Greenteacups genuinely understands the Harry Potter characters on such an insane level. This kind of character study is spectacular.
Re: Hermione’s parents. To me it always felt like THEY were also very responsible for being out of the picture. First year Hermione is a child who feels like breaking the rules is worse than death and is very sure that she is going to be expelled at any given moment. Her attempts at making friends are laughably bad. We can assume that she had difficult relationship with authority figures growing up, where she had to be perfect or else.
Mr Weasley is shown to be trying to make contact with the Grangers through a topic that is interesting and not intimidating to them, and we never hear about him getting hit back with “yes yes electricity, now tell us everything about your world”, which seeing that Arthur Weasley is a grown ass man who actually can be quite subtle was presumably the point.
Finally, Hermione obliviating her parents tells us a lot about Hermione, true, but it also tells us everything about her perception of them. A 17 year old teenager thought that it wasn’t a big deal to erase all of her parents’ recollection of her, maybe permanently. To me that action speaks of anger at them but also complete and utter lack of belief that they want to do anything with her.
I thought it was a very sad thing happening to Hermione behind the scenes, one that Ron might have been aware of, but not Harry.
Arthur's interactions with the Grangers are an interesting point. I agree that it's probably an overture to the Grangers, with the bonus of being something he likes talking about; Arthur is restoring a car engine, he almost assuredly knows how electricity works.
I don't know that we can assume Hermione had strict parents per se, though. Book 1 gives us a very realistic portrait of a socially awkward eleven-year-old whose inability to connect with people her own age, due to some combination of being smarter than them and a bit stuck-up, has manifested in a desperate desire for approval from older role models. She doesn't seem to be afraid of them; she's not afraid of McGonagall or Dumbledore, and she's certainly not afraid of Snape, though she would have the most reason to be. She just wants them to like her, and probably all the more because she knows most people don't.
We do see that as the series goes on, she develops a distaste for authority, particularly authority that's abused, but that seems like a natural consequence of Hermione never facing any consequences for breaking the rules. Her fears rotate more around being expelled, and losing access to the world of magic, than they do being 'punished' as such by McGonagall or Dumbledore. She's not afraid of them, she's afraid of failing. It's a subtle difference, but an important one for her relationship with her parents, I think.
I agree that it indicates a staggering problem in their relationship when she basically writes off her value in their lives, though I'd add that we don't know what or if they talked to her about the war beforehand. It strikes me that we actually don't know most things about the circumstances of Hermione Obliviating her parents — did she try to talk it out with them first? Convince them to flee? Did they refuse? Was this a first resort, or the last? All of those change what we might think of the Grangers' relationship with their daughter, and we just don't have the answers to those questions in the book.
body language descriptions please?
(eg: she cocked her head)
thank you 💗💗💗
Body Language Descriptions
-> feel free to edit and adjust pronouns as you see fit.
She fidgeted with the hem of her shirt, her fingers tugging nervously at the fabric as she struggled to find the right words.
They bit their lower lip.
He looked away, unable to meet her gaze, a clear indication of his guilt.
She absentmindedly rubbed her neck.
He chewed his nails, a nervous habit that he couldn't seem to quit.
They rubbed their hands together nervously.
He tightened his jaw.
She felt beads of sweat forming on her brow, betraying her calm facade as her heart raced.
Their fists clenched at their sides.
He tapped his fingers rhythmically against the table, a clear sign of impatience as he waited for her to finish.
He rolled his eyes, the gesture full of exasperation as he dismissed her words.
She let out a heavy sigh, the sound heavy with resignation as she faced the inevitable.
He threw his hands up in defeat.
He leaned forward in his chair, eager to hear more, his eyes sparkling with curiosity.
She raised an eyebrow, her expression skeptical as she questioned his intentions.
She tilted her head slightly.
He watched intently, his eyes wide with wonder as he took in every detail of her story.
He stood tall with his shoulders back, projecting confidence even in the face of uncertainty.
They sat on the edge of their seat.
She gestured wildly, her hands moving animatedly as she tried to express her excitement.
