#Jungle TV Dinners

[jackbatchelor3]

🌴📺🍽️

[karlachismylife]

Spot on the Mark || The Queen of the Clan pt.5

CW: fem!chubby!reader, mentions of animal marking/pasting, some piss mentioned again, dead animal mentioned (no descriptions).

A lot more work goes into a wildlife documentary than you thought. It was obvious that it’s not as simple as just grabbing good quality cameras and riding off into savannah blindly, but the amount of tricks and different ways to get enough shots for a compelling and educational storyline you’re learning about seems infinite: from studying animals’ trails and routes of migration to hauling senior operators up into the trees to film fluffy and feathered stars of the future documentary as up close as possible without disturbing their natural peace.

These people have done it time and time again, telling you about the months-long stakeouts on bigger productions, the ones that can afford to simply wait every day for an animal to come and do what the script requires; the masking of carefully placed hides that can still be not enough to trick a smart bird into thinking it was all alone and perform a beautiful mating dance; the difficult hikes that test everyone’s endurance and result in barely ten seconds of footage in the end cut. You can’t help but feel excited yet intimidated when your turn comes to participate in one such trick, intended to shorten the waiting time your smaller production just can’t afford.  It’s not that difficult, but it’s smart and elegant – at least in your opinion.

This is how you find yourself stuck in your Rover with Kir, wrapped in a small blanket for additional warmth, while he meddles with the sound equipment: speakers mounted on the hood of the car and a knot of wires connecting them to a laptop, screen covered up with a scarf to muffle its light. You’re holding your night vision camera pointed at a spot just several meters ahead, a fresh carcass placed under a tree to attract a carnivore, two more cameras planted at different angles on the ground and one more strapped to a branch right above the “dining table”.

A switch clicks, and the night fills with triumphant hyena whooping, a whole cacophony of different voices celebrating a kill. This is a dinner bell for lions – no matter what the public’s perception is, it’s often the big cats coming to steal hyenas’ fresh kills, not the other way around. You hold your breath, misty clouds of steam coming out of your mouth dissipating in the loud, poorly lit night. You wait.

Time doesn’t stretch as much as you would think. This isn’t a boring, monotonous wait of a text back in a stuffy big city apartment, the only “wildlife” sounds seeping through the closed windows – revving engines of nighttime dumbass street racers or neighbours yelling at each other over hysterically loud TV.

Compared to what you’re used to, savannah seems peaceful. Somewhere in the vast darkness big predators avoid each other’s paths, unwilling to start unnecessary fights. Grass rustles in a rhythmic pattern as little springhares jump through the night, stopping to glance at the huge, imposing shadow of a human car just once and continuing on their way. The wind breathes quietly and calmly with the cooling ground, welcoming a lively picture of a complex system, each part of which is perfectly in tune with others.

You feel like you could be a part of it – like it’s a place you can actually belong to, care for and be taken care of in return, unlike the constant hectic hostility of a city. They call it concrete jungles, but none of the brutal ways of nature you’ve witnessed in the wild so far can compare to the ruthless, pointless cruelty human kind inflicts on itself and everyone else.

There is a hopefulness inside you that was completely snuffed out previously, and it sounds like a smooth, lulling chirping of insects hidden in the wet grass.

Loud baboon yelling alerts you before you manage to clock any movement or hear an animal approaching your little spectacle. Insane luck. Before gluing yourself to the camera, you glance at the time and it’s barely an hour after you put the recording on – it’s hard to contain your excitement, but you manage to keep your hands steady as you scope the area in search of your guest. Kir shifts in his seat next to you, picking up his simple night vision binoculars and following the same trajectory as your camera lens.

When you see a distinctive hunched silhouette sniffing at the bait, you almost feel the tiniest bit of disappointment – no lions today, huh? – that quickly gets replaced with surprise.

The hyena doesn’t even touch the food you placed to lure animals in and turns its back on it, instead staring straight at you and Kir. Its ears twitch, clearly determining the direction where other hyenas’ noises are coming from, and slowly, almost leisurely, it moves towards you.

“It’s coming here, Kir,” you whisper, still keeping the camera rolling, too fascinated with the elegance of each silent step the huge, dark form with devilishly glowing eyes in your night vision tape takes. “Didn’t even try the meat… what do we do?”

“Ah, shit, that’s a first one.” He sounds more surprised than concerned, and after a moment of hesitation, reaches out to turn the luring sounds off. “Maybe it’s already killed and got territorial? Worst case scenario, we just scare it away. You getting the footage?”

“I… am, yeah… it’s pretty.” Somehow you aren’t even surprised anymore, when the hyena ignores the fact that the calls of its peers or more likely rivals stop abruptly – there’s something deeply wrong with them here, you decide, too much human contact or something. Maybe these ones were released from the sanctuary? But no one in their right mind would let such domesticated animals back into the wild, right?

While the myriad of possibilities swarms your mind, the camera keeps recording, and you, quite well-trained already, don’t even seem to realize that you’re following the hyena’s steps, turning the camera more and more to the side as the animal approaches your Rover. Wait-

“Tsk, hold up!” Kir’s hand hooks into your back belt loop and pulls you slightly back into the car. When did you even stand up to lean over the car door? “Let’s not diversify its diet today with soft city cookies, alright?”

“Sorry, sorry,” you whisper, sitting back down. For a moment – just a moment – you lose the animal out of sight while you pull your pants back up, and the next thing you know it’s already right in front of you.

Standing on its short hind legs and resting front paws on the car side to lean inside.

A big snout shoved almost into your face, coming into your darkness-shortened sight out of nowhere, is bound to freak you out – you drop your camera, luckily catching it in your lap, and pull back, pressing your back into Kir, who can only grunt quietly under the sudden weight and grip your shoulders protectively.

The hyena just snorts and tilts is head adorably, a soft, almost reproachful look in its bit wet eyes reflecting every little light on the car’s dashboard and your equipment. There’s something familiar to this slender, elegant snout, nodding in the air as the big nose takes in your scent, toned down by the contrasting savannah night cold.

“Chocolate?.. Is that you?” It’s a wild guess, honestly – you can’t see shit without your camera, only able to notice the hyena’s movements by the wet glistening of its eyes, nose and lips, and even through the night vision equipment you weren’t able to determine your guest’s colour – something that would definitely help distinguish Chocolate from any other hyenas; you doubt there are any others, who are already this big and grown up, yet still carry their childish dark brown hide. Maybe Chocolate is a melanistic variant? You’ve never heard of such mutations in spotted hyenas, but it’s not like you specialize in them, right?

A soft grunt tears through your thoughts again, a non-threatening pitch that almost sounds like purring – along with the repeated scratching of its claws on the steel side of your Rover, Chocolate seems like a cat more than anything. A huge, maned cat asking to be let inside.

“No-no-no, buddy, you’re not coming into the car. It’s humans only.” You try to sound stern – it seems to work on these animals, but it’s so damn hard, when your visitor whines quietly and flutters its rounded ears, staring at you hypnotically. “Come on, there’s food. Look!”

A nod in the direction of the carcass, attracting no one but some flies it seems, has no effect on the hyena. When you pretend to throw something there, Chocolate giggles quietly and lowers itself back on the ground – but when it realizes you won’t be throwing any of your real possessions for it to chase after, it stands up against, reaching its long, thick-furred neck to breathe a hot, steamy snort into your face.

And just like that, after you blink at the pretty muzzle in disbelief, trying to find an appropriate way to react to a wild, dangerous animal almost sneezing in your face, it leaves to inspect your car.

For a moment, you worry it’ll try and jump inside from the back, but it seems to have lost any interest to join a party it wasn’t invited to. Slowly, you scramble back into your seat, relieving Kir of your weight and earning a supportive pat on the back from him, and pick up your camera to watch Chocolate.

“What’s it doing?” Kir’s whisper suddenly elicits more of a reaction from the hyena than any of your stern talking – it lifts its head from the tire it was sniffing at and scowls, a striking killer smile flashing in your direction. Seeing its sharp canines nestled in the massive jaws makes a cold shiver run down your spine. This just was right in front of your face with nothing to protect you against a sudden attack.

“Shh, quiet… don’t agitate it,” you whisper back as soon as you manage to swallow the snowball-like lump in your throat. Kir shuts up, clearly a full-on believer in your hyena whisperer abilities now, and you watch on as Chocolate lowers its cute head back, sniffing and pawing at your tire.

After several minutes of looking between you and the wheel, sniffs and huffs growing more and more impatient and exasperated, it gives up on whatever it was trying to tell you – you could swear it rolls its eyes too! – and circles your car, flicking the fluffy brush on the end of its tail in what you can only assume to be a goodbye.

You’re wrong. A real goodbye is left a few meters away from the Rover on Kir’s side. Your curious night visitor stops abruptly, sniffs the air, tilting its head so far back that it almost rests on its shoulder blades, and then, without a warning – what warning could you expect though? – it crouches down to paste over a particular spot in the tall grass.

“Is that?..” – “Yes.” You tear yourself away from the camera to glance at Kir, just in time to see him sigh heavily and put his binoculars down, rubbing his hand down his face painted with disbelief, eyebrows raised high and lips pressed together. You’re still not sure – even though little snickers already start escaping your throat and roll down your nose in sweet snorts – so you pry again: “The spot where you went to-“ – “Yes.”

Even the need to hold your camera still to capture Chocolate marking its territory with a thick smelly paste smeared all over the grass Kir went to pee in several hours ago can’t prevent you from giggling. Anxious about scaring the animal and provoking it, you cover your own mouth and keep filming – eyes on the little black and white picture just in time to see Chocolate shake its plush butt, tail high up to assert dominance, and turn to look at you.

Or, perhaps, to look at Kir.

“Okay, okay, got it, no pissing on your territory. Jeez, buddy, no need to be so petty about it, I probably live here as long as you do.” Hearing Kir mutter under his nose as he gets stared down by a proud carnivore is hilarious.

“You disrespected it. What’s it like, to have a sworn enemy because of your bladder?” Your little giggles elicit two smiles at the same time – an embarrassed one from Kir, who threatens to snore into your ear directly once you wrap up this nightly stakeout, and another wide, toothy one from Chocolate.

You can’t be sure with the blurry image your camera shows you, but you once again feel like it winks at you. How likely is it for this hyena to have some eye problems that cause it to constantly dish out the flirtiest winks an animal is capable of?

“Oh, look, it’s leaving,” Kir finally turns away from the direction Chocolate left in, and just scoffs when you hear distant whooping slowly pick up in frequency before it disappears into the night. “Wanna try with the record again? I’m not sure we will attract anyone if there are actual hyenas around, though.”

“No, no, let’s try again,” you’re fully energized despite your arms feeling cold because the blanket slipped off your shoulders when you got spooked by Chocolate. Kir pulls it back up, wrapping you in a warm cocoon, and rubs your shoulder absentmindedly while he rewinds the recording and tries slightly different settings. “Maybe we’ll attract Stinky at least, these two seem to be buddies.”

“Yeah, right,” he responds, wrapping his own jacket tighter around himself. “Because that little shit will cause less chaos that the one we just saw.”

You can’t argue with that. If that was Stinky that came to the false call, it would have definitely jumped into the back of your Rover.

“At least that’s some good footage to post online. They’re cute. Will be good promo for the documentary.”

Kir grumbles something into the warm thermos, steam clouding the air between you, and hands it to you – to warm both your hands and your whole body from the inside.

Even if you don’t catch a lion tonight, you still caught something precious – right in your heart. You just have to find a way to define it properly.

Part 4 | Part 6

Series masterlist | Main masterlist

Tagging: @elaineiswithyou-blog @creepingeva @my-halo-is-a-little-broken @sillymanjaro @ihatethinkingofnames10 @ravensfeatheruniverse @yaminax @ljh861 @darkangel4121 @ginger-n-coco @grey-shadow6475 @cryingpages @mothsdrabbles @mc-glare-is-king @vixxie22 @aldis-nuts @terraantarctica @henhouse-horrors @blizzivy @perfectus-in-morte

Here's an illustration to Chocolate's visit:

Comrades, I think I'm too deep in this now, I started watching documentaries about filming documentaries, the docuseption is coming for me...

[pink-crayon-princess]

🧸°•🪀☆°•🕹☆•°•🔫☆•°•🧸☆•°🪀

Ways to play if you can't have toys (that isn't just tv/journal/coloring!)

🧸°•🪀☆°•🕹☆•°•🔫☆•°•🧸☆•°🪀

I can have/buy/hide some things, I just can't have obvious little gear!

Window clings make great bath toys, and they come in lots of shapes and sizes for different holidays ☃️🎃

Fidget toys are also great bath toys, and squishy ones feel nice and slippery in the water! ♾️

Statues, figures, holiday decorations, and other thrifted objects can double as dolls - just be careful with them! 🎎

Fake fruit, such as grapes, can double as play food 🍇

Some useful items, such as plush doorstops or silly pens, can be cute for decoration AND for playtime! 🚪

Buy childrens' piano books and learn to play music on a free piano app, if you don't have access to a real piano. The songs are adorable, you will learn a skill, AND you will re-experience learning as a kiddo! 🎹

Print off or make age-appropriate worksheets for math, science, language, etc. and discard them afterwards 📝

Reward yourself with treats when you do something positive 🍬

Draw a picture using at least 10 stickers! 🩷

Lollipops make tasty replacements for pacis. The best sugar-free option is Zollipops! 🍭

I can't have/buy/hide anything at all

If you can't take baths, use brightly-colored soap or shaving cream to finger paint in the shower🧴

Use highlighters and pens that come in lots of different colors instead of crayons 🌈

Make a "snack plate" - a less-fancy charcuterie - it always makes me feel tiny! Cut your food into small bites and eat with your hands if you can 🍿

Learning is the best form of being little, in my fair opinion. Look up songs with hand motions and copy them, watch educational shows such as animal documentaries, or look around on kids' websites such as Nat Geo Kids! 🧪

Pick a scent, piece of clothing, accessory, etc. that you only use when you're tiny. Your brain will slip into the mood quickly 👕

Make paper dolls of yourself, your favorite characters, animals, and more. Make scenarios for yourself such as the carnival, cooking dinner, or being a vet! 🗞

Dance! 🎵

Use your imagination! Maybe a sparkly makeup brush is a movie star. Maybe a little candle is the shy kid. Maybe a sponge is the goofy goober. What personalities would you assign to inanimate objects around you? 💭

Crafting objects can be toys too. Ribbons, for example, can be laser beams, x marks the spot, horsie bows, jungle vines, balance beams, mazes, lassos, reins, and more. 🎀

Get outside! Go for a walk/run and collect fun things that you see along the way, like rocks or acorns. Maybe you can use them for playtime! 🌰

Use different-colored socks on your hands to make sock puppets 🧦

Go about your day ... but as a pirate! Or a princess! Or a tiger! How would a robot fold socks? 🤖

If you're not big on imaginative play, find things to sort, line up, or organize 📊

Talk to God. I'm serious! He wants to know and love you when you feel the most sensitive. You can babble at Him for hours and He will find you so sweet and endearing. There is nothing more healing than being His little one. Like He said, "Let the little children come to Me!" ✝️

[nrdmssgs]

I'm crazy and this is mainly based off my oc, but yn is prices adopted daughter that works with him, and the read is like 22-24 and price is supposed to be 45, and he kept it a secret because he's want to protect yn. I wanna see how the 141/könig reaction, can be romantic or platonic don't care lol, yes i know it's stupidly specific, but I'm stupidly specific.

The reader being Prices adopted daughter (part1)

Masterlist

Summary: you are Johns adopted daughter. This is how different members of the 141 find out about that and how they react.

AN: Hi! I'm almost through with this absolutely beautiful request! I've decided to split it into two parts, I really hope, you don't mind. I've kept it all really platonic and very comforting, and I just wanted to express my gratitude for such a wholesome request! Two important remarks: 1. My interpretation of your OC has turned to be a bisexual person. 2. The order in which the characters appear in the story does not affect their proximity to the main character in any way. This is simply the order in which the characters learned that she was Price's adopted daughter. She loves them all the same) I will, of course, tag you in the second part!!

There were four important names in your life. In your darkest hours, you kept repeating them in your mind. They were so much more than just colleagues, teachers, friends… they all were your family.

John

You were the oldest in your group in an orphanage. Others came and went, but not you. It happened so that you had to grow up ahead of time, get used to the fact that adults more often wanted to adopt babies. But you accepted this world and the rules. You never thought of it as some kind of noble mission, but you took care of your younger friends, worried about them, rejoiced with them. Whenever someone from your group left the shelter forever, you are separated from your friend, but at the same time rejoiced. Caregivers jokingly called you “the Keeper” sometimes, as you cared for other kids as much as a director of the orphanage. 

