#(( two top hats... two different levels of niceness ))

[just-bendy]

Hey 8-ball!! Heres a top hat for your round bald looking head. So you don’t look like Charlie Brown, that would make you hideous

Uh, who's Charlie Brown?

.... is he as hideous as me...?

[tropicalcryptid]

Ok so She-Ra pulled such a great hat trick with Hordak's characterization, and I LOVE it

One of my favorite things about 2018 She-Ra is Hordak's story and development (and Entrapdak cough but that's not the point of this particular post), and the cleverest thing is that so much of it is actually being set up and told to us in seasons 1 and 2 before we even realize that that's what's happening.

When we first see Hordak in the show, he's giving "generic evil overlord" vibes. Garden-variety baddie. Maybe a little more reasonable than some and clearly capable of long-term thinking, but that just serves to make him intimidating. Everything about him--the way he runs his empire, his armor, his color scheme, his minion, his Villainous Eye Makeup(TM), even his name--are all projecting to the audience "yup, Acme Bad Guy here. Move right along."

But then, backstory. And everything snaps into focus. Not only is it one of the first big oh SHIT moments of the show, where we suddenly zoom out and realize that there is SO much more going on than we realized--it's also the start of the audience seeing Hordak as a character rather than an archetype. Suddenly we realize that he's not conquering Etheria because he wants power, or hates happiness and sparkles, or whatever--he's doing it out of a desperate attempt to prove his worth to his brother/creator/god. This moment where Hordak lets Entrapta in is also the moment the show lets us in on what makes our favorite spacebat tick.

On top of that, we've also seen him bonding with Entrapta and opening up to this person that he respects and trusts...probably the only person he's ever respected or trusted apart from Prime. And she's Etherian--someone of a lower species, someone he's supposed to subjugate, someone who he has been raised and trained and programmed and mind-controlled into believing is below him in every way.

But instead she's brilliant and creative and mesmerizing. She's not afraid of him, and she's fascinated with his work. For the first time since being abandoned by Prime, Hordak finally has someone that he can talk to, who is on his level and both understands and cares about the science! (because he is a giant nerd). She's kind to him, a mere defect. And it just sends his whole worldview into a spin, and that's all before--

Bam, mans is a goner. Entrapta's "Imperfections are beautiful" comment punches right through all the toxic bs that Hordak has been steeped in his entire life. You can see on his face here--I think it's the moment Hordak fell in love with Entrapta, but this is also the face of a spacebat reevaluating his entire worldview. If Entrapta, who is amazing, believes something different from Prime...what does that mean? If Entrapta, who is brilliant, believes that he is worth something, and that she herself is a failure...

Well. We know what happens after that, and how Hordak begins to doubt, and eventually fights back against Prime (and remembers his love for Entrapta after TWO mind wipes help my heart ack). But we also get to see what life in the Galactic Horde looks like: the only life Hordak ever knew before coming to Etheria.

It's not nice.

It's really not nice.

Prime operates in a very specific way, and we learn a lot about it in season 5. Prime expects complete obedience, devotion and worship from his clones. He allows no individuality from his subjects, not even a name. Failure or deviations are punished, mind-wiped, or destroyed. We even learn from Wrong Hordak that facial expressions are considered a privilege reserved for Prime (apart from, presumably, expressions of rapture caused by being around Prime).

And once we learn all of this, suddenly thinking about season 1 Hordak becomes very interesting indeed. The time we spend with the Galactic Horde and Prime throws absolutely everything that we know about Hordak into a whole new context. Now all those traits that made him a generic villain are actually hugely effective characterization! And what that characterization is telling us is that Hordak had already moved much farther away from Prime than we (or, probably, he) had realized, even long before he met Entrapta.

Horde Prime does not allow his underlings to have names, personalities, or any differences of appearance. Not only does Hordak allow this among his own troops, he chose a name for himself as well! Season 5 tells us that his very name is an act of blasphemy against his god. And yet Hordak took one for himself, and that name is part of the core identity he is able to hold on to when rebelling against Prime.

Horde Prime cast Hordak out when he showed signs of physical imperfections. Hordak not only keeps Imp (who is by all appearances a failed clone or similar experiment) around, he treats Imp more gently than we see him treat anybody or anything before Entrapta. Imp is not simply "generic evil guy's minion," he is proof of Hordak's capacity for compassion, and evidence that Hordak cannot bring himself to cast aside "defects" as easily as Prime. Considering where Hordak came from, Imp's existence is a huge, flashing neon sign telling the audience this guy here is better than the hell that molded him, and we don't even realize it until 4 seasons after it's been shown to us!

Very cool, ND.

There's more, though. Hordak's red and black color scheme? His dark eye makeup and lipstick? Very Evil Overlord chic. But nope! Actually these are actually expressions of individuality on a level that Hordak knows would be abhorrent to Prime!

Reading between the lines, I see this as Hordak desperately trying to reconcile two diametrically opposed beliefs in his head: (1) devotion to Prime, whose approval he desperately craves, and (2) maintaining some degree of unique personhood, of Hordak, from which to draw strength. Because a failed, defective clone cannot survive on a hostile world, cut off from the hivemind and from Prime's light. A failed clone cannot create an empire to offer Prime as tribute, nor build a spacetime portal from scraps and memory to call Prime back. A failed clone cannot create cybernetic armor to keep his hurting, weakened body alive; to force himself to keep going no matter what, to fight through the pain and the doubt by sheer force of will.

But maybe Hordak can.

And so there it is. Hordak had plenty of time to gain and explore his individuality while separated from Prime, but I think the reason he did it so effectively (while still deluding himself that Prime would forgive him for these little sins, if only Hordak could prove his value) is because he had to.

Wrong Hordak gained his individuality surrounded by kind, quirky people who took care of him; Hordak was ripped from the hivemind by Prime himself and had to fight for his survival against all odds. And that produced a dangerous and damaging foe for Etheria. But it also produced the one clone with the strength of will to defy Prime himself.

This is long and rambling, but ultimately my point is that 1) I love Hordak, and 2) I love love love love that the show was so clever about his characterization. We learn so much about him and how much progress he's already made in breaking from his psycho abusive cult upbringing, and we don't even recognize it until the show wants us to. Hordak had come so far, all on his own, before he met Entrapta. She just helped push him over the edge and finally realize (at least consciously) that Prime's worldview might not be the correct one.

Idk, I just don't know if I've ever seen all the trappings of Basic 80's Villain(TM) so successfully subverted, where looking back 4 seasons later is actually a smack in the face with the "effective character building" stick. Amazing.

[the-s1lly-corner]

Making flower crowns for various crps (1/?)

I'm making these like. No bake granola balls and omg I tried some before I put it up and it's so good I'm so excited to try them when they're ready

Characters: slenderman, splendorman, ticci toby, masky, hoodie

Notes: reader is gn, this may be split into 3 parts for the characters , we will see, writing this while in a massive motivation slump chat i am struggling

CWs: none

SLENDERMAN

he already knows what youre doing long before you approach him with the crown... he does feign some level of surprise just for you albeit in the form of lightly raising his brows- he... doesnt emote that often...

he wears it for a while just for you, though he does eventually hang it somewhere so it can dry out and be preserved. he WILL raise hell if someone comes into his woods and steals it like they do his pages. it was a gift you made for him, hes not going to let some wandering hiker steal it from him

just say the word and he will bring you flowers to make more crowns, or better yet take you to where a lot of flowers tend to grow in the woods!

leaves flowers in your room or at your home for you whenever he gets the chance to gather some

SPLENDORMAN

oooooooo did you make that for him? give him a second to make one for you so the two of you can match! no really he only needs a minute or two, hes for the speed and efficiency to make one much much faster than you ever could- whether from experience or excitement or simply being built different... you werent sure!

will loop it around his hat so it rests on the brim.. will point out the specific flowers you wove into it and asks if the choices were intentional... even if they werent hes going to compliment your choices and if youre interested ramble about the meanings of the flowers you did choose

he loves daisies and sunflowers! they look so... "happy" as he puts it!

will dry the crown out so he can keep it long term

MASKY

why would you make him this? not to make him sound ungrateful, he moreso means it in a confused sense because... what use is there to wear this? it is nice, though....

dont even try to snatch it back off of his head hes going to either evade you or grip it to his head in his hands- possibly the most... expressive... youve seen him be in response to non-dangerous things

keeps it stashed away somewhere when he needs to take it off to go into the woods and do his work

he... finds himself making one for you... the process is actually quite calming for him... half of the flowers he picks are actually weeds- not that he cares about the difference. a flower is a flower regardless of where it grows

HOODIE

he likes it! you... think... the mask makes it hard to tell and he just... let you put it on top of his head- you get the feeling that he already knew you were making the crown

keeps it in a safe space, but somewhere visible so you know that he didnt through it out or trash it or whatever- he knows you put time and effort into this and hes going to let you know that hes not going to disregard it... will dry it out like his boss

one night he comes home with all sorts of plants- flowers, weeds, grass, everything he could get his hands on- in his arms and dumps them in front of you- and he starts signing...

...he wants you to show him how to make a crown too!

TICCI TOBY

initially acts like its not that big of a deal or that its really something hes interested in it... but hes shutting you down when you offer to take it back

wears it even when he goes out in the woods, will throw hands if someone snatches it off of his head or damages it in some way. he does NOT care if theyre just flowers!

attempts to dry the crown out, likely fails somewhere down the line and he feels so distraught- he knows that it was going to happen eventually but god does it do nothing to take away the disappointment.. his ass does not know how to effectively preserve plants

you both sit together making crowns

[sewinrat]

If you were one of Luther's Cat:

Obviously you're not a normal cat. No gender mentioned dw;

While Nyon has those floppy cat ears and Nyen has like a cat hat, you have a beret with cat ears. Do with that information as you will, but either way no one knows if it can come off.

You eat poison once. It was an accident. Trouble likes to linger around you but they can get worse as years went by.

You were the middle cat. What I meant by that is, both in role and personality. You were not as mean as Nyen can be but you were also not as nice as Nyon is.(Unless of course you have a different opinion.) Remember the tier list they had in Vol 1. Lucid 5? Yea, you're placed either in Dime, Ace or something else like Hearts/Diamonds but never higher than that in tier 4. Close to Tier 3 actually but Nyen can be petty.

Danger Level: MODERATE

You are often found around the kitchen or the living room. Any other parts of the house you might be seen is because you have to go there under an order or for other reason. Once, Sebastian found you somewhere in a hallway sitting on the floor terrifyingly staring at the wall.

Unlike Nyen, when it comes to vacuums, you're one of those that chill on it. Just pop hide your limbs, be a bun and sit on top of it. If this ever happens, Nyen usually respects you more than he does when you're off it. It doesn't last long tho.

Of course since you're Luther's cat, you are loyal to him. It's inevitable especially in the ivory house. Luther's house. Maybe when you were a regular human, you would've accidentally met him in Michigan. You lost everything before so why must you worry about your human life when you can be a cat while gaining inhuman traits from Luther. Don't mind whatever happens within the house, you can do anything under his permission.

Ranfren Characters thoughts on You;

Randal: "Yeahh I don't care much about them.. However they're my favourite out of big brother's cats! They're willing to play with me unlike the other two! It's fun since Sebastian don't play my games. I would call them my friend if it weren't for the fact that they're big brother's... And also the fact they can act like him." In short, he would see you as his friend but non friend.

Sebastian: "O-oh.. Who are you? Uh uhm.. okay? I guess they're fine. They're not as crazy as that other one.. but they still make me uncomfortable.. especially when they stare at the wall for no reason. I just hope they won't try to kill me.." He's afraid but he's fine. He can tolerate.

Nyen: "Oh them? I guess they're okay. They're boring to me but they are terrifying when they're on the damn vacuum. *shivers* eugh.. thinking about it makes me sick. Don't tell them that or else I would have to suffer their smug smile for a while." He doesn't care much. Don't try to snitch on him.

Nyon: "... They're okay." He's too quiet on the matter but don't worry, he likes you. You're not mean as Nyen. If anything, you also amuse him randomly. Especially when he saw you intimidating Nyen one time.

Luther: "Ah yes, one of my lovely cats. Out of the other two, as a kitten, they act so good. Better than the two. However, I love them all equally. As they grew older, it seems that trouble stirs around them more but it's fine. It's not as troublesome as some of the things Randal puts himself into. Now, while you are here, come have tea or please leave." His opinion has not changed. He loves you just as much as he loves his family.

Bonus! Ratman Robert: "How the hell did you get here? Whatever, you don't look like one of them. The middle cat? No comment. I don't know if I should be afraid that they seem to be plotting something or grateful they don't attack us when they see us. I would like it better if they don't stare at the wall. It's uncomfortable to feel their eyes on me." He's scared. But he would offer you food that he has as peace offering one day. Don't eat him.