He stood with his hands on his hips, exuding an air of authority and control over the situation.
They held their chin up high, projecting self-assurance even in the face of adversity.
He crossed his arms over his chest, a defensive posture that spoke volumes about his discomfort.
He braced himself against the wall, a protective stance.
She folded her hands in her lap, a sign of restraint as she fought the urge to speak.
They shrank back slightly, their shoulders hunching as if trying to make themselves smaller in the face of criticism.
He held his breath momentarily, steeling himself for the inevitable conflict he sensed was coming.
She covered her face with her hands, overwhelmed by the situation as she tried to block out the world.
She furrowed her brow in concentration, her mind clearly racing as she tried to solve the problem at hand.
She nodded slowly, processing the information, her expression thoughtful and contemplative.
He stared blankly into space, lost in thought as he processed what had just been revealed.
He drummed his fingers on the table, the rhythmic sound a sign of his deep contemplation.
She tapped her foot lightly, her mind racing.
He paced back and forth, his restless energy manifesting in the constant movement as he considered his options.
She bent forward, her elbows resting on her knees, a sign of intimacy and engagement in the conversation.
She swayed slightly from side to side, a subconscious display of her nervous energy as she waited for the verdict.
He bounced on his toes, his excitement palpable.
She jumped up and down, a spontaneous display of her joy that couldn’t be contained.
"Absolutely no one comes to save us but us."
Ismatu Gwendolyn, "you've been traumatized into hating reading (and it makes you easier to oppress)", from Threadings, on Substack [ID'd]
ACT ONE: SETUP
1. Opening Image: A snapshot of your story’s world and tone. Who are we following? What’s at stake?
2. Theme Stated: A subtle hint about the story’s deeper meaning or lesson, often posed as a question or challenge.
3. Setup: Introduce your protagonist, their ordinary world, supporting characters, and the status quo. Show us what needs to change.
4. Catalyst: The inciting incident that flips the protagonist’s world upside down. This is the point of no return.
5. Debate: Your protagonist hesitates. Should they step forward into the unknown or retreat? This beat builds anticipation.
ACT TWO: CONFRONTATION
6. Break Into Two: The protagonist makes a decision and steps into a new world (literal or figurative). The adventure begins.
7. B Story: The subplot kicks in—often a relationship or secondary goal that supports the main story’s theme.
8. Fun and Games: The “heart” of the story. Deliver on the premise and explore the stakes through action, conflict, and character growth.
9. Midpoint: A major turning point where everything changes. Stakes are raised. Success feels closer—or failure looms larger.
10. Bad Guys Close In: External and internal pressures mount. Allies falter. Enemies strike. Doubts creep in.
11. All Is Lost: The darkest moment. The protagonist experiences a significant loss or setback.
12. Dark Night of the Soul: A pause for reflection. Your protagonist processes their failure and digs deep to find the courage to move forward.
ACT THREE: RESOLUTION
13. Break Into Three: Armed with new insight or strength, the protagonist takes decisive action to face the story’s central conflict.
14. Finale: The climax. Everything comes to a head in a final showdown or resolution. Your protagonist proves they’ve changed—or failed to.
