#also john gaining new powers as he remembers what he is able to do?? amazing

[thecoffeecrow]

Episode 43 answered the question of what happens to John when Arthur dies?

They assumed that if Arthur dies they would both be sent to the dark world together. And that was the whole reason they worked together at the start of their relationship.

But with the new episode we know now that if Arthur had died (like really died he got better those other times) at any point John would have just gained his body, or otherwise be trapped in his corpse.

[bronx-bomber87]

Happy Monday Lovely fandom. Not a ton in these episodes for them. Gonna combine these two. Thank you for idea D ❤️ These are my least fav of the season. Not gonna lie whenever I reach the Simone eps in a rewatch I skip around her stuff LOL Never resonated with me. So it’s funny the first ep is called Simone and I won’t really be covering her much at all. Probably be a shorter one with some crumbs. Let’s get going though shall we?

4x19 Simone/4x20 Enervo

We start off with an actual bang. John and Lucy respond to a suspicious activity call. It's near a power station in Griffith Park. They find a bomb and get out just in time but not before they’re thrown to the ground by the blast. They get thrown pretty damn far and are fairly banged up. It's insane how much damage they took even clearing the building.

Tim shows up to the scene and does a worried husband look I love. Checking in on her by doing a once over once he makes it to them. Does a silent check in as he reports it’ll take 12 hours to fix the damaged power station. The silent check in is everything. Once again it’s the little things I cherish especially in low content episodes. It's subtle but noticeable once you know it's there. Trying to contain his concern with her all banged up. It’s ok love your wifey is fine hehe

I love these two shots for quite a few reasons. One you know I love the tall/smol shots. I wish I could put into words why I love it so very much. It’s just aesthetically pleasing is one of the reasons I suppose. All I know is I’m a sucker for it. Second how in-sync they are in their movements and how they mirror one another in the second one.

Third the lack of personal space. Especially in that first gif. Theme of this season I adore so much. Always that gravitational pull of theirs. Lastly look at them. They’re gorgeous just standing next to one another. Also it is unfair Lucy is covered in dirt and soot and looks amazing still. Not fair haha

Oh right there’s a SL too LOL Not me just gawking at them haha The feds show up because this is a terrorist attack. They ask Nolan and Lucy about what they remember about the bomb. Nolan of course is no help. Smh Lucy is able to describe little better for them. FBI says they’re taking over from here. Grey fights it since John and Lucy were almost killed discovering the bomb. Garza concedes and they’re able to work together on this one.

We rejoin our ship headed towards National Guard Armory. They’ve deduced this guys real target was this. Reason he shut down the power was to gain access inside there. They’re en-route to catch him. They find out he’s already on the move and they’ve gotta catch him. Which leads us to this car chase. First off let’s note Lucy getting to drive in this intense moment. It is more common these days for them. I just love seeing Tim trust her so implicitly nowadays. That this is new normal for them. *heart clutch*

Control freak in him has eased up quite a bit with her at least. Maybe not with anyone else LOL Once again it's the little things to love. The spurts of growth. They make me happy. Anyways dude stole a friggin Humvee so taking him down will not be easy. Nolan says they need to stop this guy. No shit John...What do you think the purpose of this chase is? To have fun at a high speeds in a shop for kicks?

Sometimes the words out of his mouth floor me..and not in a good way. Tim is using his military experience in this moment. (Yum) Explains why that’s not going to be easy. He’s basically encased himself in a mini tank. Their usual pit maneuver isn’t going to work on this guy. Nolan offering up another solution. I adore the silent communication and the look. That automatic instinct to check in with each other. I'll never be over it. I love watching them in the field so very much. Just a well oiled machine. Tim is considering Nolan’s suggestion then checking in with wifey before executing it. Love it.

Tim explains their plan to Nolan while Lucy listens in. Tim advices they both hit the doors. Tells them it has to be at the same time though. To avoid the wheels at all costs. Lucy needing to know the why of course. Asks why they can’t hit the tires? Tim explains they’ll die and be a cautionary tale for future rookies LOL Gotta love Lucy questioning why they can't in the middle of a high speed chase. I'm sure she wasn't expecting that to be his answer ha.

Her comment about her mom cracks me up. Anything to prove to her mother she’s wrong and she is right about being a cop. Her first thought not being she’ll die. No it’ll be about her mother being right about her career choice. Lmao Oh Lucy Chen I love you. Also I relate to this train of thought all too well sadly. I do love her saying they’ll be disgraced together. Be more married please.

Tim doesn’t even fight her on this thought. Lucy basically saying if I’m going down you’re coming with. Tim isn’t fighting her at all. His silence is saying lead the way. They’re in this together and I love that so very much. Being a literal ride or die right now in this moment.

I love me some crumbs in a low content ep. Also only they could banter during a high pressure situation and still get the job done. I love them so much. They are successful but find out the driver isn’t their guy but a decoy. Wah Wah.

They regroup at the station after their chase. Nolan asking Lucy if she got any sleep? She then calls out Tim for getting some. Not only does she call him out but nicknames him 'Sleeping beauty.' Looking directly at him the entire time. Making sure he know she is talking about him and only him. All aboard the flirt train Nolan is an unwilling participant in the matter haha

Such blatant flirty flirts. Tim fires back a sassy reply to her jab. Just openly flirting and doing heart eyes out in the open. Ain’t no thang this season lol Shoots back not to be jealous he was allowed to sleep and she hasn’t. Lucy’s reaction is the best. That fond exasperation they’ve had all season long. So used to her husband antics at this point but has to let him know she’s annoyed at him. Damnit I love them sfm.

They end up finding his base of operations. Lucy of course breaking the case. Cause she’s brilliant finds a word he’s written down by doing an etching off a wall he used. ‘Enervo’ Garza telling them it means 'To deprive of power.' John asks Tim what the military’s first target is? I love watching Tim flex his military background again. It’s sexy af. Seriously gets me hot and bothered *fans self* Tim and Lucy cracking this case right open. You’re welcome everyone haha That’s it for this one. Low content one since it was meant to launch rookie feds. Next one has even less so this is why we’re combining them.

~~~

Side notes-Non Chenford

I do love when Nyla and Angela work together. Two bad ass woman just doing their jobs like confident BAMFS.

4x20 Enervo.

We find out he’s rented U-Haul’s and it’s going to take out the biggest roads with them. Crippling the city and killing thousands. They can't get a warrant right away to track them so everyone is in on the hunt. As always I love watching them in action in the field. That second gif their cop eyes have been activated. You can see them combing the street together. They’re so in-sync as they search the streets for one of the five U-Haul’s. I could go on and on about how much I love their work dynamic I really could. But I'll stop there ha

The trucks are divided up into states. Cause well that’s U-haul haha if you’ve ever driven one you’d know. Always got graphics or other states on them. One has already exploded unfortunately so they're down to 4 trucks that need to be found. Lucy and Tim spot ‘Florida’ and are in pursuit of it. I love how calm they look. They’re chasing down a bomb and look determined af. Like I said before well oiled machine. The gifs above represent that. They are poetry in motion in the field. What made 5x22 battle scene so epic. Was that on steroids ha

That’s kinda it for them in this one. I can add this last lovely gif of them in the field. Seeing how they move in motion together. It is impressive to see how in-sync they always are. Shared brain thing I love so much. I’m sorry there isn’t more. I mean it’s not my fault but I’m still sorry LOL

We shouldn’t hit this again. Even the light one in S5 is really good and would fill a review well so this will be the last scant ep for them. Probably won’t combine them again ha

~~~

Side notes-non chenford

Smitty reporting in he got ‘Utah’ Grey being ecstatic and saying he took back every negative thing ever said about him. Poor Smitty is all sad ‘You’ve said negative things about me?’ LMAO

Thank you as always for those who like, comment and reblog these reviews. You’re all amazing and I appreciate you more than you’ll ever know. Shall see you all in 4x21 :)

[oh-for-fic-sake]

Love Is Blind

Masterlist

Summary: The time has come to reveal your and Henry's relationship to your brothers, simple right? Well it would be if your wasn't the baby sister to the infamous Shelby brothers.

Warnings: RPF, Swearing, Slight Angst, Fluff, Confrontation, Implied Violence

A/N: so here is the Peaky Blinders AU that i started a few days ago, Im really happy with this and had a lot of fun with it. But please excuse the typo's

Taglist: in reblogs

You looked around the road eyes wide ,watching the passers by. The peaky blinders were everywhere... this was always a risk, not to mention you wasn't entirely sure where each of your brothers were. Or aunt Polly you only knew that Ava was off with her lover Fred. And you were doing much of the same... Well not Fred but Henry, your own lover. You'd met him when welcoming Tommy home from the war... He was hard to miss tall- taller then Tommy even! and injured he was searching the crowded dock but... It was clear to see that noone was there to greet him off the boat. He looked distraught and shattered. You were a bleeding heart and had approached him as your family had a small get together, you'd given him a hug pressed a sweet kiss to his cheek and welcomed him home giving him one of the flowers in the bouquet you'd brought for tommy. He had appreciated it, more then you'd ever know.

What you hadn't known was that he was moving into a home a few streets away. A few weeks later you saw him and he thanked you politely, you couldn't help think how very handsome he was, perfect blue eyes but for a speck of brown in his right eye, sharp regal features and pale alabaster skin now free from the bruising of his injury. He hadn't been as broad or muscular back then, but had been tall and lean.

Over the next few months chance meetings became dates, dates became full days basking in one another's presence until finally after a few months you'd fallen for the amazing gentle giant. It had been hard falling so hopelessly in love with Henry and having to hide from brothers and gangsters alike. But somehow you'd both made it with minimal near misses. Three years. Three years you'd been having this secret romance with him. But now you wanted more, as selfish as it was you wanted to be free to love him in public. Without worrying who may have seen you or if Aunt Polly will tell Thomas.

Yes she knew alright. There are no secrets from Aunt Polly. She said you done well and had even spoke with Henry a few times, she liked him. He wasn't in the business but could protect you, his shear size would be enough of a deterrent to others. And honestly she thought Tommy would get along with him, henry was clever and had an imposing frame. If Tommy had the chance, you knew Henry would be pulled into the fold, you were just unsure if that's what you both wanted.

Henry hadn't had much luck with work at first when he was here, so he became a boxer for a time learning to fight and defend himself and bulked up. It was terrifying to watch him be so ferocious in the ring and you thanked god each day Henry had avoided gaining a crooked nose. A few times you'd run into Tommy at the fights, your brother had singled you out and had you brought to him to stand and watch. But you were pleased to find out that your brother always placed his money on your man... So that was a good sign wasn't it?

Henry knew you didn't like his fighting but continued, he wanted to offer you everything. A home with kids and garden a cute little dog and the best clothes and food money could buy. So he saved everything! Kept all his winnings and in just over a year he had a nice sum of money in bets from his winnings and managed to earn enough for a small house. Since then he had a job doing the heavy lifting in a local Steel works.

Everything was set! Henry had a home for you, which you had a hand in help decorate. He promised a long and happy future with you! There was just the small problem of your family. They were... Protective to say the least, not only were you a Shelby sister but younger then Ava.

You quickly left the street today you were meeting Henry by the docks where Tommy kept the horse he'd just got. It was close... but not too close, it was worth the risk to be able to see Henry. Today was the day. You both decided! Henry will talk to them, introduce himself to your brothers this afternoon at the pub before they could drink too much.

You rounded the barn casting one final glance over your shoulder out of habit and slipped into the stalls. You could see him already, his flat cap and dark blue suit. Oh god he had dressed up for it, shit tommy would laugh him out of the bar. You chewed your lip and quivered you were anxious, this could be make or break. If Tommy was against it there was no way you could sneak about and keep your relationship going. They would chase henry out of Birmingham. Or kill him.

You stepped around the horse and giggled watching as henry gave himself a little pep talk twisting his signet ring on his pinkie with shaky hands. He was terrified and so were you. He paused and spun around to face you when he heard the small clicks of your heels on the concrete floor.

"W-what do you think?" he said spinning around holding his hands out letting you get a look at him. You stepped closer to him trying to settle your rapid heart. He was immaculate, stunning and handsome, sculpted by the gods... But looked too pretty. And god knows a Shelby girl wont be allowed to date a pretty boy. You smiled at him stopping inches away from him and walked your fingers over his chest slowly unbuttoning his suit jacket.

"You are magnificent... But a little too refined." you hummed motioning for him to shrug out of the loose suit jacket. He hissed out a shaky breath as you took the jacket from him and tucked it over your arm. That was better, the vest and white shirt showed his frame perfectly, and it also showed the slight strain on the buttons of his shirt. Hinting at the powerful man hidden beneath. You wanted them to see he was a strong man and it wasn't all the cut of the suit. You needed them to see you'd chosen a strong man capable of protecting you.

"There perfect" you said stepping back straightening his tie a little and stood back eyeing him carefully. There really was nothing more you could do. He would have to prove himself in what ever test your brother would conjure on the spot. By god you hope he impressed them.

"Yes you are" he quipped quickly eyes locking on to you making you blush and look away tip toeing around the horse in the stall that hid the two of you. Henry drew in a deep breath watching you closely. This was it. Today was the day, and he hadn't a clue what he was going to say to the great Shelby men. He cursed under his breath turning from you for a second. You understood, this wasn't just your future you were risking today, it was his life. Not many impress Tommy and far less managed to get in his good books when they were trying it on with the baby sister.

"You know that you have to just... Go in there and say 'I'm dating your sister' Right? Be firm and tell them like it is! Stand up to them! They would respect that" You cooed grinning at him from across the barn watching as your love eyed you from the other side of the magnificent white horse Tommy had recently got.

"What and have John blind me with his blades?" He scoffed at you before rounding the horse ducking under the stallions huge head and leant forward trapping you with huge hands resting either side of the horse stall you were leaning on.

"Ugh Johnny boy couldn't even reach your eyes Henry... Its just Tommy and Arthur you need to watch..." you rolled your eyes at him trying to act normal and ignore the black cloud hanging over your head. If this was the last time you were to be alone with him you wanted him to remember you as you are, not the nervous terrified woman you were at this moment. You smirked rising on your tip toes and teased his lips with your breath making him groan silently, the deep contracting of his wide barrelled chest the only give away to the effect you had on him.

You pulled back just as he dipped down to meet your lips and giggled at him as he wound his large arms around you hoisting you up by your waist and sat you on the wooden fence on the box stall bringing you eye level with him. You giggled folding your arms in your lap with his jacket knowing he wouldn't let you fall, he never did.

"Ah just Tommy and Arthur... That is cruel, I'm shaking in my shoes love" he teased wetting his lips with the luxurious pink tongue you knew all too well.

"Aww my poor bear, so frightened of my brothers I know, perhaps this will help you find that courage of yours~" you cooed before pressing forward kissing him on the lips. His lips drew up into a beaming grin and he stepped closer forcing your legs to part and dress to rise up to your knees as he devoured you in a heated yet forbidden kiss.

"Well then lets go shall we?" He grumbled eyes alight with a new want, a deep desire he had never shown before. It was thrilling and awe inspiring. Like he had a new lust, a lust for life and not just what was hidden beneath your skirts.

"Oh love like you said Tommy and Arthur?! I'm going to need all my strength for this meeting" he laughed as your face held a look of shock and disbelief then a petulant pout when you realised  there will be no quick romp in the hay this afternoon. With one final wink he spun around heading for the door.

You stood outside the pub. Your brothers were inside, you could feel it. There was a buzz in the air, the destinct feeling that followed 'the boss' hanging around. You had drawn a little attention walking the streets With henry at your side. People watched as the young Shelby woman walked arm in arm with an undisclosed male carrying his jacket no less. It made you cringe hearing the murmurs of 'should we tell the boss' 'does tommy know?' 'should we help her?' but luckily none made any moves towards you as you moved deeper and deeper into the heath. Towards the pub. You slowed as you neared the final destination and henry pulled out his cigarette tin fishing out the small stick deciding to have a quick smoke before entering the proverbial lions den.

"It will be okay... He will... Test you, but remember family is everything and I'm his youngest sister so..." you trailed off, the truth was you didn't know what Tommy would do or say. He was unpredictable and cunning, he liked to test people. You just hoped Henry passed with flying colours... or the only thing flying will be... you closed your eyes trying not to think of what would happen if things went sour. Henry could die, literally die today for loving you. It curdled your stomach you cant loose him. You hoped Tommy would see that.

"I know that... Here twos?" he said offering you the small cigarette he had been dragging on quickly nervously trying to pull some more courage from the small stick. Because once he was inside he couldn't show any weakness. It was daunting unable to show weakness when the love of his life was on the line. Henry was under no illusions Tommy could and would kill him, and there would be little Henry could do.

"Just remember y/n no matter what I love you. I will always love you" henry said as you toom a few drags on the cigarette. You whined and nodded breathing out the smoke trying to exhale all the tension and anxiety with the fumes.

"I love you too Henry, so much more then I thought I could ever love anyone" without a thought Henry pulled you to him and pressed a kiss to your lips. He didn't give a damn he was kissing the forbidden princess right outside her king brothers castle, or that the others around them would see. Be needed this one final pick me up before faceing the firing squad.

You smiled pulling back handing Henry the remainder of the cigarette and nodded to him. You got this. Then entered the pub walking right into the private room where your family sat. Instantly Polly looked at you frowning seeing you were pale, worried. Then her eyes flicked to your hands still folded with Henry's jacket draped over them. She drew a deep breath and sat straighter looking at the three males wearily. Oh god.

"Tommy I need to talk to you" you said seriously. But the blue eyed man rolled his eyes flicking the ash off his cigarette into the crystal ashtray before speaking dismissively trying to wave you off.

"Your not having that cat its final" john and Arthur chuckled at the automatic response Tommy gave but you frowned. You wasn't to sure what to say next, you didn't want to agitate him but you needed him to listen.

"No its not that- I have something to tell you and its important" you said drawing the attention of John and Arthur, but tommy heaved a sigh and moved stubbing out the lit cigarette and flicked his eyes to you letting you know he was listening.

"Mr Shelby could we talk?" You looked up seeing Henry standing there, tall and wide. Firm and unafraid confidently eyeing your brothers in a way oud never seen before. People cowered. Henry wasn't there was no hint of the anxious man outside. Henry was on a mission.

"Not now can't you see I'm speaking with my sister?" He grunted his voice was even. But to others could be seen as irritated. You turned as Henry didn't so much as flinch, you thought he'd run off but Henry let himself into the room standing closely behind you, one hand moving to his head removing his flat cap revealing the neat styled hair. The usually fluffy curls pulled into a slick style that accentuated his angular features. You nodded to him with a smile pleading him to carry on. What you didn't expect was for henrys huge arm to wrap around your waist in front of your sibling's. Fuck. You felt the shift in the room, anger and shock radiating from the men but an overwhelming curiosity. They wanted to watch this, it was rare someone was so god damned stupid as to put hands on you.

"She is the reason I'm here Mr Shelby" Henrys voice carried over the small space in a low determined tone. You tucked yourself into him, pivoting and twisting a hand to his tummy resting there, fingers twisting the button on his vest. You just needed to feel him, you felt like you were shielding him, but it was also self soothing. You needed to reassure yourself he was here for you. No one else. You.

