#Jumping to conclusions may be my whole thing. But I can tell when I should wait. And this feels like one of those times.

[airysthinkingbox]

okay. director time i guess even tho so many others have already done this idc. I'm not even talking about who The Director is. Spoilers under the cut. And also lazy analyzing.

Anyways. I feel like we need to be less brash on who we say The Director is or not. Maybe it's js because I'm not a parrot pov main and am js thinking of the other protags, but wouldn't they have connections to The Director too? Maybe I'm overanalysizing, but you can see the same shift in wemm and spoke's episodes as you kind of do parrot's (maybe. idk. again, I don't main watch his pov). Would The Director not also have fun torturing their other protagonists? That's three protagonists they get to throw around and beat down for fun- every author/OC creator would know. So, either: 1) wemm and spoke aren't actually protagonists, 2) The Director is different for each protagonist, or 3) The Director just. Hasn't appeared yet.

Maybe I'm js a little biased, but legitamitely that's three protagonists. Three torture subjects. So why does The Director focus solely on parrot? It just doesn't make sense to me for them to only have ties with parrot. We know all of Unstable is scripted- both in real life and.. possibly in game? We can't be certain on what's real and what isn't anymore now that we know there's just, someone behind the scenes that can control literally everything.

[oneatlatime]

The Awakening

Season 3 let's goooooooooo

These Fire Nation cells are absurdly spacious.

I do love that Momo's first reaction is kisses.

Not a cell. Oops.

Well that was confusing. I was arguing so vociferously that the SWT weren't pirates and then they go and gank a ship.

Mai girl get it! Questionable taste in men, but I love to see a lady getting exactly what she wants.

Mai: "how are you?" Zuko: *existential dread* Mai: "babe. Shut up."

Aang says he's the only one who's completely out of it, but Appa's behind him in full faceplant mode.

Actually, by the hair growth standard established by Zuko, Aang's been out 5 days at most.

Season 1 bitchy Katara is back again. I hate season 1 bitchy Katara.

I'm impressed by how much of these characters' identities is tied to their colour palettes. I see all these water tribe guys walking around in reds and blacks and I have no idea who I'm looking at.

Aang's eyes are back to brown this episode.

I love that Katara has no idea how she healed Aang. Superpowered does not mean superlearned. So much more believable than supergenius tweens.

It's the old ladies! They're wearing croissants on their heads. Why not.

This is a cool way to do exposition. A royal proclamation narrating a flashback.

These Dai Li don't know shit about loyalty huh.

SONG! HI SONG! I MISS YOU!

CORNY BABY & FAMILY! HI CORNY BABY & FAMILY! I DON'T MISS YOU! My guy why haven't you unpacked yet.

Given the welcome Zuko gets from the Fire Nation crowds, I'm thinking the exact cause/terms of his banishment were never made public? They're hyping him up like a wrestling entrance. That doesn't track with someone known to be honourless.

I want whatever's in Bato's bowl. Those noodles have him mesmerised. He's staring at them like they're telling him the secrets of the universe.

Are you telling me that Appa successfully landed on the deck of one of these ships without sinking it?

I love how Gaang's reaction to everything going wrong is to go find their dad.

STOP GOING ON ABOUT THE INVASION PLAN. IT WON'T WORK. STOP.

"Yep! The whole world thinks you're dead. Isn't that great!" Sokka. TACT.

Sometimes Sokka's brain gets too far ahead of itself.

Poor Aang. Not many people whose deaths are wrongly cause for celebration live long enough to see those celebrations.

How do the topknots fit inside the helmets?

This is silly beyond words. It's a two second throwaway gag but they're so into it.

Aang saying "I hate not being able to do anything" to the girl whose whole existence was not doing anything until recently is certainly a choice. And honestly, wasn't Season 1 Aang's whole point not wanting to be the Avatar? Actual responsible adults are handling the problems for once. He should be ecstatic.

I just realised this Fire Nation disguise ship plan means there are people in the Southern Water Tribe who know how to run coal powered ships. Neat.

One of the things I really love about Avatar is how much love they put into the side characters. This guy on the left is a nameless mook, but in the three to four lines of dialogue he gets, we see a world of political and bureaucratic headaches and a bunch of normal, humanising emotions (who hasn't been angry at that one coworker who can never be bothered to email?). The writers didn't have to give him that much personality, but they did!

Also, how often do Fire Nation ships get captured, if two pieces of bureaucracy not lining up causes this guy to jump to that conclusion, rather than think the bureaucracy messed up?

Someone in the Fire Nation has invented extra buoyant metal.

Turtleducks are scared of Azula. Turtleducks are good judges of character.

An awful lot of this episode is flashback footage.

Toph is a missile launcher. This is all I wanted out of life.

For the first time ever, Aang gets to play the role that Sokka plays in every bending heavy battle.

Since when can Katara do bending moves this big?

Sokka once again harnessing his ability to speak the opposite of what he wants into existence.

They said they passed through the serpent's pass a few days ago. Clever foreshadowing I completely missed.

Don't you love it when all your problems cancel each other out?

Aang. This is not the hill to die on. Also please don't throw tapestries around in a room with unguarded candles until you can firebend.

Wow Aang is just taking all the wrong lessons from this. And he's stealing Zuko's lines.

Turns out the Firelord is just some guy with an unfortunate goat beard.

Katara finally gets a chance to be her age, complete with nonsensical emotions and misdirected anger. I hate bitchy Katara but I love seeing her expressing the root of that bitchiness. And I love how illogical it all is, and that she acknowledges that! Emotions ARE illogical and messy!

Contrasting Hakoda winning Dad of the Year with Ozai setting off every alarm bell known to man is a choice. A really good choice. But wow. Not subtle.

I knew Azula always lied, but to her own dad/Firelord too? That's a dangerous move.

Aang. What are you doing. Stop.

Leave the door open. Peak sibling move.

In a turn of events that should surprise absolutely no one, Zuko's been played like a fiddle by his sister and is now as trapped as ever. The surprising part is that Azula thinks she can get away with lying to the Firelord too. Don't know how that's going to go for her long term.

So much for me saying the Avatar universe doesn't do ghosts. This season opener is surprisingly backwards-looking.

No offense to ghost Yue, but I think the saving the world she's referring to is the time she and a massive fishman saved the world, not strictly Aang.

How did they get past the blockade and find the right island?

I cringed at Katara's knee slide.

How are they standing on that island or breathing the air if it's hot enough to do that?

Final Thoughts

...what was that?

Seriously. This episode was a disorganised and aimless mess with the occasional gold mine of characterisation bobbing around. Did the writers not have a plan for what would happen after season 2 ended? This episode feels like the writers had as much plan as the characters did. If I was feeling charitable, I would say that this episode was a hot mess as a metanarrative commentary on Aang and the world's state, but I'm not feeling charitable. I think this episode was just a hot mess.

First, the good bits.

I liked that Sokka was very in character. We've seen before how he can run away with an idea to the point that he forgets to mind the human element. This episode's Sokka felt very much like Sokka. I liked that the beat up Sokka quota was replaced with 'Sokka dares the universe to play chicken and actually wins for once.' His optimistic characterisation this episode didn't grate like his inexplicable optimism did in Ba Sing Se, because here he has a reason to be happy. He's got his dad and a plan. Being around his dad and their people has done him good.

I like Toph the Ballista.

I like the noodle hypnosis.

I loved Katara's emotional blow up. It doesn't matter how noble or important the cause, leaving your kids for a cause is still leaving. I love that she points out how illogical her emotions are being. And I love that Hakoda creates a no-judgement-all-comfort-safe-to-rant zone for her. She's been waiting to do that for a while, and some of it came out at Zuko last episode, so it's been established that she's at boiling point. Fun fact: Katara has now had emotionally fraught venting sessions at Hakoda, Zuko, and Jet if you squint. I don't know what to make of the fact that the show has grouped these men into the same category of 'safe for Katara to vent to.'

I liked a couple of the throwaway gags, and the throwaway characters.

I liked the framing of Zuko's reintroduction to his father. Great use of angles and shadows. We've had two seasons of build up to this guy as the Biggest Bad, and the scene of Zuko kneeling in the throne room while Ozai paces around and delivers the world's most menacing praise felt big enough to be the crowning glory of that payoff. Especially contrasted to the loving father daughter reunion of equals it was interspersed with. But...

The bad bits.

Why did they immediately undermine two seasons of hype and all of the episode's menace by showing the Firelord as a gullible idiot who can't spot a bold-faced lie coming from a tween? I am legitimately pissed off that they defanged him as a threat so soon after introducing him. And I don't think showing that Azula can successfully lie to the Firelord builds up Azula as a threat - I think it also undermines her, because it's a stupid move. This episode could have introduced the biggest bad and reinforced the threat posed by last season's antagonist. Instead, it completely neutered the biggest bad and made Azula look like an idiot. I am actually mad about this.

Other stuff I didn't like: Aang's whole deal. Of course he was going to lose his mind and not be ok about what went down in Ba Sing Se. But he's never this dismissive of his friends, and a huge part of his early character is the fact that he would absolutely love it if some qualified adults stepped in and did the job he was unwillingly born into. Aang this episode felt self-centred and out of character.

Zuko's usually not this dim. I had figured out the angle Azula was going for by the end of the turtle duck pond conversation. Why can't he figure out for himself why Azula has redirected the potential blame if Aang is found to have survived?

The pacing felt off. The A plot flipped between action set pieces and emotional stuff. The B plot was purely talking. But the action set pieces felt out of place in an otherwise quiet episode. I get that you need something to interest the 8 year olds hyped up on sugar who only want explosions, but I think this episode would have been a lot better without the 'Aang almost drowns but gets a pep talk from a couple of ghosts who say exactly what everyone else has already said to him for two seasons but for some reason Aang listens this time and it works.' Why couldn't we have had a quiet episode?

Speaking of, why are Roku and Yue randomly popping up? Last time Aang talked to Roku, it took a trip into the Avatar state and the destruction of a very stupid general's whole army base. The ONLY person who's talked to Yue since she died is Sokka, and that took a magic swamp. I just don't get it. I don't get why they were there, why they said what they did, why those particular words in that particular order worked on Aang when no one else's words were getting through. I don't get why hiding out in the Fire Nation is the plan of choice over chilling with the Southern Water Tribe (other than because the plot says no responsible adults allowed).

The action piece with the Snekky Boy was fun. Even if what set it off was contrived (which it was), I think it was a fun watch and the only action the episode needed.

This episode was also so dark that I spent more time contemplating how much I really need to clean my screen than watching stuff happen.

I got so pissed off at this episode that I totally forgot about Mai. Go Mai! I am WEAK for romance arcs that boil down to 'Girl sees boy. Girl wants boy. Girl gets boy." Go Girl! Like I said above, questionable taste, but if it's what she wants, then congrats on getting it. I love Azula noticed and is like 'my resident goth appears to be broken.'

I have decided that Toph carved an underground harbour like the refugee station on Full Moon Bay and stashed all the water tribe ships in there, because those ships are too pretty to scuttle.

If I could surgically remove that scene between Katara and Hakoda and insert it into some other episode, I'd never watch this one again.

[memelleity]

lisa frankenstein sentence starters

i think it’s really peaceful and quiet.

____ says it’s a waste of time to try and fix a boy. it’s better to just accept a guy’s flaws.

i wish i was with you.

we killed two people! i could get the clink for life or the electric chair!

you have so much potential.

how will i ever repay you?

things have been moving fast, but i want that.

i know when something’s wrong.

i thought that was gonna last forever, but it didn’t, you know?

i’m okay. i’m fine. it’s okay. i’m good.

not until we bury the body.

i’m not crazy!