So when one day one of your teachers came up to you after class and said, "There's someone here who wants to meet you," and pointed to a man standing in the doorway, you were confused. The teacher led you to a stranger, and he squatted down so that your eyes were on the same level. "Hi. I'm John." He held out his hand, but noticing your uncertainty, lowered it and smiled warmly at you.

You hit it off quickly. John asked you a lot about life at the orphanage, about your interests. He himself turned out to be an incredibly interesting person: he visited all the corners of the world that you heard about on TV. John told you about jungles and canyons, about villages where all the roads were just small bridges thrown over the water, about ghost towns where it is so cold in winter that the steam from the mouth immediately turns into snow. Your stories seemed not that big to you. What is the story of how you and your friends fed a bumblebee worth compared to John's travels? You were embarrassed by this and quickly reduced such conversations to stories about your younger friends. What if he likes someone and takes one of them home?

“You seem to care for all of them dearly.” Johns looks on the horizon as you two sit on the bench. “You have it in you, kid. Willingness to help, to stand up for them. I see it clearly. Teach me to be like that, will ya?”

You look at him with big eyes full of disbelief. What can you teach him, an adult? Are you used to everyone teaching you something...

"I'm not doing anything special..." You look high into the sky above you. "Well, when any of them is very sad, I hug him with all my might. Maybe you can try to do the same and become like me?"

"Hug with all my might?" John chuckles. "Yes, Simon will be impressed..." But then he sees your worried stare and encourages you, "Hey, that's great advice! I'll try it. But I think, it's now time for you to have dinner, and for me to go home. Don`worry, kid, I promise to come in a week and update you on my progress!"

You do not believe that this man will return, so you try not to wait for him. Most often, adults come back for babies. You remember it. But he comes back a week later. Then he visits you again and again.

Then you end up visiting him. John has a whole house with a backyard! You build a bird feeders together, play board games late into the night, and even go hiking.

These are the best days of your life, and when it's time to go back to the orphanage, you turn your back on John and hide your tears, so he won't notice. "Hold on just a little longer, kid. I'll sort it out soon," he says, and puts a hand on your shoulder.

Whenever he takes you to his house, he gives you something: a plushie or a book or some clothes. But you never took those gifts to your orphanage because you were afraid that one day he would simply stop coming, disappear from your life, and all these trinkets would remind you of him. This little biter habit of yours broke Johns heart over and over again. You were still a child, but you were already afraid to get attached to someone.

One day he takes you back to his house once again. After an evening with cocoa and a board game, he hands you a simple envelope. "This is something very important. Take a look. I need your opinion on it." You are confused, but still open the envelope and start reading the document, that was inside it. You can hardly make out the text, overloaded with terms you are unfamiliar with. And then, little by little, understanding comes to you and the letters begin to blur before your watering eyes.

“Is… is it? I…” You try to say anything, but words fail you. So you jump off your chair and run to John. He barely has time to move away from the table when you do not even hug him - you cling to him with such force, as if your life depended on it. You've always tried to hide your tears in front of him, but now they're rolling and rolling down your face. John hugs you back and pats your head to comfort you. “It's ok, it's ok, I got you. You're gonna be ok, little one. We're gonna be ok. Not ok even - we're gonna be good. Together.” His voice is soft and quiet.

Simon

“I'll need you to take the mask off this time. Don't want you to scare anyone in m`house.” Ghost grants John a side eye and scoffs. “John Price lives alone no more?” John nods and continues to drive silently. Initially, Ghost was supposed to visit Captains house just for business, but now he is tormented by curiosity. “Someone trustworthy?” Ghosts voice is still muffled with the mask. “The most trustworthy person out there,” John smiles and Simon takes the mask off. Ghost enters the house before Price, who lingered at the trunk in search of something. Simon hears joyful kids voice. "John is back!" A girl of about twelve years of age runs down the stairs with a loud clatter. But when she sees Simon, she stops in her tracks. Price often leaves for some time, and she is already used to the fact that strangers often appear in the house: Johns relatives, acquaintances who look after the child while he is away. But Simons menacing appearance made her dumbfounded. She takes a tiny step back when Price's voice comes from the street. “It's ok, kid. This is mister Riley, he's my colleague and friend.” Both Ghost and the girl look at each other startled, not knowing what to say. John finally comes into the house and defuses the situation. "Look who we met on the way home," he says, and hands the girl a plush tiger cub. Her face immediately changes and she happily skips to John.

At dinner, she sits her new toy next to her and bombards Price with questions about his work and stories about what she has been doing in his absence. Simon looks from her to John and remembers how the captain stayed in his office until late at night, endlessly filling out some forms a couple of years ago. Ghost thought it had to do with work, but when he once offered to help Price with this paperwork, John refused with strange zeal. And now Ghost sees, what was it all about. And it all was hella worth it: she was the nicest, most well-behaved and happiest kid, Simon seen in a while. 

When they finished their dinner, the girl grinned conspiratorially. "Hey John! Guess what." And before Price could even react, she burst out impatiently and with ill-concealed delight: "I made your favorite dessert!"

"You? Or was it Aunt Meg?" John smirks and Simon realizes he's never seen the captain so happy before. "No, it's definitely me this time! She was just… looking out!"

Price walks into the kitchen and an awkward silence spreads across the living room. Although it seems that only Simon feels awkward - the girl stares at his tattoos with the most sincere interest. "Ehm, so you... love animals?" Ghost squints at the toy tiger cub. The girl smiles broadly and nods, never taking her eyes off Simon's arms. "Do you maybe… want to be a veterinarian when you grow up?" Simon continues this awkward conversation. "No!" She looks up at him and continues loudly, "When I grow up - I want to be a soldier like John!" The shrill sound of spoons and forks scattering across the floor comes from the kitchen.

“Soldier… I thought, kids in her age were supposed to want to become… I don't know, pop stars? Princesses? Figure skaters?” rants Price later that evening, when the girl is already sleeping and he and Simon are standing on a backyard. 

“She doesn't want to become any soldier. She wants to be 'a soldier like John'. You are her hero, Captain.” Simon chuckles, masking the fact, that he envies Price a bit. The undisguised delight with which the girl looks at John, her admiration for even the simplest, most trivial of his stories… No money could buy that.

Ghost visited Prices house throughout several next years, and every time he gradually became more comfortable around the girl. In some time, they could hang out together without any awkwardness. She brought her homework down to the big table in a living room and asked Simon to tell her stories about his work with John. Of course Simon tried not to mention anything too disturbing, but it was difficult, and the stories came out short and inconsistent. But she still thrived on them. “Seems like you are quite good at what you do!” She sounds almost as exited as when she talks to John. “Quite good? Lieutenant Ghost is the legend, kid,” comments Price, entering the room. Little do John and Simon know, this was the exact moment, that predetermined the girl's life for years to come. Now she had not just one, but two heroes and a dream: to become like them.

A few years later, which flew by for Simon like a few days, he and John were already present at her oath. Of the two, Ghost, who kept aloof from the others, seemed the calmer. John seemed to be worried about everything: because his daughter was one of the shortest in her formation, because of the bad weather and the fact that she was about to get wet, because of the form "which was of much better quality back in his time" ... But when she got out of line, when she began to recite the text of the oath, Simon shuddered inwardly. Price's daughter, this little dear miracle, who had been running around the house what seemed like just yesterday in funny pajamas, was reciting the oath... Ghost couldn't believe it.

And when she, with burning eyes and a happy blush on her face, ran up to them and saluted with the words "Captain, Lieutenant", Simon felt his eyes tingle. He left her alone with John so that they could share this very special moment. But a few minutes later he heard her hurried steps and she lightly squeezed his arm in a short friendly hug. "Starting your service with insubordination?" Simon scolded her, but in fact it was one of the brightest, happiest moments of his life. He never thought that someone else's adopted child could become so important to him.

Johnny

“Let go!” The fabric of Soaps T-shirt was stretched, and the seams began to crackle dangerously, ready to burst. "Johnny, cut it out!" - your voice echoed between the gray walls of the neighboring buildings of your base. You tried to work things out quietly, but with Soap, that's impossible. If he decides something, it's as good as done.

You try to hold him by force, but it's not so easy: to a greater extent, it's not your hands that clutched at his T-shirt that stop him, but the risk of ruining that T-shirt forever.

"Hey Soap! The hell is going on here?" Price's voice sounds so close that both you and Johnny flinch and turn around at the same time. "She's holding me by force! And you still ask me what happened?" Soap sounds fierce, but his posture shifts, and he unconsciously shields you from Price, who is looking from him to you. 

"Sorry, Captain. It's all right, the Sergeant and I were just joking." You answer, turning away from Price. But nothing ever escapes John. He walks around Soap, catches up with you and looks into your eyes. "You've been crying." It's not even a question, it's a statement. Price sees your reddened eyes, swollen eyelids. He also knows that you almost never cry. You want to be a good soldier so much, you look up to him and Ghost, you never let your emotions get the better of you. But if something brings you to tears... Something or someone... It's really bad.

“Gonna ask it once…” Prices eyes pierce right through the mask of dumb jolliness, you desperately try to put on. “What happened?” You try to come with anything, but your best shot just sounds pathetic “It's just an allergy, Captain…”

“Allergy my ass…” - Price walks around you and comes back to Soap. “Ok, Sergeant, let's see if you have anything better for me… Same question, I'm waiting.” 

You look at Soap with a mute pleading, but he does not notice this, his eyes are riveted to Price. “She was dumped today. I wanted to find the bastard and have a word with him.” Soaps voice is still harsh from your fight. You shut your eyes and let go of his T-shirt at last. Price slowly exhales. You know that sound. A quiet long exhalation, a harbinger of a storm. “Who?” - Johns` voice sounds cold and distant.

“Your guess is as good as mine. She doesn't tell, so I was heading to the barracks to find out myself.” Soap finally looks at you, his gaze is absolutely fierce, as if rejecting you was some kind of personal insult to him. 

Price turns around to you once more. One word is enough for him to express both a question and an ominous threat. “Name.” You shake your head, not daring to look up at him. 

John clearly doesn't want so sound menacing to you. And if Soap wasn't around, Price would already wrap you in a tight embrace to hide you from your own pain. But the fact, that someone dared to hurt, to reject you, his little treasure (and it doesn't matter, that the last night you turned 22), makes his blood boil with rage. Of course, he is overprotective as your father, but he believes, it's you, who deserves to choose partners, and they just have to be eternally happy and grateful for your attention. You understand, that your problems have just doubled up… Now both Soap and Price are waiting for you to drop the name, and every next moment of silence seems to only make it worse.

“I need the name, kid. Now, there won't be any fights, we'll just talk. Nice and calmly… And if that bloody moron just happens to slip and fall on the Sergeant's fist - I may not notice …” your Captains` voice was quiet, menacingly quiet. Johnny didn't look any friendlier, his posture was tense and his eyes - furious. You bite your tongue, afraid to say a word. “As you wish. Off to the barracks we head then,” commands Price, and they walk past you.

In a fit of desperation, you take off and rush after them. "Wait! There's no need to 'talk' to anyone, please... It was Sarah... from the office."

They both stop in their tracks and look at each other. This... changed a lot. Of course, they still care about you and want to help, but now, obviously, they will have to reconsider their plans. Soap looks completely lost, Price checks time and rises his gaze back at you. 

"In two hours, both of you. My office." Johns` voice is echoing in your head as they both leave you alone. It's hard to even roughly imagine what awaits you and why John also needed Soap. Perhaps the Captain just wanted to lecture you about relationships at work, and so he invited Johnny, who had several... similar experiences.

But when you and Soap meet on the threshold of Price's office at the appointed time, the captain silently nods to his desk with three empty glasses and a flask. The rest of the evening, these two vied with each other to tell you about different failures in their personal lives. At first you feel awkward, but gradually you relax. Some stories make you sigh sadly, others are so funny that you almost choke with laughter. Little by little, you're feeling less pain from being dumped. Yes, maybe you didn't get someone, you wanted, but you have John and Johnny, who are not embarrassed to tell you the most silly and sad personal stories, just to make you feel less alone even in such a situation.

When you leave Price's office, both you and Johnny's faces are flushed with constant laughter. He puts his hand on your shoulder and says: “Hey, don`ya spend y`tears on that dafty, ok? She lost more than you today! We'll find you a nice lass or lad, that papa Price approves of!” You almost fall over in surprise. Nobody but Ghost knew that Price had ever adopted you. Here at the military base, you and Price were just colleagues.

"What, you think m`blind?" Soap stops and stares at you. "The captain takes care of everyone in his own way, but arranging something like this... The last time, I was in a similar situation - the man just filled me up with paperwork so that I had no energy left for anything else." When he puts it that way, it darts to be obvious to you too: you may kept your secrets, but the way you and Price cared for each other was sometimes on the surface. “Johnny… I don't know, how to put it right, but we really try to keep it…” 

“Keep just to yourselves? Dinae worry, I get it.” He smirks. “Price is protecting you and so will I from now on. So, ma mouths shut.” 

And Johnny keeps his word: he never mentions how you are related to Price, never publicly reminisces about that evening at Captains office. And he also starts a whole operation to find and select the perfect candidate for you, but that's a whole another story.

[cookinguptales]

just watched the dirty laundry ep where one of them talks about how he wrote a short story that worried his teacher and like

ohhh I had one of those when I was a kid. my parents still talk about it to this day.

when I was about 8yo, my teacher put a poster up on the blackboard and said, "I want you all to write me a story inspired by this scene." the scene was of a lush jungle that had animals hidden throughout.

"oh, okay," I said to myself. "I can do this."

see, what my teacher (and parents) didn't know was that my grandmother, knowing vaguely that I liked to read but knowing pretty much nothing else about children, had given me a stack of books that she got at a yard sale. these books were very nice quality and I was happy to get them. too bad that they were all alfred hitchcock presents!

for the uninitiated, AHP was a tv series and book series that collected short, scary stories. stories about murder, stories about ghosts, stories about monsters of all kind. you get stories like du maurier's the birds and blackwood's the wendigo and that fucked-up short story that roald dahl wrote about that guy who collected fingers or whatever.

all that is to say that I had been consuming wildly age-inappropriate atmospheric horror for months at this point and I was like, "yes, I know just what to write!"

I ended up turning in this story about an explorer who was lost in the jungle and he starts hearing this faraway howling sound, which he realizes is a howler monkey. and he keeps getting more and more lost and the howling keeps getting closer and closer and finally, as he is about ready to collapse with exhaustion, he hears the sound of howls all around him and the story ends with the implication that he got mauled to death by howler monkeys.

(I also, coincidentally enough, really enjoyed zoo books!)

lmao ~guess whose parents got a phone call~?

but it kind of backfired on my teacher, because my parents were fully delighted. they were like "WE DIDN'T KNOW SHE COULD WRITE LIKE THIS" and I did not get punished at all.

anyway, my parents still talk about "the howler" to this day when they want to embarrass me at dinner parties. :')

[superiorsturgeon]

Domestic Arkos Role Reversal

Pyrrha: *distressed, reading the mail* Oh, no! I lost another sponsorship! And just when huntress jobs are running short, too!

Jaune: *wraps Pyrrha in a hug* Darn, that’s too bad. I guess I can go back to my old job being a crossing guard to make ends meet and you can stay home with Jamie for now?

Pyrrha: I suppose it would be nice to spend time at home with our son…

Pyrrha: Okay, let’s do it!

———————————————————————

Jaune: *heading out the door* Love you both! Be good for your mom, Jamie! Remember to call me if you need help, okay?

Pyrrha: Don’t worry so much! Hurry up or you’ll be late!

Pyrrha: Well, it looks like it’s just you and your mother today, right sweetheart? *looks down at Arkos son*

Jamie: *already has gum in his hair* 😀

Pyrrha: 🤦‍♀️…this day is not off to a good start…

———————————————————————

Pyrrha: *struggling with pot roast recipe and slow cooker instructions* Wait, is “warm” a higher or lower heat than “low?”

*Smoke alarm goes off*

———————————————————————

Pyrrha: *steps on lego while playing with Jamie*

Pyrrha: 😫 FU-

Jamie: 🙂 ?

Pyrrha: *clamps a hand over her mouth and muffles her agonized scream*

———————————————————————

Pyrrha: *pushing grocery cart and reading shopping list*

Pyrrha: How can two adults and a five-year-old need seven pages of groceries?

Pyrrha: And what on Remnant is tarragon?!

———————————————————————

Pyrrha: *removes laundry from dryer*

Pyrrha: *holds up shrunken shirt* 😟

Pyrrha: …Jamie, sweetie, how would you like one of your father’s old shirts?

Jamie: 🙃

———————————————————————

Jamie: *running around happily with the other children at the park*

Pyrrha: *slumps on a bench* Ugh…how can one little boy have so much energy…? 😮‍💨

Pyrrha: Maybe I can just rest here for a minute…

Pyrrha: 😴

Random Mother: …excuse me? Miss? Isn’t that your son?