15. Closing Image: A mirror of the opening image, showing how the world—and your protagonist—has transformed.
10 plants for your character's medicinal herb garden
PLANT — When to Plant — Conditions & Care — Medicinal Uses
ALOE VERA — spring/autumn — sunny site indoors; pot up as needed; do not overwater — fresh plant gel for minor burns and wounds
CALENDULA — spring/autumn — well-drained soil; full sun; remove dead flower heads — cream for cuts, scrapes, inflamed skin; infusion for fungal infections
COMFREY — spring/autumn — warm sunny site; moist soil — ointment or poultice for sprains and bruises (use the leaf only)
FEVERFEW — autumn/spring — well-drained or dry, stony soil in sun — fresh leaf or tincture for headaches and migraines
LEMON BALM — spring/autumn — moist soil in sun; cut back after flowering — infusion for anxiety, poor sleep, and nervous indigestion; lotion for cold sores
PEPPERMINT — spring/autumn — sunny but moist site; do not allow to dry out — infusion for indigestion and headaches; lotion for itchy skin
ROSEMARY — spring/autumn — sunny sheltered site; protect with burlap in winter — infusion as a stimulating nerve tonic and to aid weak digestion
SAGE — autumn/spring — well-drained or dry, sunny, sheltered site — infusion for sore throats, mouth ulcers, and diarrhea
ST. JOHN'S WORT — spring/autumn — well-drained to dry soil with sun or partial shade — tincture for depression and menopause; infused oil is antiseptic and heals wounds
THYME — spring/summer — well-drained soil, may need a layer of gravel; sunny site — infusion for coughs, colds, and chest infections; lotion for fungal infections
Source ⚜ More: Notes & References
RIGHT?! The first time I read it, I was like, "Well that's poorly worded. She could just pardon herself and then make Cardan miserable for fucking her around."
I'm really glad with the way it turned out, but it's definitely a moment where it's like, "Wow. You're so smart, but you're still so dumb."
Listen, I will admit that I couldn’t figure out amarantha’s riddle for the life of me BUT my first thought when cardan exiled Jude was “isn’t this bitch ~the crown~? Pardon yourself and go back…” and that has to count for something right???
Hello! Can you help me and/or give me examples of how to write a pre-teen? Specifically a slightly mature for their age but still socially-awkward, selfless, empathetic, extroverted 10-year-old
How to Write a Pre-Teen
Simple but specific vocabulary: Pre-teens might not use very complex words, but they often know and throw in some “big words” they’ve recently learned or mimic words they hear adults use. Don’t overdo it, though—they’ll often misapply or half-understand these terms, which can create natural, humorous moments.
“It’s totally, like, a catastrophe that I forgot my project.”
Expressive dialogue: Pre-teens are enthusiastic and often exaggerate. They can also shift quickly between emotions, from excitement to frustration.
“That was the best movie ever!” might turn into “Actually, I mean, it was kinda boring in some parts, but, you know, overall…”
Thoughtful yet blunt: Kids this age often haven’t fully learned the “filters” adults use. They can be direct and say things that are surprisingly insightful or unexpectedly honest.
Developing identity and opinions: They’re beginning to form their own beliefs but still echo the views of family, teachers, or friends.
“Mom says people should never lie, but I wonder if little lies are okay if they help people feel better…”
Questioning and introspective moments: Pre-teens are curious about life, relationships, and “big ideas.” They may ask questions, but sometimes keep their deep thoughts to themselves, exploring them internally.
“If friends are supposed to be there for each other, why do I feel alone even when they’re around?”
Struggle with abstract concepts: At this age, they’re just beginning to understand abstract ideas like justice or friendship but often approach them in straightforward, literal ways.
Impulsivity and energy: They might shift quickly between activities and emotions, getting distracted or excited without much control over it. They may also blurt out ideas or act before thinking, especially if they’re extroverted.
For instance, a character might immediately jump up to help someone even if they aren’t sure what to do, or they might “borrow” something without fully considering the consequences.
Physical awkwardness: Pre-teens can be a bit clumsy as they’re still growing into their bodies. This can lead to endearing, awkward moments.
They might knock something over, trip over their own feet, or feel self-conscious in ways that show they’re still figuring themselves out physically as well as socially.
Navigating social rules: Pre-teens are very aware of social “rules” but may not fully understand them. This is an age when they care a lot about what their friends think, but they’re also just beginning to question these dynamics.
A pre-teen might want to befriend the “cool” kids but feel conflicted when they realize their values don’t align. Or they may try too hard to impress friends and feel self-conscious afterward.
Conflicted loyalties: Friendships are often intense at this age, and they might struggle with conflicting feelings if friends argue or if they feel left out.
“I really like hanging out with Sarah, but I know Emma doesn’t. Maybe if I can make them both laugh, we could all just… get along?”
Small gestures: Pre-teens often show they care in understated ways, like sharing snacks, giving a small gift, or cheering someone up when they’re down. For a socially-awkward pre-teen, these gestures may come out clumsy but sweet.
