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btssgfest.bsky.social
🍯WIP Wednesday🍯

Hello dear stars,

How about a glimpse of the mindscape you’re creating?

Quote with a line from your WIP to share❤️

#btssgfests2 #btssgfestgamess2 #btsfic #btsfest
Dark magenta graphic with gold hexagon and a yellow bee on background. Text "guiding light fest" followed by "WIP Wednesday" and "Share a line that has the word sun in it."
November 4, 2026 at 9:19 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
🍯Mindscape Monday🍯

This week's mindscape was created by sentinel Nele (@neleshn.bsky.social)!

This explicit story has a spicy rosemary, cascarilla & galbanum scent.

Explore To The Core⤵️

🔗 archiveofourown.org/works/64308031

#btssgfestmindscapemondays2 #btssgfests2 #btsfic #btsfest
White square on dark magenta graphic. Title text says "To The Core" with borders and hexagons. A photo and a bee on the right corner. Includes "Created by: Sentinel Nele" and "Alias: Bandit4Life" and list of tags about the fic. Three hexagons at the lower left and text "guiding light fest" at the lower right corner.
November 2, 2026 at 6:24 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
Claiming closes in a month and a half! We currently still have ten claims with the breakdown below🍯

Find your match and claim one of our amazing prompts below⤵️

Reposts are also appreciated❤️

🔗 archiveofourown.org/collections/...

#btssgfests2 #btsfic #btsfest
A bar graph titled "Claiming Mindscape Element Breakdown" with "Week 23-24: October 12-25". A total of 10 tropes is claimed, namely 'accidental bonding' 'canon' 'living weapons' 'new limits' 'regency' 'revenge' 'secret identity' and 'soulmates'. The text "guiding light fest" is at the lower left corner and different shades of red hexagons at the margins.
October 25, 2026 at 5:10 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
🍯Mindscape Monday🍯

This week's mindscape was created by sentinel Taay (@returnoftay.bsky.social)!

This teen story has a fresh larch & honeysuckle scent .

Explore The Idea of Love⤵️

🔗 archiveofourown.org/works/63968467

#btssgfestmindscapemondays2 #btssgfests2 #btsfic #btsfest
White square on dark magenta graphic. Title text says "The Idea of Love" with borders and hexagons. A photo and a bee on the right corner. Includes "Created by: Sentinel Taay" and "Alias: 2019_0201" and list of tags about the fic. Three hexagons at the lower left and text "guiding light fest" at the lower right corner.
October 26, 2026 at 4:09 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
🍯WIP Wednesday🍯

Hello dear stars,

What does your mindscape look like so far?

You can quote to share a snippet of your work❤️

#btssgfests2 #btssgfestgamess2 #btsfic #btsfest
Dark magenta graphic with gold hexagon and a yellow bee on background. Text "guiding light fest" followed by "WIP Wednesday" and "Your mindscape at a glance."
October 21, 2026 at 4:14 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
🍯Mindscape Monday🍯

This week's mindscape was created by sentinel celli (@aliascelli.bsky.social)!

This teen story has a black rose & fig leaf scent.

Explore Soulmate Services Presents: Speed Dating!⤵️

🔗 archiveofourown.org/works/64484428

#btssgfestmindscapemondays2 #btssgfests2 #btsfic #btsfest
White square on dark magenta graphic. Title text says "Soulmate Services Presents: Speed Dating!" with borders and hexagons. A photo and a bee on the right corner. Includes "Created by: Sentinel celli" and "Alias: celli" and list of tags about the fic. Three hexagons at the lower left and text "guiding light fest" at the lower right corner.
October 19, 2026 at 5:45 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
🍯Writing Tips🍯

