#and 11 would be like I'll have you know I've been VERY busy. in ways you wouldn't get but trust me i was saving the universe

[nat-20s]

Honestly I get why narratively speaking they had a Super Mega Tragic Separation for Donna and The Doctor because you KNOW that if they hadn't been every single Doctor would've dealt with trauma by disappearing on their current companions to go have a movie night with the bestie. They straight up would've:

[bekkathyst]

Hi, long time customer (although I admit it’s been awhile since I’ve gotten anything new) and I have a question about what responsibly sourced means for your business. I’ve seen more and more stuff about the crystal mining industry and I don’t want to have to stop buying them. I will if I need to but I want to know like, where REALLY do your crystals come from? How do you know/what do you mean by responsibly sourced? From other small businesses? Where are THEY getting them?

Mostly I just really want to continue supporting your shop if I can with my purchases but I think I should just ask to make sure.

Hi! Thanks for asking; I think it's an important thing to discuss. I've talked about all of this before but it's been a while, so I thought I'd write it all out again. If things are unclear it's because I'm running on very little sleep atm and a bit overwhelmed with work, but I would be happy to answer any clarifying questions as needed!

So for me, responsibly sourced means that I care about who I am supporting and try to make the best decisions that I can. While it is true that there's no way to 100% know what's going on unless you visit a mine yourself and watch them work, that's why I think that getting as close to the source as possible is really important. I've spent the last 11 years building long-term business relationships with people who own mines, dig crystals themselves, or have smaller operations and employ a lot of their families. There's a huge difference to me between supporting a couple in Uruguay who owns a small mine or two and has their whole family involved in the business versus buying African diamonds from a British company that's been exploiting the land and the people living in it for over a century. The smaller the mine and company, the better. A lot of the people that I work with have introduced me to their whole families, seen my daughter grow up over the years, and often times they'll invite us to visit their country and visit their mines with them. (I'm not in a position to do any world traveling atm lol but I hope one day I can go do this!) I think it's super important that the people from the country where the stones are being mined are the people running the business and actually making the profit from it - not someone from a completely unrelated country coming and taking over the operations and making massive profits by exploiting and mistreating the people who live there.

Also to clarify, I work with wholesalers. As a retail business owner, I can buy from these mines and companies because I have a business license and buy in large quantities to resell; they usually don't sell to the general public, or if they do, it's just at mineral shows once or twice a year. Over the past decade, I've met so many great people at shows and then stayed in contact with them in between shows and have been able to continuously order from them.

So I aim to work with these miners directly as much as I can, but if I do work with a general wholesaler who offers things from several different countries, I use my best judgment and ask questions to make sure that their values align with mine and they're doing their part as well. I also work with a few carving companies that buy rough in bulk from various countries and carve and shape the stones - same thing as above applies.

And it goes further than that too, because if someone does really anything that goes against my personal morals, I stop doing business with them. The strongest example of that that I can think of is there used to be a warehouse I worked with in the US that imported directly from Brazil, but one time the owner said something really racist to me and Antonio in a joking tone. After that, we cut all ties and never went back. It still makes me mad to think he ever got any of our money.

I think this about sums it up, but if you have further questions, I'd be happy to answer after I get caught up on work :)

I'll just end this by saying that you know what you're comfortable with and you shouldn't do anything that goes against your beliefs! I'm running my shop in the way that I think is right but of course, there will always be people with differing opinions.

[lousypotatoes]

I've Got A Smile On My Face

Pt. 1 Pt. 2 Pt. 3 Pt. 4 Pt. 5 Pt. 6 Pt. 7 Pt. 8 Pt. 9 Pt. 10 Pt. 11 Pt. 12

Song Recommendation:

Always - Irving Berlin

Warning! This chapter contains depictions of panic attacks, and graphic violence! If this triggers you or makes you uncomfy in any way shape or form, please read with caution.

90 years ago...

It had been six months since Alastor kissed Y/N on her front porch. As expected, the two of them were now an item.

During the span of those six months, everything was absolutely perfect. The flower shop was thriving, Alastor's radio show was more popular than ever, Jasper didn't come by the shop since their interaction, and most importantly, Alastor and Y/N were so very much in love, Y/N felt that she fell more in love with him every time she saw him.

The only thing she didn't like about their relationship was the big secret she had to keep from him.

There were times that she oh so badly wanted to tell Alastor that her real job was killing people, and that running the flower shop was a cover up, but she was terrified that he was going to be disgusted with her, and leave her.

And Y/N didn't know what she would do if Alastor left.

It was mid afternoon, almost noon. The weather outside was very rainy and very stormy. Y/N was arranging the shelves, making sure the flower buds were facing the front.

It always annoyed her when customers would look at flowers and not put them back the correct way.

When she was done, she walked to the register and counted the money.

She sighed. Business was very slow that day, obviously because of the rain. She had almost considered closing the shop up early and going home, but felt it was better to just stay, just in case any customers came in after the rain cleared up.

Sitting down the chair behind the counter, Y/N put her head in her hands, bored as ever.

Hopefully Alastor would come and visit her. He always did, but Y/N thought he might not today obviously because of the stormy weather.

To her surprise and delight, she heard the bell ring, signaling that there was a customer.

"Hello can I help yo-Alastor!"

"Hello, my love," Alastor said, swooping down to catch Y/N in a kiss.

Y/N would never get tired of kissing Alastor, no matter how many time she did kiss him. It was like magic every time.

"How has your day been?" Alastor asked as he pulled away.

"Very slow, but much better now that you're here," Y/N smiled. "How was yours?"

"As slow as molasses," Alastor sighed. "I had to cancel all my broadcasts today because of this damn weather."

"Oh, that's a shame," she said. "It seems like this weather is bringin' everybody down."

"You can say that again," he said. "You thinking of heading home early?"

"I was thinkin' 'bout it," she replied. "I think I'll stick around for a few more hours."

"Well, if you're not busy tonight," Alastor said, grabbing onto her hips. "How about dinner at my place?"

"Depends," Y/N said, wrapping her arms around his neck. "Are you gonna be the one cookin'?"

"Of course," he chuckled.

"Then I'll have to take a rain check on that," she giggled. "Dinner sounds nice, what time should I swing by?"

"I prefer around six," Alastor answered..

"Six it is," Y/N said. "You gonna head back home?"

"I suppose so, yes. I gotta tidy up a bit."

"All that for me?"

"Only the best for you, my dear," Alastor said, sincere. "I'll catch you later tonight."

"Aw, alright," Y/N pouted. "If I ain't there by at least seven, you better come and get me and drag me back to your place."

"Alright, I will, I promise," he laughed before leaning down and placing his lips on Y/N's.

The kiss was sweet and loving, as it always was. The way their lips perfectly molded against each other, like they were made for each other, made Y/N's heart feel like it was about to burst.

The only reason they broke apart was so they could breath air.

If Y/N could, she would make Alastor her air.

"Goodbye, Al," she smiled up at him. "I love you."

"I love you most," he said, before letting go of her.

He gave her one more smile before walking out of the shop, the bell ringing, signaling his leave.

Y/N walked back behind the counter, a dreamy smile on her face.

"I'm going to marry that man someday," she dreamily said to herself.

Even though it was rainy and story outside, nothing could ruin this perfect day.

It was 5:45 in the evening. Y/N was counting the money in the register for the twelfth time that day.

Besides Alastor, only three other people came in the shop that day.

Screw the rainy weather. No one even likes rain that much anyway.

Looking up at the clock, Y/N decided that she was going to stop working, and head over to Alastor's

Going into the back room, she put the money into a safe under a fake floorboard, checked her nightly schedule for that week (thankfully she only had to kill two people that week), and grabbed her umbrella and her raincoat, preparing to go into the cold rainy weather.

Walking out of the back room, she was stopped dead in her tracks, a look of fear and despair on her face.

"J-Jasper," she choked. "What are you doin' here?"

The two of them hadn't interacted since the incident in the flower shop six months ago. Y/N had hoped that Jasper had taken the hint and decided to leave her alone.

But this was Jasper we're talking about, and things never were easy with him, no matter how big or small the situation was.

"Just came to say hi," he said, a sadistic and gleeful smile on his face. He was holding something behind his back, but Y/N didn't know what.

"It's been a while since we've seen each other, thought we could catch up a bit."

He started to walk closer to Y/N, she started to back up.

"So now you're with that mama's boy, Alastor Altruist, huh?" he said, still grinning. "Didn't think you would be into a weirdo like that, but oh well."

Y/N didn't say anything, too frozen in fear to say a single word.

Jasper then revealed what was behind his back. It was a long, thin, razor sharp blade, the kind that Y/N would use when she didn't feel like using any of her guns.

If you wanted to kill someone real quick, you would use a blade like the one Jasper had.

Y/N's eyes widened in fear and terror.

She had a small pistol in her office, but there was no way she was going to be able to get it without putting up a fight.

"Y'know darling," he drawled, creeping very slowly towards her. "I didn't quite like the things you said to me the last time we talked.

Y/N gulped, slowly inching herself towards a shelf holding a dozen flower vases.

Jasper didn't notice. "Not gonna say anything, huh?" he asked, eyes glinting sinisterly.

"Don't worry, I'm not gonna hurt you, I'm just gonna spill your fuckin' guts out."

Jasper lunged at Y/N, ready to strike.

Quickly, Y/N grabbed one of the vases on the shelf, and smashed it over Jasper's head, glass shards and flowers going everywhere all over the floor.

"You bitch!" Jasper snarled. He stopped in his tracks for a moment, clutching his bleeding head.

Y/N took this opportunity to try and run out of the front door.

She decided that it was stupid if she locked herself in her back room. If she ran out the front door, she could just run to the nearest public place and get help.

She was just a few feet from the door, when Jasper grabbed onto her wrist, twisting it hard.

Y/N turned around and was getting ready to punch him in the jaw, but that was replaced with a cry of pain and anguish.

Jasper had stabbed Y/N in the stomach, just above where her belly button was.

Y/N's eyes widened in surprise and fear, crying out again when Jasper stabbed her a second time.

"How does that feel?" he whispered. "Doesn't feel too good does it?"

"F-" Y/N stuttered. "Fuck you!"

With a snarl, Jasper stabbed her in the shoulder.

Blood was oozing out of all three of her stab wounds, staining both her and Jasper's clothes, and staining the white marble tile.

Jasper dragged her away, propping her in a siting position behind the counter.

"No one's gonna find you right here," he smirked. "Besides, you'll die in at least thirty minutes anyway."

Y/N knew that wasn't right, but didn't say anything, scared out of her mind.

What was she going to do?

She wasn't ready to die.

She didn't want to die.

What would happen to her shop?

What would happen to precious dog, Honey?

What would happen to Alastor?

As one last 'fuck you', Jasper bent down, kissed Y/N's sweaty forehead, and walked out the front door, the bell chiming.

As soon as he left, Y/N tried to get off the ground. She tried at least five times. But each time she tried, she failed, she fell back onto the ground with a painful wail.