Pyrrha: *cracks open one eye* …bwuh…?

Jamie: *on top of jungle gym, losing his balance*

Jamie: 🫨

Pyrrha: 😱

Pyrrha: *launches herself off the bench into a diving catch*

Pyrrha: *heart hammering* Are you okay?!

Jamie: 🥺 *small nod*

Pyrrha: *flops on the ground clutching her son*

———————————————————————

Pyrrha: *holding napping Jamie on her shoulder during PTA meeting*

Jamie: 😪 *drools a bit on Pyrrha’s shirt*

Pyrrha: I’ve never been so bored in my life…🥱

———————————————————————

Jaune: *opens door to Arkos house* Hello! I’m home!

Jamie: Daddy! *runs to the door*

Jaune: Hey, there’s my little guy! *scoops up his son as he walks inside* How was your day with mommy?

Jamie: We went to the park! Mommy’s sleepy though!

Pyrrha: *passed out on the couch with disheveled hair, stains on her shirt, and a pile of half-opened bills on her lap as her son’s favorite cartoon plays on the tv* 😴

Jaune: *bends down and gently shakes Pyrrha’s shoulder* Pyr? How are you doing?

Pyrrha: *snorts and jerks awake* What? Huh? Jamie, be careful with that-!

Pyrrha: Oh, Jaune…! Welcome home! How was work? 🥱

Jaune: *adjusts Jamie in his arms* Just like I remembered! Helping kids cross the street, politely telling some of the moms that I’m very taken! 😁

Pyrrha: *exhausted pout* I’m much too tired for jokes, Jaune…😣

Jaune: Okay, okay! Let me put my stuff away and we’ll see about dinner!

Jamie: Pizza? 😃

Jaune: *looks at the stack of dishes in the kitchen with burnt-on food* …yeah, sure little guy! Go wash your hands and daddy will order pizza.

Jamie: 😄 *happily runs to the bathroom*

Pyrrha: *slowly gets up and walks face-first into Jaune’s shoulder* …how do you do it…? I’ve trained for the arena for years and fought Grimm bigger than our house, but I’m so tired after one day at home with my own son…! 😭

Jaune: *wraps Pyrrha in a hug* Don’t worry, Pyr! It just takes some practice! Besides, it’s only until you get another huntress job and get back to being a hero!

Pyrrha: *mumbles into Jaune’s chest* …If you can do this every day while I’m at work, you’re the REAL hero…!

Jaune: Hey, I’m just the loving house husband of Pyrrha Freaking Nikos! I’m sure everyone will be calling you “The Invincible Mom” within the week!

Pyrrha: …

Jaune: …Pyr…?

Pyrrha: *asleep against Jaune* 😴

Jaune: *scoops up exhausted Pyrrha*

Jaune: …she has gum in her hair…

[saraakpotter]

i can't love you (Mike Wheeler x reader)

summery: he loves you, but you can't hurt your sister. genre: angst warnings:Brief spoilers for season 2 but it's really not a lot. tell me if i missed anything :) a\n: well, i hope you like it. maybe i'll do a part two, tell me if i should. btw the story isn't set in season two but you can imagine it when ever you want<3

"i sound crazy don't i?" El said as she laid on your bed and hugged a pillow.

"yes, yes you do" you said chuckling and laying next to her "but that's the point of love, isn't it?"

"wow....that was so cute"

"i know, i heard it on TV" you joked and you both laughed

"but seriously" she said as she stopped laughing and sat straight "i love him. i really really love Mike Wheeler"

"i still don't get why you won't just confess to him"

"confess to him?! are you out of your mind?" she said looking alarmed

"yeah, why not? i'm sure he will like you back" you said as you sat up straight.

"he would, probably like me back. there is a 50% chance he won't. no, no, no, there is a 70% chance he won't"

"can you stop with the numbers? you are being dramatic. he would...." but your speech was cut off by your dad, Jim Hopper's voice.

"girls, dinner!" he called and you took El's hand.

"c'mon, we can't talk about your complicated love life with an empty stomach" you teased as she rolled her eyes playfully.

✶----------------------------------✿--------------------------------------✶

".....she is the most beautiful girl i have ever seen! she is smart, funny, hot, sarcastic, we have shared interests...." Mike said as they all sat in his basement.

"okay, Mike, we get it! we have seen her a million times before" Lucas said cutting him off

"yeah Mike, you should quit rambling" Will said as he chuckled

"i'm not rambling!"

"yes, you are. it's always: y\n Hopper this, y\n Hopper that" Dustin teased mocking Mike and then making kissing noises making everyone laugh except Mike

"yeah, yeah, laugh all you want. not that you guys would shut up about Suzie and Max" Mike said rolling his eyes

"hey! they are our girlfriend's. if you just tell y\n how you feel, we will stop teasing you" Lucas said making Mike roll his eyes again

"yeah like it's as simple as that"

"it is! look, Mike, y\n had been our friend since we were 5. telling her how you feel isn't that hard"

"yes, it is. it may ruin our whole friendship if i tell her how i feel and she doesn't feel the same"

"that's the most ridiculous thing i've ever heard" Dustin said "of course she likes you back!"

"you're supposed to say that because you're my friend"

"maybe, but deep down, we both know i'm right"

Mike knew he was right. he should just stop being scared and tell her how he feels.

✶----------------------------------✿--------------------------------------✶

you were laying on your bed. weeks had past since the day El told you how she feels about Mike. she honestly didn't know how to feel.

you thought about the day your dad brought El home from the jungle. you were surprised. you and everyone else thought she was dead but she wasn't. you remembered how you really saw each other as sisters.

you can't ruin that. you can't break her heart. no. no matter how hard you've fallen for Mike Wheeler. you can't.

✶----------------------------------✿--------------------------------------✶

you heard a knock on your room door.

"come in?"

the door opened revealing the one and only, Mike Wheeler.

"hey, y\n\n"

you smiled widely but it quickly faded when you remembered the promise you made to yourself. you tried to bring back the smile.

"hey Mike"

he took a deep breath and sat next to you on your bed. he could practically hear hi own heart beat of how fast it was beating. he scratched the back of his head and exhaled before speaking.

"umm....y\n, there is something i needed to tell you. something that's been in my mind for a while"

"what is it?" you felt a little worried

"i.....well.....i....can you promise to not get angry? or think it's disgusting?"

"i won't, Mike, promise. just tell me what's wrong?"

"i.......i have feeling's for you. more than a friend, kind of feeling. I've been trying to find the right words, but nothing seems enough. I love you. I've loved you for as long as I can remember."

"you what?" you said not believing what you just heard. he can't have feeling's for you. he.....El loves him. and it doesn't matter if you love him because El does!

"i love you, y\n. i always have" he said looking for a positive reaction in your eyes.

you sighed. you wanted to say it. you wanted to say those 3 damn words back. but you couldn't. you couldn't hurt your sister.

"Mike, i....."

"Just tell me you feel the same, please" he said as you hide from his gaze. "do you feel the same?" he muttered. he already knew the answer but wanted to ask.

you wanted to kiss him. kiss him right there, not caring about what would happen next but you couldn't.

"Mike, I… I can't. Please, leave. just go" you said your voice barely above a whisper.

"y\n, please.....i......"

"mike, leave......please"

Mike sighed. he could feel his heart break and got up to leave but before opening the door he turned to you

"Why won't you let me in? I thought we shared everything. Why is this different?"

"Mike, please. things are not that simple"

"So, what? We just pretend this never happened? We just go back to being friends?"

"yes"

Mike sighed feeling tears as he turned back.

"This isn't fair. But if it's what you want… I'll go. But I'll always love you."

he walked outside the room and closed the door behind him. the door made a small noise as it was closed.

you didn't hold back tears anymore. they fell as you finally whispered: 'i love you too' to yourself.

(part two?)

[ask-hws-america]

Got any favorite cartoons? (⁠ ⁠╹⁠▽⁠╹⁠ ⁠)

You bet I do!

Batman the Animated Series:

This show has the best Batman, the best Joker, it INTRODUCED Harley Quinn to the world, reinvented several characters for the better, wasn't afraid to get dark, and inspired a lot of elements of the live-action movies!

Looney Tunes:

Classic American cartoon, iconic characters, super chaotic, super quotable...

Kim Possible:

Another super fun show with a great rogues gallery! Also, I was told by one of my citizens that I sound like Ron Stoppable and honestly, they're kinda right. We also just have similar energy in general!

Hercules:

HERC IS THE HERO!! 💪💪 How could I not watch Disney's Hercules TV spinoff?? Herc is so me-coded. 😁 Shame Meg (one of the hottest Disney ladies, just sayin') doesn't get much screentime since the show mainly takes place before the movie, but it did give us Cassandra, whose friendship with Herc reminds me of me and Belarus!

The Legend of Tarzan:

Another Disney spinoff show! It's just so cool watching Tarzan fight, and the jungle setting's awesome! They get real creative with it. They also introduce lots of new antagonists, like there's this one blond green-eyed thick-browed English double agent dude who ends up betraying England. HAHAHA!

House of Mouse:

UNDERRATED SHOW. It has a bunch of Disney characters (even obscure ones) all interacting with each other at a cartoon dinner theater. Lots of references and funny moments!

Johnny Bravo

HUH! 💪 HUH! 💪 MAN, I'M PRETTY! Sometimes I just wanna watch a goofy muscle dude who talks like Elvis. What else can I say?

Garfield

Another classic. Garfield reminds me of my own cat, who is also big, loves food, and likes to lie around a lot. Although mine is more hyper! And not orange. He's white with brown fluff around his neck and weird face markings that look like glasses!

ATLA:

An awesome story with awesome characters! Sokka especially! He's a funny guy who's not taken seriously but is actually super smart in his own way.

[edgessunflower]

In honor of the big win, could I request a Rick O'Connell X Fem!Reader and they both go treasure hunting? Maybe the reader saves Rick or something? Super fluff and a bit of some teasing? Thank you! 😘

OMG FINALLY I HAVE BEEN WANTING TO WRITE FOR THE MUMMY! ❤️

You'd be lost and alone without me

Pairing: Rick O'connell x reader

Description: You and Rick confess your feelings for each other after saving him on your journey in Indonesia

You ran as fast as you could being chased by the group of people after the ancient artifact that you and Rick had been after and found to take to a museum in the US. The two of you had heard of an ancient jewel that was hidden in ruins of the Indonesian jungle immediately agreeing not only to go and bring it back to the states but also going together surprising the both of you who didn't know about each other for the first bit until you saw each other smiling and hugging, you and rick had been on expeditions before in Italy, Spain, and Israel meeting through your mutual friend Ardeth Bey who you had known for years since childhood growing up for a few years in Egypt where the two of you met and were friends before moving back to the US meeting him again when he joined the two of you in Spain and joining the two of you on your expedition in Israel. You both developed feelings for each other half way through your Italy trip and they soared during and after the two trips after as you both secretly thought of how to tell the other and what to do if the other rejected but all the plans for that went out the window when you saw him on the ground surrounded filling you with fear and anger jumping off the tree you had climbed running top speed jumping on one of the men hitting him with a rock followed by pulling 4 men off of rick and using your gun shooting them not to kill them but to wound them enough so they couldn't move for a bit. You grabbed rick's hand and the both of you ran until you were on the side of the road not too far from the hotel you were both staying at where ardeth was waiting for you both to come back with the jewel taking a few breaths before walking back checking behind you to make sure it was just the two of you and no one following behind grabbing waters and fruits from locals who could tell you were out of breath, you met with ardeth giving him the jewel to keep and hide until the next morning when you would meet up with him before going to the airport heading back for your home in the US staying your final night together in the hotel eating dinner and watching tv until you both fell asleep in your beds waking up to get a drink quietly hearing the fridge a few feet away from you open.You turn seeing a half asleep rick talking to each other as you went back to the other room watching tv until he walked over sitting next to you feeling a sudden feeling of warmth and comfort. You looked at each each other slowly leaning towards each other only a few inches away "I have loved you since we met and I haven't been able to not love you" before you could finish or stop for him to say something back he grabs your face pulling you to him with his hands on your face and in a kiss that was way more than you ever imagined when you thought about having a kiss with rick making you feel even more warmth holding each other smiling as you fell asleep with your head on his chest.

[laughing-with-god]

Last question for now (apologies!)

What are the personal like… styles/ vibes of their homes? Or like, how would they decorate the inside of it? Or would they at all?

(me personally, if I just won the Hunger games, the first thing I'm doing is an AD Open Door Victor's Village edition lmao)

(( Author's Note : Don't be sorry, I love questions like these! It helps me attach visuals to characters which is really fun. For this, I pulled some Pinterest pics and did some light research on the districts, but also feel free to interpret/imagine what you feel is right!!))

Jin

I picture that the Victor homes vary depending on their district, which would make sense considering the districts are in different landscapes so not all homes can be built the same

For District One, I picture little mansions with lots of glass walls for natural light. This district is apparently in the center of the U.S. (Wyoming, Idaho, Utah) so I can see some natural materials, sun roof windows, low and wide mid-century modern houses

I think stylistically, Jin would decorate his home with lots of white and browns, a colorful rug or accent furniture here and there, but he doesn't overdo it in fear of being tacky

fireplace is probably boarded up for um, obvious reasons (war flash backs lol)

I think his favorite part of his home is the kitchen. In the games, starvation was especially tough on him, so now I think he seeks comfort in food. I can see him taking cooking classes or hiring a personal chef, maybe even throwing dinner parties.

If you were to move in with him, I think he'd be okay with you changing whatever you wanted, as long as he gets to keep all his fancy kitchen appliances

Namjoon

I dont think he'd care a lot about the style of his home, I also see him rarely being there since he has so much work to do in the capitol

District Three is apparently in the midwest, and there's lots of factories that make high end technology for the capitol

Therefore, I think the victor homes there would be simple, modern/industrial condo-style homes? Lots of grays and blacks with granite accents.

I don't think Namjoon would go out of his way to purchase furniture or decor, just accepting the furnishings it already came with. He's not a sentimental guy and a part of him is always aware that his home is technically the capitol's property, not his.

I think a cool highlight of his home would be the technology. Like his tv is just a hologram or there's just some cool tech that locks all the doors and turns on the lights on at once. other disctrict victors don't even get that, it's just district three since they rule technology

If you were to move in, Namjoon would gladly welcome any change in decor, letting you know that he never saw the point before you

Jimin

So I personally feel like District Four would make more sense in a tropical place like Florida or something, therefore I feel like there would be a "jungle/beachouse" vibe to the victor homes here

Victors row would be in a vegetated area of four, not too far from the water. I don't see the capitol wanting to have victors living right on the coast since that's most likely reserved for shipments, boating, fishing and yeah....the water is probably heavily monitered in case people get ideas...

Jimin more or less kept everything the same, though he did let his desinger team go crazy with the jungle concept

I can see Jimin liking the color green and also taking care of plants, since he's pretty lonely back at Four it gives him a little sense of innocent purpose

Again, he's def more at the Capitol than here tho, often times this feels more like a vacation home

All the guest rooms get used as extra storage for all the gifts he received from capitol women. hopes to one day fill them with kids tho :(

If you were to move in, Jimin would be estatic and gladly join in any renovation plans. He'd want to be included in the choices, pick the wrong wallpaper even and he'd be pissy about it lol

Hoseok

District Eight is full of factories and textiles, so I see victor's homes being industrial condos with brick walls, exposed pipes and wooden beams

Hoseok will try to decorate and make it feel cozy, just for the sake of his siblings though

I feel like he probably gave his siblings the bigger rooms and took one of the smallest in the home

Anything his little brothers or sisters want, it's theirs no question asked

I can see him becoming a little home maker honestly. He wakes his siblings up in the morning, makes them breakfast, sends them to school, then comes back home and cleans their rooms / common spaces, does some grocery shopping, laundry ect. ect.

It's very cute and mother hen of him but he really just can't handle freetime bc then his mind wonders to dark places...

so he throws himself into caring for his siblings

If you were to move in with him, he'd welcome you and any changes you might want to have on the common spaces, but obvi is protective of his siblings' stuff.

Yoongi

Six is said to be highly populated and overly dense, borderline too many people live here. I picture it as a city too, transportation being their main hub so there's probably even a subway system

Therefore I think the captitol would make a victor buidling or something. District Six doesnt have many victors and the place is already so dense, I think a good solution would be to make one big high rise of apartments where all the living victors have their own units

Yoongi probably threw away everything in the apartment

I can see him having some chairs and a single bed. prob doesn't even have a tv bc keeps breaking them in rage every time the capitol makes an "announcement" lol

Fridge is also always empty. Boy can go days without eating so it doesn't even occur to him to have groceries on hand

Pics below are what the place should look like, before he fucked it up

If you were to move in, good luck on even hanging up a single picture. Give it a week before Yoongi flies into another rage and rips everything to shreds.

