#I've lost hours to this game its really good

[hornet-sentinel]

Go play 👇 nothing weird happens

📡🛰️🪐🌌

[fizzstix]

idk i love splatoon. i know this is such an unsurprising comment like wow the guy w the splatoon icon the splatoon banner and splatoon as the top tag in her tumblr search likes splatoon but it's a rlly important game to me. i'd get all sappy about it since it's really only just hit me that like. this is the last update cycle that the games gonna get and i rlly do wish it could have kept going a little longer but honestly? i feel like even once the game stops updating i'll still care about it. i still cared about splatoon 2 when it stopped updating, hell i think i cared about it more after it stopped updating. also, i highly doubt splatoon 3 will be the last we see of the franchise. especially given how popular it is in japan. i've loved these games for years now, and for a long time when my life seemed really turbulent they felt like the only reliable thing i could fall back to.

[bluelockmaniac]

⌗ "I'LL GO EASY ON YOU," ⋮ but you absolutely fucking destroy him.

★ nagi seishiro x gn!reader ╰ how come you've obliterated him in something he's so good at?

▯ content warning. mentions of video game gunfire, shooting, etc.

"sei, this game looks fun," you murmured, shifting slightly to adjust your position on his lap. his eyes remained glued to the glowing screen, the faint gleam of colours casting a hazy light across his face. his arms were looped firmly around your waist, thumbs expertly swiping over the controller in his hands.

as you were cozily nestled inside his sweater, filled with the subtle scent of his cologne, you felt the gentle rise and fall of his chest. you observe him deftly move his virtual character across the battlefield, shooting enemies and cursing under his breath at each hindering obstacle. after being in this same position for quite some time, a sense of boredom had begun to bubble within you.

"mm, yeah?" he mumbles, resting his chin on your head. he tilts his head down to press a kiss onto your soft hair. "it is."

"can i try?"

he stays silent for a moment, the room filled with the sounds of obnoxiously loud bursts of gunshots. he finally takes a breath and speaks, his voice muffled against your hair. "tis’ really hard though. i don’t think y’can win,"

your brows furrow as you whip your head slightly to meet his gaze, raising your hand to pinch his cheek. "hmm, how would you know? i could be better than you!"

"yeah, yeah, fine," he pulls his face away from your fingers’ grip on his cheek. he gives you a faint smile, exiting out of the game and clicking 'new game'. "i'll go easy on you."

you slide off his lap with anticipation, grabbing the fluffy bean bag he had bought exclusively for you from the corner of his room, placing it next to him. giving it a pat to smoothen its wrinkles, you made your way to the tv stand's drawer in quick strides, retrieving an extra game controller.

"you don't have to, sei," you smile warmly, settling into the softness of the bean bag as you prepare to show nagi seishiro what you were made of. "i want it to be fun."

he nods, hesitantly clicking the start button. while watching the one-minute timer displayed on the screen, he remembers to explain the rules to you.

"basically," he begins, "there’s a five-minute time limit. the person who reaches one hundred kills first, or whoever is the closest to one hundred kills, wins."

"yeah, i know, dummy." you tease, reaching out to tousle his hair, in which he responds with a subtle blush tinging his cheeks rose. "i've been watching you play for at least an hour now."

the bolded numbers on the now-split screen enlarge, signaling the beginning of the new game; 3...2...1...

you waste no time, immediately equipping your weapon, fingers swiftly moving along the buttons. silence was quick to envelop the room, thick with the weight of your competitiveness.

nagi shoots you a surprised, quick glance, before focusing his gaze back onto his side of the screen. suddenly, his attention is drawn to the corner of your part of the screen, where your kill count is displayed.

to say the least, this man was astonished to find out that you’ve racked up 63 kills in slightly under three minutes. his eyes widened in disbelief ever so slightly, registering the number with admiration.

"what the heck..." he accidentally huffs, quickly pressing his mouth together as the sound of his confused voice reaches his ears.

you let out an amused giggle, "surprised?"

he does not respond, lost in his own muddled thoughts. how could he, after underestimating you so badly? how could he say anything when you, as you were currently speaking, have over 60 kills compared to his mere 34?

the white-haired boy feels a prick of suspicion creeping in; he hadn’t known that his partner was an expert at video games. why hadn’t you told him? he sighs, realizing that the person he could have played with all this time was right beside him all along; he would no longer need to play with his tediously boring game-mates or those doltish bots which he had always deemed a hassle.

then, the game came to an abrupt stop.

98 - 52

he stares hard at the game over screen, a deep frown creasing his forehead. "nuh-uh, let's do it again..."

"ahh, i told you i could win!" you cheer, your finger lightly tugging on the skin under your eye as you stick your tongue out in jest. "and sure, i really want to hit one hundred this time!"

a soft grumble escapes his pouty lips as he buries half his head under the inside of his sweatshirt, leaving only his eyes visible. "m'baby's so cocky..."

100 - 67

"fuck, again!"

99 - 75

"this game's gotta be rigged!"

96 - 56

"seiii, i'm boredddd—"

"one mo' time,"

89 - 88

"ack–fuck this shit… i'm going to sleep."

you blink your eyes in silent amusement— this was a side of him you had rarely ever seen. your usually calm, bored boyfriend trying so hard at something; it was adorable seeing him so invested, even if it was simply a video game.

but somehow, you had managed to fire him up enough to the point of rage quitting?

"y’know sei, i was going easy on you..."

"..."

despite his muted response to the fuel you've added to the fire, you catch a glimpse of a proud smile tugging on his lips as he retreats back onto the bed, beckoning you to join him. “that was fun… play w’me again, ‘kay?”

© 2024 bluelockmaniac — do not repost, copy, translate, modify, etc my work on any platform !

[peacheeeliz]

005. wooyoung's emojis (1.5k wc)

blue = twitch chat

red = among us chat

milfhos: thought you weren't going to play this game again 😒😒

"Haha, so did I," You sigh. You were currently talking to chat, waiting for everyone to join the lobby. "But Yeonjun thought it would help Yunho and I 'work it out.' Yeah, okay."

Back when Among Us was really popular, the four of you played only that and nothing else. Always hopping into lobbies with each other and fellow streamers, screaming at each other during meetings, or simply doing tasks and remaining unbothered. You guys were the big Among Us streamers of Korea, all until it lost its popularity. After that, you all went into your own different directions and haven't touched the game since.

heartzfrombora: wait but i like how the war is going

"Right!" You exclaim, letting out a laugh. "He just doesn't see this stuff the way I do," you exaggerate, placing your hand on your chest with a sly smile.

strwchaos: I'm loving the yucloudz interactions tho idc if you guys 'hate' each other

Your eyebrows scrunch together at that last comment. "You know I still don't understand this whole yucloudz thing. But, I guess I've never understood ship names," you shrug it off. "But! I can get behind one ship name: Twocloudy."

strwchaos: some people just really like the interactions between you two and created a shorter name that's easier to say lol

strwchoas: i do think some weirdos are actually shipping you two tho... so be careful

milfhos: wtf is twocloudy

"Me and Giselle, obviously," you say, but your chat is just more confused. "Cloudie and Aeri. Aeri. Air-y. Get it?" You laugh, but now your chat is just disappointed. "What? I think it's great, you guys don't know what you're talking about."

faepurity: i'm telling giselle you said those corny ass joke

gigigibaby: i love you but no..

strwchaos: i'm leaving

You laugh again, eyeing the game's lobby to see if anyone else has joined. It looked like everyone else had joined, so you turned deafen off to hear the chaotic jumble of everyone talking over each other.

"Why are we playing this again?" Taehyun groans. "I thought the Among Us life was behind us."

"I thought so too, but I also thought it'd be a nice way to bring us all together again," Yeonjun responds, his eyes busy setting up the settings of the game.

"Was the empires server not enough for you?" Ningning asks next. "God, I don't remember anything about this game. I'm going to die first."

"Yeah, well two specific neighbors don't know how to behave," Yeonjun continues. "Well, one neighbor. The other is just innocently naive."

"Hey," Yuyu pouts. "You were my teacher, man. You should've taught me how to not shoot people with a bow."

You laugh, actually agreeing with Yuyu for once. "He's got a point, Junnie."

"Oh, you shut it," he responds, rolling his eyes. "Okay, I was just thinking we play for a couple of hours? Does that sound good for everyone?"

"Seems excessive, but sure," Giselle answers, sighing. "I better get imposter first, I want to kill Y/N for her stupid Twocloudy name."

"They already told you?" You exclaim, laughing.

faepurity: I TOLD YOU I WOULD

Before you could say anything else in the lobby, the game starts, and everyone turns deafen back on. You wait nervously for your role to be revealed, letting out a breath of relief when you get the Crewmate role.

You run around in your little bean body, simply doing tasks and ignoring everyone else. You stick by Winter and Beomgyu for a while and do a few tasks together, so you know they're clear. Lights are sabotaged and you try your best to stay together, until Hyuka's body is found.

"Okay, motherfuckers, who killed my child?" Yeonjun's voice is serious, despite the fact his 'child' was only killed in a game. "I walked into electrical to fix lights, and the report button popped up instantly."

