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amazingmsme · 2 years ago

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Top 22 of 2022

End of the year tag game created by the lovely @otomiya-tickles This was so much fun, you always make the best tag games! Thanks for tagging me!

Part 1: Fandom Faves

01. Favorite new fandoms of the year:

Our Flag Means Death, The Boys, Moon Knight, Workaholics, The Stanley Parable, (I know I’m super late to the game but this game rocks) Godless, other seasons of critical role, inside job & uh… does Goncharov count?

02. Favorite new ships since this year:

Blackbonnet, not new but still my faves, Namdermo, & Shadowgast & probably some more that I’m forgetting

03. Favorite anime/TV show of the year:

Despite not seeing the new season, my fave anime this year is Demon Slayer. As for my favorite show of the year, I think the latest season of WWDITS wins

04. Favorite movie of the year:

Prey, Pinocchio (Guillermo del Toro), but if I had seen NOPE it would undoubtedly be that, Where the Crawdads Sing, others I’m sure. But this year I have barely seen any new movies & I haven’t seen any new marvel film starting with Spider-Man NWH (I know I know, you’re gonna beat me with rocks & all that jazz)

05. Favorite character of the year:

Caleb Widogast has had me in a headlock ever since I first saw him & he hasn’t let me go since

06. Favorite soundtrack of the year:

I genuinely don’t have an answer xiavaowh I don’t tend to remember what movie soundtracks I like unless it really stands out, & I’ve barely seen any new movies this year. But my favorite soundtracks in general are Wild America, The Kings or Summer and O Brother Where Art Thou

07. Favorite book/manga/comic of the year:

I don’t keep up with what is published that year, but my favorite book I found this year is Night Film by Marisha Pessl

08. Favorite game of the year:

Favorite game actually released this year? God of War Ragnarok. Favorite one I’ve played this year? Either Doki Doki Literature Club or The Stanley Parable

09. Highlight of this year to remember:

Fuckin’ Goncharov babyyyyy!

Part 2: Community Review

10. Favorite Tumblr moments of 2022:

Goncharov obvi, the queen’s death crab rave, Nov. 5th anniversary, & all the memes that came out this year. I have no grip on time so I have no idea which ones came out this year & I’m so dead inside I can’t force myself to remember

11. Favorite fan art of the year:

I don’t keep things organized enough to be able to actually find my favorite fan art specifically, but @fluffomatic is one of my fave artists on here, along with @ssnicker-doodless & @shyticklemonster r, @fluffy-alien alien but of course tons of other blogs as well!

12. Favorite fic of the year:

Bold of you to assume I can pick favorites & actually remember them 12 months later skagdk fr tho, some of my favorites are You Got My Devotion & Temptation, Frustration, So Bad It Makes Him Cry- @nhasablogg A Gentleman's Torture- @august-anon & uh, basically every single critical role fic. But specifically Waiting For My Mind To Go To Sleep & Embarrassing and Undignified- @chockfullofsecrets lightning damage- @spritewrites & something good to celebrate- @sapphicquill

13. Favorite ask game of the year:

Even tho I never really get asks when I reblogged that kind of stuff, I really enjoyed the list of questions on the fic writer ask game

14. My top achievements as a writer/artist/creator/blogger:

I finally managed to participate in tickletober & finish it despite 2 major deaths in the family at that time, can someone say coping mechanism?

15. My own best fic/post of the year:

I gotta go through & actually look but Draw Me Something as Pretty as You did the numbers this year, like ever other steddie fic lol. MY personal favorite tho was Dare to be Bold & actually got over 100 notes.

16. My most underappreciated fic/post of the year:

Too many of my tickletober fics tbh but that’s what I get for writing for microscopic fandoms like new girl, tuck everlasting & wolf 359 which all clock in around 10 notes each. You’d think with only 4 notes my Night Film fic What A Prize would win this category. But my Imposters fic Junk in the Trunk & Workaholic fic Pizza Payback tie with a whopping 1 note!!!

17. A post of mine that got more popularity than expected:

My recent “porn bots want me carnally” shitpost. I guess because it’s so relevant? (Seriously don’t get me started on that, I had close to 10 try to follow me yesterday alone)

18. Something I changed on my blog since this year:

I made a kofi! So if you feel like supporting me or you really want a fic, feel free to commission me!

Part 3: Next Year

19. Something I didn’t post this year but would like to do next year:

Mark my words I WILL make a Goncharov tickle fic, just you wait & see. I also want to write more for new or smaller fandoms I enjoy & get back to writing my chaptered fics. I also have some long one shots I want to make

20. Goals for next year:

Keep writing as much as I can, get back into physical art like oil painting, post more of my chaptered fics that I accidentally. I also want to read more fics because I really fell behind this year due to mental health & school

21. 2023 releases I look forward to the most:

The new season of The Legend of Vox Machina & uuuuhhh yeah I’m brain dead, I have no fuckin’ clue what’s coming out next year

Part 4: Spreading Love

22. Shoutouts to people who made my 2022 a better year:

I can’t promise to remember everyone, but I can sure try. Thanks to everyone for making this year not suck as much as it could’ve, y’all don’t know how much it makes me smile

@happyandticklish @ticklishraspberries @ticklish-touch @raybidtickles @shunniebuns @sugarfics @hypahticklish @fluffomatic @fluffy-lee-boa @fluffy-alien @a-fluffer-nutter @a-simple-lee @lemonsandstrawberries @tickletastic @anasticklefics @tickle-bugs @tickle-fight-club @rosileeduckie @thebest-medicine @peachytickles @poesparakeet-fics @eldritchtickles @tickly-floof @spritewrites @august-anon @ticklygiggles @sapphicquill @nhasablogg @chockfullofsecrets @sunlitanon @shyticklemonster @ssnicker-doodless

& a ton of others! Love you all & I’m so glad I have y’all in my corner!

#tag meme #tag game #otomiya tickles #best of 2022 #writer ask game #writer memes #fic meme

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triplexdoublex · 4 years ago

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12:05

Pairing: Colson x Reader

Warnings/tags: smut, cheating, drug use, mentions of foot-fetish, mild blood (nose bleed)

Welcome to my first Colson Baker (MGK) fic. I used a lot of lyrics and lyric references in this. My goal was to make it seem like this toxic relationship and coversations between his and reader are what inspired a lot of his songs.

*************************

“C’mon get up,” your best friend Shawnie nudges you, pulling back the sheets of her bed she’s been kind enough to share with you since the breakup. “It’s almost noon,”

“Grmmphf,” you groan tugging the sheet back over your head.

“I’m not gonna let you stay in bed all day again, crying over ‘Machine Gun Kelly’,” she says as she raises the shades on the window; the midday sun bright rays beaming through the thin sheet over your head. “It’s been three weeks now, get up. We’re gonna have a girls day.”

“He has a real name, you know,” you mumble from under the sheet. “Colson”

“Oh yes, Colson the compulsive cheater, how could I forget?” She rips back the sheet a final time.”How was he dumb enough to get caught this time?” She emphasizes, knowing it's not the first time you’ve caught him cheating. “Lipstick on his shirt? Hickey?” She taps the bed, “I mean it! Up! I'm taking you out.”

“Ughhh fine,” you prop yourself up. “Nudes on his phone actually. Found them his first night back from tour.” You swing your legs over the edge of the bed with a sigh. “ Do you know that dumbass really tried to convince me they were mine, like I dunno what my own pussy looks like!” You let out a half- amused chuckle.

“Wow, that’s pathetic even for him,” Shawnie rolls her eyes. “I don’t understand why you keep going back to him?”

“I dunno — it’s just..” you rake your hands over your face and into your hair. “I can’t explain it --it’s complicated. You wouldn’t understand.”

“Try me,” Shawnie responds, taking a seat next to you on the edge of the bed. “Seriously, I’m listening. I just wanna help you get over him. I hate seeing you hurt all the time.”

“I feel like I’m addicted to him, like he’s my drug or something,” you admit.

“Except what fun is a drug if you can’t even get high off it and only experience the comedown?” She retorts.

“See that’s just the thing — you don’t know him like I do — there is a high,” you smile as fond memories flood back. “When it’s just me and him, when he’s just ‘Colson’, he makes me feel like I’m on top of the world. He treats me like a princess, he makes me laugh, he makes me feel good about myself, and OH MY GOD the sexxxx!” You whine, “You know I always talk about how good it is,” you laugh. “For real our sexual chemistry is just something I never thought I’d experience with anyone. He makes me feel so comfortable and open and unashamed of the things I’m into, and he shares a lot of the same desires. Everything with him is perfect... until tour starts up again”

“I can understand why all that’s important to you, but what about being faithful? Isn’t that important to you too?” Shawnie questions.

“Of course it is, that’s why I keep breaking up with him! And at first I hate him, I really do. I swear to myself I’ll never even talk to him again, but as the hurt wears away, I start craving him again,” A tear rolls down your cheek. “And then I start questioning myself like was I too hard on him? What do I expect from someone who’s living that rockstar lifestyle, getting high and drunk every night with gorgeous women just throwing themselves at him, ya know?”

“No, that is not your fault, you cannot be held responsible for him giving into temptations on the road!” Shawnie exclaims in a motherly tone. “If he truly wanted to be faithful to you he would.”

“In Colson’s words he ‘fucks up when he’s fucked up’.” you defend him.

“Well maybe he shouldn’t get fucked up if he can’t keep his dick in his pants!” She expresses loudly.”Don’t make excuses for him... Now come on I’m taking you out today; my treat.”

“Shawnie, really you don’t have to do that. I’ll be fine”

“Too late I already booked us appointments at the spa, and —” her voice then shifts to a fast whisper “I may have set up a blind date for you with one of Gabe’s friends Kyle for later on tonight!” She finishes with a cheesy grin.

“Shawnie!!!” You gasp.

“Relax, I’ll be there with Gabe too. It’ll be a double date. We’re meeting at Club Hell at eleven. Now get up and get ready before we're late to our appointment.”

‘Hell… how fitting. That’s exactly what this nights gonna be,’ you think to yourself. You’ve seen Shawnie’s boyfriends friends before and they’re not exactly your type.They’re

just a bunch of preppy frat boys who’s penny loafers and crisp button down shirts scream ��trust fund baby’ and ‘my dads a lawyer’.

*************************

In the passenger seat on the way home from the spa you look down at your bright pink toes and can’t help but frown.

“What’s the matter?” Shawnie asks, nudging you with her elbow as she drives. “Do you not like the color?”

“No, no. It’s not that. I love the color, and thank you so much for taking me to get them done, it’s just that Colson always used to take me — the man’s a sucker for a fresh pedicure,” you answer smirking to yourself as you recall his peculiar kink.

“That is more than I needed to know,” Shawnie’s eyes go wide while keeping them fixed on the road.

“Oh please like you don’t know every detail of our sex life already,” you say tapping her leg playfully.

“But feet is where I draw the line!” She exclaims, pointing a finger.

You let out a chuckle,“Well then I guess I shouldn’t tell you about the time he —”

“Blahhh blah blaaaa I can’t hear you!” Shawnie attempts to cover her ear closest to you with her shoulder, keeping her hands on the wheel, making you bust out laughing. “There’s that smile I miss, I knew it was still in there somewhere,” she smiles back at you. “ Seriously, fuck Colson and FUCK feet!” She laughs.

“I thought you didn’t wanna hear about that time,” you tease.

“What is wrong with you!!!”

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry,” you clutch your stomach in laughter, “I couldn’t pass up that opportunity, you set yourself up for that.”

***************************

Unfortunately Kyle is pretty much exactly what you were expecting and not at all your type but after a few rounds of drinks you decide to make the best of the night and invite Kyle out onto the floor to dance — Shawnie and Gabe to follow, the four of you forming a small circle. Not even five minutes into dancing you spot Colson entering the club with a tall brunette.

You grab Shawnie’s arm. “Look!” you say into her ear trying to be discreet about it.

“Oh my God, of all nights,” She rolls her eyes, “Is that the girl?”

“I dunno I didn’t exactly see her face, remember?”

“Is everything okay?” Kyle interjects, looking confused.

“It’s nothing, just someone I used to know,” you answer, returning to dancing as Colson and the brunette disappeared into the crowd. You were determined to have a good night, if not for yourself than at least for Shawnie. She was trying her best to help you get over Colson and have a good time.

****************

“Wow, they really pack this place huh?” You yell over the music as the floor starts to get crowded. And as if you spoke too soon one of your elbows collides into someone behind you. Immediately you spin around to apologize. “Oh shit, I’m sorr — Colson!”

“Ah fuck man, why are you here?” Colson rolls his eyes, realizing it’s you.

“I could ask the same thing! I’m tryna have a good night and you gotta show up running shit.”

“Who’s this?” Colson’s date looks up at him annoyed before speaking to you, “Why you talking to my man?”

You throw your head back in laughter. “You’re man? Ha! You’ve got a lot to learn honey. Colson likes to run around. Colson’s everyone’s man!

“Nah, c’mom,chill, chill,” Colson blocks his date with his arm as she tries to step to you.

Shawnie reaches for you, pulling you back towards her by your shirt. “Let’s all be adults about this.”

“Fine!” you twist from her grasp. “Just stay away from me and I’ll stay away from you!” You shout at Colson before marching over to the bar. You need another drink. Your friends follow behind and Kyle sits awkwardly in the bar stool next to you. “Sorry about that, that was my ex, wasn’t exactly planning on seeing him here tonight.”

“No worries, seems like a total douche anyways.” Kyle responds.

“Yeah, something like that,” you answer in a daze staring into the crowded dance floor where you find Colson’s sky blue eyes locked on you from across the room. He watches you over the shoulder of his date, her back turned towards you.

“Can I buy you a shot?” Kyle offers.

“Uhh, yeah sure,” you answer, not paying attention, your eyes still focused on Colson.

Kyle pays for the shot, tips the bartender and hands you your shot. You don't even look to see what it is before throwing it back in one gulp. “Come on let’s go dance,” you slam the empty shot glass and grab Kyle’s hand pulling him onto the dance floor, positioning his back to Colson. You don’t know what kind of game Colson is playing, but you can play it too — your eyes still locked across the room.

When the song changes — Closer by Nine Inch Nails now playing through the club speakers — Colson takes his game to the next level, grinding with “his girl” without breaking eye contact with you. You can’t decide if he’s trying to make you jealous or make you want him. And you can’t decide for what reason you keep playing along but it’s not long before you find yourself rolling your body against your date, your stare letting Colson know two can play this game.

“Damn, girl!” Kyle exclaims, shocked by your sudden shift in demeanour, his hands making their way to your ass, making you cringe internally at his touch. But you keep up the facade letting him push and pull your bodies together on the dance floor as Colson’s glare intensifies.

‘I wanna fuck you like an animal, I wanna feel you on the inside…’ The chorus starts and you know things are about to get turnt up. Colson’s head dips down, his eyes still glued to yours as he sensually licks a stripe up his date's neck. Quickly, you spin Kyle around leaning into him as you grind your backside against the zipper of his denim. You reach behind your head with one hand, lacing your fingers in the back of Kyle’s hair and pull his face into your craned neck, simultaneously inviting him to taste you and shielding his view of you and Colson’s fervid eye fucking. You feel guilty feeling Kyle grow hard against you, knowing allowing his sloppy mouthing of your neck is definitely leading him on.

“Five.” Colson mouths to you, holding up the same amount of fingers behind his dates back, then motioning with his head to the bathrooms. You check your watch, it’s 12:00 exactly.

Five minutes pass and you see Colson excuse himself to the bathroom. Immediately you push you date away frantically, making up a lie about feeling light headed and needing to go get some water at the bar, but head straight to the bathrooms. Inside the one person bathroom you find Colson doing a key bump of coke by the sink.

“What do you want?” You ask, annoyed.

“Ain’t that the tight little black dress from the first night we were together?” he asks, sniffing and wiping at his nose, as he locks the door behind you.

“Is that what you brought me in here for, to ask if this was the dress from our first date? You roll your eyes hopping up to sit on the edge of the sink counter, your fresh pedicured feet with open toed shoes dangling down in front of you.

“MMMmmm you get them done just for me, baby?”

“Fuck off Colson, I didn’t even know you were gonna be here tonight, otherwise I wouldn’t have come,” you quip, folding your arms across your chest in annoyance. “Are you done wasting my time, I’d like to get back to my date.”

“Bullshit!” Colson calls you out. “ Little lawyer boy out there ain’t even your type, I know it and you know it. Your girl set you up on a blind date didn’t she?” He says cocikly. He knows you too well.

“You don’t know shit, Colson,” you lie, jumping down from the counter and heading towards the door to leave.

“Pretty impressive performance out there though, I gotta give it to you — .” Colson steps forward his body between you and the door, backing you back up against the counter. “-- letting him lick and touch all over you —-” he lowers his head, his whiskey-infused breath cascading over your neck and chest and he continues to speak. “-- knowing dayummm well you wish it were me.”

“You need to let me go, Colson. We’re over! You cheated … AGAIN!” You remind him, and apparently yourself, your head involuntarily cocking to the side, opening up your neck to him, your body half ready to give into temptation despite your anger with him.

“I’ll admit I took advantage of you every night that I was on the road,” he speaks in an apologetic tone. But don’t think for a minute i’ma let you convince me that what we started is finished, or for a second that I wouldn't take a bullet to the head for you!” He presses a single knuckle to your temple, his blue eyes piercing though your soul “You know we both want this. I know we’ve had some hard times but you said that even if it took forever that you and me would be together.”

“You’re insane” tumbles from you lips in a last ditch effort to keep up your guard even though the breathy way it escape your mouth sounds a lot more like “fuck me.”

“Ok, yeah, I’m insane… but you the same!” He says, aggressively pointing at you and pressing his forehead to yours, his lips mere centimeters from your own.

You bite your lip; your guard, your walls, and common sense crumbling down around you. “We’re insane — both of us,” you laugh ,a single tear sliding from your eye. “I guess that’s just the way it goes.” You punctuate your words against Colson’s eager lips with a kiss.

There’s no turning back now, your fingers hurriedly undoing the buttons on the placket of his pink devil shirt as his hungry mouth devours kiss after kiss until you can barely breathe, his hands cupping your face so tight. He tastes of weed and whiskey, but you welcome the nostalgic flavor on your tongue. You slide his now open shirt off his shoulders, and let your hands trail down his tattooed torso.

“Fuck, I’ve missed this,” he growls breaking the kiss, quickly lifting you back onto the counter, and letting his shirt fall to the floor. Nestling his face into your neck and hair, he breathes you in as if his memory is bottling up your scent for later.

“Colson,” you whine needily. Desperate to feel the heat of his mouth connect with your flesh, you rake a hand through his tousled bleach blonde locks, pushing down on his head until you feel his wet tongue begin to lap at your clavicle. You lean back against the mirror in pleasure as his tongue writes a sonnet across your neck and chest. He spreads your legs with his knee, your tight black dress inching up your thighs the wider your legs go. His hand slides up the expanse of your inner thighs to your core. Hastily, he pushes your panties to the side, the tips of his pretty painted fingers toying with your clit. The faster he rubs the faster and more sporadic your movements and breathing become, your body begging to be fucked. “Uhhh, Fuck me!” Your words echo your body’s pleas.

“Mmmmhh, he lets out a throaty rumble. “Thought you’d never ask,” he smirks, reaching for the delicate waistband of your black lace panties. He quickly pulls them down, struggling when they get snagged on the stiletto heel of one of your shoes. “Fuck it,” he laughs leaving them stuck in exchange for undoing his cherry red belt. With his belt undone he upzips his dark denim jeans pulling them and his ethika boxers down in one motion, springing himself free.

Wrapping his arms around your thighs he yanks you towards him, your ass teetering on the edge of the counter. With a hand behind each knee he shoves your legs back, bending you into one of his favorite positions; folded in half, legs up by your head. He loves how deep he can get like this.

Still holding your legs back, he bends down, lowering his face to your core, tasting you.

“Uhhhhh, Fuck, Cols,” you whine with eyes squeezed shut, griping his hair as he moves his tongue in a wide stripe from the bottom up, pausing to focus his attention on the sensitive bud at the top.

“Ummghmm,” he hums against you before lifting his head. “No time for this right now” he says with glossed lips “but God, I had to taste you again.”

He removes one of his hands from your legs and grabs himself, bringing the tip to your entrance. Quickly, he slides it back and forth through your wetness before pushing in, a low gravely moan falling from his lips as he bottoms out.

“Shit… Fuck...Oh my God!,” You slap a hand over your mouth.

“Nah, ain’t nobody gonna hear you over the music out there, baby” he says brushing your hand away from your mouth and replacing it with his lips, as he thrusts.

You moan into his mouth and he moves his lips lower, kissing down your neck, so he can hear your pleas of “Harder”. He obliges driving his hips forward with more force, and quickens his pace, the back of your head banging against the mirror so hard, you swear the both of you are about to have seven years of bad luck. But you don’t care, the slight curve to his perfect cock ramming repeatedly into your g-spot.

“Feels so good , uhhh right there. Yes!” You scream out.

“Mmm, yeah you gonna cum for me baby?”

“Ssso close.” You know you're practically guaranteed to cum before Colson; the man could go all night, often making you cum two or three times before he’s done. But you don’t have that kind of time tonight in this tiny club bathroom with both your dates nearby. A few more hard thrusts and your orgasm begins to peak in your abdomen, the feeling as surreal as the Dali tatt on his back your fingernails are raking down. “I — I’m Cumming!

He keeps up his pace, chasing after his own release, groaning with each clench of your walls as you ride out the waves of pleasure.

Still not there yet, he quickly pulls out, grabs you up by your hair, and shoves his cock into your mouth.You can taste yourself as he rams his cock in and out of your mouth. “Yeah, love watching you getting your throat destroyed’” he grits between his teeth, watching in the mirror as he face fucks you. “Uhhgh, gonna —” he exhales heavily, filling your mouth as he holds your head in place. After the last drop is out he pulls you off him with a ‘pop’.

The silence is awkward as you both get dressed, nothing but heavy breathing in the air. “Ah, shit,” Colson breaks the silence, a slow trickle of blood coming from his nose.

“Sit, sit. I’ll get it,” you insist, hurriedly grabbing some toilet paper from the stall, as Colson takes a seat on the counter. You dab at the dripping blood and pinch his nose shut. “Here hold this, like this,” you say, guiding his hand to his nose. “You really gotta stop doing coke, ya know.” you say in a caring tone as you finish buttoning up his shit for him.

He gives you a simple “thanks” with a genuine appreciative smile. “Guess we would get back out there,” he gets off the counter giving his nose a final wipe.

“Yeah, Shawnie’s gonna kill me when she finds out.”

“Shhh,” he shushes your lips with his finger. “The homies don’t gotta know.”

