temris

"Masa, Sit." Masa, the owner of a boutique clothing store, is best friends with the heartthrob fashion model, Oto. Together, they turn heads wherever they go. Both are also high-level Doms. However, Oto struggles with the strength of his commands, making him too intense for any sub partners he's had so far. Masa, on the other hand, has three regular partners. Seeking advice, Oto invites Masa out for dinner, where he playfully gives Masa a command, and then...?!

My Rate: 8 (mangaplaza.com/title/0303010289/)

If you’re looking for a BL that prioritizes "cozy domesticity" over high-stakes drama, Moegi Yukue’s Tried Saying a Command is a standout. It’s a sweet, low-stress exploration of a long-term relationship finding a new rhythm through a bit of harmless, experimental play. The story follows Masa and Oto, a couple of friends who have known each other for years. They are both Dominant Doms, but by chance they discover Masa is a switch and can react to Oto's commando. They decide to experiment with "commands"—small, playful prompts to spice up their interactions and see how the other reacts. What makes this manga work is the groundedness of the leads: Masa: Often the more "composed" one, his reactions to Oto’s commands (and his own attempts to lead) reveal a vulnerability that is incredibly endearing. Oto: He brings a certain warmth and spontaneity to the dynamic. His relationship with Masa feels lived-in; they aren't just lovers, they are best friends who truly know each other. Unlike many BL titles that rely on misunderstandings or "non-con" tropes for tension, this series is built on consent and curiosity. The "commands" are a vehicle for them to express desires they might have been too shy to bring up otherwise. The art is soft, clean, and expressive. Yukue excels at drawing "gentle" men—characters who feel masculine but are capable of immense tenderness. The facial expressions during the more embarrassing "command" moments are gold. It’s rare to find a story that focuses on the maintenance of love rather than the initial chase. Seeing Masa and Oto navigate their domestic life together provides a sense of warmth that feels like a "warm hug" in manga form. A masterclass in soft, domestic BL, Tried Saying a Command isn't going to give you heart-wrenching angst or dark psychological turns. Instead, it offers a refreshing look at how a stable couple continues to grow. It’s charming, slightly spicy in a tasteful way, and deeply romantic. Best for fans of: Established relationship tropes. Soft, "fluff" heavy stories. Healthy communication and consent. Moegi Yukue’s other works (like The High Schooler and the Salaryman).

maevedarcy

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Aaron Hunter’s got it all. Looks, talent, and he just won the award for best actor. He does have one issue though: trouble sleeping. The only thing that’ll get him to fall asleep is a certain song by a certain someone. And when they finally meet, this is Aaron’s chance to get him to write a new song. But will the mysterious singer accept this deal? And will past traumas become illuminated by their newfound relationship…?

My Rate: 8 (www.lezhinus.com/en/comic/flashlight_en)

Flashlight by YANGMA is a striking entry in the psychological BL genre, known for its intense atmosphere and the complex, often volatile chemistry between its leads, Aaron and Yujin. If you’re looking for a "sweet and fluffy" romance, this isn't it. Flashlight leans into the tension of past trauma and the blurred lines between obsession and protection. The heart of the story lies in the friction between two very different men tied together by a shared, painful history. Yujin is the emotional anchor of the story. Haunted by past events, Yujin’s life is defined by a sense of fragility and a desperate need for stability. His journey is less about falling in love and more about navigating the suffocating presence of Aaron. Aaron is a classic "complicated" lead. He is intense, protective to a fault, and often morally ambiguous. His actions frequently walk the line between devotion and control, making him a polarizing figure for readers. YANGMA excels at creating a claustrophobic, cinematic mood. The manhwa uses "quiet" panels effectively to build tension before a confrontation. The narrative constantly plays with who holds the upper hand, both physically and emotionally. It explores how two people can experience the same event and come out with completely different psychological scars. The art is one of the manhwa's strongest selling points. Sharp, clean linework emphasizes the coldness of the setting. The character designs are highly expressive, particularly in the eyes, which convey a lot of the subtext that the dialogue leaves out. The use of lighting (fitting for a title like Flashlight) helps highlight the "darkness" the characters are trying to escape. Flashlight is a must-read for fans of psychological dramas like Killing Stalking or Warehouse, but who prefer a slightly more grounded (though still very dark) narrative. It’s a beautifully drawn, haunting look at how the past can keep you trapped in the dark.

reviews_and_ramblings

A BL manga that starts with a haunted meet-cute between a plain, unlucky schoolboy who can see spirits and the cool, stoic classmate who’s determined to catch his heart. A cute and spooky high school romance!

