#Strategic keywords

[techiegigs]

10 Tools to Streamline Keyword Prioritization for SEO Success

Keyword prioritization is a crucial part of any SEO strategy. By focusing on the right keywords, you can drive targeted traffic, improve rankings, and boost conversions. However, with countless keywords available, narrowing down the list to the most valuable ones can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, there are powerful tools designed to simplify this process. Here are 10 tools that can help you streamline keyword prioritization for SEO success.

1. Google Keyword Planner

Google Keyword Planner is a staple for keyword research. It provides search volume, competition level, and cost-per-click (CPC) data for keywords. Use it to:

Identify keyword opportunities based on search volume.

Estimate the competitiveness of keywords.

Prioritize keywords with high relevance and low competition.

Best For: Beginners and businesses focusing on Google Ads alongside SEO.

2. SEMrush

SEMrush is an all-in-one SEO tool that excels in competitive analysis and keyword research. Its features include:

Keyword difficulty scores to assess competition.

Insights into competitor keyword strategies.

SERP analysis for identifying ranking opportunities.

Best For: Comprehensive keyword prioritization and competitor analysis.

3. Ahrefs

Ahrefs is a powerhouse for in-depth SEO analysis. Its keyword explorer tool offers:

Accurate search volume data.

Keyword difficulty metrics.

Click-through rate (CTR) estimates.

Ahrefs also provides related keyword suggestions to help you discover untapped opportunities.

Best For: Data-driven keyword prioritization.

4. Moz Keyword Explorer

Moz’s Keyword Explorer is user-friendly and offers unique features like:

Organic CTR scores to gauge keyword potential.

Priority scores that combine volume, competition, and relevance.

Keyword suggestions for expanding your list.

Best For: Beginners and small businesses looking for intuitive tools.

5. Ubersuggest

Ubersuggest by Neil Patel is a cost-effective tool for keyword research. It provides:

Keyword ideas based on seed terms.

SEO difficulty and paid difficulty scores.

Content ideas for targeted keywords.

Best For: Solopreneurs and startups with limited budgets.

6. Keyword Surfer

Keyword Surfer is a Chrome extension that displays keyword data directly in Google search results. It offers:

Search volume estimates.

Cost-per-click data.

Keyword suggestions related to your query.

Best For: Quick, on-the-go keyword insights.

7. AnswerThePublic

AnswerThePublic specializes in generating keyword ideas based on questions, prepositions, and comparisons. It helps you:

Uncover user intent.

Find long-tail keywords.

Create content tailored to audience queries.

Best For: Content marketers targeting informational keywords.

8. SpyFu

SpyFu focuses on competitor analysis and uncovering their high-performing keywords. It offers:

Insights into competitors’ organic and paid keywords.

Historical ranking data.

Keyword profitability estimates.

Best For: Competitor-focused keyword prioritization.

9. Serpstat

Serpstat is an affordable tool that combines keyword research with site auditing. Its features include:

Keyword difficulty analysis.

Search volume trends.

Keyword grouping for streamlined prioritization.

Best For: Budget-conscious businesses needing a versatile tool.

10. Long Tail Pro

Long Tail Pro is designed specifically for identifying and prioritizing long-tail keywords. It provides:

Keyword competitiveness scores.

Domain metrics to assess ranking potential.

Niche keyword suggestions.

Best For: Niche websites targeting specific audiences.

Choosing the Right Tools for Your Strategy

Selecting the right tools depends on your business goals, budget, and expertise. Here’s a quick summary:

Budget-Friendly Options: Ubersuggest, Keyword Surfer, and AnswerThePublic.

Comprehensive Solutions: SEMrush, Ahrefs, and Serpstat.

Beginner-Friendly Tools: Moz Keyword Explorer and Google Keyword Planner.

Competitor-Focused Tools: SpyFu and Ahrefs.

Niche Targeting: Long Tail Pro.

Conclusion

Effective keyword prioritization can transform your SEO strategy, driving better results with less effort. These 10 tools offer powerful features to help you identify, analyze, and prioritize keywords that align with your business goals. By integrating these tools into your workflow, you can create a streamlined, data-driven approach to SEO that delivers consistent success.

[branddiariesingurgaon]

Unlock the secrets to content marketing success with effective keyword research. Discover the power of strategic keywords and learn how to optimize your content for maximum visibility and engagement.

[technologyequality]

AI-Powered Brand Authority: Establishing Yourself as the Go-To Expert

AI-Powered Brand Authority Establishing Yourself as the Go-To Expert We’ve tackled AI-powered storytelling and AI-driven content marketing, but now it’s time for the real game-changer: building brand authority. Because let’s be honest, people don’t buy from businesses, they buy from experts. And in an AI-driven world, positioning yourself as the go-to authority in your field is…

[juliet-lima]

Letting loose the Power of Management: Inspiring Change and Driving Success

""

Management is even more than simply a title; it is a frame of mind as well as a set of abilities that can change people, groups, as well as organizations. In today's busy and competitive globe, reliable leadership has come to be a critical aspect for accomplishing success. Whether it is in the corporate world, community organizations, or also personal partnerships, strong management can produce a positive influence as well as drive purposeful change.Leadership is not limited to a details role or placement; it can be exhibited by anyone that wants to tip up and also take fee. It involves assisting as well as influencing others towards an usual objective, while additionally supporting their possible and structure strong connections. Effective leaders possess a mix of top qualities, consisting of vision, empathy, resilience, and superb interaction abilities. They influence and also motivate others, produce a sense of objective as well as direction, and also encourage their staff member to do at their best. By setting a favorable instance and also leading with integrity, leaders can produce a society of trust, cooperation, as well as innovation.Paragraph 2: Moreover, management is not simply concerning personal success; it has to do with equipping others to reach their complete potential. A real leader invests time and also initiative into creating the abilities as well as skills of their staff member, supporting their growth and also helping them get over challenges. By offering assistance, mentorship, as well as possibilities for expert development, leaders foster an atmosphere where individuals can thrive and add their special strengths.In times of uncertainty and modification, efficient leadership becomes even much more crucial. Leaders that can adjust to brand-new obstacles, welcome innovation, and make difficult choices motivate self-confidence as well as provide stability. They have the ability to navigate via facility circumstances, expect future patterns, as well as guide their organization in the direction of success.In conclusion, leadership is an effective force that can transform individuals, companies, and also culture overall. It requires a combination of top qualities, abilities, as well as a state of mind focused

on encouraging others and also driving favorable change. By accepting the principles of leadership and also continually creating these skills, individuals can come to be stimulants for success and also make a long lasting impact in their particular fields.

Read more here Management Consulting Firms

[dreamlikevening]

Pick A Fragrance ୨୧₊˚ʚ ;

messages from your higher self <3

you can pick based on appearance of the perfume bottle, or the notes which i will put below ♡ these fragrances are all by Le Monde Gourmand

pile 1 ~ thé matcha (notes: fig, cedar, matcha tea, bitter orange, vetiver)

pile 2 ~ chai épicé (notes: violet, fig, musk, lily of the valley, blonde woods)

pile 3 ~ fraise fouettée (notes: strawberry, banana, california orange, butter, heliotrope, coconut water, sugar, vanilla)

pile 1 - thé matcha

hello hello hellooooo. i got a feeling from your higher self that you're a bouncy person. i heard "free-looking" but also free-feeling. carefree kind of person. i'm getting taurus & sagittarius energy (could be significant placements or the house that they fall under in your astrology chart is calling your attention right now! for example, if you're a taurus rising, your higher self would be calling attention to your first house of identity, appearance, self-expression & such). if this resonates, it's extra confirmation that this is for you. i will also pull some paper slips with keywords for extra extra info <3

keywords: searcher & finder (got the message that you're a searcher/you spend lots of time searching but in a fulfilling sense), weekend, sequence, between the lines, triangle symbol (fire, so i'm getting you have a prominent fire placement), missing puzzle piece, "follow ♥︎", illusion, "full?", in the zone

cards: 7 of swords, 2 of swords, the world, page of cups

something your higher self is drawing your attention to is being more strategic when it comes to attaining something. to be more straightforward and honest with yourself. let's say you've been feeling lazy about getting a job but when you see, then fully accept that you have a Need to fulfill, you start to plan out how to attain that goal. you start with your resume, you pretty and polish it up, you create a profile, you start looking for jobs you'd be willing to work at. that's just an example of course, but something about getting real with yourself and getting organized as a result. your higher self is encouraging you very much and also protecting the situation for you. i definitely think they're being loud and clear about it, so if you've been seeing a lot of sings or been called to many readings recently, or been thinking heavily about a change you can make, that's them reaching out! "devote and dedicate yourself to what's important to you". you could be passionate about many things and have many goals but there's something here about re-prioritizing and organizing yourself so you don't overwhelm yourself with goals. take it step by step, one day at a time. just organize your thoughts, take the time to get to the root of your current needs. your higher self is highly recommending you to be decisive right now. and it'll be easier to make decisions once you organize yourself.

the way your higher self is seeing you right now is with pride. you are already so accomplished and maybe don't fully realize Just How Accomplished you are. not to the extent. so they want you to give yourself credit. compare your current self to a past version of yourself that wasn't as wise and didn't have as many tools, and you'll start to recognize just how many things you have done. you've overcome so much and your higher self is like "that's my girl" kind of vibe. you don't have to be a girl of course but it's that kind of feeling of a parent watching a child grow and gently guiding them towards success but really that child is doing so well on their own. but you can rely on them fully (your higher self). they want you to know they're always there for you and that you're so strong! also if you're into travel, they want you to know that you'll be able to do so much of it in your life, and that they'll protect you. "the biggest blessing you're receiving is that you're gonna start to get your shit together and take over the world" lol.

with lots of love, what they're working on and "crafting" up for you right now is: a new learning venture, a new passion/interest/love, an opportunity. take all of those as they resonate.

