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miguel-manbemel · 1 year ago

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I've been in the Thomas Sanders fandom for almost nine years now. That means I was there way before Sanders Sides, and that at this point I'll remain following him way after Sanders Sides is over. That doesn't make me better or worse than anyone else, but I think that that gives me a little bit of right to speak my opinion, and I'm gonna do it, because I've been holding it back for far too long when I've seen so much bullshit all around, especially on Tumblr, and I can't help it anymore. I need to speak and I'm gonna speak, no matter who likes what I say and no matter who's bothered by what I say.

Sanders Sides started in October 2016, but it didn't get truly big until 2017. And 2017 was "Fander year", it was the year Thomas was most prolific and released the highest amount of work: the bulk of season 1 and a big chunk of season 2 of Sanders Sides, and to that we have to add the first episode of Cartoon Therapy, the last few Vines before it was shut down and a production of shorts comparable of his big years on Vine, and to that we add the vlogs, the music, his big projects like Bizardvaark, etc. And back then at the beginning it was Thomas alone, Joan and Talyn joined around February, March, and it was only the three of them the rest of the year and part of 2018. They worked their asses off for these months, to the point that all the three of them with no exception ended up getting sick. Joan even had to go through hospital and Talyn was eventually forced to retire altogether because of the complications stress caused in his Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Not to mention that Thomas and the others spent literal sleepless nights editing Sanders Sides, the record being 36 consecutive hours of editing without sleep so that he could release a Sanders Sides episode faster (I think it was Why Do We Get Out of Bed in the Morning). I don't know if some people here know it, but Thomas has confessed to be a little bit workaholic, and we all know he's a perfectionist in his work, he will only release what he considers is the best for him when it's ready, nothing more nothing less.

There's people that, sure, have praised Thomas beyond what is considered healthy and that have been assholes with other people who had constructive criticisms (and not all criticism has been constructive), but certainly, specially on Tumblr, there's people who don't know the meaning of the word "fair judgment" and vent all their personal frustrations onto Thomas like he was responsible of all evils in the world. If excessive positivity is toxic, excessive negativity is toxic too, and also damaging, not to mention potencially a crime of libel if they go too far and start damaging his reputation and good name with lies. I'm still seeing people talking about the animator thing like they know first person what happened, saying happily that Thomas "didn't pay the animators", like it was something true and a fact. The animators did not even get to a unified unique conclusion about anything. Some of the animators got mad and left the fandom immediately, others stayed to literally bitch around and criticize (and some caused more harm in the process than anything they were accusing Thomas and team of doing)... while other animators remain in good terms with Thomas and still follow him with the same passion, and also there are animators that called out other animators for their toxicity while the work was in progress. It's time to set things clear: the animators were paid what they signed in their contracts, they said that and they recognized that without exception. It was their own responsibility to read such contracts and investigate the internet and what is considered a good amount of payment, they should have done that beforehand and not sign if they didn't agree, because once they signed, they're bound and they have no right to complain because they agreed to that salary and it looked okay for them before signing, otherwise they wouldn't have, that's something even some animators said. So please, stop using that to spread hatred on Thomas. Not even the whole bunch of the animators supports you on this, and clearly if you weren't there you have no word to say. Officially, a portion of the animators spoke to the team, and ammended things privately, that was what was published and that is where it should have ended five years ago. So the rest of the world should just shut up about it. This is not and should not be treated as a reality show because it has nothing public at all. This is something private between the animators and the team, and third persons should not use it as an excuse to spread hoaxes and hatred against the team. Stop it already and mind your own business.

That was one thing I wanted to let out, but the other thing is about the people complaining, and complaining, and complaining about how they don't get the content THEY want faster. I'm talking about those who think Thomas should do Sanders Sides and nothing else, because "it's what Patrons pay for", "it's his biggest source of income", "blah, blah, blah"... I am a Patron, and I know what I signed for when I joined Patron: "more content, more frequently", nowhere in that sentence it is mentioned it would be Sanders Sides only, or even mainly and if anyone read that it's something they assumed on their own, not the reality and certainly not binding. We've gone through a drought of content because there was a pandemic, in case anyone didn't notice. But he's releasing more content now, in all platforms, so he's commiting to his promise about Patreon. My money is well spent and I won't let anyone say otherwise. Please, kindly refrain to speak in my name as a Patron, thank you. If any other feels differently and is on Patreon, he's always free to unsubscribe when he wants, but don't repeat the lie that you "subscribed because he promised more Sanders Sides more frequently", because that's literally a falsehood. And speaking about Patreon and the "writer's tier", I don't know what you think the writer's room is about. The team only gives the writer light suggestions about what jokes could work well or things that could be featured specifically as ideas for the script, they don't get any power of decission in the plot and they don't even get to know the plot at all because the questions are vague. Don't give so much importance to the writer's room, because i's nothing of the other world, despite some people trying to make it a bigger issue than it is, usually people who are not even in the writer's room and therefore don't know what they're talking about, as usual. About the "Sanders Sides being his biggest source of income and therefore, he should stick to that"... well, sorry to break it to you, but have you been around his TikTok recently? He has recently released a Storytime short and a Misleading Compliment short, and the audience went literally crazy, and the new sketch videos are working like charm. Sanders Sides might be a huge success of his, but his short videos (the 10 seconds long and the 4 minutes long) are, and will always be, his biggest source of fame, they've always been since Vine. Remember, he has 10 million followers on TikTok, almost triple his YouTube follower count. And from these 10 million followers, not so many even know what Sanders Sides is because they didn't follow him on YouTube. You have to deal with the fact that Thomas could cancel Sanders Sides today, and he'd still have a very decent lifelihood thanks to the short videos. He makes Sanders Sides because he wants to and because it's a personal project of his. It's you who's in desperate need of Sanders Sides, not him, stop projecting.

Where am I going with this? It is okay to dislike Thomas, no one forces you to like him, and it's okay if his type of humor is not for you anymore. But you are not the center of the universe. There are still millions of people who enjoy what he makes whatever it is, and Thomas is not there to give you the content you want all the time like a video-making-machine. He's not going back to 2017-2018 when he literally destroyed his health with too much work. I know a lot of Fanders joined the fandom at that time, got used to that rythm of releases and miss it, but that time is not coming back, because above else, Thomas and his team are human beings, not slaves at your service and their mental an physical health is more important than your need for entertainment. If you can't accept that, you should seriously consider moving forward to other forms of entertainment that are more of your liking. And moving forward means moving forward completely, not going back and forth publishing insulting or condescending posts against Thomas and his team that are not gonna help you get content faster. Just because you are an "addict" to Sanders Sides (if you were just "invested", you wouldn't get to some extents I've seen some people get to) and didn't get served your daily dose of hyperfixation, that gives you no right to bitch around against the creators. It's your responsiblity to look for your own sources of entertainment wherever you can find them, but you have no right to demand anyone to make anything for you, because this is internet, not an a la carte restaurant. You have plenty of content created by hundreds of content creators anywhere, just choose it and consume it. But don't forget it's content creators who decide what, where and when they create anything, not the audience. The right of the audience is to like whatever or not, to follow whoever or not. It's not your business how he runs his business or his working schedules, because that's private. You only have a right to consume the final product, not to control every step of the production, and it's time some people start remembering this and pump the brakes with their attitude.

#thomas sanders #sanders sides

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dangermousie · 1 year ago

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Farscape rewatch - The Ugly Truth, 2x17

The Ugly Truth is an ep I enjoy a lot without having a ton to say about it (proceeds to say a ton about it.)

I find it entertaining how even without lying, the Moyans’ versions of what happen differ in subtle ways - Aeryn’s is most matter of fact and probably the closest to factual accuracy - between her past life of having to regularly give reports to superiors and her generally not being great at make believe - look at what a terrible actress she is when John wants her to put on a small act:

But also hers is the most believable and hardest to pick apart because once again, as military grunt she probably has more experience of telling most acceptable version within factual confines to her superiors.

In Zhaan’s, everyone is copacetic and wants to talk out their differences. In D’Argo’s he’s the center of the action with John and Aeryn as his backup.

And significantly, all Moyans present John as on their side. Moya does not have a leader but as Rygel complained about in Out of Their Minds, they do listen to Crichton the way they don’t do to the rest of themselves.

Other things - it strikes me again just how both hardened and broken John is. You can still feel waves of rage and loathing roll off him when he meets Crais again. Because his trauma has changed him on a permanent basis but also because he’s had no chance to heal even a little - they are on the run, he’s slowly going mad/controlled, terrible things keep happening. Forget having time and space to heal; new trauma keeps getting dumped on top.

And this Crichton has no desire to talk it out with the Plakovians (who he keeps calling Plakovoids and it’s such a small in character show of cussedness in John) or any hope or expectation it will help. Underneath it all, there is a terrifying dose of not giving a fuck nihilism if I die then I die in him. He is utterly unsurprised their trip and his life have gone to hell yet again, just sitting there grimly and angrily enduring, in expectation of something terrible.

The mystery of who fired on the ship is solved in the end, much too late to do any good, and I love that there is no good answer and also that Stark was innocent and was executed for nothing (and the irony of the worst arms dealers in the Galaxy supposedly so so so concerned with justice is as evident as the fact that they aren’t really looking for the truth, they are just engaging in confirmation bias - they are not sifting the narratives for the truth, they are sifting for them to confirm what they believe has happened.)

I said in The Locket, I love Stark and this ep confirms it.

On rewatch, I know he manages to come back but he does not know this here and is in fact thinking there is almost no chance.

And he still confessed to the action he did not commit and that will result in his execution, when it’s the only way to save the rest.

The scene with Zhaan with Stark’s mask - my heart!

In John X Aeryn news, love the way the ep shows them subtly and insistently as a unit.

And that last scene where he asks if she only concealed the truth because of Talyn (and not Crais) and it’s jealousy and uncertainty on his part and it’s clear to anyone with eyes that is what this for her but to him it’s too important and he’s too broken and too irrational about Crais not to ask.

And they look at each other in knowledge that what happened with Stark and Zhaan could happen to either of them and they live in a world of constant loss (and this is such a small preview of what is coming for them - ooof!)

PS when John says “cross my heart hope to die stick a needle in my eye” and I remember the next episode is Clockwork Nebari. Those writers were freaking insanely brilliant omg!

#farscape

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this-is-a-love-story-isnt-it · 8 months ago

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Ok, so as I said in my post about that article where Kurtzman basically said that filler episodes should be avoided in Star Trek, I started talking about Farscape in the tags, but it started getting too long, so I want to make a separate post.

I was thinking about "filler" episodes in Farscape, and as I was looking through Farscape episodes, I realized that a lot of Farscape episodes can be considered "filler". I've recently started calling them "stand alone" eps, though. It sounds more accurate. I noticed that most of the time in Farscape, the major plot advances are in the multiple-episode arcs a couple times per season. Like, most of season 1 was what you would call standalone eps. Did it further the plot of "the peacekeepers are after us and John has wormhole knowledge that Scorpius will do anything to get?" mostly no. We see it in Nerve/Hidden Memory, and then at the end of the season in Family Ties. Then in Mind the baby (2x01) they're still inside of the main story arc of dealing with the peacekeepers who are after them and putting Talyn in danger also. Episode 5 is important for a lot of backstory (but also character driven). And then we don't get into any more major movement of the plot until the Look At the Princess trilogy (s2 eps 11-13).

