#and has no qualms about being sneaky

[missyandthemisfits]

Tokyo Revengers-Do They Believe In Sex Before Marriage?

18+ WARNING, NSFW

Mikey – Pfft, do you even have to ask? He’s got NO qualms about sneaking (it’s not sneaky at all) you off from the group in-between meetings and giving you the most satisfying of quickies, needy and demanding as he pushes you up against the alleyway wall. Quite the exhibitionist this one. No, the real challenge will be convincing Mikey that marriage is something worth having  ‘cause let’s face it, he ain’t buying what they’re selling. 

Draken – Honestly, he would much MUCH rather be wed before he’s plowing his impressive length down into your slick, but alas, he’s a man with needs and desires. That said, if you really wanna wait until marriage, he’s not forcing you to do anything you don’t want. He will, however, ask for other things, to give and to receive them. 

Mitsuya ��� Oh, he’s a man on a mission to be married with children, I can assure you of that. He probably wants to be married before making his dream of having you a moaning mess of a person beneath him come true. Buuut, he’s all for fooling around beforehand if you are. And if you wanna wait, he’s waiting, no questions asked. #Gentlemengonnagentleman

Hakkai – Baby boy really really wants to wait until marriage, he’s hella embarrassed about even thinking about you in those compromising positions, spread so deliciously for him and only him. But also, he’s incredibly weak willed when it comes to you and your wishes so despite weak protests, he’s not stopping anything. As a religious man though, he will feel guilty about it.  

Baji – He absolutely intends to sleep with you before he pops the question – gotta take the car out for a test drive before you purchase it, right? (Words uttered only to Chifuyu who is sworn nay threatened to secrecy). He fantasizes about being balls deep in you like clockwork and when he finally gets that chance? He’s not giving it up for anything. Feel free to try and stop him. 

Chifuyu – He’s torn, he really is. Has he fantasized about you exposed to him in a mating press? God yes. But does he also think there’s something incredibly and undeniably romantic about waiting until your wedding night? Also a strong yes. Decides he can’t make that type of decision, so whatever you want is what you’ll get, 100%. 

Takemichi – HaHA – let him tell it and ‘I-It’s only natural for a hotblooded young man to want those types of things! Right…?’ Grade A dork. But truth be told, he wants to wait as long as he possibly can (he’s afraid he’ll mess it all up) , he’s really aiming until the marriage thing but knows things just happen, like that one time you were clawing at his jeans on your knees- still fantasizes about that, the horn dog.

Atsushi – He wants to wait. His mother raised him on strong values and he’s not keen on disrespecting you or himself by taking things farther than he, or you, think they should go. Now, will he lap at your most sensitive bits like a dog in heat? Yea, but I mean, that’s not really going all the way, ya know? Gotta love loopholes. 

Nahoya – Maaaan oh man is this boy pervy. Within the first month, he’s got his hands on your ass with that devilish smirk, making all sorts of dirty jokes and disgusting remarks. Wants it and wants it bad. Tries his best to be respectful but has a very hard time stopping at just your sexy mouth, even if he just came. Stop him from going further and he will be frustrated, frowning for once. Doesn’t even know if he fully believes in marriage, he just wants to be inside you as long as you’ll tolerate him – or for as long he can tolerate you. 

Souya – The total and complete opposite of his twin – where Nahoya can be incredibly pushy and demanding, Souya is all light touchs and sweet nothings, asking permission for everything, from hand holding to kissing. In an ideal world, he’s waiting until you’re both married (which he plans on being) to make you his completely. Incredibly honored (and nervous) that you even asked him to pleasure you with his tongue, and what a surprisingly skilled tongue it is. Doesn’t expect more, doesn’t even expect reciprocation, perfectly happy just pleasing you - so when you do palm at his hardened and constrained member, lowering yourself to your knees well… who is he to deny you? Not like he could say ‘No’ if he tried. 

Kazutora – Poor dear is traumatized – doesn’t honestly know whether or not he believes in marriage and it shows in the way he stops everything at the question. He can’t promise you he’ll ever come to a real conclusion, but what he can promise you is that he will be by your side for as long as you’ll have him, a lifelong partner. His kiss goes from sweet to hungry in a matter of seconds though, and he’s on top of you before you know it, eyes begging for you to help him to his release. 

Hanma – Never even considers the idea of marriage before you, too preoccupied with curing his boredom to really care either way. However, he finds himself considering the notion, genuinely excited about it and suddenly, he can’t wait. He’s not looking for anyone else once he’s locked in, sincerely – but getting him to stop his long fingers from slowly moving in and out of you was something you always struggled with. Fuck, would you be able to keep your own promise at this point? 

 Taiju – You might be surprised but as someone who devotes himself to his religion, he thinks it’s only right to wait until marriage, almost impatiently waiting, praying, for the day you take his damn near monstrous length like the good slut you are. Until then, he’s more than happy to prep you with his admittedly very large fingers. Good luck! 

Kokonoi – More concerned with whether or not you’re able to have an intellectual conversation with him really, pretty low libido. More than likely, he’ll wait until marriage, it’s not a bother or inconvenience to him in the slightest. More than happy to have your back against his chest, lazily playing with your naughty bits while enjoying a good movie, chin resting on your shoulder. May ask for reciprocation every now and then, but he’s a whiner so that’s fun. 

[cowboysanddragons23]

The Blackbeard pirates are the Straw Hat pirates, only with their redeeming qualities absent:

-Luffy and Blackbeard: Both are dreamers who wish to be the Pirate King, even if people constantly tell them the opposite and even recruited powerful crewmembers in peculiar circumstances (Luffy met them in his travels, Blackbeard recruited his core from Impel Down) eventually becoming Yonkos. But Luffy is the image of the romantic pirate, a man who fights for Justice and cares about others (and is reluctant about killing), while wanting to enjoy the journey, Blackbeard is the image of a realistic pirate, who has a more machiavellian approach towards his dreams, cares only about himself and wants to reach his destination as soon as possible (and has no qualms about killing others). Even their fruits oppose each other: Luffy has the Nika model, which embodies the light, Blackbeard has the Yami no mi, which embodies darkness.

-Zoro and Shilliew: Both were recruited under dire circumstances, while working as on a legal employment (Zoro was a Bounty Hunter, Shilliew was a guard at Impel Down), where they endured imprisonment. But where Zoro is devoted to Luffy and values the swordsman's honor, who was unfairly jailed due to opposing Helmeppo, Shilliew is a bloodlusted man who lacks honor and only follows Blackbeard out of self-interest and was fairly jailed because he was killing prisoners at his leisure.

-Nami and Laffitte: Both of them were recruited by their captains when they were in a bad place (Nami was forced to work for Arlong, Laffitte got expelled as a cop) and are fiercely loyal towards their captains, despite their authoritanism (Nami hits Luffy when he does something stupid, Laffitte threatens to kill Pizarro if he tries to betray Blackbeard) and both can be very sneaky when they want to (Nami stealing the Strawhats' money, Laffitte infiltrating Mariejois) . But Nami, despite her outwardly blunt manner, she is a good person who was a victim of corrupt authorities, Laffitte, despite his charming manners, he is a cruel and ruthless man who was a corrupt authority.

-Chopper and Doc Q: Both are outwardly amicably people who are a mix of human and animal (Chopper is a raindeer who ate a Human Human fruit, Doc Q and Stranger are so compenetrated that they can be considered one person), but Chopper saves lives, Doc Q takes them.

-Sanji and Burgess: Both are martial artists (Sanji uses his kicks, Burgess his fists) who joined their respective crews. But Sanji is calm and collected, who refuses to harm others and only fights to protect, willing to disagree with Luffy if necessary, Burgess is reckless and boisterous, who has no qualms about hurting others and believes that battle lust should be indulged for it's own sake and agrees with Blackbeard with everything he does.

-Brook and Vasco Shot: Both have a connection with spirits (Brook is a skeleton, Vasco is a drinker) and have elemental powers, with Brook using ice and Vasco Shot using fire. Both also are perverts. But Brook has a sense of chivalry, Vasco lacks a sense of chivalry, even suggesting that the Blackbeard pirates should rape Hancock.

-Usopp and Van Augur: Both are the snipers of their respective crews, but Usopp despite his cowardly attitude, is actually a brave man who defies fate and genuinely cares for others, Augur, despite his outwardly brave attitude, is resigned to fate and has no compunctions of killing others.

-Robin and Devon: Both are women who were pursued by the World Government (Robin for reading Poneglyphs, Devon for killing people) and are both capable of changing their appearance (Robin can develop extra limbs, Devon can disguise herself as another person). But Robin, despite her past as a former enemy, she is loyal to her friends and was accussed of being a demon, Devon is a sadistic killer who enjoys hurting others and is demonic.

