#(I was extremely fortunate to only have a handful or two of people in our theater and also a whole row to myself)

[izzyizumi]

~TAKE THAT~!!!!! {I GOT THEM ALL}

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[unreliablesnake]

Tough choice (Simon Riley x reader)

Summary: After a successful mission, you get a lot of job offers. But there's one that gets your attention.

Note: We lost a hero, it's hard to fill his shoes. / This will probably get another part where Simon confesses his feelings. And tells the reader about what he thought of them during the first meeting.

Warnings: character death mentioned

Ever since that mission last year, people have been extremely interested in getting you on their side. You were swimming in options, going from briefing to briefing to find that one job which managed to pique your interest. The CIA wanted you higher up the ladder, giving you more responsibilities, while some PMC’s sniffed out what happened and were now trying to sweep you off your feet. Shadow Company offered a fortune for your services, but even Phillip Graves’s charm wasn’t enough to convince you.

And now Laswell brought you an opportunity that made you think. Task force 141. “Ask Alex for reference,” was all she said before handing you the number of Captain John Price. 

It took days to get a hold of your friend, but once you did, he spoke highly of the team he helped out every now and then. “I think they need you to fill some big shoes. A sergeant was KIA and now Ghost needs a partner on the field,” he explained.

“Ghost?”

“Mhm. Man’s a mystery, but he’s damn good at what he does. If I were you, I would go for it.”

So you called Price and organized a meeting with him. This was the first round of the interview process, the opportunity to learn more about your possible future boss, the team, and, of course, how they operate. The captain works with a sergeant called Gaz, while Ghost had worked with Soap, another sergeant who had been KIA. That latter you already knew from Alex. 

Price told you to visit the base the next time they're all there, and you gladly accepted the invitation. The team’s mystery man, the one you would have to work with, grabbed your attention. His superior spoke highly of him, and the fact Alex also emphasized that he was excellent at what he did made you curious. He certainly lived up to his call sign by keeping his identity so hidden. You didn’t know his name, you didn’t know his age, you didn’t know what he looked like. All you knew is that he was a Brit, just like Price and Gaz. 

It took your schedules to align almost four weeks, but eventually you made it to their location and were greeted by the captain as if you were already a member of their team. His warm smile brought one to your lips too, and you soon found yourselves deep in a conversation about Kate and Alex. He liked working with them, and despite Alex being labeled a deserter, the team often crossed paths with him. That was good. Meeting him every once in a while would be nice.

“Ghost is waiting for us in my office,” Price began to say, only to pause for a brief moment when he stopped in front of a door. “But I think I’ll give you two the chance to talk alone. I already told him about you, even mentioned that I want you to work with us, but he has to be the one to finalize our decision.”

Nodding, you waited for him to open the door, then stepped inside the dimly lit room. The window shades were pulled down and the only source of light came from the small lamp on the desk. Ghost was sitting in the swivel chair behind it, his eyes scanning a file that you assumed was yours.

You opened your mouth to say something, but Ghost interrupted you right away. “I want you on my team,” he stated sternly as if it was an order, then threw the file on the top of several other documents. 

Despite your best efforts to keep things professional, a snort coming from you filled the room upon hearing his words. “So does everybody else,” you informed him, slowly folding your arms over your chest. “I already turned down several offers. Convince me; why should I pick this team?”

The lieutenant stood up and walked over to you, finally letting you realize just how much bigger he was. He was intimidating, yes, but that didn’t stop you from keeping eye contact with him. “You know Laswell. If you trust her, you can trust us,” he said.

“It’s not a matter of trust.”

“Then what do you want to hear?”

A sigh left your lips. It wasn’t about the money. If it was, you would be working for Shadow Company now. To be honest, you didn’t even know what you wanted from the job. But there was one question that bugged you since you first heard about this guy. “Are you a good person?” you asked him seriously.

Since you could only see a small part of his face, you almost missed that surprised glint in his eyes. “No,” came his answer. 

For a few moments you just watched him, thinking about his response. He was honest, that you truly appreciated, but you could hear something in his voice that you couldn’t quite place yet. Regret? Pain? Doubt? Self-hate? Whatever it was, it made him sound and look human. Without realizing what you were doing, you took a step closer to him, making this giant man lean his hips against the desk to build back some distance. 

“When can I start?” 

Out of the corner of your eye you noticed the way his large fingers tightly gripped the edge of the desk at your words, as if he was trying to ground himself. Was he thinking about the sergeant he had lost? If it was you, your mind would always return to the person who died under your command. What if this one dies too? You would be asking yourself this over and over again. So you didn’t want to rush him, you just stood there and waited for him to pull himself together. 

And then, after several minutes of deafening silence, he finally spoke up. “Good decision. Price will tell you the details,” Ghost informed you before moving past you to rush out the door.

[atinylittlepain]

Love your writing! I love the Unexpected universe, could I please request a really angsty Joel story where baby Miller gets sick nothing extreme, just a colicky baby but because of what happened to Sarah it just brings all of Joel’s fear to the surface? Please add some fluff spice with reader trying to comfort him and cute baby and dad moments?

aw man, i got a bit carried away with this one, i hope you like it <3

Unmet Expectations

dad!joel miller x f!reader

joel miller masterlist

When baby miller gets sick, Joel gets stuck in the past, leaving her feeling lonelier than ever before.

warnings | 18+ angst, hurt/comfort, grief, sick baby oof, smut at the end

a/n | this one is long, and rather emotionally charged, but with a happy ending of course for our Unexpected Expectings fam :)

....................................

There isn’t much sleeping going on in the Miller household. Except for Ellie, who has the good fortune to be out in the garage, away from the seemingly endless crying. It started a little over a month ago. She had settled Libby down for her afternoon nap, only to be promptly startled by her girl’s shrieking wail, a sound she would become all too familiar with as time progressed and it became clear that they have one very colicky baby on their hands. 

At first, she thought it was just her girl having a bad case of gas, but after a few hours of useless burping and rocking, she started to understand this was something else entirely. Joel came home that night from the stables to find her sitting on the floor of the nursery, tears in her eyes and Libby still screaming in her arms. She wasn’t sure what was worse in that moment, the sound of her girl’s continuous cries, or the look of sheer terror on Joel’s face as he knelt down next to her. He had run across town right then and there to get Suze, who could only advise them to keep their girl comfortable and fed with the reassurance that this sort of thing typically only lasts a month or two. 

It’s been the longest month of her life. Libby is nothing if not consistent, quiet and sweet as a lamb in the mornings, but around one o’clock every day, the crying starts, and it doesn’t stop until late into the night. Ellie has been a saint, and Maria too. Staying with her in the afternoons, keeping her sane as she tries to calm Libby down. Joel, however, is a different story. Since all this started, he’s become silent, unreadable. Much like how he was when they first met.

He takes Libby at night, giving her something of a break when he wordlessly takes her off her hands. She finds him most mornings asleep on the floor of the nursery, pressed right up against the crib, one of his arms usually hung between the wooden slats, keeping contact with their girl who always manages to wear herself off into sleep. It’s the only indication she gets from him of just how much he cares because otherwise, he’s become completely shut off, and it’s starting to freak her out more than Libby’s incessant crying.

They don’t talk anymore. He leaves early for shifts, and when he comes home, usually after dusk, he takes Libby and holes away in the nursery. She had tried to join him a number of times, but the steely look he always gave her kept her hovering at a distance, usually dozing in and out of sleep sitting in the hallway right outside the room. She can hear him in the night, the low thrum of his singing just barely detectable below Libby’s cries, and it breaks her heart that he won’t let anyone else see that part of him, especially not her. She’s grateful for how he takes over with Libby, but it feels like it’s no longer them, no longer a team. She’s surrounded by people who care, but it seems like the one person who matters most is slipping away, and she’s never felt more lonely in her life.

“I’m uh, picking up patrol today with Tommy. Might not be home till later.” Her hands still where she had been scrubbing one of Libby’s bottles in the sink. It’s the most he’s said to her in weeks. She turns around to look at him, his gaze wandering anywhere but to hers.

“I thought you weren’t doing patrol shifts anymore.” 

“They’re down a man today. Just a one time thing.” There’s a lot more she’d like to say, but she can’t get any of it out, not when it feels like she’s talking to a complete stranger. So instead, she just nods, turning back to the sink before the tightness in her throat can spill over into tears. She hears him let out a long sigh behind her.

“I’ll um, see you tonight then.” She sniffs, only answering him with a jerky nod. The sound of his boots thudding away, the open and close of the front door, is a relief that she feels guilty for.

…

“Are you sure you don’t want me to stick around? It’s no sweat, really. Dina will understand.” She offers Ellie what she can of a smile, easier said than done with her other girl screeching directly in her ear as she rocks her back and forth.

“That’s alright, Ellie bean. You’ve been a huge help already this afternoon, but Joel should be back soon. You should go, have fun.” By the furrowed look on her face, Ellie doesn’t seem to buy that, but she nods.

“Um, ok. Well, you know where to find me– i-if you need me or anything.” She nods and Ellie turns to leave, but seems to think twice of it before turning back to her.

“Are you guys– are you guys ok? You and Joel?” Her heart drops at the question, but luckily Libby chooses that exact moment to raise her screaming to a new decibel, effectively distracting the both of them enough for Ellie to offer her one more anxious smile before heading out. 

She sighs with the close of the front door, continuing to try to soothe Libby as she walks upstairs to the nursery. 

“I know, Libs. Tell me about it, huh?” She sits down in the rocking chair, shifting her squirming girl to cradle her in her lap. When she glances at the clock, she realizes it’s at least an hour past when Joel should have been home. She feels terrible that she doesn’t feel much at the realization, too sleep deprived, too frustrated, too utterly hopeless to muster up much more than faint concern as Libby continues to wail. 

She sits like that for a few hours, through Libby’s ceaseless cries, the relentless noise lulling her into a sort of daze. And then, a miracle. For the first time in a month and a half, Libby stops crying before midnight. Her girl lets out a few sleepy coos before dozing off in her arms, and she has to stop herself from laughing in pure relief as she lays her down in her crib. Stepping out into the hall, she slumps back against the wall, but her peace is short-lived when she realizes that Joel still isn’t home and it’s now much later. 

It’s the final straw that finally sends her reeling as she crumples over, her hands on her thighs as she starts to heave in a silent sob. It feels like she can’t get any air in, taking quick gasping breaths that she tries to stifle, not wanting to make any sound and wake her girl up. Her mind is blaring a shrill alarm of two words, over and over again. He’s gone. Under any other circumstances, she might be able to rationalize, to not jump to the worst conclusion. But she’s running on fumes, and her mind can’t shake the thought that she may have lost him tonight. And then she starts to think about that morning, how she hadn’t even said goodbye, and it sends her down to her knees, collapsing over herself in a silent wail. 

She’s completely caught off guard when a warm palm comes to her back, jerking away from the touch and pressing back against the wall.

“Hey, hey. It’s me– it’s just me.” He kneels down in front of her, palms cupping her cheeks as he tries to coax her to look at him, but she’s still inconsolable, a sobbing mess. His face falls when she won’t calm down.

“What’s wrong? Is it– please don’t tell me it’s Libby.” The frantic edge to his voice cuts through the fog enough for her to shake her head.

“No– she– she’s fine– she’s sleeping. I thought– I thought you were gone– I thought I lost y-y-you.” She’s a shuddering mess of words, breaking down in another silent sob before she can say anymore. Joel’s hands slide down to squeeze hers, dipping his head down to catch her watery gaze.

“I’m not gone– we just had some trouble with one of the horses, alright? Just got back a little late. I’m right here.” She’s with it enough to let out a bitter laugh at his choice of words, her sobs finally dying down into breathy shudders.

“No you’re not.” His face crumples in confusion as he sits back on his haunches.

“What?” She sighs, scrubbing her eyes with the heel of her hand.

“You might be here physically. But I have no fucking clue where you’ve been in your head ever since– ever since Libby got sick.” As she says it, she finally starts to connect the dots. Joel has been acting the same way he acted when she told him she was pregnant, when he tried to get Tommy to take Ellie to Salt Lake City, when she got shot back in Boston. Joel’s been acting the way he acts when he’s scared.

Part of her wants to comfort him, to tell him that she knows, that she gets it. But the other part of her is too far gone in the flood of frustration for that, and instead she lets that righteous anger wash over her.

“I told you that I couldn’t do this without you, that we would do this together. We’re not in this together anymore, Joel. You don’t talk to me anymore, and lord knows you haven’t touched me in at least a month. Am I that repulsive to you? The fucking mother of your child?” His eyes are wide, jaw slack at her words.

“That ain’t what this is about.” She scoffs.

“No, I know what this is about. But, jesus christ, Joel, you aren’t the only one who’s scared right now. We’re supposed to be there for each other, that’s what partners do. They do it scared, together. But you won’t let me in, and you clearly want nothing to do with me.” 

“That’s not– I don’t– it’s–” He stops his own stumbling, letting out a ragged sigh. She just shakes her head.