And then the next time the plot gets moved forward is in the Liars, Guns, and Money trilogy (s2 eps 19-21), and then in Die Me, Dichotomy and Season of Death (s2 ep 22 and s3 ep 1).

And then Self-Inflicted Wounds parts 1 and 2 (s3 eps 3-4). Then ep 6 (Eat Me) is critical to the storyline of the rest of the season.

Actually, I'm looking at the season 3 eps, and season 3 is a pretty equal balance between plot advancement and character/relationship development. But especially with the multi-part episodes like the Infinite Possibilities 2-parter, and the Into the Lion's Den 2-parter there's plot advancement.

The season 4 eps 2-3 are major plot episodes. And then no more plot-heavy eps until Unrealized Reality, Kansas, and Terra Firma (eps 11-13). and I guess the rest of the season is actually pretty plot heavy except for ep 14. It doesn't sacrifice the character interaction and development, but the plot is moved forward or is key to the overall arc for the rest of the series after that.

So really, only less than a 3rd of Farscape episodes further the overall story along. Most other episodes are important for character development and world building. Some of them are true stand alones in that there isn't really a lot of character development, either, just kind of like a fun ep (Like Through the Looking Glass or John Quixote).

So idk, it's kind of like there are 3 types of episodes in a lot of shows. I'm thinking of Farscape, Firefly, Fringe, and Star Trek here (like TOS, TNG, VOY, DS9). There are plot heavy episodes that contribute to the overall plot or main story arc, episodes that develop characters either in relation to the plot or just backstories, and then eps that nothing really happens except a fun adventure. With Firefly I actually don't really know if they developed a min storyline yet, except for the whole thing with River. I guess that was supposed to be the main arc? But most episodes were kind of standalone eps. Like adventure of the week kinds of things which allowed for character development and character interactions/relationship development. Fringe had a bunch of "monster of the week" episodes. Some of them gave character backstories or expanded what we know about the characters, but didn't really push the arc forward (or at least you didn't realize it at the time, but like 10 episodes later it turned out to be something significant lol).

But shows like Gilmore Girls... I guess shows like that are character driven most of the time. Most of the story arcs had to do with relationships. And there were arcs like Lorelai and Sookie opening their own inn, and there were a couple episodes that almost fully revolved around that. But it doesn't really have one main storyline or arc. Even sitcoms are like this. the story arcs are usually relationship related and each ep is kind of stand alone.

I'm thinking this main storyline and filler episode thing is unique to scifi shows, actually??? Specifically the "old" ones before they started making shows that only have 6-13 episode seasons.

New Star Trek series like Picard and Discovery are 98% plot and 2% character or relationship stuff. Same with a show I watched recently called Emergence. Character relationships were developed, but every episode contributed to the one storyline. Also currently watching Containment and it's the same way. Both of those shows had 13 episodes.

#farscape #firefly #star trek #fringe #filler episodes

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loganslowdown4 · 1 year ago

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//patreon

From the last livestream of Talyn’s Favourite Things: I tried Talyn’s coffee order! We don’t have Dunkins in Canada but I did it in Starbucks, gotta say, it’s a nice fall drink and I don’t usually drink coffee 😄

Talyn’s Favourite Coffee:

❥med iced coffee

❥2 pumps vanilla syrup

❥2 pumps hazelnut syrup

❥oat milk

(I added sugar too)

Also Talyn now goes by he/him and they/them pronouns and has been receiving gender affirming care. He looks like he’s thriving living in Vermont with Joan 🖤

#thomas sanders #Joan and Talyn #Talyn #ts patreon #Thomas sanders patreon #patreon livestream #Starbucks #dunkin donuts #iced coffee #fall drinks #autumn

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kazylgon · 1 year ago

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ask prompts 4 all: talyn 'alone', scraps 'bound', zedd 'future', rin 'secret' ty

hee hee hoo hoo here you go!!

Alone: How does your OC deal with loneliness? Have they ever been completely alone before? How do they act when there's no one around to see them?

Badly! Very VERY badly oh god it's BAD! Talyn is desperate for companionship and hates being alone, but is pretty much completely convinced that she doesn't deserve the company of others. She might hurt them due to the whole 'hungering for flesh' and 'transforming into a horrible monster' thing she has going on, you see.

This fear drove her to flee from her incredibly social society, which resulted in several years of largely aimless wandering completely alone, and definitely did not improve her issues with anxiety and self worth.

When there's no one around she actually feels more relaxed though! She doesn't feel like she has to perform to someone's expectations, and doesn't have to be constantly hypervigilant for signs that she might hurt someone. It also makes her incredibly depressed due to all the "you deserve this, you're too dangerous, no one likes, you couldn't be trusted to be around someone even if they did" thoughts floating around in her head. She doesn't like feeling the constant yearning for approval and affection and friendship so when she's alone she just...decides not to feel anything instead.

Bound: Has your OC ever been imprisoned or captured? What happened? How did they get out? Did the experience leave any scars?

Scraps got their start on the road to being a mad-scientific prodigy when they were enslaved by a necromancer! They'd left their kobold clan because they were smaller and weaker than all the others and were snatched up by the necromancer's servants who were sent out to find interesting creatures to experiment on.

To Scraps' great fortune the necromancer thought they were too pathetic for any of their important works, so just put forced them into more mundane work, like cleaning narrow spaces, and fetching things. The necromancer almost worked Scraps to death, and when Scraps eventually collapsed due to exhaustion, the necromancer told their other servants to "throw this failure in the corpse pile with the other scraps."

Scraps was overjoyed to be presented with this much food, and chewed on corpses in the corpse pile until they regained their strength. Afterwards they started sneaking out into the necromancer's lair to learn more about magic and anatomy and mad science, building on what they picked up from observing the necromancer's rituals while assisting. When Scraps had learned all they could from the necromancer's lair, they took control of a zombie (by climbing inside it and magically interfacing with what was left of its nervous system) and used it to stab the necromancer to death while they slept.

Scraps has nothing but positive memories about this experience. They got a name, they got so much food, they got a bunch of trinkets and magical batteries, and the knowledge of how to correct the unfortunate situation of having been born so frail and weak.

Future: What's the worst possible future for your OC? Are they taking steps to avoid that outcome? Are they even aware it's a possibility?

Becoming the person he used to be. That person was a cold blooded killer and a slave who was happy being a slave, the exact opposite of the person he is post amnesia.

Of course Zedd has no knowledge of that person. The people around him have a little bit of an idea, because Zedd is concerningly good at sneaking and murder, but he himself hasn't put two and two together yet. Even if he did know, it wouldn't really occur to him that it could happen. People just getting their memories back? That couldn't possibly happen, right???

But he's happy, and he has friends (well, he considers them friends at least, their opinion on the matter may vary) who trust him not to hurt them, and he wouldn't, he wouldn't even think of hurting them, and he'd consider it a fate worse than death to become the kind of person who would see so little value in those lives that he'd be willing to end them.

Secret: What's one secret your OC never wants anyone to know about them?

Basically everything? The less people know about her the better, as far as Rin is concerned. She wants people to know that she's amazing and powerful and perfect and NOTHING ELSE.

But her biggest secrets are that she's claustrophobic, and can't swim. (And also that she occasionally dreams about Talyn messily tearing her apart and eating her and isn't terrified but actually weirdly comforted by them)

#answered #oc rin #oc talyn #oc scraps #oc zedd

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mitchbeck · 1 year ago

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HARTFORD WOLF PACK WIN FIRST EXHIBITION GAME

By: Gerry Cantlon, Howlings HARTFORD, CT - The Hartford Wolf Pack pre-season begins with a 3-2 shootout win over the Springfield Thunderbirds on Wednesday at Koeppel Community Center at Trinity College. Ryder Korczak scored the lone goal for either team in the shootout. Pack rookie netminder Talyn Boyko played the second half of the contest and stopped all three Thunderbirds attempts, first by Tanner Dickinson, then Mikhail Abramov, and finally Mitchell Hoelscher for the win. In the first five minutes of the third period, the Wolf Pack built a late 2-1 lead on the strength of two goals scored a minute apart. The second, a power play goal, came at 3:35 by newcomer Seth Barton. “Obviously, it’s the first time together," Barton said afterward with a big smile. "We have progressively gotten to know each other since rookie camp, and it was good to get one under (our) belt. It took a while to get (the game) going under our feet. We had Boyk (Boyko) standing on his head helping the boys. Things went the other way for you because we had the shots (22-15 after two periods of play). It’s my third time going through this. A different group, different guys, different way of doing things. We had to get into a rhythm and it's been a welcoming place and looking forward to the next little bit.” Head coach Krie Knoblauch had praise for Barton's performance. “He looked comfortable out there. He was the quarterback and it looks like we'll keep him in that role.“ While the rosters were comprised of mostly ECHL-bound players, for the Pack, it allowed Knoblauch and assistants Steve Smith, Jamie Tardif, Colin Downey, and goalie coach Jeff Malcolm to get a glimpse of future possibilities. Pack General Manager, and Trinity Alum, Ryan Martin, Jed Ortmeyer, the Rangers' Player Development Director, and assistant Player Director, Tanner Glass also got the chance to assess what their depth players look like in the event of injuries or recalls this season. The team, especially the younger players, learned what the pace of a pro game looked like early. Luka Burzan lost the puck at center ice resulting from the efforts of the Thunderbirds' Alexandre Fortin, who brought the play into the Wolf Pack zone. Anthony Beauregard, off Fortin's pass, then netted a nifty backhander into the top part of the net over starting Pack goalie Olof Lindbom at 2:56. Lindbom made two strong saves about nine minutes into the first period. The first save was on Drew Callin and later on Keean Waskurak on a semi-breakaway. The early bumpy nature of play in the pre-season was to be expected. “There was good energy, but the first five minutes we were nervous, couldn’t put two passes together, but there were a lot of good plays too," Knoblauch said. Brett Berard played very well in the third period and for the majority of the second half of the game. “I liked that he was looking to shoot. He was getting his chances, getting the opportunities, getting to the middle of the ice. He really wanted that puck and took a big step. We didn’t see him a lot last year until he left college. I think he’s a better player than when he came to us last year. Just hope he continues to get better.” Defenseman Ryan McCleary, the son of New Haven Senator Trent McCleary, scored the first goal, a seeing-eye shot that found it’s way through a mass of legs and sticks at 2:13. Adam Edström, while not on the stat sheet, helped get the team out of the offensive mud. Though he did not score, he created chances, including an unsuccesful breakaway. “Edström, he’s a very strong skater and when he gets a step on a guy….he’s hard to catch. It’s nice to have a guy like that (6’7 and fleet of foot) who drives to the net. He’ll create a lot of opportunities, it was just unfortunate and too bad he didn’t score there.” Edström and Matt Rempe played together on a line with Sahil Panwar in the pivot to start off the game. Then to start the third period, Matej Pekar was in the donut hole as Knoblauch, never afraid to change a line philosophy, continued. NOTES: Dylan Garand, still in New York with the Rangers, is expected to play the whole game in Bridgeport against the Islanders. Knoblauch expects his timetable later in the week for the camp cuts to come. “Probably Friday or Saturday. I’m not sure right now.” Rempe was the last player off the ice pre-game. Mark Cairns made some sound defensive plays. The Springfield Thunderbirds lineup featured Fortin, the nephew of former Hartford Whaler Jean-Sébastien Giguère, as was Chris Harpur, the younger brother of current Ranger and ex-Pack Ben Harpur, whom played with the Orlando Solar Bears (ECHL) last season. Jansen Harkins, the son ex-Whaler Todd Harkins, was taken by the Pittsburgh Penguins off of waivers from the Winnipeg Jets. Other notables in AHL training camps, David Spacek (the son of former Beast of New Haven Jaroslav Spacek), is in Iowa Wild camp after the Minnesota Wild drafted and signed him. Ex-Pack Peter Holland was sent to the Colorado Eagles by the Avalanche. In Tucson, ex-Pack Tyson Helgesen and Peter DiLiberatore (Quinnipiac University) are both in the Roadrunners camp. Brad Morrison, the nephew of former New Haven Nighthawk and current Manitoba Moose Head Coach Mark Morrison, and ex-Bridgeport Sount Tiger Collin Adams are both in the camp of the Abbotsford Canucks. The cousin of former Sound Tiger Mark Katic, Danny Katic, is in Manitoba’s camp, while Brooklyn Kamilkov, the son ex-Sound Tiger Konstantin Kamilkov is in the Providence Bruins' camp, and the son of ex-Whaler Derek King, D.J. King is in the Rockford IceHogs' camp. Former Sound Tiger goalie Christopher Gibson was reassigned pending a waiver clear from the Dallas Stars to the Texas Stars. Patrick Grasso, the cousin of one-time New Haven Nighthawk Tom Mullen, like many others is in the camp of the independent AHL Chicago Wolves. Logan Drevitch, the son of former New Haven Nighthawk Scott Drevitch is in Henderson’s camp. He signed with the Savannah Ghost Pirates (ECHL) and is scheduled to play with his brother Tyler Drevitch this year. Ex-Pack Shawn McBride leaves Sterzig/Vitipeno (Italy-AplsHL) and signs with the Idaho Steelheads (ECHL). Trevor Zegras, (Avon Old Farms) signs a three-year extension with the Anaheim Ducks for $17.25M. Former CT Whale and Ranger, Matt Zuccarello, signed a two-year extension with the Minnesota Wild. Former Whaler and Ranger Marek Malik, is now the skills coach with HC Oceláři Trinec Czechia (Czech Republic)-CEL. One time Wolf Pack assistant coach David Cunniff, the son of the late, legendary New England Whaler John Cunniff, is now the assistant coach with the Utica Comets. Recently retired ex-Pack Kelsey Tessier, after finishing his career in France, goes back to where he started, becoming the skills coach for the Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL). Greg Moore, ex-Pack, Sound Tiger, and Springfield Falcon, who was a one-time Pack captain, let go from the Toronto Marlies, like Tessier goes back to his coaching roots. He is head coach of the US National U-17 team (USNDTP) and that plays in the USHL and his assistant is ex-Pack/CT Whale Chad Kolarik. Ex-CT Whale Kris Newbury, continues playing Canadian senior league hockey with Deseronto (EOSHL)-Easter Ontario Senior Hockey League. Adam Dawe, a UCONN (HE), half-a-semester post-grad last year re-signs with Newfoundland (St. John’s) Growlers (ECHL). UCONN opens their season this weekend on the road in a non-conference matchup against Colgate University (ECACHL) coached by ex-Pack Mike Harder. Goalie Remi DeSmith,(Torrington/CT Chiefs U-18 AAA-AYHL) is with the Gatineau Flames (QJHL), a Junior A club. HARTFORD WOLF PACK HOME Read the full article