[somanyratsinthewalls]

Burning Hearts Part 8

Pairing: Law x Straw Hat Zoan Type (named) OC 

Summary: *SLOWWWW BURRRRN* You were teleported across the globe in an instant, away from your crew. Your body was badly broken and beaten, thrust into the harsh landscape of a Northern island. You are discovered by the Heart Pirates and brought back to health. Startled upon waking up in a foreign place with an unfamiliar crew, you are shocked with the news that you’ll be spending two years there. Trafalgar Law, the captain of the Heart Pirates has made a promise to train you, but will it become something more than a mentor relationship?

WC: 2300

Taglist: @cottoncandyloverrrr

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7

Burning Hearts Chapter 8: Doctor’s Visit

— — 

“Damn girl… you look like shit. Your ankle is mad swollen.” Ikkaku’s eyes rake over your body, covered in superficial lacerations and multicolor bruises in varying levels of healing. 

“Gee, thanks for reminding me.” You roll your eyes and step into the steaming hot bath. “It’s not like I have this shooting pain all over my body to remind me that I look like hot garbage.” You carefully lower yourself into the water. Every single muscle in your body cried out in agony. “Ow, ow, ow, ow…” You finally settle into the tub and sigh. 

Ikkaku continues panting her toenails a bright shade of coral from her perch on the bathroom counter. 

“I just got my period, too. I feel like I got hit by a fucking train.” You close your eyes and slide deeper under the hot, soapy water. “Can you grab some tampons out of that drawer? I want to bring some back to my room.” 

Ikkaku sighs in sympathy. She opens up the top drawer and pulls out a box. 

“You’re bleeding AND you’re beat up like that? You better stay in tomorrow and rest.” Ikkaku says. 

“HAH! Yeah right. And who is gonna tell your psycho captain that I’m taking the day off? Because I’m certainly not doing it. He’d probably cut my arms off and put them on backwards or something.” 

“Come on, like he’d harm a hair on your head.” Ikkaku responds and chuckles. 

“Umm??? Who do you think kicked my ass this bad??? He doesn’t exactly go easy on me.” You turn your head to face Ikkaku. 

She scoffs. 

“That honestly shocks me, he’s so different with you.” Ikkaku blows on her wet nails.

“What do you mean?” You inquire. 

“I can’t really explain it… he’s just been like… weird since you got here. I mean, he’s always been weird… but with you he’s extra weird.”

“What are you implying?” You raise an eyebrow. 

“Nothing!” Ikkaku throws her hands up. "All I’m saying is that there’s been some sort of shift in the guy since you came into the picture. I’m not complaining, it’s been pretty nice having someone to ‘girl talk' with, you know?” 

“Mhmm…” You knew she was hiding something, but you were too tired to pry further. “I hope you get to meet my friends some day, I think you’d like them.” 

Ikkaku smiles. 

“I’m sure I would. Now get your ass out of that tub and tell Law you aren’t training tomorrow before you fall asleep and drown in there.” 

“I think I’d rather drown.” You joke as you sink down further into the tub. 

“Come on, I’ll help you up.”

Ikkaku comes over to the side one the tub and you sit up to allow her to help you up. “Ah!” Your ankle nearly gives out as you try to step out of the tub. 

“Yeah, as much as you don’t want to believe it, I think a doctor has got to look at that…” 

— — 

*knock knock* 

Law looks at the clock. 

11:45 PM

Who was coming to his office this late in the evening?

“Yes? Come in…”

A tired looking, wet-haired Daisy shuffles into his office. Was she limping?

“Hi…” 

“Hi back… what’s wrong with your leg? You’re favoring your right. You weren’t doing that at training today.” He couldn’t help but ask… he was a doctor after all. 

“I think I twisted it… didn’t hurt until I got back. Ikkaku made me come and have you look at it. It’s probably nothing. Since I’m here, I have some cuts that might need stitches, so you should probably- woah-“ 

Daisy stumbled, her gaze losing focus. She puts her arms out in front of her. 

“I think I might-“ Her eyes rolled back. 

“Room!” 

With a quick ‘Shambles’, Law swapped Daisy out with a sock that had been discarded on his bed in the adjoining room. He had caught her right before she hit the ground. Law rushes through the archway to assess Daisy’s situation. She was laying on his bed, barely conscious. 

“Hey… Wake up, you’re okay, you just passed out.” Law sits at her side on the bed. 

“I-I did?”

“Yes. Have you been feeling dizzy lately? Light-headed?”

“Not really. I was in a super hot bath because-“ she stops, hesitant to tell him something. “Well, because I needed a bath.”  

“Have you been drinking enough water?” 

Daisy rubs her eyes. 

“I don’t know? I thought so.” 

“Any headaches? Body aches? Fever?” Law continues his laundry list of medical questions. 

“You threw me into a tree like, six times this morning, my whole body always aches.” 

Law furrows his brow with concern. Had he pushed her too far today? She never said anything about it… A pang of guilt reverberated through his chest. 

“That would’t explain the passing out on its own… are you menstruating?” Law asks. 

“Ew, Law! That’s personal!” Daisy’s cheeks turn pink. 

“I’m a doctor, it’s a fair question to ask after a fainting spell.”

“Okay well my primary care physician is a reindeer, so I don’t need you prying into my cycle.” Daisy snaps at him. 

“So that’s a yes to the previous question…” Law catches Daisy rolling her eyes. “I’ll give you some iron pills and an anti-inflammatory. That should help. Now let me see your ankle.” 

Law rises from the bed and moves to the foot of the bed so he was standing at her feet. He pulls up her sweatpants to her left knee. The ankle was swollen with a large purple bruise. 

“Gods, when did this happen?” Law sighs as he accesses the damage. He gently picks up her foot and she winces. Daisy must have noticed the guilty, pensive look in his eyes. 

“Hey, I don’t think you did it… I probably tripped over a root or my own feet or something in the garden, you know how I am.” Daisy gave him a weak smile. Her smile did little to alleviate him of his feeling of repentance. As clumsy as you were, it probably was him that caused the injury. 

“Right.” Law finishes examining her ankle and gingerly sets it back down on the bed. “I’ll go get you that medication and some ice for this. I don’t think it’s sprained, just badly twisted. You are going to need to rest for a few days until you can train properly again.”

“I-I’m sorry…” Daisy hangs her head. 

“Why?” Law asks stoically. 

“Because I won’t be able to train for a bit… we’re wasting time… aren’t you mad?”

“Pushing you past your limits now won’t help in the long run. It won’t be more than a few days, I’m sure of it. I see the cut you were talking about, I’m going to stitch it up. I’ll be right back.” 

Law heads back into his office and collects some supplies from his cabinets and drawers, places it all on a metal surgical tray and returns to the foot of his bed. He picks up the large ice pack and the medical tape from the tray and begins fastening the cold pack to the swollen ankle. After carefully tending to her foot, Law places an extra pillow underneath the injury to elevate it. 

“I’m going to have to get closer to do the stitches, can you move your other leg?” Law points at Daisy’s right knee and she pulls it in towards her body, leaving him room to sit on the bed and work. 

“I’m going to slightly numb the area and begin. You okay?” Law checks in with a glance to her face as he readies the needle and thread. 

Daisy nods. 

“I, uh, I would look away if you’re still feeling faint.” Law says as he notices her eyes on the wound he was about to begin sewing together. 

“It’s kind of hard not to look… can you distract me or something?” 

Law’s breath catches in his throat. 

“What?”

“I don’t know! Talk to me or something, so I can take my mind off it?”

“I mean, I’ll be kind of busy. But you can talk if you’d like…” 

There was a short pause. 

“So. What’s your favorite color?” Daisy asks. 

“Wha- huh?” Law cocks his head and meets her eyes. “My favorite color?” 

What the hell was she talking about? He hasn’t been asked this question since he was young and his baby sister would make him macaroni art… No, wait, Cora asked him once… he wanted to know what color sprinkles to put on his 14th birthday cake… 

“Yeah, mine’s yellow. What’s yours?” Daisy interrupts his wandering train of thought.

Law returns his gaze to the task at hand and begins stitching the wound at its corner. 

“Um. I don’t have one.” 

“Oh come on. No one’s that buttoned up.” Daisy rolls her eyes. “You’re that committed to the dark and mysterious bit that you won’t even tell me your favorite color?” 

There was a pregnant pause.

“I don’t talk about myself because it would only cause people to be sympathetic towards me, and that’s the last thing I want. Everything before I founded the Heart Pirates is nothing short of tragic, and it’s a past I’m still trying to avenge… and, blue, I guess…” Law is grateful he has to focus on stitching the wound, there’s no way he’d be able to make eye contact with her now anyway. He sees her smile softly out of the corner of his right eye. 

“Blue is nice.”

Daisy hisses as Law pierces the skin with his needle in a particularly thick spot, the numbing medication only doing so much. 

“SO,” She winces as she tries to distract herself. “You were really touchy about the record player… Who did you say it belonged to again?” 

Law stops. Silence falls again. 

“An old mentor of mine.” Law continues working. Daisy looks at him expectantly, clearly waiting for him to elaborate… but her expression was soft, not wanting to rush him. 

“Corazon… he saved my life… It’s a long story. I was very ill as a child. I’m from Flevance-“ 

“How? Everyone from Flevance died from Amber Lead Disease? I heard about it when I was real young… my dad used to tell me about it so we wouldn’t go play in the mines.” Daisy interrupts him. 

“That’s why it’s a long story… I thought you wanted me to talk to you?” Law can’t help but smirk a bit. 

“Right, sorry, go on.” Daisy giggles a bit. *How cute.* No… not cute.

“Anyway…” Law continues sewing up the gash on Daisy’s leg.  “You know who Donquixote Doflamingo is, right, yes?”

Daisy nods. 

“So when I was 13…” 

Law spends the entirety of 30 minutes explaining his tragic childhood while carefully patching up Daisy’s open cuts. 

“Gods, Law… And I thought my life sucked… I’m sorry that happened to you, I really am.” Daisy reaches down and touches Law’s clothed bicep. Law flinches. 

“Sorry…” Daisy says after feeling him recoil from her touch. 

“No.. it’s ok. I just… don’t tell a lot of people that.”

“My family was killed too. I can’t say I relate to all of the other shit, but we have at least one horrific ordeal in common. That’s how I ended up with Grey Jaw…” 

“You don’t have to tell me about it. I know that it’s-“

“It’s fine. You asked awhile ago and I didn’t answer. I guess I wasn’t ready…” Daisy sighs. “He burnt my island to the ground, taking me and the other young girls to ‘work’ for him after we watched him murder our families. I was 16. I was there for 4 years… it was all a blur really… tried to force it out of my head…” Daisy sniffles. 

Law pretends not to notice and continues his work. Daisy swallows hard.

“When I was 20, we were freed by the Marines who launched a surprise raid on the ship. I ended up on some dinky little island and bartended for another 4 years before Luffy showed up and asked me to join his crew. Aaaand now I’m here in this mess…” Another sigh left her lips. 

“But you hate the Marines now?” Law asks. 

“There are good marines. Just like there are good pirates.” Daisy looks up at Law to meet his eyes. “You can understand that, right?”

He nods, knowing all too well. 

“All done.” 

“Thanks, doc. Can you ‘shambles’ me back to my room or something? I’ve already overstayed my welcome, I think.” 

“Just sleep here. I was going to finish research and crash on the couch anyway.” Law rises from the bed. 

“You’re sure?” She asks. 

“Yeah, and here’s a hot water bottle… for the, you know…” Law hands her the heating pad. She shyly smiles as she grabs it from his hands. “Get some rest. Yell if you need something, I’ll just be next door.”

Law is halfway through the archway when he hears her. 

“Law?”

“Yes?”

“Goodnight.” She smiles warmly at him. 

Law feels something tingly and foreign shoot through his veins. Looking at her, he couldn’t help but smile back. Genuinely. 

“Goodnight Daisy.” 

xx 

**Authors Note** PART 9 WILL BE UP TOMORROW FOR VALENTINE'S HEHEHE IF THAT GIVES YOU A HINT! Also PLEASE comment and let me know if you want to be in the taglist for this series! Sorry for the slowest burn on the planet, I simply am being so self indulgent...

[justinsentertainmentcorner]

Marissa R. Moss at Rolling Stone:

In 2016, at what became an ill-fated celebration to hopefully usher in the first female president, there was not one country music performer at the Democratic National Convention. There were pop stars like Demi Lovato, Lenny Kravitz, and Lady Gaga, but there wasn’t a single performance that drew from the country or Americana worlds. This was a mistake, clearly: The attitude was that country music and Southern/rural stuff was for Trumpers, and to be avoided at all costs, and that doesn’t end well when you’re trying to win an election, or understand the American public at large on a level deeper than “red state bad.” There are blue voters in those red states, if you get them to the polls, but you have to speak — or sing — their language to get them there.  

The first night of the 2024 Democratic National Convention, wherein we’ll once again make a go for a female president, looked and sounded a whole lot different from eight years ago. There weren’t big pop-star performances (though surely they are coming), but there was country: a country artist, Mickey Guyton, and a country person, Jason Isbell, singing “Something More than Free” with his unmistakable Alabama drawl in front of an image of a barn with an American flag on it. These signifiers have been generally reserved for Trump rallies when it comes to the Venn diagram of music and recent politics, with country music’s conservative core latching on to the jingoist beat in earnest since 9/11, though the alliance between the two dates back far longer. 

