#bot did have some really nice moments near the end of the episode that i appreciate

[smile-files]

clover spotted!!!

also i just have to say it: i really liked cabby and bot as a duo in this episode - they play off each other well and make for some interesting character moments - so it's a real gosh darn shame that they eliminated bot!!! like seriously you're gonna give me one relationship that i actually enjoy and then you break it in half??? thanks a lot animationepic :'DD

[lilywily143]

Would anyone like a fun analysis on Uzi's dad, Khan, in episode 3? Time to rant because it made me way too happy.

Well, it's under the cut

Khan was awesome this episode. Sure him taking her "rambling" evidence and grounding Uzi for interacting with the Murder Drones was annoying and angering from her perspective.

But it's not like he took it because he wanted her mad. Obviously.

Murder Drones have hurt his wife and friends and own kind for years beforehand. At the end of the second episode - when he reunites with Uzi - he sees N [A Murder Drone] run off in a frenzy.

The dots he connects right then might as well been; Uzi is sad, the murder bot was in the same area and runs away quickly, the same murder drone also hurt his family, Uzi must have been hurt by him, it might be better to make her stay away from the Murder Drones' business.

Why else would he also try to get her to connect with her classmates after hearing the one specific moment where some classmates specifically insulted her?

And then also chaperone the prom while she connects with others [hopefully] so he sees her make 'safer' friends.

Then the actual prom... He is on edge when Uzi isn't around. Which also contradicts Lizzy saying a scene before that 'No one will notice her [his daughter] missing..', which was nice to see contradicted one scene later.

Yes he tries to escape when seeing V. But she was the most crazy murderer and wasn't even a Uzi friend in the first place like N. Of course he'd try to leave. But the door is locked by Doll, which makes him linger. And also get to see Uzi come back with N.

He doesn't speak the rest of the episode, but that also means he never scolds or even looks mad at his little girl clearly going against his new rule. Then the doors unlock when Doll gets busy to kill V.

The thing is though, we see Khan actually try to stay back in the prom room, even though he is the closest to the unlocked door and has everyone nearly shove him out with them.

He stays near the doorway in a feared-freeze, not running away for the entire time of Uzi's speech defending the murder drones. He's blurry, but you see him in the open doorway. Staying still, not looking behind himself, focusing on Uzi. It isn't like he is looking down at the threat in the room [The red helmet wearing girl]

He smiled when Uzi finished her speech and seemed clearly happy with what she said positively about the Disassembly Drones [maybe even internally reflecting on his rule to keep her away from them earlier in the same episode?]

And he even tried to get to Uzi the moment she was attacked (and shoved out of danger by N, her Murder Drone friend)

But Doll locked him out and made him not help in the fight [or at least tend to Uzi] by force..

It was just nice to see him be so awesome after that pilot betrayal he did to Uzi. But I will never forget the line in the second episode as well..

"It sounds like she's bored in YOUR class, and the other kids SUCK. Call her damaged again, and I will install a DOOR on YOUR FACE!"

Yes, it sounds stupid as a defense. But his life is around doors. Doors he built to protect his own kind and family are clearly significant. And if Uzi heard her dad say that for her, I bet she'd know how important that would actually mean from him.

It really shows that after her self-banishment and what the teacher said about her bad times in class made him want to be more involved with his last family member [allegedly last] and make things better.

[jarofloosescrews]

Hey can I add something to your headcanons? I wrote this at like 3am so sorry if it's not very coherent.

Recharging is hard when you're 50% spikes. Lockdown can't just lay on his back like a normal bot because his spikes would puncture whatever is below. So Lockdown typically recharges on his side

This gives Lockdown the perfect view of the door into his and Prowl's berth room door. Yknow in the off chance somebody actually finds their ship, breaches the hull, boards it, get past Lockdowns paranoid security system to reach the door without either of the ninja bots hearing anything ( the Deaths Head had security before, but with Prowler around Lockdown thinks it wouldn't hurt to be too paranoid).

It also allows Prowl to insert his body in between Lockdowns back spikes, then he can wrap his legs around LDs thigh and kinda bend himself into him (like spooning or a Banana I'm not explained this well oops). Prowl does this because the low, coarse vibrations of Lockdowns engines helps him recharge at night. It feels nice but nothing Prowl could put his servo on. Kinda like a massage and a gentle rocking at the same time. Lockdown wouldn't let Prowl have all this cuddling on the Autobot's terms. At first if Prowler did start to snuggle Lockdown will strop away in an angered huff.

However, in this position it puts the Cons spark right next to Prowl's and this puts his protective subconscious at ease like nout all else. If he can feel Prowls spark that means Prowler is alive and ok, and if something were to happen the change in Prowl's spark field as alarm or anger ran through his systems would alert Lockdown too. Secondly, and he'd never admit it, but the feeling of his mates spark field is fragging smooth. It helps calm the cons rougher, more active and joltier spark that can keep Lockdown up for a stellar cycle. Lockdown may not understand all that meditation slag Prowler spends so many joors doing but if it puts his spark at ease even on his worst nights, its worth it.

When any bot eventually goes into recharge his motors and pumps will slowly go into stasis. Values will open and hydraulic fluid moves, arms and legs slowly start to move and sag. Its not like they go limp like a human but they will move if give enough force. Most bots have a stasis pods/beds which keep them locked in a lying down position (see Human error #1 i think?) but finding one with 6 holes in the back and potentially another 4 at the sides would be a giant pain in the aft. Never mind getting it on the ship and finding some way of jamming Prowler into it (hey you can't expect the poor con to go back to sleeping on his own)

Due to the way Lockdown's neck spikes and his armour this would cause him to very slowly fall onto his back as he recharges. However now prowl acts like a small prop that keeps him on his side. Not all of LDs gigantic weight rests on prowl, but its enough that it feels like LD is forcefully falling into Prowls body, like they are embracing. Prowl still doesn't know how this happens or why Lockdown is seemingly willing to further cuddle into him but he doesn't wanna complain. The vibrations are stronger so it feels like a proper massage. So Prowl is so ok with this, and Lockdown typically doesn't realise this happened until the next stellar cycle when its too late to walk off in an annoyed huff. Lockdown waking up looks like he's walking off like an annoyed cactus anyway (he was never a morning bot lmao)

(ok I'll add this at the end too its not part of the HC but a funny thing i thought of at the end.

Prowl typically moves himself up and down LDs back to make the most of his partners big rumbly engine, he's had all of his midsection and up massaged and rocked by now. Sadly it was one night where he placed himself further down LDs back where the bottom of his chest and mid section where around hip joints.

LD wakes up before Prowl again partially propped up by him. LD can sense Prowl is on the berth and in recharge but because Prowl isn't near his normal spot LD doesn't feel him. So instead LD shuffles backwards a bit and rolls onto his back while sitting up...directly on top of Prowl.

The first he notices is the loud creaking of armour followed by a load groan from mate. Followed by a chorus of yelling, of which LD could make out "Get your 10 tonne aft off me Lockdown, primus you're heavier than Bulkhead!"

After that episode Lockdown was heading towards the workshop to find some new alloys he could best into new chest armour for Prowl. To replace the one with a giant 2inch dent across them in the shape of LDs aft.

LD didn't know how or when Prowler would make his payback- only that it was gonna hurt like slag.)

This was a pleasure to read lol. The idea of Prowl propping Lockdown in his sleeping position, Prowl fitting himself between Lockdown’s hood spikes and spooning - they found a mutual sleeping arrangement and I love it.

I had a hc about the rumbly engine, too, I love the idea. Lockdown’s big ol’ engine in sleepy mode provides just the right vibrations to vibe-sensitive Prowl.

Also, the mention of the sleeping bed/slab/station reminded me, I always thought it looks so awkward when Cybertronians lay down on hard, flat slabs. They all have some kind of kibble that would prevent any comfy position, so it made me think, what if the beds were like memory foam, but metal? 

The best example I can think of would be in the movie The Wolverine, where the old dude’s resting on a ‘bed’ that conforms to his every moment for his comfort. That idea seems more logical for a race of pointy, metal beings. Can you imagine, Lockdown and Prowl would be able to recharge in more positions if they had this, and I like to think Lockdown WOULD have it, if not before definitely after he got Prowl.

But saying that, I really like the visual imagery that your hc gave lol. Thanks for writing that, and sorry for the late reply!

[dappercritter]

Random She-Ra Season 5 Thoughts: THE FINAL RAMBLING

Yep. I finally got all my crazy absurd thoughts about this gay adventure-romance-drama cartoon summarized into one incoherent yet fun to read computer document/article! ...four months after the show itself ended. Oh well, no one’s perfect. Anyways, there are a whole lot more insane observations than ever before, so I had to put it below a link so this thing didn’t back up my blog or any of yours. Hope you enjoy reading through these as much I enjoyed spouting them for no discernible reason other than I felt like it!

-I feel that since is the last season, I ought to talk about an important part of the show that I’ve been putting off: the animation. It’s… okay. It’s definitely smoother than what the original 80’s show and it’s brother series (heheh) looked like, but at the same time it still seems to suffer from similar limitations which causes some distracting moments of stiffness. But other than that, it’s pretty good. It’s no Titmouse or Studio Mir but it looks good and it gets the job done.

         -After all, let’s not forget: “Imperfection is beautiful!”

-Even when things are at their lowest, Adora is a jock with a heart of gold.

-Horde Prime and the Galactic Horde’s aesthetic feels like a mixture of Catholicism, Scientology, Heaven’s Gate, and modern Microsoft, and honestly, that just makes him creepier.

-Speaking of Horde Prime, he didn’t waste any time with destroying Bright Moon. …apparently.

-Furthermore, on the topic of his giant holographic messages, WAS THAT A FREAKING MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE MOVIE REFERENCE?!

-Boy, Glimmer and Catra sure got along quickly! It’s almost like they magically understand each other because they both assumed leadership roles and screwed up big time! …I guess.

         -Either that or this season is going to be a speedrun.

-Wow, the Rebellion sure got used to having a once-thought-dead king as well as a known enemy general/abuser running around their camp awful fast, didn’t they?

-Mara’s got a spaceship, a cyber girlfriend, a magic grandma, a dragon, a tragic backstory, AND a force ghost?! Dang, even in death, the girl’s got it all. No wonder everyone likes her!

-(*me looking at the TV rating at the start of episode*) “Why is language in there? Is there surprise cuss words or something in this season?” (*sees Horde Prime seize control of a clone for the first time*) “HOLY FREAKING SH—oh that’s why.”

-Applause to the crew for making the “dinner with Prime” scene for making a meal between a sparkly princess, a catgirl, and alien cult leader feel even more uncomfortable than it had a right to.

-(*me throughout the season whenever a clone was onscreen*) Is that Hordak? Is that him? Is that him? Is that him right there? Oh it is—oh no wait. … Is that h—

-Extra applause for having Glimmer learn from her grey-area wetwipe phase and refusing to sell out her friends again whilst telling the imperialist cult leader where to stick it.

-I would pay a sizeable portion of my life savings to hear what a Scorpia and Swift Wind duet would sound like.

         -In fact, I’d double it if it was just Scorpia singing.

         -Ah what the heck. I would triple it for an entire She-Ra musical!

-As happy as I am to see to see Entrapta interacting with the other princesses again, I have to say that their big reunion left me with some mixed feelings. Here’s a quick rundown:

         -Entrapta, a grown autistic woman, being led around on a leash by non-neurodivergent teenagers—again: that’s bad.

         -The Princesses confronting Entrapta about joining the Horde: that’s good!

         -The Princesses blaming all their problems with the Horde bots on Entrapta’s actions and her hyper fixations alone: that’s bad.

         -Entrapta explaining herself, admitting that she regrets her mistakes, and getting the Princesses to understand that she thinks and communicates differently, but in spite of that, she really does want help find Glimmer: that’s good!

         -Entrapta never gets to call out the Princesses for how poorly they treated her: that’s bad.

         -Entrapta saves the day and goes to space: that’s good!

         -Scorpia and Entrapta still haven’t interacted even though the former is with the Rebellion in the first place because she went to look for her because she is her best friend: …can I go home now?

-How nice! Michah finally got to shapeshift!

         -And he’s rocking that She-Ra outfit to boot!

-So is Darla a back up of Light Hope or do they just run on the same operating system and have the same voice?

-I could watch an entire season of Adora, Bow, and Entrapta going on space adventure in a rundown ship with their custom-made spacesuits, tbh.

-Is anyone else weirded out that Catra’s younger self looked at her in her flashback(?).

         -Actually what WAS happening there, anyhow?

-(*watching Bow’s spacewalk to save Glimmer*) “Is that a Gravity reference?” asked the man who never saw Gravity.

-Speaking of spacewalks, how did Glimmer survive those precious few seconds in space? Does the teleporter teleport a breathable atmosphere too?

         -Also, Catra, WHY did you think it would be a good idea to teleport Glimmer into space? I know you had a plan and the ship was right there but… Ah, never mind.

-Not that I’m complaining but Glimmer’s apology to the rest of the friend squad for her HORRIBLE plan last season went… surprisingly quickly.

-You know as cool as The Star Siblings are, being a quirky band of space-travelling siblings with cool powers and some trans rep to boot, I only have one small problem with them: weren’t there already Star Sisters on Etheria back in season 1?

         -That doesn’t sound right, but I don’t know enough about Masters of the Universe characters to dispute it.

-Entrapta confirmed pan, objectum, AND horny on main. Dang girl, you’re gonna have fun whether you got Hordak back or not…

-“The Velvet Glove” is both a menacing and stupid name for a decadent overlord’s mothership.

         -Wait, it’s from the 80’s canon? Oh. That kind of explains it, actually.

-Goshdangit, I wanted Catra to face punishment for her crimes, but I didn’t think that would involve going to evil alien conversion therapy!

         -Nor did I want her to die! For a second. Actually, since it obviously wasn’t going to last I was… weirdly okay with that part???

-Horde Prime seems awfully okay with Catradora. I mean he’s still super creepy and manipulative about it, but also oddly progressive for an evil brainwashing cult leader.

-(*Adora transforms into a She-Ra through seer will*) First of all, called it. Second of all, WOAH MAMA now that’s a glow up!

-Wrong Hordak did not have to be a thing, and yet, I’m glad that he is.

-Hordak remembers the LUVD crystal and Entrapta… Hordak remembers Entrap—! It’s happening! Oh my gosh, it’s happening! Everybody stay calm!

-Wow, Entrapta didn’t have to be so forgiving of Catra for everything she’s done to her but she did. Only I’m not sure if that was Entrapta taking the high road or the low road.

         -Or which road the crew took for that matter.

-I remember when I thought those “Chipped AUs” floating around here on tumblr were just something the fans came up with and that chipping people was not an actual despicable thing Prime does in canon. I miss those days.

-I know it’s not the same as before or the original design, but True She-Ra’s designs and powers? I think they slappin’.

-Hooray, Adora and Catra are finally making up! And it only took four and half seasons worth of communication failures, toxic villainous behaviour, and physical violence for Catra to snap out of it!

         -…We can go back to Entrapdak now, right?

-Poor Elberon. First they unknowingly adopt a double agent then get invaded by the Horde and now they’re getting brainwashed and chipped by the Galactic Horde. They might be a cute village, but they got some pretty lousy security.

-You know it’s cute that Micah is doing his best to be friends with Frosta and get back in touch with his dad-side, but look I can’t be the only one worried about how the local King is a less proactive leader than the princesses or the known war criminal/abuser, right?

-“The Perils of Peekablue” or as I like to call it, “You Thought ‘Boys Night Out’ Caught You Emotionally Off-guard? Hah! Watch This.”

-You know I didn’t think Scorpfuma would be a thing aside that one moment of flirting near the end of season 4, but they really pushed for it to be a thing! This is… actually pretty great! Perfuma’s not perfect, and I would have appreciated giving them a little more time to bond and form some real chemistry, but at least she reciprocates Scorpia’s sweetness instead of rebuffing it in increasingly aggressive fashion.

-I’m not sure what’s more concerning: that Mermista set a boat on fire, that it’s worded like she had a fling as part of some experimental phase, or that Sea Hawk is turned on by this.

-Peekablue might not be real, (I think?) but he is one dapper dude! Female-to-male redesigns could learn a thing or two from him.

-It involved them getting stung and seizuring, but that was a heck of a way to reintroduce Double Trouble! I swear I got watching them cycle through their transformations in some sort of physical reaction.

         -Or maybe that was just me worrying about their wellbeing…

-Okay, I get the Chips are huge, and actually rather clever threat, but how do these characters get chipped in the first place? I get there are chipped people who spread the chips throught the population but where do they get those from???

         -Do one of those Horde Prime drones just sneak behind someone, slap a chip on their nape then hand them a whole bagfull and say, “Beep boop beep, Horde Prime’s Light, blah blah blah. Alright have fun, kiddo”?

         -Or is it some sort of Alien: Covenant deal where they’re just floating around and Lord help you if one sticks to you?

-HOLY CRAP THEY ACTUALLY GOT SCORPIA TO SING! AND SHE WAS GREAT!

         -Oh shoot. Guess I owe the crew twice my life savings now…

-Entrapdak might be what got me into this show, but it’s Double Trouble that kept me around, so you can imagine how happy I was to see them make their grand reappearance!

-Conversly, you can imagine my disappointment when they just disappeared until the finale.

         -And on that note: HOW DID YOU GUYS LOSE DOUBLE TROUBLE?!

                  -You forgot to cherish them, didn’t you?

-So, Scorpia sacrifices herself just after finding a new girlfriend and gaining some newfound confidence, Mermista and Sea Hawk are split up,and Double Trouble didn’t join the main cast. Why can’t you just have fun like a normal cartoon, show?

-Gosh, I love me some shifting title cards!

-Is it just me or did they sneak in some more Annihilation references on Krytis?

         (-Said the guy who was too chicken to watch the movie and just read about it and watched a few clips online.)

-(*audibly sighs*) FINE. I guess I like Catradora now. Are you happy now, SPOP Crew? ARE YOU?!

-Hooray, Catra’s got a emotional support animal! And they’re a shapeshifting magic alien cat. Those are the best kind!

-Is it weird that I knew that weird glowing stuff on Krytis was just magic all along, or was it just not hidden very well. Anyways, I like Krytis. I like that we got to see a truly alien world with its own form of magic.

-Plus, we got a logical advancement of the magic versus science subtheme with magic being Horde Prime’s weakness! Neato!

-Getting back on the “which is worse?” wagon for a second, I don’t know what feels less right: that Wrong Hordak’s big revelation and his resolution to free himself and his brothers and friends from Horde Prime’s control is played humorously, or that Real Hordak should be the one having this moment.

-That bit with Castaspella and Shadow Weaver where she tells Casta about Etheria being a living thing with inherent magical property, or whatever, while we got a peaceful shot of some boar creatures sleeping was actually kind of nice. It would have been nicer though if it wasn’t part of a power hungry abuser’s obvious scheme. If only there was a kindly old witch lady character who was in touch with nature and knew just what to say when someone was feeling downOH WAIT.

-Furthermore… Why did Shadow Weaver and Castaspella need to have romantic tension?

-Seriously though, where’s our Madame Razz quota this season? Where’s my supportive magic grandma timelord at, yo?

-Yup, they speedran this season.

-I’m actually really disappointed we didn’t see more of an intergalactic new rebellion rising up to fight Horde Prime’s forces across the universe. Especially if it meant we got to see more Star Sibling action!

-Again, I adore Wrong Hordak but I keep wondering what was keeping the crew from just bringing in Original Flavour Hordak. (You know, aside from teasing us Entrapdak fans and trying to distract us with a loveable new character in the meantime.) I mean he could have done the whole infiltrating the clone squads and tricking them bit, too.

         -Heck, he could have done the wink, too!

-I’d gleefully point out Loo-Kee’s cameo this season but apparently, they already made some several seasons ago. That’s what I get for not rewatching the 80’s show and training my eyes first.

-(*sees Erelandians*) Are those freaking Toads and Toadettes?

-So, what’s keeping them from just hitting Spinerella’s chip again? Besides emotional baggage and gale force winds, I mean.

-Perfuma coming out of a cave scared out of her wits, demanding to know who’s there, clinging to her friends as soon as they come back, and balling her eyes out is a big, BIG mood.

-Frosta absolutely decking Catra in the face was nestled somewhere between cathartic and excessive.

         -Netossa spraying her with a bottle of water on the other hand…

-Oh, so Greyskull was the name of a Rebel Squad! I think. Meh, the important thing is we got an explanation and it still sounds cool.

-Leave it to a couple of dads to make a secret message out of a dad joke.

-You know I made fun of Light Hope for being creepy, but I swear that avatar from the Spire is even creepier. I don’t know if it’s her face—those dang blank eyes, man—or just that it she’s less animated than the real thing, but it just felt… off.

-Aww, Noelle made Netossa’s princess weakness illustrations! So cute!

-Forget episodes that deserves Emmys, Keston John deserves one for voicing Hordak, Horde Prime, all the clones, and several minor villains and giving each and every single one a distinct voice! Where my king’s respect, eh?

-Yes, Catra you had a small disagreement with Hordak. …Over sending his girlfriend and your “friend��� to DIE IN A LITERAL LIVING HELL.

         -Sorry, I just had to get that out of my system.

-Why does Perfuma get pressured to get angry and go wild when Entrapta’s the one who’s had it the worst out of all them? Why can’t my gamer girl go berserk, dammit!?

-Okay, but really, how do these fricking chips work??? Are they parasite devices who store Horde Prime’s Baptizing Dew then slowly pump it into their host’s bodies? Do they have their own nervous systems? Are they technorganic? Also, how and why do we need to make these chips are bigger threat then they need to be?

-Horde Prime showing up on Hordak’s throne in grand Killing Joke style and casually throwing shades at his brother’s overblown attempts to impress him is pretty awesome, but it feels strangely underdeveloped. Hordak’s not there to have his hard work insulted and we never got to see Adora have any similar encounter with Hordak here before, so unless you look at it from the perspective of someone who has been here before in the Horde story like Catra it lacks the dramatic weight it should have had.

-Scorpia resisting the chip to save her new friends was pretty great, though.

-I swear, when they got to the scene where Adora and the others figured out that Shadow Weaver was grooming her so she could use her to get to the Heart of Etheria, I was mouthing “You B***H” through the whole thing.

-They really brought back Etherian deep magic just so they had something to make Micah threatening. …okay.

-Okay, the rest of “Failsafe” messed me up, so here’s a rundown on all the other messy thoughts I had while the show ripped my heart and ground it to dog food:

         -Entrapta and Hordak reuniting: Yay!

         -Swift Wind yanking her away before she can get through to him: Boo.

         -Catra encouraging Adora to try and take care of herself for a change: Yay!

         -Adora hurts Catra and she runs away: Boo.

         -Adora finally calling out Shadow Weaver on what an utterly horrible person she is: Yay!

         -Adora resolves to risk sacrificing herself to save the world: Bo—okay, seriously, was all this suffering really necessary, show?

-I know I mentioned in my previous She-Ra random thoughts that I supported Glimmadora, but I am okay with Catradora and Glimbow ending up canon. The only problem I have is how rushed they feel—moreso with Glimbow. With Catradora, the crew had an entire season to make it work again and they took it. Glimbow it feels like they were down to the last few episodes and went, “Oh right, we were gonna do something with these two!” then did their darndest to fit in some chemistry in between all the other stuff going down.

-As ominous as it was, the music where Horde Prime starts hacking Etheria honestly SLAPS.

-Okay, I know everyone is magic or something, but I am legit surprised getting electrocuted in water didn’t kill the heroes right then and there.

-Sea Hawk tries to flirt with his girl even as she’s trying to kill him. Truly, he is a man of taste.

-What do you know, Shadow Weaver can only do good when she’s (canonically!) punch drunk.

-You know a whole lot of this could have been avoided if Holo-Mara was Adora’s mentor instead of Light Hope.

-When I think about it, it was actually really clever to make Horde Prime the final villain for Adora to face: a domineering decadent man who’s been in power forever against a humble emotionally vulnerable compassionate young woman.

         -Not to mention the divide between cult-like oppression and progressive freedom. Or something.

-Holy crap, did the First Ones get a great freaking a Great Old One for a guard dog?!

-So, you guys seriously didn’t bring Angella back to reunite with her family OR mention her all season after the impact her death had on everyone all last season until Glimmer needs a power-up at the last possible minute and then you never bring her up again. That is absolutely a dick move in bird culture.

-Entrapta’s hacker sticker gives me life. Gamer girl gremlin princess forever!

-On the one hand, I’m disappointed that Adora and Catra don’t get to have an awesome couple battle against the security monster and win. On the other hand, Shadow Weaver is finally dead. YAY!

         -With apologies to the writers and especially Lorraine Toussaint. She did splendidly bringing this character to life and even if I hated Shadow Weaver, I adored the effort she put into making her one of the most emotionally complex villains I’ve ever seen.

-Words cannot, will not, and will never describe the pure joy that I experienced when I first saw Hordak’s big scene: standing up to and disowning his tyrant brother, saving Entrapta, declaring his love to her (albeit in a nicely lowkey fashion), and then throwing Horde Prime to his apparent doom Disney style with Entrapta cheering him with sheer glee. GOSH, it was everything I could have hoped for from this season!

         -Now if only they kept the deleted scene where they got a moment to themselves before Prime body-jacked him again like the creepy sonuvabich he is.

-Horde Prime just wouldn’t be a religious villain if he didn’t tell everyone to burn.

         -Bonus points for actually trying to burn the frigging planet.

-Aside from the idea of Adora switching to wearing a She-Ra themed dress everywhere in the future, the future vision was really quite sweet, and seeing Prime step in to ruin it made it all the more impactful.

-Can I just say that it’s absolutely wonderful that the show, for all it’s flaws, said  “**** senseless heroic sacrifices”?

-BREAKING: Lesbian cat finally makes up with her jock ex, has a canon kiss so pure it saves the world!

         -In other news, Catradora fans are still spoiled rotten.

-Wow, look at all those character comebacks they skipped through! Look, there’s the chefs from Dryl, Double Trouble, Huntara, the Horde Trio, Imp, Madame Razz—are you kidding me?!

-Grumbling aside, I actually find the idea of the Horde Trio and Imp getting involved in a G-rated science-fantasy version of the first Hangover movie quite amusing.

-Oh dang, they pulled a Castle in the Sky with the Velvet Glove!

-As nice as it was to see Aodra save Hordak from Horde Prime and destroy the latter through exorcism via sheer compassion, I’m rather disappointed we never got to see She-Ra go full Metal Gear Solid Rising: Revengence on any creepy old cult leaders.

         -Yeah, it would have gone against the “love conquers all” set up, but love takes on many forms, does it not? So, why can it not manifest as cleaving your mortal enemies with extreme prejudice to save your loved ones?

-Furthermore, in addition to Holo-Mara being a better mentor, Hordak raising Adora instead Shadow Weaver could have prevented a lot of similar problems. Maybe. Possibly.

         -Eh whatever, he has a lifetime’s worth of fanfiction to make up for it.

-ENTRAPDAK IS CANON, ALL IS RIGHT WITH THE WORLD.

-And so is Catradora and Glimbow! That’s nice, too.

-Aww, how sweet of them to skip through Catra and Scorpia, and Glimmer and Micah’s big reunions! It’s not like we’ve been waiting forever for this stuff or anything. HahahahAHAHAHDHAHAHFHAFHKSADJHFKAJHDfine.

-And so it all ends with everyone either friends, in love, or both, as heroes decide to make up for it all with a grandiose sequel promising more exciting space adventures we probably won’t see! HOORAY!

-All snarky ranting aside, I actually really enjoyed the finale. It was exciting, heartwarming, and above all it ended on happy, hopeful note without leaving too many frustrating questions unanswered. (*glares with utmost contempt at Voltron and Star vs. The Forces of Evil*)

-You know, this wasn’t bad for a final season, but I think this might have worked better as two seasons. Not in Netflix’s cheap “split a regular 13-episode season in two 6-7 episode long seasons” strategy, but I mean two full seasons with their own storylines leading up to the grand finale:

         -First, one that starts out with Horde Prime’s arrival the downfall of Etheria, focuses on the space adventures, ends with their return to Etheria and gives the characters time to recuperate from season 4.

         -Then, we have one final season that focuses on the Best Friend Squad’s Return to Etheria, Horde Prime’s plan, gives everyone more time to properly reconcile before ¾ of the entire cast gets chipped, sets up a new Rebellion made up of Princess Alliance and former Etherian Horde members, maybe even set up a proper Hordak redemption arc or something, and then our big happy ending.

-On a mostly unrelated note, I also feel that the whole show could have turned out even better if it had been either a dedicated science-fantasy war drama with some levity (like the good Star Wars shows or Avatar: The Last Airbender) or a lighthearted yet empowering slice-of-life action-adventure romcom (i.e. basically a well-made remake of the original show in the style of Adventure Time and Parks and Rec or something).

-My final random thought for this whole thing: we really could have used a triumphant end credits song or something. Aside from obviously recommending Fabulous Secret Powers, I would have also recommended the original 4 Non Blondes “What’s Going On,” a reprise of “Warriors,” Gorillaz’s “We Got the Power,” or (my favourite) Talking Head’s “(Nothing But) Flowers” since the ending scenes remind me of it.

Thanks again to the crew for giving me something to live for and/or complain about!

Now, let’s hope the He-Man reboots do as well...

[inevitably-johnlocked]

hi steph, is there any mycroft-centric fic?? i just have mycroft feelings recently

Hi Nonny!

Ahhhh, most, if not all, of my recs are Johnlock centred :( BUT do have some where Mycroft is in the fic or plays a part in Johnlock, so I shall direct you to this list below, AND take an opportunity to update another Mycroft List I have had ready-to-go for awhile now, Pt. 2 to my “Mycroft Plays a Role” list :) 

Here are the ones more focussed on Mycroft:

Mycroft Flirts With John

Matchmaker Mycroft 

Big-Brother Mycroft 

Big Brother Mycroft Pt 2 

Whereas in this list below, Mycroft helps Sherlock as a character to move along a plot or helps Johnlock happen (hence the difference in Big Brother and Playing a Role... it makes sense in my head lol). I hope it’s okay I’m using your ask to launch this part 2! <3 I just really like having excuses to post lists I already have done LOL.

As always gang, if you have a fic that Mycroft plays a significant role to help move the plot along, please add them below! I genuinely like Mycroft in fics as the deus ex Mycroft, LOL. :D Enjoy!

MYCROFT PLAYS A ROLE Pt. 2

See also: Mycroft Plays a Role in This Fic

Black Cars by johnsarmylady (T, 1,186 w., 5 Ch. || Friendship, Hurt/Comfort, Post-TRF) – John is getting on with his life...if only he didn't see black cars everywhere! A short Post Reichenbach tale in 221B style in 5 parts.

3:00 in the Morning is a Great Time to Talk by Aztecwarfareandcrumping (K+, 1,775 w., 1 Ch. || Hurt / Comfort, Friendship, Bed Sharing, First Person POV John, Cuddling, Worried Sherlock, Comforting John, Platonic Affection/Love) – "Are you trying to talk your way into my bed?" "Obviously."

Crisis Averted by Spartangal22 (T, 2,188 w., 1 Ch. || HLV Fic, Missing Scene After Confronting Mary, Canon Compliant, Sherlock Whump / Mary Shot Sherlock, Family / Friendship, Hospitalization, Sherlock POV, Holmes Brothers) – Lying in the hospital, Sherlock receives some surprising visitors, and manages to deal with two problems he's been having lately. A missing scene from HLV about a formal introduction that was never made and a visit that was never shown.

As You Wish by PipMer (K, 3,311 w., 1 Ch. || Bromance/Pre-Slash/Epic Friendship, Hurt/Comfort, John Whump, Hospitals) – When John woke from his coma, he wasn't at all surprised to see the wrong Holmes brother sitting at his bedside. Disappointed, but not surprised.

Caffeine and Adaptive Programming by DemonicSymphony (E, 5,540 w., 1 Ch. || Androids AU / Bond Fusion || Android Sherlock, Coffee Shop AU, Pining John Hinted Bond / Q, Toplock) – Sherlock is a coffee shop android slowly falling for a regular customer. But he's not supposed to be able to feel emotions.

Hide and Seek by Arwen Jade Kenobi (T, 6,934 w., 1 Ch. || Angst, Rev. Reich-ish, Mycroft is a Dick, Depression, Case Fic-ish, Friendship, Reunion) – Pseudo sequel to "The Refining Fire." "You owe him the truth, and you owe me the proof that will convince him that I had no part in this."

What Did I Do Wrong? by Starlight05 (T, 7,880 w., 5 Ch. || Hurt Comfort, Angst, John Whump, Hospitalization, Worried Sherlock, Emotional Turmoil, Nightmares, Sherlock Being Dumb) - After John almost dies on a case, Sherlock disappears. So John is left to figure out what he can do to get his best friend back. Meanwhile Sherlock, guilt-ridden and willingly alone, is doing everything he can to stay away.

There's So Much Labour Just in Breathing Lately by Susan (E, 12,708 w., 1 Ch. || Post-TRF / Mentions of S3 Events, Romance, Angst, Grief/Mourning, Grieving John, Mutual Pining, Meddling Mycroft, Therapy, Ambiguous Hopeful Ending, Infidelity) – The dreams he hated most – the ones that left him a sweating, shaking mess when he woke – were the ones in which Sherlock was just Sherlock. Laughing or drinking tea. Sitting across the table from him at Angelo’s eating pasta. Trailing his open hand behind him on the way to the bedroom. “C’mon, John. I’m about to have my way with you.”

Shuteye Shenanigans by Ayakae (K+, 13,263 w., 8 Ch. || Post-TRF, Friendship / Epic Bromance, John’s Nightmares, Angsty Fluff, Bed Sharing, Humour, Cuddles, Taking Care of Each Other, Domestics) – John Watson has never slept with Sherlock Holmes. Never ever ever. And never will, thank you very much. Well, there was that one time, but John didn't count that. It was completely different, just like the second time it happened. And the third. And the fourth. Epic bromance, but it can be read as pre-slash if you wish.

The Palmyra Atoll by elwinglyre (E, 16,609 w., 3 Ch. || TSo3 Divergence / Episode Fix-It, Stockholm Syndrome, Kidnapped John Watson, John Whump, Evil Mary, Angst, Cuddling & Snuggling, Toplock, Limited 3rd John POV) – As John's preparing for the wedding, Sherlock is preparing to have his heart broken, and Mary is prepared to do the unthinkable. Intervention required. Enter Sherlock. Set before Sign of Three with a far different outcome. John is drugged, kidnapped, and left on an island, but not just any old island.

Hope for Heroes by Richefic (K+, 16,887 w., 5 Ch. || Post-TGG Fic, Introspection / Flashbacks, Friendship/Epic Bromance, Hurt/Comfort, Worried/Anxious Sherlock, Sherlock Admires John, BAMF John, John Deduces, Fancy Party, John’s Self Esteem, Domestics) – In the final moments of "The Great Game" Holmes hopes he will have the chance to tell his flatmate that he was wrong. Heroes do exist after all and the one in front of him is called Dr John Watson.

I Think I've Come A Long Long Way To Sit Before You Here Today by ArwenKenobi (T, 18,251 w., 3 Ch. || Grief/Mourning, Passage of Time, Major Character Death, Alternating POV, Sherlock Whump, Pining Sherlock, Hospitalization, Coma, Revenge Murders, Hallucinations, Love Confessions, Brutal Accident, Mystrade, Ghost John) – One year after John is killed Sherlock starts to wonder whether John has actually gone anywhere.

The Kepler Problem by kinklock (E, 24,270 w., 1 Ch. || Sci-Fi AU, Alien Sherlock, Space Repairman John, Alien Biology, Horny John) – Working in uncharted space exploration was not as exciting as John had hoped, especially when it turned out to be mostly bot maintenance on uninhabited planets. However, the mystery of the repeated, unexplained malfunctions on planet BAK 2212 might turn out to be exactly the kind of adventure he'd been craving.

The Winter Garden by Callie4180 (T, 31,213 w., 13 Ch. || Post-S4, Retirement, Christmas, Slow Burn, Grown-Up Rosie, Parenthood, Rosie’s Cat, Angst with Happy Ending, Holidays, Beekeeping, Magical Realism, Sherlock POV, Sherlock’s Violin, Future Fic, Sussex, Honey, Magical Healing Honey, Love Confessions, Sherlock’s Scar, First Kiss, Touching, Mycroft is Dying) – As Sherlock nears the end of his career, he's given the gift of a cottage in Sussex. The honey from the beehives out back is amazing. Almost...magical.

The Whore of Babylon Was a Perfectly Nice Girl by out_there (E, 32,897 w., 1 Ch. || Past Drug Use, Blowjobs, Toplock, Mentions of Switching, Rough Sex, Background Cases, Sherlock’s Past, Sherlock’s Sexual History, Experienced Sherlock, Past One Night Stands, Fingering, Cuddling, Possessive Sherlock, Paris Holiday, Bed Sharing, Naked Lie-Ins, Bathing Together, Confessions, Worried Sherlock, Laying in Bed All Day, Meddling Mycroft, Naked Lazy Day) – Sherlock walks into a room and takes all the space right out of it. He does the same inside John's head.

carrying up his morning tea by darcylindbergh (E, 34,504 w., 5 Ch. || Post S3, Minor Character Death, Grief/Mourning, Wakes/Funerals, Estranged John, Pining Sherlock, Depression/Insecurity, Slow Burn, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Chronic Pain/Injury, Reconciliation, Awkwardness, Loneliness, Scars, Angst With Happy Ending) – His fingers tremble as he dials and he can’t force them steady. Familiar number, even though he hasn’t used it in two years. He isn’t even sure he should be calling it now, but she’d asked. She’d made him promise.

we have never seen a greater day than this by Lediona (T, 36,420 w., 7 Ch. || A Royal Night Out AU || WWII / VE Day, Prince Sherlock, Soldier John, Alternating POV, First Kiss, Bittersweet Ending, Homophobia, Dancing) – Peace. At long last. It’s VE Day and Prince William desires to join the celebrations. It is a night of excitement, danger and the first flutters of romance.

A Week is Just Seven Days Isn't It? by scifigrl47 (T, 39,906 w., 4 Ch. || Humour, Friendship/Bromance, Stroppy/Bored Sherlock, Undercover/Army John, Texting, Pining-ish Sherlock, John Whump) – When John heads overseas for a week, Sherlock's forced to fend for himself. It goes about as well as anyone could have anticipated. Which is to say, very, very poorly. Don't worry, things'll be fine in just seven days.

(Never) Turn Your Back to the Sea by DiscordantWords (M, 39,968 w., 7 Ch. || Post S4 Fix It || Grief / Mourning, Victor Trevor, Friendship, Sherlock is Not Okay, Nightmares/Flashbacks/Panic Attacks, Parentlock, Pining Sherlock, Angst with Happy Ending, John Comes Home) – Baker Street is very much the same. Only different. And Sherlock is just trying not to drown.

Guidelines by WithLoweredVoices (M, 43,018 w., 15 Ch. || Winglock || Angels, Fantasy, Angst, BAMF! John, War, Jealous Sherlock, Possessive Sherlock, Jealous John, Falling in Various Ways, Needy Sherlock, Wings) – The Good Soldier, one of the oldest and strongest of the fallen, is offered a bargain: to live as John Watson and to Guide a fledgling archangel so that he will stay on the path of good. Of course, Sherlock Holmes has different ideas about his destiny. Fantasy AU. Warnings for violence, occasional gore, and a whole load of hurt and angst.

The Real Great Perfumers by shelleysprometheus (E, 45,355 w., 68 Ch. || Case Fic, Alternating POV, Gay Sherlock / Bi John, Canon Compliant with Divergence at TRF, Friends to Lovers, Oral / Anal, Pining, First Kiss / Time, Dev. Rel., Drugging, Body Worship, Bathing, Love Confessions, Travelling, Bottomlock, Cranky Sherlock, BJ’s, Alternating POV, Jealous John) – The case, this case. This extraordinary, fascinating, scintillating case. A house. Designed entirely by its eccentric owner, built by no less than five hundred expert tradesmen in the heart of Marrakesh. A house that had, seemingly not only driven its owner out, but also to his quite unpleasant death. And a perfumer, a chemist no less, the very thought of the secrets that house could reveal, would reveal was irresistible. Sherlock had to have this case ... and it seems, he also had to have John! Part 1 of the Forethought and Fire series

Impossible to Feign by achray (M, 49,204 w., 12 Ch. || TRF Rewrite / Reverse Reichenbach, Suicidal Ideations / Discussions, Drug Use/Abuse, Mutual Pining, Friends With Benefits, John Accepts his Sexuality, Anxious Sherlock, Meddling Mycroft, Depression, Hallucinations, Secret Agent John, BAMF John, Reunion, Make-Up Sex, Ambiguous Ending) – Sherlock leant forward, his long fingers curving round to grip John’s.“I won’t let him win,” he said, eyes hard. “I will do whatever it takes to get you out.”

Anchor Point by trickybonmot (E, 49,856 w., 80 Ch. || Truman Show AU || Psychological Drama, Suspense, Slow Burn, Dark Characters / Fic, Alternating First/Third Person, Protective John, Anxious/Worried Sherlock, Tender Moments, Love Confessions, Hand/Blow Jobs, Cuddling, Jealous John, First Kiss/Time) – The world tunes in nightly for Sherlock, the ultimate in reality TV: Sherlock Holmes, a real person with a legendary name, unknowingly lives out his life in a staged setting contrived by his brother. Things get complicated when a retired army doctor joins the show to play the part of Sherlock's closest friend. This fic borrows its concept from the 1998 film, the Truman Show. However, you don't need to have any knowledge of the movie to enjoy this story.

Repairing the Broken Things by BakerTumblings (M, 75,252 w., 15 Ch. || S4 Compliant, Angst, Hurt/Comfort, Medical Trauma, Hospitals, Big Brother Mycroft, Misunderstandings, Realizations, Severe Accident, John Whump, Pneumonia, Medical Procedures, Bed Sharing, First Time, Healing, Happy Ending) – "I'm calling today to notify you that there's been an accident."

Points by lifeonmars (E, 53,791 w., 42 Ch. || PODFIC AVAILABLE || HLV Rewrite / Canon Divergence, Married Life, Pregnancy / Baby Watson, Drinking to Cope, Boxing / Fisticuffs, Clueless John, Angst, Minor Medical Drama, Tattoos, Christmas, First Kiss/Time, Eventual Happy Ending, Love Confessions, Doctor John, Sexuality Crisis, Slow Burn, Case Fic, Drugging, Blow/Hand Job, Emotional Love Making, Parenthood, Passage of Time) – What if His Last Vow never happened? This fic picks up a few months after John and Mary's wedding, in an alternate universe where Magnussen doesn't exist, but Mary is still pregnant. Life continues -- just in a different direction. And slowly, Sherlock and John find their way to each other.

Never Change a Running System by Lorelei_Lee (E, 54,246 w., 18 Ch. || Pre-TRF, Romance, Humour, Drama, Sex Toys, Anal, Rimming, Masturbation, Frottage, Blow Jobs, Public Sex, First Kiss / Time, Virgin Sherlock / Loss of Virginity, Accidental Voyeurism, Unresolved Sexual Tension, Experiments, Naive Sherlock, Pining Sherlock, Jealous Sherlock, Possessive Sherlock, Straight With an Exception John, Hand Jobs) – Sherlock discovers his sexuality – with far-reaching consequences for John.