"You didn't look to see who else could've been there?" Soobin questions, eyebrows furrowed. "The killer could've been in there, man."

"Well, for one, the lights were out," Yeonjun states, finding Soobin's accusations suspicious. "And two, lights were sabotaged. Someone could've walked in there at any minute and found me with a body, doing nothing but wiggling if I didn't report this body."

"Well, Beomgyu, Winter and I have been together this whole time, so we're good," you say, glad to be cleared.

"Yuyu and I were together for a hot minute there," Sungchan explains. "Buuut, I did lose him in electrical just before lights were sabotaged..."

"Wait, what, no," Yuyu exclaims, flustered by the implied accusation. "I split off from you before going into electrical, and I stayed behind to watch cams."

"I did see that the cams were on before lights went off," Taehyun adds. "But that could've been anyone."

"No, it was Yuyu," Giselle states, sticking up for her cams buddy. "We were in there together for a bit until lights were called."

"We don't have a lot of information, so let's just skip," Soobin says, voting instantly.

"Remember, guys, there's still two killers out there," Yeonjun says, voting as well. "So be careful."

Everyone votes and the meeting has passed.

"Who the fuck voted for me?" Yuyu exclaims.

"I've got my eye on you, man," Taehyun whispers, before everyone deafens and gets back to the game.

You stick with Beomgyu and Winter again, continuing tasks, hoping to get a task win. It takes a while for another meeting to be called, and when it does, three more people are dead: Giselle, Ningning, and Taehyun.

"Oh my God, guys," Yuyu starts, almost out of breath. "It's Sungchan, I swear to God, it's him. I watched him kill Taehyun right in front of my eyes."

As Yuyu rants, Sungchan just stays silent before he votes. A famous Sungchan tactic to leave the decision-making to everyone else.

"Look, he's not even saying anything," Yuyu continues. "It's him, guys, I swear to you."

Yeonjun is next to silently vote, but he doesn't stay silent for long. "Yeah, I totally watched Sungchan do medbay earlier, sooo. And we've been together this whole round."

"I was also in there when Sungchan did medbay, so, bye-bye Yuyu," Giselle says sweetly, quick to vote out her old cams buddy.

"You do not have to tell me twice to vote out Yuyu," you laugh, voting instantly.

Within seconds, everyone has voted, and Yuyu's little bean body floats out across the screen and into space. The next round starts, with only one imposter left.

"I'd like to see the last imposter get the rest of us all on their own," you tell chat, letting yourself finally stray away from Winter and Beomgyu. You had to at least give the imposter a chance; plus, you were bored now that all your tasks were done.

milfhos: i can't even tell who it is man

strwchaos: are you kidding it's so soobin

faepurity: idk it could be giselle and she sold out yuyu to make herself look innocent

You're too busy walking laps around the map to pay attention to chat, running into your friends every now and then. You find Beomgyu and Winter again at some point, dancing together under the cameras as Yeonjun watches from security.

You eventually break off from them again, heading back to the cafeteria to see if any bodies were hiding in the top half. But, of course, trying to be a good crewmate would just bring you bad luck as Soobin finds you up there and is quick to kill you.

You stare at your screen with a shocked expression despite already having your suspicions towards him. You accept your fate, flying around as a ghost to keep an eye on your friends until the chat beeps in the corner.

yuyuhoes: at least i didn't kill you :)

cloudiey/n: 凸( ` ﾛ ´ )凸

mysticaeri: omg that's so cute

yuyuhoes: i can't take you seriously with that emoji omg

cloudiey/n: i can't use wooyoung's emojis leave me alone

yuyuhoes: wtf is wooyoungs emojis

cloudiey/n: i've said too much

As you close the chat, your body is reported and another meeting starts. It seems Sungchan was killed sometime after you were, as his name pops up with yours.

"I found her up in cafeteria," Yeonjun says, not having much information about this find.

"It must've been there for awhile because we haven't seen her since we danced on cams," Beomgyu shares, voting as soon as possible.

Winter joins him silently, letting out a quiet giggle as she does. Yeonjun follows suit, voting quietly as well. This leaves Soobin confused.

"You guys are so creepy, I hope you know that," he lets out a sigh, almost accepting fate. "Can you at least explain?"

"Well, Beomgyu, Y/N and I were together almost the whole round, so we're all clear," Winter starts. "And Yeonjun cleared Sungchan against Yuyu earlier, sooo."

"Ah, fuck it, fine," Soobin says, voting. "Not like I can plead my case now."

The other three laugh as Soobin's body flies off into space, ending the game as a Crewmate Win.

"Okay, that was actually fun," you let out with a light laugh. "I don't mind playing for a couple of hours now."

synopsis ⤏ you're trying to peacefully build your starter house on the empires server when your neighbor so rudely (accidentally) kills you, starting the biggest war on the server just one day in.

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ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ taglist is closed!

[pyrosomatic-metamorphosis]

i keep thinking about bad's vacation outfit. mostly, i keep thinking about him not wearing armour.

bad is, fundamentally, not okay rn. his son got kidnapped. the code attacks are starting again. people keep going missing left and right and skeppy isn't here but he's been missing him from the start. he lost the election by a single islander vote. there's been a lot of pressure on him for a long time, and he's finally starting to crack.

the thing about bad is that he does NOTT talk about his emotions. he's silly about it. he plays games about it. he will never answer a straightforward question with a yes or a no, not unless he's lying. when forever asked him he was okay, he said yes.

i think... there's really something about him, repeatedly, saying he's on vacation. sure, yeah, take a break, but he keeps throwing himself into danger anyway, he's still taking care of the eggs. he's silly with it, but i don't think his "vacation" explicitly means "i'm taking a break." I think it means "i'm not someone you can rely on right now." what? not being at the top of the island/egg defence squad because he's falling apart at the seams? :D nahhh he's just on that vacation grind! look at him! he's so silly! he's building skeppies and he's being so silly !

and. god. the way he's absolutely clinging to skeppy right now. i get the sense that he takes a lot of comfort from skeppy, just from the existence of him. can you imagine being alive has long as bad has? losing and losing and losing and losing, and then you finally find someone you can't lose? skeppy is bad's emotional support diamond and he is Not There to emotionally support him. bad keeps throwing tantrums when people ignore him, and he keeps building skeppies.

he's never going to say he needs help. he's never going to say he's not okay. he's going to say "i'm not crazy" and "i don't have an obsession" and "yes i'm fine" and "i'm on vacation" and not wear his most protective armour. the ARMOUR. bad boy halo the most paranoid parent on the island keeps running around with several eggs at his heels when he's wearing only enchanted sunglasses and boots. WHEN THERE ARE ACTUAL CODE ATTACKS. WHEN THE CODE HAS THE ! SWORD. if "i'm on vacation" means "i can't help" then the lack of armour is a physical, visible reminder. it's the closest he can get to saying "no, i'm not okay."

and man.manm an man. the whole thing with dapper right now. dapper is the only one who really knows the extent of bad Being Weird right now. pomme has a good idea of it, but when she asked about bad "is he going insane again?" dapper's response was "he never stopped." i've seen lots of talk about bad needing dapper more than dapper needs him (and its TRUE. god. it's so true.) but dapper is also! not doing okay! kiddo was very recently kidnapped! he takes after his dad and doesn't overtly express his distress, but the way he was scared of getting too close to elquackity at the talent show... the way he and pomme huddled together when bad left them alone for an hour... he's watching his dad fall apart in front of him, and there's nothing he can do about it.

from a roleplaying perspective too i LOVEE how bad is slowly, slowly ramping up the skeppy obsession. he's clinging to sanity so he can be a good dad to his kids, but his kids are so mortal. so fragile. bad isn't; bad isn't wearing all of his armour. and skeppy isn't; bad is placing more skeppies around the island. i adore this man's roleplay i hope he gets WORSE

[rex101111]

Ratchet and Clank size matters got added to the PSN store and I got a a major nostalgia pang so I went "eh, why not" and quickly played through it. And I do mean quickly, I know it was a PSP title but dang, last time I finished a R&C game this quick i played Nexus. Anyway, the thing that struck me about this game is that Ratchet is...a bit of an asshole here. And that struck me as odd because for the last few entries...he isn't.

Like this is still early series Ratchet, still on the PS2/PSP, released just before the first PS3 title, which was in retrospect a bit of an incredibly soft reboot. In the newer games, Ratchet is a fairly straight forward protag, nice, willing to help, only a little bit sarcastic if he's really strapped for time or dealing with someone especially annoying. Early Ratchet? Early Ratchet was a jackass, a dick, a selfish, quick tempered loner that only went on this quest because there was a tangible, direct benefit to him specifically. Seriously, in the first game Ratchet couldn't go two sentences without insulting somebody, and that's when he's in a good mood. In act 2 he's even worse, gnashing his teeth at everyone he talks to and threatening to sell Clank for scrap. It takes hours of in game time and half a dozen levels before Ratchet finally chills out, and a few more levels before he actually resolves to act like any sort of hero, and even that only happens after something he personally cares about gets threatened. Ratchet could give a damn, he can be convinced to help people, but he's still a selfish person who needs the situation rubbed in his nose before he realizes how dire it is. Clank having faith in him, throughout the entire game, even when he's being a dick, even when Clank himself is furious with him, meant something. When in the penultimate level he says "that's the Ratchet I always knew was there" and Ratchet brushes him off, you buy it, that beneath this sharp outside there's someone with the capacity to be a hero, an actual hero, a hero who isn't selfless, but one capable of overcoming his selfishness when it matters most.

