Desert Rose ~ Prologue

Aemond Targaryen / Fem!Reader

Synopsis:Aemond always held a special affection for his elder niece, Ser Criston Cole's kin.

Warnings: self-deprecating reader, abusive/foul language

════════ ❀•°❀°•❀ ════════

DORNE, 130 AC

In a Dornish hamlet, ethereal silks draped gracefully upon your form, and the soft chiming of gold jewels accompanied every movement. As young maidens danced around you, a circle of elder women surrounded you.

“Beautiful hair, thick and resilient,” one whispered, her touch tenderly weaving through your locks.

The collective murmur of agreement resonated, and your grin mirrored the reciprocity of compliments that flowed like a gentle breeze among kindred spirits.

Kindred spirits abound — men, women, and children mirroring your essence.

Amidst this tranquil interlude, a familiar, jarring screech pierced the air, disrupting the serenity. A distant crimson blur materialized in the sky, unsettling you. As the serpent-necked dragon descended menacingly, the ominous certainty of impending peril seized your consciousness.

“Run along, dears. No harm will befall you. He's here for me,” you reassured them.

“A dragon rider for you? Who?” inquired the older woman.

“My father,” you responded, prompting a furrowed brow that deepened the wrinkles framing her discerning eyes.

With eyes tinged in suspicion and anxiety, they fled, children cradled in their arms.

You remained motionless, unafraid of Daemon Targaryen, yet as he touched down, a subtle unease settled in your stomach. At that moment, your life unfolded before your eyes: a tapestry woven with images of your mother, heir to the Iron Throne, your brothers, Laenor Velaryon. And there, amidst the memories, lingered the haunting visage of the boy with the scarred face—your uncle, last encountered in what felt like a lifetime ago.

❀

Seated beneath a prayer wheel, crafted by Queen Alicent, he awaited—a miracle the queen gave you leave to enter his chambers.

“Who enters?” croaked the young boy.

Closing the chamber door, you settled by his feet.

“Guess who,” you smiled down at him.

You weren't present during the horrific incident, much like Aegon. The younger children spared you the disturbance.

“Why did you come, b-bastard?” His puffy face sought direction, frizzy hair falling untamed.

Aemond's answer didn't faze you; a wounded child stood before you.

“I thought I was your friend, your flower.” You reached for him, but he swatted your hands away.

“A rose. A desert rose. Somehow, you flourish even in the wrong temperature,” he spat.

You came to console the blonde but left, the need for sympathies shifting to you. Grabbing your skirts, you shoved the door open, brushing by the guards into the echoes of the castle.

❀

A bellow of your name and titles snapped you back to reality. Descending from Meraxes, your stepfather's gaze held a mix of anger and disappointment—a familiar look you'd encountered countless times. Though the exact memory eluded you, you believed it originated from the time you first entered this realm, a crying babe with dark curls.

“This is where you've been,” he strode towards you.

“Dorne,” you answered, feigning ignorance.

His eyes darkened.

“Do you realize how sick with worry your mother is?”

Your demeanor shifted, your hand resting on your stomach, the concern for your mother overpowering any attempt to hold your ground.

“I'm—” you began.

“No, listen to me. You don't have the fucking right to fly off by yourself without telling anybody, especially at this time.”

“I'm sorry,” teary eyes blurred your vision.

“I expected to find you a mess, maimed, scratched, on the brink of death. A corpse I'd have to carry back to Dragonstone for your mother! Yet here you are in costume, covered in gold,” he continued in a fit.

The sound of your sob halted him. He sighed, enveloping you in his arms, soothing your babbling apologies. Cupping your face, his calloused fingers brushed away your tears, your quivering mouth unable to articulate.

“ Tala. You are the blood of the dragon. Don't ever think less of yourself.” He tightened his embrace, pressing your face against his chest.

His hand shrugged off the Dornish textile from your shoulders.

“You are a Targaryen, you are your mother's daughter,” he whispered.

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@valleyof-goldenlilies

How They React to You Randomly Befriending a wild Sumpterbeast:

(( Feat. Tighnari, Cyno, Candace, and Nilou..))

Tighnari

Being a forest ranger, Tighnari had of course, had his fair share of experience with Sumpter beasts. It wasn’t like he was unused to them, or had a lack of experience in handling them. That was exactly why this was so concerning…

The way the beast clung to you was definitely outside the scope of ‘normal’ Sumpter beast behavior.

This was especially true, seeing as he had just witnessed your first meeting with said beast…

You had agreed to accompany him to observe the local fauna, when to both his surprise and yours, you were suddenly being affectionately tackled by a wild, untamed Sumpterbeast.

Tighnari’s first response had been to draw his bow, but when it became clear that the beast (Now named Snuffles) was friendly, he decided perhaps observation would be the better option…

So far, he had noticed that the beast only behaved as such with you. This was unusual, although he could understand why it found you endearing…

(( He found you endearing himself, after all…))

Still, he felt the need to observe its behavior. ((What if it posed a risk to you…?))

So, as a dutiful Forest Ranger should— Tighnari dedicated the rest of the week to his observation of both you and the Sumpter beast. ((It absolutely wasn’t an excuse to spend time with you, either. Though, that was a definite bonus…)

Cyno

When the Sumpter beast charged you at first, Cyno had almost stabbed it. He’d only stopped as you’d said it seemed friendly. Still, the Sumpter beast ((Newly dubbed ‘Snuffles’ )) was not a fan of Cyno. He could understand that, given as he’d almost killed it, but he didn’t mind too much. He wasn’t fond of it, either.