Taehyung

I think District Eleven victor homes would be like large, farmhouses on hills away from the rest of the town

I picture feilds upon feilds in this district, since it's all about farming so it's probably very big in terms of land

I also don't think the capitol had many of these houses made, correctly assumming that Eleven wouldn't have many victors

I think Taehyung actually loves his home, quite liking the simplicity and size of it

I can see him starting a little garden in the back yard, or even getting some chickens to keep him busy

He probably would read to his mother too, he most likely set her up in the master bedroom and waits on her hand and foot

If you were to move in, he wouldn't mind little changes here and there. But at his core, he is a minimalist and would rather you not clutter up his space. Don't you two (three including his mom lol) have everything you need already? There's no shame in the simple life.

Jungkook

District Two is up in the mountains! Very cold and harsh winters, thin air but I'd imagine its very beautiful

The homes here are built in luxury cabin style at the base of the mountains. District Two also has the most victors, so I imagine their victors' village is quite the neighborhood

Jungkook is fond of the views he gets from his home. I think he'd like hiking too so he enjoys the proximity to nature

As for the interior, Jungkook doesn't really care. I know, most of the victors on this list don't care but like, kill 23ish kids in a game and ig it puts things into perspective lol

Like Yoongi, all he really needed was a good bed and he'd be okay. I don't think he got rid of the furniture the capitol provided, but he doesn't have an opinion on it either

If you were to move in, Jungkok would just hand you the cash to buy whatever decor you want, just as long as it's not "too girly"

[the-scarlet-witch-22]

Chaconne: Part Fourteen (Agatha Harkness x Fem!Reader)

Word Count: 11.1K

Summary: With the days to the concert flying by, you do your best to assist MSO conductor Agatha Harkness as you both prepare for the final performance.

A/N: Hello everyone! Welcome to the last chapter of Chaconne. It’s taken me a while to get here, but I’m so excited to post this and share it with all of you. Just a few reminders, this story was originally based off one of my favorite tv shows, Mozart In The Jungle. A few of the plot lines inspired me to write this story but, I do not own Mozart In The Jungle (unfortunately). I lost track while writing so this chapter is much longer, but I hope all of you enjoy. Thank you guys for reading and always sharing your thoughts with me, I appreciate it more than words can say. I hope you enjoy this last chapter and please, feel free to comment or message me to let me know what you think! :)

Tag-List: @anxiousgoldengirl @celasteria @danvers97 @imthedoctorlove @mcfriggingonagall @meowsaidmissy @scarletmeltstheice @shinkomiii @sxfwap @thestrangeundoing @upsidedowndanvers @venticalooks @vintagegoddess12 @thoroughly--confused @thewelshelk @tr333sus

Y/N POV

There was nothing more exhilarating than the start of a concert week. The grueling hours of practicing, weeks of rehearsals that seemed to drag by, all of it was worth it for opening night. Sitting on stage while the lights began to dim. Seeing the concert hall full of an audience who came to watch you perform. Well, that’s what you usually would look forward to. Only this time you wouldn’t be performing, you’d be backstage preventing Agatha from strangling the various stage hands and orchestra personnel.

With the concert quickly approaching, you were leaving work later and later every night. It seemed that there was a never ending pile of tasks to complete, and just when you thought you had finished, there turned out to be more to do. You loved the work, even if it wasn’t what you envisioned doing with your career. The MSO housed an impressive music library, with what seemed to be thousands of music scores. There were guest artist programs where world famous musicians like Wanda and Natasha would do various performances in the community. You had an unlimited supply of resources at your fingertips, but a small part of you wondered if it would be enough.

After you called Natasha to inform her you weren’t accepting the offer, she had taken to emailing you twice more to make sure you hadn’t reconsidered. But you weren't reconsidering, right? Sure, you weren't performing with the MSO, but you had Agatha. Agatha, who had taken to inviting you to stay with her for the past few nights. Agatha, who made you dinner each night, despite your protests that you could help. Agatha, who turned off your earliest alarm so you could catch up on sleep, and sent her car service to pick you up a few hours later.

Even with the domestic layers of Agatha that you were slowly uncovering, there were still unanswered questions. Despite all the time you’d spent together, the dates, and the sleepovers you’d never had a conversation discussing what this was. You couldn’t really picture Agatha as the ‘girlfriend’ type, and you were unsure how to ask her what she wanted long term. Or rather, you were scared that you wanted more than she did.

There was no use fretting right now, you reminded yourself as you entered the symphony center. You had a job to do, and it currently required all of your attention. There had originally been a youth music concert scheduled for the day, where hundreds of children would come hear the symphony perform, but Hayward canceled it last week. He claimed it was a waste of money that wasn’t benefitting the symphony, and instead scheduled yet another donor lunch. While you had been disappointed by the news, Agatha was livid. You recalled the thirty minute rant you witnessed last week, complete with Agatha’s ever colorful ways of insulting the CFO.

This afternoon’s dress rehearsal meant Agatha would be even more nitpicky than usual, if that was even possible. Agatha didn’t just expect a flawless performance, she demanded it. But rehearsals were running more smoothly as time went on, so you were hopeful today wouldn’t be a complete disaster. She seemed to be pleased with the orchestra's progress, or as pleased as she could be. There was a comfortable sort of banter between her and the orchestra (although the slight…bullying towards Dottie hadn’t changed), and it was nice to see her start to relax. The orchestra wasn’t afraid of her anymore, the fear had slowly turned into respect.

You’d usually find the conductor pacing in her office in the hours before rehearsal started, but much to your surprise her office was vacant when you returned from helping the interns set the stage. There was a note addressed to you on her desk, and in Agatha’s messy scrawl she informed you she’d be back before rehearsal started, and to make sure you had something to eat. On rehearsal days you were often so busy there were times where you’d forget to eat lunch, or even dinner. Agatha always noticed. Although she’d complain you were supposed to be her assistant and not the other way around, she’d make sure you ate something.

By the time rehearsal rolled around, most of the orchestra had arrived and were getting settled on stage when Agatha came sauntering in. She was carrying two cups of coffee, and handed one to you when she reached the stage. Her fingers briefly squeezed yours, and when she let go you instantly missed the contact. Wasting no time, she clapped her hands together to indicate the lingering orchestra members should get on stage.

“We’re going to run through parts of Dvorak before Wanda arrives.” Agatha informed you as she gathered her music scores and baton that you had grabbed from her office earlier that afternoon. “Can you watch the string sections to make sure everyone is following the correct bowings? It only takes one of them to fuck it up and become an eyesore.”

Nodding, you grabbed the spare copy of the Dvorak score and a pencil. “Anything else?”

“Let me know if anyone seems to be falling behind because of the tempo changes. I know we have problems with the flutes, but I’ve been sensing some of the first violins dragging as well.” Agatha added, and you scribbled down her instructions. “We’re going to be running through the program from start to finish for the second half of rehearsal, so I want to get all of the kinks worked out beforehand.”

The conductor paused for a moment as her eyes scanned the stage before turning her attention back to you. “I have a little surprise planned for today. Can you ask a few of the interns to wait in the lobby?”

A surprise? Is that where she disappeared to today? Giving her a sweet smile, you leaned in close enough to whisper. “Can I ask what it is?”

Agatha smirked, and there was a mischievous glint in her blue eyes. She merely tskd and shook her head. “All in good time, dear. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have a rehearsal to lead.”

Firing off a text to 4 interns relaying Agatha’s instructions, you waited for confirmation that they would wait in the lobby before settling in your seat. Agatha was flipping through her score, and you scanned the first violin section until your eyes locked on Monica and sent her a quick, but enthusiastic wave. You missed her, and missed being her stand partner.

Tapping her baton, Agatha motioned for the orchestra to be quiet. “Good afternoon everyone. As this is our last rehearsal before tomorrow night, I have a few spots I want to run before our soloist arrives.”

She was flipping through her score at record speed before finally locating whatever section she was searching for. “If you could turn your attention to measure 191 in the first movement. Strings, I need less of you here. You shouldn’t be playing anything above mezzo piano.” Pausing, her eyes appeared to drift throughout the section, before adding. “And some of you need to use less bow. This is a marathon, not a sprint. Don’t waste all of your energy in the first movement when we have three more to go.”

Raising her baton, the orchestra raised their instruments, and you turned to the correct page in the score so you could follow along. Unfortunately, the orchestra barely played a full measure before Agatha cut them off.

Clearing her throat, you could tell she was attempting to keep her annoyance in check. “Just a reminder, we are at measure 191 in the first movement.” She waved her baton back towards the winds. “Does everyone know where we are?” When everyone either nodded or confirmed they were at the correct place, Agatha sighed. “Alright then. Once more, and we’ll keep going this time.”

Your eyes locked on the measure Agatha was referring to, and quickly scanned the parts before she gave the downbeat to begin. Again, barely one measure in and she was cutting the orchestra off once more. Oh no. Although Agatha hadn’t been as frustrated during orchestra rehearsals, you were beginning to wonder if today would end that streak.

Tapping her baton on the stand, she took a deep breath. “Alright. I want everyone to take a moment and make sure we are all at the same place. In case some of you happen to be hard of hearing, we are at measure 191.” She tapped the baton again, louder, this time in clear frustration. “Again, that is measure one hundred and ninety-one.” This time she enunciated each syllable and a painstakingly slow pace. “Does anyone need help locating the measure? I thought they would have taught you to count by now but I am willing to assist if need be.”

When she was once again met with silence, she nodded. “Good. Once more, hopefully for the last time.”

Raising her baton, she gave the downbeat and when the orchestra played the first note you could immediately tell that someone was not at the correct measure. Agatha dropped her baton on her stand and shook her head. “Flutes, are all of you on the right measure?” There was insistent nodding from the flute section and you grimaced.

Agatha took yet another very, very, deep breath, more than likely to try and keep her temper in check. “Flutes, if we’re all in the same place then why are we not playing the correct notes? We are in the key of e minor, yes?” Without even waiting for the flutes to confirm she continued on her rant. “Right, right. Yes, yes. Very good, we can all read key signatures. I’m sure your parents are so proud they’ve paid hundreds of thousands of dollars on your education that you can identify what key you are in.”

Ouch. She was in a mood now. There was movement to your right, and you looked over to see Wanda Maximoff taking a seat next to you. The pianist gave your shoulder a light squeeze, and leaned in closer to you. “I see Agatha is getting along well with the orchestra.”

You resisted the urge to giggle, on the off chance Agatha somehow heard and became even more agitated than she already was. The conductor in question looked like she was getting close to going full rage. “Dottie, are you sure you have the correct measure number?”

The principal flautist nodded. “Yes, Maestra. It’s marked as measure 191.”

“Then why are you playing the wrong note? You have an e-flat notated but you’ve played an e-natural each time.”

“I don’t have an e-flat at 191, Maestra. It’s an e-natural,” Dottie insisted, and you swore she appeared to be shrinking in size in her seat from embarrassment.

The second chair flautist leaned over to read Dottie’s part before nodding. “She’s right, Maestra. It’s an e-natural at measure 191.” She then turned to Jimmy. “Right, Jimmy?”

Jimmy, who was seated on the other side of Dottie reluctantly looked over at her part as well. “It’s…it’s an e-natural, Maestra.”

“See, I have witnesses!” Dottie exclaimed. “It’s not me.”

Jimmy meanwhile was still scanning Dottie’s part, and he pointed at something on the page. “Wait Dottie, I think your part is numbered incorrectly. It looks like you’re off by three bars.”

Dottie became more flustered and she appeared to be silently counting each bar, before sheepishly looking up at Agatha. “Well, it looks like I wasn’t actually at measure 191. But it wasn’t my fault! The part was numbered incorrectly.”

“Ah of course, Dottie,” Agatha drawled sarcastically, her voice dripping with resentment. “It’s always someone else’s fault.” Grabbing her baton, she raised her arms. “Measure 191 everyone.”

The orchestra began to play and you were following along with the score until you felt Wanda lightly tap your shoulder. Giving her an inquisitive look she leaned closer to you again. “Natasha told me you turned down the job offer. I have to say I’m surprised, and I know she was as well.”

Shrugging, you gave a quick glance to the stage to make sure Agatha’s attention was solely on the orchestra before replying. “I’m grateful for the opportunity, but I’m really happy where I am right now.”

“You mean you’re happy with Agatha.” Wanda corrected you, but there was no malice or judgment in her tone; only curiosity. “Does she know you got the job?”

You debated over the risk of confiding in Wanda, but rationalized that she had been nothing but kind to you. Plus, it wouldn’t hurt to talk to someone about this. “No, she doesn’t. Besides, it doesn’t matter now. I told Natasha that I wasn’t taking it, so she never has to know.”

“You should tell her,” Wanda suggested, her breath hot in your ear. “She’d want to know.”

“It’s not that simple,” You argued. “We don’t-”

“If my assistant and soloist could stop chatting, the rest of us doing our jobs would greatly appreciate it,” Agatha called from the stage, effectively shutting you up. “Wanda, if you’d like to come on stage for Rachmaninoff, we’ll continue after taking a 10 minute break.”

Wanda gave your shoulder a final squeeze as she stood up. “Just think about it, okay? I’ve known Agatha for a long time, and I can tell she really cares about you. You should tell her.”

With that, Wanda went to join the orchestra on stage, and you were alone yet again. Although Wanda meant well, there was no point in telling Agatha about the job in Vienna. You had made your decision, and you were happy with it. Agatha came skulking off the stage, heading in your general direction and you winced at how annoyed she appeared to be.

“Y/N, a moment?“ Agatha asked, and as she stared at you it became apparent she wanted you to get up and follow her.

Nodding, you followed her backstage. You barely rounded the corner when you felt Agatha grab your arm and yank you into a closet. It was a storage closet, and a rather roomy one at that. Now, it wasn’t unusual for Agatha to be staring at you, but this was different. At first you wondered if she was angry you were talking to Wanda during rehearsal, but you couldn’t detect any frustration in her gaze. Her eyes were scanning yours, as if she was trying to detect something, find something, but you weren’t sure what.

“Agatha?” You asked softly, gazing up at her. “Is everything alright?”

“I was hoping you’d join me for dinner after rehearsal,” Agatha explained, as one of her hands lightly grabbed your waist. “I’ve enjoyed having you stay over for the past few nights. It’s been quite…calming. I think Scratchy enjoyed it too.”

Beaming at her words, you blushed. “I’d love to, and I’ve enjoyed it too. But is that all you wanted to talk about?”

Agatha left one hand on your waist as the other gently reached to cradle your face. “It can wait until tonight dear.”

She pressed her lips to your forehead for a sweet and gentle kiss before letting go of your waist. “Now, if you’ll come with me. I believe they should be arriving any minute now.”

Before you could ask what, or rather who, was arriving, Agatha was already halfway down the hallway; leaving you to awkwardly trail after her. You never understood how she was able to walk so quickly in those heels. Just as you managed to catch up to her, you stopped dead in your tracks at what you saw occurring in the concert hall. There were children, hundreds of children, all excitedly entering the hall. Somehow the four interns you wrangled into waiting in the lobby had called for reinforcements, as there were now around a dozen interns and orchestra personnel guiding the school children and their teachers to seats.

For a brief moment you were brought back in time to your first visit to the symphony when you were a child. The hall seemed mammoth sized, with the shimmery chandeliers dangling from the ceiling, and the thousands of seats. Seeing a full symphony orchestra for the first time, as you rapidly fired off the name of every instrument you spotted to your parents. Watching the professional violinists warm up and prepare for the concert. It was what inspired you to want to perform in the first place.

Agatha was conversing with the stage manager and you stared at her in disbelief. This is what she was off doing today? However she pulled this off, after Hayward made a clear point of canceling it, was beyond you. She caught you staring in the midst of her conversation, and merely winked at you before motioning with what she wanted to do with the stage lights. Darcy walked by you at that moment, her mallets in one hand and her music in the other.

“I have to say, I can’t believe she managed to make this happen,” Darcy said to you. “Hayward’s going to have a total fit.”

“Yeah no kidding,” You shuddered at the thought of Hayward finding out. “Did you know about this?”

Darcy shook her head. “I just perform here.”

It took another fifteen minutes to get everyone in their seats, and in the meantime you joined Agatha backstage. The conductor was lightly pacing, and every few minutes appeared to be peering out into the crowd.

“You did this all on your own?” You asked quietly, as various musicians made their way to their seats. “Today?”

Agatha shrugged, not meeting your eyes. “Hayward seems to forget that this isn’t his orchestra, it’s mine. It’s about time he remembers who’s in charge.”

“How did you even get all of these kids here? I’m sure when Hayward canceled the field trip the schools canceled the transportation they had lined up.” You prompted, still amazed at the different obstacles you’re sure she had to face to do this in such a short amount of time.

Giving you a pointed look, Agatha gave you a small smirk. “I’m Agatha Harkness, dear.”

“You gave them a lot of money, didn’t you?”

Rolling her eyes at you, she chuckled lightly, before motioning to the hall. “What do you think?”

“I’m…” You trailed off, still in shock at what the conductor had done. It was so thoughtful, and considerate. You hadn’t given much thought to the topic before today but you’d ignorantly assumed Agatha didn’t like children. Clearly you were wrong. Realizing you had stayed quiet for too long you said the first thing that came to mind, the only thing on your mind. You loved her. “I-.”

“We’re ready to begin whenever you are, Maestra.” The stage manager announced as they approached you.

Agatha nodded. “Thank you. You can tell Wanda and the concertmaster to make their entrances.”

Once they walked away, you panicked as Agatha looked at you expectantly, waiting for your answer. You gave the conductor’s arm a playful punch. “Break a leg.”

She looked at you as if you’d lost your mind, but the sounds of the orchestra tuning roused her from whatever she must have been thinking. Turning away, she went to join Wanda near the stage door, and shot you another curious glance before heading out on stage.

Break a leg? What was wrong with you? You had a tendency to freeze in situations that made you nervous, and you were usually nervous around Agatha. There was something about her that constantly left you on the edge of your seat. You were so scared of disappointing her, and you were just as scared of getting hurt. That was part of the problem. You knew you loved Agatha, you’d been in love with her for a while. It was as easy as breathing. But the thought of being that vulnerable and open terrified you. What if she didn’t find this to be as serious of a relationship as you did?

The performance was going a lot better than the earlier rehearsal had. Even though you were stuck backstage, you could hear everything perfectly and there were moments where you pretended you were performing too. Being alone, with a concert going on a few feet away from you was all it took for you to admit that you were going to miss performing. Agatha had brought up the idea of you auditioning for the next open chair a few times, but the blind audition was still in the back of your mind so you politely refused. You wondered if you were crazy for turning down a chance to perform in Vienna with one of your all time favorite musicians.

You had been so wrapped up in your thoughts, you stopped paying attention to the concert until there was a surge of applause and some light cheering from the audience. You snuck out the side entrance to stand in the back of the hall, just in time to witness Agatha motioning for the orchestra to stand up. She shook the concertmaster’s hand before walking off stage, and when the applause eventually died down she came back out. You watched her say something inaudible to the orchestra, who were still in their seats.

A few of the children had gotten out of their seats and were lingering at the front of the stage. Agatha eventually noticed them, and surprised you once more as she waved for them to come up to join her. Still too far away to hear what they were saying, you felt your heart swell as Agatha handed one of them her baton, and helped them up on the podium. The rest of the group had scattered around various orchestra members who began demonstrating how to play their instruments. You forgot how long you stood there, until Agatha noticed you in the crowd, and motioned for you to come join them.

Wanda had come back out at this point, and had two of the children sitting on the piano bench, and was laughing with delight as she showed them how to play simple chords. Meanwhile, the violin section was swarmed, and you could make out Monica and the new violinist, John, allowing the kids to hold their bows. Agatha was having them stand on the podium, one by one. She would hand them her baton, and show them the proper way to hold it. This went on for some time, until finally the buses arrived and the interns had the children in neat lines to exit the hall.

When the doors shut once more, Agatha tapped her baton once more. “I know all of you are probably eager to head home, I have a few announcements. First, a reminder that the call time for tomorrow evening is 6:00 sharp. I shouldn’t have to tell you this, but you should know that being early is being on time, and being on time is being late.” She pointed her baton at the brass section. “Trumpets, I’m looking at you. No strolling in at 6:01, I want you backstage, unpacked and warmed up by 6:00.”

After a brief moment of silence, she continued. “Secondly, thank you all for the performance today. In all my years of performing and conducting, I’ve always enjoyed these concerts the most. There’s something quite special about what we do, when we do it well.”

Agatha seemed to have the whole orchestra hanging on to her every word. Despite her occasional outbursts and sarcastic quips, she was a beyond captivating public speaker. “I know some people on the board don’t feel it is necessary, as it doesn’t bring in enough money,” She scoffed, and Hayward’s words replayed in your mind. “But there is nothing more important than sharing this gift we have with the next generation. After all, there’s a good chance some of them might end up sitting in the very same chairs you’re occupying now.”

“One final thing,” Agatha added, as she closed her Dvorak score. “I know I’ve been rather hard on all of you for the past few months, but it’s because I see the potential this orchestra has. I don’t want the Manhattan Symphony to just be a good orchestra, I want it to be the best, and I know that’s possible.”

She picked her scores off the stand, and by reflex you grabbed them from her. “We aren’t a great orchestra yet, we aren’t the best. But I’m proud of the work you’re putting in,” She nodded her head to the winds, “All of you. Which is why I have planned a little something for tomorrow. I know most of you take public transportation to get to and from rehearsals, but tomorrow night I’ll be sending each of you a town car to take you to and from the concert.”

Your eyes nearly bulged out of your head from shock. A quick look around the room confirmed everyone else, including a lingering Wanda, was just as flabbergasted as you. A few people were clapping, others were offering their thanks to the conductor who waved it away. “None of that. Tomorrow will be the start of a new era for the Manhattan Symphony, and I want all of you to feel like stars.” She stepped off the podium. “That will be all, thank you everyone.”

On the walk back to the conductor’s office, you asked the question that had been practically burning a hole in your brain all afternoon. “How did you manage to get all of this done today?”

“I already had the school concert resolved earlier in the week,” Agatha stated as she unlocked the door, allowing you to step inside first. “The town car was an idea I came up with this morning.”

“You do know that they really think the world of you,” You teased, causing Agatha to scowl, but it was true. Agatha’s added pressure and high expectations was pushing the orchestra to new heights.

“I’d prefer they think nothing of me,” She quipped, packing her scores and belongings up in her bag, and you rolled your eyes.

“Of course, Maestra.”

The rest of the day was uneventful, and your dinner with Agatha turned into takeout on her couch, as you were both too exhausted from the day to do anything else. But it was perfect. You were so happy, and so content. You wanted it to stay like this forever.

The day of the concert proved to be pure madness. You decided to ride to the symphony center in the early evening with Agatha in an attempt to calm her down. The conductor had been in a mood all day, wanting to make last minute changes that you knew were impossible. You finally were able to help her calm down on the walk to her office, and she shooed you away as she carried her garment bag containing her outfit inside. Agatha had convinced you to wear an all black ensemble, and told you that you’d blend in well backstage (which you weren’t entirely sure was a compliment but you listened to her).

You waited outside her office door for some time before she finally said you could come back in. The conductor’s back was facing the wall and you barely made it through the door when she instructed you to close it. As she turned around, you gasped. Agatha had changed into a black Armani pantsuit that made her ass look fantastic. Her hair was as tamed as it ever had been, with her curly waves flowing over her shoulders and her makeup stage dark. She looked beautiful.

“You look…” You momentarily lost the ability to speak as you tried to not gawk at her. “You look incredible, wow.”

Agatha smirked at you, “Thank you, darling.” She pulled you closer to her. “I saw you checking out my ass as well.”

You blushed and wriggled in her grasp. “I was not checking you out. I was just…admiring the view.”

That made Agatha cackle as she grabbed your waist, nibbling on your ear and whispering, “Oh? Admiring the view, hm?”

You turned your head to capture her lips in a kiss. Kissing Agatha was so easy, just like breathing. Her lips moved against yours and you made a happy humming noise as she deepened it. Agatha’s teeth gently bit down on your bottom lip, drawing blood before she sucked, and you moaned at the sensation. She did it twice more before gently pulling away, kissing you once more.

“Wow,” You breathed out, wishing there wasn’t a concert soon so you could continue. “That was…really good.”

Agatha smirked as she went back to her bookshelf. “Indeed it was. I have a few things to do before the concert, dear. Would you mind checking on how things are going backstage?”

You nodded and as you went to leave, you subtly looked back at Agatha. Her ass did look really good.

“I can feel you staring.” She called out, not turning around, causing you to blush and practically run out of her office.

Keeping yourself busy, you helped the interns keep track of who was arriving. You marked off orchestra member after orchestra member until only one remained. After waiting for what you felt was a sufficient amount of time, you decided to go find Agatha.

“John still hasn’t shown up,” You informed Agatha, who was shutting her office door. “Has anyone heard from him?”

Agatha arched an eyebrow. “He’s missing? How horrible. We should send out a search party.”

“Agatha, that’s not funny. You had a car sent to pick him up, right? Maybe we can call the service company to see if something happened?”

“That won’t be necessary, dear,” Agatha waved off your concern. “Walker won’t be here in time.”

“How could you possibly know that?” You questioned, until a dark thought washed over you. “Oh my god, did you do this?”

Cackling, Agatha rubbed your arm, amused by your horror. “Relax darling. You’re acting as if I killed him. He’s currently driving through New Jersey, I believe. I have some friends in Westview. Nice town, quaint, but unfortunately it’s not where he needs to be.”

“Agatha!” You exclaimed, not comprehending why she would send one of the first violinists on a road trip. “Why would you do that?”

Shrugging, the conductor started walking away. “Looks like we’ll need to find a substitute player. What a shame, the concert is in fifteen minutes. That’s not a lot of time to find someone.”

All but chasing after her, realization dawned on you, and you lightly grabbed her arm, stopping her. “Agatha, I don’t have my violin. It’s at my apartment, and there’s no way I could get there and back in time and-”

You should have been used to this by now, but you were effectively silenced as Agatha kissed you. Firmly grabbing you by your hips, she pulled you closer and lightly bit down on your bottom lip, causing you to whine. Before you could even react, she pulled back, and smirked. “You’re really too easy, dear.”

“First, no I’m not. You just caught me by surprise.” You pouted, turning slightly red, and Agatha’s resounding cackle made you blushed even harder. “Second, I still don’t have my violin, and I doubt you have a solution for that.”

“Oh, I don’t?” Agatha frowned, and continued to the concert hall. “Thirteen minutes. Chop chop.”

You reluctantly took off after her, not sure what the use was when you didn’t have a violin to play. When you walked backstage, you were surprised to find your roommate standing near a table, scrolling on his phone.

“Sam?“ The sound of your voice causing him to look up. “What are you doing here?”

“Agatha called me,” Sam pulled your violin case out from under the table. “I’m not sure how she got my number, but she said you needed this.”

Deciding it wasn’t that important to figure out how Agatha acquired your roommate’s phone number at this very moment, you threw yourself at him in a hug. “Oh my gosh! Sam, thank you!”

“Yeah of course, Y/N.” Sam laughed as he hugged you back. “I’ve gotta say, your girlfriend is quite persistent, and scary.” He pulled out a pair of tickets from his coat pocket. “But she gave me and Bucky tickets so we can watch you perform.”

Your heart did flip flops at the mention of Agatha being your girlfriend. Is that what she was now? Your eyes drifted over the room until you found her across from you, talking to the concertmaster. She caught you staring, she always caught you staring, and winked before returning to her conversation. You couldn’t believe she did this for you.

Giving Sam a final hug, you took your violin case. “I’m really glad you’re here, but you should probably get to your seat. I think the concert is starting soon.”

“Break a leg out there!” Sam said encouragingly as he walked out of the room.

Quickly finding a place to set down your violin case, you opened it up and grabbed your bow. You always made sure to loosen the hairs before putting it away each time you practiced to prevent the bow from becoming warped. Taking a moment to tighten it, you then grabbed your rosin and applied a generous amount. The last step was to make sure you were in tune. You always kept an electronic tuner in your case, but had a tuning app on your phone as well. It took you a little longer than normal, the fall air was becoming colder as the days went on, and it made your violin more difficult to tune. Finally, you were ready.

The rest of the MSO was either already on stage, or making their way to their seats. A few people congratulated you on performing again as you passed them, but the one person you wanted to talk to was nowhere to be found. Where did Agatha wander off to now? You could spot Darcy with another percussionist, a few of the other first violins who were heading on stage, and an agitated looking Tyler Hayward who was heading your way.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Hayward all but seethed, his face turning red. “And where is John?”

“Um…” Trailing off, you looked around but still couldn’t locate Agatha. “He’s running late, so Maestra Harkness is having me fill in until he gets here.”

“Very convenient that the violinist I hired goes missing right before the season opener is about to begin.” Hayward said, his voice laced with venom. “And Harkness has no right asking you to fill in. Put your violin away, you’re not performing.”

“Is there a problem, Mr. Hayward?” Wanda’s voice echoed through the room, and you whipped your head around at the sound of it and almost gasped.

The pianist had changed from her usual attire into a beautiful one-shoulder a-line scarlet gown. The pattern of the dress made there appear to be rose petals scattered throughout it. Her hair was curled and pinned to the side. She looked beautiful.

“Y/N?” Wanda's voice broke you out of your trance. “Is everything okay?”

“This doesn’t involve you, Miss Maximoff.” Hayward replied, his voice lowering in volume.

“Perhaps it involves me, then?” Agatha all but growled, and you were worried she would try to impale Hayward with her baton. “What’s going on here? Y/N why aren’t you onstage?”

“What did you do with John, Harkness?” Hayward’s face was turning a rather impressive shade of red. “The number of rules you have broken in the past two days alone is grounds for your firing. I heard about your impromptu concert yesterday. You’re lucky I didn't call the board immediately to have you removed.”

“I could say the same of you,” Agatha said conversationally. “You know, I heard the most fascinating things from Loki Laufeyson about you yesterday at the donor brunch.” She shook her head at the man in disapproval. “Embezzling symphony funds, Tyler? I don’t think the board would approve of that either.”

Pulling her phone out of her back pocket, she held it out. “Perhaps you’d like to give them a call? It shouldn’t take more than a minute for them to get backstage.”

Hayward’s face instantly paled. “That won’t be necessary. We’ll discuss this later.“

He stormed off without another word, slamming the door behind him. Agatha immediately turned to you, seemingly having forgotten that Wanda was standing right there. “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine,” You insisted. “Wanda showed up before it got worse. Thank you by the way, Wanda. Your timing is always impeccable.”

“It was my pleasure,” Wanda assured you, smiling brightly.

“If only all of your entrances were as impeccable, Maximoff,” Agatha taunted lightly, but her tone was more lighthearted than before. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome, Agatha,” Wanda replied with a small smile.

They were finally sort of getting along. It was about time. You finally walked on stage, where the rest of the orchestra was warming up. Monica looked thrilled to see you once you finally sat down.

“Hey stand partner,” She greeted you with a warm grin. “What, did Maestra kill John tonight to get rid of him?”

“Not quite, I guess he got stuck in traffic,” You whispered, which wasn’t a total lie.

At that moment an automated voice played over the speakers, reminding the audience to have their cellphones silenced, and announced that the concert would begin shortly. That was usually the signal for the orchestra to stop warming up, and sure enough the concertmaster came walking out a few moments later. There was applause from the audience, and after they bowed, it was time to tune the orchestra. Jimmy lifted up his oboe to play an A, and the woodwinds and brass tuned first. Then after a brief pause, Jimmy played another A and the string section, including yourself, tuned your instruments.

Finally, the doors opened and Wanda followed closely by Agatha came walking out. There was thunderous applause from the audience, and you had briefly forgotten how famous both Agatha and Wanda were. Agatha lifted her hand to signal the orchestra should stand for the applause. Looking out in the crowd you finally felt a wave of nerves rush over you. This definitely had to be the largest crowd you’d ever performed in, like…ever. You’d barely had time to think about if you could really do this. Were you ready?

Unfortunately you were out of time to decide that, as Agatha was raising her baton. Lifting your violin you waited for the downbeat and let go of any doubts in your brain. Wanda played the opening chords of the Rachmaninoff somehow more perfectly than in any rehearsal. She was so fluid in her movements it was like nothing you had ever experienced before. She played with such passion, such raw and unrelenting emotions, and with every run and cadenza it was as if she was pouring her entire heart out.

The second movement, the Adagio sostenuto, was breathtakingly beautiful with Wanda playing a sweet melody, accompanied by the orchestra. It was as heartbreaking as it was hopeful with the start of each new cadence. Somehow you enjoyed Wanda playing this softer melody even more than the fury of intense runs up and down the keys. Towards the end of the movement the first violins took over the melody, and you could practically feel your soul singing along as you played out. You had missed this, you’d missed it with every fiber of your being. Being on stage, performing in an orchestra, this is what you were meant to do.

Although you had been looking up at Agatha throughout the piece so far, she had been too wrapped up in making sure everyone was following the correct tempo. However this time, towards the end of the movement, you made brief, but direct eye contact, and you swore she smiled at you. Finally it was the third and final movement, the Allegro scherzando. While the second movement had been more subdued, the third was the complete opposite. Wanda, somehow still full of energy and seemingly not tired, effortlessly played all of her runs at the new, fast tempo.