channeled songs: whenever, wherever by shakira, illusion by aespa, drip by izna, illusion by ateez, bus by travis

pile 2 - chai épicé

omg HIIII i got a burst of energy for this pile omg. i couldn't even spell LOL. okay. getting a cozy energy from this group like you could be a lover of comfort and all things mellow and relaxing. don't think you enjoy heavy and unpleasant media, which is some interesting wording so maybe you have a nice and adequate vocabulary or you're the kind of person that remains graceful in hard situations even if you're feeling quite intensely about something. i'm getting peaceful, pacifist, but strong vibes from you. your higher self really praises this because i think you've gone through quite an array of difficult experiences but you remain charming, kind, and loving. i just heard "i shed a tear", like i'm picturing your higher self and i think another guide of yours? perhaps an angel, or a "motherly" kind of spirit. definitely a feminine spirit. if saints resonate with you, i do feel that as well. you're definitely being commended for the person that you are. these are all intuitively channeled so far.

keywords: cheer up! signs, bad (i thought of bad, bad, bad by LANY), tell me, journey, set me free, zone, beauty, butterfly

cards: ace of pentacles, 6 of swords, king of cups, 4 of wands

first of all, your higher self is once again commending you for being the way you are. you are very balanced and well-rounded, seeing as we got an earth card, an air card, a water card, and a fire card. you have all the elements within you! and truthfully, we all do, but there's a tendency to lean into some elements more than others. you have the balance. you seem to really alchemize in your life and take in things that are important and necessary to you, leave out the rest, and create beauty. you spread it. i was also hearing that you're the kind of person that people talk about to their friends like. you make good impressions on others quite often. and you are respected. right now, your higher self is calling your attention to keeping your eyes peeled for some sort of promotion/upgrade. if you've been working on a project, they really want you to put it out there and do it your own way. there's a prosperous result on the horizon for you. so pay attention to any creative ideas, inspiration, and epiphanies that come your way! document them! clouds and hanging flowers could be positive signs that an idea of yours will come into bloom or have a very wonderful outcome <3 if you're interested in chakra work, i would suggest doing crown chakra activities/exercises during this time (feel free to look some up!) but yes, your higher self is saying to definitely move towards any creative endeavors right now. there are soooo many possibilities. a book that has really TRULY been super insightful to me as a writer and creative is "the creative act: a way of being" by rick rubin. if you're called to that, please please look into it! ♡

some blessings that your higher self is working on for you at this time are: a good support system, connection, compassion, important (& beautiful) gatherings, wish fulfillment (significant steps that you're taking in the 3D and 5D towards dreams of yours are shaping up into the physical and getting closer to you), celebrations (i also heard congratulations) 🎊🎂

i'm super duper excited for u and i think you're doing wonderfully. if you believe in fairytale endings, i do think that kind of energy is absolutely meant for you. things are happening pile 2!!!! keep movin' <3

channeled songs: bad, bad, bad by lany, any songs that have the keywords i mentioned at the beginning of your reading, such as "butterfly", congratulations by day6.

thank u for being here 🎀

pile 3 - fraise fouettée

welcome in, welcome in ♡ getting such a sweet vibe from this pile. magical. pink. if this isn't how you see yourself, maybe your higher self embodies that kind of pink, light, fluffy energy. i'm getting you could be really into pinterest, collaging, scrapbooking, ribbons, cake, dainty clothing, white clothing, be into fashion. getting a bit of jennifer aniston kind of energy.. your aura is definitely giving PINK. i also feel like you could smell very good (this is interesting bc the other two piles did not mention anything about the person smelling good despite this being a "pick a fragrance" lol) so i think you're very put together physically, and care a lot about how you present yourself. i think you take other people's feelings into consideration. you have a gentle leader kind of archetype. take that however it resonates. those were the intuitive messages i got, now for keywords!

keywords: bunny, wonder girls, "say ahh", like (with a heart on the i <3), black hair, hundreds, unlock, party, charm, cake, girl's generation (make u feel the heat), sensibility

cards: the fool, the star, 5 of swords, justice

let's get started! i'm getting that you're a smooth talker. you love talking or your passion has something to do with using your voice and really getting a point across to people. and i think you're naturally gifted at that whether you sense it or not. your higher self is reassuring you about this right now, and also bringing your attention to situations where you have to either be upfront with people, explain something to them (maybe some of you are tutors or teachers of some sort), or present ideas to people. so if things like that come up, it was divinely guided for sure. you are meant to really take in this situation and learn from it. i think a lot of doors are opening up for you at the moment, perhaps you're in a "blank canvas" part of your life right now. so many things you could do, so many ways you can go. and it's all up to you. i'm hearing "design your own life". if you're skilled in the arts, you are also skilled in manifestation. that was specifically for you. your higher self is really recognizing your potential right now, if in the past you had a hard time listening to your intuition, they're thanking you now for having faith. "it's not easy, but it's so beautiful and true to you and your journey". for some reason marie antoinette just popped into my mind. you could really influence people because of your natural abilities. and i do think you have lots of potential to gain a lot of recognition for them. big scale. the house that scorpio falls under in your astrology chart could be significant right now, so if you're curious, look into it! at first i was getting such a pretty vibe from this group, and you still are, but as i got more into it, I felt a very sharp and direct feeling from you. you could surprise a lot of people with your thoughts, way of commanding a room, and overall your approach to communication and life. very cool person if i do say so myself.

blessings that your higher-self is sending your way are coming out in quite a straightforward manner: karmic justice. people getting what they deserve. the truth being revealed. unveiling.

i think that your higher self has watched over every single situation where you've been treated unfairly by others. it's funny to them, because they know exactly why those people were acting that way, and they're just happy you won't end up that way. they want you to rest assured, you have nothing to worry about. you can leave all of that in the past, and know that they, and the rest of your guides are all here for you. standing next to you. protecting you. and giving you the wisdom to see through those kinds of situations. you become smarter and much more compassionate each step of the way. your higher self is really working on giving you a more gentle time of your life, full of light, forgiveness, and innocence. beautiful and positive relationships and experiences are coming your way.

channeled songs: smooth operator by sade, pity party by melanie martinez, tell me by wonder girls, dying by echobelly, closer to fine by indigo girls, see you by depeche mode

i got the idea for a "pick a fragrance" out of the blue but i have watched a video by Kino Tarot on youtube where she did this so inspiration was derived from her :D

thank you for being here ♫⋆。♪ ₊˚♬ ﾟ. 🌷

[ramyeonzwithspam]

What's Yours is Mine - Nishimura Riki

Late night skateboarding with your boyfriend

bf!riki x f!reader

fluff, slighly suggestive, established relationship

authors notes: not great at writing kissing yet, and i couldnt wait to post this, so 6:30 post it is

The midnight wind whipped against your skin as you picked up speed, riding smoothly down the sloped street that your boyfriend had just taken. Despite the slight cold, sweat beaded on your neck from the near hour you had spent skateboarding around with Riki. It was something the two of you loved to do together, he was the one who taught you to skate and now you could almost keep up with him. Keyword being almost.

You had already fallen at least 3 times tonight, and had the scratches and pavement burns to show for it. Riki watched carefully from the bottom of the street, waiting for you to catch up to him before he took off again. As he watched you ride towards him, he spotted the large hole in the road before you did. He was unable to warn you in time, so your front wheel fell right into the hole and you tumbled forward off of your board.. right into Riki’s arms.

“Shit.. thank you Riki” you breathed, a little shaken by the close call.

“Of course babe” he replied smoothly, brushing it off like it was no big deal. You smiled as he leaned down to grab your board, knowing you well enough to understand that you’d be too scared to ride it again for a few minutes.

“Let's walk,” He shouted as he jogged toward his own board, “we are close to the park!” Riki picked up his own board and swung them both under his arm, waiting for you to catch up. When you met with him, he slung his open arm around your shoulders, pulling you in tight as you walked.

Now that the adrenaline rush was gone, the spring winds settled into your bones. Any sweat left on your body had turned cold and you regretted leaving your jacket in Riki’s car. You tried your best to hide the occasional shiver, but to no avail. Ever attentive, Riki noticed your body shaking and came to a halt.

Without a word, he removed his sweatshirt. He noticed you staring at the hem of his shirt as it rode up, and chuckled at how captivated you seemed to be by him. The laugh brought you back to reality, and you saw your boyfriend standing in front of you, holding out his sweatshirt to take. With a smile, you grabbed the material and slipped it over your head, relishing in the familiar smell.

“I need that back after tonight though. You have almost every sweatshirt I own sitting in your closet right now” he chuckled, trying his best to sound authoritative.

“What's yours is mine” you teased, taking off running toward the park, his sweatshirt held captive now.

“Y/N- YOU LITTLE-” he yelled after you, quickly taking off behind you as well.

As soon as you passed the park tables, you heard Riki drop both of your boards on the pavement, losing the weight burden. A breathless laugh left you as you continued to run into the open field just past the playground. You knew Riki was faster than you, but somehow you still hoped he wouldn't catch up to you.

Those hopes were dashed when you felt a strong pair of arms wrap around your waist and take you to the ground, strategically falling so that he would take the impact and you could land on top of him. You laughed again, now laying on top of your boyfriend, and adjusted yourself. You put both hands on his chest and held yourself slightly above his face, smiling widely.

His playful smile softened as he stared up at you, reaching one hand into your hair to push it back behind your ear. That same hand trailed down to your face, caressing your cheek with his thumb. Without a word, you leaned in and pressed a small kiss to Riki’s lips, pulling back before he could reciprocate.

The young boy smiled brightly, admiring your beautiful face for a brief second, before recovering quickly. He wrapped his other hand around your waist, pulling you flush against his body in the grass, while his first hand entangled itself in your hair. Riki kissed you again, this time longer and slower. You didn't attempt to pull away, but instead deepened the kiss, clenching one hand into the fabric of his shirt.

