#but i think i just got used to like. how chill they were between s1 and s2 el o el

[fujofriday]

.

[arcane-temp-fandomblog]

The more I rethink Mel's arc which Amanda said was the best arc, the more I feel it encapsulates all the issues of Season 2.

Yes, I think Mel's arc is one of the most coherent with setup at end of Season 1 and end at Season 2. It's bittersweet but good.

But then I think how we got there and there are glaring problems:

- contrived way of being removed from the plot - the abduction by Black rose, Mel is now not a character influencing the plot, not even having opinion on the events of the plot - she will be in Black rose limbo until plot needs her to respawn in plot required place to get her 3 step resolution of the arc. This happens to Jayce, Ekko and Viktor too.

- over the top shocking cliffhanger that feels like something interesting is coming but in hindsight are just for cheap tension - so when Mel is abducted, it spawns speculation of what are Black Rose's intentions, I thought it was building towards something BUT it just segways into clips of exposition of her powers, of the Doomsday coming to piltover and of her mother's history. They abduct this poor woman for months on end to give us exposition. The same happens with Jayce shooting Viktor. We do not understand these actions, they just seem soo final and shocking and leading into something great. I would like to compare it to finale of S1 which is more shocking with Jinx's rocket yet we understand everything about it.

- making things emotional but in hindsight in a cheap way - so, remember when Black Rose kills Elora, Mel's friend? The emotions! The shock, right? BUT Why do they do it? Please, why would an organization that wants Mel to join them kill off her friend? What's the point of it aside for Mel to be sad? Elora actually got off well, she at least has a dialogue about her death unlike Isha or Vander or Jinx or Vander 2.0. If you compare these deaths to how logical deaths of Marcus or Finn were.

- inefficient storytelling - we get black rose scenes but they're just exposition that never flows into the main story. Never influences it. Contrary it makes the whole story worse, because now Black rose abducted Mel for months to tell her she needs to figure out how to avert the Doomsday. So months on end this organization just waited for her to solve the wall puzzle instead of trying to locate and assassinate the threat in Viktor, or influence Piltover politics to throw out Ambessa. This is cartoon logic.

- impossible to resolve conflicts - this is more on Ambessa' writing, because in ep. 8 she goes like this: Mel, it's not enough you'd join me to avenge Kino, we now have this weapon in you and this nice old chemist is lending me a hand making more weapons BUT it's impossible for me to change plans, because to stick it to Black Rose and mages in noxus as magic is unfair, I'm making this new army with the help of this nice mage I just found in the rubble. This army is also exclusively puppeteer by him. This is cartoon logic of a bad guy, not a human.

- keeping conflicts simple by keeping characters apart until 2 scenes before finale - this is hypothetical so please friends be nice, what if instead of Black rose abduction plotline the whole exposition part of it went like this: Black rose possesed Amara asks Mel to help her get introduction to her mother. Mel and Amara meet Ambessa, where Black rose reveals herself like in original scene and delivers the exposition about Mel's origins and Kino's fate. All the while changing faces between Amara, the Ionia princess and Kino to the horror of all involved. Then Mel's powers awaken like in the puzzle wall scene. Idk if that'd be better but it'd be more efficient and would keep Mel in Piltover. One scene instead of several, leaving Mel and Ambessa more time for an arc build up. Also Elora lives. Anyway, that's my stab at it while chilling and listening to 60 y/o lady showing off her spoon collection in an asmr. It's a very nice asmr.

- symbolism as character development - so when Black Rose gives Mel the Ionian processes necklace I felt really good, it felt as if Mel is finally carving her identity as Medarda from Medarda family history. But then it hit me, we don't know what she thinks of it, we don't know why she goes back to noxus on the ship, we know nothing of ot in her words. It's symbolism. Not as bad as Jayce having his whole character development this season conveyed in symbolism by role playing as Bear Grylls in Apocalypse survivor man, but it feels cheap anyway to not write character just use symbolism.

Anyway, those are my gripes and apparently this is the best arc of this show.