He rarely had free time, and he’d intended on enjoying a nice stroll with you during his break— Then, this beast came and diverted your attention.

If you weren’t so fond of it, Cyno would be snuffle-ing the beast out…

Sumpter beasts gave a lot of meat, too. That was a precious resource in the desert…

Luckily for it, Cyno rather liked your smile, and the beast seemed to be making you smile quite often…

He’d put up with Snuffles. Maybe, just maybe the beast would grow on him—

Then again, he thought, glancing at it nuzzling its ugly head against you…

Maybe it wouldn’t. In the event it hurt you, Cyno happened to know a very good recipe for Sumpter beast meat….

Candace

Candace had initially thought the beast was charging you, at first…

She’d readied her shield and all, when she recognized the behavior as affection. It was odd, but ultimately…

Well, she wouldn’t admit it, but the beast was rather cute. She’d actually suggested the name ‘Snuffles’, which immediately stuck.

The two of you made plans to bring Snuffles back to the village, and Candace is tempted to find another sumpter beast…

((Snuffles would get lonely, and Sumpter beast meetups would lead to you and her meeting up, as well… Two beasts with one stone.))

Yes, Snuffles could prove to be incredibly beneficial…

The only issue Candace could possibly think of was where Snuffles would stay. No matter how much you may try and convince her, she would not allow the beast inside the house…

Nilou

Nilou was immediately taken with the idea of a friendly Sumpter beast. The two of you could create costumes for the beast, and it could help with transporting props—!!

She was all on board for naming the beast Snuffles, as well—! She could tell from the start that Snuffles was friendly. As a dancer, she knew full well that charges required more force—

((She dared someone to try and charge you in her presence…))

Still, there was just one thing that concerned Nilou—

How would you keep the beast in the City? She seriously doubted the sages would appreciate Snuffles.

((They absolutely should, as Snuffles was cute. Still, you were cuter…))

Regardless, she was happy to take things one step at a time…

She was a dancer, after all!

UnTamed Ch.13

Prev | Next

Damian sighed as he cracked the window slightly. Asta hadn't been to the manor or their apartment in several days. He was worried but not enough to go looking yet. He knew she was making plans and preparing to approach Red Hood's Gang. She had to ensure her people were ready before starting any communication with his people. And Robin popping up and wondering about it wouldn't help.

Although he wanted to see her, he needed to give her space to do her business. She gave him space without complaint whenever he needed/wanted for cases, business with the Titans or Justice League, or simply hanging out with Superboy. She never questioned his need for space, and he wouldn't question hers. He hoped her need for space would not last past tomorrow and she'd return to him. 

-

The floor was cold. That's the first thing she noticed as she became conscious. It was hard and cold. Slowly opening her eyes, she finds that she is fortunate or, unfortunately, is still in the form of a black cat. Bad news, though, as she appeared to be in a cage with a blanket over it. 

Not Good. 

It was dark, but she could hear other animals, cats, and dogs, all whimpering and whining. Definitely not a safe place. She could feel all the distress and pain in the room. It was hard to focus with all the emotions overwhelming her. She didn't hear a door opening or someone approaching. It wasn't until the blanket was pulled away that she realized someone was there.

It was a boy. He looked like your average psycho-alpha radical virgin school shooter. She could smell the musk, sweat, and separation wafting from him. And feel the anger, frustration, and disgust coming from him. So powerful it weighed her down. If this were any other place, Gotham dude would definitely get an episode on deadline. 

He picked up the cage and put it on the table. The table was light wood but had dark spots on it. In the middle, there was a short pole with a leash. She crawled to the back of the cage as he reached in, but it was useless. He got her, dragged her out, and leashed her. After leashing her, he stepped away and came back with a box. He dumped the content on the table tasers, knives, torches, wooden paddles, pipes, and etc.

Not good things, not good things at all. 

-

Damian had just returned from his walk with Titus. Coming to the door, Titus began to sniff a nearby bush. "What is it, boy? " he looks into the bush to see a black cat, his black cat. " Asta?" he gently picks her up. Touching her fur, he feels wetness. He finds it to be blood. Without a word, he quickly rushed into the house and into the cave.

Damian came rushing into the cave, calling for medical help. Everyone dropped what they were doing and quickly followed him to the infirmary. Everyone was concerned, especially with the small trail of blood behind him. 

"What happened? What's wrong? Let me see" Dick quickly came to his side, looking for wounds. 

"I found her like this." The confusion was quickly cleared, and a sense of relief went through the family as he put down a black cat in the bed.

"Where did you find this one?" Tim asked, no longer feeling urgent. 

"SHE!" Damian shouted. " It is a sheet, and she is bleeding out. Please, help her," he all but begged. 

Alfred and Tim started pulling out the supplies quickly, an act of forgiveness on Tim's part. As they rushed about, Damian leaned over the cat. No one knew what he was doing until the cat started morphing into an actual person, specifically a nude girl. The concern turned in tenfolds. Alfred and Tim gathered more supplies and called Thompkins.