“time heals all wounds.” but that’s a lie. time is the wound. takes you further and further from that place when you were happy.

i want to take you somewhere that’s very meaningful to me.

you love me?

it’s okay. one step. right foot, left foot. hold my hand.

i don’t play with dolls anymore.

how about i drive, since you’re not feeling so good?

don’t tell ____ i said this, but it’s actually kind of nice not having her in town.

have you been here before?

not that kind of cure. it’s a band. they can’t make you better. i mean, they can, but… emotionally.

let’s find somewhere for you to sit for a bit, yeah?

you said sisters share.

this whole place gives me the creeps, okay?

you act like you’re happy for me and you care about me, but you’re not really happy for me.

i can never ever talk about it. for personal and legal reasons, and i also pinkyswore.

i knew. i always know. i’m an i.p. intuitive person.

thank you for being nice to me when no one else was.

what happened to your neck?

is it peaceful down there?

i don’t know why i’m talking so much. i haven’t said this many words in a row in forever.

you don’t think i should do it?

is that a rad new trend or something?

you want to be the smart one who likes cool stuff, and you don’t want your girlfriend to like cool stuff. do you know how uncool that is?!

i hate to say it, but you are either crazy or you’re just goddamned inconsiderate.

people are so afraid of death, ‘cause they don’t know when it’s gonna happen to them. it could be an axe murderer, could be the flu, but they don’t know and they hate that.

your boobs look great, by the way.

i don’t know what you’re talking about.

you fixed your bangs! you know, i wasn’t gonna say anything, they were such a mess… but you look amazing now!

i don’t think i’ve ever heard you talk this much.

how about an apology?

it just was never gonna work out between us.

i do wax rubbings of all the tombstones. i have a favorite.

how do you know my name?

i have to get, uh, dressed.

it doesn’t even hurt anymore.

why me? why must i feel so strongly?

you have no idea how scary this is!

let’s not jump to conclusions.

i mean, you don’t need one of those to be a man. it’s actually, like, the least important part, really.

it’s been a difficult day.

i don’t know how i was ever afraid of you.

i’m sorry if this is too much. i know it’s all so new.

i tell you everything.

it’s your fault we’re screwed!

i’m not afraid of death anymore.

i hate parties like this.

did you love her?

this is an active crime scene!

sorry, how do we know each other?

that was an accident.

i feel like i want to apologize for what may have happened last night.

i don’t want to die a virgin.

they’re just things that make you different.

i’m sorry. i don’t mean to be rude. i just didn’t get much sleep last night.

you’re being so dramatic.

i gotta go change my pad.

you’re a great person, ____. and i’m sorry i hurt you.

what do you think happened?

i swear, i would never do that to you.

why are you here?

um, that’s like a… it’s like a back massager.

i’m psychic. also, i think it’s gonna rain.

do you know what happens to people who act out?

that’s really weird, ____.

i love you.

who’s your favorite director of all time?

you should probably get up.

that does sound like the exact description of the hamburglar.

oh, come on. you’re not gonna tell me?

i wished i was in the ground, dead.

what is wrong with you?

you saved me.

just give it a chance.

after ____ died, everyone was in such a hurry to go back to normal. and they kept acting like i had a problem because i couldn’t stop missing her. started to feel like i was going crazy.

shit is transpiring, man.

oscar wilde said, “to define is to limit.”

oscar the grouch said, “scram.”

why didn’t you tell me?

we all have to spend more time together as a family. how can we brady if we don’t bunch?

i just don’t think anyone should be forgotten.

you know i’m usually pretty cool about things, right? but i have a bad feeling about this.

will you cover for me?

i tend to his grave and leave him flowers and… i talk to him sometimes.

you have everything! you couldn’t let me have this one thing?

is there pizza left?

i want to help you. i really do, but i don’t know how.

you don’t want to hold my hand?

i’m really sorry you got electrocuted.

[pbaz7]

Phew I was about to sleep! Excited to read!

For the past four days, she had woken up alone

- Erm what the fuck why

But each time, Azzi had given her some vague response about where she was.

- Azzi?

Don’t worry about it, baby, go to bed.” Azzi mumbled, her words thick with sleep.

- do we know Paige? Don’t worry about it is not in her vocabulary…

The next morning, Paige woke up alone in Azzi’s bed. Again.

- I hate this my tummy hurts

her throat tightening as tears welled in her eyes

- noooo p don’t cry

Paige slumped further into the chair, running a hand over her face before mumbling, “I think Azzi’s cheating on me.”

- laughed at this but also noooo the trauma

Jana and Ice burst out laughing almost immediately.

- as they should

Paige exhaled, shaking her head. “She’s been gone every morning this week when I wake up and she turned off her location for everyone.”

- Azzi we need answers now please I’m stressing tf out

Jana didn’t hesitate in adding. “Paige thinks Azzi is cheating on her.”

- welp just get the whole team to laugh at her then

There was a pause, and Azzi’s tone turned almost guilty. “I will. Just… not right now, okay?”

- I mean I’m sorry azzi but like you know her past and that’s not the most insane conclusion to jump to

Azzi let out a frustrated sigh, throwing her head back against the wall. “Fuck, I didn’t think this through.”

- I love you but no you did not

When Azzi didn’t say anything in return Caroline added, “I really thought she’d piece together you were doing something for her birthday.”

- I fear Paige’s mind wouldn’t even go there

Azzi’s gaze softened, but the tension in her chest was still there. “I’m not cheating on you. I promise. You don’t need to worry about that.”

- poor baby );

I wouldn’t survive if you cheated on me.”

- good thing she would never

And I need you to hear me when I tell you that you will never have to find out what that feels like.”

- phew

Azzi chuckled softly, setting her phone down and glancing down at Paige with a smile. “Good morning, birthday girl.”

- cannot believe Paige hasn’t clocked this

Paige pouted dramatically when Azzi still didn’t give her a kiss. “I thought it was supposed to be my birthday or something.”

- birthday kisses are the best

She had thrown on a brown set she’d just gotten from a Savage X Fenty ad

- just fainted

You see that? You made her nervous.”

- the waitress isn’t the only one

“I have to say, you two are probably the most attractive couple I’ve ever seen in person. It’s actually kind of unfair.”

- waitress threesome baiting at 7am this is crazy

- But real…

are you two looking for a third?”

- LMAO I WAS JOKING BUT SHOOT YOUR SHOT I GUESS

Azzi lets out a laugh once she realizes Paige is fine. She looks back at the waiter with a polite smile, “I respect it, but we’re good. Really.”

- blocked by Fudd

I am,” Azzi replied. “I need you to have a good back for later.”

- ITS 9AM GIRL

Paige smirked. “Just figured you’d complain about it getting wet.”

- knows her so well, except the part where she thought she was cheating on her

Paige hummed in response, unbothered. "Exactly, gotta keep us warm."

- back with that toddler logic

Paige exhaled, giving her a look. “I don’t like surprises.”

- figured

Paige clenched her jaw, looking away. She still felt bad. Really bad.

- yeah she should maybe feel a little bit bad

You forgetting I can get you off without touching you Paige?"

- oof she won

patience

- Paige and patience!? Damn

Well this is freaky

Slow down

- menace

Swear I thought I was in heaven. Had never heard anything so pretty in my life.”

- aw romantic I almost forgot what they were doing for a second

Paige let out a chuckle. “Fuck my jeans.”

- real

Paige brushed a hand down Azzi’s side. “You need a minute?”

- you did just edge her for an hour, I fear she may be ready

fuck, please keep talking.

- what happened to “you talk too much”

Maybe: Leah Caldwell.

- BITCH NOT NOWWWW

Answering the phone.”

- oof happy birthday Paige

Azzi, trying to gather herself, pushes herself up slightly, her voice still shaky. “We’re getting in the shower.”

- damn bday sex always goes crazy

Paige’s smile widens, her voice dripping with affection. “Yes, ma’am.”

- dripping was a great word choice

Ok loved this!!!!! So much!!! Like soooo much!!!! Looking forward to the next update! Hope you are well and your bed is doing ok

- 🫂🫂🫂

do we know Paige? Don't worry about it is not in her vocabulary...

literally stress is basically her last name in this

I hate this my tummy hurts

lmao not you sick to your stomach for her

just fainted

stannup

waitress threesome baiting at 7am this is crazy

lmao how you clock it immediately

You forgetting I can get you off without touching you Paige?"

- oof she won

she def won

BITCH NOT NOWWWW

😭😭.

[maskyish]

Banri's Birthday Rabbit TV 2023 - Episode 1 - "Banri's Wedding?!"

PART 1 | PART 2 | PART 3

Please note: I am NOT a professional and my level of JP is very, very basic. I do this for practice and to share with other fans for fun. Please take my translations with a grain of salt as there may be mistakes. If you see any, please let me know and I can correct them. If anyone else has this card and wants to translate this at any time then please feel free to do so!

*door opens* 

Riku: Manager! President…! 

Tsumugi: Ah, everyone! Thank you for coming! I’m sorry to have called you all so suddenly….

Riku: Is it really true that Banri-san is getting married?! 

Tsumugi: Huuh?! 

Tamaki: I didn’t hear anything about this from Ban-chan!! 

Sogo: Me neither…! 

Nagi: Is this why you’ve called us here today? 

Iori: If this is true, we could’ve made preparations to celebrate…! 

Mitsuki: Exactly, there’s no need to be a stranger! I would have made a cake or two! 

Yamato: Calm down, you guys. So…. is it actually true, President? 

Otoharu: Ahaha. This is pretty interesting, isn’t it? 

Tsumugi: Pr- President?! 

Otoharu: Well, if that’s the case and Banri-kun is getting married, what will you all do? 

Mitsuki: Of course we have to have a huge celebration! Not just with cakes, but a whole feast! 

Yamato: For starters, I’ll prepare the finest alcohol and we can have a drink. I’d like to stay up all night and hear the story of how he met his other half. 

Tamaki: ….. I’m….. kinda lonely. 

Tamaki: I love Ban-chan, and I’m happy for him, but….. 

Sogo: … I think so, too. I’d like to talk to Banri-san first. 

Riku: If he has a family, he wouldn’t be able to support us like he does now, right…? 

Nagi: Even so, we have to send him off with a smile. Just as Banri has always done for us. 

Iori: In the first place… is it really true? I just can’t believe he would keep this from us….  

Otoharu: Hmm, well, it’s not true. 

IDOLiSH7: Eh?

Otoharu: Banri-kun isn’t getting married. 

IDOLiSH7: Whaaa—! 

Tsumugi: I- I’m sorry, everyone! And President, please don’t say things that can cause them to be so uneasy!  

Otoharu: Ah ha ha. Sorry, sorry. 

Riku: Thank goodness…. I was thinking about if it was maybe with our manager or something….

Otoharu: What was that? 

Yamato: No, no, absolutely not. 

Nagi: As long as my eyes are blue, I will not allow it. 

Otoharu: I will also never allow it. 

Tsumugi: E-enough! In any case, it was just a misunderstanding. 

Mitsuki: So, what did Riku hear then? About Banri-san telling the staff he was taking time off for a wedding. 

Tsumugi: Well, that’s what I’ve called you all here to discuss today…. 

Tsumugi: Someone in the industry is holding a wedding ceremony, so Banri-san and I will be attending. 

Otoharu: Originally, I was going to go as the representative, however some work came up. 

Tsumugi: I’ve heard from the other companies that Anesagi-san, Okazaki-san, and Utsugi-san will also be going…. 

Otoharu: The wedding ceremony will be held in Karuizawa, so I thought it would be a good chance for the managers to take a vacation as well. 

Otoharu: It might be an inconvenience to everyone for a little while, but I plan to follow up with the other staff and give them my thanks. 

Tsumugi: I’ll be checking my phone from time to time, so please contact me should anything happen! 

Yamato: Haha. Well, I figured it was something like that.

Nagi: OH! But you seemed to be the most flustered, Yamato. 

Yamato: What is this guy even saying? 

Iori: I swear, you’re too quick to jump to conclusions upon hearing the word “wedding”, Nanase-san. 

Riku: Huh?! Even you froze up when I told you, Iori! 

Mitsuki: Jeez! The instant you guys realized it was a misunderstanding, your facial expressions relaxed! 

Sogo: I’m glad we know now. Manager, please don’t worry about us and enjoy your time off.  

Tamaki: Yeah! You and Ban-chan are always working hard. I got nervous when we got called to the office! 

Tsumugi: Thank you, everyone….! 

Otoharu: I’m glad. I hope all the managers can go and refresh themselves. 

Riku: Doesn’t Karuizawa have a famous gelato shop? Tenn-nii went there before while on location and said it was delicious! 

Yamato: That sounds nice. Go ahead and enjoy some sweets too. 

Sogo: I know of a few recommendations for places as well, I can tell you about them later. 

