#but Carter has wings as his power of flight

[honeyxmonkey]

Sky High au

Carter is Will and Douxie is Layla

Douxie "I don't believe in using my powers for violence" Casperan

And Carter "just punch it till it stops moving" Howard

[inmentemusae]

BASIC INFORMATION

FULL NAME: Eliel Starwhisper NICKNAME: Eli AGE: Ancient BIRTH DATE: 23 May GENDER: Male SPECIES: Angel (Asherah) ROMANTIC ORIENTATION: Heteroromantic SEXUAL ORIENTATION: Heterosexual RELIGION: N/A SPOKEN LANGUAGE: English CURRENT LIVING CONDITIONS: Verse Dependant OCCUPATION: Warrior For Asherah liaisoning between heaven and earth, Therapist.

RELATIONSHIPS

PARENTS: • Asherah (Mother)

SIBLINGS: • Malachi ( oldest ) Liora ( twin of Mal ) Arik Nitza Aoife Bina Keila Hali ( baby )

SIGNIFICANT OTHER: • CHILDREN: • `FRIENDS: • •

OTHER CONNECTIONS: Johanna Carter •

PHYSICAL TRAITS

EYE COLOUR: Blue HAIR COLOUR: Black HEIGHT: 6’2” BODY BUILD: Slim TATTOOS + PIERCINGS: N/A NOTABLE PHYSICAL TRAITS: White wings with a silvery hint through them.

POWERS & ABILITIES

POWERS: • Flight with wings • Angelic grace • Telepathy • invulnerability • immortality

ABILITIES: • Excellent In hand-to-hand combat • Very good at composing music on the harp

WEAKNESSES: • Celestial Weapons • Yahweh

PHOBIAS & DISORDERS

PHOBIAS: Atychiphobia, Eliel harbours a deep fear of falling from grace and losing his connection to the divine. He is also secretly anxious about failing to live up to the high expectations of his celestial heritage.

MENTAL DISORDERS: N/A

WHEN WAS THIS DIAGNOSED?:`

PERSONALITY

PERSONALITY TYPE: MORAL ALIGNMENT: Lawful Good INTELLIGENCE: Highly Intelligent LIKES: • Collecting historical mortal texts and studying them • Stargazing • Composing music on the harp • Experimenting with food DISLIKES: • Deep fear of falling from grace and losing his connection to the divine • Anxious about failing to live up to the high expectations of his celestial heritage

DISPOSITION: He is very hard working to make sure that he does his best to live up to his celestial heritage and to do his best in his heavenly duties. He will always listen to what his patients have to say and give them the best advice needed. Eliel is the epitome of serenity, imbued with an innate sense of kindness and justice. He is deliberate in his actions, valuing honour and integrity above all. His demeanour is calm and empathetic, often acting as a mediator during conflicts. EXTRAS:

BIOGRAPHY

Born amongst the high choirs of the Angelic realms, Eliel was tasked with observing and subtly guiding the moral choices of mortals. Fascinated by their complexities, he requests a sabbatical to walk amongst them, seeking to balance divine duties with his growing curiosity. Eliel’s journey is one of self-discovery and the pursuit of a harmonious existence between the celestial and material worlds. His goal is to foster understanding and compassion between the two realms, fearing the consequences of a divide he’s seen tear at the fabric of both worlds. Deeply connected to the divine network of celestial beings, Eliel is determined to prove that he can maintain his pure essence while engaging with the oftentimes murky ethics of mortal beings.

Despite his celestial roots, Eliel has a curious fascination with mortal cooking, often attempting to recreate dishes with heavenly ingredients. He has an instinctive habit of cleaning and straightening his surroundings, a trait that doesn’t go unnoticed. Beyond his culinary experiments, Eliel enjoys stargazing and composing music on a harp made of starlight. He also collects historical mortal texts, studying them to better understand the creatures of the material plane.

Eliel does his best to be there as much as he can for all his siblings and spend time with each of them. He will sometimes host family meals where they can all spend time together and catch up.

[sebeth]

All-Star Squadron #10, 11, 12 (Revised 1/28/24)

Warning, Spoilers Ahead…

All-Star Squadron #10 – 12 by Roy Thomas, Adrian Gonzales, and Jerry Ordway

“If An Eye Offend Thee!”

The issue opens in San Francisco. It is early January 1942 and Hawkman has snuck away from the military base for a late evening flight. Carter notes he feels guilty for taking a “joy ride” while regular citizens are bracing for gas rationing. I enjoy Roy’s additions of historic details of life in the United States during World War II.

Carter’s guilt can be assuaged as his wings don’t require gas.

The majority of the Justice Society retired their heroic identities to enlist in the various branches of the military.

Carter joined the Air Force and is set to make “pilot in record time” but “it’s liable to be months before I’ll see action in the army air force.”

Hakwman witnesses a fleet of B-17 Bombers arriving at the base from Randall Field, Texas.

Carter muses: “Those flyboys will do America a lot more good than one former playboy swooping around in a beaked masks and wings.”

“Speaking of former playboys, I just remembered Randall Field’s where Starman – Ted Knight – is based. I wonder if he might be – no, not likely. He couldn’t have his officer’s commission yet.”

Carter is wrong, as Ted is flying one of the planes. Ted’s co-pilot can’t get over how fast he made pilot status.

Ted suspects his co-pilot feels Ted’s money cut through the red tape but, in fact, as Starman, Ted has been “flying high for a year now.”

I’m not sure how flying under your own power allows easy mastery over flying a plane but I’ll go with it.

Starman admits missing using his gravity rod to fly under his own power. Ted is in one of the B-17 fleet bombers that Carter is flying next to.

A flying UFO appears out of nowhere, “glowing so blindly I can barely look at it.” The UFO attacks the planes.

A plane plummets to the ground. Hawman races after, knowing it’s futile, but hoping his Ninth Metal harness can stop the impending crash.

Fortunately for Carter, Ted makes excuses to head to the back of his plane. He promptly changes into his Starman costume, grabs his gravity rod, and exits the plane.

A relieved Hawkman has Ted save the plane while he prevents the UFO from attacking more planes.

An unconscious man falls out of the UFO. The UFO flies away to parts unknown.

Starman has to get back aboard the plane but Carter wants to know how Ted made pilot so fast.

Ted: “I got the President himself to fix it up for me.”

Ted admits he hates “using our ‘in’ with F.D.R.” but “winning this lousy war that’s important” and he would “mangle every rule in the book” if he had to.

Carter realizes he needs to return to base before he’s reported A.W.O.L. but first he needs to find help for the unconscious man. Unfortunately, the man dies in his arms before Carter can reach the ground.

Carter believes he knows the dead man and if it’s who he thinks it is “the secret behind that ‘Flying Eye’ may be even more sinister than I’d imagined.”

A caption box informs us we’ll have to wait an issue or two before discovering the full meaning of Carter’s words.

I enjoyed the quick check-in with Hawkman and Starman. The military enlistment was used throughout the All-Star Squadron run to explain why the members of the Justice Society weren’t featured heavily in the series.  It’s still nice to have the occasional appearance from a Society member.

We switch to Washington DC.

The Shining Knight, Hawkgirl, and Johnny Quick are careening past the Washington Monument.

I still don’t understand how Shiera hasn’t died of hypothermia while fighting crime in a bikini top during an East Coast winter.

I don’t have a problem with certain female super-heroes fighting crime in swimsuits, hot pants, or skirts. For example: She-Hulk, Supergirl, Power Girl, or Mary Marvel. All four women are mostly invulnerable and largely immune to temperature extremes. If it’s true to their personality, those women can wear what they want – they don’t have practical concerns to worry over.

However, women like Black Canary, Huntress, and Hawkgirl are neither invulnerable or immune to temperature extremes. Their costumes should reflect their need to protect their body from physical harm.

Side-note: Huntress’s abdomen-baring, hot-pants costume was one of the most idiotic outfits of all time. Both for the reasons listed above and because shorty before its debut, Helena was shot multiple times in the abdomen by the Joker. And the life-saving surgery was performed in Gotham during No Man’s Land. There was no plastic surgeon nearby to minimalize the scars. Yet no artist ever drew Helena with a scarred abdomen. Stupid!

Johnny compliments Shiera on the design of her new mask.  Shiera took the time to modify her mask but not to add sleeves to her top? Okay.

Johnny mentions he’d “better get some newsreel footage of all this, or Johnny Chambers is gonna be looking for a new job.”

Johnny is a cameraman for See’s All/Tells All News.

Sir Justin tethers Winged Victory and notices an unconscious man: “Here lies a man unconscious and he wears the regalia of an American soldier.”

Johhny has entered the Washington Monument in time to stop a sabotage attempt.

Johnny stops the actual explosion while Shiera and Justin deal with the saboteurs.

Sir Justin: “We thank you for letting us deal with these Nazis, Johnny Quick, for, in sooth, ‘twould be most unseemly to have let you fight the good fight unattended.”

Johnny: “Knight, you sure do talk pretty sometimes.”

The trio take the unconscious man (wounded guard) to the hospital.

Johnny mentions this is the second national monument he’s saved in a month and “I wonder how things are going out at Mount Rushmore?”

Hey, every hero needs a specialty. Superman fights alien invasions, Batman solves crimes, and Johnny Quick protects national monuments.

We switch locations to “one of the few American outposts in the distant Pacific Ocean which has not yet fallen to the Japanese juggernaut” where a “total blackout has been rigidly enforced for the past month.”

We have another check-in with a JSA member.

Dr. Charles McNider is on the island researching tropical fever. And he’s brought Hooty!

Charles serving in a research role for the military is a perfect fit. Charles wouldn’t be able to actively enlist in the military as he is blind.

Enemy planes and the “Flying Eye” attack the island. Charles changes into his “Dr. Mid-Nite” uniform to help the soldiers on the ground.

A solider is very confused: “Dr. Mid-Nite?! How the heck did you get over here?”

I understand Charles’ natural impulse is to change into costume at the first sign of danger but making an appearance on an isolated island is not a good way to maintain a secret identity.

The Flying Eye causes multiple plane engines to stall and crash. Fortunately, the pilots bail out.

The Flying Eye retreats and Charles heads back to his lab: “Better get back before my assistant Myra Mason notices Dr. McNider’s missing.”

Charles, trust me, Myra knows you run around as Dr. Mid-Nite. She may not say anything but she knows.

Did Charles use the “FDR card” in order to have Hooty and Myra accompany him? Myra is a nurse and Charle’s long-time assistant, used to working with the blind Charles, so she’s a logical choice to accompany him but Hooty?

I mean, I love Hooty, I’m just now sure how Charles convinced the military brass to allow his owl on the island.

We switch to the Russia’s Crimean Peninsula where the Flying Eye attacks both the Russian and the German forces and flies away.

Back to Washington. Robotman examines Steel. Robotman declares Steel free of any influence from Baron Blitzkrieg.

Firebrand accompanies the duo outside in time to witness the arrival of the Flying Eye.

The Flying Eye causes the hospital generatiors, along with Steel and Robotman, to shut down.

The Flying Eye heads to the White House. Firebrand along with a recovered Robotman and Steel race to the White House.

The trio arrive at the White House and meet up with Liberty Belle, Hawkgirl, the Shining Knight, Johnny Quick, and the Atom.

A shadowy, seven-foot man emerges from the Eye and battles the All-Star Squadron.

The man removes his helmet and proclaims: “I am Akhet, and I have come from the second planet of the star you call Proxima Centauri to annex this world, and all upon it, in the name and by the power of the Binary Brotherhood!”

The Fact Files at the end of the issue feature Starman, Liberty Belle, and the Atom. The only new information is Starman has never received an origin from his debut in the Golden Age until now but will receive one in an upcoming issue of All-Star Squadron. We’re told we will receive more information on Liberty Belle’s adrenal powers in a future issue. The fact file notes the Atom appeared in more Justice Society stories than any hero except Hawkman.

Up Next: “The Spaceman’s Sinister Secret!”

Akhet issues an ultimatum: “All of Earth’s nations must surrender that a united planet may be ruled by myself, as emissary of the Brotherhood. Any nations which resist – be it one or all – will be obliterated by such power as my starcraft has already demonstrated. You have one earth-day to choose between abject surrender and total annihilation!”

The All-Stars want to attack but Liberty Belle correctly states that they should wait for the President’s signal.

Half the Squad attacks anyway, and when it goes badly, the rest rush in to help.

Sir Justin, as always, has the best battle cry: “Nor shall any man or maid set a foot further than does the Shining Knight! Forward to the fray, Winged Victory!”

The fight doesn’t go well and Ahket, also known as the Star-Smasher, absconds with Steel, Hawkgirl, Atom, and Robotman.

Johnny laments: “What a time for the big guns in the Justice Society to have decided to enlist in the Army as privates!”

The Flying Eye attacks random locations across the globe.

The remaining All-Stars meet with the President, Prime Minister Churchill, and a military general.

Liberty Belle is suspicious of Akhet’s claims: “I’m convinced there’s more to this than meets the eye.”

Hawkman arrives at the White House. He informs the others of his and Starman’s encounter with the Flying Eye.

Carter tells the group the identity of the man who fell out of the ship: “Garret Owens, a pioneering bio-chemist. He’d gone out for a stroll near his Illinois home in 1933 – and hadn’t been seen since!”

Carter notes the emblem on Owens’ uniform is an old alchemist’s symbol for the Middle Ages, it is the sign for “the spirit of the world”.

Hawkgirl and Atom awaken in the Eye. Shiera’s a bit over-whelmed as she’s not a “full-time masked hero type. I’ve just put on this outfit to help the Hawk a time or two – and now this happens!”

Atom informs her “It’s a little late to fall back on your amateur standing.”

Atom and Hawkgirl explore the Eye.

Hawkman and the non-captured All-Stars race to the estate of Elwood P. Napier, a physio-mathematician.

Elwood is another scientist who has gone missing in the last decade.

Johnny Quick has discovered the missing scientists were part of a government brain trust that ran out of funds in 1930.

Elwood was the last of the scientists to go missing. Before that one of the scientists went missing every six months.

Firebrand uses her powers to light up the interior of the house.

Sir Justin: “Odd’s blood, lass, but in my long-ago day, they’d have burned ye for a witch.”

Good thing Firebrand’s a modern woman. Also, good luck with the burning thing considering the nature of her powers.

Hawkgirl and Atom encounter Akhet and easily knock him out. The duo discover Akhet is a robot.

The duo discovers the rest of the captured All-Stars along with the missing scientists.  All individuals are placed in clear tubes.