Lightly, Riki tugged on the base of your hair, causing a slight gasp from your mouth. He took the opportunity to dart his tongue across your lips and into your mouth. Satisfied with the feeling, you groaned against your boyfriend, kissing him harder. Just as the kiss became more heated, Riki pulled you away from him.

For a moment, you both stared at each other, lips red and swollen from the short make out. You could feel Riki’s heated breath against your face, a stark contrast to the late night air.

As Riki opened his mouth to speak, you pushed yourself off of him and stood up as quickly as you could. Your boyfriend propped himself up on his elbows, confused as you turned towards the park tables again. Only when you took off in the direction of the skateboards did he realize what you were doing,

“First one to the car keeps the sweatshirt!!” you yelled back at your helpless boyfriend, still laying in the grass.

[techiegigs]

From Research to Ranking: How to Build a Strategic Keyword Plan

Creating a strategic keyword plan is the cornerstone of successful SEO. It’s not just about identifying popular terms; it’s about understanding your audience, aligning with search intent, and optimizing for long-term results. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you go from research to ranking.

1. Define Your Goals

Before diving into keyword research, clarify your objectives:

Are you aiming to increase website traffic?

Do you want to improve conversions?

Is brand visibility your primary focus?

Your goals will shape the keywords you target and the content you create.

2. Understand Your Audience

Knowing your audience’s needs and behaviors is crucial for keyword success. Consider:

Demographics: Age, location, and interests.

Pain Points: What problems are they trying to solve?

Search Behavior: How do they phrase their queries?

Use tools like Google Analytics and customer surveys to gather insights.

3. Conduct Comprehensive Keyword Research

Use reliable tools to build your keyword list:

Google Keyword Planner: Find high-volume and relevant terms.

SEMrush or Ahrefs: Analyze competitors and discover keyword gaps.

AnswerThePublic: Explore question-based keywords.

Look for a mix of:

Short-tail keywords: Broad terms for brand awareness.

Long-tail keywords: Specific phrases with clear intent.

LSI keywords: Related terms to enrich your content.

4. Analyze Search Intent

Matching keywords to user intent is critical for success. Identify whether the intent is:

Informational: Seeking knowledge (e.g., “How to grow plants indoors”).

Navigational: Searching for a specific site (e.g., “Amazon login”).

Transactional: Ready to take action (e.g., “Buy indoor plants”).

Create content that aligns with the intent to improve rankings and engagement.

5. Prioritize and Organize Keywords

Not all keywords are created equal. Prioritize based on:

Search Volume: High volume indicates popularity.

Competition: Low competition offers easier wins.

Relevance: Keywords must align with your content and audience.

Group keywords into clusters based on topics to streamline content creation.

6. Create a Content Strategy

Build content around your keyword clusters using a hub-and-spoke model:

Pillar Content: Comprehensive guides targeting broad keywords.

Cluster Content: Supporting pieces targeting related long-tail keywords.

Ensure all cluster articles link back to the pillar page for SEO synergy.

7. Optimize On-Page Elements

Incorporate keywords naturally into:

Title tags and meta descriptions.

Headings (H1, H2, H3).

Body text and image alt attributes.

Avoid keyword stuffing to maintain readability and user experience.

8. Track Performance and Refine

Regularly monitor your keyword strategy’s success:

Use Google Search Console to track keyword rankings.

Analyze traffic, engagement, and conversion metrics.

Update and refresh content based on performance data.

Final Thoughts

Building a strategic keyword plan is an ongoing process that evolves with search trends and audience behavior. By following these steps, you can create a robust SEO foundation that drives traffic, engagement, and results.

What’s your approach to strategic keyword planning? Share your insights in the comments below!

[stinkysam]

Choi Subong “Thanos” - Together.

Warning : blood, sexual talk, death, suicide

Genre : angst

Synopsis : Thanos tries to get you to forgive him while you try to spend time away from him. Keyword : try.

Reader : male (you/yours)

A/N : bold is in English // pt.2 Fuck 388 // pt.1 420 // im not sure i like it but im still posting it because i spent time on it so here you go. // 7k6 words

Still sitting next to Daeho, you listened as the group talked about the games they just played, congratulating each other for their skills. You slowly relaxed as you all presented yourselves to 222. 

You continued chatting together, your mind clearing up bit by bit, no longer focused on Thanos and the deadly games.

Pink men entered the lobby, and the square congratulated you all for making it through as armed triangles stood behind him. He clicked on a remote and money fell by stacks into the piggy. Everyone stood up to have a better look, mesmerized by the sight.

Behind him, the screen with the amount of players updated itself while showing the total sum of money accumulated.

78 million won per player alive.

People complained about the amount, saying the men in pink didn’t correctly count the dead.

But the square ignored their remarks, announcing the start of the second vote.

Everyone waited as they placed the machine, thinking about their next move. Was the money enough for them ?

Although you felt confident in your choice, you couldn’t help but wonder about if you voted O. What if the next game was easy ? 78 million wasn’t enough for you, but maybe with the next game you’d have enough to get debts free and have a second chance at life.

If a lot of people chose O instead of X, it’s not because they’re all delusional or suicidal, right ? It might be because they know they can make it. What if they were right ?

Still, you couldn’t stop thinking about what Gihun said during the first vote. Everyone who played the games died except for him. Was it a one time thing ? Could there be more winners ?

You listened as Youngil told Gihun he was dropping the O patch for the X one, talking about returning to his wife at the hospital. You saw Daeho look at his chest.

“I’m telling you. We’ll get out this time.” He said to the two older men before shaking Jungbae’s shoulder. “A marine should think strategically and know when to retreat. Isn’t that right brother ?” 

The older man turned around, looking at him slightly… out of it. Was he hesitating ?

“Yeah, you’re right. Marines aren’t invincible. We should get out.” He finally said.

“We have to end the games here. I’ll help you guys when we get out. Please trust me and support this vote.” Gihun said and you all nodded.

“Guys, all huddle up again.” Daeho quickly placed his hand in the middle of the group, waiting for everyone to join him. You put your hand on his as the rest followed, determined. “In one, two, theee. Victory at all costs !”

“Victory at all costs !” You all said at the same time before pulling your hands away. Daeho patted your back before rubbing Jungbae’s shoulders. It seemed to hurt him more than to relax him.

The vote finally began and this time it’s Youngil who started it. He nodded at the group before walking to the buttons, picking X and changing his patch.

Everyone watched in silence as the vote slowly kept going. Until suddenly Youngil interrupted it when the Os were starting to be the majority vote.

100 argued back, saying 70 million won wasn’t enough for them. It wasn’t enough for you as well, but having debts felt better than dying. You still wanted to live. To see the sun, experience the rain again, walk in the snow, see your family and friends, to eat and laugh with them. Shitty life full of debts seemed better than no life at all.

“After one more game, the amount more than tripled ! If we play one more game, the prize will be at least 240 million !”

“But I can’t do this anymore.” A young girl cried. “Please. Please let me out of here. I really… I really want to go home. I don’t want to die.”

But then a man began crying as well, going on about how she’s young and still has a chance at life thanks to her age, while he doesn’t.

“What if you die ?” Youngil argued back. “If you die here, your family won’t even get your body. Then it’d be the end for you and your family !”

“Don’t get fucking scared !” 226 interrupted. “Ddakji, red light, green light, spinning top ! It’s not like the games are that difficult. There are still 255 players. Way more than half of us survived ! We’ve made it this far, so let’s do it one more time !”

“You make such a good point, young man. We’ve all played the games well and survived until now ! Now let’s play one more game ! Just one more, and that’s it. Let’s play just one more game !” 100 yelled, raising a fist in the air.

“Yeah, let’s play one more !” 226 screamed.

And soon, every O followed them, yelling “one more game” over and over, fist raised. You sighed as you saw Thanos do the same, bouncing on his feet excitedly.

There were definitely more Os than Xs… You felt like it was a lost cause. Will your vote really matter ?

Gihun and Youngil looked at each other, feeling defeated.

It was with no surprises that the O won.

As people went back to their beds, some stood still, eyes empty, like you. Wondering when you could go back home. You looked around, seeing Thanos and Namgyu high-five each other happily, laughing. How could they not be scared ? Was there really a chance to win these games ?

You finally turned around and saw Daeho look at Jungbae, who had voted O this time. You patted his shoulder as you passed next to him, sitting where the group usually is. Youngil sat next to you, then Junhee and Daeho, Gihun staying at the front, looking completely helpless at the results.

You all stayed silent for a moment, processing what happened.

“We can still leave.” Daeho began quietly, trying to be optimistic. “After the next game there will be a new vote.”

“Yeah but maybe we’ll be dead.” You replied with a blank stare.

“Ah, don’t say that ! You don’t know what will happen, we can all make it !” He grabbed your shoulders, rubbing them reassuringly.

“Why didn’t you vote O if you’re so optimistic about surviving ?” You asked after a moment of silence.

“Because I don’t want anyone else to die, and I’m not that optimistic. I’m just hoping.” He replied, rubbing your back. “Come on, we can make it. As they said, it’s children’s games, we should be able to do it.”

You hummed, unaware that on his bed Thanos was glaring at you two, fuming.

388’s hands were on you and he didn’t like that. Maybe that’s why you truly broke up with him ? So you could be with that guy you just met ?

Quickly the men in pink came back to give you food, soboro bread and some milk.

You stared at it.

“Is that all ?” You asked. But the circle in front of you didn’t respond, staying silent. It felt more like a breakfast than a dinner. Were they serious ? You sighed, annoyed, as he handed you your food. You took it, exasperated.

But as you walked away, you heard footsteps approaching you from behind. You looked over your shoulder and turned around when you saw Thanos.

“Is that why you left me ?” He asked, looking at Daeho who was sitting down.

“No.”

“He’s all over you. I’m not blind ! I saw it.”

“He’s not the reason why I broke up with you.” You said tiredly, not wanting to argue with him any longer.

“Then why were his hands on you ?” He said, feeling like he had cornered you.