Mitsuki: Sweet! There’s a restaurant I wanted to try too, so if you’d like to go, you can let me know what you think! 

Nagi: Your happiness is my happiness. Please go and relax to your heart’s content. 

Tsumugi: Thank you very much…! I’ll accept everyone’s kindness and enjoy myself to the fullest! 

Tamaki: You absolutely have to try the local King Pudding flavor with grape mousse in it, no matter what! It’s seriously delicious! 

Tsumugi: I will! I’ll bring some back as a souvenir, too! 

Tamaki: Yaaay~! 

Iori: Yotsuba-san, please do not coerce her into buying you souvenirs so nonchalantly. 

Iori: Even though it’s already September, it’s still hot out, so please take care against the heat. 

Riku: Forget about work while in Karuizawa and just enjoy your time with all the other managers! 

Tamaki: Oh yeah! Since all the managers will be there, why not just have that party there? 

Sogo: That’s true, it might be the perfect opportunity! 

Tsumugi: ‘That’ party? 

Nagi: Banri’s birthday party! We all talked about having the yearly celebration! 

Yamato: It’s that time of the year, after all. 

Tsumugi: I see….! I’d love to help! Did you already have something in mind? 

Riku: Yeah! Actually…. 

—–––––

Anesagi: …. And that’s about it for next month’s schedule. 

Anesagi: On another note, I have my wedding coming up soon. So I’ll be away from the office for a few days. 

TRIGGER: Your wedding?! 

Gaku: Wait, wait. Are you being serious, Anesagi? Congrats! Let’s celebrate together! 

Tenn: Congratulations, Anesagi-san…. I’m really happy to hear such wonderful news. 

Ryuu: I’m happy too! She's getting married, huh…. It’s making me cry a little! 

Anesagi: W-wait a minute, you guys…. 

Gaku: So? What kind of person are they? I hope they’ll properly treasure you. 

Tenn: The entertainment industry is a unique business, so I can’t help but wonder if they have an understanding of the work you do so that it doesn’t put a burden on you, Anesagi-san. 

Ryuu: I think whoever she chose must be a good person, but there’s the smallest chance that’s not the case, right? So if you don’t mind, we’d like to meet them, too. 

Anesagi: Hold your horses! It got interesting so I figured I’d just keep quiet and listen for a while, but then I heard what you were saying about me. 

Anesagi: I’m not the one getting married, it’s an acquaintance of mine! I’m just attending the wedding! 

TRIGGER: An acquaintance?! 

Ryuu: W- what…! I’m sorry for jumping to conclusions…! 

Gaku: So you’re only attending! It was an easy mistake to make, huh! 

Tenn: Even though you were the first one to misunderstand, Gaku.  

Anesagi: Fufu. Sorry about that. Just as I was thinking you were happy for me, you guys suddenly got over-protective so it was fun to watch. 

Anesagi: But if I were to actually get married, you would be worried about me like this, huh. 

Gaku: Of course we would worry! If we’re to entrust you to someone, then they can’t be half-hearted about it. 

Ryuu: You’re our special manager. We want your partner to cherish you, too. 

Tenn: Just as you think about us, we also think about you, Anesagi-san. 

Anesagi: You guys…. 

Anesagi: Thank you. But for right now, my only love is my work so I promise you don’t have to worry about it for a while. 

Anesagi: The wedding will be held in Karuizawa, so I’ll be taking some time off and staying there, but feel free to contact me for anything. 

Gaku: Forget about work and just enjoy yourself! There’s a lot of good food there, right? Plus the air is clean! 

Tenn: That’s true. There’s a lot of quiet cafes to relax in too. Or maybe you can sit on the terrace. 

Ryuu: It’s too early for the leaves to be turning yet, but there’s still a lot of nature so please take your time and enjoy it! 

Anesagi: Fufu. Thank you. I’ll go and recharge, and when I get back I look forward to making the best work with you guys! 

—–––––

Rintaro: ….. Rinto will be absent for his wedding soon. So I hope you both will be able to send him off with a smile. 

Yuki: Sure, whatever you say. Don’t phrase things in a purposefully misleading way. Okarin is just attending a wedding. 

Momo: We already heard about it from him! 

Rintaro: Ehh–! How boring. I thought I’d get to see you guys panic, like, “What marriage?!” 

*door opens* 

Okarin: Please stop trying to get reactions from people for your own entertainment.

Rintaro: Gh, Rinto. 

Yuki: Instead of doing such nonsense, just have your own wedding. 

Momo: Aren’t you keeping your wife waiting? Hasn’t it been awhile since your registration? 

Rintaro: I can’t afford to leave a gap in my workload right now. 

Yuki: I wish you would just retire already. 

Okarin: Alright, come on now, Yuki-kun. I’ll be sure to pass along the congratulatory gift you two left with me. 

Momo: Thanks, Okarin! We wanted to go too since they’ve done a lot for us. 

Yuki: Could all our shoots be moved to Karuizawa? 

Momo: Ahaha! Even if the camera was rolling, we could take a nap under the trees with the sun filtering through. 

Yuki: I’d like to go for a month. 

Rintaro: Then, we can make it a job to have Yuki compose a song for my wedding and have the music video shot in Karuizawa. 

Yuki: Okarin, shut this guy up. 

Okarin: Idols shouldn’t furrow their brows like that…! You shouldn’t ever show a face like that on camera! And President, please stop messing around! 

Rintaro: I thought it would be nice.

Okarin: I’ll bring back souvenirs. Some sausage for Momo-kun, and some local vegetables for Yuki-kun! 

Yuki: That'd make me happy, but since it’s a rare vacation, I think you should just relax and go with the flow. 

Momo: Exactly! The managers from the other offices will be going too, right? I’m sure you’ll have lots to talk about, so just enjoy yourselves! 

Okarin: Thank you very much. There’s a lot I’m worried about, but I’ll take your word for it and just have fun.

—–––––

Shirou Utsugi: ….. So, that’s why I’ve called you all here. I’ll be going to Karuizawa to attend an acquaintance’s wedding, so I’ll be taking some time off. 

Touma: Eh?! You’re getting married?! 

Haruka: Huh? What are you talking about? 

Minami: He just told us he’s going to an acquaintance’s wedding. 

Touma: O- OH….. I see. That scared me….! 

Torao: This is why I told you that you drank too much yesterday. This guy’s head is foggy. 

Touma: Haha, my bad. Tora was drinking, and it got too lively….

Haruka: What, you two went out drinking together? This is the first I’m hearing about it. 

Minami: It seems like you two had work together yesterday, but isn’t it heartless you didn’t tell me? 

Shirou Utsugi: Umm… Are you fighting? 

ZOOL: We’re not! 

Shirou Utsugi: Is that so? Well, after a reaction like that, I look forward to seeing what kind of reaction I would get if I really got married. 

Zool: …………

Minami: He doesn’t really seem like the domestic type, but I could see him suddenly dropping a bombshell on us one day and telling us “I’m getting married"... 

Torao: Although he’s never shown us even a trace of a woman, he definitely seems to fall into the category of someone who would be popular with women…. 

Touma: I don’t know why, but it feels like he’d marry someone really famous….

Haruka: Utsugi-san is really kind, so maybe he’d be surprisingly family-oriented? I could see him cooking home-made meals on his off days….  

Haruka: ….. But, still…..

Haruka: …. It’d probably be sorta lonely. 

Shirou Utsugi: You’d be lonely? 

Haruka: No, not really, I’d just congratulate you normally!! It’s not like I wouldn’t want you to get married…! 

Minami: I understand. It’d be lonely if he had someone special besides us. 

Touma: I see… Well, when you put it like that…. 

Torao: Haha. It seems we’ve become quite attached to Utsugi-san. 

Shirou Utsugi: You guys…. Thank you. That makes me very happy.

Shirou Utsugi: My special ones are the ones who are in ZOOL. 

Haruka: …… Yeah. We know. (1) That’s why you can spread your wings as much as you’d like. 

Minami: We’re looking forward to the souvenirs. 

Torao: There’s some good stores there, I can tell you about them later. 

Touma: We’ll rabbichat you if anything happens, so right now your only job is to take a break! 

Shirou Utsugi: Haha, thank you very much. I’ll be sure to strengthen my friendships with the other managers as well. 

—–––––

End of Episode 1

TL Notes:

The word Haruka uses here has the connotation of like "we understand the feelings you're trying to convey"

[bonesandthebees]

I just rounded off my period so a massive L to all of you I suppose /lhj

I'm in so much pain about the Wilbur situation in general and have so many mixed feelings. Like I've only just got a chance to sit down and read his 'apology' and all of the replies from content creators and (ex)fans alike. I was so close to throwing up that I had to close the tab /gen.

I've never really watched Shubble content, nor have I had a chance to watch her full vod on the issue, so my first instinct was to be a good little media sieve and try to be open-minded before making an opinion. I won't lie, I was trying very hard to convince myself that it wasn't Wilbur and everyone was jumping to conclusions (though the more I read made that less and less likely).

I was worried for Wilbur's group (tommy, phil, charlie etc) because there was no way they could stream without being harassed by it, and worried partially for Wilbur as well because of various mental health problems that he's admitted to in the past.

Now that he's responded, though, everything's so much worse. As someone who struggled with being on the victim side of abuse for a while, I feel awful for Shelby and everything that happened to her.

Charlie, Ranboo, Tubbo etc have all responded (most very passionately so I have no doubt where they stand), so that's good for them, but tommy and phil have yet to. I can't help but wonder if Techno knew, if it had even started by then or if Wilbur didn't tell him.

I've seen people making reasonable assumptions about signs in past content that may have pointed to Wilbur's abuse, but there are some people making reaches that don't even make sense and now I can barely consume content or even remember videos that i used to be fond of without worrying that it was just Wilbur manipulating people.

Also, as far as I'm aware, none of lovejoy have replied to the situation (apart from the ex trumpeter), so ash, mark and joe are getting hate when they haven't done anything (though I may have just not seen it yet).

Some part of my brain is convinced this is all some horrible nightmare and I'll wake up able to laugh and joke about SBI content with my friends, even if I know that'll likely never happen again.

If there's one thing for certain, it's that his response was not an apology. I do believe that he thought long and hard about it (even if it was just for superficial PR reasons) and maybe ran it by people he trusted, but it was not what he should have said in response to Shelby coming forward about his abuse. All he's done is dig a bigger hole and now thousands of his (ex)supporters have to live with the consequences of his actions.

Honestly, I just feel sad. Sad that it happened, sad that Wilbur isn't who I thought he was and sad that my life will be drastically different from here on out.

Sorry that that was so heavy. I just feel really confused and there's a pit in my stomach that's churning horribly.

-🌺 <3

oh of course SOMEONE just had to finish their period right when the rest of us get it smh /lh

yeah, this is such a horrible situation overall. for me at least his response made the situation somewhat more tolerable because it felt like a closure moment. it made me realize, oh, he was really awful the entire time and this shit apology proves it. however, I'm sure in a few days the reality will hit me and I'll feel awful again. it's not fun realizing someone you admired and were a fan of for so long was a completely different kind of person than the guy he presented himself as.

I don't know where you heard that charlie responded, because as far as I'm aware he has not said anything anywhere about this situation yet.

I also don't think it's very worthwhile for people to be combing through old vods and videos for 'questionable moments' they can point at and be like "look he was abusive the whole time!" because we don't know what's going on in cc's personal lives. more than anything that should be the take away here. we don't know these people, we don't know their personal relationships, we shouldn't be trying to pinpoint every questionable moment and prove something with it because we're not in these personal relationships with wilbur. the other cc's are. basically, don't overthink what you see in old vods or old videos. it's not going to help whatsoever and it's none of our business.

I've also had the thought that this feels like a nightmare I could wake up from. I've had that thought every day since shelby's stream first happened. but unfortunately that's not the case, and we need to focus instead on supporting the victims here

I'm sorry there's not much I can say to help. just try to take care of yourself. give yourself time. it'll get a bit easier with each passing day.

[folightening]

Hi! Do you have any tips on writing Switzerland? I find due to his guarded-ness, he’s a bit difficult to characterize. Tysm! Hope you have a wonderful day and night! :)

So sorry for the wait. I forgot everything about how I write him when I read this ask and had to gather my thoughts into something resembling coherency. I'm also so bad at giving tips and advice, so this is more a listed look into his character.