Back when the first game came out, people complained about this, about their platformer mascot protag being a huge dick, and even the very next game addressed this by toning him down a smidge, but Ratchet in the PS2 trilogy is still very much not a perfect sunshine person. He's very sarcastic, pretty cynical, is very quick to call other people on their bullshit, and still has a very short temper. (Plasma city, anyone?) Ratchet had texture to him, he bounced off the much more straightforwardly nice Clank in a lot of ways, their friendship felt like it had weight and meant something because these two had so many differences between them that the fact they did get along so well and cared about each other so much showed that their friendship was genuine. I like the newer Ratchet and Clank games, played every one of them, but I've never been really happy with the direction they took with Ratchet. Each game made him nicer, friendlier, smoothing down his edges. And the reboot game had it the worst, they retold the first story, where Ratchet was at his worst and a major thread of the plot was him learning to get over his bullshit, but had the sanded down kitty cat of the later games instead of having confidence in their early work. Dickhead Ratchet worked, he had a place and it gave him a place to grow, while still maintaining his inherit sharpness. Ratchet should get to be an asshole again, just for a bit, let him get angry, properly. Sure, he's a hero who's saved two galaxies three times over and then some, but he did that while being a sarcastic little shit who made a joke about a plumber's ass crack showing and fired rockets at people while complaining about how high the prices are everywhere he went.

I dunno, maybe its a bit too late in the game to say this, but something got lost in the shuffle a while back, and getting a reminder of what was simply put it into perspective for me.

[laxmiree]

[CN] MLQC’s Lucien Wonderful Moments Date English Translation

⚠️ SPOILER ALERT!! ⚠️

This post contains a detailed spoiler for a date that has not been released in EN yet! Feel free to notify me if there are any mistakes in the translation~

Lucien boops Snowball's nose, his tone hinting at jealousy.

"You've been praising this little guy a lot."

"Pfft, is Professor Lucien jealous?"

Translation under the cut!

[Notes from Lux: Here’s the CN video link if anyone wants to follow along with his Voice Acting.]

A car moves slowly on the vibrant countryside road, joyful laughter spilling out of its windows from time to time.

Lucien casually rests his hand on the steering wheel, looking ahead, and quickly comes up with a Chinese idiom.

Lucien: The victory is in the bag. (shèng quàn zài wò)

MC: Idiom with wò… crouching tigers and hidden dragons! (wò hǔ cáng lóng! - 卧虎藏龙 - fig. mean talented individuals hiding their talent)

Lucien: Just a reminder to this beautiful contestant, this phrase was already said during our first round of the idiom chain game.

MC: Then, how about… I control my destiny! (wǒ mìng yóu wǒ - 我命由我- a phrase, not an idiom)

Lucien: [chuckles] That doesn't seem to be an idiom. Is Miss Producer starting to cheat?

Lucien tilts his head and looks at me with a smile. I sheepishly stick out my tongue, wracking my brain as I search through my vocabulary.

The gentle spring breeze seeps through the gaps of the car window. Looking at those cunning eyes, I have a sudden inspiration and break into a sweet smile.

MC: I like you~ (wǒ xǐhuān nǐ~)

Lucien's demeanor briefly halts for half a beat as though he doesn't expect my answer. But then, the smile on his lips grows bigger.

The warm afternoon sunshine reflects brightly in his upturned eyes, making them look particularly beautiful.

Lucien: [chuckles, then sighs] This is the most sophisticated cheating I've ever seen, so I concede defeat.

I cheer joyfully, but before I can utter a word, an electronic broadcast interrupts me.

"Distance to the next highway toll booth is 1.5 kilometers ahead.”

I glance at the phone screen and see it shows another hour and a half to the camping village.

Lucien suggested this camping trip to an ecologically pristine village with beautiful scenery, though the only downside is that the journey was a bit long.

I turn to look at Lucien, who appears to be in a good mood, and can't resist asking the small question that's been lingering on my mind.

MC: Lucien, what made you suddenly want to take me to this camping village?

Lucien: It was recommended by a colleague from the research center. I heard the scenery there is nice and worth a visit.

Lucien: I originally wanted to find an opportunity to spend time with you, and just last weekend we went to see a play, which gave me a very legitimate reason to invite you on a date—

Lucien: To create “beautiful moments”.

He deliberately emphasizes the words "beautiful moments", causing me to momentary pause as a recent memory quickly floods into my mind.

—[Flashback Start]—

At the entrance of the theater last weekend.

Lucien and I walked out of the theater hand in hand. I was still sniffling, lost in the storyline of the performance we just watched, unwilling to let it go.

Just as I was about to wipe away the tears at the corner of my eye, a warm hand handed me a tissue and gently dabbed it beneath my eyes.

Lucien: [gently] If this little audience member keeps crying, I'll have to go find the production team for an explanation.

MC: I'm just really moved by the play...

MC: At first, when I saw the protagonist growing up under the shadow of his mother's depression, I thought he would fall into despair.

MC: But he was able to diligently record the beautiful moments in life and ultimately salvaged himself...

MC: I just tried to put myself in his shoes, and it's really hard to be as optimistic as the protagonist, so I couldn't stop my tears.

Under Lucien's gentle gaze, I rambled on and on, completing my "review" of the play. He patiently wiped the corners of my eyes and offered a comforting smile.

Lucien: I actually think the lady by my side also has a pair of eyes that can discover the beauty of life everywhere.

His sincere praise caught me off guard, and I couldn't help but feel a little buoyed by it. My heart, which had been saddened by the protagonist's struggles, also eased a bit.

MC: If I had a "Book of Beautiful Moments," the first thing I would record is how Professor Lucien always generously praises me~

Lucien chuckled softly, and the strands of hair hanging over his forehead swayed gently in front of his thick lashes.

Lucien: [chuckles] I'm just stating facts. She shares the beauty of the sky with me and finds satisfaction in good weather...

Lucien: —Isn't that kind of you very much like the protagonist?

MC: Then next time I discover something beautiful, I'll make sure to record it promptly.

MC: Let's see if I can fill several volumes of "Wonderful Moments" just like the protagonist!

—[Flashback Ends]—

I casually remarked and thought it was nothing but a joke, yet Lucien silently remembered it in his heart. I come to my senses and blink.

MC: So, the reason you suddenly decided to take me out to play is to create more wonderful moments in my life?

Lucien: I wonder if it's because I'm not "competent" enough that you don't have much to record, so I deliberately created this opportunity.

Lucien: Of course, it's also to show myself off a bit.

He adopts a tone of pretended grievance that stirs a feeling of itchiness in my heart, I suppress the curve of my lips, nodding in mock annoyance.

MC: Well, in light of your "timely remedy," I'll reluctantly start recording officially!

✂———————–

MC: ...Lucien takes me camping;

MC: Before we set off, Lucien made me a cup of hot chocolate.

MC: While playing the idiom chain game, Lucien deliberately went easy on me...

As I speak, I open the Notes app on my phone and mutter to myself, recording a dozen or so entries. But as I continue to write, I suddenly feel something is amiss.

MC: Wait a minute, why do all these "wonderful moments" have Professor Lucien's shadow? I'm starting to suspect that I have a “love-brain”*...

[T/N: "恋爱脑" (love brain) is a Chinese internet buzzword that refers to a mindset that puts love first above everything. It refers to individuals who are deeply in love and often become consumed by their emotions, making it difficult for them to think about anything else. This phenomenon is characterized by extreme devotion to their lover, often leading to uncontrollable emotional dependence and intense desires to be with the other person... If anything, from the way Lucien takes her casual remarks seriously and uses them as a reason to hang out with her, this word describes Lucien more LOL]

Lucien: [with a pretending-don’t-to-know-anything tone] Oh, really?

Lucien is amused by my muttering, and a hint of sly self-satisfaction shines in his long and narrow eyes.

Lucien: [chuckles] It seems the Great Producer has already fallen into my sweet trap.

Lucien: Because my goal is to dominate your today's "wonderful moments" list through this trip.

MC: Hmph, then I won't let you succeed. Right now, I'm going to come up with something completely unrelated to you.

As I speak, I catch a glimpse of a white shadow flashing in front of the car. But before I can react, Lucien has already hit the brakes.

[Sounds of the car suddenly braking]

Almost simultaneously, a strong arm instinctively protects me in front of my chest.

Lucien: ...Are you okay?

He removes his sunglasses and swiftly scans me with his gaze as if confirming whether I'm injured.

I stare blankly ahead. After a moment of daze, there's no movement in front of the car, and my heart leaps into my throat.

MC: I, I'm okay...

MC: Lu, Lucien... Did something just rush onto the road?

Lucien: I'll go down and take a look first. Stay in the car and don't move.