A Hundred Crimson Sols by elldotsee (E, 55,536 w., 16 Ch. || Astronauts AU || Mars Exploration / Space Travel, Slow Burn, Shy Sherlock, Scientist Sherlock / Biomed Engineer John, Alternating POV, Mutual Pining, UST, Angst with Happy Ending, Domestic Fluff, Hurt/Comfort, Injuries, Suicidal Ideation, Zero-G Sex) – Will Holmes is a chemical researcher recognized widely for his contributions to the new Mars exploration program. Thanks to his ground-breaking developments, the IMMC (International Mars Mission Corporation) is one step closer to Martian colonization. Will and his team of scientists are headed out on the first of three manned missions before the first group of settlers arrive. Three days before launch, one of the crew has to be replaced. Will panics because...new people. The replacement is of course one John Watson, biomedical engineer and space hottie who was pretty sure he had retired from actual space exploration and was now content to work in the nice, quiet research lab. Can the crew survive this TOTALLY ROUTINE trip? Will they be able to endure each other for the looooooong trip in close quarters? Gonna be a wild ride... prepare for blast off. Part 1 of the SpaceBois go to Space series

The Thing Is by TSylvestris (E, 56,743 w., 21 Ch. || Case Fic, Dev. Rel., Anal/Oral, Blow Jobs, Meddling Mycroft, Drama, Romance, Humour, Casual Encounters, Pining Idiots, Possessive Sherlock, Orgasm Delay, Rough / Alley Sex, Public Sex, John Whump, Drugged John, Emotional Love Making, Awkward Relationship, Marriage of Convenience, Switchlock, BAMF John) – The problem with living with Sherlock, John thought, was that you never, never, ever knew the significance of anything. Like your flatmate's nose buried in your hair. Whilst you're in bed. Part 1 of Nitroglycerine

Lunar Landscapes by J_Baillier (M, 57,046 w., 21 Ch. || PODFIC AVAILABLE || S3/TAB Fix-It, Slow Burn Angst, Drama, Hurt/Comfort, Confessions, Drugs, Pain, Medical, Injury, Sherlock Whump, Mental Health Issues, Panic Attacks, Romance, Secrets,  Tragedy, Trauma, BAMF John, Doctor!John, Drug Addict Sherlock, Injured Sherlock, Grieving John, Idiots In Love, Protective John, POV John Watson, PTSD Sherlock, Sherlock is a Mess, Medical Realism) – An accident forces John to face the fact that Sherlock's downward spiral had started long before his flight to exile even left the tarmac.

The Burning by SrebrnaFH (M, 60,658 w., 24 Ch. || Reverse Reichenbach, Suicide, Depression, Hurt Sherlock / John, Separation, BAMF John, Good Big Brother Mycroft, Angst, Implied/Referenced Torture, Fake Character Death, Rescue Mission, Reconciliation / Reunion, Hospitalization, Marriage Proposal, Illnesses, Physical Therapy, Happily Ever After) – Something went very, very wrong. John had seemed, if not happy, then reasonably content with his life. Sherlock had never predicted something like THIS might have happened. Not in his worst nightmares. He was the lousiest friend ever, apparently. At least Mycroft found him something to occupy his mind with, so that he didn't have to go back to 221B and stare at the walls and the chair, where John Watson would never sit again.

The Bells of King's College by SilentAuror (E, 64,019 w., 5 Ch. || Post-S4, Missed Opportunities, Angst, Fake Relationship, Case Fic, John POV, Jealous John, John in Denial, Travelling / Holidays) – It's only been two weeks since Eurus Holmes disrupted their lives when Mycroft sends John and Sherlock to Cambridge to pose as an engaged couple at a wedding show in the hopes of solving six unsolved deaths...

Hell Sent, Heaven Bound by ConsultingHound (M, 64,381 w, 16 Ch. || Angels / Demons AU ||  Fallen Angel Sherlock / Angel Cop John, Alternate First Meeting, Slow Burn, Case Fic, John & Lestrade are Friends Before Sherlock, BAMF John, Mind Palace John, Friends to Lovers, John in Denial, Sherlock Picks Out John’s Clothing, Clubbing / Dancing, Mildly Jealous John, Awkwardness, Kidnapping, Sherlock’s Mind Palace, Sacrifice, Worried / Anxious Sherlock, Angst with Happy Ending, Immortal to Mortal) – Ex-War healer and current angelic guard John Watson is not having the best day. He overslept, he’s underpaid, and now there’s someone tagging the Council’s building walls. However things may be about to get interesting: there’s an unusual stranger hanging around (the definition of tall, dark, and handsome), a literal underground cult is brewing, and rumblings are coming from hell. Can he keep his neighbourhood safe, how and why is he being connected to all this, and who the hell is Sherlock Holmes?

Being John Watson-ish by elwinglyre (E, 69,902 w., 17 Ch. || Bodysnatcher AU || Author John, Cranky Sherlock, Angst, Sexual Tension, First Kiss / Time, Falling in Love, BAMF John, Past Soldier John, Feelings, Inside Someone’s Brain, Shy Sherlock, Sherlock Loves John, POV Sherlock, Switchlock, Slow Burn, Internal Dialogue, Mental Turmoil) – When consulting detective Sherlock Holmes steps on one toe too many at a crime scene, he's consigned to a desk job in an archaic office on the seventh-and-a-half floor of the New Scotland Yard. It’s in this bleak office that Sherlock discovers a portal into the mind of renowned author John Watson. Grander than his mind palace, this new wonderland affords Sherlock new vistas of experimentation. To learn more about the mystery behind the portal, Sherlock seeks out and befriends Watson. But then it all goes wrong when others find the secret portal door—including the man whose brain he visits.

The Vapor Variant by 88thParallel (CanadaHolm) (M, 72,684 w., 18 Ch. || PODFIC AVAILABLE || Post-THoB, John Whump, Protective Sherlock, Guilty Sherlock, Anxious/Worried Sherlock, Virgin Sherlock, Angst with Happy Ending, Hurt/Comfort, PTSD John, Slow Burn, Mutual Pining, Suspense, Virus, Sick Fic, Big Brother Mycroft) – They stood face to face in the middle of a clearing. The dim light of the moon barely allowed Sherlock to see the glassy terror in John’s eyes and the sweat that glistened off his forehead. His nose was bleeding again, blood dripping in a slow stream from his right nostril. They were both gasping for air, John’s eyes locked on Sherlock’s. There was no recognition there, just wild animal fear. Time stood still for an eternal few seconds, and Sherlock took a shaky breath. “John—”Spell broken, John spun and bolted back into the woods. Still heaving for air, Sherlock took off after him.

The Monument of Memory by J_Baillier (M, 79,663 w., 14 Ch. || Post S4 Fix It Fic / S4 is Canon, Angst, Family Drama, Guilt, Case Fic, John Loves Sherlock, Complicated Feelings, Mentalism / Hypnosis, Murder, Grieving John, Sherlock is a Bit Not Good, Team Work, Trust Issues, BAMF John, Psychological Trauma, Protective John, Autistic-Spectrum Sherlock, Parentlock, John POV) –  A genius traumatised by a past he's only beginning to recall. The psychopath sister that time forgot. A missing woman and a mentalist who may or may not be a murderer. And, in the middle of it all, stands John Watson.

The Summer Boy by khorazir (T, 94,706 w., 6 Ch. || Post S3/Post TAB/Alternate S4, Friends to Lovers, Asexual Sherlock, POV Sherlock, Flashbacks, Bullying, 1980′s Kid Sherlock, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Inexperienced Sherlock, Grief/Mourning, Pining Sherlock, Case Fic, Sherlock’s Past, Awkward Conversations, Anxious Sherlock, Mycroft Involved with Baby’s Separation from John) – About half a year after the fateful events at Appledore, Sherlock and John embark on a private case in Sussex. For Sherlock, it’s a journey into his past, bringing up memories both happy and sad that he has locked away for almost thirty years. For John, it means coming to terms with the present – and a potential future with Sherlock. Part 1 of the The Summer Boy series

Northwest Passage by Kryptaria (E, 95,157 w., 27 Ch. || PODFIC AVAILABLE || Canadian AU ||  BAMF!John, Canadian John, PTSD, Anal / Oral Sex, Rimming, Emotional Hurt / Comfort, Drug Rehab, Falling in Love, Pining Sherlock, Love Confessions, Sherlock’s Violin, Panic Attacks, Switching, Anxious / Protective Sherlock, Hugs for Comfort, Suicide Mentions, Healing Each Other) – Seven years ago, Captain John Watson of the Canadian Forces Medical Service withdrew from society, seeking a simple, isolated life in the distant northern wilderness of Canada. Though he survives from one day to the next, he doesn't truly live until someone from his dark past calls in a favor and turns his world upside-down with the introduction of Sherlock Holmes." Part 1 of Tales from the Northwest

Given In Evidence by verityburns (M, 97,884 w., 19 Ch. || PODFIC AVAILABLE || Post-TRF, Angst, Drama, Case Fic, Romance, BAMF!John, Submissive Sherlock, First Kiss, Humour) – Coming back from the dead can be a complicated business. With a new case on the horizon, rebuilding a life is one thing... rebuilding a friendship quite another. For Sherlock and John, things may never be just the same...

The Cost of a Wish by slashscribe (E, 102,493 w., 12 Ch. || xxxHolic Fusion || Spirits / Ghosts and Magic, Love Confessions, Slow Burn, Soul Mates / Fated Lovers, Adventure, Immortal Sherlock, Powerful John, POV John, Frottage, Wish Granting, Angst with Happy Ending, Nightmares) – John has been plagued by a secret his entire life that has made him feel hopeless until he meets a mysterious, seemingly omniscient man named Sherlock Holmes who owns a wish-granting shop. Their meeting sets off a series of inevitable events that will change the course of both of their lives forever.

Two Two One Bravo Baker by abundantlyqueer (E, 114,574 w., 27 Ch. || Military AU || Afghanistan, War Story, Thriller, Switchlock, Rimming, Emotional Lovemaking, Lots of Sex, HJ/BJ’s) – Captain John Watson of 40 Commando, the Royal Marines, is assigned to protect and assist Sherlock Holmes as he investigates what appears to be a simple war atrocity in Afghanistan. An intense attraction ignites between the two men as they uncover a conspiracy that threatens everything they’ve ever known, but Sherlock is as much hunted as hunter, and everyone close to him is in deadly danger. Can he solve the case in time to save himself and John? Part 1 of Two Two One Bravo Baker Universe

The Bang and the Clatter by earlgreytea68 (M, 137,049 w., 37 Ch. || PODFIC AVAILABLE || Baseball AU || Slow Burn / Dev. Rel., Possessive/Obsessive Sherlock, Jealous Sherlock, Mutual Pining, Body Appreciation, Depression, Closeted Sexuality, Family, Sherlock’s Mind Palace, Ogling Each Other, Anxious Sherlock, Panic Attack, Drunkenness, Talk of Forever, Big Feelings™) – Sherlock Holmes is a pitcher and John Watson is a catcher. No, no, no, it's a baseball AU. Part 1 of Baseball

Proving A Point by elldotsee & J_Baillier (E, 186,270 w., 28 Ch. || Me Before You Fusion || Medical Realism, Insecure John, Depression, Romance, Angst, POV John, Sherlock Whump, Serious Illness, Doctor John, Injury Recovery, Assisted Suicide, Sherlock’s Violin, Awkward Sexual Situations, Alcoholism, Drugs, Idiots in Love, Slow Burn, Body Image, Friends to Lovers, Hurt / Comfort, Pain, Big Brother Mycroft, Intimacy, Anxiety, PTSD, Family Issues, Psychological Trauma, John Whump, Case Fics, Loneliness, Pain) – Invalided home from Afghanistan, running out of funds and convinced that his surgical career is over, John Watson accepts a mysterious job offer to provide care and companionship for a disabled person. Little does he know how much hangs in the balance of his performance as he settles into his new life at Musgrave Court.

[doctor243]

Twice Shy Part 2

Yeah um.... so turns out I did have an idea for a second chapter of that one-shot that I did, so it turned into a two-shot.... 

Summary: Tony notices some nice surprises and decides to investigate.

Pairing: TonyxNat

Words: 1324

Part 1: Please read it before this for context

Tony was never accused for being oblivious. On the other hand, Nat’s subtlety was her occupation.

In the days following his episode in the meeting room, Tony noticed a few changes in the compound. They weren’t…significant things per se, but they did appear to be special differences. When he woke up the morning after to a throbbing headache, he found some Advil on his bedside table with a glass of water, although he had no memory of placing those items there. When he entered the kitchen, he found large amounts of bacon and scrambled eggs that, judging by the dishes in the sink, everyone else had already partaken of already. When he sat in the meeting room waiting for their daily accords meeting to start, he was informed by Jarvis that “Captain Rogers has been called away for a personal emergency and will return in a few days.”

A little stunned by the sudden freedom he had, he strolled around the compound, unsure of how he should occupy his time during the next couple of days. He considered looking over the amendments that they had made to the accords, or creating a new suit in his workshop, but neither held any sort of appeal to him at the moment.

Throughout the day he noticed even stranger things. He had headed back to the kitchen for his special cookie and was pleasantly surprised to see that his cookie jar was unusually full (they were good cookies and his teammates tended to leech off of him). Odd. The pot in the coffee machine was still full, even though he swore he had had three cups a cup during breakfast. When he finally did venture into the workshop to find something to do, he could swear that his bots were on their best behaviour since…since ever. Dum-E was frantically sweeping away at nothingness and U was ever by his side waiting for an order. Butterfingers just stayed still, which was extremely uncharacteristic of him. Tony looked around suspiciously – it was time to conduct an experiment.

He had a hunch, now he just needed proof.

“Jarvis, honey,” he called out, as he stood up to leave the workshop. “Could you send me the location of all my teammates?”

“Certainly, sir,” his loyal companion replied.

He found Clint in the gym, and strolled past, giving him a short wave.

“What’s up, Tony?” he asked without putting down the dumbells.

“Oh nothing, just taking a stroll,” Tony replied nonchalantly. “Y’know,” he paused as if in thought. “This gym is really messy. I should get someone to come and clean it up.”

Clint chuckled. “Yeah, you should.”

The mechanic smiled and turned away. He found Rhodey in the Library, reading the newspaper.

“Hey, Honeybear,” Tony smirked. “You hungry?”

“Nah why?” Rhodey replied, looking up from his reading fondly.

“I don’t know, I’m really in the mood for some pasta tonight.”

“Well,” Rhodey laughed. “Don’t go anywhere near the kitchen, you might start World War III.”

“Hey!” Tony pouted. “I’m not that bad at cooking.”

“Tell that to the contractors you have on your payroll to replace your kitchen every month.”

“I will,” he turned, heading off. “I’ll even cook for them.”

Natasha was in the kitchen peeling an orange. Bingo, he thought.

“Eww,” he scrunched his face in disgust. “Is that an orange?”

“No, it’s a purple,” the Black Widow smirked at him. “Why? You got a problem with fruits?”

“Not all fruits,” he replied, opening the fridge, and feigning a search for something. “I just hate oranges.”

“Why?” she questioned, popping a slice into her mouth. “Did one try to steal your tech?”

“No,” he emerged with a Mars bar, shrugging nonchalantly. “I once ate an orange that had gone bad, and now I hate all oranges. Also, they’re the colour for the worst hockey team in the league, but that’s a different story.”

“Can’t wait to hear it,” she replied, popping another slice into her mouth.

Tony just grinned.

The next morning, Tony headed to the kitchen, deliberately passing by the gym. Sure enough, it was still a mess, and last night, no pasta was to be found for dinner. They’d ended up ordering Thai food, which he didn’t mind at all. However, when he entered the kitchen, sure enough, a pot of coffee and a breakfast of pancakes, bacon and eggs awaited it, and all the oranges in the fruit basket were gone. There must have been at least 10 in the basket, but now there wasn’t a single trace of the fruit. He smirked. Hook, line, sinker.

“Widow,” he called when he found her in the 3D training room during her break. “You busy?”

She looked over, wiping the sweat off of her face with the towel around her neck. “Nope,” she took a sip from her bottle. “Just taking a break. What’s up?” Her hair was getting a little longer, and she now had it in a short ponytail.

“Well,” he smiled, stepping closer to her. He looked into her eyes and his heart grew three sizes, threatening to impale itself with the shrapnel. “I wanted to talk to you about some missing oranges.” His voice lowered.

She showed no outer reactions to his statement, but coolly replied, “I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

“That’s alright,” his smirk grew, and he took another step closer. “Perhaps you could tell me who’s been making breakfast these past couple of days.” Another step. “Or who put the Advil by my bed?”

He could sense the internal debate within her, and he knew she was debating or not whether to admit to these secret Santa acts. “What Advil?”

“Oh was that not you?” He feigned ignorance, pulling out his phone. Oh my sweet, sweet Natalie Rushman. “Oh wait,” he continued when the holographic video from his phone popped up. “Is that you…scolding my bots?” His smile widened as he watched her fight down the blood that was rushing to her face while she watched the video of her pointing and speaking to Dum-E, U and Butterfingers while they looked…remorseful? “Let’s listen to the audio shall w-”

Natasha’s hand shot out and grabbed his.

“Stop.” Her face was completely red now. Good grief she was so frickin’ adorable. Tony smiled at his victory. He could have just checked all of the security footage, but finding out things the old school added a certain thrill to the search.

“I’m sorry,” she huffed finally. “I won’t do those things anymore, if it bothers you.”

“Whoa whoa whoa,” Tony said quickly. “I never said it bothered me.”

She turned a suspicious eye to him.

“I wanted to thank you,” he smiled warmly. He opened his arms, inviting her in for a hug. He’d have pulled her in, but he was still concerned for his physical well-being if he crossed the line of physical boundaries. “Nobody has tried so hard to make me feel better for a very, very long time.”

She eyed him for a few seconds before succumbing and hesitantly going in for the hug. “I know what it’s like to have nightmares, Tony,” she whispered.

“Thank you,” he whispered back, breathing in the scent of her hair and sweat, finding himself surprisingly calming down. That was unusual – he always pushed down a panic attack, or focused on something else, but never really, actually, calmed down. He closed his eyes and hugged her tighter. This woman was tugging at areas of his soul that he never knew existed. He was probably fucked. “It was really sweet of you.”

She just responded by reciprocating the tightness. They stayed that way for a while, relishing in each other’s company. Natasha, the heart of the team, trying her best to heal Tony, the mind of the team.

“You really didn’t have to throw away the oranges though,” Tony mused.

“Shut the fuck up,” Nat grumbled and just burrowed her face deeper into his chest.  

So I really wanted to write something where Natasha was trying to make Tony happy, but she’s awkward and doesn't...really...know...how???? so she just does anything she can and tries not to get caught if things go south she has plausible deniability. 

Tags: @littlemsstark3000​ @black-ironwidow​ @ironwidow​ @ironwidoww​ @natashastark3000​ @natashastarkotp​ @natasha-romanoffs-thoughts​ @natasha-romanoff-deserved-better​ 

[shatteredglassanimated]

Shattered Glass Animated Season 1 Episode 6 - Blast From The Past

Overlord Sumdac is preparing a new kind of battle-drone to take out the Resistance and with his new unholy alliance, the threat is getting greater. Meanwhile, Blitzwing tries to teach Lugnut to be more amicable.

“Aw, come on!” Penny pouted up at Lugnut, hands propped on her hips. Miles was cowering at his usual place behind her. He threw nervous glances up at the Decepticon. Unlike his human companion, he was well aware of Lugnut’s annoyance.

“I am busy, human,” Lugnut snapped. “Find someone else for your rituals.”

Penny threw her arms up in frustration. “Who? All of you are always busy talking to Aaron or Cyrus lately! It’s boring.”

Lugnut turned away from the platform he’d put his damaged arm on to give Penny a one-optic glare. “Hard as it may be to believe, we all have more important things to do than participate in meaningless activities for your enjoyment! If that is a problem to you, I suggest you find a way to make yourself actually useful and leave me be.”

Penny stared at him for a moment. Then her eyes started watering. She sniffled, turned on her heels and ran out of the room, Miles hot on her tail. She passed Blitzwing on her way out. The Triplechanger looked after her with a worried expression.

“Did something happen?” he asked.

Lugnut shrugged. “Organics. Always leaking over every little thing.”

Blitzwing frowned. “What did you say?”

“Evidently something she didn’t like,” Lugnut grumbled, turning back to his arm on the table.

Blitzwing ex-vented and leaned against the door-frame, crossing his arms. “Lugnut, would it really put you off-line to be a bit more friendly?”

Lugnut huffed.

“I am just saying, it might be hard to get the rest of the humans to like us if you keep being so hostile.”

“I do not need to be liked,” Lugnut snapped.”What use is bonding with them in any case? We’ll be leaving this planet eventually.”

“But we still don’t know when that’ll be,” Blitzwing retorted. “Megatron, Blackarachnia and Professor Black are still working to establish a way for us to communicate with New Kaon. We need what help we can get.”

Lugnut said nothing, though his movements grew a tad more aggressive. Blitzwing walked over, picked up the bigger mech’s arm, ignoring his protests and firmly put it back in Lugnut’s empty socket.

Lugnut stared at him for a bit, then moved the arm around. It stuck.

“..Fine. What would you have me do?”

Blitzwing smirked. His faceplate switched over to Hothead, who gave a bellowing laugh. “Oh, you will hate this next part!”

                                  ---------------------------------------

“I’m failing to see how this relates to my new body,” Optimus Prime said drily, his single intact optic narrowing.

Sumdac chuckled, tightening another screw on the gigantic, metal structure before him. “Oh, quite a lot my decapitated friend. What I am constructing here, is a new form of battle-bot. Once it’s finished, it will give us the edge we need to overpower the resistance and your metallic “friends” aiding them.” He took a few steps backwards to admire his work. Three gigantic metal bodies stood against one wall of his laboratory.

Optimus narrowed his optics at the things. To him, these creatures looked laughably boorish.

The one in the middle was the biggest, with a square body, ending in a long tail, two powerful hind legs and, as if to offset them, two very small arms with three claws on each one. It’s head was almost as big as it’s body with jaws the size of a scrap press. The one to the right was smaller, with more equal proportions and stood on all fours. It’s head was framed by a shield-like plate. It had two horns on it’s forehead and one were it’s nose should have been. The one to the left seemed tiny compared to it’s companions. It was barely two heads taller than Bumblebee, with two long winged arms and a narrow head that seemed like it had been pulled apart on both sides, forming a pointy beak and a crest. It stood upright on two spindly legs with sharp talons on it’s pedes.

“Stunned speechless, I see,” Sumdac said, grinning. “Not that I would fault you for that. These new models were made to resemble creatures from our earths’ Jurassic era. Roughly two hundred million years old.”

“That’s hardly impressive,” Optimus replied bluntly. “Cybertronians have existed for ten billion years.”

Sumdac’s face grew red and he took a deep breath. It was at times like these that the concept of just pulling the plugs connecting the head to his building’s systems grew ever more tantalizing.

“In any case,” he continued through gritted teeth, “These dinosaurs, as we call them,  especially the three I modeled these drones after, were apex predators and fighting machines. If properly motivated. Luckily, all the motivation my creations require, is the push of a button. And once they defeat and capture the Decepticons, I will have all the blueprints I need to construct you the body you so desire.”

With a self-assured smirk, Sumdac stepped up to a control panel positioned in front of the drones and pressed down a few buttons.

The drones’ eyes lit up red. They started to twitch, moving their limbs. Then the drone in the middle let loose a roar that echoed off the walls of the lab. Sumdac’s grin grew downright manic as he watched his creations come to life.

Then the drone on the left flapped it’s wings a few times and rose into the air. Sumdac’s grin vanished.

“Not in here you imbecile,” he shouted, waving his arms. “This room is nowhere near big enough to-”

The drone, in it’s eagerness, shot up and crashed right into the ceiling. It’s head got stuck in the countless cables in the air. It flapped, screeching furiously. Finally, it’s thin neck snapped under the unevenly distributed weight. The screeches subsided. It’s body crashed into the drone in the middle, taking one of it’s small arms off. The middle drone roared again, stumbling to the side.

It stumbled over the right-most drone and buried it beneath itself, completely crushing it’s body in a mess of bent metal and sparks. Smoke filled the laboratory. Right on cue, the sprinklers set in, immediately extinguishing the small flames coming from the mangled bodies.

Sumdac quietly stood there and watched the mess, fists clenched so tightly they shook.

“Evidently there was a reason they died out so soon,” he heard Optimus snark behind him.

                                           ---------------------------------

“Alright,” Blitzwing announced, hands propped up on his hips. “Before you start being friendlier to humans, I believe we should practice with you being more friendly to fellow Cybertronians!”

“I’d just like to remind everyone that I have things to do,” Blackarachnia spoke up, arms crossed and a scowl on her faceplate.

She, Blitzwing and Lugnut were standing in one of the mine’s empty tunnels. Blackarachnia and Lugnut were standing across from each other, with Blitzwing positioned in the middle.

Lugnut’s optic narrowed and he opened his intake, but Blitzwing quickly stepped in front of him. “Which is why Lugnut is very grateful you took the time to help us anyway.” He elbowed the bigger mech slightly. “Right?”

Lugnut rolled his optic, but relented. “Yes, my gratitude knows no bounds.”

“Well that didn’t sound very nice,” Blackarachnia said, giving a mocking pout.

Lugnut’s optic narrowed again, but Blitzwing shot him a warning look and he ex-vented, shoulders drooping. “Thank you, I suppose.”

Blackarachnia shrugged. “Eh, it’s a start.”

“Alright, let us begin,” Blitzwing said quickly, clapping his hands together. “We’ll start with something simple. Lugnut, imagine Blackarachnia had done something to irritate you. Something like, taking the last energon cube. What would you do?”

Lugnut gave a long vent. “Blackarachnia, I wanted to take that cube. That was quite rude of you.”

“Didn’t see your name one it, big guy,” Blackarachnia smirked.

Lugnut’s optic narrowed. “Why you-!”

“Lugnut,” Blitzwing said warningly.

“I... suppose there is some truth to that,” Lugnut said through gritted denta. “Still, I really wanted that cube. You know I am a flight frame. I need more energon than you.”

Blackarachnia put a hand to her chin as if in thought. “Hmm, you’ve got a point there.” She let her servo drop to the side and grinned. “But then again, you could stand to lose a few megatons. Maybe you would actually hit something, if you were lighter.”

Lugnut lunged at her before Blitzwing could stop him. Blackarachnia jumped out of the way with ease, grin never leaving her faceplate. Lugnut crashed against the wall. The impact knocked several rock loose. The three of them managed to vacate the tunnel just in time before it came down.

They were still busy padding off dust from their frames and peeling smaller rocks out of their systems when Megatron, Starscream and Professor Black came running around the corner, the two Decepticons with their weapons raised and the mutant with one acid-dripping arm out of the sleeve of the special suit he’d taken to wearing.

“We heard an explosion! Is everything alright?” Megatron asked.

“Yeah, we’re good. That was just Lugnut trying to be nice,” Blackarachnia answered drily, flicking a pebble off her shoulder plate.

                                          -------------------------------

Optimus let his optic wander over the destroyed bodies of the drones, deep in thought. For all his taunting, he had to admit the drones were commendable for what they were. Though he wouldn’t be caught off-line admitting that to Sumdac.

The human had stomped out in a huff after his inventions had chosen to destroy each other instead of their shared enemies. Which had given Optimus ample time to study what remained of their body and circuitry. Like everything else on this planet, they were far too primitive as constructions to serve as potential new bodies for him.

But they were formidable enough to serve as his arms, metaphorically speaking. All they needed was a steady servo to guide them. Also metaphorically speaking, given his current situation.

Optimus let parts of his consciousness seep into the laboratories’ computers and machinery. It didn’t take long to reassemble the bodies and implant a signal beacon. They would be at his beck and call at a thought now.

When Sumdac re-entered the room, he found his drones fully repaired and operational.

“Spare me the thanks,” Optimus said, feeling a smug satisfaction at the sight of Sumdac’s disbelieving expression. “I suggest you have these things brought to the city. I’m sure our heroic friends would just love to meet them.”

                                    ------------------------------------------------

Blitzwing looked out over the water from the spot on the beach he was standing on. He had to admit, the way this planet’s sun reflected off the gleaming surface made for a very calming sight. Almost peaceful. Neither the Cybertronian colony he had been forged on nor New Kaon had a sun as bright as earth’s.

The sound of Lugnut barrelling through through the thick foliage behind him tore him out of his thoughts.

“Oh don’t complain,” Blitzwing said, as Lugnut opened his intake. “I told you to land on the beach. This island will be the ideal place to train you. No humans to watch us and nothing else you could break or cause the collapse of.”

“I suppose,” Lugnut huffed, bending a small tree out of the way.

“Since practicing doesn’t seem to agree with you, I guess we’ll just.. talk about this.” Blitzwing scratched the back of his helmet nervously. He had to admit, this hadn’t been going how he’d planned it out to. “Let’s star with, um... why do you feel you have to be so harsh to the humans?”

“I am not being harsh, I am being straight-forward,” Lugnut said, crossing his arms. “Would you want me to tell them sweet lies and deceive them, like an Autobot?”

“No, of course not! But Lugnut, there is a middle ground between lying and being polite.” Blitzwing ex-vented. “Humans have feelings and thoughts just like we do. And perhaps you should consider that the next time you speak to them. A little empathy can go a long way.”

Lugnut went quiet for a short time. His optic expanded a little. “Blitzwing-”

“Lugnut, Blitzwing, come in!” Both Decepticons flinched slightly at the sound of Megatrons voice in their comms. They both reached up to their aduials.

“Where are you?” Megatron asked.

“At an island not far from the city,” Blitzwing responded.

“What? What for?”

“That is.. a bit hard to explain,” Blitzwing said, fiddling with his insignia and hoping the embarrassment didn’t seep into his vocalizer. He had completely neglected to tell anyone but Blackarachnia about his and Lugnut’s little trip.

“In any case, we need you back here and fast! It seems Sumdac’s machines are attacking the city!”

“Understood,” Blitzwing replied. “We’ll be there immediately.”

Him and Lugnut nodded to each other, then transformed and took off.

                                    -----------------------------------

Downtown was chaos. Civilians were running through the streets in a panic, screaming and crying. Three humongous drones were rampaging through the streets, overturning vehicles and trampling everything in their way.

The drone who resembled a Tyrannousaurus, turned it’s head back and forth, as if looking for something, even sniffing the air a few times. It completely ignored the panicked young woman trying to dodge it’s claws. Before it could squash her, a laser-blast collided with it’s chest throwing it back.

Megatron lowered his arm cannon and turned to Blitzwing and Lugnut, who had just touched down a few feet away, already turned back into robot-mode.

“Blitzwing, Lugnut, evacuate the humans! The rest, help me contain these drones!”

The other Decepticons nodded. Blitzwing and Lugnut split up, each leading a group of humans away from the fight. Lugnut suppressed an annoyed growl. It was like these organics didn’t want to be saved! Every few steps they would stop to turn back and gape at the fight. Some managed to stumble over their own feet so often, Lugnut wondered if they perhaps hadn’t been assembled right at forging.

“Will you move, humans?” he finally snapped, when one of them once again threw a hasty look over their shoulder instead of running. They stared at him, eyes big and fearful. Lugnut flinched a little, remembering Blitzwing’s words.

“Now look,...The situation might be less than ideal, but, um...” He was no good at this. And now what little movement he had managed to bring into this group seemed to have stopped entirely.

He heard a noise behind him and extended his right arm just in time to catch a van that had been sent flying by the fight.

“Lugnut, what are you doing?” he heard Megatron shout behind him. “Get those humans away from here!”

“Do you think I haven’t tried?” Lugnut snapped back, turning around with a narrowed optic.

His anger lowered his spacial awareness. The servo currently clutching the damaged van collided with the wall of a nearby building. A part of the wall broke in, with a couple pf brick raining down on the streets and the still terrified humans. The sight of several heavy objects seemed to kick them into gear at least.

The humans started screaming in fear again and ran into the alleyways and side-streets. Lugnut stared after them, feeling somewhat guilty. He hadn’t meant to frighten them or put them in danger. At the very least they weren’t in harms way anymore. He turned to go back to the fight.

Megatron was busy engaging the drone with the enormous jaw, holding it back with his swords. Blackarachnia and Blitzwing were trying to subdue the other two, together with the humans. Starscream was currently chasing the sole flying drone through the air, trying to shoot it down with his pulse canons. being a seeker, Starscream was a fast flyer, but the drone was small and very agile, dodging his shots at every turn.

When the drone bearing three horns on it’s head tried to snap it’s jaws around Blitzwing’s servo, Lugnut punted it in the stomach, sending it flying into it’s companion and away from the Decepticons and the humans.

“What are those things?” Blackarachnia asked, looking down on Cyrus and Amicable Archer. “I thought you said this planet didn’t have any Cybertronian life-forms except for us.”

“It does not,” Archer responded, setting in an explosive arrow. “‘Tis another ploy of Overlord Sumdac! He built these vile beasts in the image of animals long perished.”

“Just without the skin,” Cyrus shrugged. “We call ‘em dinosaurs.”

“And what weaknesses do these ‘dinosaurs’ have?” Megatron asked, readying his sword at the sight of the two drones slowly picking themselves back up.

“Err, I dunno. They died out, like, billions of years ago,” Cyrus replied, assuming a battle-ready stance.

“Then we shouldeth repeat that process,” Archer grinned, letting his arrow loose.

The explosive hit the three-horn in the head, but did little but make it stumble. Starscream touched down beside the group, frowning.

“I hate to admit it, but this thing is too small for me to hit. You’d think fighting Autobots for stellar cycles would have prepared me for that.”

“And those other two seem particularly stubborn, for all that they have no combat skills, “ Blitzwing added, rubbing a new dent on his side. “We should-”

The tyrannosaurus charged without warning, aiming right for Megatron. Megatron pulled his sword up just in time to block the drones jaws. The drone let out a furious roar, before clamping down on the blade, tearing it out of it’s owner grip and tossing it across the street. Before Megatron could react, the drone buried it’s jaw into his now weaponless servo, biting hard enough to make the plating crack and draw energon.

“Get away from him!” Starscream shouted. A bright light flashed from his eyes and the next second, his intake shifted. A sound-projector-like device assembled itself inside of it and shot a mixture of a strong acoustic wave and proton blast right at the drone.

The drone screamed as the blast hit it, letting go of Megatron. The blast threw it backwards, right into the three-horned drone who had just started to get up again.

Starscream’s intake transformed back to normal. The Decepticons and humans stared at him in shock. Starscream himself seemed just as shaken. He brought a hand up to his now regular intake, as if to make sure it was still there.

“Wow. Guess I know why they call you Starscream now,” Cyrus joked, crossing his arms.

“Starscream” Blitzwing said, “I’ve known you for stellar cycles and this is the first time I’ve seen you use this power. How did you do that?”

“I..I don’t know,” Starscream admitted. “I suppose I was just really angry and then... this. But, that never happened when I fought before!”

“In any case, it is a useful power to have,” Megatron said, laying a hand on Starscream’s shoulder-plate and giving him a smile. “I would have been short of a servo if not for you.”

“Ha, yes,” Starscream chuckled, face-plate flushing a little. “Though we were pretty lucky I made the thing let go before blasting it into a wall.”

Megatron looked thoughtful for a moment. “Do you think you could do it again? At will?”

Starscream hesitated for a second. “I think so.”

Megatron smirked. “Then I believe we just found a way to deal with these ‘dinosaurs’.” He turned to the others. “Round up the drones in one place. Make them as easy a target as possible. Starscream, do you think you could do the same with the flyer?”

Starscream grinned. “I said I can’t hit it. I didn’t say I couldn’t scare it.”

With that, the Decepticons and the humans took off.

Lugnut lowered his arm to allow Blckarachnia to download. When she was finished, the two of them with additional  help from Cyrus, surrounded the three-horned drone. It lashed out for Cyrus, only to be kicked aside by Blackarachnia. When it tried to lunge at her, Lugnut and Cyrus tackled it towards the middle of the street.

The drones with the large jaws tried it’s luck with Blitzwing, only to slip on a pool of ice suddenly appearing under it’s feet. It screeched and dug it’s claws in, trying to anchor itself. A blast of energy hit it in the side and propelled it towards the same spot the three-horned drone was currently busy fighting off Blackarachnia, Lugnut and Cyrus.

The flying drone was back to dodging Starscream’s proton-blasts, though it’s movements were a fair deal more frantic now. When a shot grazed it’s right wing, it let out an ear-shattering screech and dropped down onto it’s two companions.

“They’re all together! Now, Starscream!” Megatron shouted.

Starscream opened his intake. There was no light this time, but the sonic canon appeared anyway, firing a blat that seemed even stronger, now that it’s owner knew what he was doing.

The drones screeched, trying to cover their non-existent ears. Sparks jumped over their frames and they collapsed on top of each other, motionless.

“Sumdac’s really upping his game,” Cyrus commented, walking over to the drones to get a closer look. “That’s the first time he tried Dinobots.”

Blackarachnia raised an eye-ridge. “‘Dinobots’?”

Cyrus blushed a little. “We gotta call ‘em something, don’t we?”

“In any case,” Megatron said, re-sheathing his swords. “We should retreat back to the mines fro now. These things don’t pose a threat anymore.”

“Shouldeth we not take them with us?” Archer asked. “They seemeth to resemble your kind a great deal.”

“Not exactly,” Blitzwing said, picking up his human friend. “They have a semblance of a spark in them, but... they don’t have free will like we do.” He hesitated for a second. “I think.”

“Decepticons, transform and rise up!” Megatron commanded.

The group transformed into vehicle mode and took off towards the woods. Blitzwing couldn’t help but throw a glance back at the seemingly lifeless bodies of the Dinobots before following.

                                    -------------------------------------------

Optimus scowled at the pathetic scorching husks that had once been his attack drones. When the one wit the large jaw had sunk it’s teeth into Megatron he had almost been able to taste victory. But then came that annoying second-in.command and his sonic pulse.

Through their link, Optmius had felt it when it hit the drones. It had been... unusual. There was something else behind the sonic waves, an energy comparable to a spark. But as his connection with the drones had been severed shortly after, he hadn’t been able to analyze it further.

Sumdac had raged and huffed and thrown tools around and in the end he had retreated to his private quarters, not even bothering to look at the re-captured drones. For once, Optmius couldn’t fault him for his behavior. If he’d had a body, he would have done the same.

The drones had been the closest he’d come to being mobile again in solar cycles. Now they wouldn’t even twitch at his signal.

“If even the greatest mind of this planet can only produce you,” he told their still bodies, “Then my chances of ever getting my body back are grim. Locked in this lab-”

“’Grimlock’? I do say, ‘Grimlock’... It’s quite a nice name.”

Optimus’ optic widened. The drone with the large jaw had talked. And now it moved. Slowly, carefully, like a proto-form making it’s first steps, the drone pushed itself back onto it’s legs and turned it’s head from side to side, as if seeing the room for the first time. It’s two companions followed suit.

“Looks like the Decepticons didn’t destroy you after all,” Optimus said slowly. “So what did they do?” His optic lit up for a split-second, then dimmed again. “You don’t respond to my Cybertronian commands anymore either. But you still function. As if you had sparks.”

The big-jawed drone, tilted it’s head from side to side. “Yes, that’ll do nicely. I am Grimlock,” it muttered, as if it hadn’t heard.

Optimus fought down a  surge of annoyance at the thing ignoring him. “Well, Grimlock, my name is Optimus Prime. And I am your leader.”

Grimlock turned to look at Optmius, his own, small, blue optics narrowing just the slightest bit. “Beg your pardon my good Sir, but I am quite certain that I, Grimlock, am the leader of our trio. Though I admit I do not know much else...”

“Obey me!” Optimus snapped, optic lighting up again.

To his anger, the drones once again did not respond. But one of the many screens on the wall switched on, rattling off a documentary.

“-and so the remnants of the dinosaurs, known as fossils, serve as fuel for today’s cars, trucks and air transports. Furthermore-”

“Not you!” Optimus groaned.

He prepared to retract from the system to shut the voice down. But then he noticed the drones. All of them seemed focused on the screen now. Grimlock’s expression, what little of it could be read, seemed apprehensive now, almost disturbed.

“How barbaric!” he exclaimed, the other two drones squawking in agreement. “So these... ‘cars’, ‘trucks’ and ‘air transports’ consume our kind?”

If Optimus still had an intake, he would have grinned. “They do! Airs transports especially consume a lot of fuel. They feed off your fossils and at the rate they’re currently going, you’ll be extinct in no time. Your only chance of surviving is to destroy them.”

Grimlock’s optics narrowed. “It would appear so.”

“And do you want to know what’s worse than air transports?” Optimus asked amiably. “Air transports that transform into robots!”

He pulled up the security camera feed, showing the Decepticons in battle. The Dinobots seemed to believe him.

“It makes you angry, doesn’t it?” Optimus asked. “Use that anger. Let it out!”

Grimlock and the other two drones roared and opened their jaws. Three streams of fire surged through the air, consuming the screen on the wall until their was nothing left but melted metal.

“My word!” Grimlock said, examining the said remains of the monitor. “Were we always capable of such destruction?”

“Yes,” Optimus lied. “I built you like this. And if you manage to destroy the air transport robots, I’ll built and entire army of drones just like you. What do you say to that?”

Grimlock drew himself up to full height, snorting out a small fire ball. “I say, to battle, fellow Dinobots!”

                               --------------------------------------------

The gate to the Terrordome opened. A procession of huge vehicles exited the building, driving towards downtown. The few civilians that had come back to garner what was left of their belongings saw the ironclad trucks and quickly retreated.

The trucks stopped side by side in the middle of the streets. The police drones that had accompanied them stood aside. The trucks transporters opened.

The Dinobots stepped outside, looking around curiously, as if they hadn’t been there only hours ago. Captain Fanzone exited one of the driver’s cab and looked up at his cargo with a wide grin.

“Well fellas,” he said. “Knock yourselves out! Just give us a call once your done!”

He re-entered the vehicle and gave the driver the sign to drive off. As the trucks rolled back towards the Terrordome, Fanzone heard a roar behind him. When he turned, he saw the Dinobot he had been told was named Grimlock pick up one of the parked cars and sever it in half with a single bite.

Fanzone chuckled as he settled, shaking his head. “This is why I love machines.”

                                ------------------------------------------------

“Don’t these things ever learn?” Lugnut asked, irritated, as the Decepticons once again made their way through the sky and towards downtown.

Below them the Dinobots were on a rampage, tearing up streets and throwing cars around.

“No longer shall we, the Dinobots, be food!” screamed the one with the large jaws.

“Apparently they learned how to talk,” Blitzwing said nervously.

In that moment, the flying drone opened it’s beak and released a stream f fire into a nearby car underneath it.

“As well as a few other tricks,” Megatron commented.

“Well, what’re we waiting for?” Cyrus spoke up from withing Lugnut’s cockpit. “Let’s give ‘em the old sonic shout and send ‘em back to the stone age!”

“Wait!” Lugnut called. “Perhaps we should lure them away from this area first. I’ve seen a few humans who have not yet evacuated when we flew over these buildings.”