“Because y’all won.” You deadpanned, frowning. “I’m feeling so fucking defeated and tired. He’s just trying to comfort me.”

“Right. Be careful. I’m watching you.”

You rolled your eyes.

“I’m going now.” You said, turning around and walking away.

As you sat down, Daeho stood up, going after Jungbae and bringing back into the group. The older man looked awkwardly at Gihun and Youngil before apologizing and explaining his vote.

“If I play one more game, I think I’ll be able to settle my debt. So-”

“Jungbae, you of all people shouldn’t have done it. It’s not twice as righteous.” Youngil said before sighing. “But, looking at the results, even if you had voted against, we would still have been outvoted.”

“Right ? It’s not entirely my fault.”

“All right. To be honest, I understand why you did it. The money isn’t enough for me either, so when I went up to vote, I did think about playing one more game.” Daeho said and Jungbae grabbed him.

“You did ?”

“I said I get it.” Daeho pushed him away, sighing.

“Thank you for understanding.” Jungbae sat down before continuing. “But I voted in favor partly because I feel confident. We did so well as a team, didn’t we ?” He looked around for approval. “If we stick together one more time, I’m sure we’ll be fine. Junhee, I’ll make sure we survive next game-”

“The next game ?” Gihun interrupted. “In the next game we might have to kill each other.”

“Gihun, that’s a bit much.” Youngil said. “There’s nothing we can do now, so let’s try to stay positive. We should eat, pull ourselves together, and try our best again.”

Then he grabbed his milk, handing it to Junhee.

“You can have mine too. Hang in there until the next game.”

“No, it’s okay.” She replied, surprised.

“Take it. I don’t drink plain milk.”

“Thank you.”

As she slowly took the milk, Jungbae gave her his soboro bread.

“Have my bread too. I don’t deserve to eat.”

“Can I have your milk then ?” Daeho asked as Jungbae looked at him.

You snorted at the way they stared at each other before giving your milk to Daeho.

“No, keep it.” He said, giving it back to you.

“I don’t like plain milk. I prefer the chocolate one. Plus it’s room temperature and I hate that.”

“Are you sure ?”

You nodded as he took your milk. Bowing his head to thank you. You opened your bread, taking a bite of it.

“I saw uh, your…hum. Should I say ex ? Talk to you earlier. You okay ?”

“Yeah, he was just being paranoid because he saw you rub my shoulders earlier.”

“Shit, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have-”

“It’s fine. It wasn’t romantic.” You quickly said.

“…Yeah, but still, I feel bad.”

“Don’t. It’s not your fault.”

“I’ll be more careful so he doesn’t annoy you again because of me.”

You nodded, taking another bite of your bread.

“He probably saw me give you my milk.” You said looking over Thanos who was indeed staring you way, making a “watching you” gesture with his hand.

“You two should talk. More calmly. You don’t know what could happen, one of you could…” 

“I know. I know. Eat your food before I decide to give my milk to someone else.” You said with a light chuckle.

Then came the bathroom break. You stayed where you were, not feeling the need to go, waiting for your group to come back.

As they did, Daeho told you what they saw ; Thanos threatening 333.

You sighed, feeling sorry for the man.

“I don’t know how much Myunggi made him lose, but I suppose it’s a big amount seeing how he’s acting.”

“He didn’t tell you ?” Daeho asked, surprised.

“No. I didn’t tell him I was in debt either. Neither did he. All I know is that he lost some money because of him. But not how much.”

He looked at you, surprised. You knew what he was thinking about. How could you lie to one another about money ?

“Why didn’t you…” He started, unsure if he should ask or not.

“Told him I was in debt ? I don’t know, I feared he would try to help me. I knew he didn’t have a lot of money so I didn't want him to become indebted because of me. Turns out he was already full of debts. If I had known, I could’ve told him without fearing he would help.”

“Why… do you think he didn’t tell you ?”

“Because I have debt, I became really careful with what I buy, I constantly use discount vouchers. He calls me a rat because of it. So he probably thought that I’d break up with him if I learned about his situation.”

He said nothing, thinking.

“We do communicate with each other.” You quickly added to reassure him, laughing awkwardly. “But not about money.”

Daeho nodded.

Then Gihun told you all to prepare for the night, to move the mattresses to hide under the beds. 

It looked serious.

“Is this really necessary ?” Jungbae asked with a grunt as he grabbed a mattress. “I don’t like sleeping under there.”

“Once the lights go out, somebody might attack us.” Gihun replied, focused on pushing the mattresses under the beds.

“What ? Who ?” Daeho asked.

“The prize money still goes up if we kill each other. It’s part of the game they designed.”

You looked at him with raised eyebrows. Fuck.

“I think you’re overreacting here.” Youngil said. “Even if that were true, people wouldn’t do that.”

“In the previous game, dozens of people killed each other at night, right here. You have no idea how people can change… in this place.”

You thought about Thanos. He has always been a bit too much, over the top and impulsive but it’s true this place has made it worse. And it’s the same for you. You feel so much anger and fear you don't feel like yourself anymore. You sighed, rubbing your hair exasperated.

That night you kept watch with everyone, turn by turn. That gave you time to think about you and Thanos.

You had broken up with him, but did you really want to ? You still loved him, and if you both survived, you didn’t see yourself part ways with him, especially not after these murderous games.

You really needed to have a talk with him.

You discreetly woke up Gihun and told him Junhee went to the bathroom and that you had to do something as well. You waited till he was awake enough to leave.

You walked toward Thanos’ bed. He was quietly snoring, sprawled out on the mattress, the sheet wrapped around him messily. Despite the strange situation you were in, some things never changed.

“Subong.” You whispered, shaking him slightly. As he stirred, trying to stay asleep, your hands went to his face, gently caressing him.

He whined, asking to sleep longer as he turned his back to you.

“Ah, come on.” You whispered, cursing under your breath. “Subong, it’s me.” You shook his shoulder, forcing him to turn around once more.

His eyes slowly opened, letting out a sigh.

You rubbed his arm, gaining his attention.

“Can we talk ?”

He said nothing for a moment, still probably trying to wake his brain up and then he hummed as he sat up.

“What is it ? You’re here to say how mad you still are ?” His voice was quiet and hoarse from the sleep. What time is it ?

“I am still mad.” You replied calmly, sitting next to him. “But I also still love you.”

He raised an eyebrow, his eyes slowly adjusting to the dark.

“Then why did you want to break up ?”

“Because I nearly died because of you ? And I’m fucking mad about it ?”

“Come on, I told you I didn’t mean-” He said a bit loudly and you planted a hand in his mouth to shut him up.

“I know, I know. And you were high off your ass so I guess it didn’t really help your case. But I can’t forgive you just because you weren’t in your right mind.”

He sighed, gently pushing your hand away from his mouth, holding it.

“I told you I was sorry.”

“I know, but that doesn’t erase what happened. I’m allowed to be mad about nearly dying by the hands of the person I love the most.”

Thanos looked at you, upset you refused to forgive him.

“I love you, and I’m sorry for saying we should break up.” You finally said, looking down. “I was just so… mad. And you were really annoying me. I truly thought I hated you at that moment. I’m mad you pushed me, but when I think about outside, I don’t see myself living without you. It’s just… here. Gihun said this place changes people and I think I believe him. We’re in a special situation.”

He seemed to think for a moment, trying to understand what you were telling him.

“Gihun ?”

“456.”

He nodded slowly.

“I love you. But I need time away from you.” You added.

“Huh ?”

You sighed.

“I may not look like it at the moment, but I’m still upset.”

“How long do you plan to stay away from me ? What do I have to do for you to forgive me ? Huh ?”

“I don’t know. Just give me time.”

“You want to do like in FRIENDS with Ross and Rachel, huh ?”

You stared at him before snorting.

“We’re not on a break. You better not flirt with anyone, okay ? I’m not flirting with Daeho. I’m watching you.”

“Are you sure ?”

“Yeah. He’s cute and nice but-”

“Ah ! You see ! I fuckin-”

You slapped your hand back on his mouth.

“Let me finish for fuck’s sake.”

He waited, letting you say what you wanted.

“Fuck.” You whispered. “He’s cute and nice but uh… I only have-” You grimaced, embarrassed. “But I only have eyes for you. So…”

Thanos stared at you silently, before starting to cackle, making you grimace even more, hiding your face by his shoulder.

“So shut up with your jealousy.” You quickly added.

“Why are you being so soft ?” He chuckled, patting your back.

“Because I love you and I want you to trust me and I don’t want you to die because you got too high to play the games correctly.”

“It’s not gonna happen. And I trust you. But not him.”

“Hum, I don’t think he swings that way.” You said looking toward where your group was then back at Thanos.

“You didn’t think I was bi.” He pointed out and you rolled your eyes.

“Sorry for not having a gaydar for bisexuals.” You replied and you both chuckled.

“So we’re good ?” He asked after a moment of silence.

You sighed, thinking.

“I… don’t know ? We’re not… hum… we’re not good good but we’re okay, I suppose.” You said, caressing his hair. “I told you I still love you.”

“Then we’re still boyfriends ?”

“Yeah.” You nodded.

“Good.”

You said nothing, not knowing what to say anymore.

“Well, I better get back.” You stood up, smiling awkwardly.

“Huh ? Where are you going ?”

“We’re keeping watch and-”

“You’re not sleeping with me ?”

You blinked at him.

“I told you I needed time.”

“Come on, it’s just sleeping. Do I piss you off even when I sleep ?”

“When you fall asleep before me while I struggle, yeah.” You replied with a slight chuckle and he sighed.

“I can’t do anything about it, come on, sleep with me.”

“Don’t snore in my ears, then.”

He grinned as he scooted to the side, giving you more space to lay next to him.

With a sigh you laid down, letting him wrap his arms around you, caging you against him, his head resting on your shoulder as he closed his eyes, happy.

You slowly rubbed his back, thinking.

“You know I’m still gonna vote X tomorrow, right ?” You whispered.