Hawkgirl and Atom discover the true mastermind behind the plan: Dr. Hastor, Hawkman’s arch-enemy.

“Doomsday Begins At Dawn!”

Hawkman and his fellow All-Star leave Elwood’s estate.

Carter recognized Hastor in the photos found at the estate, “a man I saw die more than two years ago”.

Carter recaps his origin and debut as Hawkman. This is familiar ground for DC fans but I’ll offer a quick summary: Ancient Egypt – Carter/Prince Khufu and Shiera – murdered by Hath-Set, a priest of Anubis, all three re-incarnate to their present day lives.

Carter battles Dr. Anton Hastor in his first adventure. Hastor presumed dead after his fight with Carter.

Carter informs his fellow All-Stars that there is no alien invasion – only Hastor’s machinations.

Hastor explains to Shiera his plans and how he became involved with the missing scientists.

Hastor took control of the group of scientists and the Flying Eye, starting the events of the last few issues.

The All-Stars reach the Flying Eye via a hot-air balloon! No engine to knock out in the balloon.

Carter, Shiera, and Hastor battle by using their past lives’ astral forms.

The Hawks win, the Flying Eye is deactivated, and Hastor falls into a comatose state.

I love the All-Star Squadron but this is a pretty “meh” arc. Too many twists needlessly over-complicated – and stretched out - the plot. The highlights were the recap of Hawkman’s origin and some character development for Hawkgirl. She has been mostly wallpaper during the series but we got to see her fear over her inexperience compared to the heroes and her determination to be an asset and not a “debutante” hero.

[mad4toysuk]

Unleash the Power of Flight with Hot Wheels DC Character Cars - Hawkman

Get ready for an adrenaline-packed journey into the DC Universe with the Hot Wheels DC Character Cars collection. One of the standout heroes in this lineup is none other than Hawkman. In this blog post, we'll dive into the world of Hot Wheels DC Character Cars - Hawkman and discover why adding this miniature marvel to your collection is a must for any DC fan.

The Heroic Design:

Hot Wheels DC Character Cars - Hawkman captures the essence of this legendary hero with impeccable attention to detail. From the iconic wings on his helmet to the powerful wings on his back, every aspect of Hawkman's character is faithfully recreated in this die-cast masterpiece.

The Power of Flight:

Hawkman, also known as Carter Hall, possesses the ability to fly using a pair of mystical wings made of Nth metal. These wings grant him incredible agility and strength, making him a formidable hero in the DC Universe. The Hot Wheels DC Character Car beautifully showcases these wings, making it a standout addition to your collection.

Collectible Appeal:

Hot Wheels has a long history of creating collectible cars that appeal to enthusiasts of all ages. The DC Character Cars series takes this tradition to the next level by incorporating beloved DC heroes and villains into the world of die-cast cars. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your journey, Hawkman's Hot Wheels car is a valuable addition to any collection.

Play and Display:

While these cars are designed with collectors in mind, they are also suitable for play. The sturdy construction and attention to detail make them perfect for imaginative adventures and races on your Hot Wheels track. Whether you're showcasing them on a shelf or engaging in epic races, Hot Wheels DC Character Cars - Hawkman offers the best of both worlds.

Connecting with DC Fans:

Owning a Hot Wheels DC Character Car - Hawkman is not just about collecting; it's a way to connect with fellow DC fans. Share your passion for these iconic characters, engage in discussions, and even host your mini races with friends who appreciate the DC Universe.

Hot Wheels DC Character Cars - Hawkman brings the excitement and heroism of the DC Universe to your fingertips. Whether you're a die-hard collector or a casual enthusiast, this miniature masterpiece deserves a spot in your collection. With its incredible attention to detail and connection to the iconic Hawkman, it's more than just a car; it's a symbol of the heroic spirit that defines the DC Universe.

Discover the thrill of Hot Wheels DC Character Cars - Hawkman at Mad4Toys, and elevate your DC collection to new heights.

[bumblesimagines]

Green Thumb

Part 9

Request: Yes or No

Almost at double digits y'all. Can someone be an angel and send me the ages of every one between civil war and endgame? Ik Wanda was 18-19 in Age of Ultron and Civil war and Sam was probs in his mid to late twenties in Civil War.

~

You frowned, touching the collar around your neck. It made you feel like an animal. It was to prevent you from using your powers. Rhodes had mentioned it would shock you if you attempted to use your powers. You weren't sure if it was instantaneous or if someone controlled it but you didn't feel like finding out.

"You like cats?" Sam asked T'Challa, prince of Wakanda.

"Sam." Steve called, glancing over his shoulder like a disapproving parent. You snorted softly, biting your bottom lip.

"What? Dude shows up dressed like a cat and you don't want to know more?" Sam asked, looking at Steve.

"I like cats." You mumbled, looking at Sam with a small smile. Sam turned towards you with a small grin.

"Of course you do, Animal Planet." You rolled your eyes at the new nickname, shifting slightly. You really didn't want to trigger the collar.

"I'm a dog person."

"You look like a dog person."

"And what do dog people look like?"

"Morons." You answered, giving a slight shrug as Steve cracked a smile, trying to bite back a chuckle. Sam huffed lightly, looking away from you. A moment of silence passed before Steve spoke.

"Your suit.. Vibranium?" Steve asked T'Challa. The prince turned his head slightly.

"The Black Panther has been the protector of Wakanda for generations. It's meant to pass from warrior to warrior. Now, because your friend murdered my father, I also wear the mantle of king. So I ask you.. How long do you think you can keep your friend safe from me?" T'Challa asked, finally looking at Steve. Steve stayed silent, looking forward. You sighed through your nose, feeling the tension return. You wondered if Clint had been notified of your arrest yet. The van pulled into a parking garage, officers opening the door once it came to a stop. You got out, following Steve to the man and blonde.

"What's gonna happen to him?" Steve asked. You turned your head, looking over at him. You made eye contact with him again, holding it for a minute before looking away.

"What was that?" Sam asked quietly. You frowned, brows furrowing.

"That- That little staring contest."

"Oh, shut up." You huffed, looking away from him.

"Same thing that's gonna happen to you. Psychological evaluation." The man replied.

"This is Everett Ross, CIA operative and Task Force Commander." The woman, Sharon Carter, introduced him. Her gaze flickered to you.

"The shock collar will be taken off after the evaluation." She said, voice stotic but gaze pitiful.

"What about a lawyer?"

"Lawyer, that's funny. See their weapons are placed in lock up." Ross instructed the officers. Sam scoffed, following the officers. Steve spared one last glance to Bucky before following Ross and the officers. You walked besides Sam, being escorted through the building.

"You'll be placed in offices instead of cells. Do me a favor and stay in them." Ross stared straight forward as he spoke. T'Challa moved to walk beside him.

"I don't intend on going anywhere." T'Challa said. You spotted Natasha, feeling some sense of relief.

"Clint was informed and I assured him I'd keep an eye on you." Natasha told you, giving a small reassuring smile. She looked at Steve, addressing him. The relief went away upon hearing Tonys' voice. He finished his phone call, approaching you and the guys.

"Consequences?" Steve questioned, staring at him. You looked around the large room, noticing the screens and everything going on.

"Secretary Ross wants you three prosecuted." Tony said, motioning to them and you. Your brows furrowed slightly. There were two guys with the last name Ross who looked vaguely alike. That definitely wouldn't be hard to remember.

"I'm not getting that shield back, am I?" Steve asked as Tony and Natasha walked away.

"Technically, it belongs to the government. Wings too." Natasha said, shrugging.

"That's cold." Sam muttered.

"Warmer than jail." Tony called back. You looked at the security cameras, noticing the room Bucky had been moved to.

"You got the hots for him or something?" Sam asked. Steve turned to look at you, blinking a few times. You shot Sam a look, raising your brows.

"No, Samuel. I do not and if I did, why would you ask infront of his longtime bestie?" You asked, almost gritting your teeth. Sam raised his hands in surrender as Tony pulled Steve into a meeting room to talk.

"Why have a meeting in a glass box?" You asked quietly. Sam shrugged, looking it over.

"To prevent fighting." Sam answered. You watched at Steve and Tony seemed to argue. You looked at Sam with an amused smile.

"Physical fights." Sam clarified as Tony stepped out and Sharon had you and Sam enter. You took a seat across from Sam, looking at the security camera footage. Sharon entered, placing a paper infront of Sam.

"I'm sorry about the collar." Sharon apologized softly. You leaned back in the seat, shrugging lightly. She pressed a button, allowing Steve to listen to the footage. Sharon slid over some photos over to Steve.

"Why would the Task Force release this?" Steve asked. Sharon gave a shrug.

"To alert the public, I guess."

"Right.. A good way to force a guy into hiding. Got seven billion people looking for The Winter Solider."

"You're saying someone framed the guy to find him." Sharon mused quietly. Sam seemed confused, looking at Steve. You looked back at the footage on screen.

"Steve, you looked for the guy for two years and found nothing." Sam reminded him.

"We didn't bomb the UN."

"That doesn't guarantee that the person who framed him knew that we'd get him." Sharon looked at Steve. She suddenly frowned, brows furrowing as Steve turned towards the footage. You looked up as the power went out, seeing the staff begin to freak out and try to locate the source. You looked at Sam, slowly standing up. Sharon took out a key, sliding it over to you.

"Level 5 east wing." She said as you unlocked the collar, tossing it to the side as running out of the room with Sam and Steve. Whoever had framed Bucky had found him. You followed the two down the hall and down some stairs. You reached the area, finding guards on the ground. The interviewer lied on the ground, calling for help. Steve approached him with you hesitantly following. You noticed movement out of the corner of your eye, dodging Sam when he was thrown towards you.

"Hey, dude." You breathed out, swallowing. Bucky had a deep frown on his face, blue eyes holding nothing but bloodlust. He looked downright terrifying. You thrusted both hands forward, shooting a fireball that sent him flying back against the wall. Steve quickly stepped between you and him as you turned and rushed to Sam.

"Sam? Sam!" You shook his shoulders, shakey fingers pressing against his neck. You felt his pulse, relieved to feel his heartbeat. You slapped his cheek, waking him up.

"I've always wanted to do that." You muttered, watching him wince. He groaned, turning his head. You followed his gaze, seeing the guy from before looking down where Steve had been thrown. You stood, helping Sam up and following him up a set of stairs. With Steve out of commission temporarily and Bucky in a frenzy, the guy was the only hope of stopping everything.

"Can you try to stop him or trip him up?" Sam asked, rushing up the stairs.

"I can't see him and I'd rather not make this whole building collapse on accident." You replied, almost tripping over your own feet. Sam found an exit, following the crowd of people running.

"He looked like any other guy." You said, taking in deep breaths. Sam shot you a weird look.

"We just ran up like five flights of stairs." You breathed out, hands resting on your knees. At least the chilly weather provided some help. Sam noticed a jacket, jogging over and picking it up. You stumbled after him, looking it over.

"I really need some water." You whispered, lightly fanning yourself. Sam rolled his eyes, following the crowd of people. You sluggishly followed, giving him a small smile when he stopped by a shop to get you a bottle. He took out his phone as you drank half of it.

"Come on." Sam pulled you along, following direction and entering warehouse. Steve had Bucky laying against some machinery, unconscious and metal arm trapped in a wedge.

"You two okay?" Steve asked, looking you and Sam over with a concerned frown.

"Yeah.. Someone over here needs some more training." Sam glanced at you with a teasing smile. You rolled your eyes, licking your lips as you heard the sound of a helicopter.

"Could you ice over his arm?" Steve asked.

"He broke a stone wall. Ice won't hold him but sure, I'll do it." You shrugged, approaching the unconscious man. You licked your lips, splashing the rest of the water on the machinery and touching it after. The ice creeped down, covering over the metal arm. You looked at him, finally getting a proper look. He was handsome. Brown hair that barely reached his shoulders, facial hair just growing in, those icy blue eyes that either swirled with sadness or anger.

"You're giving him bedroom eyes again." Sam called, his voice echoing slightly. You clenched your jaw, looking at him.

"What? I can't admire something that looks nice?" You asked, watching his demeanor change. He looked alert yet amused. You frowned, looking back at Bucky and finding him staring right at you. You rolled your lips into your mouth, clearing your throat.

"God, that's so embarrassing." You whispered, speedwalking towards Sam as he cracked up. You ignored your burning face, arms crossing. Sam calmed down, wiping away a tear. Steve walked over, watching Bucky grunt and sit up. He looked at Steve, calling out his name in a hoarse voice.

"Which Bucky am I talking to?" Steve asked, staring at him intently. Bucky stayed silent for a moment before speaking.

"Your moms' name was Sarah... And you used to wear newspapers in your shoes." Bucky said, smiling softly. Steve relaxed, gaze softening.

"You don't read that in a magazine."

"Just like that we're supposed to be cool?" Sam asked, giving Steve a slightly wide eyed look.

"What did I do?" Bucky asked, looking between you, Steve, and Sam.

"Enough." Steve answered. Bucky shut his eyes tightly, shaking his head as he hung his head.

"I knew this would happen.." He whispered. "Everything HYDRA put inside of me is still there. All he had to do was say the god damn words."

"Who was he?"

"I don't know." Bucky answered, though you weren't sure if it was truthful or not. He didn't seem like the type to lie, at least not to Steve.

"People are dead. The guy did all that just to get ten minutes with you." Steve pointed out, watching his old best friend. Bucky looked defeated and confused. "I need you to do better than 'I don't know'."

"He wanted to know about Siberia. Where I was captain." Bucky said quietly, gaze flickering around as he tried to remember.

"He wanted to know exactly where."

"Why would he need to know that?" Bucky stayed silent, licking his lips as he stared at the ground. He looked at Steve.

"Cause I'm not the only Winter Solider." He revealed. You looked at Sam in confusion and surprise. Bucky was strong and deadly on his own but a whole army could overthrow governments all over the world.

"That's terrifying." You whispered, leaning against the wall and sliding down so you were sitting down. Steve chose to lean against the wall after letting Bucky's arm free.

"Who are they?" Steve asked as Bucky brushed some hair out of his face.

"Their most elite death squad. More kills than anyone in HYDRA history and that was before the serum." Bucky responded.

"They all turn out like you?" Sam asked. Bucky looked at him, swallowing.

"Worse."

"The doctor... Did he control them?" Steve tilted his head. Bucky looked down at his lap.

"Enough."

"Said he wanted to see an empire fall." Steve told you and Sam. Bucky looked up at his words.