#AHL #AmericanHockeyLeague #BeastofNewHaven #ChadKolarik #GregMoore #HartfordWolfPack #Jean-SébastienGiguère #KeithMcCambridge #KelseyTessier #MikeHarder #NationalHockeyLeague #NHL #QuinnipiacUniversity #SpringfieldThunderbirds #TorontoMarlies #XLCenter

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the-saga-of-fate · 2 years ago

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Long before the Gods were ever borne, when the universe was still young, there stood three beings that would weave the very fabric of the living world together. Three beings that are now known simply as The Fates.

Within these threads tells the tale of Life; the prospective ruler of all the Gods. The battles and hardships that had befallen the compassionate deity as the world continued to evolve and change.

It’s within this very thread, Life’s story, that Life is fated to die within the upcoming battle that will forever change not only the mortal realm, but the God’s as well.

This is your story.

Book Synopsis: Your fate has been cast. You are to die within the upcoming war that will plague your home. Unless, of course, you can find the three relics of The Fates; each one holding the power to stop your demise. Seems fairly straightforward. The only problem? The first relic lies within the Underworld… What could possibly go wrong with Life visiting the Afterlife?

Demo Features

A Touch of Darkness is the first book within The Saga of Fate Trilogy. It’s Rated 18+, please be aware of this before continuing! (Note: The Fates are taken from Greek/Roman Mythology, but that’s mainly where the comparisons end.)

Play as Life itself! The prospective ruler of the Celestial Domain of the Gods! Have you learned anything from your adopted father?

Customizable MC: name, gender (male, female, non-binary), appearance, sexuality, and more!

Have conversations with the various major and minor Gods/Goddesses that you can come across! As well as a few mortals too.

Will you magic be connected to plants? To animals? To people?

There are 5 possible Romance Options for Life!

Can you change the very fate that’s destined for you?

DEMO (TBA)

Morrigan [M | F] — Death

Morrigan is the God(dess) of Death; making their home within the Underworld. You haven’t seen them since you were children. Since they had been cast out upon their Choosing. You’ll never forget the look of betrayal they had sent your way as you did nothing to save them. Will you finally be able to make amends?

Appearance: Morrigan stands at around 6’6” with alabaster skin and shimmering violet eyes; speckled with gold. The pallid color of their skin brings out the inky darkness of their hair, but it also highlights the gentle kindness that always lurks within their gaze. They have a lithe/athletic build that’s always shrouded in dark clothing and/or armor. (They keep their hair long.)

Personality: Morrigan has a gentle heart and soft spoken voice that can be heard clearly across a room without the need for it to ever rise; as if the very shadows themselves carry it. They’re kindness, while not widely publicized within Odresos, is known far and wide within Odresia.

Some Notes: You have the option of having a past relationship with Morrigan, but you were always friends. The romantic aspect is completely optional.

Skylar [M | F] — The Guard

One of your closest companions for as long as you can remember. Skylar has been among your Guard since your father saw fit that you needed one; citing that he didn’t wish anything to happen to the most precious thing in his life. Skylar has always been someone that would put their life on the line for you no matter the cost. This time isn’t any different.

Appearance: Skylar stands at around 5’8” with dark brown skin and whiskey brown colored eyes. Onyx black hair is plaited to their shoulders to keep it out of their face during combat. They’re muscular physique is usually shrouded in the golden armor that denotes their position in your Guard.

Personality: Skylar is very much a no nonsense kind of person when it comes to your safety. While they do know how to take a breather every now and then, you’ve mainly only ever seen them keenly aware of their surroundings. They’re also loyal to a fault.

Talyn [M] — The Sentinel

On the complete flip side of Skylar, Talyn is a laidback individual that likes to see what happens. Unless, of course, that has to with Morrigan’s safety; then he’ll flip his tune in order to protect his ruler. While he has no qualms about interacting with you, there’s a hint of a weariness as he tries to figure you out. Will you be able to find a middle ground?

Appearance: Talyn stands at around 6’2” with bronze skin and icy blue eyes. Golden brown hair falls across his forehead in messy waves; highlighting the deep blue of his gaze. His athletic physique is commonly hidden behind his black robe and/or silver armor.

Personality: Talyn loves to take things easy when it comes to life in general; unless his Ruler is in trouble, of course. He doesn’t see the point in fretting over things that may not even happen. He likes to take things one step at a time.

Arabella [F] — Goddess of the Hunt

You’ve never gotten along that well with Arabella. Her silence, and propensity to disappear without a trace, not really helping matters in the slightest, but when your fate was revealed your father didn’t hesitate in choosing her. Not that you can blame him; Arabella is one of the best fighters within all of Odresos. Will it even be possible to get close to her?

Appearance: Arabella stands at around 5’11” with deep forest green eyes. Golden white hair, that falls to the middle of her back in loose curls, accentuates the light tan her skin naturally possesses. Her lithe body is hidden behind simple clothing to make it easier for to move without being heard.

Personality: Arabella is a hard woman to read on a good day. Her stoic face, calm voice and mannerisms, rarely giving anything away. The only time you’ve ever seen her smile is the brief instances you’ve seen with the children of Odresos or when she has her bow in her hands.

Zephyr [NB] — God of Wisdom

While Zephyr isn’t much of a fighter, their knowledge is completely invaluable. Your father saw fit to send them on the mission as you’d need their expertise. Will you be able to uncover the spirit that lies beneath the meekness that Zephyr tends to hide behind?

Appearance: Zephyr stands at around 5’6” with silver eyes. Auburn hair, kept to their jawline, accentuates the olive tone of their skin. Their slender, almost delicate, body being hidden behind their robes.

Personality: Zephyr is a fairly meek individual, but they’re one that won’t ever give up if they believe in something strong enough. They’re wisdom knows no bounds and they’re always looking to learn more, and share their knowledge with others. If they’re willing to listen.

#a touch of darkness #no demo #hosted games #demo should be released within the next two months #interactive fiction #interactive novel

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black-suns-rim · 2 years ago

Note

Hey I like your writing style and was wondering if you could write how you think a yautja would react to meeting another alien more advanced than them?

Word count: 826

I used my oc, Xorwen, for this request. I also used my original alien species for the more advanced alien he'd be meeting since this original alien species I have are an ancient race and highly advanced. I thought it would work perfectly for this promt ^^ I hope you enjoy

Yautja meets Loreirran

Xorwen was tracking down a distress signal from another ship. The signal wasn't from any yautja ship, he knew that, but he was curious to know who it could be from since not many alien races were intelligent enough to make space travel possible.

"You just better be careful, it could be a trap." Talyn warned him over the coms.

"I know, like I've told you, I will. You know me." Xorwen slowed his ship down as he got closer to the coordinates.

"Yeah, I know you, that's why I'm telling you to be careful."

Xorwen chuckles, "I love you too. I'll get you some plant samples after I'm done checking this signal out. This planet is teaming with plant life. I'm heading into the atmosphere now so I'll check in with you later."

"Okay, love you. Come back in one peace."

Xorwen turned off the coms and entered the planet's atmosphere. The planet had thick clouds and lots of plant life.

"Oh, these seems like a nice place to live. Temperature seems good too. Definitely going to bring back some of the plants of Tal." Xorwen spoke to himself. He liked thinking out loud more than anything.

He piloted his ship to the source of the distress signal. He came across a sight of a crashed space craft in a clearing. He landed his ship down by the crash and prepared himself for what he might find. He put on his half mask and walked out of the ship, armed just in case.

The crashed space craft was large. From what he could tell, the architecture of the ship was smooth and sleek. It's once white finish was chard and the exterior was dented and broken. Metal pieces stuck out from it like random strands of fur on the shirt of of cat owner.

Xorwen stepped into the ship from a hole that had been made on impact of the crash. He cautiously looked around. The interior of the ship was just like the exterior; smooth and sleek. It was mainly white and laced with blue and gold as well as black. Pieces of the ship were scattered within and the flashing of red lights made the quiet ship feel more eerie.

The technology of the ship seemed more advanced than what he had. He couldn't help but to look around and touch some of the stuff he found. He had to remind himself of why he was here; to help whoever sent out that distress signal. When he found his way to the cockpit, he saw a large figure in the captain's seat.

The figure was strapped in to the chair but they were bleeding and had a large chunk of metal impaled in their lower abdomen. This figure had armor covering their whole body. It's design matched the ship. The underarmor looked to be made of a nanotechnology.

This figure had 4 arms, 6 antennae, a long tail and no eyes. This figure was also much larger than Xorwen. When he saw that the pilot of impaled, he walked over to them to check their vitals. Still alive but knocked out. He had to stop them from bleeding first. He prepared his med kit, getting everything ready before having to take that large shard of metal out of the pilot. Xorwen injected them with numbing and healing fluids, took out that metal shard and then culterized their wound.

This made the pilot wake up, flailing their arms and screeching. Xorwen was knocked back and had the wind knocked out of him. He sat up and gasped for air while the pilot looked to him after calming down a bit. The pilot winced from the pain and then unfastened the strap That was keeping them restrained to their seat. They seemed too tired to do anything else so they rested there.

Xorwen got up and walked to them. He looked at them with curiosity. The pilot did the same. They noticed the red lights were still flashing on the ship, so they turned them off with a voice command. This pilot spoke in a more animalistic language but yet their technology seemed way more advanced than the yautja's. When the pilot had enough strength, they got put of the seat and limped their way to a panel.

They opened it with a voice command and pulled out a small device. They limped their way back to their seat and sat down. The pilot motioned for Xorwen to speak or say something, so he did. This small device then turned on and showed a holoscreen. The pilot touched the screen and played around around some buttons before speaking themself.

The device directly translated their animalistic speech to something Xorwen could understand.

"Thank you."

"Whoa.. um, you're welcome."

The two talked to each other through the aid of that device. During the whole time, Xorwen was amazed, impressed and respected the technology this other alien had.

#predator #yautja #the predator #alien #character #oc #yautja oc #original character #original species #original alien species #closed species #writing promt #prompt #writing #advanced alien #advanced alien species

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waokevale · 4 years ago

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Sanders Sides

-The Snow Queen AU-

[In this ver. The Frost King]

I just had to do this one after I reconnected with the book, yet...I made some major changes (big ones) for the roles to be more interesting and fitting, not just random I suppose.

[ If you haven't read the book, and wish to do so...I suppose it does quite matter for you to understand more but do as you wish from that point.........]

This version of the story is happening in the beginning of The 18th Century, and the characters who play the roles of the ones from the story, or have changed/replaced roles with suposedly similiar Input here are:

• Kai - Remus - (The boy who was the victim of the broken mirror’s fiendish shard.)

• Gerda - Roman (The main protagonist, i suppose)

[In the original story Kai and Gerda are not quite related but are as close as siblings can be, in this one although, of course the twins are, well...the twins.]

• Instead of the Grandmother we have the father of the boys, that no one, literally no one would guess who plays the role of him.......Patton...!

• After that, there is also Logan, who gets the role of being The Frost King, The Cursed Frost King in fact (and by cursed I mean he literally pissed someone off [or broken their heart...] centuries before and they turned him into an ice dude)

• Speaking of curses and magic, Janus is the young Sorcerer instead of the Elder Sorceress from the canon story. And in this verse, let's say that Sorcerers are Immortal beings like vampires, because I felt like it, and let's say he's like... approximately 957 y.o

Janus in this version does not keep Roman for a while, because he is a really bored selfish prick, but because he is desperate and genuinely still sad from the time he lost his own kid (guess who that might be...If you know my obsession with familial anxceit you already know who I’m talking about, yes..) Virgil.

[And no, Virgil is not dead as you see in the fanart, he is cute, alive and well.]

• Speaking about him, he is intended to replace the role of the robber girl. But in this version he was stolen from his Pa/Ma one Summer night...

He didn't age at all because...Well, I just said it, Janus is immortal and Vee in this one is actually his biological kid, so Virgil himself is like 53 y.o

• Pryce and Valery are the Prince and the Princess in the upper corner of the picture. (They are meant to be siblings here)

In the other corner are Thomas and Talyn playing the roles of these magical Finn and Lapp people. (I honestly have no idea how else to call them)

And the Crow and the Raindeer are Remy and Emile, because why not.

[To put it simply, like in the canon of TSS no one here is evil (well except the douchebags of Virgil's kidnappers, but they are not canon characters)]

Also before all of that, I wanted to have a little summery and explanation of some of the situations and short stories from this au

-Remus at first is quite a dork (heh) but really he is a pretty friendly and goofy kid, sure he is quite strange in general but he does show love and affection towards his family (well until the shard of The Mirror got stuck in his eye)

-Logan used to be a Prince from the 10th Century who supposedly felt no emotions and was like a stone husk, or a living statue as people used to say, which made his father desperate enough to the point, he literally set up a very great award for anyone who would make him.. feel something in that matter (The emotionlessness was more of an odd and quite unrealistic version of depression, as to be portraid)

-There was one and only one person who succeded in the act and in which fell head over hills for him in the process actually (before the magic mirror of evils broke into pieces, one of the first ones then fell into his own eyes, destroying all the progress and hurting the one who loved him the most, who was the very exact person who freed him from his deep shelled abyss before.)

[I’m not going to say who that was, you’ll have to figure it out by yourself, if you even bother, that is of course]

-Patton is a single father (wow)

He actually managed to find a way into the Garden of Enternal Summer when he was a kid and... As I quote myself:

“ As a faint Memory, The boy saw the most Elegant and quite The most Beatiful man he’d ever seen, yet with a face halfly scarred with scales as if one cursen upon his soul, his outfit too as his posture spoke was vastly gorgeous, painted mainly in golden and black, but what was yet even more so intriguing, was what he held under his arms, ever oh so gently as it were a small and fragile feather. It in fact..quite was at some point, as it was a small child, very young actually from what it seemed...An Infant it was. The man then walked up to him and offered him his hand, one that wasn’t either of his main two, but nonethless he did so and shared one of the warmest of smiles too, no living creature, no beast nor no man would at this point decline and reject his proffer.”

[Yeah...I’m not good with poetry, especially as English despite it all is my second language...I’m even worse with my main one, so eh.]

Buuut he eventually left either way, so..

[Almost no one could find the secret pathway into the Garden of the Enternal Summer as it was well hidden behind the forests, lakes, caves and mountains. So Roman and his family were quite lucky at this point.]

That is all for now I suppose, I have only one question though...

-Roman is a very sweet kid who talks with animals and plants (but let’s make it a bit more realistic here, the plants do not respond in this version and he is confused but still continues to do so) He is although flawed because a character without flaws is like...A Pizza without the Sauce or a Knife without its blade, blunt and boring that is. Yeah...He has anger issues and is quite impatient and stubborn which is interpreted in both good and bad ways.

-Virgil was gifted with a flower magical hair clip (to help him whenever he was in trouble), a violet scarf and a guardian pet Goliath Birdeater Spider shafed like a Purple Pinktoe Tarantula to protect him from any dangers.

Do you think this is an interesting AU?

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ettadunham · 3 years ago

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thefandomcritique replied to your post “WAKE ME UP INSIDE”I’d laugh but that episode is DEVASTATING....

I’d laugh but that episode is DEVASTATING. Despite, y’know, the weird baby monster.

To be honest, even the baby monster worked for me, it was creepy and sleazy, and the whole thing just broke my heart. (Hence why I needed to make the joke to laugh through the pain 😅)

thefandomcritique replied to your post “magnificent”I am very fond of Revenging Angel though I do take...

I am very fond of Revenging Angel though I do take the point of some that as an exploration of head-trauma and near-death experiences at the hand of your best friend, it does push the "silly" envelope a bit far.

Huh, I had no idea that this was a discourse, for what it's worth, I enjoyed the ep too. I think I let go of the whole always-taking-traumatic-events-seriously-thing around Crackers - there's this one scene there with Crichton and Chiana that... was a bit much to me if I'm being honest, even if they played it off later with an 'oh, she's not bothered by it'. Even beyond that, I thought that this ep worked as John purposely avoiding the severity of his situation through the whole cartoon angle.

thefandomcritique replied to your post “i'm also just impressed with how long they're...”Yeah there was a lot of commentary about that at...

Yeah there was a lot of commentary about that at the time. Week on week it was a weird experience but the comparisons were interesting. I remember someone saying that on the Moya side it felt too much like Pilot was babysitting the kids. I dunno I liked how it went. It worked well and explored different aspects of the characters. Loved the development / deepening of the buddy dynamic between D’Argo and John. But there was a lot of silliness too. More than even usual with Farscape.

I liked the balance too, there were some relatively lighter episodes on the Talyn side too (e.g.: Meltdown), but they really let loose on the Moya side, and I quite enjoyed that (especially after some of the heavier episodes). But it's probably different binging it now than it was watching it week for week, hence why I'm impressed that they just went for it at the time. (Although I imagine that there were probably mainly technical/cost reasons for it, I'd be interested to read up on what was the background on this later.)

thefandomcritique replied to your post “i knew they were gonna kill that version, i...”Yeah, it was predictable, but tragic. And JESUS...

Yeah, it was predictable, but tragic. And JESUS his death scene in AMAZING.

I kept expecting them to bring up the other John, and they didn't, they made sure that the tragedy of it landed wholly, and it sure did!!

thefandomcritique replied to your post “i miss zhaan 😟”Totally. Zhaan's absence is always felt. ALWAYS.

Totally. Zhaan's absence is always felt. ALWAYS.

😘🌼 for Zhaan :(

thefandomcritique replied to your post “if i ever met aeryn sun i'd do nothing but love...”Love, cherish, worship - it's what she deserves

Love, cherish, worship - it's what she deserves

#mse's watching farscape #replies #thefandomcritique

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cesabutterflywrites · 3 years ago

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Prince in the Storm: Chapter Sixteen

Summary: Contrary to popular belief, Virgil was sensitive. Most people saw him as some “spooky, broody dude”, when in reality he was just a private person. Teachers tried to open his mind up with a figurative crowbar. Everyone tried to get him to open up. Well, everyone except his best friend Talyn. They were the only one who understood his personality and inner workings just enough to be his friend. However, they haven’t seen his Marking. No one other than his parents have. Contrary to popular belief, Roman was sensitive. Most people saw him as a fanciful, dreamy, somewhat egotistical thespian who wanted nothing but to be the best of the best. Everyone cheered him on in his performances. Everyone praised his original works. Anything he made others enjoyed. People would whisper about his Marking, wondering where it was and when he would reveal it. He had a whole circle of friends, yet no one except his best friend Joan understood him. Joan was the only one who saw Roman’s insecurities. As students of Kingston High School, with zany principals and try-hard superintendents, it is up to Virgil and Roman to stay alive enough to fulfill their destiny. Ao3

Word Count: 6129

Chapter Warnings: none

Prologue, Chapter One, Chapter Two, Chapter Three, Chapter Four, Chapter Five, Chapter Six, Chapter Seven, Chapter Eight, Chapter Nine, Chapter Ten, Chapter Eleven, Chapter Twelve, Chapter Thirteen, Chapter Fourteen, Chapter Fifteen, Chapter Sixteen

Bonuses: Immune to Change

Roman woke up with his head at the foot of his bed, hugging his pillow, and his notebook open on the floor. He didn't remember falling asleep. He didn't remember dreaming. He definitely didn’t remember why he had drool stuck to his cheek. He rolled over to shut off his alarm on his nightstand. That's when it dawned on him.