Before either of them can say anything else, a cry resounds from the nursery. But it’s not like the shrieks they’ve grown accustomed to. This cry is quieter, more needy than distressed. She gets up with a sigh, not looking at Joel as she walks back toward the nursery. Joel is right on her heels.

“Let me, I’ve got her.” She whips around on her heel at his words, holding her palm up between them as she tries to steel her expression.

“Don’t.”

He doesn’t.

…

She wakes up the next morning in a crunched tangle on the twin bed in Libby’s room, her girl still sleeping like an angel in her crib. After a diaper change last night, Libby had again stopped crying, another hopeful sign that the colic is finally lifting.  She doesn’t have much room to celebrate it with the way the fight she and Joel had last night is occupying her mind. Though she supposes it wasn’t really a fight, more just her falling apart on him. A cool guilt creeps up her spine. She shouldn’t have lashed out at him like that, but she knows she couldn’t hold it in any longer either.

Libby still asleep, she slips into their bedroom, an awful relief that Joel is nowhere to be seen. She’s not ready to face him yet. 

She gets cleaned up, just barely dressed when she starts hearing fussy coos coming from across the hall. Morning light slides syrupy and gold across the nursery floor as she picks Libby up from her crib. This happens like clockwork, and it’s her favorite part of every morning, sitting down in the rocking chair, Libby’s tiny palm pressing against her sternum as she latches on for her breakfast. Even right now, with her mind swirling in worry, watching the contented flutter of her girl’s eyes as she suckles is enough to soothe her.

He clears his throat, and she glances up just briefly to see him standing in the doorway. 

“I think we might finally be done with the colic.” As she speaks, she keeps her eyes focused on Libby, her ears pricking to the shuffle of his bare feet as he comes closer into the room. He stays silent, but she can feel his eyes watching her as Libby turns her head away. She gets up with a sigh, still not looking at him as she bounces lightly side to side, rubbing her girl’s back after readjusting her shirt. 

“I can burp her if you want. Save you a shirt.” She finally looks at him as he speaks, worry clear in the crease between his brows. Part of her wants to be petty, to tell him that she’s got it and shut him out. But she also knows that this is him trying, so she gives him a small nod, gently passing Libby off to him. He’s been good with her from the start, and now is no different as he holds her to his chest, shushing her fussy whimpers as he lightly pats her back. She can’t help but smile at the sight, leaning up against the crib as she finally holds his gaze.

“Made coffee, if you want some. Pot’s probably still warm.” That’s a peace offering if she ever heard one. She hums, nodding noncommittally in response. It’s clear that Joel has something else to say.

“Could we– could we talk?” He sounds so unsure of the question, his brow all twisted up. She’s already thawing, offering him a smile and a nod.

“That one will conk right out when you’re done burping her. Let’s talk after you get her down, alright?” He sets his mouth in a thin line, his eyes still soft as he nods. She passes by him with a sigh, her palm resting for a moment on his bicep as she presses a kiss to Libby’s crown before slipping out of the room. She really needs that cup of coffee.

Spring is finally thawing out the winter freeze, and it’s just sunny enough to sit on the back porch with a warm mug and a sweater. It isn’t long before he joins her. She notes the way he keeps a sizable distance between them on the bench seat.

“Sarah was colicky too, y’know.” She hadn’t been expecting that, turning to look at him. He’s leaning forward, his elbows resting on his thighs as he cranes his neck back to meet her gaze.

“Was she?” He nods, letting out a breathy laugh.

“Scared the living shit out of me. Her mom– well, she wasn’t much help. Pfft, pretty sure I cussed out the doctor when he told me I just had to wait for it to pass– wait for Sarah to get better.” He studies his hands, fingers flexing as he continues.

“She cried and cried– just like Libby. I stayed up with her every night and just about lost my mind. Knowing she– my baby, my girl– was in so much pain and there was nothing I could do. It was torture.” She brings a tentative palm to his shoulder, feeling him slacken under her touch as he finally looks at her again.

“I’m sorry, darlin. I got stuck in the past and left you here to deal with the present.” She sets her mug down before scooting closer to him to sling her arm over his shoulders, feeling relief when he lets her tangle her other hand with his.

“I accept your apology. I just wish you would’ve talked to me. I know you don’t think I can understand– and I probably can’t, at least not entirely. But I can’t even try to if you don’t let me in.” She rests her chin on his shoulder, feeling the rise and fall of his sigh.

“I know you’re right– I do. It’s just so fucking hard. I just– I’ve gotten real good at running away from it– just shutting it down. Talking like this feels damn near impossible.” She leans back, coaxing him to look at her.

“We knew this wasn’t gonna be easy. And we said we’d get through this together. Joel, you can’t shut down like that– you just can’t. I– we need you too much.” He swallows hard, nodding at her words, and she can’t help but brush his wavy hair out of his face, resting her palm on his cheek afterward.

“You talk to me, huh? And I’m gonna try so hard to understand. I promise.” She stamps her words with a kiss, pressing her forehead against his as they both let out a sigh. 

“Gonna do better by you, darlin. Not gonna disappear on you again.” 

…

“It’s magic, right? It’s gotta be magic.” Joel quietly laughs at her whispers, both of them looking down at their girl who is fast asleep in the settling night time by some sort of miracle. Libby had done so much better the rest of the day. No more relentless shrieking or fussy squirming. It was like a switch had been flipped, and she and Joel are just hoping it stays that way. 

He places his palm between her shoulder blades, head tilting toward the doorway. She gets the hint, both of them quietly padding out of the nursery and across the hall to their own bedroom.

“Are we actually gonna get to sleep in our own bed tonight?” He smiles at that, lifting his hand to brush his fingers along her cheek. He’s being careful, she can tell. All day he’s been quiet, but close, taking the day off of shifts to stick by her side. She knows that this is his way of apologizing, his way of trying, and she’s grateful for it.

Whether or not they’re showering together has become a sort of litmus test to determine how their relationship is doing. They haven’t done this in a month, and she only realizes how much she missed it, missed him, when she finally gets her hands on him again, running her soaped-up palms along the broad expanse of his back as he faces away from her under the warm stream of water. She smiles at the groan he lets out when she presses her fingers into that spot between his shoulder blades that’s always knotted up, working the kink out before slipping her palms further down. A breathy chuckle thrums in his chest when she slides her palms down the strong curve of his ass, stepping in closer to wrap her arms around him and trail her hands up the soft muscle of his stomach.

“What’re you doing back there, mama?” She can hear the smile in his voice, and revels in the shudder that runs through him when she presses a kiss to the nape of his neck.

“Taking care of you. You gonna let me?” She feels the huff he lets out in the rise and fall of his shoulders, quick to turn in her hold and steal one, two, three kisses before she can press on his chest to get him to let up. His hands fall to her waist, squeezing at the swell and pulling her into him, chest to chest. His cock rests hot and solid against her thigh.

“We take care of each other, huh?” His words bloom warm in her chest and the smile she offers him is the biggest relief. He reaches behind her to grab the bar of soap, lathering up his hands. It’s a strange contrast, the roughness of his palms and the tenderness of the press of his skin against hers as he trails over every inch of her body he can reach. She gets both, and she knows it’s a gift.

His touch begins to linger and stutter, squeezes left to his favorite parts of her, his grin growing smugger with each shudder he coaxes out of her. 

“We’re wasting water. Maria’s gonna kill us.” He groans low at that, laying a harsh squeeze to her ass that she yelps at.

“That is the last thing I wanna think about right now.” She breathes out a laugh as he corners her against the tiled wall. She barely manages to flip off the water as he presses against her, licking hotly into her mouth. With a light tug to his damp waves, he pulls away, both of them panting in the humid bathroom air.

“Can we at least get dried off? The last thing I want is one of us slipping and cracking our skull open.” Joel grumbles at that, shaking his head as he steps in closer. However, with the step he takes, his back heel slips out causing him to stumble into her as they both struggle to stay upright. They’re a tangle of limbs as they find their footing, her arms wrapped over his shoulders and his around her waist. Looking at each other, all they can do is laugh.

“Would it kill you to tell me I’m right every now and again?” She teases him, a crooked grin as she stays wrapped up in his arms.

“You’re right– you’re right– you’re right. There, will that do, darlin?” He punctuates each repetition with a chaste kiss to her lips, leaving her laughing as he jostles her in his hold. She hums lightly.

“Hmm, I suppose. For now.” He huffs at that, retaliating with a hard smack to the curve of her ass that has her jolting in his grip, causing them both to stumble about in the shower again. They’re fools for each other, only for each other.

Drying off is made all but impossible by the way they stay glued to each other, and their skin is still damp when they finally make it to their bed, toppling into the sheets still tangled up in kisses and sighs and wandering hands. Joel coaxes her onto her back, settling between her legs as he trails a hand down to her cunt, dragging a brazen swipe through her heat that has her arching up into her touch.

“Joel, please– no teasing tonight. I just– I need you, baby.” He shushes her with a kiss, fingers languidly circling her clit.

“You’ve got me, darlin– not going anywhere, huh? Gonna give you what you need.” She has to bite back a whine at the loss of his touch, but it’s only a fleeting desperation as he presses the throbbing tip of his cock up against her entrance. Though it’s been a while, they move well together like they always do, bodies in complete communion as she draws her leg up along his waist, opening up to him as he presses his hips forward. He stills with his hips hilted into hers, his forehead pressing into her sternum with a ragged sigh. 

“Fucking hell– missed you so bad, mama– s’not fair how good you feel– not gonna last like this–” His voice is hoarse, broken by sweet agony, and she tries to soothe him with a smattering of kisses to his hairline, drawing him to look up at her.

“It’s ok, baby. Just wanna feel you– feel so perfect, Joel. Can you move for me?” She presses a kiss to the crease between his brows and he chases after her lips, groaning into a deep kiss as he rolls his hips back only to snap them forward again. He swallows the gasp she lets out at the deep grind of him, her nails digging into his shoulders as he guides them into that familiar push and pull. 

In just the few months of having their girl, they’ve learned how to keep quiet, all breathy sighs and muffled kisses, but she’s having a hard time holding back her high-pitched whimpers at the way he’s thrusting into her, punctuating each snap of his hips with a hard grind that strokes a spot inside her that’s already tilting her over the edge of pleasure. But it starts to become too much when Joel brings his fingers back to her clit, drawing stuttering swipes that have her spasming around him.

“C’mon, mama– let go for me– want it so bad– that’s it, darlin–” his praises become muffled noise as she comes, her heels now digging into his ass where her legs are wrapped around him, clutching him as he fucks her through the rolling high. Joel is quick to follow, pulling out of her with a harsh groan and sloppily stroking himself a few times before his warmth is smearing across the plush of her thigh. It's a far cry from the heated trysts they used to engage in, hours on end of tangled passion long traded in for these little bursts of love that she cherishes just as much, if not more.

He collapses next to her, slumping on his back, his arm crossed over himself to keep his palm splayed over her stomach. She rests her hand on top of his, tangling their fingers together as they both catch their breath. But, there isn’t much time to revel in the moment when soft cries start to carry from across the hall. She can’t help but smile as she looks at him, and he lets out a sigh.

“Go get cleaned up, mama. I’ve got her.” He punctuates his words with a kiss, leaning over and brushing his fingers along her cheek. They share a quietly murmured “love you,” and she idly watches him get up, the soft pull of his muscles as he slips on a t-shirt and a pair of boxers before padding across the hall to Libby’s room.

They don’t get to sleep in their own bed that night. After getting cleaned up, she trails into the nursery, finding Joel quietly singing to their girl in the rocking chair. He glances up at her, but keeps singing, his voice low and sweet, lulling Libby back to sleep in his arms. With their girl tucked back in her crib, they wind up in a close tangle on the twin bed.

It's the best sleep they've gotten in a month.

[peterparkouryo]

dream palace. | p.p imagine

┊ ˚➶ ｡˚ ☁️

prompt: Movie night with your boyfriend turns into something more.

warnings: fluff, making out, no smut because i suck at writing it (mentions of it)

word count: 1.7k

a/n: i am extremely sorry for not uploading anything last week, really busy with captivated habits two and rebound three. enjoy this lil fic i made this weekend

Every Friday was movie night. It was a traditional thing you and your boyfriend, Peter did, even before the two of you started dating.

Sometimes on a rare occasion, your two other friends would join you, but since MJ and Ned weren't a couple, it almost felt like they were third wheeling whenever the two of you would drift your focus away from the movie playing and onto each other.

You were almost glad that on most Friday nights, it was just you and Peter. It gave you the opportunity to focus less on the movie and more on each other, which in a logical sense, defeats the entire purpose of a "movie night".

Today, rather it be fortunate or unfortunate, wasn't one of those days, and the moment you opened the door of your apartment to Peter's grinning face, and laptop in hand (since you didn't own one and you enjoyed watching it on his rather than the TV in your room), you were ecstatic of his presence. 

He had such a giddy effect on you, it was no wonder with every alone time you two would get, you could never keep yours hands off him.