By opening their convention with Isbell and Guyton, Kamala Harris and Tim Walz seem to want to change that, with the cherry on top appearing in the form of a Harris/Walz camouflage baseball hat released a few weeks ago — it sold out instantly. But it’s country artists like Jason Aldean, who appeared at the Republican National Convention and engages in the workingman’s sport of country club golf with former president Trump, who like to own this sort of symbolism. His 2019 album, 9, even contained a song called “Camouflage Hat.” That’s the genius work of this one small bit of Harris/Walz merch. The hat reclaims the rural and Southern identity that mainstream Democrats have long ignored, all in with the power of one nifty little cap. Ella Emhoff proudly wore hers last night, while Walz displayed his own — also camouflage — Jason Isbell hat backstage. 

Meanwhile, it’s the Trump supporters who are the ones getting country music wrong, soundtracking their TikTok videos in support of the ex-president with none other than The Chicks’ “Not Ready to Make Nice,” which was written after their expulsion from Nashville in the wake of anti-Iraq War comments and their refusal to apologize. This baffling phenomenon by the right seems to come from either an inability to Google, or an assumption that everything country music must be conservative, and it’s hard to decide which is worse. 

Between Jason Isbell, Maren Morris, Mickey Guyton, and The Chicks, the DNC was eager to embrace country music. That is a good thing, as Republicans don’t have a monopoly on the genre. #DNC2024 #2024DNC

[pilferingapples]

Hello! I am catching up on les mis letters and I think the October 7(???) chapter mentions that none of the les amis are wearing ties. Can you tell me the significance of this? I know nothing of FRev ✌️

Sure! I assume you mean this line:

They reached the Quai Morland. Cravatless, hatless, breathless, soaked by the rain, with lightning in their eyes.

A quick Obligatory Mention that Les Mis is not set in the French Revolution, but in the post-Republic years of the early 19C ! Which is of course mostly relevant here because instead of imagining a bunch of sans culottes

(1842 black and white art of two sans culottes, rather pretty and idealized, by Emilé Wattier)

( a color picture of a sans culotte on the left and maybe far right, with a culottes-wearing drummer between them. All are wearing phrygian caps and republic cockades, and seem to be going off to fight together)

You're instead looking at a group more like this, Fashionwise:

Révolution de 1830 - Combat devant l'hôtel de ville , an idealized portrayal of revolutionaries in 1830, fighting outside the Hotel de VIlle, by Jean-Victor Schnetz (you can really zoom in on it at the Wiki page!) I wanted to bring that--again, highly idealized -- pic of 1830 in because it shows not just what people were wearing, more or less, but how that was being socially interpreted! You've got a lot of different hats here--top hat, workers' caps, bandanas, soldier's hats, etc. And IDK how much you know about fashion in this era, Nonny, but I bet you can start picking out a pattern to who's wearing what.

Especially the way that cravatlass people in workers' caps and bandanas and Phrygian caps are, by and large, turned away from the camera, or have their faces in shadow, while the composition leads us to a central, heroic figure--a student-type in obvious Fashionably Respectable clothes, with a great big cravat. There's even an older man in a nice top hat, with a saber, looking and gesturing to him! THIS is our Central Guy, a good bourgeois type the presumed viewer can feel safe with! Even the heroic worker (hat apparently missing, but he's in overalls, then as now a garment linked with labor) who's swooning into the central student's arms has his eyes shadowed , though at least we see most of his face.

You could write a whole paper on this painting alone, but the barebones relevance here: a bourgeois audience is going to have very different reactions to people who are visibly of Their Class than the scaaaaary, faceless Working Class. And in the real world where combat and crowds aren't as neat and shiny as this painting and the little details like shoes and socks and fit of the trousers and so on is going to get lost in the dust and distance, one of the easiest ways to read a man's social status is hats and cravats -- who's wearing them , what sort are they wearing, etc.

So on an immediate, practical, level , losing the hats and cravats is a bit like "rolling up your sleeves"-- ditching or loosening restrictive clothing before doing hard physical work. But on a social/symbolic level, it's a way of erasing differences of status and social standing between the barricade fighters. Hats gone, cravats gone, everyone soaked by rain and covered in mud, there's no easy distinction between Enjolras and Feuilly--or between a porter and a poet.

Which is all very egalitarian and symbolic and all--but to the sort of reader/ viewer who the painting up there is targeting, it's also very scary, because now there's no obvious sympathetic "leader", no easily-spotted reassuring figure to make them think it's all being organized by the Right Sort of people. It's just a scary,lower-class, undifferentiated mob.

Both these factors, the symbolic equality and the perceived mob nature of the uprising, are very relevant to the rebellion in Les Mis!

..and also it's just SUPER awkward to try and do hard physical work with a tight binding loop of fabric around your throat, or without losing most hats. The Struggle is Real, there.

[x-bee-x]

In the meantime, before I make an official post, here's some of my feelings turned into something.

Reaper

I'm sorry if I made you cry, I kind of made myself cry.

710 words

Bad adjusted his cloak and hood once more, unclenched and reclenched his fingers around the grip of his scythe, then let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding.

He brought one arm up and around to the child riding on his back, his arms wrapped lightly around his neck, fluffy hair tickling a bit as they buried his face in Bad's collarbone in comfort.

This was probably the worst part of his job, doing all of this with kids.

It doesn't matter if they were ones he knew in the previous life or not, how long he knew them before he got to know them again while they were on this journey together, they were still kids.

Little bodies that rode on his back or held his hand or were tucked in his arms as they slipped through the veil between Life and Death together.

Bad started moving again, the child with fluffy hair and a too large yellow and green shirt still on his back adjusting his hips and legs slightly to remain his hold, and off they went.

"Just a little bit longer, kiddo, you can rest soon."

They reached the island of white and pink where two more tiny beds sat, one holding a boy wearing a mask that looked like an animal skull, the other with a girl with curly dark hair.

The two stayed physically laying on either side of their father.

One of the kids had an arm above his head and bent at the elbow, the other on top of his father's hand.

The second one was curled on her side and had a crow plush toy tucked into the crook of one of her elbows, the other reached out and almost touching her father's hand.

The father laid on his back in the middle, one hand splayed and fingers twitching slightly under the small hand resting on top of it, the other with its elbow bent and resting on top of the girl's head and fingers tangling in her hair lightly.

"Hi little ones. Are you ready?"

The souls glanced at their father once more, each pressed a kiss to his cheeks, and nodded, Bad waving a wrist and letting the scythe vanish, before holding out both hands for the boy with the mask that looked like an animal skull and yellow duck innertube, and the girl with curly dark hair with flowers in it, and they left.

The four of them came up on a gate, an arch, different from the one Bad stood before once upon a time, but similar still.

Two women stood at the entrance, crouching to a much shorter level when he and the children approached to greet them.

One of them wore a a long black dress, a wide brimmed hat on her head and a veil in front of her face, she had dark hair that reached the top of her back.

The other wore a long white dress with flowers decorating the front, she had shoulder length wavy pink hair.

"Hello lovely creatures. It's nice to officially meet you three. There's actually someone else waiting to meet you too."

The woman wearing black stepped to the side, revealing a handful of meters inside, someone wearing the same animal skull mask and had pink hair.

The two let go of Bad's hands and the one climbed off of his back, but none of them left yet.

He crouched down to their levels and the three of them hugged him with all their might, which wasn't a lot, but it was perfect.

"Thank you, Tìo Bad, goodbye for now."

And the boy with the mask that looked like an animal skull and the yellow duck innertube and short blonde hair ran to the man with pink hair and had the same mask,

"Gracias, Tìo Bad, I'll miss you."

And the girl with curly dark hair with flowers in it and a a little purple nightgown ran after her brother.

"Obrigado, Tìo Bad, for everything."

And the boy with fluffy hair and a too big yellow and green shirt and a prosthetic half of a leg walked to the woman in a white dress and was scooped into her arms.

Bad's job was done now.

[abitohoney]

All I Want for Christmas Is You

Chapter 3 of 6 - Hand Me the Nutmeg AO3 link

CH1 || CH2 || CH3 || CH4 || CH5 || CH6

Sevika x female reader

Rating: Explicit, MDNI, 18+, NSFW

Tags: Sevika/Reader, AU - Modern Setting, Established Relationship, Fluff and Smut, Lesbian Sex, Cunnilingus, Teasing, Humor, Vaginal Fingering, Orgasm Delay (nothing extreme), Begging, Strap-Ons, Face-Sitting, Corny & Cheesy Dialogue, kinda sappy

Word Count: 5.7k

Fic Summary: It’s your first year spending the holidays with Sevika, and though the two of you couldn’t be any different in your level of holiday spirit or view of the traditions that come with it, your shared adoration (and sexual attraction) for each other is more than enough to get both of you through it together.

A collection of little holiday-inspired scenes, technically chronological, but really could be read in any order or as stand-alone oneshots. Includes a nice blend of sugar (fluff) and spice (smut).

Chapter Summary: Dragging Sevika to her boss's holiday party starts just as you expected. She's grumpy, uninterested, and simply all around no fun. Thankfully you find the perfect activity to turn that frown upside down. (Cum and get yer smut!)

AN: Another fic already complete on AO3 that I'm bringing to Tumblr. Guess it's Xmas in April. 🤷‍♀️

“We’re gonna be late!” you call out from the bathroom after you finish applying some bright red lipstick. When Sevika doesn’t reply, you poke your head out of the door into your bedroom.

Sevika stands in front of a mirror over a small dresser, struggling to adjust the holiday sweater you bought her. “This is so fucking stupid,” she grumbles when you step up behind her. Her stormy gray eyes are focused on the hem of the sweater as she attempts- and fails- to tug it down over the top of her pants. Too busy with that battle, she doesn’t notice the reflection of your smile, but she does notice your poorly stifled giggles. “Why is this so damn short?” she gripes.

“So I can see those gorgeous abs of yours, duh,” you reply as you graze over the skin of said abs with the tips of your fingers. Her stomach quakes, muscles flexing beneath your touch. It’s the only place she’s ticklish, and though she’d never let you really go at it, you still manage to sneak in the occasional light tease. “Besides, it's really no shorter than your typical top,” you point out and take your hands away before she can grab them.

“My typical top is not an ugly ass sweater.” Her narrowed eyes rise to your face reflected in the mirror as you move to stand beside her. The moment she catches your genuine smile, she releases an exaggerated sigh and her scowl fades into something softer. Though she may never say it in such words, she truly adores your smile.

“We look cute together,” you say, taking in the sight of your matching ugly sweaters. Hers is a garish bright green with a black outline of the Grinch and- appropriately- the words ‘The Grinch’. It fits snug, hugging her soft curves and hard muscles, making an otherwise ugly sweater look rather tempting. You had removed the sleeve of the left arm to allow her to slip it over her mech arm without risk of snagging. Your sweater is a bright red with a white outline of a Santa hat and the words ‘Mrs. Claus, but sleeping with the Grinch’. It's equally snug, but reaches the waist of your knee length, white, pleated skirt.

“ You look… cute ," she replies, left eye twitching as she forces out that last word. "Don’t use that term in reference to me.”

“Oh! Almost forgot. I have something else that will make us even cuter!” you exclaim, ignoring her demand entirely. Opening one of the dresser drawers, you pull out a Santa hat, reindeer antlers and a little red Rudolph nose. You put the Santa hat on your head, then turn your attention to Sevika as you grab the antlers.

“Babe, no,” Sevika sighs as you reach up to slip the antlers on her head, but she makes no motion to stop you.

Checking her appearance in the reflection, you can barely contain the utter glee the sight induces. “Oh. My. God. Sevika, you are adorable!” you squeal. Even as she scowls at you in the mirror, it doesn’t take away from just how cute she looks. If anything, it enhances it. She’s your big, cute, Grinch. “Here! Put the nose on!” You insist and hold it out for her. When all she does is narrow her eyes at your reflection, you push out your bottom lip and give her your sweetest doe eyes. “Please. Everyone else is going to be dressed up!”

"I agreed to wear this dumb sweater. Even let you put these ridiculous ears-"

"Antlers," you correct her with a smile.

"Whatever. Don't act like I'm not dressing up for you," she grumbles.

She really has allowed you to push her boundaries. More and more over time, really. She clearly is trying hard to please you, and you realize you need to be more appreciative of all the adjustments she's made just for you.

"Okay. You're right," you relent with a deflated sigh. "Thank you," you add with a soft smile. Stretching up on your tiptoes, you press a chaste kiss to her cheek, leaving a bright red imprint against her rich, brown skin. That earns you a sweet, crooked grin from her as she turns to face you.

Sevika slips her hands under the back of your sweater, pulling you against her warm, hard body as she bends down to press her plush lips to yours.

You slide your hands up between your bodies, palms smoothing over muscled abs and curved breasts until they rest against her shoulders. Clinging to her, you return the kiss in earnest.