This week we cover types of dialogue⤵️

#btssgfests2 #btssgfestresources2 #btsfic #btsfest
Cream graphic with hexagons with different colors and header "Writing Tip Tuesday" followed by paragraph entitled "Writing Dialogue". Rest of the text reads, "Dialogue is the written representation of a conversation between two or more characters. It helps: Reveal character personality Advance the plot Build tension and conflict Add realism to storytelling Dialogue is essential for making your writing dynamic and engaging, especially in fiction and narrative forms. types of dialogue 1. Direct Dialogue Direct Dialogue is when a character’s exact spoken words are presented within quotation marks, allowing readers to hear their voice clearly. It makes conversations feel immediate and engaging. Example: “I can’t believe you did that,” she said, shaking her head. When to use: Conversations between characters Emotional or dramatic scenes Key plot moments Writing Tip: Keep it natural. Avoid overly formal language unless it fits the character." At the lower right corner reads, "guiding light fest." Cream graphic with hexagons with different colors and header "Writing Tip Tuesday" followed by paragraph entitled "types of dialogue". Rest of the text reads, "2. Indirect Dialogue Indirect Dialogue reports what a character said without quoting their exact words. It summarizes speech using phrases like “he said that” or “she told him” This type keeps narration smooth and concise. Example: She said that she was too tired to continue the journey. When to use: To speed up pacing To summarize long conversations When details are less important Writing Tip: Use this to avoid unnecessary repetition. 3. Inner Dialogue (Internal Monologue) Inner dialogue refers to a character’s private thoughts and feelings, presented directly to the reader without being spoken aloud. It helps reveal motivations, conflicts, and emotions. Example: Why did I say that? That was so embarrassing. This type of dialogue helps readers understand emotions and motivations. When to use: Character development Emotional depth Decision-making moments Writing Tip: Use italics or narrative style consistently." At the lower right corner reads, "guiding light fest." Cream graphic with hexagons with different colors and header "Writing Tip Tuesday" followed by paragraph entitled "types of dialogue". Rest of the text reads, "4. Dramatic Dialogue Dramatic dialogue is used to build tension, reveal conflict, and heighten emotions between characters. Common in plays and intense scenes, it often includes sharp exchanges, pauses, or subtext, where what’s unsaid matters as much as the words spoken, keeping readers or audiences deeply engaged. Example: “If you walk out that door, don’t ever come back!” This dialogue creates tension and conflict. When to use: Climactic scenes Arguments or confrontations Emotional turning points Writing Tip: Keep it sharp and impactful—avoid long speeches. 5. Realistic (Natural) Dialogue Realistic (Natural) Dialogue refers to conversations that mimic how people actually speak in real life, complete with pauses, interruptions, contractions, and informal language. It avoids sounding overly polished or scripted, making characters feel authentic and relatable while still staying purposeful and clear for the reader. Example: “Uh… I mean, I guess we could try that?”" At the lower right corner reads, "guiding light fest." Cream graphic with hexagons with different colors and header "Writing Tip Tuesday" followed by paragraph entitled "types of dialogue". Rest of the text reads, "Realistic dialogue adds authenticity to your writing. When to use: Casual conversations Character-driven stories Contemporary fiction Writing Tip: Don’t overdo fillers like “um” or “uh”; balance realism with readability. 6. Expository Dialogue Expository Dialogue is used to provide background information, context, or important details to the reader through character conversations. Instead of direct narration, writers reveal facts naturally within dialogue. For example, a character might explain past events or relationships, helping readers understand the story without breaking immersion. Example: “As you know, the war started ten years ago…” While useful, it can feel forced if not done carefully. When to use: World-building Background information Explaining complex ideas Writing Tip: Avoid making it sound unnatural—blend it into conversation." At the lower right corner reads, "guiding light fest."
October 20, 2026 at 4:51 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
Hello dear stars,

Our next task for you is to share a fic that fits the given scent profile!

Quote with the fic link, and you'll get a bonus point toward your status as sentinel/guide if your fic is a s/g fic❤️

#btssgfests2 #btssgfestgamess2 #searching4starlights2 #btsfic #btsfest
Graphic with stars on the background and text "Guiding light fest" at the top followed by text "Searching for starlight" and "task 8: Share a mindscape that fits the below scent profile: Cinnamon Leaf, Nutmeg, & Myrrh."
October 15, 2026 at 5:38 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
🍯WIP Wednesday🍯

Hello dear stars,

Last time we asked about your sentinel! How would you describe the guide in your mindscape?