Switzerland is a prideful, angry, defensive, guarded man who's actually a real sweetheart if you get him to lower those defenses. He sucks at giving comfort, can barely give advice, but he's a great listener. Privacy and personal space and being left alone are important to him but he can't ignore someone in need of help when there's something he can do about it. Generally standoffish with a don't-touch-me attitude, assertive, and unafraid to speak his mind. Unless that requires admitting to his softer side he guards like a high-security prison. How dare people know he cares, right? They might take advantage of him because people suck (except the ones he cares about). Contradictions abound with this man and he is so so fun to play with.

Putting this under a cut, it got kinda long and I'm not sure where I was going with some of it.

Switzerland and neutrality. There's a reputation. This is a bit more for writing nationverse, but it can easily be applied to human aus as well. He tries to be neutral. He refuses to get involved. He's aggressive about not wanting to be involved in their pointless fighting. If it doesn't involve him, it isn't any of his business anyway so why should he? And when applied to falling in love with another nation? He can't quite act the same about them...

He has a hard time expressing his emotions, even to Liechtenstein. This doesn't mean that he doesn't; he's quite upfront about how he feels. But if it's something softer? Emotions that would make him more vulnerable? He gets flustered, stammers, can't quite get it out. It gets caught in his throat and he wants to say it but what comes out is some odd, contradictory half admittance. Or it does come out and he quickly lessens what was said in the next breath. Once he's comfortable enough, he can say them. Quietly, softly, only for the recipient to hear because it isn't anyone else's business.

Getting the whole story is important to him. Rather than jumping to conclusions (he does) he tries to understand the situation before making any judgments (keyword: try, he can't help being judgemental).

Switzerland is also very opinionated. He speaks his mind with no regard for what others will think. This can turn into a lecture and/or pushing his personal ideals, all while telling people to have their own opinion. He's big on people having their own opinions and speaking their mind.

He helped Liechtenstein when she needed help because it was the right thing to do. He couldn't ignore her; he can't ignore people suffering in front of him. No one should suffer needlessly and if he can do something, why shouldn't he? He has a big heart; he's been hardened into hiding it after everything he's been through. The Red Cross also originated in Switzerland, if you fancy irl facts affecting your characterization.

Expressing emotions may be difficult for him, but he is so protective of those he loves. Liechtenstein is the best canon example of course. He can get... overly protective, but he also lets her do her own thing and trusts her to know what's best for her. But he's there if she needs him for any reason and he makes sure she knows that. Before he and Austria had their falling out, he seemed to be this way with him as well - fighting battles for him, carrying him on his back when Austria was too injured to walk. Yeah he scolded and yelled at him, but he was still right there for him. I imagine he'd be like this with anyone he opened up to. It's in his nature, he can't help but feel protective of the people he loves.

He likes his space and his privacy. Public displays of affection aren't his thing, and he doesn't appreciate having people coming right up in his space. Very much has a don't-touch-me attitude.

Giving comfort is not a strength of his. He never knows what to say, what to do. His attempts at gentler words come out wrong without the added weight of upsetting someone already upset. Awkward pats, maybe a loose hug depending on the person. He is so bad at it, but he can try. If they need to talk, he can listen. And if they think he can give them advice or otherwise help? He'll do his best and wonder what possessed them to come to him of all people.

For all his pride, flattery and praise fluster him. Unlike say Prussia, who would revel in it, it leaves Switzerland unsure how to respond. And it isn't just those. He flusters easily when it comes to matters of the heart, attempting to say... anything non-aggressive. Just admitting he likes something can fluster this man and it is adorable.

And of course, his habit of saving money. He can take this a bit far - even denying himself something by choosing the cheaper option. Convincing himself that he doesn't need it, so it's fine. I wonder what else he tells himself this with?

This is long, I'm out of thoughts, and I'm not entirely sure this actually answers your question... But there you go. I hope it's of some use. You have a pleasant day/night as well ❤️

[angy-grrr]

You have been really patient with certain asks you get. At some point if people want to be negative they can stop interacting with your posts. It makes me think it is people who want you to confirm that bkdk is done and the ship is destroyed or something. Even on twitter people are realizing that they may have been a bit too dramatic with 431 which btw was very much the leakers’ faults. Izu//ocha’s big moment in 429 was him comforting a friend which was then interrupted by the rest of the class. Whether people like it or not, bkdk was still the most developed even with Horikoshi holding back with them. I also noticed people coming really hard for Horikoshi and saying he is going to do a sequel titled ‘Beku.’ This isn’t anything that has even been implied yet. People need to realize they projected a lot of negativity into this chapter esp about bkdk bc where does it say Izuku doesn’t want to compete or that Izuku is leaving Katsuki for Ochako?

I try to! tho I am really impatient. Usually if I answer a hateful ask is to make a joke about it (like in this one), or to tell them to go away, but many times when I doubt how actually hateful towards my content it is, even if its negative, I'll try to explain myself or answer their points -and ask them to go away if they just dont like it and dont want to see it.

I was really dramatic about 431 as it made lose care for BNHA -as I dont watch nor have interest in just shonen content made to teach boys how to be hetero men, or just shonen in general at this point of my life, I just care more about the Josei and horror; it broke my heart to see them become complete strangers-, I felt betrayed and like I was never meant to read this in the first place, but it didnt help how at the time leakers spread literal false summaries (+their emphasis on wanting to stir drama and go against queer shippers, claiming this focuses solely on them becoming an actual couple + deku "beating all allegations" + katsuki and tsuyu giving love advice), and many people went wild with it, claiming the only right way to see this manga is from a cis heterosexual lense, that they were always the target audience, the ones who this manga was for. It felt so, so wrong, to love for almost half of my current life something that was said to despise so many people, including me.

The leakers are responsible for spreading false information time to time again, and disrespected the manga and everyone involved just to give us messy badly written summaries and bad translations, and I didnt understand it until it was too late.

There are many reasons to hold back on bkdk outside of "not liking it" (they are one of the most developed relationships in the whole manga, and the feelings they have for each other are clear as we have not only actions but highlighted, spelled out, confirmations of what their status is -they are the closest person to each other-, many fans of BNHA dont like katsuki so focus on him for the end of the manga to say once again how they are the closest to one another could get annoying, as we spent years with that going on), so I dont think we should jump into conclusions just bc of 431, which is pretty tame and vague to be a confirmation of a ship. We cant just believe "Beku" is a thing he is thinking about when he made these characters just start talking again after years of barely contact.

However, about the two last points, I would argue its bc this is the last content we get in a BNHA manga, so it feels like the end. If this was considered the actual ending, it would imply katsuki and deku dont compete anymore bc of the inclusion of Izuku not wanting to "play" into that dynamic when Katsuki says he was the fastest + katsuki being "left behind" before he meets Ochako, but... theres an interesting way to see this, I believe.

I talked before about Katsuki's offering being more about Izuku than about himself -a test to see if Izuku will answer with passion, a comeback about him being able to surpass him like before. From this perspective, Katsuki is worried about Izuku not taking himself into account, letting go of (or unable to express) his ambitious spirit and not understanding how he affects others in the process, how he ends up not seeing how others can want to be with him and see him as special (and want to be special to him themselves); this means that small frame of Katsuki trying to play into being competitive with him, and him answering with honesty (Iida was the fastest), means Izuku is completely clueless of what Katsuki is trying to do, bc he doesnt even think about himself in the first place.

And him "leaving katsuki for her" just makes things gayer tbh, specially bc he didnt choose to follow her or something like that -Katsuki just told him he couldn't give him a drive home, and when he saw her in the street he just told her what he literally thought -he loves everyone, but he wants to talk to her more from now on; it sounds romantic to some, but bc of his reaction and attitude it doesnt come off as him confessing nor realizing later he did so, but him being honest and being clueless. He blushes and gets embarrassed only after she fell over him for "no reason", so it doesnt really give the impression of him revealing hidden romantic love for her and getting shy about it.

[ev4ikcasswife]

very wierd that you receive these anon messages because salty never mentioned any names and never asked to threaten anyone

I did not receive the messages that were shown in the last post. Evan received them. The entire conflict with Salty took place mainly in Russian-language social media. There are points in this story where I jumped to conclusions, but I admitted my guilt for them and apologized. If I'm not mistaken, Salty mentioned Evan and me in her telegram channel (it's something like a blog in messenger, I don't know how to explain). Most likely, the person who wrote to Evan came from there.

And also a fun fact - my main complaint was that Salty didn’t make herself an infopost/dni, and then started complaining that people were sending her requests on certain topics. Many did not understand this, and began to think that I was angry with her for not liking chansaw. However, the only thing I don't like is her approach to analyzing Heathers, but for the most part, I don't care. I have no idea what Salty writes about me and Evan on her tumblr and Telegram, but tbh, again, I don’t care.

The point where I personally was wrong: Salty liked a post with an incest ship without realizing it (she didn't notice the tags). Well, I wrote about this in Telegram, and the form of my message was very rude. She wrote to me and said that she did it inadvertently. I deleted the post and apologized twice. (May 14 and yesterday).

I did not renounce the rest of my words, claims and conclusions about other topics. Besides that deleted post, I did not want to incite people to bullying in any way. Before this deleted post, I even hid her nickname when I explained this whole situation with the info post in my Telegram channel. Salty is unlikely to read this, because she blocked me, but if anything, tell her that I am sorry for the rudeness and slander that I spread about her accidentally putting like on that post with an incest ship. I'm sorry, I was wrong here specifically. I have anger issues, so I could be rude in my other messages. For this I also sincerely apologize. Tell this to Salty if u want to comfort her.

I repeat, I do not renounce my complaints about Salty’s information post and her approach to analyzing the show in any way. I 100% believe that she is wrong here specifically.The whole conflict actually began with my reblog of her post, where she told why she didn’t like Chandler/Veronica, citing arguments only from the musical. You will see my reblog if you scroll down a little on my blog. Then she started complaining in a separate post that people even talk to her about Chandler and chansaw.

Salty very willingly accepts requests, but she does not have any information post (certainly at that time) where she could write about which requests do not interest her. The question arises in the comms: “How should people who are on this account for the first time understand this?” Salty writes that this is obvious, because her blog is “entirely dedicated to jdronica.” Apparently, she doesn't know that you can love a little more than one ship*. If Salty had a dni list with unwanted topics for requests, it would not be so stupid.

Nicknames are blurred out due to the fact that these are photos from my telegram during a discussion of the situation (I already wrote that at first I hid her nickname). If you need original screenshots, I will provide them for you.

*Upd: Salty actually has drawn another ships arts, this makes situation even more...strange(?)

[fibula-rasa]

Watch More Movies Notebook: July ‘24

Favorite New-to-me Films of the Month

(listed in order pictured above, L to R)

READ on BELOW the JUMP!

Highlights and Shadows (1938)

[letterboxd | GEM]

Industrial film commissioned by Eastman Kodak made by James Sibley Watson Jr. It’s not especially common for people to watch industrial films for entertainment—though if you grew up in the kitsch-crazed 1990s US, you may be more open minded to how enjoyable they can sometimes be. Highlights and Shadows has no kitsch or camp factor (Shake Hands with Danger (1975) it is not) but it is beautifully constructed. That comes as no surprise, really, since the project was headed by Watson, who previously made the avant-garde classics The Fall of the House of Usher (1928) and Lot in Sodom (1933). Aside from the exquisite cinematography and optical effects, I appreciated the film’s shared focus on finely-engineered technology and its human element—at one point even including a shot of a janitor at work.

——— ——— ———

Sailor Moon SuperS: The Movie: Black Dream Hole (1995)

[letterboxd | imdb]

In the final film accompanying the 1990s Sailor Moon series, Chibiusa makes another weird friend. This time it’s Perle, a fairy working for an evil space queen who wants to steal the power of children’s dreams for her Black Dream Hole. This is my favorite of the Sailor Moon films we’ve watched because it has heavy Little Nemo vibes! 

