledge but if you put it into practice, you will be 1 step back because you are not used to it. You still have to continue. If you feel uncomfortable and give up, you will be right back where you started. Stop abusing yourself by being in the same circle that you don't like. Stop abusing yourself by being the same person that you don't like. Look in the mirror , we don't have anyone to blame. As a victim it's easy to run away and be like " I tried I tried", You didn't try and you didn't try hard enough . Try again . Try again until you get there.

🎀REALISE THAT YOU ARE ADDICTED TO DRAMA.

Alot of people when they come out of abusive household , later they will think that it's too peaceful . They will start to attract people that will give them that toxicity again because this is the only thing they knew. Realize that you are the creator of that drama though. You can choose to have a peaceful life. You can choose to have peaceful people around . If you can't find peaceful people , just be peaceful on your own for a while until you find someone that makes you feel peaceful.

Stop creating drama when it was never meant for you. Stop involving yourself in things that were never meant for you. Stop watching things that are so dramatic.

🍓REALISE THAT YOU HAVE CONTROL.

You have control who comes into your life , you have control about who you date . You have control about what you watch , listen to , what you read. You have control over what you put in your mind. Your mind isn't a dustbin.

If you decide to open the news and it's all negative and now your day is bad. Don't blame the news. Blame your eyes and blame your hands for putting that on.

🎀ASK YOURSELF : WHY DO I ALLOW THESE PEOPLE IN ?

"My friend , partner is toxic". Why don't you start looking at why you allow them in ? Don't you have control over who I allow into my life? Why don't you ask yourself ? What is it in you that you don't feel worthy enough of having people that actually respect me ?

🍓WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO FIX YOUR LIFE ?

What part are you playing in life ? You can cry all day about being overweight or underweight . Are you doing something to fix that or are you just crying all day ? What are you doing to fix your life?

🎀WHEN YOU WANT SOMETHING BADLY YOU WILL FIND A WAY

When something wants something badly , they will get it done anyway.

🍓GO FROM COMPLAINING TO GRATITUDE

Turn your mindset around. Set your mind on a plan and focus on it . The more you start going from complaining to gratitude, the more your life will change. If you constantly focus on what isn't there instead of what it is , you create more of that.

🎀REALISE HOW PRIVILEGED YOU ARE

You are privileged and you want to talk about people in North Korea. They won't be able to see liz video or read this post since they don't have access to internet but you do.

🍓WE NEED THE GOOD AND BAD TO KEEP THE WORLD IN BALANCE.

This is how the world works.

🎀PAST AND FUTURE DONT EXIST

Accept your past and start working on yourself. It doesn't exist. You only have now. Don't dwell on the future. What are you doing now ? How you are now will determine your future and not the other way around.

🍓RECOGNISE THE WAYS YOU SABOTAGE YOURSELF.

Everytime something good comes into your life. Do you ruin it ? What in life are you doing that sabotages you ? You have to ask yourself these things.

🎀START TAKING RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR BEHAVIOUR

It's not fair what happened to you but whatver I do with it next , it's on you.

🍓TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF FIRST IS THE MOST SELFLESS ACT

If you don't take care of yourself , you can't show up as the best mother , daughter, employee or boss. You don't feel good . You are depleted and depressed. If you want to perform the best you want to be for others , then you should think about you first and nurturing you first so you are happy. If you don't feel good in your life , it's okay to take a step back from everyone and focus on nurturing you . Put yourself first . No is coming to take care of you.

🎀YOU DESERVE EVERYTHING YOU DESIRE

You deserve everything you want and you can get once you set your mind to it. Stop taking advice from people that you don't want to share lives with ,these people are miserable themselves.

🍓🎀 ⚞🎀・◦・⚟I LOVE LIZ SO MUCH. 🍓🎀 ⚞🎀・◦・⚟

#self concept #affirmations #self concept affirmations #self love #self care #take control #girlblog #girlblogging #thewizardliz #the wizard liz #wonyoung motivation #youtube #femmefatale #girlbloss #thewizardliz motivation #it girl mentality #itgirl #girlblogger #dream life #inspirational #you are not a victim #self esteem #self worth #self help

[jacksgreysays]

Extremely late, completely unnecessary opinion of the Watcher situation, (2024-04-24)

So this is a relatively belated post — several days after the initial “Goodbye Youtube” and one day after the “An Update” videos — and surely by this point there are more interesting/insightful op-eds (both in written form and video form, especially penguinz0’s fairly objective POV as, essentially, a YouTube expert) but there is something about the Watcher situation that made my brain itch. Thus, I wanted to write about it in order to make sense of it all as well as get into a philosophy that seems to be haunting me in recent years and which I think applies greatly here.

This may seem completely out of left field considering 1) definitely not fanfiction and 2) about Watcher Entertainment, a YouTube channel which—as far as this tumblr is concerned—I’ve not engaged with whatsoever, but I don’t know where else I would put this, and weirdly enough I think the general tumblr response to this whole predicament is maybe the… if not objective… then at least, most thoughtful?—or, perhaps, least immediately reactive?—amongst the various social media platforms, that I think some people might appreciate this anyway.

In terms of my relevant background: I majored in Management Science (which is just a fancy way of saying Economics + Business + Accounting because they are, weirdly enough, separate things) and minored in Film Studies in school, I am currently working in the stage techn industry (which, I know, is obviously different from film/video industry), and I like to think I am a fan/consumer of a wide variety of independent creators, some of whom I am lucky enough to be able to afford being a patron/subscriber. I won’t go into all of them—because it is a lot—but there are four in particular whose business models I want to analyze in comparison to Watcher’s admitted blunder:

A) RocketJump (known for Video Game High School and Anime Crimes Division; the core group which turned into the podcast Story Break, then became Dungeons and Daddies) B) Dropout (formerly College Humor, we’ll get into their discography later) C) Drawfee (previously an offshoot of College Humor, now fully independent) D) Corridor Digital (used to be mostly behind the scenes of how VFX studios work, have since become a mostly original content creator)

I will say, right off the bat, I am a patron of Drawfee as well as Dungeons and Daddies, and I am a subscriber to Dropout. I am not subscribed to Corridor Digital’s streamer, which I will get into why later. I understand that being able to sustain those two patronages and one subscription is a luxury that not everyone can afford and so my point of view is already skewed by being such a person who could theoretically afford another streaming service if I so chose. I also acknowledge that many fans of Watcher are not in similarly financially secure places as I am and that regardless of the business model, any monetization that comes from fans would have been a rough ask. However, I wanted to go into this essay in a way that accepts Watcher’s statement—that they needed more funding—in relatively good faith rather than assuming the worst (although that is another point I’ll get into later, largely related to the philosophy I brought up earlier.)

All four of the above listed content creators started or, at least, hit their stride on YouTube:

RocketJump and College Humor were, if not household names, then the digital equivalent of it in the “early days of YouTube.” They were part of the wave of content creators that made YouTube seem less like a bunch of eccentrics with cameras making videos on the side and more like a viable way to support yourself/your team with the art you create.

RocketJump’s Video Game High School went from short (less than 10 minutes) minimal location episodes in season one, to 30 minute plus episodes with full on fight scenes and car explosions by season three thanks to a Monster Energy brand deal. They also had two seasons of Anime Crimes Division, a literal TV quality show, thanks to a Crunchy Roll sponsorship. Unfortunately, RocketJump shut down not long after (their videos are still up on YouTube but they obviously don’t add anything new) but the core creative team behind that have been involved in several projects outside of YouTube (Dimension 404 on Hulu being one of the biggest ones so far) including the podcast Story Break (part of the Maximum Fun network) and now the independent podcast Dungeons and Daddies, the episodes of the main campaigns which are free with ads or, for patrons, ad-less along with additional mini-campaigns and other benefits.

I will say, during RocketJump’s decline, they did try their best to keep going. The partnerships with Monster Energy and Crunchy Roll were the big swings to get the funding to make those TV quality shows they wanted. I believe they lucked out with those brands in particular, or, at least, those brands didn’t seem to inhibit the creative process or ask too much of them that it felt like “selling out” but I also don’t have insight into why they didn’t pursue this model of, essentially, very weird but interesting season long commercials. Maybe they just couldn't find the right brands or maybe they did feel like it was too stifling. Regardless, before they shut down completely, they did also downsize—moving out of the actual city of Los Angeles over to Buena Park. Which is in Los Angeles county, and basically counts as LA still, but is way cheaper than literal Hollywood real estate. (I should have added to my relevant background that I’m born and raised LA county, do have relatives and friends in the film/movie industry, so trust me when I say literal Hollywood/city of Los Angeles is so overrated and unnecessarily expensive. There is a reason why LA traffic is the worst and it’s because EVERYONE is commuting into the city. Respectfully and with affection, no one should live there. No one’s start up should be located there.) Obviously the downsizing didn’t necessarily work for RocketJump, but they also didn’t have multiple successful revenue streams the way that Watcher currently does.

In contrast, College Humor was acquired by InterActiveCorp and was turned into CH Media which was three pronged: College Humor, Drawfee, and Dorkly. In 2018 they made Dropout, which had exclusive content separate from their YouTube videos which involved all three prongs. Then some financial shenanigans happened early 2020—IAC withdrew their funding—and there were a bunch of layoffs right before the pandemic which extremely sucked. It has been stated by multiple people involved that it was basically a miracle that Dropout survived through all of that, but there were definitely some sacrifices along the way to make that happen. Currently, Dropout seems to be thriving with mostly exclusive content with the occasional “first episode of a season” posted to YouTube, OR if Dimension 20 is doing a “sequel season” in an already established campaign they will put the entirety of the previous season on YouTube.

IAC withdrawing their funding did put CH Media in a bind. They had to layoff a lot of people right before pandemic and, understandably, a lot of trauma was had. There were also weird issues with who controlled certain IPs/brands/digital assets (I mostly come at this from a Drawfee POV, it took several years for them to own the Drawga series and be allowed to host all of the episodes on their YouTube, and there was also something about the sound file for their opening animation?) but mainly the difference is what kind of content they generate. Originally Dropout had multiple scripted shows with high budgets and pretty cool effects/animations/stunts (Troopers, Kingpin Katie, Gods of Food, Ultramechatron Team Go!, Cartoon Hell, and WTF 101) whereas now almost all of their shows are variations of improv comedians being put into different scenarios or given different prompts. I’m not just talking about Game Changer and Make Some Noise, because Dimension 20 and Um, Actually also technically fall under that description as well. Which is not to say that these shows are worse than the scripted shows—I subscribe to Dropout, so clearly I’m a fan of their current shows—and the budgets for them have since increased to resemble, if not match, those early shows, but it is a noticeable shift in their content creation strategy as a response to the lack of IAC funding. And I will say: Dropout releases at least three videos a week if not more and at least two of those are long form at 30 minutes plus (Dimension 20 being the longest, of course.)

So, these first two business models are not really the most applicable to Watcher Entertainment considering their origin was to get away from Buzzfeed—they’re probably not keen to be partnered with or purchased by a larger company—but there are some aspects to both that I believe are valuable in at least showing the strategy in how these former YouTube creators could successfully extract themselves from YouTube or how they still utilize YouTube even if it is not their main hosting platform or revenue stream.

Then there is Drawfee and Corridor Digital, both of whom are currently—if not primarily—on YouTube, whose situations are more comparable to what I believe are Watcher’s goals.

Drawfee had to rebuild themselves like a phoenix from the ashes of the CH Media layoff during the beginning/worst of the pandemic. Side note: I’m happy that Nathan (one of the four main artists of the current Drawfee team) at least has forgiven(? or let bygones be bygones) Dropout enough to be on an episode of Game Changer (although I will say that this happened after Drawga was “returned” to Drawfee, and after Dropout officially split from College Humor as a brand.) All that being said, Drawfee was a team of four artists plus their editor who wanted to stick together but basically had all of their support system taken away from them. They took a bit of a break to assess their goals and options, announced a patreon with several tiers with great perks, and stuck to their upload schedule. In addition to two videos a week, they also stream on Twitch weekly, have a patron only stream once a month, and a draw class (for one of the higher tiers) once month. After asking their patrons on the relevant tiers if they were okay with it, they began releasing the patron only stream and the draw class to the general public for free after a month. The patreon perks also include things like merch discount codes, high quality PNGs of the final rendered art, access to the draw class with live interaction/critique, and a commission from the artist of your choice. The only “ads” they run are for their own patreon and merch store and, even then, they’re usually at the end of the videos with a credit scroll of the patron names during their exit banter.

Admittedly, they only have MAYBE eight employees—that’s including their video editor(s?) and their discord mod(s?)—with the main four artists doubling/tripling up duties as additional video editors, CFO, and marketing/merch leads. It’s a very streamlined crew and their production costs are not very high since it’s mostly screen recording of their drawings with their audio recording overlayed onto that footage. Although the video editors do sometimes have clever cuts to relevant images depending on their vamping. Sometimes they will have a guest artist but, again, since it’s screen and audio recordings, there’s no travel/housing costs. So, very minimal expenses due to low production costs and small crew but, again, their only revenue source is the patreon/merch, they don’t do outside ads and they very rarely do live shows.

Corridor Digital is, I think, the most applicable to what Watcher would ideally do, which I suppose is somewhat ironic for this essay in particular considering they’re the only one of the four that I don’t financially support. They have two YouTube channels: their main one being where they show the “final product” videos, but I believe their Corridor Crew channel which started primarily as behind the scenes type of videos is where most of their views come from. Especially their React series (VFX artists, Stuntmen, and Animators React etc.) On Corridor Crew they usually upload two videos a week — one which is a React and the other which goes into fun projects/challenges (involving VFX or not) or using VFX to explain scientific concepts — as well as the first episodes of their exclusive content on their streamer. Also behind that paywall are longer and ad-less versions of the videos on YouTube. They also have merch. All of them have merch, I don’t know why I’m stating that. They don’t have a patreon as far as I know, but I also don’t know if their subscription to their website comes with similar perks like discounted merch or something similar.