Quote with a snippet of them to share❤️

#btssgfests2 #btssgfestgamess2 #btsfic #btsfest
White graphic with purple hexagon and a yellow bee on background. Text "guiding light fest" followed by "WIP Wednesday" and "Share your description of the guide in your mindscape."
October 14, 2026 at 6:08 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
We've made it to ten claims with our newest claim this week! Here's our breakdown so far🍯

Find your match and claim one of our amazing prompts below⤵️

Reposts are also appreciated❤️

🔗 archiveofourown.org/collections/...

#btssgfests2 #btsfic #btsfest
A bar graph titled "Claiming Mindscape Element Breakdown" with "Week 22: October 5-11". A total of 10 tropes is claimed, namely 'accidental bonding' 'canon' 'living weapons' 'new limits' 'regency' 'revenge' 'secret identity' and 'soulmates'. The text "guiding light fest" is at the lower left corner and different shades of red hexagons at the margins.
October 12, 2026 at 12:08 AM
btssgfest.bsky.social
Hello dear stars,

It's time for our second check in!

We've sent out a short form via bsky dm/email, and you have a week to complete it. Make sure to check your spam!❤️

#btssgfests2 #btsfic #btsfest
White graphic with hexagons of different colors and text that reads "Check in # 2" and "October 10" at the center. The text "Guiding Light Fest" at the lower left.
October 10, 2026 at 7:20 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
🍯Mindscape Monday🍯

This week's mindscape was created by sentinel jai (@gimmethatagustd.bsky.social)!

This explicit story has a soft lily of the valley & white musk scent.

Explore spearmint⤵️

🔗 archiveofourown.org/works/63904711

#btssgfestmindscapemondays2 #btssgfests2 #btsfic #btsfest
White square on dark magenta graphic. Title text says "spearmint" with borders and hexagons. A photo and a bee on the right corner. Includes "Created by: Sentinel jai" and "Alias: gimmethatagustd" and list of tags about the fic. Three hexagons at the lower left and text "guiding light fest" at the lower right corner.
October 5, 2026 at 5:33 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
🍯WIP Wednesday🍯

Hello dear stars,

What does your mindscape look like so far?

You can quote to share a snippet of your work❤️

#btssgfests2 #btssgfestgamess2 #btsfic #btsfest
White graphic with purple hexagon and a yellow bee on background. Text "guiding light fest" followed by "WIP Wednesday" and "Your mindscape at a glance."
September 30, 2026 at 7:31 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
🍯Mindscape Monday🍯

This week's mindscape was created by sentinel ed.

This mature story has an earthy orange blossom, eucalyptus, & mud.

Explore Petrichor⤵️

🔗 archiveofourown.org/works/63272413

#btssgfestmindscapemondays2 #btssgfests2 #btsfic #btsfest
White square on dark magenta graphic. Title text says "Petrichor" with borders and hexagons. A photo and a bee on the right corner. Includes "Created by: Sentinel Ed" and "Alias: thekooface" and list of tags about the fic. Three hexagons at the lower left and text "guiding light fest" at the lower right corner.
September 28, 2026 at 5:53 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
Hello dear stars,

Our next task for you is to share a fic that fits the given song!

Quote with the fic link, and you'll get a bonus point toward your status as sentinel/guide if your fic is a s/g fic❤️

#btssgfests2 #btssgfestgamess2 #searching4starlights2 #btsfic #btsfest
Graphic with stars on the background and text "Guiding light fest" at the top followed by text "Searching for starlight" and "task 6: Listen to No Such Thing as Silence by Agnes Obel and share a mindscape (fic) that fits it." and text "bonus:" and "If it’s a s/g fic."
September 24, 2026 at 5:48 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
🍯WIP Wednesday🍯

Hello dear stars,

How would you describe the sentinel in your mindscape?

Quote with a snippet of them to share❤️

#btssgfests2 #btssgfestgamess2 #btsfic #btsfest
Dark magenta graphic with gold hexagon and a yellow bee on background. Text "guiding light fest" followed by "WIP Wednesday" and "Share your description of the sentinel in your mindscape."
September 23, 2026 at 5:07 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
🍯Mindscape Monday🍯

This week's mindscape was created by sentinel hals (@poetaureate.bsky.social)

This explicit story has a crisp cypress, violet & rosemary scent.