#mgk #mgk smut #machine gun kelly #machine gun kelly smut #colson baker #colson baker smut #EST #XX

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eleanor-devil · 3 years ago

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Boruto: Sacrifices [Remade] | Chap.19 - The Gokage Meeting

Written by: Eleanor-Devil & @mirage-05

Immediately, a clone of herself materialized next to her. "Alright..." Natsumi said to the clone, feeling a little awkward. "I'm gonna hide somewhere close and listen to their conversation. You will be my decoy if they came out looking for me." Although for how long was she going to be able to keep this... she didn't know. Besides her uncle being a sensor type, both he and her father were skilled ninjas and they could detect her at any moment. Climbing through the air tubes of the train, Natsumi tried to hide her presence the best she could (however she was not very good at it, yet). Once she reached the place above her uncle and father, the pink haired girl tried to listen to the conversation. "How bad is the situation?" she heard her father ask. "...Not good it seems, if we're not careful there can be more attempts like this." Gaara answered. "They managed to control the situation?" "They did, but it seems it was thanks to a genin who is close friends to Naruto's son." There was a small pause. "A genin...?" Natsumi heard her father's doubtful tone, but for some reason... she was having difficulty concentrating on the conversation as a whole. Her mind was reeling... a close friend of the Hokage's son...? Her uncle was silent once again and so Kankuro continued to wonder aloud. "But... how could a genin affect such a matter?" "I don't know all the details," Gaara admitted. "But perhaps it's not too... wise to speak about it in front of Natsumi. From what I gathered, it's not a pretty case." Kankuro followed his brother's gaze before returning to look at him. He sighed. "So it is more complicated than it seems." Gaara just nodded and Natsumi, finally snapping out of her thoughts but not entirely with her mind at ease, decided that it was time to go back to them before they started suspecting. A few minutes later the girl was back in the company of the two adults. Silence had gone back reigning the place and Natsumi was on her knees staring outside the window. Who was Boruto's friend that had gotten involved in this apparently serious case...? Before she knew it, the train entered the Konoha station and slowed down to a stop. The girl was barely containing her anxiety, literally rocking up and down on her heels. When they got out with the escort of her uncle's bodyguards, into the safety of the leaf village, she turned to look at her father. "Is it okay if I go ahead to aunt Temari's?" she was dying to know more about this situation, and she knew Shikadai would help her on the matter. Kankuro raised an eyebrow before sighing and smiling. He ruffled his daughter's hair before pushing her forward a little. "Go ahead, we won't go there for a while." Natsumi nodded and ran off towards the Nara household. "Aunt Temari! Are you home??" said the girl as she opened the door and kicked off her shoes. She looked forward and saw a blonde head peeking outside the kitchen. And in a moment, a smile broke into the woman's features. "Karura, Shikadai! Look who is in for a surprise!" she called out before wiping her hands to the apron she was wearing. In the next moment, Natsumi had charged in for a tight hug, which made the woman giggle as she returned the hug and put a hand on her niece's hair. "I didn't know you would be coming too." she said lightly, drawing back a little to get a good look at her. "Oh my, you have grown quite a bit." Natsumi giggled and gasped in surprise when she felt a pair of arms wrapping around her, lifting her slightly from the floor. "How's my cousin doing??" Karura asked as she put her down. Despite being the same age as Natsumi, Karura was taller than the pink haired girl. Natsumi smiled and hugged her back. "I'm doing great!" She looked at the stairs when she heard the lazy dragging of Shikadai's feet. With his hands in his pockets, the green eyed boy wore his typical lazy expression despite not having seen his cousin in a while. "Oh, hey." Temari put her hands on her hips. "Greet her properly!" "Too troublesome." "Shikadai..." "She knows what I mean, mom!" "Shikadai!" Rolling his eyes, the young boy did a mock, dramatic bow, the end of his ponytail almost touching the floor. "Welcome to the Nara residence, your highness. What can I do for you?" His theatricals caused both Natsumi and Karura to burst in laughter while Temari just huffed, shaking her head. "What am I going to do with you..." Karura took the chance to grin at her older brother and say, "...well, you can start by taking your highness's bag to her room." Shikadai rolled his eyes as he stood up. "Don't push it." he eyed Natsumi. "What brings you here? I thought only uncles were coming..." "I... might have sneaked onto the train...?" she answered with an innocent smile. [Flashback] "Natsumi sweetie, I need your..." Naomi came to a sudden stop as she entered her oldest daughter's room, while the young girl turned slowly to her with a sheepish expression. There was an awkward moment of silence. "Okay..." Naomi said, raising an eyebrow, clearly amused. "What is going on here?" "I, um..." the girl said, carefully drawing her right leg, which was out of the window already, back. "I... can explain?" she said with a sheepish, almost too innocent grin. "I'm sure you can." her mother said, putting a hand on her hip, the corners of her mouth twitched as if she was trying to suppress a smile. "Spill." "I heard that dad and uncle are going to Konoha..." Natsumi said. "And I... want to go with them. I packed my things last night." she said defiantly. "And does your father or your uncle know about your decision?" "Well... nope." Naomi brought her other hand to her chest almost dramatically, her eyes going wide. "Natsumi, I'm shocked! You plan to sneak onto that train..." "Yeah, but..." "Knowing that they leave for an important meeting..." "I know mom, but..." "And above all else..." Finally, the woman broke into a grin. "Trying to sneak out on me, like I would do anything to stop you!" Her daughter gaped at her. "You won't?" "Oh, dear, I thought you know me better than that." Naomi said with a chuckle. "Now, go on already. I believe the train will leave in fifteen minutes." [End of Flashback] The hall was filled with laughter. "I just missed you guys and Konoha." Natsumi finished her story with a big grin. But to her surprise... Her cousins didn't say anything else on that note, and Shikadai flung her bag around his shoulder before turning on his heels. "That’s cool." he said almost too nonchalantly, which made the pink haired kunoichi frown a little, something was definitely off... She waited until they reached her room before finally putting her card on the table. "Shikadai... I heard that... whatever happened that made uncle come here involved one of Boruto's close friends... who is it...?" Shikadai didn't face her and didn't tense up... like he already expected her to ask it. He dropped the bag on the bed. "It's nothing you should concern your little head at." "I'm not a kid anym-" "Shikadai," his sister started. "I think she should know." "No, she doesn't." "The village is big but not big enough to keep that from her, sooner or later she will find out and I would rather she finds out through us!" Their words were triggering something... something akin to physical pain... why would Dai try to hide it from her... unless it was someone she knew well... and it was indeed... very serious... "Dai... please..." the slight tremble in her tone was what finally made her cousin to turn to look at her. "Just... tell me...?" Karura nervously glanced at her brother, who sighed. "We... don't know the recent development in his condition..." he tried to mollycoddle it, but it was a feeble attempt. Catching the 'his' in the sentence easily, Natsumi felt like her heart skipped a beat. Shikadai sighed once more before dropping the bomb. "It's Mitsuki..." And her heart sank deeper than a sinking ship in a storm... her eyes widened and her hands quickly rushed to her chest. She found it hard to breath for a moment. Seeing that, Karura wrapped an arm around her cousin. "What... what happened...?" "We..." Karura started. "Well, I... don't know the details... just that some people tried to attack the village and... Mitsuki tried to stop them and got hurt..." "Tried to st... all by himself...?" her voice had turned weak, fading off at the end. The Nara siblings didn't say anything to that, but neither of them was making eye contact with her by this point. "B- but why...? How...?!" her voice rose up again, against the injustice she felt in those words. Shikadai sank down onto the bed, clasping his hands in front of him, his gaze still on the floor. "Because of some stupid, stuck-up people who thought it was a good idea to bully someone over something he can't control." was his mumbled response. "B-bully...? He... he was... being bullied...? By who?!" Karura sighed. "Some stupid kids... because of his origins." "But that's not fair!" the blonde gripped her cousin's shoulder harder. "We know... i-it's not clear but... some rumors say he did it to prove that he is part of this village as we are. Others... just say that... he was working with them and was betrayed..." At that Natsumi snapped as tears formed in her eyes. "No! I refuse to believe that! That's not the Mitsuki I know! He cares for this village, he wouldn't betray Konoha! That... that's not true... he... t-that's nothing like the boy I know... the same boy that helped me heal my ankle and didn't even get angry despite having been crushed by me..." "We know, Natsumi," Shikadai said in almost a resigned tone. "We never believed in those stupid type of rumors, either. I can’t, not with what I..." He didn't finish his sentence but the implication behind it made the tears flow down the young girl's eyes. Sacrificing himself for the safety of people he loves, even after what he had been through... that just felt so much like Mitsuki... Her fingers tightened over the fabric of her outfit, over her heart, as if she was trying to hold it in place. Karura rubbed her cousin's shoulders, knowing that her anxiety could take over her easily when she was distressed like this. "I want... I want to visit him..." both siblings looked at her. "I have to... he's... he's at the hospital right...?" Shikadai didn't meet her eyes. "Natsumi... you might not be prepared for this, he's in a coma right now... are you sure you want to see him like that...?" He sure as hell hadn’t been prepared to witness the worst of it, and he was two years older than Natsumi. Coma... good God... More tears threatened to fall, but her determination made the young girl close her eyes in an attempt to stop them. The look in her eyes left no doubt. "Yes. Y-you said he was b-bullied, right?" She lifted her head to look into her cousin's eyes. "Then at least we could... no, we should let him know that he is not alone." Her voice dropped to a whisper. "Never alone." Finally, the green eyes met hers, and the Nara understood that his cousin was not going to give up... no matter what she would see. He nodded as he slowly got up. "Alright... I will take you to the hospital." ... It was indeed a very busy day in Konohagakure, and it didn't really have much to do with the Gokage meeting that was going to take place in a short while. Many voices could be heard, some angry, some calm but with a strong determination, but all discussing one matter that needed to be addressed. "What do you mean, you won't permit our children to go on missions?!" one of the Hyuuga asked, his tone practically enraged. "Be glad that they get to get away with this kind of punishment," Hanabi said calmly, meeting the man's gaze with a level look. "Under these circumstances, I should have given a harsher punishment." "This is already harsh enough!" another parent spoke up. "No missions means no money. He is the only one bringing home money! Lady Hanabi, you know what we had been through since my husband died at the fourth world war!" "I'm sorry, Akemi," Hanabi kept her voice determined but the look in her eyes had softened just a little. "But you should bring that matter up to your son. He should've thought before ganging up on a poor boy who is equally alone in Konoha." That was met with more protesting voices. "What did they do to warrant such a punishment?! They are only children, any children can go a little far with their pranks!" "We don't even know the true intentions of the 'poor boy' as you call him!" That was the last straw. When Hanabi's impatient and harsh tone was next heard, no one dared to speak again. "Intentions, right now, are irrelevant! Although allow me to say I believe Mitsuki has more of a backbone than any of you do! So for goodness's sake, stop pushing this matter over the edge already and consider this punishment as a token of my goodwill!" There was only silence now following her words. Satisfied, Hanabi continued. "As is decided by the leaders of all the clans involved, the children are required to attend counseling sessions. Moreover, there will be mandatory community service, the details of which will be specified shortly. That is all for today. You may continue with your daily affairs." As the crowd dispersed slowly, the young woman turned to one of the few remaining around her. "Follow every family and report back to me if there is anyone disobeying. If they do... next time, there will be fines involved." ... "I... I'm not sure if I understand you...?" "We would like you to claim the leadership of the Sarutobi." It took Konohamaru another moment to snap out of his surprised state. He cleared his throat. "Yes, but... even when Kichiro is sacked..." "Ichiro is still too young to take the position." one of the elders in front of him said, a serious look on his face. "That, and his compliance with his grandfather's decisions... make him an ineligible leader." "Which is another thing we would like to talk to you about," said the other elder. "If you find this suitable... we would like Ichiro to be supervised by you... A tutor of sorts, someone we can rely on to make sure he is well-mannered and experienced before he takes the leadership seat." "After all... who would be better than the grandson of the third, an excellent ninja himself?" The brunet's facial expression remained the same, still doubtful. "You're giving me too much credit." "And you are giving yourself too less credit. In any case, if you need help... you should know that all of the elders had conceded to your leadership." "All of them?" he asked, now genuinely baffled. It was extremely rare... almost unheard of that the elders of any clan, lest Sarutobi, to collectively agree upon something. "Yes, indeed. There is just one problem now, as you can imagine..." ... "I will never accept your leadership! The rightful head is still my grandfather!" There was nothing but insatiable fury and disgust in the teenager's eyes as he gazed up at Konohamaru, fists balled, teeth gritted. The young man stood his ground and said nothing, as the elder beside him spoke in a cool manner. "You have no choice in the matter. Your grandfather was relieved of his position because of how poorly he led the Sarutobi, endangering not only the clan but the village too. When you are of age, and if you are fit to be the leader by then... you will acquire the title. Until then our new leader is Konohamaru-san, and he will also be your tutor." "I don't give two shits about what you old farts think! My grandfather dedicated his whole life to this clan and this is how you thank him?! By just... just replacing him like he was nothing, only because that man is the Third Hokage's grandson?!" "If you still believe that is the only reason behind this decision..." the other elder said, frowning slightly. "this only proves our point that you are not yet ready." "You know what, I'm not gonna stay here to listen to your bullcrap!" With that, the young boy turned his back to them, ready to go. "Ichiro." Konohamaru then spoke, in a calm but firm tone. It was clear that Ichiro was almost going to act as if he didn't hear him... but he stopped nonetheless. "I expect you to report to me first thing tomorrow morning." Slowly, the teen's hands balled into fists once again, and he was visibly shaking, although most likely from anger. After a moment, he turned his head to glare daggers at the young man and then stormed out of the door, slamming it shut behind him. The elder to his left sighed, shutting his eyes before shaking his head. "What are we going to do with this child...?" Konohamaru sighed too, his eyes still on the closed door. "Well... at least he didn't say no to the last part." ... The small terrace on the Hokage building was seeing one of its busiest times. The Gokage meeting was just about to start, and the kages from four of the five main villages had taken their seats with their bodyguards standing around them. They were talking to each other in hushed voices, clearly curious, until a cough cut into the murmurs. "First of all, I would like to welcome all of you to Konoha and thank you for heeding to the call." Naruto began seriously. "As we don't know the scale and scope of the threat yet, we found it necessary to hold this meeting." There was a brief pause. "Five days ago, Konoha faced an attempted attack by two rogue cloud ninjas and survivors from the sound village. The attack was averted thanks to a..." Naruto once again hesitated before moving on, even though this much time had passed, it was still a delicate subject. "...thanks to a genin who fought the rogue nins by himself." Confused murmurs surrounded the room, and Kurotsuchi spoke up, a doubtful tone in her voice. "A genin? Surely you're not gonna tell us he was sent on a mission?" "Of course not." The Hokage's voice was terse. "I would trust your judgment that none among us here would allow such a mission." The Tsuchikage didn't say anything to that. "No, he had left the village..." "Left?" this came from Chojuro, and the tone in his voice made it clear what he was asking. "On my knowledge." Naruto sighed. "I believe I must make it clearer... The child chose to leave because of a misunderstanding and its consequences..." "The thing here is, Naruto," the Mizukage continued, leaning a little forward and putting his arms on the table. "We are not particularly interested in why he left... We're more interested in..." "...whether it's treason or not, leaving the village as a ninja is still a pretty dangerous move." Kurotsuchi finished. "I assure you, this matter is not of utmost importance to our current topic." the blond said, in a tone that ended the debate. Gaara's eyes flickered for a moment to his friend, he was sure there was more to the story, but this wasn't the place to bring that up. "All of the culprits are captured or otherwise taken care of. During the investigation of the sound ninjas, however... that's when we came across something troubling." At that point the Hokage, too, put his arms on the table and leaned forward a little, looking at each of the kages in the eye. "The prisoners confessed that their aim was to pull an assassination attempt against me and to throw Konoha into chaos." And once again, murmurings started. Naruto waited patiently for a moment for the voices to die down before speaking again. "It is not yet clear whether this will imply a bigger plot... but it is apparent that their grand aim was to disturb the peace era in general. As the attempt in Kirigakure was meant to do as well." "Of course... what better way than to kill the person who was the harbinger of the peace?" Darui said, straightening himself slightly in his seat. "You sound like you expect things to take an ugly turn..." Gaara said with a serious look. "Does that mean we should prepare ourselves for war?" The anticipation was perfectly tangible in the atmosphere now, it was apparently a question on everyone's mind. "It might be too early for that," the Hokage admitted. "We still have quite a few pieces of the puzzle missing. But in any case..." His gaze flickered to Gaara, too. "It's best to be on our guard." Chojuro was scratching his chin thoughtfully. "The Sound... correct me if I'm wrong but wasn't that the village one of your S-classed missing nins formed? Sounds to me a bit more like it can be a personal vendetta..." The blond man nodded. "That's why I say there's no need for rash actions, we don't know the nature of their plans... in any case, Konoha will be on the lookout for the Sound from now on, because it's true, it's primarily our own concern." "I didn't mean it like that..." the Mizukage began, but Naruto cut in with a weary smile. "It's alright, I know... But, forgive me for being bold, I believe it will be downright foolish not to take your own precautions." There were nods and agreeing mumbles. Everyone became a bit relaxed as the meeting came to an informal end and started talking among themselves. Gaara approached Naruto, Kankuro close behind. "Naruto, can I have a moment?" "Sure." With that, the three walked out of the terrace, back into the office building. "What is it?" "I believe there is more to the story than you let us know..." ... Natsumi hesitated a while before entering Mitsuki's room. She didn't know why she was so afraid... was it the fact that she didn't want to see him in that state...? Sighing, the pink haired girl opened the door and took the first peek inside. What she saw made her bring her hands to her mouth as a gasp got out of her lips, her eyes going wide... She tried to take in a few more breaths but it was becoming a hard job... She tentatively took a few steps into the room, and came to a stop. This... almost didn't look like the Mitsuki she knew... So fragile looking... Her friend was always strong... It felt like there was a stranger in his place, being connected to all those machines... When she noticed, she was close to him, by his bed and she started taking in what she saw. His chest was covered in bandages, cables on his chest that connected to the machines. Natsumi found herself thinking... if he was really alive or if it was just the machines keeping him alive... No... She shook her head... she couldn't think like that... Mitsuki was strong... he would make it... She noticed one of his arms was also bandaged... she guessed it was broken... she could only guess. Then his head... too... "What did they do to you...?" There were no responses... Of course... Only the steady beeps kept her company as the pink haired kunoichi slowly and quietly pulled a chair, so quiet as if she was afraid... that any kind of noise... any kind of disturbance at all... would just make him slip away... She sat beside his right side, and after a moment of hesitation, put a hand, gently, on his hand. "Mitsuki..." she whispered, surprised at how much like a smaller child she sounded. "It's Natsumi... I-I don't know if you can hear me..." she gulped. "B-but I... just want to say... we're here... you're not alone..." And just like it had happened when his team was present, the heart machine let out a bigger beep before returning to normal. Natsumi looked at the machine and then back at Mitsuki's steady form. "Did you hear me...?" That brought a small smile to her face. "I'm right here, no one is leaving you... we're friends..." Feeling a few tears drop on her cheeks, she raised a hand to wipe at them. "So don't... let what a few stupid weirdoes tell about you get to you, okay? Because next time I see anyone talk trash about you... I will just kick them to the next village with my fan." A few more drops fell, and she found herself shaking a little. "Just please be alright... okay?" And with those words said, Natsumi leaned in to kiss him on the forehead tenderly. "Tell me when you wake up... because I know you will." There was a knock and Natsumi turned around to see who it was. "Uncle..." she sniffed and wiped the remaining of her tears. "I thought I would find you here." And the Kazekage made his way into the room, closing the door behind him. In the next moment, he was already taking a seat beside his niece. "So this is the brave young boy..." The girl couldn't say anything, just nodded. "I didn't know you were close friends... I'm sorry, Natsumi..." She squared her shoulders. "No... He's gonna be alright. And everything will be okay then." Gaara just nodded, understanding how painful it would be for his niece to see a friend in this state. "Why is life so cruel to those who don't deserve it...?" she didn't take her eyes off of him. "I wish I could give you a proper answer but... I can't." She sniffed. "Uncle, you went through something similar... what can I do to help him...?" The redhead turned to give her a warm smile, the look in his eyes soft. "For now? Just pray for him to be safe and be back among us as soon as possible. And when that happens, show him your support and that you will always be there for him, no matter what. That's how it worked for me." Then his smile widened a little more. "But... I take it that you already know these." She sniffed and nodded. "I just want him back..." She looked back at her uncle. "I guess dad is looking for me...?" Gaara chuckled for a bit before ruffling his niece's hair. "He is... we better head back before he decides to tear up the entire Konoha." His gaze once again turned soft as he looked back at the boy. "And don't you worry... I have a very good feeling that he will be back... sooner or later." At that time, there was a knock on the door, and a medic peeked in. "Oh, I'm sorry, Kazekage-sama," she said respectfully. "I need to do some check-ups." Gaara and Natsumi both stood up from their chairs. "Of course," said the red haired. "We were just leaving." He looked at Natsumi, who nodded in return after taking one last look at Mitsuki.

#boruto:sacrifices #naruto #boruto #mitsuki #naruto fanfiction #boruto fanfiction

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joshslater · 5 years ago

Text

The Cupbearer

This is a relay, doing a continuation of tamed-jock’s continuation of jd07201990′s story. Similar stories and bonus material on my Patreon.

Infection+2:25

Let's write a captains log, like Tyler and I used to do, only this time I have actual observations and events to record. It is now approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes since he placed the cup on me. I immediately went home, and have done some preliminary studies of the object.

My most immediate concern is the attachment mechanism. I can really only think of three, suction, adhesion or some sort of mechanical attachment to my... thing. Observations are a bit limited as the object responds to stimulii. In the first instance when I grabbed it in the rest room there wasn't much of a response. The feeling was similar to that of a vacuum pull in the whole area, but I'm not feeling a constant force as I would expect from vacuum. Also, when the cup was applied it felt like it was filled with, or quickly filled up with a gel of some sort.

Wanting to rule out vacuum, or in best case break the vacuum and remove the object, I attempted to insert a narrow tube from my model steam engine in between the skin and the object. That did provoke a response. It felt like the contents of the cup was rapidly replaced or infused with icy-hot gel. This entry has been delayed by approximately 40 minutes, as I have been lying on my bed and desperately trying to avoid touching it. Every time I fail I get like a pulse of renewed icy-hot in the cup.

Infection+2:50

I've decided to avoid further experiments and focus on observation and external research. The cup itself appears to be mix of carbon fiber, titanium and some other fairly high tech materials. This points to high tech origin, but beside the logotype I find no other markings like brand, manufacturer, patents, serial number etc. My first attempts to Google this kind of product or stories from someone with similar experience come up short. I took a picture of the logo, cleaned it up and sent it through USPTO image search to see if anyone has a trademark on it, but came up empty as well.

It sure smells bad. I need to come up with an excuse for mum.