She was crying. Damina pushed on her largest wound, a large gash on her side. " Asta, Asta, I need you to tell me where else you're wounded. What else hurts?" he asked 

" Can't breathe, can't walk, can't-can't... help," she cried, not fully able to express herself but giving enough to let them know that her leg was broken and something was wrong with her chest or lungs.

"Damian, let them work. Let them help her," Dick said as he helped move him away, letting Alfred and Tim work. Dr. Thomkpins would join when she got there. Asta reached for him as he was pulled away. Tim pulled the curtains. No one needs to see. 

-

Duke handed Damian cold water as Dick put a blanket on him as he sat. " Who is she?" Bruce asked an irreverent question as everyone had a clue as to who she was. And insensitive as she was still in surgery, Dr. Thompkins had just arrived. 

"I shall discourse with you all after her surgical procedure. I just ... After, please." Those big, fancy, intelligent words. Damian really wasn't down for any talking at the moment. 

"I'm sorry we shouldn't have asked -"

"Damian -"

"We're sorry, and we won't ask any more questions" This time, Dick was facing Bruce. He was talking to Damian but being direct with Bruce. Everyone else also took a step back, giving Damian the space he needed at the moment. But Jason and Cass stayed close just in case. 

"That's the girl," Steph said as she and Duke followed Dick upstairs. Duke was texting Barbara about the situation. She was spending the day with her dad and, therefore, was not present. " She's a meta"

" It appears so. It explains a lot, actually." Duke said, " He's always talking about a stray. Maybe she was the stray." Duke quickly connected all the dots.

"Enough," Dick says as they emerge upstairs " Right now, the three of us are going to set up a guest room for her when she's ready, and we will move her upstairs." 

"You think B will let her-"

"Prepare a room for WHEN she comes upstairs." Duke and Steph looked at him. 

"Yes, sir".

-

His eyes were on the curtains. He could hear them whispering but couldn't make out what they were saying. Despite that, he was relieved they no longer sounded urgent, meaning her condition was no longer dier. Still, she was not healed, and -Someone was touching him.

It's Jason.

He has a wet towel in his hand. He takes his hand slowly, whipping the blood away. He didn't realize. " She'll be fine. They know what they're doing," Jason says as he handles him gently. It was like he was slowly whipping away the pain. There was a dull ache, but the burning was gone. All that was left was ash and smoldering. 

"She'll be okay."

-

He was a child again.

They were in an abandoned courtyard. It was in the deepest corner of the compound the brush had over grown and nature had reclaimed it. A baby bird in between them was green. He doesn't remember feeling this way. His Akhi picks up the baby bird, cradling it in his hands. There's a slight shake to them he doesn't comment on.  Akhi doesn't say a word; he never spoke, but he knows if he did, he'd say

" She'll be okay". 

-

Tim walks out. He stops, gives them a node, and keeps walking. Soon, Dr. Thompkins and Alfred follow, discarding their medical scrubs as they went. Bruce manifest from whatever shadow he hid in. 

"What's the situation?" 

"The inside was worse than the outside." Thompkins says as she discards her scrubs, " Besides the lacerations, punctures, cuts, and electric burns, she also had a couple of Hermatomas. A small tear in the spleen. Several punctures in the intestines and a collapsed lung... this girl has been through. Should I even ask what happened to her?"

"We aren't entirely sure ourselves," Bruce says, eyeing Damian, who is looking intensely at the other curtain. 

Thompkins sighed. She knew better than to ask, " Right now, if nothing else happens, recovery time is 6 to 12 weeks. And that's just physically."

"Thank you," Damian says as he stands. " Thank you," he repeats as he walks past her to the open curtain where she lies. Behind his back, Dr.Thompkins pulled a vial of blood out of her pocket and moved to hand it in his hand. The look Bruce gave him would scare anyone else but Jason. 

"you'll wait for them," he says. " This isn't the case. An enemy or suspect. This is his friend. You'll wait." 

With that, he walked past Damian. Unbeknownst to him, Tim had taken his own sample. 

Been re-thinking over the total intimacy of Rinzler unmasking himself for the first time in front of Flint & just... GAHHHHH

HOW intense that moment could be. Of how much it takes for Rinz to force his guard down & stop hiding from what he is.

How after cycles & cycles of being made into a spectacle. Of being seen as an inhuman machine. As being just a faceless, voiceless drone in Clu's insufferable regime.

How after all he's done, Rinzler doesn't even WANT to see his own face. He wants fully to dissociate from what he's become. How he's numb at his own exstance & just continues to survive despite his own wishes, all because his deeply ingrained protocols & new "master" won't allow it.

From his glowing scars to untamable disaster of a hairstyle to his deep eyebags & all the proof of exhaustion as it wears down on him. How he doesn't want anyone to see how weak the unfeeling beast truly is. How tired he may be. How much he wishes to be released from the agony of his own existence.

To him finally taking down his guard & seeing Flint's expression change... between wonder, worry, concern, fear... Rinzler almost immediately re-masks himself & leaves it at THAT, but

when Flint then takes his hands and carefully cups Rinzler's face, slowly tracing the longest, deepest line cut across his face with a gentleness Rinz couldn't ever before fathom, something inside the program shatters apart, especially as Flint follows up with: "I can't even imagine what you've been through. But still" making eye contact with Rinzler as he says the next part, "You're perfect."