Explore each scar's a door⤵️

🔗 archiveofourown.org/works/65000839

#btssgfestmindscapemondays2 #btssgfests2 #btsfic #btsfest
White square on dark magenta graphic. Title text says "each scar's a door" with borders and hexagons. A photo and a bee on the right corner. Includes "Created by: Sentinel hals" and "Alias: poet_aureate" and list of tags about the fic. Three hexagons at the lower left and text "guiding light fest" at the lower right corner.
September 21, 2026 at 7:49 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
🍯Writing Tips🍯

This week we cover more on balancing show and tell⤵️

#btssgfests2 #btssgfestresources2 #btsfic #btsfest
Cream graphic with hexagons with different colors and header "Writing Tip Tuesday" followed by paragraph entitled "direct and indirect characterization". Rest of the text reads, "What is characterization? It is the description of the character’s physical traits, pov, personality, private thoughts, and actions. There are two types of characterization: Direct (tell not show) characterization Indirect (show don’t tell) characterization Both indirect characterization and direct characterization work together to create a complete picture of your character for the reader. Remember that characters, like people, are imperfect. They don’t need to be likable, but they must be interesting. What is direct characterization? Direct characterization means that the author explicitly tells the reader a character's personality or traits. What is indirect characterization? 'Indirect characterization' shows readers your characters' traits without explicitly describing or naming them." At the lower right corner reads, "guiding light fest." Cream graphic with hexagons with different colors and header "Writing Tip Tuesday" followed by table comparing "direct vs indirect characterization". Rest of the text reads, "Tell not show vs "Show, don’t tell" Explicitly tells a persona or trait. vs Implies a character trait. Tends to be broad especially with emotions or attitude. vs "Tends to be specific, usually attaching behavorial patterns to explain an emotion or attitude." Tends to be concise and direct which may be helpful for a quick pace. vs Tends to be detailed and illustrated to build a picture. Knowing the difference between indirect characterization and direct characterization can help you determine which one is better suited to your work. Indirect characterization describes a character through their thoughts, actions, speech, and dialogue. Direct characterization, or explicit characterization, describes the character through their physical description, line of work, or passions and pursuits." At the lower right corner reads, "guiding light fest." Cream graphic with hexagons with different colors and header "Writing Tip Tuesday" followed by paragraph that reads, "Though readers will always draw their own conclusions, they may draw conclusions far from your intent if you don’t offer enough clues through detail work. This is not necessarily always a drawback—readers bring different backgrounds and experiences to their interpretation of your text. But if you lean too heavily on indirect characterization for major plot points and the reader misses your clues, the gap in understanding may lead to an unsatisfying reading experience. 7 tips for using direct and indirect characterization 1. Avoid overusing direct characterization Direct characterization is useful shorthand. Instead of pages showing how a character is mean, you could start with 'He was mean.' Balance is key, though. Overusing direct characterizing may skew the balance towards telling, not showing. 2. Be direct with key details The trick to effective direct characterization is to reserve it for key details you want to establish upfront. Use inference to show the personal. Imply by describing an action or reaction and painting the surrounding scenes. 3. Support character statements with scenes Just like you would need to back up your claim or hypothesis in an essay with proof, readers expect you to provide supporting facts for direct characterization — and this is best done by creating vivid imagery in your scenes." At the lower right corner reads, "guiding light fest." Cream graphic with hexagons with different colors and header "Writing Tip Tuesday" followed by text that reads, "4. Imply character through action and reaction Action and reaction also provide useful ways to tell your reader who your characters are indirectly. Think about what you want your reader to infer about a character from the way they react, even in incidents or situations that are trivial or secondary to your story's main plotline. In this way every scene, every incident, will contribute toward building your characters' personae. 5. Use direct details to be concise Direct characterization is useful, for example, when a narrator is recapping prior events that are relevant to the present story but not its main focus, and/or to establish the basics of a character early in a novel (which you can expand upon later). 6. Characterize indirectly through dialogue Dialogue is a fantastic device for characterization because it may move the story forward while also showing your reader who characters are in a subliminal way with the way they speak. 7. Let narrative voice lend character Think of similar ways you can inject characters' personalities into their narration. What subjects do they obsess over? How do they see others? Depending on the POV of your narration you can use the language your character would use based on demographic details such as age, cultural background, or class identity." At the lower right corner reads, "guiding light fest."
September 22, 2026 at 6:08 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
We're a little over halfway through our claiming period and we are still at 9 claims🍯

We have a lot of amazing prompts in the collection below!!