He smooths out my disheveled bangs and then gets out of the car after turning on the hazard lights.

Through the windshield, I see him quickly walk to the front of the car. His gaze instantly shifts downward, as if he's spotted something, and he crouches down.

Did we really hit something?

Just as I nervously stretch my neck and am about to get out of the car to take a look, Lucien suddenly stands up, cradling a bundle of white fluff in his arms.

MC: Eh?

I take a closer look and can't help but exclaim in delight—

It's an adorable little Pomeranian!

Under my expectant gaze, Lucien quickly gets back into the car with the little Pomeranian in his arms, then raises the pup's paw and waves it at me.

MC: Hello there, cutie! How did you end up on the road?

Lucien: This little fellow must have gotten lost. I didn't see anyone else outside the car.

I follow Lucien's gaze out the window. The road is very quiet, there's no sign of anyone around.

MC: Is it injured?

Lucien: It wasn't hit just now. When I got out to check, it was still some distance from the front of the car. It's probably just a little startled.

As if understanding, the Pomeranian snuggles its face into Lucien's palm coquettishly. Its dewy eyes shift between Lucien and me, softening my heart.

I tentatively reach out my hand towards its nose, intending to let it get accustomed to my scent before attempting to pet its little head.

However, as soon as I reach out my hand, the little fellow enthusiastically licks my fingers. In the next moment, it leaps over the center console and goes straight into my arms.

MC: Wow, what a good little doggy!

MC: And it looks very clean, not like a stray dog... Could it be lost?

Lucien leans in and turns the collar of the small Pomeranian, discovering a small round tag. On it, it reads "Snowball*" and a string of numbers.

[T/N: the pet name, "雪糕" (xuě gāo), actually means "ice cream bar/popsicle"  LOL. I take some liberty in translating the pup name because “雪” (xuě) word alone means “snow” (while “糕” (gao) means cake). Imagine that this fluffy white bundle looks like a snowball so I give the pup that name :D]

MC: "Snowball"? Is that its name?

Lucien: Mm, below should be the owner's phone number. Let me try contacting them. Maybe the owner hasn't gone far.

Lucien takes out his phone as he speaks and quickly gets connected. After briefly explaining the situation, a wave of gratitude comes from the other end of the line.

??: Thank you so much! I stopped at the service area for a break and took the pup out of the car for a walk. I forgot to bring it back into the car.

??: I've already turned back onto the highway. I'll be there in about forty minutes!

??: Will it delay you?

Lucien doesn't respond, he just looks up at me and gestures with his eyes, as if asking for my opinion. I quickly nod in agreement.

[asking for opinion from the family leader.jpg]

Lucien: No, it won't. Then let's meet at the nearest gas station to the toll booth on the highway.

After a brief conversation, he hangs up the phone and shakes his head at me helplessly.

Lucien: [smiles helplessly] Looks like our journey might be delayed for a bit.

MC: What a careless owner! How could they forget such an adorable little dog?

I affectionately rub Snowball's head. It seems to whimper aggrievedly, then it straightens up, leans against me, and licks my cheek.

The adorable and silly look melts my heart once again. I exaggerate by placing my hand over my heart, then I scoop Snowball into my arms and give it a tight cuddle.

MC: Lucien, it's just too cute.

Upon seeing this, Lucien boops Snowball's nose, his tone hinting at jealousy.

Lucien: You've been praising this little guy since earlier until now for so many times.

MC: Pfft, is Professor Lucien feeling jealous?

Lucien: After all, I was the one who wanted to make a good impression today, but I didn’t expect to be outshone by this "little attention-seeker".

MC: I think, it's actually quite timely that Snowball showed up.

I mischievously wink at him and raise Snowball triumphantly.

MC: Just when I couldn't think of any beautiful moments unrelated to you.

MC: The appearance of this cute little fellow right now just fills that gap perfectly~

Lucien: Is that so?

Lucien presses his lips together thoughtfully, his clean fingertips lightly tapping on the steering wheel. He puts his sunglasses back on and, as if on a whim, starts the car again.

Lucien: Buckle up your seatbelt, let's go.

MC: Huh? Where are we going? Aren't we supposed to wait for Snowball's owner?

Lucien: MC's words just aroused my desire to win.

Lucien: In order not to lose to this little fellow, I have to put in some extra effort during these forty minutes of waiting.

Lucien: Before that, let's go find some more unexpected wonderful moments.

✂———————–

Ten minutes later, Lucien drives us to a countryside field.

The golden sunlight blankets the emerald green grass, while wisps of light mist hover amidst the sea of green.

Excitedly, I hop out of the car while holding Snowball, and find myself unable to tear my eyes away from the beautiful scenery for a moment.

MC: It's so beautiful! Lucien, how did you know there's a place like this nearby?

Lucien: We passed by here when Miss Producer was fully focused on playing the idiom chain game just now.

Lucien: The meeting point I arranged with Snowball's owner is very close to here, so it was convenient to stop by on the way.

MC: [sweats] What? During that intense idiom chain game just now, you still managed to notice the scenery on the sides of the road?

Upon hearing this, Lucien seriously crosses his arms, one hand supporting his chin as if deep in thought.

Lucien: Hmm, after all, even in such a tense moment, Miss Producer didn't forget to use "sweet words" to bribe her opponent.

MC: Pfft-

I can't help but laugh, but Snowball in my arms suddenly wriggles restlessly, as if trying to break free from my embrace.

MC: Do you want to go down and play?

I carefully place Snowball on the ground. It sniffs around with its tiny nose and then happily starts running around us.

MC: [laughs cheerfully] Hahaha, Snowball, you're so fearless, don't you?

MC: Even after such a day full of twists and turns, you can still play so happily!

Lucien: A puppy's mind is very simple.

Lucien: Perhaps in its eyes, it simply unexpectedly took a risk to venture into an unfamiliar place and met with a beautiful and empathetic Jiejie (big sister) who understands it well.

Lucien: And now, this Jiejie has brought it to a playground where it can run freely, so why can't it be happy?

MC: Oh, come on, it's definitely the credit of this reasonable and understanding handsome Gege (big brother).

I jokingly gesture with my hand, but as I watch Snowball's carefree figure, I can't help but ponder Lucien's words with a thoughtful expression.

MC: That being said, it seems like any simple thing can easily make a puppy happy.

MC: Whether it's the company of its owner, a friendly pat from a stranger, a passing butterfly, or even just a small treat...

MC: I often see videos of dogs being scolded by their owners. One moment, they're scared out of their wits…

MC: Then, the next moment, as soon as their owners call their names with a smile, they instantly become happy again.

MC: So, is life filled with beautiful moments everywhere in the eyes of a puppy?

As we talk, Snowball runs around a nearby grassy area and then returns to Lucien's feet, panting. It looks like it's tired from playing and eagerly starts pawing at his pants.

Lucien cooperatively lifts it, and it comfortably stretches lazily in his arms, then leans against his arm and rests.

Lucien pats its head, his expression somewhat resigned.

Lucien: I originally wanted to create a "wonderful moment" for MC, but it seems like Snowball is the one enjoying it more.

MC: Indeed, we should learn from puppies and embrace the spirit of enjoying every moment. I can't let Snowball beat me~

As I say this, I take a deep breath, and the fresh air instantly fills my heart.

MC: So pleasant... If it weren't for the tight schedule and better scenery waiting for us, I'd want to camp right here.

Lucien looks at me upon hearing this, seeming to contemplate something. After a moment, he gently places Snowball into my arms and gives me a mysterious wink.

Lucien: I've received the classmate's wish, please wait a moment.

He walks around to the back of the car, opens the trunk, and folds down all the rear seats, creating a spacious area.

[Lucien’s car being an SUV is really useful in times like this huh-]

Then, he hangs the small decorative lanterns that were initially used for the tent on the roof of the car. Finally, he shakes out a small thin blanket and spreads it on top.

After finishing all this, he bends slightly and makes a gentlemanly invitation gesture.

Lucien: Please, have a seat.

MC: This is...

Lucien: Our time is indeed limited, not enough to set up a proper tent.

Lucien: So we'll have to use this "temporary camping spot" instead, I hope you two* don’t disdain it.

[T/N: He actually uses 小朋友 (literally means: child) as the term of endearment to refer both of them (so the more literal translation should be “I hope the two children don’t disdain it”). I change it for an obvious reason here, but I swear it’s not as bad as the english language makes it to be-]

I stand still for a moment as his intention dawns on me. Pink bubbles seem to bubble up in my chest, making my heart move up and down in the ripples it causes.

I compliantly put on airs, playing along with his gesture as I cradle Snowball and settle into the car.

MC: Can you see a look of "disdain" on our faces?

I raise Snowball, showing a coy and obedient look at Lucien. Snowball, oblivious to the situation, cooperatively wags its tail and barks cheerfully at Lucien twice.

Lucien chuckles softly, then takes off his sunglasses with one hand, his gaze shifting between Snowball and me.

The vast expanse of clouds above his head begins to slowly drift away, revealing the warm and radiant sunshine.

His deep gaze is imbued by the golden sky, revealing a hint of childlike innocence and simple contentment.

Lucien: Indeed, I can't see it, because I can only see two adorable faces.