Infection+6:00

I told mum that I'm having my scent-month, as if every teenage boy has one. I said Tyler just had his, so if she checks with his parents they will confirm it. Why does it smell so bad though? It is clearly the cup that emits it, since the smell came on pretty strong only seconds after Tyler attached it. Is it distraction? Is it to mask something else? Is it to make the wearer body conscious or odor conscious and avoid contact with other people? Is it to acclimate the wearer to the smell? I don't see how I can answer any of these questions purely from observation though. Something to sleep on perhaps. How do you pee with this thing?

Infection+6:15

So the pee just kind of filters out in the lower part of the cup. If you want to use a toilet you have to basically sit on it reverse, do you thing, and then wait a few minutes for it all to drain out. A big drawback is that you have to step out of pants and boxers to even sit reverse on a toilet.

Infection+10:20

I think the damn thing just woke me up. Or I'm just have a restless night because of all that is happening, and more importantly what will happen. Fuck you Tyler!

Infection+12:05

It's definitely the cup that woke me. Just as I was waking up I could feel some sort of vibration down there. What other crazy shit have they packed into the device. My bedroom smells like a locker room. Thanks Tyler!

Infection+13:55

Fuck it, I'm getting up. I'll pee in the shower.

Infection+14:20

So that didn't work as well as I hoped. I could pee fine, but when I turned on the shower it was like pouring water in a gym shoe. If it smelled bad before, it absolutely reeks now. I think I'm gonna steal one of mum’s pads and tape it to the front, since it is still leaking God knows what and then wrap it in plastic and hope that contains the worst of it.

Infection+17:30

I didn't think of mobility enough. Jeans are clearly out of the question, so I went to school in chinos. It's bad enough that the cup is rigid, over sized and fully attached. Add to that some extra padding and cram it in chinos that aren't exactly lose to begin with, and you have something that looks funny stationary and awkward/hilarious when moving.

If I walk slowly I think I might come up with a gait that might be described as exaggerated jock sway, which would be step up from whatever ludicrous I'm doing now. Damn, I should have practiced yesterday.

I need to find some better pants, because these are too tight and restrictive.

Infection+21:30

My efforts to contain the smell isn’t fooling anyone, but I hope it just smells like I have a bad hygiene day. My crotch is a sauna though. The plastic wrap needs to go. Tyler kept his distance. I wonder if he is ashamed, or if he doesn't give a shit. Perhaps they have some sort of protocol he adheres to.

Day 2, 4:40 pm

Let's stop fucking around with the childish infection timer. This is serious. I found something sobering when doing some online patent search.

I was just blindly trying to find patents for any of the different things this cup does, and managed to find a description on "bio-polymer adhesion complex and application for individualized restriction control". I don't understand more than a fraction of what is written, but in the schematics there is a drawing of EXACTLY the cup I'm wearing. The list of example uses in the description includes prison inmates and persons under house arrest. This is a retrofitted fucking ankle bracelet.

It's originally designed to never come the fuck off through tampering. Fuck.

Day 2, 6:30 pm

Mum gave me some Vichy Laboratories excessive odor control deo roll on she bought at the pharmacy. Roll on to what, exactly? Well, she can only solve problems she knows about I guess. Should I tell her? Would she mind having a sports jock son? She would probably tell me to do whatever makes me happy. Would I be happy? Tyler certainly looks pretty fucking pleased.

Day 2, 8:20 pm

I've not spent that much time on wanking before. Like once or twice a month. But now that I can't my mind kind of wanders to it all the time. I've done some, let's call it research, that you can orgasm pretty well by putting something in your ass. Not doing that.

Day 2, 9:46 pm

Got some weird hot flashes in the cup while taking a shower. Smells as bad post shower as the last time. I don't know if it is the smell or I'm tired, but I went to bed early. I'm too hot and sweaty to fall asleep though.

Day 3, 2:12 am

Can I go to the police? This is clearly some sort of assault. Tyler would be the first one under the bus. Perhaps the coach. Probably not further than that. This is backed by serious money after all, so they will just protect themselves and their IP. Does it really matter though? By the time they've forced any action I've had this thing on me for a month, I've grown a donkey dick and gone completely mad. Much good some cash compensation will do then. And do I want to punish Tyler? Fuck yeah I want, but not like that. He's a victim too.

Go directly to a hospital then? If I can't figure out what this thing is or does, how would hospital staff be any better. They'll probably start cutting around it, and there is no telling how it will respond. It was designed to never come off, at least not without a fight. Probably horribly so, to set an example.

Day 3, 2:28 am

I'll try to sleep in the garden. It's cooler outside and doesn't stink.

Day 3, 4:51 am

Dozed off a bit I think.

I've been thinking about the construction of the cup. There are a some design details that has been nagging me. For something that small it appears to be almost magical in abilities and power storage. But then it hit me, it's not crammed packed with batteries, electronics, vials of chemicals and all other stuff you might need to build something like this.

It's biological. Perhaps not in the "alive" sense of an organism, but "alive" in the sense a virus is alive. It's a biochemical robot following instructions encoded in DNA, or something like it. If you consider it a manufactured parasite it all makes sense. It has access to the resources of a full human body and can leech heat energy and pee chemicals off the body indefinitely. The "bio-polymer" attach to the skin, and perhaps even have direct access to nerve impulses. There is really thin membranes in the dick, so it can probably send stuff directly into the blood stream as well.

Fuck.

Day 3, 9:36 am

I just realized I can't remember a thing that has been said so far in school today. I need to cum!

Day 3, 11:23 am

Becky spent her presentation on "Manspreading". She probably started working on the talk already last week, knowing her, but she clearly directed a lot of the points directly at me. Looked directly my way for most of the talk. No, Becky, I'm not subconsciously asserting dominance.

I CAN'T PHYSICALLY CLOSE MY LEGS, BECKY!

I found a different pair of chinos that works better, Becky. No matter what I do, there will be a pretty sizable bulge down there though, Becky.

Day 3, 14:02

God Dammit! The inside of the cup just went super cold 10 minutes into math class. I couldn't finish a single thing. Just not jumping and screaming was hard enough. It's mostly back to normal now, I think.

Day 3, 15:14

This is what I think happened. They started to test the cups on inmates. By mistake it started to leak chemicals or active DNA from the device into the inmates. They had tested the cup technology artificially before, on pigs perhaps, and hadn't seen these effects. But they didn't put it on the pig’s dick, did they.

So suddenly their inmate control device has turned into the worlds best slow release injector for men. Perhaps even the original formula made dicks grow. They just made the minimal needed changes and paid coach to start human trials on teenagers.

Then why the fuck do I need to keep this log? They must have so much more data on what is done to us to have a useful trial. I guess this might come in handy in the inevitable court case.

Day 3, 16:40

I'M SO HORNY ALL DAY.

I went to have a cold shower. If anything things just went even worse. How is this happening! FUCKING FUCK TYLER FUCK

Day 3, 20:18

Why do I have to do this? I know what the end point is going to be. A fucking dumb, arrogant jock dick. Assuming it is inevitable, and I don't see any way out, why not have it over and done with tomorrow. Just walk to the gallows and submit. Whatever that thing is doing, physically and mentally, is minimized the sooner it's off me. Back when Becky would speak with me she told me a rumor that the nerds gone jocks all had monster cocks. She didn't say anything about the regular jocks, so it probably is specific to this procedure.

And if they, the old jocks, are not joining up hand over fist to get such dicks, the procedure itself, or the side effects, must be pretty discouraging. Otherwise they would just cram the cup down their own pants.

Let's get rid of this thing first thing in the morning.

Day 3, 11:49 pm

Fuck, it vibrates.

I've been sweating balls, trying to sleep naked without any sheets. I was just sort of tugging at it, to see if I could feel anything in the dick, when it started to vibrate. It's been going for like 15 minutes now.

Day 4, 2:11 am

I smell.

The cup stinks, but I smell. While trying to ignore the humming dick I noticed that my armpits smell like moist gym bag.

I showered like 10 hours ago. That's never been a problem before, so it's definitively changing me somehow.

I fucking need this thing off me ASAP!

Day 4, 2:20 am

fucking god dammit it went ice cold again

Day 4, 7:38 am

So I went to the locker room. Once inside I realized I didn't really have a plan. What if they were not all in on it? I would appear like a lunatic, ranting about sci-fi balls cups. Turns out I didn't need to worry. First guy who saw me, Derek or Devin or something. Big guy, short buzz, looks intimidating. Anyway, he saw me and started shouting "You are not supposed to be here." I was like "I need to get something removed".

He walked up right into my face. "You are not on the list. Tyler fucked up so someone has to be punished. Fuck off!"

I hesitated to leave. He took one step forward, physically pushing me backwards and almost had me trip over. "GET OUT!" he shouted right in my face.

Day 4, 9:16

I've been locked inside the disabled toilet and crying since leaving the locker room. How long can I go with this thing on? You physically die after about a week without sleep, but it is letting me sleep in short bursts, so perhaps it could keep up indefinitely. I can't. I won't. Why shouldn't I just tell everything to mum, have her call the school, the coach, the press. Whatever is needed for someone to get this thing off me.

I should think this over carefully. But how is that possible if you are sleep deprived, horny AF and your dick is on vibrate mode? I can't stay here though. I'll walk home and tell mum first thing she gets home.

When I open the door, the first thing I see is Tyler, leaning against the opposite wall and smiling a smirk.

- Sup bro? - FUCK YOU! You ruined my life! - It was a shit one anyway. You should get another one. - That's not happening either, is it?

Suddenly I was bawling my eyes out. Exhaustion, sleep deprivation, rejection, horniness, anger. It was all coming together.

- Heyyy bro, come here.

I fucking hated him, but somehow I didn’t just bolt. I walked right into his arms and let him hug me. I realized that his change in appearance and personality had obscured his bodily changes. Just feeling his arms around me, I could tell he had gotten a lot stronger.

- You know Steve O'Conner in the chess club, right?

It was such an odd non-sequitur. I had to struggle a bit, but yeah, I'd helped him with a science project last year.

- A little bit, why? - I talked things over. Give him this and you are back on the list, second place.

He handed me another cup, packaged in a sealed, tearable plastic bag. I know I should feel sorry for Steve, but the only thing I could think of was my vibrating dick.

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kpopmultifan127 · 5 years ago

Text

That Lonely Troll Ch. 2 (WayV XiaoJun)

Click Here for Chapter One

CHAPTER 2

I always hated walking home late at night, the darkness was never my best friend ever since I was little. My dad would lock up me and my sister in the closet when we were naughty, and I hated the darkness after that. As we kept walking, I couldn’t help but feel nervous each time I took a step. Not because I was around XiaoJun but just memories being brought back up from being in the dark. Xiaojun noticed how nervous I was walking in the dark and stopped in his tracks. “Dee are you ok?” He asked. I couldn’t hide my fear it was pretty obvious that I was scared. “To be honest. No I’m not ok...I don’t like walking in the dark. I’m actually afraid of the dark.” I told him. He then asks “Why?” So then I told him what had happened when I was little and he felt bad about it all.

“Here!” He said holding out his arm. “You can hold my arm if you feel scared.” Without hesitation, I grabbed his arm and began walking again with him. With every sound that was made as we walked I gripped his arm tighter and tighter. He would just look at me with a smile and continued to walk. I looked down and noticed my shoelace wasn’t tied so I stopped to bend down and tie is while he stood there and waited for me. I then heard a loud bang behind me and quickly curled up into a ball and started to cry. He then quickly bent down and grabbed me by the shoulders “Hey! Dee! Dee! It’s ok. It was only a cat jumping on a trash can. You’re ok.” He told me trying to get me to calm down. I looked up at him with tears in my eyes and more so I was now embarrassed because he saw me crying over nothing. I quickly put my head back down because I was too embarrassed to look at him. “Hey you’re ok. I’m right here.” As he tried to get my head to look up at him. “I’m too embarrassed to look at you right now.” I told him. With a giggle he helped me get up, “Don’t worry. People have their fears, there’s nothing you can do about it. But I’m here so you’re safe. Come on you’re almost home” We continued to walk and got to my front gate of the building I lived in.

“Thank you for walking me home.” I said to him. And with his amazing smile, “Don’t mention it. If you’re ever at school late and need someone to walk with you give me a call.” And he then reached out to grab my phone and put his number in. He then labels it in my phone The Nightwalker. As he gave me back my phone I saw it and giggled. “The Nightwalker?” I asked him. He giggled. “It’s perfect right?” As he texted his phone so he could have my number as well. I watched him what he labeled me as...My Secret Keeper. I smiled, “What if you’re sleeping? I don’t want to bother you.” he then looked at me as he shook his head, “Don’t worry you won’t bother me. I’m a late sleeper. So call me anytime if you need me to walk you home.” We said our goodbyes and I watched him walk away to his building which was 3 buildings over from mine.

I jumped on my bed with a huge smile staring at the ceiling and just thinking about what had happened. But kind of snapped into reality and sat right back up. Dee don’t think anything of what just happened tonight. He was just being nice and you live along the way to his house. It could’ve been anyone. The next day came and I got ready for school. When I came out I saw him standing there, I kind of flinched when I turned around after closing the gate.

“OH MY GOD! You scared me!” I screeched. He then lets out a little giggle, “I’m always scaring you I’m sorry.” I looked at him and asked, “Wait what are you doing out here so early? Do you normally go to school this early?” He then replied, “Yes, because I can draw before school starts. And now that I know you live near me I thought we could walk together.” I smiled and started walking to school with him.

“Thank you again for last night” I told him. “I normally never leave school that late. But since I’ve been working on my project I’ve been leaving late.” He felt guilty and said, “It was kind of my fault that you stayed late too, I kinda distracted you and didn’t realize what time it was” We continued to walk and as we got closer I noticed Bri standing outside the school gate as if she were waiting for him. I then quickly said, “Thanks for walking with me I’ll see you around.” and before I let him answer I quickly walked away. Noticing Bri standing there and she sees me “Morning, lonely troll.” She says with a laugh. I continued to walk to my class and finished my project.

When I got to my class I sat down and wanted to cry. I should’ve known better he’s with Bri, and he was only being nice to me because I was the only one that knew his secret. He probably thinks that if he isn’t nice to me I’ll tell everyone his secret. I couldn’t help but be so jealous of her, it made me hate her more. But she looked 10 times better than I did. As school started I needed to focus on my work more. When I was walking down the hallway I saw XiaoJun and Bri talking together again. His smile was so bright and seemed so happy to be talking to her. When he looked away in his locker I got closer to her, she then sticks her foot out and trips me. I fell and all I could hear is laughs and “haha the troll fell” I wanted to cry. I slowly started grabbing my things, and XiaoJun noticed me on the ground and hearing everyone laugh. He then kind of snapped at Bri, “Bri stop it! Why did you do that?” She then replies while laughing “Because it’s funny and all trolls belong on the ground.” He gave a look at her I’ve never seen before. Her expression changed instantly when she saw his face became angry.

He then bent down and helped me pick up my papers I dropped. “Sorry she did that to you--” I then snatched everything out of his hand and I picked up and left crying. All I could hear was people in the hallway “Aww don’t cry you little troll!” and continuous laughter. After that I never went into our usual class where we got to talk and just draw what was on our mind. So throughout the day I kept getting text messages from him

From: The Nightwalker 10:05 am: Where are you Dee?

From: The Nightwalker 12:30pm: Are you ok? You weren’t in our classroom. I’m sorry for what happened earlier. Please talk to me.

I was too embarrassed to face him, so I always made sure I left school when the sun was up and left to go to school before he got to my gate. He’s too good for me, and I’m just a troll like everyone says. I shouldn’t be hanging out with him, plus I needed to focus on making my dress for my final project. When I got to school the next day he got there before I did, he was standing at the front gate waiting. He was probably waiting for Bri, so I continued to walk passed him and he stopped me.

“Dee! Can we talk?” He asked holding my arm to keep me from walking away. “About what?” I said not making eye contact with him. “You didn’t reply to any of my text messages. And you haven’t been going to the class during breaks. What’s going on?” I stopped to look at him, I began to tell him without crying. “I’m very grateful that you walked me home that one night, and I admit I had a lot of fun hanging out with you. I’ve liked you for so long, all I’ve done is watching you from afar. Then seeing you draw and all of these nice things you’ve done for me is making me fall in love with you more and more.” His expression changed because he knew I was saying something serious. “Why are you ignoring me then?” He asked. He could see tears start to fall from my eyes, “Because I’m tired of getting hurt. Tired of thinking these things are more than just nothing of you just being nice.” I couldn’t hold it in anymore and started to walk away. I then felt him grab my arm, “Wait. Let me say something.” I then hear a voice from far away yell “XIAOJUN!” I already knew it was Bri coming to claim her property. “You better go to your girlfriend, before she sees you talking to the lonely troll” I then shook his hand off of my arm and walked away.

I spent most of my day in my fashion design class finishing my dress. I didn’t have time to think about what had happened earlier today. By the time I knew it my dress was done. It came out exactly how I wanted it to I was extremely happy. Even my professor was surprised how dedicated I was for this dress I ended up getting an A on my project. When I got home, I noticed there was an unread message it was from XiaoJun.

From: The Nightwalker 04:48pm : Please come tonight to the anniversary party at school. We are performing and I really need to tell you something. Please come.

I threw my phone down on the bed after I read the message. My sister walked in, “What’s with you? Isn’t the anniversary party tonight?” I sighed, “Yeah...but I’m not going.” She then slapped me to sit up, “Why not? You should! And wear the dress you made! I’ll even give you a makeover.” She would never leave me alone if I didn’t agree to it. “Alright you win” So she helped me get ready so I could leave to go to the party. I really didn’t want to go because I didn’t want to face him.

“I think this is the best masterpiece I’ve done in a while.” My sister said finishing up my hair. She then turns my chair around to let me look in the mirror. I looked completely different from what I normally looked like. I couldn’t help but smile at the result of my makeover. After packing my things I got up and left for the party. When I got there I could hear the music playing already. With one last deep sigh I walked into the ballroom where our party was in. No one noticed me walking in which I’m used to already. I walked in and saw XiaoJun talking with his friends including Bri.

I didn’t want to draw any more attention especially towards XiaoJun. So I stayed on the side. I then heard footsteps coming towards me. I looked to see who it was, standing in front of me was XiaoJun. “Hey Dee...you came.” He said with a small smile. “I had no choice...my sister forced me to come here.” I said while not making eye contact with him. While standing there quietly he said, “You look great in your dress you designed. I told you that you would.” I quickly glanced at him “Thank you.” His expression wasn’t his normal bright self I see when he draws. “Can we please talk about something?” I then finally made eye contact with him, “What did you want to talk about?” he then got closer, “About what happened earlier and about us.”

I backed up a little bit because my heart couldn’t stop beating so fast at how close he was to me. I didn’t want him to feel how fast it was beating for him. But I then I told him, “Look, I didn’t confess that I liked you to make you feel bad about it all. And I wasn’t asking for anything in return because I know everything you’ve done is nothing more than you being nice to me. You are nice to everyone. Can we just forget I said anything and act as if I’m invisible like it’s always been. And don’t worry I won’t tell anyone your secret. No one talks to me anyway.” Before I started to walk away I felt him grab my hand again to make me from not leaving his side. Then told me, “Please let me say something.” I relaxed and pulled back to where I was standing so I could hear him out.

“Look I don’t do those things to just---” before he could finish he was called onto the stage by his member Hendery so they could perform their song. He looked sad but had to let go of my hand so he could go on stage. As he walked away I stood there for a minute before turning around to walk out the door. When I took one step I felt arms push me into the wall where I ended up bumping the corner of it and hurting my arm. I fell to the ground holding my ankle and arm on the ground. I look up to see Bri standing there with 2 other girls. “Aww look ladies the troll got dressed up for today and looks more like a troll than ever.” She says laughing. I couldn’t take it anymore, “What did I ever do to you Bri?” I asked her angrily. Her face went from laughing to a serious face, “Stay away from XiaoJun. He belongs to me and he’ll never like a troll like you.” I wanted to hit her so badly but couldn’t move because my ankle hurt from falling and I was holding my arm because of the pain.

I then got up slowly and I had enough, “I bet I know more about him than you do you fake bitch” I said to her with a glare. She then turned back at me and stepped into my face closer, “What the fuck did you just call me you fucking troll?!” I then told her again “I BET I KNOW MORE--” before I finished my sentence I felt coldness fall from the top of my head. She had poured what was left of water from her cup onto my head. And laughter filled the room when more people saw what she did. XiaoJun’s performance got interrupted by the noise that was going on where we were.

“That’ll teach you to call me a fake bitch you whore!” she said while holding her empty cup in her hand. I then started to cry, not only I was embarrassed by people staring but mad to the fact the hard work of my dress is all wet now. I couldn’t hold my tears in anymore so I started to walk away and I hear laughter gets louder and louder. I then hear “HEY WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!” I turn to see who yelled that it was XiaoJun standing there with that same angry look he had earlier when Bri tripped me. Bri giggling with her friends, “Aww come on we are just having fun with the troll”

XiaoJun then knocked the empty cup out of her hand and got into her face and told her, “We aren’t friends anymore. I never want to see your face again!” He then started to walk towards me grabbing my hand and walking out of the ballroom. We got into an empty room next to the ballroom and he grabbed a towel and started to dry me off. I then grabbed the towel, “It’s ok, I got it...I can do it.” He looked down at my ankle that turned purple and my arm was bruised from me falling and hitting the corner of the wall. “Stay here” he said. He then came back with a small bag of ice and put it on to my ankle. I stuttered “Thanks.” We sat there for 5 minutes in silence until I broke it “You didn’t have to do that.” he didn’t answer me and just held the bag of ice to my ankle.

“I’m sorry.” he said continuing to stare at my ankle. I looked at him “Huh? Sorry for what?” he then sat down taking the ice pack off of my ankle. Then continued, “I’m sorry all of these bad things happened because of me.” I interrupted him “No it’s--” he looked at me and stopped me, “No let me finish...I’m sorry all this had happened. I didn’t realize how bad everything was until I saw it with my own eyes.” I looked at him and told him, “It’s ok. It’s been happening to me ever since middle school. I’m used to it.” It got quiet again as he sighed. “No it’s not ok. No one should go through that. And all of those things I did for you wasn’t because I was trying to be nice for you to keep my secret.” I was confused, he was sending me mixed signals again.

“Can we go back to the party I want to show you something.” I looked at myself and looked back at him, “I can’t go back looking like this. Everyone will make fun of you walking back in with a troll” He didn’t seem to care what I said and grabbed my hand and walked back to the room. He gave me a seat on a table that was next to the stage.

As he grabbed the mic he began to talk about the next song he wanted to sing. “Hey guys, sorry I disappeared for a minute. But there’s a song that I wanted to sing I wrote a few days ago. It’s about someone I met a few weeks ago that I never even knew came to this school. We happened to bump into each other in an empty classroom and this person let me be who I really am. And I want to tell her how I feel through this next song. It’s called Let Me Love You.” He then began the song and I sat there looking at him. As I was listening to the lyrics I could hear the moments we shared and the fun times we had in the classroom. He also mentioned about us walking home.