She tilts her head to deepen the kiss, her tongue tracing along your lips. When you eagerly part them, she wastes no time delving in.

Your mouth fills with a heady burst of flavor- fine cigars and whiskey. It's something that even after all the time you've spent with her, will always leave you with a heady sensation. A mix of feeling high as a kite, warm to the core, and undeniably aroused.

Realizing the two of you are going to be late to Silco's party- not to mention how badly you need the oxygen she's unknowingly denied you- you finally pull away. Both of you gaze at one another through hooded eyes, longing to keep taking that kiss wherever it was headed.

"We need to go," you whisper breathlessly. "We're gonna be late."

She stares down at you- your lipstick smeared lips- for a moment longer before finally relenting. "Alright. Gotta clean the mess you made first."

"Hey, you made a mess too, you know," you reply with a playful smile. When she raises an inquisitive brow, you in turn raise yours. Certainly she can catch onto your little innuendo without you needing to explain. And that she does.

Her now red stained lips curl into a knowing smirk. "If you weren't so insistent on being there on time , I'd offer to clean that up for you," she purrs while slipping her flesh hand beneath your skirt to tease over your noticeably damp underwear.

You try to step back, away from her wandering fingers, but the metal hand at your back holds you firmly in place. "Please don't tempt me," you whine.

Again, she chews over your request, but ceases her teasing while she does. Taking in the sight of your pleading eyes, she relents once more. She wipes her damp finger along the waistband of your underwear and steps away, all while keeping that damn sexy smirk in place.

The two of you enter the bathroom. You clean away your smudged lipstick and reapply a fresh coat, while she removes the marks you left on her cheek and mouth.

By the time you and Sevika arrive outside Silco's apartment, you can barely contain your excitement. The box of cookies the two of you had baked and decorated bounces in your hands as you rock back and forth on your heels. You've met a couple of Sevika's coworkers, but never her boss.

Sevika gives you the side eye before pressing the buzzer.

The door opens, revealing a fairly tall- though not as tall as Sevika- and lanky man. Silco. You'd heard his eyes were something to behold, and boy was that the truth. His left eye, set within a wave of scars, is a fiery iris set within a black abyss. His right eye- still healthy and untouched by the scarring, is a pleasant teal color, but it's just as unnerving in its cool, calculating demeanor.

"Ah, Sevika. How nice of you…" his drawl trails off for a moment when he takes notice of her reindeer antlers. "... How nice of you to join us." He sounds terribly unamused and you're not sure if that's just part of his personality or if he has some issue with Sevika. His good eye drops to your face. "And I see you've brought a… friend ."

Not so sure you like the way he called you her ‘friend’, you ignore the warning jabs of Sevika's metal fingers against your back. "Girlfriend, actually," you tell him matter-of-factly.

His unscarred brow raises and you can hear Sevika's frustrated sigh beside you. "I see," he replies without an ounce of care in his tone. "Please, come in." He steps back and off to the side to allow you both to enter.

Sevika strides in while you follow close behind her. You flash Silco a friendly smile as you hand him the box of cookies. "Cookies. For the potluck," you explain, still smiling.

His otherwise straight lined lips twitch, which you assume is his attempt to return the friendly gesture.

No wonder Sevika is his right hand. Just a couple of crabby, emotionally constipated-

Your thoughts are interrupted as Sevika bends down to hiss against your ear. "I thought you said everyone would be dressed up!"

Scanning the room, you observe the two of you are- in fact- the only ones wearing silly festive attire. Everyone else is dressed in nice, fancy holiday clothing. Shrugging your shoulders, you whisper out of the side of your mouth, "But we're the cutest ones here."

"You owe me for this," she threatens.

"Yes, yes. You can punish me later," you reply. Before she can get another word in, you catch sight of Ran and Dustin- the only two guests you know- and immediately gravitate towards them.

"Hi Ran," you say cheerfully when you come to stand beside them at one of the tables lined with food and drinks.

Ran, midst listening to Dustin ramble about Janna knows what, turns to you. Ignoring him entirely, their dark lips slip into a sly smile. “Hey, pretty girl,” they greet you, voice low and smooth.

From your periphery you see Sevika step up beside you, just in time to hear Ran’s subtle flirting, but she says nothing. You’ve noticed that over your time being Sevika’s girl, that her protectiveness over you seemed to allow Ran as the only exception. The two of them would usually cast subtle, knowing glances at one another. A silent agreement, perhaps. It was as if they had some sort of history. Something beyond just coworkers or friends.

You smile coyly at Ran and your cheeks blush at the compliment. Ran is undeniably attractive. Dark, quiet, mysterious and alluring. Not that you’d ever act on that attraction. At least not without Sevika’s permission.

Ran nods in greeting to Sevika, who in turn does the same. Then Ran’s dark eyes roam over Sevika’s sweater and up to her antlers, their smile growing in unabashed amusement. They turn back to you, taking note of the matching sweater.

“Don’t. Say. Anything.” Sevika bites out, tone low and threatening.

Still admiring your outfit, Ran leans towards you to whisper, “Cute.”

Sevika scoffs, clearly having heard the comment, and turns to observe the room in an effort to ignore you two.

“Thanks!” you reply, all smiles and proud of yourself.

Silco strolls up at your other side to place your box of cookies down on the table before turning to answer the door when the buzzer sounds again.

Dustin, who seems to have preoccupied himself with something in his nose- gross- immediately reaches for one of the cookies. Apparently Sevika’s sanitary standards are higher than her coworkers’. And wouldn’t you know it, the first thing Dustin does is drag his nasty ass tongue over the entire length of the gingerbread man in his hand, but not without first locking eyes with you. He smiles, sickly- perversely- and it makes you grimace and turn away to face Sevika. Apparently her eating etiquette is also better than her coworkers’.

“I’m thirsty,” you tell her, “Let’s get something to drink.” She says nothing, but follows you as you turn to make your way down to the other end of the table. You flash Ran one last smile over your shoulder and they return it with their own playful smirk and wave of their metal fingers.

“What the hell is this?” Sevika asks, her face scrunching in disgust as you start to ladle out two servings of eggnog.

You hand her a cup and grin as she sniffs it suspiciously. “It’s called eggnog. It’s a typical Holiday drink. You’ve seriously never had any?” Taking a sip, you watch as she takes her own, very cautious, sip. The grimace she makes as she immediately pulls it away from her mouth has you giggling out loud.

“This is disgusting,” she grunts and sets the cup on the table.

“It’s an acquired taste,” you explain.

Sevika says nothing, instead reaching into the pouch at her side to remove a fairly large flask.

“What are you doing?” you ask, though it’s pretty obvious she’s spiking her own drink.

“There’s no way I’m making it through tonight without this,” she grumbles as she pours a rather hefty amount into her cup. “Want some?” she asks.

Honestly, you could use a drink yourself seeing as you’ll likely be subject to rather unsanitary acts most of the night. “Sure,” you reply and hold your cup out. You notice she only gives you about half as much as she poured herself. And it’s a good thing too, because as you take a drink, you nearly sputter at how strong it is. “Damn, what is this?”

“Rum. Top shelf,” she replies, lips curling up into a smirk at your inability to handle anything remotely strong. She takes a considerable gulp, her shoulders slumping almost immediately. Perhaps there’s still hope for her to enjoy herself tonight.

You spend most of the night hanging around Sevika in companionable silence. You had made several attempts to chat with Ran- or rather at Ran- as they mostly just listened. Unfortunately, Dustin was entirely too weird and gross for your liking, so those conversations were quite brief.

Sevika made zero attempt to talk with anyone besides an occasional short, private conversation with Silco. Probably talking shop. She did, however, let you go on an occasional rant to her about something. She would just watch you with that tiny smirk on her face, apparently amused by how passionate you got about some subjects. Unbeknownst to you, those rants became more and more nonsensical and long winded the more spiked eggnog you drank. Of course she remained cool, calm and unaffected despite drinking far more than you, at least if strictly referencing alcohol content. You had certainly drunk more than your fair share of eggnog.

“I need to use the restroom,” you whisper to Sevika when that feeling hits you without warning.

She merely grunts from where she leans against the wall, but her eyes remain protectively on you as you walk away.

After finishing your business and checking on your appearance, you step out of the bathroom a bit disoriented. Yeah, you definitely had a bit too much to drink. You glance through the crowd of people for Sevika. Considering how damn massive she is, it really shouldn’t be that hard to find her, but she’s not where you last left her. Sighing, you make your way through the mass of people as discreetly as you can until you see Sevika leaning against a wall in a dark corner of the room- basically as far away from people as possible.

As you step up to her, she’s just finishing a glass of eggnog, your glass you note by how she is holding an empty glass in her other hand.

“Thankss for holding my drink,” you state sarcastically, not realizing the slight slur your voice has taken on.

“Fucking need more than this to make it through this shit fest,” she grumbles, wiping the back of her hand across her mouth. Her eyes flit to your flush face and silly, lopsided smile. “Looks like you’ve had enough anyway, sweetheart.”

Taking both empty glasses from her, you set them on a small table along the wall. Glancing up at her grumpy expression, you can’t help but smile at how adorable she looks with her face all scrunched up and pouty. Like a huge, gorgeous, petulant child… with an undersized sweater and reindeer antlers.

“It’s not that bad. I mean nobody is really bothering us and there’s plenty of alcohol,” you point out, this time concentrating on your speech and keeping that slur at bay. Or at least you think.

Her narrowed eyes flit to your face before dropping to her sweater.

“It is that bad. This hideous fucking sweater is hot and itchy as hell,” she gripes, scratching at her neck with her metal fingers. Your eyes travel over how snug the wool sweater fits to her sculpted body. Even with such a gaudy, ugly sweater that is clearly at least two sizes too small for her, she looks hot as hell. Her bulging bicep stretches the fabric so tight you can see traces of her beautiful dark skin poking through. And it’s no coincidence that it’s as short as it is, revealing that tantalizing strip of skin. You bought that sweater knowing damn well how it would look on her, and you regret nothing.

“You’re so cute in it though!!” you coo, giving her bicep a playful little poke. Something catches your eye just above her head and you tilt your head back to glance up.

“I told you; do NOT call me cu-”

“Sevika! Look!” you exclaim, cutting her off when you realize there are several sprigs of mistletoe just above your heads. “Mistletoe!”

Sevika glances up to the ceiling, grimacing at the plant before dropping her attention back to your beaming face. “So what?”

Brows furrowed in confusion, you can’t possibly believe she doesn’t know the significance. “Do you not know what that means?” you ask incredulously. Taking her less than amused expression as a no, you explain, “You have to kiss me. It’s bad luck to be caught under the mistletoe and refuse a kiss.” You smile up at her coyly, taking a step closer while she simply raises a brow.

“That’s complete bullshit.”

“Oh c’mon Sev,” you reply playfully, not about to let her get out of this. Slipping the palms of your hands up over her chest and shoulders, you stand up on your toes to bring your face closer to hers. “You’re not going to deny me a kiss are you?” Her eyes drop to your red painted lips as you slowly drag your tongue across them. Watching her scowl devolve into an amused little smirk, you step even closer, pressing one of your legs between her thighs and intentionally rubbing against her. That does the trick.

Sevika’s hands find their way to your waist, pulling you closer as she dips her head, cocking it to the side and capturing your lips with her own. The kiss starts innocently enough. It’s soft, gentle, sweet, simply pressing her lips to yours. However, as you grind against her, that quickly changes. She releases a low, rumbly sound akin to that of a growl. She catches your bottom lip between her teeth and tugs. When your mouth falls open to release a soft groan, she immediately takes the opportunity to release your lip and slip her tongue inside. Her teeth clack against yours with how fervently she kisses you.

Your hands slip into the hair at the nape of her neck, tugging hard as you try to match her fervor. The growl she releases against your mouth becomes a moan when you press your thigh against just the right spot between her legs.

She breaks the kiss and both of you are left panting. “Bathroom,” she grunts, digging her nails into your waist to drive home just how serious she is.

“Pantry,” you reply through heavy breaths.

Sevika arches a brow as your hands slide down to her pants. Hooking your fingers through the belt loops, you tug her along as you step backwards.

“Nobody will go in there,” you explain as you back into the small door adjacent to the kitchen. Her lips curl into a smirk, one hand leaving your waist to turn the door handle so the two of you can slip inside. She flips on the light switch. A dingy, low yellow light floods the rather small pantry. She kicks the door shut behind her before returning her hand to your waist. 

The roles suddenly reverse and you’re no longer pulling her along. Instead, she’s quickly pushing you backwards as she captures your mouth again in another heated kiss.

Your backside slams into a series of shelves along the back wall, knocking over several cans that subsequently roll off and crash to the floor. Neither of you are bothered by it. You’re both too preoccupied with trying to shove your tongues down each other’s throats.

Her hands run wildly over your body, trying to touch every inch of skin she can reach. One hand slips up behind your head to grab a fistful of hair, tugging your head back to expose your neck. She runs her mouth along your jaw, sucking, biting and marking your skin all the way down and over your neck.