"So, what movie are we watching?" You questioned the boy, plopping down on your bed as he trailed behind you, the door coming to a close as he did.

"Return of the Jedi, although not my favourite, I figured it's best we get this one out the way." Peter tells you, setting his laptop at the bottom of your bed. You let out a groan of protest, which didn't go unnoticed by him.

You adored Peter's dorkiness, it was one of the many reasons you were dating him, but sometimes it smothered you whenever it was Star Wars related, and you both knew you couldn't really get into the franchise itself no matter if you pretended to or not.

"What?" He asks quite frantically, a small pout forming on his lips.

"This is the fourth Star Wars movie we seen during our movie nights." You pointed out.

"Well, yeah, but the last one didn't really count because we were fu-"

"Okay! But that's different, and that only happened 'cause I didn't want to watch another Star Wars movie." You cut Peter's words off rather quickly as he lets out a laugh.

"No, really?" His voice comes out sarcastic and you roll your eyes.

"Can we just please watching something else?" You pleaded, your first and maybe last attempt at the puppy dog eyes you were giving him.

Peter eyes you for a moment, fighting a debate in his head rather to give in or just see where the night takes him if he insists you have to watch Return of the Jedi, and god knows you and your charm will have him doing the exact opposite as last time.

"Fine." He gives in after another heartbeat of silence, holding back an eye roll at your squeal of happiness.

"What movie did you have in mind?" He grumbles out, opening his laptop to a streaming service.

You think on his words for a minute, not really having a movie that you wanted to watch specifically. In all honesty, anything but a Star Wars movie would do perfectly fine. You say the first movie that comes to your head.

"Clueless." 

"And you say Star Wars is bad." Peter groans and you send the boy a glare.

"Nothing is wrong with Clueless, it's a perfectly good movie with decent comedy." You argue and Peter says nothing as he goes to search for the movie anyhow.

"Yeah, for someone who enjoys cheesy rom coms about rich people." He states back, successfully finding the movie, clicking play.

Thirty or so minutes passes by, the two of you cuddled close together as the laptop settles on Peter's lap, and you don't miss the yawn he lets out as he tries his best to not seem bored of the movie.

You would almost feel bad, but the past few movie nights has been his pickings and rather the two of you would pay attention or not, it was your turn, rightfully.

You feel Peter's figure shift, his hand wrapped around your arm, cuddling you closer as he lets out a bored sigh. You give him a side eye, a very annoyed one before you decide to just ignore his bored state and focus on the movie.

Peter then gives your shoulder a light kiss, running his fingers up and down your arm slowly and it certainly didn't take a rocket scientist to know exactly what he was trying to do.

"Peter." You warned, shrugging his close figure away from you and he smiles at your protests.

"Sorry." The boy apologies sheepishly, and you know all too well that he really wasn't.

After the interaction, a few more minutes pass by and you focus on the movie, or at least you tried to.

"What do you think you're doing?" You feel Peter's hand retreat from underneath your shirt, his hand taking home to your arm where it should had respectfully been anyway.

"I'm not doing anything?" Peter tells you, his voice confused, pretending to be watching the movie.

You roll your eyes at his words, smiling at the thought of Peter being so miserably bored, he'd do anything to distract you from the movie as well.

"Didn't seem that way." You point out, giving him a glance, his eyes refusing to meet yours.

"I know better than to have sex with you during our movie nights." Peter informs and you can tell his words are a clear mocking of the exact thing you do whenever it was a movie of his you didn't want to watch.

You shoot him a glare.

"First of all, I don't do it every time it's a movie you pick, and second of all, Clueless is a lot more entertaining than people in space." You argue, folding your arms over your chest, like a child would.

"I never said you did and this movie is way more boring and has no action." Peter bites back and you chuckle at the adorable pout on his face.

"Would you rather do something else? Like maybe, braid each other's hair, or put on face masks?" You suggest jokingly.

Peter finds no humour in your joke, and continues his pouting, watching the laptop screen, but not actually paying any attention to it.

"Or we could just make out." You joked some more, chuckling to yourself, because even if Peter didn't find anything you were saying funny, you knew you were on some level the funniest person to be known.

"Okay." You hear him say, and you stop yourself from your laughter, raising a quizzical eyebrow, your gaze reaching Peter's eager one.

"I was joking." You point out, and the boy shrugs, unaffected at your words.

"Well I wasn't and if sleeping with you won't drag your attention away from this boring movie, maybe making out with me will." The boy shows you an ear to ear grin and you tilt your head in disbelief.

"How about we finish this movie, then we'll see?" You say slowly, and Peter doesn't give that option into consideration.

"Or, we can see now." Peter pushes the laptop off his lap, turning to you rather quickly, attacking your lips before you could say or do anything.

The first time you and Peter ever kissed was well, awkward. It being your first relationship and vice versa, you never knew exactly how a kiss should be and obviously, neither did Peter. 

Though yes, it was really awkward, given the fact the two of were in the middle of having ice cream, and it was a very sticky, messy kiss, it still was somehow perfect. Some might say it wasn't, but oddly enough, it just made sense.

And ever since your first kiss, Peter made it his life's mission to prove just how progressively good he was at "sucking your face" (as MJ likes to call it).

With the movie now long forgotten, you swiftly fall under the spell that is Peter and his lips, the boy pulling you onto his lap.

The kiss had a mutual understand of the ache burning in your bodies, but you knew better than to act on it. Only because Peter had this annoying habit of leaving very noticeable blemishing on your skin and it took a lot of hours of makeup and strategic thinking to hide them, not only from your friends, but parents too.

Peter's hands were (very) eager, to grip pretty much any part of your body, settling for clasping his ungodly hold on your waist, which was a prominent touch you felt even through your shirt.

Your hands rested on his shoulder, sliding their way to the back of his neck, playing with the soft curls as they did so.

A keen noise escapes Peter's lips and you smile, continuing with the kiss.

There were moments like this were you were content with Peter's captivating presence. It was hard to put in words, but anytime you were in a proximity of him, you felt safe. Not only that, but the boy gave you every reason in the world to trust him with your life.

Hopefully Peter trusted you just as much as you trust him. You surely didn't doubt it, with how he was practically moaning in your mouth at the moment.

You two eventually have to pull away to catch your breath, and you. catch glimpse of Peter's dazed state, biting your bottom lip to stop the grin forming on your face.

"What?" Peter wonders, his flustered gaze staring at your curiously.

"Nothing, just love looking at your post make out face." You admit, running a hand through his head full of curls.

Peter says nothing, closing his eyes as he lets out a sigh of content at your gesture you've done plenty times before.

If it were up to you, you'd stay like this forever. Watching your boyfriend enjoy your delicate touch, his breathing at an even pace, letting you know he was comfortable and genuinely happy in any moment spent with you.

"We should get back to the movie." You suggest, attempting to remove yourself from his lap but unfortunately the spider boy had a stronger advantage.

You raise an eyebrow at him and his pout of protest.

"I'd rather you stay here and keep me warm." He suggests, sliding his hands behind your back for a hug.

You smile at his words, giving him a hug back, melting into his touch.

"If you know what I mean." You hear him say, smirking in your neck.

Your eyes roll at his suggestive option, pushing him away from you.

"Gross." You groan, successfully removing yourself from his lap, reaching for his laptop and unpausing the movie.

"It's not like you haven't done that before." 

"Peter!"

"Right, sorry."

[lil-oreo-crumbles]

“You’re a Disappointment,” An Analysis

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

Seven years. Seven. Years. And it only just now finally hit me what Toffee truly meant when he called Marco a disappointment in Storm the Castle, and I feel pretty silly for not realizing it before.

Before Storm the Castle, Toffee has only seen Marco on two significant (canonical) occasions, Fortune Cookies and Mewnipendance Day. (As you may remember, Marco was MIA during Marco Grows a Beard, considering he was… physically trapped in that bathroom as his beard overwhelmed the house)

Fortune Cookies:

The entire plot of the episode, besides the ever enjoyable introduction to our favorite lizard, is Star once again being amazed by another Earth oddity: fortune cookies. She believes that the fortunes are genuine predictions of the future and are infallible and to be relied on for all of her future decisions (not helped by Marco who did influence this misconception by messing with her). This immediately establishes in Toffee’s mind— after learning from Buff Frog that she believes the messages in the messages in her cookies are fortunes— that she’s naive, impulsive, easy to stray, and immature. Of course, he very quickly learns about her impulsivity, fighting prowess, and stubborn will, but her naivety is what sticks out to him in this moment, and it’s what he takes full advantage of. (Note: I don’t think he actually looks down on her for these traits alone and expects her to be mature at all, I think he sees those traits going hand and hand with her age. She’s only 14, after all. Nevertheless, they are still traits he can use to his advantage to further his goals.)

This is something that Star has in common with the monsters Toffee has found himself within the company of. The only difference here? These are grown adults who he expects to have a bit more dignity under their belt, ESPECIALLY Ludo. While I’m sure he’s grateful that Ludo was naive enough to hire him with clever wordplay alone— overall assisting to further his goals— he can’t help but feel annoyed by the plain stupid amount of immaturity he possesses.

I think this is less so with Ludo’s army. Even if they share very similar traits, he knows they’ve been living under Ludo’s childish tyranny, and probably has a bit more faith that they can be molded into proper soldiers. Though, his patience is still worn extremely thin by their shenanigans.

Toffee takes advantage of this by planting a fortune in her bag, “Love is Always the Answer.” While I personally believe there’s a deeper meaning, it’s not relevant right now. But anywho, the core purpose is to let Star’s guard down enough so Ludo can gain ownership of the wand.

While Star believes the message hook, line, and sinker, Marco immediately sees past the ridiculousness of the fortune in such a dire situation. “What? Not in this case! Fighting is!”

“Really? Now??”

He immediately sees past the fortune, relying on logic to reason that such a simple trick is just that: a trick. Clearly Star’s pacifism isn’t working, and they need to make the rational decision to fight. He’s immediately proves himself to be the level headed one of the duo, the one who keeps his head on straight and is clearly the maturer of the two.

Marco saw right through the trap and displayed common sense and logic. And he was later vindicated when it was revealed to Star that the fortune cookie was a trap.

And I can guarantee you Toffee noticed this, and it was only further cemented in the next time Toffee sees him again.

Mewnipendance Day:

In this episode, Star is celebrating what she knows as “Mewnipendance Day”, also known as the Great Monster Massacre, where the first Queen of Mewni attempted to wipe out monsters from the face of the planet, an attempted genocide of innocent people who lived on the land she stole from them.

Star explains the entire story from the Mewman’s propagandized perspective, going through a pop-up storybook to demonstrate the beginning and the end of the massacre. She gives an explanation of the beginnings, skips past the actual genocide and fighting itself, and ends with “And the Mewmans won!”

And guess who’s the only person who notices and brings attention to it? Marco Diaz himself.

“Wait, but you just blew past all the important stuff.”

Once again, Marco is the one who’s calling out important things, looking deeper and more critically at the situation, opposed to everyone else who just goes along with it. He shows very clear and obvious signs that he’s more mature than his peers.

And let’s not forget, Ludo and Toffee are watching all of this through the surveillance device (the “all seeing eye”). Sure, Toffee is a tad distracted by the book he’s reading, but with how intelligent he is I’m almost positive that he’s multitasking here.

And Marco only proceeds to exceed expectations, actually going through the book and starting to see, at least in part, the true reality of the situation, calling it out and bringing it to Star’s attention.

“Star, I know the monsters are bad and all, but this seems… unfair.”

Marco demonstrates that he is willing to see past biases and to see reason. He sees past the blatant propaganda and revisionist history, at least in part.

Overall, he is actively more mature than the others with common sense that aids in critical thinking skills and nuance beyond what’d Toffee would expect at his age, especially contrasted against Star. And I think taking off rose colored glasses and seeing the monster massacre for what it really is (again at least in part) really helps with Toffee’s perception of Marco as some levity amongst the childish people he’s been surrounded with.

That is, until their third interaction in Storm the Castle.

Storm the Castle:

Toffee clearly sees Marco as a competent fighter, considering the double imprisonment with not only the chair that confines him but the crystal box prison too. He knows Marco is more competent and mature than most people in his vicinity

At least. He did.

During Storm the Castle while Marco is imprisoned, he takes on the traits seen with Ludo, his soldiers, and Star. He’s acting immature, he’s being impulsive, and he’s talking back with what he assumes is witty dialogue. He’s trying to act all tough guy, which clearly doesn’t work with Toffee. Toffee humors him a little bit during the sandwich dialogue, releasing him from the chair, and Marco immediately takes an impulsive swing at him, leaving him to punch the crystal and immediately writhe in pain at the impact. Marco then immediately throws away Toffee’s genuine attempt at offering him a meal. Toffee is a monster, and being a monster in Mewni means that food, especially good food, is invaluable, because it’s so hard to come by. Seeing Marco waste and make a mess of it without a second thought is probably the nail in the coffin.

Marco isn’t the slightly more mature young boy Toffee assumed he was. He had witnessed from afar Marco’s knack for nuance and critical thinking, a breath of fresh air amongst incompetence.