After the fifth time, she stared up at the ceiling, wondering what would happen when someone found her body.

Maybe this was karma for all the people she had killed over the fifteen years she had been an assassin, she thought.

As Y/N thought about it more, she actually didn't feel like she was going to die. Yes, it was painful, but it just felt like she hadn't had any sleep in a really long time.

And she really wanted to sleep.

She looked up at the clock. It was 5:58.

She laughed dryly. If only she had left a little bit earlier, even if it was just a minute, she wouldn't of been on the floor bleeding out.

With one last sigh coming out of her mouth, she closed her eyes, succumbing to the darkness, and passed out thinking about Alastor and her dog.

In no way she was ready to die, or wanted to, but she accepted that there was nothing she could do, and that this was karma.

She deserved to die, she thought

CLIFFHANGER

i wont be uploading any time this weekend or next weekend because i'll be in disneyland

i'm so excited

stay safe and drink lots of water <33

xoxo, Izzy

Taglist 💋

@maksdust @trippoverrt @slytherin4ever @lucifers-silhouette @a-small-tyrant

@mo-0-o @cutiebimbo @mommymilkers0526 @mikariell95 @al-of-the-stars

@martinys-world @bibliophile-yomna @mysticwitchcraftco @notsoaverageguy-1997 @flamewriterr

[ateez-himari]

[240901] MAKNAES REUNITE

[NEW MESSAGES FROMM HIMARI]

[PM 10:49] The maknaes are maknae-ing harder than any maknae has ever maknae-d before

[PM 10:50] ㅎㅎ I might possibly be on social media more than you guys think, but the caption was both of our ideas to be fair. It's maknae telepathy

[PM 10:50] No we rode on the same one (please help me), I have a racing circuit license, a driver's license but I don't have a motorcycle license yet. We've been really busy lately so I'll get it when I have time

[PM 10:51] Ah, we're ahead of you! Jungkook oppa already posted the ta ta ta challenge on his account, we knew you guys would want us to do it ㅎㅎㅎ I can't believe he's starting trends while doing his service...

[PM 10:52] Oh, Tiny! It's his birthday today, he turned 27...he's getting very close to being 30 already yet he acts the same age as me. It's a shared braincell between maknaes I think

[PM 10:52] It's hard to keep track of but it's been about 11 years now, maybe a little more since we met before their debut. Since I'm still 22 I've known him half of my life

[PM 10:52] I didn't know he used one of his rest days, he just called me in the morning after my boyfriend left for the studio and asked if I was busy. It was fun, we went to eat barbeque after the bike ride

[PM 10:53] Oh I remember that, people were speculating for so long ㅎㅎI solved the mystery now, as you can see the extra helmet in his house was mine. I think the other members use it sometimes too so it's shared property

[PM 10:53] Some protective gear he bought for me is there too, I think some army were talking about it after a live and I felt kind of bad because they thought it was a girlfriend...

[PM 10:54] Jimin oppa told you that we cried when he started his service ? Wow, what a tattler, but it's true. I guess it was just really strange, I mean we grew up together in a sense so leaving each other for so long was heavy

[PM 10:54] Ahh no you can't talk to him, we said goodbye about two hours ago so I'm back home now. Mingi asked if I wanted to do a live later so you might talk to us!

[PM 10:54] If you guys are lucky he'll turn on the camera this time ㅎㅎ I really want to give you a tour of the airbnb at some point too, since it's a hanok (a traditional house) it looks really nice, like we're back in time almost

[PM 10:55] Hyunjin oppa already posted the pictures ? It's true, we went to see Stray Kids yesterday and it was such an amazing concert ! We met a few staytinys there, then had dinner with some of the members

[PM 10:55] No, I've actually known Bangchan oppa longer since we spent some time together before I left for KQ. We slept in the same room for a bit since neither of us were in the lineup for any group so there was no set dorm

[PM 10:56] How can you do this to me ?! There's no way I can pick a favorite solo, I really hope that they release them soon though...I'll put in a good word to JYP for you guys ;p

[PM 10:57] Don't worry I have plans with other members later on! But first we're going to go see my family in a few days, mom's been very adamant on 'setting my boyfriend straight just in case' ㅎㅎ I missed them a lot

[PM 10:57] Haneul's been asking me to come non-stop every time my brother calls to check up on me so I'm sure she'll be happy too. The members and I got so many gifts while we were on tour, Seonghwa oppa even got her some baby Lego

[PM 10:57] Oh, no, not Sannie oppa's older sister ! Haneul is my niece, Hanzo nii-chan's daughter, my brother wanted to continue the legacy of 'H' names to honor our parents

[PM 10:58] Ahh Mingi's out of the shower so I have to go now, we're gonna go on a walk (really romantic right ??) ♡ Love you so much, kisses!

Translated from Korean by Google

[linghxr]

My trip to Taiwan

I took a break from posting because...I went to Taiwan! This was my first time going there, and I was mostly in Taipei. I had a great time and took many, many photos. I'll share some highlights here (along with commentary) to commemorate my trip.

Left: Liberty Square 自由廣場 Right: Chiang Kai-shek Memorial 中正紀念堂

You can't tell here, but there was a row of porta-potties directly to the left of the archway. That was a funny sight. There was also a stage in the middle of the square. Maybe they do outdoor concerts?

Left: Tamsui Old Street 淡水老街 Right: "Sidewalk"

Besides the main roads, most streets lacked raised sidewalks. Instead, they had a painted path. I had to get comfortable being very, very close to cars and other vehicles.

Left: Motorbike parking lot near Tamsui Old Street Right: Covered sidewalk.

I’ve seen motorbikes before in China, but Taipei took things to a new level. Motorbikes were absolutely everywhere. I even saw this parking lot exclusively for motorbikes. They rule the streets.

In the busy downtown districts, you often don’t need an umbrella due to the covered sidewalks. You can walk for blocks and blocks while staying covered. This was pretty convenient on rainy days.

Left: Jadeite Cabbage 翠玉白菜 at the National Palace Museum 國立故宮博物院 Right: Umbrella rack (also at the museum)

Confession—I didn't think the National Palace Museum was that good. Probably because I've been to the actual Forbidden City in Beijing. And sadly, the Meat-Shaped Stone wasn't on exhibit.

In the US, some stores will provide a plastic bag for your wet umbrella. In Taipei, many stores had a rack or basket outside instead. Most were not as secure or elaborate as the one pictured.

Left: Eslite Xinyi Store (bookstore) 誠品信義店 Right: Sun Yat-sen Memorial 國父紀念館

I bought a couple books and a Yoga Lin CD at the Eslite 24-hour bookstore. I only planned to swing by, but I think I spent 2 hours there. I definitely recommend checking it out if you're in Taipei.

Taipei 101 台北101

It was overcast when I went to Taipei 101, but the view was still nice. On the bright side, there was NO line. 101 is by far the tallest building around, so you really feel that you're looking down at the city.

Taroko National Park 太魯閣國家公園

Taroko was the only place I visited outside of the Taipei/New Taipei City area. It's in Hualien county on the east coast. There were so many betel nut stores in the countryside on the way there.

Left: Pond at NTU 國立臺灣大學 Right: 228 Peace Memorial Park 二二八和平紀念公園

Taipei has the best parks! They really put American parks to shame. Before going, I didn't understand why so many Taipei parks are tourist destinations with 4.5+ star reviews, but now I totally get it.

Elephant Mountain 象山

I didn’t realize how mountainous Taiwan is. Taipei is cradled by mountains, so there are many places to hike, even within city limits. I braved the rain for the famous view from Elephant Mountain.

Subway billboard 臺北捷運

The Taipei Metro/MRT was amazing. So fast, clean, frequent, and convenient. US subway systems are a joke in comparison. These are from an amusing series of billboards promoting riding etiquette.

Some other observations:

I was quite impressed by all of the English signage in Taipei. I think it would be very easy to navigate even if you don’t know Chinese. Many stores and small eateries had menus, signs, etc. in English.

I knew Taiwan had many convenience stores, but I was not prepared to see a Family Mart or 7/11 on every block. Someone needs to open this style convenience store in the US ASAP.

I saw numerous adds featuring Korean actors like Son Ye-jin and also kpop groups like IVE and NewJeans. I also heard kpop playing at various stores, whereas in America, I only hear it at Hmart.

I was struck by how many street signs and subway stops names used pinyin romanization. There was a lot of inconsistency and mixing of different romanization systems. For example, you have Taipei vs. Beitou (same character: 北).

There were many Japanese stores, pharmacies, and restaurants. Upon further consideration, this makes sense given Taiwan's history, but it stood out to me nonetheless.

Overall, I had a lovely time in (mostly) Taipei. As a big city (but not too big) surrounded by beautiful nature, there's something for everyone. I already want to go back! Of course I also want to see some other areas of Taiwan too. Maybe next year.

[takerfoxx]

On the night of the election, I had an honest-to-God dream where I woke up and found out that Harris had shockingly come in from behind and won the election. I remember how relieved I was that the nightmare had been averted. That we did choose to not elect a senile fascist back into office. That most of my country weren't willing choosing evil over progress.

Then I woke up, literally and figuratively.

Obviously, this has been a heavy blow. Honestly, as someone who was raised as a conservative Christian, who was a huge fan of Linkin Park, Kanye West, JK Rowling, Joss Whedon, Neil Gaiman, and the Undertaker for years, and who felt like I could trust my friends and family to have my back, it's been like these last few years have been a relentless train of disappointment and disillusionment in everything and everyone I once believed in and looked up to, and who I would go to for escape when things were bad. I know you should never meet your heroes, but damn, could they just have been like salty jerks who were caught being mean to the waiter instead of fascists, abusers, bigots, and so on? Could the entire world view that I had been raised in and fervently believed for over half my life not have turned out to be so awful? And yeah, I'm including the friends and family part in that as well.

Obviously, since the election, there's been a lot of finger pointing. Did Harris run a bad campaign? Did she abandon the working class? Was it the Gaza issue? Was it the fault of moral abstainers or third-party voters?

And honestly, I get it. Given the sheer horror of what we're facing, I get being frustrated with people who don't help and/or vote against their own interests only to go all Shocked Pikachu face when the worst possible scenario occurs. But I've been doing some thinking, and I personally believe that even if all those groups came out in support of Harris, whether it be because they do support her or even just as a way to block Trump, she still would have lost. This is the first time in a long time that a Democratic nominee lost the popular vote, after all. I think Biden would have lost too, and he only won in 2020 because of the very unique circumstances caused by the pandemic.

I think we need to face the facts. America's been sliding into fascism for decades.

Reagan. The extremism that erupted after 9/11. Birtherism. Gamergate. The Manosphere. The far right has been busy, whether it be stacking the deck politically or pinpointing the fears and insecurities of every generation and tuning their messaging to draw people in. They tell them what they want to hear, that it's not their fault that they aren't getting what the American dream promised them, and it's all the fault of (insert minority group here). It's been targeted. It's been methodical. And it's been working.

Trump won. He's going to get away with everything. The far right won. This sucks. I wish I had some inspiring words about never giving up the fight, but I'm not that guy. And honestly, I'm starting to feel that spiteful part of me come out, the one that sort of hopes that everything does get much worse so that every braindead moron who voted against their best interests gets exactly what they got coming to them.

But I also know how dangerous that line of thinking of. So please, Do NOT listen to me. There are plenty of people still rallying the troops, still encouraging people to fight, people who are in far more danger than I am. I'll be fine. I'm just a tired and disappointed middle-aged white guy living in a boring California suburb. I'm safe. But there's a lot of people that aren't. And those are the voice that you need to be listening to.

As for me, I'm not giving up, I'm going to keep voting, going to keep supporting the causes I believe in, and going to keep helping how I can. But I'm also going to go away for a while. Not long, probably just a few weeks or so. But I'm going to disengage from social media for a bit to keep from doomscrolling and just focus on writing, because that's all I really know how to do. And when I do come back, I'll have a lot more stuff for you guys.

In the meantime, please be good to yourselves. Be good to those who are scared and hurting. The world needs you in it, now more than ever.

[anamoon63]

Hi guys, I am writing this in case anyone wonders why I have been kind of MIA lately. No, I haven't forgotten you, but I have had a difficult week, more than a difficult week, I have been through a real ordeal. Where or how it started it's a long story which I don't have the time or the energy to tell, so I'll just share a brief chronology of what happened during this past week.

Friday May 3 - I turned in my finished work and set out to do my sims posts, play and rest for the weekend since more work would be coming my way on Monday.

Saturday May 4 - My husband came down with the flu, I spent most of the day with him in the emergency room.

Sunday May 5 - I spent it taking care of my husband, who fortunately no longer had a fever. I barely slept two hours at night giving care and medication.

Monday 6 May - My birthday, we couldn't go out for dinner as usual, so we celebrated at home.

Tuesday, May 7 - My son comes down with the flu, too, another afternoon in the ER and sleepless night caring for him and bringing down his fever.

Wednesday, May 8 - My son starts to feel better, and begins to recover very quickly. I start working on the following translations, at the same time I take care of both my husband and my sick son, do food, laundry, order home medicines, and all kinds of small chores, including disinfecting things. It's like going back to 2020.

Thursday, May 9 - My husband no longer has a fever but does have a cough that won't go away and minor problems with his asthma.

Friday, May 10 - Mother's Day, my son was feeling fine, my husband still had a cough, and had a doctor's appointment at noon, when he returned, we celebrated at home just like on my birthday, I spent the rest of the day working, and juggling a thousand other things. In the evening my daughter started to feel sick, but still no fever.

Saturday, May 11 (yesterday) - My daughter woke up with a fever, another visit to the ER. She was prescribed flu medicine, painkillers and rest, and sent home.

And that's my odyssey so far. On top of it all, from Wednesday through Saturday we were in the middle of a heat wave with temperatures of 37ºC with real feel of up to 45ºC; at night we get a "cooler" temperature of 29ºC. So imagine a person with a fever of 38 ºC and with this heat, obviously it's not of much help.

Surprisingly, I haven't gotten sick so far, but I'm not claiming victory. I have been taking care of my family for a week, sleeping two or three hours a night, getting up at different times to check on them, or give them medicine. I don't have time for getting sick! Lol. Thankfully, everyone is better and last night for the first time in a week I was able to sleep straight through. Honestly, I don't need many hours of sleep, but I am routinely and usually I am in bed a 11 pm and up at 8 am every day, so all this did upset my sleep cycle a little bit.

Anyway, that is the reason why I wasn't here much, since the whole day I was too busy, and at night I was so tired all I wanted was to go to bed. I apologize if I've fallen behind on your updates, I'm not ignoring you in any way, I just didn't have the strength or the time, not even to play The Sims. If I did, it was just a little free play to distract myself.

Last week I told you that I was juggling a lot of things, well now I have even more things, lol, at times I feel really exhausted, and even a little cranky from lack of sleep, the first few days my feet and legs hurt so much from going back and forth, but I'm fine, healthy, and in good spirits. Today I believe, as never before, that the universe does not send you more than you can handle.

At this point my family is already in recovery, if I don't get sick too, it's likely by I'll be able to get back to my simming routine. Now, if I do get sick, I hope to recover as quickly as the others. Whatever happens, I'll be around. Know that, even if I don't comment, I read you, and I am with you, especially with those who are going through difficult times of any kind.

Ok, I said to myself this was going to be a short post, but I made a wall of text instead (for a change). My apologies if it's written in a sloppy or confusing way, I just wanted to write it quickly to let you know where I have been and what has been going on with me these days. I hope you are all well, please take care of yourselves, health is a treasure that can be lost at any moment, the flu is a nasty disease, we must never let our guard down and forget to take the necessary measures to prevent it.

Last, but not least, I want to thank all of you who have mentioned me, tagged me, sent me asks and/or stars to my inbox, commented and/or liked what few posts I could do these days, I appreciate it very much and I'll try to reply to you as soon as I can, though I've fallen so far behind that I don't know if I'll be able to find your mentions in my notifications. In any case, thank you very, very much to all of you for thinking about me in my absence. 💗 I'll see you soon, hopefully, with more sim adventures, stay tuned!

[katsona-the-katsequel]

Specialized Extracurricular Execution Squad Activity Report

Part 7

11/10 (Tue) - Reporter: Yukari Takeba

Wh, wh, wh... J, Junpei! What's with the smell of love?! Don't make such random accusations! I'll kick you away! Ah... It's Takeba... Ahahaha.

Ahem. Well, today, Kirijo-senpai finally came back. As expected, she seemed to be more worn out than I expected, and even though she had come home, I could hardly talk to her...

Also, I'm a bit worried about Sanada-senpai. He seemed really calm while Kirijo-senpai was away, so maybe he was pushing himself too hard. Seeing Kirijo-senpai trapped, Sanada-senpai also felt depressed, just like she was...

For now, we think the best we can do is to not cause trouble for our seniors. So, the second-year students of Gekkoukan Academy, Amada-kun representing the elementary school, and Koro-chan representing the animals will be doing their best to support the two of them.

11/16 (Mon) - Reporter: Mitsuru Kirijo

Sanada-senpai and Kirijo-senpai, if there's anything we can do for you, please let us know. Junpei will take full responsibility and fulfill his mission. So, Junpei, please take care of them. This was Takeba.

11/11 (Wed) - Reporter: Fuuka Yamagishi

Good evening, this is Yamagishi.

Yukari-chan, you're overreacting... So it's obvious even if it's not Junpei-kun? But Junpei-kun, do I smell love too? Hmm, that's a no-go. Unfortunately, I don't think I'm connected to anyone like that yet.

Speaking of love, the transfer student Ryoji-kun is somehow interesting, isn't he? Oh, I'm not saying anything about him... but don't you like Aigis' reaction when she first met him? It was the first time I've seen such an intense reaction as "No way!"

He seems to be very popular with girls, but even without that, it's a little strange. Am I overthinking it?

By the way... or rather, this is the main topic, but is Kirijo-senpai okay? We're currently exploring Tartarus again, little by little. With the school trip approaching, the Student Council work must be busy, so please leave it to us and relax for a while.

11/12 (Thu) - Reporter: Aigis

A school trip...a ���​very interesting event. I've learned quite a bit about school life, but sleeping in the same room as my classmates is a rare experience.

Now that I think about it, I would have called it a "special mission" school trip in the past, but now I'm pretty much a high school girl, so a school trip is not a special mission. It's a major event. I'm welcome!

But Ryoji-san, that's a no-no. Field leader, please be careful not to let your emotions get the better of you in an extraordinary environment like a school trip and deepen your relationship with Ryoji-san.

11/13 (Fri) - Reporter: Ken Amada

School trip... In high school, we're going to Kyoto. Yukari-san looked strange when she heard it was Kyoto, so maybe she doesn't like it? In my case, I hardly ever had the chance to travel, so I'm just jealous that you can go out somewhere.

For now, I've requested souvenirs from the field leader, but if you can give me something else, I'll have no complaints.

Oh, Junpei-san. I'll tell you now, wooden swords are a no-no. Also, anything that says "love," "friendship," or "effort" is a no-no.

By the way, speaking of Junpei-san, did you go to the hospital today? I wonder how Chidori-san is doing. Did you get to see her? You see, everyone except Chidori-san from Strega lost the battle during the last operation... She's having a hard time too. It may be strange for me to say this, but please be sure to stay with her.

11/14 (Sat) - Reporter: Mitsuru Kirijo

It's Kirijo.

Phew... It's been a while since I've been in this room.

I'm sorry for causing trouble to everyone. I'm not sure if I can be a valuable fighting force, but I'm finally feeling motivated.

...For now, I still haven't found the purpose of the battle, but there's no doubt that the number of people suffering from Apathy Syndrome due to the shadows' damage is increasing. In that case, we have no choice but to hunt shadows, even if it's only a symptomatic treatment.

It may be a little lonely with a captain like this, but I intend to come up with a plan soon. Please stay like this for a while...I'm counting on you.

Now for the school trip...

11/15 (Sun) - Reporter: Yukari Takeba

Well, it's Takeba.

Kirijo-senpai, you still seem tired... But I think it's understandable considering the situation. You suddenly lost your goal.

I don't know if this will help, but before we joined SEES, when the large Shadows hadn't appeared yet, you had no idea how to make the Dark Hour disappear, right?

But you, Kirijo-senpai, started the squad on your own five years ago and survived the seemingly endless battles with Sanada-senpai and Aragaki-senpai. Is it unreasonable to think that even if you lose sight of your goal, you've just gone back to that time...?

…Hmm, sorry. I may have been a bit pushy without considering the feelings of the senpais. To be honest, I'm also at a loss as to what to do from now on. Anyway, if you need anything, please let me know anytime. This was Takeba...

It's Kirijo.

Takeba, you've been a big help with the other day's activity report and today's work. I've also been a nuisance to everyone else because of my incompetence. I'm really sorry.

To tell the truth, I've been a lot of trouble to the Student Council. Today, because I disappeared without a trace, even the general students were hunted down and searched for. I hope no one in this dorm was involved.

Anyway, both the shadow fighting and the Student Council are scheduled to be fully restored from today. I'll be counting on you.

By the way... should I ask Iori or Takeba? Um, who is this transfer student called Mochizuki? He seems to have transferred while I was away, but is he the son of some company CEO or something?

I was suddenly invited to a meal at a hotel today. I have had meals with clients and business partners in the Kirijo Group before, but this was the first time I had met them face to face, so I was a bit hesitant. Was I being rude?

11/17 (Tue) - Reporter: Ken Amada

Mitsuru-san... If you're serious about that, I think you should learn a bit about your awareness of danger as a woman. I hope you haven't gotten caught up in some weird pick-up scheme in Kyoto. I wonder if you'll be okay...

So, starting today, everyone is on a school trip. Only Koromaru and I are in the dorm. It would be a problem if we lived in a normal dormitory with just one elementary school student and one dog, but we are still members of SEES. At least in terms of crime prevention, it's completely safe. Please feel sorry for the thief.

Well, I'm looking forward to the souvenirs.

11/18 (Wed) - Reporter: Ken Amada

It's the second day since you all left.

I'm not lonely, but... I think the distance between Koromaru and I is starting to get a bit tense when we're alone together. I wish I could understand Koromaru's words like Aigis does.

Today, after school, I took Koromaru for a walk. However, I was a little late with the planning and forgot about Koromaru's walking route. We crossed Moonlight Bridge on foot, went to Port Island, and returned to the dormitory...

I just had dinner and I'm going to bed now. Good night.

11/19 (Thu) - Reporter: Ken Amada

Third day of the school trip.

Where will everyone be today? I'm sure most of you will have visited the standard tourist spots of Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the Kyoto Imperial Palace on the first day of the school trip, but maybe you'll go a little further and visit Kinkaku-ji Temple or Ginkaku-ji Temple?

Maybe you think you know a lot about it even though you've never been there? Hehehe. Actually, I was just using the terminal here to look at some Kyoto tourism websites.

Kyoto seems like a nice place... Oh, I'm not saying that I want to go there. I'm just impressed by the beautiful scenery. Oh, if someone is interested in going again, I might be happy if they invite me too... The open-air baths would be great.

…No, I'm not urging you or anything. If you want to go, you can go by yourself. Please come back early tomorrow. Be careful on the way back.

11/20 (Fri) - Reporter: Akihiko Sanada

It may sound cliché, but to be honest, I feel like I'm the best. Yes, I feel like I've finally found the teleportation device in Tartarus and escaped to the entrance...

Ah, it seems like Amada has been very lonely. Well, I'll invite him on a trip sometime. As for the open-air bath... well, someday...

11/21 (Sat) - Reporter: Junpei Iori

Hi, Junpei here. Amada, it seems like you had a really hard time staying home alone. So why aren't you accepting the souvenir I went to the trouble of buying for you? It was really hard to find, the ornament from Kinkakuji that says "All-out attack." No, I never imagined something like this would be serious either.

I don't want anything with words like "love," "friendship," or "effort" written on it, so I wondered if there were any words that would make Amada happy. I want to be paid for my labor!

Oh, now that I think about work, I remembered. I have a hands-on study session starting the day after tomorrow... This school doesn't allow part-time job.

I've lived my life avoiding work to the point where I'm glad there's a school rule that prohibits part-time jobs, so why do I have to go through the trouble of doing it in class?

What's more, I wish they'd picked a job that looked at least a bit interesting, but from what I've heard from my seniors, it's either unloading, carrying, or shouldering luggage, which are all the same!

Kirijo-senpai, do you have any secret tricks to use the Kirijo group's powers to give everyone in the dorm the easy work?

For now, my hopes are that there will be 20 minute breaks every hour, I won't have to lift anything heavier than a rice bowl, and it would be nice if there were cute girls working with me, would that be okay?

11/22 (Sun) - Reporter: Mitsuru Kirijo

It's Kirijo. Junpei Iori... Don't be so selfish, you idiot!

I thought someone had gone all the way to the head of the Kirijo family's household to talk about work and had returned tired, but to be greeted with such a pointless report is beyond anger; it makes me dumbfounded.

To begin with, the Kirijo Group has nothing to do with experiential learning. If you send students from the school Kirijo runs to Kirijo's company, they'll have an easy time, that's for sure. That would defeat the purpose of off-campus training!

Well... I guess it's not possible this year, but next year I might be able to get you into a company that's a good fit for you. I heard recently that the president of the mail-order company, Tanaka's Amazing Commodities, heard about our off-campus internship and asked me if I would like to have some students attend. That place is famous for its harsh working environment, with 24-hour full-time work. For people like you who have little motivation to work, they make you work even if you don't say anything. What do you think? They make you work really hard, so it's a good place to work, isn't it?

…Yeah, it feels like I'm really getting back to normal. I guess this is how I should be. Iori, your silly story seems to have cheered me up just now. Thank you. Well, I guess I'll rest before the Dark Hour today.

11/23 (Mon) - Reporter: Fuuka Yamagishi

Something sad... happened. It was during the Dark Hour last night...

Uh... uh...

Wait...

I guess I shouldn't push myself after all. Oh, it's nothing.

It looks like it's tough for Fuuka, so I'll start recording from here. Um... where should I start? Yes, it was yesterday's Dark Hour.

Fuuka caught Strega's presence before Tartarus, and it was that Chidori, Junpei's precious one.

Actually, she was supposed to be hospitalized, but I found out today... there was an attack on the hospital, and she went missing at the time. And then, that Chidori suddenly attacked Junpei... she was really in love with Junpei, but she didn't know what her feelings were, and she said it was her fault because Junpei was there... what an idiot, that girl. She was tempted by that perverted Strega guy! Y-Yes. After that, two men from Strega appeared and shot Junpei...

I'm sorry, but I don't remember that part very well. I'll leave out the details, but Junpei was close to death once. But that girl's Persona... I think she was called Medea. With the power of that Persona, she gave Junpei life... Medea's power is the exact opposite of Fuuka's Juno's; it's not the power to sense life, but the power to release one's own life. And so, even though she was weak from fighting us before, she gave all her remaining life to Junpei...

I'm sorry. I'm still confused and can't put it into words well. It's not something that can be said so easily, I want more...more...!

Yukari-chan...

I'm fine now. Let's take over. Right?

This is Yamagishi. I'll take over. Chidori-san has passed away. She gave her life, and Junpei-kun is safe. However, I allowed Takaya and Jin, the two who call themselves Strega, to escape.

As of today, Junpei-kun has gone somewhere and is gone. I'm very worried, but I don't think the worst will happen. Junpei knew very well that Chidori gave him his life. So, I think it will be okay.

Chidori's body has now been moved to Kirijo. They need to identify her... I wonder what they'll do about the funeral.

Anyway, we're waiting for Junpei to return. I'm sure he'll be fine.

11/24 (Tue) - Reporter: Akihiko Sanada

Today, the second-year students came home exhausted from their field trip. I didn't go to their rooms to check, but I think they were so tired that they fell asleep around 10 o'clock. Well, that's what happened. I'm sure they were grateful in a way for being so tired that they didn't have time to think about anything.

However, Junpei still hasn't come back to the dorms, and he hasn't participated in the field trip. I'm sure he'll come back, but... it's too heavy for one person to carry. It's several times heavier than the baggage you carry on a field trip. When I was there, there was Amada, who felt the same way. We shared it between the two of us, and somehow we managed to carry it all.

…Junpei, come back soon.

The only way to rise from sadness is to stand on your own two feet. But when you can't stand on your own, someone will hold your hand. The people in this dorm are all good-natured, so there will be plenty of arms outstretched to help you. You know that, don't you?

I'm sure she's waiting for that too.

11/25 (Wed) - Reporter: Mitsuru Kirijo

It's Kirijo. The second-year students are going on an experiential learning session today. Even to begin with, everyone is quiet.

Furthermore, the number of people has decreased, so the dormitory is so quiet it feels like no one is living there... Iori hasn't returned yet.

Akihiko says he's fine, but when I think of my mental state when I lost my father, I can't fully relax.

Well, I have no choice but to believe him... Regarding the girl named Chidori, I'd like to report what Kirijo's lab has learned. When the results of the tests from when she was hospitalized were revealed, it was a side effect of the suppressor, and even if this incident hadn't happened, she would have had about two years to live.

Nothing about her identity remains a mystery. It's doubtful whether her last name, or even the name Chidori, was real. If we could find out the true identity of the mastermind who turned the Strega into Persona Users, we could investigate, but there is no information on that either. For now, I have instructed them to continue the investigation.

That's all we know. The guys at the lab were interested in the artificial Persona Users, and some even insisted on an autopsy, but I stopped them from doing so. That's all for now.

11/26 (Thu) - Reporter: Aigis

The third day of the experience program has ended. Everyone except for me seems to be exhausted.

Junpei-san has still not returned. Where is he?

Chidori gave her life with a will that went beyond biological instinct. Junpei, who inherited her will, will inevitably return. I'm sure of it.

11/27 (Fri) - Reporter: Yukari Takeba

Well, this is Takeba. I've finally finished my hands-on learning. My arms are sore, my back is sore, my eyes are droopy, and I feel like I've aged all at once. I'm sure the others are feeling the same way. Oh, except for Aigis. She was working silently, saying she was good at this kind of thing.

And then...Junpei finally returned home.

Seriously, that idiot caused me so much worry...

Although he's safe, he looks more depressed and weak than I've ever seen him before... But I'll wait. The guy I know is the kind of guy who always bounces back even when he's down.

I'm watching closely, Junpei.

11/28 (Sat) - Reporter: Junpei Iori

…Hehe, it's Junpei. I'm so sorry for worrying everyone. Well, I just heard about the activities while I was away. I don't know, but I feel sorry, but I'm also grateful... I'm really touched, I guess. Well, I've finally come back, so I'll do a report on my activities to celebrate my return. It's a matter of settling things, a matter of settling things.

...a...matter of...

Oh, no, I'm not going senile, I just realized that I've never really made a proper report in the first place, hahahaha.

Wow, so this is to celebrate my return and my first report? That's pretty fancy, isn't it?

Anyway, there was only one thing that related to SEES today. I'll just give you a quick report.

Well, should I start by saying that Tatsumi Memorial Hospital... has delivered Chidori's belongings to Kirijo-senpai. Well, when I say belongings, it was just one sketchbook.

But I was a little surprised by the contents of that sketchbook...

The pictures of Chidori that I know are kind of unintelligible, like avant-garde art, surreal, rare...Real Madrid...no. They're just messy pictures like that.

But...the drawing on the last page was an amazingly good one, I was amazed that she could draw something like that...

...Well, to be honest, it was a really handsome portrait of Iori Junpei-sama!

However, when the details are made to that extent, it's really embarrassing, or rather, I get a little embarrassed.

…So that’s why I’m here talking to you like this right now.

Okay, the report is over! I'll be back working hard starting tomorrow, so please keep me company!

11/29 (Sun) - Reporter: Fuuka Yamagishi

Good evening, this is Yamagishi.

I'm glad you're feeling better, Junpei...and once again...welcome back.

It feels like it's been a while since we've been able to report on our activities in a normal atmosphere. However, it seems like everyone is still tired from all the hard work that's been going on, so there's nothing special to do today...

Ah, there was! That's right, something special.

Someone other than SEES showed up as a guest at the Iwatodai dormitory.

That person was actually the much talked about transfer student from Class F, Ryoji Mochizuki. Apparently, he became friends with Junpei on the school trip, and they were chatting for quite a long time in the room. Ah, but apparently I just didn't notice, and he'd already been here before, although I'm not sure if it was before or after the field trip.

It's kind of an unexpected combination, isn't it? Ryoji is fashionable, flawless and popular, and Junpei is, um, a bit of a different type. I wonder what they had in common?

11/30 (Mon) - Reporter: Ken Amada

Tonight, the atmosphere was a little different than usual. Well, I know the reason why. Everyone except for me, Aigis, and Koromaru has been holed up in their rooms studying all day. ...And Junpei too!

When I asked Aigis, she said that the final exams are coming up in two weeks, so I think they're studying for those exams. But with a normal exam, Yukari would start to push herself about a week or two before, and then Sanada would start nagging Junpei, who never seems to start studying, and then Mitsuru would motivate everyone. But this time it's different...

I guess it's just a result of you all growing up through a lot of things, right?

Still, it's surprising that Junpei is starting to study at this time of year... And what's more, I've been watching him for over an hour and he hasn't even come out to the break room... People can change all they want. Good luck to everyone.

12/1 (Tue) - Reporter: Akihiko Sanada

It seems like all the members are studying hard on their own for this final term. As a mother-in-law, I feel like there isn't enough for them to do.

…Just kidding.

But Junpei really started studying on his own. I'm not joking, it looks like it's going to rain or snow here. Well, do your best.

…Actually, there's something that's been bothering me today. What on earth happened to Aigis? Has she always shown such a sad expression? Maybe you should be a little more careful and considerate of her. I know this sounds strange, but she just seemed like a normal scared girl. Is she okay...?

<-PREVIOUS ● NEXT->

Tag List: @kerto-p

[thecursedanon]

Masterlist + Requests

(Last updated: 10:45pm - 6/23/24)

Heeeeeellloooo everyone! Curse here, I thought I'd make a masterlist for my fics so they would be easier to find seeing how I plan to make many more fics In the future :3

ALSO! I have an AO3 account if it's easier to read my writing on there. I'm TheCursedAnon on ao3 as well :3

LETS JUST JUMP RIGHT INTO IT--

~REQUESTS ARE NOW OPEN! :3~

I'm operating with 2 fic request slots for now so I can get a feel for them, I can't guarantee they'll be super long because as I've stated previously my muse is a fickle bitch. I'm also not sure how fast I'll be able to get them out because I'm working on my own original non t-word series right now, but I'll do my best! <3

My HC requests are also OPEN, there's no limit on hc's, request as many as you want. :3 also feel free to send me your hc ideas! I love reading them! <3

Guidelines for requests:

I don't write NSFW. I've got nothing against it, It's just not for me lmao.

I don't write other people's OC's. Listen... Y'all, I love OC's, I'll be the first to admit I have a whole like 20 page google doc of OC's from various different fandoms-- but something I've learned over the years is It's really hard to write someone else's OC well, with official characters there's enough content for me to consume to get a feel for them... OC's not so much. :( I'm sorry.

Also, as I'm consuming JJK content, I'm forming a mental list of characters I will not write for... So far there's only a few on the list;

Meimei - I feel like most people will get where I'm coming from with this one. I don't mind writing a few lines of dialogue for her If it's necessary to the plot, but I'm certainly not comfortable making her a lee! or ler!

Toji - Sorry. I actually can't stand this deadbeat father LOL.

Mahito - Seriously, screw this ahole for what he did in Shibuya, I like his design but that's literally IT 😭

I debated putting Kenjaku on the list... but I feel like there are certain scenarios I could make work with him... but just know I don't like him, and he's SORTA on my list lol... depends on the prompt Ig.

Request slot 1: Lee!Yuji, Lers!Nanami, Gojo, Yuta, Choso, Megumi & Todo. (Whoooo boy, Yuji gonna have a busy day XD)

Request slot 2: Empty

~Upcoming Fics~

Lee!Nanami + Ler!Haibara fic - (TW: Mentions of Abuse) Haibara is concerned about Nanami, he's acting really out of character and now he's isolating himself... Haibara makes it his mission to get to the bottom of what's bothering his best friend. (85%)

Lee!Yuji + Lers!Nanami, Gojo, Yuta, Choso, Megumi, Nobara & Todo ~RQ~ - It's Yuji's birthday, what better way to celebrate than by getting the snot tickled out of him by his friends? (Not started)

Amusement park shenanigans pt 3 - Gojo is now raining down hell on EVERYONE. Everyone be catching these wiggling fingers now. (Not started)

Name TBD - The beginning of an AU... :) (2%)

(I'm just now realizing how much comfort I write... LOL)

~Fanfic Masterlist~

1. Amusement Park Shenanigans (Lee!Nanami, Switch!Yuji, Ler!Gojo) - Summary: Gojo decides to take the students to the amusement park, and drags a very unwilling Nanami along with them... after trying to failing to convince Gojo to let him leave, and one too many grumpy remarks from Nanami, Gojo decides to do what Gojo does best... cause absolute chaos. Upload Date: 3/12/24

2. Amusement Park Aftermath (Lee!Gojo, Ler!Nanami, Ler!Megumi) - Summary: Did Gojo seriously think Nanami wasn't gonna get revenge for that little stunt he pulled the other day? Upload Date: 4/5/24

3. Rainy Day (Lee!Yuji, Ler!Nanami) - Summary: Yuji Is super down today, that and he's not been sleeping well due to the nightmares he's been having. His friends, concerned about him go to Nanami with their concerns, and the stoic teacher takes it upon himself to cheer Itadori up. Upload Date: 4/11/24. 🔮NEW🔮

[oliversrarebooks]

The Rare Bookseller Part 11: Emily's Despair

Masterlist

September, 1925

TW: Mind control, captivity

"Wake up, Oliver."

He opened his eyes. He was sitting in the plush leather chair, totally relaxed and calm, feeling so refreshed from his nap.

"We're finished now," said Miss Lily, looking pleased with herself. "You've done very well."

Oliver blinked, trying to get the sleep out of his eyes. "Thank you, sir," he said, his voice so soft. He couldn't quite remember what had happened, just that he'd fallen asleep. But he seemed unharmed, and he felt wonderful, so it couldn't have been anything bad.

"I mean it. You were a joy to work with," she said, and Oliver felt a blissful surge of pride. "I'll take you back to your cell now. It's almost dinner."

"Yes, sir," he said, standing up and stretching, rubbing at his sore wrists. It seemed a shame to go back to his cell, given how comfortable he was here, but no doubt Miss Lily was very busy, and he didn't want to trouble her. 

He fell easily into step behind her, looking curiously at each door they passed in the hallways. Muffled sounds of pain emanated from behind a door and he felt glad that his conditioning had been so pleasant compared to whatever was going on in there. There was little outer indication of what the rooms were for, just brass number plates that meant nothing to him.

Too soon, they were back at the row of prison cells. He spotted Emily getting up from where she was curled on her cot. "Oliver! Are you okay?"

"I'm fine, completely fine," he said, hoping to reassure her. She looked so intensely distressed, and he couldn't quite remember why. His head was still a little fuzzy, but dinner and sleep would hopefully clear that up.

"If you say so," she said. She was eyeing Miss Lily suspiciously.

Miss Lily beckoned him inside his cell, locking the door behind him. "There you go. Get a good night's rest. I'll see you later, Oliver."

"Goodbye, sir, and thank you," he said, waving after her.

As soon as she retreated down the hall, Emily frantically called for him. "Oliver, hey, what did they do? What happened?"

"Nothing, really," he said. "I'm pretty sure I slept through most of it."

"You were asleep? You've been gone for hours. Did they drug you?"

"Oh, no, nothing like that. Miss Lily put me to sleep."

"Miss...?"

"It wasn't bad at all," he said, hearing her distress. "I know we both thought she was going to do something horrible to me, but it wasn't like that. It was amazing. I don't think I've ever slept so well."

"What exactly did they do to you?" she said, warily.

Oliver felt like he couldn't quite remember, and couldn't quite articulate the parts he could remember. "Miss Lily made me very quiet and sleepy," he said, remembering to keep his voice soft. "And she helped me be so much more obedient."

"So she hypnotized you."

"Yes, I suppose so, but it wasn't like she made me do anything that I didn't want to do." said Oliver. "I've always been a quiet and docile sort of person. So it's no trouble at all if the vampires want me obedient and relaxed."

Emily rattled the door of her cell. "Can't you tell that she's got you under some kind of spell? That's not normal, Oliver. What happened to not letting them have your mind? What happened to escaping?"

Her words were like cold water down her spine, dissipating his serenity. "Well..."

"They kidnapped us. They're going to sell us off like cattle. There's no way you actually want to be a slave for vampires the rest of your life. The only reason you think that is because they're controlling your mind. You need to snap out of it."

"I... I suppose that's all true..." he said, struggling through his haze. He knew, in a distant intellectual sense, that just a few hours ago he had been fighting against the vampires. He could remember his fear, he could remember his fight, he could remember his reasons why. But it all seemed so far away. Inconsequential. Maybe a little pointless.

"I need you to snap out of it," said Emily, sounding slightly hysterical. "You can't let them have your mind. What if there's a chance to escape --"

"There's not going to be a chance to escape," he said, looking down at his hands. "They're much stronger than us, they've got us locked up, they have every advantage. If there's no chance to escape, then what difference does it make?"

"So that's it, then? They hypnotize you into giving up on everything? What about your bookshop? Wasn't that your life's work? Don't you want to see it again?"

"I do, but..."

"All that talk of things being hopeless -- that's just the spell they put you under. Don't let them."

"But it's true! And I can't pretend it isn't," he snapped, his calm shattering. "We're not getting out of here. And... I guess that hurts. The thought that I might never see my bookshop again hurts. And the hypnosis or magic spell or whatever you want to say it was -- it feels good. Better than sitting and wondering if I'll ever see my bookshop again. That's how she puts you under so easily. I know I was supposed to resist it. I know it's better to snap out of it. But maybe part of me doesn't even want to. Or I suppose I'm just weak, weaker than I thought --"

"...Sorry," said Emily. 

"Don't be. I needed that. Because you're right. I do want to escape. I don't want to be sold to vampires." His mind felt clearer now. "What she just did to me..."

"Oh, thank god you're sounding more reasonable now," she said. "That's terrifying. You were gone a few hours and when you came back, it was like your whole will to live was gone, and you were calm as calm can be about it."

The reality was sinking in, how that must have seemed to Emily. "She's very powerful. I thought she was going to torture me, but instead she had me actually wanting to be a vampire's slave -- or at least being completely okay with it. If she does that to me again..."

"Do you think you could resist?"

"Perhaps." Oliver was nowhere near optimistic. Even now that Emily had snapped him out, he still could feel the nagging desire to sink back under the spell. It really was so much nicer than reality, and it was pulling at him still. If Miss Lily -- no, Lily, one of his vampiric kidnappers -- hypnotized him again, he didn't trust himself to not fall right back into it again. If he didn't simply fall back into it himself.