"Oh? And why is that then?" Tommy shifted leaning back eyeing the man who was being so familiar with his baby sister. Tommy was no fool, you hand flinched or pulled away, this male had been around you enough that you were used to him touching you. You gravitated towards him like... like a lover? Tommy's blue eyes bit into the man. As unsettling as it was seeing his sister so close to another man Tommy couldn't help feeling a little relief, a small spark of joy. If this was your beau you'd done well. Tall, muscular wide and imposing. Not many would pick a fight with him, even drunk people would steer clear of him.

"She invited me" Tommy smirked hearing the man speak, he was confident. Unafraid that boded well too. He wasn't a fucking coward... or atleast he was pretending not to be.

"This is what I wanted to talk to you all about...Tommy, Arthur, John... This is Henry... My?" You hesitated and looked between henry and our family. You just froze, clammed up at the calculating look on Tommy's face. It was frightening being scrutinised by him.

"Lover sweetheart we agreed no more secrets" Henry finally broke the silence tipping his face down to yours with a smile. Ignoring your family in favour of snapping you back to reality.

"Oh no you fuckin' aint sonny boy- y/n you get your ass over here now!" Arthur broke the silence with a rough voice shouting, ordering you to round the table and sit next to him. You grit your teeth and shoo, your head at Arthur watching as he turned red in anger. You wasn't like Ava, you never caused trouble or made trouble for your brothers, heel you were a 'goody two shoes' always doing as you were told. But this time you refused to do as you were asked and stayed put.

Tommy ever the eagle eye noticed. He had been ready to rip this man to shreds but, your simple act of defiance caught his attention. You wasn't a girl to play silly games, so to blatantly refuse and tell them no and side with this Henry meant you were serious. This was serious. And Tommy was wracking his brain he recognised this man... But from where? He was sure he wasn't a blinder so who was he?

"Now y/n don't make me come and get ya"

"I said no"  you snapped at your eldest brother, but your eyes were on Tommy. Henry squeezed your waist as you stared down your most threatening of brothers. Eyes locking with his blue gaze as you held your ground. The smallest of smirks tugged at his lip. You were unsure if it was good or bad but he wasn't scowling so you'd take that as a win.

"Your the one that was boxing...pulverised the others" Tommy said pointing slowly at Henry whilst pulling a crystal glass of whisky towards him, his thumb skimming the rim of the glass in thought. He was thinking, scheming... but then again when was Thomas Shelby not scheming?

"Yes, not that it was personal I needed to win" henry spoke clearly not letting the severe glares f your other brothers shake him. He was impenetrable a solid rock- a mass of a man all firm and sharp angles determined and poised.

"Oh? And why is that then?" Tommy purred still keeping his cards close to his chest, no one knew what he really thought of you and henry or the relationship at that moment. But he was speaking, not shooting. And that was all that mattered.

"I needed the money to buy a house for your sister" Henry said plainly placing his hat on the table in front of him. It was a strange gesture but one you understood. He was making himself comfortable but also using it as a metaphor throwing his hat in the ring so to speak, showing your family he had no intentions on hightailing it out of there and leaving you in the dust.

"You did, did you?" Here was something, a twinkle in the cool blues. You tried to dig deeper but as soon as it was there it had vanished. For a second you dare say your brother was impressed with your choice in man.

"I wasn't coming to you without being able to offer your sister something... I wanted to prove I'm capable of providing her a future" Henry shrugged feeling Tommy with a stare. You shivered hearing the iron will, the absolute control Henry had over himself. John scoffed and leant over the table glaring at Henry dragging on his cigarette then spoke up trying to mimic Tommy's own indifferent threatening demeanour, but failed. There was only one Terrifying Tommy.

" and some tiny house on a backstreet in Birmingham is a future?" john scoffed laughing outloud trying to dampen Henry's resolve. But your man was ready and grinned smugly showing off the perfect teeth and stunning looks.

"Medium actually... not huge but its bigger then what she is used to, with front and back garden bought and paid for... Last week I even got her a kitten... Russian blue expensive but y/n wanted one and I wont deny her" he replied without missing a beat. Henry was proud of what he had achieved, and so he should be. The house he had managed to buy was a  nicely sized three bedroom home, and it was indeed larger then where you lived with your family at the moment. Well decorated and furnished with tasteful furniture most of which you picked out together.

"And what you think I'll give my blessing because you got her a bloody cat?" tommy drew the attention back to him. You swallowed dryly. Tommy sounded mad now. You moved shuffling in front of Henry trying to cover him more, yet your hand wandered behind your back and you clasped your lovers hand tightly hoping things wont go from bad to worse.

"No, you don't need to bless anything, I'm not here to ask. I'm telling you that we are together and serious...We've been a couple for almost three years... And its about time I informed you" your breath hitched as Henry's voice resounded in the room. Oh god that was too far! You paled and snapped your head to him on the brink of tears and pressed back into Henry trying to make him pull back, but no. The man was a brick wall- immovable and stubborn... yet cool and unfazed. But what struck you most was the shock on your brothers faces. No one had spoken to any of them like that for a very long time. And for good reason.

"There is a fine line between courage and stupidity Henry" Tommy said recovering from the shock quicker then the others. He didn't even see you now standing on shaking knees trying to shield henry as much as you could with your frame. But it was no use, Henry was to big, you were but a tiny waif of a woman in front of him. But Tommy bore his curious gaze into the huge man. It would appear your love now had his undivided attention.

"I know, but I'm on the right side of it. I love your sister. And I have loved her for three years, since the day I got off the boat" tommy tilted his head to the side surprized once more by your lover. You drew a slow breath in. You knew tommy respected those who fought for their country.

"You served?" came the question as tommy poured himself another glass and then lit up another cigarette. You saw a quick smile light up his face, but again it was gone before anyone could really notice. Henry heaved a deep breath and nodded, he was no fool. He took a chance and it had paid off, or it seemed to have paid off he wasn't staring down the barrel of a gun or had a peaky cap flung at his face.

"Yes, along side you in fact... I was smaller then... Easy to miss. Your sister showed kindness to me when I had no one and nothing. She gave me hope, hope for the possibility of family and a normal life. She managed to ease my terrors and pull me from the memories of the war. And for that I will give her everything" henry spoke, you noticed your brothers each shrunk. They understood, the war left scars on the mind and it was true even henry had suffered, but you were able to sooth him and bring him back from the worst night terrors. Tommy grunted and flicked his gaze from you to your man then back again. There was a warmer hint to the blues, dare you say an acceptance. But even you knew he was still going to pull something out of the bag and throw a curveball at your love. Tommy still needed to test Henry, but atleast you could say so far so good.

"And taken something I assume?" Polly hissed looking away as your brother spoke. You rolled your eyes, did he seriously want to know if you'd fucked? Tommy held Henry captive in his gaze he knew the answer but for some reason he wanted the hear it out loud. You couldn't help this was Tommy's test, he was daring your lover to lie to him. You prayed Henry wasn't that stupid. To your reliefe he proved he wasn't as he replied sincerely.

"I shared something freely given I assure you there was no pressure" the statement wasn't smug, henry didn't make you sound like an achievement, something to conquer. And he made it clear that he hadn't pressed you into anything. It earned him a nod from all three men, you smiled they were coming around to Henry. Thank fuck!

"And you come here and say that to my face? Tell me you've broken in my sister? You certainly have balls" your smile dropped and you shifted on your feet. What just happened? Things were going great, and now they weren't? Luckily Henry was more prepared for this then you and he answered smoothly not fazed by the way things had turned so quickly.

"Yes I'm not going to stand here and lie about our relationship I love her. And I'll not hide it a second more. I will protect her and cherish her she has my upmost respect"

"So you say you respect her? Yet... She's carrying you jacket around like some maid?" tommy tried twisting things pokeing at Henry trying to get a rise out of him. Probably so he had a reason to chase him off. But you wanst having it.

"Tommy, I'm holding it so he cannot run! Stop being an ass" you growled releasing Henry's hand and moved forward seething at your brother who lounged back regarding you carefully.

"That's enough mouth from you y/n you've done enough becoming a fucking little whore when our back is turned?" you paused takeing half a step back as tommy's furious gaze landed on you. You quivered feeling hurt, flushing in anger and embarrassment. Not once had he spoke to you like that, you were always praised by your brother, protected and loved to hear him growl at you so cruely was heart breaking.

"I'd ask you don't speak to her like that-" Henry spoke up growing angry himself with the way Tommy had spoke to you. But henry was ignored as Tommy began to lay into you hissing venomously belittling you in front of your family and lover.

"Tell me sister is this some last mineut attempt to cover up a bastard? If so is it even his? For all we know you could be bed hopping all over the heath" you whined at the assault mouth hanging open trying to form words but it was hard. Your eyes welled with tears. Call you a cry baby but you loved your brothers and tried to do them proud to have one of them be so nasty cut you deep.

"No!- Tommy of course not-"

"So your just becoming the heaths bike then? To think after everything you'd sink so low to ruin yourself- Ava was one thing she's always ran around behind our backs but you? I really expected better then to become a two bit whore" his words were like razors ice picks hitting your chest, he always knew how to slice deep. It came with being a blinder- but you never thought you'd be on the receiving end. You moved back another step bumping into Henry, you wanted to run and hide. For the first time in your life you were scared, you didn't want to feel your brothers fury.

"Do not speak to her like that in my presence ever again" Henry snarled brushing past you hiding your quivering from behind him. He was livid and for a second you thought he was going to swing for your brother.

"She's my sister-" Tommy started looking back at henry who had taken the bait hook line and sinker. But was cut off by henry stepping forward leaning over crowding Tommy thumping the table with more force then necessary. Everything jumped, the glasses ashtray even the bottle leapt from the table. You jerked gasping as the bang echoed  in the room.

"I don't give a fuck. You wont ever talk to her that again. She is mine and brother or not you will treat her with respect or you will pay for it!" everything stopped. No one moved. No one breathed. It wasn't everyday someone threatened A Shelby, least of all Tommy. Henry growled at your blue eyed brother. Tommy tilted his head taking him in.

"H-henry?" you whispered moving forward pressing a hand to the small buckle as the back of his vest tugging him back, making him stand at his full Hight just in time as John shot up from his seat ready to lunge.

"Oi! Don't you talk to him like that I'll have your fucking eyes!" he roared jumping up turning on your lover but Tommy stopped him fisting a hand in his jacket and tugging him to sit back down... He was grinning?

"Tommy?" Arthur asked not following, but then again he always was a few steps behind everyone. You frowned blinking back tears and gasped. That bastard! It was a trick! You slumped  and wrapped yourself around henry before anyone could realise what happened. Henry curled himself around you frowning confused and you tucked yourself into him.

"Any man who a the balls to defend her against me...Will protect her from anyone..." Tommy spoke and tipped his head to the seat across from him offering Henry a seat at the table. You both sat quickly beside one another Polly moved pouring you both a drink, you looked like you needed it.

"So? So you mean we can be together?" Henry asked trying to keep up with how he'd just gone from having a target on his back to having a seat with the family. Tommy smiled nodding whilst bringing his own drink to his lips sipping the amber liquid then spoke.

"Mmm But you've broken her... You'll repay me for ruining her by making her an honest woman"

"The rings in my pocket" Henry said rubbing your back as you shook next to him, the adrenaline and worry now rushing through you. All these years of anxiety washing away with sweet tears of reliefe. Henry tucked you under his arm and held you close on the bench seat hushing you as you crumbled. You didn't really register what was said instead pressed your self into him hands tugging his clothes trying to calm down.

"Then do it- but you ever turn your fists on her I'll kill you" Tommy threatened holding out his cigarette tin offering one to henry, he took it thanking him then popped it between his lips and lit the white stick. His hand only quivered slightly, the rush of what just happened hitting him.

"It will never happen, I couldn't live with myself if I ever made her feel less then perfect let alone harm her" he said squeezing you tighter to his side.

"Then we have a deal?" tommy smiled, a genuine smile as he spied the two of you. He had no doubt, if henry was willing to go toe to toe with him in his pub, in front of his family- probably the most dangerous thing you could do in the heath. Then henry will take care of you and protect you with his life. Plus Henry made you happy and that was all Tommy could ask for, your safety and happiness. Contrary to what people thought he had no issues with anyone dating his sisters. He just didn't want his girls to have weak simpering husbands to protect them should the worst ever happen... And Henry knew how to shoot a gun from his time in the forces, so when handed a weapon Tommy wont have to worry about having a newbie protecting his baby sister. And Henry will be given a gun to protect you with.

"That we do" Henry grinned shaking Tommy's hand and quickly snagged your own placing a thin gold band on your left ring finger before you could even muster a single sound. You blinked wiping your eyes pawing at the salty droplets and gasped seeing the band on your finger, a small diamond in the centre or the dainty ring.

"W-what your not e-ven gonna ask me Henry?" You stuttered at him hiccupping and sniffling trying not to have a full blown breakdown and cry from both relief and happiness. Henry laughed pressing a cheeky kiss to your cheek making you flush and tuck your head back into his chest trying to hide from the onlookers.

"Now why would I give you the chance to say no? Hmm? I may be a tad slow sometimes but I'm not a complete idiot" he purred finishing with a small chuckle, that the others echoed everyone had calmed down accepting the news. You whined at him and slapped his chest lightly pouting as henry laughed.

"Besides your brother and I made a deal" he added as you pulled back eyeing your new ring with a weak smile managing to control yourself bar a few sniffling gasps and the odd rogue tear.

"Oh s-o I'm b-business?~" you tried to tease him but the words lost their bite as you were still tearful from your crying. You were weepy you couldn't help it, today had been stressful- hell this past week had been stressful!

"Business? No... Your my world love" he cooed not caring in the slightest at how soppy he sounded. He wasn't here to put on a show for your brothers. He was here for you.

"I love you" you said peeking up at him with a shy smile.

"Good to know~" he hummed winking at you taking another drag of the cigarette, but you pouted sticking out your bottom lip like you did each time he teased you.

"Yes, yes I love you too" he caved pressing a chaste kiss to your lips drawing a growl from your eldest brother, but nothing was thrown so you summarized you were safe.

"Congratulations Henry I told you they weren't that bad" Polly spoke up quickly ending your sweet kiss before anything could go south.

"Yes Ms Polly you were right, we should have listened to you" henry admitted rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly

"Wait pol you knew?" tommy growled snapping to his aunt but the older woman rolled her eyes. Honestly you think he'd learn by now. No one pulled the wool over Polly's eyes.

"Who to you think has helped keep her from having a kid for three years Tommy! At least that's one thing I don't have to worry about anymore thank god!" she huffed pretending to be annoyed but you knew she was happy for you. She had been routing for henry, and trying to get you to tell the boys for a long time. You were just scared.

"Polly! Stop it" you squeaked flushing, no one needed to know  just what Polly had been helping you with! Least of all your fucking siblings!

"What its true? Now your free to pop them out without any uncomfortable questions from this lot, and i have no doubt it will be soon" she teased with a smirk enjoying tormenting you, she had bit her tongue for too long it was about time she got to poke fun at you. You were such a shy innocent little thing.

"Oh my god stop" you moaned ducking down as everyone chuckled at your expense. Henry then made it worse by ducking down beside you and whispered in your ear.

"...She does have a point love" then nipped at it quickly before turning back to your brothers as your face flamed.

It hadn't been the easiest of days, but in the end all the worry and anxiety had paid off not only had you managed to reveal your relationship to your family with no casualties. But you also became engaged to the man of your dreams. Tommy seemed relived, he was happy for you in his own over protective brotherly way. The freedom that came with todays outcome was worth it and now you and henry were free to start your lives together. Truly start with a marriage kids the whole nine yards! And you'd never been happier.

[sunflowerheartsandstarryskies]

My Golden Curse - Maxwell Lord x Fem!Reader

Author’s Note: Hello again, I may have stumbled upon the Pedro Pascal fandom and I can’t get out, and I saw someone posted that they wanted an imagine with Maxwell Lord and the reader in which one of them gets kidnapped and the other just goes ballistic, and I basically kept getting that idea stuck in my head, this was only supposed to be a drabble but oh well. This depiction of Maxwell Lord is closer to the DC Comics version of him and not the movie but it has Pascal’s Lord’s likeness, so it’s like a combination of the two.

Also, I have survived my finals and had taken a break from writing for a while but I’m back and I have some ideas for my Lucifer multi-chapter fic as well. I also have an idea for a John Wick fic but I have no idea if anyone wants to read that.

Warnings: Typical comic-book violence, cursing (like two curse words), blood mentioned, kidnapping, bruises and injuries (like ribs breaking, a concussion, and a few lacerations

______________________________________________________________

Maxwell Lord IV prided himself on presentation. Everything had to be pristine and everything, even the garbage can by his desk had to be impeccable, because his business and himself in general, are put out on display for the public. He is a figurehead and a showman, so when you came along to be his assistant and secretary he was at first apprehensive because you didn’t dress as provocatively as he may have like and you didn’t look as model-esque as his other secretaries in the past. You didn’t apply to Chimtech to be fucked by your boss, you were good at your job and you aspire to show off your skills.

However, time went on when you first started to work for Maxwell Lord and you did a phenomenal job, whenever he was in a meeting you would always make sure to listen and take notes of what he needed while he was in the meeting. Whenever he requested for you to fax an item you would’ve made sure to have done it five minutes prior. Maxwell had no idea how you could be so efficient at your job, but he damn well appreciates it even if he rarely ever mentions it to you.

It’s an odd relationship that you guys have worked yourself in, a friendly relationship it seems, but both of you are teetering on the edge of wanting more. There have been teasing nicknames, mostly from you, you had a plethora of nicknames that you would give him, ranging from “Sandy” to “Ken”, but “Golden boy” was your favorite.

You would never admit this to him or even to yourself but you actually liked his blonde locks. In certain lightings, when you look at him you swear he was Midas, covered in his own golden curse. It was breathtaking to watch him at some points, but you always try to cover up your flustered state.

You knew Maxwell well, some may say too well for a secretary, but you rarely saw the side of him that most of his competitors and fellow businessmen saw, and that was the merciless and ruthless side to his tactics on getting what he wanted. Everyone in the public eye saw him as just the “King of Infomercials” but there was a reason why and how he got that title in the first place. Who knew the infomercial world could be so cruel and hectic?

You were able to catch glimpses of Maxwell’s amazing abilities of persuasion and showmanship, he was able to get people to admit to what they want and get them to go out and seize, whether that was good or bad. There was a particular talent that you find out he has and it was his ability to drag out people’s hidden desires, there were times when the people he used this talent were a shock as the people around them when they admitted to what they really wanted.

He was a golden idol of his own creation; he had to be especially to the people around him. However, that golden facade can only keep him held up for so long when the people he handed gold to realize that it’s fool’s gold.

______________________________________________________________

It was earlier in the day, you just woke up and got dressed in your office attire with a cup of coffee in hand as you try to will yourself to get going. You looked up at your apartment’s clock and it was 7:00 am, you needed to get going if you were to make it to Chimtech in time.

As you stepped out of your apartment building you felt a gloved hand over your mouth and panic flooding your whole body, but before your body could even fully process a flight or fight response you felt a sharp pain in your neck and you passed out.

When you come to, your vision is blurred and you can’t understand where you are and your brain just has confusion filling your senses. Why can’t you process what is around you? What happened to you? After a couple of more seconds went by you felt a rope tightly woven around your wrists, and you comprehended that you were sitting on a floor. What happened to you?

