Extended Progress Update: 17 August 2024
Added 2024-08-17 16:16:59 +0000 UTCHi Returning Visitors,
Key highlights of this update and reminders:
My typical gentle nudge to remember to add my email address can be found here. It's important for the TFS character portrait inquiries and welcome message I promptly send out. Also, remember to check your spam folder and to reach out to me, if needed.
Yay, I just finished the chapter I've been devotedly working on! 🥳
It's National Honey Bee Day, so I have a sweet treat for you all in this update.
Hints about the next chapter that will tempt you; there are many different locations!
Book Two Snippet: I chose (emotional) violence with this snippet. I'm a lil' sorry. 🥺
[Alternate Text: A GIF from Disney's 'Winnie the Pooh'! It features the yellow bear happily eating honey out of a 'hunny' pot set on his dining room table. He is using his paw to scoop it out while delighting in the sweetness.]
In honor of National Honey Bee Day, I wanted to provide a glimpse of writing relating to the ever-sweet B. Warrick, aka 'Bee' to MCs who romance them. There are a few bee and honey-themed references associated with this character—from their hazel eyes that have flecks of gold in them to their kind disposition to the stinging angst you've read at the start of TFS: Book Two. (Although, this route naturally has that duality of a sweet sting by its design.) Below are a few snippets!
🍯 Beckett 🍯
Through the relative darkness of your car's interior, you can sense his gaze on you that's only colorfully lit by the gauges. It's an awestruck stare, faintly wide-eyed and possibly even turned on. Beckett tugs on your hand, which gets you to angle to face him right before he leans over to kiss your cheek.
It's earnestly sweet just like him, though you do ease off the gas to savor the contact.
"Thank you," he murmurs.
Beckett's voice being lowered to a whisper so near your ear sends a mild shudder through you that's unexpected. He watches you for a moment—at an advantage because you're the one driving. Your eyes flick away from the road to find him half-smiling at your conflict. "Beckett Warrick, are you teasing me?" There's disbelief shading your tone. "I…"
"Maybe, maybe not."
He pulls away from you after one last, little peck, but your hands remain joined.
You glance between him and the route you're supposed to be taking, smiling faintly since he makes you feel better—happier.
🍯 Becca 🍯
Through the relative darkness of your car's interior, you can sense her gaze on you that's only colorfully lit by the gauges. It's an awestruck stare, faintly wide-eyed and possibly even turned on. Becca tugs on your hand, which gets you to angle to face her right before she leans over to kiss your cheek.
It's earnestly sweet just like her, though you do ease off the gas to savor the contact.
"Thank you," she murmurs.
Becca's voice being lowered to a whisper so near your ear sends a mild shudder through you that's unexpected. She watches you for a moment—at an advantage because you're the one driving. Your eyes flick away from the road to find her half-smiling at your conflict. "Becca Warrick, are you teasing me?" There's disbelief shading your tone. "I…"
"Maybe, maybe not."
She pulls away from you after one last, little peck, but your hands remain joined.
You glance between her and the route you're supposed to be taking, smiling faintly since she makes you feel better—happier.
🐝Beckett 🐝
"There's nothing to forgive," Beckett says. "I want you to hear me—listen to me, please."
🐝Becca 🐝
"There's nothing to forgive," Becca says. "I want you to hear me—listen to me, please."
B deserves to be celebrated most days due to their supportive nature, but seeing this 'holiday' pop-up inspired me to share something about them today! Yesterday was our slated date for an Extended Progress Update; however, I'm ready and rearing to go to reveal what I've wrapped up. I still need to code the last sections of the two mini-branches I mentioned last time! 🌲 These focus on the influence of sleep aids or stimulants on your Returning Visitors, which changes what happens to them during the night. You'll learn something new, no matter how you play; the substance of the series is important to me, especially that it encourages/rewards your replays.
The nature of what I've most recently been working on is spoilery, so please know that it's done and I'm grateful for your encouragement while writing! The next chapter I'm setting my sights on features quite a few optional locations that you can mix and match based on what's been going on in town! This is where that 'RO outing' comes up when you might be visiting Marjorie where she lives. (It's your choice! However, she seems to know information. 👀🌻) Those of you who are curious about Rosie will be pleased to be seeing her again. This is true for R-mancers and JR-mancers because you'll learn about her involvement in R's life. Besties of R will also get to spend time with the lead mechanic lady who called you 'Buttercup' in Book One. (I'm tempted to go into a bff tangent, but that's not this post's purpose, lol. Many of you will notice how I'm referencing exclusive scenes; it's something I'm eager to share! 🧡💙🖤💚) There's time at Turn the Page with the potential for A and Mal interactions. I hope you can sense my excitement to explore these locations with your chosen character dynamics shaping things. :D
Before I resume my writing blitz, I'll finish up the last chapter's coding and then start on our next chapter.
There's still a lot of content in store for August, including Bee's cute writing, the spicy 'Office Shenanigans' post, C. Schade's inspo reveal, and our alpha drop at the end of the month! 🥰
[Spoilers Ahead!]
Here's an excerpt from Book Two:
(It's from the denial overlay to R. Verner's route, dw.)
Reese
Reese must be calling you out of boredom or due to your episode at the cabin. This could be an obligation to him. It means nothing.
"…I see. If you will indulge me for one more precious second of your time: would it be possible for you to accompany me to pick up my newest convertible? I need a driver, and you were present during her harm. It is only fair."
From that tentative start to that business-like finish, Reese pulled away from you while still asking for help—no, for a favor. This you can work with; it's more balanced. "As a favor?"
"Collect on it when you have more time."
You close your eyes for a second following his seamless retort. "Yes, I'll be there."
Ruby
Ruby must be calling you out of boredom or due to your episode at the cabin. This could be an obligation to her. It means nothing.
"…I see. If you will indulge me for one more precious second of your time: would it be possible for you to accompany me to pick up my newest convertible? I need a driver, and you were present during her harm. It is only fair."
From that tentative start to that business-like finish, Ruby pulled away from you while still asking for help—no, for a favor. This you can work with; it's more balanced. "As a favor?"
"Collect on it when you have more time."
You close your eyes for a second following her seamless retort. "Yes, I'll be there."
The MC said something before this that made me want to gently shake them, so that's why R is cool. Iron-willed, denial R-mancers will eventually discover the overall context. 🖤👀
Thank you for your support. Wishing you all a lovely and safe weekend! 💚🥰
Comments
I like your use of 'haunted' because it fits so well with Marjorie's character and the way she conveys things that usually promise to come back up again. They're a specter on your playthroughs. 👻 Also, I could see them weighing on Jam's mind some more so than Josh's (based on the Believer stat), but for you the reader, Marjorie can warrant more side-eye, scrutiny, and possibly a touch of sadness. (I mean, the Sincerity variation in the Fernweh Diner with the peppermint candy pulled at my heartstrings when writing it.) All that she says will come up again--in different ways and at times you might not wish them to (ah)--but her words often hold deeper meaning. 😌🌻 My curiosity about how you're going to play this month's drop has now only *intensified*, Kay. I won't spoil it, especially for the way you're playing that allows more overlays. Jam will have some rather hard choices on her hands. 🍿🍾 (Those are for me. :D) I wanted to scream while writing how the denial overlay influences what happens at the cabin. (Even your bestie is like: >.>) But to your question, you're right about the connection! If I recall correctly, I teased upcoming R comfort that's rather intense yet sweet. (But emphasis on 'intense' since this is R. Verner with the MC after something serious happens.) 🖤
Aelsa Trevelyan
2024-08-18 00:32:19 +0000 UTCExcited to see more Marjorie... still haunted by what she says in the diner, when she tells the MC to look for what was lost... what does she mean??? Every alpha drop I have to play my B/Mal route with so much regret... I hate it here (not serious) 🤡 "episode at the cabin" + denial overlay, I'm screaming a little. Same episode that causes R comfort from the earlier patreon writing?
ckl
2024-08-17 23:14:14 +0000 UTC"Would decimate Mal" Hold up, give me a second hold onnnnn just give me a second 😭 Not going to lie I've been enjoying the way it interweaves and the flavour text surround it (oh boy the interaction with Ruby on the street in the JR route lmao help). Always a fan of more Mal time! She said, to no ones surprise ever.
three of eight
2024-08-17 22:30:32 +0000 UTCThank you, Alex! 💚🥰 Oh, yes, B-mancers have a chance to unlock a few different sides of Bee. 🤫This glimpse of their teasing side was fun for me since there are future, escalating scenes I’m just /waiting/ to write. There is more to your bestie! It’s interesting how Fernweh helps to bring out different aspects of them while they’re still centered by their love for the MC. The one and only! 🌻 I’ve been lowkey missing her since that small encounter at the start of the second book, but there’s a chance to visit her, possibly even with your RO(s). Let’s see how well (how ‘right’) your MC listens because she once said not everyone does. Also, it might be nice to chat with her. 😄 Exactly! I was waiting (and hoping) for readers to make that connection between R and Rosie. It can be difficult since it’s a R bestie variation on the Bee romance route, yet for those who do, it can be such a sweet insight into who Rosie might be (or have been to) R. Ugh, I have many feelings about this dynamic! There are a few other hints sprinkled in; I can’t wait for you to see more of her. 🌹 Same, tbh. 🖤 I usually try to write them first and then do the non-denial options to soothe my soul. I like them though—the angst!
Aelsa Trevelyan
2024-08-17 22:18:10 +0000 UTCThe way being called ‘the love of your life’ would decimate Mal. 🥺 Our enigmatic red flag can be a red blanket at times; it depends, and Mal can just as quickly change that ‘dye’ to ‘blood dipped’. (I’m mostly kidding! They have the range though.) I’m glad you’re looking forward to more scenes with them along with the R teaser. Both of these characters can be intense in their own ways. I had a lot of fun working on extending Mal’s content; their route through Book Two is interesting because of how it can both interweave with the others or overtake them. There are lots of unique moments where you’ll get a chance for more Mal time!