Anyway, their studio seems to be about 15 to 20 people — not all of them are VFX artists, of course. I believe they have higher equipment costs than Watcher since, understandably, Corridor has to be on the cutting edge of video editing technology. They do occasionally travel for shoots, but it doesn’t require big teams, and that’s only when the local locations available to them don’t match the requirements for the “final product” videos. Otherwise most of their videos are set in the studio or in the alleyway outside their studio in Los Angeles (the city itself, not just the greater county, though they are in a rougher and thus probably cheaper part of Los Angeles). I personally don’t subscribe to their website primarily because their exclusive shows don’t appeal to me—either they’re too technical or a little too dry; to be fair, most of them are VFX artists first before they are performers—and I don’t particularly feel the need to see the extended cuts of the videos uploaded on YouTube. Also I sometimes get a little bummed out by their lack of diversity.

All of this to say, from these four different business models, a bespoke Frankenstein business model for Watcher could be cobbled together. But also, even with that bespoke Frankenstein, there are some changes that Watcher would have to make: primarily their upload schedule. As of right now, I think they do MAYBE one video a week if not, perhaps, one video every TWO weeks. If they want a monthly subscription model, their rate of content generation would ideally be higher to double/quadruple their current upload rate. Obviously they want to create videos with higher production value, but at that rate of generation, something’s got to give: supplement their TV quality shows with either a behind the scenes type series or an increase of “we get four episodes out of Shane and Ryan get increasingly drunk in someone’s backyard” or something similar. Leaning into shows like Worth A Shot (the first season in which Ricky Wang makes cocktails based on a random ingredient, the second season threw in some competitive aspects which I didn’t really find necessary) or the Beatdown which has relatively low production costs (no travel, one location, maybe two cameras at most therefore smaller crew requirements) but a higher polished look. Otherwise, for a separate streaming subscription service, 2-4 videos a month is not going to cut it.

As of right now they probably can’t back out of the separate streaming subscription service because those set ups usually require some level of contract/paying for servers for the website and whatever is hosting their videos for a set amount of time. However, what really strikes me is that I literally didn’t know they had a patreon until I scrolled through the comments of the first Goodbye Youtube video. Maybe it’s been linked "tactfully" in the descriptions of videos, but considering they claim to be lacking in funds, the fact that they weren’t plugging their patreon at the end of every video is not just strange, but also irresponsible considering they do have 25 employees that they don’t want to layoff. Additionally, I understand artists needing to be in a space that promotes creativity, but there are cheaper places that must be comparable that aren’t in literal Hollywood. It’s an unnecessary expense. On top of that, other people have already brought up that it was fairly crass to introduce this paywall, attributing it to the increased production costs, when the next planned “new series” is a reboot of an old Buzzfeed series in which people travel and eat expensive food. I’m not even talking about the personal expenses of Steven, Shane, and Ryan; what kind of car they drive or the cost of their wedding venue doesn’t matter on a business model basis.

But getting back to the patreon: again, I literally didn’t know they had one. I’m looking over their tiers— they have $5, $10, $25, and $100 — and for the most part they seem okay, although I think they have more to offer that wouldn’t necessarily cost them more. Ie, something that has baffled me for a while: the fact they don’t sell the mp3s of the Puppet History songs; they already exist and it doesn’t cost them anything additional because they don’t need to put it on physical media. Or maybe they do and they’re not marketing it similarly to how they weren’t overtly marketing their patreon?

And, okay, maybe they didn’t want to seem desperate — in the early days of Dropout and independent Drawfee, they both were very blatant in getting people to subscribe/join their patreon. As they should be. Desperation maybe doesn’t look cool and sexy, but it is earnest in a way that conveys equal effort that fans who can afford it would want to see. The fact that we weren’t getting rotating ten second clips of Steven, Shane, and Ryan asking people to join the patreon at the end of every video — even if its the same clip every three videos — is wild. And yes, the $25 tier includes a shoutout every 3 months on Watcher Weekly+ (which I don't quite understand what that is,) but the fact that they weren’t doing a quick post movie credits scroll of all the patreon names is, again, wild. Once you have that initial list, it’s not too difficult to add any new names that join and put that title overlay on top of, again, those nonexistent ten second clips of the three.

As others have already stated, it seems like an extreme mismanagement of their existing successful revenue streams, if they are actually struggling to pay all of their employees. Which goes into the philosophy part of this essay: don’t assume malice when it might just be incompetence. It’s something that I have to remind myself of often because I do get paranoid about people’s intentions sometimes and I have to check myself. Am I being overly suspicious of what might be just an honest mistake? Am I assigning ill will to an action just because it inconvenienced me?

Yes, of course, a lot of this situation could be misconstrued as straight up greed. But, also, Watcher is a relatively young company, helmed by three people who certainly don’t have experience running their own company:

They like to travel. They like to bring a full crew around with them. They’re renting out a shiny office in the heart of Hollywood where everyone knows is where real show biz happens. They’re adding more employees to the team because surely more people means better. And they want better productions values because the prettier the videos the more people will like them right?

It’s naive. It’s a level of inexperience combined with giving responsibility to officers whose main priority is to entertain. And if that means entertaining themselves and their staff, then they might not know the difference. It’s the kind of mistake that first time managers make—trying to prioritize fun over getting the job done. Prioritizing making friends with their employees rather than making sure the work the employees put in is equal to (or greater than) what you spend on them whether that is in paycheck or bringing them to cool locations for fun shoots. It’s a mistake anyone can make, it's just unfortunate that they made this mistake in front of millions of people. It doesn’t necessarily mean it’s solely a greed induced cash grab.

But then comes the catch-22 of the philosophy—is it worse to assume incompetence than it is to assume malice? Or, in this case, greed. Especially for the heads of a company that holds the livelihoods of 25 employees in their hands. At what point does it not matter if it’s incompetence or greed if the end result is the same?

Is it better to think that Watcher knew about the various other business models of independent creators and just ignored the efforts put into achieving those successes or is it better to think that they didn’t know and just stumbled into one of the worst moves they could have done. Again, other people have mentioned that Great Mythical Morning—which Watcher has had multiple collaborations with—has managed to make the YouTube subscription/tier system work to the point that they can sustain themselves as well as spinoff channels. Is it incompetence or greed that led to Watcher thinking they could bypass that completely in less time and with less videos?

I’ve been at this mess of an essay for several hours when I should have been asleep. Ultimately I want to say, regardless of incompetence or greed… yes, Steven is CEO and yes he is ultimately the one who makes the final call but it is disheartening to see the pointed vitriol at Steven specifically and the infantilizing of Shane and Ryan in comparison. Either they’re all silly uwu boys who are messing around not knowing how to run a company, or they’re all complicit in a crass cash grab in an extremely busted economy.

I think what’s most frustrating to me in all this is that there were so many other channels and creators who have literally walked this path before them and, again, whether through incompetence or greed or arrogance, for them to just ignore it… It’s not betrayal because I don’t know them and so there’s no relationship to betray, it’s just so inefficient and convoluted that I don’t understand. Or, no, even if it was greed, it’s an incompetent greed because at least pure greed would have been pushing that patreon every second they could. Their ratio of YouTube subscribers to patreon members is less than 1% and I bet that’s because a lot of their audience, like me, literally didn’t know they had a patreon. I probably would have become a patreon member of theirs had I known earlier, ESPECIALLY if it included access to those Puppet History songs. Drawfee has half as many YouTube subscribers and nearly double the patreon members as Watcher. I’m just baffled, is all, and maybe by this point sleep deprived.

Anyway. That’s my, extremely late, completely unnecessary opinion of this situation.

Edit (several hours later after some sleep): I forgot to mention, because they did walk this back almost immediately, even before their "An Update" video, but I believe the original plan was to put EVERYTHING behind that paywall and pull their content from YouTube entirely. Which is, again, extremely baffling, because if ALL of their content is behind a paywall, how would they possibly gain new fans? Even if all of their current fans were able and willing to pay for their separate subscription streaming service, how would a brand new person even stumble on their content enough to want to subscribe if there wasn't a significant amount of "proof of value" free content on YouTube? Again, extremely baffling, and a level of incompetence that overshadows a "cunning" greed. But, like I said earlier, they did walk this decision back almost immediately. If I've misunderstood this and that was never their plan, please let me know, I don't want to be spreading misinformation in a situation that is already so convoluted.

#jacksgreyson #writing #nonfiction #essay #watcher #op-ed #youtube #drawfee #corridor digital #dropout #rocketjump #dungeons and daddies

[des-no9]

Des' Githyanki Genitals HC

Hey and welcome to another lore dump of Des' githyanki HCs!!! As usual, we're all about sex and fucking in here, and githyanki are aliens. So we gotta make their bits fun.

Also, they lay eggs now (never used to apparently, we'll get to that). So I've accounted for that in their genitals.

Also!! I'l got different HCs for the Older generation githyanki -think Voss and Orpheus age- as I HC the githyanki that were alive during their rebellion, and not long after it, differ somewhat to modern githyanki like Lae'zel, and one of my OCs who will be modelling, Tuj.

Gonna go chronologically here, and start with the oldies. Voss is my model for this (obviously).

This is a long post btw lol. Also disclaimer: I'm only talking about the githyanki mostly. Thinking about the githzerai and their reproduction is a whole other beast LOL. Enjoy <3

Obvious TW for talk of slavery, breeding, eggs, violence, rape, lots of genitalia talk and art by yours truly

Older Generation Githyanki Genitals - during ensalvement to early Vlaakiths.

So the vague general consensus in the lore seems to be that the gith originally descended from humans in the very beginning, and this makes me think that their genitals early on during their enslavement and early in their freedom were closer to what we know our human genitalia to be.

But, then we have the illithid's experiments and how that changed their physiology quite vastly over the X number of years.

I HC that many of the illithid colonies varied, and so therefore so did the githyanki (shall be using githyanki to refer to them then even if that wasn't their name then). Some colonies were more focused purely on the numbers, breeding, breeding to send to other colonies for X purposes in their slavery. (I HC Vlaakith I was a branded breeding slave). So would have efficient genitalia. Maybe very little sexual dimorphism. Maybe closer to the modern githyanki like now with asexual breeding.

Some other colonies (like one I HC Voss came from) were bred purely as soldiers, attack and guard dogs. So they refined their physiology very strictly to breed the best, the strongest. Bearing in mind the need for the best warriors and breeders, so therefore keeping their genitalia tucked away and protected when not in use was essential.

It also makes me think things about some of the illithid colonies essentially neutering the githyanki in gestation and only keeping a select few breeders (much parallels to modern githyanki lol) basically to stop their slaves having sexual desire for each other or anything else, cutting it off and only having necessary urges. But I digress.

Basically during this era and the early years before they started breeding through eggs, I HC there was MUCH more variance in their genitalia (and probably some of their other physiology honestly) before it started to become much more streamlined through their eggs and no doubt the Vlaakiths interfering with their breeding to create the best, supreme, unified race in the one Vlaakith's vision.

So, I sketched up what I imagined Voss' genitals to be (obviously). I HC he has a slit where his bits are protected during fighting, since he was bred to be a fighter/attack dog for the illithid.

NOTE: his slit extends further down.

Notes and important points if you can't read my writing:

cock (easy word to use for it) sheathed inside slit

slit widens and gets wet when aroused, and the skin inside is rough, but is usually wrapped around to protect the cock even if the slit widens on arousal

cock can be pulled out from its sheath manually and how it sits soft

so, Voss' is a little different to the rest of his colonies would have looked purely because it's scarred to shit (from his hubris) They mostly all had two dicks, but the scar tissue healed his together (don't worry, he gets them separated again :>) and they can stick together as one if you want during arousal, or can be used as two For Their Pleasure :tm:

the tip can move independently. Very sensitive.

can come through slit and cock

slit gets wet and easily over stimulated

can come from slit stimulation alone

I think his colony bred more 'traditionally' how we know it as humans. Voss was a traditionally bred and live birth baby to me (Orpheus too). I think a lot of the early githyanki were traditionally bred as we know it, but some with varying ways of conception, birth lengths, delivery, even incubation

I like to think that maybe little spikes come out of the ridges on his cock to embed into whoever he's fucking if he wants to, to hold them in place, for some extra pain and usual githyanki sadism. This was specific to his colony and maybe one or two others, and maybe appears again in some modern githyanki.

I HC Orpheus has a slit too, but is maybe a little more in the human camp to what we know genitalia to be like since he's also ancient and a traditional non-egg baby. Closer to the ancestors they came from. I just like to HC that because he IS a little more....gentler, rounder, smooth, 'humanised' than a lot of the other githyanki we see. I love thinking about the little differences that set Orpheus apart from his people, even though he IS his people, the lifeblood of them. The blood of their Mother. Anyway, I digress.

Basically, for the oldies I think there's a LOT of freedom to be creative and almost do anything, using the illithid experiments, that they're aliens and so much unknown as our excuse. Also don't forget the most important - fun, and shoving all our kinks onto our fictional loves 24/7.

Modern Githyanki Genitalia HCS - egg time

So, the shift to egg laying and apparently it's asexual. I have a LOT of thoughts about this. With this happening thousands of years ago and also with them transitioning from NOT egg laying (putting in the assumption of live births here) to egg laying, there would be some sort of accommodation and change in their physiology for this, right?

Also this doesn't happen quickly. Magic can help yes! Also, they're aliens. Aliens can defy everything and anything we know as humans. I try not to press too much of our human and earth knowledge and experience onto alien races because who is to say their experiences and such are like ours. And also it makes it more fun for me to step away from the known into unknown and other possibilities. But anyway.

Lae'zel says the transition happened to egg laying after they were freed from the illithid and under Vlaakith's power. Now, I like to HC that Vlaakith kind of has this under her control (and therefore, all the subsequent Vlaakith's control). It's kind of like, a mass population control, sterilisation, selective, experimental and controlled breeding to try create her own perfect race in essence.

The execution is flawed, of course. Probably changes over time with all the (over 100) of Vlaakiths and leadership changes, in-fighting, evolution of the githyanki from the beginning of their enslavement to now. But the idea is there. And it sticks.

Okay so. As above I mentioned I HC there was a lot of differences between the githyanki in their genitalia from the different illithid colonies. And at first, transitioning to egg laying was probably a slow process as the first generation probably died out, or through their own ghustils, technology, psionics, they started to try to change their own bodies to accommodate egg laying. Some failed, some managed it. It was a difficult process that also in essence weeded out the weak for Vlaakith too.