"I want to know how to fight it. You have to tell me everything about what happened to you."

"I can try. I really don't remember much," he said, settling down on the cot. "Her assistants strapped me to a chair. She was trying to get me to focus on her eyes, but the real danger was her voice, since there's no real way to block it out. She made me feel sleepy... and quiet... and..." He yawned. "Obedient... so obedient... and it makes me feel good to obey..."

"Oliver! Wake up!"

"Huh?" he said, opening his eyes, startled. "What -- what was I talking about?"

"It's like you were hypnotizing yourself. I'm sorry I asked you to think about it. She did a total number on your head, huh?"

"Apparently so," he said. He still felt dazed.

"Better now?"

He knew that he wasn't. He knew that the conditioning ran frighteningly deep after only one session. He knew he was fighting off the intrusive thoughts that it would be so much easier for him if he just gave up and became a good little vampire thrall.

"I'm not sure," he said. "That really gets under your skin."

"If they do something like this to me... will you help me snap out of it?"

"...I'm not sure I'll be able to, but if I can, I will."

"....You won't," said Emily, bitter. "I already know you won't, because you're already theirs. And they're going to make me just like you, babbling on about obedience and god knows what, doing a little curtsy and offering up my neck..."

"Emily --"

"If you're going to tell me it's not your fault, I know. I don't want to hear it. Just leave me alone, Oliver."

Part Ten >> Masterlist >> Part Twelve

Thank you for reading this story of a newly hypnotized man.

Tag list - please note if you'd like to be added

@d-cs @latenightcupsofcoffee @thecyrulik @dismemberment-on-a-tuesday-night @wanderinggoblin

[sleepsonclouds]

Clouds tropespots: The Spirealm, E11

Episode 11 (reality)

This far, I've numbered the doors according to how many door worlds we've seen in the series. However, that doesn't follow everyone's personal "door count", because the level of the door matters as well. Sometimes it's possible to skip or re-do levels. (The drum sisters door actually counts as Lin Qiushi's 5th door.) Door world logic, what can you do?

For now, we get a break from doors and many discussions in which nothing and no one is straight.

Keeping watch over injured partner: Qiushi wakes up after getting a concussion in the drum door. Nanzhu is sitting on his bed, watching him very, very closely - you can see from his eyes when Qiushi wakes up. He seems to sense this earlier than Qiushi himself. How long has Nanzhu been watching over him, exactly?

Concern over partner's health: Now Nanzhu treats Qiushi as the Sickly Victorian Heroine, being all "health is most important" and "I'll postpone all my plans for you, none of that matters". Where is the cold-hearted boss of Obsidian? Nanzhu's "Your injury was unexpected" just sounds like he's been worried sick. And he doesn't forget to tell Qiushi to rest well and pat his thigh… on top of the covers, so it doesn't count. Right.

The Parent Discussion: Nanzhu brings up Qiushi's parents - how's he going to explain… everything? Qiushi (looking down, distracting himself with the cat): "No need. We're not that close." He says it so casually that something's definitely off. At least Nanzhu doesn't have to meet the relatives. (Would that be a disaster or a success? Would crossdressing help or hinder? I'm getting distracted by Ruan Baijie. Send help.)

Meeting the best friend: Wu Qi insists on visiting Obsidian to see Qiushi isn't involved in anything shady. Cough. Everyone does their best to act super shady… until Nanzhu shows up. Wu Qi's FACE! He's the best! Nanzhu's all business, cold and collected. He wipes his hands after greeting Wu Qi, but that doesn't stop Wu Qi's beaming. After all, he just met the hot boss who introduced himself as Qiushi's friend and promised to take good care of him! +100 approval. Wu Qi, you have a type.

Everyone thinks we're together: Wu Qi's suspicions - or convictions - shift. "I believe you aren't doing a pyramid scheme here", says he, sounding very much like "I know you're doing the boss instead". The unbelievably handsome boss, he doesn't forget to add. Wu Qi is such a delight! He gets plenty of lines to guide the viewer to NSWF conclusions (re: bondage discussion). Nice tactic.

Everyone expects jealousy: Everyone acts like Nanzhu and Qiushi are together. So when Nanzhu starts to spend a lot of time taking a newbie through the doors, people keep checking in on Qiushi. Even Cheng Qianli asks whether he's jealous or upset! And he refuses to believe Qiushi's not bothered! (Generally a good principle: do not believe Qiushi who is "fine".) But even better - Nanzhu feels the need to reassure Qiushi! "Hang in there", he says, promising it won't take long. Everyone's so considerate of Qiushi's feelings, I'm touched.

Boop: Nanzhu also feels the need to touch. I simply must record every instance of Nanzhu poking Qiushi's forehead, because how cute is that? He does it so fondly, too.

Noodles of love (variant): Qiushi regularly cooks for everyone at Obsidian (besides Nanzhu, specifically). Glad to see he's taking care of the family.

Crossdressing comedy of errors: Li Dongyan calls Nanzhu to curse him, because Nanzhu drove away the spy Dongyan sent to find Baijie. (Who's really at fault here?) It's all too easy for Nanzhu to invoke Baijie's presence - suddenly Li Dongyan is at his best behaviour, professing his love. Nanzhu: "Baijie doesn't like men who talk too much. Bye." It's fascinating to hear him talk about himself/herself in the third person like this. Actually, it's a very nice way to let Nanzhu make statements about what he likes in men! Well done, clever little adaptation.

Crossdressing (serious): Qiushi's amused, which suddenly makes Nanzhu serious: "So what? Isn't Baijie good?" (I spy a hint of "am I not good enough" here.) Qiushi admits easily that Baijie's good… only to trigger the drama sprite! "Who is better, Baijie or me?" asks Nanzhu, gravely. He might as well ask do you prefer men or women. Qiushi, at his oblivious best, gets it right: "But you are the same person." Nanzhu is always equally awesome! Also, Linlin's statement kind of implies that Baijie's preferences = Nanzhu's preferences.

Approval from the family: Chen Fei, totally not deflecting questions: "Ruan-ge is lucky to meet a newcomer like you." Chen Fei's seal of approval! I really like Chen Fei. A couple of lingering shots also suggest that he might have more of an interest in Nanzhu than he lets on.

Jealousy (real): Qiushi and Nanzhu meet Zaozao in the real world. She's awfully friendly, calls Qiushi cute and even tries to hire him as her assistant! This is Not On. When she gets to asking about Qiushi's hobbies, Nanzhu's expression grows more and more sinister. "No need to ask so many questions," he cuts her off. It's "unnecessary" for her to know Linlin any better.

Plot item of significance: The bracelets! Nanzhu, again in a gift-giving mood, gives Qiushi a bracelet that enables them to enter the same door, wherever they are. It's only practical, like all his surely-not-romantic gifts.

Crossdressing comedy of errors (cont.): Nanzhu informs Li Dongyan that "Baijie adores competent men". I'm sure that's true. Let's see how long it takes for Linlin to show his competence again… Nanzhu has also, apparently, called Li Dongyan as Baijie and cursed the hell out of him. Unfortunately, that's his kink. "What an attractive tyrant", comments Qiushi, making me nearly choke on my tea.

Discussing being single: "No wonder Li Dongyan is still single", says Nanzhu, pissed off. Cheng Qianli observes that Nanzhu's single, too… At which point everyone scatters, leaving him alone with Qiushi. Nanzhu might have Some Kind of Feeling about this. "Is it funny?" he asks, sounding like he finds it remarkably unfunny. Qiushi, bless him, actually thinks about it and tries to make him feel better: Nanzhu's not unable to get a girlfriend, he just doesn't want one (hint hint). Surprising insight from Linlin! Perhaps the fact that Nanzhu has been hitting on him since episode one has enlighted him a bit.

Stop being tragic, get a boyfriend: Nanzhu isn't done: "Are you single because you choose so?" Qiushi looks like he's trying to solve a math problem. "Can't think of an answer?" guesses Nanzhu. Qiushi, again, blames work and all non-girlfriend-shaped things. Nanzhu's managed to turn this discussion around completely. "You're in your twenties, but you haven't had a girlfriend", he says. It's tragic! But not to worry. If Qiushi can't find a grilfriend, he can always find something else. Qiushi: "Like a cat?" What is this show, what is this discussion? Nanzhu's smoldering look and the subsequent eyeroll are perfection. "And to think why you're single", says he like a man who finds himself inferior to felines.

They're preparing for the next door, which is apparently about mental fortitude. Mine is zero when it comes to anything resembling Japanese horror. Perhaps third time's the charm and I'll actually manage to watch all of it. Next up is episode -> 12.

[alea-says]

H50 Season 6 episode 11 thoughts...

What?!! It's the couples retreat episode???

I am down for this!

This is beautiful.

I am both sympathetic to and jealous of that poor woman stuck between them on the flight.

And now Danny is mentioning giving Steve a lap dance. A lap dance.

There are so many ways he could have chosen to say that and he says lap dance!

And now the woman is thinking about Danny and lap dances. Me too, girl, me too.

Danny wants to watch Pitch Perfect 2. Good taste, Danny!

Brocation!

And now we have Adam and Kono doing the prison visit thing (I'd just like to point out the parallels to the Steve and Danny prison visit at the beginning of s2...)

Back to Steve and Danny.

Soap concierge! Love the way Steve uses it as an excuse to cop a feel of Danny's skin.

Also, I love Danny's Sass- he's been using soap for 39 years and doesn't need any help

I think Steve wants to help you, Danny

Steve has their whole day planned. Of course he does. At this point Danny's not even arguing with him.

Steve mentions he's been texting Alissa. Danny has to point out he has a girlfriend (he does? is he still with Amber/Melissa? I forgot about her...)

But basically, boys trying to make each other jealous.

Including Steve's dug that he had to talk to Alissa cos Danny was busy with his movie. Uh, Steve, your desire for his attention is showing.

I'd also like to note Steve being impressed with the dolphins and pointing them out to Danny and the fact that in the very first episode, Steve gave Danny a trip to a hotel where you can swim with the dolphins for Danny and Grace. So... just saying.... dolphins are a recurring theme here.

Steve: I'm Steve, this is my partner, Danny *proprietary puts his hand on Danny's back as he introduces him - not like there can be any mistake who he's talking about, but he still has to touch him)

Steve's fake smile at the thought of leaving his phone behind.

The way Steve's head jerks to the side to look at the sign as soon as the therapist mentions sex.

He doesn't mind calling Danny partner or getting up in his space, etc, but the mention of sex is what rattles him.

(Which is more evidence for my theories on dadt and Steve, but I'll make that another post)

Steve, consumate SEAL he is, decides they can make it work.

Oh wow. Stev is so uncomfortable admitting he made a mistake in registering them for couples therapy.

Why are you still here?

Very good question, random person in therapy, I would also like to know!

So does Danny.

