#I heard something about ‘’special interest’’ (which might be the case) | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

octuscle · 9 months ago

Text

Browth Spurt

Martin, Michael and Christian were interns at promaxx, one of the fastest growing venture capitalists. promaxx specialized in biotech, and the board's dream was to find the first unicorn capable of bionically optimizing humans.

"If they were able to do that, they hadn't done a good job on themselves," Martin whispered to Michael. He had to stifle a laugh. There were indeed a couple of rather ridiculous-looking nerds in the "growth spurt" presentation. They were talking about a combination of pills and autogenic training, which was supposed to unleash undreamt-of powers in men. There was actually a pile of CDs and a few packets of pills on the table in front of them. Images of men screaming "Alpha" from every pore flickered across the projector.

The promaxx product manager had either heard Martin or read his mind. In any case, he asked why the young men didn't look like the ones whose images had just been projected onto the wall. One of the start-up nerds, who weighed a maximum of 70 kilograms at around 200 cm tall, began to stammer that they weren't quite sure yet what the side effects on the psyche would be and that their minds were, after all, the company's greatest asset. Christian, who has always been a bit cheeky, laughed and said that this might not be a good starting point for entering the market. The product manager gave him a high five and added that he was not interested in hearing more, he was sure that everyone present could do better with their time, the meeting was over.

The start-up entrepreneurs from "growth spurt" stood there with their mouths open. They had expected everything, but not such an early termination. The product manager left the room without saying goodbye. Martin and Christian followed in his footsteps. Only Michael stayed for a moment, tried some comforting small talk and then left. The nerds packed up their things in disappointment and left the meeting room.

"Why were you still talking to the losers? "Christian asked Michael. Christian opened his jacket and took out a pack of tablets and three CDs. "That's why," he said with a grin. "We'll see what this stuff is worth now. And if it can become a unicorn, we can say we've discovered it."

That evening, the three boys lay in their beds. The tablets with a glass of water on the bedside table. The CD inserted in a player. They had all had to search a little to find something that could play this ancient media. The three of them chatted on their chatroom.

Michael: Have you already Martin: Nope Christian: Nope Michael: I've put the CD in, but I can't hear a thing. Christian: Same here. Martin: I've swallowed the pill! Michael: Okay, me too now Christian All for one, one for all! …

Christian fell into a deep sleep relatively quickly. His boner built an impressive tent in his bed. At some point during the night, he had a wet dream and blew an incredible load. And then once again. And then once more. And then he woke up.

Christian: Shit, are you awake? Christian: Shit, shit, shit! Michael: Bro, it's 05:00. A bit early for the gym. Martin: You say, weakling! I've been up for half an hour doing push-ups and squats.

Christian sits up. He burped. Must be from the pills. Like the puddle he had slept in. And that body that had torn his pyjamas to shreds. Martin sent a photo of a monstrous bicep with the comment "Then I'll see how I can get it to burn." Something was different. But Christian didn't know what…

Christian: Bros, I must have overdone it a bit, I don't fit into my clothes anymore. Michael: Same here, bros, had to train naked. Shit, my cock rubs against the floor during the push-ups and doesn't get limp at all. Martin: I was just at my brother's. His clothes fit me reasonably well. I'll pick you up and bring you something.

Christian went into the shower. His three-day beard went perfectly with his dark complexion. No need to shave today. His parents were still closing up when Michael and Martin pulled up outside the house. Christian opened the door, naked as God had made him. "You're a fucking statue, bro," Martin said as he handed him a pile of clothes. Christian posed. The light from the hall lamp cast his shadow on the early morning street. The milkman gawked. And almost had an accident.

"So, bro! We think you should think again about the nerds from yesterday," Michael said to the promaxx product manager. He just looked at them. He didn't notice any change. The three junior managers looked impressive as always. The fact that they called him "bro" flattered him. "Sorry, big boys, but the rejection is already out."

Christian looked at his bros and asked, "Do you think what I think?" "Shit, when I see you, I always think the same thing, stud!" said Martin. He obviously wasn't wearing any underpants. And he was leaking plenty of precum. "Michael grabbed his crotch and said "Let's fuck the guys from "growth spurt". Christian grinned. "At least there's one here who hasn't fucked his brains out or swapped them for brawn."

The three of them had quite a problem getting into the Uber. The driver said that with three guys that big, he would definitely need a gas surcharge for being overweight. The three boys laughed uproariously as if it was a good joke. They liked it when people admired them. And they were indeed admirable. "Stop, Taxi-Bro," yelled Mike. They had just passed a store selling gym gear. "We need to get in there quickly," he added. "Dude, you're a lifesaver," said Chris and gave him a fist bump. Martin's brother's suits were just too tight. And you couldn't show them off. And the sun was shining. Sun's out, guns out. Their motto is college days. Hehehe, they didn't do much other than hang out in the sun on campus. They were living proof that you could build a career on good looks alone.

"Damn, don't you think you should at least cover your nipples?" asked the Uber driver. "And what the hell is so smelly here?" Martin let his pecs dance in the back seat. "Bro, don't talk, drive! In tank tops, my monster pecs are like prison!" And in the passenger seat, Mike crossed his arms behind his head in such a way that the driver almost fell into the bush in his armpit. "Stink? All I smell is man musk". Christian farted a huge protein fart. "Not only musk, bro." The three bros laughed. The driver stepped on the gas, hoping the tip would compensate for at least some of the pain this ride was causing him.

The CEO and CFO of "growth spurt" looked helplessly at the three men, who could barely get anything past their lips apart from "dude", "bro" and "sick big muscles". The guinea pigs they had experimented with so far had also developed a powerful sex drive and tyrannized all the other reference animals. But at least they hadn't been tattooed and had smelled like a gym locker. Mike, Chris and Martin would make great advertising characters after all. Maybe they'd be able to collect equity that way. And they would need it. At least now they had three extra mouths to feed with a massive appetite for cum and protein.

Pics made @ki-kink

#male tf #muscle tf #reality change #inked man #ai image #age progression #bro tf #broification

251 notes · View notes

faithfulren · 8 months ago

Text

field trip bonding

hey guyss! sorry i haven't been posting lately, i haven't had the motivation :((

during a school field trip to a hero agency, you and izuku midoriya get separated from the group. as you explore the agency together, you share your dreams and aspirations, forging a bond that brings you closer than ever.

----

the excitement in the air was palpable as your class arrived at the hero agency. this wasn't just any agency; it was the renowned agency of pro hero endeavor. you could feel your heart race with anticipation, and you knew you weren't the only one. your classmate, izuku midoriya, was practically vibrating with enthusiasm beside you.

"midoriya, this must be like a dream come true for you," you said, smiling at the green-haired boy.

izuku blushed and rubbed the back of his neck. "y-yeah, it really is. i can't believe we're actually here!"

as your teacher began to lead the class through the agency, you found yourself lagging behind, mesmerized by the various hero memorabilia displayed in glass cases. izuku noticed and slowed his pace to match yours.

"look at this!" you exclaimed, pointing to a framed photograph of endeavor in action. "isn't it amazing?"

izuku nodded vigorously. "absolutely! endeavor's techniques are incredible. he's known for his relentless pursuit of justice and his intense training regimen."

you admired izuku's passion for heroes, which mirrored your own. the two of you continued to explore, occasionally stopping to marvel at the displays. it wasn't long before you realized the rest of the class had moved on without you.

"uh, midoriya?" you said, glancing around. "i think we might have lost the group."

izuku's eyes widened. "oh no! we should try to catch up."

you both quickened your pace, but the hallways of the agency were like a maze. despite your best efforts, you couldn't find your classmates. Instead of panicking, you decided to make the most of the situation.

"hey, why don't we explore a bit more?" you suggested. "we might find something interesting."

izuku hesitated but then nodded. "sure, let's do it."

as you wandered through the agency, you found yourselves in a training room filled with various exercise equipment and holographic simulation machines. izuku's eyes sparkled with excitement.

"wow, this is where the heroes train!" he exclaimed. "imagine how many heroes have honed their skills right here."

you smiled at his enthusiasm. "it's inspiring, isn't it? seeing all this makes me want to work even harder to achieve my dream."

izuku turned to you, curiosity evident in his gaze. "what's your dream?"

you took a deep breath, feeling a bit vulnerable but deciding to share anyway. "i want to be a hero who can make a difference in people's lives. someone who can bring hope to those who need it most."

izuku's expression softened. "that's a wonderful dream. i know you'll achieve it."

"thanks, midoriya. what about you? what's your dream?"

izuku's face lit up. "i want to be a hero like all might. someone who saves people with a smile, no matter the odds."

you felt a surge of admiration for him. "i believe you can do it. you have the heart of a hero."

izuku blushed at your words. "t-thank you. that means a lot."

just then, you heard footsteps approaching. your teacher appeared, looking relieved.

"there you two are! i've been looking everywhere for you. come on, let's get back to the group."

as you rejoined your classmates, you couldn't help but feel that something special had happened during your time alone with izuku. you had seen a side of him that few others had, and it made you appreciate him even more.

back on the bus, you sat next to izuku, and the two of you continued to chat about heroes, training, and your shared dreams. by the time you arrived back at school, you felt a deep connection with him that you knew would only grow stronger with time.

as you stepped off the bus, izuku turned to you with a shy smile. "thanks for today, y/n. i had a great time."

you smiled back, feeling your heart flutter. "me too, midoriya. maybe we can do something like this again, just the two of us."

izuku's eyes widened slightly before a soft blush spread across his cheeks. "i'd really like that."

you took a deep breath and gathered your courage. "so, how about this weekend? we could go to the new hero exhibit at the museum."

izuku's smile grew brighter. "it's a date."

your heart skipped a beat at his words, and you nodded, feeling a warmth spread through you. "it's a date."

as you walked home together, you couldn't help but feel that this was the start of something truly special, a bond that would only grow stronger with time and shared dreams.

