#I'm glad that he has his amok

[paintedmage]

Updating my list of headcanons for Yu-Gi-Oh from my main blog

All my headcanons are from the Duel Monsters portion of the series, most of which are influenced by the anime and personal thoughts and ideas.

Atem has a thing for anything strawberry. Strawberry drinks, baked goods, artisan goods, you name it. If it's got strawberry, Atem will almost certainly eat it. Even as Yami, he would take over Yugi's body sometimes to enjoy strawberry flavors(Yugi thought it was silly but also was happy Yami had something he liked)

Of course, my headcanon of Kaiba treating Yugi like a second little brother after Atem departs. Seriously, Yugi becoming an unofficial Kaiba brother because of Seto's love for Atem and feeling bad that Yugi doesn't have his own big brother now is something that feeds me life.

Atem's last name is Sennen. His full name is Atem Yami Sennen

Kaiba's full name is Seto Ryuuki Kaiba. Sometimes Atem calls Seto by his middle name, and Seto loves how whispery and velvety Atem says it.

Kaiba and Atem are 100% gay and demi, Yugi is bisexual and nonbinary(goes by he/they pronouns)

Kaiba and Atem are both intersex, Kaiba's intersex biology allows for childbearing, but it's not something he likes to think about or really wants, as pregnancy means a loss of control over his own body, and Kaiba can't imagine not having control.

Atem eventually returns through magic nonsense and everyone is overjoyed to have him back (Yugi and Kaiba especially, for their own reasons)

Kaiba has a cat. Her name is Zahra and he adopts her from a shelter not long after the Ceremonial Duel. Despite his cold exterior, Kaiba loves animals and would adopt every single one from every shelter in the world if he could

Atem loves cats and hits it off with Zahra(Kaiba doesn't like that he's no longer her favorite person but Atem spoils her as much as he does so he supposes its fine), and for some reason, strays gravitate towards him and he occasionally comes home with a new cat in his arms, announcing. "Ryuuki, another one chose me!", and Kaiba just goes with it, loving how the mansion staff are now always kept on their toes by the MANY cats now running amok.

Kaiba's favorite of Atem's little cat herd(also called a clutter) is Luna, a pretty tortoiseshell with golden eyes and dainty white paws. She gets attached to him rather than Atem(much to Kaiba's delight)

Yugi and Marik are a couple. I just think they're cute together. They'd eventually have a son(Kaiba helps them create their son by taking Yugi and Marik's DNA and making the baby in a tube in his lab. Because I'm absolutely certain Kaiba could do that sort of thing if he tried) and name him Atemu, after Atem. Because Yugi just loves his brother so much. (cue Uncle Atem shedding tears of joy), and when Atemu is 2, they have another son named Toki.

Atem and Kaiba get married and Atem 100% is in charge of wedding planning cause he has better tastes than Kaiba when it comes to this sort of thing. And Atem convinces Seto to let him wear a dress for the wedding. Kaiba becomes Seto Kaiba-Sennen.

Kaiba and Atem eventually have twins unplanned, a daughter named Kaida and a son named Yami, both taking Atem's last name of Sennen. The pregnancy is full of complications for Kaiba due to his unique situation, and the changes to his body cause a lot of dysphoria, but Atem is always there for him when things get rough, knowing that Seto can get through this with the strength and grace he applies daily.

Joey becomes a KC Security Officer because he's "A good guard dog", according to Kaiba.

Tea becomes a successful dancer on Broadway, landing many lead roles. Yugi and friends are glad to see her follow her dreams, and occasionally, Kaiba will sponsor musicals and plays that Tea is in, his way of showing his friendship.

Tristan opens a martial arts and self defense studio, wanting to teach others how to protect themselves and the ones they care about.

Bakura begins to work for the museum, and always manages to rope Atem into helping during his free time, as Atem WAS an ancient Pharaoh.

Atem works graphic design for Kaiba Corp (he's a surprisingly good artist)

Yugi works at Kaiba Corp for the game development division. Sometimes he brings Atemu and Toki into the office with him, and he tries to coordinate dates where Kaida and Yami are brought in when Seto and Atem come to work so their kids can bond with each other. (Yugi wants his sons to have a deep connection with their cousins asap.)

Atemu looks a lot like his namesake uncle, thanks to the combo of Yugi's hair and Marik's complexion, but his eyes are Marik's lavender. Toki is pale like Yugi with soft, sandy-colored hair like Marik.

Kaida looks a lot like her father Atem, bearing his tri-tone hair, although the ends of hers are blue instead of red, she bears his darker complexion, and the shape of her eyes is quite similar to his. She gets Seto's blue eyes. Yami, however, is a mini Seto Kaiba with Atem's purple eyes. (the little guy has already mastered the 'Kaiba scowl')

Mokuba absolutely adores his niece and nephew, being sure to talk about them to anyone who will listen(or is forced to). He also spoils them whenever he can, wanting to give Kaida and Yami the whole world, wanting them to have a childhood full of certainty and light, unlike what he and Seto had. Uncle Mokuba ftw.

Kaiba may or may not rebrand Kaiba Corporation to Sennen Corporation. That's still up for debate.

[graaythekwami]

What is your opinion about the ending of Miraculous?

(I'm using this ask as my chance to talk about both episodes as a whole, not just the ending-- spoilers ahead!)

My thoughts on these two episodes are mixed, but positive overall. :)

Over all, I enjoyed the episodes. It was fun, the action and animation were great, and there are parts that I really really loved that are being adopted into all my kwami headcanons right now and no one can stop me. I was worried with how the season would end based off of some things I heard, and was prepared for the worst-- but these were enjoyable episodes to watch.

However I will not lie that I am not happy with how some characters were handled. I'm sorry but I will never be happy with Gabriel being seen as a hero, and the fact that Adrien wasn't there or even told what happened?? Gabriel getting a statue?? Gabriel acting like he cared about Adrien when he clearly didn't?? No... just no, its not right or fair. I could go on about this all day, but I won't as there's a lot to say about these episodes.

Adrien not getting a role in this finale I am mad at. Him being left in the dark about what happened I'm also not happy with, HOWEVER... seeing Marinette's age, mindset, and everything she's been through... I don't feel that her actions were out of character. I can see a young teenager under pressure wanting to protect the one she loves from a horrible reality. I'm not saying her keeping the truth from him is right, but I can see how it fits into the narrative. As long as the fact that this lie was told is addressed in the future (and the weight it will no doubt put on Adrien) and not just brushed aside, then I won't get up in arms about this scene yet, and I will wait to see how its handled in the future.

Last small little tiny thing is Felix. Like... it feels out of character for him to just be like "yeah hero team!" and for the hero team to be like "yeah Felix!" Feel like more should have been addressed on Felix's character as a whole.

Okay-- enough about the negative-- onto all the awesome parts about these episodes! :D

First of all-- hero team!! Full time holders!! Saved kwamis (I'm so sorry Nooroo that you're still out there you deserve so much better!!) I love it, this is what we needed, and I hope the identity rules ease up among the heroes after this.

