#boys are terrifying... the way they growth spurt

[ambitionunpacked]

A graphic showing how Maggie visualized the height difference of the iconic techie crew. Created circa 2019, so meant to be representative of Season 2.

[girliism]

having art and patrick as your boy best friends.

you met them in kindergarten. the three of you sat at the same table with another boy. said other boy was writing bad words on your drawing when art and patrick sprayed glue all over him.

they had to sit out of recess watching the other kids play. you brought them both flowers as a thank you and ever since then the three of you were inseparable.

so inseparable that when third grade came around and patrick saw that the three of you weren’t in the same class he brought his parents up to the school and demanded that you all be in the same class every year. middle and high school were no different.

you loved them but hated the gross tendencies they came with. “you have to sit in between us so we don’t fight over who sits next to you.” art says. but you hate sitting in between them cause it ended up with you getting caught in their burping matches. “you guys are so gross.”

but art and patrick really did care for you. so much so that at 11 when you got your first period and ignored them for a week they made it their duty to learn all about menstruation.

you were at lunch eating with your girl friends when art places a drink in front of you. “it’s a green smoothie full of iron rich vegetables so you can replenish after losesing so much blood. my mom made it.” the blonde smiles at you very proud of himself but your faces heats up in embarrassment. “also you can get pregnant now so like don’t do that.” patrick adds quite loudly and everyone is looking at you and your other friends are snickering at the interaction. you wanted to die.

watching art and patrick go though growth spurts was actually terrifying. and not to mention they ate everything. “can we get five home style burger plates two for us and one for her. with oreo milkshakes. oh and apple pie” patrick orders. you watch as the both of them clear their plates with ease now deciding if you all should go for ice cream.

it was the summer before freshman year and you had spent most of it with your grandparents but you made in back in time for the zweig end of summer party. “guys! did you miss me” you pull them in for a hug before you walk ahead of them into the zweig house. the two of the watch you with confusion. when did you become a girl?

art and patrick never really saw you as “girlish” the way they saw other girls as girlish cause they’ve known you for so long. but something changed when you were at your grandparents house. you changed.

“dude you see that right.” patrick says. him and art watch you in the pool talking to your other friends. “she has boobs.” art groans at his friends perverted observation. “can you like not stare at her chest. that’s weird.” “what, all i’m saying is that she has boobs now guys like boobs. boobs and guys are no good match. horny assholes will try to get with her all year.” “can you stop saying boobs” art whispers “they’ll break her heart and get her pregnant. we have to protect her.” patrick says sternly.

the first two years of high school boys avoided you like the plague.

“do you guys think i’m ugly?” you blurt out one night the three of you laying on your bed watching juno. both of them sputter out a slue of what’s and why would you think that. “it’s just no one’s asked me to the formal. i’m literally the only person i know who doesn’t have a date.”

patrick looks at you before shrugging. “you can come with us duh. me and art will be your date we can make it a group thing.” art nods in agreement. this makes you feel worse. “i don’t want to be your guys pity date. plus your girlfriends hate me.” art sits up turning to you. “it’s not a pity date. formals are supposed to be about having fun with you friends. and our girlfriends don’t hate you.” oh but they totally did.

you end up going to formal with art, patrick and their girlfriends and have a surprisingly good time. the night is ending and patrick’s ditch the two of you so you and art sit on the empty football field just the two of you.

“so where’s your girlfriend?” you ask. “making out with the quarterback under the bleachers.” art sighs out looking up at the sky. you wince. “sorry” art mumbles out a whatever picking at the trimmed grass.

“her loss right.” you bump your shoulder with his. art scoffs “yeah, now at least she’ll have someone to grope her.” “wait wait is big shot tennis man too scared to grope his girlfriend.” art shoves you. “shut up ok, guys get nervous too.” humming you say. “if a guy so much as wanted to kiss me i’d just do it.” eyes looking up.

arts head snaps towards you. “have you never been kissed before?” you shake your head no. “but we’re almost juniors, how have you never been kissed?” “maybe because you and pat intimidate any guy that’s has interest in me. which is really fucking annoying by the way.” you huff. “sorry about that, pat just doesn’t want you to end up on teen mom.”

the two of you sit in silence for a while. “i could kiss you.” art says. you look over to him heart beat picking up. art is a good looking guy obviously, but he was your best friend. “wouldn’t that be weird?” you bite your lip out of nervousness. “doesn’t have to be.”

you get your first kiss that night. on the football field under the night sky. it was nice, art’s lips felt nice. moving slowly against yours his hand tenderly holding your cheek. you both break away from the kiss to breathe. “thanks” you whisper.

you guys never talk about what happened that night. not to patrick and not to each other. the same way you don’t talk about the kiss you and patrick share in his treehouse at his family’s goodbye summer party before junior year.

part two

[transtravisstoll]

Batkids Age Reversal List

want to do a age reversal AU for the batkids but why do the comics keep fucking up their ages this has taken me weeks of trying to figure out i’m gonna off the DC comic writers. if you have any better ideas for their ages pls let me know im going to gouge my eyes out if i have to do any more math.

alfred: ???

-immortal. fuck you. he looked death in the face and told him to stop tracking mud all over his freshly mopped floors and that dinner was at eight.

bruce: 39

-had damian at eighteen bc i wanted it to be as close to his age gap with dick in canon as possible but i am not having this man fathering a child at 15

damian: 21

-came to gotham at age 8, refused to be a normal kid bc he was literally raised an assassin and bruce doesn’t know how to encourage nonviolent activities in children so letting him fight crime seemed… better than being an assassin. he, at the age of eight, could not come up with a name that wasn’t fucking Terrifying so whenever gordon asked for his “little shadow”‘s name they were suspiciously silent bc no, damian, you can not call yourself Vengeance or Malice. the media called him shadow and it stuck.

duke: 18

-wanted to keep his age gap with tim similar, but with duke being the older one, instead of doing dick and jason’s age gap bc it makes more sense this way.

-his parents got jokerified when he was 12, and so did a Lot of people in the Narrows. it absolutely decimated their little community so duke became signal. he didn’t fight crime, he gave back to his community, he helped with the cleanup. bruce ended up basically kidnapping the poor kid. (duke ran away from his foster home because he wasn’t a glorified babysitter or maid, fuck you, he can crash on couches.)

STEPH: 16

-again, wanted to keep the age gap between steph and tim the same but keeping steph the older one. makes more sense this way!! leave me alone.

-became spoiler at 13, was only spoiler for a year before she became shadow at 14 for about six months in between damian and jason. there was a six month period as well where bruce didn’t have a shadow and alfred literally had to bribe steph to be shadow bc he wasn’t abt to let a kid run around the gotham night without knowing batman was two steps ahead of them. plus, having a kid with him made bruce more cautious.

TIM: 15

-FINALLY got to mimicking the age gap between dick and jason in canon

-never becomes shadow, actually, he takes bab’s spot as their computer wiz. doesn’t call himself oracle though because he fucking sucks at making names. calls himself override (barf).

-also, steph is the only one who hes told he’s override to and also knows the batfam’s identities

-duke knows tim is override bc he’s scary like that!! tim doesn’t know duke knows he’s override, but duke knows that tim knows their identities and tim Also doesn’t know that. duke is fr terrifying. love him.

-tim figured out the batfam because of duke’s meta abilities bc he’s also scary like that

Jason: 14

-oh, he’s… currently out of commission. became shadow at 12.

-didn’t die in ethiopia, because fuck that plot. he was doing a stakeout but the joker had kidnapped this itty little baby (an eight year old boy) who he found running around the gotham night. jason went out of commission saving that little boy. what does out of commission mean? who knows. could be dead. could be severely injured. kidnapped. the possibilities are endless.

-i think it’s fucked that the comic fans voted for a fifteen year old to die by the joker. y’all are crazy.

cass: 13

-mimicking jason and cass’ age gap with cass being younger bc it makes more sense leave me alone

-isn’t a Batman approved shadow (yet) but she shadows batman anyways after jason’s… indisposed. the bonus is that batman doesn’t Know he has a shadow but gotham is kept in the dark abt shadow being (redacted) because cass and jason had the same exact fucking build, okay, jason hasn’t gotten his growth spurt yet (because of childhood malnutrition) . weird how batman lost weight though, after he went on that rage incident after the latest arrest of the joker. he’s leaner now. (is it the same batman? who knows.)

dick: 8

-mimicking the tim and damian age gap, bc it’s six years in my head leave me alone.

-huh, jason went out of commission saving an eight year old and dick is eight… suspicious. coincidence? hm.

babs: 7

-mimicking the babs and dick age gap but with babs being younger bc i think she’s older in canon? unsure. DC please i’m going to kill you and then me.

[verdemoun]

Wondering If you have some Isaac content to give us? Please? ( Asking politily)

absolutely my bOI

Canon era:

Isaac had biblical tantrums. Arthur really had to bite his tongue around Abigail and Jack because the absolute theatrics Isaac was capable of made Jack's little fusses seem like nothing. If you told Isaac no, it would be 3 hours of inhumane screaming.

It was obvious Isaac was going to be smarter than his parents combined. The older he got, the more Eliza asked Arthur to make an effort to come around often because he kept outsmarting her and she was at her wits' end.

Specifically, he was damned convincing. One evening when Arthur arrived to the small house he secretly considered his home, Eliza was sitting with her face down on the table while Isaac merrily ate a chocolate bar and candy for dinner. His argument was he needed the energy to go to sleep.

Isaac was absolutely terrified of horses. Arthur has no idea why, but the kid would look at the beautiful gentle giant Boadicea like she was a hellspawn demon sent to drag him to brimstone and eternal flames. Arthur simply accepted horse riding might not be something he has in common with his son, but thankfully drawing was! When he took Isaac fishing, and the kid quickly got bored and asked if they could draw instead, Arthur sighed in relief.

timewarp isaac!

It's a running joke in the gang that Isaac needs more therapy. It's usually a lighthearted response to him asking something way too personal, and said with the knowledge the gang would drop anything to help him out if he asked.

Case and point: one of the first one-on-one conversations a then 18 year old Isaac had with the recently timewarped Charles was very sincerely asking what it was like to bury Arthur. It was a very sincere, vulnerable conversation where Charles admitted it took him 6 months to go back and find Arthur's body, which was mostly bone and what little scraps of clothing that scavengers hadn't taken. Isaac offered the comfort that if a vulture or crow ate him, maybe a part of Arthur made it back out west before timewarp. Charles, while touched and oddly comforted by the thought, immediately followed up with 'How often do you see your psychologist?' 'Every Tuesday.' 'I don't think that's enough.'

Isaac's love language is physical touch. When he was reunited with Arthur, he would start wailing the second Arthur tried to put him down. It took two days before he'd even let Arthur not be in the same room as him, which Arthur was completely fine with.

However, after Isaac hit his growth spurt, the demand for physical touch became an issue for everyone. He can and will lift people up to hug them. The kids love it. His grandparents love it (he is much more careful not to crush them). Bill Williamson absolutely hates it - he's just not used to people being strong enough to lift him up and it's really unnerving.

Like most of the gang, Isaac gained a lot of weight as a kid due to no one understanding processed food, availability and modern era food trends. Arthur would not let anyone talk shit about his son, but also tried to tell Hosea to stop telling Isaac he'd hit a growth spurt and 'even out'.

Admittedly, Hosea was right, and just like his father Isaac suddenly shot up at age 18 and became an absolute brick wall of a unit just like a younger Arthur. With the addition of Kai dragging him to the gym once a week to Isaac's disgust, he bulked up and had to be reminded 'Isaac pls you're hurting me' regularly.

Sean exclusively called him 'little England' until he hit his growth spurt. His adult nickname is the British Empire, because Sean swears he's bigger than Arthur/English ever was.

Isaac simply would not have survived in the 19th century. He's too modern. He loves social science, pop psychology, queer rights, motorbikes and fast food way too much to have endured canon era. Arthur is quietly glad that Isaac got to grow up in modern era, where his eccentricities have a chance of being normal.

This is a lie Isaac is still considered a very weird dude by modern standards and Kai loves reminding him if they hadn't met in elementary school there's no way in hell they'd be friends.