“That... is a very good idea, Lugnut,” Megatron answered, sounding surprised.

Lugnut huffed, hoping his vocalizer wouldn’t give away his embarrassment. “I simply think the humans would be very grateful if their housing units stayed intact this time. And it will be easier for us to fight without them getting in the way.”

“Aww, no worries big guy,” Blackarachnia cooed mockingly from her sitting spot on Blitzwing. “We won’t get any crazy ideas about you having a spark after all.”

With that Megatron swooped down close to the ground Starscream and Lugnut following after him. Each of them rammed into one of the Dinobots, hard enough to knock them over, but not hard enough to do damage.

All three of the Dinobots let out infuriated roars.

“You wish for a fight?” Grimlock growled. “You shall have it!”

The Dinobots spit fire at their attackers, but the Decepticons had already taken to the air again, easily avoiding their attacks. Letting loose irritated snarls, the Dinobots followed suit. The Decepticons led them well outside of town, onto the road.

There, they touched down to the ground and transformed back into robot-mode, weapons out and at the ready.

The Dinobots stopped dead in their tracks, seemingly dumbfounded by this chain of events. Their optics wandered over their opponents, then came to a halt at Blackarachnia.

“Um, wereth they not going to attack?” Archer whispered to Blitzwing, confused.

“They were supposed to,” Blitzwing said.

“And what are they staring at me for?” Blackarachnia asked indignantly. “It’s not like I’m the only organic thing on this planet!”

The Dinobot in the middle perked up at her voice, then shook his head. “Ah, you must forgive me, fair spider-lady. I, Grimlock, seem to have been awestruck by your beauty.”

Blackarachnia blinked. “What?”

The three-horned Dinobot and it’s flying companion made a sound that sounded a lot like gurgling and pressed themselves on the ground.

“But how can this be?” Grimlock asked, seemingly talking more to himself than anyone else. “How can such a lovely creature be accompanying the vile flying transport robots who consume our kind?”

“Er, I’m confused,” Cyrus admitted, scratching his bald head. “Are we gonna fight or what?”

“We might not have to,” Megatron said grimly. he turned to Starscream. Starscream, do you think you could hit all of them at once with that new power of yours?”

“Starscream blinked. “I... yes, I think so but...will that be necessary? They’re fairly peaceful now.”

Megatron shook his head. “We don’t know if it will stay that way. We need to at least put them out of commission for now.”

Starscream hesitated, the nodded. He took a step forward. His intake transformed into the sonic gun. The blast hit the Dinobots with full force. With a pained screech, they stumbled backwards, then collapsed.

“Blitzwing, freeze them,” Megatron called.

Blitzwing lowered his ice cannons and encased the Dinobots in a wide block, big enough to take up most of the road.

“Well that was easier than I thought,” Cyrus commented. He looked up at the frozen Dinobots, frowning. “What do we do with ‘em now?”

“We destroy them,” Megatron said curtly.

Blitzwing flinched and turned towards his leader, optics wide. “Wait, what?”

“Blitzwing, you’ve seen what they can do. What they did. They are dangerous. We can’t allow Sumdac to find and repurpose them again,” Megatron said gravely.

“But...but,” Blitzwing stuttered. “Isn’t that a little extreme? You heard them, someone clearly told them we were some sort of threat! And besides that...” He looked at the Dinobts, optic thoughtful. “I felt like something was different about them this time. They seemed like they were aware. Like... like they had sparks. What if they’re more than simple attack drones?”

Megatron shook his head. “These are far too many ‘what ifs’ than we can afford right now. I would be lying if I said it didn’t irk me a little bit, but it has to be done.”

“I agree,” Lugnut spoke up, stepping forward. “I propose me, Blitzwing and Blackarachnia stay behind to take care of matters. You and Starscream should fly Cyrus and Archer back to our base in the meantime. Just to be safe.”

Megatron gave him a surprised look, then quickly got ahold of himself and nodded. “Thank you, Lugnut. I’ll believe we’ll do just that. Come along, Starscream.”

Starscream nodded, throwing a suspicious glance at Lugnut as he did so. Lugnut didn’t blink. Starscream shrugged, transformed and let Archer enter, before following Megatron, who had done the same with Cyrus, into the air.

Blackarachnia, Blitzwing and Lugnut watched them fly away.

“Now,” Lugnut said, when the two of them were out of sight. “I believe we have work to do.”

                                         -----------------------------------

“Gotta say, big guy,” Blackarachnia commented, looking down the edge of the giant crater into the lush, green valley before her. “I really wasn’t expecting that.”

Donw below her, the Dinobots were roaming around through the grass, sniffing here and ther and letting out a joyful squawk or screech now and again.

“Me neither,” Blitzwing admitted, smiling slightly. “I was sure you would actually destroy the Dinobots, when you proposed it to Megatron.” he turned to look at Lugnut, who was watching the Dinobots as well, expression unreadable. “May I ask what made you change your mind?”

Lugnut huffed, crossing his servos. “I have seen Cybertronians like the Dinobots during the war. Young, naive, still barely protoformed. Easy to manipulate in their youthful zeal. It was obvious they had no idea what it was they were getting into when they fought us.” He lowered his head a little. “Had we destroyed them, Sumdac would have found their remains and rebuilt them eventually. And then they truly would have had a reason to despise and fight us. What good will it do us to make more enemies on this planet than we already have? This island is remote enough to be a good hiding place from Sumdac. Here, they’ll be able to carve their own path, their own identity. Far away from any wars.” He looked up again. “A respected fellow Decepticon once told me ‘A little empathy can go a long way.’ I suppose I decided to heed that advice today.”

Blitzwing’s smile widened a little.

“Welp,” Blackarachnia said, stretching. “Since that’s all wrapped up for now, we should get going. It’s been a long day and I have a comfortable berth back at the mine with my name on it.”

“And I need to find a certain small organic,” Lugnut said quietly. “Whom I owe an apology.”

Lugnut and Blitzwing transformed, Blackarachnia jumped onto Lugnut’s wings and the three of them departed.

Back in the valley, the Dinobots were still wandering around. Grimlock looked around.

“I, Grimlock, must say I quite like this ‘nature’.”

He took another step forward. The humming of machinery inside of him intensified. His claws retracted. His massive jaw pulled in and onto his chest. His small, scrawny arm stumps were pulled into his body to be replaced by two mechanical arms. A helm with a red visor and a riffled intake popped out where his jaw had been pulled down from a second ago.

“But I must say. I like this even more,” Grimlock said, grinning.

He pulled a sword out from his back and watched as it engulfed itself in flames.

[amandajoyce118]

Agents Of SHIELD Easter Eggs For My Missed Episodes

Okay, so I fell very far behind the last few weeks. Work has been busy and exhausting, freelance work has been busy as well, and the state of the world in general here in Florida is pretty much the apocalypse. So, this Sunday, I binged the episodes I’ve missed. The Easter eggs are under the cut (or whatever tumblr calls it, I am livejournal old.) just because this is going to get long.

We’re starting with S7E07. Yes, that’s how far behind I am.

Obviously, there are spoilers, but since I feel like everyone else is ahead of me at this point, that’s probably a given. If you just want to escape the world for a while, have some Easter eggs.

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S7E07 “The Totally Excellent Adventures Of Mack And The D”

The title

It’s a reference to the time traveling adventures of Bill and Ted, of course.

River’s End

This is the town just near the Lighthouse. It’s the town where Deke first materialized on Earth back in season five. 

Run SOP7.07

When Russell gets the computer from his old classmate to check out, this is what’s on the screen when he boots it up. I think we all know that’s a reference to this being the seventh episode of the seventh season if you catch it on screen. The writing on the first print out kind of looks like Kree writing, but I think that’s just because all of the alien writing in the show looks Kree. (This whole sequence has nods to War Games, Weird Science, etc.)

Mack’s Model Car

The ‘67 corvette is the first model car Mack intends to take to his younger self and his brother. He puts it together instead. That’s the same model he tells Coulson he and his dad put together when he was a kid when he tries to convince Coulson to let him work on Lola in season two if I remember right.

Swayze’s Bar

Anybody else get a Roadhouse vibe, or just me?

“Don’t You Forget About Me”

I get that this song is probably chosen for the recognition factor, but I feel like it’s also Deke’s not so subtle way of asking the team and Mack to not forget him in 1982/3.

Deke Squad

The way Deke introduces them to Mack is an homage to the A-Team, right down to the music. Honestly, the pop culture references are many in this episode, and I probably won’t list them all because there are just so many 80s references.

The Chopping Mall Homage

Okay, this one I will mention because the director for Chopping Mall clearly didn’t understand that the show wasn’t ripping him off. Though there’s a lot of robotic references (like the Doctor Who Dalek “exterminate” from the Sybil-bots), the episode borrows a lot from Chopping Mall when it comes to the design of the robots.

Deke Speaks Russian

It’s clearly a FitzSimmons family trait to pick up on languages. Every time there’s a hiatus or significant time jump, it seems like Fitz, Simmons, and now, Deke learn a new language. Also - Russian is the language Bobbi is surprised no one knows in season three, though Daisy knows a few curse words.

Nathaniel Malick’s Look

Just me, or does he seem to be borrowing from Grant Ward’s season three closet?

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S7E08 “After, Before”

The Establishing Shots For Afterlife

They look to be reused from season two, which probably saved the show a little money.

Jiaying In Blue

This is probably just a coincidence, but I like that they put her in blue for the episode. Why? Because when Raina is so determined to find out her destiny, she talks about stories her grandmother told her about “blue angels from the sky.” We know that’s the Kree now, but still, it’s a nice, likely unintentional, callback.

Elena’s Memories

The shrike is from last season. Ruby’s death is from season five. Tess’s death is also from season five. What they all have in common is guilt, May’s not wrong about that, but also Elena’s impulse control.

Abuela’s Necklace

That necklace is the same cross from season three that gets passed around the team in the finale, ending up in the quinjet bound for space that Hive and Lincoln die in. Elena’s remark about her father getting mixed up with bad people? That’s possibly a nod to her father being a supervillain in the comics.

“Time, Space, it’s never stopped us before…”

Nice nod to all the things Fitz and Simmons have been through over the years, and their remarks about the worst things they’ve been through in the past as well.

Kora And Nathaniel

Okay, so the dynamic between these two with Nathaniel convincing Kora to join him reminds me a whole lot of Ward convincing Kara Palamas to join him. It’s also what brought Daisy to Afterlife in the first place - the idea that her found family was afraid of her - but she realized the error she made eventually.

“You’ll bounce back.”

They’ve been saying this about Elena all season in regards to her mental state and her powers, so I’m glad this paid off with her figuring out real super speed instead of her dying. She’s now evolved beyond her comic book counterpart.

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S7E09 “As I Have Always Been”

The title

It’s obviously a nod to Enoch’s line, but it’s also been said in the series before. Sybil has used the phrase “as I have always been” before, so it’s clearly a Chronocom thing.

The title card

I like that every time it’s a weird space/time story instead of defined by the decade, they’re using this particular title card that’s reminiscent of the one from Jemma being trapped on an alien planet.

“People like you.”

We can all agree Daisy reminds him of Peggy, right?

Removing the Implant

The images on screen when Daisy removes Jemma’s implant looks eerily similar to when Jemma removed files from a guy’s nasal passage way back in season one. I guess the special effects used for the computer screen is similar. 

Enoch’s “heart”

Him simply pulling it out of his chest is not unlike Tony Stark pulling out the core keeping himself alive in the Iron Man movies. I also like that they equate this with Enoch’s heart in the same manner that Pepper Potts equated Tony’s with his.

Enoch’s Loneliness

Not really an Easter egg or a reference, but what Enoch describes, I think, is how everyone feels about found family storylines in shows like this. You find something you need in them and don’t want to let them go.

The Water Glasses

Interesting choice to train Kora with glassware. Daisy did that too. (Side note: how old is Kora supposed to be? She said she’s felt dangerous “for years.”)

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S7E10 “Stolen”

The Title Card

I feel like they just get more and more 80s with every episode.

John Garrett’s Backstory

It’s almost word for word what Garrett explained when he was revealed as Hydra in the first season, right down to him holding his guts in his hands.

Durant

So, Malick calls the guy getting Lee’s powers Durant, but I kind of wonder if he’s meant to be the father of Durand. Gerald Durand is a mercenary in Captain America: The Winter Soldier. He works with Batroc on the Lemurian Star, hired by Hydra.

“Long haired creepo stabbed you with a pointy stick.”

That was Loki. John Garrett got to watch Avengers a few decades before it was released.

Sousa’s Stolen Moment Comment

I feel like that’s kind of a nod to Endgame and Steve becoming Peggy’s husband. Because all Steve wanted was a chance with Peggy and he didn’t care if that messed up the timeline. Sousa would give anything for just a moment, never mind a whole lifetime.

“If The Job Was Easy, It Wouldn’t Be Any Fun.”

The quote is a variation of one Garrett says when he’s originally in the show and both Ward and Trip are familiar with it. (He says “everyone would do it” instead of “it wouldn’t be any fun.”) I guess it’s something of a catch phrase for him.

The Room Holding Coulson and Gordon

That’s the same room that Cal destroys with his super strength when he’s not allowed to see Skye (Daisy) in season two.

“Best Day Ever!”

It’s kind of odd to what Garrett using this phrase since it was Cal’s, but I guess in a Jiaying heavy episode, it makes sense.

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And that is it. I am caught up. It is unlikely that I will rewatch any of these to add more just because I’ve been so busy, so if you saw something I missed, feel free to let me know.

[mobius-prime]

221. Sonic the Hedgehog #153

Oh god, is Sonic, like… okay? Is he all right up there? What horrific manner of trouble did he get himself into this time to have his face become deformed like that? Also, I like how this cover implies that Sonic is being hunted down by someone shooting lasers or something, when literally nothing even close to the sort happens within the issue. I know it's perhaps getting a bit stale to point out every time the cover art doesn't reflect the stories inside, but dammit, it makes me laugh so I'm gonna keep doing it.

Songoose (Part 1 of 2)

Writer: Karl Bollers Pencils: Ron Lim Colors: Jason Jensen

Eggman has a new agenda to enact. He's offered Nack the Weasel a large sum of money in exchange for assassinating someone very important within Knothole, and despite Nack's apparent reservations about waltzing into a place where he's wanted for quite a few crimes, he seems pretty jazzed to accept the offer nonetheless. Within Knothole, Sally has arranged a mock battle training exercise between the Freedom Fighters and the Chaotix to strengthen team bonding and combat skills, and oversees the training along with General D'Coolette, discussing the various combatants' strengths and weaknesses.

Uh oh, that doesn't sound good. In fact, at that moment they get a call from the king and queen, still halfway around the world, and apparently the king is also exhibiting similar symptoms to the general, prompting Sally to muse on whether their illnesses are related. She wonders if they should cut their trip short and return home, something which the king is against but the queen tentatively supports, but the conversation is interrupted when suddenly, the general seizes up and then collapses onto the ground. That's… probably not a good sign. Worse still, "Antoine" doesn't even seem to care, though of course we know why.

So this is actually a plot point that's kept up throughout a lot of subsequent issues - apparently, Tails' crush on Fiona is still going strong, despite the fact that he literally "fell in love" with a robot duplicate of her which had nothing in common with the real her. It's honestly a very weird detail to seize upon, as while Fiona being a real person and a unique character in her own right is interesting, and the fact that she's joined the Freedom Fighters even more so, Tails trying to like… flirt with her and become her boyfriend is just a bizarre place to take it, especially considering the age difference. I mean, don't get me wrong, I know it's not uncommon for a kid to end up with a crush on an older teenager, but multiple writers from here on out write Tails as being actually infatuated with her and unable to "let her go" after her robot duplicate broke his heart. It just doesn't feel like Tails to me and it's frustrating, to say the least. But anyway, moving on, everyone agrees it's a good idea to go to Mina's concert tonight and disperse. Sonic catches up to Fiona and tries to explain that Tails looks up to her, but she just makes a snarky comment about Sonic being one to talk about respect given how he acted the other day towards her - yeah, apparently he still hasn't told everyone that it was his evil double flirting with all the girls. Also, we never actually saw Evil Sonic come on to Fiona before, but I guess it just happened offscreen. She then admits to him that she hated him for a long time for leaving her behind in Robotnik's prison camp all those years ago, but changed her mind after seeing him sacrifice himself for the planet during the Xorda invasion, making her realize that he never left her behind on purpose. Aww, that's actually nice! Fiona has the potential to be a really interesting and complex character, and, well, honestly she's one of my favorites of the later comics, so I'm glad to see her getting more screentime.

That night, Sonic and the others show up backstage at the venue to give Mina a friendly pep talk before her show. She hugs Sonic, thanking him for the encouragement, and Ash immediately becomes very jealous and butts in to remind everyone that he's Mina's boyfriend and band manager and that she needs to go to the stage now, prompting a clueless Sonic to wonder what his problem is. However, Mina's performance actually kind of reveals that Ash has a good reason to be suspicious of her interactions with Sonic, as the sappy, lovey-dovey lyrics of her songs all reference the color blue in various ways, and are clearly influenced by her previous infatuation with Sonic. But things aren't as happy and peaceful as they seem, as a suspicious figure lurks in the crowd…

So Mina was Eggman's target, huh? Strangely enough, Nack, with a totally clear shot to the stage, misses and hits a tree several feet above and to the side of Mina. Like, it's not even played off as "oh, he was trying to make the tree fall on her, or someone bumped his elbow" or something - he just straight up misses for no reason, sets the tree on fire with the blast, and then tries to make a run for it. Some assassin you are, especially considering your alternate name is Fang the Sniper! Sonic, Bunnie, and Ash immediately race onstage to check on the startled but unharmed Mina, and Bunnie focuses on putting the fire out while Sonic races after Nack, catching and knocking him out easily. Nack wakes up hours later in Knothole's jail, where Sally and Sonic attempts to question him on his motives, and he decides to be all flippant and act like it's no big deal that he was caught, as he'd rather spend some time in prison than ruin his "cred" by giving up the name of his employer. I'm sorry, Nack, but what freaking cred are you even talking about? Like what, are you gonna go around telling prospective employers that your skill set includes missing a target forty feet away, setting a random tree on fire, and then immediately getting arrested? Sally merely points to the cell across from him, where he's quite perturbed to see the three other weasel associates who helped him kidnap her a year ago, and she invites him to go ahead and spend his time in jail sharing space with them after he knowingly left them to take the fall for his failed plan. Of course, he spills the beans on Eggman immediately.

Well… I suppose that's not even out of character for Eggman, considering his original counterpart also hated music. Sally decides to assign Sonic as Mina's personal bodyguard for now, while the other Freedom Fighters keep an eye out at the next night's concert to make sure nothing comes near Mina. Ash isn't pleased at all with Sonic being close to his girl, and stomps off, with a bemused Sonic commenting to Mina that he's pretty sure her boyfriend doesn't like him. Gee, what gave you that idea, Sonic? Sally's caution is warranted, however, as back in New Megaopolis we see Eggman preparing his next plan of attack in the wake of Nack's abysmal failure - he's rebuilt Heavy and Bomb, and is ready to sic them on Mina! Man, it's been a while since we saw those guys, huh? Now that I think about it, after they got reprogrammed by Eggman before, Sonic just kind of straight up killed them when they tried to attack the royal family, and no one seemed upset about it at all. Well, maybe with them back, they'll get a chance to be freed and find redemption… or maybe the writers still don't care and they'll get fridged again. Guess we just gotta wait and see!

Fairy Tale (or the Adventures of Pirate Sally)

Writer: Romy Chacon Pencils: Art Mawhinney Colors: Josh Ray

Wow, it's been quite some time since we last had a "telling a bedtime story based on real events in the storyline to kids" episode, huh? Apparently, Rosie's three young charges have caught a bad cold, and as she brings them medicine to try to help them sleep they all start begging for her to tell them a story. She's reluctant, claiming she's not good at stories, but relents when they persist in asking. She invents a magical world of pirates and wizards, where the "Elfen Fox" falls onto "Pirate Sally" and "B-Bot's" ship, having had one of his two magical tails stolen by the "Rogue Assassin," who doesn't really live up to her name if all she's doing is going around stealing things. Man, what is it with wildly ineffective assassins this issue? Pirate Sally and B-Bot decide to help out the fox, and along the way meet their new allies Ant the Foole and the Blue Knight, who help them defeat various baddies based on the main villains of the comic's storyline. Finally, they make it to the Evil Wizard Kintobor's lair, whom they fight against as a team and help the Elfen Fox take back his missing tail.

I actually love this story, entirely because of the way the kids just start roasting Rosie's storytelling skills as soon as the whole thing is over. Hey, look on the bright side Rosie - now that they're preoccupied with coming up with a way to fix your terrible story, they won't be pestering you for more anytime soon!

[lightanddarklove]

Prickling Doubt and Burnout

5032 Words | Rating: Teen [description of an injury and swearing, self-esteem/ self-doubt and mental health issues]

I wrote this trying to get some pain out of my system but I didn’t get to write as much as I would have liked before the hiatus ended. If the new episodes don’t make me feel like I am treading the same ground as cannon, I have more ideas to continue this.

The only thing that I didn’t notice, a minor detail that I got wrong, is that they no longer have a closet under the stairs with the repaired house. So where are they storing their cleaning supplies? I kind of doubt they’re in Steven’s closet upstairs, so if anyone could tell me where their pantry or something is I will fix that bit.

Also, Steven swears, but not out loud, so I haven’t let Steven say fuck yet >:)c

Steven doesn’t feel like he can talk to Garnet, Amethyst and Pearl about his problems, so he finds another way to distract himself until he can find the right words to say. Unfortunately for him, cleaning the greenhouse doesn’t come without more hurt.

Takes place right after Prickly Pair. Steven-centric & Cannon compliant through that episode. Hurt/ Comfort but the ratio’s about 80/20%.

“I think I’ve said enough.” Steven’s voice was low and he ducked his head as he turned to walk back to his room. The concerned gazes of the Crystal Gems followed him, but they didn’t press. He spoke once more over his shoulder as he climbed the stairs, not turning to face them. “I’m sorry for all the trouble I caused… again.” With two more steps, he walked through the doorway and out of sight.

He waited a moment in his room, staring at the cactus flower in his hand and repeatedly turned it gently between two fingers. He almost expected one of the gems to follow him to his room and insist he talk to them, but there was nothing. He sighed and looked around the room. With the exception of the open balcony door, floor and bed littered in cactus spines and comforter not on his bed, there was little out of place.

He took one more step and was reminded with a sting of pain of the needles still embedded in his chest, legs, arms and face. He paused and carefully put down the flower near the tv. Grabbing the comforter and folding it over, he placed it on the floor. He quickly retrieved a pair of tweezers and a mirror from the area above his bed. With a grunt of discomfort he sat down on the comforter to remove the needles pricking his skin. He started with left hand palm, and plucked them out one by one. Each spine stung slightly and he quietly hissed through his teeth as he pulled them out. He willed himself not to anger as he worked.

It’s not worth it, he thought. Cactus Steven had caused enough damage, I don’t need the rage of Pink Steven too. He worked his way from his palm to his arm, focusing on his breathing and the morning light outside. Hopefully Cactus Steven will find some place he can belong. It would be nice if at least one of us could. He shook his head as he pulled a needle from his sensitive triceps’ area. Thinking that way isn’t helping. I messed things up here, but it doesn’t mean that I don’t still have a place here, right? He swiped a tear away from his eye with his now un-prickly left hand. He knew that tear wasn’t just from the cactus spines, but he couldn’t do any damage control like this. It sucks feeling like I can’t do anything right, but I have to try. I’m not going to run away from all my problems like she did. I can clean up my own mess.

Plucking a spine from his left shoulder he dropped it in the pile with the others and switched his tweezers to his left hand. I’ll wait to heal myself until all of these plant materials are cleaned up. I can’t risk bringing another plant to life and causing more damage. These spines are nothing compared to getting head-butted in the face or the toxic injector fluid on my arm. The faces of an angry Jasper and Spinel came to mind as he thought of old injuries, but he tried to shake the thoughts away. The burn on his arm had long healed but that patch of skin still had discoloration from the injury. His eyes were drawn to the burn as he removed more needles. Tiny drops of blood marred his skin further from the cactus gashes, but very few actively dripped, as most of the pricks only went skin deep. I’m sturdier than most people, he thought bitterly. I can handle it. He quickly wiped at the lightly bleeding cuts to prevent them from dripping into his comforter and instead rubbed it into his ruined T-shirt. No salvaging this, it’s too full of holes. Might as well use it as a rag.

Once he had reached the end of his shoulder, he picked up the mirror from the floor and began tweezing the spines on his face. He bit his lip as he plucked each needle from his cheeks, taking care not to let out an audible cry that could be heard downstairs. No need to worry them, he mused. He took a closer look at his reflection, swiping away the few blood drops that rested on his face and noticed a dark spot beginning to form above his eyelid. That must have been from when Cactus Steven bounced my shield back at my eye. I deserved that. He pulled more needles from the area around his brow, biting back tears. I was as so stupid to think that fighting him was the answer. The house is smashed and the gems got hurt because of me. I should have been better to him. When will I learn how to not be so impulsive?

With a few more tweezes he moved downward, plucking spines from his chest. He stopped after a moment and tried to remove his shirt, hoping to get all of them from his torso and waist in one pull, but as he tugged the sharp needles didn’t want to free themselves from his skin and simply tugged at his injuries. He huffed in disappointment and continued his slow methodical plucking. This hurts, but it could have been worse. Get over yourself. Don’t need to make a big deal of it. He moved further down to his abdomen, biting his lip as he pulled from the tender area around his gem.

Before long, he was free of spines, front to back. He stood and bubbled the pile of spines before floating the plant matter over to his trash and popping the bubble, causing the pile to fall into it with a quiet scraping noise. The room still had many needles littering the floor and Steven moved to go back downstairs to get the vacuum.

On the main floor, the gems were all trying to address the still spraying sink in various ways. Garnet was on her back, laying on the floor where the sink used to be, wrench in hand. She was trying to tighten a bolt to stop the flow of water and finding it slick and difficult. Pearl had a mop and bucket she was pushing across the floor, trying to clean its soaked surface. Amethyst had a funnel plugged into the sink hole and a hose in her other hand, which emptied into a large plastic storage container on the floor. Pearl and Amethyst looked up as Steven moved across the room but Garnet continued her efforts.

“I’m cleaning up the cactus needles upstairs,” Steven said, unable to keep their gaze. He moved to the cupboard beneath the stairs, carefully stepping over the broken debris of the coffee table. He retrieved the vacuum and moved to leave.

“Steven,” Pearl called. “Once we get the sink issue under control, we can help you with the dome, if you’d like.”

“Or just in general,” Amethyst added. “Did you feel like talking about it?”

“Don’t trouble yourself. I can handle it,” Steven replied, turning up the stairs. Amethyst looked away sadly.

“Got it,” Garnet said, tightening the bot into place and stopping the spray of water. “Steven, hold on.” He stopped on the landing and turned to face them. “The oven likely will need replacement parts, as water spray got everywhere. You’re not going to want to use the microwave either, so when you get hungry, I’ll have foods that don’t require preparation set in a bag by the stairs.”

“Thanks,” he answered and turned back to his room.

The spines littered the floor and bed when he came back upstairs, vacuum in tow. He turned over everything that had been on the floor and plugged in the vacuum. He flipped its switch and began to methodically work his way across his floor. He quietly cursed himself whenever he accidentally stepped on a spine the vacuum didn’t pick up. He tried to focus on the task at hand, working his way from the stairs toward the opposite side of the room.

After a bit, he noticed his phone light up from his position standing on the bed. He glanced up, continuing to work the vacuum over the needle covered mattress with one hand. He reached out and unlocked his phone, noticing a notification from Connie. That brought a small but genuine smile to his face. He remembered that she had a presentation today and he should wish her good luck in his reply.

Upon opening his messages, he saw a smiling selfie. She had taken the photo from an upper angle, flattering her young features. Her short hair looked neatly styled in a bob, as was typical, but there was a trace of mascara and blush, which was uncommon for her. She wore an azure blue button-up sweater half closed over a grey and white horizontal striped shirt, with a navy knee-high tapered skirt and black leggings, and dark grey ankle boots. She looked like she was putting her best foot forward for her presentation and his smile grew, gazing fondly. Her caption read: “Getting ready for the day. How bout you?”

He paused to admire her. He hadn’t smiled this much since before Cactus Steven started spouting back his dark thoughts, not really. All of his smiles for the gems the night before were placating smiles, not actually because he was happy, and when talking to them in the midst of his fight with his mutated plant, they were entirely false. However, the simple act of a picture sent just for him made him light up.

He replied, “Doing some cleaning. I haven’t gotten changed yet. I’m not presentable yet, haha, but you look,” he paused. Beautiful? Gorgeous? No, too much. Cute? Yes, but also she’s matured so much, she might not like that. Perfect? No, way too much. Terrific? That sounds stilted. How about… “Fantastic. Good luck on your presentation today, I believe in you!” After looking over his text again, he added heart and star emojis to the end and hit send. He slipped his phone into his sweatpants pocket and continued to work on vacuuming the top-sheet of his bed to rid it of cactus spines. He worked his way from foot of the bed forward, noting that the pillow was untouched by the needles. He finished his way across the bed, hopped down and placed the vacuum on the ground, shutting it off. A new ping on his phone took his attention.

“You could have just rolled out of bed and you’d look good,” came Connie’s reply.

Hah, not today, he thought ruefully. I don’t want her to see me like this. Another message popped up before he could come up with a response.

“What made you catch the cleaning bug so early?”

How do I say what happened without making her worry? He thought. I can’t distract her from her presentation. “Well, I woke up early and…” He paused. Cactus Steven broke a lot of stuff, but I definitely don’t want to tell her that. “-there was a bit of a mishap in the greenhouse. Just doing a bit of work to put everything back in its place.”

He slipped the phone in his pocket and pulled the top sheet off the bed, looking it over. There were minor tears in a few spots, but it didn’t look too damaged. Maybe dad knows someone who can fix it. Steven considered. I don’t want to ask Pearl, she’s already helping fix the mess downstairs. He wadded the sheet into a ball and tossed it next to his hamper.

He took the folded over comforter in his left hand and walked to the balcony door, opening it with his right. The morning air was cool on his arms and chest through the holes in the shirt. Taking the comforter in both hands he walked to the balcony’s edge. He tried to enjoy the view of the beach as he shook the comforter out over the deck. The cactus needles shed from the comforter with a few good shakes. Most of them fell to the beach below but a few littered the wood beneath his feet.

He took a few careful steps back, avoiding the spines and walking back into his room, comforter draped over his arms. He closed the door behind him and fished a spare sheet from the bottom drawer of his dresser. He quickly made his bed and looked around his room. With the exception of the wadded sheet by his hamper and the trash bin brimming with cactus spines everything looked in order.

He walked to his shoes stowed in the corner and slipped them on. Before turning around, a new ping brought his attention back to his phone. He promptly pulled it from his pocket and opened his texts. “Is everything ok?” Connie’s text read.

Steven chewed his lip as he considered how to put her mind at ease. Now you’ve made her worry. Way to go, he thought bitterly. He set the phone down on the bed and ran a hand through his hair. Maybe if I just show her the greenhouse and don’t tell her about the damage to the house it won’t distract her too much. If I tell her nothing that will definitely make her worry more. I can’t show her how I look though, especially not with this shirt.

In one swift motion he tugged his shirt off, wincing slightly as it pulled against his marred skin, and tossed the shirt by the hamper. He grabbed a fresh black and yellow star tee from the dresser and more carefully slipped it on, trying not to aggravate his injuries. He turned back to the corner of the room by his bed where he left his apron hanging on and slipped it over his outfit, tying it firmly. He scooped up his phone and ran his other hand through his hair as he walked back to the balcony, opening the door with his elbow.

Feeling through his curls he found a few lingering cactus needles and opened his phone to his camera app look himself over. He walked the short few steps to the greenhouse and plucked the remaining needles from his hair, tossing them over the balcony’s edge before making his way to the ruined wall of the dome. He activated the door and soundlessly stepped inside. The bruise that was forming over his right eyelid was somewhat noticeable but the slight cuts from the needles were less so. With a quick adjustment of his filters, it was unlikely anyone would notice them at all in a photo. If he didn’t include the broken glass in his picture to Connie, it wouldn’t look like there was much damage at all. Its fine, just angle yourself so she doesn’t see the hole in the dome. No reason to get her worked up when she’s got her presentation today. But that bruise, if I put a bandage over it, she’ll surely notice. How do I avoid making her worry more?

He thought back to their recent conversation when she had been having a rough week of cramps. She had sent him a dramatic selfie: forearm draped across her brow, mouth open in a seemingly pained sigh, head tilted back and eyes closed. She had included the whole of her upper body in the shot, loose t-shirt flipped up slightly, exposed waist showing several inches of toned midriff, hot water bottle pressed into her aggravated side, and sweatpants hung low and tucked over the water bottle. At the time, he remembered blushing over seeing more of her abdomen then had previously had the privilege of, muscles firm from years of sword training and tennis. Connie didn’t wear crop tops, so this felt like a secret between the two of them.

But now, he recalled the pose, and if he adjusted it slightly so his forearm was over the injured eye, there would be no reason to call it into question. He would be playing back to a recent memory shared for his Jam Bud, not looking hurt and forlorn. It would be easy to downplay as not serious, so he could convince her to focus on her school day. She shouldn’t have to worry about me, he thought firmly. He found the right position, had the filters just right to avoid drawing attention to any red marks along the arms or face, and imitated the expression a precisely as he could. He snapped the picture and looked it over. “My poor greenhouse,” he captioned, adding a few emoji that matched his overly-dramatic expression. With a tap the picture was sent. He added after, “everything’s alright now, just a mess I’ve gotta clean up.”

He glanced around the dishevelment, now that his task of easing Connie’s mind was complete. A few broken pots and upturned dirt as well as broken branches strewn the floor. Bluebell Connie had been tipped over from her rightful place on the stool where she sat, but other than a small bit of dirt having spilled out the flower was undamaged. He flipped the stool with his foot and scooped the overturned dirt back into the pot before setting the Bluebell upright with his unoccupied hand. He turned and scooped up a few broken branches lying and tossed them into his compost pile about before he noticed another pot flipped over. The flower itself looked like it may need a splint to keep it from wilting, but more concerning was that the pot it was in had cracked and a few broken pieces lay on the floor.

Steven was walking toward the broken pot when heard another ping and looked down to the phone. “What happened to the place?” Connie replied. He continued walking toward the broken pot but his focus was on the message to Connie.

“I’ll tell you later.” He answered, typing with his right hand and reaching forward with his left. “I’ve got it under control-“ he had the next sentence half typed before he was able to send. His balance was thrown off as he stumbled over a branch he neglected to pick up earlier and the phone tumbled out of his hand, forgotten as he moved to brace himself. Happy thoughts couldn’t come to mind quick enough to slow his fall. The hand that had been reaching for the broken shard of terra cotta met it with staggering pain as the broken pot pressed into his palm several inches deep. He let out a sound between a strangled cry and a shuddering gasp.

No, no, no, fuck. He thought as he fumbled to his knees, trying not to focus on the throbbing feeling through his palm. Why can’t I do anything right?

He drew his injured hand to his chest and sprang back to his feet with the force of his free hand. His breaths came in hard, pained pants as he saw the blood begin to stain his apron. The sight had him fighting a gag. With an empty stomach, he knew if the nauseating feeling overtook his focus he would just be caught up dry-heaving and unable to stop the searing in his hand. Get out of here, he thought, who knows that the fuck bleeding on these plants would do. He forced himself to walk quickly out of the greenhouse and back to his room, trying to keep the blood running from his palm from ending up anywhere but the apron already splattered red. Adrenaline had his heart thudding loudly in his chest and he fought back panicked instincts through his pain.

After opening the bedroom door he immediately noticed the stained and torn sleep shirt on the floor and grabbed it. By pressing a knee onto it on his bed, he cleanly ripped off a large chunk with his unhurt hand and pressed it into the wound to slow the bleeding. He hissed through his teeth in pain but was able to use his fingers of his left hand enough despite the hurt to keep the scrapped shirt in place. He bubbled his injured arm just past the wrist to keep himself from bleeding further onto anywhere else. He used the rest of the damaged shirt to shred into strips, using the same method of leverage with his knee, and draped them over his elbow before walking swiftly back to the porch’s back end.

Please don’t let them see this, he thought, please don’t let them hear me, please don’t have them bother me. This sucks enough, I don’t want them to make me feel like more of an idiot. I don’t want to feel more pathetic. After making his way to a part of the porch that couldn’t be seen through windows, he bubbled all of himself before releasing the one on the wrist of his hurt hand, pulling the rag to tamp the bleeding from between his fingers and set it across his left wrist. He turned the palm up to assess the damage and he felt his stomach turn with discomfort. The shard of the flower pot cut into his hand with at least a three inch long gash, and at its deepest point cut into thick muscle at the top of his palm. Dirt smeared across the broken flowerpot, meaning he wouldn’t be able to heal it immediately without risking infection, as he had suspected. He took a deep breath and bubbled his head as to avoid drawing attention if he cried out. This is going to hurt, just get it over with. He thought. He grasped the terra cotta piece with his right hand, and hesitated. Here goes nothing.

Steven bit his lip and yanked on the broken piece from his hand. He wasn’t able to suppress a shout but with the two layers of bubble his voice would not be easily heard from inside the house. With a shuddering breath, he bubbled the shard of broken pot and sent it to a corner of his room before pressing the from his wrist rag into the cut and closing his fist. Stars, that hurts. He grabbed one of the strips from across his elbow, held one end between his fingers and took the other end in his teeth. With a quick motion he released his fist and wrapped the shirt strips around the wound, tying it off with his unharmed hand. He repeated the processes several times until he was sure the makeshift bandage would hold but not leak. Once finished, he rushed from outside the porch back into his room. He tossed the unused shredded shirt strips onto his bed, pulled off his apron, leaving it discarded on the floor and made his way down the stairs.

The gems each had their own task that they were working on to begin the work of restoring the kitchen and living area but quickly their eyes were drawn to him as he came down. Amethyst was carrying a large coffee table under one arm from her room in the temple. Garnet was taking food from the soaked cabinets and setting them on the far counter, or in a trash bin if they were ruined. Pearl was walking those food items onto what appeared to be a restaurant-grade set of metal shelving placed close to the temple door. Upon looking over to Steven they all had various expressions of distress and Steven avoided their eyes.

“I’m just going to the bathroom, don’t worry about me,” Steven urged guiltily, as he moved down the stairs.

Amethyst dropped the coffee table with a thud, narrowly missing her foot. Garnet sucked in an audible breath before quietly letting it out through her nose. Pearl dropped the box of rice in one hand with a thump and squeezed hard on the can in her other hand of vegetable soup until it popped, contents squelching through tight fingers and splattering to the floor.

Amethyst was the first to break the quiet. “Dude, your hand!” her voice pitched up and cracked as she said the last word, rushing to the foot of the stairs as Steven moved down and hurried toward the bathroom. He avoided her concerned gaze.

“I got it,” he replied.

“Oh, oh, Steven,” Pearl called from the kitchen, voice thick with uneasiness. She moved toward him with quick, purposeful strides. “That looks serious, let me help you-“ Steven turned his head over his shoulder but did not stop moving toward the bathroom.

“Pearl, I can handle this, you don’t need to see this. It’s gross.” He responded sternly. She stopped, but her arm reached out and her eyes watered without reaching their tipping point.

“I’m pretty sure she’s seen worse,” Amethyst interjected with a disdainful tone.

“Don’t worry bout it,” Steven said, opening the bathroom door with his unhurt hand. Pearl looked back to Garnet who stayed by the kitchen counter, her usual impassive expression looking tight and strained.

“Steven,” Amethyst called uneasily as Steven moved into the bathroom doorway. “You know when I lost my memory last spring, you said ‘I’ll be right by your side no matter what?’ That goes both ways, man. I can help. We can talk about this if you let me…”

“I can take care of this, Amethyst. Trust me,” he replied. She let out a slight huff as he closed the bathroom door.

“Well if you sound like you’ve collapsed in there I’m breaking down that door.” She snapped. “Don’t test me.” Steven turned toward the sink and ran the faucet, trying not to consider Amethyst’s warning.

“Garnet,” Pearl said in a hushed and anxious tone, “are you sure he’ll be alright? Those bandages he had were covered in blood.”

Steven yanked them off and ran his hand beneath the warm water, feeling the sting to his wound. His frame trembled slightly but his feet held beneath him. He tried to ignore their conversation, but unfortunately, his hearing was vigilantly trained and the running water wasn’t enough to drown it out.

“This injury will not require outside intervention, Pearl,” Garnet replied quietly. “It won’t do any good to press him further.”

He got a squirt of liquid soap and began washing the gash in his hand and area around it, seeing the soapy water stained red.

“This wasn’t the worse possible outcome,” Garnet continued as Steven cleaned the injury. “He could have gotten a piece of planter stuck in his face.” He tried not to think about that as he worked.

Still running the water over the hurt left hand, Steven opened the medicine cabinet and pulled out hydrogen peroxide and gauze, which rarely were needed but he was glad they had. He rinsed both hands to clear he blood off his right and shut the water off. He unscrewed the cap of the disinfectant and poured a small amount over the still bleeding gash, hissing through his teeth.

“Garnet, how did this happen? What can we do to help him?” Pearl ask.

Steven pressed the gauze to the cut and moved to sit on the lip of the tub. He brought his right hand to his mouth and licked along his fingers before pulling the gauze back with his pinky and thumb, and slid it across the injury, watching his healing spit sparkle and close the cut.

No reason to have to taste blood when I can just use my other hand to get the spit on it, he mused.

“I see lots of ways Steven could answer if we ask,” Garnet answered, “but I don’t know which is the truth. He’s hiding things again.”

Steven swallowed as he watched the muscles in his palm form anew. The deepest part of the injury, a dark spot about half an inch long, still looked an angry orange-red, but the edges went from pink to white in a new scar. He sighed and stood, looking himself over in the mirror.

“Is there anything we can do to?” Pearl said, tone hushed and fretful.

Steven glided his fingers back over his mouth and slicked them with his saliva. He took the spit and applied it to his face and arms, watching the marks from the cactus spines disappear.

“It’s better to leave it be, Pearl,” Garnet replied. “Trying to get answers out of him is only going to push him away.”

Steven lifted his shirt and rubbed a bit more saliva to the area around his gem, where the skin was tender. Getting anything accomplished today will be harder if I’m constantly flinching from the pain around my waist. I can deal with the rest of it later, he thought. He straightened his shirt before moving toward the bathroom door, sparing one last glance in the mirror. At least I look presentable. He exited the room, tossing the bloody gauze in the trash.

Garnet was still busying herself with the food sorting. Amethyst shoved the debris of the old table from the couch nook with her foot and moved the new one in place. Pearl brought the mop back out to clean up the soup splattered on the floor.

“I’ll be upstairs if you need me.” Steven called, walking back to his room.

“We’ll be here.” Amethyst answered.

Steven retreated to his room but realized he didn’t have his phone, so he made a beeline for the dome one more time. He scooped it up from the floor and looked it over, grateful it was undamaged. Glancing around, he counted his luck that there were no drips of blood on the floor. 

Moving back to his room, he saw the few responses to his last text to Connie. “I hope everything’s ok.” The first message read. “Don’t leave me in the dark.” The second one said, a few minutes later, followed by a frowny face. “I have to get to class now, but get back to me when you can, ok?”

Steven sighed, and sent a reply. “Sorry. Hope you did well on the presentation.” He laid back down on the bed, setting the phone on his nightstand and decided it would be best to rest before trying to do anything else.

[yetanotherbuffyblog]

What a ride, guys

So, uh, that finale…

The end is here, and Buffy and Friends are working things out on how to stop Glory from destroying the world via dimensional rifts and killing Dawn. Buffy refuses to take killing Dawn as an option, despite Giles being quite insistent on it. Anya suggests using the Orb of Dagon from earlier in the season, and also the hammer from the troll. 

I’m going to skip a lot of character moments to get to the actual fight, like how Dawn was made out of Buffy because she wasn’t born like a normal person, and how Buffy can’t bear to lose Dawn and talks about quitting after this apocalypse, but we’ll talk about some of it in the notes.

Tara is the one who leads them to where Glory’s working her ritual (around a giant construction tower, I guess?), because the insane people seem to be drawn to it. Once there, Glory recognizes her and Willow uses that distraction to undo the magic Glory did to Tara, which weakens her enough that Buffy can attack, while the rest of the Scoobies go for the minions. The fight seems to be pretty even between Glory and Buffy, until Glory decapitates Buffy… only to reveal that the Buffy she’s been fighting was actually the reprogrammed Buffy Bot. Real!Buffy starts whaling on Glory with the troll hammer. 

There’s a lot of fighting, but Buffy actually manages to beat down Glory, and manages to have her change into Ben. She makes Ben swear to make sure Glory leaves them all alone while she goes to check on her sister. Ben agrees to it, which is when Giles rolls up, and is all like, “Yeah, I get it, she’s a good guy, she’s not going to kill you because she’s a good guy. But, uh, let’s be real here: if Glory survives we’re screwed, so…” And Giles STRANGLES BEN TO DEATH! HOLY S***!

So Glory doesn’t bleed Dawn for the ritual, but that creepy demon dude who survived being stabbed? Doc? Yeah, he does because he’s the Jerk of the Week. He manages to repel Spike, but by the time Buffy gets up there he’s already cut Dawn to start her opening portals. Buffy chucks him off the tower for his troubles, but OH NO! Portals have started opening! Dawn argues that the only way that to stop the end of the world is to let herself die. So she offers to jump off the tower.

But Buffy thinks about how Dawn is made from her; the ritual’s kind of vague on how it works, exactly, but she knows that there’s something important about that connection? And Buffy remembers that thing she’s been told: that Death is her gift. So she realizes that Dawn doesn’t have to die, but someone does, and so Buffy throws herself off of the tower, dying, but also closing the portals. 

So the world is saved! But Buffy is dead.

Huh.

Notes!

-I am… not thrilled with the idea of the solution to saving the world being suicide. TV Tropes’s recap page for the episode mentions a review of the finale that had a similar, but more extreme, mindset, and TV Tropes’s reaction is like, “You missed the point! Did you want the world to be destroyed?” And no, of course not. But I’m not exactly happy with any plot situation where the only way to solve it is by suicide. I don’t think we should be writing stories that frame suicide as a heroic act. I sort of give this one a half-pass, because we know she won’t stay dead, and I realize this is a completely unrealistic situation, but still. It’s one thing for someone to save the world by putting themselves into a fight they can’t walk away from; it’s another to save the world by literal, unambiguous suicide, and that’s not something I’m okay with.

-Although Buffy did tell Spike that not all of them were going to come out of this alive. And the one who dies is… Buff. That’s some foreshadowing, Joss.

-When they go to the Summers house to get ready, Spike tells Buffy that he knows that she’ll never love him, but she treats him like a real person and that means something to him. Which is a cool character moment, I think. 

-Willow having a spell that reverses Glory’s Brain Drain feels a little… too convenient? It’s not so out there, and of course she hasn’t done it before because you have to get within reaching distance of Glory for it to work, but it’s handy that there’s a counterspell for it? Just when they need it!

-Reminder that Anya’s afraid of rabbits! When she and Xander are in the storage room looking for the Dagon Sphere, they happen across a plush rabbit and Anya screams. I’d forgotten that they bothered her.

-They also find the Buffy Bot, which Anya explains is being studied by Willow. Xander wonders if that’s a lesbian thing, but Anya reinforces that Willow’s interest in the Buffy Bot is purely academic.

-Also Xander proposes to Anya? She accepts except that she says that they’ll save it for after this battle. Which is kind of nice.

-Doc’s a pain in the butt. But is he dead? He survived being stabbed, so I don’t know if a fall off a tower would kill him.

-And Spike survived being thrown off the building, but Buffy didn’t. And I get that he’s a vampire so that probably counts for something, as he can only be killed in specific ways, but it felt a bit annoying. Not that I wanted Spike to die, it’s just… y’know.

-This dialogue! Heightened by knowing that Whedon’s a fan of Shakespeare!

Buffy: Hey, everybody knows their jobs. Remember, the ritual starts, we all die. And I'll kill anyone who comes near Dawn.

Spike: Well, not exactly the St. Crispin's Day speech, was it?

Giles: [wryly] "We few, we happy few..."

Spike: We band of buggered.

-Was this a fauxnale? Was the show going to be cancelled and then saved at the last minute? [shrugs] I dunno. You guys tell me.

-At one point Glory gets hit with a wrecking ball. That was cool.

-Tara gets her sanity back! I was worried about that. That being said… are the other crazy people going to get their sanity back now that Glory’s dead? Probably not. So I feel pretty bad for them. But at least Tara’s doing well.

-Also crazy!Tara calls Giles a killer before they get going, which is great ‘cause it foreshadows when he kills Ben.

-Oh hey, yeah, that? That was crazy. We get this line: 

Giles: She's a hero, you see. She's not like us. [suffocates Ben]

-And it makes sense! We know that Giles used to be really hardcore, and he’s the one advocating that they kill Dawn to save the world. He’s willing to do these underhanded dirty things, especially if they protect Buffy. He knows that Glory’s going to come back if she’s allowed to survive. I think Buffy knows that too, on some level, but she’s really tired of all this Slayer business and just wants to save her sister more than she wants to kill Glory or Ben, so it’s kind of secondary in her mind. But not Giles! Nope, Glory’s gotta go, and if that means killing Ben, then he’s gonna do it.

-When Glory “kills” the Buffy Bot, she assumes that the Slayer was a robot the entire time. Oh Glory, you moron.

-You know, Glory’s funny because she’s so… emotionally stupid? When Buffy’s beating her down, she basically begins pleading that Buffy just doesn’t understand the pain she’s going through of… not being an almighty deity. That’s it. As if “Oh woe is me, I’m not an evil demon god!” is really a sympathetic position to take here when you’re plotting to murder someone’s sister.

-The beginning of the episode has a flashback of Buffy helping some rando in an alley being attacked by a vampire. It’s a cool moment, with some good dialogue (especially because the vampire doesn’t seem to realize who he’s talking to), but it ends with Buffy agreeing with the would-be victim that she’s “just some girl” and it reinforces the idea that Buffy really just wants out of this game. She never asked to be the Slayer, and she would very much like to just be a normal person.

-One of Glory’s minions calls her “groove-tastic one”? What’s up with that guy?

-What do the minions do now that Glory’s dead? Go sulk, I guess? Find new jobs?

-A freaking dragon flies through the portal?!

[verdigrisprowl]

Jan 1 Dancitron Movie Night - Beetlejuice & an episode of the cartoon

Prowl showed up still somewhat drunk from the party he was at prior to movie night. Tragically, there was an Insecticon present who was definitely Bombshell and could not possibly be a different innocent Insecticon that might be named Bob, so he had to sober up so he could heroically protect the moviegoers from this fiend. And then once he was sober he realized he was silly.

After movie night Prowl and Soundwave spent a couple of hours trying to talk about Tarantulas’s sexual preferences without admitting how much either one of them knows about Tarantulas’s sexual preferences.

Today Specs 7:52 pm ((hello hello)) ItsyBitsySpyers 7:53 pm ((hello hello))

*What an eventful day it's been. He didn't have time to figure out the partial coverage, but he did have time to dry the fresh paint, so there's that. Now he's setting the couches and snacks in place and sitting down. This evening is going to be... interesting.* Specs 7:54 pm *the dragon tumbles in with cheerful aplomb and a cart full of treats. someone's been busy. does Laserbeak want any mercury cakes? they're shaped like butterflies and piled tantalizingly on top* Hello! Me 7:54 pm *guess who is here and is still Very Drunk* ItsyBitsySpyers 7:55 pm *Does the dragon really have to ask? Of course she does.*

[[Greetings, dragon.]] *Looks over. Hm. Avatar again? All right. Acknowledgment ping to Prowl.* Me 7:56 pm *Of course avatar again, how else would he be showing up.* *two acknowledging pings, because he's not sure if the first one went through.* Ratchet 7:57 pm *pops in* ItsyBitsySpyers 7:57 pm [[Good evening, Ratchet.]] Ratchet 7:57 pm Evening. Me 7:58 pm *takes his seat, slouches down.* ItsyBitsySpyers 7:58 pm [[Do sit. He'll have something amusing in a moment.]] Me 7:58 pm *... slouches a little more.* ItsyBitsySpyers 7:59 pm *...Is mildly concerned Prowl's going to fall over. Readies a feeler.* Me 7:59 pm *... he can just slouch forever and it's not uncomfortable because he's an avatar.* Specs 7:59 pm *the dragon finishes piling treats in the assigned area and finds a couch to perch upon* Ratchet 7:59 pm *squints at screen* Definitely Not Shockwave 7:59 pm ...*He isn't sure what he just walked back into.* Ratchet 7:59 pm *sloooowly takes a seat* Me 8:00 pm *slouches MORE. amazing.* ItsyBitsySpyers 8:00 pm *...Soundwave reaches out and tries to tip Prowl back upright some.* Me 8:01 pm *it's too late. he's basically on his back on the couch.* ItsyBitsySpyers 8:01 pm *Soundwave nods to everyone coming in.* *He'll just. Leave the feeler where it is, then.* Me 8:02 pm *he's intensely watching the math on the screen.* Ratchet 8:02 pm Well. Bevel 8:02 pm *arrives with an armful of datapads because who puts all their reading material into one convenient datapad, that's madness* Me 8:03 pm *and now he's slightly terrified.* ... I've forgotten how to do math. Ratchet 8:03 pm That's never happened quite that way to my knowledge, but Ironhide IS bad at math. ... 😀 ItsyBitsySpyers 8:03 pm *Gently* (txt): Negative. Video mech: poor mathematician. *Gestures to Ratchet. See? Confirmation.* Ratchet 8:03 pm Who's on first! I'm. I'm doing Who's on first?? Swoop 8:03 pm ((this skit will NEVER get old. until the end of humanity, this skit will be funny)) Specs 8:03 pm I think the fur on my head is going to combust. Me 8:03 pm ... Oh. Okay. ItsyBitsySpyers 8:04 pm [[Ah, you know that skit?]] Bevel 8:04 pm *giggles as she drops them all onto her usual table* Me 8:04 pm *oh now Who's On First is on. This is much better.* Ratchet 8:04 pm Of course I do! I sent it to Prowl. Bevel 8:04 pm ((Who's the Band on Stage is my favorite riff on this Me 8:05 pm *claps a hand over his mouth so he can laugh* Ratchet 8:05 pm [[ WILY ]] Swoop 8:05 pm ((hi wily)) Specs 8:05 pm ((oh my god I thought Wily was called Why)) Definitely Not Shockwave 8:05 pm *He signs heavily at this terrible math humor, grabs a refreshment, and draws near to Bevel in a way that is looking for some sign that he is welcome to sit next to her.* Bevel 8:06 pm ((heya wily Definitely Not Shockwave 8:06 pm ((...*sighs) Swoop 8:06 pm Bob bob! Here! Look! *scampers indoors and gestures wildly* Wily 8:06 pm HELLO SWOOPING FRIEND. Me 8:06 pm *quietly raises a hand* I'm why. Swoop 8:06 pm It Dancitron : > Movie night Definitely Not Shockwave 8:06 pm ((...Ah, the skit changed. I shouldn't go afk mid-write.)) Swoop 8:06 pm Him Soundwave do movies here : > ItsyBitsySpyers 8:06 pm (txt): Why, Soundwave's second favorite question. Wily 8:07 pm *lopes to Swoop and flops* THERE ARE SO MANY PEOPLE HELLO NEW FRIENDS. ItsyBitsySpyers 8:07 pm (txt): Prowl deserves What. Bevel 8:07 pm *waves to Longarm* Hiya! Wily 8:07 pm IT IS NICE TO MEET YOU ALL. Swoop 8:07 pm *is easily bowled over by the bug and shrieks with excitement* Ratchet 8:07 pm Heh. Bevel 8:07 pm Hi, Bob! ItsyBitsySpyers 8:07 pm *...Oh dear. A giant bug. He'll just. Nod.* Me 8:07 pm No no. Second base is too much responsibility. Wily 8:07 pm HELLO BEVEL FRIEND Ratchet 8:07 pm Me'n Ironhide, Abbott and Costello... I like it. ItsyBitsySpyers 8:07 pm ((FIVE MINUTE WARNING grab your snacks)) Specs 8:07 pm ... *the dragon takes refuge in the air to avoid being trampled by this giant and enthusastic bug* Bevel 8:08 pm *don't mind all the datapads, Longarm. She'll just... gather them into a pile so there's room for other bots to put down their drinks and stuff* Wily 8:08 pm *which of course catches the bugs attention. He's waving at the dragon* Swoop 8:08 pm *hops up and down, yelling to the room* Him BOB come see movie TOO! Me Swoop bring FRIEND to see : > Definitely Not Shockwave 8:08 pm *He nods to this "bob", and returns Bevel's greeting. He sits as soon as there is a place to sit.* Me 8:08 pm *There's a loud voice here. Who's the loud voic-- JGJGDSK THAT'S BOMBSHELL* Windchill 8:08 pm *He's here, but is not alone. He's got a worm in a blanket propped up on one shoulder. Apologies to anyone hoping for a peaceful evening.* Me 8:08 pm *goodbye prowl is up the stairs* ItsyBitsySpyers 8:09 pm *Welp. Soundwave's just. Gonna go running up after him.* Wily 8:09 pm *Oblivious* Specs 8:09 pm Hello, um... *the dragon is NOT coming down* Have we met? Swoop 8:09 pm *is literally hanging off Bob's arm* Ratchet 8:09 pm Prowl....?? Me 8:09 pm *prowl chose a hell of a time to show up at a movie night drunk* Ratchet 8:09 pm *is not sure if he can go up the stairs* *maybe just hover at the bottom* ItsyBitsySpyers 8:09 pm *If Ratchet wants to try, he'll find it doesn't close on him.* Wily 8:09 pm *Lifting his arm up and down* *shaking Swoop like a flag* Swoop 8:10 pm *kicks his legs up in the air and SHRIEK-laughs* *kicks his foot towards the bar* Bob! Bob! There GOODIES over there. Goodies for MOVIE NIGHT people. ItsyBitsySpyers 8:10 pm (txt): Calm, calm. Safe. Specs 8:10 pm *yeah, this is NOT safe for small and furry dragons. watch out Windchill you're getting a hat* Me 8:10 pm *Soundwave will find Prowl sitting against a wall with his knees up to his chest, otherwise very calm.* Swoop 8:10 pm *immediately drops when he hears Snarl's voice and looks around* Snarl????????????? Wily 8:11 pm I TOO HAVE BROUGHT THE SNACKS. TO SHARE. SHARING IS ALSO THE CARING. *Follows Swoop like a massive several odd ton puppy* Swoop 8:11 pm *cackles at the screen* That land before time DINOBOTS! Windchill 8:11 pm *Takes a seat and lets his spawn settle in his lap.* Ratchet 8:12 pm *yeah Ratchet's gonna make his cautious way up the stairs* Me 8:12 pm *looks up at Soundwave and says, very reasonably,* That's Bombshell. Swoop 8:12 pm Um! Um! Bob. *points to the bar, he's never brought goodies before but that's where they all live so let's do that* ItsyBitsySpyers 8:12 pm *Soundwave will kneel near Prowl and offer a hand. He's - not entirely sure what to do. Glance over to Ratchet.* Windchill 8:12 pm *Spawn doesn't care about movies and isn't paying attention at all.* Wily 8:12 pm OK. Definitely Not Shockwave 8:12 pm *He isn't completely oblivious to the sudden exit of their host, but Longarm isn't much for participating in the action.* *He studies Bevel's datapads curiously.* Swoop 8:13 pm What You Bob bringing? ItsyBitsySpyers 8:13 pm (txt): Negative. Different mental pattern. Bob, not Bombshell. Sunstreaker pet. Ratchet 8:13 pm Hey, Prowl. Specs 8:13 pm *peers down at Windchill and the chillspawn from atop her perch* Is this alright? Bevel 8:13 pm *is confident Ratchet and Soundwave have it taken care of and content to shuffle through her hastily put together stack for the datapad she'd been reading* Wily 8:13 pm *Open his bag* I HAVE THE RUST STICKS, AND THE SHEET METAL, AND THE CUBES OF MEDIUM GRADE. ALSO GLASS. Me 8:13 pm Excuse me. I am a Bombshell expert. Wily 8:13 pm *insecticon snacks may not be everyone snacks* Windchill 8:14 pm *Both of them peer back up, Windchill in confusion and the worm in insatiable hunger.* Eh? Swoop 8:14 pm *squeaks then breaks down into giggles* Bob only one eat sheet metal kehhehh Me 8:14 pm Hi, Ratchet. You'd better stay up here. There's a Bombshell down there. Swoop 8:14 pm *picks up a rust stick tho* Definitely Not Shockwave 8:14 pm If I may ask, Bevel...What are you reading? Specs 8:14 pm I think I am going to be your hat until either Whirl shows up or I am in less immediate fear of being stepped upon. I hope you don't mind. Wily 8:14 pm *wants to know what snacks are also here* ItsyBitsySpyers 8:14 pm ((okay warnings, soo..... some sexual humor, death and dark comedy, gross body distortions, possession, bad 80s representation of a witch doctor, uhhh harassment, things coming to life that oughtn't be, things like that)) Me 8:15 pm ((terrible interior design)) Ratchet 8:15 pm Right. Uh, I can... *he's never been up here before. quick glance at Soundwave??* ... uh, stay up here with you, if you want? Specs 8:15 pm *the dragon brought mercury cakes shaped like butterflies, nice crunchy energon treats with gooey centers, some delicious silver-mercury drops, and a canister labeled "Whirl," which is the only thing Bob should probably not take* Swoop 8:15 pm ((umm... what all is on the bar? I usually just have swoop grab a dish of whatever without looking.)) Bevel 8:15 pm Old stories and stuff about the Thirteen. Me 8:16 pm You will probably be safest if you do that. Ratchet 8:16 pm That Insecticon downstairs... Windchill 8:16 pm *Windchill considers this.* ItsyBitsySpyers 8:16 pm *Soundwave nods to Ratchet. He can stay up here as long as either Prowl or himself are here.* Ratchet 8:16 pm *you know what, Prowl doesn't need to hear that that Insecticon lives on Ratchet's Ark* Windchill 8:16 pm Well, Dragon...I don't know your name, sorry...that's fine. However. Ratchet 8:16 pm *at least until he's sober* Definitely Not Shockwave 8:16 pm You have a passion for...History? Wily 8:16 pm I DO NOT KNOW YOUR NAME EITHER. Specs 8:16 pm You can call me Specs, or Dragon, or whatever suits your fancy! 😄 Swoop 8:16 pm *pats Bob's side* Him Ravage make stuff sometimes. Bar stuff. Not goodie stuff. Wily 8:17 pm *more waving* I AM BOB. IT IS NICE TO MEET YOU, DRAGON SPECS. ItsyBitsySpyers 8:17 pm (txt): What reason, belief downstairs Insecticon designation: Bombshell? Windchill 8:17 pm *He nods; he'll try to remember and pick one.* ItsyBitsySpyers 8:17 pm *Maybe if they know what it is they can counter it with facts?* Swoop 8:17 pm ((oh man we have a busy first movie night for bob)) Bevel 8:17 pm I am gonna try to find one of them. Me 8:17 pm He looks like him and he can talk. Wily 8:17 pm ((Bob has no idea what's going around him. He's just excited that there's so many people)) Windchill 8:17 pm I have fed her, *he hoists the worm, who begins wiggling at the disturbance* already, but she's prone to biting. Definitely Not Shockwave 8:18 pm I see...And how precisely do you plan to do that? Windchill 8:18 pm So don't get too close to her. Ratchet 8:18 pm Uh... huh. *not Prowl's most sparkling display of deductive reasoning* Magnum Ace 8:18 pm -pings at Soundwave. Hello, he's back to himself now- Specs 8:18 pm *the dragon kinda burbles at the worm* Understood! I'll keep my tail to myself. *oh goddess please don't step on her, Bob* Hello to you too, Bob. Swoop 8:18 pm *grabs Bob and drags him to sit on the floor in front of the screen, they are great doors and terrible windows* ItsyBitsySpyers 8:18 pm *Absent-mindedly opens a bridge for the Leaguers.* Wily 8:18 pm *Staring at the wiggly worm. So delighted by the wiggles* *Oop, no he's being "dragged off"* Bevel 8:19 pm Gonna ask Primus if these do not help any. Windchill 8:19 pm *He says biting, which is true, but the dragon is small enough that they're definitely at risk of being consumed entirely.* Swoop 8:19 pm It MOVIE time!!! *no inside voice* Wily 8:19 pm *And so Bob again flops next to Swoop and becomes a bugshaped pancake on the floor.* Swoop 8:19 pm *wants to movie """properly""" with his buddy* ItsyBitsySpyers 8:19 pm (txt): Helm cannon not present. This, noticed? Wily 8:19 pm IT IS THE QUIET TIME YES? *also no inside voice* Magnum Ace 8:19 pm -and trots in, and waves. Hello- Specs 8:20 pm *the dragon is also furry enough to give the worm hairballs* Windchill 8:20 pm *He sets the worm back into his lap, but she hasn't taken her single eye off of the dragon, her prey, just yet.* Definitely Not Shockwave 8:20 pm Huh. May I skim through one of them? Swoop 8:20 pm Keehee! Me Swoop am talking aaaaaalways. Kehh. Lots of bot movie talking. ItsyBitsySpyers 8:20 pm *Someone downstairs is gonna have to contain the two toddlers. Try not to let them break everything.* Ratchet 8:20 pm *Bob is quite a bit bigger than Bombshell actually, but how would Prowl know that? Everyone in Ratchet's universe is smaller than Prowl's universe* ItsyBitsySpyers 8:20 pm *Windchill, you're a parent. You're good at that probably.* Bull 8:20 pm *follows Magnum* Ratchet 8:20 pm *with the possible exception of Bob, who.... who knows where he came from, actually? He's huge, is all.* Wily 8:20 pm *dumps out all the snacks in front of him.* Windchill 8:20 pm *He'll try. His hands are full but he'll give it a shot.* Swoop 8:21 pm *puts a rust stick in his mouth then waves some of the sheet metal in front of bob's face* *dinner and a show* Wily 8:21 pm *Face mask retracts so Bob can go CRONCH* *and that's the end of the sheet metal* Swoop 8:21 pm *SQUEEEALS* Magnum Ace 8:21 pm -oh, look, new people...with...oh wow- Wily 8:21 pm ???? Bull 8:21 pm *Bull Armor settles in their normal spot, more relaxed than last time* Windchill 8:22 pm *The Worm hears crunching.* Wily 8:22 pm SWOOPING FRIEND YOU MADE A TEAPOT NOISE. Swoop 8:22 pm Keehee! Teapot? Keeehheeee! You Bob BIIIIIG bite Wily 8:22 pm *Does the worm want the snacks? Bob will share* Windchill 8:22 pm *She turns her long, fat body—fat with POWER!—around to see.* Me 8:22 pm He's probably an alternate. Maybe not all Bombshells have helm cannons. Magnum Ace 8:22 pm -big teeth. He's going to scramble up to Bull's side- Windchill 8:22 pm *Windchill visibly braces, knowing what's coming.* Bevel 8:22 pm Sure! *hands one about the Mutacons over to Longarm* Swoop 8:22 pm *lays side by side with Bob, watching the movie on his tummy* Wily 8:23 pm *shoving all the rust sticks toward swoop* Definitely Not Shockwave 8:23 pm *He half-listens to the movie while parsing through the text.* Specs 8:23 pm *the dragon carefully watches the worm to ensure that she doesn't get snacked upon too* Magnum Ace 8:23 pm .... Swoop 8:23 pm *cannot MUNCH as good in robot mode, but tries anyway* Wily 8:23 pm *nudging various other things in the directions of others wether they them or not* Windchill 8:23 pm *The Worm spots the food, and starts peeping like a very loud, very naked baby bird.* Specs 8:23 pm ((that dog fucking killed them)) Bull 8:23 pm *looks to Magnum, having not seen what made him nervous* Definitely Not Shockwave 8:24 pm ((Murder by thankless canine)). Windchill 8:24 pm *Windchill dons an expression of parental pain.* ItsyBitsySpyers 8:24 pm *He can't argue against that. If he can have all kinds of alternate shapes, so can the Insecticons. Hmm.*

(txt): ...Prowl wants movie upstairs? Swoop 8:24 pm *throws a rust stick at the peeping noise without looking using his mad bomber skills* Wily 8:24 pm *Waving at new people with tiny, secondary arms* ItsyBitsySpyers 8:24 pm *He's probably not going to convince Prowl to go down there, but getting his mind off things? useful tactic? Uncertain.* Wily 8:24 pm THAT WAS A GOOD THROW. Windchill 8:24 pm *The stick bounces right off of her fat face.* Swoop 8:24 pm Me Swoop am very good at throw things Magnum Ace 8:24 pm That started off quick with death Me 8:24 pm ... The bar is downstairs. ItsyBitsySpyers 8:24 pm *Soundwave points to the lounge screen.* Ratchet 8:25 pm I've got high grade covered, if that's the issue. Windchill 8:25 pm *Her mouth forms an O of shock.* Ratchet 8:25 pm *it's Ratchet, of course he's got booze. he's always got booze.* Bull 8:25 pm *looks at one of the new mechs he does not recognize and waves back* Wily 8:25 pm HOW GOOD AT THE THROWING OF THINGS? Swoop 8:25 pm VERY VERY Me 8:25 pm No, I was going to get fancy drinks. Five of them. Wily 8:25 pm *gives him a snack to throw. Prove it* Swoop 8:25 pm Me Swoop am bombardier *takes the treat* what hit? Ratchet 8:26 pm Oh? Any fancy drinks in particular? Wily 8:26 pm WHAT'S A BOMBASTADEER? Magnum Ace 8:26 pm -waves back at the one waving at them. The one with the scary set of teeth- Windchill 8:26 pm *Chill picks up the stick before his spawn goes to get it herself. She must be contained.* Swoop 8:26 pm It bot who drop bombs EXPLODE Wily 8:26 pm I THOUGHT YOU WERE A DINO. Windchill 8:26 pm Let's not throw food, guys. Wily 8:26 pm OH. I HAVE LEARNED A THING. Swoop 8:26 pm It JOB Me 8:26 pm ... I don't know, I have to look at them. Wily 8:26 pm OOPSIES. Bevel 8:26 pm *is gonna get up to get something to drink from the bar* Swoop 8:27 pm *tosses the goodie in the air and catches it* What You Bob want Swoop to hit? Windchill 8:27 pm *The worm snatches the stick from her dear old dad before he can even offer it, and goes to town with a loud crunching.* ItsyBitsySpyers 8:27 pm (txt): ...Suggestion: Soundwave activates bar cameras. Prowl watches; Ratchet mixes, retrieves. This: acceptable?

*Looks to both of them. He can't make Ratchet do anything.* Wily 8:27 pm *looks around. Sees a glass at the bar. Points* Windchill 8:27 pm *Clicks his tongue.* Definitely Not Shockwave 8:27 pm *Longarm raises a brow in intrigue while learning of these "shifter transformers".* Windchill 8:27 pm *Reaches out with a toe to tap Swoop.* Me 8:28 pm ... I don't want you to do things for me. Definitely Not Shockwave 8:28 pm *As snoopy as he is, he glances over at where he believes Bevel to have left off in her text.* Swoop 8:28 pm *doesn't hesitate, chucks the goodie so it hits the back wall of the bar then falls into the glass* Ratchet 8:28 pm *well, Ratchet was going to offer to go retrieve fancy mixed drinks anyway, maybe after Prowl looked at a... picture menu?? if Ravage has one?* Windchill 8:28 pm *Sighs.* Wily 8:28 pm *Is absolutely 900% delighted* DO IT AGAIN. Ratchet 8:28 pm *but Soundwave's suggestion is acceptable in his view* Windchill 8:28 pm Do NOT do it again. Swoop 8:28 pm *smacks Windchill's toe* You bad at sabotage! Kehheh! Ratchet 8:29 pm I could mix your drinks. I don't mind going downstairs for a bit. And I'll be... careful. Windchill 8:29 pm *Rolls his eyes.* You need to go outside if you're going to throw things. Wily 8:29 pm *Oop. Reprimands directed their way. Bob flattens himself* I AM SORRY. Swoop 8:29 pm Swoop dont want outside. Me Swoop want inside For movie Windchill 8:29 pm Then you Swoop stop throwing things. Wily 8:30 pm *oh right a movie is playing* Windchill 8:30 pm If you break Soundwave's stuff he'll get mad at you. Bevel 8:30 pm *it's about the Thirteen battling Unicron* Swoop 8:30 pm Me Swoop waaaaaaaaaay too good at throw thing for ACCIDENTAL break ItsyBitsySpyers 8:30 pm ((this movie gets better if you imagine the mom as buzzsaw)) Wily 8:30 pm SWOOPING FRIEND IS A BOMMALIER Bevel 8:30 pm ((lol Wily 8:30 pm *got it in one* Windchill 8:30 pm No purposeful breaking allowed either, Swoop. Swoop 8:30 pm ((bob write swoop's resume for him)) Him Bob not ask for on purpose break : > Wily 8:31 pm ((A plus projectile. Good at throwing things. Best backpack)) Windchill 8:31 pm You guys can go play bombardiers outside. Me 8:31 pm ((he said "you can finally cook a decent meal" and she gave him a look like he was insane, for a split second i identified with her completely)) Wily 8:31 pm I DO NOT WISH TO BREAK THE THINGS THAT BELONGS TO OTHERS. Swoop 8:31 pm Noooo Wily 8:31 pm THAT WOULD NOT BE NICE. Definitely Not Shockwave 8:31 pm ((Hfhfhhff.)) *He makes a short "mmm" noise before returning to his own datapad.* Swoop 8:31 pm Dinobots not nice, Bob : > Wily 8:32 pm BUT YOU ARE NICE oO Oo !!!!!! Windchill 8:32 pm I'm not going to be nice either if you don't stop throwing things. Wily 8:32 pm *He picked a bad time to pay attention to the movie* Swoop 8:32 pm *opens his mouth to argue but ends up cackling instead* Bull 8:32 pm .... what sort of movie is this? *Bull whispers* Swoop 8:32 pm *he is into this movie now* Magnum Ace 8:32 pm -WELL THEN- I...haaaavel noidea Definitely Not Shockwave 8:33 pm *He considers this more mythology than history, but he wouldn't go so far as to insult her for her beliefs.* Wily 8:33 pm IT IS SCARY. Swoop 8:33 pm ((omg buzzsaw)) Bevel 8:33 pm *plops back down and offer a second cube to Longarm* Ratchet 8:33 pm [[ wow that IS buzzsaw ]] Definitely Not Shockwave 8:33 pm ((It's too accurate.)) Specs 8:33 pm *blinks* Swoop 8:33 pm ((this is why your sister trolls you so much)) Ratchet 8:33 pm [[ also i....... i need to sleep...... ]] ItsyBitsySpyers 8:33 pm }}I like her.{{ Swoop 8:34 pm You Bob scared??? ItsyBitsySpyers 8:34 pm ((aaaaa okay ;; get you a rest)) Bevel 8:34 pm ((night! Me 8:34 pm ((gnight~)) Wily 8:34 pm I AM FINE Magnum Ace 8:34 pm ((g'night! ItsyBitsySpyers 8:34 pm *Soundwave gently nudges Prowl.*

(txt): What action wanted, Prowl's, ours? Wily 8:34 pm ((niiight!)) Ratchet 8:34 pm [[ ratchet will stay with prowl ]] ItsyBitsySpyers 8:34 pm ((roger)) Definitely Not Shockwave 8:34 pm *He forms a pleased expression with his faceplate and takes the cube.* Swoop 8:34 pm Really really? Ratchet 8:34 pm [[ and/or get him some drinks ]] Wily 8:34 pm ....NO. Definitely Not Shockwave 8:34 pm Thank you, how thoughtful. Windchill 8:34 pm *He's going to TRY to watch the movie now.* Wily 8:34 pm I AM SORRY. LYING IS BAD. IT IS FINE NOW THOUGH Swoop 8:35 pm *giggles and pats Bob's helm* Wily 8:35 pm *chitters* Bevel 8:35 pm Welcome. *grins* Me 8:35 pm ((im trying to get him back downstairs tho)) ItsyBitsySpyers 8:35 pm ((ratchet as seat sandwich whenever prowl sits?)) Wily 8:35 pm SHARK? Swoop 8:35 pm Us Dinobots scarier than movie. You not scared. Magnum Ace 8:36 pm ...so...um.. Specs 8:36 pm Now that's not something you see every day. Wily 8:36 pm *oh well if Swoop says it, must be true* OK ItsyBitsySpyers 8:36 pm *Quietly waits for Prowl's answer.* Swoop 8:36 pm : > Wily 8:37 pm *Will try to convince himself of this even if it confuses him. Dinobots aren't scary* Windchill 8:37 pm I like her eyeliner. Swoop 8:37 pm *drapes a wing over Bob like a blanket, there, now nothing can get him* Windchill 8:37 pm Not sure why she has a...glove? On her forehead though. *Human fashion is beyond him sometimes.* Bull 8:38 pm This movie is strange. Magnum Ace 8:38 pm Yeah. Wily 8:38 pm *Tucks in* Magnum Ace 8:38 pm I have no idea what is going on anymore Definitely Not Shockwave 8:38 pm These..."Mutacons", Bevel, has anyone bothered to study them? Me 8:38 pm *stares at Soundwave* ... I'unno. Don't—fuss over me. You can go back. Swoop 8:39 pm *has goodies and is the big bad dinobot protector, if Bird shows up tonight will be perfect* Windchill 8:39 pm *Bounces his baby now that she's done munching.* Definitely Not Shockwave 8:39 pm ((I'm fucking wheezing. Thanks, Soundwave, for making this whole movie 11000% more amusing.)) Wily 8:40 pm *Is cool with Swoop playing the part of security blanket. Super appreciates it even* Bevel 8:40 pm I do not think so. They went into space in *she pushes a couple datapads around and grabs one* this one, to find Amalgamous. I never met any when I was still in space but that was different universes. ItsyBitsySpyers 8:40 pm *Soundwave lifts his hands in an apologetic gesture. He's not trying to fuss. Just work out what's needed.*

(txt): If that, Prowl's wish, Soundwave complies. Me 8:40 pm Be careful. Don't get too close to him. Don't let him launch bugs at you. If you think he might, even if you think they can't get past your defenses, send me an emergency ping immediately. You have to send the ping BEFORE he bugs you or it's already too late. Swoop 8:41 pm Cowboy Windchill 8:41 pm (( God that reminds me of some local commercials. )) Specs 8:41 pm ((oh my lorf)) *the dragon peers down at the worm* What is her name? Definitely Not Shockwave 8:42 pm *He's doing his best to not seem disappointed.* Ah, I see. Unfortunate, their abilities could have been useful. Wily 8:42 pm CHALK IS MOST FUN. Windchill 8:42 pm I'll try a beetle guy. *Waggles his brows.* Swoop 8:42 pm You Bob do art thing with Sunstreaker? ItsyBitsySpyers 8:42 pm *Nods.*

(txt): Soundwave watches Insecticon. If/when Prowl: capable, extra optics preferred. If not, second floor: safe. Acknowledged? Wily 8:43 pm *nods* I AM NOT THAT GOOD. BUT IT IS FUN. Windchill 8:43 pm *His spawn watches him as if he had lost his mind.* Wily 8:43 pm I SPILL ALL OF THE PAINT. THE CONTAINERS ARE SO VERY TINY. Swoop 8:44 pm Spill paint sound MORE fun to Me Swoop Me 8:44 pm ... Hm. *Soundwave needs Prowl's protection. He's not going to get it if Prowl's upstairs.* Windchill 8:44 pm *The bug perks up at the whistling.* Wily 8:44 pm IT IS VERY SLIPPERY. AND THE COLORS ARE MOST DELIGHTFUL. THE CARETAKER WAS NOT AS HAPPY. Swoop 8:44 pm Him Sunstreaker cleany clean bot Wily 8:45 pm HE DID PUT THE COLORS INTO HONEY AND LET ME PAINT TOAST. Windchill 8:45 pm *The bug looks confused: there's no bug to talk to there, only a boring screen!* Wily 8:45 pm THAT WAS MOST FUN. Bull 8:45 pm And things just got weirder. Bevel 8:45 pm Useful how? Swoop 8:45 pm Kehhehehh You bob eat EEEEVERYTHING Wily 8:45 pm *Can eat literally all the things. Even the dreaded sugar* Magnum Ace 8:45 pm Yeah Specs 8:45 pm *whistles at the worm* Wily 8:46 pm *reflexively chitters back at other bugs in the room* Magnum Ace 8:46 pm I'm...not sure where any of this is going Omicron 8:46 pm *predacon falls in, likely in a corner so not to squish anyone* Windchill 8:46 pm *Her head whips around so fast it might have injured a weaker worm.* Swoop 8:46 pm *can't chitter but he chirps once he realizes we're making noises, no reason just participating* Wily 8:47 pm *Has waved to everyone so far, why stop now.* HELLO NEW FRIEND. Specs 8:47 pm *lets out a soft noise, trying to imitate a flute sound* Bevel 8:47 pm *mimics Bob's chittering* Wily 8:47 pm *Which spurs Bob on more* Windchill 8:47 pm *A small head whips around again.* Omicron 8:47 pm hiiiii Windchill 8:47 pm *Windchill's just watching, his mouth twitching.* Me 8:47 pm So much for being drunk tonight. Okay—give me a moment. I've gotta make me be sober. ItsyBitsySpyers 8:48 pm *Helm tilt. Make him be sober?*

(txt): How possible, within moment...? Definitely Not Shockwave 8:48 pm Well...*Oh, how to say this without sounding like a mad scientist...* Cybertronians who can combine are notably more durable than lone individuals. Wily 8:48 pm *Looks like there's a chorus of strange vague sounds in the room and Bob is delighted* Swoop 8:48 pm *cackles at the "flat" joke, this movie speaks to him* Definitely Not Shockwave 8:48 pm I forget that most here aren't mid-war. Windchill 8:49 pm *The bug peeps questioningly.* Specs 8:49 pm *hm, this is definitely a Thing. whistles with a higher pitch* Wily 8:49 pm *Chirrrs back* Me 8:49 pm Turn my chip on. *Lowers his face into his hands. Give him a sec.* Wily 8:49 pm *If there is a call, he will respond.* ItsyBitsySpyers 8:49 pm *He has no idea what Prowl is talking about, but he'll wait.* Windchill 8:50 pm *The worm stares at the dragon. That's not an insecticon! Betrayal!* Magnum Ace 8:50 pm -he is SO confused right now- Specs 8:50 pm *chirp chirp whistle* Magnum Ace 8:51 pm -about the movie and all the rest of the noise in the room- Windchill 8:51 pm *Her protomandibles twitch. Food that speaks gibberish?* Swoop 8:52 pm ((her neck 😀 )) Specs 8:52 pm *gently peeps at the worm. the worm looks interested?* Swoop 8:52 pm Look her smoke! Wily 8:52 pm SHE HAS A LEAK. Swoop 8:52 pm *blows out a puff of smoke himself* Bevel 8:52 pm *nods sort of in agreement* Being able to combine would be really useful but I do not think I would want to be stuck like the Mutacons are. Omicron 8:52 pm *Ice Queen finds a better place to stretch out on the floor, forelegs crossed and wings settling down on her back. Gives a relaxed chirp and then rumble, watches the others around* Wily 8:53 pm *passes tinier hands through smoke* Me 8:53 pm *... uuugh. second time in a day. He's gonna throw up.* ... *Nope. Nope, he's fine.* All right. M'good. Wily 8:53 pm OOOOOOH Windchill 8:53 pm *She lifts her upper body, exactly like an inchworm, and stares.* Swoop 8:53 pm *blinks at Bob, then grins* You Bob like smoke trick, huh? Wily 8:53 pm YES. Windchill 8:53 pm NO fire, Swoop. Wily 8:53 pm OH LOOK BIG CANDY Swoop 8:53 pm No fiiiiiiiiire Smoke! Windchill 8:53 pm *Nudges him with a foot.* Wily 8:53 pm !!!!!!!!!!!! Windchill 8:53 pm No smoke, Swoop. Magnum Ace 8:53 pm ........... Swoop 8:54 pm *blows a ring* Bull 8:54 pm *is unnerved* Swoop 8:54 pm Whyyyyyyyyy? Wily 8:54 pm *incredibly alarmed* Swoop 8:54 pm Why no smoke? Specs 8:54 pm *the worm is attentive! another whistle* ItsyBitsySpyers 8:54 pm *He's... confused, but he'll nod. And stand up? Is he supposed to be going down there alone or no?*

*Gonna. Make his way toward the stairs. Maybe.* Magnum Ace 8:54 pm -nudges Bull- Outside for air? Wily 8:54 pm !?!?!?!?! Windchill 8:54 pm Because you might set off fire alarms that detect smoke. Swoop 8:54 pm *would argue the smoke rule but the bug at his side is alarmed for some reason* ??? Bull 8:54 pm *looks to Magnum* Yeah... I wouldn't mind a minute out. Windchill 8:54 pm And because I said so. Wily 8:55 pm *gathers Swoop up teddy bear style because that poor fly* Swoop 8:55 pm *lets himself be gathered* Why Bob startle? Magnum Ace 8:55 pm -going to have to find a way out, but they'll manage- Right, let's go Wily 8:55 pm HE ATE THE BUG Swoop 8:55 pm Oh! Windchill 8:55 pm *The worm is ignoring dad, and starts to climb for his shoulder.* Wily 8:55 pm HE HAD GIANT CANDY BUT HE ATE THE BUG Swoop 8:55 pm *pats Bob's cheek* *this is how you comfort people yes?* Wily 8:55 pm *Whiiiiiines* *....but yes* Me 8:56 pm *Stands up with, and follows.* No—don't go down there alone. I'm an avatar, he can't touch me. Definitely Not Shockwave 8:56 pm Indeed, most wouldn't volunteer for such an existence... It might just be a matter of finding a way to-- Ahem. I mean... presuming there *is* a way of reversing the effects, it could be used without any side effects. Swoop 8:56 pm *curls up and enjoys teddy bear duty* Definitely Not Shockwave 8:56 pm Permanent side effects, that is. Specs 8:57 pm *peers down at the worm and whistles more. yes, clearly they are connecting.* ItsyBitsySpyers 8:57 pm *Soundwave pauses to allow time for Prowl to catch up and bobs his helm. He sees what's going on.*

(txt): Protection: appreciated. Come.