-Jinbe and Wolf: Both are people who look like monsters (Jinbe is a Gyojin, Wolf is a giant) belonging to species discriminated by the World Government. Jinbe retained his kindness and is determined and disciplined, Wolf is a shy but ruthless man who would let others do his dirty work.

-Franky and Pizarro: Both are people who can be considered as iron men (Franky on the outside, Pizarro on the inside) who were forced to be exiled and became criminals before joining their respective crews. Franky was framed by Spandam and was a victim of corrupt authority, Pizarro got rightfully expelled from his kingdom from abusing his authority, with Pizarro lacking the sense of loyalty Franky has.

[jubileemon]

Helluva Boss: The Controversy Around Stella's Character

After "The Circus" premiered, there was a decent amount of controversy regarding her portrayal. There are a decent number of fans who were upset that Stella is portrayed as the bad guy in Stolas' marriage. This is mainly due to people hating Stolas because he cheated, not caring that Stella abused him for their entire marriage and made him miserable. Others aren't as mad, but wish Stella had more personality.

While others aren't as mad, some people wish Stella had more personality. Another group knows that Stella was always evil due to her prior appearances and were expecting something like this.

Stella Goetia's malevolent nature was evident from her youth, as depicted in a disturbing photograph where she is seen strangling her pet dogs. This early sign of cruelty foreshadows the abusive tendencies that manifest in her adult life. If that picture was meant to endear Stolas to the prospect of marrying her, it suggests either that Paimon has no qualms about animal abuse or that said cruelty has become "normalized" in the Goetia household.

As it turns out, Stolas only married Stella because his father Paimon arranged it in the hopes that Stolas would father a powerful new addition to the family. As this episode shows, their marriage was absolutely miserable, to the point that Stella threw parties about how they hadn't divorced yet and talks trash about him to her friends while he's in earshot. While Stella gossips with her friends, she tells them how terrible in bed Stolas was, and how he just blankly stared at the ceiling while she did all of the work. She then gloats how happy she was that at least an egg popped out of her so she didn't have to pretend like she wanted to have sex with Stolas, but all Stolas can do is glower and order something stronger than wine to calm himself.

Special mention to the part where Stella merely refers to Octavia as "an egg", further hinting at the neglectful nature of Stella's relationship to her own daughter at best and viewing her as little more than a necessity to the family at worst.

For many years, she has belittled and humiliated Stolas. As for why Stella's still hanging around the mansion at this point, well, if her behavior at the parties in the past didn't make it clear, she likes to see him suffer. Her admission that she derives pleasure from tormenting her husband reveals her sadistic tendencies. Even when faced with the consequences of her actions, Stella's response is to threaten further aggression and leverage her status to intimidate. Even if their marriage was arranged and he wasn't at all happy, even if he only tried to preserve it for the sake of Octavia's home life, Stolas has had enough and demands a divorce.

Stella's reaction doesn't make it much better. Not only is she more upset about her stung pride than anything else, she takes a vicious satisfaction in pointing out that Stolas has pretty much ruined his own reputation by now, and that he'll be punished for it. She also moves to try to hit Stolas for demanding a divorce and standing up to her, the fact he catches her hand so quickly as she tries to slap him suggests that she likely has physically abused him before. In a drastic escalation of her vindictive behavior, Stella hires an assassin to murder Stolas, showing a callous indifference to the emotional trauma this could inflict on Octavia, especially at a time when father and daughter are mending their relationship.

Stella is also rather single-minded and short-sighted in her efforts to kill Stolas. She was willing to demand Striker to kill him over the phone with both her husband and daughter present at the family’s dinner table, not even being sneaky about it. In "Western Energy", her inability to grasp the consequences of her husband's potential assassination, as pointed out by her brother Andrealphus, suggests a lack of understanding of the ramifications of her actions. This raises questions about her awareness of the inheritance laws in Hell, which would see her daughter Octavia inherit everything, leaving Stella with nothing post-divorce.

Stella's reliance on her brother Andrealphus during critical moments, such as the divorce proceedings and the decision to call off a hit on her husband, indicates a dependency on external guidance for decision-making. Andrealphus appears to be the voice of reason, prompting speculation about whether Stella's actions are driven by emotional impulsivity rather than calculated intent.

Now that we know Stella hates being married to Stolas as much as he hates being married to her, why didn't she signed up for divorce as soon as Octavia was hatched? Stolas endured for the sake of Octavia having a normal life, but for what reason Stella stayed? It couldn't be for the prestige, since Stella using her brother as leverage against Stolas implies it's actually she the one with a higher ranked family. So my theory is that Stella's life was in the line unless she accepted to marry Stolas. Probably her family only saw her as an exchange piece in the game of power, and if she didn't play along until death do her apart from Stolas, it would be her the one to be disposed of.

It will explain why she's just so angry all the time and the reason why she resents, belittles and abuses Stolas: she sees him as the reason of her own imprisonment in this unwanted marriage. And before someone says it's too much of a stretch, remember this is Hell. If she can contract a hitman on her husband within earshot of him and he doesn't bat an eye, who can tell nobles don't dispose of troublesome children that don't fall in line to the family's desires? After all, Paimon has a lot of kids, so the other families might as well; they have plenty of spares.

Stella is a cautionary tale about people being born into privilege who think their status allows them to get away with everything She'll genuinely believe that because she's a denizen of Hell who's born into royalty, Stella can get off with abusing Stolas scot-free.

[nathaniel-underwood-is-an-intj]

Literally just finished Notorious Scarlett and Browne

In that hyper stage where I just have to share my thoughts so excuse the ramble. (Spoilers!)

Sneaky Bartimaeus reference? Very reminiscent of Nat and Kitty's parting. I love how It's easy to find similarities between Storud's stories and characters without it feeling too repetitious.

The revelation about Thomas didn't surprise me- I'd read the summary for the third book but before that I felt it was kinda obvious she was like the reverse of Lockwood. But her middle name being Josephine absolutely did surprise me (unless I missed it being mentioned before?) but omg does the name suit her!! Made me realise we don't know what Jo and Ettie's surname is which I'd like to know!

Lighthearted moments I liked:

But also I was so confident Albert was my favourite character (love all of Stroud's psychologically messed up male protagonists anyway so it wasn't exactly a competition) but then in came Mallory omg - a more fucked up version of Albert that has absolutely no qualms about killing people?? Sign me tf up baby I love him so much! I said Nat has Catholic guilt vibes but oh boy Mallory is the BLUEPRINT for catholic guilt 🤌🏼🤌🏼

Maybe an unpopular opinion? But he definitely deserved better! I want to see him developed more as character and see more of his personality shine through rather than just be a vague threat from Stonemoor. I found his self assurance and egotistical nature really interesting considering years of child abuse - we kind of see it with Nathaniel but it's mostly an act and bravado whereas that does seem to just be what Mallory is like.

I'm loving the found family vibe as well - it was nice to see Jo and Ettie have stayed with Scarlett and Albert and the addition of Sal Qin at the end is really sweet. And I just think Mallory would fit in perfectly with the found family trope. None of them are really great people so he fits in so well 😭 I know I'm deluding myself thinking two people with the same power and background could be given equal space in the book so Mallory's end is probably final. But it was a little more vague so maybe? 🥹 What do we think does anyone else want him back? Also I know mentions of an adaptations are out there and I can't get the image how the last chapter would look on screen: Albert and Scarlett discussing the fight, thinking about the future joking about how Mallory is under several buildings and the future looks so bright. And then post credits we just see him come crawling out the revine. Or is that too cliche? But a small dose of cliche is healthy in a western vibe book right?

Mallory goading Albert before their fight was actually really cute as well; he was 🤏🏼 this close to being a mentor to Albert like an annoying af big brother or something 😭 I can picture him flirting with Scarlett as well purely to be irritating.

And I understand Albert being upset about Mallory killing the watchman - Albert does feel bad about hurting people even in self defense and it contrasts to Mallory not caring at all, but I was surprised that it was such a strong catalyst for his rage? Mallory kind of inadvertently helped them by getting rid of someone who could sound the alarm.

I just really love Mallory's pursuit of perfection leading to his own self hatred and I feel like it could be explored more with him as a character. Nathaniel gradually became more fearful of uncleanliness and disorder as he lost control of his life but it's cool to see the concept of a character viewing themself as impure and being filled with self hatred because of that (again gimmie those catholic guilt vibes all day long.)

I also like how he hasn't got the fear of his power that Albert has; Albert fears himself Mallory hates himself instead. But he also hates 'normal' people too which is really interesting, he just seems so lonely that's why I want him to join the little ragtag group 😭

Dr Calloway's death felt very justified but Mallory's (potential?) death just felt hollow because he's exciting and doesn't feel like his story was filled out enough. But then again we don't have any information about Calloway- not even a first name. The effect it gives is of a faceless entity of an institution. Even the description of her wearing glasses gives the impression of dehumanising her- If anyone knows anything about the Stanford Prison Experiment that's the impression she leaves. And that lack of knowledge about her is fulfilling in a way. No real personality shines through because she's been dehumanised. But Mallory is different - we see little glimpses of his personality, he's less of a faceless entity.