Just. 😚👌👌👌👌👌👌👌

YES YES A MILLION TIMES YES, absolute heartwarming joy that has Rinz leaning into Flint & finally FINALLY giving in to something HE wants. To be held, to feel Flint's arms come crashing down around him as Rinzler drops his head against the user's shoulder - oh so tired & fatigued from the games he's been forced to play & the role he was demanded to adopt. To have a warm body clutching onto him, out of a love & care that Rinzler's unfamiliar with, to be handled like something deserving of protection with gentle hands, careful with kindness, rather than fear and out of duty alone.

To allow his own trembling arms to curl around the user, to hold Flint as tightly as he could without breaking the human in two. To feel somehow whole for once, complete & unalone & as if this is where he was supposed to be, meant to be, finally finding himself home.

I'm just.

Im just having a lot of emotions, is all. I'm good. It's cool. I'm gooooooddddddd😭💕😭💕😭💕😭💕😭💕😭💕💕💕💕

Hi! Welcome to fic recs for the month! I wanted to put together all the fics I've read and loved over both Feb and March for this month's 28th appreciation (as I didn't post for Feb bc I only read like 2 fics), so here they are! Click on the links for full tags and summaries. If you read any of these make sure to show the authors some love by leaving kudos and comments!

💫Fringe & flogging by @larry-hiatus

(4k | E | nipple play pwp)

Harry was good this time. He didn’t wear his lace knickers; he didn’t tear his trousers on stage. But his revealing outfit and less than family friendly performance still had the night ending in ripped clothing, this time at the hands of his jealous dom.

Thoughts: all Emily smut is really good, really hot smut. It's a guaranteed good time, especially if you like your Louis to be a little mean. Why aren't you reading yet?

💫Just a trim by @cherrystreet

(1.7k | E | crack and smut)

Or, the one where Harry gets a haircut, and Louis, along with the rest of the world, loses his mind.

Thoughts: so fucking funny, their dynamic is so fun in this and it's also rather sweet bless pls go read it for good vibes

💫Cause I just wanna feel alive by @goldenkinglouis

(3k | T | magical creatures and fluff)

“Oh, cheers, mate, but I don’t do dates.” Harry’s brow furrowed. “Are you–” he waved vaguely. Louis shook his head. “No, it’s just… been too long for me.” “And how might I convince you otherwise?” Harry asked, his eyes glistening under the lights. OR: Louis is a lost, lonely vampire. Harry is the witch who brings him home.

Thoughts: such a little beaut, beautifully descriptive, the world building feels a little ethereal and the softest characters. Thank you Lou!

💫Unplant by @hellolovers13

(4k | M | fluff)

Please do not disturb my plant. She needs 2 hours of sunlight a day and I live in a sunless flat. I’ll be back to collect her soon Thank you and stay well. or Louis should've looked where he was going, then he wouldn't have to desperately try to save a little flower now.

Thoughts: comfort fic, absolute gem, so very cute and I would die for Harry and her plants

💫To be a better man by @thedevilinmybrain

(9k | E | pwp)

“I can tell how much of a good boy you think he is.” Leon’s snarl doesn’t change, the corner of his mouth lifting higher. “But he’s still calling me, not you, hm?” “Watch your mouth.” Louis is about done with this conversation. Who the fuck talks about their own boyfriend like this? “Or are you accusing me of something?” “Just giving you an out, lad. Like Harry would even look at you. He’s too busy crawling up my ass to notice anyone else.” Leon snarls, rolling his eyes in a dismissive shake of his head. “But if you’re so concerned, go see what he wants. Make him happy enough to leave me alone, eh? Since you’re so worried.”

Thoughts: actually speechless with this one, it was so hot and sensual and I didn't breathe the entire time, you're missing out if you don't read it

💫The light streams out by @nooradeservedbetter

(6k | G | magic & animal transformation)

But in the open air and colours and wind and immensity of the moorlands, that’s where Harry’s entire being feels really free, that’s where he lets himself be one with the magic that soars in him and upon him and in the moorlands all the same, making him one with the land, the earth, the soil, the air around him. He looks at the wilderness, untamed like his magic, and the wilderness looks back, a mirror that makes him safe. He lets the wind course through his hair, feels the moss under his naked feet, long shirt fluttering behind him the only non-natural noise he can hear. He opens his arms, and flies. (Or, Harry's magic is unstable, and Louis finds himself being followed by a fennec fox)

Thoughts: such a gem, so very sweet and soft, wonderfully descriptive and just so lovely

💫did I upset you, daddy? (take out your frustration on me) by @larrydoinglaundry

(3k | E | pwp)

Harry misbehaves, so Louis gets off without him. Harry of course has to watch.

Thoughts: so fucking hot, 10/10 concept always, so good!!!

💫Pull you closer (kiss me harder) by @sunshineandthemoonlight

(5k | E | canon compliant)

Harry likes to wear panties sometimes. It’s never been a sexual thing, until suddenly it is.

Thoughts: angst? Impeccable. Smut? So good and full of emotion. It just made me feel so much and is so well written, in awe.

💫Doc in my box by @homosociallyyours

(2k | E | medical kink)

Faced with lots of extra stress at work, Louis hasn't really felt like she could let go sexually in a while. She's pretty sure that a visit to a certain gynecologist will help change that, though.