#mha #anime #bnha #bnha x reader #mha x reader #x reader #boku no hero academia #my hero academia #izuku midoriya x reader #izuku x reader #mha izuku #izuku midoriya #faithfulren

159 notes · View notes

depression-napping · 7 months ago

Text

FFVII Ever Crisis has a Japanese-only dub right now, so just in case anyone wants to know what Vincent says during battles, I did a quick translation below. This is by no means complete or perfect, but you can get a sense for what he might say in the next installment of FFVIIR :)

Before battle

これも私の罰か

Kore mo watashi no batsu ka?

Is this also my punishment?

(OK SO I could not make out “batsu” for the longest time because he has kind of a lisp (so cute) and it sounds like he’s saying “bashhu” instead (which makes zero sense) so when I looked up the possible phonetics, “batsu” came up and I was like OF COURSE HE WOULD SAY THAT 😭)

さあ、やるか

Saa, yaru ka?

Well, shall we (do it)? (“It” being battle haha)

お出ましか

O-demashi ka?

Are you coming?

(This is likely is addressed to his teammates as in, are you going (to fight)? I’m still trying to think of a better translation…)

(Edit: He drops the last vowel in demashi so I was wondering if he maybe said o-demashou which would change the meaning to something like “shall we begin?” Still not 100% sure on this one)

フ… 面白い　Hm… interesting

Hu… Omoshiroi

(Omoshiroi can also mean “how amusing”.)

During battle

呼んだか？

Yonda ka?

You called?

(When switching to his character in battle)

こうたいだ - Fall back!

Koutai da

(Edit: 7/21: I keep going back and forth about what this means specifically, whether he is saying 後退“Fall back/retreat” or something more like 交代 “My turn”. Both sound the same in Japanese but I don’t have kanji to help here lol. Usually “my turn” is translated as 私の出番 “watashi no deban” which is what Aeris says incidentally, but deban is kind of a childish word, so this sounds like Vincent’s more formal way of saying the same thing.)

Special attack:

動くな　Ugoku na - Don’t move.

さらば　Saraba - Farewell.

受け取れ　Uketore - Take this!

じゃ、な　Jya na - Goodbye.

After Battle - Victory:

終わったな　

Owatta na

It’s over.

こんなものだ。

Konna mono da.

It’s something like that.

(I’d translate this as something punchier... Like he’s saying“No sweat” but cooler ✨)

Defeat

フ… 似合いの結末だ

Hu… Niai no ketsumatsu da

Hmph… A fitting ending.

ついに終わりか？

Tsui ni owari ka?

At last, is this the end?

(7/21: Here’s the one I was missing. This is like identical to one of his Dirge defeat lines ❤️)

If he falls in battle:

闇が近い

Yami ga chikai…

Darkness is near…

(Edit 7/21: I misheard this line the first couple of times due to battle sound effects, but I finally heard him clearly this time and it’s so perfect ❤️ haha)

If you retire from battle:

今度こそ、永遠の眠りを…

Kondo koso, eien no nemuri wo…

This time, forever will I sleep…

—-

Kinda standard stuff, but anything he says sounds so good in Suzuki-san’s voice ❤️

#vincent valentine #ffvii #ff7 #ff7 ever crisis #ff7 ec #translations #voice acting #翻訳

127 notes · View notes

comicaurora · 2 years ago

Note

Hey red, what's your opinion on some modern writing that's very lamp shady? And do you have any advice on how to avoid "Well that just happened" dialogue?

It's an interesting question!

The thing is, lampshading exists for a reason, but it's not the reason it gets used a lot of the time. Writers might lampshade a narrative choice they're insecure about, while characters lampshade because the things they go through in a typical story are kind of bonkers, and we might expect them to notice. If a character signs on for a simple mercenary expedition and ends up discovering they're the long-lost prince of a kingdom they've never heard of, that's weird and they probably feel weird about it. If an ally is determined to 1v1 their super overpowered nemesis with no help from their friends, those friends might have opinions about how dumb that is.

This is a form of lampshading that doesn't break immersion because it's entirely in-character and doesn't lean on the fourth wall. There's a difference between a character noticing how weird their life is and a character pointing out how cliched a recent experience was. In the latter case, the character is treating their life like a story, and while it IS a story, they shouldn't know that.

There's a spectrum here, with "complete sincerity and taking every turn of the plot at face value" defining the 0-point and "complete self-aware uninvestment" at the far end, but healthy levels of lampshading live somewhere in the middle. Characters at the 0-point accepting everything that happens without question can feel just as weird as characters that won't stop pointing out the TVTropes entry they're currently living. It's about what it makes sense for the character to find disruptive or noteworthy. A hardened badass probably won't see the need to point out how bonkers a recent fight scene was, but a newcomer to the Cool Bombastic Adventure scene might be really excited when they pull off a cool special move and want to point it out.

I think this is why the recent D&D movie worked for a lot of people, because while the main characters all lampshade their lives to varying degrees, the way they do so makes sense for all of them. Edgin is a bard and storyteller so he has a slightly meta perspective on a lot of things, purposefully avoids playing along with certain narrative conventions and sometimes responds to other people's dialogue by critiquing their dialogue instead of just responding normally; Holga doesn't really care to understand how the world works and so keeps pointing out that they should just use magic to solve their problems, which is probably the most popular lampshade in the whole genre; Doric and Simon don't get a ton of time to shine character-wise, but they'll both occasionally poke holes in the pretense of the story they're in. The thing that makes this all work is Xenk, who plays absolutely every moment completely 100% straight and is entirely immersed in the objectively ridiculous setting of D&D. Same goes for most of the villains, except for Forge, who's probably the wackiest and most self-aware character in the entire movie, but in a way that makes him feel callous and disregarding of the people around him, like he's uninvested in the world not because he knows he's a fictional character but because he has too much money and power to care about anything. The ways each character does or does not lampshade their surroundings make sense for who they are as people and reinforce their characterization and place in the world instead of undermining it.

I recently watched a couple episodes of Stargate Atlantis and noticed something similar - the main character and, to a lesser extent, the rest of his associates from Earth have a tendency to make wry observations about his objectively bizarre life and the eccentricities of the people around him, which helps contrast against the extremely serious and businesslike Cool Space Warriors they keep accumulating, which helps make them feel (a) distinct from each other and (b) relatable considering all the weird stuff that happens. And the protagonist switches off the quips as soon as things start looking perilous for his team, so you never get the impression that they aren't invested in the story they're living, and as a result the various quips and lampshades come across more as a habit or a coping mechanism than a disruption to the narrative itself.

So basically I think you can get away with a lot of lampshades as long as the character doesn't feel like they know they're in a story.

#asks #writing stuff

411 notes · View notes

raven-at-the-writing-desk · 10 months ago

Note

Hey Raven, hope your doing well. I was rewatching book 5 and something struck me. Crowly stills does his thing to get yuu/mc to host the NRC tribe at Ramshackle. But compare to previous chapters hes seems a little nicer, i guess? He offering renovations and upgrades ( a positive), instead of just threatening to cut yuu's food budget or something (a negative).

Where im going with this is, do you think Crowley may have felt a tiny tinge for his (in) action in book 4? Or atleast, realized he actually screwed up. He did give Yuu in case of an emergency.... and promptly ignored it (or just turned it off) when he went on break. He likely had to have heard what happened over the break...an likely saw his missed calls and put 2 and 2 together. Sure he may not feel bad enough to apologize (at least openly), but he does seem to make himself scarce early in b5. That could just be him being, well, the headmage. Maybe he's just not sure how to deal with MC or how they'd react to seeing him? So instead of threatening Yuu, he offers them something instead? Idk, maybe im reaching. Crowley relationship with Yuu is complicated. I do like to believe he has some empathy or regret (or maybe he just has more respect for yuu by b5?) After everything up to that point

Like i said, i may be reaching here. Wanted to get your input. Sorry for the long ask. Have a good one :)

In many fandom depictions of Crowley, he often serves as Yuu's guardian who is incompetent but well-meaning. I'm also guilty of doing this, Crowley is considered my OC's father figure (even if my OC isn't a Yuu). That's how we choose to engage with the characters and the world that we love! However, I don't believe that Crowley has that sort of tenderness for Yuu in canon, whether at the start or as their relationship develops over the course of the main story. Now, that's not to say that I think Crowley is cold or hateful towards Yuu. Far from it! He does care for them, but in the same way that a teacher might care about nurturing their students and preparing them for the world beyond graduation. Crowley demonstrates a similar attitude towards other NRC students, with one very clear example being in his Raven Jacket vignettes. In those stories, he likens his students to apple trees that he raises and nurtures, hoping that one day they might bear fruit. He does not particularly grant Yuu special treatment unless it's a scenario where he wants them to do a favor for him. (Though here I would also argue he does the same for other students when he wants them to resolve an issue in his place, which happens frequently in event stories; in Fairy Gala, he warns the boys they'll be held back if classes cannot proceed due to the wacky weather. In Ghost Marriage, Crowley shames the boys for not expressing interest in rescuing Idia, etc.)

I also want to set the record straight regarding how exactly Crowley gets Yuu to comply with his requests. Reviewing all avaliable books in the main story, Crowley rarely outright threatens Yuu if they refuse to help him:

Prologue — Crowley does not initially ask anything of Yuu, but he does provide them a temporary home and food until they can sort something out. During Yuu's stay, they are meant to do handiwork to earn their keep. However, Crowley tries to expel them after their involvement in breaking what is considered a precious chandelier. In this case, his anger is somewhat justified but it's still the one major example of Crowley leveraging something to force Yuu to act in a way that he desires. The thing is, it's revealed in chapter 19 that Crowley did not believe Yuu could acquire the magestone he asked for and was all set to finalize the expulsion papers. So really, he wasn't serious at all in giving Yuu a chance to redeem themselves and was going to expel Yuu anyway (until they happened to prove their "usefulness"). Whether this counts as an example of Crowley "threatening" Yuu, then, is up to individual interpretation.

Book 1 — Crowley makes no specific request to Yuu. He shows up late in the book and suggests to the frustrated Adeuce that they fight Riddle to claim his seat as dorm leader, but does not tell Yuu to do anything in this situation. Recall that it was Ace that marched up to Ramshackle's front door and demanded that he be allowed to stay overnight; Crowley had no part in that.

Book 2 — In 2-7, Crowley asks Yuu to investigate the strange string of accidents that has befallen the students set to play in the upcoming inter-dorm magift/spelldrive tournament. There is a part where Crowley says he "never promised to cover living expenses". You, as Yuu, have the option to ask him "Is that a threat...?" to which Crowley never properly responds. Interpret that how you wish. He then offers Grim and Yuu a chance to participate in said tournament if they succeed, seeing as they lacked the 7 players needed to form a team. Crowley even says he will find 5 other players to fill in their missing team seats for them.

Book 3 — Here in 3-6, Crowley never actually threatens to cut off food. Instead, he is trying to earn pity from Yuu by guilt tripping them and emphasizing that he, the headmaster, is so busy with his tasks (like finding Yuu a way home) and will provide them with the funds they need regardless because he is so very kind. He's trying to tug at their heartstrings by pointing out the things he selflessly does for them, so they feel obligated to do something for him in return. Once Yuu agrees to help, he lavishes them with praise and says it is "expected" of someone he personally chose.

But!! I want to add that in the Episode of Octavinelle manga, this same scene is depicted as Crowley threatening to cut their food budget. I'm not sure if this is just a different interpretation (since Yuuta seems to prepare more food than is usually implied in the game; this would explain why their food costs go up significantly) or if Crowley truly was also threatening to cut the budget in the game.

Book 4 — Crowley makes a reasonable request in 4-2; he asks Yuu and Grim to tend to the fire fairies over winter break since it's a task no one else will be present to handle. In exchange, he says he will give them a banquet of tasty foods (which is not an empty promise; in 4-39, the Ramshackle Ghosts tell Yuu and Grim that the headmaster has left them with a ton of food as thanks.

Book 5 — Crowley appears in 5-21 asking that Yuu allow the NRC Tribe to stay at Ramshackle for their month-long training camp. He explains that Vil and Rook are willing to give up their share of the prize money if Yuu agrees to these terms. It is then that Crowley adds that he will help with renovation too, most likely to sweeten the deal with his word.

Book 6 — Crowley does not ask anything of Yuu. He does, however, call in STYX in 6-2 because he becomes concerned about the threat that Grim poses after consuming multiple crystallized blots. After Grim is taken, Crowley instructs Yuu in 6-4 to wait until Grim has recovered and been evaluated by a third party to speak with him again.

Book 7 — Crowley makes no specific requests to Yuu.

You can see in almost all instances that Crowley uses a variety of tactics to get his students to do what he wants them to. He bribes, shames/guilts them, points out very real consequences if the problem at hand is not resolved, and, yes, occasionally makes what can be interpreted as a vague threat. Despite this, the fact remains that he was always nice, not just post-book 4 (in fact, Crowley was also nice during book 4). I don't see the circumstances as "anything before or during book 4 is him being negative and threatening to punish Yuu and anything after book 4 is him being kind and positive to Yuu". In most cases with Yuu, he is offering them something they would want. His go-to strategy isn't threats, it tends to be the promise of a reward.

I wouldn't tie any of Crowley's actions to feeling a sense of remorse or guilt on his own part. While it's true we don't really get to see inside of his head, from what we see of him... this man is utterly shameless. He's willing to resort to emotional manipulation to convince literal children to solve problems that he, the powerful mage and adult, should be dealing with. What's more, he praises himself for Yuu's competence and willingness to step up. That's him placing a lot of faith in his students, and I don't think he feels any guilt in doing this. Why else would he send them into dangerous situations over and over again? He must, to some extent, believe they can already handle themselves just fine, otherwise he's creating tons of legal liabilities for himself by purposefully throwing children of tons of affluent families into the line of fire. Besides, he's a highly skilled mage himself--if any true, TRUE danger were to befall them, surely he could save the day himself. My thought is that he has sort of a "tough love" approach where he tosses his students into the fires and sees how they get out of it in one piece, but it's just presented in a "devil-may-care" way because of his lackadaisical attitude.

Regarding book 4, I personally see Crowley giving his cell phone number as just a means to provide reassurance to Grim and Yuu, since they (especially Grim) are protesting about him seemingly leaving on vacation. It's an empty gesture so he can have his getaway without much of a fuss; I totally believe that Crowley did not ever intend to answer his phone. When he returns in book 5, he's already asking another favor of Yuu, so I get the sense he isn't really bothered by what happened. I would even say that Crowley still has several major appearances in book 5, not that he has made himself scarcer. He appears to ask the favor, appears again to evaluate their performance, and then a third time at the cultural festival to speak with the headmaster of RSA. Crowley gets plenty of screen time here, much more then in books 6 and 7. If he truly felt bad or actively wanted to avoid Yuu, he could easily just tell other students (ie Vil) or even school staff (ghosts, teachers, etc.) to relay the deal for him.

Again, I want to be clear: THIS IS NOT CROWLEY BASHING. The only thing I am expressing in this post is that while I do love this bird-brained goober and think he cares for his students, I don't believe it's done in the conventional sense you're thinking of. Crowley can be selfish and callous and throw his students into danger, and that's okay! Sometimes we want to love a useless man who's trying his best, even if his best is pretty lousy/j

Whew, that was a lot of brain dumping! I hope I properly responded to all your thoughts and that you found this read semi-entertaining~

127 notes · View notes

slowlypalefire · 1 year ago

Text

Event Story

Ebert Vs Ellis

Part 1

*The translation are not guaranteed to be entirely accurate, so expected some errors.

On Valentine's Day, the kitchen at Crown Castle was filled with the scent of sweet chocolate.

Kate: "It's baked!"

I looked at the steaming chocolate cake and looked at the maids.

I decided to make sweets to convey my daily gratitude and love to each person I care about.

It was just yesterday.

Everyone seemed to be having fun talking in sign language while wrapping, and I couldn't help but relax.

(Hehe, everyone looks like they're having fun. It's like this after all.Every event is fun)

Maid Chloe: "The men might start fighting over my sweets!''

Maid Marie: "That's just too much of a dream! I understand, though."

"Kate-san, don't you want to see your chocolate be compete for once? "

Imagine that you have a chocolate and multiple people ask for it.

(I feel lonely when no one wants me)

(In that case, it would be better if they competed for it...maybe you might be happy)

Kate: "Sure, I might be happy."

I communicate this in sign language, which I have just begun to learn.and,

the chocolates made by the maids themselves ,they took it with them and quickly left.

Leaving behind only a “meaningful” smile.

Kate: "Oh, what? Let's make tea while eating the leftover cake..."

Elbert and Ellis: "Kate"

When I turned around, there was Elbert-sama with a wistful expression on his face and Ellis-kun smiling.

Ellis: "I heard a happy voice, so I was curious and came to take a look."

Elbert: "… Me too. Because I heard your voice."

"…The smell of chocolate.Were you making sweets?"

Kate: "Yes. We all worked together. We did a good job, look."

Ellis: "It's true. It's so cute in the shape of a heart. As expected of you, Kate-san."

Kate: "Ellis-kun is always good at complimenting. Thank you."

Elbert: "...I want it."

Kate: "eh?"

Elbert: "... I want your handiwork."

Ellis: "I want some handmade work from you too."

Mr. Elbert is standing on the left and Ellis is standing on the right. When they told me they e wanted it, I couldn't help but feel happy.

(Hehe, both of you are so kind as always)

Kate: "Of course, I have prepared it. I have prepared it for all the Crown members as a token of my daily gratitude."

Elbert: "Kate,this is?"

Ellis: "It's about two sizes bigger than the others. It seems a little special."

Kate: "Ah, that’s a present is for my favorite."

Elbert & Ellis: "...favourite?"

Kate: "The maids told me and I ended up making it..."

The maids told me that, unsexy Valentine's Day is not Valentine's Day.

(Besides, I'm also thinking the same)

Elbert: "...I see. ....Who does this belong to?"

Ellis: "I’m also curious about who Kate will give something special to."

Kate: "Um..."

When I was struggling to answer as I received stares from both of them, my left arm was grabbed tightly.

If you look to the left, you will see long hair with a fringe.His beautiful blue eyes were fixed on me.

Elbert: "...I want this"

Then, I was tapped on the right shoulder.

When I turned my gaze to my right, I saw twilight eyes that seemed to capture the changing time.

Ellis: "I want this too."

Kate: "But there's only one, is this okay?"

Elbert & Ellis: "Yeah"

(L-let me see…)

Kate: "Ah, that’s right! I’m going to make the same thing now. Shall I make another one?"

"There are still some ingredients left, and it looks like it would be fun for the three of us to make together."

Elbert: "...That sounds like fun too."

"I want 'this one', if it's not this, it has no meaning"

Ellis: "Then I'd like 'this one' too. Give it to me, Kate-san."

I can't help but notice that Elbert-sama and Ellis-kun might have had a rift, but...

That doesn't seem to be the case.

Rather than trying to keep each other in check, it seems like the two just want their favorite chocolate cake.

Elbert: "Kate?"

Ellis: "Kate-san"

(What to do...)

Liam: "Wow, I was drawn in by the delicious smell of chocolate..."

"Well, this seems like an interesting thing?"

Kate: "...Liam"

Liam: "Lord El and Ellis both want Kate’s favourite chocolate cake, right?"

"That's sounds fun. I was getting so excited. Can I join in the fight?"

Kate: "Mo,Please don't tease me anymore."

Liam: "Hehe, I'm sorry. I don't want to cause Kate-chan any more trouble, so I'll step down."

"Hey, El-sama, Ellis. Isn't it okay to just share eating this special chocolate cake?"/

"Hey, El-sama, Ellis. How about we just cut this special chocolate cake into half? Is it okay?"

Elbert: "Ah. ...I won't even gave away one of the pieces.I want them all."

Ellis: "I'm the same as El. I think I want them all."

Liam: "Bothering the princess, what a troublesome prince you guys are"

Kate: "Prince?"

Liam: "That's what the play we're rehearsing for is about. Ah,that's right!"

"The two princes fell in love with the princess at a ball party, and they prove their love by devoting themselves to the princess."

Liam takes my fragile hand in a light gesture. And, kiss on the spot.

Liam: "My sin was that I loved you at the same time. In that case, let me prove my love to you by devoting myself to you."

"-like that"

"Isn’t it okay for El-sama and Ellis to prove their love and compete for it? Just like a prince."

Ellis: "Kate's favourite,if i do my best and prove my love to you will i get the special chocolate?"

Liam: "That's right. The one who serves Kate-chan for a day and steals her heart the most wins."

Elbert: "Who decides the winner?"

Liam: "Of course, it will be Kate-chan."

Kate: "Eh, why does it have to be me?"

Liam: "So, don't hold a grudge and fight fair and square."

Elbert: "...I understand. ...I’ll do my best."

Ellis: "Hehe, it’s getting a little fun."

Liam pressed his lips to my ear.

Liam: "While you're at it, enjoy it, Happy Valentine."

#ikemen villains #cybird #cybird ikemen #ikemen series #ikevil #ikemen elbert #elbert greetia #ellis twilight #ikemen ellis #ikevil elbert #ikevil ellis #ikemen villians elbert #ikemen villians ellis #elbert vs ellis #ikevil translations

122 notes · View notes

gor3sigil · 18 days ago

Note

Hi, this might be a bit random, but please bear with me. I’m German and curious about something regarding the French language and gender neutral words. Do you also have “Gendering” in French? “Gendering” being a description for giving gendered words “gender neutral” endings. Which is ironic while also fitting, because the most prominent way to do it is in my opinion not actually making words less gendered but just adding a “*�� to make the appearance of it being inclusive and not actually have a gender neutral ending. The ending is just whatever gendered version of the word is longer with a “*” slapped in between. Alternatively there is also “_” or “:” as a placeholder in between. Speaking wise it’s just a pause.

To visualise it: “act*ress” would be how it works on an English word. This would be counted as gender neutral by the standers of a majority of people doing “gendering”.

I have heard about something similar existing in French before and am curious, about your thoughts on it. (Full disclosure. As a nonbinary individual I am so uncomfortable with being relegated to being a special character and still forced to relate to gendered endings rather than people putting in proper work and make up gender neutral endings. There are ways to make words gender neutral in a way that actually removes the gendered endings, but they are so wildly unpopular that I’ve never seen them used by queer orgs. Or even at all. There is one way to “gender” that is fairly popular that results in gender neutral endings, but it gets criticised for not working at all times, and works within the regular grammar, while the other versions is making up new endings. (I like both of them way more than the common one with the “*”.))

That's a super interesting question, and we do have that in French ! There's a few different ways of making words and adjectives gender neutral in French:

When possible, we combine the masculine and feminine end of the words. I personally do that mostly orally because it's easier to pronounce. For example: actor and actress in French is "acteur" and "actrice", combining both endings would be "acteurice".

If the word ends in "eux", we use the X to combine masc and fem endings and create a gender neutral form. For example: happy is "heureux" (masc) and "heureuse" (fem), so it becomes "heureuxe" (gend neutral). Both these forms we use orally mostly. When we write, we'll do the third option:

Separate the gendered endings with what we call a median point that has been created for this purpose, "⸱". So it becomes "Iel est content⸱e" (They were happy. Note that "iel" is a neopronoun made from the pronouns "il" (he) and "elle" (she) as we don't have gender neutral pronouns). The median point can be replaced with "-" but the median point is really the most common way of making our language gender neutral while writing. Its use is more and more common but very politically aligned with the left and fiercly contested still by the French Academy and more right winged politicians, as it's deemed as a butchering of the French language. But progressive spaces incomporating it to their publications and, more marginally, it making its way into our literature, help a lot since people are seeing it more and more and getting used to it. The only downside to it is that it's a tiny point so it can be hard to read, in this case we'll use a bigger alternative with the "•" or a "-". I have seen "*" used too in french but it's more used in a way of degendering the language contrarily to inclusive writing as I've shown above, and it's not that common even in queer orgas.

#trans #transgender #genderqueer #queer #lgbtqiaplus #lgbtqia #inclusivity #inclusive language #gor3sigil.txt

12 notes · View notes

theresattrpgforthat · 9 months ago

Text

Mint Plays Games: The Wildsea

I spent the month of April (and a little bit of May) playing a game of The Wildsea as part of our Planedawn Orphans meta-campaign series. The Wildsea is the brainchild of Felix Isaacs, and published under Myth-Works, and it’s had such a successful crowdfunding experience that it’s got a number of special scenarios, expansions and game accessories for the dedicated collector. I have access to the original game, as well as the Storm & Root expansion, but most of what we used was just from the original game.

The Wildsea was chosen to represent the “Earth” element from the checklist in Planedawn Orphans, this time targeting a relic titled “The Titan’s Throne.” Once again, we had a few folks who signed up to play as their Planedawn Orphans characters, and a few people who just signed up to play The Wildsea.

Once again, the setting and character creation was very very fun, and in this case, I think it might have been my favourite part of the game, especially when we got to ship creation. I’ve often referenced Forged in the Dark games as a cornerstone for The Wildsea in the past, but the character and ship creation process is, in my opinion, much more time-intensive than many other typical Forged in the Dark games. When you sit down to make a ship, each player has a number of stakes they can spend to ensure that the ship has a component or two that they really want. Our crew decided to build our ship out of the body of a giant lamprey eel, covered with copper scales and complete with a lightning spear built into the tail. We all agreed it would likely be horrifying to look at; and we embraced that horror whole-heartedly.

The rules are very similar to Forged in the Dark, with the added mechanic of a Twist, which makes the generally larger dice pool more interesting; roll two of any number and apart from success or failure, you’re going to have something else interesting happened. However, I feel like the twist mechanic kind of threw my play group off their rhythm, since the narrative kind of had to stop in order to give them time to think of something that they could add to the narrative. This might just be a table issue, as some groups of players might be jumping to add details to the narrative, while others might be more used to looking to the Game Master for guidance.

The game has a lot of interesting set pieces and hints of lore built into its setting, but there’s more prep that I think might be required than I originally thought. There were moments where the freedom of the setting led players down paths that I hadn’t anticipated, and I had to quickly invent NPC’s and setting descriptions that I wasn’t prepared for. I’ve heard about this kind of problem described before about the family of improv-heavy games, of which PbtA and FitD are definitely members, but this was the first time that my sparse notes in terms of locations and NPCs felt like they really bit me in the behind.

Overall my experience with Wildsea was a bit more stilted than I would have liked, but I don’t think I need to lay all of our problems at the game’s feet. Our game group had a big lull in between sessions, and we had to meet in a format that meant that communication was sometimes slowed down or difficult. I definitely want to give this game another go in the future, hopefully with a group that can all meet in the same place, and hopefully with less gaps in between sessions. The biggest takeaway that I have from this game is that Game Masters should definitely look through all of their players’ character sheets and take note of what each character is geared up for and what the players have indicated is interesting to their character arc, because I think the game will connect with your players more if you have designed threats or set-pieces that speak to those abilities.

#tabletop games #indie ttrpgs #indie ttrpg #mint speaks #mint plays games #the wildsea

46 notes · View notes

sol-consort · 24 days ago

Note

So I can't lie, I've only just started following you (love your works, love seeing you experience cyberpunk it's so fun <3) but I have thoughts about Kaidan and River and I want to speak them

A lot of ppl point to River and Kaidan and go, "wow, what a boring romance," and sometimes, I agree, but... I also think that's the point!! Shepard and V are both strong, badass, carrying the weight of the world (or galaxy) on their shoulders! And yes, perhaps they want someone who will be as wild and badass and crazy as they are but also. It isn't hard to imagine someone like that wanting something soft. Wanting that simple, "boring" love that perhaps doesn't involve blowing up a factory for a change. And idk i just really wanted someone to see this and I thought you might like the thought process.

anyways, I love reading your stuff and hope you're doing well <3

But River and Kaiden aren't comparable at all?

Kaidan was infamous for being the vanilla boring choice because he was one of the only two human male romance options in a world filled with colourful aliens. The best of the best allowed a spot atop the Normandy.

While River is an average human character in a cast of other average human characters.

Of course he is boring, all of them are boring! It's a given, so no one ever complained about it because he is just as interesting as other romance options.

(If anything, his mission actually affected (horrified) me the most. And the only one to top it was Evelyn's, which I'm not counting as Judy's mission. No, Judy's mission is liberating Clouds for me.)

Comparing River's date to the others... like nothing is special about any of them. All your run of the mill Night City dates.

Judy takes you swimming, Panam has more family drama, and River takes you to meet his family on better terms this time around. It was actually rather sweet.

When has anyone ever said River was the boring option like Kaidan's case? I've heard a lot of complaints and words thrown his way, sure, but boring was never one of them.

Kaidan had it bad, man, and this is coming from a die-hard Kaidan fan. But this vanilla cake had strawberries, aka men stuttering, so I devoured it all the same.

What people have criticised River's romance for is how rushed it is, how forced fem V is into it. Not how vanilla he is (which he isn't have you seen that freaky sex scene he pressed a naked V against a fully visible-from-outside window for all to see.)

And having just played it myself, yeah, that's true.

It's the lack of choice that's the issue, not the content itself.

If you pick fem V, then you're forced to have an ex-boyfriend when talking to him.

It's the awkwardness of someone confessing their feelings on the dinner table with their family present. Where are we? At a high school lunch table?

This mission would've been better received if only there was a build-up to it, a prequel mission where you get to opt in or out of River's feelings.

It's also the lack of a choice to say "I don't like men" when rejecting him. V just has to come with a lame excuse that rightfully confuses River, who in turn becomes pushy thinking this is just V being self-deprecating or testing the authenticity of his feelings.

One of his lines after you reject him is literally "But I like you..." and V automatically replies with "I like you, too" without input like ????? Queen of mixed signals ig. Then poor River is just as confused and replies with "I don't understand..."

And my perspective is a biased one IN RIVER'S FAVOUR!

I did romance him, I'm clearly into him and his whole shtick. The choices that were forced onto V are choices that coincidentally alligned with what I would've picked. As far as I'm concerned, everything is peachy, and I love River's intensity.

Yet I still caught on to the lack of choice and V's mixed signals. So imagine how unbearable it must have been for a fem V player who didn't come into this with romance in mind.

I know well enough not to confuse my personal preference for characters like him with what's right and wrong in character design. The reality is, River's romance made a lot of people uncomfortable, and on many accounts his feelings come off as rushed or surface level because the player never gets the chance to connect with him on a deeper level, neither could we confide in him about Johnny like we did Judy—not until the very end of his romance, literally seconds before becoming an official couple.

And that's not River's fault. He's more complex than Kaidan. I'll give you that.

But there are many things left unaddressed, missed opportunities, and bad timings.

For example, take how he mentions that he shot the last woman he dated because they ended up on the opposite sides of the law.

I read that line and got immediately hooked!

The potential it had to create conflict between dutiful cop River and thief mercenary V. The romance drama! Two opposites yet hearts so alike! Can their feelings survive this strife?

I thought it was strange when V didn't acknowledge the resemblance in their current predicament after he said that line. But I still had hope. Maybe V is trying not to kill the mood, okay, fine.

I go through his the rest of the mission, anticipating this conflict to pop out from behind any corner. I was so looking forward to the eventual confrontation, the inevitable conflict between River's morals and his hearts' desires!

And!!! Drumroll..... we get.....

Nothing.

River's romance is not vanilla, at least Vanilla has a flavour. His romance is a whole nothing burger!

And V is to blame for a huge portion of why River and the player never click.

He is an outsider looking in; V never gives us the prompt to open the door for him and have a heart to heart. EVEN when he himself bears the most fragile parts of his heart to us on that patio and recounts the murder of his parents. We don't get the chance to at least reply with grace.

Later on in the morning, after sleeping together, he implies that he shared that piece of his past to try and encourage V to open up about this thing he's sure you're hiding.

From River's perspective, everything is going swimmingly. He did all the right steps and gave plenty of room for V to interject and share their sorrows. Many chances for us to entrust in him, but V never took any of them.

It's V who was never given the choice to do either by the devs. You could tell him about Silverhand after sleeping together in an awkward, equally rushed morning talk. And it doesn't feel that touching of an intimate milestone of trust since it only happens at the very, very end of your blossoming romance. Which makes you wonder what the romance was even built upon.

We CAN'T set boundaries with River. We have no say in the matter. And then we act surprised when he crosses them as he took the player's lack of interjection as V's willingness to reciprocate his feelings.

The man isn't a mind reader, cut him some slack. As much as his feelings come out of nowhere from the perspective of the player, it must've been equally jarring for him to have fem V be so open to his flirting only to be met with rejection at the last step when the player is finally given the wheel.

Kaidan was called boring because of his lackluster dialogue and awkward delivery (which I loved bc I'm a deviant ig) He constantly talked in circles, danced around each subject and his own feelings, never gave an outright confession and was reluctant at times.

This line of his especially stuck to me the most.:

So, in comparison to River's beautiful heartfelt lines, daring yet romantic inputs, and being open and direct about wanting you, they're not alike at all. Even their sexualities, Kaidan is bi.

The only thing they have in common is being looked down upon by the fandom.

V: Just don't fall in love with me.

River: Too late, V.

RIver: Too late.

He said it while smiling the most melancholic yet serene smile.

We just gave him a soft rejection, and he hands us his heart on a silver platter in return, fully accepting the possibility that we might break it. But happy to have even gotten the privilege to love us at all.

River embraces his feelings, views love as a beautiful thing, this strong unbreakable bond. A gift with no expectations. He defies the stereotype of emotionally constipated straight dude who's constantly hiding under layers of irony or several feet deep down in denial. Who's as emotionally intelligent as a potato.

Even the infamous icky scene of "who thinks V and River make a good couple" wasn't something out of his own doing! He didn't encourage them. He didn't want his sister to put you on the spot like that. He was taking things slow, and suddenly, both of you were thrust in the middle of a confession and conversation about marriage by his family.

River was quick to get up and fish you out of the situation afterwards, clever and witty as he realised your discomfort and wanted to give you space.

Yet he still owned up to his feelings, faced this unexpected turn of events with grace, and attempted to make the best of a bad, awkward situation.

The jig is up. He might as well do a proper confession even if it's rushed. It wasn't what he planned, but it's what outside circumstances drove him to.

So because of context and bad timing, his confession atop the water tower falls flat on its face. Instead of his sincere lines having that authentic feeling, they feel extremely self-centered.

You ever spoke to a straight dude on a date and noticed how he only ever seems to talk about himself? Never ask how you are after you ask him. Never return the compliment. hogging and hijacking the conversation at every turn, then have the gall to claim that you're a good listener. Saying he must be falling for you when you haven't shared a single fact about yourself or interests so far.

THIS is how River's romance unintentionally feels at times.

It's not how he is on paper, not how his character operates on principles, and most likely not how the writers wanted him to be.

But it is how he looks like to half the playerbase, if not more.

It would've been easily remedied if only we got the option to tell him to fuck off early on, AND the option to entrust and confide in him in return.

Instead, we get FUCK ALL!

Nothing ever comes out of all of this exposition. Oh my god. It was like watching a movie where the director and genre switch every 5 minutes as the player and V contradict each other every other sentence. As draining as swimming against the current.

Creating an experience where the only way to have a smooth sailing River romance is to be 110% into him, only then do the player's choices and V's automated responses allign.

And all of this is coming from a River fan. I MAY poke fun at him in tags from time to time, but that's just my way of showing love.

Realistically, if I didn't like River and found him uncomfortable and boring, then why the hell would I waste time to go through his romance??

I never romanced Garrus (only flirted then broke up for Thane, didnt even bother seeing the sex scene before breaking up) because I found him boring despite the whole fanbase chasing after his turian lack of ass. While the boring Kaidan stole my heart.

Between you and me, I really want to reload a savefile and lock into a relationship with River. Especially since having multiple romances in Cyberpunk has no real consequences and no one ever confronts V for cheating, unlike other games.

That reload game button is calling to me like the green goblin mask ngl, so why the resistance?

Because I'm trying to build a narrative that differentiates V from Johnny by giving V opposing core traits. Never smoking, for example.

Not out of some moral obligation against infidelity in a videogame where you literally murder people—why even draw that line at all?—but for role-playing reasons.

If Johnny was fully loyal to either Rogue or Alt, then I would've made V a whole serial cheater. I just want opposing traits to have interesting symbolism, that's all.

In a second playthrough however, I'm fully coming for River's juicy ass.

AND I'M KEEPING THE "fuck the police" SHIRT AND WEARING IT EVERWHERE. Because I do love River, and I headcanon that this V is also deeply in love with him but by moral obligations can't let her heart stray since she wants to be serious about Judy.

If anything, it's Liara who River reminds me of.

Another character who gets attached way too quickly. Her yearning rivals River's, ever so devoted and in love with the player, wanting something real and deep, not a passing fling.

River is the right guy wrong time. Another character done dirty by greedy shareholders who kept rushing the writers for a game so they had to cut corners, and an impatient fanbase who just wanted to hype up the Next Big Thing release date without a care to its current state.

We kept opening the oven door every 5 minutes, then acted offended when the cake came out deflated and half-baked.

Lastly, thank you for the opportunity to talk about this! Even if you don't agree with a single word I said so far, I'm just glad we get to dissect characters like that, it's very fun. And thank you for your sweet words, I'm happy you like my stories!

Bonus points for anyone who can count how many river/water puns I snuck in this character analysis post.

#☆River #☆cyberpunk #☆other fandoms #☆character study #River ward

9 notes · View notes

immaturityofthomasastruc · 8 months ago

Text

Questions (Since I can't use the askbox anonymously anymore)

Hi! I don’t really agree with you on everything about Miraculous Ladybug, but I thought I might ask you some questions here since I don’t want to make an account to do so and I can’t use the anonymous ask anymore without one.

1. I Assume that your Chloe vs Daruizen post will probably attempt to compare a character who may have been teased as being potentially redeemable before pulling a fakeout vs one who quite possibly wasn’t (and had the show try to pretend otherwise). I’ve seen an essay arguing that Chloe wasn’t meant to be redeemed from another fan, so I would be interested in seeing if you would respond to some of their points.

2. Honestly, I haven’t seen a lot of good things about other Zagtoon shows – I remember Ghostforce in my mind stands out because the comments on the site I found it on describe it as a terribly formulaic Danny Phantom Meets Power Rangers setup, and they also mention other shows by Zagtoon, which they see as average at best. I know Miraculous Ladybug has its flaws and I shouldn’t necessarily be listening to strangers on the internet for opinions but if it’s the best/most successful show that Zagtoon can put out then it certainly seems like they have a problem, especially overambition. I could see them being like telltale games in that they have a huge hit or two and several flops that try to repeat the success but instead gradually drag the studio down.

3. I do feel that more of the fandom would be okay (not necessarily happy, just feeling a bit better) about Gabriel winning if Adrien found out about his father being Hawkmoth (and maybe got to finally have a permanent reveal to ladybug) and we at least got to see him decide on what to think about him knowing that. The antagonist winning can be a huge gamble in writing, for better (Watchmen - where it was thematically appropriate) or worse (Re: Creators – in fact, I think if you watched this show you would compare its main villain to Gabriel in some ways). Though, maybe it might be the other way around and the fandom would have preferred Ladybug winning for good without Cat Noir’s help (and him and the rest of Paris not finding out Gabriel was Hawkmoth), if the choice came down to that or my other proposal. Hell, just to ask you, which would you have preferred?

4. Do you think they are going to reveal that the Utopian Paris happened naturally (to push their messaging) or because of Gabriel’s wish? I would prefer the latter, as it would imply that Gabriel ruined another city/country in the process, which would give a good plot hook and remind us that he was still ultimately a villain. Finding a way to undo the damage would be another good plot.

5. I heard in the interview you did that there has been a bit of resentment against Jeremy Zag. I don’t really know why – is that because he just didn’t do anything about Astruc’s bad decisions, because he was apparently (as) difficult to work with, or something else? I do give him a bit more respect than Astruc for making the movie(s), at least.

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

1. The main idea for that post (assuming I ever wrire it) is more to compare two irredeemable villains who have a history with the main character, and why I think Dariuzen does everything Chloe was meant to do, but better.

2. The issue with ZAG is that they keep coming up with poorly marketed shows and pointless Miraculous Ladybug specials. It’s a case of overambition at its finest.

3. All we really wanted was for Adrien to get some kind of closure with his dad after all the years the show spent tackling their tense relationship. That’s what so many people liked about the movie, that Adrien was able to appeal to Gabriel’s humanity and make him give up. Hell, if you wanted to split up the two, make it so they’re both doing something. Have Ladybug lead the charge against the Miraculized while Cat Noir fights Monarch.

4. I feel like it’s unfortunately going to skew towards the latter. People keep saying that the show meant to make the ending uncomfortable, but not only did the writers’ commentary confirm that they were done with the Agreste family arc, even the marketing seems to believe that Gabriel was a good man.

5. My best guess is that it’s the same problem most writers and executives run into: creative differences.

#thing delivered to my ask box because tumblr won't let me say the s-word #immaturity of thomas astruc #iota #miraculous ladybug #miraculous ladybug salt #marinette dupain cheng #ladybug #adrien agreste #cat noir #chat noir #chloe bourgeois #queen bee #queen b #gabriel agreste #hawkmoth #hawk moth #monarch

36 notes · View notes

phantomoftheorpheum · 4 days ago

Text

School Spirits Season 2 (episode 5) liveblog/thoughts

**Spoilers for School Spirits Seasons 1 and 2x01-2x05

Aaawww, the gang is all together! I love this! I think we’ve been needing this.

I keep waiting for Xavier’s death experience to give him special abilities, because they keep bringing up that he seems to sense the ghosts, even though he can’t see them like Simon sees Maddie. I still expect something from this storyline.

Janet is effectively terrifying, regardless of whether she turns out to be good, bad, or morally gray.

See, I’m with Nicole on this, you guys just agreed that you need to learn more about Janet, but you don’t want to go talk to the one guy you know knew Janet? Like sure, she’s a bit overeager in automatically wanting to bring him to the school, but going to talk to him makes a ton of sense.

Huh. Interesting. On the one hand I’m not surprised that we’re getting more backstory and depth on Rhonda (and developing Quinn a little), but I do wonder how/if any of this ties in. Is Majorie still alive? She’d be like in her 80s, I think, so that’s totally plausible. Hm. Are we setting Rhonda up for something in particular?

Yuri is out of the pottery studio! Wally immediately shipping Charley and Yuri is this fandom. lol.

Maddie being able to enter the scar is interesting. Whenever characters on this show assume something (like Maddie assuming she is able to do this because it's also where she kind of died), then I automatically begin to question if they're drawing incorrect conclusions.

Here’s another example of the scars not reflecting reality, because clearly Janet was unable to go on and do all the things that Maddie heard said about her. Also, Janet was absolutely terrifying (again) in that scene. I assumed this was Janet’s scar because it is clearly all about her, but it would be interesting if it were actually Mr. Martin’s (that the thing he’s being haunted by and can't get past is Janet’s potential going to waste & he is or feels responsible for it). It is the first time we’ve seen a character who is not there appear in their own scar (unless it is Mr. Martin’s and not Janet’s, in which case that's not true). It might also explain why he is so weirdly fixated on her. If he's come to the conclusion that he will be unable to cross over until Janet does, that could be a big motivating factor. That being said, it felt like he had bigger (more sinister) plans than that, or that someone or something did. It genuinely still feels like there's a big element to the afterlife that we're missing.

Oh, I really hope we’re not going to get a villain twist from Yuri (never know with this show) because he and Charley having similar deaths and just getting each other means I think they could help each other a lot and I would love that. You know, as long as that’s really how Yuri died and he’s being honest. I have no particular reason to believe he’s not, but you never know in a mystery, characters tend to have secrets.

Okay, let’s talk about the flashback. Mr. Martin being fired (Janet’s father accusing him of an inappropriate relationship, possibly? I don't feel like we've seen any other specific reason he might be fired, but that's a big assumption to make) and angry points to the idea that he started the fire on purpose, but that pushes me to believe that either Janet did it or they did it together, because that's the more twisty option. We also see Mr. Martin is wearing a similar watch to the key, but I’m not sure if it’s the same one or not. Maddie got into what she assumed was Janet's scar with the watch, but I still can't help but wonder if it's either Mr. Martin's scar, or that is not Mr. Martin's watch.

I still believe there’s a good chance the fire was supposed to be a faked death and it went wrong. But how exactly that would play out, I’m not sure.

We also now know whose storage unit Nicole and Claire are breaking into in the near future (possibly later this episode).

I do feel really bad for Rhonda, I get that this entire situation is dredging up a lot of terrible memories, but I don’t love seeing her take it out on Quinn.

Most uncomfortable group photo of all time and group photos are often uncomfortable, so that’s saying something.

I know Xavier called Maddie his ex, but technically they never broke up and Maddie (if she were Maddie and had actually just been on the run this whole time) wouldn’t know about Xavier cheating on her (which obviously Janet doesn’t know all the interconnected relationships in Maddie’s life, so I get why she’s not bringing it up), so is it not kind of weird that he’s acting like they’re broken up? Like I wouldn't expect him to just roll up and be like "hey, babe," but just not acknowledging your girlfriend who has been missing as your girlfriend feels equally as weird, even though you know it's not your girlfriend. (Imagine trying to follow that sentence without watching this show).

Xavier salting his food for a solid five minutes like I do! 😂😂 Hey, he did just suffer a concussion, maybe he’s a potsie now, too. (Srry don’t mind me with the medical jokes).

Oof. The pool scene. So, tbqh, I felt like dropping the possibility that Maddie could come back to life at the end of season 1 with the Janet reveal kind of undermined a lot of the most emotional and well written moments of the first season, and it’s not exactly the direction I would have gone with things (for example, one of my favorite moments in season 1 is when Maddie is talking to Wally about how maybe she should just let her mom live with false hope because then maybe she’ll stay sober, and how he responds to that. And it works because they are also asking the audience to come to terms with the fact that Sandra’s hope is false, and that’s what gives that moment such weight, and the Janet twist kind of takes the air out of the sails on that one, imo) but that being said, it’s hard to imagine at this point that Maddie won’t succeed in getting back into her body when the whole season revolves around how much she wants to live and is fighting to survive. I have a hard time imagining she just dies for real. So now it feels like they are really setting up how sad it’s going to be when Maddie has to say goodbye to the ghosts (particularly Wally), or even worse when she doesn’t get a real opportunity to say goodbye and like… ouch. That’s gonna hurt if I'm right about it. I can already imagine all the tragic ship edits.

Janet seems to have gotten comfortable with a smartphone quite quickly.

Did Xavier see Maddie’s dad at the hospital when he died? Am I getting that right? (I also assume this is somehow going to tie in to the rowboat/lake stuff from the promo). That’s actually really sad if he’s stuck, too.

Well, Nicole knows. Really not sure how they’re gonna play this. I can’t explain how much secondhand embarrassment I got from her reading that text, even though she’s the only one who has been clued in. Just like. I would die (no pun intended). Like, when I was in high school, I once took alternate routes to class for a full week to avoid this guy I had an emotionally vulnerable moment with through text, so you can imagine if I were in Nicole’s shoes I would not handle this well. I mean, hopefully better now as not a high schooler, but I’m not so sure. I quite literally did not speak to him again until he skipped class to come find me during my lunch period, so… good luck, Nicole, I would simply never speak to Xavier again.

Okay, I really hope this is a turning point for Rhonda, she’s been so angry and struggling all season. Having this moment and realizing her best friend never thought badly of her is hopefully very healing. Do you think we’ll get another ghost crossing over this season, and might that be Rhonda? Also I know that no one specifically acknowledged this, but did anybody else get the impression this song was a romantic love confession, not just Rhonda's best friend regretting not being able to save her? Because it felt very romantic to me.

Charley and Yuri being sweet! I do really appreciate the good moments sprinkled in with all the dark topics.

Mr. Martin/Mr. Anderson possession confirmed. Kinda might be a problem for Mr. Martin that the body he chose could be going to jail soon.

I know Fahrenheit 451 has a particular meaning for Janet and it’s a message, but seems kinda sadistic to give someone that book when they died in a fire. Particularly if he kidnapped her at the end (seems like he has the most motive, but I guess it could be a misdirect and be one of the group) because if he was just going to nab her ASAP then the book is an unnecessary message and feels extra fucked.

God, if Maddie disappears again, idk how Sandra is gonna deal with that.

So, just to sum up, Mr. Anderson is now a spirit at the school because Mr. Martin has possessed him. Janet knows that Maddie’s friends know who she is. Janet was kidnapped (probably by Mr. Martin), and this may lead to the lake location (though I’m not sure why). Eugene knows something about the fire and there’s evidence of some kind in his storage unit. Nicole knows she’s been talking to Xavier now. Xavier still seems like he may have some supernatural ability that hasn’t been truly revealed yet, and also I think he saw Maddie’s dad’s ghost when he was dead. Rhonda is maybe on an upward trajectory after being very down and angry this season. Yuri and Quinn both seem sweet (as far as we know). Charley and Yuri are planning on going on a date. Wally and Maddie did ~stuff~ (it is unclear to me exactly how far that went, like pretty far based on the whole “crossing over” comment and the missing clothing, but not sure). Everyone finally got in a room together, even if the communication was complicated! Lots to think about.

Still no sign of the possible darkroom scar with all the flowers, so keeping my eye out for that one.

#school spirits #school spirits spoilers #school spirits season 2 #school spirits season 2 spoilers #mine #td #long post #text #lb

16 notes · View notes

jiinjiinjarra · 1 month ago

Text

GQ Japan // December 2024

Interview Translation [Eng]

Q: First of all, please let me say welcome back. I heard you were selected as a 'special warrior' while serving in the military. What kind of things did you feel and learn while belonging to the military organization which is completely different from the entertainment industry?

🐹: First, speaking from a physical standpoint, in terms of fitness, I was in about top 20% amongst many younger people/ones. I'm not at the level of an athlete, but I think it's because I had been continuously training for work. I learnt many things, but for instance, seeing people older than me running 5km every day, their attitude of always striving for improvement inspired me.

Q: After getting discharged, you immediately started your solo activities, including song making and appearance on variety shows. You're very busy, but does your approach to group activities differ from your solo activities?

🐹: In group activities, there's a direction that we're all picturing (together), so adjusting our opinions amongst the members is the most important thing. We can achieve results that exceed our expectations, by having an honest and open discussion. Also more than anything, having members by my side is very reassuring. On the other hand, in solo activities, there's more freedom in what you want to do, but it comes with responsibility and quite a lot of nervousness/tension.

Q: BTS is known for being close. As teamwork is essential, I believe there must be times where maintaining a good atmosphere is hard. Please tell us tips on how you communicate smoothly.

🐹: In our case, I think our leader RM's role is significant. He listens carefully to each of our opinions, then suggests and leads us to the best way/solution. He's reliable and trustworthy. Me and RM, both have things we'd like to do, but we don't assert them strongly in group activities, so instead, we'd like to/we prefer to reflect them in our solo projects.

Q: As an artist, in music and performance, where do you get your inspiration and ideas from?

🐹: In my case, I get inspiration and ideas from unexpected things. For example, when I'm reading comics and I think 'it's a beautiful colour', I immediately dye my hair into that colour (haha). If something interesting comes into my sight while I'm walking, I wonder whether I can do something like a surprise event with it. I get inspired a lot by colours. I especially like blue and when I see that colour, I come up with many bright thoughts. It's my belief to be in a bright and happy mood in life. I want to be laughing/smiling every day.

Q: I guess you might do a solo concerts in the future, but is there a routine that you definitely do before going on stage?

🐹: I take a big deep breath right before going on stage. I hold my breath for about 10 seconds and breathe out. By doing this it makes me feel relaxed. Also, my own special pink sparkling mic. I like it so I carry it around with me all the time (haha).

Q: As part of BTS, you've been on tour overseas, gave speech at the UN, and was the torch bearer in Paris, right after your discharge, transcending barriers of race and language. I have an impression that you always seem confident and yet you're very humble. How do you control your mental state?

🐹: Whether it's a good thing or a bad thing, I try not to take it too seriously. Many things happen in life, but I try to stay calm. If I don't get deeply shaken/upset, I believe I can maintain a steady mental health/have a stable mental state.

Q: There are many people who are encouraged by BTS's music, performances, way of living, and thoughts/philosophy. Based on your experience, is there an advice you can give to those people who feel lost or have lost confidence and don't feel motivated?

🐹: I'd like to say 'you can do it'. I'm/I think of myself as an ordinary person and I don't think I have any special talents. I just have been working extremely hard with the roles I've been given, and fortunately I've been surrounded by very good people which I believe has led to good results. I want to say 'anyone can do it'.

Q: BTS is also the voices of the young people around the world. In the future, what kind of messages do you want to convey?

🐹: I hope you don't lose your sense of calm. Even during busy times, I hope you don't lose yourself and find a way to make yourself happy. This is different from being selfish. At least, I want to do that and I think I am doing that.

Q: Please tell us what you aim for in the future.

🐹: What others around me say/Opinions from others around me aren't that important. My priority goal is for ARMYs to like it and for them to be happy. For that, I can work tirelessly/no matter how exhausted I get. I'll continue to walk together with ARMYs.

Q: If you have the chance to visit Japan now, where would you like to go?

🐹: Hmm, l'd like to walk around in a city with beautiful night views.

Q: That's romantic. So, now that we've finished today's photo shoot, l'd like to ask about your fashion values and anything you pay attention to.

🐹: For me (in fashion), simple is the best. I don't overthink and what I'm wearing right at that moment is my style.

Q: "GQ JAPAN" has a concept called "TOKYO NEW GENTLEMEN" which expresses an image of men with an aesthetic sense free from rules, updating from the conventional image of a gentleman. I think BTS exactly exemplifies this, but what do you think are the elements that are essential for modern gentlemen?

🐹: Well... I think it's wonderful to be free from rules, but I think someone with basic manners (alongside with other qualities) is a gentleman. This not only includes the outward behaviours/actions (that can be seen) but also the inner qualities that can't be seen for example, being considerate of how someone feels/thinks. It's the best for everyone to have a friendly feeling towards each other and live peacefully. In order to do that, I believe I/we need to brush up our inner and outer beauty.

[Jin, who was at the photo shoot, was the Jin we all knew — a lovable person who's friendly, kind and sincere. Something that was different, was the many mature expressions he showed which had fresh maturity and sexiness that we had never see before. Living in this fast paced world, he has definitely cultivated something through his experience. 31 years old, Jin's new chapter has begun.]

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

BTS // Magazines // Jin for "GQ Japan" Magazine // December 2024 // 241108 // 2024

date: 2024-11-08

Translation Cr. 061313purple // Interview Link (japanese)

#bts #bts jin #kim seokjin #jin #bts magazine #bts gq japan #gq japan #gq magazine

7 notes · View notes

violadiaries · 2 months ago

Text

Fluffcember Day 10 - Carols

@fluff-cember

Fandom: Tensura

Pairing: Guy Crimson x Leon Cromwell

Guy looked around the capital of El Dorado, somewhat fascinated by the lights glistening illuminating everything. Leon hadn't been in, when he had arrived at the castle. And everyone had been rather unwilling to tell him where exactly the lord of the castle had vanished to as well. It hadn't been the first time, so Guy was somewhat accustomed to waiting for Leon. Though maybe he should start actually announcing himself before he just showed up at Leon's place. That might prevent situations such as these to occur.

"Lord Guy, please go back to the castle."

Guy laughed and shook his head. He kept looking around. While he had heard of this Christmas thing that was celebrated in El Dorado, he had not yet heard of this special market going on right now. And Claude had said something about it. Which he definitely was regretting now, at least going by the way he was running after Guy.

"Aw, don't be like that, Claude. I like El Dorado during winter. I'll behave, Leon won't notice a thing," Guy called back to him.

Though, Guy decided, it was Leon's own fault. For not anticipating Guy's visit. Yes, that did sound more like it. He should have at least noticed Guy arriving, and coming back from where ever he had run off to this time. One thing Guy had been sure of was that he hadn't been in the castle.

Guy stopped at a stall, looking at the small ornaments on display. While also allowing Claude to catch up to him. Leon's knights were always so painfully fun to tease. Just like their Lord and Master. But Guy did still have some amount of respect for them. At least the stronger ones.

"I am under strict orders, Lord Guy," Claude said.

He wasn't out of breath in the slightest. A testament to his endurance, as Guy had not been lenient with his speed. Though he did not expect anything less of the one chosen by Leon as the leader of his army.

And always the one having to babysit him, whenever Guy showed up while Leon was out of his castle. In a way did Guy pity him. Surely he had much more important things to take care off. But then again, it was also partly Leon's fault.

"Now come on, it's…"

Guy trailed off as his eyes were drawn to another stall. Though not the wares were intriguing him, but rather the sole customer looking at them. Guy couldn't see much of him, but he did know him to be a man. With shoulder length silver hair, reflecting the light surrounding them in a slight mint colour.

"Who's that?" he asked.

Though the thing that had ultimately drawn Guy's attention to that particular man, was what he could sense. Or rather what he couldn't. The way he was expertly hiding his magic power. Appearing much weaker than he definitely was. Though the only thing Guy could tell was that something was off. That he was hiding just a little bit

Claude followed his trail of view, before temporarily stiffening. Guy almost wouldn't have noticed it, if he hadn't looked at the knight in the right moment. He did stay silent for a while longer, before letting out a long sigh.

"Most likely an adventurer, why did you ask?" he answered.

Guy smiled at that and turned his gaze back onto the stranger. He simply could not believe that Claude was not fully informed what kind of adventurers entered and left El Dorado. Just in case one of them could pose a threat to Leon.

Not that there were many who could match him. Especially not when he did get serious about fighting. Which he did by far not often enough for Guy's liking. But it was somewhat endearing how his subordinates still cared for him in this way. It was a testament to their loyalty.

"I see. Go back already, I've found my past time," he said.

Something was very interesting about this man he was seeing. And Guy wanted to know what exactly it was that drew him in. So he would follow him around a little bit. Right now he didn't seem to have noticed Guy yet. Though Guy himself was hiding his power as well.

Claude let out another sigh before shaking his head. There was something the knight wasn't telling him, and Guy was very sure he also wouldn't proceed doing so, even if Guy threatened of tortured him. Which he wouldn't do, because then Leon would get angry at him.

"Lord Leon will not be appreciative if you harass visitors to his country," Claude said.

Guy chuckled and nodded. He wouldn't harass him. He would back off when he noticed that his advances weren't welcome. He did know how to take a serious no after all. And he just wanted to have a little bit fun, until Leon was ready to entertain him.

Ultimately he first wanted to claim Leon as his, before he pursued another interest. After all, while his 'no's were given out freely to Guy, they were never that serious in tone. More annoyed, because Guy decided to flirt with him in public.

"I won't harass him, I just wanna say hi. And then I'll come straight back to the castle, promise," Guy said.

He would just see what was up with this man, and whether or not the secret was worth knowing. And then go back and wait for Leon. Or maybe by then Leon would already be waiting for him to come back. Guy turned his attention to the knight next to him, as he crossed his arms in front of his chest.

"Come on, surely you have more important things to do, than play babysitter for me. I'll explain it to Leon, if he finds out," he added.

He definitely would, after all it wouldn't be Claude's fault, if Leon found out. Unless he told him himself, then it totally was his fault. But it wasn't his fault, that Guy wanted to have a little fun and was bored.

And even if he didn't have anything else to do for the night, he could definitely use some time off from his duties. To just relax and take care of himself. All of those knights were as big workaholics as their master, really.

"Fine, but please, I beg you, Lord Guy, do not cause a disturbance," Claude said.

Guy brightly smiled at him and nodded. Partly glad to be rid of his babysitter, to freely roam this Christmas market thing.

He did wave after him, as Claude retreated, walking back to the castle. A slight slump in his step, so unlike the uptight knight Guy knew rather well by now.

"I won't~ See ya~" he called after him.

Guy watched as he vanished within the masses, before he turned around to view his new target again. His smile turning more predatory, as he slowly approached the stand. The man was still looking at the wares in front of him, once in a while looking up as the shop keep said something to him.

He pretended to be another customer, looking at the wares. Magic stones, and of high quality at that. Guy could see what had drawn an assumed adventurer here. Especially if he would be able to use magic to some extent. Or was able to craft something from this. As he stood next to him, he finally was able to get a proper look at him as well. Hair neatly tied back into a low pony tail, orange eyes firmly focused on the wares. A scar running down the right side of his face, from the forehead, over his eye, to the cheekbone and vanishing beneath he scarf he had wrapped around the lower half of his face. Though it didn't diminish the mysterious type of good looks he had. If anything it enhanced them. Beneath the cloak Guy had seen from behind he was wearing a rather tight, outfit. At least what Guy could see. Dark pants, clinging to his legs and some belts, holding various pouches in place. Standard adventurer garb, from what he knew.

Guy put on his best smile, as the man turned his head, to look at him. Only mustering once him before turning back to the stones he held in his hand. He seemed to contemplate a little bit longer, before putting one back and putting the other in his bag. Taking out enough coins to pay it. He walked away without taking the change he definitely would have gotten.

"Always a pleasure!" the shop keep called after him.

Guy looked at the stone he hadn't taken, as he heard the shop keep let out a nervous sigh. As he looked up the man was still looking after the adventurer. So it was him the shop keep had been nervous about.

Guy looked to the stones. Even he could tell all of them were incredibly high quality. So the man should have nothing to worry about, right?

"Tough customer?" Guy asked.

He'd definitely stoop as low, as to engage in small talk, just to figure out more about this adventurer. He did follow his energy through the masses though. Just to not lose him.

The shop keep looked at him, a strained smile on his face.

"Lir? Nah, I mean, not really. He's just a bit…intense, I guess. Never speaks, but always takes incredibly high grade materials and stuff. Some even whisper that he's secretly working for King Leon, to make sure the wares in the market are the real deal, and no fakes," he explain.

Guy had halfway tuned him out after the first word. He had heard that name before after all. Though the rest of it was rather informative as well. Had that been why Claude had been so secretive about this man. He wasn't a simple adventurer, but reported right back to Leon?

That could be. That would also explain why he was able to hide his power so effectively. Yet that wouldn't explain why Guy wasn't allowed to know about it. He had met every single one of Leon's direct subordinates in the past after all. So why not this one?

Guy thanked the shop keep and went on to follow this 'Lir'. Still wondering where exactly he had heard that name before. He just knew he had heard it before. But it wouldn't come to him where. It was annoying him incredibly much. 'Lir''s next stop was at a stall selling sweets. Where Guy got to know, that he always, without fail, bought them for the children from the orphanage. Though the mass too big this time. Stumping the elderly lady selling the sweets.

His seemingly last stop was a stage. Surrounded by the lights, making it the perfect place in the market. Creating a serene and calm atmosphere. In front some people were walking, some standing. 'Lir' stood still close to a table, watching the stage. Or rather the kids, standing on the stage and singing. Right, Guy had heard that before. He had tuned it out though. They weren't even good after all. Though as he watched 'Lir', his expression softened, as he watched the kids, Guy did remember. He had seen the name on a gravestone. The one in the inner most garden of the castle. When he had asked Leon, he had just answered that 'Lir' had been a friend. Guy always knew not to pry any more.

But that name was anything but common. Though another possibility, checking all the boxes, crossed Guy's mind. Not many people saw him and just didn't react after all. Leon hadn't all those years back then. Having been thoroughly unimpressed by Guy. And now this man. Being rumoured to be a subordinate of him. While Leon was nowhere to be found, and Claude had been rather secretive about why.

Guy's smile formed into a grin as he approached the man again. Coming to a halt next to him, pretending to be listening to the kids as well. He had to say, if it hadn't been for that, he wouldn't have known. Most likely at least.

"Leave if you won't listen. It's disrespectful for the children," 'Lir' said.

Guy chuckled. His voice was a little bit on the lighter side, than Leon's. Though with magic as strong as that of Leon many things could be made possible. Especially changing something simple as an appearance or a voice.

But Guy knew that Leon cared so very much about all the citizens of his country. And especially the children. He just hadn't thought that he never went to see them outright. But rather disguised.

"Why are they singing? And always songs with the same theme," Guy asked.

'Lir' sighed and shook his head, his eyes not leaving the children on the stage. Gloved hands clasped together, appearing to want to keep out the cold. They were essentially singing the same themes over and over again. Praising Leon, or having invented some kind of romantic story. Guy had to say, he started to like it.

He turned his gaze to Guy again. Guy grinned at him, as he let out another drawn out sigh. Now that Guy was actually paying attention to it, he could hear the music from everywhere on the market. It did make for a great atmosphere.

"They are called 'carols'. Christmas carols to be exact. The children are singing them, to practice gratitude, so I've been told," he explained.

Guy nodded and scooted closer to him. He liked the more romantic ones best. He did wonder which ones Leon liked the best. Though Guy was more than sure that he wouldn't find out about it anytime soon.

Guy looked back to the children. Objectively speaking, they weren't good. At all. Though they did put in the effort. And that must be what seemed to be so endearing to Leon-…'Lir'. He always had possessed this soft heart, even when he wanted other to think he was cold as ice.

"I think I like it," Guy said.

'Lir' huffed and shrugged his shoulders. He stole some glances here and there at Guy, but didn't say anything else. Just kept his silence, and listened to the carols. Pretty much all of them were child friendly though. Guy wondered who had thought of the texts. He definitely had not heard of something like this on the main continent.

Though that surely was the result of this coming from another world. Which was relatively common in El Dorado, seeing as most of the higher ups, as well as the king, came from this other world. Both of them did raise their eyebrows when one a little bit more explicit came up. Guy grinned while 'Lir' just stared. His disguise momentarily slipping. It was only a split second, but Guy did spot familiar blue eyes and familiar blond hair. As well as a familiar, very pretty face.

"I think I like this one the most," Guy whispered.

Leon glared at him, before he turned away. So this really was what was going on. Leon going around his own kingdom in disguise, so to not attract too much attention. And obviously his higher ranking knights knew about this. Having vowed not to tell anyone. Not even Guy.

Leon pushed himself away from the table and approached a young woman, standing close to the stage. He had his scarf pulled up high again, making him look somewhat dubious. She did seem to recognize him though, and readily accepted the pouches with the sweets he had earlier bought. Afterwards, he approached Guy again and pulled him away with him. Off to a little alleyway, away from the attention. Though thanks to the lights having been hung up everywhere, still as bright. The song still ringing in the distance. Other's starting to play it from magic devices as well. A song talking about a king blessing a demon for this holy occasion. Their king blessing a demon.

"What are you even doing here?! Can you go about this the normal way for once and announce yourself?" Leon hissed at him.

Leon was facing him again, though not dropping his disguise. He had pulled the scarf down somewhat though, causing Guy to see the full extent of his changed face. Still as pretty as Guy liked it. Even if the scar gave him somewhat of a rugged appearance. Leon had probably thought it would make him look unattractive of something, so he wouldn't draw attention to himself.

"Could you answer me, Lord Guy?" Leon said.

Guy chuckled at the way he almost hissed the 'Lord' at him, just so he could keep up pretences. He liked it. It was different. And maybe Guy could even get away with being even more forward. After all they weren't amongst others anymore. Even if the sounds from the market carried to them. Guy cornered Leon against the wall of a house, smirking at him.

"But it's much more fun like this~" he purred.

Leon flinched and looked around. He let out a quiet string of curses, so unlike him, as he noticed what kind of situation he had brought himself into.

"Maybe you can…convince me to not tell Leon about this," Guy said.

If Leon wanted to keep this game up, Guy would play along. He didn't mind to do so actually. It was fun after all. And he would like to know how far Leon would be willing to take this game, before he fessed up.

Leon let out a long sigh and shook his head. He looked around, as Guy decided to throw caution to the wind and press his lips against Leon's. As soft as he knew they were. Leon did stiffen, but he did not push him away like Guy had anticipated. He hesitated for a moment, before he retaliated by wrapping his arms around Guy's neck, as he closed his eyes.

Guy didn't hesitate to attack Leon's neck next, using his hand to push that bothersome fabric of the cloak and scarf out of the way. It was annoying him. But because it was Leon he would make sure to be careful and not rip the outfit to shreds.

"How…ha…how do you think…Lord Leon would react…if he knew…" Leon breathed out.

He did not make one move to get away from Guy. Rather he pulled him closer, contrary to what he was saying. This was enough confirmation that Guy needed to not give up pursuing Leon anytime soon. Though maybe next time he would let him come closer, while he wasn't wearing a disguise.

Guy grinned as he thought back to the song. The Christmas Carol, as Leon had called it. If he paid any mind to it, he could still hear it in the air. Though right now the sight in front of him was more alluring. Leon letting him roam his hands so freely as well.

"Maybe he'll…'bless' me, for this holy occasion. Let's see, when I'll tell him," Guy breathed.

Leon stiffened at that, before he let out a shaky breath. Still not pushing Guy away. Still giving into his advances.

Oh yes, Guy had decided he liked this festivity very much, and even more the songs being sang during it.

#fluffcember #violas fluffcember #fluffcember day 10 #tensura #leon x guy #guy crimson #guyleo #leon cromwell #guy crimson x leon cromwell #that time i got reincarnated as a slime #fanfic #fanfiction #'What a great date that was ;)' - Guy Crimson #probably #'It doesn't count if I'm wearing a disguise.' - Leon Cromwell #probably XD

8 notes · View notes