“Ah, there’s the little doll’s eyes! I was wondering if you were beginning to ever wake up,” a voice filled your ears. You blinked furiously trying to get your eyes to focus and you found yourself face to face with a man, who was grinning at you like a shark finding the prey they smelled a mile away.

“I’m sure you understand why you’re here? I don’t need to monologue it to you, do I?” the man asks.

“Mr. Vince, right? You were in a meeting with my boss Maxwell Lord, a month ago, right?” you questioned him as the drug and weariness started to seep out of you, and you gained more awareness of your surroundings. The man, Mr. Vince was a part-owner of a tech company that Chimtech was interested in making an investment in, however from what you were aware of was that the true goal of the meetings with Vince and his company was to absorb it into Chimtech, forcing Vince and the other owners to give up their powers over to Maxwell Lord and the other board members of Chimtech.

“I see the drugs didn’t impair your memory, I assume you are aware that I am no longer a CEO? That I was tricked by your goddamned boss?! That he put me in a corner to give up my company over to him!” he screamed. He was half an inch from your face and you were terrified of this man, he was unhinged.

“What does this have to do with me, Mr.Vince?” you asked, forcing yourself to not push him over the edge.

“Ooooh this has everything to do with your boss, I remembered that you are his secretary, so you must know some secret of his, something I can leverage against him to make him give me my company back,” he said.

“Even if I have any sort of information to give you, the damage is already done, your company is done in, it’s already been processed into Chimtech, there is none of your company left.”

That was the wrong thing to say as you felt a kick to your stomach. You groaned and rolled onto your side, and before you could recover from that there was another swift kick that you felt go directly to your ribs.

______________________________________________________________

Minutes blended into hours of constant yelling from Vince to him pulling you off the ground to throwing you back down like you were a piece of litter to being his personal punching bag. It was all you could do to just protect yourself and persevere through the pain because you were just a secretary, you were never trained in self-defense, hell you never even did track in high school.

Through the pain, you felt complete distortion and a high pitch whining going through your head, and you finally realized it was a telephone- a landline. Where the hell did this guy get a landline in this beat-up place?

Then, you hear Vince say, “Oh you want to hear how (Y/N) is?” you hear footsteps coming towards you then cold plastic was pressed to your cheek then Vince continued loudly, “Well here she is, talk.”

“(Y/N)?” You heard Maxwell, your golden boy, say your name and all you can do was say his name back in a raspy voice.

“What did he do to you?” Maxwell asked.

Before you could say any more the phone was taken away from you and Vince’s voice filled your ears.

“Tick tock Maxwell, I want my money and you can get your fuck toy back.”

Then silence, a sickening silence filled the room which made you feel every ache and pain that has been put on your body has made itself known by increasing levels of agony. You didn’t even feel it in you to even try to correct Vince’s words about you. You just wanted to sleep and not wake up for a whole day, maybe if you laid perfectly still and just not move a muscle the pain would go away.

As you lay there you tearily open your eyes back up and you can hear the tinny sounds of the echoing footsteps of your captor pacing back and forth in the room you were held in. It was nauseating, and you were confused as you thought, When did you close your eyes? How long were you out?

Then you fell back into your head, and you felt like you were spiraling in your own mind mixed with dizziness and nausea. You just wanted this to end.

A male voice was shouting so close to you and you can feel the panic coming out of his voice, and you can tell it wasn’t Vince because why would he do that?

You felt yourself being lifted from the ground and all you could do was cough sporadically from the new movements on your injuries. It hurt, it hurt so bad.

“I know (Y/N), but you just need to keep going a little bit longer,” the same voice told you.

You couldn’t quite pinpoint where you heard that voice before but you thought it was your boss, Maxwell Lord, but it couldn’t be. That would be the last thought that went through your mind before you lost it to the void.

All you can see at first was just bright and it hurt so bad. When you turned your head you saw a flash of gold and your first thought was, ‘Maxwell’. When your eyes adjusted to the room around you it really was your boss, Maxwell Lord in the hospital with you. He was slumped down in a chair beside your bed and you saw there were roses in a vase on the table next to you.

“Gold-golden boy, hey,” you rasped out trying to wake him. You coughed and then groaned as you felt the lacerations and bandages around your torso.

You saw him stir in the chair and his eyes opened and landed on yours. “Hey boss,” you whispered cringing at your voice. Your hands clenched at the sheets around you as you saw him blink furiously and stood up fast. You flinched at the fast movement but he didn’t seem to notice, as he moved closer to you.

“I am sorry about what happened to you, I didn’t think that our clients would go so far as to do this to you. I can’t believe that bastard did all of this to you-”

“It’s okay, I mean it hurts like a bitch but you ended up finding me didn’t you? What happened to him anyway?” you cut him off.

“Ah well, I may have gotten violent with him before the law enforcement could get him,” he said twisting his hands around and that’s when you saw the scrapes on his knuckles.

“I don’t know if you were a white knight to me but you certainly are a golden devil for doing that,” you replied.

He huffed out a laugh at your reply and he opened his mouth to say something but got interrupted when a nurse arrived.

______________________________________________________________

After the nurse left, you found out you still have a concussion lingering still, three bruised ribs and lacerations across your whole torso and arms.

When he listened to the whole list of injuries that you had gotten in the three days that you were with Mr. Vince, he felt rage boil over him but he tried to keep calm as he remembered the battered state he left Vince in. At least he made him feel some of the pain that he made you go through, Maxwell was a very prideful man in how he acts so for him to act like that was completely out of character for him.

He must be looking worried because he noticed your furrowed brows and you glancing at him every so often.

“Did you want to say something?” he asked

“Well, I was gonna ask you a similar question because I think you were interrupted by the nurse. Also are you okay?”

Your question startled him and the mention of the interruption made him clear his throat and fidget with his suit to try to hide the blush that was threatening to come up to his face. Your inquisitive expression on your face was watching him.

“I’ve been thinking that if you would like to leave the company, I won’t force you to stay, especially with what happened this week,” he said.

Listening to him say this made you panic and as you tried to sit up, Maxwell came up to you quickly as he says, “What do you think you’re doing? You got to take it easy.”

As you are situated in your bed you went to reach for Maxwell’s hand as you say, “Why would I want to quit? I love my job and I love working with you even if at times I don’t seem like it. None of what happened to me was your fault, how could you have known that Vince would react to the merger the way that he did.”

Maxwell was startled by this, he never had anyone in his family nor his company is so willing to stay with him especially when they are given an out.

He bowed his head toward you and said, “If you keep saying things like that I might want to keep you by my side for a long time.”

You laughed as you replied, “If you let me I will, you are a weird but kind man-” you stopped yourself as a thought came to your head.

“How long have you been here? What about Chimtech?”

“Ah well if my secretary didn’t get kidnapped and injured I wouldn’t be here right now, but you made me worried and how can I do my best work without my best assistant around me?”

“Now you’re just flattering me”

“But it’s true”

“Hmmm if you say so, Sandy”

______________________________________________________________

Four days have gone by and you were finally released from the hospital to go back to your apartment. You tried to go back to work at Chimtech, but Maxwell found you were released and gave you the rest of the week off to recover. You would become the envy of the company at this rate with how well the boss has been treating you.

Now that you have been just lounging in your apartment watching TV movies, and eating takeout for meals it has given you time to properly understand what happened to you for the past two weeks.

The way your boss, Maxwell, has been treating you made you see a whole new side of him. At first, you thought of working for him as both a blessing and a curse. At first, it was hell on earth, you ran yourself ragged making sure everything was up to par with Maxwell’s standards but after the next three years working with the man you considered him a friend of sorts. Even though you always tried to make sure to never consider employers and colleagues be separate from your personal life but it’s hard to do that when all you have is your work life.

Ever since the kidnapping incident, Maxwell had visited you every day in the hospital he even gave you flowers on the last day of your hospital visit, it was a beautiful vase of sunflowers.

You didn’t realize how long you were sitting on your couch thinking about your boss when you heard a knock on your door. You looked at the clock near your tv and realized it was nearly midnight.

‘Who could come by to my apartment at this hour?’ you thought.

You got up carefully minding the bruises still littering your body, and you opened the door surprised to see Maxwell.

His hair was a bit disheveled and he didn’t have a suit jacket on showing off the suspenders he likes to wear. He looked quite cute seeing him like this.

“Come in, Mr. Lord. What brings you to my place this late at night?” you inquired.

He ran his hand through his hair as he entered your apartment and he turns to look at you as you closed the door.

He sighed as he said, “I don’t know how quite to put this without sounding terrible, but after what happened to you, I can’t stop thinking about you. You are the best woman-the best person I’ve known and for you to still want to work with me after everything that has happened.”

He looked like he was getting frustrated with himself, you were shocked because how could you have gotten the king of infomercials to be so frustrated with his own words?

You took a tentative step forward to him as you placed a hand on his arm.

“Sandy, what’s going on?”

He was silent for a moment before he looked into your eyes with a strong determination as he says, “You know more about me than my own mother does, and after all this time together I’ve grown to respect you more and more. When I saw you in that hospital I wanted to kill the bastard and send him to hell when I found you like that in the warehouse.”

“I-I don’t know what to say, Mr. Lord-”

“Call me Maxwell, none of your silly names, not boss, not my last name, just Maxwell”

You could tell he was earnest with this and sincere it took your breath away to see him like this. He was beautiful and it made your heart flutter when you realize what he might be trying to confess to you.

“Maxwell” you breathed out testing his name out. You said his name once before and that was when you had gotten kidnapped but now this is completely different, almost like a prayer. A prayer to this golden devil of yours.

He smiled when he heard you say his name and he let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding.

“I wish I could kiss all the scars away from your body so you never have to live with them again. I wish that I could be yours, fully and I want to be clear that I would never use you like I may have done to my secretaries in the past. I want to be yours, in any way you may want me.”

“Oh Maxwell, I think I might have to grant your wish this time,” you say blinking away tears that were threatening to spill as you were listening to his confession.

“(Y/N)” he whispered reverently.

He cradled your face with both hands as he studied your face to see any resistance than he gently placed his lips on yours.

You made a small gasp as you finally felt his lips on yours, you clutched onto his shirt as you pulled him closer to you. He tilted his head and pushed your chin up to meet in for a deeper kiss. It felt amazing and you felt loved.

When you parted you were chasing each other’s lips to crash back into each other as you kissed each other until you both need a break. Both of your lips were swollen and you looked at him with such love that when Maxwell saw, he almost wanted to take you then and there but he was mindful of how fragile this love could be.

Author’s Note: I might do a second part if people want it but whew this took a lot out of me, I hope you guys like it!

[remythologise]

Along with the absolute trashfire that the finale was, it's still amazing how they managed to create an absurd amount of new plot holes with the last REMAINING episode.

Like I dunno how excruciating it must've been as a writer to leave the story so wholly unfinished.

Everyday I find more and more examples of how badly the C*W fucked up, it's just laughable

this has already been discussed at length by various people on this cursèd webbed site but it’s literally so wild let’s go through and point out the plot holes as mentioned by linked posts and how they could have been fixed very very obviously from 15.18 (I mean every dumb filler episode should have been nuked, looking at you 15.16, and the Cas sacrifice happened sooner so we had more time for a full ending, but;)

Castiel’s grace was fading: obviously this was a cheap way to nuke Cas’ power levels for Power Level Reasons whenever convenient, however if he had become human and therefore been able to escape from the Empty OR sacrificed the last of his grace to do something cool we would be talking!

Ruby asks Castiel to save her from the Empty/Dean doesn’t ask Jack to rescue Castiel/Jack’s explosion in the Empty made the Empty loud/Are the other angels all out of The Empty too, or did Jack make more creepy human-angel hybrids?/Where’s Benny now?: completely obvious, the Empty and afterlife generally should have been dismantled with Cas’ help - either have Dean save Cas from the Empty and destroy that structure at the same time or have Cas restructure the afterlife and textually, on screen, include the fact he rescued the angels and demons in the Empty, redemption for the angels he killed during the show (Balthazar!). Have those entities given life or peace. (Ideally, demon souls are just human souls so they should be reformatted and perhaps reincarnated.)

The demons were rising up against/betraying Rowena/Did the gates of Hell ever get closed?: lmao I didn’t even remember this one but see above re; dismantling the structure of the afterlife because it’s always going to be inherently flawed. Personally I would have gone for a His Dark Materials/Good Place ending on this one (where either the characters are alive BUT when they die their souls become part of the universe like Jack, OR they exit the show with their own death and open the door to a new universe that we don’t get to see them in, literally outside the story) but that’s just me

If Chuck was gone, why give him his ending?: bad bad writing, but I also want to point out that Chuck literally got a better ending than ANY of the main characters, he was just made human. Like??? He can still abuse people and be a bad person or try to gain his power back??? He knows how the whole world works and could manipulate that to his advantage??? At least put him in jail??? Dean’s line about not being a killed was great but that didn’t mean they should just LEAVE THE DUDE THERE. Really feed into that humans = life, non-humans and minorities = death coding the end of the show leaned into hard (and s15 did as well in general)

Dean/Amara/Chuck: Dean’s connection to Amara and Amara’s connection to Chuck should have helped them defeat Chuck in the end instead of just erasing her existence. It should have been an Amara/Chuck situation where they both bequeath the Earth to the others and leave/die together.

Dean says the only way to honour those they lost is if the keep living: well first of all they didn’t need to lose anyone because Jack but secondly Dean Winchester should absolutely have gotten to live his toes in the sand ending with his remaining found family. Lamp episode

Sam forget’s about Eileen in 15x20 / Obviously no closure on Dean and Castiel: there are multiple references to Sam/Dean talking about settling down with someone ‘from the life’ and how that could work when a civilian life wouldn’t AND THEN----- (also we can’t talk about how the ‘don’t you ever think about it?’ Sam says is now LITERALLY A REFERENCE TO CASTIEL)

Dean says he’s not the ultimate killer and then goes back to being a killer: see above. He was going to live and maybe occasionally hunt but mostly live and grow and love.

All of the side characters/other hunters get Thanos snapped and then we don’t hear from them again/What was up with Sam’s witchcraft and leadership arc that never went anywhere?: Picture this: Sam and Eileen head up a new network of hunters which honours (OG) Bobby’s memory. Hmmm. Winchester legacy. Hmmmm. Leadership arc. Sam should also get into Witch stuff and draw in the other factions of magical humans into the hunter/MOL fold.

What happened about Heaven’s power issues?/Time moves differently in heaven how/Who’s running Heaven?: Call me a non-Christian, but Heaven ending is so wild and bad. Do bad things ever happen in Heaven? Is there conflict? How boring is it? Why bother living a life on Earth if you can live one in Heaven? How is Heaven vs. Hell allocation decided? WHY IS JOHN WINCHESTER- anyway, the point is, human ending where they live and are happy thanks

Adding my own in for fun: How come Jack and Cas consistently think they might not be truly loved by the Winchesters and are just useful to them and Dean NEVER REASSURES EITHER ONE OF THEM OF THE TRUTH BEFORE THEY ARE SACRIFICED: anyway! as I said, Destiel endgame and Jack shouldn’t have been God (or if he had to be, he should have also have still been able to be a kid too, because he’s worth more than his use to the Winchester Brother Freedom Cause). But once again just think there’s no real reason he had to be God

Becky and Atomic Monsters: I would also accept Becky being revealed as God at some point, but at the very least she should have been given a meta-adjacent scene in the finale. The way she literally called out every way the finale would be bad... brain worms

[aion-rsa]

Mortal Kombat and the Man Who Gave Sub-Zero a Soul

https://ift.tt/3rEA11N

Mortal Kombat’s Joe Taslim (aka Sub-Zero) is one of the hottest martial artists on screen right now. It’s been a decade since his breakout film The Raid took the world by storm, and Taslim has consistently delivered high-octane action with dashing panache ever since. As movie martial arts masters go, few others are on Taslim’s level. While most action stars have some martial arts training in their bag of tricks, Taslim is more invested than most.

Prior to The Raid, Taslim was a professional Judo athlete and a member of Indonesia’s National Judo team from 1997 to 2009. He won gold medals at the Southeast Asia Judo Championships and the Indonesian National Games. No other actor can boast a competitive record like this. What’s more, Taslim is also trained in Wushu and Taekwondo, and he picked up Pencak Silat for The Raid, so his combative range goes far beyond Judo throws and falls.

The Raid was a game-changer for the martial arts genre. It placed Indonesia firmly on the map when it comes to action films, delivering relentlessly unflinching action and intensely complex fight choreography, held together with a threadbare plot. If martial arts movies are compared to porn films, The Raid was hardcore. The film spawned a sequel which picked up the action right where it left off in the original. In addition to Taslim, the franchise also introduced a stable of Indonesian action stars to Hollywood including Iko Uwais (Mile 22 and the upcoming Snake Eyes: G.I. Joe Origins) and Yayan Ruhian (Star Wars: The Force Awakens, John Wick: Chapter 3).

Taslim moved on to Hollywood too. Two years after The Raid, he landed the role of Jah in Fast & Furious 6, followed by an appearance in Star Trek Beyond. But he never abandoned his country and continued to deliver films made in Indonesia specifically for that market. Most notable was The Night Comes For Us, which reunited Taslim with Uwais. Although an Indonesian production, The Night Comes For Us gained worldwide exposure after it was picked up by Netflix. He also starred as the villain in the South Korean film, The Swordsman, and became more recognizable to Western audiences audiences by playing the conflicted Tong hitman Li Yong in the Bruce Lee inspired series, Warrior.

Now Taslim is at the forefront of another predominantly Asian cast for the new Hollywood feature film, Mortal Kombat. And he is donning yet another villain mask as Sub-Zero.

“Sub-Zero is just an amazingly powerful, iconic character,” says director Simon McQuoid. McQuoid’s film explores the inbuilt rivalry between Sub-Zero and Scorpion coming out of the original video games. The connection between Sub-Zero (real name: Bi-Han) and Scorpion delves deep into Mortal Kombat lore, and within the film, McQuoid says this is symbolized by a bloody kunai (ninja ring dagger) which plays a critical role throughout the film.

“Blood is such a [vital] ingredient in Mortal Kombat,” explains McQuoid, “but we wanted to make it feel more than just blood splurts. We wanted it to have a blood line and lineage meaning to blood as well. We liked the idea that we could tell an emotional version of that blood story.” Just like the fighting game, Mortal Kombat is evenly split between good guys and bad guys, but ultimately Sub-Zero becomes the standout villain in the film.

“Once we got Joe,” beams McQuoid, “then we knew he was going to be a pretty kick-ass character because Joe’s so fantastic.”

Den of Geek had a video chat with Joe Taslim while he was home in Indonesia.

Den of Geek: Was the Mortal Kombat video game popular in Indonesia?

Yeah, I think it was 1995 when the first one released. I was actually not in the capital. I was born on the small island in South Sumatra, in Palembang, that’s my home city. So, I remember when the game came out and people talked about the game because it’s unusual because it was so violent. And it’s still violent now. So it was popular until now. But unfortunately, MK11 got banned because Indonesia is very sensitive of the violence level in that game where it’s just like funny now. The censorship here is like, “Oh, this is too much for Indonesia, so probably not.” So a lot of people played the game by downloading it. They know how to do it.