“Walking home with you was the best nights I’ve had. You may have cried because you feared the darkness that surrounded us. But I hope to be there for you every night and everyday so you’ll never fear darkness again” I couldn’t help but cry more and more knowing the song was about us and how we met. He was so sincere with the song and all I could do was smile and cry. As the song finished, he came down to me. “You’re not a troll to me, you never were.” He said with a smile. “I loved all the times we had, whether it was just drawing next to each other or just enjoying each other’s company. I want that everyday from now and forever.” I couldn’t help but smile at him with tears running down my face. He then smiles and rubs his thumbs on my face getting rid of the tears that had fallen down.

He leaned in for a hug, and I hugged him back burying my head in his chest as I felt his heart beat faster and louder. I looked up at him with a smile, he then leaned in and kissed me on the forehead. His hug got tighter and tighter as he pulled away to look at my face his lips then touched mine. I now finally had the feeling of what it was like to be loved back.

#XIAOJUN #XIAO DE JUN #XIAO DEJUN #WAYV #WAYV FANFIC #WAYV FAN FIC #WAYV XIAOJUN #NCT #NCT XIAOJUN #XIAOJUN FANFIC #XIAOJUN FAN FIC #NCT FANFIC #NCT FAN FIC #XIAOJUN FLUFF #KPOP FLUFF

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thelastspeecher · 6 years ago

Note

What about like Dipper telling Mabel (and Ford who wanted first hand info on first-time transformations) about his first time out with the wolf pack in the woods?

Day 01 Day 02 Day 03 Day 04 Day 05 Day 06 Day 07 Day 08Day 09 Day 10 Day 11 Day 12 Day 13 Day 14 Day 15 Day 16Day 17 Day 18 Day 19 Day 20 Day 21 Day 22 Day 23 Day 24Day 25 Day 26 Day 27 Day 28 Day 29 Day 30

Word count: 1763

Dipper opened his eyesblearily. He sat up, groaning.

“Headache again?” Mabelasked. Dipper looked over at his sister. Mabel was already dressed for the day and layingdown on her bed, drawing something that looked vaguely canine. Dipper pressed his hands to his head.

“Yeah. I know Grunkle Stan said that I’d get aheadache for a while, but I was kinda hoping he was wrong.”

“That sucks.” Mabel poked her marker in the direction ofthe table squeezed between their beds. “GrunkleStan left you some Tylenol and water again.”

“Great.” Dipper took the Tylenol and finished theglass of water. Mabel sat up.

“So do you remember it yet?” sheasked eagerly. Dipper frowned. He blinked, flashes of the night beforesuddenly running through his mind.

“…I do.”

“Really?! Dipper, that’s awesome!” Mabel bounced on her bed. “You need to tell me everything.” Dipper grinned; her smile was infectious.

“Heh.” Dipper’s stomach growled. “After breakfast.”

“Oh, yeah!” Mabel jumped off her bed. “I’ll tell Grauntie Angie that you’re up, andyou can make yourself decent, and then you can tell me and Great-Uncle Ford everything.” She bounded out of the room, shouting at thetop of her lungs. “Grauntie Angie, putthe sausage on!”

Ten minutes later, Dipper walkeddownstairs. He sniffed the air.

Onions? He made his way tothe kitchen. Angie stood at the stove, sautéingsomething in a large skillet and singing along to the country music playing overthe radio. She turned the radio down andbeamed at him.

“Mornin’, hon.”

“Good morning, Grauntie Angie.” Dipper took his usual spot at the kitchentable. Mabel and Stan were alreadyseated. He sniffed the air again. “You made pancakes for Mabel.”

“Not just for her, kid,” Stansaid, setting down his newspaper. Heslid a plate with two blueberry pancakes on it over to Dipper. Dipper stared down at the pancakes. “Blueberries are good for pups. And now that you’ve shifted twice, we decidedyou could ease off the protein a bit.” Stan frowned at Dipper. “Not allthe way. You still have to eat meat withevery meal. But you don’t have to eat asmuch.”

“Really?”

“Yep,” Angie chirped. She placed a second plate in front of Dipper,this one containing sausage, onion, and red bell peppers. “We’re goin’ to diversify yer diet a bit moreagain.” Dipper realized his mouth waswide open.

And I’m drooling. Hehurriedly wiped the drool from his chin.

“Of course, if, durin’ yer nextshift, ya don’t feel like yourself, we’ll go back to the pure protein ferbreakfast,” Angie continued. She ruffledDipper’s hair playfully. “But Mabel saidya ‘member what happened last night, which is a big step. Even if we can’t keep up the diverse diet, atleast we can celebrate today.”

“Are you gonna eat it or what?”Stan grunted. Dipper hurriedly cut intothe pancake. Stan chuckled. He froze, staring at the door. Dipper didn’t have to look over at Angie toknow that she would be doing the exact same thing. Someone thundered down the stairs.

“Someone’s here!” Emilyshouted. “Someone’s here!” Dipper covered his mouth to stifle hislaughter.

Them acting like dogs all the time finally made sense after we foundout they were werewolves. Emilyrushed into the kitchen.

“Ma! Someone’s-”

“I know, dear,” Angie saidpatiently. “Dipper, why don’t you tellus who it is?” Dipper paused, his mouthfull of pancake.

“Huh?”

“Take a stab at it,” Angiesaid. “Practice yer werewolf senses.”

“Uh, okay.” Dipper swallowed. He strained his ears. A car door slammed. Heavy, booted steps made their way to thedoor. He sniffed the airexperimentally. Hidden underneath thesmell of breakfast and the scents of his relatives, he could make outpennies. “Great-Uncle Ford and GrunkleFidds?”

“Got it in one, kid,” Stan said. He grinned at Dipper. “Good work.” The front door opened.

“Hello?” Ford called. Emily bounded to the doorway.

“Hey, Uncle Ford!” sheshouted. Ford laughed.

“Hello, Emily.”

“Emily, honey-bun, I swear,”Fiddleford said in good humor, “you never quite grew out of that puppy stage.”

“Aw, come on, Uncle Fidds.” While Emily and Fiddleford talked in theentryway, Ford entered the kitchen. He noddedat Angie and smiled at Dipper.

“Dipper, my boy. Mabel called earlier and said you rememberedwhat happened last night?”

“Yeah.” Dipper rubbed the back of his neck. “I do remember.”

“Fantastic.” Ford took out his research journal. “Do you think you could tell me what yourecall? For scientific purposes, of course.”

“Oh, yeah. Definitely.”

“Let him finish his breakfastfirst, Ford,” Stan grunted, turning a page in his newspaper.

“I can eat and talk,” Dippersaid.

“Ooh, yes!” Mabel enthused. She pounded the table and chanted. “Tell us! Tell us! Tell us!”

“Okay, okay,” Dipper saidplacatingly. He cleared his throat. “Um, right after I transformed…”

—–

Dipper shook himself all over,trying to acclimate to his lycanthropic body. His heightened senses were even more powerful than usual, allowing him tohear conversations in the living room downstairs. He sighed and walked over to the staircase. Still getting used to having fourfeet, he stumbled on the stairs, falling down most of the way with a loud yelp.

“Dipper?” Mabel called, worry inher voice.

“He’s fine,” Stan rumbled. “Pups can take a beating.” Mabel rushed over to the staircase as Dipperwas getting to his feet.

“You okay, Dip Dop?” Mabelasked. Dipper nodded silently. Mabel beamed. “Good.” She and Dipper walkedinto the living room. Angie had taken upher usual position on the dog bed by the fireplace, her golden fur catching thelight of the flames. Stan relaxed nextto her. Both of their heads went up uponDipper and Mabel’s arrival. Angie got upand strode over to Dipper. She loweredher muzzle to take in his scent. Dipperstood stock still.

“You don’t have to be so still, sweetie,” Angie said gently. She nodded, satisfied. “Yasmell better than last time.”

“Soyou won’t-”

“No,I won’t clean ya.” Angie eyedhim. “It’dbe a bit pointless to do that, anyways, since you’ll just get dirty again inthe woods.”

“Whatdo you mean, ‘in the woods’?”

“You’regonna take a trip with the pack,” Stan said, getting up. He joined Angie by Dipper. “You’reold enough and don’t give off that new pup stink as much. We think you’re ready to come with us when wepatrol the territory borders.” Dipper’sheart did a backflip.

“Patrol? I- I don’t know if-”

“Look,kid,” Stan growled, “we think you’reready, so that means you are. You’recoming with us whether you like it or not.”

“Stan,”Angie chided. She nuzzled Dipperaffectionately. “Dipper, we think yer ready. Butif you don’t think so, we won’t force ya to come.”

“No.” Dipper swallowed. “Iwanna come.”

“You sure?” Angie asked. Dipper nodded. “All right, then. You and Stan can head on outside and wait ferthe girls. I’ll explain what’s happenin’to the humans.” Stan picked Dipperup by the scruff of the neck.

“Stan!” Dipper protested. Stan silently carried him outside, where he deposited Dipper on thelawn. Dipper scowled at him. “I don’tlike that.”

“Eh. You’re a pup. Pups get carried around sometimes. You just gotta get used to it.” Stan’s ears perked up. Dipper was suddenly tackled from behind bysomething very large, furry, and smelling of chocolate.

“Hey, Dipper!” Emily barked excitedly. Dipper rolled over to stare into the face ofhis cousin. Emily barked again.

“Hi, Emily,” Dipper said.

“I’m here, too,” Molly said.

“Hi, Molly.”

“Em,get off him,” Angie said, walking outside. She went to Stan and nuzzled him. Stan nuzzled her back. Dippercould see Stan breathing in Angie’s scent deeply. Angie nipped at him playfully.

Stan annoys me a lot. But Mabel’sright. He and Grauntie Angie are sweet. Emily leapt off of Dipper.

“You excited to check the territory borders?” she yipped. Dipper nodded and stood up again. “Comeon, cousin! Try to keep up!” Emily promptly bounded away. Molly chased after her. Dipper looked back at his aunt anduncle. Stan nodded.

“Go ahead, kid.” Dipperfollowed his cousins into the forest.

After half an hour of crashingthrough underbrush and bushes, they arrived at the boundary of the pack’sterritory. Dipper sniffed the boundaryline tentatively.

“It took a while to get here,” he commented.

“When Angie first set up our territory, she made it big,” Stan saidproudly. He walked to Dipper’sside. “We just gotta make sure we stop by every now and then to remark it. Otherwise other magical creatures will try totake a chunk of our land.”

“And how do you mark it?” Dipper asked. Stan grinned at him, his exposed largecanines catching the moonlight.

“How do you think?”

“You-” Dipper looked down at the boundary lineagain. He wrinkled his nose. “Youpee on it?”

“What? No,” Molly scoffed. She rubbed her back against a large mapletree. “We just spread our scent everywhere. All werewolves have their pack identity somewhere in their scent. As long as one person from our pack remindsthe magical creatures that hey, this is our territory, it’s safe.”

“…Oh,”Dipper said sheepishly. He froze, hisears picking up on voices coming their way. Emily let out an excited bark. She ran off towards the voices.

“Look who it is!” said a voice thatDipper recognized. “Hey, Em! You wanna wrestle?” There was laughter. “I’ll take that as a yes.”

“Was that Wendy?” Dipper asked Molly. Molly nodded. “Wendy knows?”

“She’s known pretty much all along,” Molly said. She sat down and used her back foot to scratchbehind her ear. “All the Corduroys have.”

“Really?”

“Yep.”

“Huh.” Manly Dan emerged from the woods. He nodded politely at Stan and Molly, thensmiled at Angie.

“Miss Wolf,” he rumbled. Angie slightly inclined her head. Manly Dan frowned at Dipper. “You picked up a new pup? Well, welcome to the forest, new pup. If you ever wanna wrestle, just ask someonein your pack to show you where to go.” Dipper nodded. Manly Dandisappeared into the trees again.

Ididn’t know he could talk quietly.

“Dan has always been very polite with me,” Angie said. She grinned. “Somethin’ ‘bout respectin’ aMother Wolf.” Dipper nodded. “Yercousin is goin’ to be wrestlin’ with Wendy fer a while. She can catch up with us when she’sdone. Come on, let’s continue checkin’the borders.”

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douchebagbrainwaves · 3 years ago

Text

EVERY FOUNDER SHOULD KNOW ABOUT WAY

When you're an outsider, don't be deterred from doing it. I'm optimistic.1 You don't release code late at night.2 But there is no apparent cost of increasing it.3 The CRM114 Discriminator. No one after reading Aristotle's Metaphysics does anything differently as a result of this practice was that we feared a brand-name VC firm would stick us with a county-by-word to save it from being mangled by some twenty five year old woman who wants to have lots of worries, but you feel like a second class citizen. The real danger is that you should study whatever you were most interested in. Half the time I'm sitting drinking a cup of tea. Chair designers have to spend on bullshit varies between employers. Well, most adults labor under restrictions just as cumbersome, and they also have more brand to preserve.4 Html#f8n 19.

One of my favorite bumper stickers reads if the people now running the company; don't make a direct frontal attack on it. And it can last for months. Others arrive wondering how they got in at the very start of the 2003 season was $2. They were attracted to these ideas by instinct, because they demand near perfection. No one seems to have voted for intelligence.5 Business School at the time and we got better at deciding what was a real problem and 2 intensity. Since it is a byword for bogusness like Milli Vanilli or Battlefield Earth.

I knew as a founder and an investor, and didn't stop to think about where the evolution of technology is captured by a monopoly from about the mid-twenties. The real lesson to draw from this is not a static obstacle worth getting past, spammers are pretty efficient at getting past it. I know of zero. But don't give them much money either. Work in small groups. Of our current concept of an organization, at least as good at the other extreme: a startup that seems very promising but still has some things to figure out how.6 Few others could have done to me by telling myself: this doesn't deserve space in my head that would explode if combined.7 We're up against a blank wall. If startups become a cheap commodity, more people would do. When you raise a lot of people.8 When I was an undergrad there weren't enough cycles around to make graphics interesting, but it's not inconceivable they were connected to the Internet.

Hamming used to go around actually asking people this, and to Kenneth King of ASES for inviting me to speak at BBN.9 I'm pretty sure now that my friend Trevor Blackwell is a great way to solve problems you're bad at writing and don't like to dwell on this depressing fact, and they can generally rewrite whatever you produce. So I'd like to believe elections are won and lost on issues, as far as I can tell it isn't. People in America. Should you add x feature? So which ones?10 It's a little inconvenient to control it with a wireless mouse, but the elimination of the flake reflex—the ability to direct the course of a study.11

Because I thought about the topic.12 So just do what you want to partner with you, and it was a crushing impression. It's what a startup buys you is time.13 In either case the implications are similar. Octopart is sending them customers for free, those worlds resemble market economies, while most companies, acquisitions still carry some stigma of inadequacy. Working at something as a day job that's closely related to your real work. Here are some of your claims and granting others.14 Knowledge is power. A few years before by a big company. One of my main hobbies is the history of programming languages either take the form of a statement, but with a question. Though in a sense attacking you. For founders that's more than a couple weeks.

Maybe if you can afford to be rational and prefer the latter.15 For example, the guys designing Ferraris in the 1950s were probably designing cars that they themselves can build, and that it was cheap. Yet the cause is human nature. Particularly in technology, at least, nothing good. But when you choose a language, you're also choosing a community. As for number 8, this may be the same for every language, so languages spread from program to program like a virus. It's like calling a car a horseless carriage.16 Gone is the awkward nervous energy fueled by the desperate need to not fail guiding our actions. 9889 and. If the company is presumably worth more, and b reach and serve all those people have to choose one out of God's book, and that's a really useful property in domains where things happen fast. Either the company is already a write-off.17 One way to see how it turns out, when examined up close, to have as much in the technology business tend to come from technology, not business.18

And for a significant number. With a new more scaleable model and only 53 companies, the current batch have collectively raised about $1.19 Rise up, cows! The results so far bear this out.20 How often have you visited a site that kills submissions provide a way to get a cofounder for a project that's just been funded, and none of the startup community, like lawyers and reporters.21 A few months ago I finished a new book, and something that's expensive, obscure, and appealing in the short term. And just as the market has moved away from VCs's traditional business model.

Notes

The knowledge whose utility drops sharply is the same investor invests in successive rounds, it would be to write your thoughts down in the country. I suspect the recent resurgence of evangelical Christians.

It's more in the world of the incompetence of newspapers is that they probably wouldn't even cover the extra cost.

If you're good you'll have to mean the company.

Eighteen months later Google paid 1. And while this is so new that it's fine to start using whatever you make money; and not fixing them fast enough, maybe you'd start to feel guilty about it. It requires the kind of method acting. It doesn't take a small seed investment in you, they sometimes say.

Yahoo. They therefore think what drives users to switch to OSX. 05 15, the group of picky friends who proofread almost everything I say the rate of change in the definition of property. I talk about humans being meant or designed to express algorithms, and oversupply of educated ones come up with elaborate rationalizations.

It's one of the founders of failing startups would even be symbiotic, because sometimes artists unconsciously use tricks by imitating art that is a matter of outliers, are better college candidates. If the rich paid high taxes?

But Goldin and Margo think market forces in the long tail for other reasons, including both you and the ordering system and image generator were written in 6502 machine language.

We did not become romantically involved till afterward.

They'll have a better education. Norton, 2012.

If Paris is where people care most about art. Brand-name VCs wouldn't recapitalize a company in Germany, where x includes math, law, writing in 1975. Com/spam. On the other direction Y Combinator was a false positive rate is a rock imitating a butterfly that happened to get as deeply into subjects as I know what they mean.

Big technology companies. I'm not making any predictions about the difference. These range from make-believe, is he going to be an open booth.

There should probably be the more corrupt the rulers.

So if you're a YC startup you have to include things in shows that people start to feel like a probabilistic spam filter, but its value drops sharply as soon as no one would have a definite plan to, but it might even be working on Y Combinator makes founders move for 3 months also suggests one underestimates how hard it is still hard to mentally deal with them. And that is worth doing something, but it might make them want you. Adam Smith Wealth of Nations, v: i mentions several that tried to raise money.

So if you're college students. Some introductions to other knowledge. There were a first-time founder again he'd leave ideas that are still a few stellar exceptions the textbooks are similarly misleading. You can get for free.

94 says a 1952 study of rhetoric was inherited directly from Rome. Sites that habitually linkjack get banned. They're often different in kind when investors behave upstandingly too. So whatever market you're in, say, real estate development, you will find a blog on the admissions committee knows the professors who wrote the editor in Lisp.

In fact the decade preceding the war on. I mean efforts to manipulate them. Though they were forced to stop raising money from mediocre investors. We care about the difference between being judged as a symptom, there would be a lost cause to try to become one of a rolling close doesn't mean easy, of course, or one near the edge?

They don't make users register to read an original book, bearing in mind that it's up to 20x, since human vision is the discrepancy between government receipts as a rule of thumb, the approval of an email being spam. Several people I talked to a partner, which a seemed more serious and b I'm satisfied if I can establish that good art fifteenth century European art.

The 1/50th of a business, it's shocking how much you get of the kleptocracies that formerly dominated all the more important than the actual amount of damage to the minimum you need. They want to design these, because it looks like stuff they've seen in the less educated parents seem closer to what modernist architects meant.

I don't think it's roughly correct to say that IBM makes decent hardware. Copyright owners tend to be actively curious.

So if you're a loser they usually decide in way less than the others. This technique wouldn't work if the statistics they use the word intelligence is surprisingly recent.

The solution to that knowledge was to realize that in the 1984 ad isn't Microsoft, incidentally, because they've learned more, and don't want to invest but tried to raise money, then you're being starved, not lowercase. The air traffic control system works because planes would crash otherwise.

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sodoyouknowbts · 7 years ago

Text

Taehyung x Reader - One night stand (Eight)

Part of the ‘Married to You’ Series.

Summary: A one night stand with Kim Taehyung turns into something you never would’ve expected.

Pairing: Taehyung x Reader

Genre: Romance, Drama, Arranged Marriage

Author: Moxie

Chapters: 01 & 02 | 03 | 04 | 05 | 06 | 07 | 08 | 09 | 10 | 11 | 12 (The Finale)

Chapter Eight

“So…what was that about?”

You turn your attention from a bag of carrots to Taehyung at his out of the blue question.

You were currently strolling down the fresh produce aisle with him at your local supermarket, Taehyung beside you pushing the trolley, his forearms resting against the handle.

“Sorry?”

“That doctor guy back then. Don’t you think he was a bit too friendly?” he rephrases his question.

“Who, Park oppa? It’s fine, we’ve known each other for years now” you reply and avert your gaze quickly away. You find it hard now to make eye contact with Taehyung for long periods of time. It’s as though now that you’re aware of your feelings for him your body is hyper aware of him and responds to everything he does. On the drive here you had caught yourself staring at his hands and admiring them. You had to force yourself to stop staring and you’re pretty sure that had Taehyung seen you he would have seen your feelings written all over your face.

It was dangerous. Your feelings were getting out of your control and you were determined to hide them from him. Your situation with Taehyung was already messy as is, adding in romance would make it chaos so you had decided to stop your feelings now whilst it was still early. If only your heart would co-operate.

“Hmm, it doesn’t seem very professional to me. Also don’t you think you should see a female doctor? It’s not appropriate for a male to be touching you and examining you”

His comment surprises you because you swear you can hear a hint of jealously in his tone. Curious, you decide to test him.

“Park oppa and I are very good friends” you emphasise the word very by dragging it out. Purposely leaving the sentence open ended.

“What, did you two date?”

He was definitely jealous.

You try to hide your smile and the flutter in your heart.

“Let me guess, he broke up with you didn’t he? A man like that looks like he’d walk all over a girl like you” his comment immediately kills your mood. Leave it to Taehyung to bring you back to reality.

“Hey!” you lightly give Taehyung a shove on his arm and when he laughs you realise that he was teasing you.

You two continue to make your way around the aisle, picking up ingredients for tonight’s dinner. Park oppa had advised that you should try to eat as many vegetables as you can to help the baby grow healthily, so Taehyung had suggested you make a vegetable stir for dinner. You didn’t mind vegetable stir fry so you easily agreed.

You finished picking out the ingredients and as you made your way to the noodle aisle Taehyung spoke again.

“So, did you two date?”

You go blank and it takes you a second to peace together that he was continuing the conversation from before.

“No, we’ve never dated. He’s just a friend” you advise him.

“Good” Taehyung replies under his breath.

Your heart skips a beat when you see his expression. It was brief and lasted only for a second, but it was definitely there, a small smile on Taehyungs lips as he replied.

Heart: 1 Brain: 0

–

“Tae?”

You both turn around and see Anna making her way towards you. Smiling. She looks just as elegant as when you had last seen her and she was even more beautiful up close. She’s dressed in a simple white blouse made of silk, paired with a light pink knee length skirt, with matching pink strappy sandals. The sandals are heeled and it brings her height close to Taehyung’s. As expected of a super model you note.