[writememysticfalls]

Three's a Crowd | Damon Salvatore x Elena Gilbert

Summary: Elena is dying to ask Damon if Katherine ever had a threesome with him and Stefan. Will she ask the naughtiest question?

Genre: Suggestive, set around S1 when Delena were frenemies.

Word Count: <1k

“You better be ready for round two, Stefan, because I-” Elena started to say as she walked into the kitchen in Stefan’s dark grey dressing gown, her hair dripping from the shower. She froze when she saw who was standing there.

“Morning,” Damon said with a smirk, resting his elbows on the kitchen island. “Stefan ran out to get some bacon and eggs. You’re getting the princess treatment, you know.”

Maybe she was mistaken, but Damon’s eyes seemed far too comfortable resting on her body. She wrapped the dressing gown tighter around herself.

“Stefan didn’t tell me you’d be around,” she said, trying to look calm although her face was burning.

“Don’t look so worried, Elena,” Damon said, his eyes flashing. “Stefan and I are pretty used to… sharing space. ”

He passed by Elena, apparently to put his empty glass in the sink. However, this forced their bodies to brush as he passed through the small space. Elena caught a whiff of whiskey and something oddly fragrant, like old roses.

She couldn’t help but wonder what he meant by “sharing” a space with Stefan. She had a feeling it was to do with how they had once been in love with the same woman.

Damon suddenly spun and looked at Elena. “I can feel you staring at me. It’s disturbing.”

She gulped. “I wasn’t staring.”

Damon crossed his arms. “Yes you were, and it wasn’t just because I’m a hot piece of ass. You’re curious.”

“Curious?” she said, her mouth dry.

“About Katherine,” Damon said. “You want to know what it was like dating the same woman as Stefan.”

A chill ran over Elena's skin, and she wondered if some vampires could read minds. “I’m not curious about you, Damon,” she said quickly. “You’re a jerk, and that’s all I need to know.”

Damon shrugged. “Fine. I was going to tell you, but if you’re not curious…”

He turned as if to walk away again, but, her cheeks burning, she was forced to say, “Fine. Maybe I do have… a couple of questions. Like - weren’t you jealous?”

Damon grinned at Elena. “Of course. There were times I was so jealous I hated my brother. I couldn’t watch him and Katherine in the same room. Every word she said to him, every look - it physically hurt.”

Elena wondered how he could talk about such pain like it was nothing. “How did you deal with it?” she said quietly.

Damon smirked. “Well… let’s just say that the walls between my bedroom and Stefan’s were very thin - and I knew for a fact that Katherine had more fun when she was in bed with me.”

She was shocked by Damon’s honesty. Another, much more inappropriate question came to her mind, but she shut down the thought.

Damon’s smile grew. “Oh, you’re just dying to ask the question, aren’t you?”

Elena opened the fridge door and got the orange juice, just to hide her face from Damon for a moment. “My curiosity has been satisfied. Thank you.”

“Oh no no no,” Damon said. “I’m not letting you off that easily. If you want the answer, you have to ask.”

Her heart raced. She knew this was beyond inappropriate to say to her boyfriend’s brother, but she couldn’t resist. Elena leaned on the counter, so her face was inches from Damon’s.

Elena lowered her voice. “Did Katherine ever… have sex with both of you at once?”

Damon’s pale eyes pierced into hers. Elena found herself admiring the strong line of his jaw, the ripple of his long neck. He said nothing for a long time, and for a moment, she thought she'd offended him. For the first time in their whole conversation, he looked almost serious.

“No,” he said. “I was always afraid she would ask, but I think Katherine was too possessive to even consider it. She needed all the attention to be on her, always.” Damon stood up, all the seriousness melting from his face again. “She did love watching us fight, though!“

Elena wondered why Damon’s tone had abruptly changed, when she looked to the door and saw that Stefan was standing there, shopping bag in hand.

She froze, feeling like a little kid being caught with her hand in the cookie jar. To Elena's relief, Stefan looked relaxed - he must have not heard what she was saying.