*Down to the seat. The long way that goes nowhere near the bug.* Bull 8:57 pm *follows Magnum towards the door* Windchill 8:57 pm *Windchill stops his spawn right in her six-limbed tracks before she can climb up and EAT the dragon.* Wily 8:58 pm *waves bye at people going outside with a free tinier arm* Windchill 8:58 pm *The worm huffs.* Swoop 8:58 pm *pats Bob's facemask with some goodies* Bevel 8:58 pm Maybe if they found Amalgamous he could help. *plucks another datapad she hasn't read through yet* These are really old records though so maybe they did find him and if they did I could to. Omicron 8:58 pm (what dragon?) Wily 8:58 pm *Face mask retracts. Snacks are noshed* Specs 8:58 pm *waves at the worm, but keeps her paw far away enough from the Maw of the Worm* ((this dragon)) Windchill 8:58 pm (( Spec. )) Me 8:59 pm *will stay closer to Soundwave than usual. Never lets the Insecticon out of the corner of his optics.* Omicron 8:59 pm (ah, hello fellow dragon then) Magnum Ace 8:59 pm -does Bull have their spare equipment or are they just going for a walk?- -once they get the door open- ItsyBitsySpyers 8:59 pm *Will obligingly glance toward Bob now and then to make it clear he's watching too.* Specs 8:59 pm ((fellow dragon)) Wily 8:59 pm *Bob waves with tiny hands* Bull 8:59 pm -always got his mitt and an extra ball on hand- Swoop 8:59 pm *has no skill at reading emotions and comforting people, but he has been WELL TRAINED by Bird to shove food at his friends* Omicron 9:00 pm *for what its worth, chirps at the insecticon, she likes them* Swoop 9:00 pm *keeps offering Bob a goodie at a time* Wily 9:00 pm *Bob will continue to eat as long as food is being passed his way* Swoop 9:00 pm *eventually, between the snuggles and food, this problem will fix itself* Definitely Not Shockwave 9:00 pm Yes, of course...Surely if they succeeded, you will as well. Windchill 9:00 pm *The worm will stare at the dragon on dad's head, for now.* Bevel 9:00 pm I hope so. Wily 9:00 pm *Bob chirps back* Magnum Ace 9:00 pm -good. They can practice a bit while nerves settle a bit- Bevel 9:01 pm Though I do not want any combiner powers like the Mutacons have. Swoop 9:01 pm Beetlejuice Wily 9:01 pm *Distraction is the best remedy. He has no attention span* Definitely Not Shockwave 9:01 pm ...Might I ask why you are motivated to do this, again? Wily 9:01 pm DO NOT JUICE THE BEETLES, THAT SOUNDS BAD Me 9:01 pm *... overhears mention of combiners.* ItsyBitsySpyers 9:01 pm *HOLD ON NOW who is talking about combiners and Mutacons? A glance toward Bevel.* Windchill 9:01 pm *He's going to keep any beetle juice comments to himself.* Specs 9:01 pm *the dragon will loaf on Windchill's head contentedly and grin at the worm* Swoop 9:01 pm *giggles and wiggles* What JUICE beetles means? Kehhehhhh Bevel 9:02 pm *suddenly all the attention, blinks a couple time at Prowl and Soundwave* Me 9:02 pm *keeps his optic on the insecticon and his audials on the combiner conversation* Wily 9:02 pm I DO NOT KNOW BUT I DO NOT LIKE IT Windchill 9:02 pm *The worm squints maliciously.* Omicron 9:02 pm I think you're safe insecticon, its like a name? Wily 9:02 pm OH. ItsyBitsySpyers 9:02 pm @Bevel: [[...Are you discussing something he should be concerned about.]] Wily 9:02 pm ALSO HELLO I AM BOB. Swoop 9:02 pm Ew Omicron 9:02 pm Hello bob, I'm Ice Queen. 😊 I'm a predacon queen Bevel 9:02 pm @Soundwave: No? Bull 9:03 pm We're going out to get some fresh air Soundwave. Wily 9:03 pm HELLOW QUEEN OF ICE. I DO NOT KNOW WHAT A PREDACON IS. I AM A BUG ItsyBitsySpyers 9:03 pm @Bevel: [[Keep it that way.]]

@Bull: [[Acknowledged.]] Definitely Not Shockwave 9:03 pm *Longarm is slightly astonished. He turns his gaze in order to figure out who Bevel is making optic contact with.* Ali 9:04 pm ((there we go)) Bevel 9:04 pm I want to ask him for help with my powers. He's the ultimate transformer. He knows everything. Omicron 9:04 pm That's okay Bob, I'm...a beast-former. *chuurr/chirps?* Bull 9:04 pm Thanks. Swoop 9:04 pm *CACKLES* Him scare them Specs 9:04 pm *fluffs up and gets in a Real Comfy Loaf to observe the worm* ItsyBitsySpyers 9:04 pm ((SIMPATICO)) Ali 9:05 pm ((this is CC btw)) Bevel 9:05 pm *looks back at her datapads, Tara's not here, she's not telling anyone dangerous anything* Wily 9:05 pm *All the chirps. Even though he has no idea what a beast former is either* Definitely Not Shockwave 9:05 pm *Yes, of course she isn't.* Windchill 9:05 pm *The worm curls up in a doughnut shape for the moment, but doesn't take that glaring red optic off the dragon.* ItsyBitsySpyers 9:05 pm ((welcome CC)) Definitely Not Shockwave 9:06 pm So you aren't looking for all of the thirteen, you simply require the assistance of this one? Ali 9:06 pm ((thanks)) Magnum Ace 9:06 pm -not going to go far, just far enough out to toss the ball around a bit- Bevel 9:06 pm *nods firmly* Windchill 9:07 pm *Windchill drapes the blanket over the worm, hoping she'll behave.* Specs 9:07 pm *just grins at the worm* Omicron 9:07 pm *shrugs wings and settles back down* Bull 9:07 pm *pulls out his catchers mitt* ItsyBitsySpyers 9:08 pm *Soundwave checks on Bob again before settling back. If Bevel is going to make this mistake, she can make it. But if... "Longarm"... ever hurts her, and he finds out, there will be problems.* Swoop 9:08 pm *sets his chin on Bob's shoulder and starts gnawing on a rust stick himself* Ali 9:08 pm ((this dog just burped in my face. rude)) Bevel 9:08 pm *...aw thanks Soundwave, best uncle* Wily 9:08 pm *passes snacks toward Swoop* Bevel 9:08 pm *suddenly music from the movie* Windchill 9:08 pm *Windchill can't see what the dragon is up to.* Wily 9:08 pm *Is actually paying attention to the movie suddenly* Ali 9:08 pm *comes in and finds a place to settle in- Swoop 9:09 pm *takes one more then pushes bob's hand to his own face instead* Keheh them dance ItsyBitsySpyers 9:09 pm *Feeler wave to Crosscut.* Magnum Ace 9:09 pm -tugs his mitt on before taking the ball- I'm going to try a few different pitches this time Wily 9:09 pm *Cronches* Ali 9:09 pm *feelers?* ItsyBitsySpyers 9:09 pm *Must remember this if he ever has unwanted intruders.* Wily 9:09 pm IS THIS A MUSICAL? Ali 9:09 pm *Bob!* Wily 9:09 pm THERE HAS NOT BEEN MucH MUSIC. Ali 9:09 pm *Oh no.* Swoop 9:09 pm Dunno Bevel 9:09 pm Maybe now there will be. Magnum Ace 9:09 pm ((meanwhile they're missing this because earlier stuff spooked them out of the room)) Definitely Not Shockwave 9:10 pm *Now, now, Longarm wouldn't attempt to personally threaten Bevel. Their interests thankfully do not directly interfere with one another.* Swoop 9:10 pm KAA! Me 9:10 pm *watches movie very uncomfortably* Specs 9:10 pm *the dragon will try to not to convince the worm to misbehave, but she can't help but be a little smug* Me 9:10 pm *Mind control. Ugh.* Ali 9:10 pm *Crosscut waves back at Soundwave but shifts a bit uncomfortably at the insecticon's presence- Swoop 9:10 pm *is still a teddy bear for Bob and completely misses Prowl's existence, let alone discomfort* ItsyBitsySpyers 9:10 pm *He should have watched this movie before he picked it. All he knew was that there were ghosts and artists.* Bull 9:11 pm Alright, just start out light. No need to draw everyone's attention with another Asteroid Cannon. ItsyBitsySpyers 9:11 pm @P: (txt): Apologies. Unexpected. Wily 9:11 pm *Still mildly spooked by this not spooky movie* Me 9:11 pm *sharp nod.* Swoop 9:11 pm *can take some pretty aggressive hugs so Bob can to go town* Magnum Ace 9:11 pm Right...I didn't realize it would do that... ItsyBitsySpyers 9:11 pm *Crosscut is welcome to sit by the host if he wishes. It's probably the safest spot in the house.* Wily 9:11 pm *Well Bob does have four arms. All the better for stress hugs* Whirl 9:11 pm *slinks on in and makes his way to the usual table; he smells like he's been rolling in motor oila nd gunpowder all day. And looks it, too* Windchill 9:12 pm *The worm huffs in irritated boredom and begins shoving the blanket into her mouth for something to chew on. Windchill gives her a consoling pat.* Omicron 9:12 pm *dragonic yawn to streach jaws, snorts at the movie* Specs 9:12 pm *the dragon transfers from Windchill's head to Whirl's shoulder* Ali 9:12 pm *shutters at the thought of hugs from Bob* Whirl 9:12 pm Hey, dragon! Specs 9:12 pm Hello! Mind if I stay here! 😄 Definitely Not Shockwave 9:12 pm ...Would it be too forward to ask about the power you require assistance with? Ali 9:13 pm ((What's the table set up look like guys?)) Whirl 9:13 pm Nah, you're fine. You've got shoulder VIP parking status. Ali 9:13 pm ((Who is sitting by who I guess)) Magnum Ace 9:13 pm -still. Signals a curve-ball before tossing- Whirl 9:13 pm *and bobs his head to Windchill, and Soundwave, and Bevel--he's going to be doing a lot of head bobbing* ItsyBitsySpyers 9:13 pm ((usual concentric semi-circles of couches. prowl near soundwave, the leaguers outside, bevel near longarm i believe...)) Swoop 9:14 pm ((swoop and bob are on the floor in front of the screen)) ItsyBitsySpyers 9:14 pm *Bob head to Whirl.* Bevel 9:14 pm Maybe but I do not mind. I am a Shifter. Not like the Mutacons. Like a regular one. Whirl 9:14 pm ((Whirl is at his usual Whirl table, with a dragon epaulette)) Bevel 9:14 pm *waves to Whirl and grins* Windchill 9:14 pm *Windchill's head is free!* Specs 9:14 pm *loafs up all nice and poofy* Wily 9:14 pm *Bob also bobs his head because everyone else is doing it so that must be the thing to do* Omicron 9:14 pm ((no idea, Icy's just laying down in whatever free space)) Ali 9:14 pm ((I see)) Windchill 9:14 pm Aw, well there goes my fancy hat. Whirl 9:15 pm *perks up* Oh, hey! You brought the wriggler! Definitely Not Shockwave 9:15 pm *He takes note of Whirl and turns back to Bevel.* Really? That's...Highly intriguing! Bull 9:15 pm *catches the pitch* The atmosphere still makes it stronger than normal. *tosses the ball back to Magnum* Windchill 9:15 pm I did! Swoop 9:15 pm You Bob scared? Whirl 9:15 pm And look, there's her future, right there on screen. Specs 9:16 pm *blinks* Wait, she's the baby? Wily 9:16 pm *Did the sheer alarm on his face give it away?* Whirl 9:16 pm Yep! Swoop 9:16 pm *turns Bob's face away and covers his optics* Whirl 9:16 pm *he beeps the Greeting Beep at Blue* Swoop 9:16 pm You Bob scaaardy bot Windchill 9:16 pm *He picks up the wiggler in question, giving her a bounce that doesn't dislodge the blanket shoved in her maw.* Swoop 9:16 pm *giggles and keeps Bob blind* Ali 9:16 pm so what made you all pick this film for tonight? *he takes out a flask of his own while attempting watch* Bevel 9:17 pm I like it but I want to be better at it. Magnum Ace 9:17 pm Yeah, I noticed that a bit too late -catches it before throwing another curve- to do anything Wily 9:17 pm *He'd argue but it is absolutely true* Windchill 9:17 pm Look who it is, Blue. Wily 9:17 pm I AM NOT TRYING TO BE. Whirl 9:17 pm It's me. *draws himself up, with great dignity* Wub. Specs 9:17 pm *imitates Whirl's beeping at the worm* Windchill 9:17 pm *Blue stares once she realizes Whirl is here, and gives a muffled BEEP of greeting.* *Chill snorts.* Whirl 9:17 pm *eyes the dragon sidelong* I taught her that. Omicron 9:17 pm Swoop, if you need, you can hide Bod behind me. I'm big enough and have big wings? Swoop 9:18 pm *peaks between his fingers at Bob* You Bob want to food instead? No movie. Wily 9:18 pm *all the nodding* ItsyBitsySpyers 9:18 pm [[He heard it was a story of good and bad human ghosts battling living humans for the right to a house. Buzzsaw said one of the characters was an artist.]] Windchill 9:18 pm *Blue beeps again, letting the blanket fall back into dad's lap. He limbs wiggle in excitement.* ItsyBitsySpyers 9:18 pm [[Ghosts are of some interest to him.]] Swoop 9:18 pm *wiggles out of Bob's grip, hops ot his feet, and holds out both hands for Bob* Bevel 9:18 pm Buzzsaw likes ghosts? Specs 9:18 pm Sorry, was that out of order? Whirl 9:19 pm Nah, we both just said "hello." Definitely Not Shockwave 9:19 pm ...Apologies, I am extremely curious as to your current capabilities. Wily 9:19 pm *Bob takes the hand with one of his smaller ones* ItsyBitsySpyers 9:19 pm [[Buzzsaw has no real opinion on them.]] Specs 9:19 pm Oh, good! I was whistling earlier, but she didn't seem to think I was making sense. Me 9:19 pm *mutters* He didn't mention one of the characters is Lockdown. Ali 9:19 pm Hm, many species have superstitions but humans have many very interesting takes on the after life. Whirl 9:19 pm The beeping is a language Prf--that Zori taught me. Swoop 9:19 pm *pulls Bob up and leads him over to the bar and all its goodies* Windchill 9:19 pm That's because in Insecticon, you probably weren't. Specs 9:20 pm Honestly, that's fair. ItsyBitsySpyers 9:20 pm *Glance.* (txt): Lockdown? Which? *None of them have guns for faces or collect body parts.*

[[Have you a favorite?]] Wily 9:20 pm *Follows hunched, and with droopy antennas * Windchill 9:20 pm *Blue reaches grabby hands for Uncle Wub.* Ali 9:20 pm *practically stumbled out of his chair to back away a bit when swoop and Bob approach the bar- ItsyBitsySpyers 9:20 pm [[...Why is there a single wall.]] Bevel 9:20 pm *shifts so that she looks and sounds like Longarm* I can look like almost anyone. Me 9:20 pm Beetleguts. *so close.* Bull 9:21 pm *catches the next pitch before tossing it back and signalling Magnum to try a change up pitch* Swoop 9:21 pm *has no idea what to do, so he settles Bob in front of LOTS of goodies* You Bob eat. Swoop come riiiiight back! Ok? Wily 9:21 pm OKAY. I AM SORRY SWOOPING FRIEND. ItsyBitsySpyers 9:21 pm *Watches the stumbling. Going to privately message Crosscut.*

@CC: [[...You are welcome to share this couch if that one does not suit you.]] Swoop 9:21 pm What sorry for? Whirl 9:21 pm Heh. Nice. Definitely Not Shockwave 9:22 pm *The "gem" on his forehead shines for a split second, out of a mixture of alarm and curiosity.* Wily 9:22 pm YOU ARE MISSING THE MOVIE. Definitely Not Shockwave 9:22 pm And you say you require *assistance* with this ability? Swoop 9:22 pm It ok! Me Swoop miss movie lot of times! You stay and eat goodie. Swoop come back. Whirl 9:22 pm *he holds up his claws, he will take the baby. She's going to get set on the table but he will take her* Wily 9:22 pm OKAY. *he will do as told* Swoop 9:23 pm *and with that Swoop scampers away from Bob and rushes up to Soundwave* Soundwave! Soundwave! Specs 9:23 pm *observes the wom with fascination* Ali 9:23 pm -Crosscut is pressed against the wall closest to the bar before sliding along to take a seat by Prowl and Soundwave instead- Windchill 9:23 pm *Windchill considers this, but hands the Long Worm over.* ItsyBitsySpyers 9:23 pm *Soundwave picks Swoop up and puts him back by Windchill with feeler.* *No. Sorry.* Windchill 9:23 pm Don't let her eat anybody. Ali 9:23 pm -just away from the bug in general is fine, thanks- Swoop 9:23 pm !! *turns to Windchill instead* Him Bob SCARED! Bevel 9:23 pm *nods, shifting back to the Malgus form she'd been sporting earlier* Yeah, there are not any on my planet who know more than me. They all died during the war and I want to... I need to be better. Swoop 9:23 pm *looks expectantly* Windchill 9:23 pm *He'll be watching, but this is putting the worm back into general Dragon vicinity.* Whirl 9:23 pm *Blue is summarily set upon the table. It is her throne; Whirl speaks with the utmost seriousness* Don't eat my dragon. Windchill 9:24 pm *Windchill turns to Swoop.* Eh? Swoop 9:24 pm Him Bob SCARED of movie. ItsyBitsySpyers 9:24 pm @P: (txt): ...Lockdown appears when designation spoken thrice? Magnum Ace 9:24 pm -catches it, and nods- I mean, this last week has been nothing short of hectic -change up pitch incoming- Windchill 9:24 pm *Blue garbles nonsense and flaps her arms on the table.* Definitely Not Shockwave 9:24 pm *He clasps his servos about his waist and tilts his helm.* Omicron 9:24 pm @Soundwave(txt): needs some help with the poor insecticon? *worried chirp* Windchill 9:24 pm ...Does him Bob need to go outside for a break? Swoop 9:25 pm *SHRUGS* ItsyBitsySpyers 9:25 pm @I: [[If you believe you can offer it.]] Specs 9:25 pm *the dragon tries not to giggle at the worm antics. cute wom* Swoop 9:25 pm Him scared *looks expectantly at Windchill* Windchill 9:25 pm Bob can sit with me if he's scared. Wily 9:25 pm *Bob is going to town on snacks. Feels a little better* Whirl 9:25 pm *snips his claw at her. Whirl would, under normal circumstances, be trying to put on a tougher front for all the new folks, but he can't hide how delighted he is* Swoop 9:25 pm You make Bob not scared? Windchill 9:25 pm No promises, but I can try. Omicron 9:26 pm @Soundwave(text): I think I can Windchill 9:26 pm *Blue REACHES for the claw.* Bull 9:26 pm Hectic is one word for it. *catches the pitch before tossing it back * Windchill 9:26 pm *Luckily her grasp is slower than her mouth, still. She's not that coordinated.* Swoop 9:26 pm *grabs Windchill's hand* You come tell Bob no more scaredy Bob Whirl 9:26 pm *he will let her take it. She's free to gnaw it, if she likes, Whirl can't feel anything in his claws* *and if she's chewing his claw, she's not eating his dragon* Magnum Ace 9:26 pm -another catch- ...yeah. Good to go back to the movie now? Windchill 9:27 pm *Blue definitely puts her goopy mouth on it, her mandibles twitching.* *Tastes like...Wub!* Me 9:27 pm @Soundwave «He's crass, lewd, obnoxious, nearly intolerable to do business with...» Windchill 9:27 pm *Her butt wiggles, pleased.* Bull 9:27 pm I think so. We'll see how 'strange' the movie is now. Specs 9:27 pm *look at that great wom. an excellent wom* Windchill 9:27 pm *Windchill sighs.* Okay, I can sit on the floor with you guys. Bevel 9:28 pm Insect zoo? Magnum Ace 9:28 pm -hands Bull the ball back- Yeah. Let's go back inside Swoop 9:28 pm *draaaaaaaags Windchill over to the bar to tell Bob to be not scared* Wily 9:28 pm *Is eating a glass* ItsyBitsySpyers 9:28 pm *What is that crunching--*

[[Put that glass down.]] Bull 9:29 pm *Stores the ball and mitt back in his storage before following Magnum back in* Wily 9:29 pm *Pauses mid crunch* Whirl 9:29 pm *Whirl occasionally wiggles it for her. He is bravely allowing this to continue, despite her gross mouth* Wily 9:29 pm *Puts the rest of the glass on the counter* ItsyBitsySpyers 9:29 pm [[Thank you.]] Bevel 9:29 pm Do you want to borrow that datapad, Longarm? *motions to the one she gave him earlier* It is only a copy of the data from the Hall. Wily 9:29 pm APOLOGIES. Omicron 9:30 pm Bob, do you like gold crunchies? Magnum Ace 9:30 pm ... Windchill 9:30 pm *Whirl is best uncle. Blue chiiiirrs around his claw, creating more slime.* Wily 9:30 pm I DO NOT KNOW *but the answer is probably yes* Magnum Ace 9:30 pm -turns Bull around- Ali 9:30 pm ((Do you guys think for a testing the waters on different muses sort of thing I could do like an OC? or just canon?)) Windchill 9:31 pm *Grunts, and allows himself to be 'dragged' down to Swoop and Bob's level.* Swoop 9:31 pm *looks up at Windchill and points at Bob at the bar* Tell Him ItsyBitsySpyers 9:31 pm @Prowl: (txt): ...Why interface, if disgusting?

[[Crosscut - you never did tell him what your favorite of their stories is.]] ((it's up to you)) Windchill 9:31 pm Bob. Wily 9:31 pm *whips his head around at his name* Me 9:31 pm @Soundwave «... Business. Obviously.» Ali 9:32 pm Sorry? I must have missed that question. what do you mean? Windchill 9:32 pm *Actually, he interrupts himself to address Whirl.* Wub. I'm down here now. Me 9:32 pm @Soundwave «Sorry—did I accidentally give the impression that I enjoyed it in the very slightest?» Windchill 9:32 pm *NOW for Bob.* Definitely Not Shockwave 9:32 pm *Had been distracted by the movie for a moment before registering Bevel's words.* Ah! Yes, I would. Thank you. Bull 9:32 pm *ugh* ... Windchill 9:32 pm What's up, Bob? ItsyBitsySpyers 9:32 pm [[You stated that humans have many interesting stories about the afterlife.]] Wily 9:32 pm THIS MOVIE IS SPOOKY. Whirl 9:32 pm *nods to him* Windchill 9:32 pm Yeah, it is. Swoop 9:32 pm Him Bob is a baaaaby Ali 9:33 pm Ah, yes. Hmm...I'm not sure I have a favorite. Wily 9:33 pm I AM NOT TRYING TO DO THE BEING SCARED THING. Windchill 9:33 pm *Gives Swoop a vicious poke. Shut up.* Swoop 9:33 pm *chirps* Bevel 9:33 pm *nods, will let Longarm enjoy the movie ending now* Wily 9:33 pm I DO NOT LIKE THE JUICE BEETLE MAN HE IS MOST UNKIND. Magnum Ace 9:33 pm -shoving Bull right back out the door. Noooope- Windchill 9:33 pm Neither do I, but he's not real. Specs 9:34 pm I didn't know that you could juice a beetle. Better to eat them raw, isn't it? ItsyBitsySpyers 9:34 pm @Prowl: (txt): Negative. That, confusion reason. *Ponder ponder.* Prowl believes alternative business deal: accepted, if proposed? Wily 9:34 pm .....I KNOW IT IS A MOVIE BUT THE IMAGES ARE SCARY. *Flops on the ground* Swoop 9:34 pm *immediately hops on top of Bob, it is the dinobot way to pile* Windchill 9:34 pm Well. It's okay to be scared. Wily 9:34 pm *Swoop is the best backpack* Whirl 9:35 pm Wow. They're super dead. Bull 9:35 pm ... S-shall we do a few more pitches. *He knows nothing good is going in the movie* Wily 9:35 pm *whines and nods* Ali 9:35 pm There are many of them that have a land or place they believe the dead reside, some that have days or times when they feel the plains of those two realms coexist, allowing their ancestors to 'visit'. I suppose I find ones with those be interesting Magnum Ace 9:35 pm I think that's a good idea. Back outside Windchill 9:35 pm We can go outside, if you like. Wily 9:36 pm *Takes a deep vent* Me 9:36 pm @Soundwave «I go with him because he offers advantageous bargains for extremely cheap prices. I go with /more/ advantageous bargains when they're available. Obviously.» Wily 9:36 pm NO. NO IT IS OK. Specs 9:36 pm ((wheeze)) Wily 9:36 pm I WILL DO THIS THING. IT IS NOT REAL. Windchill 9:36 pm *Blue finally gets tired of slobbering Whirl's claw and BEEPS.* Omicron 9:36 pm *Ice Queen gets up and moves over to the bar and shakes out her wings a little snffs at Bob from one side* Whirl 9:36 pm *looks down, beeping back* Specs 9:36 pm *peeps at the wom* Windchill 9:37 pm Okay, Bob. That's very brave of you. The more you watch it the less scary it will be. Probably. *Worm butt wiggles.* Wily 9:38 pm *nods* Swoop 9:38 pm *pats Bob* Bull 9:38 pm How about trying a few more fastballs? *pulls the glove and ball back out* Wily 9:38 pm *He will try to convince himself of this* THANK YOU. Windchill 9:38 pm Most of these aren't scary at all the next time you watch them. *He nods.* Swoop 9:39 pm Him Sunstreaker tell Me Swoop that Bob is pacifist. No fighting. Real fighting. But him not say no fake stuff. Whirl 9:39 pm Oh, look, Blue, it's you. *directs her attention to the screen* ...well. it WAS you. Windchill 9:39 pm *Blue watches his claw instead.* Whirl 9:39 pm There she is. A star. Specs 9:40 pm Oh, goddess. That's something else. Magnum Ace 9:40 pm Yeah, that sounds good. -adjusting his mitt again, gives Bull enough time to settle, before throwing a fastball- Windchill 9:40 pm *Chill tilts his head back* She doesn't really watch TV. I tried to get her to watch The Lord of the Rings and she did anything but. Whirl 9:40 pm Maybe she;s more of a stage play kinda worm. Windchill 9:40 pm *Shrugs.* Whirl 9:41 pm Praise Heqet. Specs 9:41 pm I don't know of any opera worms. Whirl 9:41 pm *solemnly* Windchill 9:41 pm *Blue peeps insistently and inches to get closer to her dear Uncle Wub.* Whirl 9:42 pm *he sits up a little taller to make sure the dragon is out of her reach, but otherwise allows her to wiggle closer* Bevel 9:42 pm Music number time! ItsyBitsySpyers 9:42 pm @Prowl: (txt): If believed preferable, offer non-interface Soundwave favor. Then, unpleasant personal interaction: avoided. If not, discard present comment.

*He would rather chop his cables off than deal with someone who acted like the Beetle creature. He'd prefer Prowl not need to either if there are other ways around things.*

[[You mean like the... which one was it. The Book of the D... no. The Book of Life.]] Omicron 9:42 pm *the predacon gets some energon and moves back to her spot, grooming her foreclaws* Wily 9:42 pm *Oop. The music is most amusing* Swoop 9:42 pm *cocks his head at Bob* You music bug? Windchill 9:43 pm *The worm migrates to Whirl's lap, and nearly hits her FOOL head on his chest.* Wily 9:43 pm IT IS SILLY Swoop 9:43 pm YOU silly kehhehh Whirl 9:43 pm PFFT. Ali 9:43 pm I'm not sure what that is. Wily 9:43 pm YOU ARE ALSO SILLY Whirl 9:43 pm *sits back a bit and tries to wrangle her into a more comfortable position* You were born way too big for this, you little pest. Swoop 9:44 pm *bounces with the music* Me 9:44 pm @Soundwave «I need more than one asset, you know.» Wily 9:44 pm *IT'S OVER. HE MADE IT* Bevel 9:44 pm *good job Bob* Windchill 9:44 pm *Blue doesn't CARE. Whirl has a fancy wiggle sash now.* Wily 9:44 pm *wiggles with Swoop* ItsyBitsySpyers 9:44 pm [[Ah. A young man voluntarily dies believing he is going to find his lover in the Allsp-- the human afterlife. At some point, he learns that it is possible for the dead to join him in the realm of the living.]] Specs 9:44 pm Impossible. She was born perfectly designed to be adorable. Omicron 9:45 pm -gives Bob and swoop a happy chirp- ItsyBitsySpyers 9:45 pm @Prowl: (txt): ...Other assets not banned.

*Where did that come from?* Bull 9:45 pm *after a few fastballs Bull signals Magnum to do a few screwballs* Wily 9:45 pm *chitters* Whirl 9:45 pm *stage whisper* Which is a damn miracle considering her dad. *sly glance at Windchill* Specs 9:45 pm *cackles* Windchill 9:45 pm She was... *Chill looks back to see what his spawn is up to, can't even pretend to be surprised at what he finds.* ...You talking shit about me? Specs 9:46 pm I'm complimenting the baby. u_u Swoop 9:46 pm *chirps and giggles* Him Sunstreaker right. You Bob not for fighting. You PLAY bot, kehehh. Ali 9:46 pm Ah, well than yes I suppose. There are quite a few cultures on Earth that hold similar beliefs. It's just the one that stands out to me, it's one with a more pleasant outlook on things Windchill 9:46 pm Good. She deserves all of the compliments. ItsyBitsySpyers 9:46 pm *Maybe he'll just be quiet and leave the subject alone. He doesn't understand where he's messed up and continuing on with it will probably make it worse.* Definitely Not Shockwave 9:46 pm ((Ah, the movie ended already.)) Wily 9:46 pm I DO NOT LIKE MAKING OWIES. PLAY FIGHTING IS FUN. Definitely Not Shockwave 9:46 pm *We presume that longarm was paying attention to it instead of staring absentmindedly at the screen.* Omicron 9:46 pm Its not nice to. *still grooming* Whirl 9:46 pm I'M the one talking shit about you. Wily 9:46 pm NOT REAL FIGHTING. Windchill 9:47 pm Yeah, I noticed. Definitely Not Shockwave 9:47 pm Oh dear, what are we watching now? Specs 9:47 pm It's teamwork. Whirl talks shit about, I compliment the baby, and we merge from there. Wily 9:47 pm *the relation between that and him being spooked by the movie is lost on him* Magnum Ace 9:47 pm -nods in agreement, and switches pitches- Think it's over? The movie I mean. Whirl 9:47 pm It's my solemn duty. *attempts to look solemn with a dragon on one shoulder and a huge grub wriggling sort-of in his lap* Windchill 9:47 pm *Reaches over to give Bob a pat.* We good, now? Specs 9:47 pm *the dragon gets Real Poofy in order to look like a proper epaulette* Wily 9:47 pm *Nods, plates shuffling at helm pats* Windchill 9:48 pm *It's too late for you, Whirl, you look ridiculous.* Wily 9:48 pm I AM OK. THANK YOU. YOU ARE VERY NICE. Windchill 9:48 pm Okay. I'm going back to my seat. *He's easy to find though, if he needs to come back.* Swoop 9:49 pm You Bob good at eat things. Us do instead kehhh Definitely Not Shockwave 9:49 pm ...Those ghosts spent all that time ensuring that those two weren't romantically involved only for them to go on...Interdimensional dates together later? Windchill 9:49 pm *Moves his giant butt back to the chair where he can supervise his worm.* Wily 9:49 pm *Bob is gonna tuck himself into a buggy loaf and hunker down* OK ItsyBitsySpyers 9:49 pm ((this isn't the one i thought i bookmarked. damn it. well, i don't feel like digging it back up. we'll have this one and the second one and just cope)) Swoop 9:49 pm *gives Bob a dish with a few goodies left on it, the goodies are a coincidence though, Swoop's looking at the dish with a grin* Bull 9:50 pm Maybe; we would need to go back and check. Wily 9:50 pm *Bob eats the dish* Swoop 9:50 pm *claps* Windchill 9:50 pm *Blue, finally, settles down. For now.* ItsyBitsySpyers 9:50 pm [[It is his understanding that sequels do not follow the logic of the original material.]] Swoop 9:50 pm Again! Again! Magnum Ace 9:50 pm ...right. Think we should? Ali 9:50 pm They really did make everything into a cartoon. Wily 9:50 pm BUT THERE IS NO MORE DISH??? *He can not eat a thing he already ate* Swoop 9:51 pm *looks around for something else for Bob to eat* Definitely Not Shockwave 9:51 pm Hm. Poor writing. Whirl 9:51 pm All right, Blue, time to go on back. I need a drink, and I don't think they let grubs at the bar. Swoop 9:51 pm *grabs a pillow off the sofa and holds it out for Bob* Wily 9:51 pm *CHOMP* Bevel 9:51 pm He is not a very good jester. Specs 9:51 pm Oh! *the dragon perks up* I brought you something, too. Same thing as last time, though. Swoop 9:52 pm *CLAPS* Definitely Not Shockwave 9:52 pm Indeed. Wily 9:52 pm oO Oo Whirl 9:52 pm *he will pass her back to Windchill. He only now glances about the room, and is satisfied that they were watching the movie too closely to see him being embarrassingly paternal. Good* Windchill 9:52 pm *Reaches to take his worm back.* Whirl 9:52 pm ...*with the exception of the dragon* Oh, yeah? I... completely forgot what it was, but something I could taste, right? Me 9:52 pm *... Okay, he'll try that again.* Swoop 9:52 pm *picks up a chair* : > Wily 9:53 pm *Opens maw* Windchill 9:53 pm Blue: Wub! *It is time to yell.* Swoop 9:53 pm *is absolutely putting a chair in Bob's face if no one stops him* Bull 9:53 pm We can try at least. Windchill 9:53 pm *Chill gives her a bounce to maybe shut her up.* Wily 9:53 pm *Will absolutely eat this chair if no one stops him* *The chair is doomed* Specs 9:53 pm Cobalt, melanterite, and molybdenite. Wily 9:53 pm *CHOMP* Windchill 9:53 pm BOB! Wily 9:54 pm ???? Swoop 9:54 pm *SQUEALS* YAAAYYY! No more chair! : > Windchill 9:54 pm Don't eat Soundwave's things! Specs 9:54 pm ((I only wrote down part of it I hope that last one was the right one >_> )) Magnum Ace 9:54 pm -comes back in to see Bob eating a chair- ....... Wily 9:54 pm OOPS. ItsyBitsySpyers 9:54 pm *Soundwave vents. Out go Swoop and Bob.* Swoop 9:54 pm You Bob VERY good at EATING : > Bull 9:54 pm What the? Specs 9:54 pm That's a little more than an oops. ItsyBitsySpyers 9:54 pm *Sorry, kiddos. Naughty younglings get put in the bridge wiggler.* Wily 9:55 pm WE CAN FIX IT WITH THE GLUE? Windchill 9:55 pm *SIGHS.* Swoop 9:55 pm *gets space bridged back to the Ark with Bob* Omicron 9:55 pm *looks up from her grooming, pauses to check everyone, and goes back to what makes her beast mode happy* Swoop 9:55 pm ((Swoop and Bob made it through the movie. THat is something LOL)) Wily 9:55 pm *Welp. It was fun while it lasted even if it was scary at parts* Whirl 9:55 pm Oh, yeah. Hell, I'll take it! Wily 9:55 pm ((Toddlers actually did minimal damage all things considered XD)) Whirl 9:55 pm *ah, the WUBing begins. They should have named her Dubstep* Magnum Ace 9:55 pm -that was mildly terrifying- Windchill 9:56 pm *Dubstep is not an obviously Insecticon name!* Swoop 9:56 pm ((It's fine. Swoop's going to just feed Bob more stuff at the Ark. Although one wonders how Sunstreaker will take it once he finds out Swoop showed Bob a spooky movie.)) Specs 9:56 pm ^u^ *the most proud of puffs* Chef Specs, happy to serve! Whirl 9:56 pm *he's surrounded by cute things that are smaller than he is, HOW IS HE SUPPOSED TO KEEP HIS TOUGH GUY IMAGE UP AROUND ALL THIS* Bull 9:56 pm I'm not sure if this show is worse or better than the movie. Specs 9:57 pm *dragons are VERY tough* ItsyBitsySpyers 9:57 pm *Don't ask Soundwave, Whirl. He never figured it out himself.* Windchill 9:57 pm *Blue is super tough, just look at her!* Whirl 9:57 pm Go on and set it on the table, while I see what I can get in the way of booze. Windchill 9:57 pm *She's peering at Whirl from over dad's shoulder, waiting.* Magnum Ace 9:57 pm I...don't know either. Maybe...we should be getting home? Definitely Not Shockwave 9:57 pm If the netherworld is naturally strange and gross, why does their royalty not follow suit? Wily 9:57 pm ((Sunstreaker may not be happy, Swoop)) ItsyBitsySpyers 9:57 pm [[Royalty always likes to imagine itself above the standards they set.]] Definitely Not Shockwave 9:58 pm ....Indeed, fair. Swoop 9:58 pm ((I look forward to the scolding XD)) Specs 9:58 pm Alright, I'll roll it over! *flies off to get Whirl's drink for him* Whirl 9:58 pm *he resist looking at her for a moment longer before he slooowly swivels his helm around. And zoops his neck. And gives a warbling-wail beep, which people fluent in Beep will know is a curse word* Me 9:58 pm @Soundwave «If I am pursuing the services of a bounty hunter, it's because I need services which a bounty hunter can better provide than anyone else. Someone who has a ship and a large crew that he can dedicate to nothing except hunting down a difficult target.» Swoop 9:59 pm ((ok imma head out)) Me 9:59 pm @Soundwave «You have a full-time job already.» ItsyBitsySpyers 9:59 pm ((night!!)) Omicron 9:59 pm *Ice Queen chirps at whirl* Wily 9:59 pm ((same. Gotta sleep. Night! It was nice meeting everyone!)) Bevel 10:00 pm ((night y'all Windchill 10:00 pm *Chill turns his head to give Whirl an Eye, Blue imitates the same swear-beep back at him.* Magnum Ace 10:00 pm ((g'night! Omicron 10:00 pm (have a nice night!) Windchill 10:00 pm (( Goodnight! )) Me 10:00 pm ((gnight)) Bull 10:00 pm Yeah; it's a bit too weird after everything over the last week. ItsyBitsySpyers 10:00 pm @Prowl: (txt): ...Bounty hunter, services not replaced. Interface payment replaced, if Prowl believes Lockdown accepts. That, offer purpose. Definitely Not Shockwave 10:01 pm ((The poor cgi really makes it.)) Magnum Ace 10:02 pm Yeah. Last week was...a mess. Time to go home then. Me 10:02 pm @Soundwave «The reason I arranged that payment with him is because it's a massive discount from anything else on the market.» Whirl 10:03 pm *he blinks and looks over to Ice Queen, drawing himself up and looking marginally more dignified* Yeah? *is is so very proud of you, Blue. Cussing like a sailor, just as he taught you* Omicron 10:03 pm Ice Queen: I know of you. 😊 I like ya Definitely Not Shockwave 10:04 pm (( I"m very curious as to what episode you had in mind, Soundwave.)) ItsyBitsySpyers 10:04 pm ((tbh i barely remember i was tired as heck this afternoon. i just remember i got tired of this one and decided not to use it)) Whirl 10:04 pm *peers* That... doesn't sound like something someone who's heard of me would say... who do you think I am, anyway? Windchill 10:05 pm *And there goes the spawn, trying to climb up dad's head.* *Windchill allows this, but raises a hand to keep her from falling. He can see nothing.* ItsyBitsySpyers 10:05 pm *Nods. If that's Prowl's decision regarding the cost, that's fine.*

@P (txt): Understood. Discard, per suggestion. Omicron 10:05 pm Whirl the wrecker and former wrecker, acts a lot like someone in my line of... 'work' Definitely Not Shockwave 10:06 pm ((Ah! The skeleton man! I like that guy.)) Whirl 10:06 pm And that'd be? Omicron 10:06 pm -gives a fanged grin- Pirate Definitely Not Shockwave 10:07 pm (( Oh what a fuckboy.)) ItsyBitsySpyers 10:07 pm ((get lost princeboy)) Bevel 10:08 pm *agrees with Lydia, being friends is the best* Me 10:08 pm ((he gets over it quickly. i appreciate that.)) Ali 10:08 pm ((I'm gonna go)) Windchill 10:08 pm (( Gnight! )) Whirl 10:08 pm ((gnight!)) ItsyBitsySpyers 10:09 pm ((rest well)) Me 10:09 pm ((gnight)) Definitely Not Shockwave 10:09 pm ((Rest well.) Bull 10:09 pm ((Same; I'm gonna head out. Night)) Omicron 10:09 pm [have a good night!] Specs 10:09 pm ((night!)) Whirl 10:09 pm Mm-hmm. *he's still a bit reserved* I know a couple of pirates. You're not here looking to COLLECT, are you? Cos I've got half the galaxy after my bounty, and if so, then I suggest we take this outside. ((and also gnight!)) Windchill 10:10 pm *Muffled* No bounty hunting! *The worm squeaks, dad's blowing and yelling on her weak underbelly.* Omicron 10:10 pm Pffft, no, I'm more of a...smuggler then a hunter. more so when I have clutches on board... *snorts and shakes head* besides, I busted out of PLENTY of jjails and brigs that both Autobots and Decepticons are not pleased with me Magnum Ace 10:11 pm -time to go, this is weird- Soundwave? Can we get a bridge home? ItsyBitsySpyers 10:11 pm [[Of course.]] Whirl 10:11 pm Well, if you're an enemy to Autobots, then I'm sure I don't have to tell you to watch yourself. *another curt nod before he makes his way, at last, to the bar* Omicron 10:12 pm I wouldn't say an enemy to them, more anoyance Magnum Ace 10:12 pm -and as soon as it's up, he and Bull are going home. Good night everyone!- ItsyBitsySpyers 10:12 pm ((goodnight y'all)) Omicron 10:12 pm [good night again!] Me 10:12 pm ((it is REALLY weird watching beetlejuice being friends with lydia right after watching him peeking up people's skirts and trying to drag lydia into a child marriage)) ItsyBitsySpyers 10:13 pm ((yeah there's a huge disconnect there)) Definitely Not Shockwave 10:13 pm So they decided to keep the parents, but they didn't keep the ghost couple who *actually* decides to take care of lydia? Bevel 10:13 pm ((did the maitlands just disappear? ItsyBitsySpyers 10:13 pm ((but i couldn't think of what else to fill the other 30 minutes with that wouldn't be completely unrelated)) Me 10:13 pm ((~AU timeline~)) Whirl 10:14 pm *is the bar being tended? He cranes his neck over to see if Ravage is about, and if so, he's lookin for his usual* ItsyBitsySpyers 10:14 pm *Ravage is snoozing, but if Whirl is careful, he ought to be able to wake the mech up without losing a limb.* Whirl 10:15 pm *what are his odds of mixing a drink without waking Ravage at all?* ItsyBitsySpyers 10:16 pm *How quiet can Whirl be?* Definitely Not Shockwave 10:16 pm *He's going to take his leave about now. It has been an....Interesting night. He nods to all familiar parties.* Bevel 10:16 pm *waves goodbye* Me 10:17 pm *A glance at the leaving Autobot; but doesn't say anything. Maybe next week.* ItsyBitsySpyers 10:17 pm ((byeeee!)) Omicron 10:17 pm *waves a wing at* Whirl 10:18 pm *pretty quiet, when he needs to be; he'll start by snagging the necessary bottles and mixing it at a nearby table* ItsyBitsySpyers 10:18 pm *In that case, Ravage will wake up (because like hell is he not doing so) but he will pretend to be asleep.* Specs 10:19 pm *the dragon yawns suddenly. it's time for furry beasts to sleep* Goodnight! *beeps at Wub and heads off* Windchill 10:19 pm *Tries to pry his daughter off of his face, fails miserably and only gets an indignant peep for his troubles. He's lucky she hasn;t developed claws yet.* ItsyBitsySpyers 10:19 pm [[Goodnight, dragon.]] Windchill 10:19 pm *Muffled 'bye'* Whirl 10:19 pm *bobs his head at the dragon* Whirl 10:20 pm *and there. His Gaugebuster is mixed. He'll consider this an IOU situation* Whirl 10:22 pm ...you mind if I bring this glass back next week, Soundwave? ItsyBitsySpyers 10:22 pm *Whirl escapes with all his pieces intact.*

[[He doesn't mind. He's sure you know Ravage can and will find you if you don't.]] Whirl 10:23 pm Pfft, as if I'd risk the wrath of the bartender. You know how much power you give to the person who mixes your booze? A lot. That's how much. Omicron 10:24 pm That's not a lie Whirl 10:24 pm Anyway-- *he'll set the glass down and pop on over to say goodnight to Blue. And also Windchill, maybe, while he's there. But he's clearly here to see the wriggler* Catch you two later. *the claw is offered for gnawing, one last time* Windchill 10:24 pm *Blue GRABS it, just to hold and yell at.* Whirl 10:24 pm And, Shovel! I'll probably be calling you over in this next week or so, maybe, if you're still interested in demolishing the inside of that ship. ItsyBitsySpyers 10:24 pm [[Goodnight.]]

@W: [[And don't worry. He'll erase the tapes of you handling the younglings.]] Whirl 10:24 pm ........... Me 10:24 pm *... oh right, Prowl was going to—* Whirl 10:24 pm @S: Thanks. Windchill 10:25 pm *More muffling* You headed out? Me 10:25 pm *...... never mind. it seems stupid now that he's sober.* Whirl 10:25 pm *well he suppose he shouldn't be surprised that Soundwave observed it* ItsyBitsySpyers 10:25 pm *Going to what?* Bevel 10:25 pm *looks up from a datapad, oh right that she can.. she can definitely probably be back for that* Yeah ok! Whirl 10:25 pm *snickers* There it is! Music to my audials. She's destined for the opera, Chill. And yep. Windchill 10:26 pm That's 'cause she takes after ME. And her mom. *Snorts. His mate just sings...differently, is all.* 'Kay. Oh! *That's enough to get a wiggle out of the worm, her abdomen is still getting the brunt of Windchill's speech here.* I forgot. I got the gun. It was so distracting that I forgot to update you, but now you know. Whirl 10:28 pm *bobs his head* Gotcha. And, yeah... new guns usually are. Windchill 10:28 pm We should test it out. In fact, I have an idea. We go to your place, later, you show me your boat and I show you my gun. That would be efficient, see. Whirl 10:30 pm Works for me. Plenty of space out there for target practice. Windchill 10:30 pm Cool. Okay, you're dismissed. Say 'bye' to Whirl, Blue. ItsyBitsySpyers 10:30 pm *Huffs softly at Prime's lines.* Whirl 10:31 pm *snorts* How gracious. All right, see all you losers later! *scoops his cup back up* Windchill 10:31 pm *Blue says "BLAH!" which is close enough.* Whirl 10:31 pm *oh, wait, he must wait for this goodbye* Bevel 10:31 pm *welp she's gonna go, she needs to finish reading these and... the music is not helping* Whirl 10:31 pm Excellent. She's the most eloquent baby insecticon I've ever met. Windchill 10:31 pm That's 'cause she's so smart, duh! Omicron 10:31 pm *eyeing the music, then soundwave* Windchill 10:31 pm Gets it from the other one. ItsyBitsySpyers 10:32 pm *Soundwave nods absently to Bevel and looks at the Predacon. What?* Windchill 10:32 pm *Blue beeps* ItsyBitsySpyers 10:32 pm *When you have to watch dozens to hundreds of timelines, you take your humor where you can get it.* Whirl 10:32 pm *he's in a good mood, so he will not say anything snide about Blue's mom* *and, with one last head-bob, he trots off* Omicron 10:32 pm *Icy is making a face from the wierd song before, it was painful to her audios* Windchill 10:32 pm *Good.* *Chill waves, seeing as he can't see anything.* Bevel 10:33 pm *...sits back down for Starscream video* Windchill 10:34 pm *The worm peeps mournfully, her favourite Wub is gone.* Bevel 10:36 pm That was terrible. ItsyBitsySpyers 10:36 pm [[He found it rather amusing, himself.]] Bevel 10:36 pm *sticks her tongue out at Soundwave* ItsyBitsySpyers 10:36 pm *Zori suddenly peeps out from Soundwave's throat.* #the red Starscream!! #oh I miss him Me 10:37 pm ((i like how we went from a hilarious g1 starscream/lion king video to an angsty armada starscream/lion king video)) ((oh look and in the sidebar we have an armada starscream amv to linkin park! that's peak 2003, right there)) Bevel 10:37 pm ((amazing Omicron 10:38 pm *thoughtful and looks at soundwave, forelegs cross* sooo...it is okay to bring a hatching with one coming here? ItsyBitsySpyers 10:38 pm [[If you can control them.]] Windchill 10:39 pm *Raises hand* I have a hatchling on my face. She hatched. From an egg. Omicron 10:39 pm Oh I can, and they can't go far at the moment anyway Windchill 10:39 pm Which is what you hatch from. Omicron 10:39 pm Most of my hatch from eggs too! ItsyBitsySpyers 10:39 pm [[And you, Windchill, are surprisingly skilled with younglings. He owes you for your assistance tonight.]] Bevel 10:40 pm *Optimus video? yep she's out bye* *she's leaving, the mun is staying because this video is epic af* Windchill 10:40 pm *Gives Soundwave a thumbs up.* I've had a few brats in my time. Bevel 10:43 pm ((soooooo good ItsyBitsySpyers 10:43 pm [[He was only aware of this one.]] Windchill 10:44 pm That's because she's the brattiest. *Blue demonstrates this by shoving a foot in Windchill's eye, and he doesn't even bother to protest at this point.* Ugh. I've had her and one before. ItsyBitsySpyers 10:45 pm [[Where are the others?]] Omicron 10:45 pm that looks like what some of mine do when they try and fly before they are ready...... Windchill 10:46 pm *Grunts.* Grown up, that's where. *Don't ask, honestly. It's a mess.* ItsyBitsySpyers 10:46 pm [[Ah. He sees.]] Me 10:46 pm ((... oh that's right, i need to finish playing wfc and foc someday)) Windchill 10:47 pm Blue isn't going to fly, she's just being a butt. I'm not even sure if she'll have wings yet. *He reaches up, gently prodding two proto-limbs on her back, which wiggle at the disturbance.* But she might. Omicron 10:47 pm (I love those games, they helped my with writing things on cybertron and cyber-fauna ) Windchill 10:47 pm (( They're pretty good! I need to replay them. Rise of the Dark Spark is good for the Cybertron bits and you get to play as SHOCKWAVE, FINALLY, but the Tyran stuff drags it down. )) Me 10:48 pm ((i love the aesthetic in them. every time i open the game i take like 50 screenshots.)) ((what am i going to do with the screenshots? i don't know.)) Omicron 10:48 pm (same them!) ItsyBitsySpyers 10:48 pm *Soundwave nods to Windchill. From what he understands of young produced that way, it will be a long time before they see such changes in the grub.* *His attention is mostly focused on the screen, though. Thinking. Like you do.* Omicron 10:49 pm Megatron was an aft in that world <_<;; ItsyBitsySpyers 10:49 pm [[Yes, he was.]] [[But so was he. And most everyone else.]] Windchill 10:50 pm *It will be A WHILE. She's just over 15 feet long now and could grow to anywhere between 60 and a hundred. That's why she eats so much.* Me 10:50 pm I've found that he is in the vast majority of universes. Windchill 10:50 pm You say that as if— *is beaten by Prowl.* Yeah. Omicron 10:50 pm well, true enough. I meant how he treated the civilions Me 10:51 pm ... I say "vast majority" as if it hasn't applied to one hundred percent of the Megatrons I have witnessed or been made aware of so far. Omicron 10:51 pm he had the whole 'you stay under my rule, or leave' thing, then when those unarmed mecha tried to leave he started shooting the ships down ItsyBitsySpyers 10:51 pm [[He knows of some who weren't. He has lost contact with their worlds, but he did know.]] [[But they were drops to an ocean.]] Me 10:52 pm ... You say that as though other Megatrons don't display similar tactics and behavior. In my universe he shot down fleeing neutral ships as well. Omicron 10:52 pm I witnessed it in a world like that *shrugs* I know he likely did Omicron 10:54 pm well, to move on from this, soundwave, you have a lovely bar here by the way. Very roomy! ItsyBitsySpyers 10:55 pm [[Thank you. It is designed to handle a crowd filled with tytons.]] [[...Very large mechs. Taller than Predaking.]] Windchill 10:55 pm *Snorts.* I feel personally attacked. Omicron 10:56 pm I appreciate it for what its worth, I like being able to stretch out in beast mode in doors.... its hard a lot of other places ItsyBitsySpyers 10:56 pm [[Don't be. He is merely acknowledging its intended capacity.]] Me 10:56 pm *looks at the roof skeptically.* ... You're not fitting any titans in here. ItsyBitsySpyers 10:57 pm *Slow glance over.* [[...They are in here every weekend.]] Omicron 10:57 pm maybe a young one? Me 10:57 pm ... Do your titans turn into shacks instead of cities? Omicron 10:57 pm avatar forms? Windchill 10:58 pm *Almost spits, but his spawn is messy enough without and so he refrains.* Me 10:58 pm *no wonder Soundwave didn't get the metrotitan limerick* ItsyBitsySpyers 10:58 pm [[Cities? Why would they turn int-- oh.]] *Helm shake.* [[No, no. Tyton. It's - a size category. You are thinking of Supremes.]] [[That is what they are here, anyway.]] Windchill 10:59 pm I don't think I've heard of it. Me 10:59 pm ... Titans are supremes, and tytons aren't titans. *Flatly.* So who's on first. ItsyBitsySpyers 10:59 pm [[Him, usually.]] Omicron 10:59 pm O_o ItsyBitsySpyers 11:00 pm [[Laserbeak takes turns playing music when he is on break though.]]

*Visor: great poker face.* Me 11:00 pm *HUFF.* Omicron 11:00 pm I could add a layer to this Prowl Me 11:00 pm Do. ItsyBitsySpyers 11:00 pm [[And he isn't surprised you haven't, Windchill. He finds it's unfamiliar off his world.]] Omicron 11:01 pm in my world there's different classes of Titians. and Supremes Windchill 11:02 pm That could be. Where I'm from, anyone larger than, say, Megatron, is classed as a giant fuck. It's a broad category. Omicron 11:03 pm XD ItsyBitsySpyers 11:03 pm *Huff.* [[And what is Megatron? A pathetic one?]] Windchill 11:03 pm *Not the actual terminology, but the sentiment is there.* Me 11:03 pm So, in this universe, your "tytons" cap out at... *glances calculatingly over Soundwave, then at the ceiling.* ... Shuttles, probably? Windchill 11:04 pm He's just Megatron, I think. Omicron 11:04 pm If I remember right, there's platforms who are mostly under the surface of Cybertron, the city-formers on the surface. Stastions that are basicly a city in orbit. Then the ships in deeper space *looks up too* ItsyBitsySpyers 11:05 pm *Someone's in hidden bitter mode tonight.*

[[Mm, yes. Somewhere around that.]] *Nodding at Icy.* [[Yes. Trypticon was a space station, once.]] [[If we're offering examples.]] Omicron 11:05 pm He was fun to visit once... ItsyBitsySpyers 11:06 pm *Hello, instant suspicion.* [[And what would you be doing visiting that station.]] Windchill 11:06 pm *Shudders.* Me 11:06 pm What are we? *"We" as in himself and Soundwave; they're about the same height, they ought to be in the same size category, yes?* Windchill 11:07 pm You couldn't pay me to so much as look in Trypticon's direction, honestly. *Finally, Blue gets bored of lounging on dad's head and climbs down to coil against his chest, looking around at the remaining curiously.* *Chill vents a sigh of relief.* Omicron 11:08 pm He used to be fun! in my world at least. Before the whole dark energon and forcing out of octane and any other mech that could calm him down -chirps at the hatchling?- ItsyBitsySpyers 11:09 pm *Plating twitch. At least she seems to disapprove of that.* Omicron 11:10 pm Sorry Soundwave, I know that stuff is nasty in many worlds Windchill 11:10 pm *The worm smacks her lips.* ItsyBitsySpyers 11:12 pm [[Then you're a cut above the rest. And he takes it you were never on the Nemesis, then, Windchill? Or is that not Trypticon where you are from?]]

*Said while eyeing Prowl critically* Windchill 11:13 pm Never. My...talents would have been wasted there anyway. Omicron 11:13 pm (I realized I was sliding around my kitchen doing a stupid dance to this song) ItsyBitsySpyers 11:14 pm [[Probably for the best. All things considered.]]

((lol)) Omicron 11:14 pm You're hatchling I hope knows better then to eat other hatchlings? Windchill 11:16 pm Nope. She'll eat anyone. I keep her with me for a reason. ItsyBitsySpyers 11:16 pm *Taps his finger against his thigh once in a decisive sort of way. Nods at Prowl now.*

[[-His- translates to peregrine. He is not experienced with classifying, but he thinks -you- would be a troqus. Troquae, were there more of you.]] Windchill 11:16 pm Well, Whirl's allowed to watch her. He knows. ItsyBitsySpyers 11:16 pm [[But only by a little bit. You could also be the class below it.]] Me 11:16 pm ... We're different sizes? ItsyBitsySpyers 11:17 pm [[You're not a flight model.]] Windchill 11:17 pm The first thing she did after hatching was to bite a chunk out of her carrier's hand. He was so proud, once the shock wore off. Me 11:17 pm ... Ah. So they're alt-mode categories as well. Omicron 11:17 pm ah, okay then, I'll stay over here then *keeps one wings more firmly folded on her back* Windchill 11:18 pm Good plan. ItsyBitsySpyers 11:18 pm [[Mixtures, yes.]] Me 11:18 pm What's the size down from troqus? Omicron 11:18 pm *listens in now* ItsyBitsySpyers 11:19 pm [[Carozzi. That was his, originally.]] Windchill 11:19 pm You can visit with her, but if she can get her hands on you she can get her mouth on you, and that's when things get...messy. Omicron 11:20 pm I'm more worried about my hatchling them myself. Kibble can be shed. its hard as hell but its possable Windchill 11:21 pm Yeah. Blue is...not a good playmate. Omicron 11:21 pm not all predacons start big Windchill 11:21 pm *Shrugs.* I wouldn't know about Predacons. Omicron 11:22 pm most are colony based, not unlike insecticons in some ways Windchill 11:23 pm *Vents deeply.* ...Yeah. Omicron 11:23 pm do you have a colony? ItsyBitsySpyers 11:24 pm *Listening. Might be useful in his dealings with Predaking. He's already got the gift he thought up.* Windchill 11:24 pm I'm not an Insecticon. Me 11:24 pm *Prowl has seen Soundwave's original frame. Prowl is barely taller and certainly less bulky than that. Firmly:* Carozzi. Windchill 11:26 pm *He might not be, but the thing in his lap? Yeah.* ItsyBitsySpyers 11:26 pm *Prowl is better armored and less maneuverable, but he did say it was a close call, and he thinks Prowl ought to have the final say when it comes to that anyway.*

[[Carozzi, then.]] Me 11:26 pm *Prowl isn't picturing himself in his better armored and less maneuverable frame. A nod.* ItsyBitsySpyers 11:27 pm *Ahhh. There you are, then.* Omicron 11:27 pm You don't really have to be an insecticon to be in a colony. hive. family group? ItsyBitsySpyers 11:29 pm [[He doubts you will have reason to spend much time here, as this isn't your home.]] And unlike Soundwave, Prowl isn't working for anyone on this Cybertron. [[But if you ever hear the word, now you will know what it is.]] Windchill 11:30 pm *Shrugs, fighting the urge to give the Predacon a dark look.* Sure. Me 11:30 pm I do spend an average of five hours a week here Omicron 11:31 pm *Icy lifts her forepaws a bit and settles back, she's smart enough to sense bad things might happen and looks around* ItsyBitsySpyers 11:32 pm [[Elsewhere here. The cities.]] *Quick glance over to Windchill and Icy. Is he going to have to intervene?* [[Or the Pits.]] Windchill 11:33 pm *It's nothing personal, he's just...touchy about that subject.* ItsyBitsySpyers 11:33 pm [[...What is he where you are from?]] Omicron 11:33 pm *Icy would prefer not to fight or stress anyone out. not really.* ItsyBitsySpyers 11:33 pm *Is it just the taxonomy entry?* Me 11:35 pm We don't really categorize by size. Size is kind of just an accidental side-effect of different alt-modes. Windchill 11:35 pm *He can control himself, it's nothing to be upset about. But, as Insecticons are among the Least Favoured of Primus' children, he's prone to getting defensive.* Omicron 11:36 pm (for what its worth, Icy loves insecticons.) Me 11:37 pm Broadly, you'd be some kind of combat aircraft. I'd have to look it up to see exactly what you are. Omicron 11:37 pm Would I just be a beast former? In your world I mean Me 11:38 pm ... In YOUR world, you aren't Cybertronian, are you? I mean—you're from Cybertron, but you aren't a member of the species called "Cybertronians." Correct? Windchill 11:39 pm *Blue, sensing her parent's ire, rediscovers the blanket she's been sitting next to, and promptly throws it on the floor.* ItsyBitsySpyers 11:39 pm [[Unmanned aerial vehicle. From a human perspective. We didn't have shapes like this.]]

*Ah, now here is a thing he wants to hear those two talk about.* *Refrains from chuckling at Blue's antics, but it's hard.* Omicron 11:40 pm Well, yes, I am a cybertronian. Even those sparked off word are. Unless they do not want to be as such *Predacon blinked confused at Prowl* Me 11:41 pm You wouldn't be called an "unmanned aerial vehicle," you ARE the one manning yourself. Again—I'd have to look it up. You're built lighter and with less combat capabilities, I think that would put you under a different alt-mode than—for example—someone like Starscream. But, I don't know. You might be in the same category as him. Windchill 11:41 pm *Chill scoffs, leans forward to pick up the crumpled blanket with a grunt, and hands it back to his spawn, who accepts it eagerly.* That is not how we behave, young lady. Omicron 11:41 pm I am a primal Predacon, what your frame kinds evolved out of Prowl, in time...but I am Cybertronian from where I com from ItsyBitsySpyers 11:42 pm *That's actually kind of pleasing. He doesn't like the unmanned bit any more than he's ever liked the "drone" alternative.*

*...What happens if he stretches a feeler toward Blue - keeping it out of reach, of course - and wiggles the claws at her?* Me 11:42 pm Sorry, I thought you were— A Predacon, yes? In his universe, *gestures at Soundwave* Predacons are a different species from... Cybertronians-who-are-the-species-Cybertronian-and-not-just-from-Cybertron. Your Predacons are /not/ a member of a separate species, then? *honestly, why would Cybertronians call themselves "unmanned" if they ARE the man?* ItsyBitsySpyers 11:43 pm *They wouldn't. He said it was from the human perspective.* Windchill 11:43 pm *Windchill raises a hand, seeing as its free for the moment.* *Blue eyes the feeler, trying to decide if she's hungry enough to try stalking it or if, maybe, it's a toy. Kind of the same thing.* Omicron 11:44 pm If you want to get technical I guess we are a different species? I guarantee you have far more advanced internals and organs then I do. Windchill 11:45 pm *She shoves her blanket in her mouth, her practically vestigial legs kicking in place.* ItsyBitsySpyers 11:45 pm *Wiggly tendrils. Eat that blanket, youngling. Give it the gnawing of its life.* Me 11:46 pm If we are different species, then you wouldn't be categorized as a "beastformer" or anything else. We don't try to put different species in our own species's taxonomy. It's like asking what type of Cybertronian an Ardurian roc is. No type of Cybertronian. They're from Arduria. Windchill 11:46 pm Where I'm from, different frame types are said to be derived from various Primes. Predacons and Insecticons are, supposedly, the most ancient and the original beastformers, but not necessarily the ancestors of other types. I never really looked into it though, so that's as much as I'm aware of. *Blue can't reach, but she's gonna swipe at the distant feeler anyway. She's only got one eye, depth perception isn't her strongest suit.* Me 11:47 pm The rules may be different in your universe. But in my universe, your being of a different species means, by default, you don't go in one of the boxes designed for our species. Omicron 11:48 pm From what I have always understood, if you have a spark, you are a cybertronian. As sparks only come from Primus. -confused predacon- ItsyBitsySpyers 11:48 pm *Soundwave makes note of the Prime bit. He's heard that about their own planet, but he's not sure how that's possible. Unless they're like... approved factory production lines? But even so, there's so much variation...* *These things have always confused him, though.* Me 11:49 pm On my Cybertron, there are many different species that have sparks. They're all Cybertronian-as-in-from-Cybertron, but not Cybertronian-as-in-of-the-species-named-Cybertronian. ItsyBitsySpyers 11:50 pm [[Which would you be derived from, if he is allowed to ask?]]

*He huffs again at the missed swipe and adjusts the feeler's position so she can at least get in the right space next time, though still not far enuogh to actually grab.* Me 11:50 pm ... It's /very/ inconvenient that "Cybertronian" is both a demonym and a species. For the rest of this conversation I'm just going to refer to the Cybertronian species as Transformers. *That's the alien word for them and it's perfectly serviceable.* Omicron 11:50 pm Hmmm well that makes some sense I might be a weird case even in my world. As there's only trace primal predacons, thankfully no primitive ones any more Windchill 11:51 pm Who, me? ItsyBitsySpyers 11:51 pm [[Yes, you.]] Windchill 11:51 pm (( I had to pee lol. )) Windchill 11:52 pm *Blue kicks her feet to rev up some imaginary momentum, and swipes again, NEARLY lunging out of her sire's grasp in the process. Luckily, she is very long and Chill is paying attention enough to reel her back in.* ItsyBitsySpyers 11:52 pm [[And for the record, if you]] looking at Icy [[were from here, we would not have a category. You were extinct when they were created, and your resurrected cousins are mostly uninterested in the discussions concerning our categories. Here, you are all simply Predacons.]] Me 11:53 pm In the universe I've been made familiar with *gestures again demonstratively at Soundwave* all currently living Predacons are clones of deceased ones. Is that also the case in your universe? Windchill 11:53 pm *Windchill hesitates, thinking before answering.* Omicron 11:53 pm Yes and no. Soundwave did do the whole cloning thing, I think because he didn't know about the predacons left. ItsyBitsySpyers 11:54 pm *Powerful little spawn. Windchill should be--*

[[He begs your pardon?]] Windchill 11:54 pm I would, hypothetically, be considered a descendant of Solus Prime, even though the reasoning for it makes little sense, as she was already dead. Omicron 11:55 pm Not you, I meant to say Schockwave with soundwave at first...but then soundwave- in my wold put a stopped it. Windchill 11:55 pm *He's left out why he would be linked to her, as that wasn't asked.* *Blue writhes in her parent's grip. She wants to be free to fight the skinny worm!* Me 11:56 pm *it's okay, prowl used to get their names confused all the time.* Windchill 11:56 pm *Windchill relents, letting her settle back down in his lap. So long as she doesn't go flying off into space and nobody gets hurt, it's fine.* Omicron 11:58 pm not sure if you can do it soundwave, but the mech from my would was the only one that could mimic a Queen's harmonics. If it wasn't for him, the cloned and hybrid mechs would have torn a chuch out of his side's forces ItsyBitsySpyers 11:58 pm *A skilled question game player, eh? He'll poke at that part of it another time.*

*Aha. Thank you, Windchill. He'll make sure not to give her reason to topple to the floor while he continues entertaining her.* [[A - a what?]] Windchill 11:59 pm *She's pretty tough and would probably be just fine, but if the baby momma found out he would have to explain and it would be an ordeal, so he'd rather not.* Yesterday Omicron 11:59 pm A Queen? Windchill 12:00 am *Windchill mentally balks at the word 'Queen,' and plans to not contribute to that topic.* *Blue, for her part, is eyeing that feeler again.* ItsyBitsySpyers 12:00 am [[The... the one that rests at the center of the colony and produces all the eggs?]] Omicron 12:01 am Err...not exactly Windchill 12:01 am *TRIES TO NOT SPIT* *Just looks constipated instead.* ItsyBitsySpyers 12:01 am *Has completely forgotten that Blue is looking at his feeler. He was thrown completely off guard by this data and his main understanding of Queens and what he thinks of them.* Omicron 12:03 am A Queen has to...well a predacon queen, like me. I can produce a big clutch or hatchlings...er, sparklings. but you keep those in the colonly....calm. Led. loved. Even if they leave Me 12:03 am *... why is everyone suddenly so awkward* Windchill 12:03 am *She bunches herself up, preparing to launch...but only hops as far as to drape herself over dad's arm to go for the feeler.* *Chill watches her with one eye, the other...is doing something else, presumably.* ItsyBitsySpyers 12:04 am *Still hasn't noticed. She might just steal her prize if Windchill doesn't catch her.*

[[..........And he - that is, his alternate - can. Imitate the harmonics. The Queen's.]] Windchill 12:04 am *Swipe swipe flap flap flap goes the grubby hand.* Me 12:06 am *... is soundwave alright? he can imitate the sound of everything else, why is this alarming.* Windchill 12:06 am *Windchill, briefly, wonders whether his spawn as any decipherable surface thoughts for Soundwave to detect, but lets the notion go free.* Omicron 12:07 am Yes. He gave the sense that there was a Queen near by. with newly cloned predacons, or near raging ones, if they have the correct instincts, they're going to calm down and look for that Queen. She would be, well 'mother' for a lack of a better word. Somewhere to be protected or to protect. Where there's a queen, there's hunting grounds. In some cases a possible mate. Windchill 12:07 am *Windchill makes an odd face. It's all in the lips.* Omicron 12:08 am at least in my world? Me 12:08 am *paying more attention to soundwave's body language than to the rest of the conversation* Windchill 12:08 am That's...really interesting. ItsyBitsySpyers 12:09 am *Is making no face. Still looks awkward somehow. He's frozen in place, with slightly dimmed biolights, and his helm is pulled back like he'd be sitting up straighter if he weren't locked in the slouch he had as a result of playing with the grub.*

[[...He sees. That is an interesting talent.]] *TO PUT IT MILDLY.* [[He will add it to his files.]] Me 12:10 am *hmm. here's what prowl can decipher from soundwave's body language:* Windchill 12:10 am *The bug yells at the feeler.* Me 12:10 am *jack shit.* ItsyBitsySpyers 12:10 am *And now he notices what Blue's doing while he tries to regain his composure.*

[[Ah, ah. He sees you trying to steal the claw, bitlet.]] *Lightning-quick boop.* Me 12:11 am *... soundwave's biolights haven't brightened, so he's /probably/ not horny. that's it. that's all prowl's got.* ItsyBitsySpyers 12:11 am *Prowl can you not* Omicron 12:11 am I thought the files were funny honestly, in a sad way. Soundwave had two big predacons crouched behind him wanting pets becuase Soockwave hurt them Me 12:12 am *apparently, prowl really can not.* Windchill 12:12 am *Blue makes a shocked 😮 face, her mandibles frozen for half a second before she resumes swiping with a determined PEEP.* ItsyBitsySpyers 12:13 am [[He probably did a great deal to earn that trust. Beyond vocal imitations.]] Windchill 12:13 am *Windchill watches, lending no support toward her battle with Soundwave's appendage.* Omicron 12:13 am likely, I didn't get those Predacons until after he sent them to me Windchill 12:14 am *She must face this battle alone, she's Independent.* ItsyBitsySpyers 12:14 am [[Be good to them, then. You have his alternate's reputation to uphold.]] *Allows a swipe to graze the claw and lets it fall to the floor as though dead.* [[You have defeated your mighty enemy, youngling. Congratulations.]] Omicron 12:15 am 😊 oh I was, I helped them realize what it is to be a predacon. They're at peace with themselves long before they left. Windchill 12:15 am *Blue's eye tracks it, and stares in confusion. She's never killed anything before!* *More yelling, and pointing with a chubby grub finger.* Omicron 12:16 am That was a mighty battle young one. and you rose to the challenge! Windchill 12:16 am *Windchill leans over to look, and nods sagely.* Good job, Squirt. *He might have to stop her from climbing down to eat it, but that's par for the course.* ItsyBitsySpyers 12:17 am *Soundwave carries on the theatrics by using the other feeler to grab the first one and 'push' it back into its housing. Can't have it looking like it snapped back to life, after all.* Windchill 12:18 am Tsk, we don't eat Soundwave. *He scoops her up where she can be bounced in his lap and practice kicking her feet.* *He will, though, send a ping of appreciation to Soundwave for the battle.* ItsyBitsySpyers 12:18 am *Soundwave nods. He did say he owed Windchill.* Windchill 12:19 am *This is fair.* ItsyBitsySpyers 12:19 am ((and if she ever comes back to dancitron with chill, we can figure out if he can get coherent thoughts off her then)) Omicron 12:19 am <_< so... with all your predacons cloned.. have you seen a real hatchling of one or no? ItsyBitsySpyers 12:20 am [[Not on his own planet. He has seen the hatchlings of the Predacons cloned by an ally.]] Me 12:20 am *Since Prowl's universe doesn't have Predacons, will defer to Soundwave to answer that.* ItsyBitsySpyers 12:20 am [[...One of them sings.]] *Sort of.* Windchill 12:20 am (( She probably will, from time to time. It's good for her to be exposed to social situations, or, Windchill at least hopes she won't turn out like her parents in that regard. )) Omicron 12:20 am Singing is normal, if not a must in some cases <_< ItsyBitsySpyers 12:21 am *He'll leave out that he turned to a total softie in their presence and gave a few of them airplane rides with his feelers.* Windchill 12:21 am ...Singing? Omicron 12:22 am *Icy lifts her head and starts to sing wordlessly, its not bad and seemingly for calming. Not long though, only a little bit* oooh yes. ItsyBitsySpyers 12:22 am *RECORDED* Windchill 12:23 am Hm. Cool. Omicron 12:23 am *the predacon considers soundwave thoughtfully* would you like to meet one? Windchill 12:23 am *Blue was watching that, but offers no comment.* ItsyBitsySpyers 12:24 am [[Not tonight. But he would like the opportunity to compare those from different worlds, yes.]] Omicron 12:25 am *Icy nods, she's been watching how he's acted so far* I can bring one by. Or if you ever want to stop by my ship. ItsyBitsySpyers 12:25 am [[Whichever you think will be less stressful for them.]] Omicron 12:27 am Ship might be best depending. Though I would ask no weapons. *gives a slow, fanged filled smile, with a blue-white glow in the back of her maw. just a split second before calming down. She's still a big pretective predacon* ItsyBitsySpyers 12:28 am [[He doesn't carry any that are not a part of his frame.]] Omicron 12:28 am *not harm meant, she is just careful with grab-able sized hatchling* Windchill 12:28 am *The worm huffs, and pats dad's chest with a questioning 'amnamnamnamnam?' to which he looks down, chin pressed against his armour, but he can barely see past his own boobs.* ItsyBitsySpyers 12:29 am [[He will make time for the trip as soon as he can. Thank you.]] *Stretch.* [[But we are keeping you away from your younglings and -your- youngling awake.]] Windchill 12:29 am *Nods.* Blue says she's either hungry, or wants her carrier, which is kind of the same thing. Omicron 12:30 am erm.... well, I have someone guarding them, he hasn't let me know that the rest have started to hatch out. ItsyBitsySpyers 12:31 am [[...That sounds painful.]] *Huff.* [[But he understands.]] Windchill 12:31 am *Time to swaddle the creature in her blanket so she can't wiggle out of his grasp so easily. She's usually good about being carried, but in a new environment he's not taking the chance.* Hmm? ItsyBitsySpyers 12:32 am [[The thought that she might bite her - carrier? The other form, he assumes. Not that his haven't done the same when upset.]] *Another huff.* *Ravage chuckles from over by the bar.* Omicron 12:33 am *Icy starts to get up, stretching a little, there's a meep from under a wing but its kept closed still* Windchill 12:34 am Ah, yeah. *There is a brief struggle, as the worm is wiggly and thinks this is a great game and time to misbehave.* Same word...totally different meaning. ItsyBitsySpyers 12:35 am *...Suspicious glance at the meep, but he is fast approaching the limit of his large-group endurance without taking a quick break with someone else to do the entertaining. He'll inquire about it another time.* Windchill 12:35 am She's not likely to bite him, but she makes the same sound for wanting fuel and for wanting him, so I get to figure out which it is. *His mouth quirks, wryly.* Both are the right answer. Omicron 12:36 am at least there's that? Windchill 12:36 am *Finally, the beast is tamed, and he stands with his sub sandwich shaped spawn in tow.* ItsyBitsySpyers 12:36 am [[That does help. Good luck.]] Windchill 12:37 am *Nods.* Good night, suckers. Omicron 12:37 am *Icy takes a few steps over, lifts and crosses a foreleg and dips her head to soundwave* Thank you for hosting and the conversation. Even the strange movie. ItsyBitsySpyers 12:37 am [[Good night. And to you, bitlet.]] Windchill 12:38 am *Snorts.* ItsyBitsySpyers 12:38 am *Oh, fancy. He's never seen a Predacon do that in their beast mode. He nods to Icy.*

[[You're welcome.]] Windchill 12:38 am Say goodnight, Blue. *He points at Soundwave so she knows where to look.* *Bluebottle, in true form, beeps rudely. Thanks a lot, Whirl.* ... ItsyBitsySpyers 12:39 am *He KNOWS what that beep is. Full upper torso trembling.* Omicron 12:39 am O-o <_< do I want to know? Windchill 12:39 am We're...gonna work on that. *Can't keep a straight face and has to leave now.* ItsyBitsySpyers 12:40 am [[Probably not.]] *It really is rude. He folds his hands on his lap and nods once more at Windchill's back.* Windchill 12:41 am We'll see you guys later. *Waves over his shoulder, and makes a break for it.* Omicron 12:42 am *tail twitch but comms her ship for a bridge home...pings Soundwave the comm to the ship and her if he wants come sometime* ItsyBitsySpyers 12:42 am *Pings acknowledgment and logs it in his records. He'll be sure to clear time out within the next couple of weeks.* Omicron 12:43 am *tiiiiny bring wedge shape head peeks out of the wing folds and pokes a forked glossa out at them all as icy leaves* ItsyBitsySpyers 12:43 am *HE KNEW IT. Goodbye, tiny one. He'll greet you another time.* Omicron 12:43 am (bye!) ItsyBitsySpyers 12:43 am ((bye!!)) Me 12:44 am ((bye)) ItsyBitsySpyers 12:44 am *Soundwave shakes his helm for nobody's benefit save his own and settles back into his seat, retracting the spines a little so they won't scratch up on it.* Me 12:46 am *Sideways look at Soundwave* *And then, guesses,* Oviposition? ItsyBitsySpyers 12:48 am *Jolts straight up and into a twist, having never expected to hear that question coming out of Prowl's mouth.*

(txt): What? Why asked, that? Me 12:50 am *Well THAT'S certainly a reaction.* I'm trying to figure out why you were so... distracted by the idea that your alternate could imitate the sound of a queen, when you can imitate anything /else/ without such a reaction. ItsyBitsySpyers 12:51 am *In all fairness, he also might've temporarily forgotten Prowl was lurking there. Like others used to do with him.* Me 12:51 am You immediately focused on the egg-producing potential of queens, while it was something the Predacon de-emphasized. So. Oviposition? ItsyBitsySpyers 12:56 am *Of -all the times- Prowl could choose to be exceptionally observant. Maybe he should have joined Prowl in getting drunk back at that dedication ceremony. It'd be super helpful right about now.*

*Well. In for a credit, in for a shanix.*

(txt): ...Unknown. Tarantulas' situation: fascinating concept. Never witnessed. Soundwave cannot participate.

(txt): Other Queen definitions: unknown. Soundwave's only knowledge source...

*He looks just to the left of Prowl's face. His lights dim a little more. Why not? Prowl already read him like a datapad.*

(txt): Xenomorph Queen, her function. This... awkward. Prowl knows future remodel plan. Me 12:57 am ... If you're uncomfortable talking about it, we can drop the topic. ItsyBitsySpyers 1:02 am *He shakes his helm.*

(txt): Negative. Prowl... trusted. Allowed.

*Besides, he owes Prowl some return tidbits for the pipe incident and its products.*

(txt): Soundwave... often rumored partial Insecticon. Known insect concept: Queens. Awkward connections present. Me 1:06 am *Ah. Yes. Accidentally confirming the unpleasant rumors was always... irksome.* Well. I won't tell anyone you're curious about the kink if you don't. ItsyBitsySpyers 1:10 am *Irksome, confusing, hysterically funny but horrifying, both repulsive and vaguely appealing for reasons he has no idea how to begin unfolding... in other words, complex.*

(txt): ...Appreciated.

*Looks away a little more, trying not to picture how on Cybertron he would get any work done stuck dangling from a ceiling like that. It's impossible.*

*...Looks back and leans close.*

(txt): How -Prowl- familiar? Me 1:14 am *... How does he answer honestly without saying Tarantulas has the kink? Obviously Soundwave knows SOME of Tarantulas's situation, but Prowl doesn't know if he knows ALL of Tarantulas's situation, and Prowl found out Tarantulas /could/ lay eggs ages before Tarantulas admitted he /enjoys/ laying eggs. So...* ItsyBitsySpyers 1:15 am *...Abrupt light brightening. He remembered something and had a thought. And now he's not looking at Prowl again.*

*Don't mind him. Go on.* Me 1:15 am I researched the sociological aspects of egg-laying after learning some about... as you say, Tarantulas's "situation." Oviposition included in that research. Me 1:16 am *There. Minorly misleading but perfectly honest—as within the bounds of their agreement.* ItsyBitsySpyers 1:17 am (txt): ...Prowl: also curious?

*Prowl likes the fur. And the legs and the mandibles and the everything else. Why not the eggs, if he adores all the other stuff Tarantulas did to himself or can do with himself?* (txt): Regarding witness/experience. Not sociological research basis. Me 1:19 am ... Intellectually curious, not erotically curious, I'm afraid. *Before Soundwave's hopes get too high.* I'd be willing to experiment with it with a partner who desired to do so, but the concept doesn't arouse me. But it doesn't turn me off, either, provided eggs containing an actual living being aren't getting played with. ItsyBitsySpyers 1:23 am (txt): Preferences: acknowledged.

*Don't worry about Soundwave's hopes. He still isn't sure what they actually are when pinned down. One? The other? A combination? Who can tell. Not this noodle.*

(txt): Prowl should tell Tarantulas. Soundwave suspects Prowl: reason eggs exist. Me 1:23 am *Prowl's poker face is in fine form today.* Oh? ItsyBitsySpyers 1:29 am *Nod nod.*

(txt): If eggs: Tarantulas self-interaction interest only, efficient solution: avoid all scientific, surgical requirements; create, utilize proper toy version. Lower energy, material requirement - important, when alone. Higher availability reliance.

(txt): Tarantulas, Prowl past contains mutual creation. Prowl knows Tarantulas retains attachment, target: Springer, concept: parenthood. Without own Springer, Prowl's Springer acceptance, likely fantasy: create new life. This, related. Safe expression. (txt): Egg suspicion: hoped use always Prowl kink interaction. Me 1:33 am ... Huh. An intriguing theory. Well-defended. *His poker face remains flawless.* ItsyBitsySpyers 1:35 am *Bobs his helm. Thank you. Still, he's not sure if that's Prowl's regular neutral expression or a purposeful one - and if the latter, a good or bad one.*

(txt): ...Soundwave: crossing boundary? Me 1:35 am No, no. Me 1:36 am ... In fact, I've been finding that, around other universes, I have /less/ boundaries than they consider average. In sexual discussions, anyway. ItsyBitsySpyers 1:37 am *Tiny relief puff. Good. For a moment there, he thought... well, Prowl never prods at his doings concerning his other partner. It could've been seen as unfair that Soundwave had just done so.* Me 1:39 am *Prowl's just concerned about defending whatever secrets Tarantulas might have that Soundwave might not know about.* ItsyBitsySpyers 1:40 am (txt): Prowl's decreased boundaries: appreciated. Soundwave's privacy habits: sufficient compensation.

*He tags that as humorous, just in case.* Me 1:41 am *Huff.* I'm plenty private in other ways, I'm sure it evens out. ItsyBitsySpyers 1:41 am *Another bob.* ItsyBitsySpyers 1:43 am (txt): ...If Prowl's choice: sate intellectual curiosity, request: inform Soundwave, permit similar opportunity? *Thhhhhat was a little difficult to ask, but he doesn't know what other chance he has to find out, if not observing someone who can actually experiment with it.* Me 1:46 am ... I currently have some experimentation plans in place. It's going to involve modifying my avatar somewhat, of course. I'll let you know when the modifications are in place. ItsyBitsySpyers 1:47 am *Sits up.*

(txt): ...Prowl let Soundwave explain proven theory? *Well. Doesn't he feel a little bit foolish for that.* Me 1:48 am "Explain proven theory"? ItsyBitsySpyers 1:49 am (txt): If experimentation already planned, Prowl already knew truth, subject: Soundwave's suspicion. *At least it earned him some approval.*

(txt): Modification notice welcomed. Gratitude given. Me 1:50 am *Give him a moment to /very carefully/ select his words.* Me 1:51 am ... It isn't my place to either share or speculate on anything regarding Tarantulas's desires or preferences without knowing what he himself is willing to let be known about himself. *Maybe I know and maybe you know but I don't know that you know and you don't know that I know and so until you know that I know that you know and I know that you know that I know—* ItsyBitsySpyers 1:53 am (txt): ...Soundwave speculated. Place overstepped. Me 1:53 am *Soundwave DOESN'T know.* ItsyBitsySpyers 1:54 am *He does know, actually. But Tarantulas never said he could tell Prowl.* Me 1:54 am You may speculate if you want. I just mean—I, as someone who is... more privy to his sexual life than most—shouldn't, to someone who isn't. ... Unless you two have been up to more than I know about. But if you have and you haven't told me and he hasn't told me, I expect that's none of my business. ItsyBitsySpyers 1:55 am *Contemplates.* ItsyBitsySpyers 2:03 am (txt): Spare egg examined, mouth presence confirmed. Extended close, personal contact, purpose: experience greater intimacy level within comfortable range. Taunting sexual imagery exchanged. Personal discussion, subject: potential holoavatar equipment additions, preferences, designs, respective interests. Me 2:06 am *... Well, that doesn't necessarily mean that Tarantulas told Soundwave eggs are a sexual thing for him. It might mean he simply demonstrated the egg, the way he might demonstrate his alt-mode or mass-shifting, without any mention of sexuality; and Soundwave included it in that list since eggs were relevant to the conversation at hand. Soundwave hasn't /said/ that Tarantulas confirmed it's a sexual thing.* *Although now Prowl's curious—* What in the world were you doing with that egg that confirmed the presence of your mouth? Me 2:08 am ... Why are we still— Sorry, you should have been—using telepathy all this time. ItsyBitsySpyers 2:08 am (txt): ...Secret lick attempt.