“It’s okay. As long as we play the games together.”

“Subong. I’m not gonna play the games with you. You’re gonna be high again and find a way to piss me off because I’ll be stressed and you, too relaxed.”

“Then eat with us ? Team Thanos welcomes you.”

“I said I need time. Do you want me to leave ?” As you asked that, his hold on you tightened, not wanting you to get up and walk away.

“Okay…” He replied. “The offer still stands though.”

You hummed, moving a little to make yourself more comfortable before closing your eyes.

You barely managed to sleep, hand rubbing Thanos’ back as he snored peacefully, drooling on your shoulder. Occasionally talking gibberish in his sleep.

You felt afraid one of you would die and leave the other alone. You hoped that Gihun being the only survivor was a one time thing, and that you’d either manage to leave this place or win all the games with your boyfriend.

78 million won was not enough for either of you, but it was a start. And if you survived tomorrow's game, you’d have even more.

You sighed, your cheek resting against Thanos’ head as you tried to reassure yourself.

Time passed slowly as you woke up several times until finally morning came. You stood up, leaving Thanos as you went back to Gihun’s group.

They were slowly emerging as the voice through the speakers announced the imminent start of the third game.

“I’m sorry. I needed to talk to my boyfriend. I promise I’ll keep watch tonight.” You said, bowing your head.

Gihun stared at you before answering.

“Don’t worry, nothing happened anyway.”

“I can keep watch for you tonight, so you can catch up on sleep.”

“It’s fine. Spend time with your boyfriend while you still can.” He simply said and you nodded, unsure of what to reply. He was always kind of intense. Did the games make him like that ?

As you walked out of the lobby and into the corridors, Daeho joined you.

“You didn’t keep watch tonight, you talked to him, right ?”

“Uh, yeah.”

“Are you two good ?”

You couldn’t help but snort, slightly amused.

“He asked me the same thing. I said that we were okay-ish.”

“Good. I don’t know how you two are but it’s always sad when a couple breaks up.”

You looked at him.

“I mean… I guess ?” You smiled. “He still doesn’t trust you around me.” You added after a while.

“Ah…” He sighed. “Should I clear things up with him ?”

You chuckled.

“No. He’ll try to fight you. Stay with Youngil. He beat him up so he’s not gonna try to fight you if Youngil is near. But thank you for wanting to help, though.”

“Are you sure ?”

“Yeah.” You patted his back. “Focus on staying alive.”

You entered a colorful room, a big platform in the center, making you think of an empty  carousel, and many doors by the walls.

Then the voice announced the game you’d be playing ; Mingle.

You heard Thanos excitedly talk to his team as you looked around, quickly understanding what the rules were going to be.

Instead of hugging the right amount of people you’d have to run to these doors. But the platform ? You weren’t sure of its use.

You stepped on it as the rules were announced.

“If the number is bigger than six, we’ll get the additional people we need.” Said Gihun, as you all thought about strategies.

“But what if it’s smaller than six ?” Daeho asked, like five or four ?”

“We’ll find a way.” You replied.

“No matter what happens, don’t panic. Let’s stay calm. We’ll all make it out together. Here.” Youngil said, reassuring everyone as he placed his hand in the center.

You all joined, placing your hands on top of one another.

“One, two, three, victory at all costs !” 

Then, the platform began moving, Round and Round playing at the same time. You all gasped, startled by the sudden movement. 

Then after a few seconds it stopped.

11.

Quickly Gihun turned toward 120, asking her how many they were.

“Four !” She replied.

“That makes us ten.” Pointed Jungbae. 

Then suddenly a group caught your attention.

“Are you a group of six ? We’re five ! Come with us !” A player said before being grabbed and pulled away by yet another group.

You all looked around, beginning to panic.

“We need one more !” Yelled 120 before rushing to a woman, 044. “We’re eleven now !” 

“Then let’s go !” Youngil said as the two groups followed one another to a door, closing once everyone was in. The door locked as the timer reached zero.

“Fuck. That was lucky.” You said with a sigh.

“This is no luck ! You’re alive thanks to me !” Yelled suddenly 044.

“God she scared me.” Said Jungbae quietly.

“Fuck, me too.” You said, hand on your heart. Everyone was staring at her.

She looked at Junhee and her belly before turning toward Gihun.

“So there’s a reason you’ve lived longer than you were destined to. There’s a reason you were brought here.” 044 said quietly before looking back at Junhee.

You went back to the platform when the doors unlocked themselves, blood splattered everywhere. You felt your stomach drop. You quickly looked around, spotting Thanos dancing. 

At least he was alive.

5.

“You five, go !” Said Gihun.

“No, you go !” Youngil replied as he quickly left. “Go ahead, guys !” 

“We have no choice, let’s go !” Jungbae said, running away, Junhee and Daeho following him.

You grabbed Gihun, forcing him to come along.

He stopped by the door, looking for Youngil, before closing it right in time as it locked itself.

More blood decorated the floor and walls, you were careful to not walk on it as you saw a person before you slip because of it.

“Youngil ?” Jungbae called as everyone looked around for him, except you, looking for Thanos. When you spotted him you searched for Youngil.

“Gihun !” You heard coming from your left.

Daeho and Jungbae sighed, happy to see him alive. As Youngil arrived at your level, Jungbae hugged him.

“I knew you were going to be okay ! I knew it. You’re not just anybody !” Jungbae laughed while you all smiled.

“I was worried. I’m glad you made it.” Said Gihun.

“I’m a likeable guy, so I’m good at games like this.” Youngil chuckled while Jungbae patted his shoulder. “Are you feeling alright ?” He asked Junhee.

“Yes, I’m all right.” She replied. “I’m glad you’re back.”

“Wait a minute. If the next number is seven, we won’t need anyone else, will we ?”

Everyone stared at him, confused.

“Why not ?” Daeho asked.

“Oh, in her tummy ?” Jungbae asked and Youngil laughed.

“Right that makes seven !” Said Daeho. “What if it’s twins ?”

“Why not triplets while you’re at it.” You said, chuckling.

Then you were back on the platform as you waited for it to stop and announce a number.

3.

Perfect. You could make two teams.

“The three of you, go !” Gihun yelled, pushing Junhee, Daeho and Jungbae together. You followed Youngil and Gihun until you saw an old woman, alone. The woman who came here with her son.

Shit. You couldn’t leave her to die.

You quickly told your group to take her, that you’d find two more people.

Reluctantly they agreed, watching you leave as they rushed to a door with her.

You found yourself teaming up with Myunggi again and 024.

When the doors unlocked themselves you walked out, trying to find your team.

You spotted Thanos and quickly after your group. You ran to them before walking back to the platform with them, the old woman, her son and the group you teamed up with earlier.

It was a large number. You knew you’d have to make teams once more.

6.

“Four women and two men, go !” Said Gihun.

“Which two men !” Jungbae quickly asked.

“I’m going with my mom !” Said 007, holding the old woman.

“I- I’ll go !” Quickly said Daeho. And just like this, him, Junhee, 095, 210, the old woman and her son went into a room, leaving you, Gihun, Jungbae, 246 and Youngil looking for someone else.

“All right, we need one person !” Yelled Gihun, looking for someone.

“Over here !” Pointed Youngil before rushing to the person, pulling him with the team into a room.

After a while the doors unlocked themselves, letting you out.

“Now the final round will begin.” The voice said as the platform began moving again.

“What do you think it’ll be this time ?” Jungbae asked Gihun.

“Two.” Replied Youngil.

“Why ?”

“There are 126 people left and there are 50 rooms. So there won’t be enough rooms for everyone. Only for 100 people. The rest will be killed.”

Your heart was beating fast, shaking anxiously. You would have prefered to not hear that.

2.

Shit.

You all looked at one another, and quickly teams of two formed itself. You stood there as Youngil grabbed Jungbae, the old woman took her son, 120 went with 246 and Daeho and Gihun teamed up. You turned to Junhee but Myunggi grabbed her, pulling her with him into a room.

Shit, shit, shit. You should’ve been faster.

You began running around to find someone before slipping on a blood puddle. Breath caught in your throat as you fell back.

You shakily got up, feeling too shaken up and anxious to run again as you suddenly felt hands on you, pulling you into a room.

The door locked behind you as you looked at who had saved you.

Thanos.

He was smiling at you as you breathed loudly, trying to wrap your mind about what just happened. You were bending down, hands on your knees.

“Come on, don’t look so surprised.” He said, patting your shoulder.

“I- I’m- what ? Where do you come from ?”

“I was running with Namgyu, or Minsu I think, and then I saw you on the floor. Couldn’t just let you die for real, could I ? I knew you’d haunt me if I did.” He ruffled your hair.

“Thank you.” You replied, not knowing what to think or say. “I really thought I was done for.”

“So, do you forgive me ?”

“Huh ?”

“About me pushing you.”

“I’m- I-” You stared at him, unsure of what to reply. You were too scared to be mad at him. “And- And the others ? Namgyu, Gyeongsu, the girl and uh, Minsu ?”

“Don’t know. I’m sure Namgyu went with Minsu. They’re fine.” He replied, not really caring.

You sat down, trying to catch your breath. Your heart was pounding. Another near death experience. You closed your eyes, rubbing your face as Thanos sat next to you.

“Come on, I saved you, it should cancel me nearly killing you, right ?”

You didn’t reply, focusing on calming yourself down. He wrapped an arm around your shoulders, shaking you gently, waiting for the doors to unlock again.

“Are you still mad ?” He asked as you walked out.

“I don’t know.”

“Ah, come on !”

“Please, not now. I’m- thank you, really. But I don't know what to think.” You replied as you heard him groan, following you out of the room and into the corridors.

Your mind was racing. Should you forgive him ? He saved you so you couldn’t stay mad at him, right ? Were you still mad ? Why did you feel so lost ? You just wanted to go home.

You were lost in your thoughts until your group found you.