Thoughts: so fucking hot!! A delight and I love how quickly Louis almost wanted to break her character. Just so good.

I didn't get to read much this month so this is all I have, but they're all really good! If you check these out, give these works some love. As always, fic writers I will give you the world <3

ROUND 3

PROPAGANDA:

Black (Not Me: The Series)

he forms an anarchist biker gang to take down corrupt people in power and does all sorts of illegal things to expose their villainy to the public, but also does more solo mission type stuff where he like severely beats up people and stuff. is kinda a wildcard in the gang with being much more intense, an asshole, and far less boundaries over what is acceptable to do. genuinely wants justice but is willing to bend the rules to get it

Wei Wuxian (The Untamed)

He's impulsive as all hell and doesn't care about the standards of society for what is right or wrong. He cares deeply for his family and loved ones and will do anything to protect them, but is less concerned about the safety or well being of those who are outside of who he cares about (especially during his time as the Yiling Patriarch). He's not evil nor is he fully good and he sure as all hell is chaotic.

For the ask game, F and V?

[the ask game]

F - What’s the longest you’ve ever been in a fandom?

Ooh, tricky question! It's hard to say because I've consistently been into DBZ since before I started drawing (and when I did start drawing on the internet, my first fan arts where DBZ fan arts) but I never kept up with the new series and eventually stopped making fan art for it. The longest on record that I've actively been in a fandom is probably Castlevania (since it came out, so since 2017, it's been 7 years oh god)

V - Which character do you relate to most?

Not the most (because honestly I don't relate that much to any of them), but one of the last characters I identified with was Jiang Cheng from 'The Untamed' / 'MDZS' because I too am very dramatic, angry and emotionally repressed (and possibily aroace)

I also definitely come across as aggressive, especially when I'm expressing care/concern (it comes out as a lecture).

Two days had passed since Dynis Arden's sudden disappearance from Hogwarts, and a sense of unease had settled over the school. The professors had conducted a thorough search of the castle and its grounds, but there was no sign of the missing Gryffindor student. Whispers of concern and speculation filled the air as students and staff alike wondered about her fate.

Among the concerned faculty members, Severus Snape had been particularly preoccupied. He had been, after all, the last person to interact with Dynis before her vanishing act. His thoughts were consumed by worry, and his usually stern countenance was marked by a rare hint of concern.

It was late afternoon when Snape ventured into the Forbidden Forest, a place of shadowy mysteries and untamed dangers. He had a hunch, a gnawing suspicion that drew him deeper into the ancient woods. As he walked cautiously among the towering trees, his sharp senses picked up on a faint sound—a distant murmur of voices.

Following the sound, Snape emerged into a small clearing bathed in dappled sunlight. There, seated upon a weathered stump, was Dynis Arden. Her face was turned toward a group of centaurs, and she was engaged in a conversation that seemed to flow seamlessly between her and the enigmatic beings.

The centaurs, their equine bodies regal and their human heads wise, regarded her with a mixture of curiosity and respect. They were a reclusive and proud race, seldom interacting with wizards and witches.

Snape watched in silence for a moment, he had heard rumors of Dynis's encounters with the centaurs, whispers that she had formed a bond with them since she got lost in the Forest in her third year. Yet, her secret friendship with these beings had remained well-hidden.

Clearing his throat, Snape stepped forward, and the centaurs turned their inscrutable gaze toward him. Dynis looked up, her freckled face showing both surprise and fright.

"Professor Snape," she said, her voice tinged with a mix of emotions. "I… I can explain."

Snape raised a hand, a rare gesture of leniency. "There will be time for explanations, Miss Arden. But for now, I would like to speak with you privately."

The centaurs exchanged glances but made no move to interfere as Dynis rose from the stump and followed Snape into a more secluded part of the forest. There, amid the whispering leaves and rustling undergrowth, he turned to her, his dark eyes searching her face.

"Where have you been, Miss Arden?" he asked, his tone a mixture of sternness and genuine concern. "The entire school has been worried about your disappearance."

Dynis hesitated, her gaze dropping to the forest floor. "I needed time alone, Professor. Time to think."

Snape studied her carefully, his gaze unwavering. "Miss Arden, you must understand the risks of disappearing like this, especially in a place as dangerous as this forest. I knew you were reckless and foolish, but I didn't think you were a complete idiot."

She flinched at his words, then hung her head. "I know, Professor. I didn't mean to cause concern. It's just… things have been complicated." Summoning her courage, she looked up into his dark eyes, her voice trembling. "I didn't know what to do, and I was scared of your reaction."

The confession hung in the air between them, a weighty silence settling in the forest. Snape regarded her with a mix of surprise and something else—a hint of understanding that seemed to soften his features.

"Miss Arden," he said quietly, "we will discuss this further, but for now, we should return to Hogwarts before they summon your parents. Don't think that this foolishness will not cost your House another twenty points."

@10holmes Thanks for the 'Get to know your fic writer!' ask! :) As my answer got lengthy (of course), I thought best to make a separate post. Answers are under the cut.

Do you prefer writing one-shots or multi-chaptered fics?