Uncaring that someone could- at any moment- walk by and easily hear, you release a loud moan when she presses her thigh between yours. Your hands slip into her hair and pull her head closer as she ravishes your skin.

Her other hand snakes under the front of your sweater to grab a handful of one of your breasts. She pinches and rolls your nipple through the thin fabric of your bra, pulling a gasp from your open mouth.

You’re feeling delightfully high with arousal, and the alcohol thrumming through your bloodstream is only serving to heighten it. Unfortunately it also seems to be raising the temperature in the room, as you both start to squirm in your wool sweaters.

“This fucking sweater,” Sevika curses under her breath and pulls away from you to rip said sweater off before discarding it somewhere over her shoulder. Her antlers are knocked off in the process, but neither of you take notice. “Get this off,” she grunts and grabs at the hem of your sweater. She hardly gives you a moment to push off the shelves before she’s practically tearing it off your body and tossing it to the side. Your Santa hat suffers the same fate as her antlers.

With both of you free of the uncomfortable clothing, neither of you waste any time getting your hands back on each other. You slide your hands up her toned abs, reveling in how they tighten beneath your touch. Traveling higher, you take each of her warm, heavy breasts into your hands and squeeze.

She doesn’t give you long to play with them though, as she quickly pulls one of the cups of your bra down and grabs your breast. Bending down, she wraps her lips around the supple flesh and sucks, leaving a trail of love bites. Her metal hand wraps around the other breast to knead it between her fingers.

You can feel her teeth graze down the curve of your breast before clamping down on the hardened peak. “Sevika!” you squeal and your hands grasp at her hair again. The deep, throaty chuckle she releases against your skin sends shivers down your spine. You pull her face closer as her wet tongue circles your areola before flicking your nipple, withdrawing another startled sound from your throat.

When she finally moves her mouth from your breast in favor of nibbling on one of your earlobes, you’re too distracted to notice the hand slipping beneath your skirt.

“I’m going to fuck you real good, babygirl. Think you can be quiet for me?” she rasps against your ear.

Your skin prickles with goosebumps and your body shudders. “I- oh- shit,” you moan out when you feel the fingers of her flesh hand drift up along the insides of your thighs.

“That’s not an answer,” she teases, her fingers stopping just below the apex of your thighs.

“Sev- please,” you whine, desperate for her touch. Even with your sweater discarded, the room feels unbearably hot and it’s only getting worse the more excited she gets you. “I- I’ll try. Just- please touch me,” you beg.

“That’s my good girl.”

If that praise wasn’t enough to makes your knees weak, her fingers sliding against your clothed heart sure as fuck was. The moan that slips past your parted lips is muffled when her mouth captures yours once again.

Sevika wastes no time slipping her hand beneath the waistband of your underwear. She drags her middle finger between your wet folds, just barely pressing inside. Both of you groan in unison. You from the pleasure of finally feeling her where you need her, and she from the feeling of how wet you are for her. Slowly, almost tauntingly so, she slips her finger inside. She breaks the kiss, allowing you to release a shaky moan. Her finger bottoms out, buried to the last knuckle, and your legs ache with pleasure.

“Oh fuck, Sevika,” you groan when you feel her slowly pull back out, only to add a second digit. You peer up at her through half-hooded eyes and Janna, she is a sight to behold. Pupils wide and filled with lust- with hunger. Both fingers- so thick and long- sink deep inside you, and it’s downright heavenly how perfectly they fit. And it would seem she’s thinking the same thing…

“Fuck, baby-” she groans, “I’ll never get used to how good your pussy feels wrapped around my fingers. So warm. Wet. Tight .”

God, can she possibly be any sexier?

“How do you want me to fuck you?” she purrs. “Fast and hard, or soft and slow?” Before your lust-clouded brain can even process the question, she’s curling her fingers and dragging them back out at a slow pace that is both agonizing and satisfying at the same time. As if that wasn’t enough to drive you mad with want, she runs the tip of her tongue over your upper lip at the same speed.

Your eyes flutter shut and you attempt to chase after her tongue- to steal a kiss. But, not only does she pull away, she releases a deep, mocking chuckle when you whine her name in protest. You open your glazed over eyes and peer up at her… insidious smile.

Apparently yes- yes she can be sexier.

Feeling completely overwhelmed with desire, you’re certain you couldn’t handle soft and slow. You watch her raise a brow, evil little smirk never faltering. “Fast- and hard. Please,” you breathe.

That must satiate her ego. She immediately reaches prosthetic hand down to grasp one of your thighs, lifting it up and out of the way as her human fingers plunge knuckle deep.

The motion knocks the air from your lungs, leaving your resulting moan as nothing more than an airy gasp- near silent. Your hands scramble to find purchase on something, anything, as she starts thrusting wildly inside your cunt. One hand wraps tightly around her bicep, the other clutches the metal plate that covers the shoulder joint of her prosthetic.

Both of you quickly find yourself breathing raggedly. She grunts and huffs with each powerful thrust of her fingers, and you can feel the flex of her bicep beneath your hand. Despite your effort to bite back your own sounds, the moment she uses the palm of her hand to rub against your clit, all hope of remaining quiet is lost. A mixture of broken moans, whimpers and her name seep from between your parted lips.

Feeling that familiar ache starting to form, you cling desperately to Sevika’s bicep, nails digging into her skin and threatening to break through. “Sevika,” you whimper, “I’m so close.” You’re not even sure she hears you over the sound of the shelves and their contents rattling behind you as her fingers rock your body with each pleasurable drive of her fingers.

Then, suddenly- and without warning- she pulls her palm away from your throbbing clit. Your eyes shoot up to hers, wild and desperate. “Sevika! Please don’t stop!” you cry out. Barely able to stand on the one leg you have planted on the floor, you use what little strength remains to attempt to grind into her hand. The deep, threatening growl that leaves her throat has you frozen though. She’s smiling down at you, with a sick, teasing grin.

“I’m not sure you deserve to cum, babygirl. Not after you put me in that stupid ass sweater and antlers. Lied and told me everyone else would be dressed that way,” she grunts.

Her fingers continue to thrust inside you, but it’s not enough. You need that friction.

“Sevika, please!” you beg her again. You can feel the familiar prickly sensation at the corners of your eyes when they start to water. You want- need - your release so bad. “I- I’m sorry,” you whimper, voice breaking as you struggle not to sob.

The moment Sevika catches that break in your voice- the single tear that slips down your cheek- her demeanor changes instantly. That evil smirk of hers devolves into worry. She brings her head beside yours and her mouth to your ear as she shushes you. “Shh. Babygirl, it’s okay. I’ll give you what you need.” She pulls her head back again to gaze softly down at your face. Using her knee to keep your leg propped up and out of the way, she removes her metal hand to gently swipe away the tear from your cheek with the smooth back of a finger. Her lips press softly against yours as she brings the palm of her hand back to glide against your aching clit.

You’re not sure if it’s the return of that pleasurable stimulation, or the incredible tenderness Sevika is showing you, or maybe even both, but your climax strikes like lightning. It shocks every nerve- every muscle. You pull away from her mouth to gasp while she fucks you through your orgasm with determination. Time slows and stills for that brief, pleasurable moment and all you can do is cling onto her as if your life depends on it. As the last wave rocks your body, you can feel her fingers slow from a brutal pace to something more steady, gentle. Then, your body finally falls limp between her and the shelves behind you.

Sevika’s fingers still inside you and she rests her sweat slick forehead against yours. She gazes down at you with a proud little smirk as both of you struggle to catch your breath. Her chest heaves in unison with your own. Moving her knee away from your leg, she allows you to stand on both feet. However, when your knees buckle she quickly wraps her prosthetic arm around your waist to keep you upright. She chuckles deeply and runs her nose along the side of yours affectionately before peppering your cheek and neck with chaste kisses.

The door behind Sevika suddenly swings open. You’re too fucked out to even process the situation, but Sevika isn’t. She slowly turns to glance over her shoulder, fingers still knuckle deep in your cunt.

Silco stands frozen in the doorway. His good eye widens, for just a brief moment, taking in the sight before him. Sevika- his right hand woman- stands with her back to him. She’s shirtless, sweaty and covered in lipstick stains. You- his subordinate’s girlfriend - are pinned against the rows of shelves in his pantry. You too are shirtless and sweaty, but also staring blankly with eyes glazed over and mouth hanging slack. His face quickly returns to its normal I could care less expression and he turns his attention to Sevika. “Sevika, if you would be so kind as to hand me the nutmeg… seeing as you are currently blocking it,” he drawls.

Without a word, Sevika carefully removes her prosthetic from around your waist, pressing her body against yours to keep you from collapsing. Reaching up to a nearby shelf, she grabs the spice and hands it to Silco. He nods to her and turns to leave, but before he’s all the way through the doorway, he turns his head to say over his shoulder, “Glad to see you two are enjoying the… festivities .”

Once the door closes again, Sevika turns to you with a smirk. You’re just barely starting to come to, still not quite processing what just occurred. “You alright, sweetheart?” she asks quietly.

Define ‘alright’.

She definitely fucked away your tipsy feeling, but she left a new sort of high in it’s place. You nod, not trusting your ability to formulate coherent words. The moment she drags her fingers out from your overly sensitive cunt, you seem to find your voice again. “Careful!” you chastise her.

Sevika simply grins down at you as she wipes her slick coated fingers off against the inside of your thigh. “Think you can walk?” she asks, making no effort to hide the mirth in her tone.

“I-” your voice cracks, so you pause to clear your throat. “I’m not sure I can even stand,” you admit. That earns you a bigger- still haughty- smile from Sevika, and although it takes a tremendous amount of effort, you smile up at her too.

“Need me to carry you home?”

“Would you really do that?” you ask doubtfully.

“I wore a fucking ugly sweater and antlers for you. To a stupid party. What do you think?” She’s being snarky, but there’s not even the slightest hint of malice in her tone.

“Are you mad at me for that?” you ask, feeling somewhat guilty. You peer up at her through your lashes, trying to read her expression. It softens, and as she dips her head to bring her lips to yours, you know that’s her way of telling you ‘no’. You wrap your arms around her neck and return the tender kiss. If your bones didn’t already feel like liquid, you would have certainly melted against her.

You release a pleased sigh when she breaks the kiss. She rests her forehead on yours again and the two of you simply gaze at one another like idiots in love for several moments before Sevika finally speaks.

“You ready to go home?” she asks.

“For round two?” you reply with a sly smile.

Her dark lips curl into a suggestive smirk. “And three.”

next chapter >

[crscntwhite]

⠀   ⠀ a. hayakawa :: -him having a plus-sized boyfriend- one shot✧

↳ pairing ✧ ➼ aki hayakawa x plus-sized m!reader

↳ summary ✧ ➼ you feel insecure about your body, but aki is there to give you comfort.

↳ word count ✧ ➼ 912 wrds

↳ content warnings ✧ ➼ (internalized) fatphobia, self-deprecating talk, fluff at the end

↳ author's note ✧ ➼ just a quick drabble i thought of yesterday. as a plus-sized transmasc, i had a lot of fun writing this. drabble might be ooc. not proof-read. requests are open.

always read the content warnings before reading. fem!readers dni.

you and aki were preparing to go on a date. you two unanimously decided to go watch a newly released movie and have a semi-nice dinner afterwards, so you wanted to dress appropriately but comfortably.

you chose an alternative-style outfit; a black and baggy long sleeve shirt with punk-rock styled pants with buckles, all accompanied with some black combat boots. you wore a few chains here and there, and you topped it all off with the earrings aki gifted you a few months into your relationship. the idea of the outfit excited you and you couldn't wait to show your wonderful boyfriend, but the second you saw yourself in the mirror, it quickly vanished and was replaced with feelings of disgust. it was not all like you expected.

you struck a few poses to try and look at yourself in different angles to see if it would change at all, but it didn't. you felt like your weight ruined the vibe you were aiming for. you sucked in your stomach, gripped at it. you hated it. you felt ugly. and worst of all, you felt completely unlovable.

"i can't let anyone see me like this..."

you sat down on your bed as tears pricked at your eyes. they started falling down your cheeks as you began to take off each piece of clothing, starting with your shoes. you sobbed quietly so aki couldn't hear. you would feel totally embarrassed if he saw you like this. as soon as you were about to strip your shirt off, there was a knock and a voice behind your bedroom door.

"(y/n)? love? are you okay? you've been in there for a long while, we're gonna be late for the movie. don't tell me you're debating on an outfit again." his tone was playful. your breath hitched and you tried to not make any noise by holding your breath. but the lack of response signaled to aki that something was actually wrong. he opened the door and saw your face red and with tear stains.

his playful attitude died as he dropped his bag and quickly approached you. he knelt down to your eye level. you couldn't look at him though. your eyes were glued to the floor. "oh darling, what's wrong? why are you crying?" aki was very soft for you, and for you only. he gently wiped away your tears with one hand and and held your hand with his other. he looked at you with worried eyes. "i- i don't know... if i want to do anything tonight... i-i'm sorry," you hiccupped. another tear fell as you slightly turned your head away. you felt ashamed. aki wiped away that one, too.