——— ——— ———

A Day in Santa Fe (1931)

[letterboxd | imdb]

A charming entry in the discourse of the city symphony genre. I’m a big fan of city films, but hadn’t heard of this one before reading Lovers of Cinema this past month. Initially I wrote a whole page of notes about this film and how it sits in conversation with the films that inspired it, but decided that should be a bigger conversation for another time here on the blog! That said, A Day in Santa Fe is a often cheeky response to the urbanity of most of the other city films and, if you’re familiar with the genre, it’s worth checking out.

——— ——— ———

Bewitched Matches / Les Allumettes ensorcelées (1913)

[letterboxd | imdb]

Short part-animated/part-live action from Émile Cohl. Three girls invite a witch into their home hoping she will tell their fortunes. When their father comes home, he rudely kicks the witch out and she places a curse on his matches, of all things, which take on a life of their own.

——— ——— ———

Manhandled (1924)

[letterboxd | imdb]

Swanson was such a complete movie star. Contemporary critics of Swanson’s silent film work seemed to think her appeal was entirely based on her ability to wear extravagant outfits well, but she had the skill to do a little bit of everything. It was fun to see a film where Swanson gets to mix relatability, dramatic skill, comedic chops, and, of course, a chance to wear some wild getups. 

All in all, it was an enjoyable film and Swanson has good chemistry in particular with Lilyan Tashman and Frank Morgan. However, I did find the conflict between her and her boyfriend at the climax to be a little forced (it feels like he knows her better than to jump to such rude conclusions, no?)

——— ——— ———

Rich (1983)

[letterboxd | imdb | UCLA Youtube]

A student film by UCLA alum S. Torriano Berry and restored by UCLA graduate student Gabz Norte. What a cool project to have current students restore the work of former students! While Rich is very much a student film, I found it to be thoughtful and wholesome in equal measure. (I do have a soft spot for films shot in and around Watts tho!)

——— ——— ———

The Salvation Hunters (1925)

[letterboxd | imdb]

Josef von Sternberg’s first film as a director, which I also watched because of Lovers of Cinema. Very cool how Salvation Hunters plays at social commentary with the devices of typical Hollywood storytelling and story flow almost bordering on dream logic. In some ways it felt like a presage to Fellini’s work. In short, I loved it.

——— ——— ———

The Devil’s Dance / La Danse du diable (1904) 

[letterboxd | imdb]

Very short dance film about a little green devil (who might be fart powered?) and the visions he summons. Visual interest added by Velle shooting entirely from an overhead angle.

——— ——— ———

My Brother’s Wedding (1983)

[letterboxd | imdb | Kanopy (US)]

Watched this film after logging Rich on letterboxd, as another user had brought up this My Brother’s Wedding as similar to Rich. It’s always interesting when artists working the same time/place/industry will weigh in on subjects relevant to them in their own unique ways, but convergences and divergences of perspective emerge. Anywho, the neo-realist element was really well executed and I appreciated all the bits of character-based humour both as enhancement of the realism and as variation of tone. (TBH I was hooting every time the 30-year-old Pierce started wrassling with his elderly father! Like, it’s funny, but it also communicates where Pierce is at in his life and his dynamic with his parents!)

——— ——— ———

As always, if any of these films catch your eye, but you need specific trigger/content warnings, don’t hesitate to ask for them!

——— ——— ———

Monthly Round-up

I apologize for how informal/unedited these notes are for my favorite new-to-me films this month, but I’m playing catch up since I spent the beginning of the month ill! Said illness is also why my Salomé cosplay and essay isn’t up yet! 

I spent most of the past month researching and—though it remains to be seen if it will be for better or worse—my Salomé work will probably be in two parts. The first part will likely be up in the next few days! I ended up discovering so many interesting things behind the most commonly repeated ideas about Salomé that it would be way too much for one post!

As I mentioned in the notes above, I read Lovers of Cinema this past month and it gave me quite a few ideas for posts. One of which will likely be up this month: a watchalong a la the “Film Comedy’s Eves” post from a few months back. It’s a very accessible read if you’d like to learn more about the world of avant-garde/independent/experimental cinema of the US in the first half of the 20th century! 

Now, while I spent most of my blogging time this past month falling down numerous research holes, I did manage to put some themed gif and still sets together:

Sun, Moon, and Feather (1989)

[which I talked about in last month’s round-up]

Manhandled (1924)

Losing Ground (1982)

La Danse du diable (1904)

Highlights and Shadows (1938)

Blue Blood / Sangue blu (1914)

Lot in Sodom (1933)

——— ——— ———

Well, thank you all for your patience with the Salomé cosplay getting so drawn out, and stay tuned for part one soon!

Happy viewing!

☕Appreciate my work? Buy me a coffee! ☕

[shareaus]

Ah, so this is what the anon was talking about (I am fully assuming that the person who tagged me is the anon). I actually have a vague memory of writing that.

I have to admit, I am a little bit entertained by people taking my overblown dramatics so seriously but obviously, they have no way to know that it's overblown dramatics. That's the nature of the internet, I suppose. I have 0 hopes of changing anyone's mind or this screenshot ever disappearing, I wasn't born yesterday.

Now in all seriousness though:

I stand by the opinion that if you can't cross the road quickly you shouldn't be crossing main communications outside of designated spots. Honestly, you shouldn't be doing so even if you can do it quickly, we have laws about that. They might often be inconvenient but they are there for everyone's safety. I can't go through a town at 100 miles an hour, pedestrians should not be jumping under my wheels or blocking the road.

I hate people jaywalking on busy roads even as a pedestrian because it is not safe. Even if the car's going at the speed limit or under, we are not gods and if someone rushes out we might not be able to break fast enough. Some people exercise good judgment, most people just think "they'll break." I'll certainly try to break, I don't want to kill a pedestrian, myself or anyone in my car, but if something makes me break too hard, there's a very good chance that I, the car behind me, or the car behind them, etc. will not have the time to break in time. Or the breaking distance will be too long.

Besides, if none of that happens, there's always a chance some dickface in "great hurry" might decide to overtake four cars that "stopped for no reason" and will slam either into you or face-first into a car going the other way.

They teach us in driving schools that we are legally obliged to behave on a road in a way that doesn't endanger or restrict other people on the road and I genuinely think that should be taught to everyone not just drivers. If I run you over, regardless of whether it's my fault or not, it is still me who will have your life on my conscience because even if there were to be nothing I could conceivably have done better or safer (something you may intellectually know but might never make yourself believe) I will still have been the one driving. Even if nothing happens to you, the car behind me might run into me and they might die. Or they might push me into you anyway. I am still at fault then, because breaking suddenly and hard is dangerous.

My driving instructor used to tell us that 'the right of way' is a fun and interesting concept that we have to give but can never be sure if it will be given to us. The lawbook and traffic signs are one thing, but it matters very little whether you legally had the right of way or not when someone (possibly you) is leaving in an ambulance or a casket. Be safe, predict the unpredictable, err on the side of caution and never assume the other person is not about to do something stupid.

As for the ableism bit of this whole debacle: I do not care if you're disabled or not - a conclusion to which I arrived about halfway through writing the original tags. If you're walking slowly on a crossroad, fine. While mildly annoying if I can't see why, it is a crossroad, it is there for your use and there may be a million and one reasons for your slow pace. It doesn't matter, I've already stopped.

If you're jaywalking and doing it slowly, I also don't care whether you're disabled or not. It is dangerous for everyone, it makes you dangerous and in danger. It makes no difference to me whether you're disabled, old or just a dick, I don't see into your mind nor do I need to. You are an obstacle on the road that I cannot foresee and I will be annoyed every single time.

I freely admit that the way the original tags are phrased is not nice. The sentiment behind them is not true, or at least not true to the extent they indicate. You can take my word for it, you're free not to.

That's my statement to all of this. If someone wishes to still be angry about it, about cars in general, about the way I phrased things, about the terrible human being that I am or a million other things that I did not read in the reblogs, they're welcome to it.

Tl;dr: the og tags were needlessly aggressive, i am not looking to run someone over but some of y'all are not behaving safely on the road. Roads are, alas, for cars, and only ever as safe as the worst road traffic participant around.

At the end, op @aropride (seems to be un-taggable, or at least their blog doesn't come up), do you not think it is a dick move to screenshot someone's tags, include their name and post them without tagging the person? I am not owed your benefit of the doubt and you are not owed an explanation but this is nothing but plain gossip and mud-slinging about a person you don't know nor care about. Kindly find a scapegoat in someone with more relevance than I.

does getting behind the wheel of a car give this type of person the magical ability to know whether or not someone has a disability

[hawkins-losers]

Okay I am SO sorry if this is against your rules, it says in your pinned post their alright. I just wanna see Hoppers reaction to reader having a pregnancy scare (readers not actually pregnant it’s just a scare) (Eddie would be the ‘dad’

Again SO SORRY if this is a bad request. Please let me know if it is. I love your writing and just thought this was funny with the whole “I know how to cover up a murder” line.

This is part 2 to this fic

Warning: pregnancy scare, mention of unprotected sex

-

You were sitting on your bed, doing homework when your father's voice boomed through the cabin, making the walls tremble. The loud sound startled you, making you jump on your bed and drop your pen.

‘’Y/N Hopper! Get your ass over here this instant!’’

You scrambled off the bed and stepped out in the living area, finding him standing in only a towel around his waist and an angry expression on his face. Whatever was the reason for his anger, you were in big trouble.

‘’Care to explain what this is and why it was in our bathroom?’’ He held an empty pink pregnancy test box and your face blanched.

Shit.

You stood there frozen, out of words. You took the test while he was at work yesterday and apparently, you had forgotten to throw away the box. You should’ve taken the test at Eddie’s trailer.

‘’I…’’

‘’No stammering. I want explanations. Now.’’

Patience was not in Jim Hopper's blood and everyone in Hawkins knew. As his daughter, you were the best placed to know, having heard him shout at the jelly jar too many times in the mornings because it wouldn't open.

You tried to speak again - you couldn’t let him come to the wrong conclusion -, but the words wouldn’t come out and now he must be thinking you’re pregnant - you aren’t. You thought you were yesterday, but the test turned out negative and fear left both your and Eddie’s bodies when you saw the single bar in the test.

Instead of explaining the truth, you vomited something dumb.

‘’Oh my god! Is Joyce pregnant?’’

‘’What?! No! This is not Joyce’s. Joyce and I haven’t- why am I telling you this? Whatever is going on between Joyce and I is none of your business.’’ Hopper shook his head, having drifted from the initial subject. ‘’Don’t try to fool me! I know what you're trying to do you little minx and it’s not going to work. Why was this box in our bathroom? I don’t have…lady bits so it ain’t mine, which only leaves us one option.’’

You sighed. ‘’Okay okay, it is mine. We may have had a pregnancy scare yesterday.’’ You bit down your lip, apprehending his reaction. ‘’But I’m not pregnant, so you don’t have to reach for your gun.’’

‘’'We' as in…’’

‘’Me and Eddie!’’ you replied exasperatedly. ‘’God, Dad, who else did you think it could be?’’

‘’Wait. A pregnancy scare, you said? Meaning…’’

‘’That I’m not pregnant,’’ you finished.

You had turned eighteen a few weeks ago, getting pregnant was not in your near future plans. You hadn't even graduated yet!

Before you, Hopper let out a loud sigh of relief. ‘’Thank you Jesus! I was not ready to become a grandpa. Why didn't you start with that? You know you can always come to me to tell me thing-’’

‘’I actually can't,’’ you said. ‘’In case you don't remember, you threatened Eddie in case he would get me pregnant. Sorry, Dad, but I was scared of your reaction. I didn't want to risk anything happening to him just because of a pregnancy scare.’’

‘’I…I was only joking when I said that, Y/N. I’m not a psycho.’’

Once the conversation was over, you went to your room and called Eddie on the phone. ‘’Dad found the pregnancy test box. I thought you had tossed it in the trash,’’ you hissed into the phone.

‘’Shit. I must’ve forgotten.’’ You could hear the guilt in his voice, then it was replaced by worry. ‘’Is he coming for me? Should I hide?’’

A chuckle left your lips. ‘’No. You’re safe.’’

Eddie breathed out in relief. ‘’I’m sorry it got you in trouble.’’

‘’It’s okay. He doesn’t know that it happened three times.’’