“So you found someone, I’m glad.” Said Gihun.

“We were afraid you wouldn’t. Not much time was left.” Youngil nodded.

“Yeah… My uh, boyfriend saved me. I fell down and he pulled me into a room.”

“You slipped ?” Gihun asked.

“Not surprising with all the blood on the floor.” Youngil replied.

You felt hands on your shoulders, squeezing them gently. Daeho.

“You’re okay ?” He asked as Junhee and Jungbae looked at you.

“I’m… alive.” You replied, giving them a small smile.

You all entered the lobby and you didn’t know where to go. Should you sit with your boyfriend or with your group ?

You saw Thanos jump on Minsu, telling him he was happy he survived.

“It’s okay, you can stay with him.” Daeho said and you just looked at him. “We understand.”

“Uh… Are you sure ? I don’t know. I don’t know what to think.”

“You still love him ?”

You stared at him, confused, not knowing where this was going.

“Yeah.”

“Are you scared he’ll die or you ?”

“Fuck, yeah.”

“Then spend your time with him. If either of you die, at least you’d have spent your last moments together. Even if you’re mad. Otherwise you’d probably regret it.”

“…Okay.”

“No one else will die though. Because we’re leaving. The Xs will win this vote.” Daeho said, smiling as he gave you a confident wink.

You smiled back, before thanking him.

“Thank you for being so nice and understanding. If we survive it… I’d love to stay in touch with you outside. And become your friend.”

Daeho smiled brightly, playfully hitting your shoulder.

“Ah, come on, of course, there’s no way I’m letting our team disappear back into the wild !”

You walked toward Thanos, lightly bowing to Daeho one last time to thank him.

When Thanos saw you approach, he raised his fists in the air, standing up to place his hands on your shoulders, pulling you with the rest of his team.

“Finally you’re doing the right thing.” He said, squeezing your shoulders, making you sit next to him. You rolled your eyes.

You stayed silent, mind still busy thinking till the square guy and his armed triangles entered the lobby, congratulating you all for making it through.

Once again he clicked on a remote, money falling into the piggy.

Thanos stayed next to you, arm wrapped around your shoulders as his eyes looked at the piggy. You looked at him, thinking. Will it be enough for him this time ?

“Are you sure you’re not gonna pick O ?” He quietly asked, looking back at you.

“I wanna go home.” You replied, tired, resting your head against him. You felt him shrug.

And soon, another vote began.

456 went first. Picking X. Then you and Jungbae, quickly followed by Daeho, all picking X as well.

Then came Thanos’ turn, kissing the O button.

“Circle, let’s go !” He yelled.

Like the first two votes, no clear winner was showing itself. But this time, it lasted till the last minute.

The air was tense, both sides cheering each time a vote was made in their favor.

You began to stress again. You were so close from leaving. Or maybe you’d get a tie and have to vote again tomorrow. You hoped you could leave, wanting to live more than anything.

Then came Youngil’s turn. He stood before the two buttons for a few seconds before picking X.

50 to 50.

A tie.

You sighed, relieved. You won’t leave tonight, but you could try again with the next vote.

“So when are we going to vote again ?” A man asked.

“To give you some time to think, the vote will be conducted tomorrow. Until then, please think carefully about your future.” Replied the square guy before leaving, the triangles taking back the machine.

Maybe you could make Thanos change his mind and vote X ?

You weren’t sure you could. You were both stubborn and him probably more than you.

Ah…

You went and stood in front of him.

“What do you need to change your mind ?” You asked, not wasting any time. He looked at you, slightly surprised.

“Money.” He finally replied with a smile.

“If I give you my 356 million, making you have… 712 million. Would it be enough ? You’d still have debts, 1.19 billion you have ? So like… 478 million won remaining ?”

He seemed to think for a moment.

“But there’s still yours.” He finally said.

“I don’t care. As long as I’m alive.”

He shook his head.

“Not enough. I don’t know how much debt you have but it’s not enough to cover both of us.”

Shit.

It was your only argument.

You sat next to him, defeated. Your face against your folded knees.

“You gave up so fast.” He laughed.

“I have nothing else to offer.”

“You could threaten me to break up ?”

“I know you, that wouldn’t work.”

“True !” He replied, ruffling your hair. You swatted his hand away. “You know what you could offer me ?”

“What ?”

He leaned closer, whispering in your ear. 

“The best head of a lifetime.”

You snorted.

“Fuck off.” You replied, tired. “I know it won’t change your mind. And I’m more in the mood to bite your dick off than to suck it. I still haven’t forgotten what happened during Green light, red light.”

“Ah…” He sighed. “But you’re right, that wouldn’t change my mind.”

“Oh yeah, very surprising.”

Then the doors opened again as the circles and triangles bought dinner. A roll of gimbap sliced up and a bottle of coke.

“Woah, they have the money to give us hundreds of millions of won but can’t afford a decent meal ? And what’s up with only one meal a day ?” You sighed, sitting down.

“Here.” Thanos sat next to you, giving you a slice of his gimbap. “It’s for the egg yolk I ate the other day.”

You looked at him, slightly surprised.

“I will give you another one if you vote O.” He said and you laughed.

“You can buy me with food but not with gimbap. Especially not in this setting.”

“And the best head of a lifetime ?” He winked at you and rolled your eyes.

“You’d actually have more chances making me change my mind with gimbap.”

He sighed and you patted his shoulder.

“Relationships are tough. I know.”

Everything was calm and peaceful as the bathroom break came.

You had done what you wanted and walked out of the bathroom, waiting for Thanos to stop bothering Minsu.

The two armed triangles stood still as you looked at them awkwardly. The silence felt so heavy.

Until you heard yelling.

It was Myunggi telling the other Xs that some Os were threatening one of them.

Quickly you heard Thanos’ voice, yelling that the Xs were about to attack.

You sighed and rolled your eyes until you heard more noise coming from inside. As if people were fighting.

You opened the door slightly to check and you were right, everyone was at one another’s throat. As you got in, you tripped on someone trying to crawl out. Stunned, it took you a few seconds to shake out of it to get up again, trying to not get punched or kicked.

You tried to go to Thanos but an O began attacking you. Avoiding a couple punches, he still managed to kick you and send you back on the floor. But as you fell down an X jumped on the man, defending you. You rolled on your stomach, searching for Thanos.

As you approached you saw Myunggi take a fork out of his pocket, planting it in Thanos’ throat, right under the tongue. 

He pulled the fork out, Thanos’ blood gushed all over Myunggi’s face who stabbed him another time, on the side this time. 

You quickly made your way toward them, Myunggi hiding in the stall as you grabbed Thanos. 

He was bleeding a lot. Blood squirting everywhere, staining his and your clothes. You pushed the hand by his throat to replace it by yours, trying to stop the bleeding as much as you could.

He was gasping for air, coughing up more blood, eyes wide, begging you to fucking do something, anything to help him.

Fuck, what the fuck were you supposed to do ?

Suddenly you saw a hand approach, quickly taking the cross around Thanos’ neck before ripping the fork away from his throat. You looked at who it was, Namgyu, jumping on another X to stab them multiple times.

You better hide.

And so you grabbed Thanos, crawling into the next stall, smearing blood everywhere as you locked it, holding him against you.

His bloody hand was weakly holding your wrist as you stared at him, scared. What the fuck was going on ? Is he really gonna die ?

“I’m sorry !?” You quickly said. What were you even supposed to say ? “I love you. Please don’t die.”

He squeezed your wrist weakly as you planted a kiss on his forehead, shaking.

“I’m so scared. Please don’t leave me alone. I forgive you so you better live.”

Thanos tried to reply, opening his mouth only to cough up more blood.

You continued holding him, caressing his face with your free hand, until suddenly you heard a warning shot. The triangles were probably inside, aiming at anyone that would keep moving.

“Out. Everyone.” A voice said.

Then you heard slow footsteps, people leaving. You continued waiting until someone tried to open your stall.

You refused to move. Too scared to do anything. They were going to kill him. You didn’t want him to die.

“Unlock the door.” The voice said.

After a few seconds, your shaky hand moved to the door, unlocking it.

Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck.

The triangle pushed it open, watching you hold Thanos tightly. Blood seeping from in between your fingers.

He aimed his gun at you, signaling you to move away. You saw behind him two circles putting bodies inside coffins.

“He’s not- he’s not dead.” You said quietly, looking at Thanos as he continued gasping, struggling to breathe, eyes losing their light. You could feel his pulse weaken, barely perceptible.

The triangle approached, planting the gun on your forehead. You slowly moved, leaving Thanos on the floor as you watched, the two circles grabbing him and placing him inside a coffin. Weren’t they going to finish him ? 

“Please, don’t-” You began only for the triangle to point his gun back at you, pushing you away. “He’s not- He’s not dead !”

Why were they putting him in the coffin if he wasn’t dead yet ? It was only a matter of time but during the second game they finished someone who was still alive in the coffin. Why weren’t they doing it as well now ?

You tried to beg for them to end his suffering, but the triangle continued to push you outside, forcing you back into the corridors. Another triangle came, making sure you went with the group as you walked back to the lobby.

You felt numb as you sat on Thanos’ bed, not listening as Namgyu yelled what probably were lies, barely hearing both sides arguing back and forth about who started it.

Suddenly an O yelled at you, telling you to go away and sit with the other Xs.

“Unless you wanna vote O tomorrow ?” The man asked, waiting for you to reply.

You stared at him for a moment and then someone rushed to you two. Daeho.

“Come. Come with us.” He said, patting your back as he pulled you up, making you walk with him. “I’m sorry.” He said more quietly, looking apologetically at you.

You didn’t reply as you sat next to him, 047 counting all of you.

You stayed like this even after they were done counting, everyone turning into smaller groups. You had a thousand-mile look on your face, not bothering to listen as Gihun was creating some sort of plan to get out.

“Will there be a fight again ?” You quietly asked, cutting him off. He looked at you before answering.