Come find your match, or share this post so someone can find theirs⤵️

🔗 archiveofourown.org/collections/...

#btssgfests2 #btsfic #btsfest
A bar graph titled "Claiming Mindscape Element Breakdown" with "Week 18-19: September 7-20". A total of 9 tropes is claimed, namely 'accidental bonding' 'canon' 'living weapons' 'new limits' 'regency' 'revenge' 'soulmates'. The text "guiding light fest" is at the lower left corner and different shades of red hexagons at the margins.
September 20, 2026 at 7:53 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
🍯WIP Wednesday🍯

Hello dear stars,

What does your mindscape look like so far?

You can quote to share a snippet of your work❤️

#btssgfests2 #btssgfestgamess2 #btsfic #btsfest
Dark magenta graphic with gold hexagon and a yellow bee on background. Text "guiding light fest" followed by "WIP Wednesday" and "Your mindscape at a glance."
September 16, 2026 at 7:45 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
🍯Mindscape Monday🍯

This week's mindscape was created by sentinel Taay (@returnoftay.bsky.social)!

This teen story has an earthy guaiac wood & cinnamon scent.

Explore A Sense of Home⤵️

🔗 archiveofourown.org/works/63822646

#btssgfestmindscapemondays2 #btssgfests2 #btsfic #btsfest
White square on dark magenta graphic. Title text says "A Sense of Home" with borders and hexagons. A photo and a bee on the right corner. Includes "Created by: Sentinel taay" and "Alias: 2019_0201" and list of tags about the fic. Three hexagons at the lower left and text "guiding light fest" at the lower right corner.
September 14, 2026 at 6:38 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
Hello dear stars,

Our next task for you is to make your choice for this or that!

Quote with your answers, and feel free to look through the prompts that match your choices to claim❤️

🔗 archiveofourown.org/collections/...

#btssgfests2 #btssgfestgamess2 #searching4starlights2 #btsfic #btsfest
Graphic with stars on the background and text "Guiding light fest" at the top followed by text "Searching for starlight" and "task 6: Make your choices for this or that." Graphic with honeycombs on the background and text "This or That" at the top followed by a 9 pairs of words. A bee and text "guiding light fest" at the bottom.
September 10, 2026 at 7:01 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
🍯WIP Wednesday🍯

Hello dear stars,

How would you describe your mindscape?

Quote with three words beginning with the letter 'G' to share❤️

#btssgfests2 #btssgfestgamess2 #btsfic #btsfest
White graphic with purple hexagon and a yellow bee on background. Text "guiding light fest" followed by "WIP Wednesday" and "Describe your wip in three words that begin with the letter 'g'."
September 9, 2026 at 5:53 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
🍯Writing Tips🍯