I like both, but I tend to lean more towards one-shots. When I get a bug for a story, I’m kinda desperate to get it down asap so multi-chaptered fics are harder as they take more time and planning and, especially, patience. That said, I really enjoyed writing The Prisoner of Jinlintai and The Tamed and was really surprised I managed to write – and finish! – such long, multi-chaptered stories. I hope I can do so again in the future 😊

Where do you find inspiration for new ideas?

All over the place! From the original canon, from memes and gifs online, from meta and headcanons other fans share, from songs, from dreams… Sometimes ideas just spring unexpectedly but fully formed into my head. That moment of inspiration is always exciting – but then it’s got to be transferred to paper, which is harder :D

how do you write emotional scenes? Do you ever feel what the characters feel? Do you draw from personal experiences?

I think emotional scenes are ones I struggle with a bit. I often feel my writing ends up a bit clunky and melodramatic! But I try to put myself in the characters’ shoes and imagine how they would feel in that situation, their reactions to other characters’ words and actions. I think though, however unintentionally, my own personality probably seeps into the characters to a certain extent, which I know is not ideal! Particularly when I write Xue Yang, I often think I hold him back too much when he would probably fly wild 😉

Which of your fics would you call your wildest ride?

Hmm, probably either Priceless or Life Imitates Art, as they’re both a bit taboo!

How do you spend your time when it comes to fanfiction? Are you primarily a fic reader, writer, or a perfect 50/50 split of both?

Hmm, it varies from time to time. Sometimes I binge fics and don’t read anything for ages, sometimes I’m so caught up in the stories in my head that I don’t read anything at all. But probably on balance, I’m primarily a reader. There have certainly been long periods of time in the past when I’ve barely written anything at all but have devoured loads of fics. It just happens that more recently I’ve developed an obsession with The Untamed and have had the time, energy and inspiration to indulge in writing again (which has been a joy!).

Does anyone in your personal life know you write fic? if not, would you tell anyone?

Only a very small group of irl friends know I write fic. I discovered fanfic in my teens, started writing it myself in 2012 and never told anyone about it until last year. Sometimes I see on tumblr people saying their mum or their sister etc read their fics and I’m always amazed – I think that’s wonderful! I can’t imagine telling anyone in my family about the things I write – let alone allowing them to read it! Esp the explicit stuff :O I’d die of embarrassment lol. And they’d probably die of shock!

Do you have a favorite scene you’ve written from The Prisoner of Jinlintai story/chapter?

Ooh, difficult question! I think there are lots of parts I really like from TPOJ, I’m pretty proud of that story (if I may say so!). I think chapters 25 & 29 are particular favourites, probably for similar reasons – ch25 is the first time XXC stays overnight in XY’s room, they’ve got frisky before but this time there’s more emotion behind it, and it’s preceded by XY actually being concerned about XXC and taking care of him. And in ch29 we get a glimpse of XXC being concerned about XY when he’s late back from his work, and then the scene when XY arrives back and finds XXC asleep in his bed, all calm and peaceful and beautiful. And XY is kind of struck dumb, surprised to find him there, unsure of his own reaction, but in the end just crawls into bed and falls asleep with him in his arms. I envisaged that scene so clearly in my mind, saw XY walk slowly and cautiously through the darkness, all alert, and then suddenly stop at the sight of his bed, his eyes widening, his body frozen, his fingers twitching, wanting to touch… And then I really like the last paragraph of that scene:

The room was so quiet and still. Xiao Xingchen was warm in his arms. Xue Yang held him carefully, as though Xiao Xingchen was some fragile thing that would break if he wasn't careful enough. He felt strange; his heart was still doing some weird fluttering thing that made it slightly hard to breathe. Maybe he was just overtired. He brushed his lips against Xiao Xingchen's neck and closed his eyes.

Now I've waffled on way too much about myself lol :D But it was fun, thank you! <3

Hi there! I hope you have a lovely day!

First of all I wanted to tell you that I think you are an amazing writer. The way you write the Durin brothers, their characters, and those scenes filled with so much passion and excitement, chef's kiss 😘

My favorite character was Kili from the beginning, but once I've just read a story from you with Fili, and I fall in love with him too. Kili's character is still my favorite but I can only blame my untamed heart. Anyway, the stories you write always give more life to these characters and show a side of them that can make you believe that they are real in a way. So great work 🤗

I hope it's okay if I share one personal thought of mine. I just saw this picture and had this headcanon that human reader wears this under her wedding robes, and when either Fili or Kili sees this, they can't contain their amazement.

Thank you so much for this kind message.

I'm sorry for taking so long to respond, I really liked seeing it in my askbox and wasn't exactly sure how to reply 💗

Your compliments mean so much to me and really have come at a good time. So thank you again for sending me this, and not being shy to tell someone you enjoy what they do.

It's amazing to know I helped sway you into liking Fili too ☺️ They are both such wonderful characters and deserved so much more for their stories, so I aim to provide that with my writing, especially where Fili is concerned, although I have written the odd Kili piece.

I need to squeal over how much I LOVE these photos and that dress 😍😍 it is truly stunning and I know both of the princes would be more smitten than ever when they saw it. Perhaps one day I can incorporate it into one of my fics, but I strongly encourage you to if you write, or if you're thinking about writing, to go ahead and start with this idea, because it's beautiful.