"These guys could do it. They speak thirty languages, can hide in plain sight, infiltrate, assassinate. They could take a whole country down over night and you'd never see them coming."

"Color me impressed." You whispered, playing with the strings of the jacket you were given after getting to Berlin. Sam slowly walked towards Steve.

"This would've been a lot easier a week ago." Sam said quietly, arms crossing. You stood up, dusting off your pants and approaching them.

"If we told Tony-"

"He'd have him locked up." You cut off Steve, glancing back at him.

"Plus, he'd never believe us." Sam added.

"But if he did-"

"It wouldn't matter and who knows if the Accords would let us help him." Sam stared at him. Steve let out a defeated sigh, looking away from you and Sam.

"We're on our own."

"Not completely. Dad would help." You pointed out. Sam nodded, glancing at you.

"And, I know a guy." Sam said with a light shrug. You looked at him with a raised brow.

"You have friends?"

"I said I know him, not that we're friends but to answer your question, yes. I have friends that aren't you. Jealous?"

"Imaginary friends don't count."

~~~~~~~~~~

The drive was silent, Steve and Bucky occasionally reminiscing about the old days.

"On a scale of one to ten, how impressed is Clint gonna be when he sees you?" Sam asked. You smiled, letting out a chuckle as you watched the snowflake float inches above your hand.

"Probably an eleven, but he'll give me the typical dad speech infront of mom." You answered, lightly blowing on the snowflake and watching it disappear. Bucky turned his head to look at you. His muscular figure was semi cramped in the backseat. Steve picked the worst possible car to hijack.

"Hawkeye's your father?"

"Adoptive. He has a tendency of taking care of strays who once tried to take down the team." You told him, giving a small smile. Bucky hummed, nodding.

"Speaking of strays, how are you and Wanda?" Sam asked, glancing in the rearview mirror.

"Uhm, good? We're still good friends, even after the kiss." You shrugged lightly.

"Woah, kiss?" Steve repeated, brows raising.

"Yeah, we kissed but it felt.. Weird. There was no spark or overwhelming emotions. The love I have for her is the same love I have for Lila and the boys. She'll always be like a sister to me." You told them, glancing at Bucky. Bucky was still a bit on edge but you could tell he was trying to get adjusted.

"What are your powers?" Bucky asked, attempting to get comfortable in the car.

"I'm like the avatar, I guess."

"Who?" Bucky furrowed his brows. You blinked, lips parting as you stared at him. He was from the 1900s and worked for a criminal organization, obviously he wouldn't know a kids show from the 2000s.

"It's- It's from a show. An avatar is someone who controls all four elements and they basically save the world, I guess." You explained, growing a bit embarrassed at how silly it sounded. Bucky didn't seem to judge, giving a small smile.

"We could watch it together, if you want. It's a nice show." You offered, smiling. Sam raised his brows.

"Wonder what Clint will think about that." He muttered as Steve glanced at you and Bucky through the rearview mirror. You shot Sam a small glare, reaching out and touching the back of his neck with cold fingers. He hissed and leaned forward, pouting as he rubbed his neck.

"Yeah, I'd like that." Bucky said softly, nodding. You looked back at him, a smile appearing on your face. Bucky was incredibly attractive and you couldn't deny having a small growing crush on him but you didn't want to cross a boundary. He was from the 1900s afterall.

"How'd you end up fighting the Avengers?" Bucky asked, focusing all his attention onto you.

"The orphanage I grew up in threatened to kick me out since I had turned 18. I freaked and caused an accidental forest in the orphanage so the team was called." You told him, chuckling softly. Buckys' gaze softened, a hum leaving him.

"You've got some pretty cool powers, doll."

"Doll?" Steve and Sam repeated. A flustered smile appeared on your face, giggling softly. Bucky glanced at the two, wondering if he had crossed a line or said something wrong.

"Thanks." You looked forward, biting back an even bigger smile. You weren't completely sure if he was flirting or not but it was nice to get a compliment from an attractive guy, even if he had almost broken your friends' back an hour before. Steve slowly parked the car, getting out to greet Sharon.

"Could you move the seat up?" Bucky asked Sam, arm moving so it resting ontop of the carseats. His metal fingers lightly brushed against your hair but you weren't bothered by it.

"No." Sam replied. Bucky let out a deep sigh. You bit your bottom lip, looking at him.

"We can switch." You shrugged lightly.

"It's fine-"

"No, you shouldn't be squished back here." You faced him, feeling him gently grab your waist. He was incredibly gentle and cautious, moving you onto his lap briefly before he scooted to the side. You sat behind Sam, lightly kicking the seat. Sam moved it forward ever so slightly. You looked over at Steve and Sharon, blinking when they kissed.

"Oh? When did that happen?" You asked, brows furrowed. You knew there was some attraction between them but you didn't expect them to already be at the kissing stage.

"A while back, I think."

"Huh.." You whispered. Steve returned to the car with Sam's wings and his shield, putting them in the trunk. He drove to an airport parking lot, pulling up beside a van. You smiled widely, quickly getting out when Sam pulled the seat forward.

"Thanks for keeping my kid safe, Cap." Clint said, opening his arms as soon as he spotted you. You happily hugged him, feeling a sense of relief and safety wash over you.

"About time you started causing me trouble." Clint grinned as he pulled back. You noticed Wanda, pulling her into a hug as well.

"Saw it on the news. You okay?" She asked softly. You nodded, pulling back and brushing some of her red hair out of her face.

"Vision let you go easy?" You asked. Wanda shook her head, chuckling softly. Sam approached you, glancing back at Bucky.

"Might want to keep an eye on these two." Sam said, motioning to you and Bucky. Clint stared at him before looking turning to look at you. Wanda tilted her head, looking at you as well.

"You're such a dick." You muttered. You knew Sam was just being protective. He had always seen and treated you like a brother.

"Bad boy and older, huh? God, I hoping you had skipped those phases." Clint sighed heavily. You were partially suprised he hadn't mentioned or pointed out that Bucky was a guy. You hadn't really spoken about sexuality and attraction with him but knowing Clint, he'd be supportive about it.

"Not bad." Wanda said quietly, giggling softly as she smiled. You gave her a playful smile.

"I've got good taste."

[crispychrissy]

Here are my thoughts/questions/theories about the finale of Falcon & The Winter Soldier and going forward in the MCU:

1) We all know that there was some kind of virus subplot that had to be rewritten due to Covid happening, so while some of the plot might be hard to follow or not make sense, I think overall this series was fantastic. The Flag Smashers, in my opinion, probably lost some of their dangerousness with this rewrite which is why, compared to Zemo, they don't really feel like they have the same threat level as him.

2) Sharon Carter is the Power Broker (even though she didn't expressly say it, she didn't deny it and it seems like she is). She was never confirmed dusted with the snap. She went on the lam at the end of Civil War, but 2 years pass between that and the events of Infinity War. There is a chance that she survived the snap and had been living in Madripoor (nobody could get in contact with her because she'd been hiding, similar to how Scott was assumed dusted), and either took over for the Power Broker because nobody knew who he was, or she killed him and took over for him. No way she built that kind of criminal empire in just 6 months.

3) I would have loved it if while Karli was dying in Sam's arms, she leaned up and whispered to him that Sharon was the Power Broker, setting up a season 2 where Bucky and Sam chase after Sharon.

4) Sam's Captain America outfit is FANTASTIC, and very close in design to his comic book counterpart. The fact that Bucky made sure the Wakandan designers included Red Wing makes me chuckle. The wings must have some kind of neural interface or advanced control system because during a lot of those flight and fight sequences, they almost appeared to be a part of his body, like how an actual bird would use them. A+ design.

5) I don't think wrapping up everything with a neat bow was the point of this series, as much as people wanted it to be. The Marvel universe is just that... a universe. With lots of people and storylines. But, that being said, there was a lot of character exploration and development. Sam and Bucky had their heart to heart, Flag Smashers were defeated, Isaiah got the recognition he deserved, John Walker got a beat down and had his title revoked (and ran to Val with his tail between his twitchy ass legs), and Sam took the shield. The angsty parts got their resolutions, but they also left the door open to explore other people besides the title characters.

6) John Walker... his story arc is confusing and I feel like there's some holes in there that might have come from the rewrites. Whatever PTSD he had before the serum was amplified after he took it, and stuff like that doesn't just disappear. All of the twitching and anger issues... he's a time bomb waiting to explode, just like how he did when he killed Nico. So yeah, Val made him USAgent, gave him a new identity that's his own, but he's still unhinged. He's going to be used as a weapon by Val and whatever agency she works with/for, just like how Bucky was used as a weapon for Hydra.

7) I love that they showed Bucky going back to tell Nakajima what happened to his son. The raw emotion on his face, finally confronting his past deeds as the Winter Soldier, and giving someone the answer they've so desperately wanted even though it meant likely losing one of the few friends he had. Bucky was making amends by trying to fix the things that occurred because of what he did as the Winter Soldier out of his own guilt, instead of being selfless and admitting to those directly affected what he did.

8) There are some parallels between Bucky and Walker. Bucky saved Steve from the river in CA: TWS without really knowing why, and I think John Walker saved that truck from going over the edge without really knowing why either, almost like it was a gut instinct. He may have questionable morals, but he still has some kind of morals deep inside that serum hazed brain of his from when he was a solider. Walker even dropped the shield to grab the truck, just like how Steve dropped the shield on the helicarrier.

9) Isaiah Bradley finally getting the recognition he deserves... absolutely touching, and a long time coming. Just because Isaiah wanted to remain dead doesn't mean he should be given the attention and respect he deserves for what he did.

10) Is Bucky living with Sam now? Have the Wilson's adopted him? Is this a true Uncle Buck situation? Will a (hopefully happening) season 2 have a Sarah and Bucky romance to annoy the shit out of Sam with?

[everydisneymovie]

THE LIST

Post #2

3/1/2020

Let’s get this out of the way: Every theatrically released Disney movie. A [X] near a movie means I have already seen it, but I will still be re-watching it for this project.

A [(number)] near a movie means it has been watched and reviewed so far.

Some movies were added to fit the rules, such as the High school musical movies and the March of the Penguins Movie.

Let’s do this:

1930’s

Academy Award Review of Walt Disney Cartoons [11] Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs [30]

1940’s

Pinocchio [21] Fantasia [25] The Reluctant Dragon [16] Dumbo [27] Bambi [32] Saludos Amigos [19] Victory Through Air Power [20] The Three Caballeros [17] Make Mine Music [17] Song of the South [12] Fun and Fancy Free [14] Melody Time [14] So Dear to My Heart [21] The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad [22]

1950’s

Cinderella [16] Treasure Island Alice in Wonderland [X] The Story of Robin Hood and His Merrie Men Peter Pan [X] The Sword and the Rose The Living Desert Rob Roy, the Highland Rogue The Vanishing Prairie 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea Davy Crockett, King of the Wild Frontier Lady and the Tramp [X] The African Lion The Littlest Outlaw The Great Locomotive Chase Davy Crockett and the River Pirates Secrets of Life Westward Ho the Wagons! Johnny Tremain Perri Old Yeller [X] The Light in the Forest White Wilderness Tonka Sleeping Beauty [X] The Shaggy Dog  Darby O'Gill and the Little People Zorro the Avenger Third Man on the Mountain

1960’s

Toby Tyler [X] Kidnapped Pollyanna [X] The Sign of Zorro Jungle Cat Ten Who Dared Swiss Family Robinson [X] One Hundred and One Dalmatians [X] The Absent-Minded Professor The Parent Trap [X] Nikki, Wild Dog of the North Greyfriars Bobby Babes in Toyland Moon Pilot Bon Voyage! Big Red [X] Almost Angels The Legend of Lobo In Search of the Castaways Son of Flubber Miracle of the White Stallions Savage Sam Summer Magic The Incredible Journey The Sword in the Stone [X] A Tiger Walks The Misadventures of Merlin Jones The Three Lives of Thomasina The Moon-Spinners Mary Poppins Emil and the Detectives Those Calloways The Monkey's Uncle That Darn Cat! The Ugly Dachshund Lt. Robin Crusoe, U.S.N. The Fighting Prince of Donegal Follow Me, Boys! Monkeys, Go Home! The Adventures of Bullwhip Griffin The Gnome-Mobile The Jungle Book [X] Charlie, the Lonesome Cougar The Happiest Millionaire Blackbeard's Ghost The One and Only, Genuine, Original Family Band Never a Dull Moment The Horse in the Gray Flannel Suit The Love Bug Smith! Rascal The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes

1970’s

King of the Grizzlies The Boatniks The Wild Country The Aristocats [X] The Barefoot Executive Scandalous John The Million Dollar Duck Bedknobs and Broomsticks The Biscuit Eater Now You See Him, Now You Don't Napoleon and Samantha Run, Cougar, Run Snowball Express The World's Greatest Athlete Charley and the Angel One Little Indian Robin Hood [X] Superdad Herbie Rides Again The Bears and I The Castaway Cowboy The Island at the Top of the World The Strongest Man in the World Escape to Witch Mountain The Apple Dumpling Gang One of Our Dinosaurs Is Missing The Best of Walt Disney's True-Life Adventures Ride a Wild Pony No Deposit, No Return Treasure of Matecumbe Gus The Shaggy D.A. Freaky Friday The Littlest Horse Thieves The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh A Tale of Two Critters The Rescuers [X] Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo Pete's Dragon Candleshoe Return from Witch Mountain The Cat from Outer Space Hot Lead and Cold Feet The North Avenue Irregulars The Apple Dumpling Gang Rides Again Unidentified Flying Oddball The Black Hole The London Connection

1980’s

Midnight Madness The Watcher in the Woods Herbie Goes Bananas The Last Flight of Noah's Ark Popeye The Devil and Max Devlin Amy Dragonslayer The Fox and the Hound Condorman Night Crossing Tron Tex Trenchcoat Something Wicked This Way Comes Never Cry Wolf Return to Oz The Black Cauldron [X] The Journey of Natty Gann One Magic Christmas The Great Mouse Detective [X] Flight of the Navigator Benji the Hunted Return to Snowy River Oliver & Company [X] Honey, I Shrunk the Kids [X] Cheetah The Little Mermaid [X]

1990’s

DuckTales the Movie: Treasure of the Lost Lamp The Rescuers Down Under White Fang Shipwrecked Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken The Rocketeer [X] Beauty and the Beast [X] Newsies [X] Honey, I Blew Up the Kid The Mighty Ducks Aladdin [X] The Muppet Christmas Carol [X] Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey A Far Off Place The Adventures of Huck Finn Hocus Pocus Cool Runnings [X] The Three Musketeers Iron Will Blank Check [X] D2: The Mighty Ducks White Fang 2: Myth of the White Wolf The Lion King [X] Angels in the Outfield Squanto: A Warrior's Tale The Santa Clause [X] The Jungle Book Heavyweights [X] Man of the House Tall Tale A Goofy Movie Pocahontas Operation Dumbo Drop A Kid in King Arthur's Court The Big Green Frank and Ollie Toy Story [X] Tom and Huck Muppet Treasure Island [X] Homeward Bound II: Lost in San Francisco James and the Giant Peach [X] The Hunchback of Notre Dame [X] First Kid D3: The Mighty Ducks 101 Dalmatians [X] That Darn Cat Jungle 2 Jungle Hercules [X] George of the Jungle [X] Air Bud [X] RocketMan Flubber [X] Mr. Magoo Meet the Deedles Mulan [X] The Parent Trap [X] Air Bud: Golden Receiver I'll Be Home for Christmas A Bug's Life [X] Mighty Joe Young My Favorite Martian Doug's 1st Movie [X] Endurance  Tarzan [X] Inspector Gadget [X] The Straight Story Toy Story 2 [X]

