#anyway!! great ep :D

[after-nine-at-the-oasis]

Loved the second episode of The Rookie!!

I wish we'd gotten a little longer before Tim found about about Miles, but it will be interesting to see him with the gang and Smitty lol.

DANG how much trauma can one boy have 😭 Seth is going through it my man xdd it does suck though, that must be awful, finding out something could be off with his tests :(. But seriously, it's only been two episodes xD I appreciate that he has reasons and I love a good traumatic backstory, but I feel myself already going "again??". Give this man a break xD. It will be an interesting storyline though!

Wopez 🥰🥰🥳 LOVED the flirting moment they had (and seeing Nyla and Angela back in uniform!! So fun :D), and this poor man and his jealousy xD. Absolutely valid of course lol. And his response to James that he can't say xD he can't but just poor guy. Also, they're so sweet at the end 🥰 I love them so much.

Super interested in Nyla and James's storyline!! This conflict is rough :( but I'm super excited to see where they go with it :D. Also I was scared Nyla was going to see something outside the window or something but her sneaking out was SOO iconic lol, love her. I do hope they can work everything out a bit better though :((. Totally get where Nyla's coming from in the coming home part though. Like, bro 😑

I do wish we got to see Celina mess up a little bit more, honestly. I'm glad she was amazing with taking down that guy though! And I'm glad she called Nolan out, because I was like "huh? Did he need to step in there?" and apparently I was kinda right 😬. Idk if it would have affected the jerk detective, but who knows. I am glad she passed though 🥳🥳!! And I'm glad Nolan did better later and found some places to improve on :)).

Lucy's doing great!! OBVIOUSLY it's going a little rough, Seth on that chase was wild 😭, but I believe her that he's got potential and I know she can do this <3. I'm glad Gray trusted her - I was a little nervous he was going to be mad/not quite yell at but yk reprimand her but just more wanting to talk about Seth was great. Icon, love him :).

Tim figured out Miles so quick xdd. Like I said, I wish it wasn't so fast, but props to him lol. And he gave him some time, so that's good :). He didn't have too much going on today but yeah :)! I'm glad Miles found a place and he's stayed on though :D - and I was like "another 24 hours xD?" before Tim said he bought himself another shift lol.

So excited for the next one! Looks like it'll be great :D. I do wish they left off on Chenford a little bit longer (just seems like it'll be a thing in the episode not like getting back together) but yk. And poor Nolan :(( xd. It is nice to see Jason (and Oscar a bit) coming back up though! And ooh, Celina coming forward about it (being worried and then of course him not showing up) :o, love that! Also, sad that the wopez jealousy storyline probably means we won't get much on Oscar with them lol (I just love them, and Wesley. And his trauma xD). But, still! I'm excited :DD!!

See y'all next time :D

[alikestory]

FUCK i juuuust blocked all the bots following my account and now there's ANOTHER ONE

anyway i came on here to scream into the void about yellowjackets bc MISTY?????? i love her. also? i love her. and i fucking love her. character of all time. god.

idk how anyone would find this post but if you do there are spoilers in the tags up to s2e9 :v

[cabeswaterdrowned]

I’m never going to stop reminding people that Eddie had literally no concern for Camila’s feelings during the Aurora sessions, even though he was the most vocal with Julia about how obvious he thought Daisy & Billy were.

[luffyvace]

The Luffy Package ☠️📦

(General & relationship headcanons as well as Luffy quotes (relationship implied) for his big day!!)

had to go all out for my fav 😊🤭

General Luffy headcanons:

Luffy has nails so short dirt can’t get under it 😭

not necessarily the booty diggers 🤭

but just really short, like almost booty digger ig—but not it

he has like 1% nail

its not intentional, they just never grow

i have a feeling someone taught luffy how to dance

idk who

it was likely makino, shanks or some else he cares deeply about

but he learned early on and has been a great dancer ever since!

maybe at parties since they happen a lot in one piece ⭐️

But just because someone taught him doesn’t mean he was awful at dancing at first

maybe he was a natural!

feel the rhythm typa thing 🎶 🕺

it’d be funny if he was

cuz imagine a guy that can dance but can’t sing

how you gon dance on beat to a out of tune song?? 😭

at least to uta anyway

ive always loved Luffy’s singing‼️

he never thinks about what the one piece is

but would be the most disappointed if it isn’t something cool

this dude is NOT interested in books so if the one piece really is just joyboy’s tale i don’t think he’ll be satisfied..😭 (I’m talking about the theory)

he definitely wouldn’t say it was all for nothin tho

he still has nakama, treasure and is the pirate king!! 👑

but…the one piece as books is just a mega L for him

Robin will enjoy ♡

you know that thing he does where he stretches his face real big? Like the time he was tryna cheer nami up when she was sick? And it scared vivi and zoro?

he scared himself when he first realized he could do that too

he was bored and started messing around with his devil fruit

at first he was outside and he stretched his mouth, and when realized he could see inside it, he was like ‘I wonder what this looks like’

so he went inside and did it into a mirror

he somehow managed to trash the whole bathroom running away from his reflection

he quickly got over it and realized it was kinda funny

he showed Ace and sabo who also found it terrifying

then preceded to scare people with it ever since

d end! :)

I feel like he’s thought about what the ‘D’ in his name stands for too

He came up with a bunch of outrageous names that likely aren’t it..

”Dingus?”

”Donkey?”

”Demarto?”

”Doorbell?”

”Dinosaur?”

yeah, dinosaur seems the most plausible 😊

Luffy Dinosaur Monkey!

‘HEY THAT SOUNDS COOL 🤩’

yup, that’s probably what it stands for 😁

sneaks into the usopp factory whenever he’s not in there

he ends up playing with his creations and destroys, it, other projects, and the factory altogether in the progress

he then runs out laughing

usopp later returns to the ruins only to find his months work of his greatest creation yet named “ultimate captain usopp three thousand smasher” has been reduced to fragments of metal nothing ☺️

listen idk if oda has confirmed Luffy’s favorite color but I would say it’s none

why? The same reason why you can’t ask a toddler their’s, it’s just gonna constantly change and you know it’s not the truth

arguably, if I had to pick an actual color based off canon, (IK it’s a shade but wtv) it’d be white

why? wym? Don’t you remember that one ep where luffy sang a song about how he loves snow cuz it’s so white?

(one of his lesser talked about songs 😭💗)

Relationship Luffy headcanons:

Luffy as a partner is really rambunctious and loving

But do note that loving doesn’t always mean romantic

for him it means loving you a lot but not being lovey dovey when showing it

you need protecting? He’s on the case!! He can’t and he has to beat someone up? One of your nakama’ll do it so stay with them!

your strong? Perfect! He’s gonna go fight this guy so you go beat up that one!

why am I mentioning that? Because it shows he has a great sense of trust and faith in you

Of course he does with all his friends but your reasoning is different

not only are you his nakama, your also his partner!! Which means he loves you in a intimate way!! Not just platonically

I say “just” because I swear sometimes Luffy’ll feel like a friend with you (best friends and lover typa thing 💞) he’s just as goofy and chaotic with you as he is Usopp and chopper

he feels extra lively when around you and always wants to play, whether you like this or not. Your personality depends a lot on how your relationship with him is but I won’t dabble into that today because it’s his birthday. 🎉 but honestly it doesn’t matter if you punch him like nami or laugh like brook-

he’s still gonna bug you! 💖 seriously you can’t get rid of this dude 🤨 Luffy will drag you on every single one of his adventures so I hope your either brave or fearless like him. The only time you two separate and he allows it is when he’s fighting the boss type thing LOL. Like Doflamingo or smth.

that said Luffy isn’t clingy he just likes being around you and seeing what your doing. Especially when you haven’t landed on an island yet and he’s bored. He’s always singing, playing with your face (ironic cuz he’s the stretchy one) or trying to get you to play some silly game he made up

that usually somehow manages to tick everyone off. 🤷‍♀️

will grab your hands randomly and make you dance to some song he made up about literally anything he sees or feels

he even made one about YOU once :3

”OOOOOHHH your my partner! Yes my partner! We’re having lots of fun! Going on adventures- YAHOO!! And dancing a ton! We’ll dance all arcross the grand line!! Take your hats off and let them fly!! YIPPIE!! We’re having a graaaaand TIIIIIIIME!” 😁🕺

Luffy quotes: (implied relationship between you two)

”HEY LOOK DO YOU SEE THAT ISLAND!! Cmoncmoncmoncmoncmoncmon!! HURRY UP I WANNA GO EXPLORING!!”