Again, thank you for sharing this thought with me. I've gone back to this message a lot recently and am so grateful for you sending it to me 💗

Togawa - Old Fashion Cupcake - INTJ

Ni-dom Te-aux Fi-ter Se-inf

I already made a post talking about how Nozue is an ISFJ here but now I want to do a little bit on Togawa. As with my other post, this is mostly focused on the first episode.

Togawa is a pretty intense guy (Ni), doesn’t mind conflict (Te), very focused (mostly focused on Nozue tbh) (Ni), future oriented (Ni), individualistic/independent (Fi), likes to problem solve (Te), loyal (Fi), tends to be more blunt (Te), over indulges under stress (Se).

He’s similar to Nozue on the surface in a lot of ways even though looking at their cognitive functions, they actually have zero functions in common. I had a whole compare and contrast post I was working on but I copied it to paste it to its own post and then I accidentally copied something else and lost the whole thing. Oops. I’ll get back to that later.

Introverted intuition is his dominant function and Ni-doms are known for being reserved and they like to sit back, observe, and take some time by themself to reflect before making decisions. They tend to be very insightful, more on the serious side, good at reading between the lines, and they are constantly taking in information and storing it so that they can use it later to anticipate future issues or figure out the best way to move forward with their goals.

In the first episode we see Nozue lightheartedly helping out a coworker and then as soon as he leaves everyone starts gossiping and chitchatting about him. Immediately we see Togawa not having any of this and his coworkers all scramble back to work.

INTJs are usually very hardworking on the clock and they don’t like to see people slacking off. They usually don’t mind letting people know it, either.

With introverts, their dominant function is kinda kept to themself so oftentimes the auxiliary function comes across more strongly at first glance. For INTJs this is extraverted thinking.

Extraverted thinking is often linked with being a stickler for the rules and being more on the demanding, efficiency conscious, or critical side. This can cause some conflict depending on the type they are interacting with. INTJs tend to not really mind about that though. If it’s a rule they agree with, they have no problem enforcing it.

If it’s an issue of doing things correctly or incorrectly, that’s even more simple. What are they going to do, just let you be out there being wrong? Nope. If it’s concerning an issue or a person they care about, they’re gonna let you know you’re wrong and if pressed they will probably have a list of reasons why (with sources!).

We see some of Togawa being a rule enforcer but knowing how down bad he is, we know it’s also just an excuse to talk to Nozue.

ISFJs don’t really do conflict so Nozue is just like, “Oh yeah, oops, my bad.”

This pops up again a bit later:

Aux Te hall monitor stereotype bros INTJ 🤝 ISTJ (such as Lan Wangji of The Untamed)

INTJs love a good complex problem to ruminate on for days and eventually solve but a simple one will do okay as an appetizer; especially one that gives them an opportunity to get their actual long term goal in motion. In Togawa’s case, that long term goal is locking down his dreamy boss.

I already posted this conversation with Nozue where he told him all his fears but really, this says just as much about Togawa so I’ll put it in again.

Ni-doms shocking the crowd with their amazing feats of perception

That intense Ni single minded focus on observation paired with Te bluntness can come across as creepy if they’re not careful. Do they care though? Well, not usually... and if they do, they’ll probably keep that to themself.

More observation

How to turn Togawa on:

-brainstorming

-countermeasures

-“Okay, thanks for solving that problem for me. I’ll do that.”

(Sorta inspired by the earlier ask you got--hope you don't mind another!)

How do you decide how to draw modern versions of the Untamed characters? They're so good. I especially love that Xichen's still got extremely long hair and Huaisang's wardrobe choices. (And, like, all of them, that's just two details that stand out).

ah gosh! hmmm, honestly the short and not especially exciting answer is that I mostly go off The Vibes? I suppose I try to translate each character's personality into a modern setting and then work from that basis to decide what they'd do with their clothes and hair.

for example - Meng Yao/JGY is very concerned about looking presentable and appearing professional, so most of the time he will be wearing smart casual clothes, and when he gets money he wears exclusively tailored stuff. he feels very anxious about looking anything less than his best in public, and he'll only slob about in less flattering clothes or loungwear when he's at home with just his boys. WWX, on the other hand, has a very strong individualistic personality and a rebellious streak, so he doesn't care much about what other people think about what he wears so long as it fits his aesthetic and makes him look hot!

as I said, canon has really helpfully colour-coded everyone, and I've tried to stick to that in the modern AU as much as I can, and then with things like haircuts... honestly, a lot of it is trying things out and deciding whether they still look like themselves - Xichen has long hair partly because I love it, partly because he just doesn't feel recognisable without it 😆 and you may have noticed there was a vERY brief time early on where NMJ didn't have a moustache, before I decided he just didn't look right. the actors' looks themselves also have had a fair bit of influence over my designs (ZZJ with his cutie side fringe and yellow pattern button-up with tight black skinny jeans is basically my JGY template now, and Ji Li has been a godsend for reference wearing his shoulder length hair up on a lil ponytail 🙌), as well as the Sims, which has helped me build up little wardrobes for all my faves!

credit is also due to @ellethinthewoods, who, when I first started on my modern AU and expressed concern about my lack of fashion knowledge, put together fashion aesthetic pinterest boards for me for each clan, and gave me a really good starting point and lots of inspiration!