2000’s

Fantasia 2000 The Tigger Movie [X] Dinosaur [X] Disney's The Kid Remember the Titans 102 Dalmatians The Emperor's New Groove [X] Recess: School's Out [X] Atlantis: The Lost Empire [X] The Princess Diaries Max Keeble's Big Move Monsters, Inc. [X] Snow Dogs Return to Never Land The Rookie Lilo & Stitch [X] The Country Bears Tuck Everlasting The Santa Clause 2 [X] Treasure Planet [X] The Jungle Book 2  Piglet's Big Movie [X] Ghosts of the Abyss Holes [X] The Lizzie McGuire Movie Finding Nemo [X] Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl [X] Freaky Friday [X] Brother Bear The Haunted Mansion [X] The Young Black Stallion Teacher's Pet [X] Miracle Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence Home on the Range [X] Sacred Planet Around the World in 80 Days America's Heart and Soul The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement The Incredibles [X] National Treasure [X] Aliens of the Deep Pooh's Heffalump Movie [X] The Pacifier [X] Ice Princess Herbie: Fully Loaded [X] Sky High [X] Valiant [X] The Greatest Game Ever Played Chicken Little The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe [X] Glory Road Roving Mars Eight Below [X] The Shaggy Dog The Wild [X] Cars [X] Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest [X] Invincible The Nightmare Before Christmas 3D [X] The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause [X] Bridge to Terabithia Meet the Robinsons  [X] Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End [X] Ratatouille [X] Underdog [X] The Pixar Story The Game Plan Le Premier Cri Enchanted [X] National Treasure: Book of Secrets [X] Hannah Montana and Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert College Road Trip The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian Dasavathaaram WALL-E [X] Beverly Hills Chihuahua Morning Light (High School Musical) [X] (High School Musical 2) [X] High School Musical 3: Senior Year Bolt [X] Bedtime Stories [X] Jonas Brothers: The 3D Concert Experience Race to Witch Mountain Hannah Montana: The Movie Earth Trail of the Panda Up [X] Lilly the Witch: The Dragon and the Magic Book G-Force [X] Walt & El Grupo The Book of Masters Disney's A Christmas Carol Old Dogs The Princess and the Frog [X]

2010’s

Alice in Wonderland [X] Waking Sleeping Beauty Oceans Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time Toy Story 3 [X] The Sorcerer's Apprentice The Crimson Wing: Mystery of the Flamingos Secretariat Do Dooni Chaar Tangled [X] The Boys: The Sherman Brothers' Story Tron: Legacy Anaganaga O Dheerudu Lilly the Witch: The Journey to Mandolan Mars Needs Moms Zokkomon African Cats Prom Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides [X] Cars 2 Winnie the Pooh The Muppets [X] John Carter Chimpanzee Arjun: The Warrior Prince Brave [X] The Odd Life of Timothy Green Frankenweenie Wreck-It Ralph [X] Oz the Great and Powerful Wings of Life Monsters University [X] The Lone Ranger [X] Planes Frozen [X] Saving Mr. Banks [X] Muppets Most Wanted [X] Bears Million Dollar Arm Maleficent Planes: Fire & Rescue Khoobsurat Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day Big Hero 6 [X] Into the Woods [X] McFarland, USA Cinderella Monkey Kingdom Tomorrowland Inside Out [X] (ABCD) ABCD 2 The Good Dinosaur The Finest Hours Zootopia [X] The Jungle Book Tini: The Movie Alice Through the Looking Glass Finding Dory The BFG Pete's Dragon Queen of Katwe Moana [X] Growing Up Wild Dangal (March of the Penguins?) [X] L'Empereur - March of the Penguins 2: The Next Step Beauty and the Beast [X] Born in China Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales Cars 3 Ghost of the Mountains Jagga Jasoos Coco [X] Expedition China A Wrinkle in Time Incredibles 2 [X] Christopher Robin The Nutcracker and the Four Realms Ralph Breaks the Internet Mary Poppins Returns Dumbo Penguins Aladdin Toy Story 4 [X] The Lion King Maleficent: Mistress of Evil Lady and the Tramp Noelle Frozen II One Day at Disney Togo

2020’s

Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made

There are about 431 movies on this list and I have seen about 124 of them, for a total of 28.7% of all Disney movies.

This should be a nightmare.

[thebabelfiles]

Name: Hawkman

Secret Identity: Carter Hall

Species: Metahuman

Threat Level: 3 - Substantial

Abilities: Following exposure to Thanagarian Nth Metal, the Egyptian prince Khufu was gifted with the ability to reincarnate upon death, effectively becoming an immortal being. In addition, every incarnation of Hawkman has been gifted with wings, enabling flight. Throughout his past lives, Carter has become a brutal warrior, mastering many forms of medieval weaponry, most notably favouring a mace.

Weaknesses: Despite his powers, Carter is only slightly more durable than a human man in peak condition, and as such a sufficiently powerful attack would prove crippling.

Babel Protocol: Carter lacks the wing enhancements that Kendra has developed, and so his wings are pure flesh and bone. Sever the wings, and Hawkman has lost his main advantage.

Private Notes: Hawkman is not as open-minded to negotiation as his ‘soulmate’, and as such has a much higher risk of entering a combat situation.

[toniwilder]

Tony Stark and the Myth of Icarus

“Sometimes you gotta run before you can walk,” Tony Stark says before taking his newly designed suit out into the world. It’s the second time he’s harnessed the power of flight. The first time Tony flies is immediately after escaping capture in an Afghanistan cave.

It’s upon his second lift off that Tony’s able to truly revel in his work. He flies higher, higher, higher still, until his system shorts out and the ice builds on the unpainted metal. Though it’s not the same as fire to feathers, Tony topples towards the Earth in the dead weight of his iron man suit anyway.

Just before he hits the ground, his wit saves him. Tony unpacks the ice, the system restarts, and he bolts back into the air to later, somewhat safely, crash into the garage of his sleek Malibu home. He does not burn. He lives and goes on to create more suits, save more lives, and attempt to shed the skin of his reputation as “The Merchant of Death.”

While most remember the fall of Icarus acutely—the myth is named for him, after all—it’s important to remember that Icarus’ fall came at the hand of his father’s mistakes. The truth is without Deadalus’ hubris, Icarus would never have fallen in the first place, as Icarus wore wings to escape the tower where he was arrested with his father by the fault of his father’s sins.

Deadalus, Icarus’s father, was an impeccable engineer imprisoned for creating a monster. Icarus was imprisoned with him. Like Icarus, Tony is accountable for the nepotistic cruelty of his father’s legacy. Tony is held by others and himself to the complacency of staying within a system that he does not check. He flies high in the money, the lifestyle, and the women until brought down by the attack in Afghanistan. It takes a literal shot to the heart before Tony begins truly addressing the privileged state of existence he has lived in.

To understand the constant reaching of Tony Stark, it’s important to remember the man who raised him. Howard Stark is described by Tony as, “cold, calculating,” and that Howard “never told [Tony] he loved [him], he never even told [Tony] that he liked [him].” Howard’s character is established in a handful of ways: flashbacks, mentions, and the rare instances of time congruent depictions in Steve Roger’s story, for the short time that the two interlocked their timelines.

We meet Howard through the eyes of Steve, pre-serum, first, as a man creating flying cars and helping in engineering the super soldier serum application. Howard would later go on to obsess over the serum, creating the catalyst of movement in Civil War when he meddles with enhancement—trying to recreate Steve’s physical prowess through means of obsession. It ultimately leads to his death, as Howard is killed by The Winter Soldier in the middle of transporting the serums.

Howard Stark, within the canon of the MCU, helped create the atomic bomb. He also meddled in the creation of magical weapons of mass destruction (as seen in Agent Carter). Howard builds the Stark name on the back of war. Other notable accomplishments of Howard include the study of the Tesseract, which Tony later uses to create a new element to sustain his arc reactor, but we’ll get back to that later.

Spoken amid Tony’s risk-taking behaviors revolving around an end of life crisis, a post-humous video of Howard is delivered to Tony while Tony struggles to save his own life. “I built [The Stark Expo] for you. And someday, you'll realize that it represents a whole lot more than people's inventions. It represents my life's work. This is the key to the future. I'm limited by the technology of my time, but one day you'll figure this out. And when you do, you will change the world. What is, and will always be, my greatest creation…is you.”

A short unpacking can illuminate that Howard refers to his son as on level with his other engineering exploits, that he is a creation solely attributes to Howard’s existence and intellect that was made to further establish Howard’s life work and influence on the future. It doesn’t matter that perhaps Tony might not grow up to pursue the same goals as his father. As a connection to Howard, Tony must live up to what Howard has done. That means the good, and also the bad.

Later in the MCU timeline in Captain America: Civil War, Tony creates a virtual reality interface that so aggressively hijacks his hippocampus that he is later seen recovering from what he calls “Electromagnetic headaches”. Howard, in a reality that Tony recreated from memory, tells his son, “They say sarcasm is a metric for potential. If that’s true, you’ll be a great man someday.” Someday being the thing to key in on here, the furthering of a narrative that Tony has based his life upon; that he needs to live up to another man’s metric.

It’s important to note that both of these quotes occur during moments of extreme agitation for Tony. More notable in every adaptation than his performative arrogance is Tony’s lethal guilt complex. The BARF recreation of his memories allows Tony to relive memories and process his trauma… In front of an auditorium filled with people. He then funds the entire school body in their intellectual pursuits. He notes, “It helps ease my conscience.” Tony edges ever further low in his humility, closer to metaphorical drowning.

Tony’s arc in Age of Ultron centers around the idea of making himself obsolete. “Isn’t that the ‘why’ we fight, so we can end the fight?” he asks. He’s constantly fighting against societal and self-imposed limitations. “I don’t want to hear the ‘man is not meant to meddle’ medley,” he snaps. Like Deadalus’ warning, Tony constantly wavers between two extremes—falling into the ocean of not doing enough (leading to the death of his fellow avengers) or burning by his hubris (creating Ultron, signing the accords, and there undoubtedly more examples).

The myth of Icarus constantly focuses on the danger of flying too high, forgetting that the outcome of both flying high and flying low is that ultimate moment of drowning in the ocean. Tony’s high flying, his ability to continue to create and move forward as the Avenger’s futurist, brings him further into the minds’ eye of global (and soon universal) society. Tony takes more and more and more accountability for the grand reach of himself and the behavior of the Avengers. Creating Ultron to keep the world safe resulted in the destruction of Sokovia, and so Tony is forced to correct course from flying too high to crashing too low which leads to the creation of Vision, but also in the signing of the accords.

The accords are an interesting aspect of Tony’s character journey, considering at no time does Tony ever display much confidence in their efficiency/usefulness. Natasha sums it up best by describing the motion as keeping a hand on the wheel, to steer them to the least troublesome outcome available. Tony later echoes this sentiment by discussing addendums and manipulating the accords to keep their heroism freedom in tact (by placing Bucky within a psych floor instead of a prison).

Ironically, Tony’s lack of confidence in the structure and balances within the Avengers facilitates to the destruction of the Avengers just as much as Steve’s unwillingness to sign them. Tony’s guilt (a bastardization of humility) ostracizes and isolates the Avengers from one another. In Age of Ultron, Wanda tells Steve, “Ultron can’t tell the difference between saving the world and destroying it. Where do you think he gets that?” The next scene takes us immediately back to Tony.

Unlike Icarus, Tony begins to take form of his own Deadalus and creates his own legacy with the Iron Man suit. However, the Iron Man suit becomes again associated with Howard’s memory when Tony is forced to use the technology of his father. When poisoned by his first draft of the arc reactor, the one powered by palladium, Tony is forced back to his father’s notes by the suggestion of Nick Fury (who, again, relates to Tony the importance of Howard). The new element replicates the renewable energy of the tesseract, which Howard studied but could not replicate in his own life. Despite the fact Tony is able to replicate an element he did not personally study in less than a week; the action is overshadowed by Howard’s constant call back to the element being his “life’s work”. Tony notes that Howard is still able to “take him to school”.

Howard is mentioned at least once in every film that involves Tony, but our clearest vision into their family dialogue rests in the interactions between Tony and Peter Parker in Spider-Man: Homecoming. Tony constantly makes references to “breaking the cycle” and makes active attempts to assist Peter. At the same time, Tony’s actions and his guilt do lead to instances of isolation between the two. It doesn’t take a parenting genius to understand that ignoring a child, even a teenager, and pushing them away is not an apt replacement for open communication. “I just wanted to be like you,” Peter says. Tony counters, “and I wanted you to be better.” A reference to young men being ‘metrics for potential’ is worth making, along with the importance of Peter’s self-establishment of what being Spider-Man means, but that’s another essay for another time.

Now, all of this isn’t to say Tony is somehow at fault for every aspect of every antagonistic plot movement within the MCU, but Steve’s (now ironic in hindsight) statement in Age of Ultron— “Sometimes my teammates don’t tell me things.”—does illustrate how Tony tends to push conflict forward. Tony’s guilt and constant struggle with communicating with others leads him to remove systems in place that might check and balance his attempts to better himself. Think of the rest of the Avengers like a committee of supportive players and Tony’s actions of only including some, or none, of them in his grand plans (something that stems from Tony’s inability to believe that the others may support him and his tendency for introverted work practices) only furthers the intensity of his mistakes for the team.

Tony goes to Bruce in creating Ultron because he knows Bruce’s curiosity is stronger than his loyalty to the other Avengers. (Bruce’s lack of interest in limitations versus scientific progress is evident by his very self-experimentation with gamma radiation and is not worth arguing about further.) Add the fact that Tony’s PTSD was irritated by Wanda’s vision; a vision that, when induced for the other Avengers debilitates them to a point that they have to retreat to a safe house; and it’s no wonder that Tony constantly waivers in his ability to differentiate between hubris and humility.