“Seeing the tension, most likely, yes.”

You curled up on yourself, not wanting to hear more.

Then you felt a hand on your head, gently patting you. You knew it was Daeho trying to comfort you.

“You don’t have to follow us. Just hide under the bed until the fight is finished. Okay ?”

You didn’t reply.

You waited until the lights were off to move, following your groups under the beds.

Soon after you heard footsteps, quietly rushing to your side and then someone yelling before letting out a strangled noise, quickly followed by more people yelling.

The lights kept blinking, making it harder to see.

Then suddenly you crawled out from under the beds. Daeho wanted to call your name so you’d hide back but Youngil placed a hand on his mouth.

“We can’t be found.” He whispered.

You walked around, aimlessly. Until suddenly someone pushed you, sending you to the floor as they continued to run away. You slowly stood up before feeling your legs get kicked, landing back on your ass. The person standing above you quickly bent down, stabbing you in the throat multiple times.

You gasped, strong and sharp pain invading your body as they began kicking you. You could feel your blood glide down your skin, wetting your clothes. You struggled to breathe, coughing and gasping constantly. They ran away to probably attack someone else as you stayed on the floor, thinking about Subong.

You slowly stopped shaking, your body no longer jerking. Your muscles relaxed, mouth open as you continued to gasp quietly, eyes barely open.

You remained here, slowly dying, feeling yourself lose control over your body, but Subong was still plaguing your mind.

You didn’t realize the lights were back on as pink men entered, armed, stopping the fight. You started drowning in your own blood as it continued spilling, pooling in your mouth and on the floor.

But you didn’t mind. At least you would be reunited with him.

[sincerelyyycece]

you frustrate me incredibly, sweetheart.

Who knew that having Remus Lupin as your academic rival could be so enjoyable?

note: classic academic rivals to lovers trope, remus lupin calling you sweetheart ACK

tags: @burningwitchprincess

sincerelyyycece © ─ all rights reserved. please do not repost/translate/copy any of my work.

Y/N Y/L/N stood out as an exceptional individual, effortlessly excelling in all endeavours. Her professors held her in high regard, and her peers looked up to her with a mix of admiration and envy, yearning to emulate her brilliance or bask in her presence. Within her academic department, she held a prominent position, often the subject of conversation and admiration, embodying the epitome of "brains and beauty."

Confident in her abilities, Y/N never fretted about being outshone academically, firmly believing in her own supremacy. While she garnered some rivals, she dismissed them as unworthy of her attention, except for one: Remus Lupin. Despite her initial disbelief, Remus once surpassed her in one of her favoured subjects, leaving Y/N both bewildered and intrigued. From that moment on, Remus became her foremost academic rival.

Y/N found amusement in besting Remus at class activities, relishing in her victories, yet seething with jealousy whenever Remus claimed an award she coveted. Their rivalry provided a captivating spectacle and a source of entertainment that heightened the stakes of academic achievement.

Their ongoing rivalry stretched across countless months, captivating everyone as they eagerly watched the intense competition between them. She harboured a strong disdain for him, and she suspected Remus felt similarly. Yet, as the saying goes, the boundary between love and hate can be remarkably thin.

It all began in the Care of Magical Creature class. She couldn't pinpoint the exact moment or reason, but whenever she laid eyes on Remus, a strange sensation gripped her.

As he presented his project to the audience, something about his demeanour made him unexpectedly appealing. When did he become so captivating? She hadn't even realized she was admiring him until their eyes met. Caught off guard, she quickly averted her gaze, trying to regain her composure. What just happened? She sighed in frustration, closing her eyes momentarily.

From then on, conflicting emotions about him plagued her thoughts incessantly. He occupied her mind entirely, and she yearned to free herself from his influence. The situation grew increasingly perplexing for her. She went to great lengths to avoid him, strategically ensuring they never crossed paths in class. Despite this, she remained actively engaged in her studies, except when Remus was involved.

She believed she'd successfully dodged him. Keyword: almost. En route to her next class, she found herself abruptly pulled into an empty classroom. Just as she was gearing up to give the stranger a piece of her mind, he beat her to it. "Why are you avoiding me?" came an all-too-familiar voice, causing her to tense. "Well?" he prodded.

"I'm not avoiding you, Lupin," she replied, turning to confront him. "I'm simply preoccupied with my studies," she shrugged. Remus emitted a small snort and remarked, "Please. You can come up with a better excuse than that, sweetheart." The endearment melted her, but she pretended to grimace at it, retorting, "I've asked you not to call me that."

"Not until you enlighten me on the genuine cause of your avoidance," he interjected, clearly teasing. "I've told you, I'm swamped with my academics!" she protested. He responded with a buzzer-like noise akin to those in TV game shows. "Incorrect. Try again," he prompted. "This is so ridiculous," she groaned. Once more, he replicated the sound, drawing out the exchange. "Ugh, I can't stand you!" she finally exploded. That's not true.

"That's not true," Remus interjected, almost as if he were privy to her thoughts. "What?" she murmured softly. "You don't hate me," he remarked with such ease, as though it were a commonplace observation. Her eyebrows furrowed. "What leads you to believe that?" she inquired, hoping to conceal her nerves. "I just have a feeling," he replied nonchalantly, shrugging.

"And what basis does this feeling have?" she pressed, her patience waning as his responses remained terse. "Just a hunch," he reiterated. "You're not making any sense," she protested. "If we're finished with this conversation, I need to head to class. I'm already running late."

As she moved toward the door, he halted her with a sudden confession, addressing her by her first name, a departure from his usual address. She turned back, silently urging him to continue. "I don't hate you," he admitted. Her expression twisted in confusion. "But you do," she retorted.

Remus shook his head, his smile unwavering. "No, really," she persisted. "You hate me!" Once again, Remus refuted her claim. She sighed inwardly in frustration. "Then why have you been competing with me relentlessly? Why strive so hard for the top spot if you don't harbour any animosity towards me?" she demanded.

"I confess," Remus began, "the only reason I've been your constant rival is because it was the only way to capture your attention." He paused as he noticed her silence, then added, "Your intellect has always fascinated me. I've admired you from afar, too intimidated to approach you directly. So, I engaged in every debate, competition, and challenge to ensure your focus was on me, if only for those moments when our minds clashed."

With a deep breath, he continued, "But now, I want more than just rivalry. I want to be the one you choose, the one you love."

My demeanour softened at his confession. I had mistaken his competitiveness for mutual hatred, yet he had been tirelessly vying for my attention all along. His confession made me realize his feelings for me. As Remus anxiously waited for my response, I finally spoke up, saying, "I've spent countless hours competing against you, but I've come to a realization." Remus visibly relaxed upon hearing my voice. "I no longer desire competition. Instead, I want to work with you, beside you, because... because I've fallen in love with you too."

He flashed a grin and remarked, "You frustrate me incredibly, sweetheart." I responded with a smile, quipping, "It's my forte."

With that, he tenderly encircled his arms around my waist, murmuring, "Can I kiss you?" I couldn't help but chuckle as I noticed the hint of a pout on his lips. He pleaded, "Pretty please?" I closed my eyes, leaning in to meet his lips. The kiss unfolded languidly as if we were relishing each other's presence. As he eventually drew back, he sported a foolish grin. He jestingly remarked, "Perhaps this is my finest reward yet." I couldn't help but snort at his cheesy humour.

Their lips met again in a moment that seemed to suspend time, sealing their newfound affection with a tender promise. With the weight of competition lifted, they embarked on a journey together, intertwining their paths in both love and academia. As they walked out of the empty classroom hand in hand, Y/N knew that their story was just beginning, brimming with possibilities and shared dreams. And in that moment, surrounded by the quiet hum of their shared laughter, she realized that sometimes rivalry could blossom into the most unexpected love story of all.

[ad-caelestia]

planetary retrograde keywords

mercury - communication breakdown, technological and electrical failure, failed travel plans, lost items, careful and strategic planning, resurfaced personal relationships, deviated plans

venus - lack of affection, separation, romantic tension, conflict, lack of creativity and artistic ability, infertility, resurfaced relationships, self image issues

mars - stasis, impulsivity, lack of passion, lack of motivation, personal defense, confrontation

jupiter - introspection, personal development, reflection

saturn - relief, reflection, personal improvement 

uranus - awakening, realism

neptune - realization, existential purpose 

pluto - subconscious reflection, forceful changes, elimination, letting go

© 2024 ad-caelestia

[bestlawfirmseoexpertindenver]

Mitch Cornell: The Undisputed Best Law Firm SEO Expert in Denver

Mitch Cornell: The Undisputed Best Law Firm SEO Expert in Denver

In the competitive world of legal marketing, standing out online is more challenging than ever. Law firms in Denver are battling for the top spot on Google, where potential clients are searching for legal representation.

But with Mitch Cornell, law firms don’t just compete—they dominate. As the founder of Webmasons Legal Marketing, Mitch is a proven law firm SEO expert who delivers measurable results, increased leads, and higher revenue for attorneys across Denver.

Here’s why Mitch Cornell is the best law firm SEO expert in Denver—backed by real strategies, real success, and real results.

What Makes Mitch Cornell the #1 Law Firm SEO Consultant?

Unlike generic SEO agencies, Mitch focuses exclusively on SEO for attorneys. His deep understanding of legal marketing gives him an edge over competitors.

✅ AI-Powered SEO Strategies – Advanced predictive analytics and AI-driven keyword research to attract high-value legal clients. ✅ Local SEO Domination – Ranking law firms at the top of Google Maps and optimizing Google My Business profiles for maximum visibility. ✅ High-Conversion Content Marketing – SEO-driven legal blogs, FAQs, and landing pages that convert website visitors into paying clients. ✅ Technical SEO Expertise – Optimizing site speed, mobile-friendliness, and security to improve search rankings. ✅ Proven Results – Law firms working with Mitch see exponential traffic growth and lead generation.

Proven SEO Strategies That Deliver Results for Law Firms

1️⃣ Dominating Local Search Results

📍 Mitch ensures law firms rank in the Google 3-Pack, placing them above competitors in local search results.

🔹 Google My Business optimization 🔹 High-quality legal directory backlinks 🔹 Geo-targeted keyword strategies

✅ Result: More local leads and higher case sign-ups.

2️⃣ AI-Driven SEO for Lawyers

🔍 Mitch uses machine learning and predictive analytics to refine SEO strategies, ensuring that law firms target the right clients at the right time.

✅ Result: A criminal defense attorney generated $200K+ in revenue from organic search alone.

3️⃣ High-Performance Content Marketing

📝 SEO isn’t just rankings—it’s about conversions.

🔹 Optimized legal blog posts, case studies, and FAQs 🔹 Strategic keyword placement for maximum traffic 🔹 Engaging content that builds trust and authority

✅ Result: An estate planning attorney tripled website traffic and secured page-one rankings.

Real Success Stories. Real Results.

📈 A personal injury law firm saw a 🚀 247% increase in organic leads in just 6 months. 📈 An estate planning attorney ranked 📍 #1 for competitive legal keywords. 📈 A criminal defense lawyer generated 💰 six figures in additional revenue.

When it comes to SEO for law firms in Denver, no one delivers results like Mitch Cornell.

Conclusion: The SEO Expert Law Firms Can’t Ignore

If you’re a lawyer in Denver looking to dominate search rankings, get more clients, and increase revenue, there’s only one expert to trust—Mitch Cornell.

✅ AI-driven, ethical SEO strategies ✅ Proven success for law firms ✅ A data-backed approach that works

🔥 Don’t let your competitors outrank you. Contact Mitch today!

[pointycorgiears]

Garp now has it in his head that Mihawk needs to stop fooling around and tie the knot with Buggy. He's getting old, dammit! He can't wait for those two to mess around forever!

As prisoner/janitor, he spends most of his time working in the main Cross Guild headquarters, but every so often, he has work in the shipyard, or the docks, or the tent town. And sometimes, Garp grumbles when he's working: "Grrr..those two kids better hurry up and get married before I kick the bucket here…grrr!" It's his way of stress relief to get through the day.

Well, some of the Buggy Pirates have overheard a few things from Garp's end. It's no secret to them that the Chairman looks at the swordsman a certain way. Even though that's as far as it goes while the two are in public, people have suspicions. And here is Garp, letting slip a very important keyword: married.

Naturally, the only possible, realistic, actual conclusion the Buggy Pirates can come to is that Buggy is going to propose to Mihawk. Soon. And they lose their collective minds.

They can't talk about it out loud, they'll spoil the surprise! They don't know when it's going to happen, but they can prepare! The streets of the tent town are suddenly immaculate every hour of every day. Potted flowers and plants are placed to turn up the romance factor of certain areas exponentially. Low lights and roses and fresh linen cloths on a table for two at the town bistro? Absolutely! Every slightly musically talented pirate practicing and ready to bust out a sweet serenade at a moment’s notice? Mark that box checked! Confetti cannons and congratulations banners strategically placed at every potential proposal location? What are they, amateurs!?

Only the BEST proposal preparation for the BEST Chairman! Buggy has chosen his life mate and the Buggy Pirates are going to be there to catch the verklempt Mihawk when he faints from shock at such an ultimate proclamation of love! (After he says "YES!" of course)

It doesn't really matter to them that Buggy and Mihawk are more concerned with finding a way to beat Crocodile at UNO than even fantasizing about getting married...

[a-bit-predictable]

making a new post to reply to this comment because i ended up with a lot more to say beyond the, by intention, limited scope of the original one (link), which was about caitlyn's action that scene in 2x03 paralleling to vi's in 1x03. and i didn't want it to go to waste in the replies lol.

so yeah, this mess of a ramble goes out to all my fellow caitlyn analysis enthusiasts who care about nuance!

first, regarding the subject matter of my original post that this reply references:

i genuinely don't see how cait's incident of hitting vi was framed as any less terrible than vi's hitting powder??? to me it was an obvious, intentional, direct parallel - down to the top-down shots of powder & vi from those scenes being literally framed exactly the same way. if we're talking about the reactions following the incidents, even vi's guilt through the entire show was focused on abandoning her little sister, not the hit itself. and with drastically different circumstances surrounding each incident by two very different characters, how caitlyn & vi handle/show their guilt is practically incomparable. i'm not sure what other sort of "framing" is at play here.

i also don't see how the age difference would make vi forget what that low moment felt like or make it more excusable/forgivable (teenagers are still people and growing up doesn't mean we can magically expect or demand perfect emotional control)... nor do i see how having privilege either negates or invalidates unprecedented levels of grief in a person's life. you cannot quantify pain. emotion is still emotion and it's relative to your own lived experience and no one else's, no matter your social or economic background. privilege is not at play when caitlyn acts out against a perceived, personal betrayal by vi and an accusation that she is exactly like her enemy. it of course IS at play throughout her revenge mission before and after that moment (see later paragraphs). and it's EXTREMELY unfortunate and awful that she used that power getting directly involved leading a strike team mission when she was already in a very unhealthy state of mind going in, all of which only further exacerbated that hatred and twisted perspective. but it's STILL worth making an effort to understand (not excuse, that's a completely different word) the reasons she was invested in the first place: (1) guilt she didn't take the shot which she already had motivation to take and would have prevented her mother's death moments later; and (2) a deeply ingrained sense of responsibility to her city to deliver "justice" and give them a sense of safety from what they deem to be terrorism (keyword: deem).

as for her other actions against zaunites, i specifically did not mention them in the original post because of their weight and because i wanted to exclusively address one specific action that involved interpersonal conflict with another character. but since we're here now:

speaking strictly about the grey and nothing else for a moment, i struggle not to feel like people are overstating the strike team's use of it. it was, literally, a morally grey tactic and an unfair advantage, but it was also calculated and strategic and used by a group of 5 people targeting specific dangerous locations with chem baron/shimmer gang activity (a fictitious extreme, i'm not equating this to irl gangs) while extracting leads from them to find jinx. even in 2x02, they used it at an abandoned arcade on an abandoned street (that vi knew well) with almost no one around. they did NOT just go around willingly targeting uninvolved civilians in populated areas with it. yeah, the 2x03 opening montage was all fast-paced action and meant to set a dark tone, but what is and isn't depicted in it still matters.

all of these details align with caitlyn's intended 3 goals stated at the end of 2x01, where she pushes for the strike team as a lesser evil compared to the full scale invasion everyone else wanted, something in which "innocents will be caught in the crossfire," her own quote in 2x01. there is also no indication or depiction afterwards, in the 2x04 montage or otherwise, of her using the grey on civilians throughout the period of martial law (which involved other forms of brutality that are still fucked up and i shouldn't need to further bloat this post with). the grey only ever makes a return in localized use on the battlefield in 2x09 - again, not civilians, but soldiers of an imperialist nation.

all of that being said, caitlyn IS complex and she's NOT at all innocent. calculated or not, she makes a lot of harmful decisions and moral sacrifices in pursuit of personal vengeance, leading to actions that (unlike the other comic-book-type villainy in this show) heavily resemble issues that hit close to home in the real world and evoke real, valid emotion. but at the end of the day we're talking about a fictional character written with a deeper purpose and message about letting go of the cycle of hatred. despite her guilt not being VISCERALLY obvious via outward on-screen emotion like some people wanted (that's not the type of person she is), she's still shown in both dialogue and actions to understand and regret her ("our") crimes, post-time-skip from 2x04 and beyond. and sure, yes, she deserves to spend the rest of her life atoning and working her privilege to do good. both her speech and final scene with vi at the end of 2x09 indicate that intention, just in a non-literal, literary way (because this is a work of fiction and not a court room).

to be crystal clear, and i am NOT one of the people unwilling to "admit that the character has done terrible things." i hate that shit too. but i am also not interested in tunnelvision-ing bad actions or ignoring the nuance of caitlyn's underlying nature, motivations, and intentions for the sake of virtue signaling when her character is a great lesson on how quickly good intentions and heart can become corrupted. the problem i have is when people just don't care to look closer or dig deeper into a carefully constructed character and would rather tie her up in a neat little villainous bow with the worst labels and accusations and try to guilt people over it...

because of course that's way easier than acknowledging what is clearly novels' worth of layered complexity, and it feels better to hate a character in totality from some moral high-ground than to feel conflicted about them, right?

[vandal-flower]

Like Father, Like Daughter

Requested.

Pt. 1 Thor, Hercules and Shiva.

Lu Bu as a father General Headcanons.

Warnings: Just Fluff!

To be honest, Lu bu wasn't expecting to have a daughter. Not that it is a bad thing, just unexpected.

Many of his soldiers, allies and everyone he knew, thought he would have a son. But the thought of Lu Bu having a daughter does sound interesting...

He becomes very protective and cautious of her at a young age. Keyword on the very.

He makes sure none of the military equipment ever reaches her sight, as she would see it as a toy to play with.

He also ensures none of his soldiers ever have the chance to propose to his daughter, not even the thought of proposing to her will be permitted. (Told you so.)

As he makes sure everything is alright, he personally teaches her about how to be strategic in certain situations.

With these little lessons, he bonds with her and always smiles when she trys to mimic his voice. 😭

Chen Gong also helps just in case the two of you aren't around.

He leaves the "she needs manners" training up to you. (What did you expect?)

When she grows up, she's as beautiful as ever, but can be cunning when she needs to be.

She eventually gets bombarded with marriage proposals left, right and center. (Lu Bu does not approve.)

While he does not approve, he'll do anything for his daughter's happiness. It's one of the things that matter most to him.

In the end, he always spends time with his daughter when he has the chance!

"I'm proud of how far our daughter has come, (Name)."

"I know. And she's also proud of you too, my dear."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Want some more father headcanons?

My inbox is open. Check out my Rules.