He didn't remember dreaming.

He shot upwards. His heart was pounding. Was this a sign? Were he and Virgil on the right path? He hadn't believed that mumbo jumbo about Soulmate Magic and dreams when Joan told him in the beginning of the school year. When Roman talked about his weird nightmare that Virgil had started to play a small role in. Was that only 6 weeks ago?

But why would they stop when he finally felt comfortable around Virgil? What did it all mean? He really needed to ask Joan for those articles again. Maybe they weren’t mystical mumbo jumbo after all. He should have been paying more attention to them when he was obsessing over the nightmares in the beginning of the school year. After all, internet articles weren’t always unreliable sources, right?

Roman sat at his vanity mirror. His reflection had changed from what he’d been seeing for the past two weeks. He looked brighter. It was like the depressive haze since their first kiss was thinning. He could see the light at the end of the tunnel. His eyes looked crinkled from the wide smile on his face as he gazed into his reflection’s eyes.

Humming a tune from Tangled, Roman combed through his hair. Linda didn't seem up to her usual antics. That rebellious strand of hair was actually laying down with the rest of his hairdo.

He looked...good. Not quite like his old self. This confidence was more...genuine. Happiness looked good on him. Is this what other people saw in him when he walked through the halls? A young man who just radiated the energy of sunny attraction? Or was this a new sight in general? Was he seeing himself clearly, or for the first time?

His hair was caught in a beam of early morning sunlight, bringing out the strands of gold and red that only appeared in the purest of lighting. He resisted the urge to blink as he inspected his eyes. Had the golden brown always been so rich? Was the sun just in a good spot in the sky shining through his window, or was he finally seeing himself the way he’s wanted to since he was a child?

Closing his eyes, Roman took in a deep inhale through his nose. He tried to remember that stormy night when Patton spoke with an anxious Virgil. Smell the rose?

He opened his eyes on the exhale. The morning so far tasted sweet to him. A beginning. A fresh start.

With bold proclamation, he recited his affirmations to his reflection. He sang

them to the tune he’d been using since he first came up with them in the eighth grade.

“ I am pretty

I am a star

I am an artist

I am perfect

I am a prince ”

When he had first written those affirmations down, Joan teased him because he used ‘Prince’ instead of ‘King’, like his last name. Roman explained it to them as best as he could. Princes were at the beginning of their journeys. Princes got to perform, they got to explore. He told Joan all those years ago that he’d change it to King when he was older and had enough life experiences under his belt. Or when he was ready to settle down with his true love.

Roman sighed as he remembered that day while getting dressed. He wondered if Joan actually did understand, or if they had just nodded to get him to shut up.

No, that wasn’t true. Joan was the only person who understood him. Even though by now Joan had probably forgotten about the affirmations. They didn't know he still did them five years later. It wasn’t something that really had a place in everyday conversation.

Half an hour later, Roman was pulling up to the student parking lot earlier than usual. That’s what happens when one gets decent sleep , he supposed. There were a few students milling about. The air was getting crisper. The summer humidity had changed to a fall humidity (the difference only noticeable to a long time resident of Parkwill, of course). Roman was glad he had decided to leave his jacket at home. Any rain that came wouldn’t be too bad. It would probably be more misty than anything.

He made his way to his first class on the second floor, English with an old man named Mr. Richardson. He needed to ask for an extension on his essay. He had been ignoring most of his homework in his depression since Virgil kissed him. He wondered how he’d be feeling after their date. Would he be in such a joyous high that he’d continue to ignore his studies? It was a worry for him. His deal with his parents was good grades as a trade for continuing theater. Briefly he considered even telling his mom that he had a date tonight.

Roman paused in the doorway of the classroom as the realization hit him. He was going on a date. A date! He was going to be taking Virgil on a date. That Virgil initiated! Virgil, distant Virgil, handsome Virgil, with a mouth that tasted like the heat of a summer bonfire and lips that felt like plug outlets.

Roman felt tears prick at his vision. Happy ones. Virgil had asked him on a date. Did this mean they were ready to move forward? No more nightmares?

No, he wouldn’t get his hopes up yet. He needed to go slowly. He had always planned from the beginning that his soulmate would be the one to reveal himself, or Roman would after he was done with his travels. When he was ready to settle down. Also, just because Virgil wanted to go on a date, it didn't mean they were ready to jump into the thick of it. Roman needed to be patient.

Patience is a virtue, but I’m not a freaking nun or anything, Roman thought as he walked down the hallway.

Roman walked into the room with a strange feeling of electricity dancing over his arms. He looked at the desk his English teacher usually sat in during the morning. Instead of Mr. Richardson, though, there was his favorite teacher and a man he had only seen twice before, but had never been introduced to.

“Oh, Roman, you’re a bit early, aren’t you?” Mr. D asked. What was that look on his face? He was...smiling. He only did that when he was looking forward to something special.

“Uh, yeah, I got decent sleep.” Roman was eyeing the two men. He couldn’t help but feel off-kilter as the sparks continued shooting up his arms.

“Good, good.” The drama teacher patted Roman’s shoulder absently. “By the way, no rehearsal tonight. We all need a night to relax and regroup, right?”

Roman nodded. He knew that the teacher was implying something, but he didn’t know what it was exactly until he spoke up.

“Wow, Princey, you always look this good?” a gruff voice called from the back of the classroom.

That explained the weird feeling in his arms. “Oh, hi, Virgil!” He ran his hand on the back of his head, which most likely would wake Linda from her slumber. “Sorry I didn’t see you there...in the shadows.”

Virgil rolled his eyes as he walked forward. “Whatever, I’ll see you later.”

Then he did something Roman didn’t expect. Virgil embraced him, not even minding the awkwardness of the backpacks they both wore, and then kissed his cheek.

“See you at lunch, Roman.” Virgil winked at him before he left.

Roman was frozen from the weird pain/not pain feeling in his abdomen. He jumped at the sound of Mr. D chuckling.

“That’s the action I want to see from you when we get back to rehearsals. Pull on that feeling okay?” The theater teacher pat Roman on the shoulder again as he walked out.

Roman stared at the superintendent, who was grinning like he had just won a goldfish- or a freaking puppy-at the fairgrounds. What was that all about? Virgil must be scheming something, and the superintendent looks like he’s expecting something from me.

Roman did what he did best, he played it off cool before he died of stage fright.

“How rude of him not to introduce me to you, I’m Roman. Roman King.” Roman stuck his hand out politely. He hid his relief that the buzzing had stopped vibrating on his skin.

“Yes, of course, my nephew hasn’t always had the best manners.” The man shook Roman’s hand. “But that’s why you like him, isn’t it?”

Roman let out one of his ‘Noble Noises’, a name that Joan gave to the sounds he couldn’t help but let out when he was at a loss for words.

“Wh- I- ha-”

“Relax, Roman.” Thomas chuckled. “Mr. Richardson is going to be out for the week. Due to the lack of-” he clenched his jaw- “stability in this school, Principal Duke hasn’t set up any substitute teachers to be on our call list. I could have had other teachers work on their off periods to cover the class, but I have free time.”

“Isn’t being a substitute a bit below your paygrade?” Roman asked without thinking.

“I was a sub before I was anything else.” Thomas held his arm out to direct Roman to take his seat.

A group of students wandered in as the bell rang. Mr. Sanders smiled warmly at Roman. A bit too nice, as if he knew a big secret.

Jeesh, was Roman getting too paranoid for his own good? Or was he getting his hopes up?

Roman made his way to his desk, excited to see how the Superintendent of the entire district would teach. He knew that Mr. Sanders was taking the fall semester to exclusively monitor how Kingston High was improving, but he didn’t know that he’d be this involved. His reputation for caring about education seemed to hold more truth to it than Roman thought. Hopefully it meant that he'd leave the drama department alone.

The second bell rang. Mr. Sanders walked up in front of the whiteboard to write down his name. Not that he needed to, he did just introduce himself to the entire school just a short time ago.

Roman pulled out his English notebook. He was sure that Mr. Sanders would make them continue their assignments. Mr. Richardson had them working on learning about the various types of essay formats. The unit was difficult, especially since he wanted them to do three different essays in different formats as a way to show how well they understood.

Mr. Sanders’ demeanor had changed now that he was in front of the classroom. Roman recognized that shift. It was the type of body stance that actors took right before getting into character. The tension in his stance to fend off the stage fright.

“Hello class,” Mr. Sanders greeted. He sounded like a car salesman rather than a substitute teacher. “Mr. Richardson will be out for a week. I will be your teacher while he is gone.”

He turned on his heel to the whiteboard. He wrote out a phrase on the whiteboard:

“Soulmate Magic: Myth or Fact?”

Roman felt himself about to choke on his own spit. He hated the Universe sometimes. He had just been wondering about that this morning.

“Who here believes in Soulmate Magic?” Mr. Sanders asked the class while he drew out a chart of some sort on the whiteboard.

Roman felt his arm lift up without his permission. He hurriedly looked around the rest of the classroom. There were a few students also looking around with their hands in the air too. One guy in the back of the class was chuckling to himself.

“Mr. Flannigan, what’s so funny?” Mr. Sanders asked as he turned around.

The boy shrugged, causing his bulky headphones to shift on his leather jacket. “This is English class in high school ,” he emphasized with a sneer. “You can’t expect us to believe that fairytale bullshit.”

Roman and the others had put their arms down by then. If he had been asked this before meeting Virgil, he would have been on the fence. However, since the first day of school there were just too many coincidences and feelings and experiences he had noticed. After all, he did start believing the Dream Theory enough to go with Virgil to his house when they had barely known each other...and also kiss him that next morning.

Mr. Sanders didn’t even acknowledge the cuss word from the bold student. He looked amused. “I take it the rest of you feel this way too?”

The class all seemed to shift uncomfortably. Gabrielle, the girl who sat behind Roman, spoke up first. “It’s not that I think it’s bull, it just feels like something we say to kids.”

“Oh? Then do you know why Markings exist?” The Superintendent looked like he was holding information no one else had. Roman had a heavy feeling in his stomach at that look. His smirk was an older version of Virgil’s.

Gabrielle frowned. “No one does. They’ve been around forever. They’re just...something that’s natural.”

“Would you be willing to argue that point as passionately as Mr. Flannigan in the back?” Mr. Sanders asked.

Gabrielle blushed and looked down at her desk as a few kids snickered. “Well, maybe, I don’t know.”

Mr. Sanders went back to the whiteboard and labeled the columns he had drawn out. On the left he had written “Myth”. On the other side he had written “Fact”. Underneath “Fact” he started writing the names of some of the students who had their hands raised earlier. Roman felt sweat start to form on his forehead as his name was written in the “Fact” section.

As he wrote, Mr. Sanders spoke. “Your teacher was doing a unit on the different types of essays in academia. I’m sure you’re all familiar with the traditional thesis statement. For the first half next week you’ll be spending class time working in groups on finding research online supporting your side of the argument. We’ll spend one day in the school library looking for books as sources too. Then the second half of the week you’ll each write your own essay about why you think Soulmate Magic is or isn’t real.”

Roman sighed. Could he use personal experience as his only source?

Mr. Sanders had finished writing their names on the board. He uncapped a pink marker. He looked behind him at the class and asked. “Who here has met their soulmate yet?”