In a quick summation, Tony Stark mirrors the constant struggle between hubris and humility as told in the tale of Icarus. Tony’s journey as a superhero constantly ricochets between the two extremes lends vulnerability to vices like alcoholism, and isolation. He struggles as one of the main progressive forces of the marvel universe, and also as one of its largest handicaps.

“The difference between ‘Iron Man’ and some other movies is that there’s no spider bite; there’s no magic bullet where a hero is born. We had to build him. We wanted people to remember that there’s a person inside that suit, and it will hurt if he falls.”

[theloniousbach]

HANGING OUT AT SMALL’S LIVE #18: 15-19 AUGUST 2022

SOME PIANO/BASS/DRUMS TRIOS AT MEZZROW’S (mostly)

JOE FARNSWORTH with Emmet Cohen and Leighton Harrell, SMALL’S JAZZ CLUB, 15 AUGUST 2022

ROBERTA PIKET/HARVIE S/BILLY MINTZ, 18 AUGUST 2022

VICTOR GOULD with Tamil Shmerling and EJ Strickland, 6 AUGUST 2022

I saw the first two streams in real time and was struck by comparisons—within the form but also JOE FARNSWORTH with Emmet Cohen this week under the drummer’s leadership with the week before under bassist Rodney Whittaker’s leadership and the HARVIE S/BILLY MINTZ partnership with ROBERTA PIKET rather than Alan Broadbent. VICTOR GOULD is part of the Black Jazz Art Collective which has a 2018 show that has been featured in the Small’s Live Archive for a long time. I will listen to this all-star lineup in relation to a Smoke Stream of the Heavy HItters. Gould’s latest album sounded rich in a preview. So I added him to the mix.

While Emmet Cohen gets my vote as the under 35 upper and coming pianist, he couldn’t quite stand up to JOE FARNSWORTH’s atypical self-indulgence. He is a goofy uncle type but also a master of both technique and taste. As this show, a tribute to Leroy Williams who took him under his wing 30+ years ago, articulated what I sensed about Farnsworth’s respect for the traditions but also a paying back to the community by getting gigs for younger players (here) and veterans. With Whittaker the week before, he and Cohen dug into Ellingtonia. This time around they honored Williams with two Cedar Walton tunes, two by Barry Harris, and the Junior Cook/Bill Hardman arrangement of Walkin’. Nothing wrong with the material which surveyed blues, Latin, a ballad, and two bop/hard bop swingers. Cohen was fluid and inventive and young Harrell shows promise and their leader supported them well. But he soloed on the first two tunes for too long and that just threw things out of balance. But I’ve come to respect Farnsworth way too much to give up on him.

The Alan Broadbent Trio is a can’t miss stream and, as capable as Don Falzone is as a fill in, they’re at full steam with HARVIE S on the bass. Their book are some rescued jazz compositions (Hank Mobley’s This I Dig of You, Lee Morgan’s Ceora), underplayed standards, som Charlie Parker. There’s Broadbent’s elegance and BILLY MINTZ’s spare Zen-ness, but Harvie S is both melodic and propulsive. They are far from tame. To hear them with ROBERTA PIKET was illuminating in at least a couple of ways. They, particularly Mintz, opened the throttle some and maybe that was for the second reason, that they are all, but particularly Mintz, appealing composers. They have a new release that features three tunes by each and they played eight of them. Mintz’s Billy’s Bop took those conventions seriously but complicated the line nicely; Flight was first subtly tuneful and then a hard swinger; and his Beautiful You was big and lush. Similarly romantic was Harvie S’s tribute to his wife Yuki’s Song. He also has the title cut of their disc, You’ve Been Warned which they all sing on, but PIket is the real singer. Her A History was for Richie Beirach and Dave Liebman is both appropriately intericate but not jarring while Master Plan had some The Bad Plus angularity before opening up. She did an interesting end of the year date with Jeong Lim Yaw and Luciana Ardmore under the name Sorceress that grew on me. She continues to.

VICTOR GOULD is another younger but seasoned player. He is sparer than Cohen but also has a rich touch. HIs tunes are appealing and have a reverence. Sir [Ron] Carter was both brooding and spiky; Dear Ralph [Peterson] began thoughtfully before opening into a nice swing. That would have been the tune of the night, but the one cover was Buster Williams’ Christina which dug into the powerful melody while breathing. Blue Lotus was more compositional with a compelling intricacy and the one unnamed tune started with Tamil Shmerling’s sinuous bass line syncing up with Gould’s left hand. EJ Strickland was often too loud in the mix and they all had moments of parallel play/tangentiality. Here though he was three-dimensional in a way that worked. Live they weren’t quite as compelling as In Our Time but that made such a good first impression that it and this band has caught my ears.

So context matters—for a veteran rhythm section supporting another pianist, for a working band, for some players beginning a collaboration. That’s as it should be for this very much in the moment music.

[sebeth]

All-Squadron #4 (Revised1/4/24)

Warning, Spoilers Ahead…

“The Day of the Dragon King!” by Roy Thomas, Rich Buckler, and Jerry Ordway.

We pick up where issue three ended.   It is the “wee small hours of the morning of December 8, 1941”, and the assembled heroes, minus Plastic Man and Phantom Lady, are heading to Pearl Harbor to aid the U.S. Military.  Plastic Man needs to check in with the FBI and FDR, Phantom Lady wants to reassure her father that she is okay.  Danette accompanies the heroes as her brother is stationed at Pearl Harbor.

We open with a group shot: Wonder Woman is flying in her invisible jet – no passengers allowed. Superman, Dr. Fate, Starman, the Spectre, and Green Lantern can fly on their own; Johnny Thunder rides on his Thunderbolt, Shining Knight and Danette are riding Winged Victory.  Green Lantern uses his ring to carry Batman and Robin.  The Spectre casts his mystical energies to carry Liberty Belle, Sandman, Doctor Mid-Nite, the Flash, Johnny Quick, and the Atom. Robotman hitches a ride by sitting on Doctor Fate!

Dr. Fate mentions he’s severely depowered due to the loss of his original power.  He must have some power left if the sheer weight of Robotman isn’t snapping his spine!

Dr. Fate remarks his former power level was attached to his original helmet. He is now wearing a half-helmet that covers the top of his head to his nose.

Johnny Thunder fangirls all over Wonder Woman: “She’s a fantastic lady, GL, with her magical plane and lasso…Y’know, we gotta get you into the Justice Society one of these days!”

Wonder Woman responds: “As one new to so-called man’s world, Johnny, I’m just proud to be part of the All-Star Squadron!”

For those unfamiliar with Golden Age era of DC Comics – Wonder Woman was never an official member – she was…wait for it…the secretary!  Don’t get me wrong, my love for the golden age characters of both DC and Marvel is limitless but a team whose roster consists of Doctor Mid-Nite, the Atom, Batman, and Sandman (not exactly powerhouses) along with Hourman and Hawkman (limited powerhouses) and the heavily trained Amazon is made the secretary?!  Why Diana didn’t tell the men exactly what they could do with the secretary role is beyond me!

Hawkman worries about Shiera Saunders, his fiancée, who is on “an archaeological dig in the Yucatan…and I know enough about Axis activity in Mexico from when I was down there before to be concerned.”

Editor’s note refers us to All-Star Comics #9, 1941.  Props for Roy Thomas for continuing to seamlessly blend in stories that are over forty years old into the current series.  Roy Thomas could teach modern writers and editors a thing or two.

Shiera Saunders didn’t become Hawkgirl until All-Star Comics #5 so she’s definitely a rookie thus Carter’s concern.

Johnny Quick fanboys over meeting the Flash.  Jay, always a class act, turns it into a mutual admiration society.

The Atom and Robotman are having an inferiority complex contest.  I vote for the de-powered Dr. Fate.  Fate’s currently as useful as a taxi, at least the Atom knows how to throw a punch, and Robotman is made of metal.

Liberty Belle asks for Doctor Mid-Nite’s assistance in discovering the origins of her abilities.

Superman’s reminiscing over the influx of costumed heroes including Wonder Woman “whom I hope to get to know a lot better.” Down boy!

 Superman notes he was the first superpowered individual to “come out” as a mystery man. Superman should always be the individual that starts the heroic age – whether it’s the Golden Age or the Modern Age.

I love the small talk between the heroes.  What else is there to do during the flight over?  Especially as this is the first meeting for many of the characters – not including the fight with Per Degaton which doesn’t allow much “getting to know you” time. Degaton’s disappearance into the time stream has muddled the events of the previous three issues for the heroes. They only know they were in San Francisco fighting…someone. A good explanation for why the heroes don’t remember Monster, Sky Pirate, King Bee, and Professor Zodiak in the future.

Batman’s not contributing to the conversation but how is Dick Grayson not gabbing with his fellow heroes?  A silent Grayson isn’t natural!

Social time is over as we arrive at Pearl Harbor.  The United States Military is rightfully nervous of any flying objects and let loose on the heroes.  The heroes land at Hickam Airfield and the military informs them of the attack on Pearl Harbor.

The Atom continues his inferiority complex only to be told that now is not the time.  It’s war time and everyone must step up – not just the people with powers.

Liberty Belle is all for storming Japan right now.  The General is all “Slow your roll, honey!” (Not his exact words, of course). 

Superman correctly points out that he could end this war in one day.  Add in the Spectre – one glimpse of the concentration camps would bring whole new levels of ‘God’s Vengeance” out to play – and we would have the shortest war – and comic series – in history.

Hawkman, JSA chairman, mentions that the group should maybe check in the President or Congress before they decide to wreak vengeance in foreign lands.  Liberty Belle’s response is “Hell, no.  Group vote for kicking ass and taking vengeance!” (Again, not an actual quote).  We get a near unanimous “aye” for kicking ass.  Hakwman, secretly wanting to kick ass and take vengeance, decides that group vote is the way to go.  Hawkman appoints Starman to watch over the United States fleet (what’s left of it) in Hawaii.  Starman also wanted to go on the vengeance mission but concedes that it’s logical for him to stay in Hawaii.  The General has this “I can’t officially approve this, but they went that way!” vibe.

The Batman, Robin, Sandman, and Flash stay in Hawaii to assist Starman.  The rest leave to pursue the Japanese Fleet.  Green Lantern realizes that the Shining Knight and Danette have disappeared from the group.

Sir Justin and Danette arrive at Wheeler Field.  Remember this is where Rod Reilly, Danette’s brother (and the original Firebrand), was stationed. 

Sir Justin warns Danette to prepare herself: “But I beg you not to expect too much…for this be war now and, in any war, in King Arthur’s day or this, men die and women weep.”

Danette informs Justin that “You don’t see me weeping…”

Sir Justin responds: “Nay, Danette Reilly…you be made of stern matter, indeed.  Yet be not ashamed of tears, if they do come…for they are the stuff that healing is made of.”

Sir Justin is my favorite character is the series at this point – brave, compassionate, chivalrous, a true knight.

Sir Justin notes that Danette is very warm to the touch.  Foreshadowing!

Danette finds Slugger Dunn, Rod’s sidekick, and fellow member of the Navy.  Slugger takes Danette to a comatose Rod.

Back to vengeance! The Spectre and Superman are unable to locate the Japanese fleet – something they find very frustrating.

The Dragon King and the Japanese military are hiding on a small island near Wake.  The military men are very uncomfortable with the Dragon King’s presence.  The King reveals that he has a plan to “render the entire Japanese Empire safe from the most powerful members of America’s so-called Justice Society!” (A.K.A The reason the war didn’t end in one day).

The Dragon King reveals that the Japanese have possession of the Holy Grail along with Hitler’s ownership of the Spear of Destiny.  The Editor’s note refers us to DC Special #29, September 1977.  In the DC Special, set in November 1940, Hitler uses the Spear to summon Valkyries to attack Washington, D.C. causing the formation of the Justice Society.

Tojo and Hitler will use their respective relics to “make both Hitler’s Fortress Europa and our own greater East Asia co-prosperity sphere totally impregnable to counterattack by America’s most powerful costumed champions!”

The Dragon King casts a spell to enslave the heroes.  The extent it affects you depends on your power level – the more powerful you are, the faster you fall.  Commence hero vs hero fight.

I take it back – Doctor Fate can, in fact, throw a punch.  Hawman responds with a mace blow to the head.

Superman, Wonder Woman, and the Spectre aren’t “mortal humans” so they are offering more resistance to the spell but can’t risk getting close to the fight.

Liberty Belle asks Doctor Mid-Nite for the “411” on the Green Lantern.  Doc mentions that pesky weakness to wood.  One driftwood headshot later and Alan is down for the count.

Libby is my second favorite character in the series.  She’s all about taking charge and kicking ass. 

Robotman, Liberty, Johnny Quick, the Atom, and Doctor Mid-Nite brawl with the Japanese soldiers.

Johnny Thunder has fallen under the spell much to the dismay of the Thunderbolt.

Dragon King muses “Dr. Fate, Green Lantern, and now Johnny Thunder have fallen prey to the power of the Grail.  Yet it is the Spectre – Superman – and to a lesser extent, Wonder Woman, who are the real keys to my plan’s success.”

1)      Johnny Thunder is not the brightest so I’m not that worried about him falling under the spell. (Sorry, Johnny, I still love you).

2)      Diana needs to step up and put an end to this disrespect.  First, she’s relegated to being a secretary and now she’s “a lesser extent”?  Come on, Diana!  Are you going to let Libby hog all the take charge and kick ass action?

The Dragon King notes that “my colleague Dr. Daka has done his part by managing to shield our escaping fleet from their heightened senses”.  The editor’s note informs us that we’ll find out more about this in a future issue.

Doctor Fate and Hawkman end up flying out of the spell zone so Fate regains his senses.  Diana seems to fall under the spell and flies after Johnny Thunder.

Hawman tricks Green Lantern to picking up the ground heroes and pursuing him in the sky.  Johnny Thunder, Wonder Woman, Superman, and the Spectre follow the fleeing group.

Everyone regains their senses once they are out of the range of the spell.  The Squadron realizes that if they get too close they will become “servants of the Axis”.

Hawman thinks that he’s “Got to head down to the Yucatan – before anything happens to Shiera!  But first, I’ve got a bombshell of my own to drop – on both the Justice Society and the All-Star Squadron!”

Next issue: “The Feathered Serpent!”

I loved this issue. An excellent (mostly) done in one. Strong character moments and interactions.  Tight continuity.  Editor’s notes.  A plot that kept moving.  I really miss the comic style before “decompression” became all the rage. All this and an explanation for why the Justice Society didn’t invade the Axis homelands and end World War II in a day.  Marvel’s Golden Age powerhouses were the Sub-Mariner, the Human Torch, and Toro. Even with that trio, the second World War could still last years. DC had Superman, Doctor Fate, the Spectre, Green Lantern, Johnny Thunder, and later the Marvel Family (Billy, Freddy, Mary) – any one of those individuals could have ended WWII within a week so an explanation was needed as to why it continued for years.