But as soon as they get one on one all of that is immediately washed away.

Marco is acting like everyone else he’s come across lately, openly defying the nuanced maturity Toffee had witnessed previously. He’s just like the others. He’s being childish. He isn’t special.

“You’re a disappointment”

It’s not some profound statement, there’s no weight behind it. Toffee had no expectations for Marco and wasn’t planning on using him for his goals. Marco just genuinely was not who Toffee assumed he was by his previous actions. Toffee was mildly genuinely disappointed to learn just how kiddish Marco really is. He really expected better.

I also think this explains why Toffee didn’t bother to put him back in the chair restraints. He really didn’t need to go that far with trapping him in the first place.

I don’t think Toffee is surprised, or even phased by it, Marco is a 14 year old child after all. I don’t even think Toffee’s expectations for his maturity were big, period, just the slightest bit of relief that Marco was a breath of fresh air amongst the sea of incompetence. But no. He wasn’t, as far as Toffee concludes at least. This one interaction completely killed any hope Toffee might have carried, and he would just roll his eyes for even allowing himself to put even a little faith in someone.

“Well, that’s unfortunate. Anyways…”

I know there were tons of theories on this, but the actual answer, as far as I’ve figured, is incredibly simple lol. And now that I’ve finally realized what that line really meant, I think it’s important to share.

[fannishstuff]

Have more Biddleford AU!

This is in specific reference to my AU where Fiddleford tried meditation instead of inventing the memory gun, and consequently met and began to worship Bill.

So, I opened that piece of fanart with Fiddleford reaching out a hand to Ford, and telling him that he was welcome.

"Why," you might ask, "is he welcoming in Ford? Doesn't Ford already worship Bill?

Hehehehehe, that's where the fact that Bill is extremely manipulative comes in. More under the cut.

So, in the ficlet that I included with that picture, you'll note that Bill set himself up to be the golden magical savior that would protect Fiddleford from evil spirits and bad luck. Well, Fiddleford falls for it and he falls for it hard. Bill can be very charming and convincing when he wants to be. (...sort of. He does a lot of, like, giving people upsetting gifts and terrifying compliments and stuff. You kind of have to be a little unhinged already to fall for Bill-style charm, basically. Fortunately our pteratron-building man is.)

Fiddleford now belongs to Bill. Great. You'll remember that Ford is not actually able to build the portal himself - he needed help from Fiddleford because his math wasn't strong enough. Okay, so Bill was using Ford to build the Portal, and Ford was using Fiddleford... but now Bill can use Fiddleford directly, so he has two geniuses under his thumb. Even better: Bill had to manipulate Ford by keeping him isolated and paranoid. Fiddleford, on the other hand, we know to be charismatic and sociable. We know that he tends to seek out people who are suffering from problems similar to his and that he can get them to open up. He's also very convincing, and can convince them he has a solution to their troubles. Ivan, whose recruitment we see in Journal 3 and who is the eventual leader of the Society of the Blind Eye, is a great example of this.

So, now Bill has two patsies: a genius nerd who's convinced everyone is out to get him, and a big-hearted but very odd duck guy who wants nothing more than to help people. The second one, the charmer, has a habit of proselytizing.

And, oh, how Bill loves to be worshiped.

So, he still needs and wants Ford, but why would he settle for Ford? Bill starts occupying more and more of Fiddleford's time with the cult, and while he's at it, he himself start to breadcrumb - and eventually ghosts - Ford. It sends Ford into a panic. Ford is getting increasingly stressed and overworked, he's barely making progress, his only friend is spending almost no time with him and acting weird even when he's around, and his muse has seemingly abandoned him. Oh, and by the way: Bill hasn't told Ford that he's in contact with Fidds, and has instructed Fidds to keep the secret.

One day, Bill returns to Ford's dreams.

He's snide. He's cold. He asks for progress, and then makes like he's going to leave. Ford leaps at him, begs him to stay, asks what happened, and what he did wrong.

What are you talking about, Sixer? Aren't you doing fine without me? I thought you were some kind of genius. Well, I'm - I could never do as well alone as with your guidance, Bill! You're my muse! Oh, yeah. That. What is it? What's wrong?

Bill goes on to point out that, well, yeah, Ford was fine, but Bill was really starting to feel lead on. Bill's not just some broad you can expect to keep around forever and never bother pop the question. Like, Bill's a god, not just a """MUSE,""" and it was just kinda getting old, right? Like, you're clearly fine without me, so whatever. What? What's wrong? No, seriously, it's fine if you don't want to commit, you have commitment issues since you abandoned your brother and all. What, you want another chance? Seriously? I'm not really convinced. Oh? Okay, fine. Fine. We'll talk it out. But you are on thin ice, Sixer.

So, Ford is given some pretty strict instructions for the next couple of days, and then he's sent to meet up with Bill's other worshipers.

Ford didn't know about the other worshipers, and he's really embarrassed about this. (Never mind that they didn't exist.) He's angry, he's frustrated, but most of all he's desperate for approval.

So he goes, and he meets...

Fiddleford.

Bill's been talking to Fiddleford. Bill explained everything to Fiddleford. He explained that Ford is coming, and he's to be the co-ruler of the cult or Fiddleford's right-hand man, but that he needs to behave himself. Ford hasn't always been totally committed, Bill explained, but he's being given another chance.

But it's okay! Fiddleford believes in Ford! Fiddleford one hundred percent is vouching for him, Ford's such a swell guy, always goes the whole way in everything. Fiddleford would never doubt Ford, and together, they're going to prove to Bill that Ford's serious.

Ford... isn't convinced. Ford is having doubts. But Ford has to make sure to never, ever, ever voice those doubts, because that would be proving that he has doubts, and that he's just like Bill was afraid he would be, even though Fiddleford trusts him unconditionally like the good friend he is.

Anyway in this AU the world ends

[jron]

“Well, we survived all of these assholes”

I took a tour of the US Capitol on Saturday with some friends.

I had toured it a few years ago and didn’t exactly want to go to that part of town in the unbearable heat, but we went anyway and it made an interesting perspective. Hot on the heels of the Biden-Trump debate, newspapers like the NYT were calling on Biden to leave the race (presumably they’re happy with Trump staying in it), the Supreme Court was busy helping Trump avoid Justice and undermining safety regulations, and most people I know were essentially freaking out about our choices this fall.

If you’ve been on the Capitol tour, you’ll know it’s fairly short, but still well-done. It doesn’t visit the chambers, but goes through the crypt and the Rotunda, as well as the foyers that once acted as the much smaller original chambers. The focus of the tour is on the art, especially the statues, of which every state sends two.

Our state has sent Dr. Crawford W. Long & Confederate Vice President Alexander Stephens. One is known for inventing treatments for malaria (yea!), and the other for his speech declaring that slavery and white supremacy are and always will be the “cornerstone” of the Confederacy that he supported.

Our travel friends from California were represented by Father Junipero Serra, declared a saint but mostly known for torturing indigenous people until they accepted Christianity, and Ronald Reagan, one of the most destructive presidents of the modern era who looks worse and worse with each passing year.

In fact, the whole tour is something of a rogues’ gallery. The occasional hero on display tends to stand out because so many of the people depicted were powerful villains. Robert E. Lee has fortunately been removed, replaced by civil rights hero Barbara Johns, but the visit itself can be whiplash inducing, because it is a display of the fight between modernity and an unjust past.

On the way out, our friend announced to the rest of us, “Well, we survived these assholes. Maybe things aren’t so bad right now.”

Maybe he’s right.

That doesn’t mean we don’t have more work to do to clean up this mess than we did only a week ago. But it’s true, the nation has been in the hands of some fairly terrible people for quite a lot of its existence. And some terrible people are still honoring their destructiveness.

It’s also true - and the Capitol tour shows this - that a lot of extremely talented and visionary people came together to build the government we have today. And that this work is never finished. Some of those new statues bring that message home better than others, but it was inspiring to see them there.

Overall I’m glad we went. The nation has survived some awful people. Maybe we’ll make it through these.

(Edit to add: At one point in my diatribe about Stephens, it was suggested that perhaps his statue should stay as a learning experience. For example, visitors should know about the Cornerstone Speech. However, no one else in our highly educated group knew anything about that statue’s subject, only that the state of Georgia thought it should honor him above all the rest of its citizens. Our conclusion? Get rid of it.)

[tia-amorosa]

Sunset Died - Lisa & VJ

A day to remember (Part 1)

You would think that young people sleep longer at the weekend than during the week. But after a few hours spent in pleasant warmth and physical contact, they are already quite alert again. VJ felt Lisa slowly pulling the covers off him and teasingly waking him up. “hee, you're heavy!…”.

“Are you saying I'm fat?” she asked him harshly. ‘Nonsense, I said heavy and you're… Sitting awkwardly on my thing right now’. She made a surprised face and grinned. Then she shifted her pelvis into a different position. “Better?"/ ‘Yeah…’/ ”You slept better tonight, didn't you? I didn't hear any strange noises from outside, anyway”.

“Yeah, me neither. The fox probably gave up…“/”hnhn, or it was me, he probably felt threatened…” she joked. ”From you?? Hehe, probably not. Or… most likely from your sexy aura”. He stroked her thighs tenderly, which made her smile mischievously. “Our evening went a bit badly, huh? Actually, we wanted to talk about something completely different”.

.“Oh… And what about?"/ ‘hn, think about it.’. He saw a certain sparkle in her eyes. And he remembered their brief conversation at school yesterday. “Aah… That's right. Hn…”. At that moment, they both seemed to have the same thoughts. But they also knew that there was a certain risk involved. She tenderly stroked his chest… “Lis…”/ “ssh…I counted the days yesterday, so actually… Nothing can happen,” she said, looking him intensely in the eye with a slight pout.

“Actually?” he asked, almost a little nervously. Lisa stroked his face and smiled. “I've always trusted you before, VJ, now you have to trust me for once… and if something does happen… Then there are two of us who screwed up. Now relax…”

Relaxation was something that VJ hadn't had for a long time. It wasn't just that he sometimes couldn't sleep. He often turned night into day, went hunting, then only slept for a few hours. And was on his way to school again in the morning. He often spent the afternoons at the gym. To eat and to work out physically. This time… he didn't need any sports equipment.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

The two of them spent most of the morning in bed. But they didn't want to spend the whole day indoors. So they decided to visit the city park. Michael and Peter seemed to have the same idea. “Did you… Did you just squeeze a snowball in my ear, VJ?“/”ehehee…"/ ‘Well wait, you'll get that back…’.

Lisa pretended to run away in a huff. Instead, she looked for a good spot where she could form a little snow into a ball. Then she waited for VJ to follow her. “Hey, I was just…” but then he already had a load of snow on his face. “aahahaaa, I told you you'd get it back"/ „you tricked me…!“

To make things even more exciting, they decided to have a snowball fight in pairs. “Oh man, I can't believe it, my girlfriend has really screwed me…"/ ”If you dish it out, you have to be able to take it, hehe. You started it"/ „pah, now you're taking her side …“/ ‘nope, I'm just watching…’/ „sure, and you're fondling Michael's butt on the side“…

Lisa was amused by the conversation between the boys. “Hey, you like fiddling with bottoms too…"/ ‘Yes, but only yours… Are you going to throw now or are you giving up already?’/ ‘Never…’. A game in which only one can win.

“ouuh, full in the bells…"/ ”hahaha, where are your bells hanging, VJ? Above the belly button?"/ ”Shut up, Peter. The woman can throw extremely well…”. Every now and then you have to be able to hear a stupid remark from other people.

Someone has to give up at some point. And this time Lisa was the one who threw in the towel. ���That's enough now, VJ, you're playing unfairly, your balls are getting harder and harder and I've probably already got bruises everywhere"/ ‘Babe… hey, I'm sorry… my hands are numb now anyway, shall we go and warm up us?’/ ‘hh, mhm’.

Fortunately, the nearest warm place was not far away. The Gym was open 24/7. “We haven't even had a proper breakfast yet…"/ ‘I know, that's why I'm here so often… You can always get something here’/ ‘I just wonder how much longer…’..

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

[rosymaraschino]

I think I’m probably one of the very few people in the Feh fandom who genuinely hates Embla. And even more rare, I happen to be an extremely devoted fan to Askr in addition (usually Askr lovers and Embla lovers go hand in hand, from what I’ve noticed). That got me thinking. I should write about why I am like this. Everything under the cut will be an article in a series about my issues with Embla, and why she is arguably one of the least sympathetic villains in the Fire Emblem Heroes universe. So, please skip if you don’t want to read. But if you do, go right ahead! :)

It will be separated into multiple parts. Now, I don’t want to shame anyone for liking her! We all have problematic faves. These are just my thoughts :)

And if I am wrong on anything lore-wise, I do appreciate corrections!