[gildeddlily]

we stan adam (paul bby what are you doing)[about to make this a series]

again with this. about to die because of them (chuuya looks so young in every Stormbringer art I'm crying)

(1. We Stan The Flags)

2. We stan Adam (Paul bby what are you doing)

he comes out of nowhere and pull out this (they were about to kill him and he was like "oh wow you're kinda mean I expected a better welcome")

ADAM STOP the first time I read stormbringer I fell in love with him right here. like the first thing he said I already was head over heels for this beautiful robot (people who don't like Adam scares me. he's so precious. the perfect assistant, fighter and comic relief)

chuuya's so hilarious- he's about to become one of the strongest character of the bsd universe and an european guy he doesn't know crash his mafia birthday party and ignores the attacks of some of the strongest people he knows, and then said guy proceeds to say that he's here to protect chuuya and kneels before him? (I'm already hearing chuuya's voice actor. it's a dream but let me indulge myself)

(me talking to my sister cause I'm a dumbass) yes I already said that, the flags' bond and interactions are so familiar it's making me cry. Albatross is the classic dumb cousin or little brother that deep down is smarter than you but incapable of doing basic things, and Lippmann the successful third-grade-cousin everybody hates cause he gave them inferiority complex (Iceman neutral chaotic forever)

Chuuya's the king of emotional constipation, and they love seeing him express his feelings (they've welcome him in their group and dynamic, and truly cherish him and wish the best for him. they're so honest it hurts) (everybody ab this thing hurts) (I just know that at least once they gang up against him and started showering him with compliments and he almost cried and they were flabbergasted)

HELLO WHAT IS THIS Doc is literally so me guys (yk the voice) wish I was Chuuya rn (not really considering what's about to happen) (but still)

yeah cause Chuuya near him is like a cat hissing at a horse. I can understand Adam for holding him like and Amazon pack, not for saying to a teenage boy's face that he was short but for the rest ofc (he has his programs and he knows what to do but not really and it's so cute) (Chuuya after a year still wishing for his so wished growth spurt is sad) (but I just know that he doesn't care about it, at least not really. he could still smash someone's face with his pinky finger)

Yes Adam it was (I wish for our society to be ruled by robots too) (imagine Adam being your prime minister. maybe someone explains to him social clues) (Chuuya's so confused) (random robot guy tells him jokes and that some overpowered guy wants to kill him)

...Paul fuck is this the way to tell someone you're their "brother" ? A little of decency please (Chuuya's about to suffer so much I can't continue) (I will) Adam's scream was a little terrifying the first time I read it, the "That man is Paul Verlaine!" shout made me shiver and still does. Still love them

The sad thing about this first interaction, is that Verlaine is honestly sad "like the sea at night", and honestly wants Chuuya to believe him, he truly thinks of themselves as anything but humans. He doesn't do it out of malice (one of the reason he's still alive down those fucking dungeons I know it) and it all makes hating on him hard. If you're able to hate characters like verlaine I envy you

It is a call for help, and his personal way of saying "Hey, I've never felt understood by anyone cause I'm not human and I don't feel as one, wanna come with me and be two non-humans together?", but it came out a little bit more like "Let's be non-humans together, but anyone who ever tried to tell u you were human should die, so everyone you love rn. Hope you don't hate me, kiss kiss"

here is why I didn't want to read it. he is ready to listen to Verlaine. Chuuya doesn't think of himself as truly human, so he wants to listen to him, but his first thought is about the Flags, and sometimes I wonder what would have happened if the french guy didn't kill his friends. got to thin ab it now

yes, darling, there's a difference between love and control. I'm sorry no one ever explained it to you, you boyfriend didn't have the possibility to. and like always Asagiri's able to portrait questions like this in his stories, cause it's a difference not everyone understand. or that not everyone cares about. Verlaine probably didn't really care, desperate how he was about having someone to understand him

this makes me hate every panel where Chuuya uses Corruption (hate on Mori, don't hate on Dazai he was the only one to ever give him a choice. well, it was at least a choice from Dazai's point of view. he was like "do what you want, I don't really care if the Mafia fall! just follow your heart<3" but ofc Chuuya would have never let dazai and the Mafia fall. as if. it's still sweet. now cry with me)

He should leave himself suffer and feel. he's not going to. he should. able to dream or not, he will have from hallucinations when drunk or high or whatever situation he's in and see their mauled bodies. he will always remember the room he spent beautiful moments with his family in as covered with the blood of said family.

this is basically self harm bby, stop it. he wants someone to confirm the truth, and is so horrible to himself to ask this to an android (what's thaaaaaaaat) who is unable to say something like "It wasn't your fault, he was to one to kill them. he's more powerful than you, you and your friends couldn't have done anything. he wanted you to give up on your life for someone you met from not even ten minutes. he had already killed them", the truth. he can only analyze the situation without any emotions.

little thing from the first scene at the bar, albatross making period jokes to his bro (he's about to die in his "bro" arms. he's about to gift him his bike as his last words. but he made a period joke)

(first chapter done and I'm done with myself) (and this light novel) (it's everything but light)

[sequinsmile-x]

Overture

It’s only when they get level with the picnic tables Jack had told her about that morning, the Capitol building coming into view in the background, that it clicks, when the discomfort she’d felt since they arrived suddenly makes sense. 

This was where she’d met with Ian.

-x-

Hi friends!

This is based on an anon I got asking for a fic where Emily has a panic attack/PTSD attack and Aaron comforts her. I immediately got an idea for this one, so here we are.

I hope you like this <3

-x-

Warnings: Anxiety, panic attack, PTSD

Words: 3.1k

Read over on Ao3, or below the cut

Before Aaron and Jack, going to the park would never have been Emily’s ideal way of spending a Saturday. 

If she was honest, it still wasn’t. It wasn’t the park that appealed to her, nor the heat of the midday sun beating down on her, but spending time with them. Her Hotchner boys who had helped pull her back together after she thought it was impossible to do so. Their matching smiles she couldn’t say no to and their unending kindness apparently all she’d needed to feel at home again in a place she’d been torn from, her life left in torn-up pieces around her, frayed edges she would have said, not long ago, were impossible to repair. 

It was slow at the start. The ease she felt around them something she’d put down to chance at first. She’d bumped into them at the mall. She’d been there shopping, exposure therapy she was forcing herself through to get used to crowds again, and she’d found them buying shoes for Jack, the little boy going through a seemingly endless growth spurt. She’d found out since that Aaron had sensed her unease, that he’d seen through her carefully constructed facade and fake smile, and he asked her to stay with them, feigning ignorance on what shoes his son needed as he asked for her advice. It gradually became a regular thing. All of her spare time was spent with them, weekends and evenings that had once been full of nothing but anxiety and silence, her eyes fixed on her front door as if a ghost would burst through it and kill her, the smell of whiskey and cigar smoke never far away, now full of them. 

Soccer games she’d watch intently just to see Jack attempt to score. Evening meals that she’d pretend to help with even though in reality she’d sit there with a glass of wine and gently make fun of Aaron. Low-stakes, gentle, family movies that she knows Aaron would pick for them as well as Jack, both of them at their limit for anything more serious once work was done for the day. 

If she was asked, she’d never be able to explain what made her kiss him one evening, why all of a sudden not kissing him seemed impossible. The magnetic pull he’d had on her for longer than she’d care to admit so strong that she could no longer resist it. He hadn’t hesitated in kissing her back, not even a second of no response before he held her closer, as if he’d been waiting for her to make the first move. 

With anyone else, she’s sure it would terrify her that they had moved so quickly. That she’d be struck with fear that she all but lived with Aaron and Jack only a few months since they officially got together, that the fact she’d told Aaron I love you on their first date, and that he’d repeated it back to her immediately, would fill her with anxiety. But it didn’t. It felt right. Like everything she’d been through, every awful thing she thought she wouldn’t survive, had been leading to this. To them. 

So, even if her choice would have been to stay snuggled up in bed with her boyfriend, Jack tucked up in between them as they slept for a little longer, she dragged herself out of bed because it was what the little boy wanted. She’d slathered her boys in sunscreen, her eyes narrowed at Aaron as he made a joke that he’d never met someone who took sun protection so seriously, and let them pick the park they were going to spend the morning in.

Jack told her that he liked this one. That it had the best swings, and a picnic area with big round tables, a glint in his eyes that Aaron said hadn’t existed before when he mentioned the ice cream truck that was nearby. 

She can’t explain it, but as they get closer to the park she starts to feel uneasy. A familiar tightness builds in her chest that she doesn’t understand as Aaron parks the car. Jack releases himself from his seat and is out of the car only seconds after Aaron turns off the engine. Aaron chuckles, shaking his head at his son as he opens his door.

“Jack, no running off,” he says sternly, and Jack nods, standing perfectly still as he waits for them. Aaron turns back to Emily and frowns, picking up on the tension rolling off his girlfriend like a bitter perfume, “Sweetheart,” he says, placing his hand on her knee, his concern only deepening when she jumps and looks at him, “Are you okay?” 

She nods, because she doesn’t know why she isn’t, doesn’t know how to explain that she feels like her body is remembering something she doesn’t. She smiles and leans forward to press a kiss to his cheek. 

“I’m fine,” she says, smiling as she pulls back, “Let’s go get your son before he explodes with excitement.”

Emily climbs out of the car and stands by Jack’s side, offering her hand to him and smiling as he immediately grabs it, his hand warm in hers. Aaron joins them, walking alongside them as Jack talks at her, reciting facts he’d told her a hundred times and that she’d happily listen to a hundred more. 

It’s only when they get level with the picnic tables Jack had told her about that morning, the Capitol building coming into view in the background, that it clicks, when the discomfort she’d felt since they arrived suddenly makes sense. 

This was where she’d met with Ian. Where he’d threatened the team, the man she’d one day love and his son who she loved as her own. 

Suddenly, she can’t feel the warmth of the sun on her skin, or Jack’s clammy hand in hers. She’s cold, chilled to the bone as if winter was on the horizon and not several months away. She’s frozen on the spot, the pull of her arm as Jack continues to move forward barely registering as her eyes remain fixed on the metal round table in front of her, two abandoned to-go coffee cups staring back at her, almost mocking her in the way they tip over in the light summer breeze, as empty as her chest feels as she struggles to breathe. She isn’t aware of anything around her, her body numb as she feels like she’s freezing from the inside out, the phantom of the cold, hard plastic of her glock pressed into her skin, making her palm itch. 

The faint smell of sunscreen that had lingered on Jack’s skin disappears, it’s replaced by whiskey and smoke, something that had long since meant danger and fear to her. She’s stuck there, reliving the moment when her life had changed forever again and again as she’s unable to pull herself out of it, her eyes still fixed on the empty coffee cups on the table where she’d once sat opposite the man who had killed her. 

She’s snapped out of it. Her lungs immediately fill as she gasps, sucking in air as she feels a warm palm on her cheek, her body tense as her eyes lock with Aaron’s. She tries to breathe in again but can’t, her chest aching as she can’t exhale, her lungs so full she thinks they might burst. 

“Emily, sweetheart,” he says, sounding much calmer than he feels, his other hand reaching for one of hers and placing it on his chest, purposely exaggerating his own breathing to try and encourage hers, “I’ve got you. Just try and breathe with me, okay?” He says and she nods, closing her eyes as she rests her forehead on his, “Good, don’t worry about anything else. It’s just you and me.” 

She swallows thickly, the feeling painful and sharp as she tries to push down her fear but she can’t. Instead, she focuses on Aaron. On his hand wrapped tightly around hers as he holds her palm to his chest, the smell of him and his cologne. How warm his skin is even through his polo shirt. Balmy and comforting and safe. She slowly comes back to herself, the sound of the park filtering back in, children’s laughter as they play washing over her, a reminder from the universe that good things still exist. She grasps at Aaron’s polo shirt, fisting it in her palm as she pulls him closer, sinking into his embrace as he pulls her into a hug. 

“I’ve got you,” he says, kissing the top of her head as he gathers her to his chest, “Do you want to go home?”

She pulls back to look at him, “Jack was excited about this,” she croaks out, her voice not sounding like her own, “He was looking forward to this.” 

If she hadn’t just had a panic attack right in front of him, her entire body frozen in spot whilst she saw something he couldn’t, he’d laugh. Her constant need to put others ahead of herself one of the many things he loved about her. 

“Sweetheart,” he says, tucking some of her hair behind her ear, “Jack understands,” he says, looking back at his son who steps closer and nods, a look of concern on his face that matches his father’s which makes her ache. Guild and love mixing in her belly to make her nauseous, “Right, buddy?” 

Jack nods, “If you’re sick Emily we should go home.” 

She grasps at Aaron again, wondering what she’d missed during her panic attack, what conversation between father and son that she hadn’t heard despite being right there. She looks back at the table for a second before she looks back at them, her present and her future so much more important than her past. 

“Yeah,” she says, clearing her throat when her voice shakes, “I’d like to go home please.” 

It didn’t occur to her until much later that home meant wherever the two of them were. 

___

He gives her space. 

It’s the last thing he wants to do, fighting against every instinct in his body as he sends her to bed alone, giving her the space he knows she needs. He tries not to think of how she goes without argument, a sure sign she wasn’t feeling herself, or how she’d shivered in the car all the way home despite the warm weather and the sweater of his he’d pulled from his go-bag in the trunk. 

He spends time with Jack, and explains to him that something, although he didn’t know what, had scared Emily, telling him in terms that the young boy would understand what had happened. He compares it to how loud noises can sometimes still spook Jack, reminding him of what he’d heard as he lay quietly in the trunk in Aaron’s old office all those years ago. 

Aaron swears his heart breaks as Jack gently asks if they can find out what had scared Emily to make sure they protected her from it in the future, his wide eyes concerned as he thought of the woman who was so often the place they found their strength. 

Jessica picks Jack up early in the afternoon, a plan they’d had for weeks so Jack could spend the evening with her and Roy whilst Emily and Aaron had some time alone. Aaron convinces his son to go, assuring him that Emily will be fine, and that he’ll look after her, and he does a few chores once Jack is gone. 

Eventually, he walks towards his bedroom, making sure his steps are slow and steady, announcing his arrival long before he knocks on the door. 

“Sweetheart,” he says gently as he pushes the door open slightly and looks at his girlfriend, his heart aching as he sees her lying on the bed, her arms wrapped around his pillow, his sweater still hanging loose around her shoulders, “Do you need anything? I could cook whatever you want.” 

She shakes her head and smiles at him, feeling the shake to it as she clears her throat, “No, thank you,” she says, the idea of eating anything turning her stomach. She sits up and she looks at him. His hand is tight on the door handle, his shoulders tense as he purposely holds himself back, and she untucks one of her arms from around his pillow, “Come sit with me for a bit?” 

He doesn’t wait for her to change her mind or for her to ask again. He’s across the room in a second, joining her on the bed. He purposely gives her space, not getting too close to her, but she reaches out for him, linking her fingers through his as she squeezes his hand tightly. 

“I’m…I’m sorry,” she says, “I…,” she drifts off again, unsure how to put it into words, how to explain to him what happened, so she settles on the thing she can make sense of, “I’m sorry Jack saw me like that.” 

He wraps his arms around her, grateful that she sinks into him, and he presses a kiss to her forehead, “You have nothing to apologise for, baby,” he assures her, kissing her forehead again, “I spoke to him, he understands what happened.” 

She chuckles bitterly as she pulls away, wiping at her cheeks as she pushes away tears that she’s furious at herself for slipping free. 

“Does he?” she says, shaking her head, “Because I don’t,” she blows out a steady breath and presses her lips into a firm line, “We were at the park, we were meant to have fun and pretend we weren’t going to buy Jack ice cream before lunch,” she wipes away another tear, “But then I…I thought I was better.” 

He knows the feeling, the disappointment that would weigh heavily on his chest when he felt like he had a setback. How a nightmare that would tear him from sleep after months of not having one would make him feel like he was right back where he started, his chest aching and barely held together, blood seeping from his freshly stitched wounds as despair filled his lungs. He’d feel like he’d made no progress, like he was still back in the hospital bed where he’d last seen Haley alive, right up until Emily reached for him. Half asleep and blearily reaching out for him as she pulled him into her embrace, offering him a safe space to come back to himself, to remind himself of what he had now. 

He knew he did the same for her, that their pasts meant they could only truly understand each other. 

“You are better,” he says firmly, his voice full of love as he encourages her to look at him, his hand on her cheek as he guides her back a little, “One day like this doesn’t undo everything else, okay?” He asks, and she nods even though she isn’t sure. He’d never lied to her, and she knows he won’t start now, so she trusts him even though right now she couldn’t trust herself. “Do you know what caused it?” 

She swallows thickly as she nods, blowing out a slow breath as she closes her eyes, “You know I told you that I met with Ian before…before everything went to hell? And he threatened you and Jack and everyone else?” 

Aaron nods, remembering the conversation they’d had back when they were kidding themselves that they were just friends, “Yeah, you met him in a park…”

She watches as it clicks in his head, his words fading as his jaw clenches, irritation at himself burning in his gut.

“Aaron-”

“I am so sorry, sweetheart,” he says, shaking his head at himself, his grip on her tightening, “I should have-”

“You should have what?” She asks, raking her fingers through his hair, smiling softly as it flops back into place, “Known what park I met him in even though I never told you? Scoped out every park to see if my terrorist ex was ever there?” 

He hates that she’s trying to make light of it, as if seeing her frozen in place, so consumed by fear, terrified of a ghost he hadn’t been able to see, hadn’t broken him. 

“Em.”

She smiles sadly and nods and she rests her forehead against his, “I mean it,” she says, softly stamping her lips against his, “You couldn’t have known.” 

He sighs and runs his hand up and down her back, “We’ll never go back there.”

“You and Jack love that park,” she says, kissing his jaw before she pulls back, “You told me that this morning.”

He tucks some of her hair behind her ear, “We love you more,” he says, and she smiles in response, her first real one since before they’d left the apartment that morning. It fades as quickly as it blooms, the seeds of it not quite ready to plant or take root yet, the gloom of that morning still in the dark shadows of their eyes, “How can I help?” 

She rests her head on his shoulder and encourages him to wrap his arms around her as tightly as he can.

“Just hold me,” she says, sinking into his embrace as far as she can, letting his warmth replace the chill she still could feel from earlier, “And maybe tell me a story?” 

He chuckles lightly as he lays down and pulls her with him, pulling the covers over them even though he’s slightly too warm for it, “A story?” 

“Distract me,” she says, pressing her face into his neck, “Tell me something good.” 

He runs his hand up and down her arm, thinking for a moment before he smiles, “There was once a prince called Aaron, and a brave knight called Emily-”

She laughs and pulls back to look at him, her eyebrow raised at him, “Seriously?” 

“My son is six,” he says, “Fairytales are the best I can do.” 

She presses her lips together to suppress her smile and lays her head back down, “At least I’m the brave knight, I guess.” 

“You could never be anything else,” he says, kissing her forehead, “Now are you going to listen or are you going to interrupt again?”

“I’m listening,” she promises, closing her eyes, and letting him take over all of her senses. 

“Good,” he says, kissing her one more time, “There was once a prince called Aaron, and a brave knight called Emily…”

She listens as he tells a diluted version of their story. A version where the bad guys never win, not even for a moment, and the good guys always prevail no matter what. 

She falls asleep, content and safe in his arms, happy in the knowledge that her story was nowhere near its end, but just at its beginning. 

-x-

Tag List:

@ssa-sparks, @lukeclvez, @lyds102, @glockleveledatyourcrotch, @hotchnissenthusiast, @danadeservesadrink, @ssamorganhotchner, @emilyprentissisgod, @notagentprentiss, @freesiasandfics, @emilyshotchniss, @thecharmingart, @paulitalblond, @gravyfan, @camille093, @whitecrossgirl, @moonlight-2-6, @rawr-jess, @florenceremingtonthethird, @jareauswife, @ms-black-a, @beebeelank, @aubreyprc, @zipzapboingg, @psychopath-at-heart, @criminalmindsgonewrong, @fionaloover, @kinqslcys, @prentissinred, @ccmattis-22, @denvivale317, @thrindis, @hotchsguccitie, @cmfouatslota77, @alexblakegf, @aliensaursrex, @prentissxhotch, @emobabeyy, @victoiregranger, @stormyweatherth, @wanderingdreamer009, @ssablackbird, @luhwithah, @lex13cm, @prentiss-theorem, @dont-emily-me, @mrs-ssa-hotch, @jocyycreation, @itsmytimetoodream, @hotchnissgroupie, @controversialpooh, @capsshinyshield, @canuck-eh

Join my tag list here!

[sharpth1ng]

More (mostly) Younger Billy and Stu hcs

- Billy and Stu fighting each other and probably others with sticks they found in the playground - got in trouble a lot for that

- My guys would come home with dirt and leaves all over them, especially stu

- Billy had a growth spurt first and was taller than Stu at one point but then Stu had a growth spurt and it pissed Billy off that Stu got taller than him again

- Stu chewing the classes pencils where they’d have bite marks all over them when other kids used them

- They are both shit at rubiks cubes but they’re both very good at climbing trees

- Billy’s pretty good at creating shit with legos without instructions, at least when he was younger

- Stu’s been a really good roller skater from a young age and would have his own pair of skates he’d go around with. Like it was a childhood hobby of his. I think he would try to impress billy or something with his skills too.

- I don’t think billy would have been seen as a “gifted kid” type of autistic that many are. I think he’s probably the type to be pretty average throughout all of school (me too, buddy), but also be super good with shit he does care about (ahem film special interest). He would have struggled a lot too though, especially when he was younger, and he didn’t understand why (you’re autistic, dude)

- Stu also struggled but somehow I think he was less worried? about it than billy was. Stu’s the ‘fake it till you make it’ type for a lot of his subjects. I still think he cared to some degree though.

Yeah these two were definitely play fighting CONSTANTLY. Until Billy gets pissy and starts real fighting

MESSY BOYS. I do think Stu as a child is just covered in dirt and drawn on with markers at all times.

I LOVE the concept that Billy grew first and then lost the height advantage, thats hilarious and would piss him off SO MUCH. Like this def happens right around puberty so Stu is also getting girl attention and Billy is jealous, confused, and gay.

Stu absolutely chewing pencils. I think he's just chewing almost anything that fits in his mouth.

Neither of them is going to have the patience for a rubiks cube, but yeah they're definitely climbing trees, terrifying Nancy, and throwing shit at people who walk by and cant see them through the leaves.

Billy make little rube goldberg contraptions is really cute. Spending an hour creating a masterpiece so he can hit Stu with one single marble.

Roller skating Stu is so cute, he'd def be trying to show off. I think Billy is probably not good at rolly things like that so he's probably pissy even if he's impressed.

Yeah I think Billy just doesn't have the motivation to put energy towards stuff he doesn't think is interesting. I think he would have been a decent reader because he's invested in fiction but there's no way he's paying attention in math. And yeah I think he had those childhood autism behavioural issues you get slapped with when you're undiagnosed and having meltdowns and people just call them tantrums.

I think Billy is constantly aware of the ways he's not like other kids because his social issues are more pronounced than Stu's so the fact that he's also not the the top of the class would make him feel extra inferior.

Young Stu is so hungry for attention because of his shitty parents and also is an extrovert, so I think he's more focused on the social aspects of school than the academics

[mysterious-gizem]

𝐎𝐝𝐝 𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐎𝐮𝐭

Warning/s: ???

Taglist: @da3dm, @gt-mcyt, @coolest-moon

Chapters: Ch1 | Ch2 | Ch3

〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️〰️

"Momma..?"

The sound of his voice was so small, quiet, barely above a whisper. Puffy's heart continued to shatter. Watching Dream struggle with his height, he used to be so free, running around without a care in the world, but now. Puffy looked up at him; a young boy who was terrified of even taking a step.

She took a shaky breath, the sun was blinding; she could only imagine how Dream felt having to stay outside all day in the hot sun, even right now, his massive frame shielded her from the rays and engulfed her in shadow. Then she replied, with the softest and most caring tone she could muster.

"Yes duckling?" She smiled, ofcourse she should, she couldn't allow him to see her trembling lips or how her eyes darted left and right. She stared straight up at him, reminding herself, this is her son, she had nurtured and cared for him from the day he was left in her house. She could see Dream shuffle as if he was nervous or ashamed; he avoided her gaze and bit his lip. Puffy could tell something was bothering him.

"What's wrong?" She asked, her tone soft, and loving, "C'mon duckling, I'm sure whatever it is you need to tell me, it'll be fine." She reassured and Dream let out a sigh, his hand was over his stomach and it dawned on Puffy she might not want to hear what he has to say after all.

"I-I'm hungry, again..."

Dammit-

It had been weeks since Dream had gotten that random major growth spurt and alot had change, to Puffy's dismay. Besides the fact the villagers were even more terrified, the blonds eyes were brighter than Puffy remembered, his teeth were slightly sharper than she liked. But the one that had the most impact(in her opinion), was the hunger her boy had.

Puffy could tell the food she had been spending hours on making just weren't- enough for him anymore she had to quadruple her portion servings and even if Dream said he wasn't hungry anymore, she knew his stomach wasn't satisfied. She didn't even know if she was feeding him the proper diet!

Puffy couldn't complain, she knew that, Dream was only asking for food; a natural thing every living thing needed, but it was taking a toll on the sheep hybrid, physically, mentally, and financially. Her thoughts were abruptly cut off when Dream's stomach growled and he looked away bashfully.

Puffy hated it.

She shook her head and smiled up at him, "What would you like to have duckling? I can try making some soup if you'd like?" Dream smiled softly giving Puffy an earnest nod.

His smile, another thing Puffy lost, Dream had always been a happy-dandy child, a kid that faced the world with curiosity and a bright smile; just like how any other kid should be. But ever since that day in Sapnap and Bad's house, it was like he lost his spark- the flame was there, Puffy believed it was; it just wasn't burning as bright right now, soon it would spark again, yeah...

The sheep hybrid dissappeared into their home, immediately heading to the kitchen to work. She sighed as she saw the disarray in her kitchen; she had been too exhausted to clean it and figured that she'll need to use it sooner or later, so to her there wasn't any point to cleaning. She began preparing any necessary items for the meal she would prepare, humming to distract herself.

Dream sat outside, patiently waiting beside the window to the kitchen, he could someone hear his mother's soft humming and if soothed him in a way that made him shut his eyes and let out a tiny, almost unnoticeable smile. Soon enough the delicious aroma wafted through the air, and Dream felt giddy with excitement. So much so he didn't notice Schlatt walking up onto the doorstep until he knocked and jolted Dream to look at him.

The ram hybrid seemed to acknowledge his presence and tried giving him a smile. Dream could hear his mother's footsteps and soon enough the door swung open with Puffy wearing an apron. She seemed shocked, not expecting for her brother to drop by so suddenly. Schlatt coughed and began explaining the situation.

"Soo- Puffy, I need Dream's help over by the farm." The sheep hybrid immediately frowned but let him continue. "The animals escaped, some of them are just over by the pasture, but a few have started to wander into the village and forest." Schlatt smiled, not registering that Puffy might've been cooking for Dream. "Well actually I'm currently making lunch- maybe afte-" She was abruptly cut if when Schlatt grinned and clapped; not to loudly but enough to shut the sheep hybrid's mouth.

"Perfect, you're still making it, right? Dream can just eat after." Schlatt continued to stare at Puffy; after all, Puffy hadn't exactly told him of how hungry her baby boy was getting, she didn't need anymore issues. But she was determined of finding a way to let Dream eat soon. "Well- does it have to be now? I think Dream really needs to eat soon, maybe afte-"

"It'll be fine, c'mon Dream!"

Dream shot a small frown at her but all Puffy could do was smile and nod; and prayed the job would be done quick. The blond quickly scrambled to stand up, and followed his uncle. It was terrifying to see, ofcourse, most wonder what he'd be like as an adult. But Puffy had a different thought in mind, she worried for her son; but still continued cooking for it to be prepared when he got home.

He was scared.

He didn't know what happened.

He didn't mean to-

He didn't mean to hurt it!

To...to-

...eat it.

Guilt coursed through his veins, he was walking back home; as slow as possible, he didn't wanna face his momma yet. Not like this, with the lingering taste of calf in his mouth, and bits of blood staining his teeth red.

He was in shock, he never intended to hurt it, much less eat it. But- he was so, so hungry. He hugged himself as his feet went on auto pilot, dragging him back to his house. He whimpered as the moment replayed in his head.

He was just helping them...luring the animals back to their pens, lifting them up from time to time...

He blinked.

He spotted a calf, wander into the forest and chased after it.

His stomach churned as the vivid memory' flashed before his eyes.

Soft meat, and hard hooves, accompanied with so, so, so much blood..

His breathing became rapid as he saw his house coming into view. Dread coursed through his veins as he even remembered the casual conversation he and uncle Schlatt.

He emerged from the forest, no calf in sight, a look of confusion on his uncle's face.

Five...

"Hey bud, where's the calf?"

Four...

"I—I lost it, they ran away-..." He gulped.

Three...

"Oh okay, it's just one calf, right?"

Two...

He gasped...He didn't notice...Uncle Schlatt didn't notice; the faint blood on his lip and his red stained fingers that he had tried to wipe off, but the tint still stayed.

One...

"Okay, Dream, go on and head home, thanks for the assist buddy."

Moments later he reached his house with his momma already outside waiting to greet him.

"Hey duckling! How was herding the animals, it wasn't to hard, was it?" She smiled softly at him, he wished she didn't, he couldn't accept such a kind gesture, not after...after what he did. He sighed and mustered enough courage to reply.

"It was- okay." As the words left his lips a bitter taste was left in his mouth. He was silent, watching and waiting for his momma to catch him lying, mentally preparing himself for a scolding or worst, but it never came...

Instead Puffy nodded, a cheery smile on ehr face at all times. "That's good duckling, I'll go get the food, yeah? You must be tired." He watched, as she rushed into the house and later came out with a big pot; well- big to her, to him it was more of a bowl.

"Eat up duckling, I already took my share!" Not a hint of dishonesty was in her words as she set down the pot on a wooden table placed outside. A huge wooden ladle, was the substitute for his spoon as he sat criss-crossed on the soft grass. Taking the ladle into his hand.

"Thank you momma.." He meekly replied as he reveled in the taste of the soup she prepared, he loved her home cook meals; considering she learned just for him...He remembered the time's she mentioned that she only used to cook simple meals and dishes, as it was the quickest way to cook. And then mentioned that she went around the town to ask for help on how to cook from the other ewe hybrids for help.

It warmed his heart knowing his mother loved him so dearly.

That's why she can never find out.

The sun rose high over the sky, a fresh new day presented itself, mistakes of yesterday, left in the past; well...most.

Dream had a restless night, his mind haunting him of the events of the day before. Puffy still wasn't awake which left him, empty and overwhelmed. He began to sob and shake, yearning for a touch of affection, he wanted his momma, or- or Sapnap, but he knew very well he couldn't just barge in and seek comfort, could he?

He shook away the idea, he didn't wanna be anymore of a burden.

At this moment he just wanted to know what he was, he didn't want to keep finding out new things about himself. He missed waking up under a stable roof, he missed sleeping on an actual bed...

He missed being in his momma's arms.

His hands reached to hug himself, as he cradled himself; a sob leaving his lips, it was a pitiful. He hated the rush of emotions he felt at the moment, he desperately wanted to believe this was all just a nightmare, that he was still the same height as his momma and he'd wake up, and see her warm face smiling down at him as he laid on his bed.

But no-

The universe was playing some cruel joke on him and he seethed with anger.

Not just at the universe- but apart of him was mad- at—at his momma.

He shook his head, he couldn't hate his momma, it was wrong, oh so, wrong. She had done so much for him, she took him in and cared for him, so what, she lied about one tiny thing, he was okay!

He wanted to be okay...

His stomach growled and he groaned in annoyance, but as if she knew, Puffy came out of the house and greeted him.

"Goodmorning duckling!~" She smiled, "How was your sleep?" Her smile made Dream guilty as he grimaced. "It was good." He lied through his teeth, the sheep hybrid seemed to sigh, "Well I prepared breakfast, c'mon and eat!" He took a deep breath and mustered up the happiest attitude he could and skipped towards the food, which his momma already graciously prepared.

Last thing he wanted to do was give her another problem.

Puffy watched as his son eagerly ate his food, a warm smile on her face, her moments of calm and contentment dwindled after his many incidents, in her mind the less he knew the better, oh how wrong she would be.

Dream spent every waking moment, working, panicking, it was driving him insane...

Maybe enough to drive him away...

[phoenixnewton]

Pony’s Girl

Ponyboy sure was handsome now.

I mean, he always has been to me. People used to call his brother Soadpop a real heartthrob- they still do really. But in the last year or two, when Pony truly matured into a man the spotlight soon turned to the youngest Curtis brother. He wasn't movie-star handsome like Soda- a way I'd heard him be described before, rather Pony was more ruggedly handsome. He took after Darry that way.

His face was all hardlines with a sharp jaw that was shaded with a permanent dark shadow. His lips were always set to a smirk that slipped between cunning and devilish to good-natured and soft more times in a day than I could keep track of. He had these bright greenish-greys that despite how much he'd seen and experienced, we're still filled with deep emotions and intelligence. Ponyboy had the type of face that'd make you stop in the street and stare.

What made it even more attractive, was that he didn't even notice the looks.

He wasn't cocky like Dallas. He didn't walk like he owned the place, or talked like he was the only voice in the room. No, he carried a silent presence. One that was slightly terrifying- if you thought about it too much.

Being the youngest Curtis brother had some downsides. When he was younger nobody took him seriously. He was just the ‘kid’ of the gang that you couldn't mess with unless you wanted one of his brothers to come after you. Which I suppose, depending which way you think about it, is sort of a perk. But when he hit his growth spurt, gained a few pounds of muscle and graduated high school. Well, that's when things started to change. Ponyboy was not little kid anymore. Hell, he was taller than most of Tulsa and had shoulders as wide as Darrys. And believe me when I tell you he packed one hell of a mean punch.

Sometime between meeting him six years ago, when I was fresh from New York with my big brother Dally, and now I fell in love with Ponyboy Curtis.

It wasn't because of his good looks, or his strong arms, or his boyish charm or his eyes that seemed to devour me from the inside out when ever I looked in them. It was because of who he was. Who he truly was, under all that skin where he was still a fourteen-year-old who loved reading books and watching sunsets. A boy who loved his friends like brothers and could see the good in everyone- even the Socs. A boy who gave me a reason to love. To live.

I loved him more than I could ever imagined possible. It scared me just how much I did. And I knew he loved me too.

I knew because he showed me everyday. Whether through acts of service, physical touch or words of affimation he'd find a way to remind me just how much he cared. He didn't need to, I’d remind him often enough. Because there was nothing that would ever change my mind. Ponyboy was my first love and he'd be my last.

When we sat on the porch of his house together, late at night when the sun had long set, we’d have a smoke together. He’d do this thing everytime where he'd put a cigarette between my lips, and gently pull my face towards his, lighting the tip with the glowing end of his own. There was something about it. Something that got me every time and made fall a little deeper for him. I could never tell whether it was the way his hand lingered on my jaw, trembling softly like he was afraid i’d disappear. Or if it was the way his eyes flicked slightly when the tips met, as it to him it felt like a kiss. Whatever it was, damn it was addicive.

I'm addicted to Ponyboy Curtis and I'm not afraid to admit it. The taste of his lips is like a drug, it makes me delirious and lightheaded. Every time his tongue slides across the part in my lips, begging like a starved me for me to let him in, I feel like my knees are going to buckle beneath me- maybe he knows that too because he has always had one arm wrapped around my waist holding me close to him, the other cupping my jaw to hold me steady. It's dangerous how intoxicating he is. I'd do anything to feel his touch, to taste his lips or the salty sweat of his skin, to breathe in his scent of leather, smoke and musk.

I remember vividly, the first time he kissed me. It was the day he got back from the church with Johnny and Dally. He was in the hospital waiting room, hugging his brothers when he saw me run in the doors. My hair was all over the place and my clothes were ratty from almost losing my mind the whole week he'd been gone. I probably looked half-deranged, gasping for breath as I stood transfixed at the sight of him, alive and beautiful with his tuff blond hair. It was all a blur after that, but I remember vividly the moment his lips first met mine. I never believed in God before I met Pony, but at that moment I knew it must have been some kind of miracle to have him alive and kissing me like a starved man. It all fell into place after that. Johnny made a full recovery, and Dally finally got a grip and reclaimed his title of best big brother albeit slightly overprotective when it came to my love life. And, I was lucky enough to be able to call myself Pony’s girl.

[verdanabdit]

Relating to the topic of height with the skelebros, I always had this scenario in my head that after Papyrus (maybe around 15-16ish years of age) finally finds peace with the fact that he will never grow taller, he grows around 2-3 ft in one night and doesn’t notice until Sans points it out to him.