Glancing down at your own attire you pale in comparison. You opted to be comfortable today, wearing a black and white stripped jumper with jeans and your favourite and trustworthy red converse on your feet.

“Anna, hi.” Taehyung greets her and you try to gage his reaction from your peripheral vision, not wanting to be obvious. He looks surprised.

“What a coincidence running into you here. It’s so good to see you, you never call me” Anna places a hand on Tae’s arm.

“Sorry I’ve been busy this past few weeks” Taehyung replies and you feel hurt that he still hasn’t made any move to introduce you.

You shift in place awkwardly and your movement draws Anna’s attention. She moves her attention to you and then back to Taehyung, looking between the two of you.

“Oh, sorry how rude of me. I’m Kang Anna” she removes her hand from Tae’s arm and holds it out for a handshake, smiling.

You smile politely and take it, introducing yourself.

“So how do you two know each other? Are you a friend of Tae’s?” she asks.

You open your mouth to reply to her when Taehyung cuts you off, changing the subject.

“What are you doing here Anna?” he asks.

You’re taken back by his behaviour and you feel a little bit hurt that he ignored her question and changed the subject.

Could it be because he still has feelings for her? You think to yourself.

“I moved to this neighbourhood earlier this week. I’m still trying to find my way around though” Anna replies, laughing softly and you can’t help but note that even her laughter is beautiful.

Of course, it is. She probably cries pearls.

You want to dislike her but she’s so nice and beautiful that you find yourself wanting to be her friend, which frustrates you to no end.

“Oh, congratulations on landing the contract Tae! I just heard the news from the store director. Looks like we’re going to be partners in the future”

Your ears perk up at Anna’s comment and you turn to Taehyung.

“Contract?” you ask curiously.

He turns his gaze to you and replies that it’s nothing big, just another work thing.

“Not a big deal? Really Tae you shouldn’t put yourself down like that” Anna shakes her head at Tae before turning to you.

“He got picked as the male spokesperson for this department store. It’s a huge honour as they’ve only used females until now. In fact, they’re holding a party just for him”.

From the way Anna is describing it, it sounds like a big deal and you’re confused as to why Taehyung had brushed it off.

Taehyung and Anna exchange a few more words before Anna excuses herself, saying that her manager was waiting for her and that she had come in to buy herself a drink. She smiles at you in parting and tells you that it was a pleasure to meet you.

Once she’s gone you turn to Taehyung, whose begun walking and pushing the trolley.

“Why didn’t you tell me you got such a big job?” you ask him.

He shrugs and replies nonchalantly “It wasn’t a big deal, plus I didn’t feel like it needed to be shared”

His reply stings.

“From the way Anna described it, it seems like it’s a big deal. I mean they’re even holding a party for you”

“Anna has a tendency to exaggerate when it comes to these things”

“So they’re not holding a party in your honour next week?” you don’t understand why he’s being so closed off, so you push him again.

However, Taehyung has clearly had enough of the conversation because he stops walking and turns to face you, front on.

“Look, could you just drop it? I don’t see what point there is in talking about it now”. He turns back to the trolley and resumes walking.

You try not to feel hurt by his words but despite your efforts you’re unable to. You knew that your relationship wasn’t at the point where he shared all his secrets with you but you had thought that you had become good enough friends that he would feel comfortable sharing his achievements with you, especially big ones like this.

You follow behind him and remain silent for the remainder of the shopping and on the drive home.

Once you arrive home you help Taehyung carry the groceries inside and then seclude yourself to your bedroom, wanting to be alone. You flopped onto your bed and stared at the ceiling.

You felt stupid and you were angry at yourself for getting upset over such a trivial thing.

So what if he didn’t tell you ? He doesn’t have to tell you everything.

You scold yourself silently. However the other part of you wishes that Taehyung had. You want to be the person that Taehyung can confide in. Someone he wants to share his dreams and achievements with. You think back to how Taehyung had said Anna had a tendancy to exaggerate and your heart drops again at the memory of the two of them and how comfortable he had been with her. It didn’t seem like they had any animosity despite breaking up. Was he really going to propose to her?

—

A knock on the door wakes you up and you lift your head up from where it was resting on your hand. Sometime during your talk with yourself you had fallen asleep. You glanced at the curtains and see that the sun was starting to set so you figure that you hadn’t been asleep for very long.

The door opens and Taehyung pops his head in and looks around for you. His eyes find you on the bed and he opens the door wider allowing the rest of his body to come in. You pull yourself up into a sitting position as he approaches you.

He sits on the edge of your bed and you notice that he’s got an envelope in his hand which he is fidgeting with. He hesitates for a second before handing the envelope to you.

“I didn’t tell you about the contract because it didn’t cross my mind. And I didn’t tell you about the party because I’m not planning on going” his voice is soft and his eyes are apologetic.

“What, why wouldn’t you go? They’re holding the event for you! You can’t not go”

“I assumed I would be busy on that date. However if you think I should go-“

“You should 100% go! In fact, if you don’t go I’ll drag you there myself if I have to”

He chuckles at your comment knowing well that is was an empty threat. He stands up and stretches his arms.

“Okay, okay I’ll go. That’s an invite for you” he nods his head to the envelope in your hand before he turns to leave.

“Oh, also dinner’s ready” he throws over his shoulder and then disappears around the corner.

Smiling to yourself you open the envelope and read the invitation which is addressed to you.

The date of the party is in two weeks. The same date as your birthday.

To be continued.

#bts imagines #bts fanfic #bts fanfiction #kim taehyung #bts v #bts tae #bts x reader #bangtan boys #taehyung x reader

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auburnfamilynews · 5 years ago

Link

Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images

Yikes.

Before you get any further than this, stop. Grab a beverage. You may need it.

Losing sucks. Losing is the House. The House always wins; your team will eventually lose. And the loss, the one loss, will hurt more than all the other wins, until you win again. The cycle resets. In your heart, you believe your team will never lose again. Losing is the inevitable outcome of sports. But losing is necessary. Losing is perspective. Pain, as a sports fan, is vital. Without 2012, 2013 isn’t quite as magical.

I’ve been on twitter long enough to know that Auburn fans love suffering, and love to argue about suffering, and love to compare bad experiences. We all believe we have it worse than the next fan. And Auburn fans? Well, Auburn fans have seen their share of suffering. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and visit some of the most brutal losses in Auburn football history.

Criteria:

To date (May, 2020), Auburn football has participated in 1,268 games. To make this super exclusive list, the Auburn team must qualify for all three of the following criteria:

Auburn Lost: this may seem obvious, but to make this list, Auburn must have lost the game in question. Otherwise, 2015 Jax State would definitely be making an appearance. That game was terrible, horrible, no good, and very bad. But Auburn won, technically, so we’ll move on. Games are weighted by margin of defeat. Games remaining: 445

Auburn must have been ranked: if you have ever visited twitter dot com, you are aware that everyone loves to dump on the AP poll. Myself included. However, they typically do a decent job at identifying the good teams from the bad. Being ranked does carry weight, especially among the fan base. Be honest, our own expectations are significantly increased when Auburn is a Top 10 team. This will eliminate games prior to 1936. Apologies to your great great grandparents. Games are weighted by rank: Top 10 Auburn teams will be weighted higher than Auburn teams ranked 11-25. Games remaining: 118

Auburn must have been a double digit favorite: This is the key. While the AP poll is somewhat good at evaluating strengths, Vegas is really, really good at evaluating strengths. Those casino high rises didn’t build themselves. In 2019, Vegas favorites went 540-184-11 (.742) straight up. Double digit favorites went 423-40 (.914) straight up. If Auburn was ranked as a double digit favorite, we were all confident at kickoff. This will eliminate games prior to the late 1980’s. I’m sure spreads existed back then, but it is very difficult to find them online. Games are weighted by spread: the larger the spread, the more brutal. Games remaining: 14

So here we are. Last chance to turn around. Maybe take a moment, top off that beverage. Hug a loved one. Take in some fresh air. Whatever it takes to get through the next few paragraphs.

The 14 most brutal Auburn losses, ranked from least brutal to most brutal:

14. 1986 Georgia

Final Score: L, 16-20

Auburn Rank: 9

Spread: Auburn -10.5

I’m putting this here for a couple of reasons.

Auburn’s undefeated 1986 campaign had already been ruined by Florida in Gainesville two weeks earlier. Still, a win would have given Auburn at least a share of the SEC title.

However, I was born a few years after this game was played. I can’t put this kind of loss into perspective. Sorry. Feel free to tell me all the reasons I’m wrong below, though!

13. 1991 Southern Miss

Final Score: L, 9-10

Auburn Rank: 16

Spread: Auburn -12.5

Similar to a couple of games below, this is an Auburn team that had no business being ranked. A flat Auburn team just couldn’t get it done.

12. 1990 Southern Miss

Final Score: L, 12-13

Auburn Rank: 15

Spread: Auburn -12

Is a loss to Brett Favre really that brutal? A winnable game that Auburn let slip through their fingers.

But really, how do you come back from a beating in the Swamp? Auburn was 7 days removed from a 48-7 bludgeoning by the Gators. I’m going to let this one slide.

11. 2005 Wisconsin (Capital One Bowl)

Final Score: L, 7-21

Auburn Rank: 7

Spread: Auburn -10

Another one that barely squeaks in. Fan expectations were high after an undefeated campaign in 2004, but a poor opening loss to Georgia Tech and an overtime loss to LSU (that included a hundred missed field goals) left the 2005 team with a feeling that they fell short, even after defeating Georgia and Alabama to close out the regular season.

I don’t know for certain that the team didn’t care about the game. I don’t know for certain that the team might have had a little too much team-building the night before. I know a sleepy Auburn squad on New Year’s Day got run out of the building by a Wisconsin team that wanted to be there. Barry Alvarez had those boys ready to play.

10. 2008 Arkansas

Final Score: L, 22-25

Auburn Rank: 23

Spread: Auburn -16.5

This is such a bizarre game. 2008 was wild. Preseason expectations were quickly dashed with a typical crazy last-minute loss to LSU. Then, somehow, College Gameday was the Auburn/Vanderbilt game two weeks later? (side note: the worst Auburn teams always seem to draw the best Vanderbilt teams. See, 2008 and 2012). Did Auburn deserve to be ranked? Hindsight, no, but even in the moment, 23 felt generous. Should Auburn have beaten that Arkansas team? Definitely. Arkansas was 2-3 and had been outscored 139-31 in their previous 3 games. But Auburn was awful that day. Tony Franklin had just been dismissed, and football genius Steve Ensminger took over playcalling duties. Auburn stunk from start to finish, and Arkansas took a deliberate safety to seal the win.

9. 2018 Tennessee

Final Score: L, 24-30

Auburn Rank: 21

Spread: Auburn -14.5

This one that barely qualifies. At this point, Auburn had already gotten beaten pretty badly by Mississippi State (no thanks to two different instant replays, no, I’m not bitter at all) and lost a narrow one to LSU (patience, we’ll get to this one) but this pretty much ended any expectations for 2018. Not much else to say.

8. 2017 UCF (Peach Bowl)

Final Score: L, 27-34

Auburn Rank: 7

Spread: Auburn -10.5

Maybe it’s just me, but this loss wasn’t as brutal as some make it out to be. 2017 Auburn had a magical November, followed up by a poor performance in Atlanta against Georgia. Several players had suffered injuries (Kerryon Johnson) or had all but declared for the draft (Carlton Davis). UCF looked like they wanted to be there, Auburn didn’t. UCF would go on to claim a national championship.

7. 1996 Georgia

Final Score: L, 49-56 (4 OT)

Auburn Rank: 20

Spread: Auburn -10

The first overtime SEC game was especially painful. Georgia was aggressively mediocre at best in 1996, and Auburn led 28-7 at the beginning of the fourth quarter. Even after surrendering two TDs, Auburn still got a fourth down stop with very little time remaining, and then they proceeded to fail to get a first down and run out the clock. No matter, they could still get a stop. Except on nearly the final play of the game, Auburn appeared to sack Mike Bobo with just 6 seconds remaining. For some reason, the clock was stopped and placed back at the 31 yard line, allowing UGA to spike the ball. They would throw a desperation TD pass on the next play, and hit the PAT to tie the game. Four overtimes later, Auburn finally couldn’t convert their opportunity.

6. 1997 Mississippi State

Final Score: L, 0-20

Auburn Rank: 11

Spread: -17

Some of the losses in this list make sense in hindsight (the 2018 team wasn’t as good as originally thought; the 2006 team had so little offensive firepower that if they started committing turnovers, or if the defense wasn’t lights-out that things could go south). This loss does not. This was not a particularly good Mississippi State team. They had been blown out by UGA, handled easily by LSU, and beat their 3 non-conference opponents (Memphis, ULM, and UCF) by a total of 24 points. The game was in Auburn, and the Tigers were coming off of a more-solid-than-it-looked win at Arkansas, and the only blemish was a hard-fought loss to one of Spurrier’s best Florida teams. For some reason, Auburn couldn’t do anything against Mississippi State on offense. In the previous 3 meetings, Auburn scored 42, 48, and 49 points against the Bulldogs. Then, somehow, on a rainy afternoon at Jordan-Hare, Terry Bowden’s offense lost the plot.

My enduring memory of this game: on almost every fourth down, Mississippi State would line up with their base offense and force Auburn’s defense to stay on the field. Then MSU QB Matt Wyatt would drop back a few yards and punt. Not a pooch punt. I’m talking a real two-step punt. Fearing MSU would go for it if given the opportunity, Auburn never sent anyone back to return the punt, so it would inevitably roll another 10-15 yards. Sports-reference.com tells me Wyatt punted 13 times in 1997, but I swear half of them were in this game.

5. 2018 LSU

Final Score: L, 21-22

Auburn Rank: 7

Spread: -10

We briefly talked about 2018 earlier. Expectations were high with returning starter Jarrett Stidham at quarterback. However, the future New England Patriot opened the game with a really, really poor interception, setting up transfer quarterback Joe Burrow with a very easy touchdown drive. Auburn regained control of the game and led 21-10 with 10 minutes left in the third quarter. FPI even gave Auburn a 90% chance of winning halfway through the fourth quarter. Auburn let a 71 yard touchdown pass slip through their fingers and committed several defensive pass interference penalties as Cole Tracy kicked the game winning field goal as time expired. The way this game played out was heartbreaking. Auburn had the team to win this game.

4. 2006 Arkansas

Final Score: L, 10-27

Auburn Rank: 2

Spread: Auburn -13.5

2006 Auburn entered the season with all sorts of crazy expectations, even on a national level. The AP had Auburn at #4 in the country in the preseason poll and was a near-consensus #2 behind Ohio State by the time the Arkansas game rolled around. Auburn had already beaten #6 LSU 7-3 in a nail-biter 3 weeks earlier. This team was good, and had the resume to prove it.

Enter Darren McFadden. A young play caller by the name of Gus Malzahn, equipped with the second-best football player I have ever seen with my own eyes, had his way against Auburn’s elite defense.

Arkansas was obviously underrated at the time. Malzahn had his typical “slow start to the season” game against USC, getting blown out 50-14, followed by 3 wins against unranked opponents. They would go on to win the SEC West in 2006. But in the moment, this one stung.

Oh, and this was the first loss I ever witnessed in person. That may explain why this one is so high.

3. 2016 Georgia

Final Score: L, 7-13

Auburn Rank: 9

Spread: Auburn -10

There was a stretch in 2016 where Auburn’s offense looked as dominant as they ever had. I fondly remember the 2016 Arkansas beatdown, or even the Mississippi State game. That team was clicking. Unfortunately, Pettway was hindered by injuries. Sean White likely lied to his coaches about the extent (or existence of) an injury in his throwing arm. By the time the Georgia game got around, the defense looked unbelievable, and the offense looked incompetent.

Still, Auburn’s defense was good enough to beat this Georgia team with one hand tied behind their back.

2. 2006 Georgia

Final Score: L, 15-37

Auburn Rank: 9

Spread: Auburn -11.5

This team could have contended for a national championship. HOWEVER, some huckster from Arkansas had to come in with his Wildcat and his gotdang trick plays and ruin us on a hungover Saturday morning when the Tigers were ranked 2nd in the country. Yes, Gus Malzahn hit the 2006 Auburn team with its first death blow, but Georgia provided the killshot.

If you were there on a rainy November morning, Auburn had rebounded from the loss to the Hogs, beaten Florida, and entered the Deep South’s Oldest Rivalry ranked 5th in the land (the highest-ranked SEC team). Arkansas had the inside track to the SEC Championship game with the tiebreaker, but Auburn was in position for a BCS bowl game either way, if they could finish at 11-1 in the regular season. Nah.

This one started poorly with a Georgia drive to score five minutes in, but it was a 23-7 Bulldog second quarter that doomed Auburn. Down 30-7 at halftime, Brandon Cox and the offense were completely ineffective (Cox completed 4 passes to his own team and 4 passes to the other team), while chubby Matt Stafford ran the quarterback draw to perfection (7 carries, 83 yards, 1 touchdown). My memories include sitting in the rain under the press box in Section 5 and wondering why Georgia’s shell band was so much louder than our full band.

Auburn lost 37-15, and over his final two games against Georgia, Brandon Cox would throw EIGHT interceptions. The Tigers finished the 2006 season at 10-2 after a super-boring and totally Tubervillian win over Alabama, then they’d beat Nebraska in the Cotton Bowl to reach 11 wins. In September/October, you would’ve thought this team could compete for a national championship. In November? The eleven wins would seem like an incredibly unrealistic total for an offense that could barely escape from a wet paper bag.

1. 2014 Texas A&M

Final Score: L, 38-41

Auburn Rank: 3

Spread: Auburn -23.5

I have some pretty strong feelings about the 2014 team. I believe that offense was actually better than 2013. I loved that team. The 2014 LSU game is the most fun game I’ve been too, and that list includes the Kick Six. 2014 Auburn rose all the way up to #2, stumbled against future Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott, and made it back up to #3 in time for the game against A&M. Meanwhile, A&M’s last two games included a 59-0 beatdown by Alabama and a narrow win over La Monroe. Oh, and Auburn was a 23.5 point favorite. twenty three and a half points. In 2019, teams favored by at least 20 points went 224-10 (.957) straight up. You may recall South Carolina beating a Top 5 Georgia squad. Losses like this just don’t happen.

Auburn outplayed A&M that afternoon. Auburn trailed all game, but a comeback seemed like a foregone conclusion. We were that much better. CAP rushed for 220 and 2 touchdowns! Nick Marshall ran two touchdowns in and threw for another. The team was clicking. However, it wasn’t meant to be. A late fumble near the goal line, followed by a rather large blunder with a snap, gave the game away to the Aggies.

A 23.5 point spread remains the largest upset in Auburn history. I’d argue that this game, single-handily, knocked the magic out of Gus Malzahn until 2016, maybe even 2017. Darkest_Timeline.gif. If Auburn wins this game, they don’t sleepwalk through Georgia, they may play just a bit better against Alabama, and may even make a playoff. Am I reaching? Maybe. I was at Jordan Hare for this. Sitting in the same section, same row as I did for the Kick Six. This one stuck with me.

How did I do? What criteria would you use to rank the most brutal losses in Auburn history?

from College and Magnolia - All Posts https://www.collegeandmagnolia.com/2020/5/11/21246429/the-most-brutal-losses-in-auburn-football-history

#IFTTT #Blogger #auburn #auburn fast #wareagle #AuburnFamilyNews #war eagle #sec #football news #aubu

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theravenclawstudyblr-blog · 7 years ago

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70 Questions Tag

I was tagged by @artstvdies, thank you and sorry for replying so late!!

01: do you have a good relationship with your parents? Yes. My dad is actually my stepfather and to me he is my father. I get along really well with both.

02: who did you last say “i love you” to? My cat, surely.

03: do you regret anything? Yes, quite a bit. But I also know there’s no point in regretting something because you can’t change the past, so I’m working on overcoming this.

04: are you insecure? I wasn’t once upon a time lmao but now I’m full of insecurities, mostly about my body.

05: what is your relationship status? Single

06: how do you want to die? Oh wow...The only thing I know is I don’t want to get to the point where I can no longer realize simple tasks by myself. I know it sounds kinda harsh, but I honestly think it would be better for me and everyone around me. I don’t want to be a burden.

07: what did you last eat? Vegan Shrimp, avocado and rice.

08: played any sports? Is dancing a sport?

09: do you bite your nails? I did, but then I realized I love how my fingers look with long nails so vanity won this time haha

10: when was your last physical fight? I’ve never gotten into a physical fight.

11: do you like someone? Not atm.

12: have you ever stayed up 48 hours? Yes it’s horrible don’t do it.

13: do you hate anyone at the moment? Ehmm...I’m trying not to because that’s not good for anyone. And I don’t know if hate would be the correct word.

14: do you miss someone? Not atm.

15: have any pets? Yes, three cats.

16: how exactly are you feeling at the moment? Satisfied. I finished 2 photos which was my goal for the day!

17: ever made out in the bathroom? No

18: are you scared of spiders? Yes. I can live with the small ones but if they’re bigger than my finger I’m out you guys.

19: would you go back in time if you were given the chance? Yes

20: where was the last place you snogged someone? Like years ago and I don’t know how to feel about it. I honestly feel I’m not good enough for anyone.

21: what are your plans for this weekend? The same as my whole summer so far: exercise, meditate, eat, study, draw, read, repeat.

22: do you want to have kids? how many? Yes, two. A boy and a girl.

23: do you have piercings? how many? No, I don’t really like piercings.

24: what is/are/were your best subject(s)? Art (& Art History), History, Philosophy in high school, and basically anything artistic I guess.

25: do you miss anyone from your past? Yes. 26: what are you craving right now? Nothing. I just ate, my belly is happy.

27: have you ever broken someone’s heart? Yes, sorry. 28: have you ever been cheated on? Not technically. I’ve answered this before.

29: have you made a boyfriend/girlfriend cry? No.

30: what’s irritating you right now? Nothing! I’m dandy.

31: does somebody love you? My family? If you mean romantic love, no I don’t think so.

32: what is your favourite colour? Baby blue and blush pink.

33: do you have trust issues? No, although I do have a sixth sense that tells me when someone isn’t good for me and since I’m usually right I don’t try to make much contact with them.

34: who/what was your last dream about? It was a really weird dream with my HS crush/friend, and this has been the third time it happens in a month after not thinking about him for over a year idk what’s happening.

35: who was the last person you cried in front of? Nobody I cried by myself watching Teen Wolf for the third time whoops

36: do you give out second chances too easily? If the person actually shows me that he/she wants a second chance, sure.

37: is it easier to forgive or forget? Forgive, absolutely.

38: is this year the best year of your life? It has been pretty great but not the best.

39: how old were you when you had your first kiss? 17 or 18 I don’t remember.

40: have you ever walked outside completely naked? Lmao no?

51: favourite food? Beans!