[phirephox666]

Weekly Fic Recs - POI

Wednesday has come around again and with it more fic recs. This week is Person of Interest, all Reese/Finch. There’s a few more recs this week cuz there wasn’t enough to split into two lists. Happy reading, y’all. 

Weekly Rec Lists

Sympathy for the Hellhound (and the Broken Winged Bird) by RyuuzaKochou

Reese/Finch, Supernatural Au, Bamf Reese, Bamf Finch, Angst, Humor, Complete, 24k

Finch surveyed the room again through his glasses, but it did not become any less overbright with harsh fluorescents, it did not become any less damp, cold, concreted, stuffy or stale, the chair he sat on became no less roughly wooden and he, alas, remained absolutely, totally naked.

Life choices, the grim voice of his common sense cut in. Think on them.

Two men meet under the most dire of circumstances and must rely on each other to survive - and rise. Inspired by Macx's superlative Firewall series, with a twist, and a twist, and a twist.

Blind Men and Elephants by KRyn

Reese/Finch, Humor, Complete, 24k

"It occurred to me that I have been remiss in offering you options in continuing education, Mr. Reese. Studies show that employees who are given the opportunity to sharpen their skills prove to be more content and successful in their chosen fields."

John stared at the ceiling for a moment, trying to parse the reason this particular bug had gotten under his partner's skin at this--godawful early--hour. No answers were forthcoming from the textured surface, so he sat up, tossed back the covers, and swung his legs over the side of the bed.

"I've already been to spy school, Finch."

The Most Important Meal of the Day by CaseyM

Reese/Finch, Complete, 12k

John rolled to his knees. And suddenly there was finely tailored wool right in front of him, navy with a slender gray stripe over a small but perfect ass, and Harold said, “Stay down. I’ve got this.”

John and Harold's relationship is complicated. Something as simple as coffee cake shouldn't lead to a breakthrough. But sometimes a little home cooking is all it takes.

Proximity by therienne

Reese & Finch, Friendship/Gen, Backstory, Complete, 9k

Sometimes intuition is just a form of higher reasoning we cannot yet parse.

Catch a Boat to England, Baby (Maybe to Spain) by leupagus

Reese/Finch, Pre-Canon Au, Different First Meeting, Complete, 4.3k

The car door opens and one of the soldiers slides in, almost braining Harold with the butt of his gun. "Sorry, sir," the soldier says, breathless, "I thought you were in the other car — but you weren't — so I had to jump out and—"

"Who are you?" Harold says, but the soldier's familiar; the tall one who'd looked embarrassed.

And who still looks embarrassed. "Oh. Sorry, sir. Um. John Harris. Private Harris? I'm your um, assigned unit. Sir.” He sticks out a hand.

Orbital Motion by callmecathy

Reese/Finch, Complete, 4.2k

John barely remembers what it is to be loved.

(In which some things come easily, others don't, and John thinks they're what Harold might call a 'work in progress'.)

Truth and Lies by TimelessDreamer2

Reese/Finch, Complete, 2.7k

When Finch told Reese, he would never lie to him, he meant it. Harold Finch cannot lie.

Far From the Tree by wonderble

Reese/Finch, Complete, 8.6k

Newton's law in the form of John, 9.81 m/s and gaining force until impact.

Or, Harold used to like apples. John pushes at meaningless boundaries.

Moving On by tiranog

Reese & Finch, Complete, 83k

John and Harold get a little more than they bargained for when they go out to dinner.

Blinded by the Light by tiranog

Reese/Finch, Complete, 11k

Sequel to Walking in the Dark. Mornings after are never what you expect them to be.

Part 1 of Walking in the Dark Series

Threads by KRyn

Reese/Finch, Complete, 26k

"When we were forced to abandon the Library, I managed to destroy any digital trace of our activities that might offer a means to track us, even in our new identities. Nonetheless, we left behind a treasure trove of clues that offered certain...investigatory options for Samaritan to pursue. I thought it best to keep an eye open."

In the fourth season opener, Greer queries Samaritan as to the status of its efforts to hunt down Finch and Company. The response--'ongoing.' "Threads" is a series of short stories, each chapter a stand-alone, exploring some of the ways Samaritan might attempt to draw our heroes out of hiding.

You don't like me (You just want the attention) by illuminatedcities

Reese/Finch, Tailor Finch, Project Runway Au, Crack, Complete, 3.8k

“You really think it’s that bad?” John asks, tugging at the sleeves of the pantsuit he’s been working on.

“What were you thinking, this hasn’t passed ‘bad’ all the way to ‘hideous’ yet, I’ll just put a fleece jacket over it and give it a final shove?” Shaw asks. 

Project Runway!AU.

The Raven of Odin by Dien

Reese/Finch, CIA Au, Spy Au, Complete, 8.2k

In an alternate universe, Nathan Ingram created IFT on his own, and his college friend joined the CIA instead....

The Warlord Prince of York by Azar

Reese/Finch, Reese & Finch & Carter, Black Jewels Au, Black Jewels Fusion, Complete, 18k

As the influence of Dorothea SaDiablo begins to spread through Terreile, Prince Harold Finch hatches a daring plan to save his home Territory of York. The only problem is, he'll need the help of York's most dangerous Warlord Prince to pull it off.

A Lifetime For A Day by eyeus

Reese/Finch, Bakery Au, Fluff, Complete, 9.3k

“Your Danishes appear dry, over-flaked, and uninspired,” the man informs him. “I don’t doubt the rest of your creations are in the same vein.”

John blinks. This is new; no one’s ever eviscerated him quite like this before.

Part 1 of Of Croquillants and Apple π

All I Know Is Flight by hedda62

Reese/Finch, Complete, 3.7k

Not that the Library is only a workplace. It has atmosphere and beauty and dust and shadows; it holds lingering echoes of lightning keystrokes and reluctant smiles; it's where he meant when he told Carter he wanted to go home. It's the place he works with Finch, and therefore it's like nowhere else in the world.

And now they have to leave it behind.

Miracle on 56th Street by thisstarvingartist

Reese/Finch, Fluff, Complete, 14k

The incoming Christmas season brings along with it a storm the likes of which New York City has never seen; snow stands over four feet high on every street corner, buildings two hundred stories high are invisible through the torrential downpour of snow and hail. Every business and company has been shut down for the foreseeable winter season; not a soul dares wander through the desolation.

Not one, aside from a man with a shovel and a rather cheerful Belgian Malinois.

(Or: The worst snow storm of the century lays waste to New York as Christmas season draws near, leaving its inhabitants stranded in their homes. Harold Finch suffers a severe bout of claustrophobia. John, as always, comes to the rescue.)

An Unstoppable Force by giandujakiss, iteration

Reese/Finch, Female Finch, Feelings, Complete, 28k

John is still trying to figure out this little mouse of a woman who’s hired him, who can do anything with computers and has more money than God and who can barely walk and yet somehow always manages to evade him, who won’t tell him anything about herself but who says she knows everything about him – and he knows that can’t be true, it can’t –

When he realizes, she’s actually attracted to him.

Snow Days by Jo (jmathieson)

Reese/Finch, Fluff, Snowed In, Friends to Love, Complete, 21k

During New York's 'Blizzard of the Century', Finch feels trapped in his own home. Reese and Bear walk across New York in the blizzard to come to Finch's rescue. New York is without power, so the machine is blind. At Finch's house, Finch and Reese talk, play chess, and talk some more. They each share some of their past, and some of their feelings.

A More Conventional Life by x_art

Reese/Finch, Kid Fic, Complete, 17k

Because children changed everything. They always had and they always would.

Discretion by JinkyO

Reese/Finch, Slice of Life, Friends to Lovers, Complete, 34k

After Finch and Reese are forced into hiding, Professor Whistler and Detective Riley try to make a life together.

An AU Canon Divergent imagining of the events between Season 3 and Season 4.

It's a Dog's Life by manic_intent

Reese/Finch, Fantasy Au, Complete, 9k

Six months, no yellow cape, and one and a half thankfully harmless gun accidents after, Harold and Nathan had settled into a routine. The Machine would send them a number, and Harold would try his damnedest to resolve it through a computer. Usually, this endeavour would end in failure, because despite the advent of technology, the idiocy of certain members of humanity was so fundamental that not even computers could provide any sort of real solution.

This meant that Nathan often had to intervene. Sometimes they hired help: which had worked out with varying degrees of disaster. Sometimes they tipped off the police. Sometimes Nathan and Harold ventured out, bickering all the time, and the success rate of this latter tactic was usually at around 24%. It also usually served to further erode Harold’s already falling opinion of humanity.

Machine Language by manic_intent

Reese/Finch, Cyborg Au, Sci Fi Au, Complete, 8k

Snow had rambled halfway through the brief before he realized that John wasn't paying him any attention: as he trailed off, Kara's gaze jumped from Snow to John, then to the inoffensive, quiet-looking middle-aged man who had followed Snow into the briefing room only to sit in a corner without a word.

"Something on your mind, Agent?" Snow asked irritably.

"Sorry, Mark," John drawled. "It's just that I've never seen a cybrid before."

Dangerous If Unbound by astolat

Reese/Finch, Finch & Ingram, Telepathy, Dom/Sub Au, Complete, 24k

The Texas sun beating down was merciless, almost a physical weight on his shoulders. John couldn't move even to change the angle: the collar was tight, the cuffs were tight, and the chains had been pulled to their limits.

Hamartia (the hero's fatal flaw) by astolat

Reese/Finch, Kid Fic, Complete, 15k

"We're not looking to make friends, Harold," John said. "We want our neighbors to classify us and then avoid us. Being the scandalous gay couple down the street is a good option."

Walking in the Dark by tiranog

Reese/Finch, Complete, 16k

Even superheroes get lonely. John Reese asks his enigmatic partner to accompany him to a ball game.

Technical Support by astolat

Reese/Finch, Different First Meeting, Complete, 14k

The IFT Plaza security team wasn't what John would have called the brightest stars in the firmament. (Written for the tech support AU prompt.)

Home Run by astolat

Reese/Finch, Backstory, Complete, 3k

They caught the 7 train heading to Flushing. Looking around at the crowd, dotted with caps and shirts and grown men wearing face paint, John raised an eyebrow. "I thought you weren't a Mets fan, Finch."

Harold blinked at him. "I'm not, Mr. Reese," he said.

Love And Marriage by astolat

Reese/Finch, Humor, Complete, 4.7k

"Harold," John said, "are you asking me to marry you for your money?"

"Well, Mr. Reese," Harold said, "given how much of it you've spent already, I don't really see how you can complain." 

[motherboxing]

Hypothetical: Sam Wilson visits or is retconned into being in the DCU. Is he a Thanagarian? Is he retconned into being a cousin race of Thanagarian Falcon People? Is he a human and do the Hawks call him a Pretender? Now that I’ve thought about it I have to know.

This, I think, would have to depend a lot on how much of the original character of Sam Wilson you wanted to preserve and what kind of story you were looking to tell about him. You could certainly do a serial-numbers-filed-off Sam Wilson who’s Thanagarian, but there’s no real reason you’d HAVE to play it that way if you didn’t want to. Carter and Kendra fly with wing devices and harnesses and they’re not Thanagarian (they don’t, despite DC’s insistence on sending them to Thanagar for no reason a bunch of times, have any connection to Thanagar that really makes sense or has been presented consistently, but are not typically referred to as “pretenders”*, though Thanagarians can usually tell that they aren’t Thanagarian**). Adam Strange flies with a jetpack; Sam Wilson’s wings are jet-powered, so he could just as easily be from Rann as from Thanagar if the selling point for making him an alien is the device he flies with.

THAT BEING SAID, there’s a number of things that would make Sam Wilson make sense as a Thanagarian beyond the wing motif. His military background and ability to communicate with birds certainly fit with other Thanagarian characters’ backgrounds and abilities! Also, hawks are only one of the birds that Thanagarians are weirdly fixated on as cultural iconography; they have political assassins who are called Ravens, Katar and Shayera give each other the nicknames “Peacock” and “Magpie”, etc, so for there to be a Thanagarian called the Falcon makes sense!

What I’m ultimately saying is the sky’s the limit! Haw haw. But seriously I think it would depend on the kind of story you’d want to tell around his character.

*After all, Carter and Shiera refined Nth metal for flight use BEFORE the Thanagarians! As Khufu and Chay-Ara, they found a crashed alien ship made of the stuff, because the Thanagarians were at that point building spaceships out of it but not using it for individual flight rigs, not having figured out how. Khufu and Chay-Ara figured out the personal flight thing, and refined it over their subsequent lifetimes. THEN, according to post-Crisis/New Earth continuity (I think) Katar Hol’s father travelled to Earth as a Thanagarian scout decades in advance of an invasion, and basically stole Carter’s idea for personal flight rigs and designed the Wingman Corps around it. 

**HOW they can tell is another matter! In the most recent stories I’ve read that make note of the physical similarities between Thanagarians and humans at all, there’s some stuff about Thanagarians being able to SMELL a difference, which… uh… okay?

[architectnews]

A new US capital city and my coronavirus experience

New US capital city, coronavirus experience architecture, American Architects, President Biden Building News

A new US capital city and my coronavirus experience

Historic US Election Review of Architectural Aspects: Architectural Column by Joel Solkoff, PA, USA

Feb 9, 2021

++++

A new US capital city and my personal coronavirus experience

This is the official residence of Vice Presudent of the United States Kamala Harris. The residence is known as the Naval Observatory or the Admiral’s House. It is located on the other side of town from the White House—deep into Northwest Washington along embassy row.

Embassy Row has rarely been where the political action is in the Distict of Columbia. Not until 1973 did any siginificant move take place toward providing the vice president with an official residence. It is entirely possible that Kamala Harris will not move into her official residence designed by Victorian architect Leon E. Dessez (1858-1918). The chimney is in need of repair plus she, her husband and family already have a house. in DC. Photo in the public domain.

The official (“ceremonial”} office of the Vice President is next door to the White House at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building designed in a style locals refer to as Ulysses S. Grant Gothic. In reality Vice President Harris will rarely use her official office because she is provided an actial but unofficial office at the West Wing of the White House next to the Oval Office. Photo in the public domain.

President Joe Biden at the Resolute Desk in his Oval Office at the West Wing of the White House. Vice President Kamala Harris is a hop, skip and jump away. Just as the vice president of the United States does not live in her official home nor work in her offficial office, so the government’s work does not take place in the reality we regard as business as usual.

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Photo by Mathew G. Bisanz, courtesy Wikipedia