His doting tone is unreserved, and I satisfactorily squint my eyes, my heart full of joy.

MC: This one-of-a-kind camping area, with Professor Lucien's intention behind it, is priceless and worth more than any amount of money.

MC: I cherish it so much; how could I possibly disdain it?

Snowball seems to understand my words. With a "woof", he jumps down and happily rolls around on the blanket.

Both Lucien and I are amused by its adorable appearance. A gentle breeze blows by, and my entire heart feels light as if it's strolling in the clouds.

Our gazes lock into each other, and this tranquil moment is so beautiful that I truly want to record it in some way.

But I don't take out my phone to make a note. Instead, I instinctively reach out and gently pull Lucien to sit beside me.

The warmth beside me makes me unconsciously lean closer. I nuzzle his shoulder clingily, my heart filled with softness.

MC: Professor Lucien, you've succeeded.

MC: Now my mind is filled with countless wonderful moments, and each of these moments is related to you-

MC: Me leaning on your shoulder, your scent filling my senses, and us sharing this unexpected encounter of scenery together...

MC: And even if these moments aren't intentionally recorded by me, it's okay.

MC: Because every little thing that has been happening with you has already integrated into my world since a long time ago.

The breath above my head becomes even more gentle and elongated. Lucien enfolds me in his arms, his warm breath almost as if it's seeping into the depths of my heart.

Lucien: I am honored to be part of all the “wonderful moments” of Miss MC.

Lucien: As the sole recipient of this “award”, I will remain humble and continue to work hard, bringing her even more happiness.

I smile in his arms, but suddenly, I think of something and pull myself away from him a bit.

MC: But it's not fair, I've listed so many 'wonderful moments' of my own. How come you haven't shared a single one with me?

Lucien seems taken aback by my sudden mention of this. He is struck silent for a moment, then a flicker of wounded expression crosses his face.

Lucien: Perhaps because I thought even if I didn't say anything, MC would know what I’m thinking—

Lucien: My "list of wonderful moments" is very simple, so simple that it has only one item.

Lucien: Now, do you still need me to tell you this one and only item?

He stares steadily into my eyes, with an irreplaceable radiance that ebbs and flows in the depths of his gaze.

I softly laugh, and my entire heart feels as transparent and bright as if it has been meticulously polished.

MC: No need.

I shook my head, the stray hair on my forehead bringing a slightly unbearable itch, gently brushing against my heart along with the gentle spring breeze.

I gently cup his cheek in the palm of my hand, and the world becomes unusually quiet, only the sound of two hearts beating can be heard.

MC: You don't need to say anything.

Because in those beautiful eyes, I only see myself.

————Fin———–

[Bonus Phone Call - Want it Now]

Lucien: Hello? Are you busy?

MC: So, I was about to take a lunch break—I was just thinking about you, and then your call came.

Lucien: It seems like there's always some kind of wonderful little tacit understanding between us.

Lucien: Then tell me about it.

MC: Haha, here's the thing. The company's pet club is planning a charity event.

MC: They plan to sell some handmade items and donate the proceeds to animal shelters. But I don't have any inspiration for what to make at the moment...

Lucien: Mm... I just received a delivery that might be helpful to you.

Lucien: The owner of Snowball sent us some things as a thank you. There are small felt keychains shaped like Snowball, as well as cartoon-style standees and cross-stitch fridge magnets.

Lucien: Looking at the note in the delivery box, it seems that the owner of Snowball designed them personally and also has the same ones at home.

Lucien: Perhaps we can also make some similar small items.

MC: Wow! They actually make these for their pet? The owner of Snowball is so thoughtful.

Lucien: You can tell that Snowball is truly cherished, so its owner makes these everyday little things, wanting its presence to fill every corner of their home.

MC: Hmm... Just like how my phone screensaver is you, and all the photos hanging around the home are of you?

Lucien: If what you're saying is that feeling of 'even when you're not around, I still want to see you first thing’...

Lucien: Then we're the same.

MC: I have another idea, I wonder if Professor Lucien shares the same idea as me.

Lucien: Hm?

MC: Even though my screensaver and chat background are pictures of you... I still want to see you right now.

Lucien: What a coincidence, I was thinking the same thing. So I've already brought your favorite milk tea and the Snowball keychain, and I'm on my way to see you.

Lucien: I checked the navigation, and the route from the research institute to your company is very smooth.

Lucien: In twenty minutes, both of our wishes will come true.

[skywalker1dream]

part of the stuck with the stranger series

Title:Unexpected Connections

part one | part three

note: hello, how are you guys hope you are having a good day or night, my day is fantastic so far I driking my second cup of coffee exams are coming and writing those fics kind of helping me to relive my stress (even tho I have so little time for myself) so this is part 2 of stuck with the stranger and I changed many things cause I didn't liked my previous writing and add plot twist too ( I don't know if it is a good plot twist tho my friend saw it coming mile away, but maybe its because she knows me better then I know myself, okay I won't bore you even more and I hope you like it <3

Summary: Carlos Sainz and the reader's romance takes an unexpected turn when it's revealed she's the little sister of Carlos's best friend, Lando Norris. As secrets unravel, they must navigate the complexities of their relationship. Will love conquer all, or will fate intervene?

warnings: none, I guess?

The first date with Carlos was like stepping into a fairy tale. The soft glow of candlelight illuminated the intimate restaurant as you sat across from him, lost in conversation that flowed effortlessly between you.

"So, tell me something about yourself that I wouldn't learn from twitter," Carlos said, leaning forward with genuine interest.

You chuckled, feeling a warmth spread through you at his easy charm. "Well, I have a secret talent for making the world's best pancakes," you confessed with a grin.

Carlos's eyes lit up with amusement. "Really? I'll have to put your skills to the test sometime. My pancake game could use some serious improvement."

The laughter that followed was infectious, filling the air with a sense of warmth and comfort. As the evening progressed, you found yourselves diving deeper into conversation, exploring topics ranging from your favorite childhood memories to your wildest dreams for the future.

Hours passed in the blink of an eye, and before you knew it, the restaurant was closing around you. Reluctantly, you and Carlos said your goodbyes, promising to meet again soon.

........

On your second date, Carlos surprised you by taking you to a local amusement park. The sound of laughter filled the air as you rode roller coasters and indulged in cotton candy.

"This is amazing," you exclaimed, your heart racing with excitement as you clutched Carlos's hand tightly on the Ferris wheel.

"I'm glad you're enjoying yourself," Carlos replied, a smile playing on his lips as he looked at you fondly. "I've been wanting to take you here since our first date."

As the sun began to set, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange, you leaned against Carlos's shoulder, feeling a sense of contentment wash over you. In that moment, surrounded by the bright lights and joyful laughter of the amusement park, you knew that this was where you were meant to be.

The evening ended with a cozy dinner at a nearby cafe, where you and Carlos shared stories and laughed until your sides hurt. It was a night you would never forget, a perfect blend of excitement and intimacy that left you craving more.

.....

dates followed, each one more memorable than the last. From picnics in the park to late-night stargazing sessions, you and Carlos reveled in each other's company, savoring every moment you spent together.

One evening, Carlos surprised you by taking you to a quaint bookstore nestled in the heart of the city. You spent hours browsing the shelves, exchanging book recommendations and sharing snippets of your favorite passages. It was a simple yet meaningful date, one that allowed you to connect on a deeper level.

As you walked hand in hand through the quiet streets, the night air filled with the soft glow of streetlights, you couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the man beside you. In Carlos, you had found not only a romantic partner but also a kindred spirit, someone who understood you in a way that no one else ever had.

.....

But amidst the blissful haze of new love, there was a looming complication, one that neither of you had anticipated. It all came to a head one week later, on a race weekend, when Lando brought you to the paddock, and Carlos's world collided with yours in an unexpected twist of fate.

As you walked through the bustling paddock beside Lando, Carlos's familiar figure came into view, his brown eyes widening in shock as he caught sight of you.

"What are you doing here?" he asked, his tone laced with confusion as he approached.

Before you could respond, Lando stepped forward, a mischievous grin playing on his lips. "Carlos, meet my little sister," he said, gesturing towards you. "She wanted to see what all the fuss was about."

Carlos froze, his expression shifting from confusion to disbelief in the span of a heartbeat. His gaze darted between you and Lando, realization dawning on him like a bolt of lightning.

"Your sister?" he repeated, his voice barely above a whisper. "But... but I had no idea... that you....."

You watched as the shock registered on Carlos's face, his features contorting with a mix of disbelief and dawning realization. It was as if the ground had shifted beneath his feet, leaving him adrift in a sea of uncertainty.

In that moment, you knew that nothing would ever be the same again. The revelation had shaken Carlos to his core, casting a shadow over the fragile bond you had built together. And as you stood there, caught between past and present, you couldn't help but wonder what the future held in store for you and Carlos.

.....

[sksksksksgreat]

i've been playing/watching indie horror games since forever, but not a lot of them have stuck with me, sometimes the story is just shallow and its mostly to scare you and give you some adrenaline rush which is more than fine, or they try too hard with the story, stuffing as many traumas as they can think of and it just comes across as annoyingly edgy. But it's not like all games are supposed to be life changing, sometimes you just wanna have a good time so whatever.