And even when Albert is trying to convince him to join them (whether this was supposed to be a trick or genuine I wasn't sure- Albert is kind enough to have been genuine but also I don't know if he'd want to risk Joe, Ettie and Scarlett) his reaction shows the cracks in his confident swagger. He's furious when Albert suggests society hates him, even though he's stated it himself many times and says he's accepted that fact. It kinda gave me the impression he's just trying to convince himself he's okay with being an outcast an completely alone but hearing it from someone else reminds him of the trauma of having it pointed out by Drs in Stonemoor and the defence mechanisms start to kick in.

And during his fight with Albert we see him have a real connection with someone- he and Albert share strange moments bordering on bonding with each other. I think it's a connection they both need because no on else has such similar shared experiences. I don't even want a redemption arc for him- he's irredeemable in the same way Scarlett and Albert are which is why he fits in with them so much!

Anyway what do people think? Do you think Mallory will return? Do you want him to? I'm so excited for the last book to come out and so scared I'll be disappointed 🥲

Aside from Mallory; the will they won't they of Scarlett and Albert is stressing me out! I can't decide if they're even meant to be shipped or not. It doesn't help that Albert's age is left really vague - Scarlett makes him sound quite young in comparison to her but Albert says she's hardly older than him so idk. I know Stroud tends to keep these things vague on purpose but this seems more so than usual which makes me think I'm crazy when they have adorable moments together.

I kind of get the impression Albert has a sort of crush on Scarlett but she views him as a little brother. How does everyone else see them?

[galebrainrot2024]

Gale x Tav Enemies to Lovers Part VI

This part is a bit shorter than the others, critical plot ahead though, be warned. Gale POV once again.

Surprise, shorties.

Gale followed silently behind Tav, Shadowheart and Karlach as they began their trek to the Goblin Camp. The group was uncharacteristically quiet, the strain between Tav and Gale palpable and coupled with the anxiety that comes along with any battle. Even those with hearts of steel forged in the fires of courage and might experience the nervousness that creeps through the body and seeps through your bones and into the very marrow of your being. Even heroes understand that life is precious and nothing is guaranteed. 

When Tav explained their mission to them earlier, she spoke directly to Karlach and Shadowheart and tangentially to Gale. Today they were launching their final assault on the camp, leaving no stone turned or rather, no goblin alive. 

“The leaders are dead, there are only a few more on the outskirts of their camp.” Tav pulled out a crudely drawn map and pointed to a spot on it, “This is where we’re headed. There’s normally a scout stationed here,” she dragged her finger along the map, all four of their heads huddled over it. Tav looked up at the sky, the darkness of an impending storm looming above them. “We should move, while the weather’s still on our side.” 

“And what if there are more than we anticipate?” Gale asked, the question was innocuous enough - he wasn’t trying to challenge her, he liked to be prepared. He should have anticipated that she would not see it that way.  

Tav ignored his question and Shadowheart, also a pragmatic, echoed him. “Tav - Gale has a point. Regardless of whatever qualms you have with him, he’s right as much as I hate to admit it.” Shadowheart gave Gale a sly smirk, she was teasing him. “We need to have a plan if things go awry. It would be foolish not to.” 

Tav shot a dirty look at Gale and he shrugged smugly. She rose her eyebrows and pursed her lips, “We’ll be fine. They’re just goblins.” 

Fine with me, he thought, his arms crossed across his chest as he absorbed the task at hand. He heard Shadowheart’s annoyed, but compliant huff and Karlach chuckled, pumping her fists in the air. “Poor fuckers, have no idea what’s about to hit them.” 

** 

As they began their sneaky, eastern decent upon the camp, Gale’s knees creaked and he groaned. “This is no fun at all,” Gale grumbled. He hated sneaking, he hated being crouched like this. It felt ridiculous. There was an entire cliff face between them and the Goblins. Who was going to see them? 

Karlach snickered, whispering, “You alright there, Grandpa? I think they heard that crack all the way in Elturel.”

“Ha-ha,” Gale said mockingly, releasing a puff of air from his nose, “Very funny.” Tav shot Gale a withering look and he rolled his eyes, and then stuck his tongue out at her childishly as she turned around, something that sent Karlach into stitches. 

“I like sassy Gale,” Karlach whispered and Tav once again gave them a look of death, eyes like daggers into the spirit. “Alright, alright message received solider.” She held her hands up defensively and smiled at Tav, hoping to defuse the situation. 

They crept along the cliff-face, launching their assault from the side. Tav would go first, killing the scout, and the rest would follow. Simple, easy she said. Taking down the leaders had apparently been a cake walk which eased Gale’s anxiety a bit. Tav quietly and efficiently killed the scout, gesturing for the rest to move. 

They lined the crumbling wall, prepared to attack. Karlach jumped, succumbing to her rage and threw a spear wildly at one of the Goblins - nothing quite like the element of surprise - and so it began. Gale heard the blood rush through his ears as his heart thumped loudly in his chest. After so many days back at camp, he had forgotten how thrilling being in the thick of battle was. Everything becomes crisp, every sense heightened as he looked in the face of death. 

“Gale, NOW,” Tav yelled, signaling for him to launch his attacks. In one fell swoop, Gale pulled at the Weave, focusing his adrenaline into what he knew best - magic. Tav launched multiple patches of grease that Gale followed, hitting with fireballs that lit the Goblins up and sent their charred bodies writhing into the dirt. 

A low rumbling in the skies portended the weather ahead, the clouds darkening as a maelstrom brewed above them. The rain was hardly a mist at first before it deluged them with water, pouring down as if the Gods themselves sent down a tsunami. Gale’s hair clung to his face and he noticed an ogre headed straight for Tav - she hadn’t said anything about ogres - her back was turned and by the time he locked eyes with her it was too late. 

You know the feeling when you’re dreaming how everything feels ridiculously, painfully slow, that even when you try to shout your voice catches in your throat, when you try to run it feels as if you’re pushing through molasses - the world ground to a halt for Gale and he felt suspended in time, as if it happened in slow motion.

There she was, on top of the crumbling wall, the ogre barreling towards her with a spiked club in hand. “TAV!” Gale tried to yell, but the sound of the torrential rain and thunder drowned out his voice.

He watched as the club made contact. A THWAP reverberated across the camp and her body spun as if she were a rag doll. She fell from the wall, the sound of cracking bone and cartilage assaulting his ears. “NO!” Gale cried out, his movements inhumanly quick as he throttled the Goblins before him, killing them in one volatile flick of the Weave and rushed over to her, falling to his knees. “Tav, TAV,” he brushed the soaking hair from her face looking battered and bruised, her lips blue. His hair plastered to his face from the rain, heavy drops rolling into his mouth as he shielded her. 

Time stopped. His heart felt ripped from his chest as he struggled to find a pulse. “SHADOWHEART, SHE’S NOT BREATHING. COME, QUICK, PLEASE,” He shouted to her from across the encampment as he held Tav in his lap, the evident swelling of broken bones and internal bleeding consumed Tav. He was shaking violently, holding her against him. Karlach was in a frenzy to hold the rest of the Goblins back and took down the ogre as Shadowheart sprinted to them. 

Shadowheart dropped to her knees, closing her eyes and hovered her hands over Tav, casting cure wounds but it wasn’t working. “I don’t know what’s wrong,” she was frantic, trying other spells yet Tav’s wounds remained, her body deadly still. “I can’t… I can’t find a pulse, Gale. I don’t.. this is beyond my abilities…” Shadowheart’s voice was barely a murmur, drowned out by rain and thunder. 

“You must,” he hissed, still holding Tav in his arms as the rain poured in his eyes and soaked his robes, Tav’s blood mixing into the fabric. “You’re a cleric, aren’t you? What isn’t working? Why isn’t it working?” 

“I don’t know!” She snapped, throwing a potion of healing to Karlach that she chugged as she single-handedly finished the goblins who remained. 

“You can’t be…” Gale gasped, his entire body quaking with a harsh sob. “No..no.. there must be a way...” His words caught in his throat, his entire body feeling as if it might disintegrate as he wept and held her against him. 

Karlach came bounding over and placed a hand on Gale’s shoulder. “We have to go. Now. I have an idea,” She scooped Tav in her arms as if she were light as a child, her fires doused by the rain, and Gale and Shadowheart followed dashing back to camp with as much haste as their feet could manage.  

[compacflt]

Your thoughts about Ice and Mav and their sexualities and how their environment has shaped them is soo interesting I am chewing it... just thinking about how Ice particularly would handle that conflict arising in his subordinates - Maverick isn't in as much a position to be the person kicking guys out of the Navy for whatever reason, but Ice certainly is. The conflict of public vs private in how he handles minorities under his command, not only women but also non-white people and of course the big one: other queer men... In the Slider oneshot Ice confesses that he's gotten guys kicked out of the Navy for both less and more than what he's done with Maverick - did you have any other thoughts about the inevitable conflict of scandals that he would have had to deal with re: people who were outed in one way or another, and how that would weigh on him as someone who self admittedly is aware of how what he wants to be (4 star admiral) and who he is (a man attracted to at the very least, one other man) are not compatible with each other?

hmm. Hadn’t thought about it. Admittedly i know very little about the intricacies & vagaries of DADT or its enforcement (and i am answering this ask quite hungover & not in the mood to research) but—based on what I said last week/the week before that, that ice has no philosophical qualms with DADT because he agrees that sexuality should be hidden/private & “why are you talking about your personal identity when you could be doing your job better,” i think—yeah. he would enforce it. He would stand by its enforcement. If a little hesitant/disappointed, and if only as insurance to the brass above him, yes, i do still know what the rules are, and also, man these stupid kids these days have no idea how to keep it a secret… like, independent of him personally identifying as gay or not, he looks down (in a paternalistic “come ON be smarter than that” way) upon people/personnel who can’t keep it a secret, who refuse to live closeted for the sake of the Navy… post TGM rooster prolly lights into him for it later. But Ice is commander of the pacific fleet, like that is an extremely public & POLITICAL position, like it or not. Like there’s a lot of sneakiness/sleazy political scheming that has to go on there by necessity because it’s a political appointment. by now ice must have learned that silent underground subterfuge/rebellion (in this context, frosting his tips, being w/maverick, or being totally fine with gays in the navy as long as they’re quiet about it [a very mainstream leadership position—the navy is historically gay as fuck]) is a more effective and self-preserving strategy than open insubordination. Keep it secret. Don’t ask and don’t tell.

And this should not be surprising. Dude, his whole fucking character in the original top gun is “I am successful because i refuse to be a revolutionary.” Like i feel like i repeat myself so often on this blog, but ice’s anti-open-revolutionaryness is literally his whole THING. it’s his whole character canonically. it’s what sets him apart from maverick—it’s what makes him mavericks narrative foil. ice’s anti-open-revolutionaryness is what gives him a fucking purpose to exist in the franchise. As an archetype, he exists as “the guy who does things by the book no matter what.” It is literally integral to his character. And in-universe-wise it’s a political lifestyle im personally plus-minus on, but it’s a very understandable political lifestyle for someone in his position to have.

[honest-moth-of-silver-grove]

ough I am so sorry if your askbox is closed for the matchup thing, the pinned post says it’s open but the actual like, button, says it’s closed. So if it is just ignore this lmao.

ANYWAY my tavs name is Dmtryo and I’m gonna be submitting this for him :0

He’s a lolth drow, and a pretty ambivalent durge, he’s meant to be a bad person, but not a tried and true villain yk? Still saved the gate and allat but also fucked over isobel and got the slayer form bc he thought the prize might be cool.

Masc pref, poly or mono is fine!

Traits (bc most of them can’t be cleanly sorted into good and bad)

hugely protective of the things and people he likes. (Often to the point of excess.)

Seems like a shit show. Very well put together.

Often comes off as cold, but is far friendlier than people think. (As long as he doesn’t perceive you as a threat)

Will very happily murder anyone who does come across as a threat.

Brings his partner the severed limbs or bones of the creatures he has killed like some kind of fucked up cat

Violence is his go to solution for conflict but he is hesitant to kill innocents (unless he’s getting paid)

On the note of getting paid, there’s very little he won’t do for a pouch of gold and the promise of gore.

A/N: Hey, no prob! @cakeboxie (LOVE your blog handle btw lol) I just waited until the ask box reopened to answer this, lol. So now that the time has come… Let me see… Hmm. Because you specified you wanted a male match, I match your Tav with… Astarion!

🩸Astarion would be the perfect match for your Dmtryo! Astarion is pretty ambivalent himself- he’s certainly not a golden hero, but I couldn't exactly call him a villain either. He does possess a moral compass, but it’s broken, and often centered around what’s best for himself, which is one of the reasons I think he and Dmtryo would be good together. 

Astarion is fiercely protective of his things, and the people he finds himself coming to love. Everything he ever had was once taken away from him by Cazador, so anything he does manage to attain, be it physical objects or relationships, he feels he must guard intensely. Once Astarion falls for Dmtryo he is very protective, almost possessive over him. Realistically, Astarion knows that Dmtryo is his, but that doesn’t stop him from being suspicious of every NPC they talk to. I mean, who knows? What if they’d try and steal his love? He has to stay on guard. 

Although he’s not a drow himself, Astarion is no stranger to fleeing from the sunlight, and operating in the dark. He’s lived as a vampire spawn for two-hundred years after all. Although he may harbor some residual suspicions about lolth-sworn drow, so long as Dmtryo’s loyalty to Astarion and vice versa comes before their loyalty to any God, Astarion has no qualms about being partners with a lolth-sworn drow. 

I also loved how you described Dmytro as a fucked up cat because if any of the companions were to be compared to a cat, it’s Astarion. He’s sneaky, and secretive, and very persnickety when it comes to certain things. He also has a tendency to swat/claw anyone he perceives as dangerous, and being rather vulnerable, that means most people he meets end up on the other side of his blade. But the great thing is that it isn't a problem for Dmytro. Dismembering or murdering people, so long as it’s the right people, is just fine with him!

I can honestly see either Spawn!Astarion or Ascended!Astarion working out with Dmytro long term as well. Spawn!Astarion more so if your Dmytro chooses to try and fight the dark urge inside him, and Ascended!Astarion if Dmytro chooses to embrace his Bhalspawn heritage. 

Either way they end up a notorious power couple, one very few in Baldur’s Gate would dare to cross. 

Be it by taking on mercenary jobs or ruling as their respective godly selves, I see a very lucrative, very influential couplet taking charge of their future. ;) 

[tobiasdrake]

That was a complete unmitigated disaster. Good job, everyone. We're heroes.

If he dies, I'm hitting you with my beatstick.

Not because I blame you or anything. You stuck your neck out to help us and I really appreciate what you're doing for us. I want you to know that.

No, I just mean that if he dies, I am going to be an absolute emotional wreck and am liable to start lashing out at whatever's nearby. Zale already knows to get out of the way. This isn't a threat, it's a caution warning.

My life, your life, I'll throw this whole goddamn village under the bus if I have to. I know what my answer to the Trolley Problem is and I'm not ashamed to say it.

And so we somehow wrap right back around to "We will either burgle this powerful wizard or rob them; Let's roll those dice!"

This is a bit of a pattern with you, isn't it Captain Cliche?

That just sounds like ordinary sibling drama to me. I think all siblings are like that.

Oh, that's convenient. We might have some moral qualms about this if she was the good or neutral one. I mean, as mentioned, if I had to beat her to death with a stick to save Garl, I'd do it either way. But if she's the evil one, then I can sleep easy tonight even if this burgla-robbery does go south in the worst possible way.

Oh shit, is he going to charge us in obols? Because all I have is gold. And not much gold, since I spent all of it on an incredible piece of gear that is currently in Garl's possession, goddammit.

Look, if I made good lifestyle choices, I wouldn't have come to this island voluntarily and with full knowledge of what I would find here.

Oh, she has a real name now. Well, welcome aboard, Cap'n. You will continue referring to me as God-Empress... whatever I fucking said when we met, I have no idea.

Oh god, you have to talk to him in rhyme. Do we get free passage if we can beat him in a rap battle?

Well, fuck. He beat us in the rap battle so Cap'n had to get desperate.

That answers my questions about how the Coin gets used. You do not have to be sneaky about it. If you hand it over to the undead entity, they are required to accept your business transaction.

But it doesn't enslave them or anything. You get one transaction. Nothing more.

Such a fascinating artifact.

So much for buying the Vespertine with it. But honestly, that's for the best. Like I noted earlier, the Captain of the Vespertine was thrown overboard so it's not even his ship anymore.

Well, we're here. And we aren't going back without proper payment this time. We have a necromancer to burgle (or rob) and a green flame to locate.

Yeah. Uh. I'll keep that in mind, inexplicable Victorian Gentleman.

And might I just say, I appreciate the civility. Not every undead is as polite as you. Which may or may not be related to the recent rise in broken kneecaps among zombie servants.

Like these guys. Nobody with a tongue like that ever has good intentions. Those guys are getting their kneecaps broken.

But you and I? As long as things stay civil, we're cool.

...I already miss Garl. He was very good at keeping us all well-nourished.

Oh, it's you again. If you aren't on guard patrol then what are you? Like, her secretaries or something?

Yeah, if I wanted to design a place that screams "Necromancer's Lair, enter at your own peril", this is what I'd go with.

Oh, this guy is a guard; He was just being lenient earlier. Okay, guess we can add a couple more kneecaps to the list.

Oh shit, I think the pirates were talking about this guy. The Dweller's mansion used to be his.

Y'know, if this island is a duchy then that implies the existence of a kingdom that this duchy is a territory of. I wonder what king or queen Aventry served under?

Questions later. Kneecaps now.

WHOA HO HO HO That is a huge skull-hammer. I love it. I'm going to take it off your corpse after your deanimation.

It's even color-coordinated for me already.

That's what I thought. Between me and my cinnamon roll is a bad place to stand. I'm glad we're on the same page about that now.

Oh yeah, by all means. We'll be over here. Giggling. Because Zale got old off by a zombie for not being quick enough.

Teehee.

I can't believe you managed to make a friend out of the security guard whose kneecaps we just broke. During the robbery in progress. I'm genuinely awestruck by your socializing abilities.

[bannai]

tell me about your muse's ace pokemon. which one is it? how did your muse get them? is there any specific attack or technique they use? tell me anything!

By far, it's his Ditto.

Like many, many people, his first Pokémon was gifted to him by his parents, which indeed was Ditto! He was about eight or nine so not an actual trainer, so the Ditto and he became close-knit companions with plans of beginning to train at age ten as kids do, forming an amazing bond. They gave it to him because they wanted him to feel special and also as a sign that they loved and trusted him. Bannai was a little shit as a kid and he was sent to therapy for a few reasons, and they wanted him to calm down and have something to focus on, hence the Ditto was a gift with those encouraging words in mind.

They became inseparable rather instantly. Bannai started stealing just before getting the Ditto, and so when the pair went out and about, Ditto became the perfect little thief to aid him. For instance, Ditto would transform into someone's Pokémon and pretend to be it, tricking them into giving him things, or it would just simply waltz up in that transformation and take whatever, the owner thinking nothing more to it. You get the idea. They were, and still are, an amazing pair of thieves who can seemingly read each other without having to speak a word.

Battling with Ditto is simple. Turn into the opposition's Pokémon and, now knowing all its moves, use one that it knows, if either its most powerful move or one that can do more damage if it isn't the same typing as the enemy. They tend to use full-out force and get in the first attack as a way of taking advantage as Ditto's speed is great. Or, if the enemy's breed is based more on agility, they take that route. Bannai knows a lot about Pokémon in general so knows what each kind is based more around.

It is by far not a weak Pokémon, and people tend to laugh when faced with it until they get obliterated. It's also very devious, cunning, and sneaky, and with its bond with Bannai, it has no qualms with what he does, fully supporting its trainer. It isn't a bad Pokémon so to say. It just really enjoys also being a thief.

[cowboymater]

was just watching the vietnam war allegory episode (s2e19) and i am. conflicted when it comes to the prime directive of non-interference

(making the allegorical vietnamese have swedish blond hair was certainly a choice) but like as a refresher, the klingons secretly give weapons to one group, kirk ends up supplying equivalent firepower to the other to level the playing field, and it’s depressing because they’ve had to “put snakes in the garden of eden” and corrupt a pure culture that “could have one day been very advanced and peaceful” (again, certainly a choice to make about the allegorical vietnamese)

bc on one hand, yes, we don’t want to be eradicating ways of life, toppling governments, etc etc but it also feels kinda like the federation is saying that children don’t get to play with knives. like it misses the fact that interference and eradication in history are a product of imperialism and colonialism, not just of contact and interaction. these things didn’t happen because europe was “more advanced” than the people they were encountering, and it didn’t happen by accident. it was deliberate subjugation. it’s not something that spontaneously occurs, and especially not when you regard the other group as being on equal footing

ig my qualm is that it denies agency to the cultures it purports to protect? in a sort of patronizing, paternalistic (*taps the characteristics of white supremacy culture*), “you’ll get there someday kiddo” kinda way. like in the real world uncontacted peoples stay uncontacted because they don’t Want to get involved with the rest of us, not because they’re oblivious and unaware and we’re oh so sneaky hiding from them

i think this is like, my main problem with the ethos of star trek. even when it acknowledges that not every civilization has to evolve the same way (like kirk does in the episode), it still treats progress like a linear scale that you have to pass a certain point on before you’re allowed a seat at the table (also like kirk does in the episode)

if anyone else has Thoughts .

[lionwitch]

Adding to this, Oliver taught Tim to use a bow when he was tiny, think Merida of Brave? Kinda like that. Little baby was small and Ollie got him a tiny bow and taught him, so that was actually his first weapon. So, despite leaving the bow skills mainly in Star City and using more bo staff as Robin or Red Robin, his best weapon is in fact the bow, because he's got more experience with it (Bruce refused to teach him or acknowledge their vigilante personas until he was confronted directly) and is actually as or more skilled than Roy, seeing as he's had his whole life of experience, but he only uses the bow as a hobby, he enjoys it, but doesn't use it as primary weapon. That said, his upper body strength is insane, he does have an archer build.

Now, if he did stalk the bats, I don't think he'd do it without something to defend himself with, so he took a bow and some arrows. This happens only during the few nights he was left with a nanny he could fool, because Janet did not leave him alone and her friends weren't always available. It's mainly school nights, where he couldn't get to and from another city so easily and Bruce wasn't able to take him in (bc of patrol mainly). This is before either he found out their identities, or he got the guts to confront B.

So this kid ran around with a bow and a quiver, and when he ran into trouble and the bats couldn't help without him compromising his position (especially after he figures it out, he's not willing to be seen because he WILL be recognized), he shoots the threat. Now, this boy spends a LOT of time with Lex, and while Lex refrains from sharing his most evil plans with the kid (or Janet will stop trusting him with the kid, he doesn't want that, he loves his nephew), he does challenge morality. As a result, Tim has no qualms about killing.

So before Tim joined the Batfam, the Bats occasionally found arrows on corpses. Batman interrogates Green Arrow, because an arrow or two are very evidently his or at least his style (Tim did not mean to shoot those, he uses more generic arrows, but sometimes he's in a rush and they mix), and Ollie absolutely knows the moment he sees the arrows that it's Tim. He's no snitch, though, and Tim is not associated with Green Arrow, so "No, Batman, what would I be doing all the way over there? I have my own city". This starts before Roy joins him. Tim is far too young, and Oliver will have a talk with him, but hey, at least he's safe. He'll also train the kid harder, just in case.

Tim does try to aim for injuring and not killing upon Oliver's request, "try" being the key word. He still does kill, but not as much. He only really kills if he finds it necessary (if he's heavily outnumbered, for example)

Tim Drake is not a vigilante before Robin. He's a kid that defends himself with arrows. That's it. It's not his job (yet) to interfere with crimes, he only does it when it's too bad to stand by and watch. Only to keep his uncle Ollie happy, he whistles a warning before shooting, a chance for the criminals to stop and walk away. If they take it and stop, he doesn't shoot. If they keep going, he shoots. Again, he tries not to kill, only because Ollie will know and be disappointed. So word spreads quickly, that if you hear a particular tune whistled, you better stop and run.

Instances of him shooting are rare and far between, and those of him killing with the arrows even more so. Batman kinda stops looking for the shooter, because 1 he has no lead, and 2 he has much more pressing matters and worse criminals.

There's a window of time before Jason passes down Robin but after Tim confronts them about their identities, where they train him but naively believe he's going back to bed like a normal kid.

During this period, this is a kid with a bow and arrows, and training to be sneaky and stay in the shadows. He follows the Bats, like he's always done, with a black hoodie, cargo pants and combat boots. Occasionally, he still shoots, and hides in the shadows immediately after and changes position.

The Sparrow Ghost (named by those who heard the eerie whistle, a play on the bird vigilante theme and the arrows) becomes a myth amongst criminals. Some believe it, some do not. You cannot see the archer (hence, Ghost)

Once, Batman, Nightwing and Robin were outnumbered. A trap. Smart, well-executed, and coincidentally well-timed. Robin is injured, Nightwing has a bad case of the flu, Batman is a concerned parent. None is at 100%. But they did not take into consideration the kid watching from the rooftops.

A whistle echoes. Some goons drop their weapons. Some do not.

Thwump

An arrow flies, piercing the shoulder of the guy holding Robin.

Thwump

Another pierces the hand of the goon pointing a gun to Nightwing.

Now without his boys in immediate danger, Batman can act. The Sparrow Ghost turned the tides, the bats did the rest easily. Tim remains hidden, just in case they need him again. They don't.

After being offered Robin, Tim doesn't really stick to his bow and arrows. It's not the Bat way. Sparrow Ghost disappears— Mostly. Occasionally, when he shouldn't be patrolling (school nights, for example) but he's restless, he still takes his bow and quiver, puts on his hoodie, a mask now that he has one, and goes out.

Ok, hear me out. An AU where Janet Drake is best friends with Lex Luthor, Bruce Wayne and Oliver Queen.

They met in school, and she's a high society girl, not expected or allowed to be much more than a pretty face, but there's this trio of smart idiots (they did all sorts of stupid stuff at school, but they are overall very, very smart), and they're in all sorts of cool classes and extracurriculars, and she wants to learn

So, she snakes her way into the group with well-timed looks and blushes. They eventually include her in all their activities, and so she learns all sort of stuff that she usually wouldn't be allowed to learn, because they help her keep it in the down low. No, she's not taking classes with them, she's being a proper lady and cheering her smart friends on through the oh-so-hard classes.

At some point or another, they all develop a crush on her, fleeting as it may be (they're hormonal teens and they're required to flirt, it was bound to happen)

They flirt publicly, as it keeps the media from pressuring them into relationships— or so they thought. It backfires when they're adults, the media is demanding Janet settle down and stops leading all three of them on. But there would be a scandal if she picked any of them, so she picks Jack, someone who doesn't love her or she loves, but someone desperate enough to climb the social ladder to care if he loves his wife.

When he's not allowed to flirt anymore, that's where Bruce realizes that he actually liked her.

When Tim comes along, and Janet has to go on trips, she leaves him with her trusted friends. So, Tim learns a lot from his Uncle Lex, learns to shoot a bow from his Uncle Ollie, and loves staying with his Uncle Bruce and his children. He figures him out far too easily and does become Robin when Jason figures he's ready to pass on the mantle to his little brother (because they're brothers. Tim spends a lot of time in their house)

Bruce adores Tim, he really does. It just kinda hurts, that he's Janet's kid, but not his.

Eventually, Janet divorces Jack, and she gets to spend a lot more time in Gotham. But by now Tim is as much Bruce's as he is Janet's, so they co-parent the gremlin that is her son, which leads to a lot of time with Bruce.

Bruce treats her better than Jack ever did, and she trusts him far more. They have the memories of years together. Eventually, Bruce tells her the truth— that he never truly moved on from his best friend.

When they marry, sure it's a media circus, but also not a surprise.

She's also a good mom, to Tim as much as to Dick or Jason.

When Jason finds out Catherine is not his mom, sure he gets curious, but he has a mom already, he's happy. He does want to meet his bio mom, but he agrees to do so safely, not go alone. Fine, B, you can come with.

Joker never happens. Jason is disappointed when he finds his mom is not at all what he expected, and he has a much better one at home.

Eventually, when Damian comes into the picture, he's snappy with Janet. "you will never be my mother, you harlot!" but Janet simply puts a hand on his shoulder and speaks calmly, yet sharp as the blade he threatens her with

"You will not speak to me like that, boy. No, I am not your mother. But I am married to your father, and I hold the authority as such, so you will go up to your room, you will cool down, and you will never threaten or insult me again, or you will be grounded."

"You can't do that!"

"She can. She has my full permission to discipline my kids, Damian. In this house, she holds as much authority as I do." Bruce interjects

Damian, begrudgingly, learns to respect Janet, and eventually he does see her as a second mom

The amount of times Oliver or Lex visit the Wayne-Drake household is absurd, but sue them, they like their friends. This leads to a lot of chaos, because every time Oliver visits so does Roy, and Roy hangs out with Dick and Jason, while Damian sticks to glaring at everyone.

Meanwhile, they dote on Tim, because they sure as hell have a favourite nephew, and it's the one they watched grow inside the belly of one of their best friends, the one they all changed the diapers of, the one they've taught a lot of skills to, the one they helped raise in a way they never helped raise any of the other Wayne boys. They don't even try to hide their preference. Now, of course they like all their nephews, but it's always hilarious because when Tim is around his uncle Lex, he's ten times the evil mastermind he generally is, and Oliver encourages it, simply for the chaos, and so does Janet, while Bruce is downright terrified of the idea of Tim as a villain (everyone is)

[thelazyhermits]

No Holding Back

I wanna start off by saying that right now I don’t plan to write the end of the year final exam aside from what I wrote in that one post I reblogged yesterday. I just don’t have any inspiration for the actual battle and I think it’d be better in third person POV which is not my preference since I like writing second person.

However, there is one scene that happens before the exam that I really wanted to write, so here it is. I hope y’all enjoy it! ^-^

Today’s the big day. The day you’ve been preparing for these past several weeks.

The day of Class 1-A’s practical final exam

Rather than be with the other teachers who are currently explaining to the students what their exam will be like, you’re walking through the fake cityscape where your exam will be held. The reason for this being that Nedzu thought it would be extra entertaining if Midoriya and Bakugou didn’t find out who their exam proctor was until the very last minute.

While you could’ve waited to reveal yourself during the exam, you decided not to since you wanted to talk to the boys beforehand. There’s something important you want them to know that needs to be said before the exam begins.

That’s why you decide to wait for your students at the cityscape’s entrance, wearing the hero suit Hatsume has been working on with the exception of your helmet since you wanted the boys to be able to see your face when you were talking to them. You want them to be able to see how important what you’re about to tell them is. 

On the way to the entrance, you check to make sure all the traps you and Hatsume set up all across the cityscape are in place and ready to go. Thankfully, since your exam is the last one of the day, you have plenty of time to do this.

About fifteen minutes after you eventually arrive at the entrance gate, the school bus driven by Yagi drops off Midoriya and Bakugou, who are both clad in their hero costumes. Once they take notice of you, their eyes grow large.

“Y/N-sensei?!”

With a smile, you wave at your students. “Hey, guys, I bet you weren’t expecting me when you were told your exam proctor would be a surprise, huh?”

Thankfully, the boys don’t look disappointed about the fact that you’re their opponent, just surprised. Even though you knew it was stupid, a little part of you had worried that Midoriya and Bakugou would be disappointed that they didn’t get a stronger opponent like the other teachers, so it’s a relief to see that they don’t appear bothered by your role in their final exam.

Bakugou crosses his arms. “So, that’s why we’re the only team that doesn’t have the option of running away. It would be too fucking easy otherwise.”

While a panicked Midoriya tries to quietly scold his classmate, obviously worried that you’d be offended by the blond’s words, you chuckle, “That’s right. If this were a contest of speed, there’s no way I could stop you two. So, we decided to get rid of that option since the point of this exam is to challenge you.”

A grin forms on your lips. “Besides doing that, in order to make things as challenging as possible, we also added the rule about me being able to win if I successfully destroy seventy-five percent or greater of the town you two heroes are supposed to be protecting. Aren’t we teachers so kind? Now, your exam will be even more fun!”

Amusingly enough, Bakugou seems quite pleased with this setup. Midoriya, on the other hand, is chuckling nervously, looking like he can’t decide if he should be happy like his former childhood friend or worried about this situation.

Your grin grows. “You know, the principal was the one who decided I would be your exam proctor. Out of all the teachers, he wanted me to be your opponent. Do you know why?”

Both students stare at you with obvious surprise before shaking their heads. Midoriya then moves to grab his chin. “Considering how the summer final exams were set up, you must have been chosen because the principal believed you were the teacher that posed the greatest challenge for us. Could it be because of your Quirk, or maybe...”

You can’t tell what he says after that since he starts mumbling under his breath, doing so at a very impressive speed that you have no chance of keeping up with. While you watch the green haired boy with obvious amusement, Bakugou glares at him. “Stop your fucking muttering, Deku! No one can fucking understand you if you talk like that, you dumbass!”

Midoriya’s mumbling comes to an abrupt halt as the shorter boy dons a sheepish expression. “Ah, right. Sorry, Kacchan.”

Rolling his eyes, the blond turns to focus his gaze back on you. “Are you gonna tell us the fucking reason, or are we supposed to figure it out ourselves?”

Your eyes twinkle mischievously. “I could tell you, but I won’t. You’re both smart boys after all. I’m sure you’ll both figure it out soon enough.”

Bakugou clicks his tongue at your response while Midoriya’s expression becomes determined. Despite his initial reaction, you know the hothead will work hard to figure out the reason since there’s no way his pride would allow the green haired boy to figure it out before him.

That’s when you remember why you came out to meet the two in the first place. “You were actually supposed to find out about me being your opponent once the exam started, but I decided to meet you guys here ‘cause there’s something I have to tell you before the exam.”

Your expression turns serious, immediately earning you the students’ full, undivided attention. Their postures straighten as their brows furrow while you quietly study them closely for the next several seconds.

Expression never changing, you finally open your mouth to say, “I love you.”

There’s a brief moment of silence before your words properly register, and then, the boys react.

“Ehhhhh?!”

“W-What the fuck?!”

The corners of your lips curve upwards as both their faces turn red, with Midoriya unsurprisingly sporting an extra dark blush that covers his whole face. Rather than tease them like you normally would, you continue, “I admire you both a lot; I have for a long time. You’re two of the strongest people I know, and you guys never cease to amaze me.”

Both students stare at you with wide eyes as you smile softly. “I’m very proud of both of you and how far you’ve come. I consider it an honor to call myself someone you two call teacher. It’s a role I treasure with all my heart.”

Midoriya’s eyes grow teary. “Sensei…”

While Bakugou remains strangely quiet, you put your hands on your hips. “It’s because I love and admire you both so much that I want to give you the best possible challenge. That’s why I have no intention to hold back against you guys. When we face each other, I’m fighting to win.”

Your eyes gain a serious gleam. “So, I want you guys to do the same, understand? I don’t want either of you to even consider holding back against me out of worry that you’ll hurt me with your powerful Quirks. I want you to treat me like you would an actual villain who’s going on a rampage across town.”

A smirk forms on your lips. “The only way you stand a chance of winning is by going at me with all your strength, so if you wanna pass this exam, you better bring nothing less than your A game. Otherwise, I’ll have to give you guys your first failing grade.”

“Hah!”

Immediately, your and Midoriya’s eyes focus on Bakugou who’s giving you his trademark grin. “Like I’d ever do something so half-assed! I was planning on going all out from the start! You’re going down, Sensei!”

Midoriya quickly brings his gaze back to you and gives you a determined look. “We won’t hold back, Sensei! We’ll put everything into this fight and defeat you! We absolutely won’t lose!”

It’s obvious from their expressions that they’re both completely serious. Your students have no intention to lose to you, so you won’t have to worry about them holding back on you.

Warmth bubbles in your chest as you smile at them. “I have high expectations for you both. Don’t let me down.”

Both boys grin at you in return. “Right!”

Knowing you shouldn’t put off the exam any longer, you decide to head back into the cityscape to get ready. Before you do, you decide to have a little fun at your students’ expense. “I’m glad to see you guys so motivated. I thought I would have to offer you both a kiss like I did for the obstacle course race at the Cultural Festival, but I guess I don’t need to, huh?”

Bright blushes color their cheeks as Midoriya begins incoherently stammering. Bakugou scowls as he glares at you. “I told you all I cared about was winning! I didn’t want the damn kiss!”

A teasing grin forms on your lips. “Uh huh. Suuuure. That’s totally the only reason you two were working so hard to win that race.”

Midoriya’s face is completely scarlet now. “S-Sensei!”

You give them a wink before turning to head inside the cityscape. “If you guys really impress me, I might give you another kiss, so good luck!”

The green haired boy releases an embarrassed squeak while Bakugou starts cursing. Meanwhile, you���re laughing as you hurry to get ready for the exam.

Looks like I managed to give myself some more ammunition for the fight. Hopefully, the boys won’t hold it against me if I use their flustered reactions to my advantage.

Your grin grows. This is gonna be so much fun. 

[dawn-sunlight]

Oh my gosh I have literally SO many thoughts about these guys. (And by "these guys" I mean "Janja and his relationships with these guys")

Incoherent rambling below the cut

Considering the fact they'd teamed up a few times before Scar, I think Janja and Mzingo do have some sort of genuine bond or friendship. it would certainly explain why the vultures were so quick to become incredibly loyal to Jasiri. I've seen a lot of people interpret them like Mzingo is a dad to Janja, and when I saw that idea for the first time I liked it so much that I started seeing them that way too.

One of the scenes that lives in my mind rent-free is the one in Divide and Conquer where Reirei seems genuinely worried and angry on Janja's behalf after she figures out they were tricked by Kion and Tamaa and that the whole Lion Guard is after Janja. Despite their bickering, Reirei cares on some level about Janja and I like to think that the sentiment is returned.

I don't think Reirei or Mzingo were told about the backstabbing attempt. I just don't think they'd actually try to kill Janja and his clan, their TEAMMATES, just like that. Maybe I'm putting too much faith in Reirei, but I am completely confident Mzingo did not know. He finds out about the plans for the Guard in Return of the Roar and his first order of business is to inform Janja about it, there's NO WAY he would have been on board with an attempted murder of the hyenas.

I think the friction between Janja and the reptiles is FASCINATING. For starters, there's Ushari. Once Scar was summoned, the two never had a good relationship afterwards. Which makes sense. Janja is resentful of this snake getting to basically be second in command and having Scar's favor. He never agreed to have this former Pridelander snake living in his volcano, but he can't object now because of Scar. And Ushari is a former Pridelander; regardless of anything else he almost certainly still has Pridelander bias against the hyenas. And this applies to the skinks and crocs as well; all of them are former Pridelanders, no wonder they had no qualms about backstabbing Janja like they did.

Side note, I think Ushari and Shupavu are both very interesting. Ushari was treated pretty poorly by the group that supposedly was for the benefit of all Pridelanders who follow the Circle of Life, so of course he got fed up with it. The tragic part is that he became so loyal to the one he thought would help him that he was willing to throw everyone else under the bus, even Shupavu and her skinks(he doesn't care whatsoever when Scar reveals he sent the skinks to deal with the Guard as part of the charade in Battle for the Pridelands), and that someone would have discarded him without a second thought the SECOND he got what he wanted. Shupavu is smart, cunning, and sneaky. If you don't have her favor, you'd better be careful because she WILL rat you out with zero hesitation, because even if she's ON your side, she's not on YOUR side until she decides she is.

And that's the problem with Janja and Shupavu's relationship. Janja treats the skinks with absolutely zero respect, because to him, they're just tiny little lizards that can't actually do anything. And this means Shupavu and her skinks have no qualms about reporting him back to Scar and getting him in trouble.

Finally, there's the crocs. It's interesting how Kiburi seemed pretty happy about getting rid of both the Lion Guard and Janja's clan. Almost like there was underlying tension between the two of them or something. Little things like a croc being the one to knock Janja into the vent, even if it was an accident, and Kiburi forcefully shoving him off in both the Scorpion's Sting and Pridelanders Unite! likely contributed to this tension. (Fun fact: Janja actually has a croc pinned down during the battle in Battle for the Pridelands at one point). Personally, I don't think they ever formed that close of a bond, due to the fact the crocs are former Pridelanders and unlike Ushari and the skinks, they were kicked out. They didn't leave like the other two did.

the frenemies of all time

it was so hard to find pictures of them in the same shots 😭 they're in the same scenes all the time but not the same shots- i think it's actually a purposeful choice by the animators to show they're not actually allied, which i think is cool

[fangirl-writes]

Macking on a Pogue

Topper Thornton x Fem!Reader

Warning(s): swearing?

Request: Hi would you be willing to do Topper Thornton from outed banks if so I would love an imagine exactly like the John b one you wrote for me except the reader is a Pogue please if not it can be a Rafe Cameron imagine.

Notes: I can do that! I don’t usually write for Topper cause he’s not my favorite but I get the appeal. And it’s not exactly like “Kiss the Kook” but the concept is around the same. I had such a hard time writing this for some reason.

It was a mutual decision to keep the relationship a secret.

Topper’s parents liked Y/N well enough, they were courteous at the very least, but she wasn’t Sarah Cameron and she wasn’t a kook.

Sometimes if she was over with Topper while his parents had friends over, the friends would give her a look. Like they weren’t sure why she was there or why the Thorntons let her in their home.

Topper was the only thing keeping her around.

For all of his arrogance and privilege, he was really sweet. She never expected to fall in love with him, but she knew him. He was always boating with Sarah back when they were dating, he went to beach parties the pogues held, and attended annual bonfires where the two sides considered a truce.

And despite the annual truce, she was sure her pogues wouldn’t take it too well if they found out she was dating Topper.

And Rafe was a psycho so telling him was out of the question, which made telling Kelce out of the question as well because he couldn’t keep a secret from Rafe to save his life.

But nothing stayed a secret for long in the Outer Banks.

“How long have you been fucking Y/N L/N?” Rafe asked.

Topper paled. “What?”

The kooks and pogues were stood at odds on opposite sides of a room at the midsummer’s venue. At Rafe’s words, the pogues had frozen in shock.

That sinister smirk made its way across Rafe’s face. “Oh, you thought we didn’t know about that?”

“Rafe, stop,” Sarah pleaded, eyes jumping from kooks to pogues. 

Truthfully, Topper had hoped they were being more sneaky about things.

“No.” JJ spoke up, angrily. “No way, you’re lying out your ass, Rafe! Y/N would never date one of you pansies.”

“Come on, Top,” Rafe taunted, throwing an arm around his “friend’s” shoulders. “Tell them all about how you’ve been screwing your dirty pogue.”

Topper reacted fast and punched Rafe in the nose. “Don’t talk about her that way.”

The pogues were gaping, but Rafe seemed unfazed by the assault. He had no qualms about what he’d just likely ruined. “You got a mean swing, Top, I’ll give you that.”

Things started to click in the pogues’ minds.

Y/N had been...off lately.

She skipped out on hangouts, left the chateau early, disappeared for days on end, started dressing differently, wearing new clothes she hadn’t worn before and owned jewelry they’d never seen.

How could they have missed it?