Idk, I always thought it would be cute if they always had a height difference, even before Papyrus grew taller than him. Not to mention having Papyrus go through a terrifying growth spurt in one night would cause some amusing scenarios lol

Up through age 4, they're the same size. Age 5, Sans grows a little taller. Age 6, Sans is definitely outpacing Papyrus with 3 inches between them. Age 10, Papyrus is finally 4 feet tall. The gap is 7 inches. Age 16, Sans has reached his adult height. Papyrus has not grown at all, and his voice has not changed. But Papyrus is not disheartened! He's still a growing boy! Age 17, everyone (except Papyrus) is sure that Papyrus is just going to be a pipsqueak for the rest of his life. Age 18, Papyrus goes through all of puberty in a single night. Sans tucks him in as a squeaky lil boy and he wakes up Ａ　Ｍａｎ. He greets his brother in the morning with "SANS, I DECIDED TO GRADUATE PUBERTY" as if he planned for it to go this way. For all we know, he did. It's either the only time he's caught Sans so off-guard that he shouted and jumped out of his metaphorical skin, or Sans also treats this as just a perfectly normal Papyrus Thing: "proud of you, bro."

This feels so canon.

[indomitablespirits-muses]

Muse Bio: Mr. Centipede

Archie "Scraps" Centipede

A canon character from James & the Giant Peach. Primarily the film version, with inspiration from the book version.

Age: Adult Species: Eastern Red Centipede Height: 0'4.5" pre-magic, 5'9" post-magic Weight: N/A Birthday: June 16th

There's no telling how a bug of pure Brooklyn blood found his way all the way across the Atlantic Ocean and wound up all alone in the yard of a ramshackle house on a South England hill. He wants to go home, but it's not a practical journey for one little critter to make. The two awful human residents of the house are beasts in their own rights and despise bugs, so even venturing across the yard itself can be life-threatening.

It all drives Centipede stir-crazy to no end, and that's when his world is flipped upside-down in the course of just a few hours. While hunting for breakfast, he catches and eats what appears to be some kind of glowing green grub. Next thing he knows, he's the size of a human! He's not the only thing to encounter this strange happening, , as when he takes shelter in an (equally strange) giant peach that popped up on the yard's barren tree, he finds a whole host of bugs that went through the same growth spurt. Upon the entrance of the poor boy who lives with the two wretched aunts and the subject of better lives for all comes up, Centipede deems to take matters into his own claws. He cuts the peach loose with his pincers, sending it and his new companions rolling down the hill and right into the ocean.

New York is now the goal in sight for this party, which thrills the Brooklyn boy to no end. The journey sees him starting on rocky terrain and being an absolute curse to the group, even getting them lost through the lies of being a seasoned navigator. Centipede has pulled stuff like this before, but he's never grown close enough with those dragged into it that it weighs so heavily on his conscious. He's been touched by the motherly kindness of Miss Ladybug, the giving innocence of the human boy, James, and even the forwardness and steadfast nature of the old Grasshopper. He's even begun to fall for the terrifying beauty and caring soul of the tantalizing Miss Spider.

He ultimately risks death to get his new family friends back on course, newly inspired by each one of them to be a better man. All that to say when they finally do reach New York City, Centipede has found home in more ways than one.

Centipede has lived much of his life alone and has thus become rather tactless and self-serving in the process. When asked about his past, he never seems to give a consistent answer. Truth was not exactly a virtue instilled into him. What was instilled in him, though, was loyalty and bravery (though hard to find at times). He probably doesn't think as highly of himself as the front puts on, but you'd never know. He may take a lot of patience all-around to work with at first - but once you befriend him, you've got a loyal bodyguard of a friend for life.

[cawareyoudoin]

Season 2 of The Owl House, my live reaction!

It took me like twice as long to watch it, because I had to stop and write down my thoughts, but man it was fun, especially when it came to theories.

I can't get readmore to work in drafts, if it doesn't I am so sorry :(

:readmore:

Episode 1

Eda I love you so much you have no idea. She cares for Luz so much and just casually shows it. She's the best.

Lilith, you fucked up, you gotta deal with it.

Cute pirate head thingy Luz! Also, I knew that theoretically fire magic can not only initiate, but also create fire, but powering a furnace? That's impressive. And very economical.

Eda in a PIRATE COSTUME oh man I am being fed WELL

"So unfortunately for you, my life is pretty great because I'm friends with Luz the human" hell yeah, cut that self-sacrificial crap in the bud!

The golden bird boy is weirdly endearing. Kinda. He's... fun at least? Maybe. Undecided.

OMG THE NEW OUTRO IS SO PRETTY!!!

Episode 2

Hmm. Oh yeah, forgot Amity's parents are assholes. That kinda explains the twins being like that sometimes. Also, the genetics + memories suggest that Amity has her father's hair, but she dyes it to be more like her mother's, which already says a lot. Or maybe it's just witch genetics.

Hahah, figures Lilith would love being back in school. Also, interesting way of seeing how Eda would usually mix her magic.

"No-one ever said power comes with responsibility..." Hahah, King has not watched Spider-Man.

Gus just had a growth spurt? Witch puberty? Ok. I won't question it if the show won't.

Aww, Hooty finally has a friend who likes his company!

Willow has two dads, how nice.

Oh, so Amity's mother is like... The murderous kind of crazy. Right.

Eda knows when to ask for help! And in the end, chaos and order work together to find out something new. Neat.

Wait, so the four elements are... Ice, fire, light and plant? That's an... Odd choice.

Episode 3

Ooh backstory?

So the elements aren't necessarily only the thing they have represented so far. Makes sense.

Ah, the entire house is literally living and meaty about it. Love it.

King, are you gonna take them to the dread pyramid floating in the sky or something?

Oh, yeah, kinda. Alien zombie mummy morphing creature, neat!

OH NO HE WAS EVEN TINIER AND CUTER

Aww :( he's so sad! But wait wait wait. Those ruins and murals were actually ancient, right? The weird creature only got aggressive once Eda got there, otherwise little King would be toast... And he did get the army idea even earlier... And he was just in that castle out of nowhere? Nah, there has to be more to this, I'm calling it.

Called it!

EGG!!!

"I'm not that old, it's possible" wait, he's actually not much older than freaking 8 years old?!!? All this time I thought he was just... A childish adult? A dog cat creature animal adult? I mean he still could be but wow. He actually is baby.

Took a break here, but wow. This show is catering to my younger self like no other. It's bringing me back to Gravity Falls - would it be blasphemy to say I like it more? - and it's healing my inner child by making a better magic world than H*rry P*tter ever was. It is also catering to my older self with... Well, mostly Eda, I'll be honest. She is THE character of all time so far. Wow.

Episode 4

WOAH THAT'S TERRIFYING AND COOL!

Eda's backstory mirrors Luz question mark?

Oh, that's a side effect of the curse, ok. I thought Eda was just detachable like that. Cool.

Whoops. Eda was mommy's favourite. That explains a lot about Lilith.

Ohhh no. Oh no she's a healing crystals mommy. She's so getting scammed. "Keep it away from the eyes of nonbelievers"? Oh yeah.

King wants to meet his dad so bad, which makes me fear that it will not at all be what he thinks it will be.

Oh wait, maybe it will be. Lilith and King are spiraling.

Hooty's actually worried about them, and is the voice of reason for once? Woah!

Whoops. Lilith owl. And she's... Even bigger...

WHOOPS. Sister owls.

They're cool-looking, damn.

If only it were that easy to convince parents like that...

Lilith-beast is attacking Eda-beast... It's the jealousy and mommy issues, right?

Yeah...

Stash hair goals!

Good for Lilith. Probably. I hope.

Whoops. A doppelganger. Well, at least Luz's mom isn't worried... Heh...

Episode 5

I like the new intro so much that I watch it every time.

Heheh, Luz wants to see Amity. Nice.

Amity looks so nice with her hair down!

"After he accidentally texted a poem to their mom" oh? Nonbinary people real?

Wait that was. That was the light glyph. Gus just did fire magic because he believed he would.

That's a cool dragon thing.

Matt character development? Neat.

Hell yeah, terrify the mean girl with statues crying blood.

Yay, graveyard management!

Oh ok, Amity is dying her hair. Glad that's cleared up.

Oooh! New haircut, nice!

A little kiss on the cheek? "Sneaking into people's hearts"? Bold move indeed!

Episode 6

Hmm, ok... The Emperor wants to get to the human realm... Is he that human from the journal? He'd have to be old as balls, but hey, magic is a thing right?

Oh he's cursed. And eating palismans.

"Uncle"? Hmm, then not human, most likely. Nevermind.

Eda in a suit jacket ohh yeah.

OH OK THE PRINCIPAL'S HEAD DEMON THING IS EXPLAINED OK

Whoops. The golden guy's back. And he's... Whistling the theme song?

Lol, he's just a grumpy teen. Draco Malfoy looking ass.

Doesn't have powers without the staff huh... Maybe their family really does have some human in it. Maybe the journal guy is their great however-many-great grandpa. "Many of my ancestors didn't have magic"? Oh yeah. I'm convinced.

Hunter. Neat. I worry for him.

Eda, you lovely, lovely thief. And of course she would have Luz carve out her own palisman. She's all for doing things the most traditional, "wild" way.

I worry for the little red bird, but good for Hunter, I suppose!

Another few days' break here

Episode 7: Eda's Requiem

Uh oh, worrying title (also: started paying attention to titles here)

Ah, poor Eda... She thinks everyone's leaving her :(

Whoopsie

Oh, I've seen this bespectacled character. In fanarts and such.

Look at Eda, being a hero and all

Look at this new person being a hero and all?

AGENT OF CHAOS YES I LOVE IT

Raine Whispers. Ok. Cool name.

"They're not very good at it" oh hell yeah nonbinary people real!

Oh, that's the girl from the first episode! That escaped the Conformatorium! I think.

Hmm, they crushing, are they? Oh boy I fear betrayal...

"You're not our mom!" Hahahahah

"Bye mama Eda!" Hahahahhahahaha

Hmm... Decaying magic? Destructive magic?

Aww, King baby...

Gus helping his dad with the news, nice that side characters reoccur even when they're not needed per se

Hmm, wouldn't it be a better idea for just Luz to fly the race? King is not heavy, but still...

Awww, Edaaaa!

Ah, ok, abomination witches can do more than just abominations...

Eber has a perpetual >:3 face

Using the curse as a weapon? Sounds... Interesting, certainly.

Awe, Eda's gonna have to steal another pair of shoes...

Hahah, and Raine's smile is literally :} cute!

Uh, Eda, I don't like this self-destructive episode please stop...

Ah shit. Ah fuck. Raine, no!

I knew taking King along for the ride was a bad idea.

Awwwww!!!!! King!!!!!

Oh fuck. Oh no. Fate worse than death-ing Raine? We just met them!!!

Episode 8: knock, knock, knocking on Hooty's Door

Aww, Hooty found a way to write letters! Wonderful.

King is a baby!

Wait, I just realized. "hootsifer" not as in Lucifer, but as in Calsifer! I'm a dummy.

Let me drive my mouse into your heart???

OH OK THAT WAS MILDLY TERRIFYING HOOTY DON'T DO THAT

Yeah, don't do that either...

Ohh boy. Well, the bipeds having bile sacs thing explains why some people going to school don't look like elves.

Oh? Hello? Huh? King? Magic? Shouting magic???

Yeah Eda, confront your demon(s)!

Ahh, yeah, her and Raine were exes.

Yeah Eda, comfort your demon(s)!

HELLOOOO???? HELLOOOOOOOO???? HARPY LADY??????

"This is a hot look." AGREE AGREE BIG AGREE

Oh man, Hooty, don't do that...

The worst part is that the cheesy romance stuff was actually working.

Well, Hooty did help everyone, in a way. Yay!

Whoops. King's dad question mark? Well, at least he respects his new name!

Episode 9: Eclipse Lake

Oh, ok. We just get his face. Lucius Malfoy lookin ass.

He's been in the human realm, huh... My suspicions grow...

It worries me that Lilith is in the intro as part of the 3 associated with Belos...

Hahahah, now Eda wants to be a harpy lady on command! Cute.

Well that's a very direct DBZ reference (I've never watched it but come on everyone knows it)

Aww, Amity is doing so well!

Hunter is gonna cause a schism in the empire. Well, he already is causing one kinda.

Also aww, Amity has a white kitty! Fits her.

Hunter makes friends way too easily for his own good.

"A bad but sad boy" ooh, that's gotta sting. Accurate though.

Kikimora is fucking insane. Why does Belos keep these people!!?? The guard lady is much more reasonable.

Ok, my "first human=Belos" theory isn't off the table yet.

Hunter is too honest for his own good too. And nobody listens to him. But hey, he used his ability to bond with Amity well, for his own gain. He's pretty clever.

Well, Eda made a deal with the beast... Hmm.

Hunter, I feel like your pathetic-ness can be very beneficial to you right now...

Amity don't. Don't give him. The key. Fuck.

Ok, good.

The little red bird coming in clutch! And hey, Hunter, you've got magic now, cool eh? I love when antagonists get character growth too.

Ah shit. He knows how to manwife mansplain manipulate.

This is very bad. Hunter is the patheticest little meow meow there is though. That's something. Ah wait. No. Key is broken. But he's connecting with his palisman! Good for him, bad for his rep.

Also, phew, the deal was just to eat some voles.

I'm sorry for comparing him to Draco Malfoy so much, but like... He has a similar narrative role, but is SO MUCH BETTER DONE. Draco Malfoy wishes he had what Hunter has.

A few day's break again

Episode 10: Yesterday's Lie

Oooh, do we find out more about the doppelganger?

Oh no, throwing away Luz's stuff?!

Aww, they seem to not be overtly malicious, just... Took the opportunity maybe?

Aww, everyone's helping Luz!

Ah. Mirrorverse only.

Hmm. Dad's face invisible. I sense issues.

Hahah, they're blinking sideways.

Aww, I've come to really like Luz. She's kind but not naive, smart but not all-knowing, optimistic but not toxically so.

Traps and cameras... Uh oh

Wait, one of those statue guys looks like the journal human! Am I crazy?

Marylin? Eda, Really? XD

Simple solution: eat the rats!

Aaaah, Vee as in V, as in a roman Number Five. Clever yet sad.

Ah, the emperor's people. Of course.

Basilisks in the folklore I know turned people into stone. But draining magic seems like a pretty reasonable equivalent.

"I met a basilisk" oh yeah, I forgot about that episode! Wow! That was last season. The continuity and consistent worldbuilding in this show astounds me.

Awww. I'm all for Luz having a doppleganger sister.

Ah shucks. The museum guy. Of course.

Oh, the museum is "under new management". Uh oh.

Hmm. Is he playing dumb or just plain dumb?

Oh no, he wants to be verified. Worst motivation.

Oh boy. She's gonna tell her mom everything.

Two brothers? OH OK SO ONE LEFT THE JOURNAL AND THE OTHER STAYED AND HAD KIDS AND THAT'S BELOS AND HUNTER boom bang bing I solved it.

YES MAMA NOCEDA IS THE BEST YESSSS

Hahah, a sandal to the face. Strongest weapon.

OH BOY THEY JUST LEFT HIM IN THAT CAGE TO DIE HUH

Oh no. Oh no no no. Luz is gonna have to confront that promise huh.

Episode 11: Follies at the Coven Day Parade

Hooty has to... Dry his skin sometimes?????

"He's just evil and shy. It happens" tumblrinas talking about their poor little meow meows

"Sweet potato" sounds like a very typical term of endearment to me.

Amity just 😳

Oh no. I just realized. Coven day. RAINE!!!

Kikimora of all people was not the person I thought Luz might relate to. And yet.

You know, I'm getting a feeling that this show doesn't really have villains. Just people. People in villainous roles, yes, but who always have their reasons, and really see themselves as heroes of their own story. Like. Pretty much everyone has shown different sides to them. I love it.

Oh no Edaaaaa....

Ok yeah Luz I'm with you on this one actually. Get them to talk.

Oh no no no... Raine is probably mind controlled or something... Aaaah....

Aww, Amity and Willow finally being friends again!!!! Good!

Ohh. Ok, not mind controlled, only memory wiped/altered. That might be worse in some ways?

Hahah, Kikimora is a little creacher

Dueling? Ok yeah I'm into that

"Head Witch, are you hurt? -No. Not badly" AAAAAAAAAHHHH!!!!

Kikimora cares about one thing the most. Her job. Of course. And apparently, she has to. Oof.

Amity and Luz work together so well in battle!

Raine is just being continuously drugged to have their memory wiped, I'm guessing...

"But because of your support I can finally take off this mask" what are you, a Minecraft youtuber???

Hahahah, Gus and Willow agree: meh

Episode 12: Elsewhere and Elsewhen

Flaaashback?

No flashback.

"Buy Amity new glove" aww

Ahh, Lilith, haven't seen you in a while!

Huh. Ok, whip lady.

Oh! Yes flashback!

And a trip with auntie Lilith.

"These are the oldest barnacles I've ever had on my head!" Ah, I love this nerd.

Eda, you gotta talk to your dad, come on.

Hm. Luz saved the journal from burning, thus it survived. So time loops are closed here, I suppose.

Philip is sus

Ohhh yeah.

OH OK WAIT IS PHILIP THE EMPEROR AFTER ALL AND THAT'S WHY HE KNEW THEY WOULD MEET SOON? CALLED IT CALLED IT CALLED IT!

Awww! History nerd aunt Lilith is having the time of her life. Love to see it.

Clawthorne dad is cool.

"I just have to live long enough to see this through" oh yeah he's the Emperor alright. Basically confirmed. Even his voice changed.

But there were two brothers...? What happened to the other one?

Episode 13: Any Sport in a Storm

Ah, Hunter. Arts and crafts are not your thing.

Oh buddy... Leading isn't your strong suit either...

The intro has been weird the last few episodes, what's going on?

Oh, Willow episode? Willow and Hunter episode?

Had to look up what hermosa means. Aww.

"Sure, I've never actually spoken to witches my age" oh god Hunter you so need friends my guy.

Oh no... This is like poor Jehova's Witness kids being sent on a mission...

He's getting attacked by a gryphon. Is his father uncle gonna hear about this?

Gus Porter and Willow Park. I don't think we've gotten last names before.

"Even if you're considered half-a-witch like me" OOF Willow was called half-witch, this had to HIT

I love Hunter so much. I want him to get better, and be in a better place, but I know it will be a while, and I know it will probably get worse first.

Poor Amity was the only one buying the books...

Awww, no, actually, Hunter is doing quite fine. And Darius turns out to be a pretty okay dude?

They kept the team name!

Episode 14: Reaching Out

Ooh, ominous title...

Jean Luc is still... Hanging out...

That voice change spell was impressive Amity!

THE TWINS ARE WEARING MAGICAL MAKEUP

"My student/child" ahhhhh!!! Eda!

Luz, kiddo, why won't you just turn the reminder off?!

Oh. Luz's dad is. Dead. Ah. That explains a lot. Man. This was. A good scene. Really good.

Ed got a mentor of sorts! Or at least an Eda to aspire to. Bad Girl Coven got members!

Amity's dad came back to earth for once. Or... Whatever this planet is. Is this a planet? There's stars in the sky...

"Dishes washed :3 -V" aww! Luz has a basilisk sis!

Oh, the outro changed!

Episode 15: Them's the Breaks Kid

All I can think of with this title is the Snapcube Shadow fandub

Luz is approaching the glyph combos in such a scientific way! Experiments!

Ooooh! Backstory!!!

Oh, all the adults as kiddos! I can guess some of them are parents of the current cast.

Ahhh, ok, Bump not being principal yet when Eda was in school explains why he said that she was "never given a chance to" study all courses of magic.

Little Raine makes me wanna cry in a good way

The plant lady is insane.

Oh, ugh, her being fond of Raine since they were a kid... Bad vibes

Raine is okay! Oh man I was so worried...

Episode 16: Hollow Mind

Oh boy, what a cold open!!!

Oooh, okay, so the abomination guy and beast guy are in it too! That's why Darius was so... Okay to Hunter.

Whoops.

Hmm, inner child Belos? Interesting.

He named the birdie Flapjack! Do those even exist there? (Later I remembered the bird told him the name, silly me)

Raine, buddy, you should REALLY work together with Eda.

Oof, Hunter's gonna have to confront some stuff here...

Oh, Collector's design is coo-ool!

"Making those things just to destroy them" OH IS HE FUCKING CLONING HIMSELF?!?!!?

Ohhh, palismen... But if they're still there, then perhaps...

Yup. Okay, the cat's out of the bag. Belos is P-whatever his name was. The journal guy.

Philip Wittebane.

Maybe he's not cloning himself, maybe he's cloning his brother?

Raine did work with Eda in a way, good!

Can't blame Hunter for having a panic attack. Yikes...

Man, I've been bingewatching, but I just... Gotta keep going! Gotta know what's next!

Episode 17: Edge of the World

Hahah, okay, I immediately know it's a dream sequence.

The letter finally resurfaces, hah. Nice way for the show to make space for other stuff, and postpone this King Family plot.

Oh. Nice. Worldbuilding.

Titan Trappers, huh...

"How did it go? Weh!" Oh ok, so King's dad was the last Titan. Weh.

But wait no, there's a poster next to him, "the grand huntsman cannot... Until the lost son is found by..." So???

Oh, ok, that... Confuses matters.

Oh. Oh no. They're wearing. The skulls. Of Titans. Oh no.

Well, this whole situation is very tragic and very, very awkward.

Oh god, guys, you really gonna kill a fucking kid?!

"Um... Hi." said to the Titan... KING YOU ARE BREAKING MY HEART

Episode 18: Labirynth Runners

Aww, Gus, buddy...

Wait, this is before his uh... "witch puberty", right?

Ah, backstory, got it.

Amity's trying, but still not a perfect friend. I like it.

Oh boy, Flapjack, are you feeding your runaway friend trash from the cafeteria? Is Hunter living in the school walls?

Hahahah, still trying to be sinister and scary. Not the only way to live, dude.

Ugh... Even the kids?

The Illusionist coven leader is... Something.

Sometimes a government raid on a school can be a chance for a bonding experience!

Amity's gotta learn to trust in Willow's abilities, Willow to be more assertive, and Hunter's gotta learn... Well, a lot of things, but basic socializing is a good start. Trusting people. Gus has his eye thingy, don't know what's exactly up with that yet. Cool though.

"Just put him... -out of his misery? Got it. -to sleep dude, to sleep!" Yeesh, somebody's eager... Also, with the context of what Hunter is, creepy!

Gus has to learn that he's not dumb. And to not listen to the voices in his head.

Good for you Severine! Good for you.

Agh, gotta take a break and walk the dogs, but oh I am watching the last 3 episodes today.

I've been thinking about the "Making those things just to destroy them" line to Belos. Because it's true. The "kid" Belos was leading Luz and Hunter exactly to the memories that would almost certainly shake Hunter's belief and make him betray Belos. Damn.

Also, the name "grimwalker" suggests some sort of necromancy to me...

Episode 19: Titan Where Art Thou

Good fucking question!

Oh no, the hunters really did connect King to the Collector somewhat...?

Hmm. Might be a chaotic neutral force. Might be possible to negotiate with them.

Sisters on the run! The Owl House empty! Oh no :(

Jeez, Eda, you have no plan so your plan is to check everyone's bucket lists? Morbid, yet considerate.

Lilith, stop treating King like a king, you're making his feelings of isolation worse! Also he's got a lil hat for his tail aww...

"Why is everything going our way now?" Uhh guys I hate to tell you this but that's like a very clear sign of a trap...

Ok, roadtrip with... Steve?

Hm. Them fixing the cart is a weird parallel to the episode where ye olden times were shown.

Eda just wants her kids safe I cannot...

Oh boy. Wasn't a trap, they were just busy fighting each other and got caught.

"Isn't this how you acted with the Emperor? I'm sensing uh, a little bit of a pattern with you" say it like it is King!

"I can recommend a good therapist" SAY IT LIKE IT IS STEVE!

Oh no, darkest hour...

NEVERMIND, THEY HAVE ALLIES, EVERYBODY'S HERE!

"Everything's come full circle baby!" Of course it did. Cat hoodie, CATS. Also, Raine, that is a wonderful team name.

"We've got all the time in the world" well, two days, but the sentiment is touching.

Episode 20: Clouds on the Horizon

The Collector is a funky little shadow thing. I like them.

"We can make another grimwalker" as an image of a hand bursting from the ground appears... Yeah, it's definitely some sort of necromancy.

NO MAGIC IN TITLE SCREEN I AM ALARMED

Amity's mother is trouble...

Oh. I'm not sure if using the curse is a good idea... It seemed rather... Adverse in effect.