This week we cover some basic guide points for worldbuilding⤵️

#btssgfests2 #btssgfestresources2 #btsfic #btsfest
Cream graphic with hexagons with different colors and header "Writing Tip Tuesday" followed by paragraph entitled "Worldbuilding: how to be authentic". Rest of the text reads, "Worldbuilding is how you create your fic’s foundation. It involves more than just the setting. It can be as complex as a unique location with exotic creatures, rich political histories, and even new religions. It can also be as simple as the modern world we’re living in. No matter the path you choose for your worldbuilding, remember that it’s going to be a strong pillar. It should be taken seriously. Whether you’re just starting with building your world or already have a grasp on how to worldbuild, here’s a helpful guide on how to start setting your fic: A Worldbuilding Guide Plan but don’t over plan If you’re an plotter, then chances of already having elaborate details on the rules of your world, the basic descriptions, and how the system works is high. The downfall, however, is you could be overplotting the details which result in information overload and adding more twists in your plots leading to multiple plot holes and a confusing worldbuild. If you’re a pantser then you might encounter problems during the writing process since pantsers have a high tendency to write for discovery. And if you’d rather discover your worldbuild as you write, then you don’t have a plan at all." At the lower right corner reads, "guiding light fest." Cream graphic with hexagons with different colors and header "Writing Tip Tuesday" followed by paragraph entitled "A Worldbuilding Guide". Rest of the text reads, "Whether you’re a plotter or a pantser, plan your worldbuilding. Begin small. Write in general ideas then branch them into little sections to further explain your ideas. Sometimes working on every detail results in zero writing. So, shape your ideas gradually; imagine working on small blocks of every pyramid. Plan for one block or two and then begin writing once you’ve defined the contents of the blocks in your plan. Describe your world Once you’ve determined your genre, paint a world for your reader that transports them, allowing them to see, smell, hear, and touch their surroundings. Show them, don’t tell them. Which idea for this new world most excites you? An other-worldly landscape? A new language? Strange creatures? Build on that to give you the momentum you need when the going gets tough. Consider: Climate / Environment Resources Geography Have references. Use them. A better worldbuild has some strong semblance to terms that already exist or a touch of reality. If you’re creating a new world altogether, don’t take the short path; build maps, craft new beliefs, and organize systems that will shape your fic effectively." At the lower right corner reads, "guiding light fest." Cream graphic with hexagons with different colors and header "Writing Tip Tuesday" followed by paragraph entitled "A Worldbuilding Guide". Rest of the text reads, "3.Populate your world 4.Establish the History of Your World An effective worlduilding also requires the history of the event or the scene you’re writing about. Consider: The Deep Past: What happened to fuel the present economy, environment, culture, etc. Trauma: Wars, famines, plagues. Power Shifts: Political, religious, or technological. Religion Society Politics But don’t go overboard. One common pitfall is to make your worlbuild another entire story. The world is not the story. The world is the backdrop. Don’t let it take the spotlight. Think of the entire community found in your fic. Aside from the main and supporting characters, you need other characters to make your world believable. Consider: Are the inhabitants people, but somehow different from you and me? Are they aliens, monsters, or some new species?" At the lower right corner reads, "guiding light fest." Cream graphic with hexagons with different colors and header "Writing Tip Tuesday" followed by paragraph entitled "worldbuilding in 3 major points:". Rest of the text reads, "Keep your world grounded. Prepare because it’s easier to go overboard than to start somewhere when building the fic’s world. The excitement of creating and exploring your new universe should be accompanied by a commitment to believability. If you’ve come across the phrase “a willing suspension of disbelief,” you know it refers to a reader’s willingness to temporarily embrace the impossible—setting aside their natural skepticism. And for the most fun reading experience, despite knowing down deep what they’re reading is fantasy, they allow themselves to accept the premise. So how do you convince your readers to believe in your built world? Be consistent: Always follow your own rules. If yours is a story in which monkeys fly, have them fly and treat this as normal. As you build your world, reinforce the laws you create (religious, political, physical, etc.). While these rules will not likely be the focal point of your novel, they should be prominent and accepted as normal throughout. Draw inspiration from real-life: Real-life historical events, personal experiences, interesting natural phenomena, and ideological beliefs (such as ancient religions and philosophies) can inform your world building. Prioritize your story over your world: Be very careful to make your plot even more interesting than your world." At the lower right corner reads, "guiding light fest."
September 8, 2026 at 8:28 PM
btssgfest.bsky.social
🍯Mindscape Monday🍯

This week's mindscape was created by sentinel aporias(@aporias.bsky.social)!

This teen story has a warm black pepper, cyclamen, & gurjun balsam scent.

Explore By Providence, We Are⤵️

🔗 archiveofourown.org/works/63663454

#btssgfestmindscapemondays2 #btssgfests2 #btsfic #btsfest
White square on dark magenta graphic. Title text says "By Providence, We Are" with borders and hexagons. A photo and a bee on the right corner. Includes "Created by: Sentinel aporias" and "Alias: aporias" and list of tags about the fic. Three hexagons at the lower left and text "guiding light fest" at the lower right corner.
September 7, 2026 at 5:47 PM