-

Taglist: @broadway-or-noway @violetsleftfist @thelaststraw3  @cursedandromedablack  @Slashersimpfor  @savagejane1   @wh0reforbucknasty   @eddiemunson-slut   @slvdsjjk  @hehehehannahthings  @dreamdancers-world  @grace-loux  @iamharrystyleslover  @matildavol6  @Original_babababoo  @eddiemunsonbby  @notbeforelong  @lexi-2004 @violetrainbow412-blog  @tatespillows  @alwayslexii  @lilygreennn   @milkiane  @imahomeslice  @bunnygrl16 @cwritesforfun @marauders3rawh0re  @your-mom21 @parkersmyth @voguesir @milkiane @andrewgarfields-girlfriend @lilygreennn @alexxavicry @charlie-chick  @wandamaximoffs-deadchild  @horrorstreet  @rmeddar123  @Pastel-abyss-x @lil-tracys  @lanalanabanana

Eddie Munson taglist: @nighttwingg @yourfavoriteakutagawakinnie @heizenka @eddiemvunsongf @Eddie_munsons_girlfriend @magicalchocolatecheesecake @eddiemunsonistheloveofmylife @avril-reblog-cave @Fandomfaeryreads @harrys-tittie @straycatarang @fourlokiss  @eddiemattress  @ghoulishlygrey   @paola-carter @bubsonnobx @pauldanoswifereal @ofherscarlettwitchways @kiszkathecook  @truewdw1 @bubsonnobx @ohhrexella @Dreamtiara @pastelbabygirl19  @steves-robin @eddiemunsonbby @jenlouvre @bonked-beyond-belief2  @tvserie-s-world @bootlegmothman420 @courtmr @chrisxevans-seb @satinselenite @thikkiesixx  @jennilynn63  @nia-um  @welcometohellfirw @strangermarvelgirl @sugar-simz @fandomloversvaries @miakatharinaa  @julsss321 @m1rkw00dpr1ncess  @Minksblog @soph69420world  @ameliakf13  

[nalyra-dreaming]

I completely agree with what you said about the podcast. Naomi wasn't terrible, but it didn't sit well with me how she was with Sam during his episode when he attempted to explain where Lestat was coming from. She was kind of shaming him and even became a little aggressive toward him for being sympathetic and trying to explain Lestat's motivations. That annoyed me because she also doesn't seem to understand the background and nuances to TVC. You can tell Sam kind of just swallowed his thoughts and backed off which he shouldn't have had to considering he has one of the most thorough understandings of the stories and his character. We are also there to hear his perspective (along with Eric, Bailey, Assad's, and Jacob's) and she wouldn't give Sam that opportunity with some topics. She did not approach Jacob or any of the others like that. I also did not like the "professional" guest they had that said Armand was healthier for Louis because that guest was also speaking without giving reasons that were validating or justified on why she came to that conclusion. I liked Naomi in terms of asking some good questions, good chemistry with the guests, and her wittiness, but I think she and future guests should be a bit more cautious with the comments that are feeding the unhealthy dissension in the fandom stemming from the topics surrounding race. I fear some people are already going to be outraged when it is revealed Louis is definitely unreliable and the podcast may unintentionally be contributing to that if they aren't a bit more careful or do not have a better understanding of the source material.

...

OK, so, I didn't find her aggressive.

What I do agree on is that it was a bit unfortunate that she kind of glossed over Lestat's backstory there, and that is one of my main worry points with the whole thing, too, as said previously. However, in retrospect, that was probably/maybe? deliberate.

*sighs*

Probably unpopular opinion incoming.

So I... think that AMC actually likes the uproar, any uproar, because it is free advertising. In retrospect the podcast was very deliberate in the catering to show-only viewers, as said before. And in directing the expectations.

And... we... kinda jumped where they wanted us to jump, didn't we. :)))

The uproar was immense.

Trends on Twitter, trends on Tumblr.

And yes... exactly that will happen again when Armand will be... Armand. And we will get the truth of it all at some point (no, I don't think all of it has been a lie, been over that). Of that I'm quite sure.

And... what better thing than to know what will happen can a studio have? What better thing for an upcoming season than knowing people will haunt their site, refresh the bloody browser to watch as soon as it drops?^^

Just look at the writer's Twitter... the posts of them.

They so know.

They're playing us, like a fiddle :)))

And I love them for it, to be honest.

I get what you mean, I do, and it has been a wild ride. I've been blocked for opinions, had to block for actual hate.

Because... people are engaged. Emotionally connected. Passionate about those characters. I've theorized we're watching the show of the decade unfold, and I stand by that. Color-conscious, with awareness and more layers than a tree cake :) And yes, they touch on very difficult subjects. But as difficult as it all may be, fandom-wise, discussion-wise.... isn't that engagement of it a good thing?^^

[ggomos-maribat]

Petals of You

To one of my most amazing friends, a light of my life and inspiration, Robyn @the-coffee-fandom <3 I wish you a happy birthday and I hope you like this little angsty gift :3

To others, it seemed like a blessing but to her, it was a curse.

Marinette had her powers manifest at the age of five. She began seeing crimson threads, wispy and light, wrapped around everyone's pinkies. The threads would cross over, intertwine, and loop around places, connecting two or more people who were fated to be together.

Soulmates.

That was what she could see.

She wouldn't go around telling people about what she could see, of course, unless she trusted them. She'd only keep everything to herself, thinking that people didn't have to be with their fated to be happy anyway, and she'd hate a life spent on matchmaking.

As Marinette accepted her ability into her life, she started to notice soulmates who were together. She would feel a rush of happiness seeing old fated couples looking fondly at each other, shy teenagers sneaking glances at each other, and fated strangers meeting each other. One way or another, those who were soulmates would find each other in time, even without her influence.

And each passing day, she grew excited about meeting her own, smiling down at her own pinky finger with its thread loosely tied around it. Since she moved to America, the string had gotten tighter, which meant that her soulmate might be close.

Marinette looked up, hearing the bell at the door ring. She beamed, tying up a bunch of white lilies to store away for later.

"Dana! Andrew!" She greeted the middle-aged couple. "The usual hyacinths and roses?"

"Can we have red chrysanthemums for today?" Dana smiled back. "They'll look wonderful in our photos."

"Twelve roses and three red chrysanthemums, coming right up!" Marinette chirped. "How about a white wrapper?"

"That will be lovely, thank you," Andrew replied.

Even without her vision, she could tell that the two were clearly soulmates. They were regulars of hers, buying flowers either separately or together whenever they went out on dates. Apparently, flowers had been important in the beginning of their relationship, so they paid careful attention to the languages and meanings.

"Drew gave me these chrysanthemums during our third date," Dana giggled. "I kept them in a vase next to my bed."

"That's really sweet," Marinette said, plucking a ribbon from the shelves to wrap the whole thing up.

Just as she handed the bouquet to the couple, another customer entered the shop. His hair and clothes were disheveled, and his tie was loose around his neck. There was a subtle stain on the hem of his dress shirt and his shoes were frayed.

But what made Marinette freeze was the thread attached to his finger.

Which led back to hers.

Her breath caught in her throat but she tried her best to maintain her composure. She nearly couldn't hear her own voice over the sound of her beating heart when she said, "Hello, how can I help you?"

"Hi!" Her soulmate gave her a blinding smile, his blue eyes almost glittering. "Uhhh, do you have some flowers for confessing to someone?"

Marinette's smile wavered. Be calm, Mari. It might be a platonic thing right? I can't jump to conclusions. Her traitorous heart welcomed a twinge of pain. But you can't control who your soulmate will be with . . .

"Sure," she breathed out. "Err—sorry sir, I'll need more information before I can put together an arrangement."

The man raked a hand through his hair while Dana and Andrew quietly left, leaving Marinette waves of goodbye. "He doesn't even like flowers in the first place," her soulmate muttered. "Why am I doing this?"

Her hand involuntarily twitched as she glanced briefly at her own pinky. "May I suggest starting off with something light? Or do you plan on confessing right away?"

"I think we should go with that, yeah." The man nodded. "To be honest, I'm still nervous about doing it."

"I take it he doesn't really know about flower languages?"

"Probably doesn't care," he groaned. "I just want a sweet gesture. We have something, but I just wanted to make it official, you know?"

Marinette felt tears at the back of her eyes. She resisted them, refusing to break down in front him. What did I expect? That we'll meet, fall in love, and get together flawlessly?

"Subtle first, then." She shuffled to another corner to pick out the flowers. "What do you value in him? In your relationship?"

He shifted awkwardly. "We started off as friends actually. We were really close. He's . . . reliable. We've gone through a lot together and I treasure our memories." His shoulders rose and fell. "I don't know if that helps but I trust you on that."

He sounds so sincere, she thought inwardly. He must really love him.

"You can call me Marinette." She pointed to her nametag. "And let's see . . . alstroemeria and pink tulips for friendship, daffodils for joy and new beginnings, white carnations for faithfulness and pure love."

As she spoke, she took the flowers one by one, ignoring the string between then fluttering idly.

"Tim. You can call me Tim," said the man. "Thank you so much. Should I come back to get a different bouquet next time?"

She fidgeted with her fingers. "I'm sure he'll appreciate that already. But if you want to express a deeper love, you can come back if you want."

When he held the bouquet close to him, Marinette found the colors striking against him, contrasting against his eyes

"I'll definitely come back," Tim promised, handing her the cash plus a generous tip.

As he walked to the door, Marinette watched their string lengthening, phasing through the walls until it was pulled tightly once more. After checking that no one else was around, she rubbed the wetness from her eyes and went back to work.

---

Marinette gently placed a bouquet of daisies inside a vase. She barely got any sleep in the recent days, with one boy plaguing her mind and all her time devoted to working at the shop. She put a palm on her mouth to cover an incoming cough and found a stray yellow petal wedged between her fingers, probably from the daffodils she worked on earlier.

Was I too busy to notice that it got there?

Sighing, she wiped her hand on her skirt to brush the petal off. How evil, for me to find a daffodil of all flowers. It just had to be a symbol of unrequited love.

The bell at the door chimed and Marinette felt her string being pulled. Her eyes momentarily widened at the sight of Tim, looking tidier than when she last saw him.

"Good morning!" He waved a little, coming up to the counter. "Marinette, right?"

Why did her chest twist painfully when he called her name?

"Hey, Tim," she said softly, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "How were the flowers?"

He grinned. "Kon loved them. He won't admit it to my face but he definitely loved them. That's why I'm here to get another bouquet."

"I'm glad to hear that." Am I, really? "What will it be this time? Are you guys officially together?"

"Not just yet, that's why I need to make one more move. Oh by the way, here's something I picked up as an extra thank you for helping me out last time." Tim pulled out a coffee cup from a paper bag, setting it down in front of her. "Sorry, I wasn't sure what you liked so I got something sweet."

Astounded, she stared at the steaming cup in front of her. Why does he have to be so kind?

"Thank you. You didn't have to." She flushed. "And I love coffee in any form."

He put a hand on his chest. "That's a relief. I'm a junkie myself."

"For the next bouquet . . ." Marinette took a sip from her drink. The frothy milk was heavenly, coupled by the sweet caffeine. "What about something more classic? Red roses—twelve of them to be exact. That number is a declaration of love."

He hummed pensively. "I wouldn't want to be too cliched though. Is there anything you can add to the roses?"

"What about three stalks of sunflowers, for adoration and loyalty?" Marinette offered.

"That sounds great! Can I have a really big bouquet?"

Tim came back regularly after that. She'd suggest combinations of different flowers adhering to him and Kon's love and friendship and often, she picked out the freshest and brightest flowers out of her stocks. While she wrapped up his bouquets and attended to other customers, they would chat with each other about themselves and the meanings of flowers.

She would tell him the meanings of each of the flowers she sold him. Lunaria for honesty and sincerity. A protection plant. The reddest of jasmines for romantic love, sprinkled with yellows for optimism and happiness. Delicate carnations for admiration and gratitude.

Tim would remember all of it. He was keen in being fluent in the language of petals, and even picked out a combination of his own as a gift for one of his friends for their birthday.

And Marinette was just as eager to talk to him, nevermind the tugs in her heart and the swaying of their thread in the corner of her eyes. She found him charming. Adorable. Witty. Easy to talk to. She could see them growing close, clicking together perfectly if they had the chance outside of her work.