The movement all but sped by, and you switched your focus between the music on the page and stealing glances at Wanda. She was beyond captivating, with her glissandos up and down the piano, her final cadenza practically had you hypnotized. The last few minutes of the concerto had Wanda playing her practically impossible chords as the orchestra sped into playing the final phrases, and you watched as Agatha cut everyone off.

The concert hall erupted into tumultuous applause, and Wanda stood up for her bow. There was some whistling from the audience, and the applause somehow got louder. After a while, Wanda walked off stage, and then came back for her encore. At this point it seemed that the entire hall had stood up, and you were nearly glowing from how blissful you felt in that very moment. When the applause finally died down, there was a brief intermission to reset the stage and move the piano. You waited backstage, and made a point to hydrate while you waited for the intermission to end.

Wanda eventually came over, accompanied by Natasha Romanov. The pianist had her arms full of flowers, as well as what looked to be a homemade card, presumably from her sons. Natasha, meanwhile, was helping her carry her loot.

“Wanda, you were incredible!” You exclaimed, and the pianist beamed.

“You’re too sweet, Y/N. Thank you. I think it went rather well,” Wanda said modestly, and Natasha snorted.

“Humble as ever, Wands,” Natasha joked.

“It’s really nice to see you again, Miss Romanov,” You greeted the violinist, and you meant it.

Natasha nodded, as Wanda excused herself to talk to other members of the orchestra. “I was happy to hear you changed your mind on Vienna. We’re excited to have you. The group is a bit smaller than this orchestra, but we have a lot of great repertoire lined up.”

“I don’t…” You were at a loss for words. “Excuse me?”

“I was a bit surprised to hear you reconsidered,” Natasha added. “My assistant said you’d called earlier this morning to ask for the contract and travel details.”

Now, you had been a bit spacey over the past week with stress of concert preparations, but you knew that you did not contact Natasha. That left only one person. Agatha. But how did she even find out? Your eyes trailed over to Wanda, who was praising Dottie on one of her solos, before realizing you were being ridiculous. You knew Wanda wouldn’t have said anything. But, it was clear Agatha was behind this. You just weren’t sure why.

“Of course,” You finally answered, deciding you would correct the mistake later. “I’ve…just had so much on my mind.”

Natasha nodded once more. “Well, for what it’s worth I think you made the right choice. I’m looking forward to working with you. I’ll see you next Saturday.”

She then excused herself to go back to Wanda just as the backstage lights flickered, signaling the end of the intermission. Great, you thought sarcastically, perfect timing. Scanning the room for Agatha, you realized you were out of time to find her, you needed to get back onstage. Grabbing your violin, you wracked your brain on if Agatha had done anything to suggest she knew about the audition, but you had nothing.

How could she do this? You’d made your decision, and you weren’t planning on changing it. Yes, you loved performing, it was what you’d always wanted; but now you wanted Agatha too. You didn’t want to move to Vienna and potentially lose her, you weren’t sure you could handle that. So, you made the executive decision to turn down the offer. As the orchestra tuned again, your brain anxiously went over any possible reason you could think of for why Agatha would have done this. Was she trying to get rid of you?

Agatha walked out on stage to more thunderous applause, and you took a deep breath. You couldn’t worry about this now, you’d talk to her after and everything would be okay. As the first movement began, you slowly felt yourself begin to relax. Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9, or The New World Symphony, was still one of your all time favorites. Everything felt big and loud, and you were thrilled to be part of it.

Everyone else seemed to be more relaxed for the second half, even Agatha. Putting your mixed feelings aside for the moment, you couldn’t help but observe Agatha like this. With every rehearsal she seemed to let her guard down more, and more. She was wildly conducting, and her hair was practically bouncing off her shoulders. The way she moved her hands was like she was telling a story, and you were always so mesmerized by it. She looked so serene when she was like this, and just like at the first rehearsal she was paying no mind to the score. Instead she was cueing the various sections for their entrances, and once you reached the end of the first movement she seemed to gain more energy as she ended her hands with a flourish.

The second movement has always been one of your favorites. It was less complex than the first movement, but still required you to use the proper techniques. Agatha once told you the most common mistake a musician makes is just playing the music on the page. She said there was so much more to it than just that, and she was right. It didn’t matter how simple a piece appeared to be, there were dynamics, phrasing, vibrato, and at least a dozen other things to keep in mind while you were performing. Making music and sharing it was one of the best things that had ever happened to you, and you always made sure to give it your all.

This pattern continued all the way to the finale, the fourth movement. Agatha was practically jumping up and down on the podium as she conducted the opening phrase. Once again, you forced yourself to just concentrate on the music, and as the movement progressed you became bewitched from watching Agatha conduct. You had always understood why Agatha was as successful as she was. She was driven, motivated, beyond musically gifted. But there was one thing you had always failed to notice. When Agatha was on the podium, she could be herself. In these moments where she had her baton and the orchestra in front of her was when she was her most vulnerable. She was incredible and spellbinding, and you were hopelessly in love with her.

The ending of the last minute was a swell of notes from the brass section and a melody that sent the first violins high up on the fingerboard. It was extremely challenging to play in tune without falling behind, but you managed to do it. When Agatha conducted the final chord, you felt as if you were going to fall out of your chair. It was over, you did it. There was an outburst of applause from the audience, you lost track of how many times Agatha walked off and on stage from the standing ovations. You don’t even remember walking off stage and packing up your violin, or congratulating Monica and your friends in the MSO. You barely remembered the walk to Agatha’s office, until you were knocking on the door.

Agatha opened it and gave you that special smile she seemed to have reserved just for you. “Darling, come in. I’m so proud of you. How did it feel to perform?”

“It felt incredible,” You admitted, giving her a curious look. “Did you plan all of this tonight so I could perform?”

“Not all of it,” Agatha corrected you, but she was still smiling. “I knew you were more than capable of doing this, and I wanted to remind you.”

As soon as she said those words it all started to make sense. “You thought I’d change my mind about Vienna.”

Your words seemed to startle the conductor, who looked at you in surprise. “I didn’t-”

You cut her off with, “I know you know, Agatha.”

“How?” She asked, genuinely curious.

“Natasha mentioned how happy she was that I called her assistant earlier this morning and changed my mind,” You repeated what Natasha had told you during intermission.

“You know, I should be the one who’s angry with you, dear,” Agatha pointed out, as she placed her baton on her desk.

Of course she’d say that. Sighing, you moved closer to her. “How do you figure?”

“You had weeks to tell me about Vienna, and you didn’t,” Agatha remarked, and you detected some hurt in her tone. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“There was no point in telling you when I already made up my mind,” You stated, growing irritated with her. “I don’t want to move to Vienna, I want to be with you.”

“You can’t be my assistant forever,” Agatha argued, leaning against her desk. “And this is a solid job opportunity, Y/N. It would be foolish to turn it down.”

Throwing your head back in frustration, you took a deep breath before replying. “I already turned it down, Agatha. It was my decision, why can’t you accept that? Do you really not want me to stay?”

Agatha rolled her eyes. “Yes, Y/N. I absolutely loathe having you here. This is all part of my master plan to get rid of you.”

“Real mature,” You quipped, losing interest in arguing with her. “How did you even find out about my audition?”

“Wanda mentioned something about Natasha Romanov the other day, and I did some digging,” Agatha replied, as if it was the most obvious answer in the world. “It wasn’t that hard to put the pieces together. I didn’t even know you had gotten the job until I called Romanov’s assistant and pretended to be you.”

You stared at her in disbelief. “You went through all of that work instead of just asking me?”

“In my defense, would you have told me?” Agatha asked, and you realized she had a point.

“I don’t know.” You looked guiltily at her. “I’m sorry, I should’ve told you.”

Agatha waved a hand at your apology before pulling you closer to her. “It’s okay darling, I’m not angry.”

You nestled your face in her neck before mumbling, “I’m still not taking that job though. We’re going to be okay, right?”

Agatha stroked your hair and for a moment you thought you felt her breath hitch. “Of course dear, of course we are.”

The next week passed by slowly as the post concert high began to wear off. Agatha had given you the week off work, which you didn’t realize you needed until you slept for over 16 hours straight from exhaustion. Things with Agatha were a little better after your discussion post concert, but there was still something that felt off. You didn’t know how to describe it, and maybe it was just your anxiety messing with you, but Agatha felt distant. She had invited you to spend the week at her townhouse, and you hoped that meant you would spend more time together but you’d barely seen the conductor- she’d spent the majority of her time at the office while you puttered around her home.

A week after the concert you were in bed reading a book when she sent you a text to meet her at the concert hall, and to bring your violin. You arrived nearly an hour later, out of breath as you practically ran the last few blocks. The lights were dim throughout the hall, save for the stage, where Agatha was sitting, waiting for you. As you approached her, you noticed how distracted she appeared to be.

“Hey, sorry it took me so long. I tried to get a cab but traffic was crazy so I ended up just walking.” you explained, still trying to catch your breath. Agatha didn’t say anything, so you continued. “I forgot my music at home, what did you want to work on?”

Agatha sighed, and ran her fingers through her hair. “Y/N, we need to talk.”

You felt your heartbeat stop at her words, and you tried to tell yourself it was probably nothing bad. It couldn’t be anything bad, right? “Okay, talk about what?”

The moment she met your eyes was when you knew it was over.

“No,” You managed to get out, looking at her as tears threatened to escape. “No, no, no, no.”

Agatha took a deep breath, before standing up. “Y/N, please don’t make this more difficult than it needs to be.”

Her words sounded so cold and distant, but you could barely hear her over the sounds of your pulse ringing in your ears. Your chest slowly tightened, and you could barely breathe as you fought the tears hard, unwilling to cry in front of her. Taking a shaky breath, you shook your head. “I don’t understand. What did I do wrong? I thought we were happy. I thought you were happy. Am I not making you happy?”

“This isn’t about my happiness, Y/N, it’s about you,” Agatha said gently, and you couldn’t look at her. You knew if you did you’d start crying and you wouldn’t be able to stop. “I know it doesn’t seem like it now, but this is for the best.”

“You have no right to tell me what will be the best thing for me, Agatha. That’s complete bullshit.”

Agatha sighed, as if she couldn’t believe you were reacting this way. “Y/N…”

The tears that you’d been fighting had finally started to fall. “This isn’t fair, you said we were going to be okay. You told me that.”

“I’m sorry,” Agatha whispered, and you finally looked up to find her staring at you as if she’d never see you again. “I’m sorry, but this is over. I can’t do this anymore.”

“So that’s it?” You questioned. “We’re over? Just like that?”

“I’m not going to allow you to throw away your career because of me,” Agatha retorted, growing more annoyed. “And don’t act like this is so easy for me. I lo-”

Your eyes widened and Agatha’s quickly shut. Despite how quickly she cut herself off, you heard what she almost said. She loves you. Agatha Harkness loves you.

“I love you too,” You whispered, tears streaming down your face. “But you don’t have to do this. I’ll take the job in Vienna and we can stay together, okay? Wouldn’t that be okay?” Agatha remained silent and you tried again. “Please?”

“A clean break is for the best,” Agatha insisted, even as you continued to cry. “You’re going to go to Vienna and flourish, Y/N. Your career is just beginning and I can’t wait to see how far you go.”

“Agatha, no, please.”

She gently wiped the tears from your face before cupping your cheek. “You’re going to be okay, I promise you will be. You’re going to look back at all of this one day and it will be nothing more than a fuzzy memory.”

“I don’t want that, I want you,” You protested, breaking free of her grasp. “Please, if you love me you won’t do this.”

“I’m doing this because I love you, darling,” Agatha corrected you, leaning in to kiss your forehead. Her lips lingered for an extra second and again you felt her breath hitch. As she pulled away, you watched her regain composure.

“Try not to forget any of our lessons, hm?” She reminded you, as she lightly grabbed your chin, but you refused to look at her. “Maybe one day you’ll be the soloist for this very orchestra.”

It felt as if time was slowing down, and there was nothing you could do but sit on the stage and listen to Agatha attempt to rationalize why this was a good idea. As she was speaking you knew her mind was made up, and it didn’t matter how much you cried or begged, she wasn’t going to change it. You realized then that one of the most challenging parts of falling in love with her was coming to the realization that no matter how hard you tried, you couldn’t save yourself from having your heart shattered if she changed her fickle mind about you. In a strange way, this felt inevitable.

It was a lot like performing, in a way. When you were in the midst of a performance, it was pure ecstasy, and you would ride off that high until the very end. It felt like you were flying, and every movement of your bow sent you higher and higher through the sky. But there was always the fear of falling, of missing an entrance or not hitting the right note, and that would send you plummeting to the ground. Practice could eliminate many of those errors, but you’d learned over the years that sometimes life could throw you curveballs.This is what that felt like, as Agatha all but held your heart in her hands, letting it all fall. There was nothing else to be done, you had to let go.

You never felt like you really knew the right thing to say, and it always felt as if you figured it out when it was too late. But this was the first time you knew what you wanted to say, and you were finally sure. When you opened your mouth, you felt your throat clench from the pain that was aching in your chest. Taking a deep, shaky breath, you looked up to find her eyes locked on yours. “It’s okay, I’m going to be okay.”

It didn’t feel that way now, it felt like your world was collapsing, but you weren’t saying those words for yourself. You were saying them for her. The rational side of your brain was arguing that Agatha hadn’t been a part of your life for very long, but the few months you spent with her had more of a lasting impact on you than relationships that lasted for years.

You had learned a lot of things from Agatha- you had learned that she preferred her coffee to be scorching hot. You knew she was an incredible cook, and that she had a library full of books that would take you years to get through. She had a soft spot for Señor Scratchy, and she had a terrible sweet tooth. Even though she enjoyed terrorizing the interns, she was also fiercely protective of them against Hayward and anyone else who tried to harass them. And now, you realize, she has taught you one, last valuable lesson- nothing truly good can stay.

Agatha Harkness was one of the most complicated and absolutely infuriating individuals you had ever encountered, but you loved her. You had always loved her, and you probably always will. So now, you now had to do this for the both of you- to assuage whatever guilt she might be feeling and to gather the remains of your dignity.

Agatha froze, and you could see her tense up at your words, and you continued. “I’m going to be okay. You can let me go.”

In the countless hours you’d spent in the conductor’s presence, you never saw her cry. But there was a single tear slowly streaming down her cheek, and you slowly wiped it off. “It’s okay, Agatha. I promise.” You weren’t sure who you were trying to convince, her or you.

Closing her eyes, she placed her hand over yours, leaving it on her cheek. You weren’t sure how long you stayed that way, huddled together in the empty concert hall, but it was over all too soon when she finally took a step back. “You have a flight to catch, dear. The itinerary I had sent over stated that rehearsal starts tomorrow.”

Just as you went to tell her you didn’t have a plane ticket, or a suitcase packed, she pulled an envelope out of her coat pocket. Handing it to you, it was not a huge surprise when you found a one way plane ticket to Vienna inside. You felt your chest tighten again. “When did you buy this?”

“When I found out you got the job,” Agatha replied, her voice barely above a whisper. “I’m horrified at the prospect of flying in coach, so it’s first class.”

Under normal circumstances you would have laughed, but you don’t think you were capable of that at the moment. “I don’t even have my luggage, or my passport.”

“I have a bag packed of all the things you’ve left at my place, and I’ll send over whatever else you need once you get settled,” Agatha countered, and after a pause continued with, “And Sam gave me your passport yesterday.” She pulled the passport out of her other pocket. At your horrified glance, she gently shushed you before you could get a word out. “He didn’t know what it was for, I said it was a surprise.”

She had done all of this because she knew it was the only way to get you on that plane. Now, you were still angry with her for making this decision without you, but you were running out of time. You both were. Standing up, you closed the distance between the two of you, and kissed her. Agatha’s lips melted into yours, and you tried to forget that this was the last time you’d be with her like this. Unlike many of the other times you kissed her, there was no desperation or urgency. You were just two people in love, getting ready to say goodbye. Your face was still soaked with tears when you finally pulled back, and you saw it was partially due to Agatha. The conductor’s single tear had turned into at least a dozen.

“I really do love you,” Agatha said, and you had never doubted that. “I hope you know that.” You did, you knew.

“I really love you too,” You said, your voice starting to crack from the sobs that were attempting to come out again.

“Hank will take you to the airport,” Agatha added, rolling out the suitcase she had hidden behind the stairs. You had still partially been in denial that you had to leave, and the closer it got didn’t make it any easier. The conductor kissed your forehead again, and gently stroked your hair before releasing you for the last time. “It’s time to go, darling.”