I was really expecting mouthwashing to be just another random forgettable horror game people have discovered and lashed themselves onto because there is gore and cute pixels and whatnot, i was not expecting such a visceral story about abuse. About how men cover for one another and how they are unable to take it seriously, about how they'll do anything to NOT take responsibility for it. Because of how used i am for games, tv shows, any type of media really to never treat this topic with the respect it deserves, i was fully expecting Anya's abuse to be reason number nth as to why Jimmy is a horrible person, and not such a central part of the story, the breaking point that made jimmy pull the classic white man move of refusing to go down without taking others with them.

As insane as he was, as narcissistic and psychotic, i believe he wouldn't have freaked out if she didnt get pregnant, if the evidence of the rape wasn't now more real and physical than ever. Him and Curly would've figured things out once they got out of there. Although the pregnancy was the breaking point he was already so close to the edge, all that jealousy, lost his job and wouldn't even get paid, the seemingly lack of a future in a ultra capitalistic hellscape where a friendly mascot reminds you to not sleep more than 5 hours a day or you'll lose fucking credit points, and you can't even get proper food. Spending a year in your work not seeing friends, family, the outside world, because of the important job of transporting.... mouthwash. Lmao

The characters were so well written for such a short game, extremely compelling and well crafted story, piecing everything together with all the back and forth was sooo good, they managed to tell so much with so little, easily one of the best indie horror games i've ever seen 10/10 it felt like finding diamond in a pile of garbage.

[simplegenius042]

Music Monday & WIP Wednesday

Tagged by @direwombat

Tagging @spookyrares @derelictheretic @inafieldofdaisies @socially-awkward-skeleton @imogenkol @noodlecupcakes @voidika @cassietrn @adelaidedrubman @aceghosts @josephseedismyfather @icecutioner @shallow-gravy @strangefable @statichvm @cloudofbutterflies92 @carlosoliveiraa @wrathfulrook @starsandskies @ladyoriza @la-grosse-patate @minilev @thewanderer-000 @omen-speaker @justasmolbard @alypink @shellibisshe @josephslittledeputy @skoll-sun-eater @g0dspeeed @afarcryfrommymain @strafethesesinners @turbo-virgins @softtidesworld @florbelles and @yokobai + anyone else who want to join.

Two songs for The UnTitledverse and The Silver Chronicles respectively plus one WIP for Life, Despair & Monsters. You can listen and read these below the cut:

In The UnTitledverse, I've got a trilogy of DOOM WIPs (moreso focusing on the DOOM (2016) and DOOM: Eternal games, with references to the previous ones) creatively called DOOMed, it's prequel DOOMed: From The Start and the sequel DOOMed: Forth Til Eternity. This song though focuses on DOOMed: From The Start, which pretty much follows the events leading up to DOOMed. Furthermore, there are some OCs, some characters mentioned in this game (either by recording, data or dialogue) that will be present too AND as well as Olivia and Hayden. This is like a sitcom months before disaster strikes. Listen below:

"One, two, three, four

La, la-la, la-la-la, la La, la-la, la-la-la

Whatever happened to predictability? The milk man, the paper boy, the evening TV? How did I get delivered here? Somebody tell me please Cause this old world is just really confusing me

Clouds as mean as you've ever seen Ain't a bird that knows your tune Then, a little voice of you whispers "Kid, don't sell your dreams so soon!"

Everywhere you look, everywhere you go There's a heart (there's a heart), a hand to hold on to Everywhere you look, everywhere you go There's a face (there's a face), somebody who needs you

La, la-la, la-la-la, la La, la-la, la-la-la

Whatever happened to the good ol' days? Talking to friends for hours, swore it'd never go away Now, I'm feeling a little crazy, trying to fit in with a scene 'Cause how do you know where you're going, if you really don't know who you've been?

Everybody, eventually Says they are as lost as you So everybody, shout it together "Hey, don't sell your dreams so soon!"

Everywhere you look, everywhere you go There's a heart (there's a heart), a hand to hold on to Everywhere you look, everywhere you go There's a face (there's a face), somebody who needs you Everywhere you look, everywhere you go There's a heart (there's a heart), a hand to hold on to Everywhere you look, yeah

When you're lost out there, and you're all alone A light is waiting to carry you home Everywhere you look."

Keeping to Six Of Crows central theme, my How Good Is A Heist If It's Improvised? WIP explores it a bit more (with the addition of Isiah Popov and Gemini Teal apart of the Dregs). Anyway, this song definitely fits the theme of the book and WIP, even if its light tone hides the dark side in these two. Have a listen below:

"So no one told you life was gonna be this way Your job's a joke, you're broke, your love life's DOA It's like you're always stuck in second gear When it hasn't been your day, your week, your month, or even your year

But I'll be there for you (When the rain starts to pour) I'll be there for you (Like I've been there before) I'll be there for you ('Cause you're there for me too)

You're still in bed at ten and work began at eight You've burned your breakfast, so far things are going great Your mother warned you there'd be days like these Oh, but she didn't tell you when the world has brought You down to your knees that

I'll be there for you (When the rain starts to pour) I'll be there for you (Like I've been there before) I'll be there for you ('Cause you're there for me too)

No one could ever know me No one could ever see me Seems you're the only one who knows What it's like to be me Someone to face the day with Make it through all the rest with Someone I'll always laugh with Even at my worst, I'm best with you, yeah

It's like you're always stuck in second gear When it hasn't been your day, your week, your month, or even your year

I'll be there for you (When the rain starts to pour) I'll be there for you (Like I've been there before) I'll be there for you ('Cause you're there for me too)

I'll be there for you I'll be there for you I'll be there for you 'Cause you're there for me too!"

Here's a WIP for my House Of The Dragon WIP The Thorned Crown Of Iron Thrones. Takes place weeks after both Aemma's death and Viserys marriage/consummation to Alicent. Corvus is stressing over the new tension between Rhaenyra and Alicent, but unluckily he finds solace with one noble Sir Enigma Malvolio, whose may be a tad strange but he's giving Corvus some floral remedies in the form of tea so he'll endure it; enjoy a history lesson from Malvolio below: [A/N Hey guys, if you noticed that this snippet is a bit clunky, that's because I had been sick at the time of writing the chapter it belongs to, so I wasn't at my best when I wrote this. Still feeling the after effects now even, but I should be fully recovered by tomorrow. Enjoy!]

"You know," Sir Enigma broke the awkward pause, back still to Corvus as he boiled more of the red petals, "There's an old wives tale about these flowers. Say, have you ever heard of the legend of the Court King, your highness?"

Corvus paused mid-sip, the floral scent of the tea clinging to the steam coming out of the cup and assaulting his nose. It was strong, certainly, but something that wasn't uninviting. The sharp taste and scent was both distracting and calming his nerves. Exactly what he had sought out.

"I can't say I have, Sir Enigma," Corvus politely told the older man, finding nothing he could remember about such a name, "Who was he?"

Sir Enigma glanced to him and gave a cheerful grin, something Corvus was unsure was supposed to be inviting. He found it rather unnerving, but refrained from speaking up.

"I thought as much. You won't find anyone around here who'd know the tale by heart. The Court King," Sir Enigma smacked his lips as he began, "is more of a myth in my personal opinion. But I've learned there is always merit to any story passed down rumor by rumor. The tough part would be discerning fact from fiction."

He took the kettle off his small stove, placing it back on the tray. He brought it over to the small table between them, along with setting down his cap to face Corvus as Sir Enigma reclaimed the tea cup he was drinking from earlier. Corvus would think the other man would refill it with the hotter brew, but didn't bring attention to it. He saw no reason to it.

After Sir Enigma took a sip from his cup, he sighed in satisfaction, looked to Corvus with his dark eyes and gleefully continued, "From what I could find, the Court King was a ruler who reigned over many lands with the help of his competent cohort, whom some say he carefully selected himself."

"Hence the name "Court King"?" Corvus questioned, though internally kicked himself for interrupting the nobleman. When Sir Enigma regarded him with an inquisitive gaze, Corvus stuttered out, "S-since he was the head of a- of a court? And royalty?"

Sir Enigma pondered over Corvus words, and hummed, "Well... that's certainly one way to look at it."

"Though I don't think the name matters as much as the being holding it," Sir Enigma admitted after another sip, "From what I've heard, he wasn't of any royalty. In fact, he was more a conqueror. Like your Aegon. Just more successful."

Corvus widened his eyes in shock at Sir Enigma's assertion. The nobleman just sipped on more of his tea as if he hadn't stated something so controversial about the family the Targaryen prince belonged to, adopted status notwithstanding.

He couldn't fathom how Sir Enigma could say Aegon the Conqueror's conquests were lesser than a person who may not even exist.

"What... makes you say that?" Corvus asked, swallowing down his nervousness. He wasn't wrong about this tea, he thought to himself, It seems to rejuvenate me with an energy to speak up.

Sir Enigma snickered at Corvus reaction, and added, "I mean no offense to your family's history, your majesty. But compared to the stories I've heard about your forefather and what I could learn about the Court King, the latter had accomplished a lot more. After all, what bigger conquest can one accomplish but the world's?"