The principles apply to all relationships, including working partnerships. You feel it Lorraine! (But that's also true)

Lol.

Loraine: I've spoken to Steve and Danny about their partnership and it is fraught with some very serious problems.

And yes, random dude in therapy, Steve and Danny are married, thank you for noticing.

And they're holding hands. 🥰

Steve: this is great for us

Danny: I hate you

(And, I'd just like to point out that as per the trapped under building episode, Danny says he hates Steve as a way to say he loves him)

Three-legged race!

I see your competitive sides, boys, being out in the front like that!

And now Steve is talking evasive maneuvers. Danny wants to win.

Make sure he stays on his back til I get back???? What are you saying, Steve?

Steve texting Alissa to reaffirm his heterosexuality so he can then go back and comfortably be all over Danny.

And it looks like Danny has injured his ankle.

Thanks Steven.

Loraine: everybody take note, because that's exactly the kind of partner you want by your side in a crisis. Note his caring, loving and gentle touch.

Steve sneaking back into the room like he needs to hide he's been out.

Danny: You're a former navy SEAL. What happened to stealth mode?

(Also, can I just say, I really appreciate Danny not sleeping in a shirt)

And no Steve has to make sure Danny was paying attention to him even though Danny wasn't out with him.

And now Steve's going on about how the whole trip was for them to reconnect and have fun (while he still has lipstick smeared round his mouth). Steve! Danny wants you to actually commit to him.

(OK, Danny is so hot like that. Arms and chest and yes. )

Steve, I think Danny's more upset that it was in pursuit of a girl than that his ankle got hurt, ok.

Danny giving a speech on being there for each other being enough, even if you fight.

Steve: well guys, I really feel we made some progress here this morning.

No! Not Kamekona's brother (though I expected it)

Aww. Chin giving Kamekona a book on getting rich.

I'm sorry. Did Steve just? He did!

Steve, walking up to Danny: What's up, good looking?

And now he explains he blew off Alissa to hang with Danny instead.

And Steve has to still give an excuse.

Steve telling Danny not to question his commitment to his family. And also needing ti pint out the importance of Danny meeting him.

And now they're sharing food.

And now Steve's feeling Danny's hand. And Danny's suggesting he give it a rub and also feel his arm. And Steve just said Danny's arm is like the pillows (we know you wan too sleep with your head on his arm Steve)

That has to be some of the most laden 'platonic' flirting I have ever seen.

Oh man I need to gif this entire episode. And maybe watch it again. And again.

[theresawritesstuff]

prompt: midge takes lenny for chinese food sometime between 1961-1965

May 1961

"You know when you said someday I'd be the one paying for the Chinese food, I didn't expect it would be when we were celebrating me."

Lenny smirked at her from across the table. "We're celebrating your success. Seemed like as good a time as any."

Midge smiled softly in return, admiring the pink flower she'd tucked into his lapel on their walk over.

She'd found him in the 30 Rock lobby shortly after the show, arguing with a security guard about letting him in to drop off a bouquet in her dressing room, even though he wasn't on the list. 

Pink and green. Just like always.

She learned that he was back in town for a friend's wedding. That Dinah had serendipitously called the bar they were having said friend's bachelor party in to tell the bartender about her set and they'd overheard, promptly deciding to move the party to the studio after a quick stop at a flower stand.

They got caught shortly thereafter trying to sneak in while the cameras were still rolling. The slow runners were a fun bunch but they lived up to their name.

Had her parents not asked her to walk them out after the show (they'd gotten lost on their way in with all the excitement), she would have never known he was there in person and not just in spirit via the little fortune tucked inside her dress, next to her heart.

It was good to see him. To know he'd really been there for her big break, even if he had to watch on a little monitor in the lobby. He was there. And it felt…right.

In the same way the past several months without running into him had felt wrong.

She'd been keeping herself so busy, trying not to miss him. Trying to keep her promise not to blow it.

She'd thought she had for a while. With her career and with him. 

But tonight seemed to be full of second chances, if she was brave enough to take them.

The check was placed on the table with a pair of fortune cookies on the tray.

"I'll take that," she teased, plucking the cookie from his hand as he began to break his open.

Lenny opened his mouth in amused protest but she held up a finger.

"My turn to pay, my turn to read," she insisted.

He propped his elbows on the table, covering a smile with his hands, nodding for her to continue.

She stared down at the slip of paper in her hands, and as she scanned the text, she realized she needed to be brave at least one more time before the night was over. 

Say what she should have said months ago…

"Your chance at love is waiting right in front of you. All you have to do is let yourself accept it."

She glanced up briefly, gauging his reaction.

"If you do," she continued, "you may finally know yourself as you are seen through the eyes of love…Someone not to be worshiped as a comedy messiah, but treasured as a friend, delighted in as a lover, and respected as an individual with the utmost decency of character, despite what any of the court documents or tabloids may say."

"Midge…"

"They will see you as someone never to be pitied or something to fix because they've never once considered you to be broken. Just someone worthy of support. Of care. Of mutual adoration, sometimes including the occasional show corset."

Lenny smirked behind his hands, staying silent.

"This love is not without it's fuck ups but it is genuine," she promised, keeping her eyes on the slip in front of her. "And it's yours for the taking."

He exhaled thoughtfully as she folded her hands on the table.

"It says all that, hm?" he murmured finally.

Midge nodded. "I've gotten very good at reading fine print since we were here last. Gotta practice for all those contracts they want you to sign when you're famous."

Lenny shook his head, sliding the fortune over to his side of the table.

"Your lucky numbers are 46, 24, 11, 6, and 5." 

"Well…" Midge shrugged, pulling out the fortune she'd tucked into her dress and laying it beside its twin.  "I've heard it's all in how you read it."

He stared down at the papers quietly.

"You kept it?" he wondered.

"I did."

He nodded, glancing towards the window, letting the simple admission speak for the more complicated things they'd left unsaid until now.

"What are the odds it starts snowing?" he asked absently.

Midge smiled. "I dunno… I kind of like our chances though."

"Yeah?"

He turned back to her, hesitant but hopeful.

"I'm having a good night. Call me optimistic," she replied.

He smiled softly, his hand tentatively finding hers on the tabletop.

"As long as we're calling…"

"I think we could figure it out."

They made a point to revisit that booth regularly. First whenever they both found each other in New York, then on a monthly basis when he moved back to the east coast.

Until finally they decided to rent out the entire restaurant on the twenty fourth of November in 1965, where they celebrated their wedding reception with forty six of their dearest friends and family.

[fiorella-a]

Karasuno boys as... "Vampire" song lyrics!

(+ Short scenarios)

Info:

-future! Karasuno boys x gn! Reader

-No Tanaka, he's married after all 🤷🏻‍♀️

-toxic relationship

-cursing

-slight angst (i guess)

Daichi:

"I loved you truly

Gotta laugh at the stupidity"

"I should've known it was strange

You only come out at night"

>> You always found it weird that Daichi would go out around midnight or almost midnight, I'm talking about 10, 11 or 12PM and then come back an hour and a half later. God you hate yourself for falling into his trap when he assures you saying, "It's required for me to patrol around the area" or "you know I'm a police officer, babe" and due to your sincere love for him, you always did understand his responsibilities.

Although you can't help but notice that every time he comes back, he smells and looks.. fresh? Like he had just taken a shower and re-used his clothes.

Maybe he did take a shower with a girl he was giving an after care for. Maybe he was patrolling the area of his girl's apartment. But you can't do anything, you don't have enough evidence.

Sugawara:

"Cause I've made some real big mistakes

But you make the worst one look fine"

"You're so convincing

How do you lie without flinching?"

>> Sugawara gave you an extra key to his class just in case he locks the door and you wanted to visit him. Your relative, who goes to the school that he teaches, called you and told you how amazing his day was, you found it weird that Sugawara isn't home yet. "That's awesome, buddy! But I gotta go, alright? I'll call later on, bye-bye!"

Once you hung up, you drove as fast as you can to the school and came into his classroom without warning.

You saw a woman sitting on Suga's desk, while he has his right arm wrapped around her waist. The woman could only eye you up and down before turning to yell at Suga, "I thought you told them? Gosh Suga! We've been over this for what? A thousand time?!" The said woman jumped out of his grasp, pushed you aside and walked out while slamming the door behind her.

He scoffs at you before opening the door and chasing after the woman.

He left you, huh? Of course he did.

Asahi:

"Bleedin' me dry, like a goddamn vampire"

>> Being an apparel designer and someone who used to get nervous all the time, Asahi gets insecure about the things that he has or had created. He always yearns for your compliment and your opinion both for him and his designs.

And God did it drain you, always saying "you did a great job today, pretty boy" "look at this! One thing missing and after that, it'll be all perfect!" You acted more like his worker rather than his partner, to be honest.

Nishinoya:

"Ooh, what a mesmerizing, paralyzing, fucked-up little thrill

Can't figure out just how you do it, and God knows I never will"

>> Nishinoya takes you with him every time he goes travelling, he winks at you before saying, "It's my treat, love"

After a long day, you both headed onto a nearby hotel before resuming your adventures for tomorrow. The room was spacious, the balcony had the best view and you were busy day dreaming while Noya went into the hotel lobby to fetch you both some food and when he came back, he surprised you with your favorite meal!

You're so easy to distract that you missed the kiss mark on his temple and his neck.

Kageyama:

"The way you sold me for parts

As you sunk your teeth into me, oh

Bloodsucker, famefucker

Bleedin' me dry, like a goddamn vampire"

>> Kageyama kept your relationship very lowkey, he didn't wanna make you overwhelmed by the amount of fans and paparazzi that's on his back, but his team does know you.

When Kageyama is fast asleep, you grab his phone and tries to find one of his teammate's number and luckily, you did!

2:09 AM:

"Hi! Kageyama's girlfriend here, I got your number off of his phone. Can you please help me set up a party for him? Thank you and it's no biggie if you decline."

5:31 AM

"Hey, you have a different number? Gosh [random name] you didn't tell me sooner."

"I'm sorry you must've misunderstood, It's actually Y/n!"

"Oh, Y/n? Aren't you his one night stand? Please stop messaging me, i'm uncomfortable knowing Tobio has a girlfriend and you're trying to earn his attention. Thank you for the efforts of reaching out for me."

He kept you a secret because all they know is you were nothing but a fling to him.

Hinata:

"How's the castle built off people you pretend to care about?"

>> When Hinata got home from practice, he could tell that you were tired and he asked about your day, "Nothing much, just stressful customers always making a scene, you know?" You laugh at your words while Hinata looked into your eyes, "That's sad." He coughs "anyways my day was more stressful than yours, I–"

You spaced out while his rambling started.

Did he even put himself into your shoes?

Tsukishima:

"I used to think I was smart

But you made me look so naive"

"And every girl I ever talked to told me you were bad, bad news

You called them crazy, God, I hate the way I called them crazy too"

>> Tsukishima has you wrapped around his fingers and he knows it. He made you so dependent on him that he knows you can't even go on a day without telling him stories. Gosh he loves the way you're so easy to manipulate! you could've lent in some time for the girls to explain themselves but no, you took his words.