Next Nathalie. Oh Nathalie, the queen, amazing-- 11/10 this episode. She full on goes in dying and is ready to shoot Gabriel with a crossbow?? Like girl, you're amazing!! I'm glad to see that she is better now, she deserves it. Anyways I love her.

Adrien getting his amok-- yes, finally.

Marinette's Ladybug and Black Cat unification was a lot of fun. Its too bad the name Lady Noire was already taken, but I loved this whole fight. A piano being dropped on Gabriel's head, Gabriel's reaction to Marinette being Ladybug. Marinette beating Gabriel and just summoning all the Luck Charms... she was a boss. I loved the checkmate scene. I love how she did try to reach out to Gabriel (not that he deserves a second chance but Marinette is just a sweetheart). I loved Gabriel's betrayal to her with a Vemon because it was his last in character moment, I loved that we got to see all the other characters in action. The classmates, Fei and the New York heroes. All great scenes.

Now finally onto the gold of these episodes: THE KWAMIS. Hehehehe they were amazing, they were beautiful. Yes give me all their true forms, give me Gimmi (hehe) they look SO cool and epic. I originally thought I wouldn't like a true-form kwami or a fusion form of them but never mind they're glorious they are my children we need true forms for all the kwamis look at how powerful they are!!

And how the Wish works... I never really liked the whole "destroy the universe and create a new one" idea they had going on in other episodes, and I'm so glad they went with an equal price. And maybe destroy and remake the universe still has a role in it all but give me the green strawberries as a price. The whole Wish scene with how it works and the true form of the kwamis was fantastic and I love it so much.

[battyaboutbooksreviews]

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🦇 Payback's a Witch Book Review 🦇

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

❓ #QOTD What's something from your family history you're proud of?❓ 🦇 Emmy Harlow is a witch but not a very powerful one—in part because she hasn't been home to the magical town of Thistle Grove in years. When a spellcasting tournament approaches, tradition pulls Emmy back. On her first night home, Emmy runs into Talia Avramov—an all-around badass adept in the darker magical arts—who is fresh off a bad breakup...with the ex that encourages Emmy to leave in the first place. When she learns her best friend had her heart broken by the heir to the most powerful magical family in town as well, the three vow to take their revenge.

💜 Lana Harper's prose is enthralling from the get-go. If you're looking for some truly magical witch lit, this is it! Let's break it down. ⤵ ✨ Characters: Our FMC, though a witch, is human in her desire to break away from the small town she's always known, from a legacy that seems to be holding her back, to chart her own path. The surrounding characters create a cast BRIMMING with possibilities (as evident by the continuation of this series, which follows different couples). I'm also glad the payback plot, nor romance, eclipsed Emmy's character development. ✨ Plot and Pacing: This story is the perfect balance of plot and romance, which keeps the pacing moving forward without an exhausting lull. However, I would have enjoyed seeing more of the magic at play, namely between the competitions. Also, give me a "ladies ban together for revenge against an ex" plots any day. ✨ World-Building: Thistle Grove is, in itself, magic. Harper does a superb job at creating a cozy small town that doesn't RELY on magic to feel magical. I would have loved to learn more about each family's unique magic systems, but I'm sure the rest of the series delves into that. ✨ Romance: From the moment Emmy describes Talia's translucent gray eyes (which make her look like a tundra wolf), the swooning starts. The chemistry between them is palpable yet sweet. Though Talia has a bad-girl exterior, I love her heart of gold and warmth. ✨ Mystery/Suspense: I will say the "mystery" regarding the founding families is a bit obvious. Notetakers and writers have more power than history ever gives them credit for. ✨ Tone/Prose: Harper's prose gives this story its power. Though a light, playful read, the word choice is still detailed and captivating, drawing readers in to explore Thistle Grove and the secrets it keeps.

💙 Unfortunately the story is a little predictable, from Emmy's family secret to the competition. It's Emmy and Talia's fight that bothers me most, though. They both stepped into the relationship knowing neither was willing to change their minds (Emmy about leaving, Talia about staying), without leaving room for a mature conversation on the subject or compromise. The third-act breakup felt juvenile, especially when the resolution is so quick and easy. I also don't love a villain without purpose. The ex-boyfriend is entitled, yes, but what else? His characterization was a little two-dimensional, when there could have been a hint of the pressure he was under from his family to carry the mantel. What about the Blackmoore family's plot to steal business from the other families? There's more there, and I hope the rest of the series delves into it all.

🦇 Recommended to fans of John Tucker Must Die and Practical Magic.

✨ The Vibes ✨ 💜 Queer/Sapphic Rom-Com 🌙 Bisexual FMC 👻 Witch Lit 🍁 Small Town Romance 👻 Paranormal/Fantasy Romance 🌙 Magical Competition 💜 Part of a Series

💬 Quotes ❝ “I’m in, witches. Let’s run amok.” ❞ ❝ I shook my head, not trusting myself to speak. A dazzling smile streaked across her lips like a lightning bolt. ❞ ❝ The girl who embraced darkness, tended and cared for the phantoms that lived within it, while shedding such a scintillating light that it was damn near impossible to look away from her. ❞ ❝ "It’s like you fucked the sass right out of me.” ❞ ❝ “You, Emmeline Harlow,” she said, eyes locked on mine, “are so extremely fucking beautiful it hurts my soul.” ❞

[a-flaming-idiot]

It has come to my attention that YOU are the author of that fic about Sabine having a nightmare about Senti-Marinette getting killed by Ladybug. And that you have more? Can I please have some? For instance, what's gabriel doing, is he still Hawkmoth, or is it someone else? The akumatized!Allya design makes me think it's someone else.

Thank you, thank you! I'm so glad you enjoyed Lost Feather and have an interest in my Senti-Mari AU.

I will preface that the Senti-Mari AU that I've recently mentioned with the Akumatized!Alya and little doodles I posted is not in the same universe as Lost Feather. It's a little to the left. Lost Feather was mostly just something I made on a whim to explore the idea since I've always had an interest in a universe where Marinette is the sentimonster instead of Adrien. So Lost Feather was my chance to explore that while the new Senti-Mari AU is kinda a more solid collection of ideas.

Though honestly, besides a few things like Marinette's amok, who has it, and her exact origins, the Core of Lost Feather does still work in the current AU.

I'm currently working through a few things for the main new Senti-Mari AU as I explore it, though it's coming into its own. Between some art and a few quick fics.

To answer your question, Gabriel was active as Hawkmoth for a while, up until about season 3, which is where the actual plot events mostly divert. A lot of stuff happens but Gabriel discovers LB's identity and uses her amok to get both her and Chat's miraculouses which he uses to summon Gimmi. Mari is incapacitated but Adrien is able to defeat his father and reclaim all three miraculouses and Mari's amok. A whole bunch of other stuff happens but Adrien eventually becomes the new active holder of the Butterfly miraculous. A hero named Psyche. Or when unified with Plagg, Night Flight. (I'm working on designs for both.)