Elena brushed her hands through her hair. “Hey, babe.”

“Hey,” Stefan said cheerily. “What were you guys talking about?”

“We were just discussing… the plans for the Founder’s bake sale this weekend, right Damon?” Elena said, glaring at Damon to make sure he went along with her lie.

“Right, right,” Damon said lightly. “Muffins. Buns.”

Elena sighed with relief, grateful that the awkward situation had been passed by.

However, just then, Damon slinked past Elena, and whispered in her ear, “Stefan heard everything. Vampire super-hearing, remember?’

Elena had completely forgotten about that. Her hands flew to cover her mouth, and she stared at Stefan in pure embarrassment.

​—

Stefan didn’t look angry, or even offended about her questioning. He just smirked and said, “Damon’s a liar. Katherine definitely had more fun with me.”

MAIN MASTERLIST

Let us know what you thought in the comments or on anon! 💋

[scarlet-moonlight]

This is gonna be a LONG ass post but

I got around to watching Arcane s1 (I watched s2 without finishing s1 because I didn't want to worry about getting spoiled for all the stuff that will inevitably flood the league tags so I just said fuck it, I did know a little bit about what happened during s1) and now that I did, I think I like s2...less?

Like I thought I was confused while watching s2 because I skipped s1 so I might not have known about what was happening (And I did on some, like I didn't know Silco and Vander were close at one point when I saw the flashback with them and Felicia, or that Singed used to be a mentor for Viktor) but..no. Looking at s1 then back at s2 it really does feel night and day. I think the problem is that s1 is great in how down-to earth and realistic the world, the characters and problems they have, but then in s2, suddenly everything became so much more..bigger. And not in a good way. suddenly everything became so much more bloated with too many characters, conflicts that started/showed up that they needed to end in the same season cause they had to make it 2 seasons even though it could've benefitted from another one or at least anotehr act. The animation is great, the music is great, but even that just feels like well.. spectacle for the sake of it. Especially when it comes to the music, because compared to s1 and s2, s2 is just too music heavy. And I was watching s1 with my sister (who is blind reacting to all of arcane from the start) and I feel like if we finish s1 and get to s2 she might not think of it as good as s1 for the same reasons.

MORE IMPORTANTLY THO I realize how oddly ooc Jayce became from s1 to s2, mostly for his relationship between him and Mel that got sidelined in s2 for viktor. And apparently that was intended by the writers because they liked jayvik more (I used to watch Star vs the forces of evil so this is giving me serious flashbacks to the writers hell that became) Yes Jayce and Mel started off as more or less fuck buddies but there were scenes that showed that they cared about each other that they just..kinda threw away in favor of Jayik. I don't hate jayvik and I liked the memes and all but I also dont like just sidelining a woman (A black, woman no less) in favor of a yaoi ship in the grand year of 2024. Like knowing their relationship in s1 it makes me realize how ooc Jayce and Mel were acting towards each other in s2. I don’t care if they ended up canon or not, but they just acted toxic and indifferent to each other for no reason when they did have scwnes in s1 that showed they cared about each other and now I think they just did this just so they could make Jayvik look better and because of how Mel was done dirty despite me loving her character I am now actively going to ship Meljay out of spite (Also fuck you they both look sexy) (and I also like Viktor by himself away from Jayce, preferably him in s1 because of how cute he was and I want to keep him for myself)

For any arcane only fans, I happen to be a selfship/yumeship blog who's favorite charater happens to be in a really popular yaoi ship (made partially implied by canon and making him all thats ever used for when theres so much else that they can do with his lore instead of just making him an accessory to please fandom, huh doesn't that sound familar?) and I know people would hate on me for also being a girl "getting in the way" if i was in any other part of league fandom (at least tumblr is pretty chill) so don't worry we're at two for two here

Again, I like s2, I think they've done a great job but knowing what happened in s1 and then seeing s2 it just made me feel like there was so much missed potential outside of the already confusing plots and pacing issues I experienced on my first watching

and ykw Im gonna repeat what I said in a previous post in that; fuck yall, I wanted the Mel being pregnant rumors to be true just to spite yall (and that the kid would be Rell)