After being a Feh player for a while, I have played Book VI and did not develop the same adoration for the Goddess of Closure that many other fans held. Her story left me disgusted and angered. I felt no desire to give her love and mercy. I was not amused by the “divorced” dynamic with Askr. And for a while, I thought this was a me problem, and how my complex upbringing gave me triggers to characters displaying certain traits. Though accurate to an extent, replaying the story only confirmed and deepened my sentiments. In the story she debuts in combined with the bits of lore embedded in her units, the Goddess of Closure is a horrific individual and miserable excuse for a “sympathetic” villain. She represents the major failings of supreme beings: apathy/hatred towards those less fortunate, a concern for herself and her feelings alone, and a laundry list of war crimes that would make real life dictators blush.

Now the characters in Fire Emblem Heroes are often poorly written. But Embla is one of the few who received substantial coverage in her story, and it unfortunately cannot be so easily covered under this excuse. Does it hamper a few of her characteristics? Sure. But it cannot whitewash her entire character. The pieces of her life create the puzzle of an unfailingly cruel woman with an intense victim complex who is guided by the privilege she wields. And this can be an interesting character to handle! Unfortunately, the writers attempted to present her as a dumbed down villain who deserves our sympathy. My post explains why this is undeserved and how the intricacies of Book VI make her look worse than intended

Point #1: Embla’s Backstory

She cared so very deeply about mortals once.

This quote given by Askr in Chapter 10-1 of Book VI. Askr himself is part of the problem in the whitewashing of Embla, but we’ll get to that later. For now, I’ll concern just the past of Embla.

So, Embla and her love of mortals. When we see the backstory in the final chapter, I am sure many of us expected to see Askr’s words be true. Yet what we see is a woman whose position of power makes her ignorant to mortals’ plights, regarding them with disdain, and it is just a single action that drives her to persecute every single one who dared to commit the crime of existing in her presence.

Chapter 13-1 is the beginning of the long awaited backstory. We witness a scene of Askr and Embla, with the former trying to convince Embla to come with him to the world of Midgard.

“Shall we, Embla? The mortals are waiting for us. Come now…” This is the very first sentence we see.

And what is Embla’s very first response?

“What does it matter. Their lives will come to an end soon anyway. They have such short lives…”

Interesting. Now what could this be about? We learn during the scene, as explained by Askr, that Midgard is suffering from famine. And as we know, Midgard comprises the two kingdoms of Askr and Embla. Askr desires to help them survive, as “many of the mortals are now starving.” Yet Embla says that his methods “make no sense. But fine. Do not let me stop you. Do as you please.” From these scenes so far, we learn a couple of things.

1. The mortals’ lack of privilege fuels Embla’s lack of care for them.

2. Despite needing to be the guardian of her realm, Embla would rather hoist the burden of helping the mortals stave off starvation upon Askr.

Ultimately, this part ends with Askr being able to convince Embla to come with him, but she is extremely reluctant, and only does so for his sake. Because human beings dying from famine isn’t a good enough excuse apparently. Oh, and the picture above is the last thing we see in this scene. This shows she intends not to help the humans, but simply follows Askr. And truly, we do not know whether or not she holds to this. For as much as we know, we can realistically assume she only watched Askr helped and did nothing, because apparently her worthy presence should be enough.

After the mini battle, we get a short glimpse into the aftermath where Embla has received gifts from the mortals. She calls this display of affection “Foolish.” Askr nevertheless is happy for her and her supposed connection with the mortals. Embla remains unimpressed, even questioning Askr why “the happiness of others” pleases him so deeply. However, she later admits his interest in mortals is not as much as a mystery to her, yet she is vague, and does not openly appreciate them. The ending of Chapter 13-1 consists of Askr thinking she is thanking him for helping her to see the potential of mortals, though she denies it. While this is meant to make her endearing, it doesn’t really do that, at least for me. Why is she so hateful towards mortals? Why does she continue to remain at a distance, when all they have done so far are give her gifts? This only gives us more questions than answers.

Chapter 13-2

Here is where we witness an attempted assassination of Embla. Elm, her retainer, makes sure she is alright. Embla appears disturbed and shocked by the encounter, though she managed to kill her would be murderer. This mortal who attempted to kill her “came to me, smiling, wishing to make a tribute…Why then…did he come at me with a fearsome look in his eye?”

This is meant to be the crux of her despising of mortals. But when we look at this scene, it really is a very poor reflection of Embla’s character. Let’s look at the timeline we are given of Embla’s character thus far:

Chapter 13-1: Embla does not care about mortals and is alright with them dying from famine. Later, she is somewhat less indifferent, but only after they give her gifts.

Chapter 13-2: A single mortal tries to kill her. She kills him, and with Elm’s prodding, is easily convinced that all mortals are evil and power hungry.

That…does not make Embla truly sympathetic. In fact, it just shows us unfavorable facets of Embla’s character. Her opinion of mortals, who were plainly stated to be giving her gifts just one section ago, is instantly lowered because of the actions of one.

But with her disdain made clear in Chapter 13-1, there is an interesting case to be made for the assassin. Think about it. Already, she is implied to be an established Goddess with an existing kingdom. And yet, she was willing to let them perish. How many other times has she let the woes of reality plague her people without lifting a single finger? Could more people have died because of her inaction in the past, whether during the famine or before. Could this assassin have been acting in revenge because of her not intervening in helping him or his family, perhaps? While seemingly an out of left field assumption, it isn’t wholly nonsensical, as Embla is shown from the beginning to care little about mortals. So what the story apparently presents as a greedy mortal trying to take advantage of a goddess could very feasibly be another story; that of an underprivileged man who potentially experienced suffering, and is taking it out on a person of privilege. And this particular person of privilege had the power to help him and others, yet did not. Is this not a familiar circumstance in real life?

Chapter 13-3 has Embla consider Askr, and that he will be betrayed by the mortals. Admittedly, it appears to show she cares for him. Yet as we navigate the rest of her character and story, this is not as wholesome or loving as we would like to believe. There is a contract to getting her care, and it can easily be broken. She decides the mortals should all be killed, and even Elm tries to dissuade her from doing this, surprisingly. Yet she holds steadfast to her new goal.

Chapter 13-4 has Embla meet with Askr. One thing I’d like to add is that Askr says her meeting him is a rare occurrence. This says a lot about her. One of the few times she visits him, it has something to do with what she wants, something fueled by her beliefs alone. Because she wants him to follow her, without any concern for his own experiences. This just adds to how her love for him is conditional. It is not a strong showing of her love, not when she wants to get something out of him. And not when she instantly cuts him off when he simply disagrees. She claims he gives too much of himself to the mortals and they will only hurt him in the end. Askr assumes she says this out of concern for him and thanks her, but affirms his love for mortals and that he wants “to believe in them.”

Note at this point, Embla does not once mention the assassination attempt. So here, she apparently expects Askr to blindly follow her, yet accuses his devotion to mortals being blind. That is hypocritical of her. She cannot fault him for following the mortals endlessly but desire him to follow her without a single question or critical thought. This expands her selfish nature; she is to be listened to regardless of her lack of sense, while mere mortals are not to be granted this privilege. Instead of explaining herself, Embla instead decided Askr is not worthy of her care. She writes him off as being too different from her and leaves.

Chapter 13-5 has Askr confront Embla. He chastises her for her actions. He questions why she has taken “the precious lives of mortals…and to take control over their bodies, and possess them so…” He adds that the survivors of her realm escaped and came to him for aid. Embla yells at him to cease his talking, but Askr continues and says “you must speak with them, explain yourself.” This part made me pretty mad at Askr, despite me loving him deeply. He lists these terrifying actions Embla has committed, yet sees that a fitting consequence is for her to explain herself? Embla is no different from a tyrannical dictator. She has tortured people, brainwashed people, murdering any dissidents within her reach. She should be considered beyond explaining herself. Embla denies him and his offer of help, and even doubles down on her disdain for mortals by calling them “worthless”.

Now this is a very weird part in the story. Apparently, Embla’s disgusting actions towards humanity are an extension of her “pain”, according to Askr. We see him try to paint her as someone who actually loves mortals, and that she “may have a deeper love for them than I.” But what has she done or expressed in the story to aid Askr’s belief? Never once has she openly admitted she cared about them. Nor has she ever done anything onscreen to depict her helping them. But we are expected to believe Askr with no proof whatsoever. Now Askr’s claims make her even more angry. She childishly demands him to leave her alone and claims “if the mortals love you so, then so be it!” This is meant to show how hurt she is by the mortals, but it is incredibly disrespectful to them to act as if they as a whole are at fault for Embla’s descent into villainy. Yeah, how dare those evil humans try to protect themselves? How dare they try to avoid being tortured, brainwashed, and murdered? And all because one, one mortal, tried to kill her once. She condemns him and the mortals, and the cutscene comes to a close.

So what have we learned about Embla’s backstory? She was always a standoffish individual who is shown to have done little to nothing to help mortals, even before the assassination. And after the attempt, she goes overboard in hurting them.

And think about the demographics. She is hurting mortals regardless of circumstances. Old, young. People of all backgrounds. The sick and healthy. Families and single individuals. No one is spared from her cruel and senseless rage. She is fueled by a deep seated bigotry that flares up to the surface the moment that one person does not live up to her ridiculous standards of basic decency. One person essentially doomed humanity, and this is a completely unfair burden to place upon one single mortal. No, Embla cannot be seen as a victim. It is impossible for me. She is surrounded by love, between a devoted friend in the form of Askr, as well as the other mortals who we know for a fact gave her presents despite her aforementioned apathy towards them. She is a woman of privilege, a goddess of great power. She has wanted for nothing, never subjected to the cruelty of worldly suffering. If humanity can survive against all odds, if there are people who do good despite being hurt time and time again, why is it so easy for her to break down when suddenly one thing goes wrong? Embla is undoubtedly a bigot, spoiled by her gifts, and unwilling to shed her pride for the sake of others. Yet she is unable to think of others, what they go through. The world revolves around her.

Against Askr’s opinion, Embla does not live up to his picture of her life. She is a discriminatory person who persecuted an underprivileged population because of a single person, painting them all under the same brush. She is cruel, uncaring, and puts her feelings above all others.

I will publish a Part #2 of how she fails to be sympathetic, and this will concern her actions in the present story.

[linkspooky]

JUJUTSU KAISEN, CHAPTER 214 THOUGHTS

Hana's death could be read as the destruction of innocence. The pointless suffering that is inflicted again and again by life. Just like the audience, the characters in Jujutsu Kaisen are always suffering too. Sukuna and Yuji clash this chapter, and so do their world views. While they seem like opposites they're actually talking about the same thing. How do you live in a world full of suffering? Why do you live in a world full of suffering? What's the point? Yuji and Sukuna are both puzzling over and trying to answer this question, but they're arguing from completely opposite points of view.

They represent two ends of the extreme, one of the side of the weak, and one on the side of the strong. Understanding their points of view can help understand their characters, more underneath the cut.

1. Samsara

Samsara in BUhism refers to the cycle ofrepreated birth, mundane existence, and dying again. Samara is considered to be dukha, suffering, and in general unsatisfactory and painful. More or less from a budhist point of view suffering is always inherent to life no matter how noble a life one tries to lead. The rude of suffering in this thought comes from ignorant desires and fears that all people have.

To borrow a panel from another manga (Tokyo Ghoul, if you read my blog you might have heard of it) the budhist view is essentially life itself will always have suffering and the only way to escape suffering is to eventually escape the cycle of death and rebirth entirely.

"Suffering is inherent to life" a depressing thought, but true nonetheless. There's no such thing as a life without pain or sadness. The cycle of karma is represented in many ways in Jujutsu Kaisen, such as curses which must be exorcised over and over again by sorcerers. No matter how many curses are exorcised, they all eventually reform, which traps sorcerers in this cycle.

Geto's downfall and madness even comes from being worn down as a part of that cycle, and the extremes he's willing to go to our driven by a desire to break free or end that cycle permanently. The curse he's exercising in that panel is the same face as this classic depiction of a thangka showing the bhavacakra, the five cyclic realms of samsara in budhist cosmology. It's the creature at the top of the wheel with the third eye opened.

Curses are created by desires and negative human emotions the same way the sufferig inherent to life in budhit cosmology is created by sins like ignorance and desire. Now, this chapter we have Sukuna, a curse, and Yuji a human who are both aware of the suffering of life and their two completely different responses to it.

2. The Myth of Sisyphus

Yuji's shouting at Sukuna almost comes off as naive. Yuji's basically just yelling "Why can't everyone just be nice?" I just said that Yuji and Sukuna are both responding to the suffering inherent to life but Yuji doesn't even seem capable of comprehending why that suffering exists. To borrow my friend @theanimepsychologist's words.

Theanimepsychologist: It's also kind of infantile of him to ask "why can't you just live without causing suffering?" As though he can't fathom that suffering is a normal aspect of life. Very pisces of him to just want to alleviate suffering.

Gege said in a world where jujutsu sorcerers didn't exist, Yuji would be a fireman, not a policeman. Which is important discussion, because Yuji is entirely focused on rescuing people, he doesn't really think of dealing out punishment. However, as a Jujutsu Sorcerer it's fortunate Yuji is dealing with curses who are just abstract embodiments of negative human emotions that are for the most part chaotic evil. Like, what would Yuji say exactly if he was just facing a normal human being?

To borrow from another manga again, what if he was facing a villain like Shigaraki Tomura, someone who has suffered all throughout his life at the hands of other people, and inflicts suffering in return, but also has a goal of destroying society because he sees the society that rejected him as the source of that suffering. Yuji, conveniently only fights curses who's nature it is to eat humans and consume human misery for no specific reason what would he say exactly if someone had complex nuanced reasons for what they do.

All of this to say while Yuji has good intentions, his views are in the extremes of black and white. Arguably, and this is where the foiling comes in his views are as black and white as Sukuna's, he just sits on the opposite end of the spectrum. They are both unequally able to see nuance or shades of grey in reality, Sukuna just sits from the perspective of the strong, and Yuji from the perspective of the weak.

I'd argue that Yuji doesn't actually want to think of the complexity of the world around him at all. He doesn't even see that humans are equally capable of inflicting suffering on other humans, or that say structures that are constructed by humans, like say the legal system that made Higuruma suffer, or the sorcerer society around him can also make humans suffer. Yuji's so fixated on exorcising curses and looking at doing nothing else because it conveniently plays into this black and white narrative he has.

Yuji's views are, surprisingly nihilistic for the hero of a shonen manga. If he sees life as nothing more than exorcising curses, if there's no deeper meaning to it then just doing his job then why is he even living in the first place? The answer of course, is that he's not really trying to live.

Let me bring out handy chart to explain my point.

Existential nihilism is the philosophical theory that life has no instrinsic meaning or value. With respect to the universe, existenital nihilism suggests that a single human or even the entire human is insignificant, without purpose and unlikely to change the totality of existence.

The Myth of Sisyphus written by Albert Camusb begins with what has become the most famous opening sentences in literature and philosophy.

"There is but one truly serious philosophical problem, and that is suicide. Judging whether or not life is or is not worth living amounts of answering the fundamental question of philosophy. All the rest - whether or not the world has three dimensions, whether the mind has nine or twelve categories - comes afterwards. These are games; one must first answer. And if it is true, as Nietzsche claims, that a philosopher to deserve our respect, must preach by example, you can appreciate the importance of that reply, for it will precede the definitive act."

The Myth of Sisyphus itself basically represents the same concept of Samsara. Sisyphus pushes the bolder up the hill, it falls down, then he pushes the bolder back up the hill again. People live, die, and are reborn again. Jujutsu Sorcerers exorcise curses, only for those curses to reform, and they have to exercise them again.

Yuji's views are as nihilistic as Sukuna's. Sukuna doesn't see a point or reason for weak people to continue to live. Yuji isn't trying to live either, nor is he trying to create any meaning for his own life.

3. Hedonism

Sukuna is an inherently hedoinstic character. He has a giant mouth on his stomach. He is a walking appetite. His domain expansion is based around cooking. His only servant / ally Ura Ume was a really good cook. If the concept of samsara argues that all evil in life comes from worldly desires (like gluttony eating more than you need to survive) then Sukuna as a curse represents that evil he spreads suffering because all he does is consume, consume, consume.

One important difference is Hedonism is a lifestyle, whereas Nihilism is a philosophy. Sukuna's views are similiar to Yuji's, life is just suffering for the weak, and he doesn't really see any meaning in extending that life if you are weak. However, his hedonistic lifestyle is a response to that nihilism.

Pleasure plays a central role in all forms of hedonism; it refers to expereince that feels good, and contrasts with pain or suffering. Psychological hedonism is an empirical theory about what could possibly motivates us: all our actions aim at increasing pleasure and avoiding pain. This is usually understood in combination with egosim, i.e. that each person only aims at their own happiness. It probably doesn't need to be said that Sukuna is an extremely egotistical character.

If you accept nihilism as truth, the world has no meaning, people suffer for no reason, than hedonism is one possible logical conclusion, live your life minimizing suffering and seeking pleasure. This is basically what Sukuna says.

People, especially weak and miserable people should spend their lives stifling their misery, and numbing themselves down by avoiding pain rather than trying to seek more.

Sukuna is also equally asking the same question that Camus asks. The basic question of all philsophy is whether or not to shoot yourself. The same way Yuji doesn't see a point in himself living, Sukuna sees no point in weak people living.

Ironically, when it comes to drowning your sorrows as Sukuna suggested, Nietzsche was against that.

He only ever drank milk and avoided alcohol. The idea went to the heart of his philosophy: "There have been two great narcotics in european civilization. Christianity and alcohol." He hated alcohol for the very same reasons that he scorned christianity, because both numbed pain, and both reassure us that things are just as fine as they are, sapping us of the will to cahnge our lives for the better. A few drinks offer in the transient feeling of satisfaction that can get fatally in the way of taking steps necessary to improve our lives." [SOURCE]

Sukuna sees no point in self improvement or struggle to get stronger, the weak will always be the weak, the strong will always be the strong. His views are equally as black and white as Yuji, because he divides those two groups into rigid boxes that will never change. His views even reflect Geto's just a little bit, defining sorcerers and normal humans as two distinct categories with no overlap, sorcerers are strong, humans are weak monkeys.

The weak aren't even worthy of living in Sukuna's eyes, and Geto wants to exterminate the weak non-sorcerers. Sukuna even reminds me of this passage from the JJK light novel.

"To live for the purpose fo being yourself, and for that goal, Geto could only continue to pursue his twisted dream, drowning himself in the curse that lies in the gap between ideal and reality. This was the final confession of a man who could only choose to warp himself, who had erased himself in the pursuit of his goals."

Sukuna, like Geto is a powerful sorcerer who became a curse in pursuit of his goals. Sukuna, like Yuji despite how self-aggrandizing he is, despite how egotistical seems to have no sense of self like Yuji. He does everything for himself of course, he has an overpowering ego, he has strong desires that he lives for... but rather than satisfying those desires, and being the strongest, does Sukuna really live for anything or have a reason for what he does? What are his personality traits besides... strong? He has no friends besides loyal servants. He just eats, and eats, and eats and then what? It's just another cycle, like Geto consuming curses only for more curses to be born, like Sispyhus pushing the boulder up the hill. This is how Sukuna reflects Yuji, because he's not trying to create any meaning for his life either. He's also trapped in the cycle. They are at opposite ends, Yuji is "Weak" while Sukuna is "Strong" but they both have the same nihilistic views. They're both still stuck in the same cycle.

[swallowedbyfandom]

My beloved son,

I must say the getaway you arranged for Portia was a splendid gift. She was extremely touched by your gesture. I would know, I was over for tea when your letter arrived. I was surprised you would go to such lengths to show your appreciation for your new mama as you have never done something so grand for your old mama.

I am sure you did not mean to slight me. You would never put me in the position of having the other mama's in the Ton gossip about how you fawn over your new mama. Of course not, you are too thoughtful a son to ignore the woman who gave you life. You would never disappoint me in such a manner.

I am sure you are arranging something equally as impressive for me. It must just be taking you a little longer to set up my surprise. Do not worry. I can be patient, so long as not too much time passes.

Expectantly,

Your mother

Mother,

How could you doubt me? I am your most charming son, of course I have something in the works for you. Please be at ease.

If you must know I just wanted to show my regard for Portia's struggles. I know she has been abrasive and cruel in the past. I am not justifying her behavior. However that cruelty, and the fearsome reputation she garnered kept them safe. She kept my wife safe from the less scrupulous men in society. Whom may have believed my tiny wife easy prey. Let us be honest Baron Featherington left his Ladies vulnerable even before his passing. That they managed as well as they did for as long as they did, can be attributed to how cut throat and manipulative Portia was.

Did you know shortly after my wife debuted, Lord Featherington meant to settle one of this many debts with her hand in marriage? Fortunately after he notified Portia of his decision he took a tumble down the stairs while intoxicated. He had an attack of conscience thereafter and promptly decided to leave the marital decisions up to Portia. I admire that, mama.

Also Mr. Finch, is the worst, I swear. He told on me! He ran off and snitched. He even sent a letter taunting me! He had the gall to claim he had stolen my title as Portia's favorite son. As if I could be displaced so easily. You know how competitive I can be. This is the perfect way to one up Albion and to allow Portia a chance to relax.

There is a code that gentleman must follow. A sacred part of that code is not repeating the tomfoolery that happens in a gentlemen's club. I must avenge my honor. I shall not be defeated by some cheese monger.

Yours always,

Col

Dearest Colin,

It is lovely to see you are bonding with your new brother. Do be careful not to overwhelm Mr. Finch. Most people(sane people) are not as competitive as you and your siblings. Do be careful that your freud with Mr. Finch doesn't get too out of hand. The last thing we need is sweet Penelope getting caught in the crossfire.

I shall be gracious and allow you to forego a grand gesture. In exchange you will send over my grand babies for the next four weekends. I need more cuddle time with my sweet darlings. You can use that time to pamper your wife.

Hugs and kisses,

Your mama

Husband,

I apologize for falling asleep midway through our conversation. I see you are out with your brothers and I will likely be sleeping again before you return. So here are my thoughts.

Colin you have 8 sisters, 2 mamas, 4 nieces, a wife, and a daughter and still you have much to learn about women. That is a trap. I repeat it is a trap. Do not walk into it. You cannot forego a gesture. You will purchase your mama an elegant cameo, with a disgustingly excessive floral arrangement. Then and only then, will you accept her offer for babysitting. It would not hurt to arrange an outing for just the two of you.

I can entertain my apprentice and Gregory while you both have a day out. It would be nice to plan an adventure for Gregory and Hyacinth before he goes off to Elton.

Yours always,

A sleepy wife

[sashketter]

Preparing for Tantiss

Summary: While the Bad Batch acquire the coordinates to Tantiss, Rex prepares a ragtag team of familiar faces to follow him to the Imperial base.

Word count: 1.3K

Warnings: A hint of Rexiyo; a smidge, a sampling, an infinitesimal iota, if you will 😊

Notes: I’ve been saying for awhile that the "cavalry" in The Bad Batch finale might not just be clones, but it occurred to me only today to write it tf down, the last two episodes be damned lol This takes place during season 3 episode 13 of The Bad Batch, "Into the Breach." Look to the tags for the “familiar faces” - the cast is too long to list here. I wrote this in a rush, but it builds off some ideas I'm using for a series about Riyo Chuchi and the Clone Underground, specifically using Orto Plutonia as a base and the working relationship between Rex and Riyo.

“Careful with those proton torpedoes!”

“Don’t scratch my ship! I don’t care how well the Republic—"

“Father! Can I show Jek ze fighters?”

The small airbase on Orto Plutonia had proven more useful than Rex could have imagined. Clearing an area large enough to host more than half a dozen starships was a challenge, but the clones and the Talz braved extreme snowstorms in record time. Fortune seemed to smile on them today as the sky cleared and the wind calmed to a whisper. Ready the fleet, the breeze seemed to say. All the ships had spilled out of the hangar and into the open air, everyone enjoying the rare bout of good weather. Rex watches the fruits of his quick and dangerous labor from the edge of the field.

“Transmission from Pantora, sir.” A clone hands Rex a holoprojector, and Riyo Chuchi flickers in his palm.

“How are preparations coming along, captain?” Riyo learned to dispense with pleasantries when it came to Rex and his missions.

“Very well, senator.” Rex learned to keep his reports short when it came to Riyo and her transmissions. “It’s a tight fit with all the aircraft, but we’ll be ready in half a rotation. Hopefully by then, Echo will have transmitted the coordinates.”

Riyo nods, but can’t hide her concern. “Be careful, Rex. I can hold off the Senate for awhile, but not long. If Tantiss is as secretive and well-guarded as you say, people will want to know everything if something,” she searches for the right word, “explosive happens.”

“Understood.” Rex nods. “You be careful yourself.” It’s an earnest warning, but he looks around and finds no one within earshot. He smirks and tries his luck. “Try not to attract any more bombs while I’m busy.”

She huffs, looks around, and counters, “Try not to blow up any more bases.”

Rex returns her smile. She nods, and in an instant, she’s gone. Rex tucks the holoprojector in his belt.

“Uncle Rex!” Shaeeh calls and tugs at his arm. Rex’s heart thumps hard in his chest, taken off-guard by the surprise attack. “Can I come?”

Suu tiptoes from behind and grabs her daughter by the waist and off the ground. “Ay, no, we need someone to watch ze base while we are gone.” She nuzzles Shaeeh on the cheek before putting the child down.

“They’re ready for inspection,” Howzer announces, gesturing towards the noisy airfield. The captains fall into step.

First up are two Y wings parked across from each other. Cham Syndulla climbs down from the cockpit of one while Cut Lawquane stands up from the wheels of the other. Their kids play in the space between.

“Ready and operational, Rex,” Cut reports, wiping his hands with an oil-ridden rag.

“As iz ours,” Cham adds. “Eleni iz ‘aving some trouble with ze turret, but—”

“All fixed!” The men look up in time to see a wrench fly in the air and land with a loud clink on the ground. Eleni appears from the turret, smiling and wiping her forehead. Hera laughs as Chopper rolls loudly, arms flailing, to pick up the wrench.

“Good work.” Rex nods at the men before moving on.

Several meters away is a Nebula-class freighter. An astromech speeds from under its chassis towards Rex, stopping too late and bumping into his shins. He grunts in pain but otherwise ignores the collision. He rubs the droid’s dome.

“Hey, R7. Where’s Rafa?”

“You can’t bank at that speed, Trace!” Rafa’s voice turns the captains’ attention to the left. “The motivators will—”

“You watch! The Silver Angel can handle anything I throw at her.” Trace sees the captains watching her and her sister argue for the umpteenth time. “Oh, hey, captains.” She gives a short salute.

Howzer crosses his arms and shakes his head, but Rex is amused. It reminds him of the first time they met, right after Padmé’s--

“Whoa, Wookiee alert!” Rafa stops Rex’s train of thought. He turns to see three adult Wookiees approach from the right.

Howzer still can’t contain his shock at their ship. “How did they get their hands on a gunship?”

Rex sometimes forgets Howzer had been stationed far from most of the action of the Clone Wars. “General Tarfful fought in the Battle of Kashyyyk,” he gestures towards the heavily-armored Wookiee, “with Master Yoda. And lucky for us, he’s no friend of the Empire.”

A protocol droid ambles from behind the Wookiee general and ahead to the clone captains. “Hello, I am C3-LT, protocol droid for General Tarfful.”

Rex nods. “Please thank the general for his help. We’re well aware of the trouble on Kashyyyk and know that the Wookiees can’t spare much in the way of arms and soldiers.”

The droid turns to the Wookiee retinue and belts out a mountain of Shyriiwook. Tarfful answers in turn, and the droid translates.

“The general says that he is happy to help the clones liberate their people. He says the clones are brave warriors who will always have the Wookiees’ help whenever they ask.”

Howzer continues to be surprised, his eyes wide at the show of loyalty. Rex nods, and Tarfful drops a heavy hand on his shoulder, shaking the captain and roaring in what the clone assumes is a battle cry. The Wookiees turn around and return to their ship.

Rex starts towards the clones’ fighters at the far end of the field when a freighter lands just outside the perimeter. Everyone stops to watch. The snow settles before the ship’s pilot descends from its platform.

“Afternoon, boys,” Phee greets the approaching clones. She stops at the end of the ramp when she sees blasters aimed in her direction. “Hey now, is that any way to welcome Tech’s—”

Rex sighs and lowers a clone’s blaster with his hand, signaling everyone to stand down. “Easy, men. Echo comm’d us about this.”

Phee walks up to Rex. “Name’s Genoa. Phee Genoa.” They shake hands cautiously. “You must be the one in charge.”

“The name’s Rex. Howzer here will catch you up.” He peers behind her and up into her ship. “Where are the cadets?”

Phee smiles and calls out, “It’s alright, boys. Time to play.”

Three clone cadets appear from the belly of Phee’s ship, running in a line down the platform and stopping in a line next to Phee. “Reporting for duty, sir,” one of them announces before saluting.

Rex kneels down on one knee and addresses the boys. “Alright, troopers.” The cadets snap to attention. “Can I count on you to make sure each ship is supplied with its maximum amount of fuel before sunset?”

“Sir, yes, sir!” They chant and salute in unison before running towards the hangar.

Phee chuckles as Rex stands back up. “Is that what you did when you were a cadet? Fill up fuel tanks and clean starships?”

Rex smirks but holds off on telling her stories of caustic chemicals and hazing rituals on Kamino. Instead, he offers, “You’d be surprised what a clone cadet can do at that age.”

Phee puts a hand on his arm and presses, “Are you sure this will work?” Her concern is genuine.

Rex seems to consider her question seriously for a moment before he shrugs. “It has to.” He gestures for her to follow Howzer.

Rex turns around and gazes into the distance. The sun is beginning to hide behind a line of mountain peaks to the west. The air starts to chill. Gregor will have dinner ready soon, and Rex knows that for some, it will be their last meal. But when he turns back to the airfield, all he can see and hear are smiles and laughter, determined faces turning into friendly ones and idle conversations turning into detailed ones. Rex smiles. For now, hope is still on the horizon.

[quill-of-thoth]

Due to a family game of telephone, my mom told me yesterday morning on the way to a family graduation that my cousin's in-laws' giant "service" dog is part wolf. Mom has always been kinda nervous around him, because he is the size of a small pony and extremely serious... and her mental picture of me is apparently of me at seven flinging myself bodily on every large dog I have the good fortune to see. In reality, this dog, who I see at baseball games sometimes, provides the "service" of obsessively guarding my cousin's mother-in-law. He assigned himself this job, and cannot be persuaded to stop. But it' genuinely helping the mother in-law, who is getting up there and starting to get frail. She got him the leash that says service dog before she recently got on oxygen, so people would stop asking to pet him because he's an abused rescue with a mouth large enough to do serious damage. And because he looks mostly like a german shepherd (size holy fucking direwolf,) and people are stupid. He also prevents crowds from knocking her over with her oxygen tank and cane, by dint of clearing a two to four foot wide halo around her with his glare. They're training him to fetch another human if she takes a fall, or at least trying to. It isn't going well, because he has an objection to leaving her unguarded. He will politely ignore other dogs, all preteen children, and the vast majority of women. Men are considered acceptable if they act calm and introduce themselves properly. Since I am no longer seven, my relationship with this extra large canine is that he arrives at an event, makes a growly little grumble at me to remind me that he is a bodyguard and I better remember it, then smells my hand and lets me pet him as long as he can keep an eye on his principal. You can bury your hand up to the wrist in his fur if he has decided you are an acceptable companion for his principal, so I did not necessarily question my mom's assertion that he was part wolf, because she said it came from a genetics test (so it could be a good few generations back) and also because after whatever trauma was in his previous life, someone hauled him to the animal shelter from fuck-nowheresville Wyoming. Where most people searching for a dog looked at him, staring at them, not wagging, and thought, like our prehistoric ancestors "If I'm gonna feed that thing, it's going to be strictly so he never gets hungry enough to bother trying to eat ME." My cousin's mother in law came in, in her bird-boned five nothing frame, and thought "he's perfect" and named him Panzer. Yes, she named him tank, but in German. (She also thought he was the Andre the giant of german shepherds.) Her husband looked at him walking out at her heel, and thought "it's been five minutes and that dog worships my wife and might be smarter than half my relatives" and gave in to the inevitable. Panzer treats him as the only acceptable substitute guardian for his principal, the queen of rescue dogs, which is the highest honor any man is gonna get from him. According to Panzer, her son and grandsons are mere servants of the queen. Trusted, but not sworn to her defense. Others (daughters in law, children, other old ladies with booze, assorted distant relatives) are allowed to petition the queen, with the strict understanding that bribing him with taco meat won't get him to change his vigil: He'll just take any bribe you're stupid enough to give him and get back to work. So at my cousin's kid's graduation party today, I sat on the stoop, nearly elbow deep in Panzer's ruff fur, thinking of gallusrostromegalus' wolfdog stories. I decided that Panzer's wolfy ancestor must be at least a couple generations back, and went back to chatting with the old ladies who were either gossiping, or heckling the teenage boys playing bags. One of my other cousins' kids barreled in, bearing a lizard for me to photograph, and Panzer inspected the lizard, found it harmless, and returned to his stoic watch. "Oh yeah," I said to the queen of rescue dogs, once I finished my duty as lizard paparazzo and the lizard was released from the red carpet, "My mom tells me you had a genetics test done on Panz. She said he was german shepherd and sheepdog and something else?" "Oh yes, he's German Shepherd, some kind of balkan sheepdog, and Czechloslovakian Wolfhound."

Needless to say, I teased my mother for confusing Wolfhound with Wolf dog half of the ride home. Before we left, Panzer reminded me that I should bring the queen food based tribute, and that he was her official food taster.

[tearlessrain]

13, 14 and 17 for the OC meme thing (for my favourite boys so Khatte and Kalarros, but feel free to toss in others in too be i love em all uwu)

hello thank (ask meme)

I probably will continue the streak of answering for the SWTOR Gang at large because why not xD

13. If you met your OC, would the two of you get along?

Khatte — depends. because on the one hand his job is to get along with people and he is extremely skilled at it, at surface level he is the kind of person who's really easy/enjoyable to talk to and will make people he's with feel liked/listened to even if they're not socially adept themselves. so as far as superficial interaction, yeah he'd be super fun to hang out with. as far as actually getting to know him as a person though, I guess I have the advantage of knowing exactly why he is the way he is but then he'd also hate that about me and frankly I wouldn't be well equipped to deal with his bullshit. so best not.

Kalarros — yeah tbh would love to hang out with that guy. he can get kind of obnoxious and full of himself but I have a distinct ability to work with that and despite it he'd be really interesting to talk to.

Jial-ro — yes but who's to say if it would be by choice or because of the Force glamor

Valdrynn — absolutely, love that guy

Qohi — absolutely not, fuck that guy

14. How does your OC want to be seen by other characters?

Khatte — well, if he could push a button and turn human he would. but failing that, he absolutely Needs to be the best at what he does to make up for it. he goes out of his way to imitate human mannerisms and social cues to the point that other cathar find him a bit weird and uncanny to interact with, but his priority is seeming Normal to the Imperials he's spent most of his life dealing with and it's a source of constant insecurity for him. at the same time he's careful to give the impression of someone who isn't really trying at all, and beyond that how he wants to be perceived at a given time really depends on what his goal is or what he's trying to get from someone.

Kalarros — he's had it impressed on him from a young age that he's a representation of his family/bloodline and to act accordingly. so for a lot of his life his priority was for everyone to know that he's Sith nobility and to be feared/respected accordingly, but by the Alliance era that's fallen by the wayside to a degree. He knows that he's perceived by the Republic at large as a monster and kind of revels in it, but he's also determined to sort of be a source of stability in the chaos. he wants to be seen as absolutely safe to the people he loves and extremely unsafe to anyone who might pose a threat to them.

Jial-ro — he wants to be liked so so so so much. he is desperate to be liked. please like him.

Valdrynn — he would prefer not to be perceived at all and generally makes himself kind of unapproachable on purpose. he spent his time during the main storyline trying very hard to be perceived as a Proper Sith in spite of the fact that he never wanted to be a Sith and hated everything about it, but once he's Commander of the Alliance? fuck that, he ditched all the mannerisms he picked up in order to be respected in the Citadel including the affected Kaasi accent and if people don't like him this way they can go fuck themselves.

Qohi — he stands at parade rest in line at space Starbucks and posts space instagram reels about respecting our troops.

17. What is the worst thing you have put your OC through story-wise?

okay so this is a bit tricky because these are ocs but they're also debatably canon SWTOR characters. so I'm only answering for the main two because I don't have concrete answers for most of them lol.

Khatte — the worst thing I've personally put him through was when he hit rock bottom during the timeskip and was as close as he's ever gotten to actively suicidal. fortunately Lana found him before ImpInt did but he was pissed about it for a good while.

Kalarros — definitely the aftermath of Ziost. I know that's not technically something I put him through since it's a canon game event, but I did line him up to get hit as hard as possible emotionally. he loved the Emperor to the point that it blinded him to the reality of the situation, and even after Yavin he believed that he was on a mission to save the Emperor, not to stop him. he thought that something must be causing it all, and Ziost was the point where it hit him that this was the Emperor's intent all along and all his devotion had meant absolutely nothing. and on top of that most of the Empire turned on him because they believed, for obvious reasons, that he'd been a part of the Emperor's betrayal knowingly. basically the foundation of everything he rooted his self worth in crumbled out from under him and it was rough for a while.

[found-in-therubble]

Entry One

Sebastian Hulls’ interview with The Eyewitness Report about his recent hires, published June 28th XXXX

Also mentioned: Jonathan Clarke

Demystifying Shaniko’s Most Reclusive Resident

Q&A With Sebastian Hulls

By Avery Perez

Sebastian Hulls, 62, is locally known as a man of mystery. After moving to Shaniko three years ago he’s been extending a lifeline to those less fortunate in the community. For a man so dedicated to helping the community you’d think he volunteers or donates to shelters, but that isn’t the case. Hulls will only hire those in desperate need of assistance to be his own assistants. Mr Hulls has a habit of always needing more staff to keep his isolated mansion up and running; for three years advertisements to be a part of his staff have overrun nearly every paper in town! The ads themselves add a whole new layer of intrigue, as no qualifications are ever stated; just that Sebastian Hulls of 13 Lookout Lane is looking to hire. Finally, after many inquiries, The Eyewitness Report was able to get the man of mystery himself on a phone call to ask him some questions. Even better, Sebastian Hulls offered to give us a tour of his impressive -and remote- manor, so be sure to pick up our next publication to see this story develop.