”can you sneak in the kitchen and steal some food from sanji? I’m really hungry and he won’t let me in anymore!!”

”LETS HAVE A PARTY!!!” — “we don’t need a reason! CMON!’ CHEERS!”

”lets tame that thing and make it our pet!!”

”what should we name em?” — “Junpi? SOUNDS GOOD TO ME!!” (You didn’t get a chance to respond 💕)

”HEY LOOK A RESTAURANT!! Grab on I’ll rocket us there!! HURRY UP IM HUNGRYYY!!”

”hey! Do you have any food on you?? I’m hungry!”

”Liar!! I can smell it!!”

”take a bath?! I don’t stink!!— EUGH!- okay yeah maybe….but I don’t wanna take a bath!! I’ll get all tired!”

”I’ll leave you with that guy! So go kick some butt! I’ll deal with that red forehead guy!!” (AN: There’s no actual red forehead guy that’s canon, I made it up 👍)

”⁉️ HEY WHAT HAPPENED?! Did that guy beat you up?! I’ll send him flying!! 💢”

”Shishishishi! Shh! Watch this! I’m gonna drop this on Usopp’s head! 🤭😂”

”Lets play a gaaaaame!! I’m so bored! 😞”

”can I have some of your food?” *Already stuffing a piece in his mouth* (the point is it’s not the whole thing ⁉️😱)

”HE LOOK MY BOUNTY WENT UP!! 🤩🤩‼️“

”Isn’t this fun?! 😆” (having a near death experience)

”don’t worry! My injuries don’t hurt at all! See? I’m dancing! I’m having fun!”

”oops. Sorry.”

”look!” (Two chop sticks stuffed up his nose and mouth)

”WOAHH A MAN KILLING BEAR!! LETS GO CHECK IT OUT! 🤩” (even if you wanted to say no your already being hoisted over there because you weren’t running fast enough for him)

”plan? Never mind that!! Let’s go! We’re gonna kick that butt head guys’ butt!!” (AN: another fictional villain I made up on a whim)

”HOLD ON TIGHT” (Gum Gum Rockets with hardly any warning)

”let’s play a game!! It’s called steal zoro’s swords without waking up zoro!! 😁”

”nyop!” (Puts you atop his shoulders 💓)

”nyop!” (Jumps on your back almost knocking you over 💝)

”look at my disguise! Nobody will suspect us! 😎👍”

”Cmere!” (Pulls you into his lap)

”HI! Is it almost time for dinner yet?” (Plops down in your lap)

Thanks for supporting me and my work—as well as my random disappearances too 💗🤗

Everyone! Say it!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LUFFY‼️‼️

[absolutebl]

10 Best BL Shows with the Hottest Sexitimes

Because this is English and word order matters, this title means the show itself has to be good AS WELL AS the scenes high heat, as opposed to the best sex scenes in BL. The two are not necessarily the same list. Anyway I tried to pick both high heat and a fun show. This was hard (pun intended).

FYI expect triggers with your high heat.

(Oh right. For me to get a 3/3 heat rating the BL has simulated sex in it or very close to it. And usually one or more other sexual acts like bjs, a-ply, etc...)

So, I went to the spreadsheet, and sorted it by high heat and then ranking, and here is what I got. I think #1 will surprise you. What will not surprise you is it's mostly Thai and Taiwanese.

10. TharnType (and follow ups)

Thai 2019 Viki

Should it still rank, all these years later? I am sorry to say, yes it should. University setting, great acting and complex characters, interesting friendship groups, enemies to lovers, seriously angsty coming out, high production values, AMAZING chemistry, multiple BL side couples with all the issues, damaging queer rep, strong seme/uke and husband/wife language, classic tropes and lots of them bad.

But it's famous for a reason.

This was KinnPorsche before KinnPorsche.

9. Addicted: Heroin

China 2016 Viki

When Chinese BL was good it was very dirty good and when it was bad it was censored. This is the model for that statement: rich kid falls madly for the genius poor kid in his class, starts an aggressive pursuit, includes kidnapping for love, obsession, stepbrother trope, plus some cheating. I love this BL because of what I could have been.

Just stop watching it after The Sex Scene. Okay?

8. Love Stage!!

Thai 2022 YouTube

This BL surprised me with its charm. The acting was good, the leads were appealing, support cast on point, and the production values high. It followed the original manga story arc relatively closely: boy falls in love with girl as a child, grows up to discover girl is actually a very pretty boy.

Although there are some quintessentially Thai changes that mellowed, softened, and extended the romance arc and heat levels.

7. HIStory 4: Close to You

Taiwan 2021 Viki

Nancy Chen directs, the side dish plot is basically a pastiche of problematic BL tropes inherited from the above. Great chemistry, high heat, stepbrothers, dubcon, obsession, stalker etc…

They sexy tho.

6. My Day

Pinoy 2020 YouTube

The set up on this one is enemies (also boss/employee) and they don’t like each other to start. But that gets resolved pretty quickly. And then they are some of the cutest, hottest, and best boyfriends ever.

This is an under-appreciated BL, IMHO.

5. Cutie Pie

Thai 2022 YouTube

Very high production (and heat) and a lot of visual references to live action yaoi gave this show a whiff of Japan but ultimately it stayed firmly in Thailand’s BL camp veering from absurd to appealing to annoying and then back to absurd again. If you can roll with the arranged marriage conceit and very lifestyle D/s relationships, the chemistry is spot on even if the plot is naff and driven by miscommunication.

Watch this one for the pretty, give it a pass on depth. (It has depth, it just depth of tongue kisses.)

Also the follow up: Naughty Babe

4. Bed Friend

Thai 2023 YouTube but for high heat you'll net to watch on iQIYI

Office frienamies transition a flaming hot one night stand into a f-buddy relationship that is built on a puppy/cat dynamic (and kinks into it at one point). Our puppy is loyal, smitten, and protective with endlessly longing eyes, while our cat is snarky, prickly, and deeply damaged (ALL THE TRIGGERS).

NetJames give lovely high-heat with excellent chemistry and tuned-in performances of surprising depth, unfortunately the story ultimately failed them. Had the show had the strength of its convictions and kept to a tighter, darker, harsher 8 eps it would have been the first high heat to earn a 10/10 from me, but once they fussed with it, it dropped to a solid 8/10. Could have been great but was overworked.

Still if high heat is your thing, this one will not let you down.

3. HIStory 3: Trapped

Taiwan 2019 Viki

Basically the definition of enemies to lovers from Lin Pei Yu. This is a cop + the mafia man he is chasing but WAIT, they fall in love. Added bonus side couple: assassin and nerd cop ALSO falling in love. It’s great. All the leads are stellar. Its high heat, fun action, and a bit of a mystery drama but pretty about all of it.

My only warning is that the main couple doesn’t entirely end up together, it’s implied, but… amorphous ending.

2. Why R U?

Thai 2020 Viki

No one knows what’s going on, not even the characters, but absolutely no one cares 'cause it's so thirsty. The plot seems to be "great chemistry and make sure Zee's shirts are NEVER BUTTONED PROPERLY." We, the collective, have a pro Hawaiian shirt anti-button stance, so rah rah rah! (Still the most confusing thing about this show is: why they didn't just title it YRU?)

The FighterTuror sex scenes still stand as some of the best ever fielded in a Thai BL. I will not be entertaining opposition on this matter.

1. Be Loved In House: I Do

Taiwan 2021 Viki

A cute classy office set BL with a few plot raised eyebrows, but no other concerns. ALL THE TROPES plus a general sweet softness that’s pretty rare from Taiwan, who usually prefer to go hard, but all their signature domesticity.

There is one high heat sex scene and it's great. But it's the whole package of classic sappy Taiwanese BL that puts this at the very top for me.

Generally just v high heat?

Hottest sex scenes in BL is frankly gonna be largely a matter of your personal taste.

But if the ones mentioned above don't work try:

KinnPorsche

Love in the Air

Big Dragon

HIStory 3; MODC (the BL that shall not be named)

Be Mine Super Star

Manner of Death (and anything else with MaxTul)

Oh My Sunshine Night (sides)

Secret Crush on You

Wedding Plan

Most dark JBL has very good high heat, but... ya know.

For @samara44 by request.

Dated Nov 2023, not responsible for amazing high head that came after.

(source)

[usuallyrated2stars]

EP 18 SPOILERS (art, then I start discussing full episode thoughts)

I'm sicker than Tissues right now but I HAD to draw SOMETHING. I hope to draw more when I'm feeling better

Anyways, I cannot be the only one who was like "istg if they name that damn hotel PAYJAY". Fan's not even surprised they got together, he's shocked they said the thing...the thing!!