[chipthekeeper]

Andor S1 Rewatch Commentary - Episode 5

favorite episode :))) this is mostly me whining and saying I miss people

by the way, this contains some very light spoilers for season two but nothing that's not in the trailer

Biggsy, are you ready? It's the best episode time. It's time. I'm so excited. Am I crying? Am I? I really hope that I can just enjoy this and not be annoyed about the news that came out yesterday. But I suspect that will happen. At the end, hopefully, just at the end

Biggs. This is huge, buddy. Let's see if I can actually figure out how to articulate why this is my favorite. I'm not really sure if that's gonna happen

Vel, I miss her :(((

I'm quoting everything in the previously on

This is the first time I get to watch something while having seen the season two trailer, which feels really weird. One day I'm gonna have watched that whole season too, and it's….gonna be over oh Jesus. Spiraling already

*groaning nostalgically* the theme music in this one!!! I feel ways about it. I feel very…soft

Starting with Syril's six seconds of sunlight. Are you gonna cry?

*chuckling* I'm never quite prepared for Kathryn Hunter's voice

Cereal time. “I promise to disappoint you.”.....Yeah uh, no ring on Eedy's finger in this. So that popping up in the season two trailer, quite a shock, and I….don't want to think about it

*mocking voice* oh you remembered how to mock me

I love how their table is just, it's a booth. That's really cool, I think more homes need to have booths for eating at

*giggles* You can hear the drays

Peaceful Aldhani morning……And look, Skeen titties

Saddest part about having seen the season two trailer is seeing all these guys now that aren't going to be in it because they're dead

How’s Skeen not cold? It's gotta be cold. Just yesterday you could see your breaths while you were standing around the fire. And now you're out here shirtless….whore

I love this conversation just being two fucking feral cats circling each other…..and lying

“She's already sharing a blanket if that's what you're wonderin’” And there we go. There's my whole life in one sentence. Like, I feel like my DNA rearranged when I heard that. Just fucking galaxy-altering line……Yep, I'm gonna c-cry already. “Wouldn't that be lovely?”

Fucking Perrin, god dammit…..Forever confused by this breakfast setup they've got. These little cups look like egg things, I don’t know what I’m saying

Can't wait to see what the fuck is up with Leida in season two. I'm scared for her….Leida's giant glass bowl has a straw

(here’s where I was just saying “schedule” like Mon says it because it’s funny to me but the transcription app I use says “Shitual”)

I really need to read that book. Is Leida in that book? She has to be, right? I know Perrin is. Perrin, who sucks

Dray milk breakfast, Biggs!!! Here we go. Hi Vel *gasps* Hi Cinta. She's doing laundry. The only person around here who does any fucking chores

“Memorable, isn't it?” That's me about the whole episode

Goddammit, I miss Nemik. I miss my whole crew so bad right now

This whole rant from Nemik, another part that just...gave me complete chills the first time watching

*whines when I see Vel*

I hate Cassian in this scene so much I hate him I want to punch him in the face. He's such an asshole

I miss Taramyn and his majestic mustache

Our first non-verbal communication between Taramyn and Vel. That's my favorite part of this episode. One of them anyway *gasps* There’s my boys, there’s the dray!! And Cinta gets to smile :))))

I love hearing about Roboda just bothering the guys to help her move furniture

Shedule again. That's what they should have called this episode. Shedule.