Oh no. Wait. Are they gonna keep everyone alive but also take away their natural magic?!?

Aww, an egg palisman! An ultimate wildcard!

"Titan help us... -I'll do my best..." Awwww, King! Don't put such expectations on yourself!

The twins tried to burn the factory down? Hell yeah, arson.

I do love Luz's little ponytail.

Who animated that kiss? James Baxter? Well, probably not James Baxter, but. You know what I mean.

Oh boy... Can you not... Remove coven sigils? Ever? Oh boy...

Hahah, first thing Eda thought to do when looking like Raine is remove her head. Haven't seen that in a while.

The Collector is... More and more interesting.

Kikimora having beef with a teenager is still one of the funniest things.

Alador and King talking it out was not what I expected. I love how this show puts every interesting character combination together in some way at least once. I love it.

Kikimora, you have a mouth big enough to be useful.

Oh no, she got Hunter. Oh shit.

"Buisness partner" oh ok so they were married literally for tax cuts and such.

Ohhh! Illusion! That explains "Hunter" blowing a raspberry at Kikimora. It seemed... Quite out of character.

Episode 21: Kings Tide

I can't even write, I'm so stressed out.

"Don't. Tell me not to worry" AUGH

The Collector is a bratty kid.

I just realized Belos' nose is crooked because Lilith broke it. Heh.

Oh no. They caught them. THIS is the darkest hour.

HA! HA, SHE GOT HIM! SHE GOT HIM GOOD! HE FUCKING FELL FOR IT!!!

Only the coven-less teens can save the day...

King's little skull is broken nouuu!!

Gus activating Belos' worst memories, and someone who looks a lot like Hunter being the first one... And then a hand bursting from the ground. Yikes.

Hmm. Letting the Collector out might be a bad choice in the long run, but the world is ending, so... Gotta adress that first, huh?

Oh. He just. Splooted Belos. Ok. Well, King, buddy, better think of rules for playing the Owl House. Fast.

OH OK HE JUST MOVED THE MOON OK

Never trust a jester I suppose.

Ugh, that sploot seemed important. I'm sure that won't come back later.

Wow. Well, this kinda sucks. Gosh.

Also, I realized, Eda removing her head last episode was to remind us she could do that...

OH SO SEASON 3 IS 3 SPECIAL EPISODES?! AAAAAARGH!!!! I'M NOT READY TO SAY GOODBYE TO THIS WORLD!!

Ok, thinking about Belos... He had a brother, right? At least I think so. And maybe they got sent to the Demon Realm together, and something happened to him? Perhaps something that made Belos hate wild magic/witches?

Gosh, you guys had years to analyze and speculate, I only have days, okay?! But my speculations have been pretty accurate so far, so. Shrug.

Raine destroying Eda's arm so that she lives, but also so that she can practice wild magic... Because they wanted to keep her safe and also promised Luz... Augh... But also I know in my heart of hearts that Eda is going to have the coolest collection of hooks. Once everyone lives and everything is ok. Right???????

About the Collector: I liked his shadow design much better, but oh well. What does he even collect? Also, note to self: a chaotic neutral with enough power might be functionally indistinguishable from a chaotic evil.

Ok, I've been thinking about what Belos said - that it "hurts every time" the grimwalkers decide to betray him, and also that he "doesn't want more people corrupted by this land". So I'm thinking: the "original" Hunter, whoever he was (brother?) and Philip disagreed on the whole witch hunting thing, and... Something happened, whether it was his intention or not. I've also been thinking about grimwalkers, and the lines "you were the most similar of them all", and "many of my ancestors didn't have magic" - if there is variation in looks and in powers, then I'm thinking that it might not be a case of straight-up necromancy or test tubes, but somehow... Transforming existing witches? Might be easier than creating one from scratch... Idk, I'm just spitballing here.

I'm probably gonna make a separate post about this, but wow this show is. Very good. Especially with developing every single even slightly important character, and giving them an interesting dynamic with the rest of the group. I was thinking about the kids that got sent to the Human Realm, and whether there was anyone there who hasn't interacted with each other... And the only thing I can really think of is Gus and Amity? But otherwise, they all have an interesting dynamic/relationship. I even see some possible interactions with Hunter and Vee, if they have time for it. Just... Man. This show is good. Also, it subverted my expectations so many times. I was like "in any other show, this would not have happened", but it did!!!

I love this show. I'm gonna watch Good Omens 2, but after that passes, I will watch the 3-part finale, and let myself actually join the fandom. Better late than never, eh?

Added later: Ok, now that the GO2 phase has died down, I think I'm gonna watch s3 soon.

[forensicated]

04x33 - Personal Imports

Ken arrives at his call to find the chemist has been broken into and there's smashed glass all over the place. The burglars are still on the scene so he calls for backup. Melvin slowly and quietly inches his way inside the chemist whilst the two burglars in their 20s are breaking their way into the safe for the controlled drugs. Ken's radio gives him away and he's assaulted by the man and has powder thrown into his face by the girl. He clutches his face and shouts in pain.

Jim is on an obbo and is drinking tea when the owner of the house comes downstairs wrapped only in a dressing gown. The homeowner is shocked to find Jim there staring out of his window.

Viv and Ted chat about holidays after Ted offers Viv a lift to her beat. Viv fancies a cruise but Ted isn't so keen as he went on one once and jokes he was the only one under 70 and that 4 of them were dead before they reached Gibraltar. "I never cruised again." "I'll forget the rumours then..." Viv teases him with Ted laughing that he'll prove those rumours wrong to Viv anytime she likes! Viv gets called back in before she can get the lift but he playfully offers to accompany her on her cruise. "Not whilst they publish the phonebook!" "Oooh, cruel!" Ted laughs.

Alec asks Viv to visit the house of a child on her beat. It should be Youth And Communities' job but they're flat out. The school visited the home the day before but the cousin, who looks after the boy, told them that he'd disappeared. His school thinks he's just bunking off as he does it regularly. Viv promises to visit.

The homeowner of the house Jim is in argues with his wife who insists that she told him the police were going to use their front room. He insists that she didn't because he wouldn't have walked downstairs dressed as he was if she had. They continue to argue and then the man storms off to work. The wife admits to Jim that she did forget to tell him that he'd be there after all. She starts to flirt at Jim who looks absolutely terrified! His attention is taken by a man who arrives and puts a parcel straight into the boot of another car belonging to a man who had opened the boot a small amount before disappearing back into his house. Jim tells the woman that he needs to go up into her bedroom to look out of that window and she gets excited. "Of course. I'll show you..."

Viv visits the address and speaks to the boy's cousin. She is a woman in approx her 40's who keeps urging Viv to call her 'Auntie'. Omir's parents have returned to Turkey and left him in her care. She tells Viv he's been nothing but trouble since and his parents have not passed on any money for him and she only has poor wages as a part time barmaid at the Monmouth pub. As 'Auntie' explains that he eats constantly and is having a growth spurt, Viv hears something fall upstairs. She tells the woman that the inquiries are not being made because Omir's passport might have expired or that he's working when he shouldn't be. It's because people are concerned for his safety and there are grants to fund shoes and clothing for him. 'Auntie' tells Viv that she has a phone number for his parents in Turkey but that no one knew of them there when she rang it. Viv asks to see Omir and 'Auntie' calls him down. She talks to him in Turkish before showing him to Viv, telling him that she's there to help him get shoes. One interesting point - note the way she's holding the boy...

Jim contacts Ted who saves him picks him up. Jim starts to tell him about the cars but Ted isn't interested. He wants to know what Jim did with the woman. Jim confesses that she told him she felt unfulfilled as a woman and spoke about how her husband didn't understand her. Ted can't believe Jim didn't jump at the chance and claims he would have done! Jim just shakes his head and says that he knows the man across the road is up to something tasty. Ted laughs and says he should get up to something tasty with the woman and get his priorities in order! "Speaking of which...." Ted says as he stops outside an underground toilet. "What's it look like I'm doing?" he drawls to Jim when he asks. A few seconds later, Jim spots a man come out and look around him before continuing on his way and gets suspicious. He leaps out and runs down to Ted. Ted is lying on the floor swearing loudly and has a wet shoulder. He tells Jim that the other man who just left pushed him over and sends him running after him. The man in a suit who comes out of a cubicle is arrested by Ted who goes on to interview him once he's changed his clothes...

The man insists he hadn't met the man who pushed Ted before and there was no offense committed by them because there wasn't time. Ted is furious and asks him again (with Jim interrupting and moaning about how Ted's suit smells) but the man claims he is still unable to answer and begs Ted to let him go because if it gets to court his family and colleagues will find out. Ted tells him that he doesn't care what people do in private, he's concerned about what happens in a public place. The man reluctantly tells him that all he knows is the man who pushed Ted is called Maurice. Ted sits and writes that down. Mr!Suit makes a big assumption from the clothes Ted's now wearing and tells him. "I can put you on to something."

Jim has had to return to the house and the wife is trying to seduce him again. She tells Jim she's going for a bath - and proceeds to give Jim directions to the bathroom 'just incase he needs it'. Jim spots the man from across the road appear and open his boot again before disappearing.

Viv is asked by Alec to go to see Omir and 'Auntie' again as she visited the day before so Youth and Communities are hoping she'll visit again. Viv is told by 'Auntie' that Omir is not well and that he has the flu. Viv wants to look in on him to make sure he's OK as she is required to by law. 'Auntie' asks her to wait but Viv says there's no need for her to wake him, she'll go check herself. Omir starts coming down the stairs and is shouted at for not being in bed as he has 'the flu'. Viv says that he's not to worry, she's not a monster, she's just checking he's OK. She then leaves the flat.

Ted shouts for 'Roxanne', his snout to get in his car. Roxanne is a transvestite, played wonderfully by Paul O'Grady (Or Paul Savage as he's credited as)

Roxanne tells Ted that the job he's looking into, a 'rent business' (rent boys) that's set up at the Monmouth pub is not worth his time. She explains it's simply the barmaid and not a real setup of lots of men.

The wife tells Jim that she doesn't want to leave her husband and offers it on a plate yet again. Jim is still not interested and leaves the house as the car he saw 'delivering' yesterday arrives. This time Jim follows the delivery man.

An anonymous life-or-death call comes into CAD and gets passed to Alec. The caller says they burgled the chemist the day before and that the girl who did it with him has OD'd and needs to be taken to hospital quickly or she's dead. He refuses to give his name but says it'll cost £20K from the girl's MP father for the location. When Alec dithers slightly, he then offers to do it for 10K, and if there's any funny stuff he'll never hear from him again. Alec gets the two CAD extras to rip up paper to the size of tenners and runs up to CID.

Tosh makes the 'drop' where he's told to and drives out of the car park. Mike is already there sitting wait. Tosh pulls in a short distance away and winks at Tony who is walking past. Tosh returns at speed when Mike reports the man has arrived to collect the ransom and they chase him up the stairs and out over an estate. This scene was filmed in and around the Grenfell Tower. Tony approaches the man from the other direction and arrests him before Mike and Tosh can catch up. Tosh asks him where to send the ambulance but he keeps repeating that it's not his problem. Tony suggests trying a couple of squats nearby and they leave their prisoner cuffed to a railing whilst they do.

Jim continues following the car that made the drop-off and calls in to CAD, asking for backup when he slows again as he wants to make an arrest. A couple of minutes later he gets his response - the drugs squad are going to take over the pursuit and arrest and Jim is to drop out. Jim is fuming, having done all the leg work; they get all the glory!

Viv reads a cruise booklet. Ted teases her that she needs someone sophisticated and a man of the world to take her away - then he accidentally knocks his notebook from the table. "So I can see." Viv laughs, picking it up with him. She spots Omir's address and asks him why he has it. He explains it's a tip-off about a barmaid running rent boys. Viv is horrified and asks Ted to give her a lift over there, explaining about Omir on the way.

Tony and the others have had no luck finding the OD victim as yet after checking both squats on the estate. They 'casually' drag the suspect further up the stairs and then physically hold him over the railings threatening to let go if he doesn't give them the address.

After getting the 'address' (it's a non-road-worthy car in the middle of the estate) Tosh and Mike rush over and try to help her after calling an ambulance. Mike tells Tosh that she could have blinded Ken and Tosh responds that she could have had a heart attack. Mike isn't bothered claiming that addicts can't keep off the stuff. "We've done our bit..." Mike says before stopping Tosh from giving her CPR, claiming it's "Ten to one she's got it"

Viv and Ted hurry over to see Omir. She now knows why he constantly looked so spooked on seeing her. 'Auntie' refuses to answer until Ted bangs on the door. 'Auntie' has changed from the nice gentile woman and snaps at Viv that she's never seen her before and has no idea why she's there. Viv pushes through with Ted and calls for Omir. Ted grabs and arrests a middle-aged man who tries to leave. 'Auntie' shouts up the stairs in Turkish as Viv enters Omir's room. Omir is lying on his side with the same haunted look on his face when Viv enters. She takes one look at him and her face visibly cracks. "I'm sorry...."

[myobmaya]

Heart in Hawkins

Sweet Home Alabama Au! (Based on the movie) disclaimer: this is an AU based off the movie, however I have changed and added some of my own creative ideas to this.

Rockstar!Eddie Munson x Reader (they/them)

TW: description of young!reader having hair (just a strand in the front) none for this part but eventual angst, mention of marriage and divorce, cursing, cheating, allusions to smut

Eddie Munson swore he’d never return back to the town where he left his heart. His career is kicking off and he has all he could ask for with a lovely new fiancé. All is ready for him to begin his new life, except for one problem. He left you in Hawkins with your marriage still very legal. He goes back with papers in hand ready for you to sign, except you’re no longer the same person he left. And he’s no longer the same boy that took your first kiss all those years ago. A simple one day task turns into more as Eddie quickly realizes not everything goes as planned.

The Introduction.

September 17th, 1978

The storms were coming in strong with lightning painting across the sky. Rain poured down bouncing off the window , straight to the ground. The arcadium you and Eddie were at was set to close due to the weather knocking the power out. The place is only lit up by an emergency light and the owner sits in the back waiting for the two of you to get picked up. Wayne was on his way to get you both up, in the meantime, the two of you sit on the floor by the window watching the rain meet the gravel.

Lightening dances across the sky followed by a loud crack from the thunder. You jump out of instinct hitting the side of Eddie’s shoulders. His obnoxious laughter immediately fills the atmosphere.

“You’re such a scaredy cat!”

“Am not!” You glare up at the twelve year old boy. The both of you now facing each other. He points a finger at you.

“Am too!”

The thunder rolls and you jump once more looking outside. He still laughs at you but his scrawny arms wrap you up immediately. He gives you a tight squeeze. The growing hair on his head scratches your cheek and you pull back. Eddie releases you with a stupid grin on his face.

“Told you!” He says standing up. He holds his hand out to you and you reluctantly take it.

“Shut up! Don’t act like you aren’t scared of it, Munson!” Your arms cross around your chest looking up at him. He was only two years older than you but he was hitting his growth spurt causing him to pass you in height.

“Oh I’m terrified but I have to hide it so you can see that I can protect you.”

You stick your tongue out of him before turning your head up. “I don’t need you to protect me.”

Eddie shrugs throwing an arm around your shoulders. He looks out the window admiring the calmness of the rain before the storm sets in. He always loved the rain. There’s something about the way the sky weeps for hours; floods the streets and brings fierce thunder. But despite it all, the rain always leaves behind a reassuring burst of color in the form of a rainbow as a sort of way to remind people there’s a reward after a storm. Eddie thinks about what your statement and only smiles looking over at you. “I know but that’s just what husbands do. And since I’m gonna marry you I have to prove it to you now.”

You scoff moving your hands to your hips, “Who says you’re gonna marry me?”

The young boy shrugs his shoulders, “Everyone.”

“Well I don’t listen to everyone,” you say in a matter of fact. Eddie smiles nodding his head. He knows this. It’s one of his favorite qualities about you right behind the way you beat him at Pac-Man.

“Yeah but it just makes sense.”

Eddie turns to you looking down at your eyes. A piece from your ponytail hangs over your forehead. He thinks about the movie his mom used to watch and how the main character pushes the lead actresses’ hair behind their ear. How his mom used to awe at the action. You scrunch your nose up at him when he reaches up and mimics the move. The hair falls back into your eyes and you simply push it back onto your head.

Your hands stay on your hips as you up look up at your best friend. The thought of marrying your best friend didn’t gross you out. His chocolate eyes never look away as you think of the next question to support his claim. “Why would you wanna marry me anyways, Eddie Munson?”

He immediately responds as if he’s had his answer memorized his whole life.

“So I can kiss you anytime I want.”

He leans forward and swipes his tongue over his lips. They’re dry and he figures you wouldn’t want the rough surface meeting your soft ones. Both of your lips meet and press hard against each other. His lips feel wet and his nose is pressed up against yours. Three whole Mississippi seconds go by and you both pull back. Your cheeks are painted red and he grins at you. You immediately wipe the kiss away.

“Gross.”

Eddie nods in agreement, “Yeah it looks better when Popeye and Olive Oil do it.”

A honk from outside breaks you two from each other as Wayne pulls up. Eddie takes your hand and you both sprint across the parking lot up to the truck where his uncle sits inside. He opens the back door and you slide in with right behind you slamming the door shut.

Wayne looks at the two of you from the rear view window sitting side by side. You’re still blushing while Eddie wears a Cheshire cat smile on his face. He doesn’t see the two of you are still holding hands.

“Have a good time?” He asks turning out into the street and towards the direction of your home.

Eddie looks at you just as you look up at him. He winks at you squeezing your hand. Your thumb wipes over the back of his. Wayne pays attention to the road mumbling a reminder to himself to get new windshield wipers.

Eddie speaks up looking at your hands intertwined. That piece of hair sticks to your forehead thanks to the raindrops. He pushes it back behind your hair and it stays this time.

“It was a great time, Uncle Wayne. A really great time.”

Masterlist

Part One: Verse One

Part Two: Verse Two

Part Three: Verse Three

Part Four: Verse Four

The amazing handcuff banner featured in every part was made by the very talented @sweetsweetjellybean 🖤

[lollytea]

I don’t have the words to properly articulate why I’m so fascinated with the concept of Peter Pan but like. Imagine you’re frozen at roughly age 11-14 for centuries on end and your brain chemicals are all over the place cause you’re a developing preteen but they just never settle down. You never finish developing, it’s just a constant state that has become part of your personality. You’re in puberty limbo. You’ve got growing pains but you never get any taller. You must have been mid-growth spurt before you came here and now the thrumming in your legs never stops. You’ve learned to ignore it. You want something so badly but you can’t put your finger on what. You won’t allow yourself to put your finger on anything. You love your life, you love your world, you love yourself, it’s all so much more wonderful than that of any other child. You know Neverland like the back of your hand. You’ve been staring at the back of your hand for longer than any normal person has been alive and you’re bored to death of the sight of it. You collect other children like stray pets and delight in their company. You get to be their guiding hand to a world of wonder in which you know everything. You’re adored by them. But then they go home. Or they grow up. Or they die. And you’re alone again. But you’ve got Tinkerbell and she means more to you than anyone else in the world. But you get frustrated because she doesn’t always understand. You can’t explain what she doesn’t understand because you don’t know either. But you’re happy. You have Captain Hook to play with. He’s the ambassador of everything you loathe. You’re going to kill him one day but you’re procrastinating. You don’t like to think about it but you wish you came here when you were younger. 8 would have been a lovely age to be Peter Pan. You float in the twilight stage between boy and man. Your mind has been set askew just enough in the wrong direction that if you dwell on it too long, you’re dangerously close to thinking like a grown-up. You already do sometimes if you don’t check yourself. You have a lot of emotions you don’t understand, which is a good thing, as it would be more trouble than it’s worth to understand them. It’s trouble to even have them in the first place so you squish them way way waaaaay down and then promptly forget about them. Hook tells you he feels sorry for you as you’ll never be anything more than an immature child and it pleases you to hear the words. It makes you feel like yourself. It makes you feel something else as well but you can’t define the feeling so down it goes with the rest of them. You forget about it. You forget some more. Then you remember. Then forget. You don’t have a very good memory. This is a good thing. Except that sometimes when you’re tired, you start to think that it isn’t. You fall asleep so you don’t have to think about it. You want, you want, you want. And even if you’re fearless, you’re terrified of what you want. You’re Peter Pan and your life is wonderful.

[limerental]

ficletober day 3 - philippa/dijkstra

Busy pulling strings in Redania from the shadows, Philippa Eilhart receives a visit from a promising young spy. content warning for canon-typical Philippa Eilhart and grooming of teenaged boys with referenced/implied underage sex. Takes place ~30 years before the events of the saga with some fudged details about Redanian kings and politics. Given who Philippa is, I like to think it's pretty likely she was the one who originally recruited Dijkstra to the intelligence service and also given who she is, she was probably a little bit yucky about it

The boy planted both his hands on his knees, still huffing and puffing from his less than coordinated clamber up the trellis outside her window. She didn't bother to tell him he could have come in through the servant's door. Things were more amusing this way.

He was a clever lad and tripped over himself to bring her anything she needed, which these days was the comings and goings of the Academy, where one political unrest or another always seemed to be brewing.

But she had some suspicions that he withheld details here and there, simply so he had another reason to visit her the next night.

"You have news then?"

The boy straightened up, his breath finally returned to him. To her surprise, he had managed to hit another growth spurt, towering like a gawky gargoyle before her. He was certainly no looker and never would be. Not yet seventeen and his dark hair had already receded well past his temples.

"The Master Troy has taken a leave of absence. But some say he may not return for the next semester."

"Yes? And?"

"There's word that his retirement may not be wholly his idea."

Philippa sighed. She poured herself another few fingers of dark liquor and watched the boy follow her hands with his pale eyes. He was clearly hopeful that she would pour him a glass as well, ask him to sit in the high-backed chair beside her.

She did neither.

"Of course it's not his idea. He's an ancient old bat who still claims the sun circles around us and that we descended from amphibians. The Academy has wanted him out for years."

"Ahem," said the boy. "I only thought… I thought you might want me to figure out who wants him gone. Like with Vysogota of Corvo. He was officially exiled for religious heresy but less officially–"

"How old were you when he was exiled, boy?"

His cheeks pinked. He hadn't been born yet.

Under the aging rule of King Radovid IV, father to the present King Heribert, some poor sod was exiled once a week to appease one interest group or another.  The winds of the Redanian court had blown to and fro more times than she could count. At the moment, King Heribert was publicly wary and derisive of mages and spies but privately unwilling to dismiss them. 

Her doe-eyed young prince Vizimir showed far more promise. In a few years, Philippa imagined he would grow into a handsome, level-headed young man. Level-headed enough not to forget the rewards of allowing her and her agents influence over him.

"Thank you for the report," said Philippa. "But I'd prefer you leave any speculation to me, boy. You're still only seeing half the picture. Manuscripts and boring old professors can only teach so much. When's your graduation again?"

"This winter."

"Early?"

The boy's grin was full of crooked teeth. 

"Top of my class," he said with arrogance. Philippa did not bother to dissuade it, not yet. If all went well, she knew he would become a terrifying force for the Redanian Secret Service someday, and one needed a certain smug confidence to clash with kings and dissidents and uglier characters than that.

"Come here," said Philippa, and the boy visibly brightened with eagerness. At least, visibly to her, who had learned to read the slightest twitch of a man's face and glean his emotional state. 

Most men were too proud of the piddling things they felt and thought to learn to conceal them. Even a subjugated peasant man was likely to believe that his dopey ruminations meant something and mattered more than the mud and piss he slogged through.

Women, thought Philippa, will inherit all of this some day. And the men will not even wake from smug daydreams of their own importance long enough to realize.

The boy's expression barely shifted, and he did not move too swiftly. Admiring his subtlety, Philippa kicked off her heels and propped her legs up on the arm of the chair beside her. She watched the boy follow the curve of her long legs, limned in bronze light from the fireplace. "Well? Sit. They won't rub themselves."

"Yes, Madam Philippa."

The boy sat and took her feet into his lap, his clever thumbs pressing into the taut ache of her arches. He had nice hands. Big and smooth-palmed and exacting in the pressure they applied.

Perhaps after a bit more to drink, she would teach him a thing or two about using them in other ways.

"Sigismund," she said and touched the crown of his head. His hair there was soft and thin. "Pour yourself a glass. No, not so little. We're celebrating your graduation. And don't stop the rest in the meantime."

Dijkstra ducked his head to hide the burn of his cheeks and managed not to choke on the deep swallows of liquor. His fingers dug with surety into the meat of Philippa's heels.