(txt): Other senses involved during examination. That data also wanted. Me 2:09 am Can we just, assume that that's the default? Telepathy? Because nights when I've forgotten to grant permission until after movie night is long over have vastly outnumbered nights when I actually haven't wanted you to use telepathy. ItsyBitsySpyers 2:10 am *Kind of twitching his gaze from one optic to the other, enough that the movement of his visor is juuuust visible.*

[[...As long as you are certain it will not be a problem.]] [[Movie nights only, or all times?]] Me 2:12 am If it's a problem, we'll change it. Movie nights only, for now. ItsyBitsySpyers 2:13 am [[He accepts the request. And thanks you.]]

*And wonders if he got away with saying 1) that he licked the egg and 2) that he's been contemplating what it'd be like to add equipment like Prowl's to his avatar.* Me 2:14 am *Not quite. He's circling back to that.* How, exactly, did you try to /covertly/ lick the egg? You have to open your mask. ItsyBitsySpyers 2:18 am *Soundwave deactivates the lower latches and gently thumbs the bottom of his mask open a little bit, pushing it out but not up all that far. He pokes the tip of his tongue beneath it and forms a ring with his hands representing the egg. Hides it pretty well.* Me 2:19 am *Hmm. Prowl considers this critically.* ... All right. *Yes, that's reasonably subtle.* *... Is briefly seized by the urge to poke the tongue tip. Resists.* ItsyBitsySpyers 2:20 am [[Tarantulas only noticed because he spotted a bit of oral lubricant on the egg before he could clear it off with a thumb. He couldn't offer up another explanation.]] *Soundwave might as well take his mask off the rest of the way. It's usually off while Prowl's around anyhow.* Me 2:22 am *Well hello there, good to see you.* Me 2:23 am *A satisfied nod. On to the next question, then:* Holomatter equipment additions. Yours or his? *That was, in fact, what had made Prowl realize that they'd gone all night in text instead of telepathy: if Soundwave had been thinking, that wouldn't have been ambiguous.* ItsyBitsySpyers 2:24 am [[His own.]] *Still too unclear? He taps his chest to make sure.* Me 2:25 am *He got it that time.* Would it be too invasive to ask what additions? ItsyBitsySpyers 2:26 am [[...We were discussing--]] *HOLD ON. Brief wide-opticked moment. He just - he just figured out who Tarantulas was talking about when he mentioned other commissions during the addition conversation. It was Prowl. It was Prowl and the eggs THE WHOLE DAMN TIME.* Me 2:28 am ... Is that a yes? ItsyBitsySpyers 2:29 am *He can't believe he thought it was Smokescreen. Primus.*

[[We were discussing interface modifications. He... does not know that he wants permanent ones, but he has contemplated testing their presence on his avatar a few times.]] ItsyBitsySpyers 2:30 am [[Tarantulas asked which he would prefer if he were to pick one to start with. He settled on a valve for convenience and familiarity reasons - easier to hide and control, and not unlike a mouth. Tarantulas agreed.]] [[And fewer obvious surface signs of frame modification.]] Me 2:31 am ... Hmm. ItsyBitsySpyers 2:34 am [[He is not averse to testing the other one. He rather liked how you felt around his feeler.]] Me 2:35 am ... If you're interested for your own sake, then—by all means, experiment. Me 2:37 am But, I think it may be beneficial to reiterate—my interest in you, sexual and otherwise, is wholly divorced from whether or not you've got tactile equipment. So. If a primary motive for experimenting, is because you're—concerned that I might be... dissatisfied if you don't... then—dddon't let it be? ItsyBitsySpyers 2:43 am [[No. He knows you are pleased with him as he is.]] *It'd finally sunk in as of their first proper interface session.* [[It is just that--]] *Finger tapping.* [[He is - curious. He does not fully understand how to interpret the data he's received in the past, or why owning them is so popular. And--]] *Huff.* [[It would be nice to see what having an extra hand free is like. Or what things would be like if he were from your world instead of his, though he does not promise he would like the sensations if he did try.]] Me 2:45 am *Receives "what having an extra hand free is like" and the first interpretation his big, brilliant processor offers is that Soundwave thinks valves can serve as a spare hand and will probably use his for storage.* *Please hold, his poker face is dangerously cracking.* ItsyBitsySpyers 2:45 am *Narrows his optics a little. Not in an angry way. Just in a "what are you thinking in there" way.* Me 2:47 am *Manages, with a nearly straight face,* Your feelers and mandibles already provide you with several extra free hands than most people. I—don't think you need to use a valve for one, too. ItsyBitsySpyers 2:48 am *It takes a solid 25 seconds for him to get that. When he does, his expression changes to one of deep, deep amusement.* Me 2:48 am *Oh good, Prowl was beginning to worry he'd have to explain the joke. That really WOULD make him crack up.* *... Affection ping. That's a nice look on Soundwave.* ItsyBitsySpyers 2:51 am [[Fine. He can always test it another way if you aren't interested in giving it something to hold.]]

*Soundwave's expression softens and slides a little closer to adoring amusement. He returns the ping.* Me 2:52 am *Huff.* Of course I'm interested. ItsyBitsySpyers 2:56 am [[He had hoped so.]]

*Some tension leaves his frame. He was... worried. About that. Probably not a lot of people out there who would do a good job of handling being told "I'm going to try fragging you and I may be completely repulsed by it."* Me 2:56 am ... If you want to know what having the equipment is like, though, just getting it in your avatar will probably be inadequate. Most mechs who weren't forged with tactile equipment need some serious software patches to get new dongles to operate properly as an interface array. You already have recreational interface subroutines, so that should make it easier to patch in. But without software patches, it might just feel like an extremely sensitive face-textured pocket. Me 2:58 am ... Since you CAN receive sexual arousal from touch, you'd probably need less new software. Maybe none, if you're lucky. I don't know, I haven't had to deal with it for millions of years. ItsyBitsySpyers 2:59 am [[He knows. He was considering asking Tarantulas for temporary rudimentary patches.]] *And nothing more than that. True surgery and recoding rights don't belong to him.* [[You haven't experienced arousal at being touched in millions of years?]] *That seems contrary to what he experienced, but...* Me 3:00 am No, I mean I haven't had to deal with the process of getting all the patches and such for millions of years. ItsyBitsySpyers 3:00 am [[Oh. Then you haven't always...?]] Me 3:01 am All cold constructed mechs are built without interface equipment. Some naturally take to it better than others. I took to it... about as poorly as one can take to it, without quite not taking to it at all. ItsyBitsySpyers 3:03 am *Soundwave leans back in his seat and folds his hands again, thinking. His optics even drift shut for a few seconds.* ItsyBitsySpyers 3:06 am *And they're open again. Conclusion arrived at, lawn chair set up, umbrella jammed into the sand.*

[[...Then you would be uniquely qualified for at least one test. He could trust you to understand him. And to be a patient tutor.]] Me 3:07 am I should hope I would be. ItsyBitsySpyers 3:08 am [[More than most, he thinks.]] Me 3:08 am *Grimaces.* I'm afraid so. ItsyBitsySpyers 3:09 am *That grimace has no reason to be there. He turns and nudges his crest against the side of Prowl's helm.*

[[It wasn't an insult.]] Me 3:10 am No—I didn't think it was. I'm just afraid I've had a rather distasteful amount of experience with those who are /less/ understanding and patient. ItsyBitsySpyers 3:15 am [[...Ah.]] *Prowl might catch a super-fleeting taste of Soundwave's sudden desire to find out who they were and make them pay for it. Then again, he might not. Soundwave will have tried his best to avoid coming through as a bloodthirsty, vengeful murderer just then.* [[He is sorry that's true.]] Me 3:18 am *Oh, he caught that. It's... a little unnerving but a little gratifying.* You may be pleased to hear that most of them are dead now. Not—not for related reasons. Just the war. ItsyBitsySpyers 3:22 am *So he did notice. Damn. Well, he's not being shoved away, so it can't have been an entirely unwelcome feeling. He'll take comfort in that.*

[[The further such mechs are from you, the better.]] Me 3:26 am You won't hear me disagree. ItsyBitsySpyers 3:28 am [[Then let us leave them behind you. He is tired, and it will do us both good to remember that things have improved.]]

*Going to slowly push off into a standing position and turn to face Prowl. Hand?*

[[If you wish...?]]

*He still remembers last Monday.* Me 3:29 am *That was a week ago. He takes Soundwave's hand.* I do. ItsyBitsySpyers 3:32 am *Something in his expression flickers, and it takes him a second before he can give Prowl a nod. His fingers curl around Prowl's hand without hesitating, though.*

[[Good. Come.]]

*Tug toward the stairs. They'll take the long way this time. He wants to spend a few extra moments holding this.* Me 3:34 am *... What was that?* ItsyBitsySpyers 3:34 am *Relief.* Me 3:35 am *... It's not something Prowl can identify at a glance. Maybe he'll find out later. For now—he'll follow Soundwave upstairs.* ItsyBitsySpyers 3:36 am *He will, if he can read that in an unusual amount of affectionate touches before the final sleepy cuddle. If not, Soundwave will tell him later, providing he asks.*

[kateofthecanals]

For The (Not)Watch: Episode 7.4

The Reason HBO Can’t Afford Direwolves Anymore

So this week wasn’t quite AS boring as last week, but that’s not saying much. I almost had an emotion or two. ALMOST...

We open on something other than Dragonstone for a change -- in the Reach(?) and on the Westerosi Wells Fargo Wagon, which Jaime is once-overing, while Bronn hangs out in the background demanding Jaime give him Highgarden, but Biggie Lannister is like “nah, mo’ money, mo’ problems!” Bronn’s not buying that line, though, and feels he should be on the list of debts the Lannisters pay off. He also makes some snarky remarks about Cersei which are actually 100% accurate but of course Jaime, like GoT watchers, is blissfully blind to the truth. Jaime then sends Bronn with the Tarlys to go shake-down local farmers for their sweet, sweet grains.

Then we head over to King’s Landing, where Tycho is hella impressed that Pinhead Cersei will be able to pay off her debts in one lump sum but is kinda bummed to be losing out on that tasty monthly APR. Cersei hints that Qyburn is in negotiations with the Golden Company to join her cause and Tycho vouches for them... but reminds Cersei that the Iron Bank ain’t doing shit until Jaime makes that big deposit.

Next we hit up Winterfell, AND WHO THE HELL LEFT THE KIDS ALONE WITH LITTLEFINGER?? Somehow that snake slithered his way into Bran’s chambers and is attempting some kinda cringeworthy heart-to-heart... Seriously I half-expected him to tell Bran “I’M YOUR DADDY NOW.” Instead he decides to give Bran a gift -- the Valyrian steel dagger that was used to try to murder him in Season 1. Bran’s like... “Thanks?” (But really, isn’t this kinda payback for last week when he threw Sandra’s wedding night back in her face?) LF starts monologuing about Catelyn, and Bran asks if LF knows who the dagger belonged to (I’m guessing just to test LF, because obviously Miss Cleo is gonna know exactly who it belonged to... right??), and of course LF is like “No idea!” Then he randomly mentions the word “chaos” and Bran’s creep-dar goes off, and he interrupts him by saying “CHAOS IS A LADDAH.” Yes, folks, Bran threw LF’s dumbest catchphrase back in his face and it was played off like a genuinely weighty moment and not something that required a laugh track in the background. LF has barely time to react before Meera comes in. LF leaves, and Meera makes the sad announcement that she has to leave to be with her family, and Bran’s just like “Cool, bye then.” And Meera’s like... “bitch that all you have to say to me????” And Bran’s just like “uhhhh thank you for your service?” Meera then be thinking hmmm maybe this is just like a teen comedy and he’ll come wheelin’ after me at the airport at the last minute to profess his love for me? But nah, Bran’s straight-up fixing to ghost her ass, smh. She’s like “my brother, your wolf, and Hodor all died for you, Bran!!” But he’s like

And because D&D would rather leave significant character development off-screen, they have Meera assure us that Bran “died in that cave.” Cool, thanks, good to know!

Meera leaves, and then Bran hears the familiar strings of the Stark Theme, and he knows that Arya is near! Yes, Arya has finally found her way back to Winterfell. She strolls up to the front gates and is immediately given a hard time by the guards in a blatant repeat of the same scene from Season 1 (not the first or last time we will be seeing rip-offs from the first couple of seasons just in this episode alone). One of the guards even tries to PUNCH her (???) before agreeing to left her in but telling her wait while they decide what to tell Sansa. And since WF is being guarded by 2 of the 3 Stooges, Arya is able to just wander off without them noticing.

The guards then enter what appears to be the Bat Cave where Sandra is hiding out and has pretty much no visible reaction to hearing that Arya is in the house. Which is funny because Arya implied to the guards that Sandra would have their asses if she found out they’d turned her sister away. Instead, she just kinda looks bored and is like, “whatever, I know where she is...”

We then go down to the crypts for one of the most-anticipated reunions in ASOIAF-dom!!! Buuuut this is GoT, so it’s all very awkward and forced. Like, seriously, Arya, you’re not fooling anyone...

Sandra runs up to hug her, but just like with Small Wonder Bran, Arya-Bot 1000 barely registers an emotion or even bothers to hug her back. WTF, people???

They briefly have a moment in front of Ned’s statue, which was kinda nice. I mean, they didn’t even call him stupid or anything!! The lowest of low-hanging fruit, but I’ll take it at this point... Then Arya says it doesn’t look enough like Ned and that it should have been carved by someone who knew his face, but Sandra says that everyone who knew his face is dead. Ummmm? Sandra, Arya, Bran, Jon, Cersei, Varys, Sandor, Jaime, Littlefinger, Beric, Thoros... that’s almost a dozen people right there who are still alive that knew what Ned looked like (though I can’t vouch for their stone-carving skills...). Then, as usual, the moment is completely trampled on when the two sisters bond over how they both wished they had killed Joffrey themselves HAHAHAHAHA so sweet. Then Arya tells Sandra about her List, and Sandra’s just like

They make vague allusions to all the things they’ve been through since their separation. They then venture the godswood to say howdy to Bran, who is a party-pooper as usual, calling out Arya on her plan to go to KL to kill Cersei. Sandra asks Arya who else is on her list... SO MANY OPPORTUNITIES TO BRING UP SANDOR BUT NOOOOOPE CAN’T HAVE ANY DISCUSSION ABOUT THE HOUND WITH OR IN FRONT OF SANDRA EVEN IF IT’S ARYA DOING THE DISCUSSIN’ so she’s just like “eh most of them are already dead.” Then out of nowhere Bran’s just like “check out this new toy Littlefinger gave me” and Sandra’s like “WHY IS LITTLEFINGER GIVING YOU WEAPONS” Bran’s like “doesn’t matter, don’t want it anyway” and gives it to Arya.

The three Starks then make their way back into the the yard, where Brienne and Pod see them, and Pod says, “Good job, m’lady!” and she responds pretty much the same way I did -- “I didn’t do shit.”

Then we hit up Dragonstone, where the Jonerys train is being happily conducted by Missandei and Davos. Both give their respective masters a forced series of “nudge-nudge-wink-wink” moments with regards to the other, so as to to remind the viewers that THIS IS TOTALLY A THING, YOU GUYS. Dany and Missy are taking a stroll, and when they see Jon, they exchange a look like two freshmen girls who have just been acknowledged by the varsity QB on the quad. It’s quite pitiful.

Anyway, Jon takes Dany into one of the dragonglass caves to show her something. Sadly, he keeps his pants on and instead ducks into a tunnel which opens up into another cave with a bunch of primitive drawings on the walls. Indiana Snow then schools Dany on how they were drawn by the Children of the Forest and depict their encounters with both the First Men and the white walkers.

P.S. the CoF totally phoned it in on the FM but got all HR Giger when it came to the WWs.

And even though Jon could have drawn those pictures himself and made up literally everything he said for all Dany knew, she considers this definitive proof of his claims and immediately agrees to help him... if he bends the knee. There’s a lot of whisper-talking and long-held gazes, which I think was supposed to be “sexual tension”.

They exit the cave with their chaperones, where they find Tyrion and Varys waiting for them, looking rather glum. Tyrion drops the bad news that although they took Casterly Rock, the Lannister forces took Highgarden and all the spoils. Tyrion tries to rally, but Dany reams him out for fucking up and suggests he did it on purpose cuz he’s really still loyal to the Lannisters (OH DUHHHHH). She then declares “enough with the clever plans” and decides instead to stick to more stupid ones I guess. To that end, she asks Jon what she should do.

Your QUEEN, ladies and gents. Has no idea what she’s doing and constantly has to ask the (much smarter) men around her to tell her what to do. But the mere fact that she is “in charge” is I guess enough for most people to declare this “feminist”. Sure, okay.

Anyway, Jon tells her that if she uses her dragons to annihilate everyone, she’s just “more of the same” and isn’t giving her followers anything better to hope for. Which is a fair enough assessment but we all know it’s being used to highlight Jon’s “dumb” honor and compassion because DRAGONS SO EPICCCCCC!!!

Back at Winterfell, Brienne is again cleaning Pod’s clock (remember when this kid killed a Kingsguard in the middle of the Battle of the Blackwater? D&D don’t either I guess), but then Arya rolls up on her with Needle and says she wants to throw down with the person who beat the Hound. Brienne’s like “haha cute” but then Arya pulls out all the water-dancing nonsense and completely flummoxes Brienne.

So, for those doing the math:

Brienne beat The Hound; Arya beat Brienne; ergo, ARYA CAN BEAT THE HOUND.

I really wanted to enjoy this scene, but I couldn’t forget that the last time we saw Arya actually spar with anyone was in Season 1 with Syrio. Now all of a sudden she’s the most formidable warrior in the Seven Kingdoms. 

Any-freaking-way, Sandra appears on her perch again (with LF not far behind, of course), and at first she seems pretty impressed with Arya’s skillz, but when it’s over, she just, like, storms off in a huff? Why??

She leaves LF to have a weird stare-down with Arya.

Back on Dragonstone, it’s now Davos’s turn to tease Jon about Dany, implying that Jon was staring at her rack apparently?? Jon’s like “ain’t nobody got time for that” but luckily they run into Missandei where Davos can continue on that train of thought. They then have a conversation about how bastard names work on Westeros (in Season 7?????) and Missandei declares that marriage isn’t a thing in Naath, and Dirty Ol’ Man Davos is like HAHAHAHA not where I come from either, wanna go grab a drink later?? Jon and Davos then start questioning why Missandei is so loyal to Dany, and Missandei begins to talk about Dany like Squeaky Fromme talking about Charles Manson.

^^ waiting for this dialogue to pop out of Dany’s mouth at some point this season...

Davos is basically like SORRY I ASKED. Just then, they’re interrupted by a dingy being pulled up on shore (somehow they didn’t notice this until the were RIGHT on the beach) containing Theon and the straggler Ironborn. Theon sees Jon and is like like “hey sup” and Jon’s all YOUSONOFABITCH!!! but stops just short of roughing him up because of what he did for Sandra. He then tells him that Euron has his sister and he needs Dany’s help to get her back, but Jon says she’s not home right now...

Where could she beeeeeee?? Welp, we hop back over the the Lannister wagon train, which, again, Jaime and Bronn are just sitting and watching. Apparently they are much closer the the Crownlands (or in the Crownlands?) than they had been at the beginning of the episode... They then decide to have some not-so-subtle small talk with Dickon Tarly, whom Jaime again calls Rickon, about how he fought pretty decently at Highharden but how he has yet to be really tested. THEN GUESS WHAT HAPPENS, GUYS??? The show is interrupted by a screening of Dances with Wolves--no, wait, that’s just the Dothraki streaming over the hill to fuck shit up... along with Dany riding Drogon.

COMMENCE BATTLE #371 TO DISTRACT THE VIEWERS FROM THE SHITTY WRITING!!!

Yes, it’s all very exciting and well-executed, if you ignore:

The Dothraki would have had to circumvent KL somehow to get there.

They couldn’t have gone by ship because Euron destroyed Dany’s fleet.

Horse-Surfing™

The scene was 90% about Bronn?? For some reason??

Dany, who not 10 minutes ago was complaining about not being able to feed her army, proceeds to destroy all the gold and grain the Lannisters were hauling.

Gratuitous horse violence because “edgy” I guess

WHY/HOW IS TYRION THERE?

So the big climax comes when Bronn gets promoted from Bronn of the Blackwater to Bronn of the Big-Ass Crossbow. Yes, in yet another ham-fisted callback to an early season, Bronn figures out how to use the giant ballista and fires an arrow straight into Drogon’s shoulder, forcing Dany to land. While she’s down, Tyrion is standing off to the side and spots Jaime on the battlefield and is mumbling for him to get the fuck out of there. But this is Jaime Fookin’ Lannister, he doesn’t run away from anything, especially his toxic co-dependent relationship with his twin sister!! So he grabs a spear and begins to charge toward Dany like he at the Hand’s Tourney (except we never actually saw him joust at the Hand’s Tourney, so once again, emotional impact of this moment is M.I.A.). Just as he’s about to strike, Drogon turns and is about to make him dragon kibble when he is rescued at the last second by, presumably, Bronn, and is swept away beneath an extremely deep puddle that just happened to be nearby. The End.

I know there are a lot of show-critics today who are super hyped about this battle (which is apparently a “reference” to the Field of Fire, ugh), but guys... sorry, no. I am way past the point where a showy battle scene is going to make up for all the nonsense that came before it. They’ve tried this trick already -- it was called “Hardhome”. It didn’t work on me then, and it won’t work on me now. I would have rather seen a more meaningful reunion between the Stark sisters than another expensive spectacle. If this is why the direwolves have disappeared, then sorry, I don’t consider it a fair trade-off.

[emm-doubleyou]

BONES 12x02 Recap: The Brain in the Bot

With the mystery of The Puppeteer gearing towards a resolution at the end of last week, the second episode of the season was back to the typical Bones style of storytelling. But there was mention of Zack, just not prominently sprinkled throughout the episode. No hour of this show is truly stand alone. Every episode builds on the previous. And every episode illustrates the profoundly remarkable development of these characters.

The opening scene depicts a “traditional” body find at the Virginia Regional Dog Show. I put traditional in quotes, as there is usually nothing traditional about body finds. Two canine participants escape from their owners, as I suspect their olfactory receptors sensed a rather potent set of human remains. How could they resist? The dog owners are horrified. And I presume there is not enough time to visit a groomer before the competition. I absolutely love dogs, but I will never understand show dog grooming trends. That poor poodle…

Have I mentioned that car scenes are among my very favorite? I will undoubtedly be repetitious here by saying that I will never get enough of car scenes featuring Booth and Brennan. And the two of them had some really wonderful ones in this episode. Booth and Brennan are in the car heading to the crime scene near the dog show. Booth calls Brennan “incredible” for already putting together such a robust case file without having ID’d the body. But these are not case files. They are files she has pulled from the archives. Given Zack’s recent disclosures, she has begun reexamining the evidence from the lobbyist case. Booth is proud of her, and assures his wife that she is doing the right thing. In true Brennan fashion, she responds “I am simply looking for the truth.” But so far, the evidence is inconclusive. Booth comments on the volume of files she has assembled for the case. But the other files are actually for Brennan’s “surprise party.” I’m about as confused as Booth at this point. “Bones, you do know you’re not supposed to plan your own surprise party.” When has Brennan ever been conventional? Okay there have been a few instances in her history. But in this case, I shouldn’t have been at all surprised that she would plan her own party. “The traditional custom is illogical. Being startled is unpleasant, while engineering a surprise for others is proven to be quite pleasurable.” She is truly a gem. Also, I actually agree with her. Though, birthdays have never been my favorite thing. Moving on.

Booth really just wants to know what Brennan wants for her birthday. Even before she answers this question, I predicted the answer. Brennan has never been interested in presents, at least not in the traditional sense. She has treasured gifts given to her by Booth in the past. And this is because they meant something more. They were not particularly valuable in the monetary sense. But the thought and intention behind the gifts is what ultimately rendered them irreplaceable- Jasper and Brainy Smurf certainly could not have cost more than a few dollars. Though Booth has surprised Brennan with a few more conventional gifts in the past, including the lingerie and the necklace. But what do you get someone who has everything and wants nothing? Booth would eventually figure it out. But not just yet. Brennan lets Booth know that her party has a “strict no-gift policy.” But it’s a milestone birthday, and Booth cannot just let it pass without getting her something special. She assures Booth that she has everything she needs. And I believe that. Because she once said she wouldn’t travel to any other moment in time. And because she also realized she did not need a bucket list. She’s genuinely happy. She loves her family and her life. And while she wishes the lives of herself and her family were threatened a bit less, it’s a life she would not trade for anything. I did enjoy how Booth wanted to get her a “chunky stone necklace.” He knows her taste, for sure. He brainstorms other types of gifts he could give her. He throws around the idea of going to a concert. “The Tuvan Throat Singers already passed through town last month.” “Not quite the concert I was thinking of, Bones.” I love them. Could you imagine these two at a concert together? I’m going to pause here and think about that. 

At the crime scene, Hodgins seems to be having a good time scraping evidence off the poodle. The dog’s owner is not quite as jovial. She begs Hodgins to be careful with the dog’s fur. Cam and Brennan examine the body, and Brennan determines the victim is a male in his 40s. Cam finds it strange that there is a piece of plastic fused to the victim’s wrist, but no evidence of burnt tissue. “Huh...almost as mysterious as Dr. B’s birthday party.” Cam wants a hint on the dress code for Brennan’s surprise party. “Yes, wearing clothes would be advisable.” Knowing what I know now, Brennan really kept this secret well. Brennan’s acting has certainly improved. She gives Cam a sly smile after that statement, which affects me more than it should. Because Brennan is teasing Cam. And there was a time when she was 100% no-nonsense at a crime scene. Actually, both of them were. It’s always the little things for me. Booth comes back to the scene, as he has found a pipe on the trail. Hodgins asks for any leftover marijuana, and Booth shoots him a perplexed look. But Hodgins only wants to take it back to the lab for a forensic workup. Meanwhile, the poodle’s owner is growing more impatient by the second. She is panicking about the blood fused to her dog’s coat. Brennan instructs the woman to be patient, and Booth tells her they are trying to solve a murder before dismissing her completely. But she’s still worked up. And promises “hell to pay” if the blood turns her dog’s coat pink. Hodgins is fed up too, and attempts a quicker approach to gathering the evidence off the dog- shaving the off. However the owner was not going to let him butcher her dog’s coat. She sprints down the hill and tries to pry the electric razor from Hodgins’ hands. And poor Hodgins accidentally shaves off one eyebrow. He asks if it’s as bad as he thinks it is, and his colleagues just stare at him in wonderment.  Yes, Hodgins. It’s not great.

On the platform, Brennan observes evidence of post-mortem blunt force trauma and fractures to the legs. Angela receives a call from an unknown number and chooses to ignore it. Brennan posits that the body could have sustained such intense trauma after death by being dragged. Daisy takes this moment to ask Brennan if she would serve as her reference for a position at the NFL- NOT to be confused with the National Football League. Now that Daisy has finally completed her doctorate, she has applied for a job at the National Forensic Lab. Brennan agrees to be a reference, but advises “Dr. Wick” not to get her hopes up. “In light of your young age, landing a job of that status would be a long-shot at best.” Angela points out that Brennan got her job at the Jeffersonian when she was still in her 20s. Actually, if my math is correct, Brennan was in her early 20s when she first came to the Jeffersonian. “Yes. But that was clearly an exceptional circumstance.” She really is just telling the truth. And obviously Brennan believes Daisy is an exceptional intern as well- Again, based on what we know now about the ending. At that moment, Angela ignores yet another call. I wouldn’t point this out, except it becomes more relevant in a few scenes. The unknown number has now called Angela three times at this point. That’s about when I would block a number, but I suppose it’s a good thing she did not.

Hodgins ascends the platform and is ready to share that he pulled prints from the pipe found at the scene. But the ladies on the platform cannot look at him without laughing. Poor Hodgins. “You’re...asymmetrical.” Apparently Angela told Hodgins that his missing eyebrow was barely noticeable, which makes me love the two of them even more. Hodgins attempts to continue explaining his findings, but the rest of the team cannot hold it together- especially Cam and Brennan. Long story short, the person smoking the pipe in the woods was likely there when the victim was killed. And I can hear Brennan’s laughing still echoing off the walls. Bless, Emily. 

Aubrey corners a man stumbling down the street named Randy Stringer. He claims he did not call an Uber. But Aubrey assures him he’s not Uber. Randy was in the woods the night the victim was killed, and the pipe found near the crime scene belonged to him. Randy was arrested twice for selling LSD and once for assault with a deadly weapon. He denies selling drugs, but he does sell sausages? All he witnessed that night in the woods was “a dude” walking around with a flashlight. He attempted to explain when and where he saw said “dude.” And FOX got a nice Sunday night Animation Domination shout out. Randy asks why he’s being questioned, and Aubrey informs him about the body dump. Randy then spouts off some nonsense about Mother Earth. This man just seemed far too random to be completely innocent in all this. And Aubrey looks so done.

Brennan enters Angela’s office to check her progress on the facial reconstruction. But this case did not require any reconstruction. The victim could be identified by the piece of metal on the his wrist. It was a “skin mounted bioelectronic fitness monitor.” Hodgins chimes in on how Angela can find the ID using this monitor. But Brennan is surprised and seemingly delighted to see that Hodgins has somehow produced a new eyebrow since last she saw him. “Sorry to ruin your laugh fest there, but yeah!” He constructed the eyebrow using hair from his beard. This man is as precious as anything. Brennan and Angela try to keep from laughing, as the eyebrow still does not quite look normal. Hodgins is frustrated that he has not managed to shut down the ridicule yet. Suddenly, Angela’s phone rings yet again. Obviously, it is not a prank call and not a wrong number. She picks up the phone and tells the mystery caller on the other line that she has no debt and is not interested in buying a cruise. But mystery caller must have said something to pique her interest. And also incite a bit of confusion. She asks if the caller is sure that they have reached the right person. She exits the room to talk, and leaves a seemingly perplexed Brennan and Hodgins behind. Brennan takes that opportunity to shift focus back to the case. She was unaware these types of biometric fitness devices were available to the general public. Hodgins hypothesizes that the victim may have had some sort of occupational connection to the tech world.

Angela returns to her office and with a look of pure astonishment on her face. “You guys are never going to believe this, but I just won a MacArthur Fellowship. You know, the one that everyone calls the ‘Genius Grant.’” Hodgins is absolutely thrilled for his wife. “That’s unbelievable.” Brennan agrees with that assessment. To her, it is “truly” unbelievable. She explains that it’s one of the most prestigious awards a scientist can get. “They said my work with the Angelatron was groundbreaking.” Hodgins goes onto say “I always knew I married a genius.” “Technically you did not. Though Angela is incredibly talented.” Angela is a bit put off by Brennan’s lack of enthusiasm. Hodgins tells Brennan that Angela is her best friend and she should try to be happy for her. And she says she is happy for her. She just never imagined Angela would achieve this honor “let alone before I did.”

Here’s the thing: The way this scene seemed to be playing out at this point, well, let’s just say that we have seen that particular storyline before. I had ample time to think about this storyline between the time the sneak peek came out and the west coast airing. There was once a time when Cam won the Outstanding Women of Science Award. Brennan struggled with the fact that she was not the recipient. It’s not as though she discounts Cam’s intelligence or contribution to forensic pathology. But in her mind, objectively speaking, she is the most outstanding. Whether or not you think it’s right, you really have to attempt to understand her perspective. It’s obviously not her intention to come off as jealous or bitter, by any means. This is her friend and her colleague. Brennan only works with the best in their field. And she knows Cam is certainly that. A conversation with Booth would make her reconsider her stance on the award. 

Booth, do you think I'm being small-minded about Cam getting the award and not me?

Yes.

What?

You might want another answer, but I can't give that to you.

But I'm clearly the best scientist.

And are you a worse scientist because Cam's getting the award?

Of course not.

See? Yeah. So you're just being petty because you want to win.

I thought you would take my side. I am on your side, okay? I'm on your better side.

Booth can see and read people. He understands their motivations. And what’s most impressive is his understanding of Temperance Brennan. That’s a tough nut to crack. But he knows how her mind works (for the most part), and he’s not going to tell her what she wants to hear. He’s going to tell her what she needs to hear. And it’s effective. Brennan is truly exceptional in so many ways. She is the best in her field. And she is one of the best scientists in the world. She is still exceptional even if someone else is honored. I am about to go off on a major tangent here. But I can relate this to Meryl Streep and the acting world. That woman has been in countless films and has hundreds upon hundreds of nominations. She is arguably one of the greatest actors of this particular generation (some would disagree, I happen to believe she is brilliant). But she cannot win every single award. In fact, she will be the first to tell you she is the biggest loser in the history of the Academy Awards. Does that make her any less exceptional? Absolutely not. With Brennan, she is still the queen of forensic anthropology. It’s not a bad thing to have someone else recognized for their invaluable work. Whether it be Cam or Angela or Hodgins. They are all exceptional at what they do. That is why they all work at the Jeffersonian. Brennan knows this. It’s ultimately why she apologizes to Cam and supports her as the award recipient. Though when Cam surprises her with the announcement that the three Jeffersonian women + nine other exceptional women of science would be honored, Brennan is stunned. And she is duly impressed at the credentials of the other women who agreed to be in this rather unconventional spread. All of them are brilliant. And all of them make key contributions to their field. It’s important to celebrate different people and different achievements so as to encourage more people go get into science.

My reasoning for bringing the past up is that it would  be a recycled storyline to have Angela receive an award and make Brennan react poorly to it. It would also be a gross example of regression for this character. It’s not as though I knew in that moment that it was all a ruse to throw Angela off the trail. But I did know that it was going to play out in a different way. We are much too eager to jump to conclusions sometimes. I simply was not willing to believe Brennan had not evolved past these feelings. In that moment in season 9, she learned. And she grew as a result. She realized that it was okay for others to receive accolades. She can still certainly believe she is the best. But how many times has Angela and her brilliant technology helped crack or solve a case? Bones has taught me several lessons over the years- not to jump to conclusions, look at all the evidence, and that sometimes it’s okay to rely on your gut. The evidence tells me that Brennan has evolved since season nine. And also that she is a constant surprise. And my gut tells me there is something more to this story. This was a very roundabout way of getting to this point. But that’s how I reacted to this particular scene. On a semi-unrelated note, it’s also how we should approach teases and certain spoilers. I think there would be an overall reduction in blood pressure levels if we did.

Angela refocuses her attention on the Angelatron, as it has come up with an ID from the fitness monitor. It belongs to a man named Ian Goldberg, who Hodgins recognized. He built robots to help children on the Autism spectrum. The three of them watch one of his videos featuring AMI, a robot, interacting with a young boy. “There’s someone who deserves the genius grant.” The trio cannot understand why someone would want to kill such a kind-hearted man. 

Booth and Brennan are back in the car on the way to visit the victim’s work. I did find it strange that the two of them were listening to the radio, since we never really hear them do that when they drive. But I suppose I didn’t think too much more of it. Booth notices that Brennan has been quiet during the ride, and asks if she is at all upset that Angela won the “McDonald’s award”  But Brennan claims that she is not the slightest bit jealous. She is still quite focused on planning her surprise party. “It’s not every day that one turns 40.” I grew considerably more curious with every mention of this party. But it should be no surprise to anyone that Brennan was going to make sure everything was planned and perfect, down to the very last detail. Daisy calls with evidence that indicates someone punched the victim repeatedly in the back of the head. Booth calls it a “rookie move.” Daisy figures that whoever punched the victim must have sustained a serious hand injury.

After Brennan hangs up with the lab, Booth asks her about Social Cybernetics. He makes a Star Wars reference, which of course goes right over Brennan’s head. She talks a bit about the work Ian Goldberg did with robotics. She explains that he created complex systems designed to emulate the human brain. Booth believes that it’s insane to think that a robot’s brain could come close to a human’s. “At the end of the day, humans have something that robots will never have...a soul.” “The existence of a soul has never been proven with scientific data.” But Booth begins to explain that you don’t prove the existence of a soul. He’s interrupted by a very familiar tune. And even louder, he tells Brennan that a soul is “something you feel!” And now I definitely recognize the song. “You hear that? That’s our song!” Their song. I may melt. “You hear the soul in that?!” All Brennan can do is look on at her goofy husband and laugh, with so much love and adoration twinkling in her eyes. Booth begins to sing along to Hot Blooded- and while I consider it to be the most adorable sound in the world, I’m not sure he would win a Grammy for his performance. That’s what makes it so endearing. Brennan continues to smile the brightest and most dazzling smile I’ve ever seen. She’s utterly charmed by this man. And I am charmed by them. 

I do believe my reaction to this scene upon first viewing was a series of offensively loud shrieks. There is something so special about a Hot Blooded moment. Sometimes it’s hard to believe there have only been (now) four of them. Because it seems as though it has been such a constant over the years. I am about to go off on yet another tangent…

The Hot Blooded phenomenon began in season one with Two Bodies in a Lab. Booth and Brennan were still getting to know each other, and this was also the first time Booth had been in Brennan’s apartment. He was there because he refused to let her out of his sight- someone had tried to kill her. They shyly interact and discuss music. Booth is surprised to see that his partner owns so much jazz, and she explains why she loves it. He looks dazzled already. And then he finds a CD, which excites him. He puts the disc into the player (this was 2005, iPods were a thing, but not everyone had them…) and Foreigner began to ring out from the speakers. Booth started dancing and singing, and then Brennan joined in. It was the beginning of them. And if we ignore the fact that Booth was blown up in the next minute, it’s such a sweet moment.

The second occurrence of Hot Blooded was in season five. Booth and Brennan were recovering from that fateful night outside the Hoover when Booth asked Brennan to give “them” a chance. She couldn’t. She didn’t believe she had the kind of open heart required to be in a relationship with this man. She could not give him all that he needed. And she couldn’t risk her friendship with Booth. That friendship was the most important thing in her life. If they took that next step, she would surely ruin it. And he would leave her. Because everyone eventually leaves. Booth stayed because she asked him to. And because I think he couldn’t actually bear to leave her. He only decided to go back to the Army at the end of the season when finding out that Brennan was leaving. I never look at that time as awkward. They were both in pain. But Booth was there for Brennan. And she was there for him. And during this particular case, they were able to engage in a carefree and somewhat nostalgic moment. Hot Blooded began to play at the “fantasy camp” and Booth is energized to hear “our song” playing. He convinces Brennan to go up on stage with him and sing. And they do. It’s an emotional marker of where they are in their relationship. But it’s also a vital component of their story.

The third (and most recent before this episode) time Hot Blooded resurfaced was when Booth and Brennan were living together with a baby. They had just wrapped up a very emotional case with an adolescent victim. Before the boy died, he made a mixtape for the girl he loved. Brennan wondered why Booth never made her a mixtape. But she chalked it up to the fact that she is not a very romantic person. I actually would disagree with that. In the end, Booth finds Brennan playing “dancing phalanges” with their daughter in the kitchen. He tells her he has made a mixtape for her. “I find I think that is very sweet.” I’d be willing to bet that no one has ever thought to make her a mixtape before. Which makes me both sad that no one ever understood her enough to truly love her like she deserves, and thankful for Booth. Booth adds that it features their song. “What, we have a song?” “Every couple has a song.” And she finally realizes which song is playing. They dance around the kitchen with their little girl. And it is perfect. Because you think back to the previous times this song was played in the show, and where this couple was at that time. And how far they have come. And now, this fourth time. They are married. That little girl is nearly seven. They have another baby boy who is likely walking by now (we know he is highly skilled at utilizing a spoon!). Each Hot Blooded marks a significant time in Booth and Brennan’s story. I find that beautiful. So when I react to the inclusion of Hot Blooded. It’s not merely because it’s their song and it’s recognizable to me. It’s that my mind barrages me this montage of flashbacks detailing this couple’s beautiful journey.

Booth and Brennan arrive at the Social Cybernetics lab, where they come face to face with a robot named AMI- an acronym for Advanced Modular Intelligence. Both Booth and Brennan appear quite impressed with AMI. AMI assesses each partner's’ facial expressions. “Dr. Brennan appears 78% curious and 22% jealous. Agent Booth is 94% amused and 6% skeptical.” That seems about right. The woman showing them around is “100% nervous.” She claims it’s only because she’s being questioned by the FBI, which for the time being I believe. She tells Booth and Brennan that she and Ian had a “fruitful” working relationship, and that they would have likely reached singularity with their technology within the next decade- making these machines indistinguishable from humans. After watching Westworld last year, I’m not certain that’s the best endgame. Booth notices a man with a wrist brace, and questions him about it. The man claims it’s Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, but don’t try to pull that with Brennan around. She semi-aggressively grabs his hand, and informs Booth that he has a Boxer’s Fracture. “You don’t need a robot to figure that out.”

Back at the FBI, Booth and Brennan interview Alan (the suspect). His injuries are an exact match for those found on the victim’s skull. Alan admits to hitting Ian, but not to killing him. Booth attempts to get Alan to admit to murder, but the man sticks to his story. Brennan notes that if one of her employees struck her in the back of the skull, she would have immediately fired said employee. But Alan claims he would have been too hard to replace. He is the best coder they have. Booth inquires as to where he was on the previous Friday evening. His answer- his desk as Social Cybernetics. Rather than waste their time on him, Alan recommends that Booth and Brennan speak to the “nuts” from “Stop the Robopocalypse.” I laugh about this now, but I’m sure it’s a very real fear, relative to the future and the advances being made in robotics. Apparently, Ian used to go onto this organization’s blogs and bait members into fights. This baffles the partners, as it seems out of character for someone who has dedicated so much of his time and energy to helping Autistic children through this advanced technology. Alan explains that while Ian was an invaluable asset to the field, “in reality the guy was a dink.”

Did he just say dink?

I think he did.