Skeen watching very, very closely in the background as Taramyn and Cassian go at it

Blevin!!! And Tigo. Oh captain, fuck!! I forgot that's what he was. I need to edit something……Let Tigo wear a ball gown! Season two, I need to see it. Is he even gonna be in it? He’s not deeaadd……no he’s not. Right…? No, he’s not

Mean lesbian glares! God I miss them

Taramyn says ‘wot’ too hehehe no wonder I love him

I just don't get why Cassian is the only one who would know this (you want your weapon on the outside). Why wouldn't Taramyn know this, he was literally….*sighs* whatever

Used to get so distracted at this point (TIE flyover) watching on Disney+ because the subtitles always said that Vel said something that Cinta actually said. And you could always tell that it was wrong, but they let it be wrong for way too long

Kimzi! Is he smoking? Or is he just dropping rocks off the side? What was he holding?! I need to know, it’s the little things

I need to write something where they just blow the fuck out of this dam and let the river flow again

Trailer shot. Just kidding, that was a couple minutes ago. I missed it. I mean, I saw it, but I was talking

More buried shit. Need to know about the buried shit. Oh boy, favorite scene…….Laugh at him! Laugh in his face!!

Is Vel standing on something there? She looks *snorts* taller. You dress yourself, bitch! This is my girlfriend……They really should have let Cinta talk more

Blevin has three attendants. Does he have an attendant for every…sector? He needs a few more. No, that doesn't make any sense. Bad math

Dedra, I love your gay little assistant……..His wiggles hehehe

The modellllllll….I still hope they made two and they kept one. It's too beautiful

“Stay focused, Clem.” I feel a lot about that moment. We don't need to get into it, but you can ask me if you want

Oh god, the drays are loose, oh g–oh. Just kidding, we did that on purpose—Poncho time!!!!

More cereal

Skeen's hat is the worst. Just kidding, it's Cassian's. “My turn. Lieutenant Gorn.”......There's music right here that's not on the soundtrack

*whines* “Everyone has their own rebellion.” My next tattoo, babyyyy. One day when I…get around to it….I love so much that it's Vel that says that line, it really means a lot to me

I love this Gorn scene, it’s so clever…..I love this guy. I refuse to believe he's dead, I don't care what they say. I can't wait to write my Everybody Lives AU for the Aldhani crew…..oh boy I'm just writing that in my head and not listeningggg

Gorn smile, Cinta’s boot. I just love knowing the next fucking shot. Before it even comes

Vel sit down, take a load off babe

How does he make this knife make that sound?....Time for some team destroying exercises!!

*perfect Skeen impression* “Sky kyber, look at it glow!!........Who brings a treasure to a robbery?” All I can do is just quote this whole—I'm sorry

“You can kill each other later” Oh Vel, not the foreshadowinggg!!

Lambda shuttle! Heh it's so small

*painful whining* My tummy hurts in this scene every time

“No. She didn't tell me.” *incomprehensible blaaagghhh noise, straight into coughing* Biggs. I can’t, I *stammering* I can't possibly say out loud with words how. I. feel. about. that.

I really want to see the version of Perrin and Mon that don’t hate each other. Is that in the book? I should read the book. But Perrin sucks, so maybe not. Maybe that doesn't exist

*delighted whining* Mmm, look at that!!! “Just like your model.” It looks so small from up there, waaaahhh

Obsessed much, Syril? That's a trailer shot too

Love a Star Wars watch. Chrono….And this shot of Vel makes me insane!!! Yayy!! Oh my god, it's almost overrrrr. I'm so mad. Biggs, aren't you mad? Aren't you upset that it's almost over already? No you just want me to let go of you so you can run around and be an asshole

*groaning for a whole minute* The music, the music!!!! My tummyache, Biggs. I love them so much……No farewells tonight, Biggs!!

*more whining and groaning* And there they go…*now I get loud and lift Biggs into the air, ranting at him* And see, got to sit around for a whole week—a whole week, Biggs. Wondering what they were going to do, by themselves. Away from the guys. Got to wonder that!! For a whole! week! Wonder!!!! I got to wonder!!! But I won't get a whole week to wonder about anything between episodes this next time. And that's why I'm mad. Right there. I had a whole week to be nervous for them after this scene. I just, I can't believe they're taking that from me. I can't fucking believe it, Biggs *enormous sigh as I let him down again*

And now this scene hurts. Because Kleya is concerned about him. And then we kind of see her lose her shit, presumably after he's gone. And that, that makes me feel things right here in my–in my chest…..”I wanted it too much” Yeah, that feels…relevant