I feel like...I've forgotten about someone really important to me.

Yuuma Kurose is a quiet boy who can see spirits. He keeps to himself and is always alone, with a specific nightmare that haunts his nights.

As if led by the dream, Yuuma moves back to the town he once lived in as a child. There, he finds a boy called Kaito who is surrounded by a horrifying ghost.

"I swear I'll protect you." Kaito promises to keep Yuuma safe...but the moment he touches Yuuma, the spirit that lingered around Kaito switches targets to haunt Yuuma instead!

The cool-headed, stoic, and yearning top x the unlucky, plain bottom. Toyed with by fate, the two will have to fight past spirits and hauntings to be together.

My Rate: 8 (amzn.to/42p0i9q)

"Ghoul Work, Kurose" is a supernatural BL by Macho Tako. While Macho Tako is known for "beefier" art and intense physical chemistry, this specific story stands out for its high-stakes, haunted atmosphere. Yuuma Kurose is a quiet, isolated boy with a heavy burden: he can see spirits. After being plagued by recurring nightmares about his childhood home, he returns to his old town only to cross paths with Kaito, a bright and seemingly "normal" guy who is being followed by a truly terrifying, high-level ghost. The twist? As soon as Kaito touches Yuuma to "protect" him, the malevolent spirit transfers itself from Kaito to Yuuma. Now, the two are bound together by a supernatural curse that forces them to confront both the ghosts around them and the growing tension between them. Yuuma Kurose (The "Plain" Unlucky One) is a classic Macho Tako protagonist—reserved, slightly weary from his experiences, and physically capable but emotionally guarded. His ability to see the "other side" makes him a magnet for trouble, and his internal struggle with being "possessed" by Kaito’s ghost adds a layer of vulnerability that balances his stoicism. Kaito (The Cool-Headed Protector) starts as the charismatic "hero" figure who wants to save Yuuma, but the dynamic quickly shifts. He feels a deep sense of responsibility (and guilt) for the fact that his "haunting" moved to Yuuma. His determination to stay by Yuuma's side transitions from a duty of protection to a genuine, yearning attraction. Macho Tako uses the supernatural theme to heighten the physical intimacy. The "touch" required to transfer spirits or manage the curse provides a built-in reason for the characters to be in each other’s personal space, creating a thick, palpable tension. If you’re a fan of the artist’s previous works, you won't be disappointed. The anatomy is robust and detailed, but in Ghoul Work, there’s a specific focus on facial expressions—especially the contrast between Kaito’s intense, yearning stares and Yuuma’s flustered reactions. It’s darker than your average school-based BL. It draws comparisons to titles like The Summer Hikaru Died, leaning into the "creepy yet beautiful" aesthetic. Ghoul Work, Kurose is perfect for readers who want more "meat" on their characters—both literally (in terms of art) and figuratively (in terms of plot). The Yuuma/Kaito pairing is a masterclass in how to use a supernatural curse to force two people to face their feelings.

reviews_and_ramblings

The official spin-off to the wildly popular BL omegaverse series, Hate Me, but Let Me Stay! Asanaga and Yanagi are certainly more than friends, but…what does that make them exactly? See what romance blossoms in this new story!

Elementary school teachers Asanaga, an alpha, and Yanagi, an omega, are more than friends but not quite lovers. And while their relationship began with Asanaga’s fervent, one-sided pursuit, Yanagi has found himself warming to his sincere—albeit pushy—affections. But even if he wishes he could stand on equal footing with Asanaga and reciprocate his feelings more openly, insecurity about his omega nature and traumatic past hold him back. Despite it all, Asanaga is determined to make Yanagi his and show him just how wonderful true love can be!