What a fool.

Yamaguchi:

"Went for me, and not her

'Cause girls your age know better"

>> Yamaguchi likes someone from his class, but when you confessed to him, he can't help but accept it out of pity. And Yamaguchi successfully shaped you into his crush. Making you trim your hair, dress in a different aesthetic and even changing the way you talk, just for him. And gosh when you saw the way he looked at the person he liked, you noticed something similar about them.

Everything. You're like that person's mirror.

[astralprisms]

Companion Tav Ask : Lots of questions ik, but I'm very curious. I'm sure you know that by now HAHA!

General 1, 9, 11

Story specific 1, 11, 14

Romance 1, if yes 7

12, Free space!

Hello Barnabas! Charl beat you to some of these, so the ones I've already answered for Xa'rok I will answer for Skaro instead (if applicable, because honestly Skaro is more of a tie-in companion to Xa'rok's story than a solo companion in his own right). Actually, in the case of companion!Xa'rok, it makes more sense to treat them as a pair whose stories are linked, since Xa'rok wouldn't have the same intimate connection to the Emperor as they do as a tav.

Companion!Tav questions

General

Where can your Tav be recruited?  Are they first encountered on the Nautiloid, or in the Nautiloid crash region?  Or are they not recruitable until a later act?

Already answered this for Xa'rok here

You would only learn about Skaro in Act 1 if you go to the creche and read the tir'su slates that mention the Proclamation of the Two Skies. Xa'rok would have reactionary dialogue, "Githzerai, huh?" and you could press on them for more information. Information revealed depends on Xa'rok's approval rating with the player character (Low: brief githyanki history lesson on the schism only; Medium: the ability to ask follow-up questions, such as "What are they like?" and "Have you ever met one?"; High: Xa'rok will actually answer that last question, along with teasing the fact that we might run into this githzerai down the line.)

Skaro will appear in your camp the night following the night Voss visits after the creche (showing up the same night would end poorly for him). The player character would wake to raised voices and find Xa'rok exchanging tense words with another gith. Given the context, it's easy to assume this gith is one of Vlaakith's agents, but then why didn't the Qua'nith detector sound the alarm? The player character is given the choice to ask the newcomer to explain their presence or to attack outright. If the player chooses to attack, Xa'rok will intervene on Skaro's behalf and offer introductions.

Skaro is the githzerai Xa'rok spoke of, a close friend, traveling companion, and potential ally. They had been separated for a time, pursuing different avenues of a shared goal when Xa'rok went missing. Skaro had been searching for them. Skaro has not been tadpoled, but while Xa'rok is unconcerned and even curious about the process, Skaro offers to join up and help search for a cure together and keep an eye on Xa'rok.

If you don’t go to the creche/interact with the slates, you would encounter him in the illithid colony at Moonrise. He would greet Xa’rok warmly, with a hug, and say, “I had a feeling you would end up here.” He would then join your party.

9. Does your Tav have any escalating conflicts with one of the other companions, like Lae’zel and Shadowheart’s knife-fight?

Already answered this for Xa'rok here

Independently, Skaro would also fight with Lae'zel on the matter of going to the creche. Mainly because, whatever his personal feelings, walking willingly into a conclave of his peoples' enemies is tantamount to suicide. But in the resulting fallout you would uncover that he is a githzerai, not a githyanki, and likely get some reactivity from Lae'zel about this. Presumably she knows enough about the githzerai to be able to distinguish among them on sight, but I would chalk her not noticing until then up to either her personal inexperience and a small lack in her erudite education, or Skaro's reticence about revealing his own personal information unless necessary.

Jointly with Xa'rok, Skaro would probably not get along with Lae'zel due to prejudice, and his own self-righteousness would probably rub some of the companions the wrong way, but only if it were a matter where they disagreed. Otherwise his calm and self-assurance would probably be a steadying presence. Skaro is very much a "mind your business and I'll mind mine" sort of person, so unless someone else is instigating trouble, he wouldn't go out of his way to start any fights. He's far older than most of the companions and would in all likelihood find their quarrels petty and bothersome and simply choose to not engage.

11. Are there any moments in the game that trigger unique dialogue for your character? (Like Gale’s anecdote about the barfight after you save the goblin prisoner) 

I feel like Xa'rok would have a lot of idle banter much like the rest of the companions, but specific cutscene dialogue? Hmm. If you recruit them at the crash site before encountering/interacting with the injured mindflayer they would have dialogue afterwards that differs depending on how the player chooses to navigate that situation but gives the player a glimpse of their specific interest in illithids.

After the first Guardian dream (the one they all share), Xa'rok is introspective and curious but evasive in their answers as they work through the dream (they would see Skaro, and on a joint companion run this would be slightly more troubling than reassuring).

If Gale dies prematurely and you trigger his elaborate resurrection ritual, Xa'rok will have something to say about the first time they confronted not their own mortality but the mortality of others also alongside an instrument - a little peek into their past. Higher approval will give you more chances to ask further questions about this in future.

If they are in your party when you confront the Guardian at the creche and first step into the astral plane. They would sigh with longing and express a desire for a continued existence on this plane, at some point in the future.

A comical dialogue about impulsive choices will prompt: if the player character gets the brand of the Absolute, sticks their hand in the weird centipede hole in the underdark (or the wall in Moonrise), gives Araj their blood (the first or second time), or drinks Araj's weird potion. If the player character elects to get either of the eye surgeries, this dialogue can also prompt, but Xa'rok will wince and say, "In this case, I'm glad you beat me to it."

Walking into the creche and interacting with them after will trigger a brief introspective that, with high enough approval, will get them to reveal their exile to the player. Likewise, speaking to the egg hunter lady will prompt at least a leading dialogue about the Society of Brilliance.

Meeting Omeluum will prompt a scene, as Xa'rok was on their way to meet with it before they got snatched by the Nautiloid. They have much to discuss.

Interacting with the githzerai brain in the moonrise colony will prompt a scene (context dependent on whether this is a solo companion run with Xa'rok, or a joint one with Skaro) with additional potential dialogue between Xa'rok and Lae'zel if Lae'zel is also present.

They would definitely have something to say after the Emperor reveal (again context dependent, though if unattached and the option is closed to the player, Xa'rok will sleep with the Emperor)

Story

How does your Tav advise the player character when it comes to the Dream Visitor?

They encourage the player to hear them out – there is logic to the thought of using the powers to increase their chances of survival, and they’ll lean in that direction if the player character is resistant to the idea of using the tadpoles. If the player character is open to the thought of using the tadpoles, they’ll encourage you to join them on that path and see where it takes you.

If the player has high approval with Xa’rok before the dreams zero in on just you, you can roll an insight check after the second dream to gauge their reaction to the visitor as a whole, and if you pass you get the sense that Xa’rok enjoys these visitations and takes some measure of comfort in them.

11. What do they say if the PC tries to force them to go up on stage with Dribbles the Clown?

“You can’t be serious.” / “I’m a performer, not a performance. Please pick someone else.” / “Fine. But I’ll remember this, and so will my flute.”

14. How does Tav react to the PC becoming a mind flayer?  Can they offer to become one themselves?  Does their reaction change if they’re romanced? 

Very positively, with stirrings of curiosity and a fair bit of jealousy. They would offer to take the player character’s place similar to Karlach, and you would be presented with the option to choose to evolve them in your stead. If declined they would insist on accompanying the player to the end and be supportive, promising to withhold their questions until after you’ve defeated the brain. N/A to romance as they cannot be romanced, but in theory they would not only be in favor, but suggest they could become illithid together, should the player want that.  

Romance

Is your Tav a romanceable character?  Are there any specific requirements to romancing them?

No, sorry. Xa’rok has two hands and they’re both occupied. The requirements for romancing them are: be one of their given partners already. They’re actually aroace, which makes it funnier they ended up with two relationships, but so am I and I get to choose the canon.

7. However, I did answer this one here! Since you can take this test with characters you aren’t romancing.

Unfortunately I don’t have a firm enough grasp on Skaro’s independent lore to answer this one for him yet. So no Skaro version for now.

[sarcastic-lee]

Y'know I'm gonna do a little random fun facts about me just for the sheer hell of it. That but I'm also in a rambling mood so here we go!

RANDOM FACTS BOUT REI!!

1. I started taking art seriously in 4th grade. I remember a kid telling me that I'll never be an artist and from then on, I drew and continued to draw out spite. Don't tell me what I won't be able to become cause I'll prove you wrong.

2. I was extremely active as a kid. From archery to swimming to soccer to baseball to gymnastics to Tae Kwon Do and karate to skiing. I was pretty busy with after school activities. I still retain my throwing arm from baseball.

3. I'm not good with math but I am pretty decent in biology and physical science. Both classes had me captivated in highschool because a lot of it was hands on with projects instead of lectures.

4. I have a wide array of music I listen to ranging from old music from my parents generation to 90's boy bands to early 2000's to current stuff (umm minus the mainstream music that's like mumble rap and such). If I were to recommend any bands my biggest two would be Sleep Token and From Ashes to New.

5. I spend most nights watching anime or gaming. I'm currently rewatching and catching up with My Hero Academia. As for games, I'm currently achievement hunting in Skyrim.

6. I took a course at a tech school for two years in highschool about videogame design. I love designing environments and creating stories for said environments. Unfortunately there was no colleges that had a good videogame design course so I went to college for graphic design and then later for Animation and Motion Media.

7. I've grown up around a parent that works in remodeling work. I used to help him build stuff and know my way around power tools.

8. I'm a hands on learner (kinesthetic). I can't learn very well from reading or lectures. It's why I struggled in subjects like math and history.

9. My favorite book is actually a banned book by the title Maus by Art Spiegleman. I have the full hard copy edition and I read it often. His father's story is heart wrenching and I'm desperately hoping the world can learn from these kinds of stories.

10. My favorite holiday is Halloween. Or the proper origin and name is Samhain. I love learning about the history and origins of holidays because we all know the Americanized versions...

11. I'm relatively knowledgeable in Russian folklore. I used to research a lot of varying stories and find them all really cool. Honestly folklore in general is a lot of fun to study.

12. I got my first tattoo at 27. And I plan to get more. I just need the money first.

13. On an embarrassing note, I've never been in a relationship. I don't really actively seek out people. If anything I would prefer to stumble into one then seek it out.

14. I broke into the theater at my highschool when I was a junior during summer school. We TPed the place and would throw around a frisbee. We also explored the whole place by mini flashlight.

15. I hiked a mountain for a half semester long unit in 8th grade. Was a fun time...besides getting sick on the last night and injuring my ankle on the trek down.

16. My favorite (and comfort movie) is Howl's Moving Castle. I absolutely adore Studio Ghibli films and Miyazaki is the inspiration for why I got into animation.