A whole week, Biggs. I got a whole. Weeeeekkkk!!! Gaaaaahhhhh!!!! Although. I didn't spend the whole week thinking about it. Because during this week was when I wrote my first fic!!! Yayyy :) I mean, not my first overall, but the first for them. The first for them, Biggs. Aren't you proud of me? Aren't you? No? You want me to let go of you and leave you alone? *kiss his head* Too bad

But yeah, if you couldn't tell by this rant, I'm not particularly happy about how season 2 is going to go down…..But what can you fucking do?

What an episode, fuck!! I love it, okay, goodbye

[finchxs-reverie]

I want to talk about Ed breaking the wheel off the ship in the storm.

When I first saw that scene, I thought the broken wheel was the most striking, poetic, and symbolic thing Ed could have done to show how his flaws were consuming him. In so many situations in S1, Ed doesn’t take responsibility for where he ends up or what happens to him, he just lets the people around him decide. He turns away when Izzy duels Stede. He doesn’t return to the Revenge until the English are literally RIGHT THERE. (There are many, many other examples, but those are just two I readily remember.) He also disassociates himself from his actions, saying that he hasn’t ever killed anyone after his Dad. But, also, “the fire killed those people, not me.” Ed dodging responsibility for himself, and instead allowing whatever tide he happens to be in sweep him away is an unhealthy pattern that is getting in the way of keeping him from growing.

Which was why I thought the scene where he broke the wheel off the ship during the storm was so powerful. He just wanted so badly for someone else to step in and take it out of his hands, so he used his agency to put himself into a helpless situation. (I also think that’s why he wanted Archie and Jim to fight to the death. Even if he was going to blow the canon through the sail anyway, if some or all of the crew killed each other before he got to it, their deaths would be on them, not him.)

But I’ll be honest: Having that scene, and the symbolism of the broken wheel, made the rest of Ed’s arc this season feel like he never actually repaired anything and he was still not taking responsibility for himself and what was going to happen in his life. He starts to, with the conversation he has with Fang and then telling Stede he wanted to take it slow. But then that little step forward just back tracks and all his growth crumbles in my opinion. Ed ends S2 largely where he started in s1.

And honestly, a big issue I have with Izzy’s death being entwined with Ed’s story/development is that Izzy dying just took the matter out of Ed’s hands, just like the old unhealthy pattern.

I wanted to see a conversation between the two where Ed asks Izzy to stay and Izzy says no. And instead of clawing back into the old pattern of keeping Izzy around, they both separate because they chose to, because they can accept the fact that for whatever reasons, them being together or close was just keeping them from growing.

But instead, Izzy dying was just another way that Ed’s metaphorical wheel was broken off, and instead of working on an unhealthy pattern, he just floats in the direction fate takes him.

...

..

.

It was still a good scene, though. That “Run” sequence still gives me chills even though I’ve watched in 97 times.

[syphabelnyades]

Made in Abyss for fandom ask!

This ended up being really long so it's under the cut.

3 male characters I love:

Reg, Marulk, and Habo!

3 female characters I love:

Riko, Nanachi, and Vueko~

3 romantic ships I love:

(I see all the kids' romance ships as being purely innocent and wholesome. Kids just learning their first loves and all that. That stuff melts my heart.)

Riko/Reg - just. Ugh. Little kid puppy crushes and just figuring out that oh my gosh I like a girl/guy! is adorable. I love in the intro when Riko jumps into Reg's arms and blushes. It's just so wholesome and pure!

Riko/Prushka - There was definitely some budding feelings between them, especially on Prushka's end. It's another kiddy puppy crush that has that inkling of sadness because of Prushka's fate but also the bound romance of the White Whistle.

Nat/Marulk - Their interactions in Marulk's Daily Life were so sweet! It's apparent that Nat had a bit of a thing for Riko, so him seemingly moving on and then also having feelings for Marulk was sweet. I just wonder how Marulk got to Orth, though?

