#I bet she’s skating to at least one of the OPs!

[sundove88]

Countdown to Christmas- Day 13- Bulma @spinomaster17 and @thunder-jolt

Day 13 has everyone’s fave blue haired Dragon Ball hunting scientist, Bulma! She’s taking to the ice in a brand new costume she just bought.

I decided to make it glittery and purple because why not?

Also, it’s literally the season for ice skating- so don’t be shy and get out on the ice!

[disney-rapunzel-merida-vanellope]

- a movie i watched often as a very little child but not as much as Snow White or specially dumbo

- idc if you’re from 1940 or 2940, this movie is a must in everyone’s “movies to watch before dying” list. It’s THE coming of age movie

- Bambi and thumper are so freaking cute fvhjrtiuhriuhrekbjhroijrklhgiotuhgkjnrgjkehtutkljkrgueyio4krheyihoi5hi

- disney really had boy characters with eyelashes calling each other “pretty flower” omg so cute

- the ice skating scene is so iconic ugh i love their friendship so much

- do you think parent in 1940 went along with their kids to the cinema thinking “a cute deer disney movie” and left there being consoled by their own children?

- i know she dies, but it hits everytime. Why disney why

- the only things that makes me wanna have kids is young parents on tiktok being cute with their toddlers and disney movies cause i would make marathons of disney and overall animated content with my baby all day yup yup, THE ONLY REASONS so maybe I’m not fit to be mother 😭

- the spring makes couples horny apparently. I’m the owl

- really like the owl’s explanation of falling in love because, besides being funny af, he doesnt gender anything, he only mentions falling for a “pretty face” (at least in the Portuguese dub)

- i love thumper’s girlfriend. Everyone else’s gf looks exactly like their male counterparts but the bunny girl wears her bunny blush and eyeshadow shes fabulous

- animes are known for their in the clouds ops but disney loves having their characters dancing in the could too kkkkk

- love the disney scenes where they change the art style or art direction. The fight was so dramatic and fast in the best way

- their love moment scene after reminds me so much of can you feel the love tonight

- this ending scene is so devastating. That poor birdy girl 😭 Men dont even appear at that makes it always more scary. I always forget Bambi gets shot. And the fire nooooooooo. Forest animals life’s must be so hard. Men always hunting, expanding or causing fires there

- flower named his son BAMBI 😭😭😭 after his first love yup yup

- dont know numbers, but i bet 98% of Portuguese people dont know the Portuguese world for deer. Never heard anyone say it, its always Bambi 😂 same for Nemo but i think people do know its called clown fish. What i do 100% know is that 100% of the population doesnt know dory’s species so its just dory 😂

- really like this movie. Bambi and dumbo are my faves from the golden era. Probably nostalgia but also cause i love how cute disney would draw animals back then

- honestly dont know which golden era movie id consider the best (not my personal fave) one. They are all so strong, iconic and different. Definitely deserves the name gold. Disney really started with a bang

- i find it so fascinating how japan, a country with such a strong media culture, still loves disney. They really go nuts for it specially the cute animals. I’m in love with heir appreciation for it. And the merch they make is so cute 😭

[takerfoxx]

Part three of the WN crew watches the Rebellion Story, this time stretching from the Mami in a towel scene to the sun rising after the battle with Hitomi's Nightmare.

Yes, this is the one with the Cake Song.

Reminder:

G=Gretchen

H=Homulilly

Op=Ophelia

Ok=Oktavia

Ca=Candeloro/Mami

Ch=Charlotte

...

Ca: Um.

Ch: UM!

G: Wow.

Ok: Oh, ho, ho! Hey, Candy! We interrupting something private here?

Ca: Oh, for Heaven’s sake.

Op, whistling: So…whaddya wanna talk about first?

Ch: Me! We’re talking about me! We’re getting this straightened out right now!

H: Are we even sure that’s you?

Ch: YES!

Ca: It’s her. That was her witch form.

Ch: SEE?! I KNEW IT!

G: I thought I got rid of all the witches.

Ok: Guess you missed one. And…Candeloro adopted it?

Ch: I AM NOT AN IT!

Ok: Sorry! Sheesh.

Op: Charly, chill. She didn’t mean it like that.

Ch: Ugh, I know, I know! Sorry. It’s just…What the hell?

Ca: I don’t know. I really don’t know.

Ch: So. Lemme get this straight. If for whatever reason we did not witch out and die when we did, Gretchen would’ve gone on to erase all witches from history…

G: I still don’t get it.

Ch: Except for ME, apparently! But we’re still magical girls fighting demented flying teddy bears that spawn when teenagers start angsting. And I’m just…hanging out. As a witch. Which is Candeloro’s pet for some reason? DO I HAVE THAT RIGHT?!

Op: Looks like.

Ok: You also still seem to have that thing for cheese.

Ch: Oh, great. AT LEAST THAT’S STILL AROUND! EVERYTHING MUST BE PERFECTLY NORMAL THAN!

H: Also, Kyubey is there, but seems to have lost his voice.

Ca: It’s an improvement.

Ch: Seriously, what the HELL is going on?!

Op: Do you need to take a break?

Ch: I…No, I’ll be…I’ll be fine. This is just weirding me out.

=long pause=

Ok: So, hey, Candy. About that towel…

Ca: Oh, I knew you were going to bring that up.

Op: Looks like you’ve been relegated to being Ms. Fanservice.

Ch: Just…Just hit Play. Maybe it’ll give us an explanation.

Ok: Okay…

=hits play=

G: Is this a bad time to point out that hairstyle actually looks really good?

Ca: It did get me a lot of attention. Of course, having magic made it much easier to maintain.

Op: I guess that’s why we look so fresh all of the time.

Ch: Great. On top of everything else I am also apparently an idiot that eats inanimate objects.

H: Wait. Nightmare? Is that what the teddy bears are called?

Op: Sure look…Whoa, wait.

Ok: Uh, Candy? CANDY?

Ca: Oh, I am not really going to-

=pause, then Ophelia starts laughing=

Op: Oh, man! Talk about a fake-out!

Ok: They knew what they were doing.

Ca: Oh, thank God. Or not. Why is this movie so focused on my breasts?

Op: I’ll give you two guesses.

Ca: =heavy sigh=

…

Ok: And there’s us, leaping around without a care in the world.

Op: Against a quilted sky.

Ok: Hitomi’s teenaged angst really threw everything for a loop.

G: Why the quilt, though? What does that symbolize?

Ok: I don’t know. What did the yarn symbolize? Sometimes a cigar is just a cigar!

Ch: And sometime animators take advantage of that big studio money to pump out whatever drug-induced fantasy that they ever had.

Op: Oh, hey! This version of you actually got over that guy!

Ok: “Captain Oblivious.” Heh, yup. You go, me.

G: And to think, so much trouble could have been avoided if he had just seen the cutie right in front of him.

=Oktavia loops an arm around Ophelia’s shoulders and snuggles up to her=

Ok: I like to think that it turned out all right in the end. Even this version of me agrees!

Ch: Except for him. Kinda serves him right.

G: I don’t know. I feel kind of bad talking bad about him like this. I mean, being a little oblivious isn’t really a bad thing, and he did lose a lot of important people to him in a very short period of time.

Ch: Well, when you put it like that…

Op: Yo, hey, not to change the subject or anything, but are those ballerinas that she’s got projected on the side of the building kickboxing? Because that’s honestly kind of hot.

H: Of course you would find violent dancing hot.

Op: I am what I am, and make no apologies.

G: At least these ones aren’t made of cum.

Ca: Oh, my God.

…

Ch: Oh, why am I here? What could I possibly contribute?

H: A moment ago you were complaining about not being in it!

Ch: This is worse. This is far worse.

G: Oh! Oh! We get to see the transformation scene!

Ca: Those weren’t really that elaborate. I mean, they were cool, but-Hold on.

Op: Aw, hell yeah! Strike a pose, team!

Ca: Okay, never mind. I guess in this world we made them elaborate.

Ch: Like I said: animators with way too much money and waaaaaaaay too many drugs. Prepare yourselves for a trip.

…

Ca: Oh! Oh, my.

Ch: So, uh…

Ca: No, I never danced to transform. That is…also new.

=Ophelia suddenly leans forward intently=

Op: Oh, yes, yes, yes! H-Hey, can we start this part over.

Ok: Sure.

=they restart the transformation scene=

G: So, are you…

Op: Figure-skating, yeah! Damned good, at that. Look at that spin!

Ca: I never learned figure-skating. I mean, I can skate, but nothing like this, though I suppose I have the athletic ability, and-Okay, I just exploded out of myself.

G: That outfit is pretty cool. Um, Candy? You wouldn’t mind if I asked…

Ca: Oh, fine. I suppose it’s thematically appropriate.

=Candeloro transforms into her Puella Magi uniform, complete with the hair. Gretchen cheers=

Ok: That was way quicker than the movie. And…damn.

Ca: You can stop staring at my breasts now.

Ok: I mean, sure, I can…

=Candeloro sighs and changes back. Oktavia and Gretchen both boo=

Ch: Sorry, girls. But the corset’s reserved for me.

Ok: What does that-Oh. Really?

Ch: We went going through a rough patch. We had some things we needed to come to terms with. Making pleasant associations helped.

G: I don’t get it.

=Homulilly whispers into her ear=

G: Oh. Oh.

Ca: Heh.

=Ophelia is still hunched forward and getting impatient=

Op: Yeah, this is all fascinating, but can we get back to the movie?

Ok: We’re literally talking about boobs. I thought you’d be all over that.

Op: There is dancing and you’re keeping me from it!

Ok: Okay, okay. Let’s go.

Op: Oh, hell yeah! I’m next!

G: What kind of dance is that, Ophelia?

Op: Definitely seeing some tribal elements in the first part. I think the part with the arms is…Chinese? Wish I had read up on it a bit more.

G: I’ve never seen you dance like that before.

Op: I mostly do hip-hop, but I do something similar to that when I pole-dance. It’s a lot more complex, though.

H: I bet it is.

Op: Have fun with that mental image! Still, this is giving me ideas, especially that arm thing. I think I pull that off with my illusions. Maybe it’s time to diversify-WHOA!

Ch: Why did you go all sketchy and scary?

Ca: Why did I explode out of myself twice?

Ok: Oh, okay! Here we go!

=Gretchen starts laughing=

G: Oh, my God! You’re doing Ophelia’s usual dance!

Ok: Doing it pretty well, too! Damn!

Op: I’ll say! Nice windmills, smooth transitions from palms to forearms.

Ch: You’re getting ideas, aren’t you?

Op: Duh.

Ok: And now I’m running. You know, I can’t help but feel that this me is sort of flexing on me specifically with the whole leg thing.

H: Has anyone else noticed that so far we have all ripped out of ourselves in order to transform?

Ok: That outfit is hot, though. And-Okay, that ass shot was on purpose!

Ca: Be thankful it’s not as obsessed with your butt as it is with my boobs.

Ok: No way! I wanna see it more! C’mon, zoom in on those cheeks!

Op: I strongly agree.

H: Oh, here’s me. This should be good.

G: It’s actually pretty lovely. And you do look like you’re having fun with it.

H: You know, this isn’t bad. But what am I supposed to be doing?

Op: It’s…kind of interpretive freeform, but I’m seeing some ballet elements in there as well.

H: Huh.

Op: You think of giving it a shot? Because I have someone I could call.

H: Thank you, but no. Maybe.

Op: Well, think about it.

H: I’m also tearing out of myself, I see. Oh, and that stupid clock again!

G: This is great. Can we see that part again?

Ok: You know you’re next, right?

G: Oh. Oh, no.

Ok: Okay, so…

Op: This…I’m not sure what you’d call this.

Ok: Other than adorable.

Op: It is that.

=Gretchen is blushing and hiding her face=

Ch: Okay, this is pretty cute.

G: Stop, please.

Ca: You sure you don’t recognize this, Ophelia?

Op: I mean, other than the Can-Can bit, not really. It’s more cute poses than anything.

Ch: So teenaged pop-idol.

G: Oh, God!

Op: Yeah, that seems to fit.

G: Why do all of you get the cool dances while I get…this?

H: I think it’s fine.

G: I’m not watching. Is it over, yet?

H: Well, you more of shattered glass instead of tearing out of yourself, but it’s still going.

Op: Okay, okay. It’s over, now.

G: Finally-You said it was over!

Op: It is! You’re just doing your final pose.

G: They literally covered me with hearts and rainbows!

Ok: What’s wrong with hearts and rainbow?

G: Look, I know I’m supposed to be the “cute” one, but there is a point when it becomes too much!

H: It’s your fault for being so adorable.

G: I’m not the only cute girl here. Sheesh!

H: No, you are definitely the cutest!

=Homulily starts tickling Gretchen=

G: Homulilly! Stop it!

H: I can’t help it! You’re just so cute! CUTE!

=Gretchen laughs and squirms in trying to get away, but not too much=

G: Stop it! Someone! Please! Help!

=Charlotte, who’s sitting on the other side of Gretchen, glances at Homulilly. They lock eyes=

Ch: Nope! Sorry! She’s right!

=Charlotte starts tickling Gretchen as well, who now is gasping for air=

Ok: Honestly, this is way more entertaining than the movie.

Op: Speaking for yourself. There was dancing!

Ca: You know, if you guys keep this up, then we’ll never get through the film.

G: Okay, that is it!

=Gretchen suddenly ties up Homulilly and Charlotte up with her legs and lifts them fully off the couch into the air. She sits there with her arms crossed and the two of them suspended=

G: No more tickling, or I start tickling everybody! And I have way more limbs to do it with than all of you combined!

Ok: Is that a threat or a promise?

Ch: I’m sorry, I’m sorry! Put me down!

G: Fine! Now, behave!

=Gretchen plops Homulilly and Charlotte back down into their seats and lets them go. Then she blinks and turns to Oktavia=

G: Wait, do you want to be tickled?

Ok: Well…

Op: Better not. This is an egg you do not want to crack.

G: You guys and your fetishes.

Ok: I am literally half fish, okay? We had to get creative!

Ca: Okay, I’m unpausing the movie, if it’ll get you to stop!

Op: You’re the one who literally busted out your and Charly’s bedroom get-up.

Ch: Not really. It usually has less-

Ca: UNPAUSING NOW!

…

Ok: Team pose!

Op: They always come this close to showing us what’s under those skirts.

Ch: They’re being cheeky, all right.

Ok: That pose is awesome, though. We should do that for real!

Ch: Puella Magi Holy Quintet? Not a bad name.

Op: Can’t really use it ourselves.

Ch: Why, because there’s six of us?

Op: That, and-

Ok: We’re all witches?

Op: Okay, that too, but also there is nothing holy about us.

Ch: Ah, innocent times, innocent times.

Ok: Come on, Sayaka and Kyoko are clearly doing it on the regular.

Ch: You inferred all that from your five minutes of screentime so far, did you?

Ok: I know what I’m about.

…

Ok: And out comes the violin! Subtle.

H: So…are there any people in any of those buildings that she’s wrecking?

Op: Probably.

Ok: So Hitomi is literally killing hundreds with her angsty temper tantrum.

G: Er…I’m sure she’s not!

Ca: Okay, now this part is actually pretty similar to how things used to be! Um, except for the ballroom dancing.

G: How so?

Ca: I mean us combining our abilities! Homulilly stopping time and the two of us using a combination of musketfire and arrows was actually a tried-and-true tactic of ours!

G: Cool!

Ok: So are you guys basically gonna blast Hitomi into next week?

Op: I mean, she did literally just massacre an entire city.

G: No, look! We’re fixing the city! See, we do repair the damage and make things normal again!

Ch: Obviously a very loose definition of the word “normal.”

Op: Doesn’t do a whole lot good for all the mangled corpses inside those buildings.

G: Nobody died! Sheesh.

Op: Well, not that we can see, anyway.

Ca: Pretty sure if people were actually dying it would have been brought up by now.

Ch: Okay, I’m calling it now! It’s a fake!

H: Huh?

G: What do you mean?

Ch: I mean the city! This whole…everything! It’s a fake! Like, a simulation or a dream or something. And we’re all trapped in it. The signs are all over the place.

…

Ok: That’s my girl! Kicking ass and giving good life advice!

Op: That guy is just obliviously leaving a trail of broken hearts behind him, isn’t he?

Ch: And corpses.

Ok: You know, between me turning into, well, me and Hitomi turning into that, the dude really needs to just stop dating girls and marry his violin or something. Because that’s two for two!

G: The Five Lillians? What does that mean?

Ch: This movie feels like it should come with its own appendices.

Op: Oh, did you see that smug grin? No one girl can have all that swagger!

Ok: You would suck on a juicebox in the middle of a fight.

G: Did…Did you just make a wall?

Op: Cool! That was one of my powers, right?

Ca: It sure was.

Ok: And apparently I could combine it with my swords!

Op: Oh, I bet you loved shoving your sword into my wall.

=Homulilly snorts=

Ch: I get the innuendo, but that would imply-

Ca: Please don’t finish that thought, sweetie. The porn they watch is bad enough.

…

Ch: So I guess this is the part where you all beat Hitomi to death.

Op: That would be one hell of a twist.

H: Honestly, the way this movie is going, I don’t think anything could surprise me at this point.

G: Okay, we’re all standing on swords around her, so…

Ch: Oh, great. Now I’m here-Wait.

…

G: Um…are we going to eat Hitomi or…What’s going on?

H: That does seem to be the question.

Ch: What the fuck?

…

=Charlotte suddenly leaps up and starts scrambling back on the couch up against the wall=

Ch: What the fuck! What the fuck!

Op: Did you just turn into a giant clown worm?

Ch: Candy, please. Some sense. Give it to me!

Ca: Uh, uh, well. Your…original witch self did turn into that…thing during the fight, but…

Op: You think you can maybe still do that?

Ch: No. No chance in hell.

H: I’m considerably more concerned about what we’re doing. Why are we…chanting?

Ca: I’m going to hit Play. Brace yourselves, girls. I think it’s going to get weird.

…

H: What are…

…

G: Um.

…

G: UM!

…

Ch: Guys. Guys. I don’t know how much more of this I can take.

Op: Shhh.

…

=the girls silently watch the Cake Song until the end=

Op: Pause it. Just…hit pause.

=communal long sigh=

Op: So. Anyone have anything they’d like to comment?

Ch: This…must be what losing my mind feels like.

G: Well, it was…cute.

Ok: Fucking weird.

G: But in a cute way. I…think?

Ca: I’m just going to preemptively say that I’ve got nothing. Please don’t ask me to explain. That’s not how things used to work at all.

Op: We figured.

Ca: I mean, we’d find witches, we’d transform, we’d fight the witches, the witches would die, and we’d get a Grief Seed. It wasn’t complicated! Nobody sang anything!

=long pause=

H: We’d better rewind and watch that again.

Ch: Why?

H: I have a feeling that it might be important.

Ch: To whom?

G: I agree with Lilly. They wouldn’t make it that weird without reason.

Ch: Oh, you wanna bet?

Ca: Charlotte, calm down, please.

Ch: I-Sorry. Sorry. You’re right. I’m just-Okay, fine! Let’s all take some crazy drops and watch it all over again!

=they rewind back to the start of the Cake Song=

Ch: I can’t believe they had the gall to not only keep me as a full witch but also turn me into that.

Ok: Well, I mean, it’s not like some weirdoes up and decided to turn you into a doll that…morphs into a giant clown worm. Apparently that was-

Ch: How I actually looked, yeah, I get it! It’s still creepy, though!

G: Why are we all…okay with this?

Ch: See? Exactly! If I just up and turned into a giant worm, you all would be freaking out!

Op: I would try to ride you.

=incoherent noises of disgust and irritation from Charlotte=

…

H: Okay, I think I’m starting to get how the rules of this game works.

Ok: It’s a game?

Ch: There are rules?

H: Sure! When you send the song to the next person, you name a quality about them, and that person has to come up with some kind of food that embodies that same quality! Saya…I’m sorry, Oktavia-

Ok: No, Sayaka’s correct. She’s not me.

H: Okay. Well, Sayaka started off and called herself the raspberry…for some reason.

Ok: Don’t look at me. I don’t even really care for raspberries all that much.

G: Blue raspberry?

Ok: That’s more of a flavor, I think?

H: Okay, well, she then passed it off to Kyoko, who is red-

Op: Really creative descriptor there, fishy-lips. Out of all of my qualities, you went with red? The cake should have been dead sexy! Or a fantastic dancer! Or

Ok: I probably thought up something dirty at first and had to sub it out at the last second, and red was the only thing that came to mind.

H: -And then Kyoko now passes it off to Mami, who is-

Ch: I’m sorry, loved by whom? Loved by Bebe? My name is BEBE?!

Op, singing: Rock-a-bye Bebe, on the treetop-

Ch: Shut up, shut up, shut up!

H: -er, well, that gets turned into cheese, because-

Ch: -BECAUSE OF COURSE IT DOES!

G: Do you need a break?

Ch: …no. I’m sorry. I’ll try not to freak out again.

Op: I’m gonna be honest, if you weren’t, I would be.

H: -well, anyway, Mami then passes it to me-

Ca: Though not without another close-up of my breasts, I see.

Op: I’ll give the animators credit: they know which side of the bread the butter’s on.

H: -and I’m…spinning in circles? I don’t really understand that one.

G: Well, there is the timeloop thing you were doing. That could be said to be spinning in circles.

H: There’s been no mention of that, though! And how would she know? Didn’t I keep that a secret?

Ca: You did.

G: Dunno.

Op: Maybe it has to do with how your shield has to turn for you to stop time? Maybe?

H: I don’t know. That’s kind of reaching.

Op: I do note that you seem to be the only one wondering what the fuck is going on. Like, just look at your face.

Ok: While I seem to just be having a grand old time!

Op: You know, I don’t blame you. I am starting to feel this. Cakey! Cakey! Round cakey!

G: And I’m sweet. All right.

Ok: What’s wrong?

G: It’s just having me be the cute one again. There’s more to me than just being cute!

Ch, now calmer: Maybe it’s to butter up the audience for some kind of dark twist. Like, the movie keeps making you out to be all cute and innocent but it turns out that you were the villain the whole time.

G: Really? That would honestly be kind of cool.

H: I seriously doubt that is the case.

…

Op: And here we summon a giant cake! Because reasons.

G: Is Hitomi still in that thing?

Ch: Well, if she is, then I just ate her!

H: Finally, a happy ending!

G: Oh, stop it.

Ch: Seriously though, what is my purpose in all of this? I turn into a worm, I start the song, I eat the cake. How does-

H: Oh! I think I just got it!

Ch: Huh?

H: These new enemies are called Nightmares, right?

Ch: Right…

H: Well, what do you do to calm a child who’s had a nightmare? You give them a snack and sing them a lullaby!

=pause=

Op: OOOOOOH, so that’s what was up with that explosive feast at the start!

G: So we don’t kill the Nightmares, we calm the Nightmares!

Ca: You know, as strange as that is, I do kind of wish it really was that easy. Back in the day, I mean.

…

Ok: And here I am, cradling Hitomi’s severed head! How’s that for a dark twist?

Op: It’s all part of the process.

Ok: I see she’s still clinging to Kyosuke, though.

Ca: Teen romance is complicated like that. Just because she was frustrated about his schedule doesn’t mean she doesn’t still love him. See? There she is, sleeping soundly.

G: So all’s well that ends well.

Ch: I have…a lot of problems…with describing anything that we just saw as “all’s well.”

H: So, wait, those sparkles that are coming down. Are those clearing our soul gems?

Ca: It looks like it. No grief seeds around, so I guess this is how they do it instead. I’m actually a little envious.

Ok: It does kinda seem like the idealistic version of what we went through. No despair, no need for competition, the monsters can be defeated by singing to them, and nobody turns into anything bad!

Ch: Except for me. Because seriously. What the fuck?

Op: You are not going to let that go, will you?

Ch: I am a fucking beanie baby!

G: What’s a beanie baby?

Ch: Never mind. Read about them in a book. Would take too long to explain.

…

Op: Aw, yeah! Party at sempai’s house!

Ca: Apartment. And this actually is accurate.

Ok: What, head to your place for snacks after a successful hunt?

Ca: Yes. Those were…nice. I enjoyed those a lot.

Op: We literally live together now. What’re you getting all nostalgic for?

Ca: It’s less that and more of the feelings. I had been…lonely for a while before all of you came into my life, so going from that to suddenly having so many sisters-in-arms…well, it made for a nice change.

Op: I guess that makes sense. Hey, you think that’s why Incubators made a big deal about competition? To keep us separated so we’d fall into despair faster.

Ca: I would not rule it out. Actually, if we had never learned the truth about soul gems or witches, we probably would still be alive, since we’d have each other for support.

Ok: My bad.

Ca: It’s okay. As Ophelia has pointed out many times, it all worked out in the end.

Op: Aw, yeah! Look at me getting down! Hooray for snacks!

Ca: Thank you for ruining the mood.

Op: It’s what I do. Hooray for snacks!

…

H: And the sun rises.

G: When do we sleep? I mean, seriously! Don’t we have school?

Ok: Maybe it’s a weekend.

Ca: We were more likely to get witches in the evenings, so we’d at least be in bed at a decent hour. Most of the time.

Op: Y’know, as weird as all this is, this really is beautiful. I mean, the animation is outstanding, and the scenery is gorgeous.

Ch: When it’s not totally tripping with your head and making you question everything you ever thought you knew about reality.

Op: …you okay over there, chief?

Ch: I’m sorry, guys. But can we take a break now? I seriously need a break.

G: Sure. I could use one too.

Op: …can we watch the cake song one more time first?

Ch: No.

[costellos]

tell me who you’d take on a date and where you would go! — CLOSED

@thisbloghasnoaesthetic​ asked: Id love to take Jotaro on a date. Just something chill. Like getting some good food. Or just sitting together doing nothing. I'd love to just read a book with my head on his shoulder. Just enjoying eachothers quiet comfort :)

omg that sounds like a great date for Jotaro! he definitely seems like the type to want a chill date. he’d probably opt for something that offers takeout if you’re referencing Part 3!Joot, somewhere a little nicer but just as casual if you’re referencing Part 4!Joot. and while you’re reading, you might just catch a teeny, tiny smile on his lips. but don’t say anything or you’ll ruin the moment 🤭💕

anonymous asked: i would wanna take kakyoin out to an indoor roller rink so we could rollerskate together 🥺 it’s one of the things i like to do most and i’d wanna skate around w him while holding hands! also cause he’s tall, i feel like it’d be hard for him to keep balance and prevent himself from falling lolll. but we could go out to an ice cream place nearby afterwards and watch the sun set (if the time is right) 💗

how cute!! sharing something you love with the one you love most... I dig it. Kakyoin would be soooo embarrassed, though! he just wants to impress you but his center of gravity is absolutely awful. rip. at the end of the day, however, he’d be so appreciative that you shared something so personal with him. ❤️ let him pay for the ice cream, it’s the least he can do!! and maybe hold your hand while you watch the sunset 🌅

@lavaicerinkk​ asked: I would ask mista, probably to like a concert or something like that. We'd probably go as homies, then when we get home id be like "what if we kissed haha" and hed be like 😳😳 ok, and then we live happily ever after

LMAAAAOOOOO. I feel like this is v in character for Mista.... he’d be caught so off guard by it! esp since he probably would’ve accepted that you were just friends. not that he’d say no, tho 👀 he’d just be like, “wait, for real?” and waste no time kissing you after you gave him permission. what a happy ending. 💕

@murcx04​ asked: Take someone on a date huh hmmmmm- Josuke is my bet HAHA Hed be so refreshing to be with óuò. And we'd go shopping kfbfjfn And that where- he'll just show his pleading eyes and want you to buy the shoes he wants oh boy-

I agree, he would be a very refreshing plus one! I think a shopping date would be v traditional with him. I’m imagining you both at the mall, where he cackles at all the weird sex stuff at Spencer’s and shares his food court soft pretzel with you. 🥨 he probably wouldn’t explicitly say that he wants new shoes, but he’d nudge you and be like, “hey. if you wanna know what to get me for my birthday...” and point to the Air Force 1′s on display. so subtle. 🙄

anonymous asked: tbh i think i'd like to take kira out to dinner and go on a walk. i know its a simple date but i think he's really neat and i don't really like big or flashy events and i don't think he would either kjfnksnjks. its just sumn that would suit both of us nice

ooo interesting choice, nonnie! I 100% agree with you on this one. Kira would probably take you to one of those restaurants that have private rooms. I think some ritzier places are like that? anyway, he’d want to focus this date all on you. no mindless chatter from other patrons, no screaming children — the more noise he can minimize, the better. and during your walk, I can see him allowing you to take the reins on the conversation. he just finds everything you say so fascinating! 🌷💗

@catnymous​ asked: I'd take Fugo first to just a simple lil cafe then to the park :3

Cat!! I missed you!! you should come into the askbox more often, I always enjoy your replies. in the meantime, Fugo probably overthinks a lot so this date would be casual enough for him to relax. he would probably opt for some coffee and a slice of cake that he can share with you 🍰❤️ and a stroll through the park would be the perfect way to walk off the calories! (plus when you get to a fountain he’ll probably make some corny wish about getting to spend more days with you like this a;sdfkjl)

anonymous asked: Idk if you’re familiar with part 7... but I would bring Johnny to the planetarium; it’s a place that I love, and bringing him to a place special to me would mean a lot, I think. I’d tell him all of my favorite things about space. And, it’s a little mushy, but I’d remind him that just because you can’t always see the stars doesn’t mean they’re not there; every one is special and the same is for people. And of course, it would be a fun day out to appreciate the beautiful things in the world

unfortunately, I’m not familiar with Part 7... :( but thank you so much for sharing nonetheless! this is such a heart-warming confession 💕 I wish there was more I could say; I love that you’d share all your favorite things about space, and how everything and everyone is special. 💫 such a beautiful confession. 

@serenityblaze44​ asked: I would take Bruno and/or Abbacchio to a conservatory or garden, maybe bring a picnic. Nothing too exciting, just time to relax and spend time together. Then go home for cuddles.

por que no los dos? ahaha nah I’m joking... unless 👀 no but for real, this sounds ideal for both of them! ❤️ they would both appreciate the time to unwind. I could see Abbacchio prepping all the food, while Bucciarati handles everything else (packing the blanket, utensils, alcohol, etc.). they’d probably opt for somewhere outside of Naples since it’s far too crowded in the city. afterwards, be prepared for a gr8 nap between two warm, loving boys!!

anonymous asked: I'd take Kakyoin on a date! I think it would be really fun to go somewhere like an amusement park or arcade so we could just kinda be stupid together and forget our problems. Id go on the Ferris wheel and try to kiss him at the top but he'd probably shake the cart the whole time to freak me out 😂😂 After everything he's gone through, he deserves to have a lot of fun and id love to see him smile 🥰😍

aw friend, this is such a sweet scenario! hopefully the Ferris wheel doesn’t give him too many bad memories of Death Thirteen though ope,, anyway, what a lovely way to forget about all the stuff he’s endured! he’d playfully challenge you to some arcade games (and I’m using “playfully” lightly here) and then destroy you. 🙄 but it’s okay, any tickets he gets will immediately go to a cute stuffed animal just for you 🧸

@hadesaedes​ asked: OOOH I’d have to go with either Yukako or Koichi (even tho i have like TWO hands either is fine). Yukako is a very passionate and strong lover which I LOVE cause im shy with affection so being bold with it is MWUAH. While Koichi is also passionate I like to think he enjoys more simple and low key dates which is my type of thing. Having to just bask in each other’s company without having to fill the silence is GREAT. THEY ARE BOTH GREAT!!! In this essay I will-

AHHH A+ CHOICES, FRIEND. Yukako and Koichi would spoil you so much!! they’d handle any date expenses (movie tickets, food, etc.) and would adore having any opportunity to hold your hand 😊 Yukako would probably be more physically affectionate; she’ll either have her hand on top of yours or her feet wrapped between yours when sitting. Koichi would opt for compliments, praising you on how cool and smart you are! wow, what a supportive pair 🤝

anonymous asked: It's very hard to choose, but I'd go on a date with Bruno. Idk I'm just very gay for him. He knows a lot of nice and fancy places in Naples, but since that's not really my world, I'd take him to a small coffee shop or something. Nothing fancy or expensive but still very enjoyable. Maybe some ice cream. Walking through the city and going to a restaurant in the evening. Maybe something fancy this time, or just a simple pizza

how lovely!! Bucciarati would honestly be open to try anything, but I think a small coffee shop would be v enjoyable for him. there’s so much you can learn about someone over a cup of joe. ☕ since he’s been living in / around Naples his whole life, he’d probably share some neat facts about the city while on your stroll! “the Amalfi Coast is best known for its limoncello liqueur. I know a great place to try it if you’re interested.” 🍋

@moloko-tyan​ asked: Hello, little bird💫sending you rays of love and positive energy! This new event is so much fun. Several hours I wondered with who I wanted to go out, ahah. And I think it would be Erina. She deserves to have fun especially after all those awful events in her life. We would go to atelier. We could go through fabrics to choose which fits the best. We would look at lovely laces, buttons, jewels and we would argue about models of dresses and evening gowns. I want her to feel safe🌻 thank u so much!

friend! I always get so excited when you pop into my askbox!! ty for participating 💕 Erina is such a great choice imo. and this is such a creative date! she’d have so much fun running her fingers over all the interesting fabrics. Erina would take the most beautiful dresses and hold them up against you, saying how lovely the color suits you. 👗 although she’d be too shy to try those dresses on herself, she would have so much fun spending the day with you!!

anonymous asked: I hope it's okay to send this (I honestly don't want you to get overwhelmed)! But if it's okay: I would love to take Fugo on a date! I love this boy with all my heart and I would love to travel with him to my country to a town next to the sea and give him a tour of its history (and visit the local art and history museums there)! And later grab some ice cream and walk along the seafront in the evening where there are less people and just enjoy the walk together as the sun sets. -Turtle Anon🐢

oooohh, Turtle Anon!! thank you for your concern. you’re all good, don’t worry! anywho, that’s a wonderful date for Fugo. he would have an absolute blast reading about all the art and history your country has to offer 🏛️ you might have to push him along though, he’s the type to absorb everything n really slow down when reading... but at the end of the day, as you’re walking along the beach, he’d thank you for sharing a part of yourself with him. he’d be so honored! ☀️

anonymous asked: tbh i'd love to take narancia on a super spontaneous date... only the date and time are set, the entire day is just going around town and doing whatever stupid fun random things,, eating street food and going into shops to try on random fits and running around laughing, mayhaps go to an arcade, or do some karaoke. and then wind down at like a mcdonalds late at night, tired but happy and satisfied.. hhh nara is v fun i just wanna hang out w him honestly 🤕😔🤕😔

yeeeess this is the perfect date for Narancia!! he loves spontaneous stuff like this. he’d have so much fun gorging himself on street food and playing around with weird fits. he’d probably put on the stupidest things he can find, like this. and if you go to karaoke, be ready to screech some absolute bangers. he will not take anything less than confident (yet bad), loud (yet joyous) singing. 🎤 n while he might be falling nodding off at the McDonald’s, he’d sleepily tell you how amazing the day was and how he wants to do this again 💕

@tomomi012​ asked: I'm going to share another ideal date idea, but with Kakyoin. I'd like us to go to one of those cat cafes in Japan. I mean, cats, coffee and a cute Japanese boy, is this heaven? and I would tell him: "Nori, today I am in heaven"

ofc, share all you want! omg... I love this idea..... Kakyoin would be so soft anytime a cat approaches him. he’d do a little “pspsps” and hold out his finger for them to smell. and once a cat actually nudges him, he’d just melt! he wouldn’t show it outwardly, but you can see it in how bright his eyes get. I think Kakyoin would be the type to either attract a ton of cats or cats hate him, there’s no in between. 😭❤️ both make for some gr8 scenarios, though! 

@pommmejuice​​ asked: for your post about taking a character on a date :,) i think i’d like to take abba to art museums/cultural centers ,, i’d love to talk to him about my culture and what life is like (if he’d be interested;; lol) n maybe afterwards while we get italian food he can talk to me about what italian culture is like, the parts that aren’t shown in the media 🥺 so uh a date where we’re both learning new things about each other hehe

n maybeeeee take fugo to a café where we can study together n talk about our favorite things in our lives/culture.... n maybe hold hands on the table and maybe stare into his eyes tenderly ... you know because he’s my BFF (Best Friend Forever) .. you know how best friends do.. 😳

ooo Ireeene I figured you’d say Abbacchio :3c but that’s such a cute date for him! ofc he’d be interested in learning more about you!! you wouldn’t see it, but every time you share something you that you love about your culture, Abbacchio’s gaze on you would be so loving... 💖 he adores that you’re sharing so personal with him (of all people!!). and he’d get a kick out of telling you misconceptions about Italy. don’t get him started on how much he hates the Mario Bros.

as for Fugo, he would react similarly. I could see him ask more questions about your culture, while Abbacchio lets you go on and on. he’s so interested in everything about you!! and the moment you hold his hand... wow... get ready to see some intense blushing... he wouldn’t pull away, but his attention would turn to something else and his stutter would be apparent. pull yourself together, Fugo! 😤

anonymous asked: I'd take Rohan on a date, I'm a lil gay for that trash man. Tbh, it would either be an amazing date or a total disaster. I think we'd plan something fun and relaxing, like going to an art gallery or seeing a movie, but we'd end up in an adventure because that's what keeps happening to Rohan for some reason. At the end of the day we'd go to a restaurant to put a normal ending to that strange day

HAHAHA omggg friend this is a pretty accurate description of Rohan’s life. I think he’d be really annoyed that the day ended up this way, but he’s glad that he got to spend it with someone he tolerates. 💕 Rohan would try to push past those feelings once you go to the restaurant. this date is still salvageable!! he might complain a lil, but ultimately, he’d try to focus on you and what you enjoyed 🥰

@xxbluejayxx​ asked: For the Jojo date thing, I'd take Abbacchio. Well not really picky about the kind of date, I feel a nice quiet one at home would be best. It could be a homemade dinner, a movie night, or both. When it comes down to it, for me anytime spent with someone I love is time well spent, and that is something I will willingly admit

this is such a peaceful date for Abbacchio! I agree, a quiet date at home would be best. 😊❤️ as I mentioned in other scenarios, he’d likely take over kitchen duties. no need to worry about anything, just tell him what you want and he’d whip it up for you! and when it comes time to watch the movie, he’d tell you to sit a lil closer to him... he’s not very good with verbalizing affection, but he loves when he can feel your skin against his.

anonymous asked: I reeally wanna take Polnareff on a date. He deserves it sooo much. He's such a handsome sweetie. Id turn on the charm for him for once, like he always does. I have a beautiful image in my head of an outdoor patio restaurant with hundreds of strings of lights. We both dress up and have a lovely meal under the stars and magical lights, and then our favorite song plays and we have a dance beneath the lights. I think it would be goofy and romantic, stepping on toes as we attempt to dance around 😍

ahhh Polnareff would be so flattered to have you flirt with him! he’d probably get a lil flustered since this is nicer than what he’s used to, but seeing you dressed to the nines would make make him go 🥵 likewise, he’d push himself through the situation by just focusing on you. and when you start dancing... wow!! he’d lose himself laughing and being absolutely miserable at showing his moves. but it doesn’t matter, because he’s here with you and everything is okay ⭐

@rat-makes-stuff asked: Ok so I would take Giorno back to my home state of Michigan. Mafia boss has got to be tired as hell, so what's better than walking through the woods and collecting rocks at Lake Huron (I'm biased that's my favorite lake no CAP). We would watch the sun set and then look at the stars when they come out. Wildflower picking, trying to see how many deer we can find, and picnics by the lake? Yes pleaseee

before I start, Tumblr wasn’t letting me tag you in this!! so I hope you still see my response :( anyway, this is such a relaxing date! Don Giorno would love to unwind in nature. he’d probably take some stones he found near Lake Huron and turn them into a bouquet of flowers for you! 💐and since he’s probably never seen the sky without light pollution, he’d be astonished at how beautiful the sky is. he wouldn’t be able to say anything, just pull you close to him and thank you for taking him out here 🌠

[anonthenullifier]

So I was cleaning out my writing documents and re-discovered all of my notes for a SV roller derby AU. I had planned to write it last year for the Scarlet Vision Valentine’s AU event, but didn’t because I realized it was going to end up being a multi-chaptered ordeal and I just didn’t have the time or energy to do so. Sadly I will likely never write it  but did have fun brainstorming it, so I thought I’d share the world building and plot that I did come up with in case anyone might enjoy it. 

Rough Story Summary: Victor Shade recently relocated to upstate New York after accepting a cybersecurity position at Stark Industries. His boss, THE Tony Stark, refuses to accept Vision’s preference for living in peace and insists he attend a bout for the local roller derby team, the Thunder Dolls, for which Stark is both a patron and a ref.  What started as a begrudging placation to his over-enthusiastic boss, turns into genuine wonder as he takes in the brutal yet complex game on the track and finds himself drawn to the ethereal movements of one particular jammer, Scarlet Witch.

Below the cut are character summaries and a fairly rough plot. Hope you enjoy!

Brief note on terminology for roller derby:

Bout = a match between two teams

Jammer = this is the person who wears a helmet cover with a star on it. This is the person that scores points. They first have to make it out of the pack (see below) and then on each lap around the track after that during the 2 minute period they get a point for each player of the opposing side they pass. 

Blocker = the other members of the team on the track. Their job is to block the other team’s jammer while also helping their own jammer through the pack to help her score points. 

Pivot = a blocker that wears a helmet cover with a solid line down the middle. This gives them the ability to have the jammer helmet cover transferred to them and they then become the jammer. 

Pack =  the largest conglomeration of blockers from both teams currently on the track.

List of Characters

Note: each person may have multiple pieces of information: Their name, their derby name, a description of their non-derby life, and, when applicable, what the announcers would say for their character at the derby bout. Also...some characters have more info than others based on how important they were going to be to the story and how far I got in actually planning them out. 

The Thunder Dolls

Thor Odinson aka Thor: A professor of literature with a specialization in mythology and a hobby in astrophysics by day, and at night, he is the bench coach for the Thunder Dolls. He wears leather pants, a fur-lined vest with no shirt underneath, and a horned viking hat for bouts.

Natasha Romanoff aka Black Widow: Former special ops (her partner was Clint) and currently runs a bootcamp style gym, though everyone suspects she is still a spy but are too afraid to ask her. She is one of the co-captains, the main strategist, and a blocker.

“Be careful ladies and gentleman, she’s quick, she’s silent, and she’ll eat you once she’s done, the co-captain of the Thunder Dolls, Black Widow!”

Okoye aka Wakondyass: Was a visiting Fulbright scholar in chemical engineering and was offered a position upon finishing her Fulbright. She is a blocker and co-captain of the Thunder Dolls. 

“You better never try to get between our co-captain and her team or else she’ll Wakondyass!”

Wanda Maximoff aka Scarlet Witch: She is a social worker who works primarily with refugee and immigrant families. On the team she is a jammer who many suspect can read minds and manipulate the people around her because of how seamlessly she weaves between all the skaters on the track. 

“I hope you brought your salt, because you’re going to want to throw it over your shoulders if you cross her path, next up we have the Scarlet Witch!”

Carol Danvers aka Captain Marvel: Active in the Air Force and plays derby whenever she’s back home. She is a pivot.  

“Our next skater is a marvel to behold and has nothing at all to prove to you, put your hands together for Captain Marvel!”

Pepper Potts aka Rescue: CEO of Stark Industries and fiancee of Tony Stark. In her spare time she runs a rescue shelter for dogs. She is a pivot.

Other members of the team (forgive the rough names, never finished these):

Hope van Dyne aka Winsome Wasp: A jammer. 

Brie Hilde aka Valkyrie: A blocker

Maria Hill aka The Shield: A blocker

Gamora aka Xenomorph : A blocker. 

aka Nebula: A blocker.

aka Preying Mantis (called Mantis for short): A jammer. 

Peggy Carter aka MI #6: A blocker

Jessica Jones aka This Is My Alias: A blocker

Trish Walker aka Hellcat: A jammer.

Non-Skating Characters 

Victor Shade aka The Vision: a computer engineer specializing in cybersecurity. He finally attends a bout when Tony chips away at all of his excuses and he gets a free ticket in order to be a line-up tracker. Eventually he moves up to become a penalty box official.  Scott Lang aka Ant-Man: an electrical engineer by day and a derby announcer on the weekends. His entomology hobby got him his name.  Clint Barton aka Hawkeye: former special ops who now has a quiet life on a farm with his family. He is the other announcer for the derby bouts. Bucky Barnes aka Winter Soldier: Friend and former member of Steve’s original military unit. He now tries to live a normal life and has been trying to get Black Widow to notice him. He is a penalty box official. Pietro Maximoff aka Quicksilver: A professional speed skater who is often out of town for training and competitions. Wanda used to do pairs competitions with him but decided that speed skating was too linear and boring for her. 

Zebra Team (aka Skating Refs)

Tony Stark aka Iron Man: founder of Stark Industries and a jam ref for the Thunder Dolls.   

Clint: “We all love to hate him, it’s the genius, billionaire, playboy...”

Scott: “Former playboy, Hawkeye.”

Clint: “...former playboy, philanthropist, jam ref, Iron Man.”

Steve Rogers aka Captain America: current military member who is a jam ref when he is not on active duty. 

Clint:“ (Caw-Caw sound effect) Is that a bald eagle? You bet your stars and stripes it is, so please stand and pledge your allegiance to our head ref tonight, Captain America!”

Sam Wilson aka Falcon: former military, currently working towards his Ph.D. in clinical psychology while externing at the VA (Veteran’s Administration). Is an outside ref. 

James Rhodes (Rhodey) aka War Machine: current military, best friend of Tony Stark. An outside ref. 

“Our outside refs tonight are the dynamic, swooping duo of War Machine and Falcon!”

The Rough Plot

Event 1: Vision is invited to a bout by Tony because he “needs to get a life and meet people”. Tries to dodge it as best he can, eventually settling on the fact he doesn’t have the money with his recent move. Tony, who first points out how much he pays Victor, finally settles on the strategy of informing him they just happen to need a line-up tracker so he can get in for free if he’s willing to write down some numbers. Vision gives in because he can tell Tony will never drop it until he agrees. At the bout Vision finds himself engrossed in figuring out the strategy of the game and might also be a bit entranced by watching Scarlet Witch move on the track. He even messes up his lineups a few times because he can’t stop watching in awe. Tony invites him to the after party but Vision turns him down.  

Event 2: After Vision attends a couple more bouts and seems to enjoy it, Tony suggests he should go through the ref boot camp coming up because they can always use more skating officials. Vision admits he, quite unfortunately, doesn’t know how to skate and believes that will be the end of it. Except Tony swings by his cubicle later that day to invite him to the adult skate night at the local roller rink and informs Vision that no is not an acceptable answer. So Vision goes to the skate night and discovers that most of the derby team is there, as it is a weekly hang out for them. Vision tries to leave but Tony spots him and pays for his skate rentals (you know, since Vision claims to be so poor), even lets Vision borrow his wrist guards and knee pads since he’s a skating virgin. 

Vision is...not good at skating, at all, his limbs all want to go in opposite directions and he thinks he might be too tall, plus gravity is a cold hearted asshole. Additionally, Tony ditched him as soon as he saw Pepper. This leaves Vision clinging to the wall for support while he works his way to the exit until a woman appears in front of him skating backwards. It is Scarlet Witch and she offers to help him figure out how to skate. A bit flummoxed, Vision takes a few seconds too long to respond and not be socially awkward, but she doesn’t seem to notice or at least doesn’t care. Scarlet Witch (her derby friends call her Scarlet so he does as well) sticks with him almost the whole night, gently providing pointers and (after asking permission) touching his hips and knees to help him get into the best stance. The only time she isn’t with him is for the backward skate, which he sits out and watches as she glides effortlessly around the track. At the end of the night, Scarlet Witch comes over to him and hands him a flier. For the first time she’s a bit nervous as she says, “I don’t know if this applies to you, but if it does then...you should check it out. I’ll be there with some of the team.” After she leaves he sees it is a flier for a Valentine’s Day Singles Skate night. 

Event(ish) 3: Vision goes to the singles night and spends it with Scarlet Witch and three of the other skaters. He has a good time and gets dinner with all of them afterwards. From then on he goes to the weekly skate night, each time getting a tiny bit better, which is nice (mainly for his ass because he falls less) but it also means Scarlet Witch isn’t as close to him the whole time, though she checks up on him often and will slow down to skate with him throughout the night. Usually he goes out for food afterwards, one time it ends up just being him and Scarlet Witch. 

Event 4: Vision bumps into Scarlet Witch at a little diner near work and she asks if he wants to sit with her. When he calls her Scarlet, she for the first time smiles a bit embarrassed and informs him her name is Wanda when she doesn’t have skates on. They have a nice lunch and make plans to meet again in a couple weeks when she’s back in the neighborhood for work. 

Event 5: Throughout the months since his first bout, Vision has moved up to being a penalty box official alongside the Winter Soldier. In general, Wanda doesn’t talk to him during bouts, because she’s so focused, but she does share some banter with him when she tries to stand too soon during her penalty time and he has to politely tell her to sit down. It’s not long after she leaves the box that one of the blockers on the opposing team just blindsides  her and sends Wanda flying into a wall. When Wanda doesn’t immediately get up, Tony calls for a time out due to a downed skater, and Vision, without thinking, rushes across the track to check on Wanda. She’s fine, a bit discombobulated, but skates it off with a big smile and double handed wave to the cheering crowd. The thing is, no one is supposed to rush the track and Vision is (in a mainly friendly manner) made fun of the rest of the night by skaters being sent to the penalty box (quite a few Lover Boys and insinuations of him being under the witch’s spell...which isn’t exactly wrong). After the bout, Vision waits awkwardly near the concession stands in sight of the locker room exit so he can catch Wanda on her way out and apologize for his breaking protocol. When she sees him, she confidently walks over, ignores his stuttering apology, and kisses him. 

[badlydrawndrawnings]

I feel the flames on my fire...burning with rage with what they done to ***.

But at least the episode is out!

https://mobile.twitter.com/Any193/status/1144000492894326784

Brought to you by the person who subbed Proof of Justice, we have the Magical Valentine Day Special! I admit that they found a solution by extending the length to thirty minutes, so that’s good. Still doesn’t make up that it’s feels rush All I brought up before the cut is valid, but to get into the greater detail and opinions (and in no particular order)...

Ann(e): Her pigtails almost look...strange in the 1st person POV

Futaba: I can’t skate either, so we have something in common. 

Chihaya:...the POV makes me realize all the forehead memes shouldn’t have target Haru (I mean, they shouldn’t even target Chihaya, but my goodness! I never realize it until now!)

Hifumi: I remember this one time on a certain image board, and they were talking Kamen Rider Fourze (the latest episode aired). Now, the characters were at a pool, and someone commented it was recognizable. It was a pool used in...adult films, and like, everyone had a field day over it. So I ask, jokingly, was it that pool (not likely).

Kawakami: I bet she regretted doing the cutesy voice again.

Haru: Her section is very cute and wholesome, and compare that to her picture...lol

Tae: Damn she really went after Joker! I feel a bit disturb.

Makoto: It’s going to be awkward if they do break up in the future because that lock is going to be there forever (probably not, the lock I mean).

Ohya: Joker can make the excuse she’s drunk enough to not realize who she’s kissing (look, even Ohya had to do a second glance before making her move).

Ryuji: Does this ending means Ryuji is worthy of Joker’s grace sorry I had to get the meme in. Now, it’s interesting that Ryuji’s section isn’t in 1st person POV. It starts off at it, but switches to the regular 3rd person POV as soon as possible. I assumed, based off the ending of Ryuji’s section, Joker most likely decided to hang out with Ryuji to avoid get caught cheating by one of his many girlfriends (urg!). Unless...Hm, it is possible that, maybe...Joker thought he is worthy of Ryuji’s grace sorry I had to it one more time  I just saw it with my own eyes last night I can’t believe it’s a real thing.

Harem/Getting Caught: To think that all the girls saw through the window instead and realize the truth. This ending makes it seems Joker panic with his dialogue choices and pick the worse option (Morgana was already side eyeing at the sight, and Joker saying that was just ‘dude you just agreed to have a second death experience’). Needless to say, you kind of deserve it, Joker.

SAE: ...I know people like her, and yes, in that sense, but no way would Sae do this with someone...what, at least ~10 years younger than her! Heck, I don’t like that all the adults are options (Chihaya is a strange case since I think she’s the youngest of all the adults), but Sae showing up in this really bothers me! 

Sae treated Goro as a regular kid and took him to conveyor belt sushi for goodness sake! Now, as Sae makes the same offer to Joker, I thought she was just lonely and wanted a new friend since Goro is MIA (don’t tell me Goro would that guy and agree to go to the opera with her to sprout some fun opera facts). However, while Sae’s section doesn’t end with cut off kiss, they were holding hands, but the implication is clear: they’re dating. Going with her behavior with what we know with Goro, and putting her canon Co-Op/Confidant into consideration, this is really, really, out of character. Unless they make her romance-able in Royal, it makes me wonder if they’re rework it include such option and make it believable (I know game files had voice clips hitting to this by making her optional, so...) because I sure as hell can’t see Sae doing this the way their canon relationship is and what I seen. 

[yuexuan]

QuanZhi GaoShou/The King’s Avatar review

Disclaimer: All comments are my own opinions. Also, this review is directed towards the first season of the animation, not the original novel.

Bearing the titles QuanZhi GaoShou 全职高手, The King’s Avatar (abbreviated as TKA here) or Master of Skills, this series had generated substantial hype prior to its release in April 2017. The story opens with Ye Xiu’s forced retirement as a professional gamer from the competitive gaming arena. He immediately found employment as a web manager at an Internet Café, and reestablishes himself as a highly skilled ‘amateur’ gamer in Glory’s tenth server. From there on he played with/against other players, formed transient teams and conquered dungeons, thereby quickly gaining fame in the tenth’s server.  

Before the animation’s release, I’ve been recommended the novel several times, but didn’t read it due to time restraints. So I pretty much dived right into the animation when it was released. Here are my thoughts on some of the highlights and shortcomings of the animation below the cut.

Highlights

1. Animation: The series employs a blend of CGI for background sceneries and traditional 2D-animation for foreground characters, which is a clear leap in animation skills from previous China-productions such as Reikenzan and Fox Spirit Matchmaker. Other outstanding points: the occasional switching of third- and first-person point of view (reminiscent of gaming viewpoint), camera rotation at different scenes (e.g. going from close-up to a distant view of Hangzhou in the trailer), fighting choreography and detailed drawings. My favorite animated segment in the whole series is the fight scene between Han WenQing and Ye Xiu at the end of episode 12, a culmination of great fighting choreography, camera panning and music.

2. Music: Some of the OSTs in the series are superb (e.g.: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_sksGn_iGA **spoiler alert**). Also, the voice actor for Ye Xiu sang the OP, how cool is that?

3. Character:

This might be a low point for others, but I appreciate the lack of romance in the series. I like the idea of the characters developing individually and as a team to become great gamers without having romance weighing down relationships and affecting professional career pursuits.

Another highlight for me is the relatively ‘calm’ characters, without over-exaggerated behaviors that we tend to see in Japanese animations. I wouldn’t attribute this as being ‘mature’ per say (as some other reviewers had), but just different personality types that are more unique to the Chinese fiction culture.

While there are not a lot of female characters, I like the juxtaposition of the female characters and Ye Xiu in real life and in game. Yes, Ye Xiu is a battle god and master tactician in the game, and the girls’ skills dull in comparison to other professional gamers, but outside of the game, they are more financially endowed. Su MuCheng is apparently a huge success in the professional gaming scene as a female player. Tang Rou - although not revealed in the animation as having a job - but from how lavishly she used money while betting against Ye Xiu, I’m pretty sure that she’s got some background. And of course, Chen Guo is the freaking owner of the internet cafe. What more can I say?

Game avatar designs are gorgeous, really loving the diversity of classes shown.

4. Plot: The series opens with a strong and engaging start by revealing an unfair exchange in the professional gaming industry. Many of the topics they touched on are realistic such as professional gamer age range, unemployment and violation of contract terms. I’ve also heard a lot of comments about how the series pulls in elements of eSport and MMORPG gaming tactics. Being neither a gamer nor an eSport fan, I don’t have strong opinions on those aspects.

Shortcomings

1. Animation: Excessive repetition of action scenes. I am not sure if this is the standard in the animation industry nowadays because I’ve seen the same problem in other series (e.g. Yuri on Ice with the same ice skating sequence), but it wears out the viewers quickly. Kudos to the animators though on at least making the effort to flip the directions of the attack sequence xD

2. Voice Acting: There are a few moments where the voice acting is awkward (e.g. when Huang ShaoTian obtained the enemy’s sword in ep. 11 and laughed – that seemed sort of forced). Perhaps it is because the VAs are used to covering real life drama series rather than animations, so they didn’t adapt as nicely? I don’t know, but I’ve definitely heard more natural voice acting in online dramas (广播剧).

3. Characters:

There were not a lot of character developments. Many characters made brief appearance for only one episode, which makes it hard to develop strong attachments to the characters. Cutting down on the number of new characters and fleshing out existing ones would have been great. Granted, the novel itself is 1,000+ chapters long, so there must’ve been more character developments there.

In Gintama episode 100, Gintoki gave a lesson on creating characters that are recognizable by their silhouettes: 

The characters’ avatars in GLORY definitely achieved this effect, but outside of the game, they look too much alike at first glance. At first I confused Ye Xiu with Qiao YiFan and Wang JieXi, and then confused Yu WenZhou with Zhang XinJie……Definitely not easily recognizable ><

Lack of female characters. True, majority of the gaming population is constituted of male players, but the imbalance of male:female character ratio is…...extremely imbalanced. I know there is a large population of female gamers in China (evidenced by the popularity with games like WangZhe RongYao, Jian San, YinYangShi), so more representation would have been great.

4. Plot: Despite the exciting start, the plotline and narration falls short on many other aspects. After briefly touching upon the issues of unemployment etc. that I mentioned earlier, little has been done to discuss these topics in further depth. Likewise, I was hoping that the game setting and how the competition works would be explored further, but was disappointed with the cursory treatment of these subjects. The animators are definitely relying on preexisting familiarity with MMORPG gameplay, and even previous reading of the novel (I’ve read a few chapters, and already noticed many important aspects of character and plot left out). Otherwise, as a standalone animation, this series lacks definitive plot development.

In general, I’ll say that if you are looking for suspense and huge developments and crescendos in a plot, this series might seem bland. However, if you’re looking for a small taste of everyday gamer life interspersed with a few laughs, then by all means, enjoy the show!

5. Sponsorship: How ironic is it that the main character refused to commercialize when the whole series is filled with McDonald advertisements. =w= It’s....everywhere…...literally...

Side note: On the translation, the first two episodes in the official channel are done by a less experienced translation group, but the translations definitely improved thereafter. Personally I think they made an awesome job of translating the game avatar names. That said, there are definitely some contexts that got lost in translation. An example that comes to mind is Huang ShaoTian calling the other player ‘jian ke’ in ep. 11. It was translated as ‘trash master’, which seemed like a normal dissing joke. But it’s more than that: jian ke贱客 is pronounced the same as jian ke 剑客 (blade master), so it’s a clever play on words. Furthermore, it would not have made sense if simply said, but because Huang ShaoTian employed speech bubbles, the joke fits nicely with his character.

All in all, I would recommend watching it for a change in pace and as a lighthearted, slice-of-everyday-life series. Also, definitely checking out the novel later on to see how different the animation adaptation is.

[fencer-x]

All-night Yuri!!! on Ice marathon + talk event report

Okay! It's now a full 12 hours after the event ended, and I've finally woken up lol So here I come bearing a report!

I'm sure several people will be posting their own reports, and I doubt any of us will have captured EVERYTHING that happened, so it's best to read multiple accounts for the greatest coverage XD

As expected, the event started with the talk portion, which involved Toyonaga, Suwabe, and Uchiyama (the podium family's seiyuu) along with creator Kubo-sensei. We were treated to the new visual, which has been making the rounds now and features the whole cast in their FS costumes taking a selfie with Phichit's selfie-stick, and were told that the marathon/event was being streamed to FIFTY theaters across the country--the largest anime streaming event EVER.

Something else that was also really great to me: there were quite a few people who were there seeing the show FOR THE FIRST TIME. Can you imagine how great that would be? Getting to see this entire series, for the very first time, on a huge movie screen surrounded by fans?? I'D KILL FOR THAT EXPERIENCE.

The talk event was divided into three corners.

1) SP - A "look back" talk, reflecting on what they'd done, how their performances had changed over the course of the series. Both Toyonaga and Suwabe reflected that they had no real memory of their performance from around halfway through the series, everything just coming through them and going directly into the character, and it was only on watching the final versions that they were like, "Oh wow, this character is actually that kind of person huh?"

Toyonaga also brought up the very first line of the opening scene, where Yuuri is doing a voice-over, talking about Victor. He'd wondered to himself WHEN that Yuuri was from--as it sounded like it was reflecting on the past. He asked the director, who told him when it took place, and he used that to guide the performance. "...So when DID it take place?" you ask? Toyonaga said he would never tell.

Suwabe went on to describe when he felt Victor "changed", when his feelings toward Yuuri shifted, and that he had a good idea of it himself and put it into the performance, but that he didn't want to share that with others, because he felt that seeing that evolution was a very personal thing for each person watching and didn't want to push his ideas onto other people (this is a very Japanese thing to do--and is also why Kubo-sensei does not want to outright say that Victor and Yuuri kissed in episode 7, because a) it should be obvious lol and b) it's a personal experience when watching the show how you understand different scenes to have unfolded and the emotions and thoughts felt therein)

2) FS - Topics they can discuss now that the show is over

Here, Kubo-sensei talked about her recent trip to Europe, something she and the director had planned to do while the series was being created once it finished. She talked about going to see a Czech competition, and there...she saw Victor and Yurio cosplayers! She was absolutely tickled to see cosplayers at such an event (something that would NEVER be allowed in Japan; though the cosplayers were just wearing wigs, apparently), and they noticed her as a Japanese person near them. They didn't recognize her as Kubo-sensei, but she slyly mentioned that she did know YOI and was a fan. The cosplayers got excited and told her that she was allowed to take a picture of them XDDD Not knowing she was the person responsible for their cosplay.

To top it off, only moments later, she posted to instagram that she was in Czech Republic doing some sight-seeing, and a Czech commenter excitedly offered, in the replies, to show her around. She clicked on that person's profile.......and it was the Victor cosplayer she'd just been offered a picture of XD

On other topics, the final episode had LOTS of cuts and retakes, apparently, and was only finished at the VERY last-minute. Stephan Lambiel's performance, even, wasn't taped until Monday--and the show aired Wednesday.

3) Post-skate interview - this section included responses to questions gathered from Twitter.

[(for Kubo-sensei) "What points do you pay particular attention to when drawing the characters?"] She only drew characters for the storyboards, really, so she did very simple versions but made sure that it was easy to tell in an instant which character was which, to make it easier for the character designers and animators to work from.

She also mentioned that she was drawing a short manga that would be included with purchases of the box-set (this isn't new info; it was announced ages ago), but got inspired for the content by the recent trip she just took to Europe. When asked about that content, all she said was that, "Fans of Yurio will be happy" and that not every character would appear.

["Who would you like to be your coach if you were a figure skater?"] Toyonaga wanted Victor, for sure, but after thinking a little longer on it, he thought JJ's parents would be really nice as well, since they're family. Suwabe wanted Yakov, and Uchiyama wanted the Yakov-Liliya combination like Yurio.

["Who is that man with Chris?"] Ah, the question on everyone's mind. Kubo-sensei didn't really offer any new information aside from what we'd already recently learned--that he's affiliated with the Swiss Skating Federation and was probably a former ice dancer; he also looks after Chris' cat while he's gone. He doesn't have a name, but she'd taken to thinking of him as "Masumi" based on his design's resemblance to the character of the same name in The Glass Mask:

Geez, she wasn’t kidding XD

She then asked everyone to be kind to "Masumetti" (a namesmush of Masumi and Giacometti).

["What figure skating move do you most want to try?"] Toyonaga wanted to do hydroblading (like JJ does), Suwabe liked the jumps and wanted to do a centuple (100 rotations) or maybe at least the quadruple axel that hadn't been achieved yet in competition. Uchiyama loved the spins.

The event closed out with some announcements--there's a YOI-themed lecture on figure skating to help fans get into the sport to be held March 3 (I'm gonna try to go, but I'm betting it'll be difficult to get tickets!), the April 29th talk event with the full cast and then some (which is where I'm thinking a Season 2 announcement will come). They were also selling the two DVDs out so far plus the soundtrack at the theaters, and it was here that the unaired tracks came up. Kubo-sensei was EXTREMELY suggestive about "Welcome to the Madness", the song meant to be used for Yurio's Exhibition piece. She repeatedly needled the audience in a teasing manner with, "Everyone wants to see Yurio's exhibition piece, right? Everyone wants to see it yeah?" This tells me that we will definitely get to see it, as it wasn't delivered in a sympathetic way like "oh wouldn't it be nice..." but in a teasing, taunting way that would only be said if there was inherent promise in it, so get excited to see that somewhere soon!

For the marathon event itself, well that was just amazing, what can I say? It's an indescribable experience, being in a huge room of VERY excited and enthusiastic fans like that. Everyone was cheering and applauding and offering endearing color commentary as well. In episode 2, for instance, when Yuuri scrambles away from Victor and Victor asks innocently, "Why are you running away?" one girl piped up with, "REMEMBER THE BANQUET!!" and everyone burst out laughing XD

It looked like perhaps up to episodes 5 or 6 had used the DVD/BR remastered versions, as many points had been fixed as on the DVDs. Yuuri's "JARAN" on his jacket seen in episode 5, for example, had been fixed to read JAPAN and been replaced with a new serif font. The later episodes, though, did not seem to have been changed, as the font was not consistent in later episodes, and other changes (like changing Yuuri's ugly necktie from sky blue to stripes with shades of light blue) were not reflected in later episodes. We also got to see the endings of episodes 5, 9, and 10 without the credits marring the beautiful scenes, so that was really great!

And speaking of the credits, we only saw the OP and ED once; the OP was played for the very first episode, and the ED was played after episode 7; other than that, the episodes blended seamlessly together.

On that episode 7 note, I thought my heart was gonna burst with happiness when the entire theater shrieked with cheers and applause and cries of "congratulations!" when Victor jumped into Yuuri to kiss him. The same happened when Phichit announced that his friends had gotten married--everyone was just totally into the moment, and it really left you with this weird feeling of comaraderie even though you were surrounded by strangers. Each and every person was so invested in this relationship, so happy, so moved. I felt really emotionally drained by the end, coming down from that high.

These bursts of applause were also repeated throughout the series whenever skaters landed their jumps cleanly, as if we were actually watching them in real time, in real life. It was just so nice??

tl;dr - 1000% would absolutely do that again. I've never done a marathon with a huge theater of fans before, for various reasons, and I'm so glad I had such a great experience my first time. I cannot recommend it highly enough if you have the chance yourself to take part in such a thing!

[courage-a-word-of-justice]

Yuri on Ice 12 (FINAL) | Erased 1 | SGRS 14 | Nanbaka 12 – 14

I’m still fleshing out my set for this season as well as filling out stuff from one year ago...yeah, yeah. You’re telling me I’ve got dedication, having to deal with stuff twice, right?

I’ve decided I won’t merge the old (Le Take) notes with the new ones, as there are some show takes (such as Sekkou Boys) that will get lost in the process. Besides, Le Take is pretty shameful by itself.

Why do I do simulcast commentaries? I figure someday, someone’ll benefit from all the info I give. Or maybe it’s just Boueibu fans who want another opinion on stuff. *shrugs*

Final ep, eh? I wonder if I’ll miss this show…

Apparently Stephane Lambiel is a famous sports commentator in RL.

Waitasec – JJ trained under Ciaociao? Now there’s something to see.

Still can’t tell that brunette is his mum.

Who’s the woman next to Ciaociao? (Her name, I mean.)

That’s…cute, Phichit. Real cute.

Pinchos? Rinchos? Rinchus? I dunno what that eyecatch says…

Everyone’s basically crying right now! *applauds*

It’s fairly predictable when someone becomes so fixated on somebody else’s actions that they’re going to get distracted (in this show, at least). Thus, it’s pretty easy to see Chris’s demise.

“Kya---” is a squee, not an OMG. Get it right, folks.

Symphony no. 9 – a name I’ve become quite familiar with through Classicaloid. The second’s not famous like the first, which is why Otabek choosing it represents him as a supporting person really well.

That…was surprising! I read a PP on Tumblr about how men normally don’t have a couples skate, but women do, but this…not only was it the Stay Close to Me from the beginning, it was a couple one too.

“See you next level” – People already spoilt that for me ages ago, but yeah. Hopefully I can see you next level.

(Erased ep 1)

Boku Dake ga Inai Machi was one of the bigger hyped shows IIRC and by virtue of its being a mystery, of course I wanted in. Also, Sachiko Fujinuma is Conan…

Okay people, let’s get this straight. Boku Dake ga Inai Machi means “The Town in Which Only I am Missing”. It’s dumb to change it, although I can see why the change happened.

CGI taxi. Probably the worst type of vehicle to blow your budget on.

That voice. It’s Conan…but a little deeper.

I found this site handy for unpiecing certain parts of this show, as well as Gugure! and a few other shows. It really helped for the title phrases especially.

This show really delves into the psychology and sociology…that’s one of the better parts of this.

CGI cars. Honestly people, don’t waste your budgets on CGI cars…

Obviously a Wikipedia parody.

According to the site linked a few dot points ago, you’re not allowed to ride on a bike the way Airi is in this scene.

I bet Sachiko ships them despite the age gap…oops, I forgot she says that. She does ship them, just not manically as shippers usually do.

Why is there a frog? “Speak no evil” or something?

That face…no wonder people think it’s obvious who killed Sachiko.

The cutting off of part of the screen is a good effect, visually speaking. It allows for contrast between present and past.

(SGRS ep 14)

CR was being a butt, so I had to use a YT mirror for this. Certainly, it was ripped, but it was a much nicer experience than dealing with Shockwave Flash and error pages over and over.

The 4th wall break…actually works really well.

President of the Rakugo Association? Nice, Kiku. Real smooth.

Lemme get this straight, people. It’s Showa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu: Sukeroku Futatabi-hen. Not Showa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu: Descending Stories – the second part is a localised, shorter name.

As soon as I heard the voice of Shinichi (Detective Conan), my jaw dropped. I haven’t heard that voice in ages, and for an Osakan character too! (You can tell he’s Osakan due to the –han.)

Wa-wait…Mangetsu? O-oh, sorry. I’m not good at identifying voices of seiyuu after all. It was Koji Yusa, not Kappei Yamaguchi.

What anyone would give for a parent like Yakumo 8th…yeah. People would give a lot for that sort of freedom…

Oh. Okay. Kyoto people use similar honorifics to Osakans.

I’d recognise that as a Louis Vuitton bag anywhere. Lots of Asians have fake ones like it…haha. *sweatdrops* Google says it’s a woman’s handbag.

As a writer myself, I can see the parallels to the typical artist. I’m far from fully fledged, though…the only books I can call “published” are the ones I’ve made with my own hands or posted online.

Yotaro still remembers the promises after 10 years? I can’t even remember what I’ve said a few minutes ago sometimes, let alone remember something like that…even though I pride myself on my memory.

(Nanbaka ep 12)

Uh, what language is “Wartezimmer”? Update: Oh, German.

The exact word for “monster” used here is “bakemono”. I can tell from the lip flaps, even without sound.

This Elf looks like Tanya from Youjo Senki…*shudders* Not only does he look like an elf, but isn’t “elf” 11 in German? Update: You’re wondering why I’m talking about Elf despite having no indication as to how I knew his name? Spoilers, o’course.

Having watched ConRevo prior to this,let’s just say justice is not a word one should sling around lightly.

Haven’t laughed like this for Nanbaka in a while…I miss the days where Nanbaka really was a comedy anime.

They even went Hetalia mochi on us…? With bouncing head effects, to boot.

His name is “Mitsuru” (3 cranes), which is why Hajime’s calling him a crane.

“Don’t get caught” takes on a new meaning here.

Aw, sweetpe-oh? Ah! Elf?!!!!

If I were watching that weekly, that would be a bad cliffhanger…but I’m not, so it doesn’t matter.

(ep 13)

Why the brain? Shouldn’t Elf go for Musashi first, since that guy’s lethal? Jyugo’s hardly a liability compared to Musashi.

This Elf guy blew the metaphorical doors right open…and I just imagined the story flowing out of them like blood.

Handsome guys aren’t useless! They make a show more entertaining!

(ep 14)

Mitsuru!!! You’ve done it again, and by that I mean you’ve ruined the mood!

I was worried about the OP at first for a little, but then Rin! Rin! Hi! Hi! came back and I rejoiced. It does sound a little different, though.

Hajime’s…already…bald…*sweatdrops*

Mitsuru! Geddout of here!

Finally, Mitsuru does something good.

Poor R(bleep)mba.

Unfortunately, we haven’t learnt the name of that movie until now. So…thanks, Mitsuru.

Smol, unmasked Tsukumo is such a cutie. Dangit, I wanna take him home…wait, he’s on my computer, in my home. (It’s not enough, though. Gimme a plushie of it!)

Makibishi = caltrops. Japanese ones, to be specific.

According to Google-sensei, 10000 yen = about $100. Pretty expensive, Mitsuru.

JOMP, LOL.

COMP now? Also, Kuu was the one who said “meow”, but Rock’s dialogue was right before it. Subbers must’ve somehow confused the two.

183 cm? Pretty tall, Kenshiro. Pretty tall.

Herbivore men. You know what they are, right?...Right, Kenshiro?

You can at least laugh at how hard the narrator (not sure it’s Mitsuru any more) is trying…I guess this is the “so bad it’s good” category?