"what makes you say that?" he questioned. "did something happen?" you didn't give a verbal response, only uneven breathing. "(y/n), please talk to me... what happened?" he rubbed his thumb along your knuckles in attempt to make you more relaxed. "i just... i just feel so ugly. i look disgusting. i'm so fat, being fat is just unattractive, everyone knows that. nobody wants to be with a fat person, i just..." you trailed off and starting sobbing again. aki removed his hands from you and switched to having his arms around you. he pulled you into an embrace and hugged you tightly. he held you like that and he let you cry. he understood that you just needed to let it out before he could speak to you and rebuttal against your words.

when your body naturally calmed down, aki released himself from you and looked at you in the eyes. you still couldn't look at him. he cupped his hands around your face. "hey. love, can you please look at me?" aki whispered. you defeatedly locked eyes with his. he hated seeing your pretty eyes look anything but happy. "(y/n), i know you think you look ugly or that nobody loves you, and you should really not think like that. but i have to disagree with you. you're absolutely stunning. you're so handsome, and i love you so so much. i don't care about your weight, if anything it makes you look even more beautiful. i love you for who you are, fat or not. i'm so lucky that you're my wonderful boyfriend. i want to be with you for the rest of my life. i love you, okay?"

aki's voice was soothing, as well as his words. you sniffled and mouthed out a 'thank you' as you slightly smiled. "there's that smile i love," aki slightly teased. you chuckled out of embarrassment and replied with a drawn out 'stop.' "are you feeling any better? we still don't have to go out if you don't want to, but i really do want to spend some time together." aki kept his warm hands on your face. "yea, i feel a little better now. we can still go."

you looked at him again, this time the redness in your eyes are gone. aki couldn't help himself but lean in and give you a loving kiss on your lips. you were caught a little off guard at first, but you melted into it fairly quickly. he rubbed his thumb on your cheek. when he moved back after a few seconds, he took his hands off you and lifted you up off your bed with a hug. that you were shocked by.

"c'mon, get your shoes back on, we're gonna be late!"

[princesspuresarahk]

Fairly Odd Parents Stories

Deep in The Heart of Texas

by Maki and Bug a Fanfic story au inspired by her FOP au

Chapter: 4 Turner Thunder Ranch

Grandpappy and Nonna lead them in as Vernon and Michelle look around with awe. The place was amazing with cozy and warm furniture everywhere with old Western style, it must have been around for a long time and in the living room set a big old stone fireplace that must have been handmade and had a big old longhorn skull on the top center cozy pillows and quilts on the furniture everywhere a big kitchen and an upstairs level where you can see a view from the living room there was just so much to see Michelle ‘Woah….’ As Nonna called out “You two must be tired from your long journey please make yourselves at home caras.” Michelle was warmed by their hospitality “Thank you, ma’am~” Vernon thanked as well as he gazed around. Since as a kid, he have only heard from his peers Timmy came from the middle class… but seeing the ranch belonged to her grandparents…This was beyond middle class from he could tell It was even close to or the same level of high class…Maybe even higher when he noticed a framed picture on the wall that said the great land property of TTR and wow that was a lot of land it was completely the size of Dimmsdale perhaps even bigger Vernon(thinking through his mind) Wow….Notice a couple of very old pictures that look to be Timmy's ancestors including Ebenezer Turner who they believe from the stories with the town crier but in this photo, he looks like a completely different person He seemed more of a fitting as one of the founders of Dimmsdale other than Orville Buxaplenty. And what else he could tell it looked like he had some scars on his face as well It said he had been into a lot of fights for many years most specifically, wars, for example. Then he notices the picture next to it looks to be a leather book a little worn out but still in good contact that said The True Secret Life History Of Ebenezer Turner, surprising Vernon was there more to Timmy's ancestor than people let on finally Grandpappy came up to him with a glass of iced peach tea " here you go son wife thought of making everybody some beverages from y'all's long journey.”

He noticed Vernon was looking at the book and smiled “If you're curious about good old Ebenezer it's a hell of a wild story to tell.” He said with a joyful laugh full of pride as he returned to kiss his wife on the cheek and thanking for making the tea Vernon felt bashful “Oh! Umm… if it’s okay…..”As he looked around some more he noticed some other things too that belonged to the family in cases a couple of cowboy hats and badges as he looks closer he read on the badges that said Texas Rangers which surprised him as he took a sip of tea his eyes widened of how good this tea was as it was homemade he heard Grandpappy laugh happily when Michelle commenting "oh this tea is lovely," Nonna smiling at the compliment “Taste nice, huh…~ specialty brewed by my wife~”

Timmy added, “Sometimes, I can’t follow almost everything Nonna makes…” Nonna cooed “Oh mio poco bella rosa (my little beautiful rose) you'll get to learn all my recipes with time during your stay the spring break." kissing Timmy kiss on the cheek "Now caras how about we take you to your rooms and have your things settled in yes.?" Michelle yawning a little from sleepiness "Oh! Thank you, ma’am,!"(Holding her bags) With that, she guided the kids to their room. Each room was spacious enough for them. With comfy-looking furniture and space enough to unpack their belongings.

“This will be your room Miss Michelle I hope you'll be very comfortable during your stay." She opened the door to reveal her room Michelle squeaked with a bright smile “I love it~!” Nonna laughed "I'm glad you do..~" then they guided Vernon to his room "And here you are Vernon I hope this room will make you nice and comfortable during your stay." Vernon liked it “Wow…thank you…!” After traveling all day everyone was tired and ready for a good night's sleep Timmy missed the old bedroom she stayed in every time she visited her grandparents. Seeing it again relaxed her. (Timmy lay on her bed with a sigh of satisfaction.) As memories of her growing up on the ranch flowed through her. Timmy smiled it was much more peaceful and happier than the lifestyle she had in Dimmsdale.

And always had thoughts of moving back once she turned 18 after graduating high school and going to college here. Speaking of back… she wondered how the old friends she made here…The old friends she used to run around at the ranch before she moved away to Dimmsdale…Maybe they’re still around? If so it would be awesome to catch up with and introduce them to Michelle and Vernon during our stay it'd be really fun as she put on her nightgown Eddie was already curled up on one of the pillows already fast asleep Timmy smiles at the cute scene. Giving Eddie a kiss she slowly drifted off to sleep happily excited for the adventures for tomorrow.

The Next morning Timmy could hear the rooster crying out, signaling it was morning. Giving a yawn Timmy stretched as she woke up opening her blue doe eyes to see the beautiful sunrise through her window getting up she went to open her window to bring in the fresh morning air against her face Timmy inhaled and exhaled with a smile, (hears a squeak, turned to see Eddie) “Morning, Eddie~” He gave her a waving grin as a little another yawn scratching behind his ear until his ears picked up and he started sniffing the air and his tail started wagging in excitement "Ooooohhh" and his mouth started to drool as he smelt something good Timmy sniffed the air “Must be Nonna cooking breakfast…~ I wonder if Michelle and Vernon are already up…”

Quickly getting washed and dressed Timmy headed into the hall just as Michelle opened her door already dressed for the morning as well " Good morning Timmy morning Eddie!" Eddie squeaked as he waved while Timmy greeted as well. “Morning, Michelle~!” They heard a door open and turned to see Vernon rubbing the sleep out of his eyes still in his pajamas as he let out a yawn "Is it morning already ?" Already seeing Timmy and Michelle dressed and up Timmy greeted him “Yep! Our rooster is a natural clock alarm~” He looked to see the clock on the way saying it was 6:00 in the morning suddenly they all heard a loud growl coming from Eddie's stomach Vernon asked “Is it just me or is Eddie hungry…?”

Timmy giggled “Hehe…he is me and Michelle are heading down for breakfast we'll wait for you to join us” Vernon eyes widen guess he better get ready too “O-oh…!” after he closed his door to dress Michelle and Timmy went downstairs where Nonna set the table with breakfast. “Good morning my caras you're just time for prima colazione (breakfast)." With the table set with breakfast Timmy set Eddie on the table who was very hungry "Eeee~!” Nonna makes good breakfast as she and Michelle sat at the table there was whole-made butter pecan pancakes with hot syrup and butter , scrambled eggs, crispy bacon and sausage with cold milk and fresh tangerine juice to drink “Ooooohhh everything looks so good!” Vernon was out just in time with his casual outfit and walked downstairs, greeted by Timmy’s Nonna. “Good morning Vernon I hope you sleep well cara come and join us." Vernon looked at the table “Oh! Good morning, ma’am…!” Timmy waved at him before gesturing him to sit between herself and Michelle. Then Grandpappy and Timmy's parents came inside from the front porch having coffee and helping Pappy around the farm “Morning, princess~ (pats Timmy's head)

Timmy laughed “Good morning, Grandpappy~!” Pappy greeted the others “Morning, kids, and morning my sweetest lady." Kissing his wife on the cheek "Oh Daran you’re such a tease giggle." Acacia smiled Eddie rolled his eyes as he stuffed a big piece of pancake into his mouth Michelle and Timmy inwardly giggled. As they finished eating breakfast, Timmy walked out of the house; Eddie was inside her pocket, relaxing as he ate a lot of food. Timmy “ok guys what would you like to do there's so much to do here? Michelle was unsure “Well, what do you usually do when you visit here?” Timmy playfully tapped her finger on her chin “I can show you around the ranch and the animals there are trails for riding, biking, and hiking, we have a swimming hole a few miles from here with a raft we go on, and there is also a secret tree fort in the woods, there's the town and other places to explore.” That caught Michelle’s interest “Oh~! That sounds wonderful ~!”

Meanwhile, back at Dimmsdale

Gary was in the tree house watching a TV show having decided to stay home relax and have the place all to himself as he was enjoying his time to himself until he heard a noise outside. Gary looked to see who it was and frowned a little of who it was “Well, well, well! If it isn't a "Tell-me-I'm-Sexy" guy… Hello, TANG.” Tristan was outside talking on his phone wondering where Timmy was he was hoping to ask her out on a date and have her all to himself. Tristan looked slightly annoyed was that..Gary? “What are you doing here? Tristan” frowned at Gary “I’m here to see Timmy as it's none of your business as it's a private visit between me and her.” Gary scoffed “Well, too bad. She left.” Tristan looked shocked “She left…?!”

Gary rolled their eyes at his reaction such a drama king “She went off to her grandparents at Tex…” But before Gary could finish Tristan was off to find out where Timmy was in “…Texas Oh well… (he shrugged)but then He groaned as he heard the familiar sound of a limo, turned to see it belonged to Buxaplenty’s as inside were popular kids.

Gary sighed annoyed ”What do you want…Remy?” as Remy walked out to speak to him from the tree house “Gary is Timmy present in the house?” He wanted to invite her to join him for an outing and secretly have her all to himself Gary rolled his eyes a second time “Nope. Family outing.” Remy showed the same expression Tristan did “Excuse me?” Gary was ready to toss a water balloon at him “She left with her parents and friends to visit her grandparents.” Remy was not ok with that news “What!? Gary continued “As I said, she left to visit her grandparents. So, too late!” he grinned slyly “Where then tell me I can find her !?” Remy demanded, which annoyed Gary more “No. even if I tell you, she wouldn’t want her vacation to be ruined” Remy looked annoyed with Gary, who scoffed again at the spoiled guy's attitude “I mean…. She needs a break from the whole thing here…. Do you think she’ll be happy to see her vacation ruined?” Remy flinched and so Tad and Chad.

As much as popular boys enjoy irritating her, but…. ANGERING her? That is off the limit. “besides what are you guys doing back spring break just begun?" Chad spoke, “The Yacht party was canceled.” With Tad finishing “So we came back,” Gary didn’t care “Oh….well that's too bad for you guys anyway I'm outta here the sight of you guys being here waiting for Tim-Tim is not cool." With that, he climbed down the tree house and left to do his own thing while leaving Remy Tad and Chad stunned as Gary left them without a thought.

Meanwhile Back at the Ranch,

Timmy was showing her friends around.”Oh! I'll let you guys meet my old friends~” Vernon and Michelle nodded yes as Timmy led them to the side where some vintage bikes were sitting there ready to ride on a light rose pink with a basket with painted pink and white roses on it, a baby powder blue with a white basket with a painted blue bird and a mint green with the basket placed behind the seat with a horseshoe print on it Michelle "Ohh~!"impressed as did Timmy "looks like Grandpappy got them ready just in time." Getting some helmets in a wooden box handing the other two to Michelle and Vernon “We can ride into town faster biking plus I know a great trail to ride into along the way."Michelle: Can’t wait~! Getting on the bikes and giving them a test run they headed across the ranch passing by the barn where her Dad was helping Pappy shoe the horses and in the middle of cleaning out the back hoof of a buckskin when the kids rode "Hey Dad! hey Pappy! Me, Michelle and Vernon are gonna go into town to show them around we'll be back later!"

Mr.Turner smiled calling back " Alright pumpkin have a good time just be back for supper and remember to call if you're gonna be late ye hear you kids have fun!." “We will Daddy see ya Pappy!" Waving goodbye as they rode out They rode out of the ranch and rode down the road. As they road along the road Michelle and Vernon were amazed by the beautiful scenery of wildflowers pecan trees foliage berry bushes the sun shining through the leaves the sound of streams nearby and spotting wildlife they went from cottontail rabbits squirrels birds tweeting one of them being some roadrunners running along with their bikes and spotted a few deer and coyotes peeking out as they heard the horse's name the chickens clucking and the cows moving from the distance Michelle was awed by it all "So beautiful…~" suddenly Timmy noticed familiar faces of old friends from the distance. She decided to wave to them. As they were closer to the end of the trail it was revealed to be Timmy's friends from Texas Lou and Wilson "Hey Lou~! Wilson~! "Lou was laid back tall androgynous 14-year-old who had long black hair and bangs that almost covered his exotic green eyes that were surrounded by black eyeliner, pale skin with deep maroon lipstick and black fingernails even in the warm spring weather he wore dark colors of gray leggings deep purple shorts with a black tank top that had red letters saying A Southern Gothic along with a pair of dark red boots he seems to never smiles much but on rare occasions such as this when he sees his long time Timmy that he shows a small grin of seeing her again

“Hey, long time no see.” He called to Timmy (waving cheerfully) Wilson: it's so great to see you again Tim-Tim!" Wilson greeted giving Timmy a big hug and lifting her off the ground as he did Wilson was also a very tall 14-15-year-old who had beautifully tan skin on his already muscle-developed body wearing a blue-white strip tank shirt with light tan shorts with a pair of hiking boots and a handsome face that had the sweetest puppy dog smiles and big turquoise eyes that were half hidden full white vitiligo hair with one side half shaved with beautiful patterns and revealing a piercing with a wolf tooth despite being very big and tall for his age Wilson had a big heart and kind nature about him.

Timmy returned the hug “Eee~! Nice seeing you guys again~Michelle and Vernon blinked. Then Timmy introduced them to her old friends. Timmy: This is Michelle and Vernon, my friends from Dimmsdale~ Michelle, Vernon~ these are my old friends Lou and Wilson~" Lou nodded to them "Nice,” Wilson waved "It's great to meet you guys." Michelle did the same "Hi, y’all~" Vernon shyly(waved) "I was about to show them around town wanna join? “Sure sounds cool." Lou agreed “Definitely we'd love to help show them around town there's lots to see here." Getting their bikes leaning against the trees they lead the way into town revealing the beautiful scenery before them Vernon went "Woah…" while Michelle (looks around with sparkling eyes)

Timmy always loved the town's beauty as well "Beautiful as always~" Wilson spoke up "I’m sure they’ll love to meet you again~" They walked to the town, and almost everyone who knew the Turner family recognized Timmy immediately. Everything they could see was amazing from a small cafe called The Little Bluebird to an old-fashioned ice cream shop a clothing store called Boots and Jeans a garden shop known as Miss Lillia's, a Malt shop stand, a bookshop called The Burrowing Owl and so many other places yet to see. The baker of the small cafe, the ice cream shop owner, store owners greeted her with a friendly smile. The kids waved back in greeting with Vernon and Michelle surprised at how kind and friendly people are here in Texas as more people started coming into town said they didn't even know happily waved good morning and howdy to them Timmy thought (Good ol’ town…~)

Chapter:5 Having some Wild Fun

what fun things will Timmy and the others do? and how long can Gary keep Timmy's location away from the Popular Teens and what goodies will Eddie be chowing down in Nonna's kitchen XD

credit to the lovely and amazing https://jknerd.tumblr.com/ of her amazing FOP au

[moononmyfloor]

Dashing Youth Ep 17-21 Commentary

Ep 1-10, Ep 11-16, Ep 22-25, Ep 26-32, Ep 33-35, Ep 36-40

Ep 17

Have I mentioned I just love that there's a website literally named to sound like "bu ke neng (no can do)" lol

These steampunk spy fax machines are super intriguing

I'm not sure if I find it hilarious that Lei Mengsha gets so severely beaten by his wife right in front of their child. When children are involved in the scene, I find it hard to digest scenes like this, no matter the excuses "it's exaggerated for comedic effect" "between two martial artists, that beating is akin to going easy" nuh uh.

Changfeng just exudes such wholesome and earnest aura (besides the obvious future potential), Master Li the indifferent just casually let him into his exclusive academy just so he can hang out on the roof with his bestie lol.

This girl just pisses me off. Idk why.

Something about the veiled hat shige Liu Yue strikes me as sad. Idk if it's just Zhu Zhengting, but there's this contradiction in his personality that I can't exactly finger onto and it simply feels like he's hiding a lot of baggage behind his cover (not just literally, lol). On paper he sounds like a pretentious snobby handsome top student, but in reality he barely go out let alone mingle and put on airs. His bestie is a quiet and rigid guy just as mysterious as him, but in a different way. He cares a hella lot about his disciple's wellbeing and safety and his excitement for having her seems to come from a 100% genuine place, in a "omg I have a new companion to play and discuss my interests with!" and not in a "I'm so cool, I'm the only one among y'all to have a student!" way. I mean sure, he hosted the exam and attends all the gatherings and is plenty sassy mouthed, it's just the vibe he gives me and I can't figure out why.

Ep 18

Changfeng is just that buddy whom you meet once every six months and have tender loving hookups with and then you both go ta-ta till the next time.

Prince Ruofeng came to judge a match for his charge and went home with an unplanned level boosting

No.1 lesson you should master as the disciple of Rain Demon: Always look hot in the rain

Ji Ruofeng's mask has a super unfortunate fit, the mouth hole is positioned not straight over his mouth but on his lower lip, so when he speaks the wobble of the lower lip shows like "blubbablubbablubba" through the hole and it looks silly instead of intimidating.

Ep 19

Eyy hiya Dongfang Xunfeng! Suddenly Master Li feels so much more non-hostile lol. Also him wanting a double-character surname (like his student and his bestie) for his new name is so funny, considering how he had an overdramatic name in his previous show too. When he listed some double character surnames they should've had him mention Dongfang as well, missed opportunity.

Never take a lone fisherman brooding below an ancient tree lightly. He's either a reincarnation of Jiang Taigong or a powerful cultivator or both.

This is not a dynamic I ever expected between these two characters

Ep 20

Rain Demon may not be a "good" shifu, let alone an ideal teacher, but damn if they weren't caring and kind in ways most socially-accepted veteran martial artists weren't. Even Master Li agrees.

The Smithy shifu saying giving weapons names is so pretentious had me in stitches😂 He would've loved Wei Wuxian.

Dorks

Not Luoxia jumping to emphasize that she named Dongjun's sword, lol girl are you feeling threatened? And Dingzhi simply responds by naming his sword in a way that compliments Dongjun's (I don't know about the specifics, will have to look up the characters for Cinderless and Pavillion Moon later to see if they are from the same poem or smth). Smooth.

That's a nice shot

My dude watch the road

It's pretty bittersweet how Dingzhi says that he mostly just wanted to check out his shifu's rival when he took the exams before, and now he definitely wouldn't become his disciple when his shifu had passed away. And Master Li muses that Rain Demon possibly was a better shifu than him.

Also, that'd be the second kid who said they just took the exams to see what the big deal about Master Li was, and ultimately decided their original shifus were more preferrable 🤣

Ep 21

Whaaat Dingzhi is alr leaving!? I thought he was finally going to meet Changfeng and share boyfriend notes 😔 This show is really hellbent on showcasing the fleeting nature of the encounters in Jianghu. But I actually love this "everyone knows everyone and often meet each other at the most random and unexpected places and then separate again" aspect of Dashing Youth, it adds a certain touch of realism plus wistfulness, compared to any other show's too perfect coincidences that happen only at most opportune moments. Here, coincidences are *just* that.

Now that Master Li has put away his jaded persona and is kinda in his original candid form, I can really understand why he took a liking to Dongjun. They are more or less of the same personality. The endless curiosity, positivity and romantism and that surefire vibe that they have been/are going to be severely disappointed upon the realization that the way of the world as they imagined was a lie.

Master Li came to peace with this truth thankfully before he could fully lose himself, and stripped his own immortality and eliminated the path of seeking it for the future generations as well. If Dongjun were to reach that place (not that it'd be possible anymore) I think he'd make the same choice. It's fitting that Master Li visited the only other immortal Mo Yi for the last time before his deed, who stayed immortal all the way through and eventually lost himself, and it was by-then adult Dongjun's task to talk Mo Yi out of it, passing over the truth his shifu realized.

(He definitely looks like the gentle scholar he claims to be in those baby blue and light gold. What a vision! Zhang Chenxiao is perfect in this role! He really brings out that kindred-spirit ness with his disciple.)

Lol finally someone other than Dongjun in the new gen accepts you as their shifu, and it's Changfeng and his biggest reason was probably he was too nice to say no

-Review for today ends here, below are some of my musings about the genre of BoY/DY and how the martial arts bound cultivation compares to the meditation bound cultivation in Buddhism and Taoism inspired lore that I'm personally familiar with, feel free to skip I am mostly talking to myself so I can have notes in the same place to track back to in the future-

Earlier, I was thinking how Blood of Youth universe is like Wuxia but if it was very, very extra, and their power displays are bordering the levels of what you see only gods can do in other Xianxia shows, so just how high the cultivation of hypothetical gods in BoY universe must be, if they are straight up aliens or smth.

And in today's ep I got the answer to that: there's no answer. You will never know what the heaven looks like in this universe, for this is firmly a regular mundane world (no outside "magic" to wield, all the pretty displays result from the people's own personal cultivation only) and just like for us, for all they know the gods in the heavens might not have "powers" by the definitions of humans at all, they are simply a parallel and different plane of existence than the Earth and there's no point comparing the two types of existence, as they will never interconnect.

Yes it is fantasy genre but at the end of the day, it's still firmly within the boundaries of mortal world. Masters who'd cultivate high and perform miraculous displays have always been a part of folktales all over Asia, but the rule is that no matter how fantastical, they are still a part of "tirascheena/triyagdina vidya (horizontal sciences)" that will not help you see what its like in heavenly planes, let alone escape the circle of samsara, for which you will need the "vertical" cultivation aka you will have to sit in a corner and cultivate your mind for that.

In simpler terms, this kind of setup is what you call wuxia in Chinese storytelling, which is also still more heavily believed to be the truth, beyond "they are just fairytales" in religion-inspired cultures like mine, as in you can find grandpas who will say that theoretically these sort of feats are possible, that our ancestors achieved them though we cannot because we are much more distracted these days etc etc(I mean, they do have a point 🤷‍♀️).

So if you take this as the "norm", then gods, demons, humans and other spirits getting to roam across each others' worlds by xyz means and draw and wield all sorts of magic from outer sources becomes "fantasy", aka xianxia.( And xuanhuan is a third thing, if this terminology is all convoluted to you here's a concise helpful guide btw)

ANYWAY, my initial impression of this universe was that it's a very flashy costume fantasy that jumped among xianxia, wuxia and even xuanhuan genres as it wished, but turns out it's not. You can try attain the highest levels of cultivation, but at most it will make you stop aging, which will result in you being this very lonely, very tired person who is neither here nor there, and is slowly losing their humanity. It is not a desirable kind of ultimatum, aka the capricious, exciting path of sword cultivation is not how you can reach the enlightenment of breaking the binds of mundane world.

Wow, I just feel like Dashing Youth suddenly got very deep lol.

[basedkikuenjoyer]

Siege the Day

That was the frolicking beach, what the hell. The lifeblood of Momoiro Island. Not cool WG, not cool. Like...I’m going to need to see something really good to justify dragging this level of gore and despair into the series. Sunshine in human form Makino is a nice start. We’ve talked a lot about getting back to Luffy’s roots and it’s nice to have this reminder as we go into the rest. Setting the stakes by showing how far this Mother Flame’s impact reaches.

Which is a theme we talk about. The world is rocking in Luffy’s (and Sabo’s) wake, he’s not just some kid from Fooshia Village anymore. Now that we’re back he seems like he gets there are high stakes even if he doesn’t get all of them. You’re not just trying to get yourself and your crew out of this jam...if it goes awry there may never be a Kamabakka beach frolic again! This is all well and good, but I’m a little too delicate for such an unwarranted tragedy.

First, one little detour. Great job Doberman on delivering the recap in organic fashion. But there’s that concept of an unreliable narrator again. By end of chapter we’ll have to wonder about the possibility of bad intel. I’d also highlight there are two levels to this briefing on the WG side. It’s split between York at swordpoint pleading with the Elders and the more earnest, human exchange between Kizaru and Sentomaru below. Do I even need to comment on how steeped the latter is in our thematic bread and butter? It’s such a forlorn conversation between old friends. 

I guess from my little pet theory there’s a solid potential parallel set up here. Saturn is leading the operation while trying to obscure his involvement, content to enjoy his little sausage party. I love that everyone is having breakfast. It’s such a fun motif. Hope it runs through the rest of the chapter, but so far this isn’t enough to help me cope with such tragic circumstances...