I'm still a bit uncertain on Gabriel's exact fate, as I see benefits and drawbacks to both him getting arrested for his crimes and for him dying. So details like that are currently up in the air.

I hope that explains things...

Again, I'm really happy that you and several others have been showing interest in this AU. I'm doing my best to explore it as best as I can and make some fun content.

In the mean time, have a meme

[theressomethinghappeninginparis]

All I can tell you about the next rooms I've been in is that I'm glad someone, probably Trent, was here before me. He could have cleaned up if you ask me, I haven't eaten enough to throw up, I just rush through the rooms and almost run in hopes of finding a safer place. Everything here is dead, sliced up, shot, or mutilated. I found a first aid box and took some painkilers and gauze bandage in case I accidentally hurt myself on anything here, literally no space in here that looks comforting and safe.

Transcript of the first page: This gummy cell had a dead guy inside, lying in his own blood. He had a number on his back- there were so many people down here, I wonder how no one started missing them? Or was someone looking for their friend, their relative? They had corpses in the morgue, laying on a metal table. It was freezing in there and creepy as fuck. The blood was dried and I didn't dare stepping in further.

Transcript of the second page: Further on I found dead inmate and a soldier(?). Someone want amok in here. Or did someone start an outbreak and thus the police or a private security group was involved? There was also a room with tubes similar to the ones I've seen before. But the things swimming in there were men(?) and I think there were horns(?) on him...ist this one of the nephilim I heard being talked about? Are these poor inamtes stripped of their souls and used as bodies for the nephilim? I wish I knew. Or. Think of it. I'm glad I don't.

Transcript of the third page: I came even deeper into the complex, downstairs, and I found this. I'm not sure what it is, it is hanging above a pit I couldn't look into. It's so deep into the ground I can't believe it's part of the sanitarium in the first place. When I went up a ladder, I saw this open door- I think due to the electricity that someone cut someone or something escaped. Let's hope it's not the Proto? What else could they have been keeping down here?

Transcript of the fourth page: My fake Strahov-pass got me into the files on the pc I found in a lab. I had to shove...the scientist a bit to the left. They talk about inmate number 42 and his medical record. They put him through so much, but why? There are mentions of "Proto cells", if this is the angel of death the inmate talked about? The horns I saw on the bodies of the bodies in the tubes were non-human. Not completely. If this really is the "Proto Nephilim" I pverhearf on the conversation, what would they do with its cells? I have an assumption, but I need more research. I think they want to revive the Nephilim with human beings...yeah what the hell.

Transcript of the fifth, sixth, and seventh page: Here's some papers I got for inmate number 42. I printed these out to take them with me. Does anyone know what is going on here? The man is named Hassan Ahmed Emin, and the doctor writing this is Melinda Everst. He speaks Turkish and needed a translator here. He reports restlessness, stress due to driving at night, fear of darkness, and feelings of loneliness. He has two allergies and then they list hsi current medications. They talk about giving him Proto cells, metallurgy on his hed, a lobotomy, Christ all this is so insane. So Eckhardt's fanclub is taking reandom people no one's missing and trying to revive the Nephilim so he can finally stay immortal? He is a rather skinny man and lost his weight in here. His history also includes seizures and neuropathy; lots of bone problems, and mental illnesses. His reports on his quality of life are high, but his emotional and physical well being is low.

I am continueing my walk through this mess and it's getting colder. I hope I'll come across a living non-hostile person soon, the loneliness is really creeping into me. There's another lab I can go in, but right now I'm resting again, hiding in a cell with a shelf I shoved in front. I really need this- this institute to have an end, I need some sunrays and, at some point, my old life back.

[larrikin-is-a-himbo]

Thoughts on rewatch of the Batman 2022

"Ave Maria" faintly playing in the background in the beginning. Hadn't noticed that before.

Gotta look fabulous before going to beat the life out of criminals.

This movie does a perfect job of separating Batman and Bruce Wayne. How different those two people are, despite being the same person.

Another aspect I love is that this is the very beginning stages of Batman's journey. He's not the "perfect, no mistakes, flawless detective work" Batman that most movies portray. He's learning, making mistakes, still needs to improve his skills and craft. And since it's the first years and he hasn't been established as an asset to the Gotham PD yet, the officers, rightfully so, *do not* like him which makes a lot of sense than letting him run amok. (Not that that gets any better with time but you feel the difference in how they take Batman's presence.)

"The city's eating itself. Maybe it's beyond saving. But I have to try." SEE that is how you characterise Bruce, hope and endurance in the face of despair.

The narrative parallel between the death of the mayor and his son finding the body, and young Bruce watching his parents being murdered. Oh, it's so good, I'm gonna eat my hand.

Bruce saying he doesn't care what happens to his family's business and all the work they've done, equating his worth to what he does as a vigilante just goes to show how much the trauma and mental anguish has taken over his life, and now the severe depression, suicidal tendencies, even subconsciously just looking for an excuse to not live hits too close to home.

Robert Pattinson's back 😳 (I am a whore, leave me alone)

Batman fucking up the twins will never not be funny.

You've gotta be honest, our edgelord's entrance into Penguin's lair is nothing short of iconic.

I love this version of Penguin so much, he's the right amount of menacing and goofy.

THE FIRST MEETING OF BATCAT. Love-at-first-sight if I've ever seen it.

I fucking LOVE seeing Catwoman in action.

If I don't meet my S/O with us having a 1v1 and them manhandling me, what even is the point of it all.

Selina and Bruce's socio-economic background play such a big role in their reasons and aspirations to be heroes (or vigilantes). Glad this movie doesn't gloss over that.

Batsy is such a bastard in his early days. Selina should deck him.

He has so much to learn and grow, not just as Batman, but as a person. Yes, this is about him sending Selina as a spy.

Bruce Wayne looking like he's having the worst time of his life when he's in public. I love this socially repulsive man with all my heart.

Bruce seeing his child self in the mayor's son, but now with new responsibility of solving this mystery, just wow. A lot of movies, at least the live-action ones, tend to not prioritise portraying Bruce's childhood or the trauma he experienced with the gruesome murder of his parents, because at his core that's what led him down this path, it's just as, if not more, important, to him being the saviour, the knight of Gotham.

Him getting jealous thinking that's Selina with Falcone. Somebody's in love.

Riddler and his stupid love letters. Get a life.

Batman, you idiot, why would you stand with your face right infront for the bomb.

The police station scene is so funny. Poor Jim is losing it. "Great, now I got you on assaulting an officer." "You got me on assaulting three." Bad bitch energy.

"We gotta get you out of here buddy." "🥺" Gay behaviour.

OOOOOH. THE ESCAPE SCENE. Can't wait to see Batsy hit the ground and eat shit. THERE IT IS.

The fucking chase scene. Hell yeah. Emo Batman has some of the best entrances and chases in this movie. It's actually fun to watch and isn't cringe. What a refreshing change.