Untamed thoughts 1

I finally started watching The Untamed after I have finished reading the novel.  These are just some of my thoughts after watching the first 2-3 epidsodes:

1) so apparently wei wuxian apparently canonically looks like himself here instead of Mo Xuanyu - that’s why he keeps wearing the mask. I didn’t realize this but now it explains why some of the fanart based on this adaptation looks that way. It also makes since that they would do this to explain why his actor looks the same in both time periods

2) I’m really enjoying it so far - the first 2 episodes were very funny!! Also as someone who hasn’t really read much about xianxia before reading mxtx novels or knows much about Chinese history/fantasy, the setting really helps me visualize what some of the architecture and clothing is supposed to look like in the novels.

3) the things that bother me are all the common novel to movie adaptation problems I think - but there are a lot of them.

          - The condensed “16 years ago” timeline - I don’t feel like condensing it this much makes a whole lot of sense other than justifying that the actors look

the same age the whole time?? but i would have gone with it if they said they were even younger          - Wen Ruohan has a “larger” I guess villain arc than what I think he really needs. Why does there need to be a yin iron?? Where is my full arc of wei wuxian bothering lan wanji at cloud recesses?? LOL          - those I can live with but the one thing that really bothers me is Lan Wanji’s characterization here!!  They’ve “simplified” it I guess is the best way for me to explain it. Which makes sense for a movie adaptation I think - so it’s not necessarily unexpected or unjustified. In the novel - we’re first introduced to Lan Wanji when he is young - supposedly younger than when we meet him in the Untamed. He’s a stickler for the rules - but he’s never put in a situation where he refuses an entire clan entry to cloud recesses or singles wwx out without a justification. The cloud recesses arc in the novel focuses on wwx acting up during his time at cloud recesses and butting heads with lwj. Then as he gets older they continue to butt heads out of his concern for wwx. I feel like the way we’re introduced to young lwj in the untamed makes it seem like he’s such a stickler for the rules that it destroys some of his compassion for others -- which is not a thing in the novel especially as he gets older. This does make sense why some of the fanfic I have read that is based off the untamed rather than the novel seemed ooc for lwj - it aligns with his character in this adaptation.          - the last major change I feel like is jiang cheng’s characterization. Again it’s “simplified” which makes sense for a movie BUT he’s more of a “villain” here, giving wwx the final blow and everything

Thanks for letting me word vomit here. And if you made it to the end - thanks for reading!! What are your thoughts on the different adaptations?

Dear future self continued... 2024 Goals

What do I want to work on this year? -I would like to read at least 7 books on my TBR this year. Also would love to finish the 4 I started last year that aren't done yet too (Ed's book, Untamed, Highly Sensitive Person & Atlas of the Heart) -I want to do my solo trip this year. Doesn't matter where, whether it just be across the province, a roadtrip in the US or even a solo flight somewhere. -I want to further deepen my friendships. I know this is a given, but I'd also like to see myself adding another girl to my circle. -I would like to feel fully invested in a church. Not feel like I'm still iffy & testing it out but I want to plant myself in one, join some more groups within the community hopefully & attend some more church activites. - I want to better my relationship with God. I know I can just reflect on that in a year from now & see how much more trusting I am with Him, only time will tell but I want to be more invested in that. More trusting that His plan is greater & he's going to take care of me. - I want to ask for help more. I realized that I still seclude myself a lot when I go through hard times, I don't allow others to help or open up & I deal with things on my own. I started to in the later months especially when I had ended things with Zack, I did open up with Amber & Sasha more & even Shane so I want to continue to be able to ask for that help back. -I want to compliment more strangers. I remember I went to the peter lougheed house with mom some weeks ago & our server had such a beautiful smile, I had told him at the end of the meal & he blushed & got flustered. This world is so cold and unfriendly. I want to compliment more people, more strangers. Whatever it might be, I want to be kinder. Softer. More compassionate. I want to say nice things & speak more kindness into the world. -I want to focus more on the less people pleasing side. I feel I've done really good with this the past year, not necessarily "not caring what anyone thinks" but less concern for how people will see me & being able to say no to things & not be worried what that outcome is. - Speaking on which above, I also want to be better at not allowing the absolute dog shit in my life. Not allowing people to treat me like an option, not chase connection, not force a friendship. I want to set healthy boundaries & really lean into my self worth this year. Not letting it waiver depending on who responds to me or how someone treats me. -I also want to stop the self punishing. I've been doing a lot better at this in the last several months. Not dwelling on the bad & negative, not allowing myself to sink into a hole of what a shit person I am etc. I've been better at redirecting my thoughts when they come to those & combating them with positives & truths but I do want to have a lot of growth in that. -I want to establish a better lifestyle. More balance & healthier habits. While still not binging but allowing myself to not have such restrictions. I would like to get back into a workout routine & build my strength. I'm not unhappy with my body but I would like to feel better in it. I really need to get back into going to bed at a decent hour to get my full nights sleep & be waking up at a good early time to start my day. Building better routines for sure & not letting busy life destory healthy habits established. -I want to save more too this year. -I really need to find balance this year. I don't want to be running on empty all the time. Last year was amazing & I have so many great memories & was out all the time but I really want balance this year. I want to spend more time with myself, like getting back into shadow work & reading or listening to meaningful podcasts again. -More things that make me happy. More mountain trips & hikes. More puzzles. More green thumb with plants. More drawing. More focus on my skin care. More cold showers. More time with Nova.

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