Huh, beach? Fuck that...hello Straw Hats! If you were gonna give me one panel here to push things the direction I want to see...it’d be hard to top this. The layers, the intrigue, the sheer befuddlement of our shonen fanboy brethren! Everything’s sorted out and they’ve taken York hostage to both seed bad intel & deter overwhelming force. It’s beautiful. When I saw “Momo panel” in the spoilers I was rattled because what if that was a group shot and Kiku was included before we did this? I’d be clueless.

That said, Robin & Stussy not being in the shot temper me. They can also do what I’ll say here, but for Robin take a look at Sanji’s heart eyes and where he’s headed. She could just be with Jinbei and obscured. Stussy could theoretically be below with Sentomaru or even with the evacuees. Robin? She should be here, but I want to roll her into something confirmed here. It was not Vegapunk who parsed this one out. That tells me the turning point wasn’t Robin arriving in the basement. Multiple people, including Kaku, being out of sight for now feels like less of an impediment than a sole exclusion. Hypothetically, imagine the difference if we showed just Kin’emon and a few retainers around Momo vs. the whole gang sans Kiku.

We’re all clear where I’m going with this, right? An unreliable narrator, seeding details we skipped over during the night, and coming in like this. Looks to me like we cut in right as the Straw Hats finished going over the plan. Executing the first step. They wanted York to say what she did. Look at this scene though; the angle and the dialogue. It works perfectly for someone we can’t see giving everyone the rundown. Almost like the shot is from their perspective. Theoretically that could also justify the change in tone.

All told, nice present for the 5yr anniversary of “The Crane Returns a Favor.”

[luvstrangers]

Why by ONF - a production analysis

DISCLAIMER: This was written as part of a larger work done for school. It doesn't quite go in depth the way I would like to because I had to keep it short!

I would like to analyse one of my favourite songs of all time and my favourite pop song of all time, 'Why' (2019) performed by my favourite boy group ONF and produced by my favourite producer, Hwang Hyun of music production team Monotree (also known as the Mozart of Kpop). The song is described by the producer as 'Future Trap', which I assume is a combination of Future Bass and Trap.

Something I like about Monotree is that they often make breakdown videos of songs they've produced, going through the logic pro session and explaining the different techniques they use. I often come back to these breakdown videos to pick up methods from them, and also it's just plain fun to see your favourite songs broken down and explained. One such video was made for 'Why'.

'Why' was produced in Logic Pro, another one of the sons of Fairlight CMI. There is an endless amount of advancements and differences between the two programmes, but I will comment on a few. First of all, the waveform visualisation in Logic Pro is incorporated into the arrangement view. While this is something that has come to be expected of music softwares nowadays, I think that being able to see the wavelengths in different tracks is important to understanding the mixing and levels of your piece. Additionally, they look cool. Another thing that looks cool is that you can color code the tracks, and here Hwang Hyun has chosen to make the drum tracks purple. This is another one of the small things we take for granted that greatly increases quality of life. The sections of the song are also color-coded at the top of the window, allowing for enhanced visual representation of the song.

In the intro of the song (0:08), there is foley sound of running used. On first watch of the music video, one may assume it was an extra effect for the video, but the step sounds are part of the actual mix. I am a fan of the use of foley sounds in music.

At 0:27, a riser sample is audible; the end of the riser sample is then delayed and panned left and right in the mix. You have to listen closely to catch it, but I think it's a nice touch.

The rhythm sequencing of the drums can be seen here. 

There is an array of drum samples here, and in the intro specifically there is a trap hi-hat loop on top of a snare. The snare loop has dry delay put on top of it, resulting in a sort of echo-effect that I think adds to the techno-apocalypse atmosphere of the piece. Although not visible in the session view they show, I would also like to point out that the hi hat gets panned to the left, adding dimension as a clap sound comes in on the right later in the intro. 

So, in just the drum tracks, we can see a combination of looping and sampling along with the delay effect originally made from tape recorder techniques emulated digitally.

They also employ a synth bass (of course, because it's future bass). I think that the bass here may be sidechained to the percussion tracks to create that pumping effect. 

Interestingly, Hwang Hyun describes the guitar part as "The Guitar Nobody Knows Is Guitar". There are four layers of tracks here, with each one focusing on a different layer of frequency. Additionally, the tracks are de-essered, which I assume is to prevent the tracks from being too sibilant from all the layers. This results in a plucky sound. 

This layering technique is something Monotree use a lot in their music, and I find that it is done very well in a way that you may process the layers as one cohesive instrument when they are actually a bunch of seperate things. 

This layering is also seen in 'Popping', which Hwang Hyun also produced, wherein what sounds like just a flute is actually layered with a piccolo, flugelhorn, trombone and synth bell to create a fuller sound.

People often say that modern music production is simplistic by nature in comparison to classical music; I agree with this to an extent. While it is much easier and more accessible to produce music, it does not make it more 'simple'. The fact that music production is streamlined and advanced like this lends to creating complex layers of instruments like this.

Looking at the amount of tracks used in 'Why' makes me feel faint. Especially the amount of vocal tracks, which is what I will discuss next.

Much of the vocals in 'Why' are layered with vocoder, a form of processing that breaks down and synthesises speech. Originally used for encrypting communications in wartime, it now serves the much more fun purpose of making a cool robot voice effect. In the rap/talking part, the vocoder adds a layer of melodic/harmonic material through extracting the pitches in the track and processing them. When the vocoder processed track is played by itself, it results in a very daft-punk esque vocal line, but when layered below the dry vocals, it adds a layer fo dimension and creates a dark atmosphere that I feel relates to the concept of the song, which according to the singers and producers, is supposed to be a story about forbidden love between a human and an android. So, I find the robot-like effect of vocoders effectively used here for the narrative as well. 

Vocoders aside, there is also just. An impressive and almost absurd amount of harmonies in 'Why' where simpler pop songs may just use vocal doubling and call it a day.

Overall, I feel that 'Why' is a good example of the methods employed in pop music production, with an array of techniques used that I take as inspiration often.

[digi-tama-in-your-pocket]

This may be my last update on the Floppy Frog for a while because I do believe it reached it's final stage. I only started running it 7 days ago. Now there is a secret stage, but I think I may have experienced that already? I'll explain in a bit.

So I've noticed that every time the frog evolved, it did so immediately after eating. So it kind of guarantees that it won't grow without you getting to see it, which is actually a pretty nice change.

It evolved this morning when I was doing my usual "raise it's score up to 100" routine.... and then it evolved again... it turned into a woman in a dress wearing a crown, I'm assuming a princess... she stayed on my screen for a while until I attempted to feed her, then she changed back... I think this is a reference? But I thought the story was the Frog Prince, not the Frog Princess...? Weird. But i'm actually glad it turned back. I do not care for humanoid virtual pets and I draw the line at literal humans.

One more thing to note... one of it's minigames in the final stage is literally just frogger. Even it's sprite looks like classic frogger. The main difference is that you can take several hits from the cars, and there is no section after the cars where you have to jump on moving logs or turtles. You just gotta make it to the water... always thought it was weird that Frogger dies in the water... the second mini game has the frog inflate itself and descend down between two trees, trying to dodge the branches... it actually reminds me a lot of level 2 from Battletoads in Battlemaniacs and I wonder if that's a coincidence...

So all the references in this V-pet include

Yoshi ( uses his tongue lash sound byte )

Frogger

BattleToads

The Frog Prince/Princess and the Frog??

The WB frog ( it grabs a cane and top hat from time to time )

maybe Sanrio's Keroppi, idk the designs on the side kinda look like him

So far... this is the best Gigapet I've ever played with, but i've only played with three Gigapets... four, if we count the digital doggy I had when I was a child. I have a vintage floppy frog but it's in rough shape, pixels are barely visible, no sound, and I can't figure out how the minigame works. So i'm happy with this replacement.

[tempest-toss]

A Welcome(?) Respite

With a deep breath, Matthias made his way to the Big Top, but not to enter it. Instead, he stuck to the path around the perimeter to see the sideshow. However, due to his altercation earlier in the night, he opted to start at the other end and make his way around.

The path was full of tanks, cages, and stands, each showing wear and tear from years of traveling around. Signs and posters were often right by, offering mystical wonders with sayings to entice. "See the Robotic Girl Wonder!" "Look into his eyes... if you've accepted death!" and "See Him Steal Your Smile!" were some of the few that he saw.

After a while of walking, he realized that he hadn't seen any of them around, which started to grow a nervous pit in his stomach. He had no real way to fight off anyone, and he was in the heart of enemy territory.

A sound brought his attention to the Big Top. He inched closer and peered inside. Most of the lights were dim, but he could clearly make out a tall feminine figure wearing a top hat and wielding a weird cane, and Fred was there too! He seemed to be talking to the woman about something, but as Matthias leaned in to listen he felt a hand clasp over his mouth and pull him away. A webbed hand was covering his mouth. He looked up to see Sammy's face, who snarled at him, the height difference maximized the threat. But then two bunny ears appear above him, and out from behind holding his neck was the bunny guy!

"Hiya Mr., it's nice to see you!" He beamed before Sammy took the both of them away from the Big Top and more into the heart of the sideshow carts. "Hey everyone, he came back!" As soon as those words left his mouth, a bunch of the individuals listed on the posters and signs came out of hiding.

A tiny brown dog that barked excitedly, whose legs kept shifting to those of different animals every time it uttered noise. A pile of gears that shifted until it formed a vaguely humanoid appearance, whether by magnets or magic Matthias hadn't a clue. A woman whose arms were snakes walked out with a man who was entirely crystal. A young lady whose arms were purely cybernetic leaned up against a stack of crates as a young kid who wore a bloodied blindfold on stumbled forward and hid behind the former's propped legs. These were some of the few that came forward.

"Why...haven't you guys killed me yet?"

"Well silly," the bunny boy answered, Sammy was going to, but he got a love letter back from this werewolf god he met at one of our previous spots," he mentioned mischievously before pulling out said letter. "And he got soooo flustered that he had to stop and read it." Sammy snarled without any real malice as he snatched the letter and seemed to grumble something in normal speech, but too bass for Matthias to pick up on it.

"Actually," came the voice of the young woman with robot arms, Rachel, according to her posters. "We wanted to figure that out too. Most outsiders don't last this long. I mean, you saw how quickly Sam took out that douche-nozzle friend of yours, and how fast Sheila took out that fake girl at the food stands. You must be very lucky or we are mighty rusty in killing ya."

"It's a shame too," came a voice. "You could have joined our collection!" Came another as two individuals emerged from the darkness. One had the skin of someone stretched grotesquely across their face, while the other seemed to be puppeteering the corpse of a city girl. "These two died so early on." "We want more variety." The bunny got off of Sammy's shoulders and held his arms out.

"He's not to be killed, we need him if the plan is even going to partially work! Remem-" He stopped before looking at a rat who was sitting there, listening. As the rat scurried away the blindfolded boy grabbed it, brought it to his eye level, and removed his blindfold to make direct eye contact. The rat convulsed before going slack and not waking up.

"Spies for Regina," the lagomorph said in response to Matthias' face of horror, before continuing. "Remember our plan? We get one of the top people of the Foundation and use them to escape! We can even meet Pietro again!" The group nodded in agreement. Attention was directed towards Matthias. "You need to find your other friend. She has the key we need to escape. Aeon will take you." He then whistled and out from the shadows came a majestic horse; if you count majestic as synonymous with half-alive, as the horse had chunks of flesh missing and perhaps a third eye, and was constantly bleeding from his mouth. Matthias gripped for dear life as the horse reared back and charged onwards, the sideshow waving from where they stood.

In quick timing the horse, Aeon arrived at their destination, the haunted house attraction. Matthias pet Aeon and said thank you, as the horse whinnied before trotting back toward the stables. Matthias entered the haunted house, and was met with most of it...closed? Many areas were roped off with only a sign that read "FOLLOW" on it leading down the hall. As he did he passed through a dining hall and made his way to the library, where he saw Samantha and another lady he didn't recognize tied up and suspended over a pit by a thin walking beam.

"Hello, Matty" came the sneering of the puppet from the Ferris Wheel as he stepped out along with the carnival game barker, who looked PISSED. "I still want my game, so now you'll pay with an innocent life. Before you are two buttons. Push one to save them, and doom the other. Push both and you die. Push none and you live scot-free and doom these two. Tick Tock~" As the countdown began, both women made their cases.

"You can't kill me, I'm 10 months pregnant! Think of the baby!" came the thin woman without a belly. "They gave me something to make me look this way, trust me!"

"She's lying," Samantha said calmly. "She's not telling the truth. Matt, If you save me I'll tell you everything I know, and I will also help protect you," she said as she slowly turned show a glock in a gun holster on her waist. With 20 seconds left, Matthias needed to make a decision and make it fast!

Threat Level: Increasing Remaining Survivors: 11/16 Injuries: Light scratches Mental state: Panicking Key Items: Notebook with partial map sketch and Pencil