Consider the Department of Health and Human Services, (HHS) the most important government agency involved with the coronavirus pandemic in the US. The Department is not simply a building. This Washingon, D.C. building, the Hubert Humphrey Building, houses a Department with an annual budget of $1.4 trillion houses offices throughout the US. While the Secretary of HHS is based in DC, the Centers for Disease Control are based in suburban Atlanta, Georgia: Photo in the public domain

The Department of Health and Human Services’ Centers of Medicare and Medicaid Services are based in Baltimore, Maryland: Photo in the public domain

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Feb. 8, 2021

US Architecture under President Biden Part V

Joel Solkoff’s Column Vol. VII, Number 2

“Video games exert a powerful pull in this age of the pandemic. Their fantasy urban landscapes provide us with a stage for travel; their mechanics exploit action and emotion to weave intricate stories that no other artform is capable of telling. They allow us to go deeper, to be cast adrift, to dive into texture. And under successive lockdowns, and with museums and galleries shuttered, ”

— “Unreal Cities” by En Liang Khong, Times Litrary Supplement, February 5, 2021 [Consider a subscription: Subscriptions | Subscribe to The TLS (the-tls.co.uk)]

##### “The cities and mansions that people dream of are those in which the finaly live.”

–Lewis Mumford, my favorite architectre critic and author if The City in History.

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“Let us add our own work and prayers to the unfolding story of our great nation. If we do this, then when our days are through, our children and our children’s children will say of us: ‘They gave their best. They did their duty. They healed a broken land.”’

—President Joe Biden, Innaugural Address before the West Wing of the US Capitol January 20, 20001 #### “The Senate Banking Committee approved the nomination of Marcia Fudge to lead the Department of Housing and Urban Development on a 17-7 vote Thursday [February 3rd].”

— Reported by Katy O’Donnell, Politico. “Appearing before the committee last week, Marcia Fudge called on Congress to dramatically increase funding for housing programs, alarming Republicans who fear an ‘activist HUD’.”

Testimony by Rep. Marcia Fudge at her confirmation hearing to be Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, February 3, 2001, on C-Span, government network

####

DATELINE – Monday, February 8,.2021.”

In my previous column, I wrote: “Increasingly complicated has become my flight from rural Lycoming County. (where I have lived for the past two years) to New York City” My flight is/was to save my 73 year old grandfather paraplegic life from the coronavirus. Complications continue.

Photo by me of my first roommate at this 320 bed nursing home and physical rehabilitation center:

The Lycoming County I escaped has become a major hot spot. By comparison the City of New York is considerably safer. Even so, the major development is three weeks ago I tested positive for coronavirus. I had a mild case of it. First, I had two IV sessions of antibiotic drips.

Yes, the virus is a virus and not directly responsive to antibiotics. However, the virus does attack the lungs and the antibiotics helped protect my lungs from pnemonia if it had developed. Then I had IV injections of vitaimins. After two negative coronavirus tests, I was given the first Pfizer vaccine two weeks ago. A week from today, I am scheduled to receive my second vaccine shot. Then, I will return home–it is not home unless one misses it as I do–to the beautiful mountains of Lycoming County Pennsylvania.

On February 16th, I plan to take a taxi from the Maxicana Cab Company (next door to the NYC Regal Heights Nursing Home) to the new Moynihan Train Hall in Manhattan; then, a two and a half hour train ride to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania’s state capital. Finally to Williamsport (home) county center of Lycoming and location of 19th Century architectural treasures.

Photo by me

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President Biden’s inauguration plus

Less than a month ago, Donald Trump was President of the United States.

Since then, Trump (while still sitting President of the United States) urged a mob to march on the Capitol of the United States and interrupt the Constituionally mandated formal selection of Joe Biden to be President. Never before has the phrase “I weep for the fate of my Republic” had more meaning.

Screen shot by me of the Capitol where I lived from 1973 to 1990 six blocks from this spot.

Increasing it is clear that you and I (no matter where we happen to be) are no longer merely in one place. Here in a nursing home in Queens, New York the multiple televisions are constantly turned on showing to my felllow residents Washington and London, Yemen and Uganda–here there and everywhere.

The somewhere else that persues me is Washington DC.

I may be looking out my nursing room window and seeing the skyline of Manhattan….

Photo by me

…but I am simultaneously in my mind’s eye looking at the Capitol City of the United States. Indeed, frequently, I take out my virtual drawng pad and redesign Washington DC. because, as I will be arguing in this and (perhaps more clearly in future columns) that we need a new capital. Perhaps given the seeming omnipotence of the Internet we already have one.

President Reagan inauguration: Photo courtesy Wikipedia

President Ronald Reagan’s Inauguration on January 20, 1981 from the west side of the Capitol of the United States marked a distinct physical change from all previous Presidents since the Capitol of the United States formally moved to Washington DC from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1800.

When the US’ third President Thomas Jefferson was inaugurated on March 4, 1801, Jefferson faced east as was intended by Pierre Charles L-Enfant, who in 1792 designed the city.

At noon, January 20, 2021 President Joe Biden facing west swore to uhold the Constitution of the United States and “defend it against all enemies foreign and domestic.”

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Four years before Reagan broke the mold designed by L’Enfant and codified by Jefferson, I walked six blocks from my apartment on East Capitol Street to attend the Inauguration of Jimmy Carter. I walked [I could walk then] past the Library of Congress to my left, past the Supreme Court on my right into the glorious grounds designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted (who also designed New York City’s Central Park) then into the massive parking lot in front of the Capitol of the United States.

US Capitol buildings layout map: Map courtesy US Capitol Visitors Center. The west is to the left; east right.

Often late at night, I walked that walk from 1973 when I arrived in DC as a permanent resident until 1990 when I left to take a job as a technical writer for a telecommunications company in Durham, North Carolina.

For noon on January 20, 1976, this was my destination:

President Jimmy Carter oath of office: Photo in the public domain

President Jimmy Carter takes the oath of office, the last President to do so from the east side of the Capitol looking across from the top of Capitol Hill to the city of L”Enfant’s design. Instead, four years later President Reagan established a precedent which continued on January 20th when President Biden swore to uphold the Constitution of the United States looking down the hill in the direction of the White House.

Pierre Charles L’Enfant layout:

In 1789, Pierre Charles L’Enfant (then a military engineer in the Continental Army) wrote to President Washington asking him to design a federal city.

Washington told L’Enfant to chill. The Constitution had just been ratified. There was no agreement regarding regarding a location for a permanent capital.

Wikipedia notes, “When Jefferson ran into Hamilton at President Washington’s residence in New York City in late June 1790, Jefferson offered to host a dinner to bring Madison and Hamilton together. Subsequently, a compromise was reached, in which the northern delegates would agree to the southerly Potomac River site, and in return, the federal government would assume debts accumulated by the states during the American Revolutionary War.”

In 1791, Washington gave L’Enfant a commission to design DC. L’Enfant’s Plan, not clearly legible here, contains two buildings: Congress Hose and The White House (then before the British burnt it in the War of 1812 and it was repainted white) known as The President’s House.

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Publishable in accordance with YouTube guidelines. Think of this now dated video as a necessary part of the preparation planning process for architects who must get involved with President Biden’s First 100 Days plans for housing the most vulnerable of our people.

Please start thinking of President Joe as your client.

Global architects. Strut your stuff!

#####

My editors beckon: “All right, stop writing, Joel.”

Isabelle Lomholt and Adrian Welch, Editors at e-architect:

“Good night and good luck,” as Greensboro, North Carolina born Edward R. Morrow, my hero, used to say.

My hero Edward R.Murrow broadcast this 1960 example of classic investigative reporting.This documentary was broadcast on Thanksgiving Day where I watched it at my maternal grandmother’s apartment in Brooklyn. I was 12 years old at the time.Murrow’s documentary shaped my future career in measurable ways. Note the hideous conditions of farm worker housing. Little effort would find in Florida and Canada- where inadequate housing for migrant workers in danger of spreading the Corona virus have been reported. Think Black Lives Matter when you hear the words of a grower Murrow quoted: “We used to own our slaves. Now we just rent them.”

Embedded under terms of YouTube’s license.

My parents idolyzed Frank Sinatra known affectionately as chairman of the board. Sinatra introduces the song with this: “We will now due the national anthem. But you do not need to rise.”

jes243@caa.columbia.edu

2019: East Third Street Williamsport, PA, US 17701

Please feel free to phone me at US 570-772-4909

Copyright © 2021 by Joel Solkoff. All rights reserved.

— Joel Solkoff, US Editor, e-architect.UK https://ift.tt/2MNKOsi Joel Solkoff, New York City, New York, USA

Please feel free to phone me at US 570-772-4909 or send an e-mail jsolkoff@gmail.com Copyright © 2021 by Joel Solkoff. All rights reserved.

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[leftovercakecrumbs]

Okay so I’ve been wanted to draw out my own YJ dream team, but the drawing process takes forever so I’ll just write it out for now. YJ pics thus far can be seen here. Feel free to look through this post, but it’s mostly for organizational purposes so everything’s in one place…

The team’s initially started by Damian (who acts as leader…for now) and a few others, but later the League takes over and puts in some regulations so not every super powered kid the team comes across can join (”It’s for safety reasons” says Batman). Members are a mix of kid characters who’ve existed pre and post reboot, alive and dead characters, developed and having little to no development. A definite mixed bag. Also some personal interpretations of characters which is a given.

A lot more info about the team under the read more [13 members in total+7 allies]:

Note: sidekick and protege are similar, though for the sake of this list sidekick means that they work alongside the person stated, while protege means that they are being trained by said person

Requirements for joining

Have to be under a hero’s mentorship or recommended by a League member

Minimum 3 years experience in the field

Has to agree to go through further evaluation and background checks to join because the last thing the team needs is a potential mole or double agent.

The official roster of members [in order of initiation]:

Damian Wayne [15] | Robin | Leader of YJ and a Founding Member | Son and sidekick of Batman

Powers/Abilities: He’s pretty much Batman, but smaller.

Strengths: Very intelligent, determined, ambitious | Weaknesses: Loves to gloat, stubborn, argumentative

Likes: Proving people wrong, his pets, spending time with Dick | Dislikes: Being wrong, people questioning his authority

Lian Harper [16] | Speedy | Second in Command [becomes leader after Damian later hands over the position] and Founding Member | Daughter and sidekick to Arsenal

Powers/Abilities: Expert marksman and weapons expert, advanced deductive reasoning

Strengths: Compassionate, resourceful, works well under pressure | Weaknesses: Altruistic, has a guilt complex

Likes: Sparring, spending time with her dad, cooking | Dislikes: Failing others, being alone, rats

Milagro Reyes [14] | Green Lantern | Founding Member | Sister of Blue Beetle [Jaime Reyes] and sidekick protege of Guy Gardner 

Powers/Abilities: Green Lantern Ring: Allows her to create constructs from her imagination.

Strengths: Courageous, strong morale, empathetic | Weaknesses: Runs on emotion, tends to be impulsive, confrontational

Likes: Hanging out with friends, writing music, playing pranks | Dislikes: Loud mouths [Guy’s an exception], cowards, the color yellow

Iris “Irey” West II [15] | Impulse | Founding Member | Daughter and sidekick to Flash 

Powers/Abilities: Speed force [superhuman speed, agility, durability, etc.]

Strengths: Quick to react, fast learner, works well under pressure | Weaknesses: Somewhat scatterbrained, lacks patience

Likes: Candy, adventure, teasing her friends | Dislikes: Being underestimated, being seen as stupid, bugs [ALL bugs]

Jai West [15] | Velocity | Founding Member | Son and sidekick to Flash

Powers/Abilities: Superhuman strength, speed force conduit

Strengths: Cool headed, analytical, team player | Weaknesses: Workaholic, can’t relax to save his life, overthinks

Likes: Video games, fighting crime, hard candies | Dislikes: Being useless, being bored, tea

Jon Samuel Kent [12] | Superboy | Son and sidekick to Superman

Powers/Abilities: Kryptonian Physiology [superhuman strength, speed, durability, flight, etc.]

Strengths: Intelligent, team player, compassionate | Weaknesses: Impulsive at times, sensitive

Likes: Having down time, hanging out with his family | Dislikes: Bad attitudes, being the butt of the joke

Cynthia “Sin” Lance [16] | White Dove | Daughter and sidekick of Black Canary, protege of Huntress

Powers/Abilities: Expert level martial artist; marksman

Strengths: Works well under pressure, cool headed, resourceful | Weaknesses: Aloof, lacks social skills, only works with others if she’s absolutely needed

Likes: Spending time with her mom, tea, shopping | Dislikes: Confrontation, working with others, people forcing friendships on her

Maxine “Max” Baker [15] | Little Wing | Daughter and sidekick to Animal Man, tag-along kid to Vixen

Powers/Abilities: Avatar of The Red, allows her to use raw red power and can gain animal abilities/turn into any animal

Strengths: Powerful, thinks outside of the box, always honest | Weaknesses: doesn’t always take things seriously, tends to run off and do her own thing, risk taker

Likes: Goofing off, girls, trying new things | Dislikes: Playing it safe, things not going as she planned

Arthur Curry III [16] | Ocean Prince | Son and protege of Aquaman and Queen Mera

Powers/Abilities: Atlantean physiology [ enhanced abilities, superhuman strength]

Strengths: Confident, charismatic, skilled fighter | Weaknesses: Somewhat easy to fool [with flattery], short tempered, bratty

Likes: Being the center of attention, showing off, kicking ass | Dislikes: Being made a fool off, having his patience tested, anyone who bothers Cerdian

Cerdian [15] | Son of Tempest, protege of Queen Mera

Powers/Abilities: Atlantean physiology and magic

Strengths: Observant, very skilled and powerful,always follows orders | Weaknesses: hesitant, lack of agency

Likes: morning swims, Arthur, human foods | Dislikes: Deep sea creatures, having to lead, being teased

Amistad Ervin [16] | Soaren | Son and protege of Rocket, godson and unofficial sidekick of Icon

Powers/Abilities: Inertia belt which gives him power over kinetic energy [just like his mom’s!]

Strengths: Courageous, practically fearless, intelligent | Weaknesses: Judgmental [pretty black and white view of the world], needlessly brutal, prefers to work alone