Topper was seething. He grabbed the front of Rafe’s shirt, nearly ripping the buttons apart on his white shirt.

“Topper, stop!” Sarah shouted.

“Hey! Hey! What’s going on in here?” Kiara’s dad said, running into the room and separating the two boys. “What’s the matter with you two?”

“That little bitch has got you brainwashed, Toppy-boy!” Rafe shouted over Mr. Carerra’s arm. “Got her bottom-feeder hooks in you like they got Sarah!”

“That’s enough,” Mr. Carerra said, sharply, shoving Rafe roughly. “Let’s go have a discussion with your father. And you” - he pointed to Topper - “don’t think your parents won’t be hearing about this either.”

He and Rafe went one way and Topper went another.

“Hold the fucking phone,” JJ said, rushing after Topper with the other pogues following. “You and Y/N are dating?”

Topper didn’t answer.

“Topper wait-!”

“What? What do you guys want, huh?” Topper asked, still angry from his altercation with Rafe. “You want to ruin another one of my relationships? Because you really did a great job the first time, no need to bruise my ego any further, alright?”

“Topper we just want an explanation-”

“Well, Kiara, it’s none of your damn business.”

“Hey, don’t talk to her that way!” JJ defended. “You’re being an asshole, man!”

“Sorry, guess that’s just what us kooks are like, right?” Topper spat, walking across the dock and getting in his boat.

“Topper, wait, please!” Sarah said, but Topper was already pealing out of the marina and driving away.

“He’s gonna get himself killed driving like that,” John B. said. 

“Has anyone heard from Y/N?” Kiara asked.

And they hadn’t.

Because Y/N was cozied up in the Thornton’s beach house, sleeping through the last half of Cheaper By The Dozen and her phone dinging with a hundred messages.

Topper had to smile when he saw her.

He silenced her phone, opting to text the group chat that Y/N was asleep and perfectly fine.

He also shut off the T.V. and snuggled in next to her.

She shifted awake, snuggling into him further.

“How was the party?” She asked, groggily.

“It was fine,” Topper replied. “Would’ve rather been here with you, though.”

“Sap...”

And then she was asleep again.

Topper felt a burning regret in his chest. Regret for letting his anger get the best of him, for putting his hands on Rafe (he’d be lucky he wasn’t faced with assault charges), for letting it out on Y/N’s friends...on Sarah.

But Y/N was still there. Still willing to snuggle into his side and love him like nothing had changed. To her, it hadn’t.

The morning would change this fact.

“Good morning,” Topper whispered when the golden rays of sunshine started peaking through the curtains. 

Y/N let out a small whine and buried her face into his chest.

He chuckled. “Is it a breakfast in bed kind of morning?”

She leaned back, flopping against the pillow and looking at him with her best puppy dog eyes. “Chocolate chip pancakes?”

Topper laughed. “You got it.”

He went to get up but she snagged him, forcing him back onto the mattress.

“Not yet,” she whined. “Pancakes can wait a little bit.”

Topper glanced at the clock. “Well, if we don’t do it soon, we’ll be eating them for lunch.”

“I’m alright with that.”

He hummed and kissed the top her head. “I suppose I am too.”

She adjusted to lay her head on his chest and he ran his fingers through her hair. It was the perfect morning.

He would wake up like this every morning if he could, lost in their little bubble of paradise.

“I fucking told you!”

Topper and Y/N both shot up, Y/N holding her pocket knife aloft as a weapon.

“How long has that been under the pillow?” Topper asked.

“All night.” She paused. “I may or may not have a bunch of them hidden around the house.”

“Babe, what the fuck.”

John B., Sarah, Kiara, Pope, and JJ were stood in the doorway of Topper’s room, looking in on them with shocked and horrified looks on their faces.

“What the hell, guys?” Y/N said.

“What the hell us? What the hell you!” JJ exclaimed. “What’re you doing canoodling with Topper?”

Y/N rolled her eyes. 

“How’d you guys even get in here?” Topper asked.

“JJ got a lock-picking kit for his twelfth birthday,” Y/N answered for them. “Though he promised not to use it to invade our privacy!”

“Hey, this could’ve been an emergency!” He argued. “You could’ve been tied up in the basement for all we knew! You never answered our messages last night.”

“That’s because I was asleep like a normal person!” Y/N retorted.

“Y/N you don’t even know what happened last night,” Kiara said.

Y/N furrowed her eyebrows. “What?” She turned to Topper. “What happened last night?”

Topper avoided her eyes. “Ah...well...”

“He got into a fight with Rafe,” Pope said, ripping off the bandaid. “It was actually kind of awesome.”

“You did what?” Y/N shouted, rounding on her boyfriend.

“He was disrespecting you! He called you a dirty pogue and shit! You would’ve punched him too if you’d’ve been there,” Topper said.

“Yeah, but I wasn’t there and you’re already on probation for anger issues. God, Top, you’ll be lucky the Cameron’s don’t press charges, you know how they are. No offense, Sarah.”

“None taken.”

“Rafe won’t press charges on me,” Topper said. “Their lawyer is my lawyer too. And he’ll damn sure choose me over them.”

“Doesn’t excuse it. You know your parents are gonna be pissed about it.” Y/N said, then sighed. “I appreciate you defending my honor, but let JJ throw the punches next time, okay?”

“With pleasure,” JJ said, cracking his knuckles.

“Shut up,” Y/N told him. “And as for you guys, maybe don’t break and enter somewhere until I’ve been missing at least a whole day, okay?”

“So...this is really a thing?” Kiara asked. “You and him?”

Y/N nodded, intertwining her and Topper’s hands. “Is that okay?”

“Not that it would matter if it wasn’t,” John B. said. “But yeah, it is.”

“Fine with me,” Sarah said. “I’m glad you guys found each other.”

“I’ve honestly been rooting for you two the whole time.” Pope said with a shrug.

“JJ? Kie?”

The two of them were silent, thinking it over.

“I guess if I can forgive Sarah, I should be able to forgive Topper,” Kiara said.

Y/N smiled. “J? Ground control to Major Tom?”

JJ's face was a mix between pouting and annoyance. “I...I guess it’s fine with me, but if you hurt her, Thornton we’re going to have problems. Again.”

“Fine by me,” Topper said, smirking. “I always kick your guys’ asses anyway.”

You smack him.

“Ow!”

[i-cant-sing]

sukuna sees reader try to eat a moth and immediately adopts

Talking about baby Fushiguro reader, we already know she has no sense of self preservation (maybe even when she's older), so she has no qualms about putting anything in her mouth. Maybe she finds one of Sukuna's fingers and just as she is about to eat it, Yuji snatches it away, Sukuna being sneaky and swallowing it immeadiately. Of course, you think your forbidden snack just got stolen, so you throw a tantrum and are instantly climbing onto Yuji, who picks you up so that you don't fall. But you're busy yelling at Yuji's cheek, eyes furious as Sukuna smirks and sticks his tonugue out to taunt you. Big mistake, because you quickly grab onto his tongue and pull hard, making Sukuna's eyes widen. He tries to say something but the next moment you're smacking him/Yuji's cheek.

"Give it back you meanie! That was mine!"

You continue slapping Yuji's cheek and pulling on Sukuna's tongue until Megumi finally comes and carries you away, apologising to Yuji for the trouble.

Yuji is laughing as he hears Sukuna grumble about teaching a lesson to the brat, but he shared a body with the teen, and Yuji knew Sukuna had a soft spot for you.

Or is he just trying to use you because of your cursed energy?

[ela-loomis]

How would Michael react if his s/o rescued a stray puppy or any baby animal of sorts and gave them more attention than him?

- I can't imagine that would go terribly well, regardless of where you were in terms of your relationship.

- If you two were just starting out, the animal would have to go within the week. If you wouldn't part with it of your own volition, he'd remove it for you. He might feel a bit bad about it later down the line, but I mean months, even years later. Your attention is for him.

- If you'd been dating him for a while when you brought it home, he'd be more tolerant, but not by much. He wouldn't be mean to the animal, nor would he demand you get rid of it, but he wouldn't have any qualms about taking it out of your hands and putting it on the floor/outside.

- If you'd been dating for a year or more, he'd be the most tolerant of your attention being stolen. I don't think he's much of a dog person (nor would a dog be much of a Michael person) but if it was a baby cat, he might even develop a fondness for it.

- He absolutely wouldn't touch a baby animal more than he has to, though, at any point in your relationship. Either because he doesn't want animal dander on him, or because he's afraid he'll crush it.

- Once it's grown a bit, he can be persuaded to pet it, and maybe even hold it for a few minutes. But no longer than that! It's still tiny! What if he sneezes and it goes flying?!

- That's what he insists to you, anyway. But if you're very sneaky at night, you can sometimes peek into the den and see him asleep on the couch with the animal curled up on his chest.

- TL;DR pets not recommended around the crabby man unless they're adults.