Did you play?

I played MK11, MKXL, yeah.

What challenged you the most about taking on Sub-Zero?

Well, the fans know Sub-Zero is badass, kick-ass, so much swagger, and a lot of attitude. But as an actor, the challenge for me to be in his shoes is to give him more soul, to give more heart, to make this character live. The fight is a visual. People enjoy the fight. But to bring people to feel inside the fight is something else, it means that you got to give more. You got to give the intention. You got to give a story, without delivering any lines, that people can see. Is he losing? Or does he know he’s going to die? Or is he very confident?

Jet Li did an amazing job in his movies to deliver those attitudes—the story of the fight. So I learned from him and I learned from The Raid, The Night Comes for Us, and I just bring everything to Mortal Kombat. There’s a lot of stories in that final fight. You can see the character is just dynamic—what he’s feeling, the way he fights, he’s just getting slower and slower. He’s just catching his breath.

So that’s the most important thing in fights, in my opinion. Because a lot of people think a fight scene needs to be badass, kick-ass. That’s number two. But number one is you got to be inside the shoes and know what’s going on inside this character first. Then when you visualize the fight, it makes sense.

How was it working with the mask?

Ooh. Well, it took me a while to adapt because it’s a heavy costume. And the mask, kind of like, well I have the mask. [Taslim holds up his Sub-Zero mask]

Ooh.

Well, the awkward thing about the mask, because when you move, the mask doesn’t move because it was a solid mask. So it was quite technical. If I have to move really fast, sometimes my face moves with like a delay. You see the mask kind of follow in slow-mo. We did a lot with this—put a lot of straps here just to make when I move really fast, so the mask could follow. A lot of technical stuff happened in the process, but yeah, it was a fun journey to just discover the best look, the best fit for the mask, the costume for me to be able to fight the best.

How was your experience fighting with all those special effects?

I think this is my first [movie] that involved the supernatural. The superpower stuff in previous movies, it was like a man versus a man or a man versus five men. But in this one, a lot of imagination is involved for sure. I’m glad I’m a gamer myself. I played a lot. I’m used to being a daydreamer. I’m still daydreaming until now. I have this mind that I like to have fun with. So during the shooting [when] it’s involving something they’re going to add in post, they ask me just to imagine, which I love imagining things.

I had so much fun just imagining the sword and creating the icicle—the ice sword—because it wasn’t there. Everything is in post. So I was just like, “Sure, believe that it’s there. It’s there.” You don’t see it, but I know it’s there. When the camera captured that moment, and if I believe in it, then I think everybody’s going to believe in it as well.

Read more

Movies

Mortal Kombat: The Challenges of Making the Movie Reboot

By Gene Ching

Movies

Mortal Kombat: Why the Movie Created New Main Character Cole Young

By Gene Ching

I really loved your role in The Swordsman. And I got to be honest with you, because I’ve been following you, and I was surprised that I didn’t recognize you for quite a long time in this film.

Really?

It wasn’t until I recognized your eyebrows. You’re playing a lot of villains now. Do you like playing villains?

I was a good guy in The Raid and The Night Comes for Us, but yeah. Playing villains is interesting. Because as an actor, you know when you play a villain role, almost there’s no limitation because there’s no rules. [There’s no] you cannot do this, you cannot do that, because you’re the protagonist. “You have to speak this way because you cannot be evil when you speak—you’ve got to be polite.”

When you play a villain, there’s so much freedom. In The Swordsman, I remember I had so much freedom. And the director, he was just like, “What do you think about the role?” I say, “I don’t want to sound like this. I’m going to change my voice.” I’m going to do that because he’s a nomad and he’s from Qing dynasty. He’s Manchurian, and their language is like almost from the throat. I want to deliver that. I want people to see that genetically, when people speak through the throat, they’re going to sound different. 

So all those freedoms that you have as an actor, and the director gave you the freedom to do those stuff, it’s a blessing. Because it’s just so easy for the director to just say “no,” and now you’re in trouble. And you’re just a puppet. “Do this, go there from there. And don’t smile. Don’t do anything.” That’s the nightmare for an actor to work in that condition.

How was it for Mortal Kombat? Were you given a lot of leeway with Sub-Zero?

A lot! Simon [McQuoid], he’s amazing. With almost everything, we’re on the same page. I came up to him almost every morning because we stayed in the same hotel, and he’s actually on the same floor with me. So before, I bothered him a lot. And I know he was busy. I need to ask something. I want to do this. I want to do that. I want to have this layer of him when he’s doing this, he’s doing that. So he was like, “Do that. I love it. It’s brilliant. We’re on the same page.” So it reached the point, I think half of the movie, he just looked at me, I just looked at him. Sometimes we just looked at each other, and we understand we’re on the same page. It was a beautiful relationship with him.

Do you feel that you captured Sub-Zero in a way that you wanted to represent him? Was he a character that you played when you played the game?

Probably different because in a game, people probably like more Kuai Liang, the brother. I think the Mortal Kombat 11, it’s more about Kuai Liang [the original Sub-Zero’s brother], and Bi-Han’s already a new cyborg. But I’m happy with what I saw. I’m happy that this anti-hero character, even though it’s a very thin layer here and there, but I gave it on screen. I gave [a lot to] Bi-Han/Sub-Zero. And probably people don’t know, but there are a lot of layers that I gave to this character. People need to see the pain of him. In the beginning of the fight, when he’s inside the house, for me, I look at this boy and it reminds me of my brother, Kuai Liang. That’s why I smile at him.

And then I just realized that my destiny for this family is to wipe them all. So those small thin layers here and there that I gave in this character, it’s there. They didn’t cut it. Everything is there. I’m so happy that I know when people watch it the second time, they will probably pick up a little bit of that here and there. 

I remember Jax—Mehcad [Brooks]—said “You’re a bad guy. You killed a boy. But somehow I feel you. Somehow, I feel so weird, but I feel empathy for your character.” And then I was like, “Okay, that’s it. That’s the goal. That’s what I wanted to do.” Because Sub-Zero/Bi-Han is a dark character. But tragic things happened to him when he was a kid. He got abducted. It’s by force, to become an assassin, to be part of Lin Kuei assassins, because he didn’t choose that path.

It was destiny [that chose to put him on] that path. And then for him, well, while a lot of people probably look for the light, he is just the kind of person to say, “It’s too late. I’m just going to be who I am.”

Mortal Kombat premieres in theaters and on HBO Max on April 23, 2021

cnx.cmd.push(function() { cnx({ playerId: "106e33c0-3911-473c-b599-b1426db57530", }).render("0270c398a82f44f49c23c16122516796"); });

The post Mortal Kombat and the Man Who Gave Sub-Zero a Soul appeared first on Den of Geek.

from Den of Geek https://ift.tt/3aqWgCG

[unordinary-analysis]

“Joker”

Call me extra for this, I don’t care. Lol. I liked this theory a lot and I will get my proper analysis of it, thank you very much. Even if this turns out to be a huge joke later on, which… oof, I don’t particularly care. I had quite a bit to say about this. Also: the only reason this took so long is because I’m literally stumped on the “who” bit of this and I’ve decided to leave it as it is :(.

So, if you keep up with my account, you will know that recently, I’ve been having a tiny crisis thanks to one comment that @sunshines-and-tatertots ertots made on my episode analysis on episode 157 (thanks for that by the way). And basically: there’s this theory concerning Joker and his appearance in the recent episode. Some people are wondering whether or not he was actually John.

Now, yeah that sounds like kinda crazy right? Like right off the bat? How could Joker not be John..? I was thrown off by this comment because lmao…. what? I stared at it for a solid two seconds before losing it. God, I’m sad I haven’t given the concept of this any thought before (at least I don’t think I have lol. Maybe in some random episode analysis who knows). The idea is amazing and god, im not even saying anything about it, just hyping it up eirughweiufbekgf.

We are talking about an imposter here, a borrower of the Joker mask, the mantle. Do you guys remember when Joker was Tuesday and when people first saw how powerful he was, they assumed he was Arlo? This is like, similar to that? But opposite..! And I was hyped about the student body thinking that Arlo was Tuesday. Anyway: if someone is trying to use Joker’s identity to gain authority and power, it would be totally easy. The fact that a large group of people thought Arlo was Tuesday supports the inference that behind that mask, nobody really knows anything. Nobody knows that John is Joker. Nobody knows when Joker isn’t John.

And the thing is, it makes so much sense that someone would try to take advantage of an anonymous king. There’s little stopping any other students from wearing a similar mask and using Joker’s influence to get anything they want. And it would really be very hard, or maybe lucky is the better word, to uncover that “Joker” is a fake. And one of the only ways of doing so would be to properly face Joker in battle, and even that has a failsafe. Obviously, if someone wanted to fight Joker for some reason, maybe revenge or maybe ambition, they would find out pretty quickly if Joker was the real one. Two things: ability and strength. Joker has a very recognizable ability: he can copy others. That wouldn’t be too hard to fake considering that it’s easy to assume that any power Joker is using, he stole from someone else. But his strength? Different story. And yet… because of that same reason, wouldn’t the other students avoid conflict with “Joker”? I know this whole argument is how someone could uncover a fake Joker when engaging in a fight with him, but what low/mid-tier would be willing to do that? The thing is: they wouldn’t. Joker has proven his power and established his authority so well, nobody is likely to question it. And, if a student poses as Joker, the same behaviors would extend to him. People are scared of Joker, they’re not about to fight someone they think is him. It really would be easy to “become Joker”, and it makes sense too.

But the specific piece of evidence presented to me in a comment was that John’s eyes as Joker glow a different hue of yellow than the new Joker’s. And if you would please hear me out after saying this, I know it’s not much to go off of, and I give a reason later on for why that was done. But the supposed imposter from last week’s episode (fight with Gavin btw in case I’m not being clear enough about when the Joker onscreen is an imposter) has brighter, more yellow eyes than John. Which, is easy to notice once you’re looking for it, let me tell you.

Another piece of evidence, though small, was also brought to my attention by someone else (It’s a bad week for original thoughts guys lmao). @fuegy-fuegy-fuegoleon messaged me recently saying, “If you look back to all Johns fights as Joker or Tuesday, he has his sleeves rolled up! This new guy doesn’t!” And I was like damn you are really on top of this, I’m still in shock lol. Anyway, they’re right. I went back to look in the comic and, more often than not, John rolls his sleeves up. It seems to be some mindless mannerism because John does it pretty casually in episode 153, and he also does this in episode 2. It’s probably just a habit from when he worked out with he punch bags. But, the imposter’s arms are covered… Now there’s a possibility this isn’t very important because the “imposter’s” hand is bare and we can see that he has a similar skin color to John’s (and literally every else in the comic R.I.P.). The only reason why his sleeves wouldn’t be rolled up is because the character’s mannerisms would be different than John’s and he probably didn’t take enough time to notice this small detail. And honestly, it is really small. And like I said about the eyes, there’s a reason for that.

Another small thing is that Joker didn’t use any ability in episode 157… hmmm….

Anyway, besides the solid pieces of evidence supporting someone taking advantage of the Joker identity: the consequences of an imposter at Wellston and why they would even try to be one also intrigue me because, well, it’s not a very good theory if it doesn’t make sense now does it? Things don’t just happen because they can. And I know I already said any mid/low-tier would jump at the chance to wield the power that John has, even for a little bit, but the “imposter” in the episode doesn’t actually reveal themself. They don’t even say anything or use Gavin’s belief that they are Joker against him… Now, what purpose would a Joker imposter have if they don’t actually use his influence, which is really the only thing to gain. Or at least if the imposter was a low/mid-tier…

You have to remember that while mid/low-tiers are the obvious suspects for Joker impersonations, a high-tier could easily have mixed himself up in this. Maybe to create chaos in the new abolishment of the hierarchy to get John to realize he needs to bring it back. Maybe just to annoy John, because, hell, I would. Plus they’re wearing a mask so it’s not like John would be able to find them. Or maybe a high-tier would just want to know how it felt to have total freedom and complete anonymity. These people have been scrutinized all their lives. And if one of these is the case, if they already have authority, they wouldn’t need to borrow Joker’s, which would explain why the fake didn’t take advantage of Joker’s position.

What I’m really interested about, concerning all of this, is that as much as this fake Joker would be a ploy to trick the students at Wellston, it really would have a similar effect on the readers as well. The small clues pointing out the differences between our Joker and this one are difficult to spot. I didn’t even realize anything was off until I got a comment about it. Hell, I wrote a small analysis on it. What I’m saying is: if uru-Chan really is trying to create a Joker imposter, then she’s taking care to do it subtly enough so that it is practically impossible for casual readers to pick up on the changes. And, I’ve been thinking… Remember the example I brought up earlier concerning Arlo when he was thought to be Tuesday because of his ability and strength? Well, guess what, Arlo’s eyes glow bright blue. They glow bright blue. Not some color close to the yellow that John has. Which is why I don’t think the orangish color of our current imposter’s eyes is able to be seen by any bystanders or students. I think the mask hides it all, or at least, they go unnoticed by anyone. So, if the students thought that Arlo, whose eyes glow blue, was Tuesday, it wouldn’t be necessary for an imposter’s eyes to closely reflect the color of John’s as no one would notice. This is one of the main reasons why I believe if there is indeed a Joker impersonator, uru-Chan is going through some lengths to ensure that not only do the students in the comic not notice, but the readers don’t as well. This isn’t really a theory, more of an inference based on observation, and obviously this isn’t even important. The only thing I’m trying to prove here is that Uru-chan is literally the best author ever and I hope you guys already know that lol.

The one thing that I’ve really been avoiding here, however, is the who of this theory… Is it really a mid/low-tier? If so, then why didn’t they publicly reveal themselves as Joker? Why didn’t they do anything as Joker? And on the other hand, if it’s a high-tier…. which one could it possibly be? I had an idea for who it could be, and a motive to, but Blyke’s in the hospital which I realized embarrassingly late… And, honestly, damn. I could have argued for a long while about how either he wants to improve his powers and prove himself by defeating John or how Arlo and the other former royals convinced him to pretend to be Joker to unsettle the school and cause John a few headaches. They sound weak right now, but they would’ve been so fun :(.

The thing is: I’m lost. And that’s pretty new for me for this kind of thing. Usually I have some guess that’s based upon more than, well, just guessing. I do, in fact, have a guess though. I really don’t believe that we have been introduced to this character yet, so I’m going to say that Lin, the low-tier, is the Joker imposter for no more reason than he has a small history with John. Not even that. I really don’t believe it’s him.

Anyway, here’s a few other characters I could find that have yellow eyes. Take your pick or maybe go find more I doubt I even got half:

Rouker

Skrev

Darren (lol)

Ability gouge (literally like impossible but who knows what kind of stuff EMBER is doing these days)

So this kind of ended badly for me, but I wish it didn’t. Please post your own ideas below or something because I don’t want this to die :(

[tipsygnostaljic]

Hiiiii, James’s main blog. Can you fish about Prince of time calsspect maybe?

Prince of Time

Prince is the active (-) destruction class with its passive (+) counterpart being the Bard. While the Bard uses their aspect to cause destruction, the Prince causes destruction to their aspect. Examples of this are Eridan as a Prince of Hope destroying the hope in others and Dirk as a Prince of Heart quite literally almost destroying Aranea’s soul around [S]Game Over before Grimbark Jade zapped him to the furthest ring.

Time is the aspect of time itself, timelines, other people’s time, and the Scratch. Time players are crucial to any successful session not only because they’re the ones who keep all of the timelines in check, but also because if something goes wrong the session has a do-over: the Scratch.

If you put these together, you get the Prince of Time. Otherwise bestowed the title of Destroyer of Time and Timelines. The Prince of Time is someone who starts off very insincerely narcissistic, but they care a lot about others and try to help in any they can. They have a sort of “I’m the only one of my kind of person” mentality- not because of egocentrism, but more so for the reason that they’re afraid to be lost to history without making their mark.

One thing Time players have in common regardless of class is that they all seem to be overwhelmed by time. Not having enough time, getting swept away by time,having more time than they’ll ever need, and so on and so forth. For example, Aradia didn’t have enough time to get many things accomplished because she died. Dave seemed to stall things and procrastinated (Waiting to get the game from Bro until the last minute, even after John died he still waited until that timeline was completely and utterly fruitless before time traveling to the Alpha timeline to become Davesprite, etc). The Prince’s struggle is that they don’t want to be forgotten by the constant flow of time. This is the reason why they’re so flamboyant. They believe that if they show and tell others how great they are and that there’s no one else like them that those people will believe it and remember the Prince as this iconic, amazing person. The painful truth is, this extravagance is a facade. Deep down, the Prince knows all too well that every rock in the river of time wears away eventually. But they still desperately want to try not to be forgotten.

In order to further make their mark, the Prince will will go out of their way to do things like community service and random acts of kindness and such. They do these things not just because they want to have a good reason to be remembered as both amazing and helpful, but also because they generally enjoy helping people and getting to make their lives better.

When they enter their session and they start to encounter other timelines, as all Time players do, they’ll start  to feel overwhelmed and stressed by how many of themselves there are. Their whole “I’m the only one of me” tactic suddenly no longer works because there are, in fact, much much more of them. In addition to this, these other timeline versions of them are probably shown to be far more successful than they are and they’ve done amazing things. Under other circumstances, The Prince would’ve loved to learn that they actually have the potential to be such great figure, but they know that these other timelines aren’t truly them. They’ll get jealous and, motivated by their intense desire to be the only one of themselves to go down in history, they’ll start to kill off every timeline version of themselves they meet and creating doomed timelines. Thus, the title of Destroyer of Time and Timelines comes in.

Denizen and land quests are meant to nurture players to be fit for godhood and rule of a new universe should they win the game. I suspect that the Denizen quest of the Prince of Time would be to get them to see that they don’t need to leave their mark, but it doesn’t happen with the snap of a couple fingers. Their consorts on their land have probably never heard of any “Prince of Time,” and they don’t listen to nor are they interested in the Prince’s spiel of how “great” they are. The Denizen quest would take them on some long harrowing journey that truly gives them the title they’ve been faking to hide their insecurity. No longer is their greatness and status of a hero a mere front, but the consorts still don’t notice. They don’t care. The Denizen isn’t impressed either, for this quest is something the Prince was supposed to do anyway. The only people who truly notice what the Prince has accomplished and praises them for it are their teammates.

This is what teaches them that they don’t actively have to try to be an everlasting boulder in the river of time because no one is forgotten by the people who they’ve made smile. All the times they had helped carry and put away groceries for their family, and volunteered for community service, and all of the other people they’ve impacted in small ways is the way they know they’ll be remembered. It’s not something they come to terms with easily, but once they do they’ll be ready to ascend to godtier.

Upon ascension, the Prince would gain destructive powers to wreak havoc on Time itself. Instead of creating doomed timelines by killing other versions of themselves, they’d be able to destroy timelines itself and completely erase their existences. In turn, the main timeline would be altered by completely eradicating the possibilities of those other timelines by making the options/events that created them to be unavailable and nonexistent, sparing the main timeline from having any chance of encountering the forks in the road that lead to doomed timelines. On the contrary, if they find they’re already in a doomed timeline, they’d be able to destroy the current timeline and return to the event that set them on the doomed path only to find that the option that lead them to doom is no longer available and they’re back on the right path.

Battle wise, the Prince of Time would be able to destroy and shorten the amount of time their enemies have to live. This wouldn’t inflict physical damage, but it does ensure that their enemy’s time is limited and that the fight is shorter than it would have been- decreasing the chances for injury and death to the Prince and/or any of their teammates. When the remaining time is up after being shortened by the Prince, something would happen to bring about the enemy’s end. Either the Prince or one of their teammates delivers the final blow via a physical attack, or some miraculous accident or outside force causes the death of the enemy.

The land of a Prince of Time would probably something like the Land of History and Antiques. History in the form of old books, stone plaques, cave drawings- any form of history and storytelling that we know to exist. This would be a constant reminder to the Prince that everything has its prime and that information is recorded regardless if everyone involved is recorded accurately if at all. Antiques would be similar, but taking the form of old trinkets that relate to the story of the consorts on LOHAA. The Scratch construct on LOHAA, to fit the the theme of Time and History, would probably be a giant, intricate grandfather clock of some sort. Let’s hope Spades Slick doesn’t find it. ;))

[raisingsupergirl]

Apple or AT&T—Who's More Evil?

Let me start out by saying that I get it. I really do. Companies have to make money. Successful companies with great products deserve to make money. Apple and AT&T? They both make wonderful products and provide top-notch services. The problem is, for some dumb reason, they both like making as much money as possible. And the easiest way for them to do that is to keep us, the consumers, buying their new crap. Convincing us that we need it and that there's no other alternative. So when a company gets that big, when they can leverage their power against the little people, what stops us from finally getting fed up, throwing our phones in the toilet, and going back to smoke signals? Well, to answer that, I need to tell you what brought on my recent frustrations (as if any specific examples need to be given)…

Problem 1: The Man With the Data Plan

My wife and I went on a cruise a few weeks ago. And like most Americans with 1st-world problems, we had to decide whether we wanted to 1) go a week without cell phone or internet access while we cruised across international waters…yeah, right, 2) buy an international data plan from AT&T, or 3) purchase access to our ship's Wi-Fi access. In the end, it looked like the Wi-Fi package would be the cheapest, so that's what we went with. My wife was careful to turn off all wireless data to all apps and services on her phone (I just kept my phone turned off all week. I would have thrown it in the ocean and never looked back if she'd have let me) as directed on the various FAQs she found, and she logged onto the ship's Wi-Fi without complication. Smooth sailing… or at least we thought so until we received our AT&T bill. Yup, you guessed it—$100 worth of charges for iMessages and calls.

Problem 2: Disposable Phones

My wife and I bought new iPhone 7s two years ago. It was a great time in our lives. I remember the occasion fondly because it was the same day that our sweet Avery (two years old at the time) dressed up in her yellow "Beauty" princess dress and took in her first movie theater experience with Mommy and Daddy. Well, fast-forward two years, and we just paid off those phones. And lo and behold, my wife updated her phone earlier this week and within 30 minutes…it stopped working. Not completely, just the microphone, which, contrary to this smart phone generation's beliefs, is kind of important. And there was "nothing" that could be done to fix it. Which meant, just when we were free from the clutches of our AT&T contract and iPhone debt, we were sucked back in. Sure, the wife would get her fancy new phone, but at what cost?

So off we went to the AT&T store. We spoke with our customer representative (Ayla, which is easy for me to remember because it's the name of a cavewoman character in my favorite video game of all time, but I digress…), and she was great. She upgraded our antiquated data plan, made sure we understood the new plan, showed us where things could be improved to fit our needs, let us know who to contact about the $100 charge on our AT&T bill, and put up with our two insane daughters while my wife got her new phone set up. All in all, it was a great experience, but it was one that should never have happened in the first place. Why? Because Apple is intentionally breaking their older iPhones (if two years is considered "old") so their customers will buy the newest model. If you're not aware of this practice (YES, it's real, and it's confirmed by Apple's corporate reps), read on. If you know about it, feel free to skip the next three paragraphs.

First, imagine a perfect product. Let's use a fish aquarium heater as an example. Its job is simple—heat water to a specific temperature so your tropical fishies don't freeze to death. A company could easily create a heater that would last for decades, but why in the world would they do that? Even if they charged double the price of typical heaters, they would still lose money because in those two decades' time, its customers would by three or four of those "disposable" heaters that crack or short out from routine use. So it just doesn't make financial sense for them to make a durable product when they could make one that works just long enough to keep the consumer coming back for more.

Now, take that principle to the tech world, and we have to look at things a little differently. For those of you old enough, you remember those first Nokia brick cellphones well. Why? Because they were indestructible, their batteries lasted forever, and they had service EVERYWHERE. They were perfect phones. Except, the most exciting game on them was Snake, and within a few years, the Blackberry (and all of it's thumb-injuring successors) had overshadowed the poor, reliable Nokia despite its inferior construction. In this way, the tech world kept consumers buying new products every year because the amazing technology advanced so rapidly. I mean, you'd be insane to use those boring old bricks that could only make calls and use T9 to text when there were newer phones out there that could take pictures and check electronic mail!

Then something happened. The technology started to stagnate. It kept improving, but not nearly as fast. All phones had cameras, internet access, and most importantly, apps. At that point, if a phone didn't break, it could be used forever while the user just downloaded whatever new apps that came out. Sure, the new apps would take up more space and demand stronger processors and whatnot, but a frugal user could make due for years and years. And that kind of return just didn't work for the tech companies. If they were ever going to be able to swim in a vault filled with gold coins a la Scrooge McDuck, they needed to find a way to keep selling new products that consumers had no real reason to buy. And so, they invented the "update." Oh yes, you NEED this update! It'll keep your phone safe. It'll keep it running smoothly with all those new apps. It'll keep it… updated. But we should mention that those updates will eventually fry your phone's "old" processor, forcing you to fork out a grand every couple of years.

I'm not going to pretend to be tech savvy enough to outline every reason for this (and that's not what this blog's about, anyway), but we've all been victims of the sudden battery death, random crashing, and in my wife's case, microphone failure that happens immediately after one of these "updates." And as I said, this practice is documented and admitted. For the big companies, it's essential to keep them afloat. Heaven forbid that they keep giving us actual reasons to buy new products. No, they've already perfected the smartphone, so instead of creating something new, they've found ways to keep selling us the same thing. It's brilliant, in an evil mastermind sort of way.

Okay, back to the story. My wife got her new phone. She was safe for the next couple of years (though it's just a matter of time before MY phone dies of update sickness…), so now it was time to take the fight to AT&T's retentions department and see about that $100 charge on our bill.

Round 1: I called 6-1-1 and I spoke with the level 1 boss, though I didn't catch her name… She told it to me, but I didn't catch it. She was polite the entire time. She explained how there were, in fact, charges on my bill and how those charges were because we'd used data and call services in international waters. I explained (politely) that we hadn't authorized these usages because we turned off all cellular data, etc. and only used Wi-Fi while out of the country, and that I didn't plan to pay these extra charges. 30 minutes later and she let me know that she was going to "send this case up," and I should get an email within 24 hours. "No," I said, again politely, "I think I'll just talk to someone now." Brief (ten minute) pause, then [insert name here] said, "One moment please."

Round 2: Level 2 boss's name was John, and his accent fit his name. He, just like Level 1 Boss, took a good while searching through the charges and getting back to me, but he also remained completely polite the entire time. He explained that the Wi-Fi packages on most cruise ships only cover international water usage, and our AT&T charges had come while we were docked in port in Haiti. Why? Because my wife's phone started using the Haitian towers (instead of the cruise line's Wi-Fi) without our approval. It made perfect sense whether it was true or not, but John went on to tell me that, while he may not be able to get ALL of the charges removed, he would do what he could because we were, "…long-time valued customers." His words, not mine. Five minutes later, John took me off of hold and told me that he obtained approval to take $75 off of the bill, so we would only have to pay $25. Truth be told, I had no intention of paying ANY of that bill, but my interaction with John was so pleasant (I didn't have to ask him to reduce the bill. I didn't have to bring up the fact that we were valued customers, or that we could take our business across the street to Crickett Wireless. He knew all of these things, and he that knew I knew them. And he got the job done, or close to it) that he'd gained my respect. I wasn't going to fight John over the remaining $25, even if it did take over an hour to get that $75 knocked off. Game over. Roll credits.

So here's the thing—I'm a huge skeptic. With everyone I worked with throughout this debacle, I know that there's a possibility that they were all just working off of a script. That they did exactly as they'd been trained, performing damage control and getting every cent possible out of a tough customer like me. After everything, it's possible that AT&T and Apple still won. But at least they played the game. At least these REAL people listened to me and answered my questions, and in the end, the interactions were extremely pleasant. Yes, I get that I'm a number to the companies, but I was a person to their employees. And they treated me with respect. And I did the same with them.

My title poses the question of who's more evil between AT&T and Apple. Unfortunately, I don't have the answer to that question, but in THIS case, as much as it hurts me to say it, the bigger evildoer is definitely Apple. Why? Well, in AT&T's case, their charges were legitimate. My wife incurred roaming charges in Haiti because of the cruise line's failure to explain how their services worked. And even if John straight up lied to me about that, his company still only wound up stealing $25 (and one hour) from me. Apple on the other hand… they're openly breaking their own phones so their loyal customers have to buy new ones. And those new phones cost a whole lot more than $25. Yes, our experience in the AT&T store was pleasant while buying that new Apple iPhone (thanks to Ayla), but it should have never come to that.

In the end, we're victims of our circumstances. We're brainwashed by brilliant marketing. We're forced into competition with our neighbors. And there's only one thing I can say as I finish up typing this scathing report on my Apple MacBook Air—Joke's on you, Satan, er, Apple. Money's not real. No one really owns anything anymore. There's no privacy. No Freedom. The only things we have are our experiences, our interactions, and our attitudes. And as the days get longer and the grass gets greener, I can't help hoping Y2K is just running fashionably late (all you millennials should Google Y2K along with The Matrix and Surge soda. There's so much you've missed…). In the meantime, I'm going to go cut my grass with a lawnmower that's older than every piece of technology I own, and believe it or not, it's never had a single update. What a world.

[ftpthemovement]

Represent= Re-present

Gods love through action and truth, based on the finished works of Jesus Christ.

"If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it. For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? For what can a man give in return for his soul? For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of Man also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels."”Mark‬ ‭8:34-38‬ ‭

Christ was walking to his death, knowing that what was to come was far greater than what he was leaving behind. He came to save the world from its wickedness, by setting the captives free. Those he sets free are free indeed. But free to do what? If you think it’s free to live however you see fit and then ask for forgiveness, then you have missed the point of Christ entirely.

See Christianity is us denying ourselves and picking up our crosses to follow God daily. Religion is, “I was broke so I stole a bike and then asked God for forgiveness.” The latter was the example set for me most of my life. It wasn’t until I personally read the Gospels to understand who Christ actually was, and the lives we have been called to live.

If you notice it says, “For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it.” This is referring to people who see Christ and make a conscious effort to deny him as lord and savior. Those that have understood the truth but choose to deny it’s power by living a life contrary to the life a god has called them to live. Someone might ask, well what about the people who have never heard the gospel, isn’t it unfair for them if they don’t know Christ? Scripture says,

“For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.” Romans 1:20

See, the ways of a mans heart were made wicked by man choosing flesh over God. But, we were been designed to walk in relation with God regardless if you have ever heard the gospel. You can look around and see that there is some thing much larger at play than what we ourselves have been able to create. In having this awareness there is a conscious choice being made to either pay homage, or serve self.

Now, that answer might not settle well with you, but it’s the very reason why Christ came is so that we have an example to follow. It’s our opportunity to take that example and become imitators of it. Scripture says those who love him will live how he lived. So, how did he live here on earth? He lived out his days in servitude, spreading the good news of the gospel through actions and truth. This is the example set, and this is what we should dedicate our time, talent, and resources to doing.

There is a lost and dying world out there that is praying and hoping for a savior. That savior already came and his name is Jesus Christ. He came and set the example for us to follow, so much so that when he left, God himself commissioned us in the place of his son. Not only did Christ sacrifice bridge the gap between God and humanity, he did so in such a way that God put the same spirit that was in Christ in us, so that we would do the same works Christ did here on earth and far greater. This spirit in us allows us to be one in Christ, as Christ is one in the Father. (Read John 17)

So, in reference to the beginning scriputure in this lesson ask yourself, are you ashamed of God and his word in this day in age? Are you living out your life as a man imitator of Christ? Are you choosing to stay quiet and not share the gospel through your a life lived in accordance to Gods will? People will know you by the fruit your bear, so when someone thinks of you do they think of Jesus? That might be a really good question to ask people that have known you for awhile. I wonder if some of you would be surprise at the answer, especially if you gave people the opportunity to be honest with you.

Imagine asking people, “If I was to die today, what would be the three to five things that you would you would remember about me? Or, if you had to sum up what I do on a daily basis, what would it be?” Wouldn’t it be amazing to get true unadulterated answers to those questions? Do you think God would be brought up at all in the questions being asked? Scripture says, they will know you by the fruit you bear, what fruit is on your tree?

It’s easy to fake generosity, it’s easy to proclaim Jesus but not walk out his love through action and truth. It’s really easy to claim God, then go do what you want to do and pray for forgiveness later. Ohh It’s real easy to appear godly and deny his power by using your position to entertain the lust of your flesh. But, when Christ looks at you what does he see? When you look yourself in the mirror, what do you actually see? Do you see a warrior sold out for the gospel who has died to self, and lives through Christ? Or do you see another man, claiming God and still walking in the ways of the world, doing what you actually desire, and saying “I’ll be better one day?”

Do you think people don’t see the truth? Do you actually think you can deceive people walking in the spirit? The world may fall for half hearted attempts, but the sheep know the Shepard’s voice. Those that truly follow Christ will live how he lived, walk how he walks. So why try and fake it, hoping to make it? There’s no reason to take on a form of godliness, but deny it’s power.

You have the ability to decide for yourself, but the time is coming when God will reveal that you either lived for him sold out and unashamed, or that you shrunk back like a coward. Calculate the cost Jesus said. Calculate the cost between fleshly desire and serving God. Hot or cold, if you are lukewarm he will spit you out of his mouth.

Today we have a choice to be the torchbearers of our generation. This can be the time where the greatest warriors ever known to man live, or it can be the generation who failed to represent God. Obviously we stand judgment for our own actions, but we can still spur each other into good works. Have we really come this far not to finish strong? Isn’t this the generation that needs to see love, care, generosity, forgiveness, and compassion, reign supreme? Don’t we have the same power Christ has in him to do what he did, and far greater? Then we are without excuse.

Today is they day, the second, and the hour, we make the conscious choice of life or death. Life, being a servant of God through living out the finished works of Jesus Christ. Death, having a form of godliness but denying it’s power through our actions. We have this choice every second of every day. The power entrusted to you through the spirit, is to set the example of what true love looks like by freeing the captives of this world. That true love has a name and that name is Jesus Christ. It’s time that we individually and collectively start serving him well.

I pray all of this finds a place in your heart, and that your actions represent Christ in all ways all of the days of your life. We all fall short of the glory of God daily, so don’t focus on your behavior focus on your savior. When you believe right you will live right. God will give you the understanding necessary to complete your mission and finish strong. Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

From the front line-ES

[siopaogoestocollege]

Aide-mémoire

061217.242 //

you came by really quick, leaving all of us bereft and happy at the same time. things turned out the opposite. and as far as i can remember, i gained and lost a lot of things, which also include people, bad habits, and lessons learned.

of all the people i’ve expected to change me in a way is this book’s author. it’s somewhat all about a counter-intuitive approach to live life to the fullest. just finished rendering a file of a copy of his book. yes, this is piracy because i am young, dumb, broke (by the way, my mom loathes this song of khalid). i hope to be able to finish reading it once the universe permits me to do so.

now, let me start off with my life’s mission. i strongly believe i am called to serve by becoming an hp-gs. a year ago today, i asked the man up above to help me find my purpose. and i did. the next thing i asked was reassurance and confirmation, if those were already the signs he was giving me, in case an encounter happens. i just asked for one experience. that alone.

the experience is to be able to witness accidents. i don’t mean any harm nor blantantly mouthing a curse on anyone. it’s just that i think i’d be moved in that way.

it so happened the day i got my helix piercing for the second time. gab and i were on our way home, about to cross the street when suddenly a loud bang came from across the street. we ran and made our way towards he crowd. and behold, the amazing and powerful plan of the almighty king. i got to witness a vehicular accident. a teenage boy having a concussion. blood came out from his head and mouth. i couldn’t keep still, i panicked and even instructed the people around to call the rescue team immediately.

at first, i really wanted to help but i might make the situation worse, i didn’t know what to do then. i rushed home walking with heavy eyes and trembling hands. then i paused and gave myself a slap on the face, like literally. reminding myself to calm down. if i’m going to experience to be a witness once again, first thing’s first: stay put. remain calm. heads up. think. commence action.

it has been literally over a year since i added my prayer time in my daily routine. nowadays, i just tend to view life as something conditional, refusing to take a leap of faith. driven by fear. but i know i shouldn’t be like this. assuring myself this too will come to an end, because me being like this is toxic itself which adds to the everyday struggle and feeling of hopelessness and soul-weariness. 

next is code college. yes, as stressful as it may sound, i have to endure another two or three years, depending on my passing and failing grades. i am a bit off lately. i just don’t see the true value of the learning environment, except for a few subjects though. i want and need to be in a new environment. and i hope that’s going to be med school (*crosses fingers*), where it’s challenging, interesting, and where one should be constantly keeping up the perseverance and faith.

also, although everyone else might not see the struggle of the pre-med life and adjusting phase for med school, i think it would be better if people would understand more. from sleepless nights to several cups of coffee per day. it just doesn’t take intelligence to set you off the winning mark, it’s the perseverance and diligence.

i’ve managed to keep my circle small and keep on spacing out. hence, personal space. because i feel like i’m not the same person i used to be, like i’d be very dependent on other people, always all-in, always hanging and going out even though i have a shit-load of papers to go through. standards with stuff. i don’t know. it’s just i am constantly sloughing off myself (not literally ha, lol).

i am going to be twenty next year. i hope i can graduate on time, be and do my very best in med school, and should learn to not give a fuck even with the smallest and petty things. a lot of things i should forget, yes. forgive and forget. and just basically evaporate the overthinking-anxiety-depression cycle. might wanna break that soon enough, and embrace the positive vibes. the aforementioned statement is overrated, but hey. it still helps a lot in your daily mantra.

John 3:30 - “He must increase, but I must decrease.”

[justanothercinemaniac]

Epic Movie (Re)Watch #173 - X-Men: Days of Future Past

Spoilers Below

Have I seen it before: Yes

Did I like it then: Yes.

Do I remember it: Yes.

Did I see it in theaters: Yes.

Was it a movie I saw since August 22nd, 2009: Yes. #294

Format: Blu-ray

1) The film marks Bryan Singer’s return to the franchise he helped to start, making it his first X-Men film since X2. He was a producer on X-Men: First Class and originally Matthew Vaughn was slated to direct this film. But Vaughn dropped out to speak with Lucasfilm about Star Wars: Episode VII before focusing his efforts on Kingsman: The Secret Service allowing Singer to step back into the director’s chair.