With my delusions out of the way, I have Many Thoughts™. I got my average yearly (and final, probably) dose of a Tissues and Trophy line, which is great. I thought it was a little underwhelming when Cobs pulled out some random sword knife lookin thing, but his voice actor was absolutely GODLIKE.

All of the water-related incidents with Box absolutely kill me now. Jesus.

MePhone4's final scene really feels like a good wrap to him. I was discussing with a friend about how we wanted his story to go, with her thinking it was best for him to let everyone die and for him to move on, and me thinking it was best for him to continue his interest in showbusiness, but what actually happened makes the most sense. He's just gotta go on and do something for himself, just like all of his former contestants are.

Speaking of which, the possibilities of the fates of the contestants have so much potential! I don't really want some spin off from Animation Epic. I want fanfics and comics and headcanons from the community! I have the perfect opportunity to indulge in OC x Canon now, and I can't wait to see what people do with the characters now as they rebuild!! UGHHH I love object shows and their communities!! (Just stay off of Twitter.)

I might make more art stuffs later! (Jam-packed with thoughts, probably, too) Thanks for reading or not!! :D

Edit: OH YEAH BYVTHE F**KING WAY WTH WAS THAT COBS DEATH SCENE??!?!?!? WHO IN THEIR RIGHT MIND WENT "yeah I'm cooking" brother QHAT

[lutawolf]

Hidden Agenda Ep 1 Soft D/s Commentary

I was explaining to some friends that I feel Hidden Agenda was a great example of cultural D/s or soft D/s. I'm going to do my best to explain why I see it this way.

Now, first impressions would have you believing that these two are on equal footing. Both have attitudes and are giving as good as they get, but notice that Zo submits more often than not to Joke. At this time, we will say it's the nice guy in him, but notice that Joke is crowding Zo. While Zo might be reading it as an intimidation tactic, that isn't what Joke is trying to do. He is attempting to elevate himself to the top of the hierarchy at this juncture.

If you want to see real equal footing, look at Zo and his friend group. Each place with visit with them shows no hierarchy, not even ones typically seen in Asian culture. They speak casually to each other without any submission or dominance.

Now look at Joke on the bus with Zo. It's an immediate show of dominance. Joke is once again invading Zo's space in order to enforce dominance. Generally speaking, Asian relationships have a more Dominant partner and a more submissive partner, and this can be seen in more than just romantic relationships. Sometimes this also carries into romantic relationships, and sometimes it doesn't. This is due to their culture, which I'll tag @notfreetoday in on, as she explains this much better than me.

Anyway, we can clearly see that Joke is attempting to be the more dominant partner. Which is entirely different from Zo's friend group. Even when Zo pushes Joke's arm off, he still stays in Zo's space. Just look at his legs. Zo's legs are breathing room open while Joke is full on doing the man spread. This body language says a lot. It literally means this is my territory, I consider this person my territory. It speaks confidence in protecting what is his that he has claimed, whether it is space or person.

Have you ever noticed what types of personalities ask people to beg? Dominant personalities. Someone who wants to dominate over someone else. There are charming Doms, but most are also assholes, with bullying tendencies. The difference is, and what keeps us from being called bullies, we prefer people who like to be bullied.

Now, if you look at the debate club, you can see that how Zo treats Wave is what I mean by hierarchy. If you look closely, you can see the similarity to how Zo treats Wave and Joke vs. everyone else. There is more respect there for Wave, but the overall is similar. Even Zo with Nita, while Zo is shy, there is a casual equality. Yet with Joke, there is space invasion and bullying. Now, I've seen many people say that this looks like a regular relationship, but can you also see the Dominance and even, to a certain amount of submission? Now ask yourself if maybe this seems normal to you because you're used to hierarchy relationships.

The bar scene shows Joke man spreading again, but you can also see that he's giving Nita a fair amount of space. He isn't interested in claiming her as territory. Also notice how everyone is talking to Trin respectfully and not casually even when joking. Again, it's that hierarchy at play. Then we see more space invasion and bullying from Joke again, this is all Dominant actions. You can be attracted to someone and act on that attraction without being Dominant, but Joke is being Dominant.

You might be thinking, but Luta, I've seen many people flirt like this before. Indeed, those individuals who possess dominant personalities. Some people like it and others don't, which is why we teach consent. We emphasize that it is inappropriate for boys to be boys and pull a girl's ponytail because he likes her, or vice versa. However, this is actually the beginning of a dominant personality. I resent it when boys would do such things to me; however, I am a Dom and have been since childhood. Now, inquire of a submissive individual regarding their reaction. Consent is paramount, but it is not as important in fiction. So let's continue.

The bar bathroom scene. Joke is everything that Dom is. From the way he won't be pushed away, to the way he sternly demands Zo's submission, and even the way he is caging him in. Even the way Joke cares for Zo is 100% how a good Dom treats their submissive. We might bully them, but we also take care of them. We also don't kick them when they are down, we listen, we console and if it's our fault, we recognize. We bully but aren't bullies. Again we have Joke holding Zo back and using a tone to gain Zo's submission. Anyone notice that Zo does pause when given that tone?

Now look at the apology scene. Notice that Joke doesn't instantly forgive, nor is he angry. He explains and then we get teaching mode. Now we have commands, follow, sit, and Zo submits. This next part has all of you questioning me, right? When Zo gets pushy with Joke about his wound and caring for it. First, let's acknowledge that while Zo is relatively submissive, he isn't one hundred percent submissive. Then keep in might that there are different levels of submission. A brat submissive will absolutely fight with their Dom. Especially if it concerns their Dom's health.

The juice scene is my favorite. Notice how much more pushy and Dominant, Joke, gets when he becomes Zo's “mentor.” Forcing Zo into drinking the juice. Why was the drinking of the juice so important? “wo ai ni, ni ai wo, ting dong ma” translating to “I love you, you love me, do you understand?” He also mimicked the Chinese tradition of jiaobeijiu where the bride and groom would drink wine together in the bridal chamber and was used to symbolize the confirmation of marital union. This would either be one cup or two tied together by a red string. That little smirk from Joke, knowing he has completely pulled one over on Zo.

That is all for Episode 1. Let me know what you think of this in the comments. If you'd liked to be tagged when I do other episodes, please let me know. Hope you enjoy! 💜💜💜

[spnfanficpond]

July 2024 Angel Fish Awards

(Angel Fish design by @slytherkins!!)

Every month all of you fantastic writers work your asses off to post some truly incredible stories. Our Angel Fish Awards are the way for all of us, as a community of writers and readers, to lift each other up and give praise to those who have captured our attention and deserve a few kind words. (Click here to learn more about how to nominate a fic for an award!)

Nominated by @heavenssexiestangel

A Stairway to Nowhere by all_the_kings_ham (AO3)

Everyone knows there is a lack of some good Ducifer fics out there, due to it being a rarepair. This one is still one of my faves and I love the humanity and trauma shown in some scenes. It's truly worth a read.

Apple Pie and the Apocalypse by @ladyknightskye

I'm still reading it but I've read quite a few new chapters and I'm absolutely loving it. There are some hilarious scenes and some more serious ones (sometimes they're together...) and I really can't wait to see how it ends

Like an Open Book by @butiaintgonnaloveem

I am trying to get into x Reader fics and there truly is a lack of Ketch oh my G-d. Anyway. Although here the reader is... Way too dominant to be me lol... I love Ketch showing his softer side and reader helping him to relax. I shall leave nsfw thoughts untold 😫

Nominated by @annahmiraculousmillenium

Let's pretend I'm dead by evitably (AO3)

I love possession fic.

Nominated by @charliethealpaccaso

Woof by morrezela (AO3)

I tend to hunt down all sorts of transformation based fics of all kinds if it peaks my interest and this one caught my interest at the start. I want to make sure more people check out the tag or get some ideas. For this fic what if jensen got turned into a dalmatian. How is he going to deal with his new form and does he ever get back to his human self that is up to you to figure out

Like The Fairy Tales by Icefire149 (AO3)

As the one trying to seek out some great animal transformation fics we got this one where sam is turned into a frog. I thought this was a cute fic and worth a read if you like to check it out.

Regarding Sam by AllHallowsEve (AO3)

For me Regarding Dean was a great spn ep and when I found this I wanted to see what would happen for Sam. The story for the ep plays the same with some added bits more leaning on the Sam side of it all along with his relationship with Dean.

Home For a Stray by 3oclockrock (AO3)

This one was a hard read for me with the topics but it did peak my interest a bit in its concepts. If your interested in a strange read with more mature topics dealing with struggle and recovery check out this fic.

Faithful Companion by brokenlittleboy (AO3)

I'm still hunting down as much transformation fics that peak my interest and this was one I thought was a great read. Sam's powers go out of control causing him to change into a dog and Dean take a bit of an advantage on him giving him a pink collar.

Nominated by @glygriffe

Did You Hear? by cacholady (AO3)

This is a sweet outsider (mostly school related) POV on Dean. He might not be a dad, but he sure has a way with children! And I love that Bobby John Campbell was a part of this story.

Nominated by harrypotterfanatic1 (AO3)

amoralism by @artyandink

I'm nominating this because it's just caught my eye. It's an AU, based in the world of the FBI and the smut is just AAHH and the sexual tension and all of it is so damn GOOD! There's also a plot around a crime syndicate which includes as many major characters as possible and it's overall a read which I would recommend everyone to check out and leave their feedback on as there's so much to go. Aah, can't stop talking about it! It's the characterization as well, all the characters leap off the page and are so accurate. Definitely felt I should nominate this.

Nominated by @leatafandom

Wingman by cas---2y5 (AO3)

I love Sam's fascination with wings and Gabe helping him organize the bunker. I love how their relationship changes and the how Sam just can't help himself. Plus it's also just so steamy.

we sons of hell and heaven by @gay-destiel

This was such a great read! I love the word usage and descriptions so much! It was so enthralling and the relationships were amazing to watch bloom.

Nominated by @masoena

Living in a Haze by @girlsvmonsters

The story has well thought out plot, smoking hot smut, lots of Dean whump and a red thread of humor that compliments the trauma, angst and comfort perfectly. It is also polyamorous and A/B/O.

Nominated by @rainythursdaynight

Crashing In by @followyourenergy

I'm an angst girl through and through, but sometimes I just really need some fluff and comfort. That's what this fic is, hot chocolate on a (not 2024) cold winter's day, snowed in with a good book. Single parent Cas and kid Jack fics are always so lovely, as are the fics where Dean comes in when Cas needs it most. Even if in this fic it's a literal crash into them, it's fluffy and sweet and heart warming and cozy and everything you could ever want out of a read.

And This, Your Living Kiss by @asecretvice

I'm a sucker for well written stories about well written in-story works. Poet/Writer Dean has some beautiful works sprinkled throughout this fic that the author does so much justice to, his story is heart wrenching in the leave-your-chest-aching-despite-knowing-the-outcome-is-okay-kind-of-way, and I love me a fic about hidden identities. The tension, the prose, the energy: this fic is beautiful, if I only could describe it in one word it'd be that: Beautiful.

Heroes for Ghosts by @pantheonofdiscord

I think I haven't felt such deep yearning as I have felt conveyed through this fic. It reads so tense, like you're waiting for a small crack to let out some of the building up pressure and anxiety but still waiting, and waiting, and aching the way Cas does. And then when that pressure is finally relieved, god is it worth it. The waiting was worth it in the end. This fic is also a masterclass in writing interactions that aren't direct, none of TFW can speak to each other or see each other, but they still move and talk like they can, even if its out of desperation. It acknowledges the empty spaces in each of their lives during the fic, and reminds you in equal parts that they are connected even if the thread is invisible.

The Benjamin Franklin Key-and-Kite Experiment by @deanology101

I'm a sucker for not only time travel, but pre-season 4 deancas meetups. This one hit all the marks. It was tense with mystery, with energy, with passion and secrecy. It left the reader and the characters in equal levels of dark as to why things were happening in the way they were. And it kept characters alive that the show couldn't bother to, and gave the Winchesters some meaningful friendships to boot. This setting IS if Faith Healer had an extended cut, rainy and dreary and electric, but with occasional bouts of light peeking through the clouds. And Dean's Journal Entries? His little doodles? His analogies? Dean's voice was PHENOMENAL in this fic, I highly recommend it to any Dean fans, period.

The Sinking Ship by @crack--attack

I'll offer the note that I wrote down when I bookmarked this fic the first time. "Like bearing a part of my soul open and shining sunlight on it. I ache, but there are new flowers here. There are new flowers and a gentle breeze." This is a story about sacrifice, and love so intense it shakes the planes of the world. It's about story telling and eternity and history inundated by loss and a ticking clock and forgiveness and moving on and love. It's everything I could ever want in a piece of literature. Please, if you have even the slightest interest in Deancas, give this story a read. I read this not even acknowledging some of the ships in this fic but found myself pleasantly surprised by them. Even if you don't like or are impartial to deancas, or sam/rowena/gabe, or claire/maggie, please please PLEASE give this fic a shot. I'm so so glad I did.

The Neighboring Perspective by aileenrose (AO3)

A story about loss, grief, and healing. About loving unconventionally but loving fiercely and fully. About opening old closets and airing them out with hope. It's a shorty so I won't write much, just that if you're interested in moving on from loss, in finding new family, in learning how to love again, give this fic a shot. Plus baby!Ben Braedon is adorable throughout!

Out of the Deep by @riseofthefallenone

This is a behemoth of a fic, and popular if the hits are anything to go by. However, if you haven't read this yet and you're into heavy Mermaid lore, I highly recommend giving it a try! It's heavy at times. Cas is caged and sometimes no matter what they try to do, things don't work out for the protagonists. But they try again, and again, and again and the payoff is very much worth it in the end. Plus there's a whole lot of cathartic payback and BAMF Cas, Dean, Sam, and Jess that makes the high action points of this story edge-of-your-seat fun! And the calmer points much more magical, mystical, and hopeful. I loved it for its found family, for it's incredible lore, and it's fierceness. And when I have the time, I know I'll go back in for a second read.

Nominated by @samanddean76

My Brother's Keeper, My Father's Prisoner by @xpurdyglambertx

An Omegaverse story that starts dark with Dean being trapped by his duties and obligations. It follows him as he struggles to break away from those that are more intent on hurting him, than helping him to grow. With help, he does escape. And he goes on to find a relationship with an OC that you will love and adore. They grow together, while Dean works through all of the pain and trauma that was inflicted upon him by the one that should have protected him. It concludes with happy endings all around, and the possibility of hope for the rest of his days.

Nominated by @sardonic-the-writer

B-Clean by EliDeetz (AO3)

i'm nominating this story mostly because the descriptive nature had me hooked, as did the accurate characterization of gabriel, and the relationship between him and the reader was really enjoyable without feeling forced

Nominated by @spn-fanfic-reblog-writes

The Cherry Pie Club by zation (AO3)

>.< It’s so hard to explain. It’s a great story with angst, fluff, a bit of violence that is an after the fact type description so not too bad imo, and a hopeless romantic story. Zation does it again, ok? They’re an amazing writer and destiel is just *chef’s kiss* for them. I have yet to read a story of theirs that I haven’t enjoyed. I swear! Did I mention a bunch of well written kinky smut that also shows the developing relationship between the main characters and Dean coming to happy terms (with loving support) with his sexuality too. I highly recommend reading!

Stars in Your Eyes by Cigarettes_and_Valentines (AO3)

It is so, so good! It’s perfect. It’s perfect and I love it. Relaxed, Endverse-like Castiel is an amazing Alpha for Omega Dean Winchester, a career-focused man that loves his job. ❤️💙💚

Stars Above, Earth Below by @hellhoundsprey

It’s a love story that is technically a slow burn. It’s so sweet and well done. I love how the author gets Jensen and Jared finally together. It has a lot of A/O vibes imo, which might be why I love it so much. The secrets that come out and how it ends up actually helping in the long run, shows just how dedicated they are to each other. There is some angst but a good amount of smut that is actually necessary for the story. Pay attention to the details or you’ll miss it. 😊

For Appearances Only by @lotus820

It’s an amazing amalgam of urban fantasy, billionaire romance, one-sided enemy to lovers with a decent slow burn, and then everything gets fun, sexy, and dangerous. The love that Castiel has for Dean just keeps showing and showing so easily. Dean can’t help but falling for the being that is Castiel. I love this! This is a new comfort fic. It is amazing. You gotta read it. The title is half the story. 😊

Nominated by @thoughtslikeaminefield

The Fear That Remains by @stusbunker

This fic is nearly 4yrs old, and I've read it multiple times because the characterization is perfect (as Stu is wont to do) and it feels like I'm in the room, whether as a spectator or as the female reader. It's sumptuous and heartfelt, sexy and so, so Dean.

(Divider by @glygriffe)

THANK YOU ALL, KEEP UP THE AMAZING WORK, AND AS ALWAYS, HAPPY WRITING!

- From your Admins and Manta Rays, @manawhaat, @mrswhozeewhatsis, @mariekoukie6661, @thoughtslikeaminefield, @heavenssexiestangel, and @spn-fanfic-reblog-writes!

[trutrustories]

STUDY IN LOKI ROMANCE

Part 2: Breaking Brad

Since we're only a few days away from the last episode, I decided to COUNT DOWN everything we´ve got so far ( that can be interpreted very easily as romantic ) and discuss what the actual fuck is going on with second season. Because even though I shipped lokius practically from S1E2, I absolutely did NOT expect this kind of development. (Not that I´m complaining)

Warning: This is gonna be LONG post, lots of screenshots, lots of SPOILERS, lot of "oh-my-god-they-so-cute" language, and little bit of meta.

I originally thought that this post would be everything at once, but since I have just too many screenshots this time around, I´ll have to split it. so every post will be one episode. Color coding means:

IIIIIIIIII = anything, that coud potentialy be just acting choice.

IIIIIIIIII = everything else (tzn.: whatever was written, and/or carefully prepared by filmmakers. )

side note: I already wrote, about how amazing it is, that Mobius is unable to fight but fights anyway and how beautifuly, and ridiculously brave he is HERE. But this is about Loki/Mobius interactions, so I´ll try my best not to talk about THAT. (Even when I´m really happy, that s2 continues with this formula and Mobius is still his completely defenseless while aggressively brave self. I love him, btw.)

EPISODE 1 HERE

Okay, Check-list, ep 2:

11) matching suits part 1 THIS ⬇️ costume department did a great job and they look badass together also, they´re walking very close to each other.

12) Loki defending /saving Mobius from Brad (with magic!) also, Mobius, dear, (my beloved) you were really going for it! Always so ready to fight! I can´t xD

Loki "don´t u dare hurt him" Laufeyson, look at his face!

13) Mobius and Loki struggling to assemble IKEA furniture- sorry Tapmad together

14) " And he knows..." I mean yeah, sure. keep remind us, that Mobius knows everything about Loki, and saw him at his worst, so we can appreciate even more the fact, that Mobius likes him and cares for him so damn much 💚🤎

15) Loki finding Mobius´s joke amusing Mobius: cracking joke right after Loki´s threatening speech:

Loki:

16) Loki being very concerned for Mobius after his outburst, saying that It´s okay, and then suggests having pie because he knows Mobius so well and is avare of the fact, that his man is stress eater I´m gonna cry they´re too pure for MCU someone adopt them

17) Bickering like married couple (part 2) 18) The whole freaking pie scene!

Just them, sharing calm, intimate moment together

Mobius opening up to Loki, and admiting he "lost it"

Loki trying to make him feel better and absolutely KILLING IT! btw, I know, that some people think, this scene doesn´t make sense, because Loki didn´t "lost it" during avengers, but was controlled by mind stone, etc.... well I think that it actually doesn´t matter. Guess what else doesn´t make sense? For example the fact, that they already talked about Loki fighting Avengers ( during their first meeting.) Loki is aware, that Mobius saw New York invasion at least twice now, and he´s telling him anyway. I would say, that point here is Loki trying to lift Mobius´s spirit, entertain him, make him smile. Why else woud he start his monolog by "remember, when...?" And I think, that this is huge, actually: Loki, using his bad memory, defeat, his humulianting experience to make Mobius feel better. So not only, that we see, he no longer care about being rurel but we see him making lightly fun of it FOR MOBIUS´S SAKE! He has different priorities now... our immortal god is a grown man now... it´s just so fucking beautiful... 🥺

Also Mobius saying to Loki: "come on, you´re the God of Mischief" Like it´s a best thing in the world, and Loki gives him THIS LOOK! (I mean that head tilt would be considered "acting" category, but I´m already making concessions by including all these things under one number :D

19) Loki and Mobius: mischievous duo

Mobius trusts him so completly!

They both such a drama queens!

And they works so well together!

like... seriously, Brad didn´t see this coming, AT ALL! xD

also... Loki complimenting his plan?!

20) "They say opposites attract. NO." Mobius´s wishfull thinking xD (But hey, it IS true. Opposites attracts. And works greatly together. That´s the only reason, why, for example, trope like grumpy one/sunshine one is so popular!) I can´t! just look at his face 🤣 Oh honey! just calm down

He is sooooooo NOT chill here xD bless him

21) Loki, not following Sylvie, but actually staying with Mobius and comforting him. AGAIN. (which is an absolutely glaring contrast compared to episode 2 in first season!)

[midnight1nk]

So, this week's episode...

[spoilers below cut]

oooohhhh, so we're doing another one of these, eh? let's have some fun!

(the following is my live reaction:)

ah yes, the new TADC episode, which was fantastic btw

HELL YEAH

I honestly didn't expect that bc I was like, "what kinda trip would it be for them to take a bike? camping maybe???" (I still don't get the "trip" part about it tbh)

sooooooo teasing and banter are part of your (platonic/romantic) love language?..... [*writes it down*]

3, we all know Mario is basically invincible right? betting 4 dollars on him winning this race

ooooohh, a prize 👀 though based on past episodes, 4 doesn't have the greatest ideas for prizes, judging by the Crew's reaction at least (I would still want your autograph, 4)

LET'S-A FUCKIN GOOOOOOOO

honestly mood

"imaging yourself as a jet plane will not help you zis time, jet" (gotta add the riders fandub in here man)

That wasn't even Mario's fault, that was a bigass rock

PFFFT ASHD;LAF four tf are you doing dude, can i join you

[*looks at moon*] don't say it don't say it don't I'VE COME TO MAKE AN ANNOUNCEMENT—

If Mario's flexible enough to reach the moon and the sun and the Great Beyond, you can too 👍

oh my god, i get it /ref

WHY IS THAT ROCK STILL THERE?

whelp Kev, looks like you aren't voicing Boopkins this episode

I miss your pink reading glasses 3 (wait did you somehow lose them on that island?)

also you do need glasses, my guy? i think you would cute in them btw

so um... who's gonna tell him?

(actually now I thought about it, the drawing that 4 had was on his PC and it got thrown away. 4 please tell me you saved that file somewhere else, was the printed-out version in 3's notebook actually canon? can it be?)

apparently fanartists, we need to make for fanart of 3, let's get to it!!!

loved the way James delivered that line "ouchie" (timestamp 5:29)

OH HEY slenderman, it's been a while, hello!

Kev, is that you? I can hear a bit of Shroomy in that voice

🤔 huh

Tari and Luigi are so sweet, I love them 💙

"I don't have eyes so I can't see you!" 🧍 not gonna question it

Mario, what were you so afraid of? it's slendy, your bro (looks like they didn't put that lore in smh, it's fine tho)

slenderman being here kinda fits tho bc we first saw 4's locket in the "Lost in the Woods" episode to come back in the "Plane Trip" and now slenderman comes back in another "Mario's Trip" ep

if only those cowards would show us what pic is inside that locket this time (I KNOW FOR A FACT THAT IT'S A DIFFERENT PIC, 4, I KNOW WHAT YOU ARE)

anyway, he's just a little guy (i'm still waiting 4)

Tari, sweetie, this is 3 we're talking about here, ofc he would cheat

[*italian gibberish argument*] ah yes, just another normal sibling moment

MARIO LOCK IN, BRO

SONIC?! WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE? :D

alright, now we gotta do it: 📢🎶I'm hanging on to the other side, I won't give up to the end of me—🎶 [*gets run over by a bike*] OH C'MON

LET'S GOOOOOO WOAH DUDE ANIMATION

WE'RE GONNA TOKYO DRIFT IN HERE BOYS

nothing person-el, kid /ref, and the rock came back full circle

AKIRA SLIDE BABYYYYY

kinda half-expected slenderman to accidentally win the race but CONGRATS MARIO 🎉

it was really gonna be sweet but yeah, that's our Mario

I'm sure the mar3 shippers are enjoying their crumbs

AWWW 4 HONEY I WOULD ENJOY YOUR GIFT

i would protect him at all costs (no don't look at what I did for the episode concepts shhhh)

and i oop

well um congrats to Abbie/Abit (@/jYMylD9Rm84xxCX) for your art featured at the end credits 🎉

.・-: ✧ :--: ✧ :-・.

This was a silly little episode and I have indeed enjoyed it. Not as emotional as the last one but I had fun nevertheless. Though, it didn't feel like a "Mario's Trip" episode, compared to the other ones. Maybe that's just me idk.