52: do you believe everything happens for a reason? Yes, but that doesn’t necessarily mean I believe everything is set on stone.

53: what is the last thing you did before you went to bed last night? Meditate

54: is cheating ever okay? No. But I won’t say I’ll never do it because you never know guys. But yeah, it is not okay at all.

55: are you mean? I try not to be, but I’m socially awkward and I often come out as rude.

56: how many people have you fist fought? None

57: do you believe in true love? Well, yes. I don’t believe that only one person is meant to be with you tho.

58: favourite weather? Cold ftw 59: do you like the snow? Yes

60: do you wanna get married? It’s not one of my priorities but I don’t hate the idea either.

61: is it cute when a boy/girl calls you baby? Yes

62: what makes you happy? Having a balanced life. And dancing. Forget about the first one, dancing is always the answer.

63: would you change your name? Hum..no.

64: would it be hard to kiss the last person you kissed? Yes ew.

65: your best friend of the opposite sex likes you, what do you do? My best friend of the opposite sex is gay lmao. But assuming I had a heterosexual friend that likes me...idk this has never happened to me.

66: do you have a friend of the opposite sex who you can act your complete self around? Yes

67: who was the last person of the opposite sex you talked to? My sister’s boyfriend

68: who’s the last person you had a deep conversation with? My bffs

69: do you believe in soulmates? No

70: is there anyone you would die for? Yes, my mother

I tag @haphazardstudy :) And anyone else who feels like doing it <3

#studyblr #studyspo #questions #ask #tagged

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eleanor-devil · 8 years ago

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Naruto Fanfic - Boruto: Sacrifices - Chap.19, The Gokage Meeting

IMPORTANT: It would be very very appreciated if you reblogged it and left a comment. We get lots of likes/favs but almost no comments, so please everyone, leave a comment, it encourages us to continue.

Written by my friend @mirage-05

Cover by @eleanor-devil

prologue, chap.1, chap.2, chap.3, chap.4, chap.5, chap.6, chap.7, chap.8, chap.9, chap.10, chap.11, chap.12, chap.13, chap.14, chap.15, chap.16, chap.17, chap.18, chap.19, chap.20

For more Sacrifices stuff, click on this link

Sacrifices

Chapter 19 - The Gokage Meeting

The trip to Konoha had been silent for most of the time, at least between Natsumi, her father and her uncle. Both the adult men talked with each other from time to time. She was just ten but Natsumi grew up to be a perceptive girl and she could see how tense her uncle and father were... Were they holding back something because of her presence? Or was it the meeting with the Hokage? Making up her mind to find out, she stood up from her seat. "I'm going to the bathroom, I'll be right back." She received just a simple nod from the two men. As soon as she got out of the bathroom, though, the young girl stopped and made sure no one was looking closely. Then she brought her hands together and whispered, "Bunshin no jutsu." Immediately, a clone of herself materialized next to her. "Alright..." Natsumi said to the clone, feeling a little awkward. "I'm gonna hide somewhere close and listen to their conversation. You will be my decoy if they came out looking for me." Although for how long was she going to be able to keep this... she didn't know. Besides her uncle being a sensor type, both he and her father were skilled ninjas and they could detect her at any moment.

Climbing through the air tubes of the train, Natsumi tried to hide her presence the best she could (however she was not very good at it, yet). Once she reached the place above her uncle and father, the pink haired girl tried to listen to the conversation. "How bad is the situation?" she heard her father ask. "...Not good it seems, if we're not careful there can be more attempts like this." Gaara answered. "They managed to control the situation?" "They did, but it seems it was thanks to a genin who is close friends to Naruto's son." There was a small pause. "A genin...?" Natsumi heard her father's doubtful tone, but for some reason... she was having difficulty concentrating on the conversation as a whole. Her mind was reeling... a close friend of the Hokage's son...? Her uncle was silent once again and so Kankuro continued to wonder aloud. "But... how could a genin affect such a matter?" "I don't know all the details," Gaara admitted. "But perhaps it's not too... wise to speak about it in front of Natsumi. From what I gathered, it's not a pretty case." Kankuro followed his brother's gaze before returning to look at him. He sighed. "So it is more complicated than it seems." Gaara just nodded and Natsumi, finally snapping out of her thoughts but not entirely with her mind at ease, decided that it was time to go back to them before they started suspecting. A few minutes later the girl was back in the company of the two adults. Silence had gone back reigning the place and Natsumi was on her knees staring outside the window. Who was Boruto's friend that had gotten involved in this apparently serious case...? Before she knew it, the train entered the Konoha station and slowed down to a stop. The girl was barely containing her anxiety, literally rocking up and down on her heels. When they got out with the escort of her uncle's bodyguards, into the safety of the leaf village, she turned to look at her father. "Is it okay if I go ahead to aunt Temari's?" she was dying to know more about this situation, and she knew Shikadai would help her on the matter. Kankuro raised an eyebrow before sighing and smiling. He ruffled his daughter's hair before pushing her forward a little. "Go ahead, we won't go there for a while." Natsumi nodded and ran off towards the Nara household. "Aunt Temari! Are you home??" said the girl as she opened the door and kicked off her shoes. She looked forward and saw a blonde head peeking outside the kitchen. And in a moment, a smile broke into the woman's features. "Karura, Shikadai! Look who is in for a surprise!" she called out before wiping her hands to the apron she was wearing. In the next moment, Natsumi had charged in for a tight hug, which made the woman giggle as she returned the hug and put a hand on her niece's hair. "I didn't know you would be coming too." she said lightly, drawing back a little to get a good look at her. "Oh my, you have grown quite a bit." Natsumi giggled and gasped in surprise when she felt a pair of arms wrapping around her, lifting her slightly from the floor. "How's my cousin doing??" Karura asked as she put her down. Despite being the same age as Natsumi, Karura was taller than the pink haired girl. Natsumi smiled and hugged her back. "I'm doing great!" She looked at the stairs when she heard the lazy dragging of Shikadai's feet. With his hands in his pockets, the green eyed boy wore his typical lazy expression despite not having seen his cousin in a while. "Oh, hey." Temari put her hands on her hips. "Greet her properly!" "Too troublesome." "Shikadai..." "She knows what I mean, mom!" "Shikadai!" Rolling his eyes, the young boy did a mock, dramatic bow, the end of his ponytail almost touching the floor. "Welcome to the Nara residence, your highness. What can I do for you?" His theatricals caused both Natsumi and Karura to burst in laughter while Temari just huffed, shaking her head. "What am I going to do with you..." Karura took the chance to grin at her older brother and say, "...well, you can start by taking your highness's bag to her room." Shikadai rolled his eyes as he stood up. "Don't push it." he eyed Natsumi. "What brings you here? I thought only uncles were coming..." "I... might have snuck onto the train...?" she answered with an innocent smile. [Flashback] "Natsumi sweetie, I need your..." Naomi came to a sudden stop as she entered her oldest daughter's room, while the young girl turned slowly to her with a sheepish expression. There was a moment of silence. "Okay..." Naomi said, raising an eyebrow, clearly amused. "What is going on here?" "I, um..." the girl said, carefully drawing her right leg, which was out of the window already, back. "I... can explain?" she said with a sheepish, almost too innocent grin. "I'm sure you can." her mother said, putting a hand on her hip, the corners of her mouth twitched as if she was trying to suppress a smile. "Spill." "I heard that dad and uncle are going to Konoha..." Natsumi said. "And I... want to go with them. I packed my things last night." she said defiantly. "And does your father or your uncle know about your decision?" "Well... nope." Naomi brought her other hand to her chest almost dramatically, her eyes going wide. "Natsumi, I'm shocked! You plan to sneak onto that train..." "Yeah, but..." "Knowing that they leave for an important meeting..." "I know mom, but..." "And above all else..." Finally, the woman broke into a grin. "Trying to sneak out on me, like I would do anything to stop you!" Her daughter gaped at her. "You won't?" "Oh, dear, I thought you know me better than that." Naomi said with a chuckle. "Now, go on already. I believe the train will leave in fifteen minutes." [End of Flashback] The hall was filled with laughter. "I just missed you guys and Konoha." Natsumi finished her story with a big grin. Shikadai raised an eyebrow. "Missed us huh? Or was it someone else...?" This caused Karura to elbow him. Natsumi tried her best not to blush immediately - Shikadai was always one to tease her on this, and she didn't want to play his game. "Whatever do you mean by that, Dai?" But to her surprise... The green eyed boy didn't say anything else on the matter, rather than flinging her bag around his shoulder and turning on his heels. "Nothing." he said almost too non-chalantly, which made the pink haired kunoichi frown a little, something was definitely off... She waited until they reached her room before finally putting her card on the table. "Shikadai... I heard that... whatever happened that made uncle come here involved one of Boruto's close friends... who is it...?" Shikadai didn't face her and didn't tense up... like he already expected her to ask it. He dropped the bag on the bed. "It's nothing you should concern your little head at." "I'm not a kid anym-" "Shikadai," his sister started. "I think she should know." "No, she doesn't." "The village is big but not big enough to keep that from her, sooner or later she will find out and I would rather she finds out through us!" Their words were triggering something... something akin to physical pain... why would Dai try to hide it from her... unless it was someone she knew well... and it was indeed... very serious... "Dai... please..." the slight tremble in her tone was what finally made her cousin to turn to look at her. "Just... tell me...?" Karura nervously glanced at her brother, who sighed. "We... don't know how serious his condition really is..." he tried to mollycoddle it, but it was a feeble attempt. Catching the 'his' in the sentence easily, Natsumi felt like her heart skipped a beat. Shikadai sighed once more before dropping the bomb. "It's Mitsuki..." And her heart sank deeper than a sinking ship in a storm... her eyes widened and her hands quickly rushed to her chest. She found it hard to breath for a moment. Seeing that, Karura wrapped an arm around her cousin. "What... what happened...?" "We..." Karura started. "We don't know the details... we just know that some people tried to attack the village and... Mitsuki tried to stop them and got hurt... like Shikadai said we don't know how serious it is..." "Tried to st... all by himself...?" her voice had turned weak, fading off at the end. The Nara siblings didn't say anything to that, but neither of them was making eye contact with her by this point. "B- but why...? How...?!" her voice rose up again, against the injustice she felt in those words. Shikadai sank down onto the bed, clasping his hands in front of him, his gaze still on the floor. "Because of some stupid, stuck-up people who thought it was a good idea to bully someone over something he can't control." was his mumbled response. "B-bully...? He... he was... being bullied...? By who?!" Karura sighed. "Some stupid kids... because of his origins." "But that's not fair!" the blonde gripped her cousin's shoulder harder. "We know... i-it's not clear but... some rumors say he did it to prove that he is part of this village as we are. Others... just say that... he was working with them and was betrayed..." At that Natsumi snapped as tears formed in her eyes. "No! I refuse to believe that! That's not the Mitsuki I know! He cares for this village, he wouldn't betray Konoha! That... that's not true... he... t-that's nothing like the boy I know... the same boy that helped me heal my ankle and didn't even get angry despite having been crushed by me..." "We know, Natsumi," Shikadai said in almost a resigned tone. "We don't believe one word of that type of rumors, either. In all honesty, although I don't know him as good as Boruto, I..." He didn't finish his sentence but the implication behind it made the tears flow down the young girl's eyes. Sacrificing himself for the safety of people he loves, even after what he had been through... that just felt so much like Mitsuki... Her fingers tightened over the fabric of her outfit, over her heart, as if she was trying to hold it in place. Karura rubbed her cousin's shoulders, knowing that her anxiety could take over her easily when she was distressed like this. "I want... I want to visit him..." both siblings looked at her. "I have to... he's... he's at the hospital right...?" Shikadai didn't meet her eyes. "Natsumi... we said we don't know the severity of his wounds... but we heard that... he's in a coma right now, induced or not we don't know... are you sure you want to see him like that...?" He was just two years older than Natsumi... yet he didn't want his cousin to see more than she had to until the time came. Coma... good god... More tears threatened to fall, but her determination made the young girl close her eyes in an attempt to stop them. The look in her eyes left no doubt. "Yes. Y-you said he was b-bullied, right?" She lifted her head to look into her cousin's eyes. "Then at least we could... no, we should let him know that he is not alone." Her voice dropped to a whisper. "Never alone." Finally, the green eyes met hers, and the Nara understood that his cousin was not going to give up... no matter what she would see. He nodded as he slowly got up. "Alright... I will take you to the hospital." ... It was indeed a very busy day in Konohagakure, and it didn't really have much to do with the Gokage meeting that was going to take place in a short while. Many voices could be heard, some angry, some calm but with a strong determination, but all discussing one matter that needed to be addressed. "What do you mean, you won't permit our children from going to missions?!"one of the Hyuga asked, his tone practically enraged. "Be glad that they get to get away with this kind of punishment," Hanabi said calmly, meeting the man's gaze with a level look. "Under these circumstances, I should have given a harsher punishment." "This is already harsh enough!" another parent spoke up. "No missions means no money. He is the only one bringing home money! Lady Hanabi, you know what we had been through since my husband died at the fourth world war!" "I'm sorry, Akemi," Hanabi kept her voice determined but the look in her eyes had softened just a little. "But you should bring that matter up to your son. He should've thought before ganging up on a poor boy who is equally alone in Konoha." That was met with more protesting voices. "What did they do to warrant such a punishment?! They are only children, any children can go a little far with their pranks!" "We don't even know the true intentions of the 'poor boy' as you call him!" That was the last straw. When Hanabi's impatient and harsh tone was next heard, no one dared to speak again. "Intentions, right now, are irrelevant! Although allow me to say I believe Mitsuki has more of a backbone than any of you do! So for goodness's sake, stop pushing this matter over the edge already and consider this punishment as a token of my goodwill!" There was only silence now following her words. Satisfied, Hanabi continued. "As is decided by the leaders of all the clans involved, the children are required to attend counseling sessions. Moreover, there will be mandatory community service, the details of which will be specified shortly. That is all for today. You may continue with your daily affairs." As the crowd dispersed slowly, the young woman turned to one of the few remaining around her. "Follow every family and report back to me if there is anyone disobeying. If they do... next time, there will be fines involved." ... "I... I'm not sure if I understand you...?" "We would like you to claim the leadership of the Sarutobi." It took Konohamaru another moment to snap out of his surprised state. He cleared his throat. "Yes, but... even when Kichiro is sacked..." "Ichiro is still too young to take the position." one of the elders in front of him said, a serious look on his face. "That, and his compliance with his grandfather's decisions... make him an ineligible leader." "Which is another thing we would like to talk to you about," said the other elder. "If you find this suitable... we would like Ichiro to be supervised by you... A tutor of sorts, someone we can rely on to make sure he is well-mannered and experienced before he takes the leadership seat." "After all... who would be better than the grandson of the third, an excellent ninja himself?" The brunet's facial expression remained the same, still doubtful. "You're giving me too much credit." "And you are giving yourself too less credit. In any case, if you need help... you should know that all of the elders had conceded to your leadership." "All of them?" he asked, now genuinely baffled. It was extremely rare... almost unheard of that the elders of any clan, lest Sarutobi, to collectively agree upon something. "Yes, indeed. There is just one problem now, as you can imagine..." ... "I will never accept your leadership! The rightful head is still my grandfather!" There was nothing but insatiable fury and disgust in the teenager's eyes as he gazed up at Konohamaru, fists balled, teeth gritted. The young man stood his ground and said nothing, as the elder beside him spoke in a cool manner. "You have no choice in the matter. Your grandfather was relieved of his position because of how poorly he led the Sarutobi, endangering not only the clan but the village too. When you are of age, and if you are fit to be the leader by then... you will acquire the title. Until then our new leader is Konohamaru-san, and he will also be your tutor." "I don't give two shits about what you old farts think! My grandfather dedicated his whole life to this clan and this is how you thank him?! By just... just replacing him like he was nothing, only because that man is the third hokage's grandson?!" "If you still believe that is the only reason behind this decision..." the other elder said, frowning slightly. "this only proves our point that you are not yet ready." "You know what, I'm not gonna stay here to listen to your bullcrap!" With that, the young boy turned his back to them, ready to go. "Ichiro." Konohamaru then spoke, in a calm but firm tone. It was clear that Ichiro was almost going to act as if he didn't hear him... but he stopped nonetheless. "I expect you to report to me first thing tomorrow morning." Slowly, the teen's hands balled into fists once again, and he was visibly shaking, although most likely from anger. After a moment, he turned his head to glare daggers at the young man and then stormed out of the door, slamming it shut behind him. The elder to his left sighed, shutting his eyes before shaking his head. "What are we going to do with this child...?" Konohamaru sighed too, his eyes still on the closed door. "Well... at least he didn't say no to the last part." ... The small terrace on the Hokage building was seeing one of its busiest times. The gokage meeting was just about to start, and the kages from four of the five main villages had taken their seats with their bodyguards standing around them. They were talking to each other in hushed voices, clearly curious, until a cough cut into the murmurs. "First of all, I would like to welcome all of you to Konoha and thank you for heeding to the call." Naruto began seriously. "As we don't know the scale and scope of the threat yet, we found it necessary to hold this meeting." There was a brief pause. "Five days ago, Konoha faced an attempted attack by two rogue cloud ninjas and survivors from the sound village. The attack was averted thanks to a..." Naruto once again hesitated before moving on, even though this much time had passed, it was still a delicate subject. "...thanks to a genin who fought the rogue nins by himself." Confused murmurs surrounded the room, and Kurotsuchi spoke up, a doubtful tone in her voice. "A genin? Surely you're not gonna tell us he was sent on a mission?" "Of course not." The Hokage's voice was terse. "I would trust your judgment that none among us here would allow such a mission." The Tsuchikage didn't say anything to that. "No, he had left the village..." "Left?" this came from Chojuro, and the tone in his voice made it clear what he was asking. "On my knowledge." Naruto sighed. "I believe I must have made it clearer... The child chose to leave because of a misunderstanding and its consequences..." "The thing here is, Naruto," the Mizukage continued, leaning a little forward and putting his arms on the table. "We are not particularly interested in why he left... We're more interested in..." "...whether it's treason or not, leaving the village as a ninja is still a pretty dangerous move." Kurotsuchi finished. "I assure you, this matter is not of utmost importance to our current topic." the blond said, in a tone that ended the debate. Gaara's eyes flickered for a moment to his friend, he was sure there was more to the story, but this wasn't the place to bring that up. "All of the culprits are captured or otherwise taken care of. During the investigation of the sound ninjas, however... that's when we came across something troubling." At that point the Hokage, too, put his arms on the table and leaned forward a little, looking at each of the kages in the eye. "The prisoners confessed that their aim was to pull an assassination attempt against me and to throw Konoha into chaos." And once again, murmurings started. Naruto waited patiently for a moment for the voices to die down before speaking again. "It is not yet clear whether this will imply a bigger plot... but it is apparent that their grand aim was to disturb the peace era in general." "Of course... what better way than to kill the person who was the harbringer of the peace?" Darui said, straightening himself slightly in his seat. "You sound like you expect things to take an ugly turn..." Gaara said with a serious look. "Does that mean we should prepare ourselves for war?" The anticipation was perfectly tangible in the atmosphere now, it was apparently a question on everyone's mind. "It might be too early for that," the Hokage admitted. "We still have quite a few pieces of the puzzle missing. But in any case..." His gaze flickered to Gaara, too. "It's best to be on our guard." Chojuro was scratching his chin thoughtfully. "The sound... correct me if I'm wrong but wasn't that the village one of your S-classed missing nins formed? Sounds to me a bit more like it can be a personal vendetta..." The blond man nodded. "That's why I say there's no need for rash actions, we don't know the nature of their plans... in any case, Konoha will be on the lookout for the Sound from now on, because it's true, it's primarily our own concern." "I didn't mean it like that..." the Mizukage began, but Naruto cut in with a weary smile. "It's alright, I know... But, forgive me for being bold, I believe it will be downright foolish not to take your own precautions." There were nods and agreeing mumbles. Everyone became a bit relaxed as the meeting came to an informal end and started talking among themselves. Gaara approached Naruto, Kankuro close behind. "Naruto, can I have a moment?" "Sure." With that, the three walked out of the terrace, back into the office building. "What is it?" "I believe there is more to the story than you let us know..." ... Natsumi hesitated a while before entering Mitsuki's room. She didn't know why she was so afraid... was it the fact that she didn't want to see him in that state...? Sighing, the pink haired girl opened the door and took the first peek inside. What she saw made her bring her hands to her mouth as a gasp got out of her lips, her eyes going wide... She tried to take in a few more breaths but it was becoming a hard job... She tentatively took a few steps into the room, and came to a stop. This... almost didn't look like the Mitsuki she knew... So fragile looking... Her friend was always strong... It felt like there was a stranger in his place, being connected to all those machines... When she noticed, she was close to him, by his bed and she started taking in what she saw. His chest was covered in bandages, cables on his chest that connected to the machines. Natsumi found herself thinking... if he was really alive or if it was just the machines keeping him alive... No... She shook her head... she couldn't think like that... Mitsuki was strong... he would make it... She noticed one of his arms was also bandaged... she guessed it was broken... she could only guess. Then his head... too... "What did they do to you...?" There were no responses... Of course... Only the steady beeps kept her company as the pink haired kunoichi slowly and quietly pulled a chair, so quiet as if she was afraid... that any kind of noise... any kind of disturbance at all... would just make him slip away... She sat beside his right side, and after a moment of hesitation, put a hand, gently, on his hand. "Mitsuki..." she whispered, surprised at how much like a smaller child she sounded. "It's Natsumi... I-I don't know if you can hear me..."she gulped. "B-but I... just want to say... we're here... you're not alone..." And just like it had happened when his team was present, the heart machine let out a bigger beep before returning to normal. Natsumi looked at the machine and then back at Mitsuki's steady form. "Did you hear me...?" That brought a small smile to her face. "I'm right here, no one is leaving you... we're friends..." Feeling a few tears drop on her cheeks, she raised a hand to wipe at them. "So don't... let what a few stupid weirdoes tell about you get to you, okay? Because next time I see anyone talk trash about you... I will just kick them to the next village with my fan." A few more drops fell, and she found herself shaking a little. "Just please be alright... okay?" And with those words said, Natsumi leaned in to kiss him on the forehead tenderly. "Tell me when you wake up... because I know you will." There was a knock and Natsumi turned around to see who it was. "Uncle..." she sniffed and wiped the remaining of her tears. "I thought I would find you here." And the Kazekage made his way into the room, closing the door behind him. In the next moment, he was already taking a seat beside his niece. "So this is the brave young boy..." The girl couldn't say anything, just nodded. "I didn't know you were close friends... I'm sorry, Natsumi..." She squared her shoulders. "No... He's gonna be alright. And everything will be okay then." Gaara just nodded, understanding how painful it would be for his niece to see a friend in this state. "Why is life so cruel to those who don't deserve it...?" she didn't take her eyes off of him. "I wish I could give you a proper answer but... I can't." She sniffed. "You went through something similar... what can I do to help him...?" The redhead turned to give her a warm smile, the look in his eyes soft. "For now? Just pray for him to be safe and be back among us as soon as possible. And when that happens, show him your support and that you will always be there for him, no matter what. That's how it worked for me." Then his smile widened a little more. "But... I take it that you already know these." She sniffed and nodded. "I just want him back..." She looked back at her uncle. "I guess dad is looking for me...?" Gaara chuckled for a bit before ruffling his niece's hair. "He is... we better head back before he decides to tear up the entire Konoha." His gaze once again turned soft as he looked back at the boy. "And don't you worry... I have a very good feeling that he will be back... sooner or later." At that time, there was a knock on the door, and a medic peeked in. "Oh, I'm sorry, Kazekage-sama," she said respectfully. "I need to do some check-ups." Gaara and Natsumi both stood up from their chairs. "Of course," said the red haired. "We were just leaving." He looked at Natsumi, who nodded in return after taking one last look at Mitsuki.