My Rate: 8 (amzn.to/4u7sOsq)

Hate Me, but Let Me Stay is like a complicated, heavy conversation in the rain. Hijiki delivers a story that is deeply emotional, tackling themes of internalized homophobia, self-loathing, and the messy reality of adulthood. The story centers on two men who have known each other since high school: Asanaga: A man who struggles with his identity and has spent years suppressing his true feelings, often resulting in a cold or "hateful" exterior. Yanagi: The persistent, seemingly more stable counterpart who remains entwined in Asanaga's life despite the friction between them. The narrative focuses on their reunion as adults and the slow, often painful process of dismantling the walls Asanaga has built around himself. Hijiki doesn't shy away from the "ugly" side of love. The "Hate Me" in the title isn't just a dramatic hook; it reflects Asanaga’s genuine struggle with self-acceptance and how that project onto Yanagi. Unlike many high school BLs, this series captures the weariness of adult life. The stakes feel higher because the characters are dealing with long-term trauma and the consequences of their choices over a decade. The "hate-to-love" trope is handled with more psychological depth than usual. It’s less about bickering and more about the fear of vulnerability. Hijiki’s art is beautiful but carries a certain weight. The characters’ expressions often convey more than the dialogue, capturing subtle shifts from exhaustion to yearning. This is a high-angst read. If you are looking for immediate fluff or a "sunshine" story, this might feel heavy. The payoff is satisfying, but you have to work through the characters' pain to get there. Asanaga can be a frustrating protagonist for some. His self-sabotage is realistic but can be difficult to watch if you prefer characters who are more self-aware from the start. A poignant, mature exploration of how past wounds dictate present relationships. It’s a must-read for fans of "Omegaverse" authors (like Hijiki’s other works) who want a grounded, non-supernatural story about the difficulty of letting someone in.

reviews_and_ramblings

A cocky and confident Yajima harbors dislike for Torikai, a cool and talented fellow trainee in the Rescue Team. The two constantly quarrel, but one day they cross the line while squabbling and end up sleeping together. Yajima regrets it, but at the same time he cannot get Torikai's pleading expression out of his head. However, because they have been rivals until now, he just can't bring himself to be honest with Torikai.

My Rate: 8 (amzn.to/4uDbnzM)

If you’re looking for a BL that prioritizes emotional friction and the slow-burn realization of feelings over high-octane drama, Contradict is a standout. Kamome Ooshima excels at capturing the awkward, often messy transition from "workplace acquaintances" to "something more." The story follows Yajima, a hardworking and somewhat rigid firefighter, and Torikai, his coworker who seems to be his polar opposite. The tension between them isn't built on a grand rivalry, but rather on the small, daily "contradictions" in their personalities and how they perceive one another. Ooshima avoids the "instant love" trope. Instead, the relationship is built on subtle shifts in perspective. You really feel the weight of their professional lives pressing against their personal desires. Yajima is relatable in his hesitation. His internal monologue reveals a man who is trying to maintain order while his feelings for Torikai start to disrupt his carefully built world. Torikai acts as the perfect foil—less predictable and often the catalyst for Yajima’s growth. Ooshima’s art is clean, expressive, and sophisticated. The character designs are distinct, and she has a knack for using negative space and facial expressions to convey what the dialogue leaves unsaid. The Heat Level is moderate. It focuses heavily on the romantic and psychological build-up, but doesn't shy away from intimacy when the narrative calls for it. The Tone is reflective, slightly bittersweet, but ultimately rewarding. It’s a "mature" BL in terms of its themes and execution, rather than just its content. Contradict is a must-read for fans of Office/Salaryman BL who enjoy character-driven plots. It explores the idea that we often like the people we "shouldn't" like on paper, and how those contradictions make a relationship feel more authentic. If you enjoyed Ooshima’s other works like Red Hood or Keep Out, you’ll find the same level of polish and emotional depth here. It’s a quiet story that lingers long after you finish the final chapter.

ravenholdt1

Hello my lovelies and friends! I got the itch and since I write instead of vid now (very sad, I know), I decided to make a Thing.