2) Magneto, Xavier, every mutant in the X-Men films (especially the original trilogy) had fears about war. The X-Men tried to avoid it while Magneto was preparing to win it. Well now everyone’s worst fears have come to past in a dark and desolate future were Magneto was right and the X-Men are forced to band together.

3) John Ottman’s theme from X2 plays in the opening credits, making this film feel like a triumphant return to form from the get go. It fills the audience with an energy, hope, and even nostalgia that helps make the film as great as it is. While I absolutely adore Henry Jackman’s score for First Class, Ottman’s theme has now become the (unofficial?) theme for the franchise in a lot of ways.

4) We’re off to a strong start with the movie’s opening action sequence.

This film features - by far - the best action sequences in the entire franchise. It embraces the powers of its mutant characters in a way no film has before it. This leads to incredible visuals and extended action scenes which never lose the audiences interest. It does what some films (The Last Stand) have failed to do before: show off the X-Men’s powers in incredible and memorable ways. The opening action sequence alone feels like something out of a comic book or (dare I say?) the 90s animated series. Characters like Iceman and Colossus have finally reached the full potential of their mutant powers, making good on a promise any X-Men film makes. New characters too have small roles but are wildly memorable. Blink, Sunspot, Warpath, and Bishop come across as unique with not a lot of lines and not a lot of screen time. But they have an impact because of the visuals of their powers/fighting styles.

From a storytelling standpoint the opening scene also works to set the stakes of the film. We understand immediately how much of a threat these sentinels are, they are able to massacre an entire squad of mutants with relative ease. If it weren’t for Kitty’s ability to send people back in time this war would be over very quickly. The dark tone and sense of dread this future has is established immediately through the action sequence, making the rest of the film carry that weight in a conflict driven/interesting way.

5) I am so impressed and so grateful that this film was able to get all the original cast back they wanted. Kelsey Grammer couldn’t participate because of scheduling conflicts with Transformers: Age of Extinction (ew), but most of these actors have gained a higher price tag since X-Men: The Last Stand. Ellen Page in particular is a critically acclaimed and Oscar nominated actress who comes back for what is essentially a supporting role, but she (like the rest of the returning cast) commits to it all the same. It provides a nice amount of fan service which also feeds into the story and I love it.

6) It is so weird for me to hear Patrick Stewart Xavier talk about this.

Professor X: “I knew [Mystique] as Raven...she was like a sister to me.”

He never talked about her like that in the original trilogy, it first came up in the First Class prequel. But it adds something to Professor X’s character: he walls parts of himself and his past off for the sake of the future.

Note: In this post Patrick Stewart will be referred to as Professor X and James McAvoy will be referred to as Charles.

7) The decision to send Logan back instead of Kitty might upset Kitty Pryde fans and comic book purists (as Kitty was the one to go back in the original storyline), but I think it makes the most amount of sense. The original story was published in the 80s or 90s and Kitty came back from 2013 into her younger body. Movie Kitty has no younger body in 1973 but Logan does. So that’s why it makes sense from an in world decision, but also from a filmmaking standpoint it makes sense too. Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine is the face of the X-Men films primarily, with only one film up to this point not having him in a prominent role. So it makes sense to put stock in his character as you have in the past. My biggest regret though is that I do LOVE Kitty Pryde and so it would’ve been nice to see her do more, but she still serves a more important role in this film than she does in The Last Stand.

8) I absolutely love this.

Professor X: “Logan, you’re going to have to do for me what I once did for you.”

I am a sucker for character development and having watched now seven X-Men films in a row seeing Wolverine in this role is incredible to me. This was the guy who originally wanted to ditch the X-Men, who was a loner and who primarily looked out for Rogue. Even with that he was mostly out for himself? Now. He’s invested. He’s older, a bit wiser (if not perfect), and gets to repay the kindness Professor X showed him by helping Charles along his way. It puts him in a new role, a role he’s not all too comfortable with, but it is just so damn interesting and I love everything about it.

9) The extended prologue in 2023 as well as the fact that this film will cut back to that time occasionally helps make this film a worthy ending to the cast and characters first introduced in X-Men. It could’ve ended that series entirely, a farewell tour for all the actors we came to love in their respective parts. Despite this, at its core this film - more than anything else - is a sequel/continuation of the story set in place by X-Men: First Class. Doing both of these things is no easy feat but the film is able to pul it off beautifully.

10) Peter Dinklage as Bolivar Trask.

Dinklage is one of the finest American actors around right now, notable for his work in “Game of Thrones”. And his performance as the villainous Trask gives us the best X-Men villain since William Stryker in X2. While I do LOVE Sebastian Shaw in First Class, there is something fundamentally more unsettling in Dinklage’s performance. He is chilling, focused, intimidating. You know this is not a guy you want to mess with. And Dinklage himself has a unique look on the character. This according to IMDb.

According to Peter Dinklage, Bryan Singer picked him to play Bolivar Trask because of his height, stating, "With my dwarfism, I'm a bit of a mutant. I can't move metal or anything, but I thought of it as self-loathing. Deep down, Trask is quite sensitive about that aspect of himself."

11) Mystique in Saigon.

The scene of Mystique saving a group of mutants in Saigon from being shipped off to Trask (including Lucas Till’s return as Havok) works really well for a number of reasons. First of all: it helps not only re-introduce her character but also her motivations for this film. She has gone through a lot between First Class and now so this scene helps to establish just exactly this NEW Mystique is. She’s one with a lot of pain, working towards avenging the loss of her friends. Mystique is also much more of a fighter in this film than in First Class, with her choreography and skills leaning much closer to what we would expect from Rebecca Romijn. She has been pushed up to the point of no return but hasn’t crossed that line yet and that’s what this film is about. If she’s going to become the Mystique she does in the original timeline or if this is her second chance. The writing for her character is conflict filled and amazing, I absolutely love it.

12) Logan really needs to give people a spoiler warning about their futures.

Logan [before punching out Beast]: “You and I are going to be good friends.”

13) And because he’s Wolverine, it doesn’t take long for Logan to cause shit.

(GIFs originally posted by @ofsagitta)

14) James McAvoy’s return as Charles Xavier.

So First Class was really about Erik becoming Magneto, this is about Charles becoming Professor X. We have never seen the character so low, he has never been so low. He is a broken man with the events of First Class changing him more than he - or the audience - even expected. He tried soldiering on but the war in Vietnam led to his school being shut down. Charles is wallowing in pain, in self pity, he is exactly what Professor X said he was: as lost as Logan used to be. Hell, he’s a drug addict! The serum to give him his legs is a not-so-subtle parallel for drug use. There is a great conflict there, a great pain, and it leads to an incredible story.

15) This is kind of a perfect representation of how continuity works in the X-Men films. The movie tries to remember something from the past, tries to have continuity track, only to get something about it wrong and make everything more confusing.

(GIFs originally posted by @mcavoying)

In fairness the original line in the First Class script WAS, “Fuck off!” but First Class was released three years before Days of Future Past meaning they knew that wasn’t the actual line for a while. Granted I’m probably just nitpicking.

16) In this film we learn that Emma Frost, Zoe-Kravitz-Angel (as opposed to the Angel from The Last Stand and Apocalypse), Azazel & Banshee are all dead by the hands of Bolivar Trask. Which is sickening and heartbreaking but left a unique opportunity which Apocalypse never took with the characters. I’ll talk about it briefly now but go in depth during my Apocalypse post but in the comics Apocalypse’s Four Horsemen are resurrected dead characters. Using this to bring back the four mutants I just listed would have been a smart move I think.

17) Let’s share what IMDb has to say about the rights to Quicksilver:

The addition of Evan Peters as Pietro Maximoff/Quicksilver to the cast sparked wide discussion over the direction of the character who is also slated to appear in Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015). Quicksilver had been discussed previously as a potential character in both X-Men: The Last Stand (2006) and The Avengers (2012), but legal complexities over the license to the character resulted in his omission from both films. However, in May 2013 both Marvel and Fox Studios announced a resolution to the previous legal issues, and that Quicksilver would appear in this film as well as an Avengers sequel, though under certain parameters: no reference to Quicksilver's membership in the Avengers can be made in an "X-Men" film, and no allusion to his relations to the X-Men or Magneto (the character's father) can be made in an "Avengers" film; the rights agreement between Fox and Marvel even goes so far as to stipulate the character cannot be referred to as a "mutant" in any Marvel film. Additionally, the day after the announcement of Peters's casting, Marvel and Fox entered into a legal standoff over provisions of the rights agreement for the character, including the issue of whether Peters would be allowed to portray Quicksilver in any other film outside the "X-Men" franchise, possibly necessitating a second actor to play Quicksilver in any Marvel film, resulting in two different versions of the same character appearing in two competing film series. Ultimately, Fox and Marvel decided to cast different actors in the part for the "X-Men" and "Avengers" films, with Aaron Taylor-Johnson taking on the role in the latter sequel, thus preventing any connection between the two franchises and keeping the X-Men confined to a separate universe from those of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

18) Evan Peters as Quicksilver.

No, I said EVAN PETERS as Quicksilver!

That’s better. Anyways: Evan Peters’ performance as the speedster is the definite scene stealer in the film. His screen time doesn’t amount to much - with a more significant role in 2016′s X-Men Apocalypse - but every time he’s on screen you are drawn to him. The character is wonderfully fun, with his smart assery amusing to us as the audience without being totally annoying. There’s a unique and vibrant energy that Peters brings to the character which is 100% captivating. By far one of the best new elements of this film.

19) Peter Parker could learn something from this.

Quicksilver [to Erik]: “I’m holding your neck so you don’t get whiplash.”

Erik: “What?”

Quicksilver: “Whiiiiiiplasssssshhhh!”

20) Okay, so Logan knocks out a bunch of Pentagon guards with a frying pan. Is it wrong that this is the only thing I could think of?

21) Oh boy....

(Screenshot taken from a GIF set originally posted by @barrel--rider)

22) It is unique and conflict filled to see Charles filled with such intense hate/loathing towards Erik when Professor X always has hope for his, “old friend,” Magneto.

Charles [upon first meeting Erik]: “I’m never getting inside that head again.”

Note: In this recap Michael Fassbender’s character shall be referred to as Erik while Ian McKellen’s shall be referred to as Magneto.

23) THE QUICKSILVER SCENE!!!!!

This is without a doubt the best scene in the entire film and it is absolutely brilliant across the board. Like the earlier fight scenes it takes the concept of mutant powers and is able to translate it into absolutely phenomenal visuals. From a technical standpoint the scene is a masterpiece, as the seams are practically invisible. It’s hard to make, but you don’t want the audience to know that. Which makes it all the more impressive that it seems so relaxed. The scene pulls your interest and never lets go, using music and point of view in absolutely stellar ways. How boring would this scene have been if it were from Erik’s point of view? Or Charles’? The most interesting way to do this moment is through Quicksilver and that’s what we get. It is intelligent, organic, full of small surprises, and despite its short length is strong as hell. If they were to teach this class in film schools some day, I would not be surprised.

Although it does raise the question: why don’t they just bring Quicksilver to Paris? It seems like he’d be really helpful.

24)

Erik [looking at Wolverine’s bone claws]: “Imagine if they were metal.”

25) Erik and Charles having it outis very key to the film. Right now the audience sees Erik as the one who messed up. Taking away Charles’ legs, getting arrested for killing the president, etc. But Charles needs to know he’s made some pretty crucial mistakes.

Charles [to Erik]: “You abandoned me!”

Erik [after bringing up the dead mutants]: “We were supposed to protect them!...You abandoned us all!”

26) A part of me gets why Raven seduces the Vietnamese general in order to take his place at the pace conference. Another part of me lives in a post Wonder Woman world and A) never sees male characters doing this and B) thinks there was probably a different way she could’ve gotten into the peace conference. And this isn’t a comment on a woman using her sexuality in a way she is comfortable with, this is a comment on men trying to shoehorn scenes were a woman’s defining feature is her sexuality.

(GIF originally posted by @marshmallow-the-vampire-slayer)

27) I love the added conspiracy theory that JFK was a mutant. I remember reading a promotional material at the time that Bobby Kennedy was a mutant too and that’s why he was assassinated. I’m a nut for conspiracy theories though.

28) Okay, I just need to take a minute to geek out about HOW HAPPY RAVEN IS TO SEE CHARLES!!!!

29) And this is the turning point of the film.

Wolverine gets rocky and weak when he sees Stryker, injuring Kitty in 2023

Erik tries to kill Mystique

The world can’t deny the existence of mutants anymore and reacts with fear

Charles & Erik are now against each other again

Trask gets Raven’s blood

The tone of that is not lost. There’s a sense of darkness and dread which falls upon the film as it moves forward. It has an impact on the audience and helps to raise the stakes.

30) Okay, this is funny as hell to me. In an effort to calm Logan down:

(GIFs originally posted by @marvelheroesdaily)

31) Hey look, a Bryan Singer cameo!

So now in the X-Men universe, Bryan Singer is someone who first introduces mutants to the larger world through his movies. How meta.

32)

Erik [after Mystique pulls him into a phone booth and holds a knife to his throat]: “It’s been a long time since we were this close.”

(GIF originally posted by @rocktheholygrail)

I don’t know why, but I don’t like the idea of an Erik/Mystique relationship. Maybe it’s just a hold over from how I felt about their seduction scene in First Class.

33) And this right here is Mystique’s motivation, clearer than before.

Mystique: “I’ve seen too many friends die, Erik. I don’t want a war. I only want the man who murdered them.”

Mystique is no longer an idealist. She does not subscribe to Charles’ or Erik’s way of thinking. She is on her own now, which she said in the very beginning of the film. It makes her character and the conflict she has all the more interesting.

34) The first step in Charles accepting who he is comes from accepting his powers. He tries Cerebro, but it’s too much at first. All he has is pain and suffering. But then - and I can’t understate how much I love this - Logan helps guide him.

Logan: “I was your most helpless student.”

Logan is able to guide him, showing off not only his own growth but also the strength in his relationship with Charles/Professor X. We are reminded of all of Logan’s pain as Charles sees it, but we see now that he has moved past it. It is absolutely incredible for me and leads to an amazing scene.

34) Charles (McAvoy) and Professor X (Stewart) meet.

This scene has much more of an impact now than I was expecting. Charles is at his most broken in life, it will never get worse for him than this. Or so he thinks. He looks into the future and sees just how awful things have gotten and he sees his older self in Professor X. Except when Professor X speaks of the future...he still has faith that it can turn out well. He still has HOPE. Professor X’s endless search for hope has always been his defining feature and it is something he has even in a dark future. It is something Charles has lost and which his older self helps him find again. It is an absolutely beautiful and moving scene, perfect in so many ways. Developing Charles, giving us a peek into the mindset of Professor X, we even get an incredible new theme from composer John Ottman. “Hope (Xavier’s Theme)” I think might be the most moving piece of music in the entire X-Men franchise and I absolutely love it.

35) If you’re a writing student, I suggest you analyze Raven’s character in this film. Particularly the scene where she and Charles are talking about Trask in an airport. It’s an excellent example of how important stakes are to a story and its characters. If a character can leave the scene without what they want and not be devastated, the stakes are too low. Raven’s personal stakes are high as are Charles’. And the fact that Raven doesn’t is still set on this path leaves Charles - in some shape or form - devastated.

36)

Hank [about where his device monitors news]: “Over all three networks. And PBS.”

Wolverine: “All three? Wow.”

Hank: Yeah. And PBS.”

37) The effect of Charles’ discussion with Professor X has an immediate effect and shows that he IS now that man. He is the man who has hope when all is lost, when everything looks grim. He still has faith in people and hope for the best.

38) How powerful do you think this is to hear?

Logan: “Storm, Scott, Jean. Remember those names.”

Charles [after a moment]: “I’ll do my best.”

Logan: “You’re best is enough.”

Can you imagine what that would feel like? This guy from the future telling you that you’re best is enough. Because that’s all we can ever do is our best. And to know that that is enough is just...I cannot tell you how happy I would be in life to hear those words.

39) Thanks to @orsonkrehnnic for this amazing GIF set that perfectly captures this scene:

40) The dual climaxes are edited between wonderful, carrying pacing between the two wonderfully and interesting throughout. Cutting between 2023 and 1973 could have been a mess but John Ottman’s editing helps bring the scenes together spectacularly. When one breathes, so does the other, and that’s what works.

41) Logan...

Hank: “In the future, do I make it?”

Logan: “No.”

(GIF source unknown [if this is your GIF please let me know].)

42) Of course Wolverine still gets his ass kicked by Magneto, even without the metal bones. But I will say that removing him from the final conflict is a strong story choice. Because at this point what’s going on between Erik, Mystique, and Charles isn’t about him. It’s about them. The future is about him but it is much more impactful if it results from a choice by everyday people as opposed to the guy who knows what is about to happen. It’s very smart.

43) If this isn’t a beautiful final line for Ian McKellen’s Magneto I don’t know what is.

(GIF originally posted by @hughxjackman)

44) I love this.

Charles [when he can control Raven’s mind]: “I’ve been trying to control you since the day we meet. Look at where that’s got us.”

Charles TRUSTS Mystique. He trusts Raven. He lets her make her own choice and she choses life. She choses to be better. She choses not to become the murderer that Mystique is in the future. But her journey isn’t over yet. That won’t come until Apocalypse.

45) Did I mention I love that Charles embraces the Professor X philosophy?

Hank [about Mystique and Erik]: “Are you sure you should let them go?”

Charles: “Yes. I have hope for them.”

46) I cannot begin to express how satisfying this ending is.

I wish I could find a video clip of the ending so I can perfectly illustrate just how amazing it is, but everything about it feels EARNED. Everything about it breathes HOPE. And not just for this movies. It may be most effective while watching these back to back, but I geeked out at seeing everything. Seeing Rogue and Bobby back together, Kitty and Colossus teaching a class together, Kelsey Grammer’s brief cameo as Beast, Storm as a teacher. THEY EVEN GOT JEAN AND SCOTT BACK! Everything about it just feels SO GOOD! The characters we’ve cared for and loved for 14 years now are happy and at peace. And so what if Logan fucks up their lives again? Right now, everything is just good.

Note: I also own The Rogue Cut version of this film, which reintroduced a subplot featuring Anna Paquin’s return as Rogue that was deleted from the theatrical release for pacing issues. I WILL be doing a post about that sometime in the future. I’ve never seen it before so whatever that post looks like it’ll be a first time viewing. That’ll be labeled as 173.1.

There is a chance that X-Men: Days of Future Past is the best X-Men film yet (as in has X-Men in the title, so discounting films like Deadpool and Logan). It seamlessly blends together a large cast of characters from both the original trilogy and the First Class cast in a story which does the same. With strong performances throughout and incredible character drama (ESPECIALLY for Charles), it marks a triumphant return for director Bryan Singer. The action is better than ever, featuring that amazing Quicksilver scene, and it is practically perfectly paced. X-Men: Days of Future Past is an incredible entertaining and emotionally satisfying film all fans of the series - old and new - should watch.

[itsaclife]

Ryan White: Still Teaching 27 Years Later

If you’re from Indiana and you’re my age, you may have heard the name Ryan White, but you can’t place where you heard it from. If you’re older, you may remember he was in the news a lot. If you’re older than that, you know exactly who I’m talking about. If you’re younger, and have no clue who Ryan White is, you need to take a field trip to the Indianapolis Children’s Museum and educate yourself.

Earlier this year, I took my tots to the Children’s Museum and had a jolly holiday. I didn’t really expect to gain much from that day, other than just having a good time with my favorite little humans, but I came away with a story that kind of changed my life. At the museum, there is an exhibit called The Power of Children Making a Difference. This exhibit houses the stories of 3 children throughout history: Anne Frank, Ruby Bridges, and Ryan White. Ryan White was born and raised in Kokomo, Indiana. He was born a severe hemophiliac. To treat this, he was given Factor 8, or Factor as it is often referred to. Factor 8 is a blood product administered to hemophiliacs to help their blood clot. Back in the 80s, the blood supply was tainted and thousands of hemophiliacs were diagnosed with AIDS, among those, Ryan White, who, at the age of 13, was the first teenager to be diagnosed. At that time, AIDS was a new disease and very little was known about it. Once the community Ryan grew up in found out about the disease, he was unable to go back to school. This is how Ryan became famous - he entered into a one-year court battle with the school system to earn back his right to attend school and continue his education. Ryan fought the disease for 5 and a half years before passing away in April of 1990 at the age of eighteen. Along his journey, he came in contact with many famous people, allowing him to reach out to a wide audience and educate our country as well as other countries (his family was able to take a trip to Italy to educate the Italians about AIDS, who knew that they would have hemophiliacs diagnosed with AIDS and didn’t want to treat their people as Ryan had been treated at home). Today, his mom still travels across the country speaking about her son and continuing to promote education about the disease that took her son. Sometimes, her daughter, Andrea, joins her. 

After seeing this exhibit, learning a little about a boy who was so close to home, who experienced such discrimination, prejudice, and harsh judgement, I needed to know more. Ryan wrote a book called: Ryan White My Own Story. If you haven’t read it, you should. The book was originally published in 1991; Ryan passed before he ever got to see the number of people his story truly touched. A movie was also filmed about Ryan’s initial diagnosis of AIDS and the battle he fought to go back to school. That film is called The Ryan White Story and it’s available on Netflix. If you haven’t seen it, you should watch it. Even then, even after reading his book and watching the movie, I didn’t feel like I knew enough. More than that, I felt like I was in mourning for someone I didn’t even know, and months later, I still feel that way.

I follow the Children’s Museum page on Facebook and saw that Ryan’s mom and sister would be at the Children’s Museum around the 4th of July. I messaged my mom and asked if she wanted to go, she agreed, and off we went. Seeing Ryan’s exhibit takes on a whole new meaning when you experience it with his mom and sister. First, I thought a majority of the things inside the exhibit were just replicas. Wrong. Everything down to the bed, the slippers, the backpack, and the GI Joe’s belonged to Ryan. The “house” that his bedroom is in is modeled after the house in Cicero, Indiana, where the Whites later moved to after leaving Kokomo, right down to the slanted ceilings and the window with Ryan’s name in it. (I later read an article that said his family put up red letters spelling out “Ryan” in his bedroom window after he passed so that people driving by would know exactly where his bedroom was). I was amazed to hear Jeanne, Ryan’s mom, say that, 27 years later, it hasn’t gotten any better, and she still misses her son every day. It didn’t necessarily surprise me, but people always say time heals all wounds; sometimes that just isn’t true. Jeanne gave a short and simple speech, going through the timeline of Ryan’s birth to his death, and then did a short Q&A session. I had one simple question: How did she pick the pallbearers. If you don’t know, you can google images of Ryan’s funeral, and the majority of his pallbearers were celebrities - Elton John, Howie Long, Phil Donahue. However, I could not, for the life of me, muster up the nerve to speak even one word to Jeanne or Andrea. They dismissed the room, and all the guests could come up and get a red wristband that said “Remembering Ryan White” as they filtered out. (Which I’ve worn every day since then). My mom went up to Andrea, said a few words to her, and then moved to Jeanne, where she introduced herself and spoke about how she grew up very close to Kokomo and couldn’t believe the reaction of that community and what their family went through. Jeanne and my mom, as true Hoosiers, talked as if they were buddies from day one, which I’m forever grateful for because I was allowed to hear more of the story than any guests that day; I got more of an insight into a life I’m so fascinated by. Still, I couldn’t speak. To this day, I KICK myself for not saying anything. Now, I have a TON of questions: How were the pallbearers picked? Did Ryan have any idea that he was going to be put into a coma and never wake up again? (In his final days, Ryan was so sick. His doctors thought, if they put his body in a coma, it would slow things down and allow the medicine they were giving him to work better. It didn’t). How did Andrea deal with their family being thrust into the limelight? Did she get jealous of Ryan? When Ryan passed, did she feel guilty for ever being jealous? When he was originally diagnosed with AIDS, they believed Ryan would only live 3-6 months so, once he lived past that, did they think he would live forever? With each passing year Ryan was alive and continuing to fight, did they think he would “beat” the disease? Did Ryan ever talk about wanting a family of his own or did he know that would never happen? A MILLION QUESTIONS. I may never ever ever get to ask those but Ryan’s story means even more to me after that day than it did before whether I know every iota of his story or not. (But still, if you know those answers, email me!)

This is why Ryan’s story is important: While it’s important that we continue to educate ourselves when it comes to various diseases and it’s important to strive for cures across the board, Ryan’s story speaks to me on a level almost completely separate from his disease. This was a kid who went through bullying, discrimination from peers AND THEIR PARENTS, who should have KNOWN better, and had the majority of the community he had known since he was born turn their backs on him. This is a story, I’m positive, MANY people have suffered through without having a terminal disease to battle. Ryan didn’t get mad though and he didn’t seek revenge; he knew people were scared and they were acting out of fear. He, at such a young age, understood how they felt, even if he didn’t agree with how they reacted. THAT’S what I took from his story. He wasn’t going to try to FORCE someone to like him or to be around him; if you were scared, then you were scared. Sure, you were ignorant, but you didn’t know any better. What he would try to do is educate those who were willing to listen, not for the benefit of himself, but so that others wouldn’t have to experience what he had to go through. WHO DOES THAT?? He was a hemophiliac his whole life and already had to live by a different set of standards: not being able to participate in sports (though his mom did say he played baseball for one year and was terrible at it), always having to be careful so he didn’t get a bleed, and then he gets AIDS on top of that, which literally destroyed his body, and all he wanted to do was educate people. (Well that and go to school). How simply amazing and compassionate was he? 

What I learned from Ryan is that, for all the physical and mental pain he suffered, he continued to push through with a smile. He continued to advocate for those who didn’t have a voice and because of that, medicine has made so many significant advances when it comes to AIDS. He understood that holding on to anger wouldn’t do himself any good and he forgave those who didn’t ask for it nor did they really deserve it. He handled his illness with dignity and grace beyond his years. While those years may have been cut incredibly short, his example lives on. 

My wristband reminds me of Ryan’s story every day. I would be remiss if I didn’t pass that along. 

[iputmyselfintothenarrative]

The price we pay (John Laurens x Reader)

Prompt requested by anon: “Hi! :) I was wondering if you could do a John Laurens x reader where she’s really good at fighting but some soldiers don’t like that a woman is fighting along side them and they’re horrible to her so Laurens stands up for her and gets super over protective. If that makes sense? lol Thank you!”

Masterlist // Requests // Askbox

A/N: Okay, so this totally escalated. I’m not sure if this was what you wanted anon, but I just couldn’t help myself. Sorry, guys! Alright, Off to write We had our chance

Also, since two of my absolute favourite people on this website, @ruth-hamilton-delrio and @yayhamletnonstop published amazing chapters on their own today, I couldn’t help but to be inspired. Thank you for your awesomeness! Also, I would like to tag @hopeandlovelastlonger because you’re the best. If you want me to stop tagging you in things, then please tell me. Hugs! <3

Warnings: A lot. Violence, blood, mentions of sexual harrassment and swearing. Slight bit of angst. Seriously, if you don’t like this kind of thing, then don’t read this. I wouldn’t want you to feel uncomfortable!

Wordcount: 4,173 (Yeah, sorry…)

After spending months on the battlefield, you could no longer understand how there could possibly be any glory to gain from this. The fighting conditions were horrible, more people died every second from fatigue and malnutrition than on the actual battlefield. There was mud, blood and bug infestations everywhere, and when it wasn’t too hot outside to even move, it was raining for days, washing away every bloodstain that told the story of the horrible actions that had been committed there. At night it was so cold that the water froze, along with some extremities that were lost to frostbite.

Yes, to say that war was a prestigious thing would be an outright lie. Men without much wealth, who was seeking a way to rise above their stations looked to the military to maybe have a shot at a better life after the war, but was more likely to be killed in the span of a week.

You had managed to survive on that particular battlefield for a month now. Why, you didn’t know. maybe it was because of the brilliance of the officer in charge of the company, Captain John Laurens, who with bravery and passion took good care of his soldiers. Or maybe it was because you, surprisingly, had been a lot better at this than you initially thought.

They had wanted to enroll your brother at first, but seeing as he could barely walk on his malformed feet, you had begged and begged your father to let you go instead. After weeks of trying to convince him, he had finally agreed. The news of a woman fighting alongside the men in the military had not been recieved with joy, and from day one you had been exposed to everything from bullying to sexual harassment. This had not made you crack, however. You were determined to show that you were just as capable as the men, if not even more capable.

Thanks to your determination to prove yourself, as well as your ability in strategic decision making, you were awarded with a group of men to lead on a small mission. The mission was to retrieve an important map from the brits, a mission that you and your group of seven people had done successfully.

You were now sitting on your bed in the camp, getting ready to go to the mass to eat dinner. For the first time in months you felt a tingle of happiness flow over you, as you were sure that the mission’s success would stop the bullying and harassment, atleast a little. You picked up the small pocket mirror that every soldier was given, and looked into it, meeting the reflection of a thin, sunken in face with bags under the eyes. The war had taken it’s toll on you, as it did on everyone involved in it. The emotional strain had almost been too much for you to handle up to this point, giving your eyes the ability to tell the kind of story that not even the worst of enemies would ever wish upon each other. But you were determined to make it through until the day you could return home with honors.

You let out a sigh as the homesickness hit you once again. You hadn’t seen your family for a really long time, and sure, there were the occasional letters but they couldn’t even compare to the feeling of your mother’s embrace. Her scent that made you feel so incredibly safe just by inhaling it.

Tears started to burn from behind your eyes, but you quickly blinked them away. Crying would be seen as a sign of weakness, and that you couldn’t afford to show. Especially as a woman.

Your thoughts were interrupted by a familiar voice, as a man carefully opened the door to your tent, bending down a little to be able to look inside.

“Private Y/L/N, can I come in?”

You immediately flew up, as you recognised the voice belonging to your company leader, John Laurens.

“Captain Laurens!” you said the way you had been trained to greet your superior officers, as you saluted him. “Yes Sir, you can come in, Sir!” you said as you stepped to the side to make room for him in the tiny tent that was barely big enough to stand up straight in.

“At ease, soldier. I am not here on official business.” he said as he went inside. He had to crouch down as the ceiling of the tent wouldn’t let him stand up straight inside it.

You let your hand fall to your side as you let yourself relax a bit.

“Yes, sir.”

“John” “Sir John.” “No, just John.”

He shot you a little smile as he gestured towards your bed, seeking your consent for him to sit down on it. You nodded in agreement.

At first, he just sat there, observing the surroundings before he locked his eyes on you.

You could feel yourself tense up a bit as you waited for him to say something, and after what felt like hours of silence (It had not been hours, more like really long seconds), he finally opened his mouth.

“Well done today, Private. Thanks to you, and the bravery of your men, we might actually have a shot at winning this. I wouldn’t be surprised if there was a promotion to Corporal in there for you.” he said with warmth in his voice. He sounded excited.

Laurens had been the only one who had ever been nice to you during your entire military service so far. Never once had he mentioned your sex, nor treated you differently from the other men. In his eyes, you were just a person like everyone else. This had, of course, led you to develop a bit of an affection for him. It was nothing big, just the fact that you felt safe with him, which says a lot considering you were in the middle of a war zone.

You could feel your face heating up as the blushing wouldn’t leave you alone.

“W-wow, sir, I don’t know what to say! I am so humbled!” you stuttered out, a bit overwhelmed by the surprise. “Then don’t say anything. I will talk to the leader of the regiment and then you’ll hopefully have your promotion by the end of the month.” He leaned forward a bit, letting his fingers meet each other as he supported himself with his forearms against his legs. His gaze lingered mindlessly on something to you right, as he seemed to be engaged in thought process.

“It might take a little longer because of… You know.” You knew exactly what he meant. He was talking about the one thing that set you apart from everyone else.

“My gender.” you filled in. There was really no idea sugarcoating it.

He looked up at you, observing you for a few seconds before he finally spoke.

“Yes.”

“Hm.” you uttered and turned to look at something other than him. Your bag was a viable choice.

He bit his lip as he continued to observe you. The sympathy in his eyes was obvious, and if they could speak, then they would have told you how sad he was about the fact that gender discrimination was a thing.

He stood up and walked over to you, carefully placing a hand on your shoulder. He moved his head, desperately trying to find your gaze. You hesitantly obliged, without turning your head towards him. He only meant well, and it wasn’t his fault that the structural norms looked like they did.

“Hey, let’s celebrate! The drinks are on me tonight!” he said as he was able to lock his eyes with yours.

His kind and empathetic demeanor forced you to smile. You had never hung out with him in a civilian manner before, a fact that made you a little nervous. But at the same time, you could never turn down a night of celebrating. They were too rare, at least for you, since you clearly weren’t welcome. For a long time you had longed for something to take your mind off the war.

You turned your head towards him and nodded. Overtaken by excitement, you leaned in and gave him a hug before quickly letting him go as you realized what you had just done.

Mortified, you stared at his chest. If you had the power of sinking through the ground right now, you would have.

“I am SO SORRY, sir. That was out of line. I should not have done that.” you said as your face turned redder and redder.

At first, he just looked at you with a mixture of chock and surprise plastered on his face, but as his laughter broke the heavy silence, you started to relax a bit.

“It is okay, Private! We’re civilians at the moment, remember?” You chuckled, but wasn’t completely free from the embarrassment yet. You nodded.

“Yes, sir.” you said, carefully looking up to meet his gaze.

“It’s John, remember?” “Yes sir-I mean John.”

He gave you a smile and carefully raised his hand to lift your face with his index finger. Your heart started to beat faster as your eyes flickered between his hand right beneath your chin, and his eyes. Although neither one of you uttered a word, it was far from silent. You couldn’t describe what it was, since the noise was quiet, and a noise that no one would be able to hear except the two of you. It was just like your heart and your mind screaming indistinguishable words at you, words that you were desperately trying to identify the meaning of. But to no avail.

He quickly removed his hand, as he seemed to have realized what he had just done. He tried to brush it off by mindlessly wiping the hand against his waist as he cleared his throat.

“Well. Private. I have to go talk to the quartermaster, but I’ll meet you in the mess tent, okay?” he said as he made his way towards the door.

You followed him with your gaze, not quite knowing what had just happened. You smiled and nodded.

“Oh, and sir?” he stopped to look at you.

“Yes?”

“It’s Y/N. We’re civilians now, remember?”

He let out a little laugh and nodded in understandment. “Right. Gotcha.” he said and gave you a wink before he left the tent, leaving you with a blush on your face.

–

The walk to the mess tent had left your shoes even muddier than they had been before. You knew that you’d have to clean them vigorously before the next training exercise, since the officers wanted their soldiers to look well put together. But right now, you didn’t care about that, as you were about to have the best night since enrolling.

You had never felt so thankful in your life as you felt for John Laurens right now. Months of trauma, anxiety and bullying, along with witnessing the horrors of war had left you an empty shell of who you had been before. And as you got closer to the tent, you could feel that shell filling up again. It was not much, but atleast it was something.

You entered the tent, hoping that John would be there to greet you. But to your mild disappointment, he wasn’t. Sighing, you sat down on the bench closest to the entrance to wait for him.

You didn’t have to wait long until you saw a shadow towering over you. Excited, you looked up, expecting to see John’s face, but your smile quickly faded away as it was one of the men from your mission group from earlier. He did not look happy.

“Enjoying the food are we, princess?” he said sarcastically, crossing his big arms over his chest.

With a slight hesitation, you glanced down to look at the non existing food on the table before you. You looked back up at him again, not letting his threatening presence get to you.

“…No?” you said and raised an eyebrow.

“I’m just waiting for Captain Laurens.”

The man burst out into a loud laughter.

“You hear this, guys? The little princess is waiting for Captain Laurens! That’s so sweet!” he said as the rest of the mess seemed to join in on his laughter.

To your disgust and dismay, he sat down in front of you, leaning his chin on the top if his hands.

“You women. You all have it so easy. Sleeping your way to success.”

His words struck you with a force you weren’t expecting. You had to bite your lip not too loose your temper at him, as you clutched your hands into a fist.

“You just have to open your legs and then you get everything you want, even the promotion that I-” he slammed his fist into the table, making you jump from surprise.

“Worked my ASS OFF to get!”

Your heart started to race from a mixture of anger and fear. You could probably take him on one on one, since you had learnt how to use a person’s size against them, but if all the other men joined in, then you would be completely defenseless. You swallowed and looked around, seeing how every single one in the tent was looking your way with sinister eyes. It was clear that they didn’t want you there.

You stood up. “Okay, I am clearly not welcome here. I accept that, and I’ll leave now.” you said with a collected voice, starting to move towards the exit. The last thing you wanted to do was to start a fight.

You had barely made it to the entrance when you felt a strong force grabbing your upper arm. “Hang on Princess, I am not done with you yet!” the man said with obvious underlying anger in his voice.

The breathing coming out of your mouth was fast. You looked down at the big hand gripping your arm and then back up to him. You took a deep breath, trying to calm yourself down.

“Let me go.” you said between clenched teeth.

“Or what?” he said, the grin on his face growing exponentially. You felt the fear growing like a knot in your stomach, overtaking you more and more. You knew you had to do something, or this could end badly. The idea you had was not good you acknowledged, but it was everything you had at that moment.

“That is an ORDER, Private!” you said. The authority in your voice chocked you, as you were expecting it to sound a lot more scared than it did.

This seemed to have taken the man aback, as he for a moment stared at you with a surprised look on his face. But you knew that uttering those words had not been a good idea when the surprise in his face was quickly being replaced with rage.

“Who the fuck are YOU to give ME orders? Huh!?” he said as he pushed you into the table with big force.

Pain shot through your back as you violently hit the edge of the table, leaving you breathless. You sagged down to the floor, ending up on all four as you clutched your chest, trying to get some air.

“I will NEVER take orders from a woman, you hear me!?” The rage in his voice was almost drenched out by the cheering from the rest of the men in the tent. The excitement in their voices exposed how they were clearly cheering for the man and not you.

You managed to look up at him and saw how he lunched forward to attack you again. With your last breath and the adrenaline pumping through your veins, you quickly rolled away, making him slam into the table instead of you.

This gave you enough time to crawl out of the tent, out into the muddy road. You managed to get to your feet, but had to grip the exterior of the tent to be able to stand up. The panic started to get a hold of you, as you desperately tried to get away from him, but the scream of rage coming from inside the tent told you how close he was still.