Corvus blinked at Sir Enigma, processing the baffling information he was listening to. The World?! The very idea of someone even coming close to accomplishing such a feat was preposterous to the prince. He's already sat through meetings of father's council struggling to figure out how to approach diplomacy with the likes of Uncle Daemon, he didn't have confidence that they alone could take on the less amicable kingdoms.

Now, he was thoroughly intrigued about this Court King, "Did- did he succeed?"

"In the conquests?" Sir Enigma raised a brow, and Corvus nodded, "Well of course he did. He was fucking ruthless, and most importantly, extremely ambitious in his goal. He left no stone unturned. He wore a mask to hide his face, never disclosing his name so his enemies were unable to curse him beyond death. If what I had learned was true, some say he was akin to a God. Or perhaps gifted by them. It's said he ruled for a life time. Beyond what was even possible for a human; conjuring storms while he was at it. He tamed dragons and flew without their aid. He was fueled by divine magic and as strong as a hundred armies."

Corvus sat in shock, so much so that he broke from it when he lost his grip on his tea cup. It fell to the stone floor, shattering and spilling the red-tinted liquid everywhere. He gave an apologetic gaze to Sir Enigma, but the man didn't seem bothered as he was mid-way through pouring another steaming tea into a new cup.

Taking the new cup with both hands, he gave his thanks as he tried to find a way to form his thoughts coherently into words.

"Did he really do it?" he asked. Sir Enigma responded with a raised brow, so Corvus elaborated, "All of what you just said."

Sir Enigma gave a smile, and a chuckle as he stated, "Of course not. It's all bullshit. No person is capable of living forever, blessed with god-like powers, taming fucking dragons. Only Targaryens and Velaryons can achieve such a feat, which the Court King was neither. In all likelihood, if he ever did exist, he was replaced generation after generation, keeping up the illusion of a god that ruled over the lands for eternity. With a dragon rider of his own probably."

Oh, Corvus cringed, thinking himself a gullible fool.

Sir Enigma showed mercy on him though, not regarding him with ridicule, "Don't beat yourself up so much, your highness. Tales are meant to wind people up, make them believe in the impossible. The Court King's just another in a sea of a thousand more. Flattering stories to feed the egos of dead people. You'll get used to it."

Corvus accepted the nobleman's words without resistance, though he did have a burning question.

"How... do the flowers play into this though?" Corvus inquired.

Sir Enigma looked at the prince, puzzled. Until his eyes widened in realization, "Oh right, almost forgot."

He clears his throat as he continues, "You see, the more mythical parts of this tale state that the Court King's reign long reign had ended at one point. From what I learned, the Court King had been betrayed by his cohort during a particularly big war, leading to his demise. Staying true to his image of divinity, its stated that once his corpse fell, a hundred-thousand red flowers bloomed across the battlefield, rooting itself in anything it could."

"Some say these flowers contained the Court King's courage. Others had the belief that the petals held divine properties belonging to the Court King. There were a few who believed that the flora should be preserved and revered, as they held the Court King's spirit. The commonality between all three claims was that by consuming the flowers, you attain his power," Sir Enigma explained with a roll of his eyes, "Hence the name. The Court King's Favors. Of course, his cohorts hadn't liked such a idea, and some of the more paranoid ones went on to purge the flowers from existence. Where there had been hundreds of thousands, now remains only thirty. Or, well, twenty-eight."

Corvus wasn't sure if he was supposed to cringe at that, but Sir Enigma hadn't seemed to discourage him from drinking the tea full of the favors.

"Now you must understand the ridiculous of such claims. More than likely those flowers merely rejuvenated people with medicinal properties," Sir Enigma disclosed, and Corvus couldn't disagree there. The tea did put to rest his fears and anxieties, much to his relief. Even if the tale was all myth, he couldn't say he didn't see why people believed in it.

"Want to know what else I learned from this tale?" Sir Enigma spoke up, catching Corvus attention. Once the prince gave him a nod to continue, Sir Enigma continued, "Rumor has it, that the corpse of the Court King is held deep in the catacombs of a tomb, somewhere under here. King's Landing itself."

Corvus tensed at Sir Enigma's words, finishing off his tea as he leaned in to softly ask, "Is- is that true? Or just another myth?"

Sir Enigma, though seeming to have all the answers, merely shrugged here, "I never got a concrete answer, so who knows? But it'd be quite a discovery, wouldn't you agree?"

As Corvus wondered over the Court King's legend, pondering on such a unique character, even if he was myth, Sir Enigma broke him out of his thoughts as he offered the kettle.

"Would you like more?" the nobleman asked, "The Court King's legend may be a myth, but his favor does grant you courage in times of strife. If you believe enough, that is. Do you believe, Corvus?"

The prince looked to and from the tea cup in his hands and the kettle in Sir Enigma's. His mind thought back to the recent tragedy weeks ago of mother's death, and the straining gap between his sister and the sweet Lady Alicent. He didn't know how to fix that, and could barely comfort father in his time of need.

He could need a little courage, if not for himself, then to help his family. With his mind made up, he brought his cup forward to a grinning Malvolio, watching as the dark red tainted liquid filled his cup for a third time.

[gabessquishytum]

Not especially horny, but I had the thought of retired Dream having to learn corporeality again (like everyone, lol).

I specifically pictured him... being bad at Video games. He'd love them, they've got such beautiful stories, and it's so like a dream, the setting is something given and the player decides what they'll do.

But he's not that good, because he hasn't got the hand-eye coordination, and the buttons are just so fiddly, and so it becomes a regular occurrence for Hob to see Dream coming to him with pleading eyes, extending the controller his way.

And for every ledge he hops for Dream, for every monster he kills, he gets a kiss on the cheek. Hob loves it. He also loves watching Dream play, because even if it takes him a moment, he's so immersed, so excited about it.

After a few months Dream has gotten better at being human, but not at video games. It takes for Hob to come home early and finding Dream expertly smashing around a Zelda boss to find out that Dream has been... lying, a bit. He's very sorry about it, really, but he just likes when they do this together, and if Hob could forgive him?

But Hob just smiles and tells him about multiplayer games.

Dream is not, actually, good at those, because shortly after starting their first game together, because it turns out that kisses on the cheek for killed monsters are more difficult when you're both trying to look at the screen.

And it's even more difficult to kill said monsters when you've just discovered that apparently, your best friend/housemate is not at all against being kissed on the mouth.

This is the cutest thing I've ever read I'm literally dying!!! Also!!! I feel like we don't talk about Hob and video games enough and I think he would absolutely love them. He would spend hours staying up until 2am with his eyes aching from staring at the screen because he's so engrossed. And Minecraft!!! He would love Minecraft so much!!!!!!! So would Dream!!!!!!!! Imagine retired Dream making a whole little world in Minecraft and its like he can rediscover a spark of creativity he thought was utterly lost to him!!! Anyway.

So Dream starts out playing Kirby or something with pretty cute graphics and stories but. He does struggle with the jumping and the switching skills and so Hob is like ok. Let's try a different story kind of game. And then they try Zelda which Dream really loves but again. He's a little bad at it. Hob gets to be the hero, beats up the bosses, and Dream gets to run around doing silly little quests. Hob gets many kisses. All is right with the world.

He was a bit suspicious that Dream seems to be spending so much time on his games without his skills improving, but he doesn't exactly mind. The worse Dream is at killing monsters, the more kisses Hob gets. Except the truth is, Dream is now definitely better at the game than Hob...

And when Hob catches him beating a boss for the first time, of course he has to give Dream a kiss in return. A slow, soft kiss on the lips that makes Dream drop his controller and melt into Hob’s arms. Hopefully he saved his progress, because suddenly he's being carried off in the direction of Hob’s bedroom like Peach being carried off by Bowzer (only with a lot less protesting, and no pesky plumber coming to rescue him).

(I need you all to know that I really really really like golf games like Golf with Your Friends and Golf It so I have vivid scenarios in my brain about Dream and Hob playing together. The glitching golf balls. The bizarre courses. The rage. Hob making terrible puns about holes. Whoever wins on each hole gets a kiss. Hob absolutely loses on purpose so he can kiss his beloved <3)

[wilwheaton]

You seem like a pretty good dude, Wil. Thanks for taking time to chat with your fans, and thanks for standing up for what is right. I love following you on social media. You've talked about D&D before, and I've been kind of curious about trying it out. I would be nervous though as I have no idea what to do. Any tips for 40-year-old beginners???

Thank you for your kind comments.

D&D! I love it. I love all RPG games (even the ones I don't like to play. I'm just glad they exist).

I've been playing since the early 80s, and I can confidently direct you to the 5e Starter Set. It is the best introduction to the hobby, to the system, to the experience of collaborative storytelling that makes RPGs so much fun and so special. It's a small investment, and a really easy way to find out if D&D is for you.

If you want to make an even smaller investment, this page has TONS of information and resources. You could start here and spend hours without noticing the time pass. Or, at least, I can. YMMV.

I want to share a few warnings with you.