3 platonic dynamics I love:

Riko/Nanachi/Reg - Full team!! I love their interactions with one another! Everyone plays off of each other so well.

Lyza/Ozen - Oh god Lyza talking to Ozen and telling her that she wants Ozen to see off Riko to send the girl off to Lyza... That really got to me.

Vueko/Belaf - Though we didn't get to see too much of them, what Belaf told Vueko about her dark eyes holding beauty and whatnot was very sweet. Vueko is such a tragic character that never really caught a break, and I think someone seeing beauty in her after her lifetime of abuse was something that was finally a thing of comfort to her.

3 favorite moments in canon:

The elevator scene. Masterfully done. Absolutely horrifying. Using Forest of the Abyss over Crucifixion was an excellent choice in editing. And Mitty promising she'll be strong for Nanachi... aaaa.....

Riko getting hit by the 4th Layer's curse is gut-wrenching. The juxtaposition of her staying calm while Reg is sobbing and and freaking out is the best/worst part. This is a 12 year old who's bleeding out and poisoned and telling her meek, shy friend to break her arm and cut it off, and somehow she's keeping calm... until the pain sets in. God. Riko has balls of steel to even keep herself together for any amount of time in that situation.

The start of Dawn of the Deep Soul, with the team meeting the Umbra Hand in the Garden of Eternal Fortune, is such a haunting experience. Something about the whole garden going up in flames with the soundtrack playing is incredibly impactful. The actual track that plays, Encounter the Umbra Hands, has this amazing swell of violins (?) around the 55 second mark that, sadly, got drowned out in the movie, but listening to it on its own gives me chills.

3 favorite headcanons:

I know Irumyuui's babies are modeled after hermit rats, but I still like my interpretation that they're also very toylike in appearance and that they represent her playing House, sort of.

...honestly, I don't have headcanons for this series, just theories.

3 least favorite things about it:

begging the mangaka to please be normal and not a creep please please i love everything about this show except him being like that. it's fictional, yeah, but i still feel dirty.

I wish Riko had more to do in the climaxes of S1 and S2. She was very active during DotDS but basically S1 and S2's endings involve Reg crying and blowing up some poor abused anime child while Riko is passed out.

This is more of a game thing but I wish Binary Star was just... better. It's very clearly a licensed game adaptation and it's fun, but not $60 worth of fun. I got it on sale for $30 and I surpassed my $1 an hour threshold, but I still feel like I got cheated a little. There's a lot of clunkiness in the game that I think would've been better if it was an original property. There's this one quote by Sakurai about how licensed games are more concerned with feeling like the source material rather than being a good game, and I think that applies here. At the very least, I wish the Ido Front area was expanded and we got to find a really cool big relic or two as part of a storyline.

[deanismysavior]

If they kill Will off, I think that would literally be the worst narrative decision ever. It would be so so bad.

If they’re really intending to give us a happy ending to the show at the end of S5, Will dying is really just not going to great move on their behalf for that happy ending (most of the main characters dying isn’t doing that to be honest).

From what they’ve been saying, Will is really going to be a key part of S5 and his connection to Vecna/UD will be explored a lot more seeming to answer some of the unanswered questions about his disappearance and possession.

And if S5 is meant to come full circle back to S1 then the core of S1 was pretty much saving Will so if Will is the focus this season then I can see us returning back to the roots of S1 a little in S5.

I know Max was the focus of this season and things didn’t really end well for her but S4 was meant to have a dark ending anyhow. It was supposed to be a loss and they were prepping us up for a dark season to come beforehand too.

S5 is the final season and with the dark ending of this season; we’re supposed to except S5 ending on a much better note and wrapping up things as a whole in terms of plot lines and character arcs.

David Harbour has already mentioned that the ending of the show is going to be beautiful. And I think the Duffers compared it to Schitt’s Creek.

Besides, Will, as a character, has been suffering throughout the entire show. Killing him off is the worst ending they could give him.