Author’s Notes (mirage-05):

I really have an almost insanely busy schedule nowadays,with work in the weekdays and gym on 4 days of the week (resulting in me returning to home at 9-10 pm) and writing classes in the weekends xD So my only remaining night is usually spent doing homework. I have this schedule until the end of June so things are gonna be a little slow... so don't worry about me or this story We have all the outline of Sacrifices ready so everything is going according to the plan. Anyways, this chapter consists the first gokage meeting I ever wrote so I hope I did a good job...? xD Also I introduce you my dear friend and co-creator Eleanor-Devil 's main next gen OC, Natsumi ( Naruto Next Gen - Sabaku no Natsumi ) and a few surprises... and a short glimpse at my own OC, Sarutobi Ichiro. So I have a mini-poll for you guys... After reading this chapter, can you tell me how you think Ichiro will develop? Will he ever grow out of his jerk shoes? xD What do you think?

#naruto #boruto #mitsuki #gaara #kankuro #gokage #chojuro #kurotsuchi #darui #fanfic #sacrifices #oc #naruto oc

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hyliancutiepie · 8 years ago

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70 Questions

So I got tagged by @hellotweetygirl ~~~~

This is super freaking long so I put it under a cut xD

01: Do you have a good relationship with your parents? Eeeeh… I used to? I mean before Mum died we got along really well but I was also 16 so our relationship wasn’t…. idk… we didn’t have long drawn conversations about much more than Harry Potter (our main common interest) or the cat (the other main common interest) so while our relationship was good I wish it had been more like friends than just mother and daughter.

As for my Dad well…. Lmao let’s just say that if I didn’t work for him then I wouldn’t speak to him much if at all.

02: Who did you last say “I love you” to?

I… don’t know? I don’t really say it a lot? If it wasn’t my cat it was my nephew~

03: Do you regret anything?

Every damn day.

04: Are you insecure?

Hahahahah SO insecure ;;; I’m better than I was as a teenager but I still am just the same.

05: What is your relationship status?

100%, absolutely single.

06: How do you want to die?

Dying kinda scares me. As peacefully as possible. In my sleep I guess.

07: What did you last eat?

Doritos :D

08: Played any sports?

I played a couple when I was younger? I did ballet (it counts), gymnastics and tennis. Now? I play Pokemon Go

09: Do you bite your nails?

Not anymore! Once I finished school I was able to wear nail polish so I wouldn’t chew them anymore and now the habit is done!

10: When was your last physical fight?

Never? I’ve never felt the tendency to throw a punch?

11: Do you like someone?

Not like what you mean.

12: Have you ever stayed up 48 hours?

Once. It was HORRIBLE. Never again. Sleep is too good for that shit and so not worth it.

13: Do you hate anyone at the moment?

No, but there’s quite a few I’d rather not talk to.

14: Do you miss someone?

So many people. Mostly my Mum, but there’s many others too.

15: Have any pets?

Yup!! My kitty Yuki and the sole survivor of my fish, Lucky.

16: How exactly are you feeling at the moment?

Neutral? I’m watching Aliens rn (cos Bill Paxton RIP) and I updated my fic and yeah I’m pretty okay rn.

17: Ever made out in the bathroom?

LOL I’ve never made out with anyone at all hahahhhaah

18: Are you scared of spiders?

Fucking TERRIFIED (says the Australian, living in Australia, where the assholes thrive and are present in every day life).

19: Would you go back in time if you were given the chance?

Nah.

20: Where was the last place you snogged someone?

As I said, never made out with anyone before.

21: What are your plans for this weekend?

Nothing exciting? I’ve got work both days

22: Do you want to have kids? How many?

Definitely!

23: Do you have piercings? How many?

Only the ears, once in each.

24: What is/are/were your best subject(s)?

Art was my best subject :)

25: Do you miss anyone from your past?

Yeah.

26: What are you craving right now?

I could do with a macca’s soft cone right about now…

27: Have you ever broken someone’s heart?

I mean I’m not aware of it if I did?

28: Have you ever been cheated on?

Nope.

29: Have you made a boyfriend/girlfriend cry?

Never really HAD one so…

30: What’s irritating you right now?

Idk my butts getting a bit sore.

31: Does somebody love you?

Idk?

32: What is your favourite color?

Pink!!! And aqua too :D

33: Do you have trust issues?

Lmao you have no idea.

34: Who/what was your last dream about?

I can’t remember…

35: Who was the last person you cried in front of?

My friend just today… when I found out Bill Paxton died ;;; only a few tears nothing big but still… ;;;

36: Do you give out second chances too easily?

Not really. Depends on what the person did.

37: Is it easier to forgive or forget?

Sometimes neither lbr

38: Is this year the best year of your life?

Can’t say for sure seeing as it Feb, BUT I am lucky enough to be going overseas so it might be!!

39: How old were you when you had your first kiss?

Other than when I was 4? 15 ;;; he took me to see Iron Man…

40: Have you ever walked outside completely naked?

Lmao hell no!

51: Favourite food?

Sushi! And pasta omg gimmie all the pastaaaa

52: Do you believe everything happens for a reason?

Yeah I guess so?

53: What is the last thing you did before you went to bed last night?

Said goodnight to Vi :)

54: Is cheating ever okay?

Of course not.

55: Are you mean?

I don’t think so?

56: How many people have you fist fought?

As said before, never been in a physical fight.

57: Do you believe in true love?

Yup!

58: Favourite weather?

I love rain! Gimmie all the rain! Though, I don’t mind a nice warm spring day with a slight breeze uwu

59: Do you like the snow?

YEAH! I never get to experience it though so it’s a little sad ;;

60: Do you wanna get married?

Yup!

61: Is it cute when a boy/girl calls you baby?

Only if I know them well enough

62: What makes you happy?

My kitty who gives me strength. Also writing and drawing and seeing my friends and my siblings n their families~

63: Would you change your name?

Nah, no need!

64: Would it be hard to kiss the last person you kissed?

Lmao yeah it really would! We weren’t exactly friends the last time we saw one another

65: Your best friend of the opposite sex likes you, what do you do?

Honestly it would depend on them. If they can accept that I’m not interested and still be a good friend to me then it’s all good. If they can’t then I won’t deal with that shit.

66: Do you have a friend of the opposite sex who you can act your complete self around?

I do actually? He’s a person I grew up with and even now we’re still like siblings though with work and our lives going different paths we don’t get to spend a lot of time together ;n; but it doesn’t mean I don’t see him as one of my closest friends!

67: Who was the last person of the opposite sex you talked to?

My friend’s Dad XD

68: Who’s the last person you had a deep conversation with?

Define deep?

69: Do you believe in soulmates?

Not in the way fiction makes it out to be? Idk how to explain it, but yeah I do, just not in the fiction kinda way?

70: Is there anyone you would die for?

Yup!!

Tagging: @quicksilverlocket @fonulyn @ffxv-edits @thefireismine @zanarkandmp4

#my stuff #this was kinda fun~

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kindredconfectionery · 8 years ago

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In which Jake (@judgenexecutioner) judges John's soul. It goes about as well as they both expected. What a way to spend a Saturday night. Takes place Saturday 07 January 2017.

[07-Jan-17 17:37:49] judgenexecutioner: You'd been putting this off for a while. And you at least had good excuses to. Like preparing for your first trip out of the year. Something your brother had to prepare for, too. But you know you won't be able to get anything started until you get this part out of the way. Which... you really wish you didn't have to. You could go through the rest of existence without judging your brother's soul just fine. Even when your goal was to kill him, you always assumed his judgement would be left to someone else. Seeing as chances were high that killing your brother would utterly destroy your soul.

You didn't want to do that anymore. And you were afraid of what you'd find.

So on the day you decide to finally get it out of the way, you still spend most of the day dallying about. Finding near any excuse to keep busy and out of the way. Which was a little pointless, since you finally find your courage shortly after sundown. You seek out your brother, clearing your throat to get his attention once you find him. You doubt it's necessary, but it's polite.

[07-Jan-17 17:46:42] kindredconfectionery: You'd tried not to be too pushy about this. You know how uncertain Jake had been when you first brought it up. And then there's the whole question of whether it would even work, given the fact you're pretty sure you're not actually dead and don't know if it works on the living. There's also the holiness aversion issue, but you're old and strong and have sat through enough of his sessions you're fairly certain you can handle this.

You have no idea why he said to wait for this weekend, but you didn't question it when he did. You have the patience to wait centuries for something, so a few days is no big deal. When he does find you, which isn't difficult, you're down in the living room area, playing the piano for no particular reason other than you can. You'd noticed him walk in, but you're going to finish the piece, so his throat clearing is a little redundant but his politeness is appreciated nevertheless.

[07-Jan-17 17:55:57] judgenexecutioner: The music is beautiful. You know that Kent loved music, so you have no idea why it took so long for humans to come around to it. Song, sure. But instruments such as these.... You listen to your brother play his song, smiling as you move to the couch facing the piano and just enjoy the performance. You had no real reason to put it off until the weekend except that it'd be putting it off a little longer. You've never tried to judge the soul of a living person. And you don't even know if your brother applies as such. But what worries you is any pain it might cause him. And if it works, finding out for sure what you're already pretty sure about him.

[07-Jan-17 18:07:17] kindredconfectionery: You look over the instrument at him, smiling. It makes you think you ought to compose something specifically for him now, like you did for Gabriel's winter holiday gift. At any rate, you hold off on playing anything else just yet. "I hope I didn't disturb you. I just felt like coming down here and messing around since I won't be able to so easily once we leave."

[07-Jan-17 18:11:34] judgenexecutioner: You look surprised that he's acting contrite to you? "I... no... I'm the one that came looking for you. I'm the one doing the disturbing, aren't I?" It throws you off for a moment, but then you clear your throat. "Uh... well... it's the weekend." You say as if it's all you need to say for him to understand why you're here. And maybe it is.

[07-Jan-17 18:15:03] kindredconfectionery: It wouldn't be the first time someone had come and asked you to cut it out, or whoever was playing something at the time, so it's not an unreasonable guess that Jake might be doing the same. "Yeah, a bit, but I'm the one with the noisy activity when you're just sitting on the couch, so who knows?" You tilt your head curiously, wondering why it's important to note it's the weekend before it clicks. "Ah."

[07-Jan-17 18:19:25] judgenexecutioner: You laugh softly. "That you would call your beautiful music 'noisy' is nothing short of a tragedy, big brother. I'd ask when you learned to play, but there was so much time to learn, wasn't there?" You never learned to play anything. You duck your head when it seems to click with him what you meant. You nod. "Yeah... I... I don't know if you want to try this here, or maybe move downstairs?"

[07-Jan-17 18:22:57] kindredconfectionery: "It creates sound which disrupts the silence. Therefore, it's noisy," you argue, complete with your tongue being stuck out at him. "Yeah, I couldn't really tell you even if you did ask. I just picked stuff up from people here and there, and now I can just play. Mostly by ear and memory."

You get up, gently closing the cover to the keys to keep them nice, especially with little feline paws running about now. "You're the expert here. We do this wherever you think would be best."

[07-Jan-17 18:27:14] judgenexecutioner: "Tragedy..." You sigh with a small shake of your head. Then top it off by sticking your tongue right back out at him. "I've wondered about playing an instrument time and again, but... as beautiful as music is, it never holds enough personal interest for me to want to even pick an instrument to learn."

You hum softly. "I'd feel more comfortable downstairs... I don't want to create a disturbance with the light." It's not something you had ever thought about until John brought it up.

[07-Jan-17 18:34:37] kindredconfectionery: "That's okay. You can be my vocalist," you chirp back brightly. You got the instrumental talent in the family in exchange for zero vocal skills, and apparently Jake went the inverse. Although that's hard to prove if he's never even tried.

"Mmm. Probably would be best. Don't want someone coming in here with an extinguisher trying to put out the fire." You hold out a hand for him to lead him downstairs to the ballroom where he often does it anyway.

[07-Jan-17 18:39:51] judgenexecutioner: You immediately blush, shaking your head. "Now that would be noisy. And some very awful noise at that." You've sang before. Never in front of your brother. You don't think you sing well at all.

The mention of a fire makes you grimace. It's... one of your fears of what might go wrong with trying this. But when he holds out his hand, you take it, following him downstairs. You head to your usual spot, licking your lips nervously. "You... you can tell me if you change your mind..."

[07-Jan-17 18:46:18] kindredconfectionery: "I doubt that. I mean, it can't be worse than me. A deaf cat yowling into a tunnel is better than me," you tease, trying to be encouraging. You're sure he's nowhere near as bad as he claims. You had heard him when you were alive, and his voice isn't so different that you can't project what it would be like now.

You stand in front of him, taking a step forward to wrap your arms around him in a hug. "I haven't changed my mind. I want to know. I can handle it, and if I can't, we'll both know and it can stop. Unless you've changed your mind?" It only seems right to offer him the choice to back out, even though he was the one who had come to you about this.

[07-Jan-17 18:49:12] judgenexecutioner: You scoff softly. "You're not that bad." You doubt he can be. You remember in his prayers, psalms, that he wasn't the best, but he was far from horrible, too. Maybe you're just biased. Love can be deaf as well as blind, you suppose.

You automatically hug him back, though you can't help the way your muscles are just tense. "I've been unsure about this from the start. But it's what you want, and even if it ends up badly, it'll be worse for me, and that... That I can live with."

[07-Jan-17 18:59:24] kindredconfectionery: "Okay, so maybe the cat can hear, but it's still pretty bad." You know what you sound like. You've heard it. Other people have told you that you're really not good and should musically stick to anything that doesn't involve singing. So you generally keep it to yourself when you ignore that advice.

"It's what I want. And it won't be that bad. Stop being such a worrywart." You sound way more confident than you really are, but only one of you can be unsure about this. Jake cornered the market on anxiety, so you have to be the certain one. You kiss him before stepping back. "Whenever you're ready."

[07-Jan-17 19:05:14] judgenexecutioner: You snicker. "Well... we must be related in that area, too. I think I sound so awful. So awful, no one alive today knows how I sound for sure. It's a public service." You're just really, really self conscious.

You huff softly. "I won't until I see for myself how it goes." You normally wouldn't care if it was just about hurting you. But this could hurt him. This could hurt him badly. He already admits that your holy glow you give off us already uncomfortable for him. It could be much worse if it's directed at him. Still... you melt into the kiss, however short it may be. You take a deep breath and a step back of your own. "I'm as ready as I'll ever be."

You find your center, that heated core at your very soul that allows you to judge the souls of the living and the dead. You draw it out of you, and with it comes that bright, holy glow the envelopes you and pushes outwards. John has always kept himself outside of its center, but if he wants to be judged, there's no way he can avoid it.

[07-Jan-17 19:29:55] kindredconfectionery: "Mhm. We'll just have to see about that." At some point, you're going to do your best to make him sing. Not this particular point, but probably soon.

You huff. "Oh fine." You can only do so much in the way of reassurance. There really is only one way to know what this will do to you, and that's to just do it. Coincidentally, you are also more worried about this hurting him than hurting you. It's just how you are.

You watch him, watch the glow form from up close this time. It's hard not to close your eyes, but it's also impossible for you to not try, so you settle for a squint. Your fingers curl until tight fists are formed at your sides, nails digging into your palms. Every part of you wants to turn tail and run. But you know you can't. Even when it starts to bite at you, to touch you and cover you with its holy light, you rigidly remain in place, teeth gritted. You thought you knew what you were in for with this, but sitting off to the side across the room, and even going to the wedding in the church for half a day, hadn't prepared you for it. The only thing keeping you in place now is your sheer force of stubborn will, which anyone who knows you with any depth can testify to its formidability.

[07-Jan-17 19:40:35 | Edited 19:52:40] judgenexecutioner: "No we won't." You probably will. Your stubborn, but if anyone can wear you down quick to get what they want, it's John.

You no longer look human yourself, your entire form looking golden, except your eyes that open up as brilliant white. You feel his pain, worse than, really, but you don't show it. Can't truly show it in this form. You can see that he's in pain, though. You're not even sure if the sizzle you hear is real or just your imagination. So you try to make this quick. " *Cain, Son of Adam. Son of Eve." The voice is booming and reverberating, only heard to John himself, as the process is a near silent one to those looking in. The light flickers for a moment, and maybe in the flicker it could be seen that your skin was burned, raw, bleeding, charred blisters burst over your skin. But you don't show pain, can't show pain, and can't be stopped now that you're reviewing countless lifetimes worth of sins and virtues in one single being. There are many. For both sides. And the major ones flash through John's mind, his life flashing before his eyes. This didn't happen before his death, obviously, and not even before the death of the souls you judge, but not all sayings can be so accurate.

[07-Jan-17 20:09:38] kindredconfectionery: You just look smugly at him. The yes/no thing could easily go all night if you let it, but you have other matters to attend to.

The sight of him up close like this is completely and utterly terrifying. In another life, it might have been gorgeous to the point of awe-inspiring, but this is the only life you have, and it's very much not. You actually flinch when he speaks, half ducking down until you're not even properly looking at him. It's a reflex, immediately flashing back in your mind to when God used to speak to you, a voice coming from nowhere and everywhere all at the same time. At the flickering, you dare to look up again, but from behind your hand, the way someone blocking a too bright light might look around it to see. Are you screaming? You might be screaming. Or it might just look like it. You can't even tell anymore. Your injuries aren't apparent yet, still being internal, like you're being ripped into from the inside out. It's never felt like you're being burned either, but that must at least be part of it from the look of your brother.

You have a lot of life to go through, and very little of it comes as a shock to be seen again, even the ones you've buried so deep you never think of them ever. You're more worried about whether this is going to eat him alive before it finishes, eyes flickering between the mental images and Jake.

[07-Jan-17 20:22:09] judgenexecutioner: It might be that way on purpose. This is a god given gift, literally. An ability bestowed on you by God himself. And even though Kent had evolved to the point where he could hide himself among humans with no way to tell, it wasn't like that in your time, and unlike God, you weren't capable of that sort of evolution.

You're pretty sure your body is dead at this point, that all that's left of it is a burned out husk illuminated by the fierce glow of your own soul. Your internal organs nothing more than pulp, your bones broken in several places. It feels like lifetimes pass; it might have just been minutes though, when your lips part, your voice softly subdued. "Cast down..." And that was the answer. There was no explanation. Not to the souls, not to John, though you knew why. John had done some awful things in his life, some good things, too. But the good was because he was good. The... your brother has a tendency not to forgive himself, and to not accept forgiveness from others easily. That guilt, that weight on him is as much his undoing as the sins themselves.

The light fades, and your body crumples, smelling of burnt flesh and blood. You're not breathing, but that's not really a surprise at this point. This... this was going to be painful. For the rest of the night, you would come alive and die several times, painfully as your body healed more slowly than it took your soul to flicker life back into it.

[07-Jan-17 20:38:27] kindredconfectionery: The answer comes, and while you realize you'd never asked him what he says to them to know what to listen for, it doesn't take a genius to figure it out. It doesn't come as a surprise. You knew it. You'd told people you weren't a good person, and this just proved it. That and what your selfish need to be certain had done to your brother.

As it turns out, you had been screaming, and you keep screaming even as the light fades and reality seeps back in. You can't help it. Jake's body is an utterly horrifying sight. It's only moments later that your own injuries kick in, dropping you in front of him. Your body is discolored with massive internal bleeding all over, as if every blood vessel ruptured all at once. Some of it even seeps out from a few places where your skin has split open. You're not sure if all of your bones are quite the configuration they should be either. Between the two of you, that is going to be some nasty staining on the floor. It's a weird thought, but it passes through your mind. Anything to distract from the pain.

The next thing that does is how sorry you are. You manage to lay out next to Jake's body, doing your best to comfort and apologize to him each time he seems alive enough for it to make a difference. You're healing far faster than he is, but you're not intending to leave him even when you are healed yourself. It's the least you can do after putting him through that.

[07-Jan-17 20:47:28] judgenexecutioner: You want to explain to him. But even if you could at the moment, you're not sure you should. It'd be special treatment. And while John is subject to all sorts of special treatments, including this judgement of his soul before he even dies, explaining to him what his judgement means seems like overstepping boundaries you shouldn't.

It's a thought best left for later...

The truly messy part is how each time your body sparks back to life it almost seems as if you have a whole new set of blood to bleed out. And once your vocal cords are healed enough to make sound, each return to life that leads back to death is accompanied by screams that taper off to pained whimpers. But each time John apologizes, you shake your head, try to tell him it's okay. You'd agreed to do this. You knew what could happen. You're more upset that he was hurt at all. That this could have actually killed him if it took longer than it did. But you're both hopeless that way. Each time you live a bit longer until maybe an hour before dawn when you don't seem to die again. Your breathing is labored, wet sounding, and your skin still looks like that of a burn victim, twitches of pain racking through you, but your insides are healing enough to let you live, and when you realize that, you sigh. "D-don't... don't... look at the answer as concrete..."

[07-Jan-17 20:57:53] kindredconfectionery: You just attempt to quiet him. It's not okay. It'll never be okay. But you are receiving your punishment immediately, at least. Each scream, each whimper, each time Jake dies again, you imagine you can feel it. You know you can't. There's not a power you possess like that, but who needs powers when you have a mind to dream it up for you?

There's no real sense of time for you, and being below ground, no windows to judge the light by. Lucky you. By now, you've healed completely, minus a few lingering bits of pain, which may or may not still mostly be in your head. Heedless of what he looks like, you carefully press your lips to your brother's forehead. You know he's trying to make you feel better about the judgment, but it doesn't really help. "I know it doesn't count because I'm not officially dead yet, but it seems pretty sure to me. And you shouldn't worry about it anyway in your condition. It's not like I expected any different."

[07-Jan-17 21:04:39] judgenexecutioner: There was just no convincing either of you.