Hopefully, you'll enjoy as much as I enjoyed writing it, and the sequel that I'm currently working on.

Summary:

There are cameras at every level.

Jack O'Neill has spent four years navigating the architecture of institutional surveillance — the cameras in the locker room, the servers breathing in the dark, the Maybourne-shaped institutional memory with its long reach — and the specific, impassable, wall-shaped fact of Don't Ask Don't Tell. He has built a room in the back of the house. He keeps the wanting there. He has been very careful.

Daniel Jackson has spent four years reading a text he cannot translate out loud without making the thing real. He is a linguist. He has always known what things mean. He has been choosing, with considerable deliberate effort, not to say so.

They are, both of them, very good at this.

Caught in a Bad Romance by Holdt on AO3

Current Mood: accomplished
Current Music: Lady Gaga

maevedarcy

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reviews_and_ramblings

After twelve years, a former teammate—no, a thorn in his side—suddenly reappears. Eunsan isn’t thrilled to be working with Ian again, having long buried both his ice hockey past and any memories of him. Unlike Eunsan, who hopes their meeting will be a one-time thing, Ian insists on keeping him around with an offer he can’t refuse. With his beloved younger sibling caught in the middle, Eunsan reluctantly agrees, but he can't shake the feeling that Ian has an ulterior motive. Why does Ian keep pulling him closer? There’s no way this guy actually has feelings for him…right?

My Rate: 8 (www.lezhinus.com/en/comic/meltingpoint)

Melting Point is a masterclass in the "opposites attract" trope, blending high-tension drama with deeply intimate character development. PIBI, known for a distinct and emotive art style, delivers a story that feels both grounded and incredibly charged. The heart of the story lies in the friction between the two leads. Their chemistry isn't just about physical attraction; it’s a slow-burn psychological game where their "melting points" are constantly tested. Eunsan often carries a sense of guarded vulnerability. Watching him navigate his feelings—and his physical reactions—to Ian’s presence provides the emotional backbone of the series. Ian serves as the perfect foil. He is often the catalyst for the story's tension, pushing boundaries in a way that feels both provocative and, eventually, protective. PIBI’s art is arguably the biggest draw. The character designs are sleek, and the use of shading and "gaze" creates an atmosphere you can almost feel. The facial expressions effectively convey what the dialogue leaves unsaid. True to its title, the series excels at building heat. It’s not just about the explicit scenes; it’s about the lingering looks, the proximity, and the power struggle between the two. Unlike some manhwa that rush into a relationship, Melting Point takes its time to let the characters simmer. This makes the eventual "melting" much more satisfying for the reader. If you prefer "fluff" or low-stakes romance, this might feel a bit heavy. The emotional stakes are high, and the power dynamics can be intense. The plot is very character-driven. If you’re looking for a complex external plot (like corporate espionage or high fantasy), you might find the singular focus on their relationship a bit narrow. Melting Point is a must-read for fans of high-chemistry, atmospheric BL. It captures the messy, exhilarating process of two people losing their composure for one another. If you enjoyed PIBI’s other works or titles with similar "cold lead vs. persistent lead" energy, this will be right up your alley. Pay attention to the background details and color palettes in the more intimate chapters; PIBI uses them brilliantly to signal shifts in the characters' moods.

reviews_and_ramblings

As the son of King Yeom-ra of the underworld, Jae-shin has lived a hedonistic life full of ever-changing bed partners and condescension towards humans. One day, however, he crosses a line and is given a rather unusual punishment: by day, he becomes a powerless puppy, and by night, he becomes a human. The only way to escape his punishment is to win over a human’s heart, which won’t be easy…especially when the human he sets his eyes on is sweet-natured prince Lee Nok. Will Jae-shin win over the prince? Or will Jae-shin be the one who is won over?