And then once the eggs started laying, hatching, they probably still tinkered with them. Making sure the hatchlings that were born would be able to breed more and were born right, strong, and the proper future of their people. There were still probably live births happening at the very start during the transition, but magic and psionics probably sped this process along - even if it was probably very traumatic for a lot of newly annointed githyanki. Jumping from being experimented on by illithid in slave colonies to experimenting on yourself, and by your ghustil on order of your Queen? Fantastic. Just brilliant.

Fast forward to now and the githyanki genitalia are mostly uniform I think. Much more so than when they first gained their freedom and called themselves githyanki.

I think there's probably still some differences. Like genetic anomalies. And also that the atmosphere/plane etc of long-term creches can have influences on their hatcheries/eggs. Say a creche on a completely different material plane to Faerun's, or it's near like somewhere with intense psionic or void energy. I think things like that could (and do in canon!) have definite changes on physiology. (NOTE: I also like thinking about this in regard to things like skin-tone, texture, spot pattern, hair colour, face shape, accent.....the list is endless lol)

Okay. So. Without further delay here is my OC Tuj'da to model his bits for you :3

Notes:

some githyanki have less/more slits. Less is much less common as three is standard for efficient egg-laying.

all sexes can lay eggs

their shape and layout can look unique/different. eg, longer, smaller, more protruding. Think like different penis and vulva shapes. (Note: I took a lot of inspiration for the shape of their genitals from Art Deco shapes and style lol)

much like the older generation githyanki slits if they had them, they widen when aroused, and also when carrying eggs and to lay them

some githyanki are more sensitive in their smaller/egg slits than their main slits

their is sexual dimorphism between their genitals usually, but that can only be seen when aroused.

their cock positioning can be different too from where it comes from, and folds up and inside the githyanki. Lots of githyanki can control the length of their cock by using their psionics, but does require significant concentration and skill

very sensitive at the middle of their cock so some of them like to shorten it to cover that bit up to last even longer sometimes

they can be fucked with their cock tucked inside. It's uncomfortable for some, for others it's the best thing on the menu.

very short refractory period, if at all

they cum a lot. It tastes kind of sweet.

(after Vlaakith's sterilisation and population control is dissolved) fertilisation often requires psonics of some sort

I'm undecided on this, but for such a violent race that rape and also enjoy consenting sexual violence, I think maybe they'd also evolve/keep/develop the small spikes in their ridges that they can make pop out at will to embed into their partner. These ALSO come out from the ridged skin inside the sheath, not just the cock :>

their skin in general is rougher, tougher than other istik races so can take a much rougher fuck, and I think a willing istik's first time with a githyanki partner, there might be a bit of adjustment for...soreness lol

I haven't got many HCs for their actual fertilisation, their eggs, pregnancy etc as pregnancy etc can be a bit of squick for me, but most other things around it and eggs etc are okay. So I haven't thought too much about the actual way they GET egged up, lay them, fertilised etc. Maybe that's for another day.

For now, hope you enjoy these HCs! Some of them may change/I may adapt them as I continue to write the githyanki, but I feel like I'm happy with most of this!

Feel free to use any and all if you enjoy them <3! Thank you for reading and getting this far, hah. I just love the githyanki so much, they bring me so much joy. And I hope they do to you too.

-Des

#bg3 #githyanki #kith'rak voss #baldur's gate 3 #dungeons and dragons #dnd #des' HCs #des talks about githyanki genitals for thousands of words? no-one is surprised whatsoever #des writes #des draws #des' meta #tuj tag #as always love to hear your thoughts!!!!!

[songbirdseung]

gleam & glow / yang jungwon

synopsis: make the clock reverse, bring back once was mine. heal what has been hurt, change the fate's design.

pairing: director!jungwon x florist!reader

warning: pov changes midway, angst, not proof read

wc: 14k

Highschool Freshman

"Honey, you're gonna be late for school!" your mom calls you for the nth time from the back door. It was nearing the time where your dad had to drop you off to school, but there you were with your father, helping him plant another set of flowers and plants.

You glance back at the array of blooms, their vibrant colors dancing in the morning sunlight, and you smile to yourself. This is where you belong, among the petals and leaves, nurturing life and beauty. The scent of soil and fresh blossoms fills your senses, grounding you in the present moment.

Despite your mother's persistent reminders, you can't tear yourself away from the garden. Each flower tells a story, and you're determined to be a part of it, to coax every bud into full bloom. This passion for floristry has been with you since you were a child, and it's only grown stronger over the years.

As your dad finishes planting the last flower, he gives you a proud smile. "You've got a green thumb, just like your old man," he says, ruffling your hair affectionately. You grin up at him, feeling a surge of pride at his praise.

With a reluctant sigh, you finally tear yourself away from the garden and head inside to grab your school bag. As you rush to the car, you can't help but steal one last glance at the flowers, already imagining the arrangements you'll create when you return home.

-

The film set buzzed with energy as lights flickered, cameras rolled, and actors delivered their lines with precision. Amidst the organized chaos, Jungwon stood tall, a determined expression etched on his face as he observed the scene unfolding before him. His mother, the main producer of the film, moved gracefully among the crew, her presence commanding respect and admiration from everyone on set.

During a brief break in filming, Jungwon found himself standing beside his mother, watching her confer with the director about the next scene. Despite his young age, he felt a sense of pride in being part of the filmmaking process, a passion he inherited from his mother.

"Jungwon, darling, are you ready for school?" his mother asked, her voice cutting through the din of the set.

Jungwon nodded, but before he could make his way to the car, his mother's assistant, a young woman with a brisk manner and sharp wit, approached them.

"Mrs. Yang, I can take Jungwon to school. It's on my way," she offered, her gaze flickering briefly to Jungwon before returning to his mother.

Mrs. Yang considered the offer for a moment before nodding in agreement. "Thank you, Minji. That would be a great help."

As they made their way to the car, he couldn't shake the feeling that today held the promise of something unexpected, something beyond the confines of his usual routine.

-

As your father pulls up to the school gates, you gather your bag and prepare to step out of the car. Just as you're about to open the door, you notice Jungwon's familiar figure approaching from the opposite direction. Your eyes meet, and for a brief moment, a spark of recognition passes between you.

"Hey" Jungwon says with a friendly smile as he reaches your side.

"Hey" you reply, returning his smile.

You fall into step together, walking side by side towards the school building. It's a strange feeling for both of you, this newfound camaraderie born out of shared history and mutual acquaintances. Normally, you would exchange a polite greeting and then go your separate ways, but today feels different somehow.

"So, how's it going?" Jungwon asks, breaking the silence between you.

"Pretty good, I guess," you reply, shrugging. "Just the usual school stuff."

Jungwon nods, his expression thoughtful. "Yeah, same here. But hey, at least it's Friday, right?"

You share a laugh at Jungwon's remark, the tension between you easing with each step you take. It's strange, you think, how comfortable you feel in Jungwon's presence, as if you've known each other for much longer than you actually have.

As the bell rings signaling the start of the first class, you and Jungwon find yourselves walking side by side once again. The easy rapport you shared earlier continues as you chat about random topics, enjoying each other's company more than you expected.

As you enter the classroom, you head towards your usual seat, but Jungwon surprises you by walking over and taking the empty seat beside you. You exchange a glance, both surprised and pleased by his decision.

"Hey," Jungwon says with a grin as he settles into the seat next to you. "Mind if I sit here? I was enjoying our conversation earlier and thought we could continue it."

You can't help but smile at his words, feeling a warmth spread through you at the thought of spending more time with him. "Sure, I'd like that," you reply, scooting your chair a bit closer to his.

As the teacher begins the lesson, you and Jungwon continue your conversation in hushed tones, exchanging thoughts and ideas with a newfound ease. It's a refreshing change from the usual monotony of class, and you find yourself more engaged and focused than ever before.

By the end of the class, you and Jungwon have covered a range of topics, from your favorite movies to your dreams for the future. As you gather your things to leave, Jungwon turns to you with a smile.

"Thanks for letting me sit with you," he says, his eyes sparkling with genuine appreciation. "I had a great time talking to you."

You return his smile, feeling a sense of warmth and connection that you haven't felt in a long time. "Anytime," you reply, meaning every word. "We should do it again sometime."

As you and Jungwon part ways after class, a sense of contentment lingers in the air, leaving you with a smile on your face as you step out of the room. However, your thoughts are quickly interrupted as you spot your best friend waiting for you outside, a mischievous grin playing on her lips.

"Well, well, well, what do we have here?" she teases, wiggling her eyebrows suggestively. "Seems like someone had a little study date with Jungwon, huh?"

You roll your eyes at her playful tone, but a blush creeps up your cheeks nonetheless. "It wasn't a study date," you protest, though your voice lacks conviction.

"Uh-huh, sure it wasn't," your friend replies, nudging you with her elbow. "I saw you two in there, chatting away like old friends. Don't think I didn't notice."

You sigh, knowing there's no point in denying it. "Okay, fine, maybe we were talking. But it was nothing serious," you insist, though a part of you wonders if it could be.

Your friend raises an eyebrow, her grin widening. "Sure, keep telling yourself that. But mark my words, something's brewing between you two. I can feel it."

You shake your head, unable to suppress a smile at your friend's antics. "You're ridiculous, you know that?"

"Hey, I'm just calling it like I see it," she says with a shrug. "But seriously, if something is going on with you and Jungwon, I'm here for it. I ship it."

You laugh at her enthusiasm, grateful for her unwavering support. "Thanks, I guess. We'll see what happens."

With that, you and your friend head off down the hallway, the teasing banter fading into the background as you both prepare for the rest of the day ahead.

For Jungwon, he steps out of the classroom, he's greeted by his friends Sunoo and Ni-ki, who are waiting for him with smirks on their faces. Sunoo nudges him playfully, raising an eyebrow inquisitively.

"Look who decided to grace us with his presence," Sunoo says, a teasing lilt in his voice. "And who's this mysterious girl you were strolling in with earlier? Spill the beans, Jungwon."

Jungwon rolls his eyes at his friend's antics, though he can't help but feel a twinge of embarrassment at being caught. "It's nothing," he insists, though his tone lacks conviction.

"Nothing, huh?" Ni-ki chimes in, his grin widening. "That's not what it looked like from where we were standing. You two seemed pretty chummy."

"Okay, fine, we were talking," he admits, feeling a flush of warmth spread across his cheeks. "But it's not a big deal." Sunoo and Ni-ki exchange a knowing glance, their smiles turning into mischievous grins. "Sure, whatever you say," Sunoo says, his tone dripping with sarcasm.

"But seriously, who is she?" Ni-ki asks, his curiosity getting the better of him. "I don't think I've seen her around before."

"Just someone from my class," he replies, hoping to deflect their interest. "We were just talking, that's all." "Alright, man, if you say so," Sunoo says with a shrug. "But if anything juicy happens, you better fill us in."

-

As you make your way home from school, the events of the day replay in your mind like a movie reel. You can't shake the feeling of warmth that lingers from your conversation with Jungwon earlier. Despite your initial hesitation, you have to admit that you enjoyed spending time with him, and a small part of you wonders what could come of your newfound friendship.

The familiar sights and sounds of your neighborhood greet you as you approach your house, the comforting familiarity wrapping around you like a warm embrace. You take a moment to admire the flowers blooming in your front yard, their colors vibrant against the backdrop of the setting sun.

As you step inside, the scent of dinner wafts through the air, signaling that your parents are already home. You find them in the kitchen, chatting animatedly as they prepare the evening meal. You join them at the table, eager to share the events of your day.

"Hey, Mom, Dad," you greet them with a smile. "Guess what happened at school today?"

Your parents turn to you with interest, their eyes lighting up as you recount your encounter with Jungwon. You tell them about how you walked to class together, how you ended up sitting next to each other, and how you had a surprisingly enjoyable conversation.

Your parents listen intently, their smiles growing wider with each passing moment. But then, your dad chuckles and gives you a playful wink.

"Careful, sweetheart," he jokes, "don't let any boys distract you from your studies. You know, we don't want any boyfriends until you're at least thirty!"

You roll your eyes at your dad's teasing, but a laugh escapes your lips nonetheless. "Don't worry, Dad," you assure him, "I'm not planning on getting a boyfriend anytime soon."

Your parents share a knowing look, their smiles filled with affection. They can see the spark of excitement in your eyes, the hint of something new and promising on the horizon.

"Well, it sounds like you had a wonderful day," your mom says with a smile, reaching out to squeeze your hand. "Who knows, maybe this Jungwon will turn out to be a special friend."

-

You and Jungwon's bond deepens with each passing day, as you share lunches, late-night texts, and study sessions at the local library, stealing glances and smiles between equations. Movie nights at Jungwon's house become a regular occurrence, where you snuggle up on the couch with blankets and popcorn, discussing your favorite films and sharing laughs.

Together, you embark on adventures, exploring hidden spots in the city, trying new foods, and making memories that will last a lifetime. When you faces challenges with your floristry, Jungwon is there for you, offering encouragement and a shoulder to lean on.

Heart-to-heart conversations about hopes, dreams, and fears deepen the connection, while shared hobbies like photography and hiking bring you even closer.

-

Highschool Junior

As you and Jungwon spend the afternoon together at your house, watering your flowers and sharing laughter, you can't help but feel a sense of warmth and contentment wash over you. The sun filters through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the ground as you work side by side, tending to the garden you love so much. Suddenly, a thought crosses your mind as you watch Jungwon carefully water a delicate orchid.

"Hey, Jungwon," you say, a playful smile tugging at your lips, "did you know that your name means 'garden' in English?"

Jungwon looks up from his task, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Really? Well, in that case, I guess you must love me, huh?"

You can't help but laugh at his joke, the sound echoing through the garden like music. But then, in the midst of all the banter and laughter, Jungwon's expression turns serious, his gaze softening as he looks at you.

"Actually, YN," he says, his voice quiet but earnest, "there's something I've been wanting to tell you."

You pause, feeling a flutter of anticipation in your chest as you wait for him to continue. Jungwon takes a deep breath, his eyes never leaving yours.

"I think you're cute," he blurts out, his cheeks flushing slightly. "And I'm attracted to you, more than I've ever been to anyone else."

Your heart skips a beat at his words, a rush of emotions flooding through you. You can hardly believe what you're hearing, but the sincerity in Jungwon's eyes leaves no room for doubt.

Before you can respond, Jungwon reaches out and takes your hand in his, his touch sending a jolt of electricity through your veins. "I know this might be sudden, and I understand if you don't feel the same way," he says softly, "but I couldn't keep it to myself any longer. I just had to tell you how I feel."

For a moment, you're speechless, overwhelmed by the intensity of your emotions. But then, with a shaky breath, you meet Jungwon's gaze and offer him a shy smile.

"Jungwon," you say, your voice barely above a whisper, "I… I feel the same way."

A smile spreads across Jungwon's face, lighting up his eyes with joy and relief. Without another word, he leans in and presses his lips to yours.

Inside the house, your parents glance out the window and spot their daughter locked in a passionate embrace with Jungwon.

"Looks like our little YN has found herself a boyfriend," your mom remarks with a knowing smirk, nudging her husband with her elbow.

Her husband chuckles, shaking his head in amusement. "Well, it was bound to happen sooner or later. Let's just hope he knows how to water the flowers as well as he kisses our daughter."

-

Senior High

As a senior in high school, being in a relationship with Jungwon feels like a dream come true. Every day is filled with laughter, love, and shared adventures, and you couldn't be happier. Walking hand in hand through the halls, you feel a sense of pride knowing that he's yours and you're his.

Together, you navigate the ups and downs of senior year, supporting each other through exams, college applications, and the uncertainty of the future. Jungwon's unwavering encouragement and belief in you give you the strength to pursue your dreams, whether it's opening your own flower shop or exploring new passions.

But it's not just the big moments that make your relationship special. It's the little things, like stealing kisses between classes, passing notes in study hall, and sharing inside jokes that only you understand. Even on the toughest days, Jungwon's smile has a way of brightening your world and reminding you that everything will be okay.

As graduation day approaches, you can't help but feel a mixture of excitement and sadness. Excitement for the adventures that lie ahead and the memories you'll create together, but also sadness at the thought of leaving behind the familiar comforts of high school and stepping into the unknown.

But one thing is certain: no matter where life takes you, Jungwon and you will face it together, hand in hand, heart to heart. Your love is strong, your bond unbreakable, and you know that as long as you have each other, you can overcome anything that comes your way.

In the cozy sanctuary of your bedroom, soft lamplight casts a warm glow as you and Jungwon settle onto your bed, surrounded by an array of fluffy pillows and blankets. With a laptop balanced on your laps, you browse through a selection of movies, trying to decide on the perfect one for your movie night.

As the opening credits of your chosen film roll across the screen, you can't shake the nagging feeling that's been gnawing at you all evening. With a hesitant sigh, you turn to Jungwon, your expression serious.

"Jungwon, can I ask you something?" you begin, your voice tinged with uncertainty.

Jungwon turns to you, his brows furrowing slightly in concern. "Of course, what's on your mind?"

You hesitate for a moment, gathering your thoughts before speaking. "Well, with college just around the corner and everything… I've been thinking about us, you know?"

Jungwon's expression softens as he reaches out to gently squeeze your hand. "What about us, YN?"

"It's just… I've heard people say that high school sweethearts don't usually last once they go off to college," you admit, your voice barely above a whisper. "And I can't help but worry about what that means for us."

Jungwon's lips curl into a reassuring smile as he leans in to brush a kiss against your forehead. "Hey, relax," he says gently, his tone soothing. "We haven't even graduated yet, let alone started college. There's no need to worry about what might happen in the future."

Despite his attempt to lighten the mood, you can't shake the feeling of unease that lingers in the pit of your stomach. "But Jungwon, what if…?"

Before you can finish your sentence, Jungwon interrupts with a playful grin. "What if we end up ruling the world together? What if we discover a portal to a parallel universe? What if we become famous movie stars?"

You can't help but laugh at his antics, the tension in your chest easing slightly. "Okay, okay, I get it," you say, shaking your head in amusement. "You're right, we shouldn't worry about things that haven't even happened yet."

With a shared smile, you turn your attention back to the movie, content to lose yourselves in the world of cinema and each other's company. And as you snuggle close beneath the blankets, you find yourself feeling grateful for the love and reassurance that Jungwon brings into your life, knowing that no matter what the future holds, you'll face it together, hand in hand.

As you and Jungwon navigate the bustling aisles of the dress shop, the anticipation of graduation hangs heavy in the air. With each step, you can't help but feel a flutter of excitement mingled with a hint of nervousness. This moment marks the culmination of your high school journey, and finding the perfect dress feels like an important step in celebrating the occasion.

After browsing through racks of dresses, you finally settle on a few options and make your way to the dressing room. As you slip into the first dress and admire yourself in the mirror, you can't help but feel a rush of excitement. This could be the one.

With a deep breath, you step out of the dressing room, the fabric of the dress flowing gracefully around you. Jungwon's eyes widen in awe as he catches sight of you, his breath catching in his throat.

For a moment, time seems to stand still as Jungwon takes you in, his gaze tracing every curve and contour of your figure. In that instant, you can see the love and admiration shining in his eyes, so pure and unguarded that it takes your breath away.

"You… you look incredible," Jungwon stammers, his voice barely above a whisper. "Absolutely stunning."

A blush creeps up your cheeks at his words, a warm rush of emotion flooding through you. In that moment, you realize just how deeply Jungwon cares for you, his love shining brighter than ever before.

With a shy smile, you twirl in the dress, feeling the fabric swirl around you like a dream. And as you meet Jungwon's gaze once more, you know without a doubt that this is the dress you were meant to wear on graduation day.

As you step out in the stunning dress, Jungwon's reaction is priceless. His eyes widen, his jaw drops, and for a moment, he's utterly speechless. You can't help but giggle at his reaction, feeling a surge of confidence wash over you.

"Like what you see?" you tease, a mischievous twinkle in your eye as you twirl in the dress, enjoying the way it sways around you.

Jungwon snaps out of his trance, a playful grin spreading across his face. "You have no idea," he says, his voice filled with admiration. "You look absolutely breathtaking, YN."

You chuckle at his flattery, feeling a warmth spread through your chest at his words. But before you can say anything else, Jungwon steps forward and envelops you in a tight hug, his arms wrapping around you protectively.

"Hey, no need to tease," he says, his voice soft and sincere as he holds you close. "I mean every word. You're the most beautiful person I've ever seen, inside and out."

You melt into his embrace, feeling a rush of love and gratitude wash over you. In that moment, you're reminded of just how lucky you are to have Jungwon by your side, supporting you, loving you, and making you feel like the most special person in the world.

After buying the dress, you and Jungwon spend the rest of the day together, soaking up each other's company and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it's strolling through the park, sharing ice cream cones, or simply enjoying each other's presence, every moment is filled with love and laughter.

-

High School Graduation

As the sun rises on graduation day, a sense of excitement and anticipation fills the air. After years of hard work and dedication, the moment you've been waiting for has finally arrived. Today marks the culmination of your high school journey, and you can't help but feel a mixture of emotions as you prepare to embark on the next chapter of your life.

With butterflies fluttering in your stomach, you slip into your graduation gown and mortarboard, the fabric smooth against your skin. As you look at yourself in the mirror, you can't help but feel a swell of pride. This is it – the moment you've been waiting for.

Stepping outside, you're greeted by a sea of familiar faces – classmates, teachers, and proud parents – all gathered to celebrate this milestone moment. The atmosphere is electric, filled with laughter, hugs, and congratulations.

As you make your way to the ceremony venue, the excitement builds with each step. The sound of Pomp and Circumstance fills the air, signaling the beginning of the procession. With your heart pounding in your chest, you take your place among your classmates, ready to take the next step forward into adulthood.

The ceremony itself is a blur of speeches, awards, and diplomas, but amidst the whirlwind of activity, there are moments of profound significance. You listen intently as your classmates deliver heartfelt speeches, reflecting on the memories and friendships forged over the years.

And then, finally, it's your turn to walk across the stage and receive your diploma. As your name is called, you step forward with pride, the weight of this accomplishment settling on your shoulders. The applause rings in your ears as you accept the piece of paper that represents years of hard work and dedication.

But the true highlight of the day comes afterwards, as you gather with your friends and family to celebrate. Amidst the joy and laughter, you take a moment to reflect on the journey that has brought you to this point – the late nights studying, the friendships formed, the challenges overcome.

As the sun sets on this momentous day, you can't help but feel a sense of optimism for the future. Yes, there will be challenges ahead, but with the love and support of those around you, you know that anything is possible.

And as you look to the horizon, ready to embark on the next chapter of your life, you know that the memories of this day – of graduation day – will stay with you forever, a reminder of the strength and resilience that lies within you.

As the excitement of graduation day begins to wind down, you find yourself seeking a quiet moment amidst the festivities. Spotting Jungwon across the crowded room, you make your way over to him, a smile playing on your lips.

"Hey," you say softly, your voice barely above a whisper amidst the noise of the celebration.

Jungwon turns to you, his eyes lighting up at the sight of you. "Hey," he replies, his voice warm with affection.

As you stand together amidst the hustle and bustle of the crowd, you can't help but feel a surge of gratitude for this moment – for Jungwon, for the love you share, for everything that has brought you to this point.

Without a word, Jungwon reaches out and takes your hand in his, his touch sending a jolt of warmth through your veins. In that simple gesture, you feel a connection that runs deeper than words could ever express.

With a shared smile, you step away from the crowd, seeking out a quieter corner where you can be alone together. Finding a secluded spot beneath the shade of a towering oak tree, you settle onto a nearby bench, the world falling away as you focus on each other.

As you sit together, hand in hand, you can't help but reflect on the journey that has brought you to this moment – the highs and lows, the laughter and tears, the love that has blossomed between you.

"Can you believe we made it?" you say softly, breaking the silence that hangs between you.

Jungwon squeezes your hand gently, his gaze never leaving yours. "I can," he replies, his voice filled with certainty. "Because we did it together."

In that moment, surrounded by the warmth of the afternoon sun and the gentle rustle of leaves overhead, you feel an overwhelming sense of peace. No matter what the future holds, you know that as long as you have Jungwon by your side, you can overcome anything that comes your way.

And as you lean into his embrace, feeling the steady beat of his heart against yours, you know that this – this sweet, simple moment of togetherness – is all you'll ever need to be happy.

-

A week after the whirlwind of graduation, you find yourself enjoying a quiet moment with Jungwon, just the two of you, on a romantic date. As you stroll hand in hand through the park, the late afternoon sun casts a golden glow over everything, bathing the world in warmth and light.

With the hustle and bustle of graduation behind you, you relish the chance to simply be together, away from the pressures of school and the uncertainty of the future. With each step, you feel a sense of freedom and possibility, as if the world is yours for the taking.

As you walk, you find yourselves lost in conversation, sharing hopes, dreams, and aspirations for the future. Jungwon listens intently, his eyes filled with warmth and understanding as he takes in every word you say.

And then, as the sun begins to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the grass, you come to a stop beside a tranquil pond, its surface shimmering in the fading light.

Without a word, Jungwon takes your hand in his, his touch sending a rush of warmth through your veins. In that moment, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the quiet stillness of the evening, you feel a sense of peace wash over you.

With a smile, Jungwon pulls you close, his arms wrapping around you in a gentle embrace. And as you lean into his warmth, feeling the steady rhythm of his heartbeat against your chest, you know that this – this sweet, simple moment of togetherness – is all you'll ever need to be happy.

As the stars begin to twinkle overhead, casting their soft light upon you, you close your eyes and simply savor the moment, grateful for the love and companionship that fills your heart.

And as you stand there, wrapped in Jungwon's arms, you know that no matter what the future holds, as long as you have each other, you'll always find your way.

A week after your tranquil park date, you find yourselves embarking on another adventure together. This time, you've decided to explore the vibrant streets of the city, eager to discover hidden gems and create new memories with Jungwon by your side.

As you wander hand in hand through the bustling streets, the energy of the city surrounds you, filling you with a sense of excitement and anticipation. With each step, you're greeted by a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and smells – the laughter of children playing in the park, the aroma of freshly baked pastries wafting from a nearby bakery, the colorful murals adorning the walls of buildings.

With no destination in mind, you let your feet lead the way, allowing yourselves to get lost in the rhythm of the city. You stop to admire street performers, their music filling the air with joy and laughter, and browse through quirky boutiques, discovering treasures at every turn.

As the afternoon stretches into evening, you find yourselves drawn to a quaint café nestled on a quiet side street. With its cozy atmosphere and twinkling fairy lights, it feels like a hidden oasis in the midst of the bustling city.

Seated at a small table by the window, you and Jungwon share a delicious meal, savoring each bite as you engage in lively conversation. You talk about everything and nothing – your hopes, your fears, your dreams for the future – basking in the warmth of each other's company.

As the evening wears on, you find yourselves lingering over dessert, reluctant to let the night end. With a smile, Jungwon suggests taking a leisurely stroll through the city under the stars, and you eagerly agree.

Hand in hand, you wander through the quiet streets, the cityscape illuminated by the soft glow of streetlights. With each step, you feel a sense of closeness and connection, as if the world has faded away and all that matters is the two of you.

As you reach the end of your journey, you find yourselves standing on a bridge overlooking the river, the lights of the city twinkling in the distance. In that moment, with Jungwon's arms wrapped around you and the world at your feet, you feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude and love.

And as you lean into Jungwon's embrace, watching the stars shimmering overhead, you know that this – this sweet, simple moment of togetherness – is all you'll ever need to be happy.

-

As you and Jungwon sit down to dinner with his family, the warm aroma of home-cooked food fills the air, creating a cozy atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. Around the table, Jungwon's family members chat and laugh, their voices mingling with the clink of silverware and the gentle hum of conversation.

As the meal progresses, Jungwon's parents turn their attention to you and Jungwon, their eyes filled with curiosity and warmth.

"So, YN, Jungwon," his mother begins, her tone gentle but inquisitive, "now that you're about to embark on your college journey, have you thought about what you want to study?"

You exchange a glance with Jungwon, a smile tugging at the corners of your lips as you consider the question. It's something you've thought about often in recent weeks, weighing your passions and interests against the possibilities that lie ahead.

"I've been thinking about studying botany," you reply, your voice steady with conviction. "I've always had a love for plants and flowers, and I think it would be amazing to learn more about them and maybe even pursue a career in floristry."

Jungwon's parents nod approvingly, their expressions filled with encouragement and support. "That sounds wonderful, YN," his father says with a smile. "It's clear that you have a passion for it, and we have no doubt that you'll excel in whatever you choose to pursue."

Turning to Jungwon, his parents pose the same question, their curiosity piqued.

Jungwon takes a moment to consider his answer, his brow furrowing slightly in thought. "I've always been drawn to storytelling," he begins, his voice thoughtful. "Whether it's through film, photography, or writing, there's something about the power of storytelling that fascinates me. I think I want to study film and pursue a career as a director."

His parents nod in understanding, their expressions filled with pride. "That's wonderful, Jungwon," his mother says, her voice filled with admiration. "We've always admired your creativity and passion for storytelling, and we have no doubt that you'll go far in whatever path you choose."

As the conversation continues, you and Jungwon share a smile, grateful for the love and support of his family. In that moment, surrounded by warmth and acceptance, you know that no matter what the future holds, as long as you have each other and the support of your loved ones, you'll be able to achieve anything you set your minds to.

As the time to apply for colleges approaches, you and Jungwon find yourselves facing a myriad of decisions and possibilities. Together, you sit down to discuss your options, weighing the pros and cons of applying to local universities versus pursuing opportunities abroad.

With a stack of college brochures spread out before you, you pore over the details, each option representing a different path forward. Local universities offer familiarity and the comfort of home, while studying abroad promises adventure and new experiences.

"It's a tough decision," Jungwon admits, running a hand through his hair in frustration. "On one hand, staying local means we can be close to our families and friends. But on the other hand, studying abroad could open up so many new opportunities for us."

You nod in agreement, understanding the weight of the decision that lies before you. "I know," you say softly, reaching out to squeeze Jungwon's hand in reassurance. "But no matter what we decide, we'll figure it out together."

After much deliberation and soul-searching, you and Jungwon finally come to a decision. You'll each apply to a mix of local and international universities, keeping your options open and embracing the possibilities that lie ahead.

As you fill out the applications and gather the necessary documents, you can't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation building within you. The world is full of possibilities, and no matter where your college journey takes you, you know that you'll face it together, hand in hand, heart to heart.

As the months pass and the application process comes to a close, you and Jungwon find yourselves facing another hurdle on the road to college: entrance exams. With determination and resolve, you throw yourselves into studying, pouring over textbooks, reviewing notes, and practicing sample questions late into the night.

On the day of the exams, nerves flutter in your stomach as you and Jungwon make your way to the testing center. The atmosphere is tense yet electrifying, as students from all walks of life gather together, each one hoping to secure their place at their dream university.

As you take your seats and the exams begin, time seems to blur together, hours melting away as you focus all of your energy and concentration on the task at hand. With each question, you feel a surge of adrenaline coursing through your veins, driving you forward even when doubts threaten to creep in.

Throughout it all, Jungwon is by your side, offering words of encouragement and support whenever you need it most. His presence is a source of strength and reassurance, grounding you in the midst of the chaos and uncertainty.

Finally, after what feels like an eternity, the exams come to an end, leaving you and Jungwon exhausted yet exhilarated. As you step out of the testing center and into the fresh air, a sense of relief washes over you, mingled with a hint of anxiety as you await the results.

In the weeks that follow, you and Jungwon anxiously await news of your exam scores, each passing day feeling like an eternity. But no matter what the outcome, you know that you've given it your all, and that together, you'll face whatever the future holds with courage and determination.

As the days pass and anticipation builds, you and Jungwon find yourselves eagerly checking your mailboxes and email inboxes, hoping for news of your college acceptances. Each day brings a mix of excitement and anxiety, as you wait for the letters and emails that will determine the next chapter of your lives.

Finally, one afternoon, the long-awaited news arrives. With trembling hands, you and Jungwon tear open the envelopes and click on the emails, hearts pounding in your chests as you read the words that will shape your futures.

At first, the news is promising. You've both been accepted to several prestigious universities, each one offering its own unique opportunities and experiences. For a moment, you allow yourselves to bask in the glow of success, celebrating the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.

But as you delve deeper into the details, a sinking feeling begins to settle in the pit of your stomachs. Despite applying to many of the same colleges, none of your acceptances align. Each of you has received offers from different universities, each one pulling you in a different direction.

For a moment, the realization hangs heavy in the air, casting a shadow over the excitement of the moment. You exchange a glance with Jungwon, a silent understanding passing between you as you come to terms with the fact that your college paths may be diverging.

But even as disappointment threatens to cloud your thoughts, you know that this is just another chapter in your journey together. No matter where life takes you, you'll face it together, supporting each other every step of the way.

As the reality of their diverging college paths sinks in, YN and Jungwon find themselves sitting together in Jungwon's room, the weight of the situation hanging heavy in the air. There's a palpable tension between them, a sense of uncertainty that neither knows quite how to navigate.

Taking a deep breath, YN breaks the silence that stretches between them. "Jungwon, we need to talk about this," she says softly, her voice tinged with a hint of sadness.

Jungwon nods in agreement, his expression mirroring her own. "I know," he replies, his voice equally subdued. "It's just… it's not what we expected, is it?"

Shaking her head, YN reaches out to take Jungwon's hand in hers, seeking comfort in his touch. "No, it's not," she admits, her voice trembling slightly. "But that doesn't mean we can't figure it out together."

Jungwon squeezes YN's hand gently, his gaze meeting hers with unwavering determination. "You're right," he says, his voice filled with conviction. "No matter where we go, we'll always be there for each other."

For a moment, they sit in silence, lost in their own thoughts as they grapple with the uncertainty of the future. But even amidst the uncertainty, there's a sense of reassurance in knowing that they have each other.

"I just wish…" YN begins, her voice trailing off as she struggles to find the right words.

Jungwon nods in understanding, knowing exactly what she means. "I wish things were different too," he admits, his voice tinged with regret. "But maybe this is just another chapter in our story – one that will make us stronger in the end."

As they sit together, hand in hand, they find solace in each other's presence, knowing that no matter what challenges lie ahead, as long as they have each other, they'll always find a way forward. And as they look to the future with hope and determination, they know that their love will carry them through whatever comes their way.

-

As the summer stretches out before them, YN and Jungwon find solace in the simple pleasures of spending time together, cherishing each moment as if it were their last before embarking on their separate college journeys.

They fill their days with laughter and adventure, exploring their favorite spots in the city and discovering new ones along the way. From picnics in the park to lazy afternoons at the beach, every moment is savored, every memory etched into their hearts.

Together, they revisit old haunts and reminisce about the moments that have shaped their relationship – the highs and lows, the laughter and tears, the love that has grown between them. And as they look to the future with uncertainty, they take comfort in the knowledge that no matter what lies ahead, their bond will remain unbreakable.

But amidst the laughter and joy, there are moments of sadness too – moments when the reality of their impending separation hits them with a force they can't ignore. In those moments, they cling to each other, finding strength and solace in the warmth of their embrace.

As the summer draws to a close and the time to choose their colleges approaches, YN and Jungwon find themselves faced with a decision that will shape the course of their lives. But no matter what the future holds, they know that the love they share will endure, guiding them through whatever challenges lie ahead.

-

Seeking solace and guidance, YN turns to her father, knowing that his wisdom and insight will help her navigate the difficult decision ahead. Sitting together in the comfort of their living room, she pours out her heart, sharing her fears and uncertainties about choosing between her dream school and being close to Jungwon.

Her father listens attentively, his expression thoughtful as he considers her dilemma. "YN," he begins, his voice gentle yet firm, "ultimately, the decision is yours to make. But remember, sometimes the right choice isn't always the easiest one."

His words resonate with YN, stirring something deep within her. She knows that her father is right – sometimes, the path to greatness requires sacrifices and difficult choices. But she can't shake the feeling of uncertainty that gnaws at her from within.

Turning to her siblings for advice, YN seeks their perspective on the matter. They offer differing opinions – some believe she should follow her dreams and choose her dream school, while others argue that she shouldn't sacrifice her aspirations for the sake of her relationship with Jungwon.

Feeling torn and conflicted, YN turns to her mother, hoping that her calming presence will help her find clarity amidst the chaos. Her mother listens with an open heart, offering words of comfort and encouragement.

"Listen to your heart, YN," her mother advises, her voice soft yet steady. "You know yourself better than anyone else. Trust your instincts and follow the path that feels right for you."

YN takes her mother's words to heart, realizing that the answer has been within her all along. With renewed clarity and determination, she sets out to make her decision, knowing that no matter what she chooses, as long as she follows her heart, she'll find her way. And with the unwavering support of her family and loved ones, she knows that she'll never be alone on this journey.

Jungwon finds himself torn between his passion for filmmaking and his desire to be with YN. Seeking counsel from his parents and sister, he grapples with the weight of their advice.

His mother's words echo in his mind – the prestigious film program beckoning him with promises of unparalleled opportunities and growth. Yet, the thought of being separated from YN gnaws at his heart, filling him with a sense of longing and uncertainty.

As he turns to his father for guidance, he finds reassurance in his words of wisdom. "Son," his father says, his voice steady and reassuring, "love is a powerful force. If you believe that YN is the one for you, then trust in that love and let it guide you."

His father's words strike a chord within Jungwon, reminding him of the depth of his feelings for YN and the strength of their bond. Yet, doubts linger in the back of his mind, overshadowing his convictions.

Turning to his older sister for advice, Jungwon finds validation in her perspective. "Follow your dreams, Jungwon," she says, her voice filled with conviction. "You've worked hard to get where you are, and you deserve to pursue your passion. YN will understand – true love knows no distance."

Her words resonate with Jungwon, filling him with a sense of resolve. Despite the challenges that lie ahead, he knows that he must follow his heart and chase his dreams, trusting that YN will be there by his side, no matter the distance.

With a newfound sense of clarity and determination, Jungwon sets out to make his decision, knowing that whatever path he chooses, as long as he follows his heart, he'll find his way. And with the unwavering support of his family and loved ones, he knows that he'll never be alone on this journey.

-

As YN and Jungwon meet in their favorite spot by the river, the air crackles with tension, each of them holding onto their decision like a precious secret. Sitting side by side, they exchange nervous glances, the weight of their choices heavy in the air between them.

Finally, summoning the courage to break the silence, YN takes a deep breath and speaks. "Jungwon, I've made my decision," she says, her voice steady despite the butterflies fluttering in her stomach. "I've chosen to attend one of the colleges that's closer to you, so we can be together."

Jungwon's heart skips a beat at YN's words, a surge of conflicting emotions washing over him. On one hand, he's filled with gratitude and love for YN, touched by her willingness to make sacrifices for their relationship. But on the other hand, he can't shake the nagging feeling of guilt, knowing that his decision may pull them apart.

Taking a moment to compose himself, Jungwon meets YN's gaze with a mixture of admiration and regret. "YN, I…" he begins, his voice catching in his throat as he struggles to find the right words. "I've also made my decision. I've chosen to attend my dream school – the one with the renowned film program."

The words hang heavy in the air between them, the silence stretching out as they grapple with the reality of their choices. For a moment, YN feels a pang of disappointment, a flicker of sadness clouding her expression. But then, she meets Jungwon's gaze with unwavering determination.

"I understand," she says softly, her voice filled with acceptance. "We both have dreams to chase, and I wouldn't want to hold you back from yours."

Jungwon's heart swells with gratitude and admiration for YN, overwhelmed by her selflessness and understanding. "Thank you, YN," he says, his voice choked with emotion. "I promise, no matter where life takes us, I'll always be there for you."

With tears glistening in their eyes, they share a bittersweet smile, knowing that while their paths may diverge for now, their love will remain as strong as ever. And as they sit together, hand in hand, watching the river flow gently by, they take comfort in the knowledge that no matter what challenges lie ahead, as long as they have each other, they'll always find their way.

As YN returns home, a whirlwind of emotions swirls within her, threatening to consume her from within. With each step, she feels the weight of her decision pressing down on her shoulders, the burden of sacrifice heavy in her heart.

Locking the door to her bedroom behind her, YN collapses onto her bed, the floodgates of emotion finally breaking open. Tears stream down her cheeks as she allows herself to surrender to the overwhelming wave of sadness and grief.

In the solitude of her room, YN lets out all the pent-up emotions she's been holding back, the tears flowing freely as she releases the pain and uncertainty that has been gnawing at her from within. Each sob is a cathartic release, a cleansing of the soul as she confronts the reality of her choices.

Hours pass as YN allows herself to grieve, the weight of her decision slowly lifting from her shoulders with each tear shed. And as the night wears on and the tears begin to dry, a sense of clarity begins to settle over her like a comforting blanket.

Wiping away the last of her tears, YN sits up straight, her resolve renewed and her heart lighter than it has been in days. With newfound determination, she reaches for her laptop and begins to draft an email to her dream school, accepting their offer of admission.

Though the road ahead may be filled with challenges and uncertainty, YN knows that she's making the right decision – the decision that aligns with her true passions and aspirations. And as she hits send on the email, a sense of peace washes over her, knowing that she's taking the first step towards a future filled with promise and possibility.

-

As YN begins to pack up her belongings, the reality of her impending move weighs heavily on her heart. With each item she carefully tucks away into boxes, she can't shake the feeling of sadness that threatens to overwhelm her.

As she sorts through her belongings, memories flood her mind – mementos of her time with Jungwon, reminders of the love they shared. A photograph of the two of them laughing together on a sunny day, a ticket stub from their first movie date, a pressed flower from their favorite park – each item a bittersweet reminder of what they're leaving behind.

But amidst the sadness, there's a sense of excitement too – the promise of new beginnings and adventures waiting just around the corner. YN clings to this sense of hope as she continues to pack, channeling her energy into preparing for the journey ahead.

Meanwhile, Jungwon finds himself faced with a similar task as he begins to pack up his belongings for his move abroad. Though the prospect of studying at his dream school fills him with anticipation and excitement, there's a pang of sadness in his heart as he realizes that he'll be leaving behind the life he's built with YN.