"Good cop, batshit cop." Jim shoving the pictures of the mutilated face into Penguin's face. I can't breathe.

Jim and Bats interrogating Penguin. Penguin roasting the fuck out of them. "No habla espanol, fellas?" "Shut up!" FUCKING HILARIOUS. Them leaving his tied up, and him waddling while cursing. THAT'S how you do comedy without breaking the tone of the movie, especially for dark superhero movies.

I know Alfred doesn't die but godsdammit I hate seeing him hurt.

Bruce lashing out because he feels betrayed but also reeling from getting flashbacks to his father's death while seeing Alfred in that bed, my boy was in the worst emotional state. I forgive him for being a little bitch to his dad (Alfred).

The heart to heart between Bruce and Alfred is such a tender and love-full moment. I needed that :,)

Selina should have just killed Kenzie before Bats came around. I support women's rights, but more importantly I support women's right to murder.

Carmine Falcone is such a sleazebag character. He gives me the creeps.

I love Jim Gordon. No particular scene inspired that statement, I just love him.

THE SECOND BEST HALLWAY FIGHT SCENE IN THE WORLD. I LOVE IT SO MUCH. I want it injected in my veins.

When Falcone is arrested and Penguin speaks against Carmine, I love that scene because it's a subtle indication to the end of the movie, where we see Penguin will now take over the criminal underworld of Gotham. The mighty Falcon has been taken down, the city is drowned. What better opportunity for a flightless bird to takeover?

Riddler with his dumb ass jokes and reddit lives. What a clown. He's dangerous but I can't take him seriously.

Batman appears and he just [starts screaming] peak teenage boy behaviour. Cringe lord. Be better.

Starting the movie with "I am darkness", contemplating if Gotham can even be saved, and ending it with Batman lighting the way, leading Gotham out of the destruction. GODS. Him coming to the realisation that Gotham, and by extension himself, need hope and change, not clinging to the past, not vengeance. That is so poetic.

In regards to BatCat, the last meeting really signifies their love story. He loves her, he truly does, and maybe in this version of the story they end up together despite all the, but Gotham will always be his priority. She wants him to live, not just exist, but live, but Bruce gave up on that idea long ago.

"The Bat and the Cat, its got a nice ring to it. [Pause] Who am I kidding? You're already spoken for." OK, Mr. Matt Reeves, why don't you just shoot me between the eyes?

[mischiefashale]

Okay simmering down. Back to the movie.

Yes let's wait until the werewolf hunter is running amok to call the werewolf in BH.

Never trust a shape shifter Ally

We already had a god damn Divine move

These people need CB radios or Morse code

For really as much shit as this town I have seen you would think that they would always be on the defensive.

I'm DYING at Jackson, "pretty sure a lot of people have been killed here." Pretty sure he killed a few of them😅 and "wait are we gonna be killed here?"

Ah Derek back in the boys locker room. His natural habitat lol

OMG poor Derek. Getting shit again by an Argent. He probably really thought he was past this phase in his life.

This is why we communicate. No way he should have been left unwarned.

I'm so glad it was Liam and alt!Kira who saved him.

I would have maybe puked if it was Scoot.

Of course Derek has contingency plans.

Gdi don't leave the Sheriff alone

Bahaha "I knew I should have retired" 😂😂😂

You would know that Scoot if you were more involved.

I hate this whole narrative. It's really not a good look for Scott. Honestly.

A few wall place sentences to make Scott seem like he even has a finger on the heartbeat of beacon hills would have done wonders to change my opinion of this movie.

Currently it looks like he was the alpha in charge of beacon House who then decided that moving to Los Angeles would be a better use of his time and has not kept up with any of the members of his so-called pack.

I don't really know what Tyler Posey and Jeff Davis were thinking here.

Derek could have been bleeding out on Scott's lap and still knowing that they needed to look for Eli just as easily as the drama of Scott not knowing anything about him.

Honestly adds to the drama if Scoot would have been worried about his pseudo nephew not being able to shift and adding that extra pressure.

Honestly every step in this movie is just telling me that Scott doesn't deserve to be a True Alpha.

I could write an essay. Like WTF.

[temporalbystander]

I'm not sure if it's because this is all action oriented so far or what but there doesn't seem like many good scenes to stop on and talk about.

I picked this one because it's just the typical Ladybug trying to talk the Akuma down. With all three sides wanting to "save" Kagami, is it weird that I'm kind of siding with Felix? I mean I already made that decision earlier this year, not the time for that discussion though, but I can't help but think that ... Well... That if anyone should be the true holder of Duusu. It's him. I believe I said this in Emotion too, Kagami is safe with him. Probably safer than with Ladybug and Chat Noir, if not just as much. Though I am now looking forward to a reluctant team up some point in the future.

Huh. She's actually worried for him... Good for her. Good for him too I guess... *sighs* I knew when I started watching these that I wouldn't see any of the impacts I had made on my friends lives. But since everything seemed to have happened more or less the same I'm questioning just how big of an impact I actually made. Now that I'm watching the future?

... it's got me wondering if I even want to make a change at all. Things seem to be going well for everyone so far. Kagami has someone willing to do anything to protect her, Felix has someone else to focus on. Marinette is brave enough to stand up to Gabriel. Honestly maybe it would be better if I just hang back a bit and let this all play out.

As sweet as that sentiment is, he does realise that as long as Kagami holds onto the ring she is free? It seems Felix has a little bit of a certain mindset when it comes to solutions. Specifically about how permanent they need to be.

So... After Kagami expresses her shock at almost being shot at by her mother. Felix says this. About his father. That? Has terrifying implications that I do not like. (And I thought the line his mother gave about only his father being able to control him was a reference to him being a sentimonster.) Times like this? Kind of makes you grateful to be an orphan, seems like half my class has parental issues of some sort.

Okay, we all know that the fan will be back next time he transforms, that doesn't stop this moment from being sweet as all hell. I seriously did not think Felix had this type of heart. I used to be so good at reading people too but Felix just threw me for one hell of a loop. If any of this is faked I'm going to be very upset.

... have to say. The dude makes sense. He did say not to call them sentimonsters though. So... What do we call them? Amoks? I mean, clearly Felix and Kagami still classify as people but what about the red moon or the lollipop construct? Those that are clearly a summoned entity brought forth with a different purpose in mind?... I never thought I would have to be so careful about my words regarding what comes from a magical feather.

Oh... Wow he really does sound like a father here. Much better one than Gabriel and his own that's for sure. Kind of sad though huh? That the peacock does hold the power to make such a creation, yet it's a one time deal. You get one chance and that's it otherwise you have to accept that you're choosing to kill a living being.... Well. Now I know I was right to trust Felix. And I am beyond glad he trusted me. I think I need a bit before I continue this episode.

[twstinginthewind]

I am a day late cause I was busy but...

I feel Sindren would bring a bunch of expensive gifts to Bobby to his birthday... her dad has the Money, she refuses any cake though given she dislikes them but Hey means more for him. Mythra helped her pick a nice dress though.