My Rate: 8 (www.lezhinus.com/en/comic/ghost_nocturne)

If you’re looking for a series that perfectly balances haunting atmosphere, high-stakes palace intrigue, and a "star-crossed" romance that feels genuinely earned, The Ghost's Nocturne is a standout. It’s a supernatural BL that manages to be both visually breathtaking and emotionally heavy. The heart of this story is the friction—and eventual magnetic pull—between the two leads. Jae-shin is the quintessential "brooding prince" but with a supernatural twist. Cursed and cynical, he carries the weight of his royal bloodline and a literal ghost of a past. His character arc from a cold, detached figure to someone deeply protective is one of the most satisfying parts of the narrative. Nok Lee is far from a typical "damsel" protagonist. Nok Lee brings a sense of grounded vulnerability and resilience. His ability to see what others can't (the supernatural elements) makes him the perfect foil to Jae-shin’s physical power. Their Chemistry is a slow-burn that thrives on tension. The power dynamic is constantly shifting as they navigate trust in a world where everyone has an ulterior motive. Unlike many BLs that use a historical setting merely as a backdrop, The Ghost's Nocturne integrates its folklore deeply into the plot. The central mystery surrounding the curse and the "nocturne" elements keeps the stakes high. It isn't just about whether they'll end up together, but whether they’ll survive the spiritual and political forces trying to tear them apart. The palace politics are sharp. You’ll find yourself just as invested in the shadowy conspiracies of the court as you are in the romance. The art by Ananas is, frankly, top-tier. The use of lighting and shadows captures the "ghostly" theme perfectly. The night scenes feel heavy and intimate. The detail in the traditional Korean clothing (Hanbok) and the expressive facial work—especially during the more silent, longing-filled moments—is exceptional. This isn't a "light" read. It’s a story about trauma, legacy, and finding light in a literal and metaphorical darkness. If you enjoyed titles like Painter of the Night but wanted more supernatural elements and a bit more "fate-driven" storytelling, this is exactly what you need.

maevedarcy

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Through sign language and acting, two young men seeking their places in the world discover a connection that transcends the spoken word.

“To think that just what I’ve always wanted to hear would come from someone I just met.”

Fujinaga is a university student who dreams of becoming an actor so he can do what he loves best—conveying emotion and story through physical expression. But after failing multiple auditions, his hopes are dashed and his confidence crushed. When he meets Keito, a fellow student with congenital hearing loss, Fujinaga is suddenly introduced to the world of sign language. Although clumsy at first, Fujinaga quickly picks up signing and surprises Keito with his astonishing talent of expressing emotions through action.

Is it that only in a place beyond all verbal limitations can two people, both yearning to be understood, forge a bond they never expected?

My Rate: 8 (amzn.to/4thNDA9)

Love in the Palm of His Hand by Rinteku is a profoundly moving story that explores communication beyond spoken words. The story follows the intersection of two lives that feel "out of sync" with the world:

Fujinaga Aoi is a university student and aspiring actor. He is often criticized by directors for being "over-the-top" or having expressions that are too intense for the stage, leading him to doubt his future in theater.

Keito Maejima is a freshman who has been deaf since birth. He navigates a world that isn't built for him, relying on sign language, lip-reading, and texting, while harboring his own desire to be truly understood. When they meet, Fujinaga discovers that his "excessive" expressiveness, which hampered his acting, is actually a beautiful gift for sign language. To Keito, Fujinaga’s signs are exceptionally clear and "loud" with emotion. Unlike many series that treat disability as a "tragic obstacle" or something for the other lead to "fix," Rinteku treats Keito’s deafness with grounded realism. The manga explores the nuances between Japanese Sign Language (JSL) and Signed Japanese, the exhaustion of lip-reading, and the isolation of being in a dark room where you can't see the signs or faces of those talking to you. Fujinaga is the "chameleon" of the title. His journey is about finding where he belongs. Through Keito, he realizes that his ability to "speak" through his whole body isn't a flaw—it's his greatest strength. Their relationship is a mutual exchange: Keito gives Fujinaga a reason to keep acting, and Fujinaga gives Keito a partner who wants to learn his language, not just "help" him.