Likes: Looking good, beating up bad guys, cute girls | Dislikes: “Idiots,” back talk, being seen as a bad guy

Colin Wilkes [15] | Abuse | Under the supervision of Batman, no official mentor

Powers/Abilities: Bane-esque venom that allows him to transform into a more superhuman form.

Strengths: Mediator, observant, open-minded | Weaknesses: not knowledgeable about the world around him, paranoid

Likes: his bear Rory, going on adventures, making friends | Dislikes: being taken advantage of, being abandoned

Nell Little [15] | Spoiler | Sidekick to Batgirl

Powers/Abilities: An elite athlete and acrobat, competent detective skills

Strengths: Charismatic, resourceful, creative | Weaknesses: Doesn’t work well under pressure, lacks experience compared to the rest of the team

Likes: Gymnastics, dancing, a mission going well | Dislikes: Stress, not performing well, the dark

Allies of YJ [were unable to become official members for one reason or another, but are allowed called on for additional help]:

Maya Ducard [16] | Nobody

Reason for Rejection: Given the chance to join by Damian but refused to be a member due to her dislike over the idea of being watched over and investigated by the League. She took the offer to be an ally however due to her loyalty to him.

Mia “Maps” Mizugochi [15] 

Reason for Rejection: Recommended by Damian but due to her lack of hero experience and mentor, she was rejected but was more than eager to accept the offer to help YJ whenever she can.

Cliff Baker [18]

Reason for Rejection: He’s technically dead [but his “spirit” lives on through The Red]. Somewhat acts as Maxine’s spiritual support and keeps her powers in check. 

Rani Carter [16] 

Reason for Rejection: Was given consideration to join from a recommendation from Booster Gold but he later retracted it after she ended up causing trouble. 

Ramsey Robinson [17] | Manhunter Jr.

Reason for rejection: Lacks actual experience and his mother didn’t approve of him going into a hero team where she couldn’t regularly watch over him. 

Traya Sutton [15]

Reason for Rejection: Lacks hero experience and isn’t under any kind of mentorship. However her intelligence and computer smarts make her valuable to YJ [Also Jai has a big ‘ol crush on her].

Klarion [???]

Reason for Rejection: Aside from the obvious, he’s only an ally because he’s somewhat “loyal” to Batgirl [Stephanie Brown] and in turn Nell and Damian…on a good day.

Mar’i Grayson [16]

Reason for Rejection: She’s currently displaced in time so there isn’t much legitimate and provable info on her at the moment. For now she can only be an ally until further notice.

Overseers/”Den Mothers” [watch over the kids, regularly check on them, gives them mission reports and evaluations, etc. etc.]:

Dick Grayson | Nightwing: Directs and plans training sessions, gives mission reports, gives out evaluations, embarrasses Damian, etc.

Chris Kent | Nightwing: “Den Mother”; lives in the base with the team, attempts to keep the peace, big-brother figure

Dinah Lance | Black Canary: Everything Dick does, acts as the main trainer, is the counselor, the only reason Sin is still involved with the team

[justagirlwritingherlilheartout]

Miss Grant’s daughter (2)

Summary: (crossover between Arrow and Supergirl) Kitty is the daughter of the one and only Queen of media herself, Cat Grant. What will happen when a small town girl from Europe moves to a city where aliens and superheros are nothing special? Will she find love? Will she discover the new world? Will she finally get rid of her secret? 

2. You must be joking little human

"She sounds amazing." Kara smiled as she payed for  the the lunch. "Lets go get her then''  After Kara and Carter said bye to Winn they found themselves at the airport. Carter had been smiling the whole drive there so Kara couldn't help to be happy for the little guy as well. After about half an hour Kara's phone rang. ''Hello miss Grant, everything okay?'' Kara asked turning away from Carter for a second and waited for her bosses response and caught herself nodding, before realizing that she can not see her. ''Yes of course, I will bring both of them to the Restaurant.'' A small pause again as Cat asked her how her son is doing and a goodbye before hanging up.  Kara had just been putting her phone in to her purse when she heard a scream that sounded exactly like Carter. That made her turn around in less than a second and was just about to tear her civil clothes of and appear as Supergirl. As soon as she realized that it was a scream of joy she let out a sigh full of relief and smiled at how Carter ran towards a young girl who let go of all of her bags and suitcases and ran towards the little boy and hugging him.  Kara let out a small giggle as she started to walk towards the siblings. While making her way there she let herself actually see miss Grants daughter. She looked very young, probably because of the joyful smile on her face. She had long wavy hair of same color as Carters, which was held back by the glasses that were resting on the crown of her head. She was wearing light make up, just black winged eyeliner and mascara but she looked absolutely stunning while at the same time looked just like a normal girl next door.  Kara resized that she had been just standing there looking at the two without saying anything, just  as Miss Grants daughter looked up, straight at her and smiled kindly after letting go of her brother.  ''Hey, you must be Carters babysitter, I'm Kitty, his sister.'' The girl smiled and offered Kara her hand. ''Oh no, I'm your mom's assistant, Kara. It's so nice to meet you. Carter has been telling me such amazing things about you.'' Kare responded taking her hand and shaking it, what she thought was gently. ''Wow, quite a shake you've got there.''Kitty smiled pulling her hand way after the very firm handshake. ''Oh I'm so sorry, I've been doing polities.'' Kara said but mentally slapped herself for squeezing her too hard and saying she has been doing polities. Wow Kara, real  smooth, real smooth. ''It's fine, you'll see by the time I get all those bags home I'll have stronger grip than the Superman himself.'' Kitty smiled at Kara before looking down at her brother. ''Hey will you help me with my baggage?'' Carter nodded quickly before running back to her bags and grabbed one of the smaller ones. And Kitty followed him and tried to grab the rest  of the bags but failed and decided to take it slow and only grab two of them at the time.  ''Here I'll help you.'' Kara rushed over and easily grabbed the rest of them and carried them towards the car with the Grant siblings following her. ''Wow dude, you weren't kidding when you said you were working out.'' Kitty breathed out having difficulties carrying just two of them.  While Kara searched for another excuse Kitty caught up and started to walk beside her. ''Hey I'm just joking, i think it's bad-ass you can carry so  much of my stuff at once.'' And that left Kara with a smile on her face, because growing up here on earth wasn't always easy. She used to get ether in trouble or got teased  for being strong and over different from the other kids.  ''Here's our ride.'' Kara smiled as they reached it. During the whole ride Carter was telling his sister about Supergirl and how she saved him and how she saves the city everyday. ''Wait did mum move or did i just forget where we live?'' Kitty asked as she realized she doesn't recognize the path they were on. ''Oh no, sorry i forgot to tell you, miss Grant called just before you arrived and asked me to bring you to a restaurant where you'll meet up with your grandma, who came to the city today.'' Kara explained. ''Oh.. okay.'' Kitty respond looking just as disappointed as her mother did when she told Kara that Mrs. Grant is coming to town.  ''Is everything okay?'' Kara asked looking concerned. ''Ah yeah, of  course, don't worry about it.'' Kitty put on a smile that was clearly  fake. ''C'mon you can tell her, she is my friend.'' Carter said and continued before his sister could stop him. ''My grandma doesn't agree that Kitty lived with her dad in Europe and she doesn't really like what she is studying and she doesn't like tha-''  ''Carter that's enough.'' Kitty snapped, somehow not sounding mean but hurt. ''Oh I'm so sorry'' Kara said laying her hand on Kitty's shoulder trying to comfort her.  ''It's fine, really, but thank you.'' The girl faked a smile again. ''We're here.''Carter  announced, got out of the car  as soon as it stopped and waited for the two girls outside.  ''Hey mom!'' Carter walked in to the restaurant and hugged his mum.  ''Hey darling, is Kitty with you?'' She asked and carter nodded and shook his grandmothers hand. ''You still don't have a strong grip do you?'' The grandmother joked without anyone finding any humor in it. ''Kitty! How was the flight?'' Miss Grant asked as she stood up and walked over to her daughter and hugged her tightly. ''Hey mum, it was good, just long as hell.'' Kitty smiled happy that she can actually hug her mother and not just talk over the phone.  ''Katy! What kind of language is that? Is that a way a lady should talk?'' Mrs. Grant said before the reunited mother and daughter duo even let go of one another.  ''It's Kitty, not Katy.'' The girl responded ignoring the second part of the question. ''It's nice to see you too.'' She added with impressive calmness in her voice, earning an approval pat on the back from her mother.  ''Here are your keys, Miss Grant.'' Kara said holding out the keys for her boss to take.  ''Thank you Kira, you can go back to the company and just take the calls for the rest of the day.'' Cat said leading her two kids to the table. ''Of course.''  Kara said and turned around. ''It was nice meeting you Kara.'' Kitty smiled at her making her turn around and sending a small wave at Kitty. 

Back at the Office Kara got back to work but was soon visited by Winn who wanted to know everything about miss Grants daughter. "Like Carter said she is very kind and she adores her family. Well except for her grandma, miss Grants mother, who, in my opinion no one can really likes." Kara explained remembering how funny and nice Kitty was.  "What does she look like? Does she look like miss Grant?" Winn interrogated his friend. "No i don't think she does. She has long Brown way hair, like Carter but way longer. And its smells pretty nice as well, coconut i think." Kara realized she drifted of by the look on Winn's face so she let out a nervous laughter. "Haha sorry, Alien nose. She has Brown Eyes with a bit of Green around the iris'. She is pretty a little short her than me and she has the most infectious laugh." She finished, smiling. "Careful Kara you sound like you wanna date her." Winn teased. "What? No. Even if i would want to I'm done dating my Boss' children, you know what happened with Adam." She cringed and got back to work. "Whatever you say." Winn chucked and walked back to his desk.  The Grants family dinner was going pretty well so far, as far as Kitty was considered. She hasn't spend a whole lot of time with this side of her family. Only on special occasions, when  she came here and spend time with them, however never more than just a couple of days, which were mostly holidays. Nonetheless she loved it here, well she loved it back home in Slovenia as well. She always considered herself a small town girl but she had to admit big cities had their charm as well.  "So Katy how long are you planing on staying here?" Her grandmother asked shaking her out of her daydream. "I'm planing on staying here for good. I think. I mean I'll see how things go and i guess just go with the flow." Kitty answered not bothering with correcting her anymore.  "Go with the flow? What about having a plan? A career? That's not how I've thought you." Her grandmother responded with disgust in her voice. Kitty had to use all of her will power not to roll her Eyes and say well of course not, you thought me to give power to the men and pushed your political views on me and jelled at me when i dared to disagree. But she knew better and just kept it to herself. "I for one am very happy you have decided to finally come here and stay with us." Cat smiled squeezing her daughters hand with love written all over her face.  "Thank yo-" Kitty was cut off by a stream of red light what seems like Fire crushing just about an meter besides her head.  There were screamed from every direction and she looked towards the source of the Fire and saw a huge inhuman Man standing there. He looked more like a daemon than a person. His skin was letter like and red-ish color.  "Everybody give me your money!" The thing yelled, his voice was even Scarier than his appearance. Another we've of screamed and cries filled her ears. Instantly the first thing she did was grab Carters hand and pushed him behind her, soon she got her mother to get behind her as well, surprisingly she didn't object probably due to the shock of having a flame thrown almost at hear head. "I said give me your money!" He ordered again, his deep voice seemed to Shake the walls of the restaurant as everybody started to pull money out of their pockets and purses. Back at the Office Kara got a phone call from her sister Alex who worked for the Organization that protected earth from Aliens or anyone who want to cause it harm. She informed her that there was an attack in the restaurant she was at a couple of hours ago.  Kara ripped her civil clothes of and flew towards the restaurant wearing her red Cape and blue uniform with a S on her chest.    "You!" The creature in red ordered pointed to a probably 15 year old boy. "Come here!"  The boy with blonde hair and tears in his Eyes shook his head as his mother wrapped her arm around him in a protective manner. "Come here or i will fry you and your mother to death. Oh but I'll make it slow and painful." The creature said as it began so somehow make a ball of Fire thin his hand out of thin air. The frightened boy took a step forward but soon let out a loud cry and ran back to his mother.  "You little idio-" the thing said ready to throw the flame at the poor family, but was cut of by Kitty stopping forward.  "Don't!" She said taking slow step forward, using all she had to stop her hand from shaking but kept her voice calm and determinant. "Oh we have a volunteer?" The thing left out a scary laugh. Kitty could hear her mother let out a small cry but keep put because she knew she has to be there for Carter. "How about you let those people go?" She started, she knew she wont be able to do anything but distract him till the police or even that Supergirl Carter loves so much shows up and saves everybody. But till then all she had to do was to Jeep him talking. Shouldn't be that difficult, right? "You must be joking little human. Or are you just that stupid?" He said with his laugh shaking the walls again.  "Why? You've gotten what you wanted. What else could those people give you?" She said standing still between the people and the thing in front of her that was even bigger and Scarier up close. "It's a good thing you are pretty, because you sure aren't smart." It said taking a step closer towards her and grabbing her by the neck and lifting her up. "It really is a shame i will have to brea-" the thing was cut of by something blue and red that sent it flying to the opposite Wall and Kitty with it. the things group on her neck had loosen a bit and she could see everyone pouring out of the restaurant. She tried with all her power to move the things tiger away from her neck but it didn't work, she was to weak. She heard that punched were being thrown and soon she saw a female figure standing above her.  "Are you okay?" She asked, breaking the things arm and pulling Kitty in her arms before letting some sort of lazes shooting out of her Eyes towards the thing that almost killed her in cold Blood and jumped up. everything was happening so quickly. The thing exploded, or was that the restaurant. Kitty didn't know anymore. All she knew was that the girl that saved her was now holding her in her arms and they were...flying?  "Are you okay?" The girl asked again. "mhm" was all Kitty could get out of her throat. Maybe she will miss the small town after all.

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