(Also girly gets better Art soon so)

I'm picturing her in this fancy party dress in the middle of a Savanaclaw party, where there's folks jumping into the lounge fountain and just running amok; she's like a pretty doll who found herself dragged into a frat party. Bobby's absolutely thrilled to have her there, though, and he fusses over her and laughs giddily over all the gifts ("You didn't have to get me the whole store, you know!! But I'm glad you did!"). Hopefully he'll at least convince her to have a little ice cream while everyone else is having sweets. He just wants to see her let loose and have a bit of fun.

(I love how you've been redoing everyone's key art - they all look so great!! Can't wait to see what hero girl has in store with her makeover!)

[sleepyorchidmonster]

@planetary-implosion I'm glad you asked!💖

Firstly, I LOVED your idea to mix Pomefiore with Scarabia, Cave of Wonders Pomefiore would be AWESOME!!

I'll see if I can summarize most of my thoughts when coming up with this scenario (fun-fact: it was going to be a prompt for Whumptober day 1, with Kalim asking an injured Riddle how many fingers he was holding up while the others berated him because "Kalim we're TINY, he can't even SEE your fingers" and the housewardens acting like a safety net with the DPS strategy).

Rambling under the cut because it got a bit out of control. 😅

When I first though of this idea, I mainly wanted to use Savanaclaw for Pomefiore, so no Cave of Wonders Opulence, unfortunately.

All I could think of was a bunch of animals made of potions and chemicals running around, like a pack of poison hyenas stalking the hallways while an elephant made of toxic fumes just strolled around (The science-focused Vice-housewardens like Jade, Trey, Rook and Ortho would have a very fun time throwing different chemical compounds whenever the animals decided to attack them)

The overall design would also change, like, it's still Pomefiore, but the interior looks exactly like the Afterglow Savanna's palace, with plenty of traditional african textiles, and a sun that never sets. Maybe even a stained glass section depicting a starry sky with the kings of the past...

As for Ignihyde, it'd actually mix with Scarabia, so all the eletronic gadgets there would basically become enchanted artifacts that can also talk with others (important because Crowley, being the wise headmaster that he is, forgot to assign an Ignihyde member to Ignihyde so no one understands technomancy in the technomancy dorm).

The architecture has changed, now inspired by the inside of some beautiful Mosques (think Nasir-ol-Mulk Mosque, for example).

And that would cover the main dorms for this adventure! As for the other four....

Heartslabyul would be Ignihyde flavoured, with an interesting mix of science and nonsense, including gravity fields, a door that requests a password and will lock after five tries (Riddle had to blow it up or else the students would still be trapped there). Equations that make no sense at all, robot flamingos and hedgehogs playing alongside the real animals, robotic card soldiers and A LOT of holograms. The theme is basically a cyberpunk wonderland with some greek accents, an even crazier dorm layout, and a code that NO ONE understands.

Savanaclaw with Octavinelle, where everything in flooded and the wildlife is a mix between animals commonly found in the savanna and other sea creatures. Everything is bioluminescent, and it's really pretty to look at, especially since the seabed is basically just a glowing savanna, with algae and anemones living alongside baobabs and other plants (not that anyone other than merfolk can see it, since everything DID get flooded. There is a new restaurant in the dorm, though, with a menu focused on traditional Afterglow Savanna cuisine.

As for Octavinelle, it got mixed up with Pomefiore, so now the Monstro Lounge is as luxurious as it can get (Azul spent HOURS taking pictures so they could replicate it later on). There's just the small issue of a dark basement filled with dangerous potions, as well as some scary poisonous and venomous deep-sea creatures just waiting to attack the students (the creatures are now hiding because the tweels scared them off).

Thanks to Diasomnia's influence, Scarabia now features a gothic castle, the architecture a mix between both places. The dorm's overall magic output also increased, so there are plenty of dangerous artifacts running amok, and the carpet can now travel though time.

And, as a bonus, here's Idia's "Riddle on-field DPS strat", with the roles of each housewarden in the final fight against the Jabberwocky, a platoon of card soldiers and a squad of giant marble chess soldiers:

- Leona acts as a sub DPS basically, using his magic prowess to deal some extra attacks to important targets, as well as sand any attacks or debris that may get in the way;

- Azul and Kalim are coordinating their efforts for buffs and heals, while Kalim also uses Oasis Maker for AOE attacks whenever the enemies start outnumbering them;

- Vil is using his magic for debuffs, while also helping Azul and Kalim out, if needed;

- Idia is keeping track of everyone's blot levels, using his curse to burn away excess blot. He's also controlling a small army of drones;

- Malleus is basically the Zhongli of the group, keeping a shield up at all times while also using his powerful magic pool to help out with everything else, especially his own attacks;

- The Bandersnatch is helping with the fighting, as well as a general mean of transport (he's basically the Bandersnatch from the Tim Burton movie);

And Riddle is just casually summoning a hurricane and setting everything on fire like Himeko in the Last Lesson animation.

Twst event where NRC's magic goes haywire and the dorms swap themes. Like, it's still Savanaclaw, but everything is flooded, or there is a gothic castle in the middle of scarabia (the architecture is a mix between diasomnia and Scalding Sands, though).

In an effort to solve the crisis, the students must find the artifacts responsible for keeping the magic at the school. There are three different items, one in Pomefiore (the oldest dorm), Diasomnia (the dorm known for its magical prowess) and Ignihyde (they installed the system).

Crowley organized three groups:

- The dormheads for Diasomnia, the most dangerous of the three;

- The vice-housewardens for Pomefiore;

- The freshmen plus Cater, Floyd and Silver for Ignihyde.

Starting with Diasomnia, the dorm swapped with Heartslabyul, with plenty of hedgehogs and flamingos running around, as well as the regular gravity defying architecture.

As soon as the housewardens passed though the mirror, everyone but Riddle became as tiny as a mouse, which is okay, since at least they won't get separated and lost in the maze of corridors. Riddle is getting a headache from all the bickering, though.

However, Diasomnia's influence is still present, so this version of Heartslabyul is a bit creepier. Card and chess soldiers dripping with blot stalk the hallways, beautiful roses with a metallic scent bloom among the thorns, painted by headless knights. There is also the Jabberwocky wandering about.

After a near death experience (Riddle was thrown at, at least, five walls by the Jabberwocky and was almost beheaded, only to be saved by the twst version of the Bandersnatch), they decided to go to the kitchens, looking for a way to return the others to normal (or at least Malleus, whose dragon form is no bigger than Grim at the moment).

Unfortunately, there was nothing of use in the kitchens, though they did find (and fight) one of Lillia's cooking attempts, brought to life and in excruciating pain for existing.

They manage to power though by using Idia's "Riddle on-field DPS Strat", where they let Riddle fight while providing him with shields, healing and buffs. He used Zettaflare thrice.

After securing the artifact, the dorm returned to normal. Which is great, since Riddle was five seconds away from passing out.

Bonus:

Idia: This'll be Ez! It's not like the Queendom is KNOWN for having dragons, right?

Riddle: *walking faster*

Idia: Riddle!?

*Roars in the distance*

Riddle: Malleus, I need a shield RIGHT NOW- *gets thrown into a wall*

Kalim, later: Are you okay?

Riddle: Just a concussion and a few broken ribs, no problem.

Idia: Bruh

Leona: What do you think, Malleus? Missing the tines when you used to loom over all of us?

Malleus: I'm still taller than you, Kingscholar.

Malleus: Rosehearts, why are the gargoyles wearing party hats?

Gargoyles: Because it's our unbirthday party!! *Spits out confetti*

Idia: are we running in circles?

Leona: Riddle, we've been here before...

Vil: I remember that weird painting.

Riddle, whispering: SHUT UPPPP!

Bandersnatch, after we finish everything: WHY WERE YOU ATTACKING THE STUDENTS !!!????

Jabberwocky: Wait, there were no intruders?

Bandersnatch: NO, YOU FOOL!!!!!

Housewardens, minus Riddle: Are you KIDDING ME-

[wackus-bonkus-maximus]

I'm glad that Felix seems to be taking Ladybug very seriously nowadays, even if it's in the "oh crap she's a murder machine" sort of way. He's laughed her off with impunity in the past, secure in the knowledge that he could mess with her life in whatever ways he pleased, could harm her and the people she cared about, and she could do little except yell at him. Nowadays, he actually has to contend with her as a serious player to contend with. Though he still doesn't seem to be thinking of her as a player at the chess game, but rather a powerful piece tearing through the board, causing havoc, capturing (or killing) any pieces that don't get out of her way fast enough. Hopefully at some point, he thinks of her as a player at the board as well, someone with her own agenda, playing her own game, who he needs to treat as an equal and not solely as a threat (though she IS a threat as well).

felix definitely has been awful and mean to her, yeah! as time went on though he saw how distraught she really was over the 'death' of the person they both cared most about. her using his amok to control him is what really wiped the smirk off his face.

in his eyes, ladybug is certainly far removed from a 'game piece.' he doesn't think of her as someone he needs to move around, but rather an obstacle HE needs to maneuver around. because she will literally kill him.

these are growing pains for felix, and it's definitely painful 😂

[carpisuns]

As someone in a situation very similar to adriens (as in, differences include "my mother is alive and a horrible person" "my father is not a supervillian" and "they do not have the money to fully isolate me like gabriel does to adrien") I. Will admit I really like the sentimonster theory? It feels validating, like adrien is someone very similar to me, who can't say no and it just feels like it would make more sense if there was some magic reason the both of us can't stand up to our parents (of course, it is infinitely more likely for this to be true of adrien than me 😅) and it just makes me like the theory! Yes, sentimonsters have been treated awfully by the show but word-of-god they can be just as human as...well, a human. There's never been anything to suggest that adrien specifically is less than that. I've seen people say they don't like it because it takes away his autonomy and...I don't know, it just feels strange? He never had autonomy, he's a cartoon character. Everything he does, did and will ever do has been scripted. And for me, the idea that adrien taking/destroying his own amok feels like it could be so much more powerful in showing "adrien is taking control of his own life" than anything else that could be done. But thats all my opinion in a rant that got a little too long

i'm so sorry you're in a situation like that but im glad you find the sentiadrien situation validating/comforting. i know there are a lot of mixed feelings about it but it's good to know that at least for you, the setup in the story is helpful and feels applicable to you. i have seen critiques of sentiadrien saying that it's not a helpful portrayal of abuse because it's obscuring the actual abuse going on in the show with a metaphorical narrative layer that isn't necessary. i definitely see that point but i agree that the metaphorical representation can work in tandem with the literal representation to amplify the message and make it possibly even more accessible. it would be powerful and cathartic for a lot of people to see adrien get control of his amok, which is both a symbolic and literal portrayal of an abuse victim gaining autonomy and escaping the control of their abuser.

thank you for sharing your thoughts! and i really hope your situation gets better 💜

[flightfoot]

I see many people post bout Adrien will give his item to Marinette and see it as romantic and a sign of trust. And yes I think it's good he trust her but please DONT I have this huge red flag about it after watching Ephemeral

Luckily I've never seen anyone advocate for that, only fight back against it. Which I'm glad of, because OH GOD NO.

There's some signs of trust that are romantic. Giving someone else the ability to mind control or kill you is not one of them. Though funnily enough, I'm actually LESS concerned about the "killing" part. It's the worst outcome, but even in the real world, you could kill people fairly easily, if you really want to - at least here in the US, where guns are prevalent. But most people aren't murderous. It's still a concern with just how easy it is to kill someone by breaking their amok, and how distant it is, psychologically, from most methods of murder, but I don't see Marinette killing Adrien as being a real danger. Even if she was pissed at him for whatever reason.

But the danger of her mind-controlling him is uncomfortably high. Like you said, Ephemeral was a red flag there. Marinette had her reasons for manipulating and lying to Chat Noir - she was afraid he might say "no" to revealing his identity to Su Han, and that as a result, Su Han would take his Miraculous, leaving her without her partner. She wasn't circumventing his consent just to be a dick.

But she WAS still circumventing his consent, and I can't say she wouldn't do something like that again, if put in similar circumstances. If she has Adrien's amok and is put in a circumstance where she feels like she needs him to do a certain thing, to go along with her plan, and she's not completely certain he will... I don't see what would stop her from rationalizing using his amok to ensure his obedience, especially if she can tell herself that it's for his own sake. Heck, if she had Chat Noir's amok available to her when Su-Han made his demand, I'm fairly confident that she WOULD have just used it to ensure that he'd agree to tell Su-Han directly, since it's less dangerous than the whole "lying to Chat and using Second Chance" plan.

And no, that wouldn't make it better. Ladybug does truly care about Adrichat and about his feelings, but that doesn't automatically make actions she takes regarding him better than the ones Gabriel does, just because she's a better person overall. I'd hold her less at fault - especially considering her age - but it'd still be a horrible thing to do.

If Adrien needs to give his Miraculous Marinette on a short-term temporary basis, because keeping it with him is too dangerous, then... maybe. I still wouldn't like it, but with Adrien's household, him keeping his amok with him is legitimately dangerous.

But he shouldn't give it to her as a long-term thing, or as some sort of gesture. No one should have that sort of power over him, especially when there have been signs that that person may be willing to abuse it - not out of malice, true, but abuse it all the same.

[whumpbby]

It is very important to me that Big Brother Yue is BIG.

Like, the tallest of them all. Wide in the shoulders. Big hands. (I want to believe that the stronger one's cultivation, the bigger they get, because the body need space for all the spiritual veins and so on;)

-

One day Jiang Cheng walked into a room for a sect congress. It was a bit crowded that day - the guests from Cang Quiong were numerous. There was a lot of people moving into one direction and Jiang Cheng was lost in thought, and as it happened, some asshole stepped into his way forcing him to flinch back. His foot didn't clear the threshold and, sigh, he was about to embarrass himself...

But he didn't. A strong hand grabbed his elbow and kept him from stumbling.

It took Jiang Cheng barely a moment to realize that that hand covered half of his forearm....

"Is Sect Leader Jiang okay?" A warm voice asked over his head, and Jiang Cheng had to look up to see the man who saved his dignity on that day. He wasn't used to looking up at people - ever since Nie Mingjue has died he didn't have to.

Yue Quingyuan looked at him with a gently expectant expression, hand still curled around Jiang Cheng's forearm (his fingers were touching!), and he seemed like he'd be happy to stand there and wait for an answer forever as the crowd parted around him like water around a tree trunk.

Gods, Jiang Cheng thought, startled. He'd heard about the Zhangmen-shixiong of the Twelve Peaks, who didn't? It was a talk of the decade: the Immortals from the faraway land that kept the Demon World in check, that decided to break their isolation and reach out to the mortals. It caused an uproar that echoed through the known cultivation world! Questions, distrusted, excitement and greed ran amok!

Gusu Lan took the point on the first contact - as the most scholarly sect around that everyone else trusted not to embarrass them.

Jiang Cheng was busy at the time. With the aftermath of the reveal of Meng Yao's crimes he had two sects to take in hand - Yunmeng and the Jin - while his nephew was establishing himself as a new Leader. He had no time for conferences and absolutely no will to visit Gusu. Not to mention, no trust towards any "Immortals". So, he missed these initial meetings between the representatives of the Great Sects and Twelve Peaks (his first disciple was a good enough replacement).

Thus, until this point, he didn't have a chance to lay his eyes on the fabled Immortal Yue Quingyuan.

Now that he had, Jiang Cheng found himself short for words (short of breath) in the presence of the mountain of a man that still held his hand and waited for an answer. How long were they standing in the doorway? It felt like ages, but the crowd was moving slowly, so it might have been just an illusion - Jiang Cheng sometimes got lost in his own head like that.

"Yes," he answered, like an idiot. He cleared his throat and pulled away for a proper formal bow. "This one thanks Sect Leader Yue for his concern."

His bow was returned - and still, the man was taller than him! "No thanks are necessary. This one is glad to finally make acquaintance with Sect Leader Jiang."

Jiang Cheng expected to feel unsettled by the size of the man, by the danger he could present. By the unexpectedly friendly attitude (people were rarely excited to make his acquaintance).

But surprisingly... He didn't. His habitual cautiousness didn't raise his hackles, his well- earned distrust didn't whisper in the back of his head. As if the man in front of Jiang Cheng was sorrounded by an aura of honest reliability one couldn't distrust.

"I'm looking forward to seeing Sect Leader Jiang at the Congress."

"Yes," Jiang Cheng said, again, like an idiot. "Likewise."

I'm a blind idiot. A bumbling moron. How could I not see this?

A character in Scum Villain that reflects JC the most and would be perfect for him isn't Liu Quingge or Luo Binghe.

It's a man who also loved a troublesome street urchin, who nearly gave his life for him, but was too late to save him. Someone who waited, years, in the background, holding on tight to his secret, waited for the person he loved to look at him like they did in the past, to return to him, to lean on him again...

Who was forced to watch as the person he loved start to orbit around someone else. Fall for someone else. Without any explanation as to why their past didn't matter anymore.

Who had to accept that the person he loved only exists in the past, that he lost his chance to have what they used to have...

Who will understand Jiang Cheng better than Yue Quingyuan?

Who will be better for him that a kind, gentle man used to dealing with incredibly competent, but prickly assholes who snap and snarl when threatened with feelings? The man can wrangle Liu Quingge, he will have no problem with whatever the Great Sects throw at him. He's a powerhouse, but a just and reasonable one, uninterested in gaining more power.

He's also a mountain with a kind smile and pecs of steel-____-

[childotkw]

Hello again, while looking through your other AUs I fell in the rabbit hole that this 🦋AU seems to be and I absolutely adore hufflepuff Harry and I’m 100% behind his quest to drive riddle mad, topple the government and get everyone on equal footing in no particular order. I’ll always love Harry wreaking havoc and running amok as easily as breathing in a mischievous way.

I apologize in advance for how long this is going to be

I’ve seen many memes and gifs depicting Tom but has anyone suggested I think it’s spelled Denzel croaker? The teacher from the fairy odd parents, I’m sorry if this is like that other guy from gravity falls for you

I’m guessing he’s not wearing a mask when Tom’s the only one around on purpose to get him off balance, bc Harry with a hogwarts education and beyond worth of knowledge about how dumb the wizard of world is and how easily the fall prey to propaganda and using it against them? The catharsis of being on the other side of that particular weapon and dancing circles around this secluded community? Minus perhaps Tom and dumbledore.

Would Harry still play quidditch?

I’m guessing myrtle still lives too although idk how much that would affect things beyond no first horocrux and no ghost

5th year meeting AU(or it’s proper name if it has one): Tom “I have become what I swore to destroy” right after realizing no one would believe him when they got back, there really is no rest for the wicked is there?

If Harry had a kid, (although maybe moot point if they get together later) I know you said that they wouldn’t have the same capabilities but wouldn’t they end up picking up a few things from their father regardless? And also, if a Harry Potter is still born would he try to emulate Harry Evans (something actively encouraged by at least James and maybe Sirius, lily, reg, depending on how well they get along and like to cause chaos)

The drawer-of-things(gifts)-that-shall-not-be-named: would Harry send the most perfect gifts to Tom so he would be split between the uses/benefits and the utter loathing he has for anything that remotely makes Harry look better? Bonus points if it’s utterly innocuous and still drives Tom up a wall, even more so if someone is there to witness it.

On the engagement, would it be some hilariously simple yet complicated traditional thing that offering an iron ring and the acceptance of it mean they’re engaged when they “don’t belong to a specific family”. Also Orion being ready from the get go, he was just benefiting from the time it took for Tom to realize. And probably using the “research” Tom had (meticulously documented throughout the years) to plan the perfect wedding, is just absolutely perfect.

Tom’s reaction to finding Harry and Orion (with or without some of his other minions) calmly drinking tea and chatting one day is bound to be good and fuel his paranoia of how many are loyal to Harry instead of him. On that note how involved would Harry be on the wedding planning? Bc so far only Tom has been “kidnapped”

Would the money with no apparent source fuel the belief that he’s a vampire in Tom’s mind? Is this part of the basis for the corruption charges?

Gellert taking a page or two out of Harry’s book to drive Dumbledore mad just by not telling him or being very vague about what happens in those meetings.

D: just tell me! It is of out most importance! Are you planning your escape? Training a new dark lord? What is it?

G: there is a lot of learning involved perhaps some sacrifices, you know for the greater good…

D: 😨

It’s the middle of the night and there are thin walls but I am (in my heart and soul if not out loud) cackling at the slow, steady and sure destruction of Tom Riddle, his sanity, dignity and world view. Who knew the only thing you needed to stop Voldemort was to give Tom Riddle something to obsess with. #Thisisnowmyfavoritething. #Ishouldbesleeping. #ThefactIhadtokeepnotesforwhatIwantedtosayandaskwhilecatchingup

Oh wow, this is long haha! I'm glad you found the AU so fun!