But in the end, she knew she was only a flower shop worker to him. Every morning, she'd wake up seeing petals next to her on the pillow, not acknowledging where they came from or how they got there. She'd only sweep them away out of sight before coughing a fresh batch.

One day, Tim came to pick up a bouquet he pre-ordered in celebration of one month of being with Kon. As Marinette put the flowers on the counter, she also brought out a smaller bunch, tucked away daintily in a decorative basket.

"What's this?" Tim raised an eyebrow.

"Just a little freebie." Marinette clasped her hands in front of her. "We had some extra flowers lying around and I figured you could use a bouquet of your own."

"It's beautiful," he marveled, carefully picking up the basket. "Does it have flower meanings?"

She laughed nervously. "I just put together random ones, regardless of the meaning."

It was a lie.

She had arranged that basket deliberately, pouring her unspoken emotions into each of those flowers in hopes of easing the dull pain she felt. Yellow acacia and gardenias for my secret love. Forget-me-nots so you could remember me from time to time. Calla lilies for my unreturned devotion. Lily of the valley shaped like tears. Buttercups for my naivety.

"Thank you so much." Tim smiled softly. "No one has ever given me flowers before. Ironic, I know."

Her voice cracked. "Thank you too. Those flowers are better off in your care."

---

A couple weeks after giving her bouquet, Tim brought Kon to the flower shop. He was exactly like how Tim described him: rough-looking, leather jacket, piercings, cropped hair. She stopped watering the potted plants the moment they came in.

"So this is where you get your flowers." Kon looked around, hands buried in his pockets.

"Yup," said Tim. "Hey, Mari, this is Kon."

"It's nice to finally meet you. Tim told me a lot about you." Marinette hoped her smile wasn't stiff when she shook hands with the tall boy. Looking down on their joined hands, she noticed something.

Kon didn't have a red string.

She blinked a few times just in case she was only seeing things. But it wasn't a trick or illusion. Kon wasn't bound to another by fate at all.

This kind of occurrence wasn't the first for her. If a living being wasn't technically born 'human', they wouldn't have a string attached to them. She had observed this in some sentimonsters who paraded as real people during her time as Ladybug. But still, she didn't know what Kon was, and she didn't have any intentions to pry.

"Good things, I hope." Kon eyed Tim, who rolled his eyes.

"I suggested we put together our own bouquet today," Tim told her.

"Sure! We have a selection over there. Feel free to pick out the flowers and I'll put them together for you." Marinette gestured to one of the walls, feeling a lump in her throat again.

"Taking this as a chance to show off your flower language skills?" Kon nudged his partner.

Tim scoffed. "I'm an expert now! Watch me."

Tim interlocked his fingers with his boyfriend's, dragging them over to the array of colorful flowers. Marinette looked away when they started whispering to each other, exchanging teasing but fond gazes.

She busied herself with wiping the counter and thinking. If Kon doesn't have a soulmate  . . . maybe I could . . . ?

She hadn't done it before, but she knew she had the ability to. The thought of taking things to that direction scared her, fear injecting right down to her fingertips. But if I want to make them happy . . . if it will make Tim happy for them to be together in the realest way possible . . .

Marinette glanced at the couple again. They were irrefutably in love, absolutely perfect for each other. It would only bring her grief if she didn't take the step she needed to. Maybe I'd still have a chance to find someone else, right?

She gingerly lifted her hand, looking at the string that connected her and Tim. She pinched a part of it between her thumb and index and pulled, severing the string completely. Her hand went up to her lips to give the thread one last goodbye before she blew it towards Kon's direction.

It worked like magic. The lost thread immediately wrapped around Kon's pinky, giving him a fated one, an eternal connection to Tim.

Meanwhile, tiny flowers began to bloom at the base of Marinette's finger. Flowers only she could see.

---

Tim entered the coffee shop with a skip in his step. He was on this way to work and decided to stop by the flower shop to bring Marinette coffee. But when he slipped through the door and past a small crowd inside the shop, it wasn't Marinette who was manning the counter, but instead it was an elderly lady.

"What can I get for you dear?" The lady asked with a sad smile that couldn't reach her eyes.

Tim scanned the pre-ordered arrangements prepared on the counter and shelves. Lilies. Chrysanthemums. Gladioli. Orchids. Aren't these funeral flowers?

"Sorry, is Marinette around? I brought her some coffee," he said sheepishly.

The lady's smile quickly fell at the mention of the girl. Her eyes locked on the ground. "Marinette is . . . Marinette's not working here anymore," she replied quietly. "She passed away two days ago."

Tim almost dropped the coffee cups. Marinette? Gone? Without a word? Was there an accident? Was she caught up in a Rogue attack? He swallowed. "Can—can I ask what happened to her?"

The old woman's lips pursed together, irises glistening. "We don't know. She passed in her sleep and the doctors found nothing. She wasn't sick at all before that except for a mild cough."

His hands went cold. No, there has to be some explanation. With a hitched breath, he looked at the flowers for mourning decorating the shop. It's all for her.

"Our regular customers ordered lots of flowers. They loved her so much, that sweet girl." The woman dabbed her eyes with a handkerchief, touching a branch of a fake plum blossom in a pot next to the register. "Would you like to offer some as well?"

"Ye—yes." Tim cleared his throat, still stunned by the disappearance of his friend. "Some marigolds and pink carnations, please." 

Taglist: @tinybrie

On AO3

[xtinyslip]

bejcwcled​:

“sometimes people lie for that reason, to tell their partner what they want to hear. it’s not that out there of an idea.” loki defended crossing their arms. he was starting to believe more that mobius was honest with him. it didn’t feel like he was being lied to right now. he tapped his foot waiting for answer when mobius hesitated again. this was why he had his suspicions in the first place, all the filtering of mobius’ words. “well why couldn’t you just say that? instead you act so secretive about your relationship with her. i can’t help but jump to conclusions.” and then the variant got mentioned again. probably the only being he really should be jealous of when it came to mobius’ affections. “i didn’t- i’m sorry that it’s my fault you lost your friend. i really messed things up for you there didn’t i?” it wasn’t even really him who did it but he felt guilty for messing up mobius’ life, for complicating it to this degree. “and just being close to her is enough to cause all this? he’s that jealous? no, no i can see that. you really were just friends? you never- i’m probably overstepping but you never considered being anything more?” hearing it all aloud now it felt so stupid jumping to those conclusions, assuming that mobius had lied to him. he had let himself be manipulated, his fears of again being second best used against him. “she can still pin it on me. i gave her evidence to do just that. odin i was so stupid. she’s angry with you? what did you do?” he had a bad feeling mobius had managed to gain another enemy in town. “and that won’t upset you? me needing some time to myself?” he asked hesitating to reach out and take the tickets. he feared doing so would mean ending this thing between the two of them.

@xtinyslip

“i’m done with all the lies. god knows i’ve had enough of them.” it practically felt like his whole life up until the point he had meant the other variant of loki had been a lie. he didn’t remember life before the tva and the tva was just that. bullshit. “because… because it’s not easy for me to talk about loki. i thought we’d cleared all this up. i had no way of knowing someone was going to tell you that crap.” mobius got his point and he was hesitant to discuss ravonna but not because he was pining after her or whatever people were making his partner think. no, the being pruned kind of took most of that away. “what? no? come on? i didn’t say that. first of all it wasn’t you – you don’t owe me an apology for anything and… and… your variant saved me as much as i think i saved them. i would still be at the tva under their crappy illusion if it wasn’t for your variant.” oh, it had done more than mess things up for mobius at the tva but it wasn’t a bad thing. “you’ve met the guy loki... yeah, he’s that jealous.” perhaps loki hadn’t seen that side of him by loki had never been close with his wife but mobius had. mobius had the brunt of it. “we were just friends. there may have been moments when were in her office together where... the thought was there but we never did and i’m glad. i’m glad we never crossed a line, that we were just friends.” mobius didn’t know how else to say it and perhaps it sounded like more than what it was. it was difficult to explain what the tva was like without someone experiencing it for themselves. especially for as long as he had. “im pretty sure that woman’s angry with everyone.” he shrugged, unsure of whether he should come clean now. “i don’t want to tell you anything that might get you into trouble.” because pruning scott lang? no, it had been by far the thing he wanted to do but he hadn’t had a choice. mobius let out a sigh. yes, it would upset him but only because he was worried about what it would mean. would this be finished before it ever really got a chance to start? he really, really hoped not. “i planned this whole thing for you. it’s only right you go. if you go down to the docks and say my name? they’ll be expecting you. you should go.” @bejcwcled

[stargazer-balladeer]

S/o’s birthday but locks themselves in their rooms because they don’t feel special [Genshin Impact]

Characters Included: Aether, Childe, Diluc, Kaeya & Venti.

Notes: Ayeeee! Since it’s my birthday today, why not make this? :))) I actually got carried away 🥲 this is around 3.5k words in total. Hope ya’ll like this!

Reader’s Gender: Neutral (tho i think there’s a slight implied female hehe…)

Warning: probably some swear words here and there knowing me- and mild suggestive themes in kaeya’s part 

[albedo, scaramouche, xiao]

Aether remembers your birthday more than he knows his- like srsly, he’s the kind that remembers his s/o’s bday more than his. He’s also the kind that celebrates it privately unless you want to celebrate it with others, which he doesn’t mind. He might have a hard time deciding what kind of gift you want, but sooner or later, he already has one (or multiples bc he can’t decide-). 

Imagine his confusion when your day finally arrives but he can’t find you anywhere, even Paimon, who was excited to celebrate your bday (“oohh~ I can’t wait to eat the cake!” - Paimon), seems confused. Probably the culprit in planting worry in the travellers head as she jumps to conclusion that you might’ve been kidnapped. 

Luckily, he checked your house before he could report it to the knights of Favonius or the Qixing (like any normal person should do really-). When he received no reply, he takes out the spare key you gave him and entered your house, an invasion of privacy he knows but it's an emergency- 

Knowing that you’re in your room when he can’t find you downstairs, he knocks on your bedroom door softly while calling your name. Imagine his (and Paimon’s) relief when the door cracked open. Immediately engulfing you into a hug, he lets out a sigh of relief. He then proceeds to ask you what you were doing inside your room when it’s your birthday. His heart literally broke when you stated your reason. Tightening his hold around your figure, he smiles bitterly, knowing that feeling all too well..

“That’s not true. None of that stuff is true. Everyone deserves to feel special on their birthday, most especially you. We’ve brought some food, and cake of course. Also some gifts from other people. If you want, do you want to celebrate it with just the two, or rather three, of us?”

You, who was a literal angel in his eyes deserve the world. He honestly wants to find whoever put that idea in your head but that was reserved for another moment. For now, his main priority is your happiness. Guiding you downstairs where Paimon was (she left when aether hugged you, knowing you two needed privacy. also the cAKE-), he watches as your eyes sparkle at the sight of the cake. 

Grinning softly he made sure you had fun with your birthday. Even though it would be more fun with more people, it feels more special if it’s celebrated with just the two of you. Staring you with pure adoration as you laughed merrily at the sight of Paimon stuffing herself with food. He couldn’t help himself but lean forward to place a kiss on your forehead and then on your lips, leaning back with a smile on his face. 

“Happy birthday, my love. May many more to come. Maybe next time, we can invite other people. Though I don’t mind if we’ll celebrate it with just the two of us only-” And Paimon! Don’t forget about Paimon!” “Yes yes. And Paimon.”

Similar to Aether, he would most definitely remember your birthday. After all, it holds a special place in his heart, alongside his family. And since this boi is rich af, he would most definitely try to spoil you on your birthday. Piles of expensive (or just cheap yet meaningful) gifts, reservation to a high-class restaurant in Liyue Harbor, and all that glamour. 

Actually, he didn’t find it odd that he didn’t see you immediately, thinking that you overslept or just relaxing in your house. But he soon finds it weird when it’s already around 3 in the afternoon and no sign of your face in the crowd, something he raised a brow at but shrugged it off. It isn’t until it’s almost the time of the reservation he made when he finally realized what’s going on. 