His character is written with themes such as overcoming trauma and being empowered by the ones he loves (similar to how El and Max are written; they’re also characters we except happy endings for).

I also think the parallels between him and Vecna are more Voldemort/Harry Potter in nature rather than alluding to Will being a villain or dying (HP nearly died but then he didn’t). Something that sets Will apart from Vecna is the fact that he has a support system filled with people who love him for who he is and that’s what made us as an audience believe in S1 and 2 that he’ll be fine.

I don’t know about you but going back and watching S1/2 if they kill off Will in S5 would put a really odd taste in my mouth since those seasons clearly focused on saving Will. It would render so many of the characters’ efforts as pointless (Joyce, Jonathan, Hopper, the entire party).

The idea that all of those characters growing, changing and getting happy endings whilst having Will die just sounds so icky because he’s been through so much and him dying is just tragic.

He’s been kidnapped. He got stuck in another scary realm at 12. He’s been possessed. He’s had this chilling and odd connection with this evil demon who’s trying to use him/kill him and what not.

Then, coming to his emotional arc, it isn’t great either.

He’s struggles with fitting in. He’s been abused by his dad. He’s been bullied throughout his entire life for being different.

Now, it’s like he’s struggling even more, his friends are growing up and changing, becoming people he doesn’t recognise. He has been neglected and left behind too many times.

He also is different and he’s gay and in love with his best friend and sometimes it makes him feel like a mistake but then again it doesn’t because loving his best friend comes so naturally to him.

And he’s had to sacrifice his own feelings time and time again to satisfy his best friend and his sister. He helped them mend their relationship even if he was suffering on the inside. It feels so icky for him to go through all of that and then get killed at the end of the show whilst his best friend and sister get their happy ending or what not.

He has such a good heart and the suffering is painful. He has done no wrong and is always there for everyone in this entire show even at the expense of his own wellbeing. Why make this perfectly good character suffer so much and do him no justice towards the end of the show?

Not to mention, how problematic it is to make a character queer then make them suffer for it and then kill them off later on with no payoff? It would be bury the gay trope at its finest and that queer people are expendable in terms of the storyline?!

In conclusion, I’m sorry for the rant but I just want to say fuck all those stupid theories, Will Byers is living through this and living through this as a fucking hero and savior and he’s going to get the happiest ending possible because he deserves it.

I agree with you. After all of the trauma our characters have endured, they deserve an ending that is triumphant. It's the only thing that would make sense narratively the whole overarching story of the show has been about saving Will and saving Hawkins. Killing Will off would be about the least triumphant thing they could do, and it would make so much of that storytelling feel moot.

[photos-or-inkblots]

bits of my season 4 rewatch

4x03

oh i LOVE this episode, the pace, the build-up, i’m a fan

yes that is Real EEG equipment they used for May lmao

they are not okay with Mace… guys just chill out

“we were able to eliminate 17 Inhumans worldwide.” this. this is the part they keep undermining for all of seasons 3 and 4. people are dying. like, even later on when daisy’s concern about the watchdogs’ artillery was dismissed, it’s a genuine threat, and not just for inhumans. who’s going to say there aren’t going to be casualties with those kinds of guns? and it does bite them back in the ass because Radcliffe’s about to go to them because of his obsession with the Darkhold

“take it easy on her. She doesn't understand what it's like... To change, to lose everything.” screw Hive, really

oh, welp, that’s a slight… dissonance between 4x02 and the rest of the season, at least to me. just noticed Fitz puts the blame on Daisy on 4x02 but in 4x06 goes “i don’t like how they’re hunting Daisy like an animal,” the shift just felt a bit sudden. i feel like there was a deleted scene or an edited script down the line

4x08

LMAO MACK to be fair, there’s been enough media of robots taking over for there to be reasons why we should NOT create robots. same reason why we shouldn’t, like, experiment on people. what are the chances they end up being a captain america or the abomination? 50-50. really didn’t expect less from the most pragmatic members of the team (him and Yo-yo)

also i loooooove that he’s a mechanic and when it comes to AIs he’s like ