#I love this duo. I'm willing to talk about them at any given moment

[charles-simmons]

So, here's some of my c!disc duo conclusions, since I've been seeing people talk about it. I have a lot of fun reading people's opinions about this, so, please, feel encouraged to add yours too and/or disagree with me

c!Dream:

-What he did to Tommy was abuse and he did do terrible things in general

-No, he is not an evil mastermind or a psychopath. He's just an asshole, like a lot of people in that server. He did not have half of the control people like to think he did. And I don't think he could even be considered a villain, especially because the dsmp is not black and white, there are multiple sides to everything.

-Prison arc was completely inhumane. He was tortured, desperate for human interaction, and suffering a lot. Nothing justifies the treatment he got.

-The pain he went through during prison does not redeem him.

-His character does not revolve around Tommy, even if they're a huge part of each other's story

c!Tommy:

-He's not completely innocent. He did do terrible things. <- even if it's easier to forgive him because of his age and because of the people around him and the context he was in. I personally think his side is understandable, but it's important to at least acknowledge he did do bad things, regardless of the possible motives

-He knew about Dream being tortured in prison, and not only he didn't do anything about it, but supported the idea <- he was abused by Dream and it's not a surprise he'd act like that. But again, it doesn't change the fact he did y'know. Let's not pretend he didn't do things

-He was a child and not to blame. <- Some people might disagree, but even if he was the one to get himself in trouble a lot of times, I genuinely don't see how you could blame a teenager. Sure, he started a lot of the fights, he caused a lot of problems, he did a lot of bad stuff to a lot of people. And of course there would be consequences to his actions, but I genuinely can't see how someone can say he deserved what he went through. That kid needed supervision, I genuinely believe it's not his fault.

-Just like Dream, he is a very flawed person. Many of his decisions are reckless, selfish, and even just straight up cruel sometimes. He was not an angel, and there were times he was in the wrong. Doesn't mean he doesn't deserve compassion (again, just like Dream).

-When he said sorry to Dream at the finale, it didn't mean he was forgiving him. Tommy was apologizing for the nuke (aka. for killing them) because he had just seen that maybe there was a chance Dream could get better. He apologized bc he was killing a human, someone that had potential of becoming a better person.  

-You can't "make Tommy the victim". He is a victim.

In general:

-They're complex characters, they're not just black and white (it's easier to simplify them into a angel kid that did nothing wrong and a emotionless psycopath that's obssessed with them, but that takes away their whole complexity and it's just not true)

-Quoting tumblr user milktearosethorn (who I have never interacted with in my life but has a opinion I agree with) "They're two soldier on opposite sides, forced to fight when they were both too young. And if it weren't for that, they could've been friends, in a kinder world. That's why the finale is so good" <- I love this bc it's true and I agree.

[badasscoffeemug]

okay, so, i tried to pull as many interviews as i could to see if i could parse what the original plan for bucktommy was (or if there even was any), and subsequently, if there had been a pivot of any kind. now, we are not privy to any bts talk, and storylines are never set in stone, even from when they've been teased or promoted (henchim friction? hello?) but interviews are really all we have to go off of. so, idk, i compiled some quotes, all bolded emphasis is mine.

i kinda got the impression that it really was supposed to be a 4-episode arc for tommy, after which he would gracefully bow out and leave buck a newly realized single bisexual. for some reason, that changed and they chose to keep him around and extend that storyline (gelled rather well in the story? opening the door for potential future storylines?). except then they had them break up anyway, leaving buck in much the same place he would have been had they called it quits in 7x06, only much more heartbroken (essentially wasting over half a season's worth of buck storyline, except he's sadder now, i guess). but, judge for yourself.

march 28, 2024, TM: Showrunner Tim Minear also teased future episodes for Tommy. “He’s going to be around for a little bit. He’s not going to be a member of the 118 again, but he is going to be involved in some stories.”

april 4, 2024, TM: “I was kind of bored with the hamster wheel of the relationships [Buck] had been in. His story needed a slap. It needed some something fresh. This felt like it could be important to some people, and it felt like it was right for the character.”

OS: “I’ve always had in my head that I wanted a partner for Buck to be someone where it wasn’t easy”

TM: “That’s what I like about this. He’s not siloed off into some love interest story with a character who has nothing to do with the main characters.”

Minear noted that Tommy is currently an important romantic partner for Buck, largely because “it’s sort of the entry-level relationship.” Yet at the same time, he noted that he doesn’t think “anybody’s making wedding plans.”

“It really is a first fling for Buck right now. What that might amount to, only time can tell. But what I’m interested in is not something that’s fraught. I’m interested in something that’s tender and positive”

april 4, 2024, OS: “The focus was on it being important, but also not wanting it to feel like the bravest episode in television. We just wanted to tell a lighthearted love story that happens to be a queer love story.”

april 5, 2024, TM: “[what] I don't want to do is the mistake that I think we've made with some of the other love interests, which is siloing those characters off into their love life and they have no kind of organic connection to the rest of the characters in the story. [...] Going with Tommy allowed us to start to play a story without just inventing a whole new character just for the purpose of being the bi character or the gay character or the male love interest for Buck.”

april 12, 2024, TM: “that moment at the end of the episode where he sits down with Tommy and says, “You said I wasn’t ready. I don’t know what I’m ready for, but I’m ready for something. I’m just sure what that is yet.” But he feels safe with Tommy. So even though he doesn’t know exactly what road he’s stepping onto, he’s willing to roll the dice.”

april 12, 2024, LFJ: "So, it happens in phases. My manager said 9-1-1 called, and I was like, 'Cool.' And then he is like, 'All right, well, they called for an arc.' And I'm like, 'Four episodes? Cool.'

"Given the circumstances, we just kissed. There's something there. We go on a date, and then Eddie happens to show up because there's only one restaurant, I guess, in L.A., and I would totally understand if he was nervous and whatnot." (this quote has nothing to do with my point really i just think it's so fucking funny. this entire interview is so messy.)

"I have no idea," he explained when asked what the future could hold for the duo. "If the writers do choose to extend this storyline and make it into its own thing [...] I'm just as excited as you are to find out."

april 12, 2024, OS: "I just hope he continues down that path and I think we will see him opening up more and more, and being louder and prouder about it. I want to tell real stories where not everything is going to be straightforward, but I don’t want the angst or the trauma to be in these kind of negative troupes that we’ve seen before. I want them to have real world problems that couples or people who are first dating have, but I don’t want it to be rooted in outside people being homophobic or anything like that. Those are stories we have seen and we’ve told, and sure, of course, happen in the real world, but I want to tell a happy story between these people and a real story. They have issues and they have things to deal with, but I just want them to be real world, everyday relationship issues."

april 18, 2024, OS: "we want to tell it in an honest way where not everything is going to be easy and carefree. There are going to be issues, but we also don't want it to feel like it's down or too heavy. We want to tell this queer love story in a very honest way, but also in a very loving way."

"Tarlos is a beautiful relationship," Stark says. "I'm just honored to get to tell a story that can kind of partner up with that and maybe continue with a similar thread."

"I really want to see Buck continue to explore what it is that really speaks to him, and what he's into," Stark says. "He's obviously going to continue down this path with Tommy for now. I don't know what that story is going to end up being, but I would really like for Tommy to stay a part of Buck's life, regardless. He's obviously opened this door for him, and I think it would be really nice if [Tommy] was able to continue to hold [Buck's] hand and could help guide him through this process. As somebody who's a little older and more experienced, to kind of help shepherd Buck into this new phase of understanding who he is."

april 23, 2024, OS: “I really enjoy [Lou]. I really enjoy working with him. I think he’s been a great addition to the show, and I look forward to — assuming Tommy sticks around for a while — continuing to develop that relationship with him on-screen and off-screen.”

may 2, 2024, JLH: "I’m really excited for Buck, because I think he’s a person that has never quite settled into who he is. And if this is who he is, it’s beautiful,” Hewitt said. “I was so happy Maddie felt that way, because that’s how I would feel. And I’m really happy that she’s there for him. In Season 8, the actor hopes Maddie gets to “understand what all that means, be in that with [Buck], and get to know Tommy better.”

may 3, 2024, KC: “I think it was the brilliance of [co-creator] Tim [Minear]. Even introducing the storyline of Buck and Tommy, he said, "I don't want it to be this very special episode of 9-1-1. I'm going to make this a f---ing romantic comedy, man. You won't see it coming. It'll come out of left field." And I think that's the same thing he did with the revelation. There's no sit down, there's no big discussion or talk about it. It's what it would be. This guy has found love fina…. Well, I think love finally.”

may 3, 2024, KC: "When I heard about the storyline, I was super excited. And on a selfish note, I'm really happy because they brought Lou Ferrigno Jr. back. We've become really good friends, as he was in "Hen Begins," "Bobby Begins Again," and of course "Chimney Begins," and we formed a tight personal bond. I think he's a terrific actor, and I think this new dynamic brings this newfound energy into that storyline and into the show, and I'm excited to see how it blossoms."

not dated? post-7x06, KC: “It’s one of my favorite scenes,” Choi says. “It’s a reveal for most of the characters that Buck has found a love interest he’s actually interested in. It’s adorable, it’s cute, it’s perfect, and the audience is going to love it.”

OS: Stark likens Buck’s journey to “a hamster wheel”: “He’s been taking one step forward and two steps back, as is quite typical of being in your late 20s and early 30s, trying to find yourself,” the actor explains. “As we’ve moved into this seventh season, he’s found a way to really discover who he wants to be.”

july 8, 2024: 7x09 deleted scene released

september 9, 2024, TM: “They’re still getting to know each other a little better”

september 11, 2024, TM: Minear says not much time has passed between the events of the season 7 finale and the season 8 premiere, so there haven't been many developments in Buck and Tommy's relationship. "But we see that they're more comfortable together," he explains. "We'd definitely call them a couple. Obviously they're comfortable hanging out with Eddie, but when you couple with somebody, it takes up some of your time, so that also leaves Eddie a little bit out in the cold. Well, not out in the cold, but Buck doesn't have as much free time as he did before, let's put it that way." (yeah so, this barely happened?)

september 20, 2024, OS: “We don’t really have too much of a time jump moving into this season, so the relationship with Tommy is much where it was left off,” explains Stark. “It is in its early stages. They’re still learning and figuring things out about each other and what a relationship might or could look like.”

[dk-wren]

I haven't seen anyone talk about this yet, but it's something I caught/thought about while watching ep. 11. (If someone has already pointed this out and provided a more in-depth and eloquent explanation, then my apologies).

This is one of the first times Kazuki is shown fighting with a gun in the main timeline. I might be wrong, but the only other time Kazuki is shown fighting with a gun is in ep. 7's flashback to the night Yuzuko was killed.

Kazuki has been shown handling a gun in promotional art and technically used a gun in the prologue of ep. 1. (While you might disagree, I'm not really counting that moment since, at least for me, it's still unclear as to where the prologue falls into the overall BD timeline and there wasn't much of a fight leading up to Kazuki firing it). With this in mind, ep. 11 is the first time we really see him in action with a gun.

For one thing, as Rei talks about in this episode, Kazuki is the "brains" of the duo. So, when they work together, Kazuki does most of the recon, scouting, and distracting (Exp: their assigment from ep. 2 or Rei mentioning how the scout missions Kyu gave them in ep. 5 matches more with Kazuki's typical work). Since this series has more or less revolved around Kazuki and Rei as a team, we've only really seen Kazuki on missions with Rei, who is likely the better-trained or more accurate shooter/gunsman. Therefore, Kazuki takes on the more info gatherer role. Also, as an assassin, I highly doubt Kazuki is that inept at using a gun. Instead, he's just normally not in a role that requires him to use one.

I like to think Kazuki hasn't used or fought with a gun since Yuzuko's death. This could potentially be because he links her death to the necessity of fighting with a gun or after her death, Kyu did not believe Kazuki was mentally in a space to handle a gun or a mission that might require him to use one. Or perhaps, Kazuki was always more interested in and better at his scouting assignments, so once he was paired with Rei, he no longer felt the need to have to continue fighting in this way (or refusing missions that required him to use a gun).

Regardless, I think it would be so interesting that Kazuki's concern over Miri's safety is what pulls him out of this fear or refusal to fight with a gun. Someone, or rather Ogino (again), is threatening his family, so Kazuki's gonna do whatever it takes to protect them.

Given his line of work, I think Kazuki has a deep understanding of how guns can destroy and can protect. In Yuzuko's case, Kazuki witnessed the destructive and deadly side of the gun. After spending years reflecting on this, and recently giving himself the permission to change as a person, when it comes to Miri and Misaki, Kazuki now understands how he can use this weapon of death to protect the ones he loves. Yes, it is still a bringer of death, but this time Kazuki is gonna try everything in his power to not allow it to be for his family.

While Misaki did not survive, Kazuki was able to protect Miri. I don't think "inspired" is the right word, but something about Miri being in life-threatening danger is what caused Kazuki to just rush into the Unasaka's apartment, ready to fight whoever was threatening his little Miri. Kazuki fighting in a way that is unlike his normal style on assignments and being so willing to run into battle with little preparation was just one of the many things that stuck out to me from this episode. Essentially, Miri was in danger and Kazuki was gonna stop at nothing to protect her, perhaps that's why he opted for a gun this time. Kazuki was gonna use the weapon he associates and has first hand experience with, in terms of its ability to cause death, to take out any threat that would try to harm Miri.

[inkblackorchid]

For the most part, I'm perfectly okay with how this duel plays out, tbh. Misty is an excellent opponent for Aki, her mirror maze field spell is a good set piece for the whole "you killed my brother; look your own cruelty in the eyes"-angle, Aki getting to duel with zero restraint for a bit is kinda cool, and even the fact that Divine shows up again out of nowhere is fine because his exit from the narrative would have otherwise been dreadfully boring for such a compelling, minor antagonist, to say the least. (Though I do wish they'd bothered explaining how the hell he survived the Arcadia building's collapse. My personal hc is that he saved himself with his psychic powers somehow.) And the whole mind control thing, as vague as it is in canon, at least really hammers home that Divine's despicable and that Aki's better off without him. (Arguably, a version of this duel without Aki being mind-controlled at all could have been interesting, but tbh I think that would have needed to be set up a little differently. But I'm not here to talk about that.)

There is one thing I absolutely would have changed, though, and it's precisely the scene above. Like, don't get me wrong, I love Yusei, he's a great protagonist and I could never be mad at him for saving the day. But the mind control bit is one thing where I wish it hadn't been him who'd broken it. I'm fine with him exposing Divine in front of Misty, that scene delivers some really good comeuppance and showcases yet again how good Yusei is at coming up with plans and executing them quickly; it's a smart move from a smart guy and feels earned. (And I love his dumb grin when he says "my duel disk is home-made". Bastard (affectionate).) However, I wish they'd let Aki snap out of the mind control on her own before Divine gets gobbled up by Ccarayhua. I can guess why they didn't do that—Yusei's the protagonist, after all, and this is still primarily his show. (And arguably Jack's, but that's basically the standard modus operandi for yugioh protag/rival duos anyway.) So of course he gets to save the day here, because he's already been established as the guy who was willing to be in Aki's corner even back when she was still willfully trying to hurt people at this point, too. So I get it.

But still.

Especially in light of how Aki gets sidelined once this arc ends, it would have been nice if they'd at least let her leave her spot in the limelight with a flourish. Her relationship to Divine and the Arcadia Movement are never explored again past this point, anyway, save for a few throwaway remarks that tell us basically nothing about how Aki worked through all that. So why not give her this? In light of her circumstances, it made sense that she was happy to see Divine had survived at first during this duel, but why not let the mind control thing be the moment where she realises just how much of a horrible person he is? Let her realise that he's willing to go as far as overriding her free will entirely just to use her for his cruel purposes, and let that be the moment she finally breaks free of him on her own, without anyone telling her Divine and Arcadia are bad (no matter how well-intentioned those people are). If they couldn't give us any follow-up whatsoever about how Aki dealt with being back home, with having been a part of a cult for a while, and with realising that her former mentor/protector was a genuinely horrid human being, they could have at least given us this tiny moment where Aki broke free by herself. As much as I love Yusei, I just think they should have let Aki save herself here. It could have been such a powerful moment to see her shake herself out of that control, unwilling to hurt Misty, who's grief she felt sorry for, and most of all, unwilling to hurt or let her new friends be hurt.

So yeah. Good duel, massive missed opportunity imo.

[seeing-you-differently]

Favorite Top Ships ⇢ The Vampire Diaries

#5. Damon/Bonnie

Three Reasons I Ship Bamon

#1. Enemies to Friends to Lovers Trope.

This trope holds a lot of development and is usually a slow burn over many seasons. When they first meet, they dislike or even hate the other. Later though, something happens, the two supposed enemies work together out of necessity and grow closer to one another.

They become close friends after this occurrence, willing to risk their lives for one another. The thing that makes this ship unique and so meaningful, in my opinion, is the moment where they chose to save their friend over a family member or loved one.

Yes, Damon and Bonnie were never lovers or had a romantic relationship of any kind but that doesn't mean I don't see the possibilities the two would have held for each other and how they would have had a great dynamic.

#2 Why Bamon over Delena?

While I have nothing against Damon and Elena together, I always thought that Damon had to live up to this perfect image Elena had of him in her head. With Bonnie, she already knew who he was and didn't make him live up to this image because she saw him for who he was, making him want to be a better person for her.

In his letter, he wrote, "I should be saying this to your face, not writing this letter, but I know if I do, you'll talk me out of running from all my problems." Damon has always been an impulsive person, relying on his heart and emotions to guide him, so he knew if he went to Bonnie, she would be able to talk him out of it and convince him to find another way.

He continues saying, "You're going to make me face a future without Elena. Then you're gonna help make me the best man that I can possibly be. The same way she did. And I'm absolutely terrified of failing you both. So I'm leaving. Because I'd rather let you down once than let you down for the rest of your life." Damon loved Elena, but he couldn't deny that Bonnie made him want to be a better person, just as Elena did. He cared for Bonnie and was afraid that if he stayed, he would only let her down.

#3 Dynamic Over The Seasons

Long before Bonnie meets Damon, she already hated him and formulated her own opinion of him. She cared deeply about Caroline since they were friends, and knowing what he had done to her only strengthened her resolve of hatred towards him.

The first time the two interact ends badly, which is to be expected. Bonnie makes her hatred for him clear and denies giving him the necklace. Damon doesn't like her either since he has always been used to getting what he wants since he became a vampire.

In season two, the duo finally becomes allies, although begrudgingly, to save Elena, leading them into a, albeit slow, growing friendship, which is shown when Damon refuses to leave Bonnie at the island in season four searching for her. When they find each other, they share their first hug.

The best moment that many people believed they shared was in season six, when they were trapped in the prison world. The two of them had to rely on each other, being the only people around, and begin opening up to one another and becoming close friends, depending on each other.

When they found a way out of the prison world, Bonnie gave it up, choosing to save Damon and leave herself stranded with Kai. Damon was, of course, distraught over this and wanted to find her, always having hope she was alive.

The reuniting was a sweet moment. Out of all the people Bonnie chose to see first when she came back, she chose Damon. She decided to make pancakes, something he made for her when they were in the prison world. When Damon saw her, he was in disbelief, and the two shared a big hug, happy to see the other finally.

When Elena is trapped in a supernatural coma, Damon is given a chance to get her back when Bonnie gets severely injured. The choice he made, though, was to save her, something he wouldn't have done before in an earlier season, even if it meant he would not see Elena.

Damon has always been an impulsive person, so it wasn't that surprising when he chose to desiccate until Elena woke up. He had everything planned out the goodbye and all the letters, but the thing he didn't count on was Bonnie coming and waking him up.

After this, their friendship was rocky. Bonnie was hurt with Damon leaving her without saying goodbye and only leaving her a letter, something she did not read. It was only when she later became the huntress that she forgave him. When she was attacking him, he realized he would not kill his friend and chose to tell her how much he admires and cares for her.

The two don't share many big moments after this and hold a strong and close relationship the rest of the season. The relationship the two had held many bumps, and it felt realistic. They were enemies, allies, then becoming friends, bonding in the prison world. The two chose one another over themselves and others and held a relationship many would hope to have.

Someone honest. Someone who doesn't make you become a better person but instead helps you, who makes you want to be one for them. They are the one person who you can rely on when you need help. Even if they annoy you almost all the time, you're okay with being with them forever.

[oneboxofmatches]

I hope it's okay to ask for a HP romantic and friend matchup from the golden trio era and possibly romantic for marauders (please don't feel like you have to do the marauders one too if it's too much. I definitely don't want to stress you).

My pronouns are she/her and my romantic preference would be for a guy. I'm 5'4 and my style usually lingers somewhere between feminine, preppy, and "basic". I do think it's important to put at least some level of effort into my appearance.

My HP house is Ravenclaw (second highest Slytherin) and my enneagram is 1w2 (with 3 as a very close second top number)

I'm a super hardworking and ambitious person (sometimes at the expense of my own mental health and wellness). It's important to me to be able to work towards my goals and be with someone who has goals of their own. I'd get frustrated by someone who never knows when to take things seriously. I have a tendency to stress myself out sometimes and often let my stress bottle up. Cleaning/organizing and baking always help me feel centered and reduce my stress when I feel like I'm freaking out a bit. I tend to also be a little bit of a control freak on occasion in everyday life.

I can be a bit reserved when it comes to meeting new people, but when I'm around my close friends and family, I'm more open and talkative. I don't feel the need to force conversation though and can enjoy time around people just by doing our own thing next to each other and relaxing in each other's company. My friends and family are really important to me and I always try to be reliable and there for them whenever they need support.

When it comes to hobbies, I enjoy reading, watching tv/movies, cross stitch, and shopping. I used to be on a dance drill team and have continued doing yoga to keep up my flexibility because it helps me feel healthy. My favorite genres in books, movies, tv shows, etc. are romance and mystery, but I especially love when something has a big plot twist or is really thought provoking so that I can discuss it with someone I know. I also tend to be a romantic. I'm not really an outdoorsy person though and don't enjoy things like camping and hiking a ton.

When it comes to my idea of a perfect date it would probably be something pretty classic like going out to a nice dinner. I do enjoy getting dressed up and doing something fancy. Though, I'd also enjoy something like going to a carnival or festival together and just enjoying each other's company for a day. The most important thing is just spending time and connecting with the person I care about. My love languages are quality time and physical touch. It's simple, but I think it's super sweet just walking down the street and holding hands with someone. I also think it's nice when someone is taller than me so I can lean my head on their arm or shoulder while we stand next to each other (this sounds cheesy haha).

Goodness this came out so long, but I hope it's okay. Thanks so much for doing this!

This was amazing and no problem at all, thank you for requesting and I hope you enjoy!!

In the Golden Trio era, I romantically pair you with…

CEDRIC DIGGORY

You value hard work. Cedric is by no means a stranger to hard work. Getting paired together for a project is the most likely way you two realized just how much you can accomplish together.

While Cedric realizes the importance of his schooling and the high piles of work that come with it, he also recognizes that maintaining a balance between “work” and “play” is the secret to a healthy, manageable life. He admires your work ethic (and supports your goals 100%), but he’s also the first to advise taking a step back when the world starts asking too much of you.

It’s because Cedric has the utmost respect for you that he doesn’t just outright dismiss your outbursts that occur whenever he’s attempting to get you to relax for a moment. He makes sure you know that he finds both the work you’re doing as well as your mental health important, and all he wants to do is help you find that middle ground where you don’t have to sacrifice either one.

Learning that you already have ways to cope with stress (cleaning, organizing, baking) eases his mind, and he even uses this information to his benefit. He knows that suggesting one of these activities as an alternative to partaking in any stressful work environment you’ve found yourself in betters the chances of you taking a well-deserved break.

Aside from actual dates, it’s these little breaks where the two of you spend the most quality time together. In terms of conversation, things can range from talking lightly about your days, taking on a vulnerable tone for more personal topics, or even just a silence that sits comfortably between you while you work.

Also, it’s almost surprising how much Cedric loves watching mystery TV shows and movies with you. It’s not necessarily something he would’ve found himself doing otherwise, but he loves having someone to share the massive surprise that comes with a major plot twist. After the screen goes dark, you two can find yourselves discussing what you just watched for hours without growing bored.

As for the traditional dates, you can bet that Cedric is up for both dressing up for a nice restaurant or taking the more casual route by going to a carnival. The variety not only keeps your relationship interesting, but it proves that the location really doesn’t matter -- you enjoy yourselves and feel just as strongly for each other no matter what.

Overall, the mutual respect and dedication between you and Cedric create the ultimate power couple dynamic. Alone you can accomplish many things, but together the possibilities are endless. But at the end of a long day, it becomes clear that having each other is all that really matters.

As a friend, I think you’d best be matched with…

DRACO MALFOY

Don’t be fooled. Before this friendship was anywhere near friendly, you and Draco made up one of the most competitive duos Hogwarts has ever seen. Your high work ethic and his constant need to be recognized as a great wizard clashed, and Draco was found applying himself to his work like he never had before.

It probably took you two being forced to work together to realize you (surprise!!!) actually make a pretty good team.

The sudden burst of motivation Draco found while competing against you stays after you become friends, and you’re the one who teaches him how to use this newfound ethic more efficiently. He recognizes that you taking a break from your own work to give him these helpful pointers is a big deal, and though he doesn’t say it, he’s grateful.

Whenever he isn’t off trying to impress someone or make sure his name remains respected, he’s often in the library with you, working away. You don’t talk much, though the question “How are things?” serves as a solid conversation started for the times when the work you’re doing doesn’t need to be rushed.

You both come to find that you value the other’s opinion on many things. Both schoolwork and social matters are things you bring up with the other, and advice-giving (yes, Draco can give advice when he feels like it) becomes a common theme.

Support becomes a key part of your friendship. Draco makes sure you take care of yourself and you make sure he knows he’s more than just his last name. Rumors of his family’s involvement in certain affairs aren’t exactly rare, and while you don’t force him to open up, you make a point to remind him time after time that he has the power to choose his own destiny.

And when he does finally open up to you in private, your opinion of him doesn’t change in the slightest. You reassure him of this, explaining that whatever he needs, you’re there for him. You realize you can’t do much to change his situation, but you know that simply being a loyal friend through all this might be just what he needs.

Overall, you and Draco hold each other in very high regard, and though you bring different perspectives to the table, you realize you’re willing to help each other in any way you can.

In the Marauders era, I romantically pair you with…

REMUS LUPIN

Remus understands you find his friends annoying. He finds them annoying. But seeing you sit through one of their worst hyperactive, downright ridiculous episodes just so you could spend time with him while knowing you can get fed up with people who have a hard time taking anything seriously demonstrated that you were committed to your relationship and were willing to accommodate whoever he hung out with.

As someone who outworks over ¾ the school, Remus is a master at recognizing the early stages of burnout. Whenever he sees it in you, he’ll take on a softer tone and gently ask if you’d like to direct your attention elsewhere for a while and return to work at a later time.

You often work in the same room as each other, taking solace in the gentle quiet you two can find if you get lucky enough to find such a spot. While you both enjoy the peaceful, intimate conversations that usually come at the end of a long day, you are also content with saving that for later and using the time at hand to focus on schooling.

The complexity of your conversations (whether it be about the latest book you both read, a recent assignment from a shared class, or one of life’s mysteries) is much higher than that of the average couple. With the level of thought you two are already capable of, you challenge each other by exploring new ways of thinking together.

Remus can be quite the romantic when he wants to be. Respectful, yet simple gestures (such as opening a door for you) are a given, but he also loves little signs of affection such as holding your hand as you walk through Hogsmeade. He revels in the feeling of being close to you, and don’t be surprised if he gives your hand a gentle squeeze once in a while.

Overall, not only do you and Remus unlock new levels of thought and productivity, but you also have a pure, sweet love for each other that is timeless.

[fangurk]

Hi there! Can I get a ship please?

I'm a straight female, I'm 5'9 and I have long wavy black hair and brown eyes. I'm a ravenclaw and a Taurus, my mbti is infp and my enneagram is 4w3.

It takes me a while to feel comfortable around new people but once I do I get really talkative and outgoing. I love reading, my favorite genres are fantasy and poetry. I also enjoy psychology, history and fashion. I adore adventures, witty and playful banter, joking around and having discussions on different topics. I daydream quite a bit and I'm a hopeless romantic.

I love helping out and people come to me to vent or for advice and comfort. I also love learning about new things. I can be quite dramatic and stubborn and I tend to be withdrawn at times. I get frustrated easily and I'm quietly competitive.

Could I please get both platonic and romantic ships? Any group is okay for the platonic one and I'd prefer a werewolf or a vampire for the romantic one.

Thank you very much, I hope you have a great day 💜

No problem! I hope you have a good day too! I also hope you enjoy this!!

Platonically I Ship You With... Angela Weber!!

-> she’s probably one of the first people you befriended because she wouldn’t try to force you to talk to her and thus would allow you to get comfortable; simply sitting at the same table at lunch would slowly become walking/driving each other home and hanging out on fridays.

-> you’re talkative and outgoing after a while? good. everybody loves a quiet and not duo.

-> you guys have “girl days” in the library, churning through books like they’re going to stop making them, or in port angeles trying on the silly, over expensive dresses you find; she totally asks you for a second opinion on every article of clothing she wants to buy.

-> i don’t know how much witty banter you’ll get out of her, but she’s totally there for in depth conversations. want to debate the existence of aliens at three a.m.? she’d probably be down.

“I mean they did find water on Mars...”

-> she’s got a stockpile of sappy romance movies you guys can watch together and she’s got a well drafted plan to confess her feelings to ben/eric.

-> it’s good that you love learning new things because I feel like she’s got a bunch of weird interests- like bugs- and she’s ready to talk about them whenever she sees them.

-> between bella and jessica, it’s needless to say your friend group is a little hectic. you’re both the therapist friends for everyone, but, when it comes to each other, she’s always willing to lend you a shoulder to cry on and a listening ear (just like you are willing to do the same for her.)...

Romantically I Ship You With... Embry Call!!

-> you want witty and playful banter? boy does embry got you covered. theres a million jokes running through his mind at any given moment, much to the annoyance of the rest of the pack, and he’s ready to tell them!

-> he’ll gladly take you on adventures, hiking to the most random spots on the res that he finds while on patrol.

-> he finds it cute when you get all lost in thought and start daydreaming. if he can help it, he won’t bother you for a bit— just appreciating the dreamy, far off look on your face.

-> having to lie to his mom all the time and having to protect people at his age is really affecting him, and he really appreciates it when you welcome him with open arms. (sometimes he feels bad for coming to you with all his problems, but all he needs is a bit of reassurance.)

“...I’m sorry about all of this.”

“No, no. Keep going, it’s okay.”

-> even if he’s goofy, he’s still got a really chill disposition. which is good, because it balances out your dramatic flair and your stubbornness really well.

-> he’ll just take books from your shelves sometimes and skim through them with the most confused look on his face; he probably likes the fantasy books a lot, but the psychology?? good luck explaining freud to him without a lot of laughter and/or disgust.

-> i truly believe that he’s also a hopeless romantic and he seriously loves date nights, going all out in the best way possible. rose petals? check. candle light? check. picnics? check.

[suchalilyofthevalley]

I think you raised a lot of good points with how they're going to market both S and C moving forward...I have my own opinion on this "relationship" but regardless I've been surprised they've been promoted as a duo so much? i actually felt sorry for C that her album promo wasn't about her album. and i'm interested to see what shawn's major interview will be like. if it's a fluffy relationship piece i think it will do more harm than good. (part 1)

Also I think his foundation should have launched with an interview not necessarily for his fanbase but to attract corporate partnerships? Would like your thoughts on that and the foundation in general. I just feel like he was on an upward trajectory and that it may have stalled because of the current positioning, but I don't have any figures to back it up, it's just my impression. I do think some new advisors on his team could elevate him though.(part 2)

::cracks knuckles::

First off THANK YOU SO MUCH for an ask like this. It’s very well thought out/well written and it lets me go into what I LOVE about my job/PR - the build and strategy/positioning in regards to media. 

Before I do - the part about the next big interview for him: fan hat off, PR hat on. It NEEDS to be about him, about music, about what’s next. All fandom and mass pop has seen since last summer has been the THEM of it all. Most folks that know him or support him, are there for him and his music. not his relationship. These are the folks that are going to buy albums, concert tickets, merch, stream, tune into interviews, etc. They’re the ones that keep the engines fueled and the lights on. It sometimes feels like that’s forgotten about in the mix of everything. 

The massive Billboard article that dropped about the success of Shawn Mendes: The Tour at the end of January didn’t even get the love and push it should have. This was massive news and it like didn’t even get acknowledged in any way, even industry facing.

This has to/needs to be a legit interview. Not a 5 question curated thing that shows up in like PopSugar or InStyle or online video only with like BuzzFeed. And honestly, after the success of SM3/SMTT - it should be something that elevates his profile. He’s done some of the big ones in Variety, Billboard, Rolling Stone. Which all awesome. But time to build and keep moving forward and upward. 

This next big moment - it NEEDS to go next level to hit wider, more mature more male and female mass pop. My thoughts? Depending on what they’ve actually got to talk about - Vanity Fair or Vogue are both a bit a reach but that would be EPIC goals - especially if there’s something of substance to talk about and he’s willing to be open. More realistic? GQ, Esquire, Interview Mag, even Hollywood Reporter but that skews a little more industry. I don’t trust EW to have enough of a deft hand to handle what really needs to be done, it would be too floof and veering tabloidy for that next meaty piece. 

Total aside - the fact the team hasn’t pitched him for like Men’s Health/Men’s Journal yet BOGGLES considering some of the other folks that have been able to snag covers. To me? No BRAINER to have pitched that at album release or before the tour to talk and dive into his regiment and how he gets into shape to take on a tour/shows. 

For the foundation - there was absolutely Z E R O marketing/pr thought or strategy put out on it or towards it. This launched in the lead up to what was the biggest moment of the tour, his hometown stadium show in Toronto. They basically launched it and was like yeah it’s a thing here’s a sizzle video and some pretty graphics ok donate to us byeeeeee. 

No friends. No. 

You needed to LAUNCH this thing, really and truly. Not only for the general awareness, but like you said dear anon, for the corporate philanthropy of it. Your partners are tour folks who probably got looped in on the tour deal. So what’s happening now? Who else is backing this? How much have you ponied in to start this? What else have you been doing for it? What are your fundraising drivers other than soliciting to fan base and having a donate button on your website? What’s your ethos and mission statement? 

They’re under the umbrella of the Social Impact Fund for the States and Internationally to manage the financials/donation platform website, who also manages the charities/foundations from wii.i.am and Bradley Cooper. Which yay good legit and folks. So that means they’re using THAT team to do a lot of the heavy lifting on the back end with distribution, their charitable status, etc. I know I’ve heard noise/chatter on here before that folks think this is a sham, it’s a tax break/shelter, it’s not legit. The fund they’re using is a fully registered 501(c)(3) here in the States which means they’ve got folks they’ll need to answer to with legit breakdowns of how funding is being used, etc. Folks being the IRS. It looks like they’re under the Sick Kids Foundation/Sick Kids Charitable Fund with donating in Canada. So what this all means is that they’ve got the framework of the foundation without having to do the lift and say have an Exec Director on their staff managing everything.

However, they’re slow to the kick on everything the fan base says is important OR that he’s said is important/has backed before. It took a good beat to answer on the Australia wildfires and we’ve seen more recently with the COVID-19 response. There needs to be true thoughts and efforts put in, against and behind this. The fact that “our impact” on the website is literally links to Instagram posts? It would be a good idea to flesh that out a little bit more. Same with the partners they support - say what programs of theirs you’re giving to, what it’s going towards/for. 

Given this kicked off in Canada around this show, like Macleans would have been a good interview, CBC/CTV or given it’s his hometown show was coming up, the Toronto Star or even go national with the Globe & Mail. It would have been a no brainer to do something with a Billboard for this, loop it in with talking about the show. Even better if you want to go after the double whammy of mass pop and corporate that would span across borders? Forbes. I know the music guys there and that would have been AMAZING. There was so much that could have been done and there just...wasn’t. Which is sad. This could be something and it’s just like a thing that’s there. 

Coming off the album drop, the positive reviews, the blast through of shows/ticket sales followed by the actual tour success? Major positive forward motion and it feels like it’s stalled or backslid. I am all for him taking a beat to breathe and a break, but he shouldn’t do it at the detriment or demolition of everything he’s worked to build. He’s at a serious turning point. It’s also not out of the ordinary for artists to outgrow their teams or change teams. I know I’ve mentioned it before. It’s going to be interesting to see what he and the team, this one now or otherwise, do next all around.

[square-enix-headcanons]

(pt. 1) Heya, I was wondering if I could get a match-up (for KH)? I'm a bi female (slight preference to guys) with super long brown curly hair, and grey-brown eyes. I value each sides of arguments in every situation, value the facts over the emotions, and willing to do anything at least once. I currently play french horn, singing, cross fit, gaming (anything shooter and I'm a deadeye), and thrill seeking such as skydiving, rollercoasters, etc. I've had some bad relationships in the past, which-

Sure thing^^ (Since you didn’t specify, I’ll assume you wanted a romantic matchup and that you’re an adult. If you wanted a platonic one, too, send me another ask and I’ll do that as well!)

*drumroll*

You get... Invi!

The easy parts first, now you’re a mom friend duo (Someone has to wrestle the other foretellers after all). She doesn’t have much experience when it comes to cooking, but she’s wanted to try it out for a while and would love to help you, if you accept her help.

She also tries to keep all sides of any given argument in mind, though there are occasions when she is already too convinced that she’s in the right, just like there are moments when she seems a little too sure that she is right. However, if you point it out to her, she will apologize and re-think very quickly, and those moments are rather few.

She’s willing to try out things like skydiving and roller coasters, but can’t really get behind them. Still, she knows you enjoy them, so she might still surprise you with tickets for some new thrilling adventure on special occasions; just, those tickets will be for you and a friend rather than you and her. Long talks about philosophy though? Sign her up! When she hears you talk about it, she’ll take an interest in Wicca and ask you to tell her more.

The first time you visit her, she’s a little worried whether you’ll be scared of her snakes. Of course, snakes aren’t bugs, but they do look vaguely similar to some insects like centipedes or worms (Which aren’t bugs, either, but many people do put them in the same category). If you like her pets, though, she’ll be really excited! She can tell you a lot about snakes in general and her snakes in particular if you want to hear it.

The one thing you really won’t have to worry about with Invi is her ending up rude or disrespectful. She might come off as cold or distant at times, but never impolite. She’d also be willing to give you all the time you need if you feel hesitant, and would never try to pressure you into deciding for or against a relationship before you feel ready.

Ava and Gula probably like to sneakily take some cute couple pictures when the two of you aren’t looking, and send them to you later.

I hope you’re satisfied with your matchup!♥

[sailorspazz]

This chapter had me screaming for real (for good reasons this time, unlike some other recent chapters lol). Mostly for that beautiful ending shot, but there was other great stuff, too!

We find out Norman way undersold his history with Max when he merely told us that Max hit on him once at a party once, like that seems to be only a very small part of it?? It goes all the way back to baby sadist Norman riding him around like a horse, and then some other horsey play happening when Norman was a budding alcoholic at age 15, and they were both at ages that would raise a few eyebrows (I would love to see the full story of that second time Max mentions, but Norman cuts him off, so we don't know exactly what shenanigans went on that time lol). They're truly a fascinating duo, and I'm rooting for them to play another game of horsey, this time without clothes and with some S&M thrown in heh heh...though I said before I wasn't sure who would be the top since they both either have actually bottomed or said they will bottom, I think Max is the top now with that panel of him supporting Norman. Maybe because he could tell Sugiki is an uber top he was willing to offer himself, but he also bragged about his ass virginity, so he's only a bottom in theory not practice lol. At first I think I only liked the idea of this pairing because it would keep them away from the Shinyas, but now I'm rooting for these problematic men to find happiness together.

10 Dance sure knows how to bring up things you wouldn't expect to see in a BL romance sports series lol. We had the mention of bestiality happening at Max's party, straight incest with Norman's love for his sister, and now we can add decapitations and Nazis. Dance sure is an extreme sport to warrant these comparisons lol.

I do wonder how the conversations will go following this competition about how to make Suzuki not dance like a monster. Will the talks stay within each coaching arrangement, as in Norman talks to Suzuki and Gabriel talks to Sugiki, and they each figure some things out separately? Surely if Gabriel brings up the anchor thing, Sugiki would know that refers to him, and Norman knows Suzuki is missing something important and also figured out the Shinyas are in love, but would pointing that out be in his best interest if he doesn't want to lose his sleepover buddy? (that's why he just needs to get with Max lol). It's clear they both need each other, but the question comes down to who realizes that and if that information is shared.

I was just floored by the beauty of that last 2-page spread. Just makes me so giddy to see them, after months in-story and literal years in real life, finally back in each other's arms. The yearning just spills off the page, as these two idiots who missed each other terribly get their incredible reunion moment. They look to be going in for a kiss, so hopefully we actually see their lips touch next time for the first makeout we've gotten in checks notes three years. And hopefully they have a nice long talk too, though given their past history of kissing impulsively and not discussing it, who knows lol...also would probably have to wait until they have more time and privacy, so maybe they'll sneak away from the after party? In any case, I'm so happy we at least got a big moment like this, I hoped that them being in the same building would result in some kind of reunion, but also didn't want to disappoint myself in case it didn't happen. I kept harping on Inoue's message on the New Year's picture that said she wanted to make them happy this year, and it may actually finally be happening! I know this doesn't promise anything as grand as them deciding to become an actual couple, but I'm cautiously optimistic, and eager to see where the next chapter takes us!

10 Dance - chapter 39, part 5 summary

During the final round of the Japan International Dance Competition, the crowd continues to be both riled up and adversely affected by Suzuki’s performance. Gabriel and Norman each wonder about what could be missing from his life that would cause him to perform this way. Then, after the competition concludes, a long-awaited reunion occurs backstage.

Full summary and highlight images under the cut.

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