The animation and references, peak. As for the plot itself, it felt very on-brand for SMG4. Strangely, the chaotic energy in this one was toned down which is new. Like I said, it was still fun, had plenty of laughs. There isn't much to say about this but yeah, good to have a silly goofy time overall!!!

and yes, I will gladly take that bell, 4 [*ding ding*] :)

[hyog-blog]

Fangs of Fortune (ep. 13 - ep. 17)

I had to binge quite a few episodes, otherwise I'd be dreaming of demons and lots of beautiful people crying in the snow (which, I probably will anyway D:)

We went from a relatively happy family outing slightly tainted with betrayal and misunderstandings to the depths of psychological hell and eternal self-loathing. The level of inner and outer torment has reached critical levels and I'm guessing it will only peak in the upcoming episodes, now that the secret is out and everyone knows why exactly Zhu Yan was and still is so intent on dying from Zhuo Yichen's hands (well, and dying in general). What kind of sins he had unwillingly committed.

This is ingenious, really. Ethically complex. Psychologically distorted. Heavily PTSD'ed on all sides. It seems the recipe for making everyone suffer unimaginable sufferings is to put the Big Bad Murderous Darkness into the most caring, attentive, gorgeous demon being, let him lose control over the aforementioned Murderous Darkness once in a while, then make him fall into the abyss of self-blaming and self-loathing, and then make him try to end his life by the hands of the people he has wronged and cares about. I mean wow-wow-wow, just writing it down conceptually is heavy, the way everyone played their roles was BEYOND, just beyond. Totally and fully believable.

It's like the worst case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, but on a grander metaphysical scale. And it can't be solved just by one Great Demon dying - because such is the order of things that another being like that will be born, to bear the same fate. It's an interesting concept to put as one of the main motifs of the whole drama - the evil of the world and all the people that just exists by itself as a force, and one single person/vessel that has to curb it and sometimes channel it, without having any choice whatsoever. Or maybe there is? Now I'm wondering if Zhu Yan's idea about stopping the cycle of such vessels being born again and again is doable at all. In that kind of world where fate rules everything and everyone, and the options are quite limited, actually.

But I love how it's also always about the choice. It was Qing Geng's choice to stay with Fei willingly and get sealed together. And then, later, it was once again her free choice to stay in a dream and never leave the place. A-Heng didn't have a choice but to kill when he became a puppet, and Pei Sijing seemingly didn't have a choice when she killed him (but that still WAS her choice). Zhu Yan didn't have a choice when he lost control over the malicious energy, but he did have it afterward - what to do, how to live, or not live. How to punish himself severely inside out. So much of it is fate, destiny, guilt, unimaginable suffering. But even Zhuo Yichen makes his choice - despite his own pain and loss, he chooses not to kill Zhu Yan because that won't really solve anything or make anyone happy (while alive he could still do some good for the people who suffered because of him). I love how the show explores this topic of free will despite everything happening around the characters that's out of their control.

We still don't know what those Chongwu guys want, but Li Lun seems to be bearing quite a grudge towards his ex former bff. I mean, he was so emo before Zhu Yan took him out to see the mortal world and didn't want anything to do with it at first. I wonder what happened between the two of them. Well, he later wanted to get free (which is understandable), but merging the mortal and demon worlds is never a good idea, nope, so I see why the Goddess would imprison him.

I'm wondering how Zhao Yuanzhou is functioning at all with that level of grief he's carrying around. Like getting up, walking, talking, even smiling sometimes. Those must be some hardcore demonic superpowers, because someone else would have been crushed completely and totally by the amount of pain (but then again, he approached Zhuo Yichen and the rest of them only to make his deathwish come true, so that could have been his fuel before).

And after everything, the show managed to joke about cutting sleeves XD nearly making Yinglei quite literally cut his sleeve for baby Bai Jiu. That the show would even go there is risky enough, but this - my jaw slightly dropped))) And between two sweetest brotherly brothers, ahah)))

It's been quite a trip, I will need to digest this whole sequence of events. I still can't get over the scenes and dialogues when Zhu Yan was prepping Zhuo Yichen to kill or subdue him. And what about that ability to be immune to his demonic word spells? I wonder how it works and what he had to do for it to work. Also, the scene with the scars on Zhu Yan's back... Heartbreak all over, everyone is crying, hating but not fully totally, probably loving as well, but not forgiving. It's COMPLEX, uh.

[after-nine-at-the-oasis]

AAAAHHHHHH my babeys :DDD!!!

OH CRAP THEY'RE IN COUPLES COUNSELING

OHHHHH NO

I mean I'm glad they are but THIS IS GOING TO KILL ME

UAAAAAAGHHHH NOT THE DIFFERENT ANSWERS O.O

"We're doing great" "We've been better" AAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH- 😭😭😭😭💔❤️

I mean. You have also been worse xD 👀

Not the point I know but xD

Y'all I'm STRESSED. I'm TENSE. My CHEST Y'ALL 😭 XD

UH OHHHH

Carlos's face :(((

There it is, the word obsessed 😬😬

Ohhh gosh guys

This is not good xd

Somebody will have to stop me from writing a Carlos obsession fic based on my experiences of intrusive thoughts lol

Y'alllll 😭😭😭 I'm so not okay over them

Again chest literally hurts xd

OH GOSH this poor lady o.o

That's the last of my last thoughts! Now it's time for the. . .

REVIEW

I really enjoyed this episode! I LOVED the focus on Paul, seeing him struggle with accepting parts of his role but ultimately slaying :). Also I'm so glad that everything worked out with the ex wife, that he wasn't actually trying to poison anyone xD, but that ended was rough :'(((. Poor Tommy and Trevor 😭. And Melody, too :(. Anyway, the calls were super fun (and I'm so glad that lady survived 😭🥺❤️), and it was a great time all around :).

Now it's time for the individual parts!

Wyatt! We didn't see too much of him but he was great :D. I love his response and the way he talked to the robot/auto call lol. He was great at his job, as always (and thank goodness - we need that from 911 operators and we luckily get that with the 911 shows <3). I love him ❤️ <3.

Carlos! We only got to see him in the nightmare, but I'm glad we saw him at all :). I miss him ty <33. I'm sure he was doing great at his job somewhere in the real world lol. I love him ❤️.

Mateo and Marjan! The sillies your honor <33. They did great at their jobs today, and I'm so glad they were so supportive of Paul 🥰. Also congrats to Mateo once again on not being the probie anymore 🥳. I know he hasn't been for a while but he was still the most junior/most recent one xD. I love them <3.

Judd! It's rough that he has to be a probie instead of going back to where he was (not a lieutenant necessarily but a full firefighter), but it is a cool layer :)). It's great to see that he's doing well with it, though (though Judd you need to take care of yourself!! Not always just canned beans please <33), and is humble and knows his place :). Like, not in a mean way, or that he shouldn't be respected, but he's not getting uppity about it and even specifically trying to do those jobs so I appreciate it <3. I love him so much 🥰❤️.

Nancy and TK! They're so SILLYYY!! These gossips are too crazy for their own (or anyone else's, specifically Tommy's here lol) good xD. But I love them so much lol <3 ❤️. I'm glad they assured Tommy that she wasn't crazy, but they were pretty immediately jumping to the conclusion(s) of crime lol. Maybe don't do that as much in the future xD. Nonetheless, they were being icons, and they were also great at their jobs this episode :D (as they always are, of course). They were being a little silly sometimes but I vibe with it lol, I love them <3.

Owen! I really appreciated him trusting Paul and letting him figure it out, but also giving him advice. Also of course he was a lieutenant early lol 🙄 xD. He's so silly sldkdjs. Also his fist pump into the air after the compliment sandwich thing xD icon. Anyway, I'm glad he gave Paul a chance to explain and didn't just totally go off at him <3. I know he knows Paul's got this but I'm just so glad he gave him a push and a chance, because Paul really does have this, and I believe in him so much <3. Also, the whole coffee thing at the beginning was hilarious xD. Poor Owen and Judd lol. I love him <3.

Tommy (and Trevor)! The whole thing with the possible poisoning was craazyyy o.o. Again, I'm glad it wasn't actually the ex wife (although she was absolutely being shady, and she shouldn't have so obviously - or at all - blamed Tommy, but whatever 😑 xD), but it sucks that it was Melody :((. And poor girl 😭😭🥺. I feel so bad :(. Obviously I wish she wasn't poisoning people, and I wish she could/wanted to stay for everyone's sake, but this is what's best for her :(. And of course, I'm glad Trevor would go with her - she deserves that. But that scene at the end :(( 😭😭😭💔. It sucks that Tommy and Trevor have to break up for that <333 💔💔. Neither of them deserve that, but I'm glad they're putting their kids first :'(. I did definitely think it was a possibility for Tommy to go at the end of the season, especially since it's the last season (easier to split people up, because no repercussions lol), but I'm glad she's staying <3. It just sucks :((( D: 😭. And that scene at the end 😭😭😭 GOSH, I don't deserve this guys <33. They loved each other so much, and they deserved each other and to be happy <3. But sometimes that just doesn't work out :((. I'm glad they could be civil about their breakup though, that it wasn't for a crazy reason. I love them <33 </33 💔❤️❤️.

Paul! He was so awesome this episode :D. I was TERRIFIED with the nightmare and the knowledge that he'd probably be hurt in some way from the promo, that his heart condition would be causing issues, but thankfully that wasn't it 😭😭❤️. At least not now xdd. I do think it would be more interesting (and who knows if it's this or not) if him having a nightmare was specifically because of his condition, just a symptom despite treatment (and less common now). Anyway! That nightmare sucks 😭. And is also so real to how nightmares be xD. I'm just so glad he was able to talk it out, and get his back fixed by Owen lol!! That was hilarious, and so fair xD. It would be Owen who could do that lol. Also, I'm so happy that lady and her baby were okay <33 😭❤️. I don't think I or Paul could've lived with it if she died because of him hiding his injury xdd. Also the rats thing was crazy o.o. But yeah - I really appreciate that Paul is trying to be reasonable and not abuse his rank (not that he ever would for serious reasons, maybe not even joking - unless someone ate his pudding cup lol), and now also starting to find balance with being able to be in charge and get people to do things as well :). It's really cool to see, and I totally get it personally - it's a hard line to walk sometimes, but if they're really your friends, it'll work out in the end <3. Also, Paul pretending to be fine, and especially doubling down and ignoring people's comments when he was injured - I just felt that so hard. I never want to give up or admit I can't do something, especially when people point it out. Even if I can't. As a disabled person, that just hit really hard (especially since Paul has a disability, even if it hasn't been brought up or seemed to have been affecting him recently). I love how it was portrayed <3. Brian was absolutely perfect at that, and everything this episode. Anyway, I'm also just so glad that at the end they were all like hey :) I love you :) you're still absolutely invited to game night, you're our family <3 and good job at being lieutenant ;). Love that for them, and Paul absolutely needed to hear it - so glad he got to <3 😭🥺. I love him so much <333 ❤️🥰🥰.

Overall, I really liked this episode! I had a great time with the calls and the various storylines, even if they were stressful, and I'm glad everything worked out in the end (except for Tommy - sorry, Tommy xd). Also, I just love my little fire family so much :). They're perfect <3. I know they aren't, and it was shown this episode (and every episode) and seems to be shown again next episode lol, but I don't care xD <3. I just really loved everyone supporting each other this episode, even if it was in kinda gossipy or sometimes harsher ways (as was called for). I love them all so much <3.

So, yeah! I really enjoyed this episode, I thought it was amazing. Stressful, but amazing. I'm so excited for the next one! This has been my review of. . .

9-1-1: Lone Star, Season 4, Episode 4: My Way

It was great! I'm really excited for the next episode, but I'm also so stressed. It's gonna be a wild one. I'll be back next week with my review of. . .

9-1-1: Lone Star, Season 4, Episode 5: Thunderstruck

See you then!

[buffyfan145]

Hello! I've seen a lot of your takes about the relationship between Sauron and Galadriel, so I decided to ask you. Some people keep saying that the kiss that so much is being talked about will be between Gal and Cel, but like why? There's not a single hint that he's going to appear this season, no one even mentions his name, not to mention that he wasn't even cast. Usually in shows somehow try to prepare the viewer to the appearance of a new character or something. I mean it will be somehow out of nowhere, plus it's too early for him. And I think when they actually cast Cel actor, it won't be hidden and they'll say it directly. Anyway I'm Haladriel shipper, but I don't think the kiss will be between them, at least in the classical sense. Maybe Sauron kiss her hand or something like that? Also, I want to add about the kiss between Gal and Cel, let's say it's true, but why is the kiss described as shocking? Like they're husband and wife. And I also saw a couple of opinions that a kiss is possible between Gal and Elrond, which seems even more improbable to me. Like she put her hand on Elrond's chest and some considered it a romantic gesture… but she was literally thinking about Halbrand at that moment! And I have one more question for you, what do you think about the shot where Galadriel is wearing a hood at night and someone is standing behind her, maybe a random orc or Halbrand or someone else? I hope my message didn't scare you with its long :D

No worries about the ask being long. I've actually gotten longer. LOL 😀 I have posted about the kiss before and who it could be with her and it's not Celeborn. I think it's people hoping it's him but he hasn't been cast. The writers confirmed it at SD Comic Con but did say both him and Glorfindel will eventually be in the show. I agree with you when he is cast it will be announced separately as he will be a series regular. There is a chance he could show up in the finale as a surprise but I still kind of doubt it. They're going to have to choose the right actor too, especially with how Haladriel has been and the chemistry between Morfydd and Charlie, which makes me think it could be someone well known that already has a fanbase. I'm hoping for that too as we know she ends up with him and I want him to be likable (also would be great if it's someone I'm already a fan of LOL) and show that she loves him too. But again I'm certain he's not in season 2 at all.

Then I highly doubt it's Elrond, despite some "leaks" on 4Chan and Reddit saying it is, since Morfydd gave an interview at the s2 premiere in London back on the 20th that she loved filming their non-romantic friendship. Her saying that implying there's no kissing like that at all between them, and knowing he's her future son-in-law I can't see the show going there.

So that brings me back to Sauron. I can't see it being anyone else besides maybe Celebrimbor as he was in love with Galadriel in some 1st Age stories before she married Celeborn, but the show would have to get permission to use that from the estate and it seems a bit strange now to do that.

I agree too it could be a hand/ring kiss and I've thought this since the filming video came out for the music in the s2 finale. However, now the show in ep 2.2 showed she's in love with Halbrand/Sauron. Then yesterday we got confirmation from their main director in a podcast interview that by the end of the season she said the show will show that Sauron actually loves Galadriel too. So it's more of a tragic love story as they both are in love but they are enemies and we know it ends tragically and they can't be together. So it's starting to seem possible they do actually share a kiss. I don't want to get my hopes up too high but it does seem to be leaning that way, especially with it being "shocking" as me being a fan since the movies came out when I was in high school I never thought I'd ship them and some still don't see it as romantic, but this would actually prove it is.

So we'll see what happens and I'm sure we'll get more clues each week with the new episodes. And about that scene with the hood I think it's either an arc or Adar. We know she gets captured by them but also ends up working with him. So it could be when that happens.

[alexazucchie]

STH Rarepair Week 24 - Day 1 - First Encounter - Amy x Bark

HAHAHA I DID IT

I WROTE IT

FOR THE SWEETIES

Thanks to @sonicrarepairweek2024 for the event that got me writing in English for the first time in my life!! (And to The Art of Letting Go EP by ANA that bangs as hell and kept me alive through the writing process)(I found out this music randomly and it turned out to be great)

The IDW comic shows the first encounter of Amy and Bark (I guess? I read it like a year ago,,, but now I think it did), but I got the vibe and reimagined it. This entire event will be severely vibe-based because I’m still unaware of the most of the Sonic lore :D

Fic under the cut! TW: amateur writing and possible grammar mistakes (I’ll fix it tomorrow after a good sleep)

The sun pours its light down on hills. It’d be hot today if there wasn’t a chilly breeze.

Another gust drags an umbrella from Amy Rose’s hands and makes it float away. She, who’s been trying to set it up, lets out a cry and follows it, but fails to catch it. With her eyes fixed on the umbrella she doesn’t watch her way and almost trips—but bumps into someone soft. 

Amy looks up and sees a bear. He holds the umbrella awkwardly with both hands, like he doesn’t know what to do with it. 

Few moments past, he hands it over to Amy, murmuring, “Here it is, ma’am.” 

“Thank you!” she chirps. “You are so strong—would you please help me to get everything ready for a picnic?” 

Amy’s been waiting for Sonic and Tails. Three of them always have picnics on Sundays, but today they seem to be late.

“We haven’t met, but if you joined us, it’d be a great chance to get to know each other! I’m Amy Rose, and what’s your name?” Amy inquires when watching the bear set up the umbrella effortlessly. 

“Bark. Bark the Polar Bear,” he mumbles in reply. 

He has to go, actually, but he doesn’t know how to put it to not offend the young lady. He’s on a mission—Fang and Bean, need him to complete his part of their plan. How has he ever managed to appear in the girl’s way?.. He sighs into his scarf and kneels to help her.

But it feels nice to unroll the colorful blankets and fill them with all kinds of snacks while listening to Amy’s sweet rumbling. It feels much better than doing what they call mischief-making—as soon as Bark listened to the Hooligan’s plan for today, he didn’t like it, considering it nasty. The girl would be upset to know that he was a part  of something like that.

“Won’t you stick around? Are you sure?” Amy asks when they are done. 

Bark shakes his head and gets up. He is both flustered and strangely happy, and both of the feelings make him want to walk away. 

“Okay… Thank you for the help anyway! I’ll be looking forward to seeing you again!” 

Amy waves goodbye to Bark until he’s not in sight, and soon after that she turns around to Sonic’s loud greeting. 

“Sorry for the lag, Am—we’ve got in a fight with guys who call themselves the Hooligans. Luckily, something went wrong on their side, so we’re here alive and well.”

“I’m just happy to have you here! It’s a pity though that you didn’t see the guy that has just gone away… He was so nice and helped me!”

✨

Thank for reading this far! I’m a better writer, I promise, this piece is mid because I was focused on simply putting words together rather than making it good. But I hope it’s any good! Not too bad for the first time I think!

[utilitycaster]

…so I decided to check out Polygon’s D20 coverage, and frankly I think you were entirely too kind to them. Good. GOD, some of that stuff read like they’ve never watched AP that *wasn’t* CR, D20 or the first season of TAZ. And have somehow made it thru the 2010s without encountering urban fantasy…

Anyway, to further nudge you towards your destiny of AP journalism (and with the understanding that you have a Real Job and a life outside TTRPGs and the internet); can you please expand on what you think D20 brings to the table?(pun unintended, but I stand by it) Because speaking as someone who has watched a handful of eps and enjoys the concepts, the praise PG were offering was damningly faint.

Hi! Thank you, and for what it's worth I don't think most of them have listened to the first season of TAZ either, given the way they talk about WBN as inventing the actual play longform podcast. I do want to note: I like writing longform stuff about actual play but I am adamantly not a journalist. I am not investigating or interviewing or reporting; I'm doing analysis and editorial. Amateur critic is the most I can claim to and that's a stretch (and even there I have a particular privilege in that I'm writing all this for free, anonymously, by choice, and don't need be be nice or maintain relationships with actual play performers within the space because I could burn every bridge and still make rent.)

Anyway. I think a major flaw of Polygon is that it's so focused on novelty and subversion that it forgets a well-worn concept, executed with skill, is actually great and for many people, preferable. Brennan, from everything I have heard him say and from how he actually runs games, has a deep respect for fantasy as a genre, and the stories he tells in D20 are ones he is clearly familiar with and loves. I also think to subvert things you must be a fan, and when D20 does successfully subvert or twist a genre, it's coming from a place of respect and understanding.

Anyway, just covering a few Intrepid Heroes seasons: I think Fantasy High (and I haven't gotten to the latest episode of Junior Year) is actually increasingly a brilliant deconstruction of D&D as a game by making the world aware that it's in a D&D game. What does it mean to be in a D&D party and be an adventurer and have that be a significant part of who you are? What does it mean to be a commoner in this world? What do you do when you're sort of a broke teen in generic suburbia but also you need the loot that an adventurer would theoretically get from dragon hoards? Why do you have to know what your life's calling will be when you're 14? One of my personal favorite things, as a lover of mechanics and TTRPGs as a system of storytelling and more generally as someone who believes that your medium of choice should be informing the story you tell, is when people engage with character roles and classes instead of treating them as just a set of cool things you can do, and Fantasy High very much pushes the players to do this. I also mentioned elsewhere that the downtime stress mechanics are a brilliant addition to one of the genuine gaps in D&D, namely, while downtime is a time for open RP, there's not a good way to handle things like stress or crafting or prioritizing well.

The Unsleeping City is one I like, honestly, just because I lived in New York for a few years and Brennan lived there far longer (as did much of the cast, though not all) and his love for it is apparent. I don't think it's groundbreaking; I just think it's really good. The characters are excellent and the story is fun. It's true that, for example, it allows you the satisfaction of making Amazon's and its attempted move into Long Island City the BBEG and smiting its ass instead of having to harangue your senators and councilpeople (as I did, and I wasn't even living in Queens) but really it's just a good story. It doesn't need to be more than that. It did not invent urban fantasy or the idea of a secret magical version of a real city or "most myths are real"; it's just a good story!

I think A Crown of Candy is also just a fun setting and, by making everyone food, emphasizes how petty and arbitrary the alliances in a Game of Thrones-esque milieu can be. It casts a scathing eye on religious interpretation as a tool for conquest without clumsily proclaiming the mere concept of religion is the problem. It has one of the best explorations of character death I've seen and Brennan's acting as Caramelinda remains a tour de force for him. Bringing the entire story of succession and war down to a final choice between two half-sisters remains a brilliant decision, the setting is supported by the mechanical limits Brennan imposed upon character creation, and it's overall beautifully done.

Even Neverafter, which I think have openly said didn't live up to its initial promise, had that promise with the fantastic handling of the TPK; I have a love for metanarrative and honestly my issue is that it was the wrong place to do metanarrative, but it was a bold choice to do in the unpredictable medium of actual play.

That's really only covering a fraction - I think some other standouts are Mentopolis, A Court of Fey and Flowers, Coffin Run, and Escape from the Bloodkeep, and while Shriek Week is just not a genre I'm personally super drawn to, I think the Mythic system is a great system for the story being told and Hicks does a great job running it.

Really what it comes down to is that D20 falls in between what a lot of shows are. It doesn't have the freedom but also the burden of a very long-running campaign (indeed, WBN exists because its performers, all of whom have featured in D20, wanted to be able to do longform actual play), nor is it quite as rushed as an all-miniseries or one-shot show. It has space to explore one or two things really well without having to carry a thousand different threads (and believe me, Brennan tries to put in as many as he can in that space - I actually wonder if the reason Fantasy High Junior Year feels a little more streamlined to me is that WBN was by that time in full swing). But it's not the first edited actual play, it mostly uses very widespread systems, the production values are high but not unheard of elsewhere (and I think that production values in AP beyond the basic 'can you hear and, if relevant, see things clearly and does the set look nice' are overrated though that's a personal preference), the cast is strong but not the first group of professionals or even comedians, and they didn't invent the concept of filming remotely or scrims or having an anticapitalist message.

My issue with the journalists, to reiterate that, is that they're not really doing much journalism, actually; and that their bias is horribly apparent. There's little analysis - just shallow reviews that show little understanding of actual play as a medium, fantasy as a genre, or TTRPGs as a system. And while being entirely free of bias is unavoidable - we are people, and we will bring our own interpretations and experiences in, and there are people who will love D20 and dislike Critical Role without doing so in bad faith - the fact that several of the journalists have openly crowed and preened about their special access to the D20 cast really makes it apparent that they like D20 because Dropout gives them early access and says nice things about them. And it's a feedback loop; Critical Role is going to keep saying "well, you constantly shit on us, so no, you don't get early access" and they'll keep writing bad reviews because they don't get early access.

But to return to the point, D20 is legitimately great and yeah the bias in my mind is only hurting them because, speaking only for myself, if there's two things I like and people heap fawning and inaccurate praise on one and nitpick the other? I'm going to start looking into that praise and find more flaws, and I'm going to start defending the nitpicked one. I really love Fantasy High Junior Year but the Polygon article is so bad I have to remind myself that it's just because the person who wrote it is an idiot. I probably would have gone into Kollok much more neutrally if people didn't act like it was the fucking invention of television. Do give D20 a try if you can! Don't read the articles.

[lolivvia]

I finally installed Clip Paint for my iPad and you know what? I still prefer doing everything on my laptop, I can't seem to get it 😭 So yeah, this drawing is kinda experimental, as I was struggling with the app.... ANYWAY I watched all of the eps of Helluva Boss and I wonder. Why was I putting off watching this series for so long?? It was great. I'm not sure who's my favourite character, I love Stolas design wise and his elegant and kind demeanor, don't k**l me but he kind of reminds me of Double D from Ed, Edd and Eddy and I always have sympathy for characters like that. I also really liked Moxxie and Millie, I feel like young married couples are a rare sight in media, especially such loving ones and not, u know, "married and hate each other on a daily basis". And I loved Fizzarolli, if I'll draw someone else from the show it will probably be him, he looks awesome. And I kinda relate to him in terms of proving yourself to others. SO YEAH great series, I could watch 100 episodes of this beautiful animation scenes (fights were fire) 🔥