When he arrived at your house, dressed in a suit similar to Zhongli except it’s entirely black and white, waiting for you to come out. After a couple of minutes, he soon got concerned and decided to enter your bedroom through the window (pls do not do this at home). Startled at the sudden appearance of your handsome yet cheeky boyfriend, he stares at you with eyes asking the questions he didn’t dare to tell. 

Knowing he will get his answer one way or another, you decided to tell him about your dilemma. After you finished explaining yourself, silence surrounds you, which is quite worrisome since your boyfriend is known for his rather talkative behavior. Blinking in surprise at the sudden embrace of the 11th Harbinger, his hug was rather tight but not too tight that it cuts your oxygen. Speaking in a low, faint voice, a surprising feat for him, you can make out what he said as clear as day. 

“I’m sorry. I should’ve noticed it sooner. I was trying to be a perfect boyfriend for you but I guess I failed in that aspect. You know, if you feel like you aren’t special enough to celebrate your birthday, then what about me? Me who stained his hands with the red blood of his enemies, always engaging in a fight, clashing with other blades. Insecurity is really an asshole huh? Let me make it up to you now. Let’s not anymore go to that stupid high-class restaurant, c’mon, up you go. You better dressed comfortably when I come back or else…”

Leaving you quickly before coming back immediately, this time in more comfortable clothing rather than the stiff suit he wore earlier. This time as well, he entered your house normally through the door. In his arms, he was holding a bunch of stuff and proceeded to dump it on the living room table. It was different kinds of movies in different genres, you spotted some of your favorite movies in them (makes you also wonder where he got these from since you don’t remember seeing these in the room he stays-).

He would suggest making a pillow fort, and while making the pillow fort, he proceeded to smack you with one. Which ensued a pillow fight between you two. It successfully made the both of you a laughing mess by the end, filled with feathers. Childe then carries you bridal style to the incomplete pillow fort and starts the movie you chose. Placing you in his lap and placing his head either on your shoulder or head depending on your height, cuddling you from behind tightly with a contented smile on his face. 

“You know what? This might not be how I envisioned how your birthday would go, but I’m not complaining. Happy birthday, comrade. My most adorable and most cutest and only love. I love you so much that you’ll be the very reason why I die so suddenly. So stop being so cute okay?” 

(You two are living together in this one.)

Diluc has the probability of forgetting your birthday due to his busy schedule, especially if it’s starting to rise when your birthday draws near. He might neglect you for a couple of days, too engrossed in his work. When the day finally arrives, it completely leaves his mind. Like he’ll think of it as a completely ordinary working day. It isn’t until one of your friends told him to send you their birthday greetings that he remembered. And oh boy does he feel guilty, like srsly, he literally froze when he realizes what day it is today. And you know what that means? ✨Panicc✨

Honestly, I can see him buying the whole store XD. In the state of panic, his common sense just leaves him completely that he ends us buying practically the whole store. It would be sent to the Dawn Winery immediately as he buys some flowers from Flora, who also sent you her birthday greetings, which made him more guilty-

When Diluc steps foot inside the manor, he tries to search for you outside the gardens where he usually finds you but when he doesn't, he gets worried. Asking the head maid immediately about your whereabouts, and his concern and worry (and guilt) grew even more when he finds out that you haven’t gone out of your room. He quickly went to your shared room, with the flowers still in his hands, and knocked on your door. Calling your name softly and asking for permission to enter, when granted he entered the room as quickly as possible. But seeing the sight of you bundled up in your blanket made his heart crack.

Placing the flowers at the bedside table, he quickly made his way in front of you and kneeled down to meet your eye level. You can tell he was very worried about you with how frantic his eyes seem and the concern underlying it. With the way he was staring at you, you can’t help but spill your insecurity to him. The reason why you were hiding in his room rather than go out to celebrate your day of birth. Every word you spill made his heart break even more. Seeing tears started to leak from your eyes, he placed his two hands on your face wiping away the tears with his thumbs. Smiling at you gently and placing a kiss on your eyelids and on your nose.

“I completely understand, my love. Even I sometimes feel that way. Also to the point where I don’t want to celebrate my birthday even, but that won’t do my love. You are so special, you deserve your special day to be well special. If you want to simply lay here and sleep, then so be it. If you want to go out and do something, then I’ll happily oblige. Let’s obliterate those awful thoughts, and if those keep persisting, I’ll slice them up for you. I’ll keep picking you up when you fall. So, what is your command, my love?” (i'm so tempted for him to say master-)

Whatever your answer may be, one thing for sure, Diluc is seen smiling adoringly at you. Even the maids noted how soft the master is around you, particularly today. Whether curled up together in the bed, with him embracing you tightly to his chest and placing a kiss on top of your head. And if you listen carefully, you can hear him quietly humming a tune that his father (or mother) sang to him. Or you two outside in the garden, simply admiring the view with his hand around your waist. 

Either way, at the end of the day, he would wake you up or make you go inside for dinner. You haven’t eaten breakfast or lunch yet so you’re probably hungry by now. If you don’t want to leave your room or want to return to your room, he would understand and make the maids bring the food to you. When the maid(s) finally arrives with the food, you notice the cake on the tray. Looking at him as he chuckles, taking the trays from the maids. Humming a light tune, he scoops a spoonful of cake and holds it to your mouth, with a slight smirk on his face, eyes twinkling with mischief. 

“Stop staring at me like that, did you really think I would let the day go by for you to not celebrate your birthday properly? From what I know, birthdays have cakes in them, whether a huge cake or a cupcake. Say ‘ahh’~... Happy birthday my love. May next year be more enjoyable than now.”

Kaeya remembers your birthday like the back of his hand, I think he’s even more excited than you really. Eagerly awaiting your birthday as he counts down the days, dropping hints and stuff to you birthday-related, and probably plans a birthday party for you. The knights immediately agreed on it, including a certain bard, traveler, and wine master (albeit more hesitantly). He made sure that this party would be successful, constantly checking on the plans and such. To the point that everyone was practically fed up with his constant questions. But they understand that he wants this to be a successful and enjoyable party for you. It got to the point where Diluc kicked him out of his Tavern after asking for the umpteenth time. 

When your day finally arrives, he was practically beaming with joy and excitement. To the point where he can’t hide it behind the cool and suave facade he wears. He quickly made his way to you, going along with the plan of distracting you as they started to prepare for the party. In his total excitement, he didn’t notice the rather gloomy atmosphere around the house. But when he arrived at your door, that is when he noticed how quiet your house is.

Now albeit worried, his excited smile slipping from his face and now replaced with a worried frown, he knocked on your door, calling you in his usual teasing voice. When he didn’t hear your response, the bubble of anxiety appeared in his body. Twisting the knob and finding it unlocked, he quietly and carefully opened the door. Seeing your back immediately, seeing your side rise and fall making him sigh in relief that you were still alive. Closing the door gently but made a noise to alert you of his presence. Taking a seat behind you, he ran his cold fingers on your back, watching you arching at the sudden coldness of his fingers. Smiling slightly, he asked what’s wrong. 

Turning around to face him, you buried your face on his chest, inhaling his strong masculine scent. Instinctively wrapping his arms around you, he played with your hair with one of his hands. Tapping on your head slightly, beckoning for you to answer his question. With no way out, you decided to come clean. You explain how you feel like you don’t feel like you deserve to be treated as special on your birthday and all that sort. His face was void of emotion as he stared at the ceiling with his unique pair of blue eyes. Outside he might seem emotionless. But inside, he was on the brink of insanity. Who dares to put such an idea on his s/o’s mind? Why would you think of that? Was this insecurity of yours also his fault?

“That must be the most stupidest thing I’ve ever heard. You’re not special? Please. Don’t try to make me laugh with that joke ‘cause it’s not funny. You are a jewel, a star, a constellation. As rare as the gems, or rather visions. You can even rival the very sun with your smile. I know those demons in your head keep saying those words to you, the temptation is so tempting, right? Just succumbing to them to make them quiet. But that’s why I’m here, my dearest snowflake. I’m here for you. You’re so special to everyone, most especially to me. You mean the world to me. Anyway, enough of this tear-jerking stuff, we have a party to celebrate. And we can’t celebrate it without the birthday gal/guy now can we?”

Despite your protests, he lifted you effortlessly and carried you outside and into the dawn winery where the party was held. Placing you on the ground and pushing you forward where people from Mondstadt came and greeted you with happy birthdays. Smiling at the sight of you being overwhelmed at the warm greetings, and then chuckling at how bright your face became. Diluc nudges him to you, beckoning him to help you before returning to what he was previously doing (most likely trying to force a bard to not finish all the wines in the vicinity).

After a while in the party, Kaeya brings you to a secluded place with no people for air. Being in a party filled with people could be suffocating at times, especially if you’re not used to it. He intertwined his hands with yours and bends down to meet your eye level (or leans down if you have the same height as him-). He gives you a cheeky smile and proceeds to place a peck on your lips. Chuckling when you pouted and glared at him, wanting more kisses.

“My my, what a greedy vixen~ But it is indeed your birthday so I guess I have no choice but to oblige to whatever my birthday vixen wants me to do. Would you like me to strip as well? Haha. Kidding kidding. Happy birthday, princess/prince. May many more to come. Oh! I forgot. I heard from a certain birdie that you ordered for a personal performance from me~ would you like to get it now?” 

Since we all know that Venti practically doesn’t do anything like every day, I would safely say that he would remember your birthday. Probably save some mora to buy you a gift for your birthday, even though it’s not as fancy as the people in Liyue (they all rich kids-), it’s still meaningful. He probably made a bracelet all by himself with the beads he either bought or also made by himself. Nevertheless, he was as excited as Kaeya for your birthday. Already prepared songs to sing for you when that day comes. 

Venti immediately searches for you when the day finally arrives, but his excited and bright smile vanishes when he can’t find you in the crowd of people. Raising a brow at your sudden disappearance, he searched for you everywhere, the tavern, the church, the headquarters, everywhere but your house. So when he finally arrives at your house, he was filled with worry and concern. Entering your room through the window like usual, he sees your figure sitting on the floor while reading a book.

He pouted at the sight as he made his presence known by asking you why you were here and reading a book on your birthday. He watches as you jump from where you are and turns to look at him, sighing at the sight of him. He slowly made his way to you and sat next to you, his legs sprawled across the floor. He takes note of the food around you, which was non-birthday festive, it was just ordinary food. Not understanding why you’re sulking in your room, he asked you what’s wrong. 

Venti’s eyes widened at your explanation, feeling the sadness leaking at the words you said. They weave themselves around his heart, squeezing it, making him have a hard time breathing. He shares your pain. He was your soulmate after all. He immediately engulfed you in a hug, stuffing his face on the crook of your neck. You were so vulnerable in his eyes. You were so fragile. He desperately wants to protect you from the pain. But looks like he can’t protect you from your own demons. 

“Even though I promised myself to not say or do anything that’ll make you sad, I just need to get it off my chest. I’m sorry you had to suffer through that, those demons that a simple bard that weaves stories into songs can’t erase. Alright, no more feeling sorry for yourself. It’s time to get out and spend the rest of the day enjoyable, perfect for my precious Cecilia.” 

Without any warnings, he picked you up and jumped out of your window. Shrieking at the sudden fast pace, you instinctively wrapped your hands around him as he landed on the ground. Giving you a smug smile while saying “didn’t think i’d let you fall now?” Please slap him. Anyway, he laughed at your aggression and continued to run. Even if you ask where you’re going, he just says it's a secret. So might as well enjoy being in his arms as he continues to run (you swear you can feel the wind adding to his speed but that was just maybe your imagination-).

After a while, he placed you down and you realized where you are. It was Starsnatch Cliff, surrounding you were Cecilia flowers. Venti jumped on you, making you fall to the ground as he giggles. His hat flown back from the force of his sudden attack, he still has that stupid big smile on his face. Since his laughter is contagious, you couldn’t help but laugh alongside him. His eyes glistened with delight at the sight of your smile finally. Grabbing your hand and placing the bracelet he made, he pressed a kiss on your knuckle.

“This bracelet shall be a promise from me to you, a fellow bard to the fairest queen/king. I shall love you for eternity, this heart will only beat for you, and this body belongs to you. If you’re in dire need of assistance, don’t hesitate to call me. I’ll be there, forever and always. Happy birthday, my sweet flower.”

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