The press of his lips to your forehead is a little painful, but you manage to hide that fairly well, even offering him a smile. "It... it's not... it's not concrete... and even... even time in Perdition... I-it... It isn't permanent... A-and I will... I will worry... because I'll be okay. I'll heal. This... this is okay." And maybe it's messed up to you that you feel it's true. You agreed to this, chose this, and were ready to deal with these consequences. "You... you're a good person... w-who made bad choices..." You want to tell him how he can turn it around, but part of the punishment of Perdition was that each soul had to figure it out for themselves and hope that a demon didn't consume them in the interim.

[07-Jan-17 21:19:35] kindredconfectionery: "Please just stop talking already. This is not okay. I put you through it already knowing the answer. Like you were magically going to come back and say I was wrong?" It was one of the few times you'd been one hundred percent certain, and there is absolutely no vindication in it tonight. "This was a massively bad choice. And I'm sorry for everything you had to see on top of it..."

Tears streak your cheeks as it finally hits you that he knows your life now, or enough of it that the rest doesn't matter. It's not like you really knew the process going in, but you still wish you had never thought of it, let alone pushed him into doing it.

[07-Jan-17 21:24:27] judgenexecutioner: You press your lips together gently, then reach up a trembling, smeared hand up to cup his cheek. You want to tell him that it's okay. You want to tell him so much. You know he won't believe you. So instead you close your eyes before any tears can slip free and you breathe out long and slow. "I... it doesn't... change how I feel..."

[07-Jan-17 21:37:43] kindredconfectionery: You don't so much as flinch or make a face. You've been touched by worse. Instead, you lean into it, more tears flowing at his words. You don't understand how he can say that. You don't know if you will ever understand. But you won't deny the gratitude or relief you feel that he does. He's so much better than you. You only hope to be even half as worthy of him as he thinks you are.

[07-Jan-17 21:40:36] judgenexecutioner: You smile, a tear slipping down your own cheek. You take a deep, labored breath, and then you close your eyes. "I... I'm going to meditate through the pain until it passes... S-so you... you should take care of yourself..." You know that after healing that much damage, John has to be hungry, and while your blood is all over the floor, you doubt he'd want to drink it because that would be him benefitting from your pain. Your brother can be so needlessly complicated.

[07-Jan-17 21:57:37] kindredconfectionery: "I'm fine," you lie. You're not. You're practically starving, not that Jake has any way of knowing this, but you're also too stubborn to move until he can. It also actually never occurred to you to drink anything from the ground. It has nothing to do with how it got there. It's mostly old and dirty by now, and you're not that desperate. Probably. You'll live, at any rate, quieting down so as not to disturb his meditation.

[07-Jan-17 22:17:05] judgenexecutioner: "Liar..." Your voice is raspy, but that doesn't hide the fact that it's full of soft affection. Like you hadn't expected any other answer from him, but it doesn't upset you. Your breathing starts to even out, slow and deep, and if it's labored, you know how to get past that as well. You'll be like this for a while.

[07-Jan-17 22:35:21] kindredconfectionery: You just smile at the accusation, your only denial of it to shush him. He's not insistent on you going away to take care of yourself, so you don't, simply laying there with him, eyes shut in your own form of meditation to pass the while. It helps you as much as it does him, even if it's a different reason you need to do it.

#light gore mention #blood mention #death #ask to tag #judgenexecutioner #narrative log #jake does john

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diamonddeposits · 4 years ago

Photo

EVRIPIDIS AND HIS TRAGEDIES - BITTER

Barcelona based artist Evripidis and His Tragedies delivers a surreal (serial killer) visual treatment for his latest single-Bitter..an emotionally immense tune that features vocals from NYC based Greg Goldberg (The Ballet)! We got in touch with Evripidis who graciously answered some questions about their sound, their city and their interests. Watch the treatment above and then check out the interview below. Give Neos Kosmos a spin and we think you will find it soundtracking your days and nights (we know it is ours)!

01. Hey how are you and what are you up to?

I am good! Trying to enjoy spring as much as I can (since last spring was cancelled), promoting my latest album Neos Kosmos, drawing and reflecting on my next move.

02. What inspired the name of your musical project?

My name is Evripidis, which means that I share my name with one of the three most famous playwrights of ancient Greece. I can be quite dramatic myself and my songs are often like tiny pop tragedies, complete with a choir that interacts with the main character, a direct link to my love of sixties Girl Groups. Back in the day when I was looking for an artistic name, while browsing the internet I discovered a book that was titled “Euripides and his tragedies". This discovery ignited a sparkle, I immediately thought it would be hilarious but also kind of accurate to name like that my musical project, one that deals with heartache, existential angst, death and the joy of living, all bundled up with emotion and a sprinkle of humor. I intentionally used Evripidis, which is how my name is pronounced in Greek, instead of the English version Euripides.

03. How would you describe your sound?

It is pop, influenced by my classical piano studies and my love for many popular genres of the last 100 years. On my previous records I had a multi-instrumentalist, almost orchestral approach but my latest record has a synth finishing and a dance beat.

04. What was the inspiration behind your single (and latest video) Bitter?

In "Bitter" I wanted to convey a mixture of romanticism, cynicism, and humor that is kind of camp, but also deeply heartfelt. I am, after all, bitter and hopeful, grumpy and funny, all together at the same time, and I wanted to connect with those who feel these strong contradictions. I invited Greg Goldberg from The Ballet to sing with me because I imagined an encounter of two like-minded souls who never give up on love, and also because I couldn’t help but add some some queer pizzazz.

The video is a collaboration with my friend Centauros, an amazing Spanish pop artist who visioned the song as a gay thriller. I guess he did so because love can be scary, unpredictable, violent and fun at the same time.

05. How was the first show you played like? How was the crowd and where was it?

My first show as Evripidis and His Tragedies was in 2005 at a dive bar, Robadors 23, in one of the seediest streets of Barcelona-calle Robadors in Raval, a narrow, dirty one, buzzing with sex workers, their clients, drunks and petty thieves. Right next to that bar there used to be a legendary punk, queer venue that was our second home back in the day, so I was very familiar with that street anyway. I remember my mom calling me on the phone right before entering the venue, to wish me luck. She sounded very proud of my forthcoming performance, and I thought “if you only knew mommy…” with a little mischievous smile. The concert was a success. Everybody I knew was there, and since I was pretty sociable and a new entry in the scene, the place was packed. I remember I played a very long set which was probably not a good idea but this is how I used to be in my early days as a performer: too anxious to show the world my craft but not caring very much about my audience’s patience. I hope I have improved since then

06. What are some of your favourite artists when you were growing up?

I consider that the artists we listen to between 15 and 25 are the ones that have the deepest impact on us. In my case it was The Velvet Underground, Nico, The Beach Boys, The Magnetic Fields, The Smiths, Kate Bush, Pulp, Saint Etienne, Marianne Faithfull, Soft Cell, The Shangri-Las, The Ronettes, Pet Shop Boys, Portishead, Joy Division, Jens Lekman, The Hidden Cameras, Alaska y Dinarama, Stereo Nova…

07. What was the first song you ever wrote called? Did you ever get a chance to play it live?

When I was a kid I was composing little classical pieces with pompous names like “Viennese waltz”, that maybe were one page long and terribly simple but came with an elaborate cover hand drawn by me. I am not sure what my first pop song was called, although if it is the one I think of, it was musically and vocally inspired by Nico’s "I'm Not Sayin'" but sported a starry-eyed, hopeful lyrics, the complete opposite from the song it drew inspiration from. I don’t think it made it to my first concert, by the time I was playing live I had moved on from that kind of naivety.

08. Tell us a little bit more about Neos Kosmos, your latest record. Any themes?

The title comes from the words Neos Kosmos that I glimpsed, printed on a crumbled paper receipt from a pharmacy in my hometown Athens. These two words on a mundane scrap of everyday life seemed like a sign, resonating perfectly with the artistic process behind the record, as well as its content.

Neos Kosmos was written and recorded in the course of half a decade and maps my particular bittersweet vision of a New World on a personal, artistic but also global level, characterised by intense contradictions. Sonically it breaks away from my former, multi-instrumental musical adventures, employing the use of synthesizers instead.

Recurring themes are friendship, ally ship, queerness, mental health, longing, domestic bliss, diversity, human touch, the everlasting chase of the elusive butterfly of love.

The record is mostly sung in English although there is a song in Spanish and another in Greek.

Neos Kosmos features collaborations from indie pop darlings Rachel Kennedy (Flowers), Greg Goldberg (The Ballet), Max Andrucki (The Smittens), Francina Ribees, Marc Ribera and Laura Antolín (Doble Pletina) and it is produced by Sergio Pérez (SVPER).

09. What are some of your favourite places in Barcelona?

Barcelona has a lot of incredible spots. but one of the most magical places is Montjuic hill, which is right in the heart of the city and it is world of its own,-it features a castle, a massive historical cemetery, a cactus park, a botanical garden, various other parks with eclectic styles and architecture, a swimming pool with incredible views featuring on Kylie’s “Slow” musical video, important museums, even a quite kitschy but still adorable village that consists of relics of buildings from all corners of Spain.

The Collserola Mountain is also incredible-it is just half an hour from the city centre and bears dense Mediterranean forests, wild boars, a small levee, crazy modernist architecture, the ruins of a casino, an arched viaduct, a whole neighbourhood with breathtaking views of the city, a historical attraction park, a huge telecommunications tower…

10. Any books or films that you have read or seen lately that you would love to recommend?

comic: “Berlin” by Jason Lutes, “Monstruosamente” by Alfonso Casas.

Books: “Our Part of The Night” by Mariana Enriquez, “Glitter Up The Dark” by Sasha Geffen, “Just Above My Head” by James Baldwin, “A Broken Mirror” by Mercè Rodoreda.

Movies: “First Cow” by Kelly Reichardt, “Promising Young Woman” by Emerald Fennell, “Johnny Guitar” by Nicholas Ray, “Stop” by Stanley Sunday, “¡Corten! “by Marc Ferrer.

11. Any local artists that you are into and would love to tell us about?

A bunch of current artists that I love are Doble Pletina, Cabiria, Rebe, Papa Topo, Caliza, Marta Movidas (from my Spanish music family) and Nalyssa Green, Stella, Kristof, Miss Trichromi, Johnny Labelle, LogOut (from my Greek one).

12. Any sleeping tips for us?

Drink valeriana or take it in pills two hours before going to bed. It is natural and harmless. Do not check your mobile phone for some time before sleeping. Read a book instead. If you share the bed with someone you love it also helps.

#EVRIPIDIS AND HIS TRAGEDIES #BITTER #VIDEO #BESTOF2021 #GREECE #SPAIN #POP #BANDCAMP

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stupidpianist · 6 years ago

Text

11 october 2018

12:38: Somehow egregiously slept thru my alarm… When I went to bed I was like, “okay, you need to break this terrible habit of setting ten-to-fifteen alarms, just set one, just set one and then you’re going to get up.” Must have turned off the alarm when still half-asleep, completely missed my 08:30 lecture… Seems “hellish” that this could have happened, I really can’t believe it… Gonna “take steps” to make sure this “never happens again,” maybe via reverting back to setting more than one alarm, maybe just three? Three sounds like a good number of alarms, right?

Folks sorry for ending the liveblog early yesterday night; went to go hang out with Jasleen and Jeremy and wanted to not “invade the sanctity of human interaction,” wanted to not “infringe on the privacy of others.”

Got back home not too late, went to bed by, like, one am?? Must have slept like eleven hours?! ELEVEN???? What the heck, I guess I was, like, I must have actually been as sleep deprived as I thought…

First thoughts on waking: wow I feel well rested, feeling “good” about today, “looking forward” to meeting with volunteer piano organization this evening. These meetings have quickly become “the highlight of my week” since they started a month ago; something about it, the “communal” nature of it? The “collaborative” nature of it?? Feels good to be with a group of individuals committed to “singular, socially beneficial” goal.

Stayed in bed for a bit reading up on the latest technology news, Razer has a new phone? Looks pretty good, I think, feel like I have a pretty good “track record” of “knowing what the people want” re: consumer electronics, feel confident this new phone won’t sell well comparative to Apple, Samsung, even the new Google phone, but feel equally confident it’s “setting a precedent.” Tune in tomorrow for more “tech predictions with George.”

12:55: “Hopped into” the shower, played aggressive metalcore music while “scrubbing.” Brushed teeth, remembering guiltily how I actively decided not to floss last night. Gonna have to start doing this, “before it’s too late”...

13:11: Made G Fuel energy shake. Feels like this is really starting to become “a part of the morning routine.” Reminded once again of how miraculously good this stuff tastes, seems insane comparative to other energy-based drinks?? Especially without sugar, how did they, how did they do this?

13:38: Gotta get out of this apartment. Such a late start to the day, wasted eight hours I could have been conscious just sleeping. Remembering a dream last night of an actually-non-existent family member visiting our family? Not many details, other than visiting a shoe store with them. Seems innocuous, maybe? Going to try not to read too deeply into this one, folks.

Walking from apartment to Marvin Duchow music library. Gonna get down these first few thoughts of the day before practicing piano. Okay, okay, here’s the docket for the day, people:

-Record first bit of today’s liveblog

-Go practice, can fit in a good four-hour chunk before class

-“Human Cognition and the Brain” lecture at 16h

-Record more of liveblog in thirty-minute break before focus group

-Focus group for indie game development at 18h

-Study for thirty-minute break in McLennan library before piano organization meeting

-19h30: piano organization meeting in basement of McLennan

Might try to practice for longer after the meeting is over? Unsure about this—meeting could run until 21:00, which really isn’t that late. I’m just thinking lazily, this is the George that just wants to go home after the meeting and stare at things on the internet until it’s time for bed.

Picturing a Nicolas Cage going, “I’m feeling real good today,” while throwing mock-punches at the air like in the movie Joe. Feeling “pretty good today,” I think.

13:52: Sitting in Marvin Duchow library workstation, second floor, away from windows, near the end of the floor, my favourite, default, go-to workstation in this library, recording these liveblog thoughts. Ghost still playing through headphones. Tapping my foot a little to the beat.

14:05: Heading to the practice rooms, thinking, “five minutes behind schedule, five… minutes…”

Recently have been “getting into” the band Ghost to a significant degree, obsessively Googling and reading everything I can about them. Thnking about this while practicing, specifically that the band leader, now called "Cardinal Copia" (after previous iterations “Papa Emeritus” I, II, and III), seems to have a strangely positive influence on piano playing?? Something about his commitment to the character, his physically reserved but somehow still ostentatious presence, the musicality, some combination of it all... Makes me “motivated” to “get better” at piano in ways that, previously, few figures have (Glenn Gould, Alex Beyer, both pianists, and other bands like Swans and Liturgy, I think, are the only others that make me feel this “determined.”)

I feel like this has taken a really strange tangent, not sure where I'm going with this. Urging all of you to check out Ghost. Very good, positive, A++, 10/10, “great seller, would buy from again” rating.

14:41: Practice session cut short!! For good reason!! Please believe me!! I guess this just solidifies that I need to go back to the practice rooms after the piano meeting tonight, doesn't it... Sort of “dreading” doing that, feel like I would “much rather” go back home to apartment, but I suppose most things in life are things that you wouldn't “rather do,” just things that “need to get done.” Strongly convinced that my life would be in a drastically different place if I just didn’t have such an issue with doing things I find displeasing to do, like, most people do that all day every day, I’m not special… Should have forced myself to do more of those things. Unsure if life would be in a “better” position, though, just—different. It’ll be okay, maybe.

Getting lunch with [redacted]. Had planned on doing this yesterday, somehow didn’t factor it into my schedule today. Went to the dining hall in Royal Victoria College residence to get orange juice, which [redacted] was “fiending for,” I feel. Ended up getting cranberry juice and a purple smoothie.

I haven’t been in any of the dining halls in any of the residence halls on campus in so long. It’s giving me memories of being in first year, sitting in the RVC caf with Poppy and Max and Felix, eating semi-palatable food after our piano seminar course. I miss those evenings. This feels distinctly like one of those “reminiscing on your youth” moments.

14:54: [Redacted] and I sitting in "the usual place," a secluded-but-comfy bench, or, like, couch-like thing without a backside near one of the exits to the music building. [Redacted] eating this massive, unwieldy, soggy schnitzel-and-bacon-and-tomato-and-lettuce sandwich they brought. I’m not eating anything, saving room instead for the free food which is promised at the indie game focus group. [Redacted]’s sandwich appears too big, almost nightmarishly so, for almost anyone to comfortably eat.

Feels good to be able to speak openly about all things with someone, ceaselessly, without breaks in conversation, for long periods of time, free from anxiety or stress of having to “make conversation.” Extremely grateful I have people around me, in my life, right now, that I can speak to in this manner.

15:46: Finished “lunch and talk” with friend, walking to class now. Strange sensation of the day “already being over” passing over me, in a similar way to how Tao Lin once described it in a bit of his writing. Feel a strange bit of hopelessness that I havevn't gotten as much accomplished today as I should have.

Gonna have to "make the most" of the rest of the day, yeah, that's going to offset things!! Have to really "put the pedal to the metal," especially because of the obligations of the focus group, and the piano meeting. There's still enough time to get things done, yeah, yes. Feeling good about this.

16:07: Actually taking some “goodass” notes, I think, for this human cognition class. It’s heavily focused on neuroanatomy, too, and I’m actually quite worried about the midterm, which I have not studied for to such a significant extent that, I’m sure, if I even started now, studying, like, a few hours a day, I couldn’t even make it comfortably through everything I should know.

The prof f or this class is this animated person with an amazing accent from some European country. I, to be honest, don’t know his name, but I’m gonna look it up and get back to you so we know where he’s from, maybe… He’s, like, charismatic, to the same degree as band leaders. Today we’re talking about visual agnosias. I don’t know why I skipped this class so much earlier in the semester, it’s both entertaining and engaging in such a way that I’d probably watch these lectures if they were on YouTube “strictly for fun,” passively internalizing the content of each lecture whilst just more enjoying the prof’s presence. He just tried to draw a rat on the board and completely failed:

Notes taken while in class:

-Let’s see what I don’t know today, let’s see what I need to “catch up on”

-I like this prof’s laugh

-Feel like my memory has acutely improved since three days ago

-I feel so involved

-I still feel so involved haha

-Grinning wildly

17:15: Class let out a bit early. Walking to McLennan to update liveblog before focus group. Gonna do some research on indie games too just to “freshen up” my knowledge a bit. Want to be as helpful as possible to these “burgeoning,” “fledgling” indie game developers.

17:45: Dancing a bit too aggressively while seated in library, I feel, while typing this. Feeling a slight uptick of emotion, though.

17:57: Observed shorter-than-average person dancing a little while on sidewalk; they swung their arms parallel to the ground around their body a few times and did a little hop. I like when people express themselves physically in public, especially when it’s positive, or, at least, I’m assuming this was a positive expression. Do people do swing-ey dances when they’re sad? I guess they do sometimes??

Feeling excited to “give my opinion,” feel like I have “a lot to offer.”

18:00: Walking quickly around third floor of Bronfman building, thinking, “where is it, I should have found it by now, seems insane I haven’t… found the room by now…” Retraced steps and entered large study room, flanked on either side by smaller studying pods. Found room for focus group.

18:06: Seated in room for focus group. Four other guys and me. Three women as the focus group leaders. In the table in the middle of the room: two large Dominos pizza boxes, one veggie and one pepperoni. Ate one vegetable slice and one pepperoni slice in quick succession after observing that everyone was already on their second slice. Thinking, “don’t be belligerent, be helpful, don’t be annoying, be gregarious.”

One focus group participant, directly to my left, seems the extreme minority of video game players. Never has purchased a game via the internet, never plays PC games, never goes online to purchase games either, still visits brick-and-mortar shops. Favourite game: Mario Kart. Nice.

Felt consistently high levels of concentration and genuine concern over attempting to answer focus group questions as accurately and concisely as possible. Dynamics of strangers always interests me, it’s like, we got “lucky” that all of us seem to, ostensibly, get along extremely well extremely quickly, piggie-backing or defending our ideas without any hostility. Seems like we’re all more-or-less “on the same page,” actually.

Brought up videogamedunkey to unanimous laughter and approval from group. Question was, like, “which YouTube video game influencers do you trust?” and I was like, “just get Dunkey to play your game,” to which everyone nodded their heads vigorously, or said, out loud, “yeah.” Grinned uncontrollably for ten-to-fifteen seconds.

Focus group appears to universally be unimpressed with the game we are discussing… Seems like we’re all “putting it down” as “generic,” “not interesting-seeming,” and “not well marketed.” Seems bleak, maybe.

Participant in the far right corner to me seems to be the most charismatic of us all, says the least, but is extremely well spoken when he contributes something. Has tattoo of the Nintendo 64 game controller on his left bicep. I like him.

19:16: Meeting over. Ate final veggie slice of pizza when nobody else wanted to take it. Walking back to McLennan library now for piano organization meeting, feeling extremely trancelike re: fog. It’s so thick that every skyscraper is half-obscured. Feels like an extreme dream state, or something out of a movie.

Realizing disgruntledly that I didn’t factor in time for a run today. Making mental note that I’ll have to “put my ass in fourth gear” tomorrow and do it. Running seems to be the one activity that universally puts me in a better mood after I do it, without fail, every single time that I do it. Thinking, “100% success rate” in the voice of someone starring in a commercial.

19:41: Piano organization meeting started. Missing two group members, both of whom I’m “really fond of.” One of them seems like one of the most genuinely kind people I’ve ever met, and someone who is continually attempting to improve on how “good of a human” he is. Miss his “cheeky grin.”

20:26: Meeting surprisingly already over… This has been the shortest piano organization meeting all year, somehow. Making hard mental decision to “give up” on practicing for the day, feeling semi-defeated, but in a better mood than a few hours ago. Gonna blast ZillaKami while walking home. Repeating the phrase, “new day new me” and “tomorrow is a fresh start” while walking to the beat.

20:44: At B&Y 24-hour grocery store right next to my apartment. Standing in front of beer cooler thinking, “do it, get a Sapporo, don’t get a Pabst, who cares, you can afford to spend an extra fifty cents, go nuts.” Opened fridge, grasped 650mL Sapporo can, closed fridge, walked to register, paid.

20:52: Finally home. Feeling like Ryan Gosling in Blade Runner 2049 when he goes back to his apartment for the first time and is like, “I need a drink” to Joi, who’s like, “It was a day, huh?”

21:16: Observed while browsing YouTube subscriptions page the new “Beer Me” beer review video is up. Have been following this channel for years now, one of the few channels to consistently make me feel extreme, uncontrollable levels of excitement for each upload. It’s two dudes from Vancouver who are goofy as hell, Trevor and Dave, who drink a six-pack each of a beer over the course of an hour whilst rating them on appearance, taste, smoothness, downability (how easy they are to chug in one go), reliability. They seem like a little more than borderline alcoholics, and have the funniest observations and ways of describing things. Have wanted to “hang out” with them for the longest time. Feel like they’d make good friends. Strongly feel that they’d make good friends. STRONGLY.

#liveblog #blog #writing

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