As he sifts through his belongings, he can't help but feel a sense of nostalgia for the memories they've shared – late-night study sessions, lazy weekends spent exploring the city, quiet moments of togetherness that he'll cherish forever.

But even as he packs up his belongings, Jungwon knows that this is just another chapter in their journey together. Though they may be separated by miles and oceans, their love will remain as strong as ever, guiding them through whatever challenges lie ahead.

And as YN and Jungwon stand on the brink of their respective moves, boxes packed and ready to go, they find solace in the knowledge that no matter where life takes them, as long as they have each other, they'll always find their way home.

A week later, YN and Jungwon find themselves standing face to face once again, their hearts heavy with the weight of impending separation. Though they had hoped to savor every moment together before their moves, the reality of their impending departures hangs over them like a shadow.

As they meet in their favorite spot by the river, the air is tinged with a bittersweet sense of nostalgia. Memories flood their minds – the laughter, the tears, the countless moments they've shared together – and for a moment, time seems to stand still.

"I can't believe it's only a month until you leave," YN says softly, her voice tinged with sadness. "It feels like time is slipping away too fast."

Jungwon nods in agreement, his expression mirroring YN's own. "I know," he says, his voice filled with regret. "I wish we could freeze this moment and stay here forever."

For a moment, they stand in silence, lost in their own thoughts as they grapple with the reality of their impending separation. But even amidst the sadness, there's a sense of determination in their hearts – a determination to make the most of the time they have left together.

As they walk along the riverbank, hand in hand, they savor every moment, committing each detail to memory – the sound of the water rushing past, the warmth of the sun on their skin, the gentle breeze ruffling their hair.

And as the sun begins to set on the horizon, casting a golden glow over the landscape, they find solace in each other's embrace, knowing that no matter where life takes them, their love will remain as strong as ever.

With a shared smile and a silent promise to cherish every moment they have left together, YN and Jungwon watch the sunset, knowing that even as they part ways, their hearts will always be intertwined, bound together by an unbreakable bond that transcends time and distance.

-

YN and Jungwon decide to spend a day at their favorite park, seeking solace in the familiar surroundings and the simple pleasures of nature. They stroll hand in hand along the winding paths, the rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds filling the air around them. Finding a secluded spot beneath a towering oak tree, they spread out a picnic blanket and unpack a basket filled with their favorite snacks. As they lounge in the dappled sunlight, they share stories and laughter, basking in the warmth of each other's company.

-

On a warm summer evening, YN and Jungwon decide to take a leisurely bike ride through the city streets, the soft glow of streetlights casting a romantic ambiance over the bustling cityscape. They pedal side by side, the cool night air brushing against their skin as they weave through the maze of streets and alleyways. With each turn, they discover hidden gems – quaint cafes, vibrant street art, and secret gardens tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life. And as they pedal into the night, their laughter echoing through the streets, they feel a sense of freedom and exhilaration that comes from exploring the world together.

-

In the comfort of YN's living room, YN and Jungwon spend a cozy evening curled up together on the couch, surrounded by stacks of their favorite movies and snacks. They take turns selecting films, ranging from classic romances to action-packed thrillers, losing themselves in the captivating stories unfolding on screen. Between movies, they share whispered conversations and stolen kisses, their laughter filling the room with warmth and affection. And as the night wears on and the credits roll on the final film, they find themselves reluctant to part ways, cherishing every precious moment they have together.

-

As they stand together at the airport, YN and Jungwon find themselves enveloped in a whirlwind of emotions – sadness, excitement, and a profound sense of longing. With their fingers intertwined and their hearts heavy with the weight of impending separation, they cling to each other as if they never want to let go.

The bustling terminal fades into the background as they share a quiet moment, their gaze locked together in a silent exchange of love and understanding. Words seem inadequate in the face of such intense emotions, so they simply stand together in silence, finding solace in the warmth of each other's embrace.

As the final boarding call echoes through the terminal, reality comes crashing back down around them, pulling them from their private reverie. With a heavy heart, YN looks up at Jungwon, her eyes brimming with unshed tears.

"I'm going to miss you so much," she whispers, her voice barely audible above the din of the crowd.

Jungwon pulls her into a tight embrace, holding her close as if trying to imprint the feel of her against him into his memory. "I'll miss you too, more than words can say," he murmurs, his voice choked with emotion.

They stand together for a moment longer, clinging to each other as if their lives depend on it. But eventually, the inevitable moment arrives – the moment when they must say goodbye.

With a final, lingering kiss, Jungwon releases YN from his embrace, stepping back with a heavy heart. He watches as she fades into the crowd, a solitary figure lost in a sea of faces, until she's nothing more than a distant memory.

As he turns to make his way to the gate, Jungwon carries YN's love with him, a beacon of hope and strength to guide him on his journey. And though they may be separated by miles and oceans, their love will remain as constant as the stars, shining brightly in the darkness, lighting the way back to each other's arms.

As Jungwon walks towards the gate, his heart heavy with the weight of leaving YN behind, he can't help but replay their final moments together in his mind. The image of her tear-streaked face and the echo of her whispered words linger in his thoughts, a constant reminder of the love they share.

Taking a deep breath, Jungwon pushes aside the wave of sadness threatening to engulf him, focusing instead on the excitement of the journey ahead. He knows that he's embarking on a new chapter of his life – one filled with endless possibilities and opportunities for growth.

As he boards the plane and settles into his seat, Jungwon's mind drifts back to YN, his heart aching with longing. But even amidst the sadness of their parting, he finds solace in the knowledge that their love knows no bounds – transcending time and distance, it will keep them connected no matter where life takes them.

And as the plane takes off, carrying him away from YN and towards his future, Jungwon holds onto the promise of their love, knowing that no matter what challenges lie ahead, as long as they have each other, they'll always find their way back together.

Throughout the flight, Jungwon's thoughts remain consumed by memories of YN and the life they've shared together. He finds himself flipping through photos on his phone, each image a poignant reminder of their love and the moments they've shared.

As the hours pass and the plane makes its way across the sky, Jungwon finds himself lost in a whirlwind of emotions – sadness, longing, and a deep-seated sense of uncertainty about what the future holds. But amidst the turbulence of his thoughts, there's a glimmer of hope – the knowledge that no matter where life takes him, YN will always be with him in spirit.

Finally, after what feels like an eternity, the plane touches down on foreign soil, signaling the beginning of a new chapter in Jungwon's life. Stepping off the plane, he takes a deep breath, steeling himself for the challenges that lie ahead.

As he makes his way through the bustling airport, Jungwon feels a sense of excitement building within him – the thrill of adventure and the promise of new beginnings beckoning him forward. And though he knows that the road ahead will be fraught with obstacles, he takes comfort in the knowledge that YN's love will light his way, guiding him through the darkest of times.

With a renewed sense of determination and purpose, Jungwon sets out to embrace the opportunities that await him in this new chapter of his life, knowing that no matter where his journey takes him, as long as he carries YN's love in his heart, he'll always find his way home.

As YN watches Jungwon's plane disappear into the sky, a profound sense of emptiness washes over her, leaving her feeling adrift in a sea of uncertainty. The bustling airport fades into the background as she stands alone amidst the throng of travelers, her heart heavy with the weight of his absence.

With a heavy sigh, YN gathers her belongings and makes her way out of the airport, the world around her a blur of motion and noise. Tears threaten to spill from her eyes as she navigates the familiar streets of her city, each step a painful reminder of the void Jungwon has left behind.

As she arrives home, YN finds herself surrounded by memories of their time together – the photographs adorning the walls, the trinkets and souvenirs they've collected over the years, the empty space beside her in bed where Jungwon used to lay. The realization that he's truly gone hits her like a punch to the gut, leaving her feeling raw and vulnerable.

But amidst the pain of their parting, YN finds solace in the knowledge that their love will endure, transcending time and distance. She takes comfort in the memories they've shared and the promise of a future filled with possibility.

With a heavy heart and tear-stained cheeks, YN resolves to carry on, knowing that Jungwon's love will be her guiding light through the darkest of times. And as she looks to the future with hope and determination, she knows that no matter where life takes them, as long as they hold onto each other in their hearts, they'll always find their way back to one another.

In the days that follow Jungwon's departure, YN finds herself navigating a world that feels strangely empty without him by her side. The once-familiar routines of their shared life now seem foreign and unfamiliar, each passing moment a painful reminder of his absence.

Despite the ache in her heart, YN throws herself into her studies and her passion for botany, finding solace in the simple pleasures of caring for her plants and nurturing new life. With each bloom that unfurls under her tender care, she feels a sense of renewal and hope – a reminder that even in the darkest of times, beauty can still thrive.

But no matter how busy she keeps herself, YN can't shake the feeling of longing that lingers in the pit of her stomach, a constant reminder of the love she's left behind. She finds herself reaching for her phone instinctively, only to remember that the messages and calls she once took for granted now feel like distant echoes of a past life.

As the days turn into weeks and the weeks into months, YN finds herself counting down the days until she'll see Jungwon again, her heart filled with anticipation and longing. And though the road ahead may be fraught with challenges and obstacles, she takes comfort in the knowledge that their love will see them through, guiding them back into each other's arms once more.

-

In their respective college experiences and careers, YN and Jungwon find themselves navigating a world of new challenges and opportunities, each forging their own path towards their dreams.

YN immerses herself in her studies at her dream school, throwing herself into her passion for botany with renewed determination and enthusiasm. Surrounded by like-minded peers and inspiring mentors, she finds herself thriving in the vibrant academic environment, pushing herself to new heights of achievement and discovery.

Outside of the classroom, YN explores her interests and talents, seeking out opportunities to grow and expand her horizons. Whether it's participating in research projects, joining student organizations, or volunteering in her community, she finds fulfillment in every new experience, each one bringing her closer to her goals.

As she delves deeper into her studies and explores her career options, YN finds herself drawn to the idea of combining her love for botany with her passion for environmental conservation. With a clear sense of purpose and direction, she sets her sights on a future where she can make a meaningful impact on the world around her, one plant at a time.

Meanwhile, Jungwon finds himself immersed in the world of filmmaking at his dream school abroad, surrounded by some of the brightest minds in the industry. From the moment he sets foot on campus, he feels a sense of belonging, a certainty that he's exactly where he's meant to be.

In the classroom and on set, Jungwon throws himself into his studies with a relentless drive and determination, soaking up knowledge and honing his craft with every passing day. With each film project he undertakes, he pushes himself to new creative heights, exploring new techniques and pushing the boundaries of his own imagination.

Outside of his academic pursuits, Jungwon immerses himself in the vibrant cultural scene of his new city, soaking up inspiration from the sights and sounds around him. From attending film festivals to collaborating with local artists, he finds himself constantly inspired by the energy and creativity of his surroundings.

As he navigates the ups and downs of his college experience and embarks on his journey towards a career in filmmaking, Jungwon remains driven by a singular vision – to share stories that move and inspire audiences, to capture the beauty and complexity of the human experience on screen.

Though their paths may be divergent and their lives filled with their own unique challenges and triumphs, YN and Jungwon find strength in the knowledge that they're each pursuing their dreams with unwavering passion and determination. And as they continue to grow and evolve, they carry with them the love and support of each other, a constant source of inspiration and encouragement on their journey towards success.

One night, as the city lights glitter outside YN's window and the stars twinkle in the sky above Jungwon's new apartment abroad, they find themselves drawn to each other once more, their hearts yearning for the familiar comfort of each other's presence.

With a soft chime, YN's phone lights up with a notification – a Facetime call from Jungwon. Her heart skips a beat as she accepts the call, a rush of warmth flooding her chest as his familiar face fills the screen.

"Hey," Jungwon says, his voice filled with warmth and affection. "I just wanted to see your face."

A smile spreads across YN's lips as she takes in the sight of him, his tousled hair and tired eyes a testament to the late hour. "I've missed you," she admits softly, her voice tinged with longing.

Jungwon's gaze softens, a look of tenderness in his eyes as he reaches out towards the screen as if to touch her. "I've missed you too, more than words can say," he murmurs.

For a moment, they simply gaze at each other in silence, the distance between them melting away as they lose themselves in the connection they share. Despite the miles that separate them, they find solace in the knowledge that they're still bound together by the unbreakable bond of love.

As they talk into the night, sharing stories and laughter, they find themselves transported back to a time when they were inseparable, when the world seemed to revolve around their love for each other. And though they may be far apart, their hearts beat as one, their love transcending time and distance to bring them closer together once more.

As the call comes to an end and they bid each other goodnight, YN and Jungwon are filled with a renewed sense of hope and determination. Though their lives may be filled with uncertainty and change, they know that as long as they have each other, they'll always find a way to overcome whatever obstacles come their way.

In their academic and career pursuits, YN and Jungwon continue to excel, each making significant strides towards their goals while facing their own unique challenges along the way.

YN immerses herself in her studies, delving deeper into the world of botany and environmental science. She spends long hours in the lab, conducting experiments and research that push the boundaries of her field. Her dedication and passion earn her recognition among her peers and mentors, opening doors to new opportunities and collaborations.

Outside of the classroom, YN takes on internships and volunteer positions that allow her to apply her knowledge in real-world settings. Whether it's working in botanical gardens, conducting field research in remote locations, or advocating for environmental causes, she throws herself into every opportunity with enthusiasm and determination.

As she nears graduation, YN finds herself faced with a myriad of possibilities for her future. With her passion for botany and her dedication to environmental conservation, she knows that she has the power to make a positive impact on the world around her, no matter where her career takes her.

Meanwhile, Jungwon continues to hone his craft in the world of filmmaking, immersing himself in every aspect of the industry. From screenwriting and cinematography to directing and editing, he throws himself into every project with creativity and passion, constantly pushing himself to new heights of artistic expression.

Throughout his college experience, Jungwon seeks out opportunities to collaborate with fellow students and industry professionals, building a network of contacts and mentors that will serve him well in his future career. He takes on internships and apprenticeships that allow him to gain hands-on experience on film sets, learning from the best in the business and honing his skills as a filmmaker.

In the first two years of their college experiences, YN and Jungwon manage to maintain a strong and consistent level of communication despite the distance between them. They make time for regular Facetime calls, text messages, and emails, eagerly sharing updates about their lives, their academic achievements, and their career aspirations. Despite the challenges of being apart, their love remains a constant presence in their lives, providing them with strength and support as they navigate the ups and downs of college life.