Roman gulped. He didn’t want to jump the gun. There was still a chance he was being set up for disappointment despite the other ‘signs’. Maybe this project would help him find the truth-or as close as he can get-about what the hell was going on with Virgil without actually talking about it. Obviously he'd need better sources than Buzzfeed's 'Six Signs You've Found Your Soulmate' article he had seen floating around.

Mr. Sanders put a pink asterisk next to the names of the students who had found their soulmates. There were a few on each side of the chart. Roman felt a lump in his throat. There were more people who found their soulmates while young than he had thought. That didn't help with the whole "not getting his hopes up about his career" thing.

They spent the rest of the class being assigned to their study groups. They were sorted into groups of four. Roman was assigned to work with Marissa Falcon, Andrew Harrison, and Mercy Fenton. They had changed their seating to make sure they were all sitting together. They had moved their desks to face each other close to the door.

Marissa was definitely excited about this project. Her tight red curls bounced around her face even when she was still. She was one of the students with a pink asterisk next to her name on the board. The only one in their group, actually. Meaning that she had already found her soulmate.

“So, putting aside the weirdness of the superintendent of the entire school district being here, can we just talk about how cool it is to learn about this?! Much better than what the old man was doing.” Her voice reminded Roman of bubblegum and the color pink. She was excitable, bright, and definitely had the glow of someone who considered herself an expert.

Roman was just glad he wouldn’t have to take the lead on the project. Maybe working with someone his age who had already found their soulmate would help him out with his personal life as well as give him an edge on his essay. The other two in the group barely participated in the rest of the conversation. He got the feeling that Marissa and he were the ones who were going to take the assignment seriously.

It was too soon that the bell rang for his next class. Disappointed, Roman packed his backpack. He waved goodbye to the substitute. Mr. Sanders gave him a smile in return as he pulled aside Gary Flannigan. Probably to talk to him about the cussing earlier in class.

Roman went to his next class. Thinking to himself, I hope this is a sign I’m on the right path with Virgil .

-------

“Jeez, Talyn, don’t tug my hair so hard!” Virgil griped. He was trying not to flinch as Talyn precariously combed the dye through his hair.

“Well, do you want me to be thorough or no?” They responded tersely. They were trying - unsuccessfully - to hide their smile at Virgil’s pain and suffering.

“Remind me to never let you dye my hair in a bad mood, Talyn” Joan snarked as they read a book at Virgil’s desk. The Chrome Borne was the title that Virgil caught.

It was weird, Virgil admitted to himself, to have his maybe-boyfriend’s best friend hanging out with him without Roman being there. Not bad, just weird. It made Virgil a little annoyed that he couldn’t have one on one time with Talyn as much anymore. Still, Joan was fun to have around. They were able to keep Talyn from smacking Virgil upside the head quite a few times.

“Don’t make me flick some of this on your stupid face,” Talyn muttered so only Virgil could hear.

“Why are you being so rough with my precious head? I don’t need a concussion on my first real date, Tal.” Virgil winced as Talyn purposefully tugged on his bangs.

“You can’t get a concussion from hair pulling, smartass.” Talyn responded sweetly. “Besides, maybe next time you’ll give me more time to prepare to do this. I know I’m magic but I’m no miracle worker.”

“Not my fault I’ve been busy!” he whined. “You don’t want me to fail classes do you?”

Talyn huffed as they clipped up the section they had finished. Their movements were more gentle now. “No. You need all the help you can get.”

“What does hair dye have to do with failing classes?” Joan asked. They set down their book and spun in the desk chair to face Virgil.

“Virgie has finally decided to take school seriously. So he’s gotta learn how to do homework for the first time.” Talyn was starting to trail off as they poured their focus where it should have been - making sure Virgil’s hair dye wasn’t fucked up.

He rolled his eyes. “What they mean to say is that Mr. Charles has been helping me after school twice a week to get my homework done. I’m in a stupid deal for the first half of the semester to actually try to be a good student.”

Joan’s eyebrows raised. “Never took you for a hard worker, no offense.”

“None taken, neither did I.” Virgil grinned. “Hey, can I ask you something?”

Joan made a show of rolling their eyes and groaning. “How dare you burden me with trying to find answers to the universe?” They put their wrist against their forehead and leaned over the side of the spinning chair. “It’s so hard being an oracle. Haven’t you heard of google?”

Virgil and Talyn snickered. “I see where Princey gets his theatrics,” he remarked.

Joan immediately shot up, leaning their elbows on their knees and looking at Virgil with mighty curiosity. “Why do you call him Princey? His name is King.”

Virgil shrugged impulsively, causing Talyn to flick him for moving. “I dunno. It slipped out one day and kinda stuck.” There was more to it than that, but there was no way he was going to give that information to Roman’s right hand.

“It’s just kinda funny to me,” Joan’s eyes looked lost in thought, “That you’d choose a nickname for him based off of his affirmations.”

“Roman does affirmations?” Virgil asked, surprised. “Isn’t that for people who don’t like themselves or something?”

Joan frowned at Virgil, and in a reprimanding tone said, “Not necessarily. Sometimes people do it to control how they view themselves. Sometimes it’s to remind them of their goals.” Joan sounded sad when they added softly, “Besides...Roman doesn’t exactly have a very high view of himself. He probably doesn't even know that I remember he made affirmations all those years ago."

Virgil snorted. “The guy’s got an ego the size of the Chrysler Building.”

Talyn paused their work and shared a look with Joan. Joan shifted in the seat, looking down. Their voice a near whisper, “Not really. He’s just a good actor, ya know?”

Oh.

“I get it now,” Virgil looked down as Talyn pushed his head forward. “He did seem really...hollow...after something-”

“I know what happened, Virge, you don’t need to go into it.” Joan didn’t sound like they had fake disinterest. They truly weren’t digging for information and wanted to respect Virgil’s privacy.

Remembering that fuck-up was hard for Virgil. It was still so fresh in his mind. “No, it’s okay, I want you to know my side.”

He didn’t wait for an acknowledgement. He told Joan about Roman meeting him on the bus, their walk home, the panic attack, the family dinner, Roman spending the night, the morning, the kiss, him running away, and the talk with Uncle Thomas.

Joan helped fill in some blanks for him, too. He heard about how Roman had been so distraught when he visited their house right after. Joan mentioned something about a song, which led into the trio getting sidetracked into Joan’s history of creating with Roman. It was nice hearing stories about Theater Camp. Hearing about Roman’s softer side was way better than hearing constant praise from people who barely knew him.

“So, what was your original question?” Talyn nudged while they put the shower cap on Virgil’s head.

Virgil thought for a moment. What was the question he had?

“Oh! Right! Hey Joan,” Virgil reached for his phone in the pocket from his jeans. “Could you tell me if Roman would like this surprise idea that I have?”

Joan took the phone that they were handed. Their face slowly grew more mischievous and they were laughing a creepy, sinister laugh by the time they were done with it. “Yes, yes he will love this.”

“Really?” Virgil asked as he stood up to stretch his legs. “I hope he’ll understand what I’m trying to say.”

Joan bit their lip in thought. Talyn sat on their lap in the small rolling chair, which creaked under the weight of them. Virgil just sat on his bed while waiting for their response.

“I think,” Joan started in a more serious tone, “that it’s a sweet idea. He’s always said that he didn’t want to know his soulmate before he was ready with an established career.

“But I don’t know, he’s changed a lot in the past two months. He may not be willing to commit to it no matter what you say. He’s been down pretty bad, Virge.” Joan started rubbing their finger up and down Talyn’s forearm while swaying back and forth. “I say, go for it. You’ve got most of it all planned out. I will say that if you go through with this, maybe prepare yourself for him to not be understanding of what you’re asking for. Because it is a lot.”

Virgil nodded slowly. “I’ll see how the date goes tonight. I don’t really wanna jump the gun, you know?”

Talyn got up to sit next to Virgil and rub his shoulder. “Your date is going to go fine. You already know he’s in love with you. You’ve just gotta clear the air on some things. This is a time for honesty.”

“And really, this surprise you’ve planned out, Virgil?” Joan giggled. “I’m gonna do everything I can to make sure this happens.”

“Yeah, watching you two dance around each other is better than any soap opera.” Talyn agreed.

The trio talked for a bit more before the timer on Talyn’s phone went off for Virgil to rinse out his hair. He rushed to the shower so he could be ready on time for his date.

Virgil was in the shower rinsing his hair when it hit him. Roman would be going on a date with him. It wouldn’t be just a normal date, though, but a chance for Virgil to be vulnerable about everything. He needed to come clean about his side of what happened. Especially hearing about how Roman was so empty after that first kiss.

The water was cold, which normally didn’t bother Virgil, but he found himself shivering at the thought of hurting Roman again. Was he ready to try? What if he was just doing this to make himself feel better? What if, when he explained himself, Roman thought he was toxic? What if Roman just couldn’t be with someone who won’t reveal their Marking? What if he fucked up again ? What if he can't open up after all?

Once the water was running clear in the tub, Virgil stepped out to dry his hair off with his “Trash Towel”. It’s the towel he used when his hair was freshly dyed. He didn’t want to ruin a bunch of different ones with leaky hair. This was a white towel with stains of all the different hair colors he had done over time. He probably should have replaced it long ago, but that meant ruining another towel again.

The sound of the hair dryer wasn’t enough to drown out his thoughts. His fingers felt numb as he worked on his hair. Once that was done he returned to his room to get dressed. Talyn and Joan were downstairs. It sounded like his dad was home and talking to them. That was good. He needed some time to gather himself for what he was about to do.

He didn’t want to look like he was trying too hard, but he didn’t want to look like he didn’t care either. He wondered if Roman would be dressed up all fancy for their first date. No doubt the boy was at his house fretting over what he’d wear. That image of Roman freaking out over what he’d be wearing comforted Virgil a bit.

Virgil was glad that Mr. D had agreed to cancel the club meeting for that night. He was a weird teacher. He kept his distance but it was obvious he cared deeply about his students, especially Roman. The few times Virgil talked to the mysterious teacher, he always held a fond sparkle in his eye when Roman came up in conversation. It was really cool of him to give special treatment, and as Virgil changed he figured that Roman must be really special to his teacher. Which was good, considering that he needed Mr. D’s help with his surprise later on if his date went well.

After Virgil was mostly satisfied with his appearance, he went downstairs to see that it wasn’t just his dad who was home.

Logan was sitting on his couch, with his arm over Patton’s shoulders. Patton leaned into Logan like he was relaxing after a long day. They were talking to Joan and Talyn. The four of them were laughing at something his dad must have said. Virgil felt his chest start to warm. It was such a natural sight, except for the empty loveseat in the corner. It was easy to see himself laughing along with them, with Roman’s head on his lap as they talked.

Hope swelled within him. Could it be that he could make this work? Maybe he wasn’t going to fuck up after all.

He walked into the room. His dad saw him and stood up to meet him. “You look so handsome, kiddo!" he squealed. The pride was so evident on his face. “My baby’s first date! So exciting.”

Virgil pretended to frown. “C’moooon dad. Don’t embarrass me in front of my friends.” He tried to not laugh.

Talyn stood up, playing along by stomping their feet. “Young man, I worked way too hard to make your hair perfect. The least you could do is let your dad take pictures of my masterpiece.”

Virgil lost his composure by then. Talyn calling him ‘young man’ was just the cherry on top. “Sure, go ahead!” he called out through his hysterical laughter.

Logan spoke up, nervously grinning. “I have my camera in my car. It would produce a better quality for pictures than our phones.”

“Need some help?” Joan asked excitedly. They didn’t wait for an answer as they made their way to the door. Logan just chuckled to himself as he left after the excited teenager.

“Talyn, don’t tell me your soulmate is a photography nerd! You hate taking pictures of yourself.” Virgil teased.

“Shut up,” Talyn grumbled, though their grin was noticeable. “Joan’s only got a passing interest in it. They haven’t asked me to be their muse or anything.”

Patton chuckled. “Trust me, it’s not all it’s cracked up to be. Artists are very serious about their work.”

“Dad, have you been modeling on the side?” Virgil asked. He wasn't teasing, but genuinely curious. That hadn't talked bunch about Logan or the galaxy tattoo since that fight.

Logan had walked back in by then and made his way to Patton. “Your father has a very symmetrical face, and when he smiles I want to keep it with me forever.” He kissed Patton’s suddenly red cheek.

Virgil noticed the way his dad stiffened as he waited for Virgil to react. It was weird to see another man lovingly touch his dad. He faked a reassuring smile to the pair. He didn’t want to think about the prickling in the back of his head. He needed to get used to Logan being around in a more casual manner. He'd have to get used to the fact that Logan was here to stay.

He made sure to put all of his focus into watching Talyn and Joan from there on out. He tried not to blink when the camera flashed in his eyes. He fought within himself to keep that earlier hopeful feeling from flying away from him. He wouldn’t let his pessimism win.

This night was about coming clean. It was about asking for forgiveness, giving context, and taking his next step to be a better man. It was about searching for compromise in good faith. It was for finding faith in the opportunity for fresh starts. After tonight, he’d be able to see a brighter future for himself.

It was when they were still taking pictures that there was a knock at the front door. Talyn let out a squeal that seemed out of character. Virgil raised his eyebrow at them, which welcomed another click, flash! from the camera. He walked away from the staircase to open the door.

His forearms felt like he was being pricked by static shocks all over when he saw Roman standing there, the beginning sunset behind him looking like something out of a movie. Virgil was speechless. He couldn’t think of anything flirty or sarcastic to say. Had it only been at lunch period that day he last saw Roman? He looked like royalty.

Roman had his hair combed back. It was a bit longer since he hadn’t gotten it cut, so his hair had some flow to it. He had worn a long sleeve button up with black slacks. The shirt was a deep red color, bringing out the hazel eyes and white teeth. He was wearing a small bit of brown eyeliner and mascara, nothing obvious, but enough to bring out the features of his face. The rosey blush that Virgil loved so much was starting to form the longer he stared.

“Um, I didn’t know where we were going, so I figured I’d make myself look nice.” Roman looked Virgil up and down. “I’m glad to know we had the same idea.”

Virgil looked down at what he was wearing. He had chosen his only pair of slacks -a gray pair that his grandmother got him for his birthday - and a deep wine-purple button up. He had chosen a dark gray necktie with black stitching to look like spiderwebs. Just to keep a little bit of his dark personality obvious so he wouldn’t feel completely out of his depth.

“Oh, right, yeah.” He responded lamely. His voice cracked and he felt like he wanted to shrivel up in embarrassment.

“I got you this. I hope it’s not too cliché or tacky for you.” Roman handed Virgil a single black rose. It was plastic, and the stem was dark purple with glitter. It was definitely something cheesy, but Virgil smiled anyway.

“Thank you, Roman, I love it.” Virgil heard his dad clear his throat loudly. He rolled his eyes. Feeling more normal now that his bubble with Roman had burst, he swept his arm behind him. “Come in. We’re just taking pictures as if it’s fucking prom or something.”

Roman laughed at that. “I’ll never say no to a photo op!”

Joan and Talyn gave hugs to Roman when he was in the room. “Looking as royal as ever, your highness.” Joan remarked.

"Wait, isn't Highness for a prince?" Virgil asked. "I always call him Majesty."

Roman chuckled. "Majesty and Highness can be either, depending on the situation. Majesty is more formal, and Highness is a sort of catch-all."

Virgil didn't have a good response to that. He didn't know anything about royalty and all that fancy shit. He was itching to go, but automatically he pulled Roman by his waist. "Let's get our pictures done quickly, I'm starving."

Roman and Virgil took a few pictures at the bottom of the staircase. Roman didn’t seem bothered by the blinding flashes. Virgil kept his arm tight against his date’s waist. After he felt he was thoroughly blinded, he ended the photo session. “Alright, if I want to be able to see Roman’s sexy face I need the flashes to stop.”

Roman whined behind him as he made his way to his jacket by the door. “But I wanna make sure all of my sides have been captured…”

Virgil just ignored him. In a rush to leave, he gave hugs to everyone except Logan, and walked out the door while Roman gushed his thanks to Logan for taking pictures.

The pair settled into their seats in Roman’s car. The silence was nice as Virgil adjusted to it after the noise of the living room. He looked at Roman nervously. He seemed relaxed. His handsomeness seemed never-ending. “Alright, Captain Cranky, you ready to go get some fancy food?” he quipped, too giddy for Virgil's own good.

Virgil rolled his eyes and huffed. “Only the best for you, your Majesty .”

Roman chuckled. They pulled out of the driveway as Virgil plugged in the aux cord to his phone as if he had done it every day.

By the time they arrived at Marina's, Virgil had educated Roman with every song on the Welcome to the Black Parade album. They got out of the car laughing as Roman gave the keys to the valet.

With a warm blanket of joy between the two, they entered the restaurant to start the first part of their date. Virgil tried not to think about the nerves bundling up in his abdomen, or even consider the coincidence that his Marking was warmer than usual.

AUTHOR’S NOTE: Fluff and worldbuilding? Fluff and worldbuilding.Thank you for reading and supporting this story. I didn't mean to drop off the face of the earth everywhere, but for about a year now a family member of mine was getting sicker and sicker until he passed a few weeks ago. It's been a hard time, but he's at peace now & I feel like I can refocus my life.So, we're looking at an update every other month here. I don't want to promise more or less than that. I can say that I think about this fic ALL THE TIME and I want to just publish my rough drafts of the chapters and speed through it, but I know these boys love to take their time, so I will too.I hope you have been doing well, readers, and let me know what you thought of this chapter! And maybe comment your guesses on how you think the date will go ;)also, I have a discord server join for updates, bonuses, and talk with other readers!

@404-morality-not-found, @k1ngtok1, @lovelivingmydreams

let me know if you wanna be on the taglist for my stories

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dangermousie · 1 year ago

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Farscape rewatch: 2x01

I really like this episode, Mind the Baby, because it leads so beautifully into themes of S2: the ambiguity of Crais, the growing bond between John and Aeryn (and them being each other's solace), the bond between the crew, the shadow of Scorpius and John's unbalance transforming into insanity. I know S3 is most people's favorite, but Season 2, with its sheer desperation, is mine.

Long so behind keep reading...

John is quite on edge in MtB and it's only the beginning. He is the one threatening to hunt down Crais. He is the one who walks into Talyn and manages to kidnap Crais through sheer balls and disregard for safety.

This is not a well man. When Crais says Talyn will kill him if he kills Crais, John says it’s a fair price and he means it. Or how about this:

His trademark snark though is so old John peeking through this new walking trauma iteration and it remains constant through the whole run because it really is his coping mechanism.

His hatred of Crais (understandably) is set in stone but John is getting edgier and more off-key even as early as here, and you can tell. I remember reading BB say that he played John as reaction too much to little things and not enough to big ones because torture messed him up and you can see that (and of course, later the writers incorporated this into their concept of the chip).

And the way their roles switch and how far John has come from the naive sweet pacifist of the start and how much further he still has to go; he couldn’t have survived otherwise but it is still tragic.

And yet, as early as this, you see that Aeryn is John's comfort and vice versa. When Aeryn is feeling disappointed about failing to get Talyn out of Crais' grasp, you see her and John sitting, comfortable, folded into each other, and he is playing with her hair, and the sheer peace, for both of them, of the gestures and the posture and the words, is immeasurable. John is stilled and Aeryn is at peace. It made me think of the scene in S4's Mental as Anything, where once again, Pilot's den is their peaceful place, under very different circumstances (I think Pilot is OK with it more because of Aeryn than of John).

Aeryn never taking easy solace is such a constant about her. But also, all these incredibly tender, open scenes are between them when they are in no way official couple and neither has even began to define, even to themselves, what they are to each other, somehow hits even harder.

(Side note - how telling it is that here Aeryn is the optimist, the one who thinks maybe Crais can change and John, the one who started the show always willing to give everyone a second chance, is having difficulty with the concept.)

Oh and earlier - his and Aeryn's non-good-bye and damn Crais or anyone else who is watching, with interlaced hands, and the looks, and the not-saying-goodbye? I literally let out and audible noise.

Love Crais pretty much rolling his eyes btw...

And then we also have D'Argo and John bond (eeee!), and as always hilarious.

And of course the sense of crew as family as we see Chiana's disbelief and joy when she sees it's really Crichton, but also how she is cautious now and won’t believe it at first.

Her delight is contagious and you get the sense of family reassembling when she jumps into John's arms (and what a different entrance onto Moya for John from S1: he comes in, hauling Crais, with a gun cocked).

But yes, I consistently adore what they did with Chiana and John in this show, the way they are so consistently snarky but caretaker older brother and bratty but loyal younger sister.

And Rygel's joy and the fact that Rygel and Chiana decided to stick with Moya no matter what. And of course the layers and double crosses and the shadows of Crais and Scorpius. I can't wait to rewatch what happens next.

PS I could rewatch this scene on a loop forever...

Heeeee....

#farscape

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kieraelieson · 4 years ago

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Centaur AU 4

AO3 Link

“Alright,” Thomas said, satisfied that Roman was properly off to his competition. “Logan and Virgil are sleeping, and Patton, do you know if you have anything for today?”

“I don’t think so, but I don’t really know,” Patton said.

“In that case, I’m going to try taking a quick nap and then maybe Logan and Virgil will wake up. If anything comes up, you wake me up, ok?”

Patton nodded.

Thomas ended up flopping onto a pile of hay and dozing off. It wasn’t like him to take naps, but he’d been up quite late and then woke up much earlier than usual.

He woke to hear quiet murmuring.

“Ugh. They’re just creepy. And way too fast.” It sounded like Virgil saying.

“They’re sweet!” Patton said, his tone soft and cooing.

“It’s unsanitary to hold them in your hands,” Logan said.

“But he’s so soft! And he’s sweet too, he likes me better than any of the others.” Patton protested.

Thomas yawned and sat up. Patton abruptly turned around, hiding whatever he was holding.

“What is it?” Thomas asked.

Patton turned to look at him with large, pleading eyes, and a spark behind them that said he’d fight if he needed to. “He’s mine. You can’t kill him.”

Thomas knew then that it must be some kind of small animal, but what? “I wouldn’t kill him, Patton, I’d just like to know what he is.”

Patton frowned. “Promise?”

“I promise.”

Patton reluctantly turned, showing a rat held in his cupped hands.

Thomas tried to hide his recoil, deciding immediately that he agreed with Virgil. “How um, how many of them do you have? And where are they staying?”

Patton’s face fell. He held the rat close to his chest. “You’re going to kill them!”

Thomas felt stuck. If there were many rats in the stable, he couldn’t just let them stay and breed and overrun everything. But he didn’t want to go and kill animals Patton clearly viewed as more pets than pests.