Mr Hulls, let’s start easy: what brought you to live in Shaniko? It’s such a quaint little town, how could I resist? I know my manor can be quite grandiose compared to the neighborhood houses but I’ve always enjoyed small communities. Everyone knows everyone, that sort of thing. It feels more connected, and it’s easier to navigate than a big city. 

More connected… I don’t mean to be rude, sir, but for someone who values connectivity you’re quite reclusive aren’t you? Ah, I’ve been caught red handed, I see. I admit I’m much more comfortable inside my home than in town, but I hardly think that’s a crime. Besides, it’s not as though I’m a hermit. I regularly explore town. That’s one of the ways I’ve found employees.

Oh? I know our paper, The Eyewitness Report, has run advertisements for you. Do you also scout potential employees in town? I wouldn’t call it “scouting” per se.. But I do admit that I’ve come across a few people on the street that are now a part of my staff. 

Would you be able to share a story about who you’ve hired after seeing them in town? Recently, the Shaniko Public Library was closed down. I’m not sure if there was a lack of public interest or simply a lack of funding, but it’s quite a tragedy. It must’ve been after midnight, but I was on a walk and passed it. I saw a man sitting on a bench hunched over in front of the building. And while I’m no expert in human emotion, I can tell when someone is sad. He seemed extremely sad, so I went to talk to him. He told me he used to work at the library before it closed down, and now he’s out of a job. Well as it happens, I have a very large collection of books; nearly enough to fill an entire library of my own. I extended a job offer to him there on the spot, I asked him to make sure none of my precious collection gathers dust. I even let him live on site, I have more than enough rooms for him to move in.

Oh. You have a personal library, sir? I do, quite a large one. Family and friends tend to give me books as gifts, I haven’t the heart to throw them away. Over time… I suppose the collection has grown larger than I anticipated.

I see. If I may, where is the library? The third floor, of course. The ceiling is made partially of glass. It's quite spectacular to relax inside during a rainstorm. Why do you ask?

It’s just that, during our research, we called the construction company that built your house. The forest around it has gotten much too thick to get aerial shots of it these days. They gave us some old photographs to print alongside this interview. Has another company been hired to do construction past the initial building in the past three years? Speak plainly. What are you asking, Ms Perez?

Sir, the photos only showed two floors, and no other construction company would be willing to make the commute to your home. I’m confident you haven’t had construction done in the past three years. Where did this extra floor come from? I see you’ve certainly done your homework. I’m not sure exactly what you want me to say, as my manor certainly does have three floors. It always has. Perhaps the blueprints you found were outdated. I’ll be more than happy to show you when you come to visit. 

[innerpalaces]

The Life of a Cannon Fodder Mother-in-Law - 42

Chapter 42: The Step-Mother-in-Law 9

Hearing this, Ge Gen became extremely anxious.

"Manyue, return the deposit." After saying this, he realized that his tone was too harsh, and hurriedly slowed down. "Don't sell the shop. I've wronged you. I promise you that I will get your jade pendant back within three days..."

Liu Yuniang said calmly, "Do you know what a deposit is? "

Ge Gen is a businessman, so of course he knows that once the word "deposit" is involved, it means a decision has already been made. Neither party can go back on it. "We can compensate the buyer. At most, we can give him two taels of silver. He can only make so much money by buying a shop. He will definitely agree." Liu Yuniang knocked on the pillar: "Ge Gen, you have to understand something. The shop belongs to me alone. I want to sell it! It's not that I didn't give you a chance. I said yesterday that if you agree to get back the marriage certificate immediately, I would postpone the sale of the shop." Ge Gen: "..." "Anyway, it can't be sold!" He stepped forward and reached out to pull Liu Yuniang: "You go to the shop with me and explain it clearly later." Liu Yuniang raised her hand and shook off his grasp: "I won't go." The two faced each other and refused to give in. Liu Yuniang looked at him and suddenly smiled. "Ge Gen, for the sake of our two children, I will  remind you again. When I collected the deposit yesterday, I already told the buyer that you  mother and son did not want to sell the shop. He said that he could find a way to force you to move out." That was ancestral property, and most people are not willing to move. If the buyer was so sure, he must have some extraordinary means. Liu Yuniang understood this, and so did Ge Gen. He remembered that at this time in the shop, his son was usually out delivering goods, and only his elderly mother was there. He couldn't sit still anymore and glared at Liu Yuniang angrily. "If something happens to my mother, I will never forgive you." Ge Gen rushed to the shop and saw that everything was as usual inside. In fact, he was overly worried. The buyer took over the shop to make money. Of course, he would not choose a time when there were many people around to cause trouble and affect the shop's business. Ge Gen was absent-minded throughout the morning and made several miscalculations. Fortunately, the old madam was keeping an eye on him, so the customers didn't take advantage of his lapse. At noon, the number of customers gradually decreased, and she lowered her voice and scolded, "Be more attentive!" Older people were most afraid of being distracted. Ge Gen was afraid that his mother would be frightened, so he whispered, "I'm afraid that the buyer will come and use some extreme methods to scare you again." The old madam sighed, "It's really unfortunate for our family! She was fine before last month, but then she suddenly changed her temper." When it comes to his wife, Ge Gen was also very angry. "It's true that we were wrong in taking her jade pendant, but we were doing it for the sake of the children. Why doesn't she understand?" He said angrily, "She is really short-sighted." As soon as he finished speaking, four or five strong looking men arrived at the shop. The mother and son always kept an eye on everything when doing business, and they didn't miss the movement at the door while talking. Seeing this, their hearts skipped a beat. The leader entered and walked directly to the two of them: "We brothers were sent by Master Hu to deliver a message. Master Hu has bought this shop and the deposit has been paid. It will be transferred into the master's name this afternoon. If you stay, you will hinder others from doing business. The government will not sit idly by. If you are really kicked out, it will not look good. I advise you to move out as soon as possible." After saying this, he asked: "Do you understand? " The mother and son nodded. These people were really too fierce, they didn't dare not understand. Seeing the group going out, both mother and son looked unhappy. They had discussed last night that no matter who took over the shop, they would stay even if they were beaten.

However, when things really came to pass, they found that it was difficult. What those men said just now made sense. The shop was owned by someone else, and yet they insisted on staying... It doesn't make sense no matter how hard you try, and they might even end up in jail.

"Mom, what should we do now?" It seemed that there was really no other way but to move out. The old madam was breathing rapidly and covering her chest with her hands, a look of pain on her face. Seeing this, Ge Gen hurriedly poured a glass of water and handed it over: "Mom, don't worry. No matter what happens, it's not as important as your body. I will find a way." The old madam was also too anxious and couldn't breathe.  After drinking the water, she felt a bit better. She slapped her thighs and cried, "Why doesn't Zhang Manyue understand our good intentions?" She howled for a while, then thought of something and grabbed her son's arm: "Let's go and discuss it with her. We'll get the silver from her first, and think of a way to buy back the shop." When they really saw the person in question, especially her relaxed attitude, the mother and son suddenly became angry. However, they had to suppress their anger. The old madam forced a smile and said, "Today, a group of hired muscle came to the shop to make trouble. I heard that it was Master Hu who asked them to do it. Manyue, we are a family. Even if we, mother and son, have wronged you, you should not do things so harshly for the sake of Guangyu and her brother... I am not blaming you, I am just teaching you how to behave as an elder..."

Liu Yuniang glanced at Ge Gen and said, "You are getting old and have low energy. It is better to save these words to say to your future daughter-in-law."

Ge Gen immediately replied, "I have never thought of separating from you." "Bah!" Liu Yuniang spat. She said: "You only have Yan Songyu in your heart and eyes, and you leave me to work hard in your house. Who do you think you are?" Ge Gen was silent for a moment: "I've wronged you." The old madam also said: "Manyue, you misunderstood. We don't mean to blame you." Liu Yuniang looked at the groveling mother and son in front of her and said, "You said so much, do you want to coax me into buying the shop back with my money?" She hit the nail on the head. Both mother and son felt a little uncomfortable when their thoughts were revealed. "Manyue, the incident is already in the past, can you stop making trouble?" Ge Gen stepped forward.  "I admit that I made a mistake this time, and I will change in the future." He murmured, "I just hope, for the sake of our children, you can give me another chance." "If I hadn't sold the shop, you would have a different attitude." Liu Yuniang smirked. "After so many years of living together day and night, I can see clearly what kind of people you and your mother are. If you want my money, it's better just to dream."

The old madam was anxious. "That shop is the ancestral property of our Ge family. If you lend us the money, we will find a way to return it to you in the future..." "I can't lend it to you." Liu Yuniang said lightly before the uneasy eyes of the two. "I have just found a middleman to look at a house and paid a deposit. I will pay the full balance when I get the silver later."

Mother and son: "..." The old madam felt cold all over her body, and her head was spinning just like yesterday when she learned that the shop had been sold. The difference was that, at this moment, Ge Gen was standing next to her, subconsciously supporting his mother. "Mom, don't worry!" Liu Yuniang said leisurely: "Yes, the matter is a foregone conclusion, there's no point in being anxious." Ge Gen: "... ..." It's better not to persuade her? As expected, his mother became increasingly weak and unable to stand at all. He didn't have time to argue with the person in front of him, so he hurriedly helped his mother into the house to sit down, comforting her in a low voice: "Mom, don't worry. It's no big deal to change a house deed. As long as it's still in her name, I won't agree to a divorce. That house  belongs to our family. One day I can coax her and get the shop back."

After hearing this, the old madam gradually calmed down. At that moment, someone knocked on the courtyard door, and the mother and son listened intently to what was going on outside.

"Here they are." "Master Hu is here, let's go now..." This was their daughter-in-law's voice. They heard her ask: "Where is the Li family? I'm too lazy to run back and forth, let's do it together after we get the silver. I feel at ease exchanging a deed for a deed!" The middleman's voice came: "They have a carriage and are waiting outside the Yamen." Seeing that the house deed was about to be exchanged, Ge Gen couldn't sit still and whispered,  "Mom, don't panic. I'll go and keep an eye on things myself, lest she be cheated by others because she has never seen the world." The old madam agreed, "You go quickly." Several people outside got into a carriage and were about to leave. Ge Gen rushed out. "I will accompany you." He said sincerely to Liu Yuniang who poked her head out, "I have been in business for many years and have seen more of the world than you. I will not let you be bullied." Master Hu was full of ridicule: "There is a middleman here, and we are going to the Yamen. Who can we bully?" Ge Gen ignored him and climbed into the carriage on his own. The middleman knew the Ge family, and he thought there was no need to offend anyone for such a small matter, so he did not say anything to drive him away.

Ge Gen breathed a sigh of relief and thought he would have had to find a way to follow them to the Yamen otherwise. Then he realized that something was not right. This wasn't the way to the Yamen. He asked curiously, "You guys are going to pick someone up?" Liu Yuniang said casually, "We're picking up my mother." Ge Gen was surprised. "What is she going to do?" Mother Zhang was illiterate and spent her whole life cooking and washing for people. She was an honest person. If she was asked to do something, she would really just do it and could not help at all. Besides, Mother Zhang had work to do, and if she left for half a day, her wages would be deducted by a lot. No matter how he thought about it, he felt that this matter was quite strange.

Liu Yuniang turned her head and smiled brightly at him. "Because the house is going to be in her name, so of course she has to come!" Ge Gen: "..." In the name of his mother-in-law? Why? He had this thought, so he asked.

Liu Yuniang glanced at him. "I bought the house. I can put it in the name of whoever I want. As long as I'm happy, it's my own business even if I wanted to give it to a stranger. Besides, the house was exchanged for the shop, and the shop was exchanged for the jade pendant. The jade pendant was given to me by my mother. What's wrong with me giving the house to her?"

After thinking about it this way, it seemed to make sense. However, Ge Gen just couldn't accept it. The shop clearly belonged to him, but in the end it became the Zhang family's. If it was under Zhang Manyue's name, he would just keep the person and the house deed. But now it would belong to the Zhang family, so what he was forced to keep... was just a person who was unwilling to do anything and wanted to eat for nothing at home. Furthermore, he had always thought that even if he couldn't keep Manyue and the shop, the property would eventually fall into Guangxing's hands, which was equivalent to it still being in the Ge family. However, Zhang Manyue went against common sense and gave it away.

There were only a handful of married women who could return to their parents' families to share their wealth, and it would never happen to an ordinary family like the Zhangs. In other words, the newly purchased house would have no connection with the Ge family. Ge Gen blurted out: "Are you crazy to give away such a large asset to others?" He looked distressed and said, "Your son and daughter are almost grown up. It's time to spend money on their future. Don't you think about them?" Liu Yuniang said lightly: "I'm fine with it." Ge Gen said: "..." She'd had the idea to put the house in Mother Zhang's name early that morning. Just to cause trouble for the Ge family mother and son. As she expected, the effect was very good. Ge Gen was furious. "I won't allow it!" Liu Yuniang raised her eyebrows and smiled. "That's my personal property. I want to give it away. Why should I care whether you allow it or not?"

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