However, as they enter their third year and approach the final stretch of their college careers, the demands of their academic and professional lives begin to take precedence. With looming deadlines, internships, and job applications to contend with, they find themselves increasingly strapped for time and energy. As a result, their communication begins to falter, with days or even weeks passing between messages.

At first, they reassure themselves that it's just a temporary hiccup – a byproduct of the hectic pace of college life. But as time goes on and their communication continues to dwindle, they can't help but feel a growing sense of unease and distance between them. What was once a source of comfort and joy now feels like a burden, a reminder of the growing divide between their lives.

Despite their best efforts to stay connected, YN and Jungwon find themselves drifting apart, their once vibrant conversations giving way to awkward silences and strained exchanges. They struggle to find common ground amidst the chaos of their busy lives, their priorities shifting as they focus on their own individual goals and aspirations.

As they enter their fourth year of college, the silence between them becomes deafening, each unanswered message and missed call a painful reminder of the growing distance between them. They wonder if their love can withstand the test of time and distance, or if they're destined to drift further and further apart until they're nothing more than distant memories of a love that once was.

Despite the challenges they face, YN and Jungwon cling to the hope that their love will endure, that the bond they share is strong enough to withstand whatever obstacles come their way. And as they navigate the uncertain road ahead, they hold onto the belief that no matter where life takes them, as long as they have each other in their hearts, they'll always find a way back to one another.

As graduation approaches, Jungwon finds himself faced with a world of possibilities for his future. With his talent and dedication, he knows that he has the potential to make a name for himself in the fiercely competitive world of filmmaking, to tell stories that inspire and move audiences around the world.

As the distance between them grows and their communication dwindles, Jungwon finds himself grappling with conflicting emotions about his relationship with YN. What was once a source of comfort and joy now feels like a burden, a constant reminder of the growing divide between their lives. He can't help but wonder if their love is strong enough to withstand the challenges they face, or if they're simply clinging to a fading connection out of fear of letting go.

With each unanswered message and missed call, Jungwon feels a growing sense of frustration and resentment building within him. He struggles to reconcile the image of the vibrant, passionate love they once shared with the reality of their current situation – one marked by distance, uncertainty, and a lack of communication.

As he reflects on his own hopes and aspirations for the future, Jungwon finds himself questioning whether YN still fits into the life he envisions for himself. He wonders if their relationship is holding him back from pursuing his dreams, or if it's simply a casualty of the inevitable changes that come with growing up and moving on.

Despite his doubts and fears, Jungwon can't shake the lingering feelings of love and affection he still harbors for YN. He knows that walking away from their relationship would mean letting go of a part of himself – a part that he's not sure he's ready to give up just yet.

Caught between his desire for independence and his longing for connection, Jungwon finds himself at a crossroads, unsure of which path to take. As he weighs his options and contemplates the future, he knows that whatever decision he makes will have far-reaching consequences for both himself and YN. And as he grapples with the uncertainty of what lies ahead, he can only hope that he'll find the clarity and courage to follow his heart, whatever the cost.

As the silence between them stretches on, YN finds herself consumed by worry and doubt, her mind plagued by thoughts of Jungwon and the possibility that he may have found someone else. Each unanswered message and missed call only adds fuel to her fears, leaving her feeling increasingly isolated and alone.

Unable to shake the nagging sense of unease that gnaws at her insides, YN finds herself endlessly scrolling through social media feeds and online profiles, searching for any sign of Jungwon's whereabouts or activities. With each new photo or status update, she feels a pang of jealousy and insecurity, wondering if he's moved on without her.

As the days turn into weeks and the weeks into months, YN's anxiety reaches a fever pitch, her imagination running wild with worst-case scenarios. She tortures herself with thoughts of Jungwon with someone new – laughing, smiling, and sharing intimate moments that were once reserved for her alone.

Despite her efforts to push aside her fears and focus on her own life, YN finds herself consumed by thoughts of Jungwon and the life they once shared together. She wonders if she'll ever be able to move on from him, or if she'll spend the rest of her days haunted by the ghost of their failed relationship.

As she struggles to come to terms with the possibility of losing Jungwon forever, YN finds herself torn between holding onto hope and letting go of the past. She knows that she can't control his actions or his feelings, but she can't help but cling to the faint glimmer of possibility that maybe, just maybe, their love is strong enough to withstand the trials they face.

With a heavy heart and a soul weighed down by uncertainty, YN braces herself for whatever the future may hold, knowing that no matter what happens, she'll always carry a piece of Jungwon with her – a reminder of the love they once shared and the bond that still lingers between them, even in the darkest of times.

As YN sits alone in her room, tears streaming down her cheeks, she feels a heavy weight pressing down on her chest, suffocating her with the weight of her worries and fears. Lost in her own thoughts, she doesn't hear the soft knock on her door or the creak of the hinges as it swings open.

"Hey, sis, are you okay?" YN's brother's voice breaks through the haze of her despair, his concern evident in the furrow of his brow and the gentle tone of his voice.

Startled, YN looks up to find her brother standing in the doorway, his eyes filled with worry and compassion. Despite her efforts to hide her tears, she knows that he can see right through her façade, that he knows she's been struggling with something for weeks now.

"I'm fine," YN mumbles, her voice barely above a whisper as she tries to wipe away her tears. But her brother isn't fooled by her feeble attempt at reassurance, his gaze softening as he steps further into the room.

"Sis, I know something's been bothering you lately," he says gently, his voice filled with empathy. "You haven't been yourself, and I'm worried about you."

With a heavy sigh, YN collapses onto her bed, her emotions spilling out in a rush of tears and choked sobs. Unable to hold back any longer, she pours her heart out to her brother, telling him about her fears and insecurities, her worries about Jungwon and the possibility that he may have moved on without her.

As she speaks, YN's brother listens intently, offering words of comfort and understanding that soothe the ache in her heart. He assures her that her feelings are valid, that it's okay to be scared and uncertain about the future. And most importantly, he reminds her that she's not alone – that no matter what happens, he'll always be there for her, ready to offer support and guidance whenever she needs it.

With her brother's words echoing in her ears, YN feels a sense of relief wash over her, a weight lifted from her shoulders. Though her worries may still linger, she knows that she doesn't have to face them alone – that as long as she has her family by her side, she'll always find the strength to overcome whatever obstacles come her way. And with a newfound sense of determination and hope, she wipes away her tears and resolves to face the future head-on, knowing that no matter what challenges lie ahead, she'll always have her brother's unwavering support to see her through.

As YN's brother listens to her pouring out her heart, he feels a pang of sadness knowing the depth of her pain. He reaches out and pulls her into a warm embrace, holding her close as she cries out her frustrations and fears.

"I'm so sorry you're going through this, sis," he says softly, his voice filled with empathy. "But I want you to know that you're not alone. Whatever happens, I'll always be here for you."

YN clings to her brother, finding solace in his comforting presence. For the first time in weeks, she feels a glimmer of hope flicker to life within her, a tiny spark of light in the darkness of her despair.

"Thank you," she whispers, her voice choked with emotion. "I don't know what I'd do without you."

Her brother smiles gently, brushing away her tears with a tender touch. "You don't have to do anything alone," he says reassuringly. "We're family, and we'll get through this together."

With her brother's words ringing in her ears, YN feels a renewed sense of strength and resolve wash over her. Though the road ahead may be difficult and filled with uncertainty, she knows that she doesn't have to face it alone – that as long as she has her family by her side, she'll always find the courage to keep moving forward, no matter what challenges lie ahead.

As they sit together in the quiet of her room, YN and her brother find comfort in each other's presence, knowing that no matter what the future may hold, they'll face it together, one step at a time. And with a renewed sense of hope in her heart, YN wipes away her tears and resolves to take each day as it comes, knowing that with her brother by her side, she can overcome anything that comes her way.

As Jungwon throws himself into his studies and filmmaking pursuits, he finds solace in the familiar rhythm of his daily routine. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities for growth, and he throws himself into his work with a renewed sense of determination and focus.

On set, Jungwon immerses himself in the world of filmmaking, his passion and creativity fueling his drive to succeed. He pours over scripts, storyboard ideas, and hones his directing skills, pushing himself to new heights of artistic expression with each project he undertakes. Despite the pressures and demands of his studies, he finds a sense of fulfillment in bringing his vision to life on screen, knowing that he's pursuing his dreams with unwavering dedication and passion.

In the classroom, Jungwon embraces the opportunity to learn from some of the brightest minds in the industry, soaking up knowledge and honing his craft with each lecture and seminar. He dives into film theory and criticism, dissecting the works of master directors and studying the intricacies of storytelling and visual language. With each passing day, he feels himself growing as an artist and a filmmaker, his skills sharpening and his confidence soaring as he inches closer to his goals.

But despite his outward success and determination, Jungwon can't shake the nagging sense of emptiness that gnaws at his insides. As he throws himself into his work, he finds himself haunted by thoughts of YN and the love they once shared. He wonders if he made the right decision in distancing himself from her, or if he's simply avoiding the pain of confronting his true feelings.

With each passing day, Jungwon finds himself retreating further into himself, his focus on his work serving as a distraction from the turmoil of his emotions. He throws himself into his studies and filmmaking pursuits with a single-minded intensity, hoping that if he can just keep himself busy enough, he'll be able to push aside the ache in his heart and move on with his life.

But deep down, Jungwon knows that no amount of work or distraction can erase the love he still feels for YN. And as he wrestles with his inner demons, he can't help but wonder if he'll ever find peace and closure, or if he'll spend the rest of his days haunted by the ghost of their failed relationship.

As YN and Jungwon find themselves on a rare break from their busy schedules, they seize the opportunity to connect over Facetime, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of their screens. For a moment, they simply gaze at each other, the weight of unspoken words hanging heavy in the air between them.

Then, with a deep breath, YN gathers her courage and breaks the silence. "Jungwon," she begins, her voice trembling slightly with emotion. "I need to ask you something."

Jungwon's brow furrows in concern as he senses the seriousness in YN's tone. "Of course, YN. What is it?" he replies, his own heart racing with anticipation.

Taking a moment to steady herself, YN plunges ahead, her words tumbling out in a rush. "What are we, Jungwon? Are we still in a relationship, or… or have we moved on? I need to know where we stand."

There's a beat of silence as Jungwon absorbs YN's words, his heart clenching with a mixture of emotions. He knows that this moment has been a long time coming, that they can't continue to dance around the truth forever. With a heavy sigh, he meets YN's gaze, his eyes filled with a mix of regret and determination.

"YN, I…" he begins, his voice trailing off as he searches for the right words. "I don't know, YN. I've been trying to figure that out myself. It's been hard, being apart from you and trying to focus on my studies and my career."

YN's heart sinks at Jungwon's words, the reality of their situation hitting her like a ton of bricks. She had hoped for clarity, for reassurance that their love was still alive and worth fighting for. But instead, she's met with uncertainty and doubt.

"I understand," she murmurs, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's just… it's been hard for me too, Jungwon. I miss you, and I want to believe that we can still make this work. But I need to know if you're still in this with me."

Jungwon's heart aches at the pain in YN's voice, the knowledge that he's the cause of her suffering weighing heavily on his conscience. He knows that he owes her honesty, that he can't continue to string her along with false hope.

"I'm sorry, YN," he says softly, his voice thick with emotion. "I don't have the answers right now. But I promise you, I'll do whatever it takes to figure this out. I won't let you down again."

With a heavy heart, YN nods in understanding, the weight of their conversation hanging heavy in the air between them. Though they may not have all the answers now, they know that they can't continue to ignore the truth forever. And as they face the uncertainty of their future together, they cling to the hope that their love will see them through, no matter what challenges lie ahead.

#enhypen #enhypen imagines #enhypen au #engene #enha #enhypen x reader #jungwon #yang jungwon #yang jungwon x you

[pixiemage]

I legitimately think a lot of people get too hung up on how other people write or draw characters (both in MCYT and outside of it). I sometimes feel like there's so much bitterness towards fellow fandom members just because they've chosen to enjoy a character or corner of the fandom in a different way. Do you picture the characters the same way the creators are IRL? Fun! Do you have a much more fanonized interpretation because you want to separate the characters from creators? Great! Do you tend to lean toward one kind of design overall in your art because that's just how you enjoy the act of creation? Fantastic!

Short, tall, thin, fat, human, hybrid, something entirely undefinable - every single option is correct. Every single option is right. That's the point of creativity and creative liberty. That's the point of fandom and the whole reason why fan art and fan fiction exist - to take what canon gives you and make something, whether that something clings to canon's every note, or if that something turns canon on its head. Especially if it turns canon on its head.

This is a vast fanbase built upon a sandbox game, and any creations we make should be treated the same. It doesn't matter if it doesn't fit the bill for what someone else thinks, and it doesn't matter if it doesn't fit some standard mold. If everyone else views Grian as a parrot avian, but you love writing him as a cod? Do it! If a lot of folks depict Tango as a blazeborn, but you fucking love the idea of him being an android? Well, for god's sake, what's stopping you? Make him an android! Does everyone else write Bdubs as short, but you think it'd be really funny if he was taller than half the hermits, so the short jokes are even more ridiculous? Then, holy shit, I wanna see that!

But to roll back to the point, fan creations is meant to be fun. And all of you out there being picky? As a viewer of other peoples' art and writing, don't go telling people they're "doing it wrong". Don't be critical. Don't tell someone they need to "do better" if their portrayal doesn't line up with what's in your head. There's no rules here. And similarly, there's no quota we need to meet on variety. There's no law someone is breaking if they're not following your expectations. If you're a viewer of art and fics, and you're pissed at someone because you believe they don't draw or write someone tall enough or short enough or thin enough or fat enough or young enough or old enough - make it yourself. Don't detract from someone else's joy just because their version of having fun in the fandom doesn't line up with yours.

People are going to create what they love. People write and draw from a place of inspiration and enjoyment and fun. If they choose to share it, they're doing that for free and of their own free will. They didn't share it for you. Fan artists and fan writers aren't here to be your dancing monkeys, we're here to just have fun. If you aren't seeing enough of whatever you're expecting to see, then don't demand it from other people who were proud enough of a piece of art to share it with the world. Make it yourself.