Thomas frowned in thought, but based on the shuffling of hooves he guessed that the longer he waited the more he’d be misunderstood. So he came to a quick decision.

“There are four of you all together,” he said, slowly, still trying to hash out details in his mind. “And one of me.”

Patton backed a step away, holding the rat closer.

“What would you think if I went and got a rat cage tonight, and some toys and proper food, and you could pick out four to keep? And they stay in the cage. And then I get one cat to keep the others out of the stable.”

Patton frowned, turmoil rolling across his face. “Only if I can take as many as I can out to the paddock before the cat comes.”

Thomas nodded immediately.

Patton nodded slowly. “Ok.”

Thomas looked around. “I have some friends, Joan and Talyn, and they have pet rats. The cage is pretty big, I’m not sure it would fit in your stall comfortably, but perhaps we could find a way to hang it in the next stall so you can still reach and open it from inside yours.”

Patton’s face brightened a lot. “I could still play with them?”

Thomas nodded. “Of course, that’s the point.”

Patton looked slightly embarrassed. “I thought you’d put them over by the closet or something…”

Thomas felt a sudden impulse to hug Patton. “No. Patton, I really want for you all to be happy. I wouldn’t take your friends and stick them somewhere you couldn’t have them.”

Patton’s face got really soft, and just a bit teary. “Thank you, Thomas.”

Thomas opened the stall door and held out his arms, and Patton crashed into him in a tight hug. He wasn’t sure where the rat was, but he couldn’t feel it running onto him, so he just focused on hugging Patton.

He waited until Patton let go first.

“If you want to try gathering them up now we can go to the paddock,” Thomas suggested.

Patton nodded quickly.

Even if it was more than a little disconcerting, it was also very interesting to see Patton making little noises and seeing the mice and rats coming out and climbing onto his back, waiting patiently for the bits of leftover breakfast he fed them. Judging by Logan and Virgil’s faces, they thought so too. There had to be nearly twenty. Thomas tore his eyes away.

“Would you two like to go to the paddock with us or would you rather stay here?”

Virgil looked like he’d rather stay, but didn’t say anything at first.

“I would appreciate going out,” Logan said. “As well as an explanation of what happened last night and this morning.”

“I’ll go with you guys then,” Virgil said.

Thomas nodded and pulled down the halters. He handed them out, instead of trying to put them on, only helping when Patton couldn’t quite reach without disturbing his ‘passengers’.

“Don’t hold the ropes in the same hand,” Virgil said. “I want to be as far away from the rats as possible.”

“There’s only a few rats,” Patton said. “Most of them are mice.”

Virgil shuddered.

“Have they been bothering you?” Thomas asked. “With this many in the stable, especially being in Patton’s stall…”

“He gets the rats out of mine and I get the spiders out of his,” Virgil said, sidling out of the stall and away from Patton.

“It’s truly remarkable the way they each seem to have a control over the animals,” Logan commented, though he also stayed away from Patton.

Thomas just nodded.

The walk out to the paddock went well, despite several jumpy movements by Virgil. Thomas was very glad to release them inside, but then Patton walked off to disperse the rats, leaving him alone with a skittish Virgil and Logan, who he barely knew. Then again, he hadn’t known any of them for very long.

But Logan just turned away and started walking, along the fence, rather slowly. And Virgil followed him.

So then Thomas didn’t really have anything to do.

“Maybe I should’ve waited and napped out here,” he mused.

He ended up sitting on the rail of the fence and just watching them. Patton seemed to be giving each one of his mice a personal goodbye, and Logan and Virgil didn’t look to be talking at all, just walking together, following the fence. Thomas wondered why. And also realized that they all looked just a bit… unkempt. Not their horse halves, but their human sides. Logan and Virgil definitely needed regular access to a hairbrush, and Patton might have curls if he had the right products to care for his hair. And they could all use a new, clean shirt. Which led him to realize that they didn’t even have pajamas, much less regularly change into them.

He was caught up enough in thought that he didn’t notice Virgil until he was nearly on top of him, and when he finally saw him he startled, and fell backwards off the fence with a yell. Virgil also startled, rearing up and letting out a kind of a screech.

“Owww… Sorry.”

Virgil was still panting and wide-eyed, but nodded. “Yeah. That was… half on me anyway.”

Thomas got to his feet again. “Are you ok? What did you need?”

“I’m fine, but Logan’s legs are hurting. I’m not sure what to do to help.”

Thomas looked down the paddock, to see Logan a good ways down. He was still walking slowly, towards them now, but it was a decent distance yet.

“Alright. Thank you for telling me, I’ll see what I can do.”

Thomas’s first impulse had been to call the vet immediately, but he knew from experience that the vet he usually called wouldn’t take ‘hearsay’, which was basically anything another centaur said. And while he had that number memorized, that wasn’t the vet he’d been told to call if these centaurs ever needed medical care.

So instead he jogged down the field towards Logan.

Logan saw him coming from a ways off, and stopped, waiting for him and Virgil, though Virgil reached him much faster.

Thomas was pretty decently winded by the time he reached them, but tried not to show it too much.

“So what’s… the problem…?”

“It’s not a big deal,” Logan said. “It’s likely since I’m not working, but my legs are sore.”

“Can I check them?” Thomas asked. “I’d need to touch them.”

Logan nodded, but his face seemed to go a bit slack. As if he were dissociating. Thomas felt something in his stomach drop at that, but he was too concerned for Logan to just back off.

He ran a hand carefully down Logan’s front leg, and didn’t really feel any weird… lumps or tears or anything… he didn’t entirely know what he was looking for. But what he did not like was how very warm they felt. Almost hot, like they were inflamed.

“Ok. Let’s get you back to the stable, and I’m going to wrap your legs with a cooling gel, alright?”

Logan nodded, not looking at Thomas, his eyes distant.

Thomas frowned in worry.

“Virgil, would you get Patton, please? I’ll walk with Logan back to the gate.”

Virgil nodded, clearly just as concerned.

Thomas walked slowly, waiting for Logan, but as soon as he turned away from the fence to cut across the shorter way Logan stopped.

“Are you ok? Do your legs hurt more?”

Logan shook his head. “I can’t go that way.”

Thomas frowned, but nodded. “Ok, but why not?”

“There could be holes.”

“There aren’t that many, and you can just step around. We don’t have to be that fast, you can walk carefully.”

Logan just frowned, and started walking along the fence again, just as slowly as before.

Thomas felt a surge of frustration at his stubbornness, especially when they should really get him back to the stable as soon as possible. He took a deep breath. It was very likely that Logan had a reason, likely that it was a good one. The question was why he wasn’t mentioning his reason.

“Logan, there are holes along the fence as well, I don’t understand why you need to go this way. I would really prefer if we could get back to the stable faster.”

“Then you shouldn’t have sent Virgil away,” Logan said, his voice as close to a snap as Thomas had heard yet.

Thomas was now even more confused. But he knew that meeting anger with anger Never turned out well. He’d had more than enough just as confusing arguments with Remy to convince him of that.

“I’m sorry for sending him away, I didn’t realize you would prefer him to stay. We can call him back, I’m sure he’s talked with Patton by this time.”

Logan turned and stared at him, his eyes squinted in disbelief. He crossed his arms. “Please do.”

Thomas turned away and called Virgil, hoping his voice carried far enough. Virgil did turn and start cantering towards them, Patton following close behind.

“Yes?” Virgil said, his eyes wide and a shiver running over his flanks.

“Logan wanted you to walk back with us,” Thomas said.

Logan nodded, an odd look coming over his face. Virgil sidled up close to him, leaning against him, and murmuring something quietly. Soon they were both walking back across the field towards the fence. Thomas jogged behind, and Patton walked next to him, a tight smile on his face.

“Don’t worry, Patton, I’ll do everything I can and call a vet to help too.”

Patton nodded, but when he spoke his voice was just as tight as his smile. “Thanks.”

They got back to the stable without any more problems, but Thomas could see that Logan was walking more and more stiffly.

“Alright,” Thomas said, trying to keep his thoughts in order and not panic. “Logan, if you want to lay on your bed, I’ll see what I can do for your legs now, and then I’ll call the vet. Or perhaps I’d better call the vet first…”

“I believe calling the vet ought to come first,” Logan said, laying on the bed and looking very tired and sore.

Thomas nodded and went to the phone.

“Hello?” The vet said, answering almost immediately.

“Yes, so I’m the new groom for the Authier’s centaurs, and one is in pain. It’s in his legs, and they’re hot to the touch.”

There was a thoughtful hum and the faint sound of paper rustling. “Which one, the big one?”

“Yes.”

“Was there any kind of incident?”

“No, he was just walking.”

“I see. Wrap it up then, and don’t let him do anything strenuous, I’ll be out this evening.”

“Alright. Thank you.”

Thomas sighed and set the phone down. He’d intended to use cooling gel, which he’d seen while organizing the other day, but the vet hadn’t said anything about it, and he didn’t want to make things slightly better and then she’d think it wasn’t as bad as it actually was. So he just got out the wraps and wrapped up Logan’s legs, tightly enough to provide some support.

“Feeling any better?” He asked hopefully.

But Logan shook his head, eyes closed, and mouth tight.

“I’m sorry.”

“You’ve done nothing but attempt to help.” Logan said matter-of-factly, but Thomas could still hear the faint tinge of pain in his voice.

Thomas went right back to the phone.

“Hello?”

“Yes, this is Thomas again, er, the new groom. What can I do for pain relief before you get there?”

The vet sighed in a slightly annoyed way. “You really shouldn’t give any medicine before I get there.”

“He’s in pain. I need something.”

She made a short, annoyed sound. “If you have Equipalazone you can give him some of that, based on his weight. Only use one dose before I get there, and if it’s needed I’ll give the ok for more.”

“Alright. Thank you.”

“Mhmm.”

She hung up.

Thomas went searching through the medicine cabinet, and finally found some.

“Does anyone know how much Logan weighs?”

“Likely in the area of 2,200 pounds, based on my last weighing,” Logan said.

Thomas frowned at the box. “Then eight--nine grams. Ok.”

He opened it to see packets. Of powder. He grimaced, hoping it would be too awful-tasting.

“Is there a way you know of that you’d prefer to take it?”

Logan was also looking at the packets with disgust. “Mix them all in water, and provide a second, clear cup.”

Thomas nodded immediately, making and then handing both cups to Logan. Somehow Logan managed to swallow the first cup with not much more than a nasty face, and then drained the second.

“Do you want more water? Or something with a better taste?” Thomas offered.

Logan nodded, his face still screwed up.

Thomas grabbed one of his drink packets. They were meant to be put in water bottles and he was supposed to be using them to drink more, but it wasn’t awfully effective, especially not when coffee existed. He put it in a large cup of water and handed it to Logan.

Logan was very clearly surprised by the flavor, and slowly drank the cup, swishing the drink around in his mouth to flush the flavor of the medicine down.

“Better?”

“The taste is much better, and I believe the pain will fade.”

“Oh, good.” Thomas sat down, relief washing over him.

He’d thought, when he took the job, that he’d been watching two anyway, so four wouldn’t be a huge problem. But he’d underestimated the problems that other people would cause. He wasn’t sure he could keep this up on a normal work day.

#centaur au #character!thomas #character thomas #logan sanders #roman sanders #patton sanders #virgil sanders #remy sleep #emile picani #my own work #injury #medicine

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