Self-consciousness mixed with bravery: Pre-teens often fluctuate between trying to fit in and wanting to stand out. They might do something brave but then doubt themselves or quickly retreat if things don’t go as planned.
For instance, a character might volunteer to speak in front of the class only to feel panicked once they’re in the spotlight.
Hyper-awareness of themselves and others: They’re beginning to notice how others perceive them and may get flustered easily or worry about little things, like if their clothes look okay or if they sounded silly.
“I shouldn’t have laughed like that… I bet everyone thought I sounded so weird.”
Joking as a defense: Pre-teens often use humor to cope, covering up their awkwardness or discomfort by making jokes.
Quick emotional shifts: They might go from laughing to frustrated to embarrassed in just a few minutes. They feel emotions intensely and may have outbursts or react strongly to things adults might dismiss as minor.
Heroic ideals vs. real-world disappointments: Many pre-teens have an idealized view of right and wrong, fairness, and heroism, and they may be disappointed when things don’t align with these ideals. They’re just starting to understand that people aren’t all good or all bad.
“I don’t get it… why would she lie about something like that? Friends are supposed to be honest!”
Xaden is if Jude and Carden had a baby and I will die on that hill.
Okay but when Xaden was like "She should have killed you in the field but she's merciful, that's not a flaw I possess" he channeled his inner Jude Duarte
Manacled by senlinyu {https://archiveofourown.org/works/14454174/chapters/33390198}
Isolation by bexchan {https://archiveofourown.org/works/23461513?view_full_work=true}
Rights and Wrongs series by LovesBitca8 {https://archiveofourown.org/series/1007625}
Remain Nameless by HeyJude19 {https://archiveofourown.org/works/23875939/chapters/57393508}
Breath Mints / Battle Scars by Onyx_and_Elm {https://archiveofourown.org/chapters/35668776?show_comments=true}
Draco Malfoy and the Mortifying Ordeal of Being in Love by isthisselfcare {https://archiveofourown.org/works/34500952/chapters/85870804}
Wait and Hope by mightbewriting {https://archiveofourown.org/works/22818646/chapters/54531817}
Bring Him to His Knees by Musyc {https://archiveofourown.org/works/24481312/chapters/59089624}
Dragon’s Heartstrings by pinkinku {https://archiveofourown.org/works/46585585/chapters/117313114}
Cherry Mint by dirtymudblood {https://archiveofourown.org/works/21053894/chapters/50081633}
Love In A Time Of The Zombie Apocalypse by rizzlewrites {https://archiveofourown.org/works/28137807/chapters/68944698}
All You Want by senlinyu {https://archiveofourown.org/works/15153092/chapters/35140268}
Apple Pies and Other Amends by ToEatAPeach {https://archiveofourown.org/works/8156101/chapters/18691246}
The Gloriana Set by ThebeMoon {https://archiveofourown.org/works/16821571/chapters/39485710}
Love and Other Misfortunes by senlinyu {https://archiveofourown.org/works/14380728/chapters/33204618}
This World or Any Other series by olivieblake {https://archiveofourown.org/series/502333}
I decided to collect all exclusive stories I know of. I have done something similar for SJM books . If you know of any other exclusive story, please let me know! THE CRUEL PRINCE A visit to the Impossible Lands Barnes and Noble edition Deleted Scenes From The Cruel Prince (Some of these are alternate storylines) THE WICKED KING deleted scene from The Wicked King, Barnes and Noble edition THE QUEEN OF NOTHING Cardan’s letters from the Queen of Nothing Barnes and Noble edition, should be read after the book deleted scene from The Queen of Nothing , sent via Holly’s official newsletter THE STOLEN HEIR The Walmart Exclusive Stolen Heir content The Stolen Heir Barnes & Noble Bonus Content, author’s personal journal pages and notes on the manuscript, Some posts I found useful: post about True Names A Guide to Holly Black’s Extended Faerie Universe
i'm not the praying sort, but i'll probably always have a soft spot for the astronaut's prayer