#fandom #mcyt #fanart #fanfiction

[blizzardstarx]

Pontalo AU Masterlist

LightWings full information!

i did not know how to describe how their names are chosen lmfao, also this took a million years to make

LightWings are one of the seven tribes inhabiting Pontalo. However, they have been nearly wiped out from constant pressure from the BloodWings, having most of their territory taken. Most LightWings have either fled, gone into hiding, or been killed. They are pacifists and believe in peace instead of fighting. Their current queen is Peacekeeper.

Description:

LightWings are bird-like dragons, with feathers running down from their foreheads to around their tail, behind their legs, and below their snout. They have sharp, bird-like talons, and feathered wings. They also have hollow bones and are lightweight. LightWings are slightly shorter than the other tribes, other than the HydroWings, have slim bodies, and come in light, pastel colors. However, their wings are pure white and their other feathers can come in various bright colors. These have been described to attract other LightWings. They have blue or yellow eyes. LightWings also have dapples of luminescent scales running along their necks and legs, and they have curved horns.

LightWing eggs are bright white, and slightly glow when they are hatching.

Diet:

They eat a variety of fruits, as well as hawks, eagles, goats, squirrels, wild pigs, deer, cougars, rabbits, and other birds of prey. They can also somewhat get energy from the sun, which was more potent in ancient times. This was passed down onto their relatives, the SunWings and ShapeWings. However, they have developed to not rely as much on the sun, instead developing an omnivorous diet.

Abilities:

LightWings have light elemental powers, specifically able to shoot light beams out of their mouths as well as manipulate light waves, creating lasers. These are also energy-based, and they take a long time to recharge. LightWings also have healing powers too, which are amplified by herbs they gather and trade from the forest. However, with the threat of the BloodWings, their healing powers have weakened significantly.

Animus magic:

There have been traces of animus LightWings in the past, like the great Lightbringer, but only a few have animus blood now. One, yet unknown, animus is Hopebringer.

Society:

LightWings are considered artistic and creative, able to create songs, dances, which attract partners, and writings. Typical jobs include being a(n) writer, musician, ambassador, guard, dragonet caretaker, healer, and many other jobs.

Ancient era:

LightWings is the most ancient Pontalonian tribe, having populated the whole continent in separate colonies, and are related to the SunWings, HydroWings, MoonWings, and ShapeWings. The colonies were different in many ways, slowly evolving into those four tribes by partnering with other dragon species that would visit Pontalo. They were carefree and good-natured, trading with other colonies and traveling among themselves.

Lightbringer era:

Lightbringer was a powerful animus LightWing that lived during ancient Pontalo. She was known as the protector of the LightWings, as the evolved tribes slowly began to separate, causing conflict and disagreement over territory. The original LightWing colonies were then brought together by Lightbringer, and slowly, she brought peace to Pontalo. Lightbringer is revered as a symbol of greatness by the LightWings, almost like Clearsight to the HiveWings. She first introduced the idea of pacifism and peace to the LightWings.

Modern era:

LightWings were welcoming and trusting to the BloodWings when they arrived, which is leading to their downfall as their attacks continue to pressure them using the element of surprise. Over 75% of the tribe has been killed, and some flee to the unknown land Paradox landed in, going into the protection of the Light Tribe, some hiding, and some trying to reason with the BloodWings. They have become paranoid as a result of the amount of BloodWing ambushes.

Names:

LightWing names are meant to give a sense of hope or good will. They can also be light-themed or inspired by their powers.

Trivia:

LightWings originally did not have that many feathers, they were only dragons with feathered wings.

Paradox believed the LightWings were extinct, until Hopebringer showed up at her school.

#blizz’s nonsense #blizz's art #wings of fire #wof #wings of fire au #wof au #wings of fire art #wof art #im tired asf im taking another break before writing the lightningwing stuff #also i didnt proofread this sooo uhhh

[andreal831]

TVDU and Morality

I've recently said, a few times, that the morality debates in the TVDU fandom are boring, and some people have gotten offended so I thought I would explain.

First, this idea of hypocrisy in the fandom is laughable. The amount of times I've been called a hypocrite because I've called out problematic behavior, while also liking a problematic character. The gut reaction for so many in this fandom when their favorite character is being criticized is to shift the conversation onto a completely different character and even to the commenter themselves. This is boring and even downright offensive at times. Every single character has been a hypocrite at times. It doesn't inherently mean someone is bad. It means they are "human" and life can make hypocrites of all of us at times. Also, just to clarify, I am not a hypocrite for merely liking a problematic character. I promise I have never nor will I ever commit the acts that I criticize these characters for, which would be the definition of hypocrisy. I have also never told anyone they can't like certain characters.

We have these complicated characters and none of them are "good" people because, guess what, people aren't just one or the other. Everyone has the capability to be "bad" or "good." Trying to put a character firmly on one side is a generalization and ignores so much nuance. Some of their actions may be completely bad or completely good, but typically even that is an oversimplification. Are there characters that seem to do more bad things or more good things, definitely. Are their some characters that cross certain, unnecessary lines, absolutely. Are we allowed to criticize and question every character, please do! That's literally what media literacy is about.

Every single one of these characters has had completely selfish moments (except maybe Bonnie) and every single one of them has had moments of selflessness. These acts don't inherently demonize a character or automatically redeem one. This is what it means to have interesting, complex debates about characters. Looking at the characters as a whole and having open discussions of what it means. We can still love the character and acknowledge the good and the bad of the character.

Another annoying point that is always brought up is, "they weren't born evil, they were made that way." Yes, we get it. No one is born evil. Whether it is mental illness or life events that shape a person, they still have to take responsibility for their own actions. Obviously certain mental illnesses didn't have treatments for a very long time, but that doesn't just allow people to be serial killers.

Every single character has dealt with trauma, and how you react says a lot about a person's character. Separating out characters to say well "x" didn't deserve it but when they became "x" they did. No one deserves good or bad things. I know I say it all the time, they deserved better, but when I do, I'm being facetious. I'm saying I wanted better for that character, better writing, better storylines, a better ending, etc. That phrasing implies that some people deserve better lives than others and I just morally don't agree. No one deserves trauma or abuse. That logic only furthers the cycle of abuse. Now, that being said, people are responsible for their own actions. Spend centuries creating enemies, and guess what, a lot of bad things are going to happen to you.

But the real debates I enjoy having, and have been fortunate to find so many people to engage in these debates, is the morality of the decisions in context of the characters. I like to apply similar logic from the Trolley Problem. If you don't know what that is, enjoy this tik tok I made of Cami teaching the Mikaelsons.

Essentially, many of the characters weight their options, like Jeremy killing Kol and thousands of vampires with it in order to find the cure. Kol is a thousand year old serial killer and is attempting to kill Jeremy, but again Kol is attempting to stop Silas from rising. Neither side is inherently right or wrong. There is a debate to be had.

In the majority of situations in the show there is a debate to be had. The only exceptions being any SA. I will never debate the morality of these actions. Even for immoral characters, there is a line to be drawn.

These debates get even more complex in TO because we move into a world where nearly every character has done absolutely horrendous things. It's okay to sit down and say, "This thing that x did was awful, but I can see their reasoning." It is not justifying their actions, but allowing the characters to be the complex morally corrupt characters that they all are.

#just thought I would clarify some things #I just want to debate these characters #without people getting absolutely angry in the comments #like they are all serial killers #but we can still love them cause they're fictional #but I can still hate/dislike other characters for crossing certain lines #that's why so many different characters exist #we all have our own things we work out through fiction #tvdu #the originals #the vampire diaries #the mikaelsons #tvd #tvdu metas #metas

[princess-of-the-corner]

Okay but sometime post-Izuku finding out about the Dad for One situation, Shoto gets asked by Natsuo to drag him over for a conversation.

Natsuo: "Hey so. I know it would probably erase everything all of us have been through naratively but in /theory/ could you take the fireproofing out of my Quirk and put it in Toya? Hate to say 'dad has a point' but if I could make things easier for him..."

Izuku: "eh..... While it seems like the active and passive abilities of Hellflame and Heaven's Frost are separate genetics that can end up in different combinations without necessarily canceling out, once it's created like that it's entirely locked. So I can't separate the fireproof ability, I'd have to take your entire Quirk and give it to him, which wouldn't be healthy for you so even if you get self-sacrificing no one's going to agree."

Shoto: "Firstly: you're not allowed to talk about others being self-sacrificial. Secondly: How come you can take singular aspects of my Quirk?"

Izuku: "Oh! Because your Chimeraism makes it different! Your Quirk is technically two separate Quirks stored in two separate sets of DNA, despite you being a singular person. So I can take the Fire or Ice on their own. But when I do that I take both active and passive abilities of each."

Natsuo: "Understandable: Follow up question: What's the moral stance on pranking my parents by swapping their Quirks for a day?"

#tpp au

[jrueships]

hi, decided to just create a series of slice of life stories abt different ships and stuff whenever i have the time. idk if ill keep it all together or just post them as separate stories actually (to make it seem like i write more posts than i actually do, lol), but i think keeping the lighthearted shippy stuff together might encourage me to stop holding all the writing i actually do but fear to post and actually post them bcs there's no serious weight or whatever <3 anyways, send me ships or just people/teams in general, can be platonic, and an idea/scenario to write them in and i will see what i can do 🥰 !!! just a warning tho, i don't have a lot of time to write in general so .. none of them are beta read or anything lol.. i just wanna create bcs the nba community needs more wholesome shit, my onion. and it's so small that they have no choice but to have my shitty drabbles and drawings 🥰 just letting yall know to pls not have high expectations or i might go into hiding like a marmot ready to hibernate due to mental illness

#this one is gunsmith adopts a baby bird in the storm #ANYWAYS!! #SEND ME IDEAS!! SITUATIONS! SHIPS! PEOPLE !!!

[canisalbus]

I'm sure you've already answered this but is Machete styled after a silken windhound? He is so very shaped

His breed is fictional, but it closely resembles modern day Ibizan hound. Both Silkens and Ibizans are sighthounds though, so you're not far off.

#answered #anonymous #silkens are a new breed they were developed (probably not the right term for it) in the late 80's early 90's #while sighthounds as a whole are some of the oldest surviving dog breeds #some have been around for thousands of years and changed very little #Machete's canon setting takes place in late 16th century so Silkens (or Whippets that were used to create them) wouldn't have been there #this is getting into splitting hairs territory but in dog society different breeds aren't really treated as distinct separate categories #like 99.9 % of the population is varying levels of mixed #Machete isn't a purebred but for clarity's sake I tend to just overlook that fact

[jeweled-blue-eyes]

In HtN Ianthe claims she helped Coronabeth pretend to be a necromancer for over twenty years but she's twenty-two, which must mean she did necromancy since she was one year old contradicting herself in GtN when she reveals she's been doing Coronabeth's work since she was six years old. Did Ianthe lie? Or did the author make a mistake? Or is this hinting that something deeper is going on?

#the locked tomb #tlt #ianthe tridentarius #coronabeth tridentarius #still haven't read Ntn #you can spoiler me #harrow the ninth #gideon the ninth #I find a one year old comprehending that she would be separated from her sister unless they deceived everyone with her powers unrealistic #but if the theory that Ianthe and Coronabeth are experiments of their parents proved to be true #then it might be possible they created a scarily intelligent toddler with flesh magic #or Ianthe counting her age differently because of this #I'm probably overthinking this though

[gummi-ships]

Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance - Symphony of Sorcery

#kingdom hearts dream drop distance #khddd #symphony of sorcery #scenery #my gif #i originally planned on splitting this set in two and wanted to create separate posts for both sides of this world #but i was surprised that i struggled with that and many of my shots didn't feel distinct enough when i put them all together #dunno how i messed that up so bad since this world has so much going for it #so i had to scrap a good chunk of what i made but i actually think it looks better this way so maybe it's not such a bad thing #sora's side is on the left (except for the last gif) and riku's is on the right #it gives you a better feel for how varied and different these magical realms are #and yeah that's what they're called #anyways i'm so glad this world exists because it's so experimental and different #everything from the visuals to the music and how sora and riku's battle sounds are instead replaced by more music #as if they're composing it themselves #which of course ties into how they must find and collect their sound ideas #it's all so incredible and works perfectly for a game centering around dreams #i hope we can see more unique worlds like it in future games too

[lucdoodle]

I WAS WONDERING WHY MY FILE TOOK SO LONG TO LOAD HOW DID THAT HAPPEN BRO???!! 😭

#i tried to create as few layers as possible!! #i really did!!! #wtf bro what is that 😭 #aaaaaaah #the thing is #to avoid this exact situation (it already happened before) i *did* make different files #i know that i have a tendency to use a bit too many layers #so i separated the animatic in 8 different files #those 963 layers are only the fifth file #i really did try to not make too many layers in a singular file but this still happened halp halp halp #not to make it worse but by opening the file i expected smt around 45 layers #then i found the long loading time sus and checked #AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH #while making the Discword animatic about The Light Fantastic the file was so heavy that it refused to save 9 times out of 10 #so i just let my laptop on. hoping that it wouldn't ever ever crash and erase my progress #which is why i separated the animatic im working on rn into multiple files instead aiuhigujheikgjhurju #man... #rambling

[imorphemi]

I thought it'd be fun to draw every skykid I've ever created in one big art and hoo boy it was big XD

Oh yeah and I tried to do this all from memory (which is why Dragonet's lil dragon hood looks so wonky, i can't remember how it really looks like)

This isn't even all of them! There are a couple of shapeshifter kiddos who have all been only drawn once and only have a concept created, plus a few others who are very vaguely developed but for some reason I know exactly what they look like

In total there are about 50 of them in this art XD

#my art #arts #sky children of the light #sky cotl #thatskygame #blueberry #im only gonna tag her XD #i think at some point i mightve considered naeri an entirely separate character #butttt that the most prominent design i remember for arine #theres two pictures because i have my skids separated into two categories #story skids who i intentionally created and designed myself #and wardrobe skids who was initially just an outfit that i later attached a name and story to #blueberry is a wardrobe skid lol #some of these skids are even entirely retconned out of existence in the overarching story #wait i totally forgot about patchy and beta #do they count?? as my ocs?? #anyways #blueberry has a different adventure now