Rinteku’s art is exquisite, specifically in how it depicts motion. You can almost "hear" the rhythm of the sign language through the panelling. The artist uses multiple overlays of hands to show speed and fluidity, making the non-verbal dialogue feel just as energetic as a spoken argument or confession. Love in the Palm of His Hand is a "must-read" if you enjoyed series like I Hear the Sunspot (Hidamari ga Kikoeru). It is a respectful, beautiful, and visually arresting story about two people who find that they speak the same "silent" language. It’s a story about the effort we put into understanding others. It reminds us that "listening" isn't just something you do with your ears—it's something you do with your eyes and your heart.

reviews_and_ramblings

30 Days until You Become a Prince is a 2025 Japanese "vertical" BL drama that has gained a cult following for its short, bingeable format and sweet, albeit trope-heavy, storyline. It originally aired on platforms like DramaWave, GagaOOLala, and iQIYI. The story follows Makoto, a handsome but somewhat unpolished student who, after being rejected by his crush, gets recruited to compete for being elected the "Prince" of the school festival. The recruiter is Yuuki, a talented IT major who secretly loves makeup artistry. Yuuki asks for 30 days to transform Makoto into the perfect prince. Unlike many BLs where the "nerdy" character is just a damsel in distress, Makoto is highly competent. Yuuki, on the other hand, is notably supportive. He doesn't let others bully Makoto and therefore Yuuki stands up for their relationship early on, which avoids the "toxic miscommunication" trope common in the genre. Despite being a low-budget vertical series, the makeup sequences and fashion shots are handled with a high level of care and style. Because episodes are only a few minutes long, the story cuts out the "filler" found in traditional 12-episode dramas, and in this case the feeling is that the plot is too rushed. The main issue is the lack of chemistry in the physical intimacy scenes. The final kiss ia as a static "lip press." The show uses "childhood connection" flashbacks but describes them rather than showing them, likely due to budget limits. You’ll find every classic BL trope here: the accidental trip-and-fall kiss, the jealous rival, and the "destined" childhood meeting. If you enjoy short-form dramas or "makeover" stories like True Beauty but with a BL twist, this is a must-watch. It’s a "low-stakes" show—perfect for when you want something cute and fluffy without the heavy emotional trauma often found in longer Japanese "angst" BLs. Due to the success of the first season, a second season was released later in 2025/early 2026, focusing on their lives as professional models and hairstylists facing the challenges of a long-distance-style rift and workplace jealousy. HEA. Watch on Gagaoolala. Heat Level: 2/6.

maevedarcy

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tinkaton

Lately I've been thinking about re-promoting

au_challenge, maybe making some new prompt tables, but I haven't gotten around to it. I suppose

3weeks4dreamwidth is a good time to do it, though at this rate the event will be over before I can do anything lol. I was wondering if people might want weekly or monthly prompts to go along with the bingo cards and regular prompt tables? But then again I made the comm to be lowkey for both me and participants, so I don't know if it's worth it.

I had to power through the second half of Psychonauts 2 this weekend as it was due back to the library because someone else put a hold on it (the only copy) so it wouldn't renew. Who else had the idea to play this 5 year old game at the same time as me!! Regardless I did get it beaten so it is on its way to the next patron. 😤

Overall I thought it was really good! I looove the first Psychonauts, it's one of my favorite formative games, so I was really happy it finally got a sequel. And thank goodness it's a good sequel. 🙏 The combat is a little clunky, it felt like it was stuck back in 2005, but the characters and story and wacky world building are the highlight of the game just like in the original. My biggest gripe is it needed more Sasha and Milla lol.

If you've not played the original, I think it's on Steam for $10 and well worth checking out. Raz, a young psychic, runs away from the circus to join a summer camp for psychic kids. The game is a platformer with some action/puzzling where you explore various characters' minds and help them overcome fears or past traumas. There's a lot of fun and unique levels in both games.

I managed to score four seasons of Leverage on DVD for a total of $8 from a used book sale which is a steal, though to my annoyance they didn't have season 4. 😑 I guess even if I have to get it for 10-15 bucks used that'll still be a good deal for the whole series.

There was also an art market happening at the mall when I went out for lunch with my dad the other day that we didn't realize was happening, so after we ate I popped around the market. Lots of ceramics that were really cool, I wish I could afford handmade ceramic stuff/had the space for it. Unfortunately one can only have so many mugs!! I did buy a few stickers from a girl who was tabling her first art market, she was so sweet and tried to give me a free bookmark though I made her keep it (I already own too many bookmarks too lmao). But I hope she did well. 🥺

reviews_and_ramblings

While other students were preparing to take their CSAT exams, Lee Yoohan was swept up in an exhilarating lifestyle of crime and debauchery. While working for a loan shark, karma catches up to him when a family member dies from an act of revenge against him. After years of repenting for his sins and trying to turn over a new leaf, he meets a man in the entertainment industry who gives him the opportunity to get his revenge…

My Rate: 8 (www.lezhinus.com/en/comic/payback_en)

Payback, written by Fujoking and based on the novel by Samk, is a powerhouse in the BL noir genre. If you’re looking for a fluff-filled romance, keep walking—this is a gritty, high-stakes story of revenge, industry politics, and a slow-burn relationship built on mutual manipulation and obsession. The story follows Lee Yoohan, a former low-level thug whose life was ruined after a betrayal led to the death of his younger brother. Driven by a cold, singular desire for revenge against the man who destroyed his family (Song Myung-sin), Yoohan enters the entertainment industry. There, he encounters Yoon Jay, a mysterious, wealthy, and dangerously sharp executive who takes an immediate—and somewhat unsettling—interest in him. Yoohan isn't a damsel. He is stoic, hardworking, and world-weary. Watching his growth from a man with nothing to lose to a rising actor using his "thug" instincts to navigate the cutthroat idol/acting world is incredibly satisfying. Yoon Jay is the definition of a "Red Flag" that readers can't help but love. He is erratic, brilliant, and possesses a terrifying level of power. The chemistry between him and Yoohan isn't built on sweet nothings; it’s built on tension, power plays, and a strange sort of respect. Unlike many stories where revenge takes a backseat to romance, Payback keeps the "payback" central. The systematic downfall of the antagonist is calculated and high-stakes. Fujoking’s art is top-tier. The character designs are distinct, and the use of shadows and lighting perfectly captures the "noir" aesthetic of the Seoul underworld and the glossy, fake veneer of show business. Payback is a must-read for fans of hard-boiled drama and intense psychological themes. It manages to be a critique of the entertainment industry while delivering one of the most compelling "enemies-to-something-more" arcs in recent years. If you enjoy the manhwa, look for the official audio drama (if you can find translations)—the voice acting for Yoon Jay is legendary for being particularly "menacing."

maevedarcy

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Profile

temris

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hi:)

You can call me Temris. I write from my bedroom.

I write here like it's my irl journal and my concern is just letting my thoughts loose.
Main concern: ME.
Main audience: ME.
You can read along tho :)

I have the tendency to talk about various subjects but since I can't manage more than one blog I end up letting it all get mixed together.

May 2026

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Style Credit

Base style: Brittle by sforzinda
Theme: Rust by sforzinda

I've just got too much to say

Reading

Tried Saying a Command by MOEGI YUKUE

3 weeks 4 dreamwidth 2026: Day Fifteen

FlashLight by YANGMA

Ghoul Work, Kurose by Macho Tako

Hate Me, but Let Me Stay: Mr. Asanaga and Mr. Yanagi by Hijiki

Contradict by Kamome Ooshima

NEW FIC: Caught in a Bad Romance (SG1 Jack/Daniel)

3 weeks 4 dreamwidth 2026: Day Fourteen

Melting Point by PIBI

The Ghost's Nocturne by ANANAS and C.R Jade

polyamships' 3 weeks 4 dreamwidth fanart rec post (Fannish 50 #14)

Community Thursday

3 weeks 4 dreamwidth 2026: Day Thirteen

The Fault in Our Stars (2014) icons

Love in the Palm of His Hand by RinTeku

30 Days until You Become a Prince (2025)

3 weeks 4 dreamwidth 2026: Day Twelve

118 ☆ how is it already may

Payback by Fujoking and Samk

3 weeks 4 dreamwidth 2026: Day Eleven

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May 2026

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