Everyone has their definition of the "right" way to play D&D. You will find yours as you play. Don't let someone else's definition of "right" limit what yours may eventually be. We've worked real hard to kick out the gatekeepers, but they just keep spawning.

The D&D rules system is not the only RPG, or even the only popular one. Pathfinder is beloved by millions of people. FATE Core and GURPS have enormous player bases. Monte Cook's Cypher System is filled with gorgeous lore and character inspirations (but I've never played it, full disclosure). I chose the AGE system for our series Titansgrave, and used a lot of what I learned from running D&D for decades to customize the experience for me and the players. What I'm saying is, RPGs do not begin and end with D&D. It's as good a place as any to start, but it is only one of many systems.

You are going to hear hardcores make impassioned arguments that continue long after you have lost interest about all sort of rules and setting and system crap. Trust me: tune them out. Eventually, you'll know what you care to listen to.

All those non-D&D systems support and encourage playing in different settings, from Science Fiction to Horror to modern warfare combat. The thing that I believe makes D&D VERY special is its singular focus on high fantasy and everything that means in our culture. All those other systems do fantasy very well, but D&D is kind of the canonical "storm the dungeon, kill the monsters, take their stuff" experience.

That's a lot more information than I intended to deliver. I just get excited about this stuff because I love it so much. Whatever you choose, I hope you have fun!

And when it counts, may you roll high.

[moonlight-at-dawn]

Metaphor: ReFantazio impressions

It was late when I beat it last night, so I didn't really put proper words to thoughts, and I don't know that I can do it justice, but man, it was a truly amazing game and I want to put some more of my impressions down.

This post will be largely spoiler-free. But there are other, definitely spoiler-y things I want to add, and that will be in a rb of this post and behind a cut.

SO!!

Metaphor is a beautiful love letter to fantasy. Fantasy authors. Fantasy readers. The fantasy of ideals. The fantasy of hope and of dreams.

It's an inspiration, a hand up, a gentle hug, for those who have lost faith in hopes and dreams.

It doesn't pretend that ideals are easy to live by or accomplish. It doesn't pretend that life isn't hard and that there isn't evil and sadness in it. But it reminds you that there's warmth, that there are people out there who are good, in spite of it all. It serves to show that if you do good, if you give people an example, then great things can happen, and the world can be changed. And no, it won't happen overnight, but it will still get better, step by step.

It reminds us that things that are worth fighting for, worth believing in and striving for, aren't easy, but are always, always, worth the effort.

It's a gorgeous game, with wonderful characters with complex and painful pasts. It shows us how we control how our traumas define us. No character suddenly pretends that the awful things that happened to them didn't happen or weren't awful. But they learn to accept those things , not necessarily forgive, but accept and reframe how they affect each of them.

This game is going to stick with me for a long time because of its gorgeous and thought-provoking world and cast. I imagine I'll play it once or twice a year here-on, as it has a wonderful and empowering message.

A fantastic experience, definitely well worth the hours put into it. I can't recommend it enough. One of the best games I've ever played, one of the best stories I've ever taken in, absolutely worth the many hours to experience it.

And the MUSIC! The music is grand and epic at every turn and that does nothing to diminish the effect of each grander song near the end of the game. It's beautiful and evocative, and Head Priest Keisuke Honryo's talent makes it a hauntingly authentic experience. Cannot speak highly enough of the music that helps make the world so grand. "Music was the first magic" indeed!

I don't think I'll ever be able to fully describe all the things this game made me feel, but it's an unforgettable experience and well WELL worth it.

[scales-like-ash]

I've been playing a little bit of Starfield again, been a while. And I must say it's still fun. I won't say its the best game Bethesda ever or anyone ever did, because it's definitely not and many of the complaints are justified like facial animations and bugs.

But there are things that I genuinely love about it like the Story, its in my opinion one of the best stories Bethesda ever wrote. Sure it's a giant fetch quest (Oblivion is too when you think about it) but there are twist in it, especially at the end that left me speechless. Also the gunplay is like in Fallout 4 really good. The Shipbuilding is solid and the faction stories are also intriguing (especially the Vanguard and Crimson Fleet)

And what I love the most, wich is also it's biggest critic, is the pure size of it. I understand that it's a bit tedious running 20 minutes through empty, random generated, wilderness but that is the whole point of exploration.

I live in Germany, the Harz Mountain area to be precise and as a child, me and my parents would hike through this beautiful forest to the top of the mountains and to arrive at locations, discovering small things on the way, see the whole world expand up to the horizon when you get to higher ground is a feeling it captures really, really good.

Like in this example you can see the tree faaar in the distance. It took me about half an hour to get there and I enjoyed it but it must also be said I think the game would benefit a lot from some sort of vehicles, like bikes or trucks... damn I'd even ride a alien horse thingy.

There is a lot of potential in it and I really hope Bethesda (and modders) expand on it. Look at No Man's Sky, Dying Light 2 or Cyberpunk 2077 wich completely disappointed at launch but recovered amazingly (of course this is also a problem of the current game industry but let's not discuss this here, this ramble is too long already).

If you made it down here and didn't lost your mind on my grammatically butchered ramblings or just looked at my screenshots I hope you might give this game another try

Thanks for reading c:

[matchbet-allofthetime]

I JUST FUCKING FINISHED ANDROMEDA

Over a week of playing nearly every single day, 56 hours and 42 fucking minutes-

I have loved every single second of this game

Upgrading armour and crafting, doing silly side quests, loyalty missions, collecting data from all around, upgrading the Nomad (which I despised at first, and then... I loved so much)

This game was an absolute joy from start to finish and I don't understand how, even with the ME trilogy having come first, people don't like ME Andromeda

This game was stellar and beautiful and I felt like I could really sit there and appreciate the silliness, the seriousness, the awkwardness, all of it

Every little decision mattered

Every little decision defined my character and looking back at the files and all? I got to play a perfect rendition of myself in my Pathfinder and I have my own story I've made along the way, just helping wherever I could

I got Wrex back in my good side after I chose to save Raeka and we're closer than ever, I've done every loyalty mission, I won a damn bar fight, I got blackout drunk, I lost poker, I got a Turian girlfriend, I spared Akksul, I got Evfra and Reyes and Kandros and Tann and everyone else on my side so we could protect all our worlds and make a home

And I'm so emotional over this game because it was perfect

The nods to the trilogy- the nomad paint that says "hold the line" in its description and the other salarian's words in battle as a nod to kirrahe? Mordin's photo being in the Salarian info stuff at one point while he smiles? The archangel paint? The collection of model ships?

It's all incredible

People don't seem to like this game but it opened up a whole new side of our universe and it doesn't take away from it at all

It's just the other side of it all that we have so far

It connected everything and I couldn't have asked for a better game

This game has broken me in the best way and I love both Andromeda and the trilogy

Anyways, little freakout over, just really happy right now

I love almost every character and interaction and I really hope they make another Andromeda game because these characters are wonderful and deserve a chance to keep growing just like Shepard and their friends did

[doyoulikethisanimesong-poll]

Hello! A pretty random question, but I’m curious.

I saw you answered some asks about which songs you discovered & liked thanks to the polls, but have you discovered any anime that you decided to watch through the polls as well? I mean, did you ever look at a submission, did some basic checks, glanced at the synopsis and went “huh this looks interesting, might give it a watch” or the likes? Or do you focus on the music only and don’t check the synopsis at all (which would be understandable, with how many songs are coming in)?

Have a good timezone!

I don't really check the synopsis at all however there are a couple anime that I've got on a list because I thought the songs fucked so hard that I just had to try them out. Devilman no Uta finally got me to sit down and atleast try out Devilman Crybaby after ignoring it for years and I'm really enjoying what I've seen so far. I was a bit iffy on the style at first but after a couple episodes, I just couldn't help but adore it. I'm hoping to finish it up in the next week or two when I get some free time where I want to watch stuff.

The other big one is actually Gundam as a whole. I'd watched Mobile Suit Gundam 79 a couple years back and watched a few episodes of Zeta but I was really struggling with Kamielle so I put the series down in hopes that I'd come back to it later but after hearing a bunch of songs from the later series, I decided to bite the bullet and watch more Zeta. I'm about half way through now and also decided to binge all of Witch from Mercury in one sitting which I adored. I knew WfM was a banger of a series but its the first time in a long while that an anime has gripped me so hard. I think my only really complaint is the fact that someone in production obviously really wanted to try and make the relationship ambigious so they can claim "they were just friends" which is a tad frustrating.

Another fun one that I just remembered is Sonic. The Sonic X submission got me playing the Sonic games again. I had been doing a full playthrough of all the Sonic games in release order and at the time of that submission, I had gotten through the 90's 2D games but hadn't started Adventure 1 yet and was just a bit burnt out. But since that submission, I have gotten through all the "main" 3D games from the 90's and 00's (except the Riders series which I will be checking out at a later date). My most recent completion was Colors which I enjoyed the gameplay of but dear god was the story a complete shitshow. I remember enjoying it so much more as a kid. I'm now alternating between Lost World and Forces (haven't started Forces yet but I have a few hours today where I'm gonna sharescreen with my friend and see if I can finish it in one session).