Walking out of the concert hall, with Agatha rolling your luggage out, you grabbed her hand, while telling yourself it was going to be okay. Every step was a painful reminder that you had seconds left with her. When you made it outside, you saw the town car parked out front, with Hank waiting. You had never been good at goodbyes, or dealing with change so you usually avoided them when you could. But there was no escaping Agatha, who politely waved Hank back in the car as she put your luggage in the trunk. This was it.

Agatha opened your door, and carefully placed your violin case in the backseat. “Don’t forget to loosen your pegs before you take off. Wouldn’t want any of the strings to break.”

You knew her well enough to know she was trying to make light of the situation, but she didn’t have to. “Thank you, for everything.”

“I meant it when I told you I saw a lot of potential in you,” Agatha said quietly, and was nervously fidgeting her hands. “You’re a lot more talented than you give yourself credit for, Y/N. You need to stop apologizing for taking up space, and start demanding more of it.” She cradled your face in her hands one last time, giving you a sweet and gentle kiss. “Knock ‘em dead.”

She helped you in the car, and you desperately wished for her to get in with you, but you knew she wouldn’t. It wasn’t until after she shut the door did reality finally sink in. You were leaving, without her. The car windows were tinted but you could make out Agatha standing there, watching you drive away until you rounded a corner and she disappeared. While the tears had flowed nonstop before, you found that now you couldn’t cry no matter how hard you tried. You just sat there, watching the city you spent years loving pass you by. The pain that had been building up in your chest had finally imploded, and left you numb.

You weren’t sure what the future would hold now. Vienna could be a complete waste of time, and maybe you would come back and try to reconcile with Agatha. There was a small voice in the back of your mind pointing out that there was also a chance you would love it there. It was impossible to say now with your heartbreak so fresh and still causing your entire body to ache with pain. So you did the only thing that would help right now. Pulling your headphones out of your bag, you put them on. Scrolling through your library of songs, you knew there was only one you wanted to hear.

Vitali’s Chaconne in G Minor. You sat back in your seat as the opening notes played. It was funny, in a way, thinking that all of this started because of this piece. You thought back to that fateful day in the concert hall, meeting Agatha for the first time. Who knew then that it would lead to all of this? Allowing your shattered heart to be soothed by the calming sound of the violin and piano, you looked at the plane ticket Agatha gave you. You didn’t know what was going to happen now, and you certainly didn’t know if you were ready for it. But if you had learned anything from Agatha, it was to worry less and act more. You didn’t have to have all of the answers, or any answer right now. All you had to do was get on that plane and perform.

Agatha Harkness had made you fall in love harder than you ever had before, and managed to crush every expectation of love you ever believed in the exact same way. You weren’t sure if you’d be able to forgive her for doing this, but that wasn’t important now. Turning your focus back on the music, you were reminded of how much you loved this piece. It was like Agatha said all those months ago, not enough violinists appreciated the beauty of a chaconne. But you did, and you intended to continue on wherever your journey took you next.

[sapphirothcrescent]

Sapphire Aphelion Favorites

Favorite Color: Blue

Tea or Coffee: Tea. She only likes coffee FRUIT, not the burnt roasted bean juice.

Spicy or Mild: The spicier the food, the better.

Favorite Fruit: Mangoes and coconuts.

Favorite Season: She comes from a jungle so it's got two seasons wet and dry. She prefers the wet season. "Normal" seasons, she likes spring.

Favorite Meal: Breakfast for Dinner. Especially bacon.

Favorite Flower: Water Lily

Favorite Animal: Since she's a big animal person she likes ALL animals but some of her favorites are pigeons, butterflies, cats big and small, pythons, boas, otters, and parrots.

Favorite ice cream flavor: Mango or cookie dough.

Favorite scent: Sephiroth Cinnamon or Lemon

Hobbies: Drawing, Reading, Climbing, Gardening, Bird Watching, Teasing Sephiroth.

Favorite TV Shows: FF7's equivalent of "old" shows. Think OG Star Trek, M*A*S*H, Brady Bunch esque shows.

Favorite Music: Rock n' roll.

[disneyparksattractionstournament]

Round 1 of Extinct Disney Parks attractions and experiences matchups

Group A:

A1:

Horizons vs Space Mountain - Ghost Galaxy

Innoventions vs Magic of Disney Animation

Rocket Rods vs Backlot tour

Disneyland's Peoplemover vs Adventure Thru Inner Space

River country vs Discovery island

Wonders of Life Sensory Fun house vs Honey I Shrunk the Kids playset

Stitch's Great Escape! vs The Enchanted Tiki Room:Under New Management

Shark reef (Typhoon Lagoon) vs Kim Possible: World Showcase Adventure

A2:

Cinderella Castle Mystery Tour vs ExtraTerrorestrial Alien Encounter

The Great Movie Ride vs World of Motion

California Screamin vs Maelstrom

Test Track 1.0 vs Ellen's Universe of Energy

Cranium Command vs El Rio del Tiempo

Journey Into Imagination vs 20k leagues under the sea

Season of the Vine vs Mission Tortilla Factory

Superstar Limo vs Orange Stinger

Group B:

B1:

25th Cake Castle vs Stitch TP castle

Epcot Spaceship Earth Wand/2000 vs Earffel Tower

Pre-Frozen Norway Epcot vs Wonders of Life pavilion

The Land fountain/pre 2004 The Land vs Epcot future world floor fibre optic lights

Downtown disney vs Millennium village

Aunt Polly’s vs Soundstage restaurant

Mouse Gear vs Old World of Disney

Old entrance plaza/section of DCA vs A Bugs Land

B2:

Pizza planet vs Electric umbrella

Big coke bottle mist sprays at MGM vs Space Mountain bouncy walkway after ride

Cinderella Castle Christmas lights vs Old Cinderella Castle colors

Toontown fair vs Streets of America

MGM Sorcerer's hat vs DCA letters

Fountain of Nations vs Old Polynesian Lobby

Ice Station Cool vs Old MK hub/plaza

Pleasure Island vs Disney Quest

Group C:

C1:

Mickey and the Magical Map vs Main Street Electrical Parade

Spirit of Aloha dinner show vs Legend of the Lion King

Remember the Magic/Magical Moments parade vs Dream Along With Mickey show

Magic Journeys vs Honey, I Shrunk the Audience

Illuminations vs Star Wars Fireworks

Red Cad Trolley News Boys vs Club Buzz / Calling All Space Scouts… a Buzz Lightyear Adventure

Character dining at the Liberty Tree Tavern vs Push the Talking Trash Can

Food Rocks/Kitchen Kabaret vs The Muppets Present...Great Moments in American History

C2:

Golden Dreams vs Eureka! The California Adventure Parade

Tapetry of Nations parade vs Wishes

Citizens of Hollywood/Main street vs Lucky the Dinosaur

Mickey climbing the Matterhorn vs Disneyland mermaids

Paint the Night Parade vs Mad T Party

Stars and Motorcars parade vs Mickey's Jammin Jungle Parade

Animagique vs Kitetails

Spectromagic parade vs Mickey Mania parade

Group D:

D1:

Old Kilimanjaro Safaris with plotline/Little Red VS. Fountains in Small World/old colors

Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights vs Jedi Training Academy

Disney dollars vs Hard tickets at Disney World

Old look of chocolate coins in parks(with Dumbo, Jiminy Cricket, and Scrooge) vs Wake Tinker Bell at Tinker Bell’s Treasures

Wading in lakes/beaches vs Riding in the front of the monorail

Tom Sawyer paint brushes vs Magical express

Pal Mickey vs Epcot Living statues

Strawberry Minnie Fruit bars vs Simba Paw ice cream bar

D2:

Extra magic hours(Like, the ones where they stayed open til 12am or even 3am) vs Star Wars Weekends

Yellow ponchos vs Hotel mickey soap

Unique Bedspreads vs Resort Bedtime stories TV

Fun road signs vs Epcot Innoventions and old Entrance loop

Epcot kidcot masks/duffy vs Penny press with cranks

Free roaming characters in Disney World vs Paper fastpasses

Mickey straws vs Pirates of the Caribbean barker parrot

Old attic scene in Haunted Mansion with pop up yelling jump scare ghosts VS. Pre 2007 Spaceship Earth ending

[pof203]

A Black and White Christmas

WARNING: Spoilers for those who have not yet watched the end of Series 2 of Tiger & Bunny 2.

The snow fell gently over Sternbild on Christmas Eve Night. Many stores closed after the last last-minute shopper got their goods, the restaurants were crowded with people who didn’t have time to cook for Christmas Dinner or have faiths where they don’t celebrate the holiday, and the streets were filled with people dressed like Santa Clause ringing bells for donation, and carolers singing songs about this night and the story behind it. Meanwhile, in many homes all over the city, families were getting together to watch holiday movies or specials, enjoy their great feasts, open gifts from friends and relatives, or just simply catch up with each other.

In the mansion of the Mayor of Sternbild, he was hosting a Holiday party, and many people were invited… Especially the heroes. However, only four of them were there tonight. Well, three considering what happened less than a year ago to Wild Tiger, now just Kotetsu T. Kaburagi.

At the buffet table, while most of the guests were just mingling, a young hero just stood next to it. He was wearing a black tux to reflect his hero name with a small red pancetta pinned to the side of his chest. He was wearing a black helmet with some kind of horns on it with yellow marks on its face. Under that mask was a young man with short brown hair, tan skin, eyes as brown as chocolate, and an expression that made him look hot-blooded and ready for action. Without the helmet, he was Subaru Sengoku. But with it, he was the Literal Man in Black, Mr. Black (formally Hello Goodbye back in his hometown of Panjourney).

Subaru just stared at a cup of eggnog in his hand which he only took a few sips of. He just stared off at the people in the room talking about things that didn’t interest him in the least. In fact, he didn’t even want to come to this party. But his manager would not take no for an answer and she made him come.

Subaru saw that not too far from him, Kotesu Kabruagi and his partner, Barnaby Brooks Jr., were chatting it up with some people. Subaru didn’t understand why Kotetsu was here. Last he checked, the hero formally known as Wild Tiger was no longer part of Hero TV. Although, he had heard that he started some company. Maybe that’s why he was there. But Subaru just didn’t care. He wished that he could be anywhere but here.

Suddenly, Kotetsu noticed Subaru looking upset and egged Barnaby on to go over to him. They arrived and Subaru tried to pretend that he didn’t notice them, but it was all in vain.

“Is something that matter, Subaru?” asked Kotetsu.

“What’s it to you?” Subaru replied with a tough-sounding tone.

“We were just asking,” said Barnaby. “You don’t have to be rude.”

“Sorry.”

“It’s just,” said Kotetsu, trying to sound delicate about this. “It’s just that, you look like you really don’t want to be here.”

“Me? Not wanting to be at a luxurious party filled with rich people who could further make Jungle a greater sponsor than Apollon Media and hearing how great Mr. Black and He Is Thomas is that they would soon becoming the next Tiger & Bunny?” They could tell Subaru was being sarcastic.

“Is that all,” said Kotetsu, smiling at how silly the young hero was acting.

Finally, Subaru sighed in defeat.

“Alright, you caught me,” he said, looking down. “I really don’t want to be here. I was hoping I could go back to Panjourney to spend the Holidays with my family and friends since I didn’t get to do it last year because of the twins. But, you know Carlotta, she wasn’t going to listen to what I have to say.”

“That’s rough,” said Barnaby.

“And I thought Lloyds was a nightmare,” Kotetsu whispered to himself.

“Did you tell them you weren’t coming?”

“I did,” answered Subaru. “I thought they would be very sad. But you know what they said. “You go to that party. The city needs Mr. Black more than we need Hello Goodbye. You let the other heroes down. Especially your partner.””

“Well it’s good they understand,” said Kotetsu.

“Yeah… But I could tell they were unhappy that I wasn’t coming.”

“Maybe you could at least convince your bosses to give you New Years off,” suggested Barnaby.

“I could try,” said Subaru. “But I miss spending the Holidays in Panjourney.”

“What do you normally do there for Christmas?” asked Kotetsu.

“Mostly, me and my parents would just exchange gifts. My father and I would just watch whatever’s good on TV while my mother cooked her famous caramel coated turkey.”

“She actually covered it in caramel?”

“You’d be surprised how well caramel goes with anything. Sometime, I would visit my fellow heroes and see what they are doing. I even visit Rodrigo and join in on his Noche Buena plans, even though he ends up yelling at me to go away.”

“That sounds like fun,” said Barnaby, a bit interested.

“Yeah. It was. But now that I’m here, I’m not sure if I’ll ever get to do those things again.”

“Don’t give up,” assured Kotetsu. “I’m sure they’ll let you go next year.”

“… If you say so. But what about you, Ti- Ugh, I got to stop that. Kotetsu?”

“You can still call me Wild Tiger if you like. Even I still feel like going by it.”

“Well… What about you, Tiger? Now that you’re no longer a hero, should you be back in Oriental Town spending the Holidays with your family?”

“Well, I thought about it. I even told my mother, my daughter, and brother that I was coming. You know what they said?”

“What?”

“Kaede said, “You stay in Sternbil, Dad. The Wild Tiger: Anything Consultation Office only just started.” Then Moramasa said, “She’s right, you need all the business partners you can get and not just Barnaby to really take off.” Then my mom said, “You go to that party and do what you can. We are so proud of you.””

“That’s some supportive family.”

“And besides,” said Barnaby with a small laugh. “Kaede wants an autographed poster of me for Christmas. As if she doesn’t already have enough.”

“I see…” Subaru looks up a bit. Though his face was still covered, they could tell what he was feeling right now. “… Thanks.”

“You’re welcome,” said Kotetsu, happy along with Barnaby. “Besides, it turns out you’re not the only one.”

“What do you mean?”

“Your partner’s also looking a bit down.”

“Really? I mean, that’s no surprise, but what happened?”

“He’s been hanging out in the hall by himself just a little after the party started,” said Barnaby.

“You should go talk to him,” said Kotetsu. “I think he could use some good cheer.”

“Okay. I’ll see you guys later for the gift exchange.”

“Good luck,” Kotetsu and Barnaby said in unison.

With that, Subaru goes to the hall.

In the hall, Subaru found his partner. He was dressed in a white tux and had a white helmet which also had horns on it with something that looked like a halo. But under it was a young man who spent almost his whole life in pain and loneliness. His hair was as silver as moonlight, his eyes as green as emeralds, and a blank expression that made him look like he didn’t care about anything. His name was Thomas Taurus, but to the world that watched Hero TV, He Is Thomas (or HIT for short.)

Thomas was just staring at a glass of punch.

“Are you going to drink that anytime soon?” joked Subaru, getting Thomas’s attention.

“What about you?” he said back, pointing at the eggnog in Subaru’s hand.

“I was gonna finish it.”

Subaru removes his helmet, shaking his hair which had gone a bit wet with sweat from wearing his helmet for too long. Then, he takes one big gulp of his drink and lets out a sigh.

“That was good,” he said.

“Was it that good?” asked Thomas who never had eggnog before (mainly because he never thought of trying it).

“… No, not really. Guess I should have gone for the juice.”

“That’s alright, I’m not much up for drinking right now, anyway.”

Thomas puts his drink down on a nearby table and removes his helmet too, showing that his hair was also sweaty from wearing it for too long. He brushes his finger through his hair… Subaru felt his heart suddenly skip a beat.

“So,” said Subaru, trying hard now feeling embarrassed. “What are you doing here? The party’s in the main hall.”

“I was never really one for parties,” said Thomas, sounding as uncaring as possible. “Not even on Christmas.”

“Really? Is this because of how we spent Christmas last year, you should be complaining to those twins.”

“It’s not that. It’s… Even before that.”

Subaru was at a loss for words for a moment. He almost forgot how all of Thomas’s past Christmases must have been since his parents died and his sister, Ruby, was away. How lonely it must have been for him.

“I’m sorry,” said Subaru. “I guess I shouldn’t be prying.”

“It’s alright,” assured Thomas. “It wasn’t really your fault. I should have expected this when my NEXT powers first appeared. They wanted to take Ruby, but leave me behind.”

“But that’s different now. By the way, isn’t Ruby here? Now that you two found each other and Carlotta gave her a job with Jungle as an intern, she should be here.”

“Yes, she should. But the boss and Carlotta said that interns don’t get to go to parties like this… Besides, she really wanted to spend this Christmas with our dads. I wanted to go too, but Carlotta said I had to go to this party.”

“I guess she got to you, too, huh?”

“Yes. But Ruby wasn’t upset. She understood why I had to stay here and said she would try to get our dads to come over here for New Years. I wonder if she’ll do it. These men didn’t want to adopt me because I’m a NEXT. But Ruby managed to change their minds and now they have officially adopted me.”

“That’s great.”

“But, I really did want to go to Pleaides to spend the Holidays with her. We’ve been apart for so long… I don’t even remember what Christmas was like back when our parents were alive.”

“I’m…” Subaru was having a hard time finding the words.

“But I should trust her. We’ve only ever had each other to trust since we lost our parents. We still do.”

Subaru only thought about how sad Thomas was that Ruby went away for the Holidays. But what could he say? … But he could try something. So… Subaru took Thomas by the hand.

The moment their hands touched, Thomas suddenly felt something in the pit of his stomach. Was it a stomach ache? He hasn’t eaten anything since lunch. Gas? No, it couldn’t be that. Finally, after many more guesses, Thomas concluded that there was only one thing that could be going on… Butterflies. There were butterflies in his stomach. Thomas had never really had a feeling like this before. However, he did have some idea, ever since that day after they defeated L.L. Audun and Gregory Sunshine when Subaru invited him over for a lasagna dinner. He often wondered if Subaru ever felt the same way.

Subaru did. He’s had crushes on girls before, but this was uncharted territory. He always thought it would be with Rodrigo, but they would only be just friends. Thomas… Thomas is probably the first guy Subaru was attracted to. He had helped him find his sister. That showed what a good partner he is… But can they really be more than that? And Thomas did help Subaru realize that even heroes need someone to balance out someone as hot-blooded as Subaru is. Plus, he will never forget how Thomas saved him during that fight with Audun. That showed Subaru that he cares about his partner.

“Thomas,” said Subaru. He was silent for a moment. Then he smiled. “I may not change what happened then. All I can do is help you now and maybe help in the future. That’s all I can do.”

“Subaru,” said Thomas. He found himself smiling, too. Something he hardly ever does with his partner. “I feel the same. You want to stop crime when it happens, I want the same thing. It also means saving people. I’ll help you with that, too.”

“I know. And… I’m thankful for that. I just want us to find something to make sure we are still together in the future.”

“I want that, too. Now that I’ve realized it, you’re more than just my partner, or my friend, or even a brother. You’re… You’re much more than that.”

“You’re more than that to me, too.”

Subaru holds on to Thomas’s hands even tighter. Thomas couldn’t help but hold on tight, too. Suddenly, Thomas felt his powers activate as some of the things around them started to hover in the air. Themselves included. Subaru formed a barrier platform for them to stand on to keep them stable. They stopped going any higher the moment Thomas realized what was going on. When they did, they noticed something hanging just above them… A branch of mistletoe.

“They say that eating mistletoe can be deadly,” said Subaru.

“But kiss under it can be even more deadly,” said Thomas.

“But only if you don’t know about the person you’re kissing.”

“Or if you don’t know the person you are.”

Subaru and Thomas suddenly found themselves leaning close to each other. They leaned until their bodies were completely pressed against each other, feeling the warmth of their chests and the wild beating of their hearts. Then, the two young men wrapped themselves in each other arms as happiness overtook their expressions. They could feel their breaths on each other’s necks as their faces started to close in. Their eyes begin to close as they drew closer and closer together. Then, without any warning needed… their lips connected. A great heat passed through the two heroes’ bodies. At first, it burned and hurt them. But after a second, it turned into a good feeling as they began to hear music only they could hear while everyone at the party could only hear the orchestra playing Christmas songs. A feeling of joy, of laughter, of hope, of happiness, of pleasure, of understanding, and… of love. It was a feeling that made them wish that this moment would not end. Not now. Not ever.

Subaru and Thomas then drew away from their kiss, still smiling and holding each other in their arms as they began to descend back to the floor. As they landed and Subaru’s barrier deactivated, they were still holding each other. Then, they looked to the entrance of the party… where Kotetsu and Barnaby were standing with satisfied smiles on their faces. The two men drew back from each other, but still held one hand on the other’s.

“Did you,” began Subaru. “Did you see that?”

“See what?” said Kotetsu, still smiling.

Subaru and Thomas smiled, their faces still red, but they were happy.

“I think we should get back to the party,” said Thomas, putting his helmet back on.

“Yeah,” agreed Subaru, also putting his helmet back on.

They make their way back to the party.

“Hey, Thomas,” said Subaru. “If you’re not doing anything later, wanna come to my place? I think I can make another lasagna if you like.

Thomas smiled under his helmet.

“I wouldn’t miss it for the world,” he said. “And… would you mind if I stayed the night?”

Subaru also smiled.

“Nothing would make me happier,” he replied.

Back with Kotetsu and Barnaby, they looked up at where the mistletoe was hanging.

“I don’t remember that mistletoe hanging up there when we were coming in,” said Kotetsu.

Barnaby laughed a bit.

“I may have used my powers to leap up there and put it up,” he said.

The two men laughed.

“You know, Bunny,” said Kotetsu, looking over at the party where Subaru and Thomas were now talking together with other people. “I think those two will be alright.”

“They will,” agreed Barnaby. “As long as they trust their partners and stay by each other’s side, they can get through anything.”

“Just like us.”

The former hero duo places an arm on the other. Then, they look up to the mistletoe.

“Think we should take that down?” asked Kotetsu.

“An hour hasn’t passed yet,” said Barnaby. “I’ll take it down later before anyone sees. But I wonder what we’ll do in-“

Kotetsu already answers Barnaby’s question with a light peck on his cheek. The two men smiled at each other and embraced each other in a long and heartfelt kiss. They could not help but think that Tomoe, Mr. and Mrs. Brooks, and Samantha were looking down from Heaven and were smiling at how happy the older hero and the younger hero were… As long as they were together.

They rejoin the party as well. This would be a night they the four heroes would never forget. It will be with them for all eternity.

The end.

This story is for Lidoxia as part of TnB Secret Santa.

[exoplanetupdates-blog]

EXO Variety Shows (2020-2022)

2022:

Travel the World on EXO's Ladder S3 (EXO)

EXO-Mas (EXO)

Brand New Acorn Market (EXO)

Chen FM (EXO)

hello82 (Xiumin, Suho, Chen)

It’s Live (Suho, Chen)

Amazing Saturday (Xiumin)

Beat Coin (Xiumin)

Street Alcohol Fighter (Xiumin)

Jonathan Youtube Interview (Xiumin)

Chuu Can Do It (Xiumin)

After Zzz… (Xiumin)

Besties in Wonderland (Suho)

King of Masked Singer (Suho)

Hidden Singer 7 (Suho)

Lee Mujin Service (Suho)

Hey News (Suho)

No Doubt TV (Suho)

Back to Field S6 (Lay)

Hello, Saturday (Lay)

The Rap of China (Lay)

MMTG (Chen)

Dive Studios (Chen)

Off The Grid (D.O.)

Give me a minute (D.O.)

Radio Star (D.O. - mention)

KAI’s Bucket List (Kai)

Blockbuster: Brick War of Geniuses (Kai)

The Game Caterers S2 (Sehun)

Street Man Fighter (Sehun)

2021:

EXO Arcade S2 (EXO)

Knowing Bros (Xiumin, Kai)

Radio Star (Xiumin, D.O. - mention)

Busted S3 (Sehun, Suho)

Devil Wears Jungnam (Kai, Sehun)

Xiumin's Tomorrow, A Tennis King (Xiumin)

Amazing Saturday (Xiumin)

Drink with God (Xiumin)

Painful Date S2 (Xiumin)

Hurrah for Independence (Xiumin)

Where is My Home? (Xiumin)

Back to Field S5 (Lay)

Street Dance of China S4 (Lay)

Dance Smash S2 (Lay)

Youth and Melody (Lay)

A Date with Winter Dream (Lay)

New Business Card (Lay)

MMTG (Baekhyun)

Law of the Jungle (Chanyeol)

I Live Alone (Kai)

New World (Kai)

Kai's Bucket List (Kai)

Honeymoon Tavern (Kai)

Idol Dictation Contest S1 (Kai)

Sixth Sense S2 (Kai)

hello82 (Kai)

Job Dongsan (Kai)

Ggoggomoo S2 (Kai)

The TakFather (Kai)

Dingo (Kai)

Food Comes After Hard Work (Kai)

House on Wheels (Sehun)

2020: 

Workman (EXO)

Choiza Road S3 (EXO-SC)

After Zzz.. (EXO-SC, Kai)

Knowing Bros (EXO-SC, Baekhyun + Kai)

Amazing Saturday (Baekhyun + Chanyeol + Kai, Suho, Kai)

Heart For You (Suho, Chanyeol, Sehun)

Things That Make Me Groove (Xiumin, Baekhyun)

hello82 (Baekhyun + Kai)

Radio Star (Xiumin - mention)

Happy Camp (Lay)

Only 3 Days (Lay)

Street Dance of China S3 (Lay)

New Year’s Eve Dinner (Lay)

Go Fighting S6 (Lay)

I'm CZR S2 (Lay)

Dance Smash S2 (Lay)

We Are Young (Lay)

Yoo Heeyeol’s Sketchbook (Suho)

ODG (Suho)

I Play Alone (Baekhyun)

You Quiz On The Block (Baekhyun)

Heart For You (Chanyeol)

Stay Body Luv (Kai)

Hey Jini (Kai)

Comedy Big League (Kai)

YOOXICMAN (Kai)

Look Me Up (Kai)

The Adventures of Young-Ji (Kai)

I Live Alone (Sehun)

[brookstonalmanac]

Holidays 7.30

Holidays

Asarnha Bucha Day (Thailand)

Comedy Day

Copperhead Day

Crater Day (Virginia)

Day of he Martyrs of the Revolution (Cuba)

Dia del Amigo (Paraguay)

Etherium Day

Father-in-Law Day

Feast of the Throne (Morocco)

Fire Department Employees Day (Tajikistan)

Gastroschisis Awareness Day

Healthcare Now! Medicare Day

International Day of Friendship (a.k.a. Friendship Day; UN)

Jimmy Hoffa Day

Kiss Your Car Day

Marseillaise Day

Martyr’s Day (South Sudan)

Medicare Day

National Climb a Mountain Day

National Golden Girls Day

National Graduates Day (UK)

National Norma Day

National Support Public Education Day

National Whistleblower Appreciation Day

Out & Proud Parents Day

Paperback Book Day

President’s Day (Republic of Molossia)

Share a Hug Day

Sunisa Lee Day (Minnesota)

Teacher Day (Latin America)

Throne Day (Morocco)

Where’s the Beach Day

World Day Against Trafficking in Persons (UN)

World Embroidery Day

World Snorkeling Day

Food & Drink Celebrations

International Chicken & Waffles Day

Loaf Day

National Cheesecake Day

Independence & Related Days

British Citizenship Act Day (UK; 1948)

Toronto (f.k.a. York, Canada; Foundation Day; 1793)

Vanuatu (from UK/France, 1980)

Virginia Legislature Day (Virginia; 1619) [1st U.S. Legislative Assembly]

5th & Last Tuesday in July

Simple Abundance Day [Last Tuesday]

Festivals Beginning July 30, 2024

Crop Over (Bridgetown, Barbados) [thru 8.6]

Hawaii Conservation Conference (Honolulu, Hawaii) [thru 8.1]

Feast Days

Abdon (Christian; Saint) [barrel-makers, coopers] *

Balor (Fomorian God of Sorcery; Celtic Book of Days)

Birthday of Isis (Ancient Egypt)

Demento Day (Church of the SubGenius; Saint)

Emily Brontë (Writerism)

Festival of Fortune Huiusque Diei (Fortune of the Present Day; Ancient Rome)

Froissart (Positivist; Saint)

Giorgio Vasari (Artology)

Hatebrand (Christian; Saint)

Henry Moore (Artology)

Herbal Ballooning (Shamanism)

Jean Patrick Modiano (Writerism)

Jullitta (Christian; Widow & Martyr)

Kronia (Festival of Kronos, God of the Harvest; Ancient Greece)

Lou Darvas (Artology)

Lughnasadh Bread Day (Starza Pagan Book of Days)

Maxima, Donatilla, and Secunda (Christian; Saint)

Parmesan Day (Pastafarian)

Peter Chrysologus (Christian; Saint)

Robert Barnes (Lutheran)

Rufinus of Assisi (Christian; Saint)

Saint Ann and Gloosca Day (Micmac Peoples, Nova Scotia; Everyday Wicca)

Sennen (Christian; Martyrs)

Sir Steve, of the Kingdom of Gorf (Muppetism)

Tatwine (Christian; Saint)

Ursus of Auxerre (Christian; Saint)

Sennen (Christian; Martyr)

Solanus Casey (Christian; Saint)

Tyr’s Day (Pagan)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Prime Number Day: 211 [47 of 72]

Shakku (赤口 Japan) [Bad luck all day, except at noon.]

Premieres

Alice Picks the Champ (Disney Cartoon; 1925)

Batman: The Movie (1966)

Bird-Brain Bird Dog (MGM Cartoon; 1954)

Calling All Cuckoos (Woody Woodpecker Cartoon; 1956)

Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore (Film; 2010)

Coyote Falls (WB LT Cartoon; 2010)

Dinner for Schmucks (Film; 2010)

Doggone Tired (Tex Avery MGM Cartoon; 1949)

Enter Sandman, by Metallica (Song; 1991)

Flesh Gordon (Adult Film; 1974)

Flight of the Navigator (Film; 1986)

Flowers and Trees (Silly Symphony Disney Cartoon; 1932)

The Green Knight (Film; 2021)

Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle (Film; 2004)

Inspector Lews (UK TV Series; 2006)

Is This It, by The Strokes (Album; 2001)

It’s the Natural Things to Do (Fleischer Popeye Cartoon; 1939)

Jungle Cruise (Film; 2021)

Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox (WB Film; 2013)

The Lifeguard (Film; 2013)

Little Boy Blue, a.k.a. The Big Bad Wolf (Ub Iwerks ComiColor Cartoon; 1936)

Man Out of Time, by Elvis Costello (Song; 1982)

Mister Roberts (Film; 1955)

Night Shift (Film; 1982)

Nobody Knows My Name, by James Baldwin (Essays; 1961)

An Officer and a Gentlemen (Film; 1982)

The Oily Bird (Noveltoons Cartoon; 1954)

Out of Our Heads, by The Rolling Stones (Album; 1965)

Out of the Frying Pan Into the Firing Line (Disney Cartoon; 1942)

The Paper Hangers (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1937)

Ready, Woolen and Able (WB MM Cartoon; 1960)

Rising Sun (Film; 1993)

Robin Hood: Men in Tights (Film; 1993)

Runaway Bride (Film; 1999)

Secret Agent (Fleischer Cartoon; 1943) [#17]

Sinbad the Sailor (Ub Iwerks ComiColor Cartoon; 1935)

So I Married an Axe Murderer (Film; 1993)

Sublime, by Sublime (Album; 1996)

The Trial of Donald Duck (Disney Cartoon; 1948)

Victory Vehicles (Disney Cartoon; 1943)

The Violent Bear It Away, by Flannery O'Connor (Novel; 1960)

War is a Racket, by Smedley D. Butler (Book; 1935)

A Wolf in Sheik’s Clothing (Fleischer/Famous Popeye Cartoon; 1948)

Wool, by Hugh Howey (Novel; 2011)

Today’s Name Days

Inga, Ingeborg, Petrus (Austria)

Anđa, Julita, Maksima, Petar, Rufin (Croatia)

Bořivoj (Czech Republic)

Abdon (Denmark)

Kerman, Kermo, Roland (Estonia)

Asta (Finland)

Juliette (France)

Inga, Ingeborg, Petrus (Germany)

Andronikos, Silouanos (Greece)

Judit, Xénia (Hungary)

Donatella, Pietro (Italy)

Madara, Renārs, Rosalinde, Valters (Latvia)

Abdonas, Donatilė, Nortautas, Radvilė (Lithuania)

Aud, Audhild, Aurora (Norway)

Abdon, Julia, Julita, Ludmiła, Maryna, Ubysław (Poland)

Margarita, Marina (Russia)

Libuša (Slovakia)

Pedro (Spain)

Algot (Sweden)

Syla, Sylvan (Ukraine)

Casey, Enrica, Enrique, Etta, Everard, Everett. Hank, Hendrick, Henrietta, Henry, Kacey, Kacie, Kasey, Reece, Reese (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 212 of 2024; 155 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 2 of Week 31 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Tinne (Holly) [Day 25 of 28]

Chinese: Month 6 (Xin-Wei), Day 25 (Yi-Wei)

Chinese Year of the: Dragon 4722 (until January 29, 2025) [Wu-Chen]

Hebrew: 24 Tammuz 5784

Islamic: 23 Muharram 1446

J Cal: 2 Purple; Twosday [2 of 30]

Julian: 17 July 2024

Moon: 24%: Waning Crescent

Positivist: 15 Dante (8th Month) [Froissart]

Runic Half Month: Thorn (Defense) [Day 7 of 15]

Season: Summer (Day 41 of 94)

Week: Last Week of July

Zodiac: Leo (Day 9 of 31)