Cam finds Daisy in the bone room and asks if she has heard from the NFL. I find it really difficult to not to think about American football when this acronym is mentioned, even after having watched this episode dozens of times already. Daisy hasn’t heard from the organization yet, and cannot stop stressing over it. She’s concerned about what Brennan might say if they call her for a reference. Daisy wonders if she could call the NFL herself, and make Cam a reference instead. I know Brennan can be blunt. But let’s say we didn’t know how this particular story plays out. A reference from Temperance Brennan probably holds more weight than any other person in the world, no matter what words she uses to give the reference. Additionally, Brennan would not have agreed to give Daisy a reference if she believed she wasn’t capable of handling the job. And she would tell Daisy that- because she is blunt. But Brennan agreed. Which means that she likely had positive commentary relative to Daisy’s skills and intellectual acumen. Though looking at it from Daisy’s perspective, I know what it is to stress over a job like this. I understand how your mind will not shut off and stop worrying when you’re essentially in limbo waiting to hear about a position you legitimately desire. I’ve been there. It’s excruciating. You wonder if you should do something more. Should you follow up? Should you send another reference? It can drive you to the brink of insanity. But if Daisy could just breathe and think rationally, she would understand that it’s in the NFL’s hands now. And if it’s not the right job for her, then she will find something else.

Cam recommends that Daisy focus on her work in lieu of worrying. Daisy has found multiple incidences of blunt force trauma, but there is no rhyme or reason to any of the injuries. The trauma occurred both before and after death. Cam leaves to ask Hodgins to swab the skull, but she turns back to Daisy before she goes. “If the NFL doesn’t hire you, you’ll always have a job here.” Daisy smiles, though I think it would take her a little while longer to really process what Cam was telling her. These two make me so happy. All of their scenes together lately have been all too lovely. 

Angela confirms that Alan was telling the truth about working on the Friday night the victim was murdered. Aubrey begins talking about robot conspiracy theories to Angela (who thinks AMI is actually adorable), and he is starting to sound a bit like Hodgins. “Wow, Aubrey, I never knew you were so paranoid.” They are interrupted by news that a member of Stop the Robocalpyse crashed one of Ian’s speaking engagements last year and struck him in the leg with a baseball bat.

In the Ookey Room, Daisy finds Hodgins creating a map. Ultimately, he wants to pinpoint the victim’s injuries to different locations in the woods. His explanation is a bit more complex and detailed, and Daisy listens intently. “I have to say, it’s good to see you back to your old self, Dr. Hodgins.” She doesn’t mean his eyebrow, nor his legs. She’s talking about his demeanor. She’s talking about that zest for life and passion for science. Hodgins is back. And it’s a wonderful sight to behold. She then asks Hodgins if he thinks she has a chance at the NFL job. Daisy really seems to be obsessing over this. Bug again, I understand. “The thought of not getting it makes me feel like such a failure.” This is not necessarily relevant to the point, but not getting a job does not make one a failure. And that’s not a reason to want a job so desperately- fear of failing. If that’s the most dominant emotion, the job is probably not the right one anyway. You want a job because it’s something you’re passionate about. Not because NOT getting that job would make you a failure in the eyes of your peers and yourself. Hodgins tells Daisy that while they have a history of getting on each other’s nerves, he truly believes that she is a highly skilled scientist. Daisy agrees, but notes that Brennan was younger than she is when she was running the Jeffersonian. “Yes, but life is not a competition, Daisy. Trust me, if I’ve learned anything being in this chair, it’s that happiness comes from accepting what you have.” Daisy is worried that all she has is “one big question mark.” Hodgins can certainly relate. He refocuses his attention on the map, and realizes that the killer could have purposely dragged the victim through the woods to obscure evidence.

While Aubrey and Booth are walking to speak to Matthew Coburn, the head of Stop the Robocalpyse, Aubrey brings up Brennan’s birthday. “You’re really not gonna get your own wife a birthday present?” But Brennan swears she doesn’t want anything. And Booth seems fine with that. I mostly just wanted to write the word “wife” because no matter how many times I hear it, I still need to pinch myself. Aubrey thinks it sounds like a trap. But Brennan is not like most women. She says what she means. And Booth knows that. When she says she doesn’t want a gift, she means it. And so he will have to think outside the box on this one. When they locate the suspect, he takes off running. And the two agents are forced to chase him up a fence, through an abandoned building, and finally catch him before he can jump another fence. Why do they always run? During an interrogation session, Matthew admits he never intended to hurt Ian. He was merely trying to smash his robot, but Ian stepped in to protect it. He explains to Aubrey that the government is weaponizing this technology. Aubrey is a bit confused, as Ian did not make weapons. He created these robots to help Autistic children. “So he said.” Matthew claimed that Ian was going to sell out to the highest bidder. On the night of Ian’s murder, Matthew was in his RV writing a blog post. Aubrey is going to keep this man in holding. But I’ve seen this before. The head of an opposing organization is never actually the killer in these tales. Too obvious.

Daisy is back in the bone room, this time examining the bones with Brennan. She is tense. And before she can even say anything, Brennan tells her that she has not yet heard from the National Forensic Lab. I like that Brennan can read Daisy. She knew exactly what she was thinking. Development. Cam enters with evidence that someone tried to rip the victim’s arms from his sockets. Brennan notes that a human could certainly not inflict that level of damage. But Hodgins has found evidence of AMI’s materials on the victim. Could AMI have killed her creator? There’s a frightening twist.

At the FBI, Booth and Brennan bring AMI in for questioning. Booth is a bit in disbelief that they are actually interrogating a machine. But Brennan points out that AMI is no different than they are. “That is not accurate, Dr. Brennan. Unlike you, my memory will never degrade with age.” Brennan’s reaction is adorable. As usual. AMI says she did not hit Ian. Not even by accident. Brennan asks AMI to share any memories she has of Ian from the previous Friday. But she has no memories of Ian from that day. Since she cannot lie, this is a very startling admission. Ian was seen programming the robot that day. As it turns out, someone deleted her memory. When Brennan asks who deleted the files, AMI shuts down completely.

Brennan returns to her office to find Max waiting for her. I already had a very sinking feeling about Ryan O’Neal’s appearance in this episode. He doesn’t show up for no reason. And sadly, I already figured I knew the reason why Max was there. She asks Max what he’s doing in her office, since her party doesn’t start for another seven hours. He just wanted to come by and have some one on one time with his “favorite” daughter. She is genuinely pleased to see him. And my heart aches that much more. Brennan has to continue working on the case, but he doesn’t mind. He only wants to spend time with her- it doesn’t matter how they spend that time. For a second, I thought maybe Brennan had figured something out. She asks Max if everything is okay. His answer does not have me convinced. But Brennan has a lot on her mind, and she believes him. Max heard from Hodgins that Angela won the MacArthur genius grant. “We’re all very proud.” Max tells her it’s normal to feel a little jealousy. She doesn’t have time for “such petty emotions” because of this case and planning her surprise party. This must be one doozy of a party. It’s taken a great deal of planning. Max wants to know if there will be dancing at the mystery party, as he has been taking salsa lessons. That’s a surprising admission, in my opinion. When people find out they only have a certain period of time left on earth, they sometimes try to fit in new experiences and learn new skills in the time they have left- like salsa. Brennan is amused that her father is learning salsa. “You have to live life to the fullest. None of us live forever, you know.” And it is at that point that I think most of our worst fears were essentially confirmed. Max continues dancing as Brennan works, and he makes her laugh. Please, stomp on my heart a little harder, show. Their relationship has evolved so much since we first met this man in season 2. And it took Max a considerable amount of time to earn his daughter’s trust. Where they are now is just astonishing. Because I can only think back to that time on the bench, with Max dressed as a priest. I don’t even want to think about Brennan’s reaction when she finds out what he is hiding. At this point I don’t know specifically what is wrong. I just know it’s nothing good. This is a man who understands that he does not have much time left. That much is obvious.

Daisy is second guessing herself while examining evidence in the bone room. “No wonder the NFL hasn’t called.” Brennan tells her to stop being so hard on herself. “So far, your work here has been perfectly adequate.” Brennan would have given Daisy a “solid B” had she been grading her. This does not assuage Daisy’s worry. She is capable of A+ work. Brennan knows this as well. But if she wants to be a lead forensic anthropologist, Daisy needs to be doing A+ work at every moment. Daisy is inspired to think more critically about the case. She realizes that the body could have been hoisted up into something after death. Brennan commends her discovery. A+ work, indeed. 

In the Ookey Room, Cam is surprised to see Hodgins gliding over his map. “...or should I say Peter Pan.” Hodgins is a lot like Peter Pan, when I stop to think about it. Obviously he’s not stuck in some fairy tale. But there’s a part of him that never wants to “grow up.” He looks at science with a childlike wonderment. It’s completely pure. Sure, it’s nice to have money. But all he really wants to do in life is explore, and dream, and play. He does all this through his job- which has always been more than a job. Aside from a brief dark period, he has always been that way. In 11x18, he said he wanted to be someone who never stops looking. He always wants to be inspired to explore something more. He wants to perform experiments. He wants to play with bugs. He wants to build giant maps of the woods and glide over it with a pulley system he built. This is Hodgins. This is who he is. And like Daisy, I am elated to see him back to his old self as well.

Hodgins still has yet to figure out a pattern within his map. Cam goes to look at Hodgins swab results, and notes that they should help narrow down where the victim’s body was hoisted. Cam walks back over to the map and is surprised at how quickly Hodgins managed to make a nest. But it is not a nest. It’s Hodgins’ makeshift eyebrow. This show...Hodgins cannot get what he needs from this map. He has to go back into the woods (and now I want to sing Sondheim).

Angela finds out that Ian was the one who deleted AMI’s memory. She digs up a record of AMI’s neural network, and finds the last item recorded before her memory was wiped. It was a call from Ian, and he mentioned an address. The address in question belongs to something called Patriot Industries, which happens to be a warehouse in close proximity to where Ian’s body was found.

Booth and Aubrey are exploring the warehouse. They posit that perhaps Ian was selling his technology to a weapons manufacturer. But they couldn’t be more wrong. They open one of the many crates stored in the building, only to find a sex doll lying inside. They ask the manufacturer about his meeting with Ian. The agents bait the man into telling them what they want to know by implying that he could have killed Ian for his technology. But he claims that he and Ian were about to go into business together. “Sex bots are the future my friend.” I love this show. Ian was alive when he left the meeting. So where did he go? Who got to him? And why?

Out in the woods, Daisy and Hodgins are combing the area for any evidence they can find. Hodgins cannot seem to find a compelling motive for hauling Ian’s body so deep into the woods. But Daisy wants to take a break from the case and discuss something personal once more. She has been mulling over Hodgins’ words to her earlier in the episode- about accepting circumstances in life when things do not go your way. “And even if the NFL doesn’t hire me, I love being at the Jeffersonian and working with all of you.” Hodgins agrees. I know that staying at the Jeffersonian may not be ideal for her. She would never be lead forensic anthropologist so long as Brennan was there. She finished her doctorate and it was time to start her own career. But until she finds that first great job, the Jeffersonian isn’t such a bad place to work. It’s become her home as much as it’s been for any of the other characters. During her time there, she fell in love. She also lost that love, more than once. She gained a family. And that family has been there for her through it all. And they have been there for her son as well. It’s more than a job. She won’t lose that family by leaving the Jeffersonian. They will still always have those ties. And maybe it is a safety net. Who cares. Even if she went out on her own and failed, these people would still welcome her back with open arms. She will always have a place there. She will always have a home there. It just took a few words from Hodgins to make her realize that. Both she and Hodgins have lost so much recently. But they have found solace in this place with these people. They were able to heal because of it all. So I love seeing them share like this. But I always love Hodgins’ unique interactions with all the interns.

They find the tree where Ian’s body was hoisted. Hodgins realizes that it was also the spot where he was murdered. He finds a speaker made out of the same materials as AMI. So the robot is innocent. Whoever killed Ian must have hit him in the back of the skull with this speaker. What the two haven’t quite figured out is why the body was dumped a mile away.

While Brennan cannot detect fingerprints on the speaker, she does find evidence that Ian was stabbed in the neck with a very small knife. Brennan explains that this type of injury typically implies an attempt at decapitation. Booth has a realization in that moment. What if they weren’t looking for a brilliant computer scientist? What if they were actually searching for a “knucklehead stoner” who admitted to having a pocket knife earlier in the episode. And now we know who the killer is- Randy Stringer. Randy and Ian were taking LSD together the night he died. Apparently, he killed Ian over a gift. For whatever reason, Randy thought he was going to get a substantial chunk of change from Ian. And all he got was (this lousy) a bluetooth speaker. He was the one who came up with the idea of putting AI into sex dolls. And he should have gotten credit for his “brilliant” idea. This revelation not surprise me one bit. Another case closed.

That night, Booth and Brennan are back in the car presumably driving to Brennan’s surprise party at their home. Brennan is concerned that Booth lured Randy into confession by claiming they had conclusive evidence. When in fact, what they did have was not necessarily definitive. But Booth instinctively knew it was Randy. And he was right. He used his “gut” to feel out the situation. He notes that robots cannot do that. Before Brennan can continue arguing, Booth stops her. She doesn’t want to spend her birthday arguing about robots. He wants to give her his present. Brennan is not happy, as she specifically requested that there be no gifts. But when have Booth’s gifts ever been just gifts. They always hold a deeper meaning. Even if said gifts have no intrinsic value. He knows she’s going to love this present. “We’ll see.” She opens it up to find a letter approving a court date for Zack’s appeal. Booth wanted to go ahead get it on the books, though it is still a few months out. The reason for appeal lists that new osteological evidence is being considered. Brennan is concerned that she has no such evidence at this moment. But Booth has faith that she will find it. “I cannot embark on my research with the presumption of Zack’s innocence.” She doesn’t have to. She can embark on her research as she would any other case. Booth tells her once again that he has faith in her. And I may die from a heart attack. This episode contains so much sweetness. “But your belief in me does make me very happy.” Brennan may not rely on or even believe in intangible constructs such as the “gut” or faith, but Booth does. And so his faith in her means something to her because of that. With a huge smile, Booth tells her that he is glad she likes her gift. They are too perfect. Remember when Hot Blooded came on earlier in the episode? It’s not relevant to this moment but it’s all I can think about, apparently.

Brennan’s guests are waiting for her back at Booth and Brennan’s home. Angela is nervous about Brennan’s reaction to her grant. “She can be a bit competitive.” Hodgins claims that most people freak out when they turn 40. “Well my daughter isn’t like most people.” Truer words never spoken, Max. Christine announces that her parents are home. And the team doesn’t know whether to hide or not. No one knew what to expect from this party. No matter, Brennan opens the door yelling “surprise!” She instructs Booth and Aubrey to open the large box on the table to reveal three very different and distinct cakes.  Daisy takes notice of the (American) football cake, and reads the message. It congratulated her for landing the job at the NFL. “Though I did not ask for your cake to be decorated in this manner.” I can only imagine the conversation she had with the cake decorator. Angela notices that there is a cake for her as well. And that’s the surprise. The party is a celebration for Brennan and all of her friends and family. The camera quickly pans to Max who has a very strange look on his face. He is likely feeling conflicting emotions- proud of his daughter for the remarkable person she has become. And devastated that he will not have much time left to see what extraordinary things she does in the future.

As it turns out, Brennan recommended Daisy for the NFL job. And she nominated Angela for the grant. Angela is shocked, as Brennan seemed to have made such a big deal about her not being a genius. Brennan gives the credit to her much-improved acting skills. I have to agree with her, finally. In the past, she wasn’t much of an actor. But she did an absolutely stellar job keeping these secrets. Even Booth was impressed. “That’s one of the many benefits of growing older, we grow wiser in the process.” The camera pans back to Max who is wearing a giant smile across his face. Daisy is growing emotional, as she is going to miss Brennan and the rest of the team. “You are a highly-skilled scientist, Daisy. You deserve all the success in the world.” Brennan and Daisy have come so far. And it’s really beautiful and rewarding to witness this moment.

With so little time left, I wondered whether this episode would delve any more into what secret Max is keeping. I didn’t have to wait much longer. Christine finds a hospital bracelet on the floor next to her grandpa. She picks it up and hands it back to him. He tells her it’s nothing, and quickly stuffs it back into his pocket. Christine isn’t at all worried. But I spent the remainder of this party crying my eyes out. Booth lights the candles on the cake, and everyone starts singing Happy Birthday to Brennan. She looks so unbelievably radiant in this moment. And Max looks haunted. He cannot even manage to continue singing with everyone else. He watches his baby girl blow out her birthday candles, knowing full well that this could be the last birthday he spends with her. And maybe, one of the last times he can be with her and her family. Flipping back and forth between a joyful Brennan (pun intended) and Max is one of the more emotional experiences I’ve had watching this show.

I do not know the exact details of what is ailing Max. If I had to guess, I would have to say that he is terminal. From what, I do not know. When he came back into Brennan’s life in season 2, it was a confusing time. She was so guarded, and couldn’t trust him. After all, Max and her mother abandoned her when she was just a teenager. Fifteen may seem old to some. But she was still just a child. She managed to survive on her own, but she shouldn’t have had to. That’s part of the reason Brennan was so vehement about finding Christine the right school. She wanted her daughter to have stability- a luxury she never had. But in season nine, Max does remind his daughter that her childhood wasn’t always so bad. If she can look beyond the painful memories, she can recall that her home was filled with love. She has always been different, and was treated as such in school. But at home, she was celebrated. She and Max always shared a love of science. Her life was enriched by this man. And the only reason her parents left was to save their children. So in time, she was able to forgive. Though she never forgot.

It took Max and Brennan so long to get to this place. And there have been little missteps along the way. But Max proved that he was not going to leave her again. At least not indefinitely. He went to prison to show her that he was here to stay. And while Brennan still couldn’t fully trust her father, she concocted an alternate story for the jury to save him. She couldn’t bear to let him go. Not after she just got him back. His resurgence may have reopened old wounds, but we know it’s better to feel sad than dead inside. She was learning how to open her heart and trust again. Booth helped her with that. Angela helped her with that. Max still engaged in some illicit behavior, but generally it was only in the interest of protecting his family. Max and Booth are alike in many ways. Maybe that’s why Max took an instant liking to his daughter’s “partner.” He could see this man was good for his daughter in so many ways. If only they could both see that themselves, they could be something wonderful- like he and his late wife. Max only killed to protect his loved ones. He has a clear conscience because he would never kill in cold blood. His kids were threatened, so he removed the threat. He’s a good man. Booth would have done exactly the same. 

Thinking about where his daughter was when he reentered her life and observing her during her 40th birthday, there’s a stark difference. Of course she is still the same Brennan at her core. So much of her is the same as when we met her over a decade ago. But she has also experienced immense growth.  All of these people with whom she has surrounded herself have changed her. New experiences have affected her. She has a family now. She has more love in her life than she knows what to do with. And she can trust that these people are here to stay. She no longer lives with a constant fear of abandonment. She is strong, yes. But she allows herself to feel. She took a chance on love. And while it has brought her some degree of pain every so often, it has enriched her life in such profound ways. Max sees what his daughter has done for her friends. This is the little girl he knew growing up. He has always known that she has such a kind heart and giving spirit. She just doesn’t show her emotions and relate in the same way other people do. But she found people who understand her and celebrate her in the same way he and his wife did when she was growing up. Max always knew that Brennan was special. And she is. He couldn’t be prouder. I almost want to say he had a “my work here is done” face on. I know that’s completely reaching, but I couldn’t stop thinking about it. His daughter has it all now. And he can rest easy knowing she will be well taken care of when he is gone.

What worries me now is Brennan’s reaction to whatever Max is keeping from her. Logically, she knows that people die every day. Obviously she sees that on a daily basis. But her father- she lost him for 15 years. They are in a good place now. They are finally at peace. And now he’s going to abandon her again. At least that’s how I feel she may take it. Because even the most rational person can be affected by death in unpredictable and highly illogical ways. I am also going by the teases for upcoming episodes. Something is going to affect Brennan in a deeply emotional way. I don’t know if Max is going to tell her what’s wrong. Or if he’s just going to die without having ever warned her. I really don’t know. I am terrified of either scenario. I am terrified to see this strong and brilliant woman completely fall apart. When Booth or Brennan fall apart, I fall apart. But she will get through it. Eventually. There will be a beautiful resolution. Because that’s what this show is all about. It’s never death for the sake of death. It’s always an enhancement to the show. There is always a purpose. Both Brennan and Max will never regret the time they did have together. It was like bonus time when he came back into her life. Max surely wouldn’t have traded it for anything. And I assume this life with his daughter was more than he ever expected from her. In time, she will heal. But it will take time.

I believe we have one more lighter episode before the one that is going to set the next Big Bad killer arc in motion. I am looking forward to all of it. Every single moment. But again, can we slow down time? FOX should have aired an episode of this season once a month. Anyway, no use in talking about that right now. I am already too emotional over this episode’s ending. As I have posted this late, I’ll be back soon with the next one!

[tarklesbehindthescenes]

🔥🔥

Double the flame, more salty rants. This one's going to be about the Netflix adaptation for Transformers War For Cybertron. Whoever is reading now, if you really enjoy the show, I recommend stopping right here because this show makes me angry. To the point that I won't hesitate to use stronger language than I usually do. Like Prime, there are some things I like about it and I will cover those at the end, but everything else makes me want to throttle the writers and producers. And if you haven't seen Siege or Earthrise, then understand there will be spoilers.

I will start with the trailers. I was excited that we were getting a new Transformers show. But when I found out that it was a Netflix production I was worried. And when I found out that Rooster Teeth was supposed to play a part in it, I thought that there would be some hope. No. My boyfriend got to the series first and was texting me as he binged the first few episodes. All caps. Exclamation points. He even reported that he was making a list of everything that pissed him off. I got to look over that list after I binged the whole season of Siege myself. It was lengthy.

In my rant about Transformers Prime, I said that the show was trying too hard to be dark and gritty. Yeah, this show took that and did a nosedive. It is trying so much harder than Prime and I can't STAND it. War. Devastating war. I get it. Shit sucks. War is hell. But you know what show did a great job of covering a good chunk of the war experience? M.A.S.H. War is NOT all doom and gloom and drama, as my grandfather who was part of the Airforce during the Vietnam War would testify. Stressful as all get out? Absolutely. I won't deny that. And I will not dismiss veterans' injuries and traumas gained from any war they partook in. It's horrible they went through the experiences at all.

But this show thinks that if it focuses on all the dark themes and grit that it'll make it hip with the kids/adults. It's not trying to express and show the audience the real nature of war like M.A.S.H. did. And I don't understand why they decided to go with six episodes for each season. It is too cramped for them to do anything really meaningful with. There will be plenty of examples provided as I go.

Where to go from here... I guess from the first episode in Siege and the impressions I got from it. Bumblebee's an absolute dick! What the hell?! Little man, you got an iron rod up your tailpipe or what?! THIS is the direction they decided to take as iconic a character as Bumblebee?! Okay, fine! Every continuity is entitled to their differences. I'll deal with it. But then later on they have him inherit the "Alpha Trion Protocols"--

I'm going to pause the Bee rant for a moment. Alpha. Trion. Protocols. Do the writers even know what protocols are?! Or did they think that if they slapped together an important name with something vaguely technical that it would pass off as something impressive and comprehensible?! They don't even explain what these "protocols" do! Just, all of a sudden Bumblebee was chosen to inherit them, I GUESS, and then he got to meet Alpha Trion in spirit, and now he's a nice boy who wants to hang out with the Autobot team! This happens near the end of Siege, but I wanted to stay on the track of Bee's character and how rushed and stupid this development felt.

Jetfire. Oh. My goodness. I do like him more than most of the characters portrayed in the show. But MAN I wish they had given him more solid morals. Like, he's fine with dictatorship, but reprogramming bots on a massive scale is where he draws the line? And he SLICED OFF Starscream's arm WITHOUT PROVOCATION in the first fifteen minutes of episode one!!! I had to pause the episode so I could shout furiously at the TV and my siblings could laugh at me! I like the idea of Jetfire starting out as a Decepticon. But gosh. Darn it. Rethink his character in the beginning PLEASE.

The sheer. Amount. Of seeker deaths. I could cry. I shrieked when Thundercracker got his head blasted straight off his shoulders. And that was just the START. I talked about the vehicons and the abuse they take in Prime. This. Holy crap. This is so unnecessary. This REALLY doesn't make me root for the Autobots.

Speaking of not rooting for the Autobots. Optimus Prime? He's a grade A asshole. I straight up hate him. He makes Megatron seem like the reasonable one. He lowkey disrespects the fembots, he plays all sorts of hot and cold games, he shouts at some mechs that don't want to be a part of this dumbass war. Megs told him in Earthrise that Elita was dead and Optimus straight up didn't react for long. Wide optics for a moment, then he pulled a fanfic move and straddled Megs.

And the show actually makes Megatron out to be the more personable mech out of everyone. Until Earthrise when they show him with Ultra Magnus' head. ...Megan? Is your brain alright? Keeping the head of your dead "brother" really doesn't seem like something you'd do. Oh yeah, the show did Ultra Magnus dirty. It did a lot of mechs dirty. But they made Mags out to be some... soft flake.

Starscream's treachery and smack down is totally unwarranted. In Siege Megatron complimented Starscream, saying he liked his ambition and gall. Starscream was all excited puppy-like when he got the promotion to leader of the seekers. And then in Earthrise suddenly he doesn't like Megatron and Megatron suddenly hates him and we get the classic Megs and Screamer dynamic. What? Why? There was no build up to this. There was no reason for this.

The voice acting makes me want to tear my hair out. It's awful. The line deliveries are rushed or unnatural, everyone either sounds deep and gravely or just WRONG. *sob* Soundwave, what did they DO to you?! Whoever made the decision not to go with the voice actor union made a GRAVE mistake.

I really... don't like Chromia and Moonracer in this... Like I said before, bots were done dirty. Moonracer--and everyone else--when in that zombie infested space that had the Allspark, just stood there as the zombies advanced. And then Moonracer continued to just stand there and scream as she got eaten. I'm sorry, but she deserved to die. Everyone had GUNS! Her included!! And they didn't USE THEM until Moonracer died!! Bad writing!! And then Chromia. Jumping to Earthrise. I didn't care one way or another about her up until she KILLED the Decepticon that helped her group out before WITHOUT a second thought! "Wait! I helped you before, remember--" [Bang!] Bitch!!

I'm going to talk about the pace of the writing now. There were several instances where we'd be in one scene, and then suddenly we'd be in another with no proper transition and I was left reeling and scrambling to figure out how we got to that point. Like when Galvatron suddenly showed up on Megatron's ship and started talking with him. Like, wait a minute. We're in some nether realm. Optimus is talking with Sky Lynx, then we jump to Galvatron just on Megs' ship. What? How? What led to this? Going back and rewatching did not help.

Impactor. I did not know who Impactor was before this series, so this was my introduction to him. And I loved him. And then they went and killed him off in a cliche method I saw coming a MILE away due to how they animated it, positioned the camera, etc. And I. Am. Salty. How dare they give him that kind of death and take away his dynamic with Ratchet.

This is so long... I'm sorry. I think I've covered most of the things that I had a major grievance with. I have a lot more, but I'll shut up and move to the positive things.

The animation is amazing. I was discussing this with my sister--who is more of a Rooster Teeth fan and enthusiast than I am--and none of the Rooster Teeth names showed up in producers or writers, so we're under the assumption that Netflix only hired on their animation team, and that's believable. The show looks like something Rooster Teeth would make. Which makes it a little easier to watch.

I adore the little Refracktor look-alikes. Scrapface and the guy whose name I can't freaking find that gave Megatron the tour. I would do anything to protect them... There's someone I'm following on tumblr who got the suggestion that Elita deserved to have a little Decepticon harem made out of those Refracktor look-alikes, and I'm inclined to agree.

I'm glad my boy Red Alert is getting some of the spotlight. He's not written how I prefer him, but he's not horrible. Just bland.

Most of the character designs look great. There's a few that I'm meh about, but I can't complain too much. They look like who they're supposed to be. Galvatron actually looked pretty good.

The Quintesson and Doubledealer's crew. The Quintesson is probably the best I've ever seen one written. It was shocking. Each face was its own person rather than the Quintesson having one face for each mood. That's how the previous Quintessons felt like to me, anyway. And Doubledealer's crew of mercenaries was great. I appreciate that the coneheads and Bug Bite were among the crew. And that they're perfectly fine shooting at each other.

Jetfire and Elita's dynamic is a mirror of Elita and Optimus' dynamic, only the two of them respect each other a heck of a lot more than Optimus and Elita did.

Ratchet. Ratchet. Holy. Cow. Talk about someone who deserves to have the Matrix. I NEED Ratchetus Prime to be a thing. And if they hadn't killed off Impactor, their dynamic would have continued to be beautiful. The Autobots do not deserve to have Ratchet in their midst. He takes no crap, he heals both sides, a bot is a bot. End of statement.

Scorponok was cute. I like him.

That's all that really comes to mind as far as I can recall. I'm sure there's more. But my brain has been emptied. This has been therapeutic. Thank you, and sorry again for the lengthy rant.

[throwingideasatthewall]

Clone Wars    The Jedi Who Knew Too Much

            (Terrorize a                  woman)

               An adult

             Also wait       I thought they said no one was killed?.

             Like back near the ending they were like                 “he was the only one,”

                  [Working                         With?]

     ??

              So Force 

                That it was never ever brought up that they were dead or what happened to them or just whatever

                  ...    

               Oh joy a funeral 

              with a shade of                        Eugenics

                  Dear                        Frick

                 (This is why I hate    funerals; Bad enough that someone died in such a terrible way that they couldn’t be accountable in return to their        home (which they should     have) and had as close to a peaceful       death knowing that they hadn’t inflicted further pain and suffering on their fellow man,

          No let’s just parade that shit around and make everyone feel as miserable as possible while encouraging that misery

        (Not imagine reminding them about        soon their life will be over)

                     Dic                         k-                         .                         Re-                      mem-ber                            -                          Oh yeah I really care about all those   unnamed people-                           -                            Also yeah let’s try to remember how they were [in life] well the fact that they are dead is robbed in their faces

                        And guilt-tripped

                   Dick.

               [Ahsoka stop being an assumptious dick during a moment of                      silence,]

                   Well I may not respect the concept of funerals        But I do respect the concept of                    If there were rules for an established event                       That you decide to participate in                           You should probably follow                         them,

                       [Empathy circle,                            Asking if sad

                       No shit Sher                             Lock,]

                         It’s a                                Funeral]

[also why does      Ahsoka,        Single               out        Barisse?          She isn’t crying or seems noticeably more upset than any one else,

    “My            Light saber,”

     My mentor         was doing          nothing,

        I know, “younglings”              But for the age we see them          learning about light sabers              There’s little to no chance that someone she learned besides,                 Could teach her anything,

           “ Live for the living Jedi,”

           Then why did you drag the body out of here and make people stare        at it?

        [like live for the living      that’s all good and good,             But part of that includes              not being a dick,            Doing your role to make the world a habitable and decent place,                And being accountable,                 (If you’re inches away from death                  maybe stay home).                 And while this is going                  old fashion murder,                            You’d would assume they would’ve sectioned it off if they were anything resemb                      ling decent                      People,

                 Like not just one place (lane).     for this dude to operate,

                  And in case of       sociality,                   This place wasn’t closed off (permanent) for multiple reasons

                 (Like seriously you guys want to gather around a place where someone died?)

      Point being;           Living for the           living means being          acc-ountable                  And not subjecting people to           staring              at your           dead body,        -

  Live through     us     . . .   Er-

 [But-   they already did their fair share of     living-

[apologies for the “gallows”      humor,

   Just...following       the conclusion of the episodes         focus on,

        Death

   [Point being; you can’t make me feel bad for someone who literally decided   fuck the environment        fuck life     fuck humanity,      i’m going to be a self-destructive       asshole,            And it kicked them in the          ass,

       [Like yeah yeah           loss of life very           tragic,             World is a            wor           -ser,             But that’s a            quick moment-              -] 

           -            [Also yeah                 Jedi life,                   ]

              Like screw all the cleaning                staff,

            Do they even get burials?                   (Weird hierarchy)

               Also, those were all                Jedi?

             (Like seriously          what were they doing down there?)

             Also yeah no wonder             everyone was suspicious,

             Like five Jedi down there for no                 established                     reason

             Weird glowy

              Barisse

              [Where’s                Luminara?

              You know,                      Barisse’s            “Men-tor,”            Authority             assumer,

                  Known                        for                        . . .                 being on top of                    things.                       . . .                            And control                        -ling-                             -                             Micro manage                              -                                “Mov,

                          Seriously     can anyone        leave       this woman alone        for five seconds. .

      Excuses she was already            terrorized enough by              Sky               walker                    .                    Still sucks,

              Why?

               Re-                public

               Jedi-

                How is Ahsoka part of the space military and doesn’t know that they answer to the space government?

                 [Did she think       they were just going to keep them locked up in the same       cell forever?

    No space trial?

     Like this seems       like a very stupid           excuse-          To get Ahsoka involved,            (And overly sus)              And terror      -ize this poor woman further

      (Note I know what she did was            downright shitty,

      (Assuming she didn’t give a false confession          under duress)

       That doesn’t excuse the      tox,-

      Clones kil-

    Seriously when      and why does everyone care about the         clones?

     Like ‘oh no the      (ex) child soldiers died!

        Yeah?

    Like they were “actual” people             (By their standards)        and Jedi            (Who seem to rank up pretty high on the standards, even get a separate burial, and getting a statement ranking their lives only              (Assumed authority             is shit)           right there,

      Ad-miral

     Also yeah      they have different legal systems       for different groups of people,          (We’re just going to paint                that as fine,)

           Like I know this is              assumed authority,               But that’s adding another layer of tox that I think should be             acknowledged -

          She’s guilty-

             Fair-

          Dealt with                    Did-

    Did Ahsoka just advocate for the       death penalty-          !?

     Like her hand moved in that         “over the neck,”             expression,                  .                   Revenge

       Dude this is more than venting 

      this is murder

     (Focus on the don’t         murder          part, before the painting with          broad strokes-          ,         (You’d think one of the older Jedi would be advocating for this           shit)

    A-hsoka

    Could’ve        been a nice moment,

     But the tone was off

     And it didn’t make sense

       ‘ The evid-ence              seems clear’?

       How would the      evidence have changed anything?

          ‘ things will never change,’

        Weird statement,

         - -            Military

        That’s a damn good idea considering they’re          peacekeepers

     (Oh yeah that’s the thing that’s thrown around pretty sparsely;               These guys are supposed to keep the peace,

          (Yet from the itchy trigger finger you wouldn’t think that)

           Never mind Anakin’s suddenly developed                    terrorizing tendencies,

          What would be good...

          If they played              it up for evil,

           And didn’t ignore the        unfortunate implications,

        “Peace Keeper(s);

    Hey, they actually called       them out for that bullshit,

     That’s good

     And yeah she is 100% deserves to be ashamed,          For enabling Anakin          last round,              And possibly            brutalizing,

   Note, there’s a difference between venting       and brutalizing,

    (Mostly decided by     emotions,)

    But still they killed more people         than is acceptable either way                              (0)

       Oh never mind she’s just bitter and completely ignoring the consequences of her actions

         (Yeah!)

   (This is not accountability      this is            Vigilante justice,              Trying to solve everybody’s problems            for them,           Which is the just not how it works,             You can’t assume               accountability for               someone else

             You              aren’t                 them

 [Author-ity]

    Strate-gy-

     Um?

    [What?]  Is.

    Is she    a master now,

     If not then where is          Luminara?

      And just           tasks?

       [i’m sorry but Luminara doesn’t seem like the type to assign that kind of work,

     Being pretty controlling

     And high on everything rule -abiding even their elitist attitude -        towards the jedi-

     Pretty sure    she would’ve sent a bot       or a servant        or something              . . .                Not      an     apprentice?             . . .?             ?   Literally nothing about Luminara?

       “friend”

   Assuming a lot that made they’ve only interacted       once and nearly died that      time,

     Also, comfort?

    Ahsoka is the only one that seems particularly    disturbed-

    Yeah      Barisse is soft-spoken             -                But         not really sad that I can tell

   [all of her speech has been well actively non-consequential and      nonsensical,

  That vague]

  Also yeah     Ahsoka feels bad,           After just say          -ing            Screw              You              To a general that reasonably pointed out that they’re peace keepers, and shouldn’t be interfering so much and so aggressively, in other people’s     lives

   (And that’s fair with Lord terrorizer but painted as it’s no big     deal,”          Over there)

     So yeah you can’t really make me sympathize with someone who just a essentially said “Screw being an accountable person,  I want to hurt people         (Beyond reasonable venting         parameters),          And possibly kill them,

    Yeah, no sympathy

    Young

     More so psychopathic,

      [Like pretty sure      she insinuated murder there,]

       What’s with the cell phone music?

         Seriously, look;   

 She’s fine

  This,

  Also     geez she’s jumping right into the         baggage?

  Like poor Barrisse,        She just wanted to go for a walk      and get some tasks      done    and this person is bringing in the tox,

   [Like seriously you don’t just randomly launch into a rant about the abusers and the system they created,

    Everyone already          knows,

    Stick to the talking when there’s something actually good to    share,

   [excluding         rare     occasions,           - ]

Dear frick      what have       I got myself.       into?]

   Damn poor Barrisse      is trying to get out of this            conversation..

     Like dude that’s against code...

     Dude..

    Haha, you’re so cool

   * through gritted teeth,           *please help me*,

      Genoisse

     * Dear god you’re bringing up that             terrible             situation*?

         -         

        [Help ME]

             ?

            Oh yeah that’s not a completely weird thing to say to             someone after a               mur-der      

                  -    

                  ?     

            [Ahsoka’s           projecting fucking..  

              HARD

               Please                     Leave

        Ha, ha , ha

        [that is a why-do-I-hang-out-with-you       ex       -pression-     -         Like Ahsoka clearly got the talent of starting a long rambling rant about random nonsense and subjecting the nearest person to it” trait from      Anakin         [Pre-quel]              -    

[Here’s a reminder that Barisse just wanted a book or some   shit

   To do her    “tasks,”          And got       subjected        to that,       -    

 [Wait this was an        all-call meeting-

       [Apologies for the           abundance of pictures           but I have a lot of thoughts             ,]

          [Why did Luminara and Barisse              get snubbed?

           How is Ahsoka?                  [there are                 -multiple things wrong                   with this-]

        Anyway-

           L-eto

       Because you’re a gosh             darn terrorist,             And out of the two Jedi she             probably knows-           Ahsoka is the least likely to go            {immediate death mode}.                    Probably             she is kind of death mody now,                         -                        Com-mander                             Tano,                        Really?                            -                                  Besides all the normal,                    not Jedi guards,?                                -             Because that smells of plot                      convenience,                           -                          Like she and Ahsoka barely had one conversation,            Where she enabled Anakin’s crazy assumptions and tyran          -ical ruling,              -            ?             -             [It’s-       a nice         shot-]          -          Whelp,            -           The      guarding system are real         weird here;           Sometimes it’s the      Centurions,         This is the real first time          we’re        see-ing           arc             -          Overly          competent,

        Also like      five people dude, chill

      Also the feck    are you telling her            this?

          Oh                —               Guilt?                 (Good)                     .                     ?                       .      [None of them have a red button            except for one,

                               Hm,     Oh yes it just completely open.    the door with no shields   and let the unarmed person go first,

     -           Also yeah      dick move       Ahsoka,

      You were     the Jedi to contact          -          Seriously,   not your attorney

      Oh heck even one of the older Jedi?

     The ap-prentice-            ?

      This is getting to               Mary Sue               levels                  of          “fecking unlikely,”.                   And             “unrealistic,”                   To establish how much of an      unrealistic unbelievable bad ass       Ahsoka              Is,

        Which, congrats,  I don’t believe it

       That a person living in subsequent poverty would know the name of one of the young to-be Jedis, Who reach-       ed such        renown       after            a few short missions,                Where not much was actually done,

             And she never had an official staring                   role, on her own,

      That’s pure wish fulfillment      and it’s pure bullshit

              [You know what would’ve made more sense?                      And I’m not excusing the story in any way                      I fecking         hate                it at this point,

            But,                    What if she was someone screwed over by some people                 smugglers?

                Who saw some serious crime getting committed,

                  And knew the name                     “Ahsoka,”

                    From stories of the other people that got screwed over                        by people                          smug                             glers,

                          Building on the past mythos;                                    Her adventures with the others

                           Esta-blishing herself as a                                smaller crime fighter,

                          Typically.                              asso-ciated with people smugglers,

                          And allowing her to get up a bit of reputation

                           Form her                               own name.                                -                                     Just                                  -a thought                                      -                                     Time

                                Wow Ahsoka’s a bitch                                               [derogatory                                                     non-identification)

                                  The animation...                                       is not helping,

                                         Mine,                                            Yeah you mentioned it,

                                                    Before                                                    She did                                               you fuckin watermelon,

Also,     

[Apologies.         I meant     to make it    smaller, Didn’t;     Happen,]         But point      being she really         is trash; 

    Over - judgemental

     Willing to go farther than          humane

     Willing to assume           authority,

          And yeah lady did terrible            shit,  

      But it was         five        people,       in a            war;

      If that’s what set Ahsoka off, she’s really not up to hearing about the boomer war

        Because yeah        boomer is far from innocent,

        But these are         boomers this shit is expected,  

         And certainly didn’t         add or require that kind of tone                or behavior;

  That’s          A        “You        Suck,”        And         a trip           to      accoun       -tability

            Also yeah let’s talk about the              tone here for multiple reasons;

               The Boomer isn’t the victim either

                But by God, does it try to fame it as such,

              When we come in,  

                 [and I’m not            doing pictures for obvious                      reasons,]                         They are cur-led up in a corner-                           Tone just barely making it about childify                            -ication

                        And I got to say this                           tone is fucking backwards,

                       With the elder boomer criminal,                             Portrayed                               with a unsteady unsure                                  scared tone,

                          Meanwhile Ahsoka,

  For my complaints     of being portrayed         Too young       for her actions,           Too old         for the        -tone,

       Is now portrayed                 even older,                With cyn-                   icism and defen-                  siveness-                      -                           Which doesn’t make sense since the        present Gen doesn’t have anything to defend,                      And has the un-certain tone                          (Usually hope-ful)                              The tones are completely wrong

                                       Right after it being said that Ahsoka acts young in many ways

    Instead of        acting           Like an old person who’s already         done their thing                 And has something to be        defensive about

   [not even the most toxic person       in present Gen,         Loses the uncertain tone         until their time is up,]

        And continues a constant theme of the series not having any patience and not taking the time to develop anything

       They want to have   , Ahsoka be cool and bad ass and say certain lines but don’t have the patience to work-       To develop it         properly,

    Causing everything to fall        extremely           flat;

   Re;verse          (With      correct          Tone,          Ass-      uming this is a          trap,)

     O; What are you doing here?

    A:   What you?

          [Door             closes             behind]

      O; [crack      Guess you’re not the only one              les;]             to fall into their trap,

       A; [Lifts        Tell me or -or              up]

        O;         Or- or                        what?!

                     It’s not                   in your character                         ,child

        A;        Maybe         [Slump      not         Ing]                           -     -           That at least feels natural             and not like a              body switch,                - - -                [also now you’re playing the death theme after he brutalized several people?]

            Like,               [Wow that was quite possibly the most pointless set up I’ve ever seen,                With several                   easy resolvable instances -                        Play it straight                             with not a drop of self-awareness to drink,

                         And because Ahsoka acted like a complete jerk ass I have no interest,

          Especially when they can switch her tone to                old by gone enabler

             [Good job taking any tension                or suspension of               belief, out of                 your story]

             ...