Aelsa Trevelyan
2024-08-17 22:17:50 +0000 UTCI was thinking of you while writing this post! 🥰 Party because of your username, but also because of the sweet teasing. I love that Phoebe is ready for some payback for B’s antics. It will be fun! I’m right there with Phoebe in regards to the guilt and complicated feelings about being the one to trap Bee in Fernweh, yet their support and comfort also makes the stay more bearable. There are a few choices where the MC can feel /both/, which is rather exquisite angst because you’re stronger together while wanting them to be safe/happy. Oof, we will see when this scene comes into play! It can be a gut punch that shows Bee’s deep care. Yes! You and Alex in particular seem keen on Rosie; I’m so happy that you’ll get to spend more time with her. 🌹I feel like Lucy might vibe with her from what I know of her personality. (Also, I still love her nickname for Jane.) Thank you for being excited about it all!
Aelsa Trevelyan
2024-08-17 22:17:34 +0000 UTCAbsolutely adore the idea of B gaining more confidence once being in a relationship with Zarina who has such a command of her allure. 😌 I think also the safety and comfort she provides to B would let them feel okay to let that teasing side slip out more easily. I love that you mentioned the look Bee is aiming at the MC. This was well-played, certainly not 'friendly' behavior on their part--the car ride (ahem, the MC's rather occupied hands and focus), late night mood (yes, B admired the MC in the low light), and B is reacting to something the MC says that's objectively rather hot of them. 🔥I believe Zarina will say it with conviction. :D Thank you! 🥰 The other version is very different; however, I'm not sure how many denial R-mancers I have, so I thought it would be neat to share an angsty bite. Ooh, perhaps Rosie can out in the secret unearthing department, although it's likely that she'll always (always) remain loyal to Lois. *stares off into the distance* It's awesome that you're invested in Fernweh's lore--that means so much! Marjorie can give that a big boost; however, what she says can be a mix of answers and what may create more questions. It's important to remember there's always a point, just you might not notice it until it's buried in your back or about to trip you in the dark. 👁️👁️It will be interesting to see how Bee and Zarina handle the visit. Thank you for the well wishes! I hope that August treats you wonderfully. Also, no worries, and I hope you have safe travels to your besties' wedding along with lots of fun while celebrating them. 💐
Aelsa Trevelyan
2024-08-17 22:17:17 +0000 UTCBECKETT WARRICK THE MAN THAT YOU ARE!!! HE'S LEARNING THE WAYS OF HAWKE TO BE A TEASE!! Zarina is so pouting at him for that because she cannot do anything to him in the car while its driving (she's happy but pouty, he's winning against her). He got her. The honeybee is too adorable and now he teases? Miss Hawke is a goner. RIP, the ice queen melts from her sweetest bee's touch. (don't think i didn't notice that last bit in how he looks at MC, Aelsa /lh). ALSO R SNIPPET!!! God the denial route makes me scream. It's so interestingly written. I also love how we can learn more about Rosie! I feel like she's such an intriguing character after the Alpha updates. I need to know her and Mrs Verner's secrets. AND OFC MARJORIE. OUR RESIDENT LORE NUKE. I cannot wait to hear more about her too. I need to know the deep lore. We've been studying the lore as a group here ok. The lore of Fernweh must be studied. Super excited for more updates, Aelsa!! Wishing you a great August. Sadly, I may not be here for the alpha drop right away as I'll be at the wedding of my besties but hehe gonna think about all the goods while I'm there!! :3
Renata G.
2024-08-17 20:32:02 +0000 UTCCONGRATS ON FINISHING THE CHAPTER AELSA!!! That B snippet 🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠 Unlocking that new side out of your bestie is so worth it. B Warrick Im in love with you. Phoebe must be melting in the background ☠️ VISITING MARJORIE???? MARJORIE??? TELL ME YOUR SECRETS WOMAN I NEED TO KNOW Rosie was the family friend R learned "colorful swears in spanish" from right??? Love that woman Oh denial overlay we're really in it now I love the options but they HURT
alex
2024-08-17 16:34:33 +0000 UTC1) *mal* love of my life, light of my world. Always good to see more of you. 2) oh ho ho ho R snippet 👀 3) 🐝💜💖🥰💙❤️
three of eight
2024-08-17 16:32:56 +0000 UTCTeasing Beeeeee 😳😳🥰🥰🥰🥰 Hehehehehe So cute 😊😊 So unfair, teasing while Phoebe has to drive 🤣 when they stop and have some alone time either in the parking lot or the b&b, rest assured she's getting some payback in the form of *many* smooches "I don't blame you" *oof* that one hits. Phoebe feels *so guilty* for trapping her Honeybee in Fernweh with her. If that's in response to something like that, it's gonna be such a sweet moment 😭 And oooh! Some Rosie content!! Keeeeeen I'll have to throw Lucy through it!
Bumblebee
2024-08-17 16:30:40 +0000 UTC