Denzel is the perfect representation of Tom's mental state once Harry's started digging his teeth in.

You're right, Harry doesn't wear a mask around Tom because he wants him to know. And this trip to the past is what Harry refers to as his 'personal therapy', so it's absolutely cathartic for him.

I'm torn on the quidditch issue, I'd have to decide while writing it.

Myrtle and Hagrid both escape Tom's path, yes. Harry makes sure of it, and Tom doesn't even find the Chamber of Secrets while he's at school.

He would be distraught once they came back from that side-AU trip into canon.

If Harry did have a kid (which he won't in this), the kid would pick up on some traits, but they'd be nowhere near as chaotic as Harry is. And Harry Potter, once he's born and old enough, probably would look up to the minister that has his name and looks a lot like him lmao - Tom would be determined to keep them from meeting.

Harry sending Tom useful gifts sounds just like him, and he'd get a sadistic kick out of doing it in front of others as well!

Orion is the fairy godmother of this AU. He's ready to throw hands for his ship, even if he has to throw hands with Tom himself. Tom hates that Harry is somehow more respected by his circle of minions than Tom is.

I don't see Tom using Harry's 'supposed' creature status as a corruption thing. But he'd have a separate file on potential weaknesses in case he can finally get permission to imprison Harry - he needs to make sure the cuffs can hold him, after all.

And Gellert would absolutely play things close to his chest. Albus wouldn't get a single hint from him because Harry's visits are the most entertaining - if bizarre - thing to happen to him in literal years.

I'm really glad you enjoyed the AU! It's definitely a fun one, even if it is a complete mess haha

[fiadorable]

54 Great Things about Lift Us Where Suffering Cannot Reach

Strange New Worlds season one episode six... yay... so glad we got to this one...

Strange New Worlds | Children of the Comet | Ghosts of Illyria Part 1 & Part 2 | Memento Mori | Spock Amok | Lift Us Where Suffering Cannot Reach | Serene Squall

Pike's impression of La'An is so bad 😂

La'An's security lessons were probably mandatory continuing education for the crew and that's why they all know them and I need fic now of this happening

Combat cruiser has grappling hooks to grab Alora's ship instead of a tractor beam

Enterprise is gigantic compared to the shuttle and the cruiser - I like seeing the size of things in space because it's easy for me to loose track of the scale of the ships

Pike's hair is ridiculous in this episode - too much mousse, my man, too much

Number One is thoroughly enjoying seeing Pike reduced to a bumbling lieutenant and slightly mortified

"Oh, well, it's gold, technically… because I'm captain" 🙄

Attempt #1: Uh this is my Number One

Attempt #2: Una

Attempt #3: Lieu-Lieutanant Commander Una Chin-Riley

Number One manages to keep a straight face as her captain demotes her an entire rank in his attempts to speak coherently in front of a woman (no, I am not interested to know about the discrepancy in the rank stripes on the uniforms or screenshots of the ship's roster)

Rukiya learning about the transporter timer 😭

The Majalis maxim "science, service, sacrifice" is very similar to Pike's in Discovery "service, sacrifice, compassion, and love"

Slow turn by everyone in the ready room when Pike can't turn off the googly eyes

When Pike tells Alora Starfleet requires them to investigate the downed combat cruiser with or without her help, backing up Number One's statement, Number One turns to face Pike and then turns back to Alora like "Told you"

Spock being like "Whaaaat is happening" during the debrief

Everyone is instantly charmed by the First Servant in sickbay

M'Benga realizing the Majalans could cure his daughter

Uhura is 9,000% done with the lessons of security by the time they go investigate the cruiser

Alora blatantly lying No, I don't know what that neural dampening device is

Majalis has pretty architecture if you don't know what's actually going on

The floating agenda Alora's assistant uses is rad if you don't know what's actually going on

Spock would be such a good dad

"That would be an impressive feat [rewiring the biobed to generate a subspace frequency], though Dr. M'Benga might object." … And the First Servant is so proud that the ship's science officer thinks that he is impressive

Oh my god how does nobody fall off the Majalis walkways

Uhura scarfing down lunch and her smirk as Kirk talks a big game and then becomes a shrinking violet when La'An comes over

"I would, but I'm conflict averse?"

Lesson six of security: Know when to bend the rules. Good rule for lots of things

So much empathy for Elder Gamal when M'Benga is expressing his wonder at the quantum bio implants… because this kid probably has those implants not to improve his quality of life, but because he is going to be plugged into a machine that will literally suck the life out of him and those implants will let him be a longer lasting battery

The doors to Alora's quarters are beautiful if you don't know what's actually going on

Pike is such a beefcake under that uniform, damn

"I wonder what ever happened to that Majalan girl who couldn't fly a shuttle"

Uhura is so proud of herself for figuring out the Prospect 7 mystery, and she should be!

Everyone constantly underestimates Uhura when they give her a task and she always delivers in spades - get it, girl!

La'An being a good mentor and telling Uhura to present her work to the captain

Rukiya 😭

The First Servant and Rukiya playing together

Grumpy Pike at having his romantic rendezvous interrupted and Diplomatic Number One politely inviting him to reengage his brain

Mitchell's face when the cruiser explodes after trying to warp out of a tractor beam

Everyone on the bridge is standing to pay respects for the loss of the First Servant during Pike's call to Alora - it's a nice touch

La'An defending Uhura as she presents her evidence that Elder Gamal has been lying

What the fuck is a Mugatan breathing stone - I need answers (never mind, I looked it up and I don't want to know)

Deck 17 is the Enterprise's attic, apparently (why are there so many containers everywhere does the Enterprise not have cargo bays?)

The ascension ceremony top-side is beautiful if you don't know what's actually going on

Damn the brig is huge - everything on this ship is way bigger than I think it will be

Look, given how completely adorable and taken everyone is with the First Servant, I knew the kid was toast the first time I watched this episode, that's just the way fiction works. But every time I watch the scene where they take him down to the chamber and Alora is being all creepy about Pike being allowed in I want to jump into the television and pummel her into the ground. All of which to say, nice acting.

"You're saying there's no way to contact the captain exactly when I need to talk to him?" And Spock looking genuinely afraid as Number One advances on him saying this.

I can't describe how deeply uncomfortable and sad and angry the ascension scene is for me. Which I guess is the point.

They really threw Pike onto Alora's ridiculous circle bed as awkwardly as possible or that's just not a great camera angle

"You're damn right I'm going"

Eerie soundtrack during Pike and Alora's conversation is eerie

"Maybe in the future you'll feel differently." Great line and lot for Pike to think about given their earlier conversation about his future accident

Elder Gamal helping M'Benga develop a treatment for Rukiya, even after his terrible loss

I never have to watch this episode again