“Get the whore!” he said, right before you felt how two men violently gripped your upper arms, holding you firmly and turned you around so that you were face to face with the big man who was now standing outside the tent, panting from pain.

Your heart was racing as you started to twist and turn in an attempt to get away from them, but to no avail. His face was dark with rage, and the hateful look he gave you scared you more than anything you had ever seen in your life.

“Do it!” he exclaimed. You didn’t have the time to think about what he meant with “it” as you suddenly felt a sharp, excruciating pain in your left side. You gasped in chock, but weren’t able to think anymore of it as you heard a loud gunshot being fired.

Everyone froze, everyone except from the men who held you as they quickly let you go. “WHAT is the meaning of this!?” The fury in John Lauren’s voice was out of this world, and the authority of it would make George Washington himself bow down to him.

He was standing with a gun in his hand, aiming towards the sky. The rage in his eyes was intimidating, his usual lively demeanor nowhere to be found.

“Captain Laurens! She-She tried to-” “Be quiet!” the men immediately shut up and looked down at the ground.

“You are ALL discharged. I want you out of here TONIGHT. You will NOT be welcomed back into the army, ever!”

“But sir-” one of the men tried to voice their complaints, but was interrupted by the gun that Laurens was now aiming right at his forehead.

“Do I have to repeat myself, Carlsson?” he said, slowly moving his finger towards the trigger.

“N-NO! No, sir! We’ll be gone immediately, sir!” the man said with genuine fear in his voice as he quickly started to remove himself from the scene, followed by the rest of the men.

The man to your left also began to walk away, but not without dropping something on the ground first.

When the men had left, John directed his attention to you.

“Y/N, are you alright?” he asked. He sounded worried. You were still in chock, but other than that and a few developing bruises on your back from slamming into the table, you were alright.

“Y-yes, I think so.” you said, managing a smile but failing horribly. Suddenly, the sharp pain in your left side reminded you of itself, prompting you to grip it.

You looked down, and saw what the man had dropped on the ground. It was dark and muddy, but you could still distinguish the shape of a knife lying there. The mud around it was darker than the rest, the knife seemingly covered in something red.

As you felt the warm liquid gushing out from the side, covering your hands with the stickiness, you realized that it was blood on the knife. Your blood. From the wound in your side.

You gasped in shock and looked up at Laurens. The expression on his face as he was looking at your hand clutching the wound revealed that he had realized it the same time as you had done.

He looked up to meet your gaze when you took a few stumbling steps towards him. The moment you started to fall, he ran over to you, catching you at the last second.

“Hey, It’s alright, I got you! I got you, don’t worry!” He tried to sound calm, but as his voice was shivering, he didn’t manage that so well.

You gasped from the pain that only grew stronger and stronger. You could feel his shoulder supporting your head, prompting a small smile on your face. “John, I-” your words was interrupted by a cough that forced itself out of your mouth.

He looked at you with a shocked face before looking up, his eyes scanning desperately for someone to help.

“Medic! I need a medic, right now!” The panic in his voice was obvious, but the volume of the scream was enough to wake everyone up.

It was clear that he cared about you, you knew that now. You smiled while everything slowly faded away as you slipped into unconsciousness.

–

The smell of the meadow was pleasant, as the sun warmed up your face. You were sitting on the green grass, your dress spread out around you. You were assembling a bouquet of flowers, starting with the daisy as the centerpiece. You looked at it and nodded as you were pleased with the outcome of it.

“Oh, honey, what a beautiful bouquet you have made!” The sound of your mother’s voice prompted you to smile as you felt the warmth in your heart spread throughout the entire body.

A single tear of happiness rolled down your chin as you leaned into her embrace, as she rocked you into sleep.

“Honey, you have to come back…” she whispered tenderly into your ear.

“I am. I’ll be there soon.” you whispered back with your eyes shut, feeling the happiness fill you up.

“No, you have to come back!” Her voice sounded harder this time. Sharper, as it trigged a painful response originating from your left side. You looked down, and witnessed in horror how your white dress was stained by a dark red spot, growing and growing as it completely overtook it.

“M-Mom!?” you could hear the panic in your voice, as you desperately cried out to her.

Your eyes flew open, as your entire body jerked you up to a sitting position.

“No, hold her down!” a male voice shouted out, followed by a pair of strong hands gripping your shoulders and forced you down onto the bed again.

“Hey, Y/N, It’s just me! Calm down!”

Your eyes flickered around in panic until they locked onto the man holding you down. His kind eyes reassuring you that you were out of immediate danger.

“John…” you whispered with a hoarse voice before you gasped in pain from the doctor doing his work on you.

“It’s alright, I got you!” he said as his hand found yours, gripping it tightly. Your eyes was locked in his the entire time as tears started to roll down your chin.

“Yes, that is right, it’s me!” he said, the relief making his shoulders drop. He began stroking your sweaty forehead with his other thumb, making you calm down a bit.

“She lost a lot of blood, but other than that she should be fine. The weapon didn’t graze any vital organs. We’re just going to have to that the wound doesn’t get infected.” the doctor said while wiping his hands with a now bloodstained cloth.

John let the air escape him as he exhaled. He placed his forehead on the edge of your bed as a small laughter of relief escaped him.

You had heard what the doctor had said, but didn’t have the energy to actually comprehend what he had said. The memory of the beautiful dream filled your empty shell with warmth, making you smile.

Your mother wasn’t there at the moment, but for now, that was okay. You knew that she was alive and well somewhere, and that was enough.

You looked down at the defeated man right beside your bed, and felt how grateful you were that he was there. Not only had he saved your life, he had also stayed with you the entire time.

“Sir?” your voice sounded weak, but at ease.

He looked up at you, squeezing your hand even harder. He broke out a smile.

“Hey, it’s John, remember?”

“John.” He nodded. “Yes?”

You looked at him with tears in your eyes, but with a smile on your face. The horrors of today would surely come back to haunt you, but right now you were calm and at ease. You gave him a genuine smile.

“Are we still on for drinks?” you asked with a whisper, only meant for him.

He burst out in a loving laughter as a tear of happiness slowly made it’s way down on his face. He leaned in and placed a long kiss on your forehead before braking it and letting his forehead lean on yours.

“Absolutely. I can’t wait.”

[sharingleadership]

Quotes And Leadership Lessons From Ant-Man And The Wasp

A Reel Leadership Article

Paul Rudd and Evangeline Lilly return in the 20th Marvel Cinematic Universe movie Ant-Man And The Wasp. In this outing, The Wasp (played by Evangeline Lilly) and her father Dr. Hank Pym (Michael Douglas) are in search of Janet Van Dyne (the original Wasp portrayed by Michelle Pfeiffer), their mother/wife.

Their search began anew when Scott Lang (Ant-Man) returned from the Quantum Realm, a feat thought impossible. Janet had been trapped in the Quantum Realm for 30 years. They now had the hope she could be alive.

During their search, they run across new threats including a black market arms dealer named Sonny Burch (Walton Goggins) and Ghost/Ava Starr (Hannah John-Kamen). These threats hamper their rescue efforts and create fun action scenes you’ll love to watch.

But there’s more to Ant-Man And The Wasp than these scenes. There are leadership lessons in Ant-Man And The Wasp you’ll not want to miss. So, let’s check out the leadership lessons you can find in Ant-Man And The Wasp in the latest Reel Leadership article.

Caution: Ant-Man And The Wasp spoilers below

Quotes And Leadership Lessons From Ant-Man And The Wasp

1. Hank Pym:

I started to wonder if your mother is still alive.

In the original Ant-Man movie, we learn Hank Pym and Janet Van Dyke were the original Ant-Man and the Wasp. They were a formidable superhero team. Yet they ran into trouble and Janet shrunk to an infinitesimal size and was lost in the Quantum Realm.

All hope was lost. Or so Hank thought until the new Ant-Man, Scott Lang, returned from the Quantum Realm. This renewed his hope of being reunited with his wife and put a new passion in his heart.

Wonder leads to innovation – Leadership lessons from Ant-Man And The Wasp Click To Tweet

Leadership starts with a passion. There has to be a spark to create the desire to lead.

Do you remember that spark? That creative wonder that made you think you could lead?

You need to recapture this wonder. Capture the beginning hope of a better organization or a better way of doing things. When you have a reason for leading, you’re going to lead better.

2. Great leaders are admired for their skill:

Scott Lang had been on house arrest because he had broken the law. The Sokovia Accords didn’t allow superheroes to use their powers. He had when he fought the Avengers in Captain America: Civil War. This meant Scott had a lot of free time on his hands.

During his house arrest, Scott began to study magic tricks. He eventually was able to pull off some pretty fun and amazing close-up magic tricks. They were so good people begin to ask him how he was able to do them.

These people included FBI agent James “Jimmy” Woo (Randall Park) and other cast members. Their questions about how he was able to pull off these magic tricks were humorous moments but they showed something else. People are inspired and awed by talent and skill.

Great leaders are skilled in what they do. Their talents and abilities impress those around them. Not because they want to be admired but because their skill is awe-worthy.

Hone your craft. Make sure you’re doing the best work you can. And then do the work only you can do.

3. What you’ve experienced is a part of you:

Scott wanted to take a bath. However, he had an ankle bracelet tracking his every move due to his house arrest. To take a bath, Scott had to wrap his ankle bracelet in a baggie and then enter into the bathtub.

Once Scott was in the bathtub, he began to relax. Then something happened. He began to hallucinate or flashback to his time in the Quantum Realm. There, he saw Janet Van Dyne.

His experience in the Quantum Realm stayed with him. It was a part of who he was and who he was becoming.

Your experiences are a part of you – Leadership lessons from Ant-Man And The Wasp Click To Tweet

Your past is your past. Still, your past is also a part of you. You cannot escape your past.

My suggestion to you is to embrace your past. It’ll provide you with the experience you’ve already gained and open new doors for you.

4. The repercussions of your actions impact more than you:

Because of his actions in Captain America: Civil War, Scott was on house arrest. He was being punished for what he had done. Still, his punishment was only the beginning.

Dr. Hank Pym and Hope Van Dyne had provided Scott the technology for Ant-Man. Their technology was used in an illegal manner and they were now in hiding because of Scott’s actions. His actions had repercussions on people who were not directly involved in what he had done.

You have to be aware of your actions and the impact they may have on others. Yes, you’re going to have to face the consequences of your actions. And others may as well.

When you make your choices, think of who else may be impacted by your actions. Are you willing to have them pay the price for your choices?

5. There’s more to leading than money:

Hope Van Dyne met with the arms dealer Sonny Burch in an attempt to get a piece of technology that would help her and her father go to the Quantum Realm. When Hope arrived, Sonny changed the deal. He told Hope he had a buyer for their technology.

The buyer had offered $1 billion. This is a lot of money to anyone, let alone two people running from the law. Yet Hope turned down the buyer’s offer.

Money isn’t everything – Leadership lessons from Ant-Man And The Wasp Click To Tweet

She had a good reason too. She was out to save her mother. And saving her mother was more important than money.

Leaders can get mixed up at times while leading. They’ll see dollar signs flash and begin chasing the money.

You’re better than that though. You know leadership isn’t about the money you will earn. Leadership is about the lives you can change and the lives you can touch.

This is what leadership is about. Guiding, showing, changing lives.

6. Hank Pym:

It’s still a work in progress.

Ghost made her appearance after Hope turned down Sonny’s offer for the technology. In the fight that ensued, Scott was ready to jump into action. One problem: Scott didn’t have the Ant-Man suit.

Hank did have something for Scott. Hank had a prototype suit that Scott could use. Only it wasn’t a fully-tested suit. The suit was still a prototype.

This didn’t stop Scott from donning the new Ant-Man suit and going in to help. He knew what needed to be done.

Our work is constantly a work in progress. From changing deadlines to tweaks in the plan, you may never see the completely finished product and have to run with the prototype.

You’ll be okay. You can still get by with an unfinished work.

7. There’s more than the budget:

Luis (Michael Pena) was Scott’s business partner in their new business X-Con Security Consultants. Two other employees were at the business when Luis noticed something. There were fancy pastries being eaten. These pastries cost more than the oatmeal he’d okayed on the budget.

This caused Luis to go into a fit. He ranted and raged about the budget and how they needed to stay focused on the money side of the business.

The employees had another opinion. They needed to be fed and fed well. And the pastries didn’t cost much more than the oatmeal. The pastries made them feel better and they were willing to work harder.

A budget isn’t everything – Leadership lessons from Ant-Man And The Wasp Click To Tweet

Focusing on the budget is important for the business. You have to make a profit and you have to make sure bills are paid. Yet you can’t ignore the fact you need to take care of your people and purchase the proper tools to get the job done.

When you’re so focused on the budget, you begin to become pennywise and pound foolish. You will cut corners where there’s no room to cut or get inferior products which will cost more in time and labor than if you would have purchased high-quality tools.

Know when to be budget-wise. Know when to spend more. It’ll pay back more in the long run.

8. Luis:

You seem to have a lot of falling outs with people.

Throughout the movie, you begin to hear of the people Hank Pym has upset or fallen out of favor with. There were Elihas Starr (Michael Cerveris) and Dr. Bill Foster (Laurence Fishburne). Colleagues, friends, family… All people Hank pushed away or upset.

Luis called Hank on this. He noticed all the problems he had and how there was one person involved in all of them: Hank.

When you begin to notice a trend, pay attention. Especially when the trend involves people and broken relationships.

You play a big role in the way your relationships will go. Look at the situation. Are there more broken personal and business relationships left in your wake than whole, productive relationships?

The problem might be you. The good news is once you recognize the problem, you can begin working on yourself and restoring those relationships.

9. Ava Starr/Ghost:

He continued to take risks… Too many…

Viewers of Ant-Man And The Wasp learn the sad tale of Ava who becomes Ghost. Her father, Elihas Starr, was discredited by Hank Pym. So he began working feverishly to find a way to the Quantum Realm. His work led him to take more and more risks.

Eventually, something bad happened. Elihas and his wife died in an explosion. Ava was transformed into Ghost.

Risks are okay. Too many risks are bad – Leadership lessons from Ant-Man And The Wasp Click To Tweet

The risks Elihas took were too great… Too many… And people paid the price.

What risks are you taking? Are the risks calculated? Are they measured?

When taking risks, you have to be careful. You have to weigh whether or not the outcome outweighs the consequences.

10. Not all emergencies are emergencies:

Cassie (Abby Ryder Fortson) was Scott’s daughter. While Scott was held captive by Foster and Ava, Cassie sent a 911 text. Do you remember those? They were sent to signal an emergency.

Scott made his case to allow a response. Foster eventually relented. When Scott talked to Cassie, he discovered her emergency wasn’t an emergency after all. She’d left her soccer shoes at the house and needed them.

You will have team members coming to you with emergencies. These are tasks or problems they believe are a pressing concern. Yet when you dig into the issue, you soon discover they’re not a true emergency.

Be careful of letting other people’s emergencies become yours. While they may be important to the person, it doesn’t mean their emergency should become your problem.

11. There are lines leaders shouldn’t cross:

Scott, Hank, and Hope were able to escape from Foster and Ava. This is when Ava comes up with a diabolical plan. She wants to kidnap Scott’s daughter.

Her line of thinking was Scott would do anything for his daughter. He probably would. He might have even gone all Liam Neeson on her.

There are lines leaders SHOULD NOT cross – Leadership lessons from Ant-Man And The Wasp Click To Tweet

Foster knew this wasn’t a good idea. Messing with another person’s child never ends well. So he persuaded Ava to leave Cassie alone.

You may be tempted to do unethical things while in a position of leadership. You might be offered illegal kickbacks to give a job priority. Or you might be tempted to skim money from the petty cash account.

These are lines you should never cross. You can’t be an ethical leader while doing unethical things.

Know your lines. Don’t cross them.

12. Sometimes all you need is a little nudge:

Hank and Hope were so close to entering the Quantum Realm but they were still having trouble. They went back to the computer to work when Scott pushed them aside and began typing away.

Hope and Hank tried to push Scott away. Only to realize it was Scott’s body but Scott wasn’t in control. Janet had taken control of Scott and was finishing Hank and Hope’s work.

She had a connection with Scott because of his time in the Quantum Realm. And she could see the work that needed to be completed.

While Hank and Hope had done great work, there was a little more that needed to be done. Their work needed a nudge.

You do great work. You know this. So does your team. But you’re not an island. Neither is your work.

When you’re working on a big project, get the input from others on your team. Ask them what they see or don’t see. Seek advice on what improvements could be added or what could be subtracted.

A little nudge from an outside perspective could move your project from good to wow.

13. Cassie:

Trying to help people isn’t dumb.

Ahhh, what wise words of wisdom from a child. Cassie knew something most adults have forgotten. Helping people is never dumb.

Have you forgotten this truth? Have you failed to help the ones you can?

Trying to help people isn’t dumb – Leadership lessons from Ant-Man And The Wasp Click To Tweet

Look for ways to help others. Whether these people are strangers or the ones you lead, you can help others. And it’s never dumb.

14. Technology and work can blind us from what’s awe-inspiring:

The new Ant-Man suit had a few glitches. It was a prototype after all. One of the glitches was it would randomly shrink or enlarge Scott.

Thankfully, the suit made Scott grow when he was trying to stop a runaway truck. He was able to get in front of the vehicle and dig his feet into the ground.

The vehicle still pushed him forward. But he was making progress in slowing down the vehicle.

All the while, this was happening in front of a coffee shop. There were people inside glued to their laptop screens or sipping their cups of coffee. These people were oblivious to the event happening in front of them.

Your work is important. I’m not taking anything away from it. However, you have to be willing to look up and see what’s happening around you.

Your little daughter is becoming a young woman. The church you’re attending is helping the poor and the widows. A friend is grieving the loss of their spouse.

Life is going on in front of you. Are you paying attention?

Don’t let technology or work blind you from the awe-inspiring or the important. You need to come up for air and breathe in life.

15. Being big can be a disadvantage:

Scott’s suit wouldn’t let him decrease to his normal size. He was still giant. This became a problem as he began to chase down Sonny.

Sonny went through a metal gate. Scott attempted to follow. He couldn’t because he couldn’t fit through the gate.

His size became a problem. He was too big.

Size can be a disadvantage – Leadership lessons from Ant-Man And The Wasp Click To Tweet

You want to grow your organization to the next level. You want to see the company grow and thrive. But could growing cause a problem?

These are things you have to think about as you grow and build your organizations. What limitations does size bring? Could you serve people better by staying small?

Think on these things. Then make a choice.

16. Dr. Bill Foster:

I’m not leaving you.

Ava had told Foster to leave her. He needed to get out of there and take care of himself.

Foster chose to stay. He wouldn’t leave his surrogate daughter. She needed him and he would be there for her.

Leaders stick by their people. They choose to stay when others would run.

Be a leader who stays.

Question: Have you seen Ant-Man And The Wasp? If so, what leadership lessons from Ant-Man And The Wasp did you discover? If you haven’t, what leadership lessons from Ant-Man And The Wasp that I shared resonated with you? Let me know in the comment section below.

Continue Reading…

The post Quotes And Leadership Lessons From Ant-Man And The Wasp appeared first on Joseph Lalonde.

source http://www.jmlalonde.com/quotes-and-leadership-lessons-from-ant-man-and-the-wasp/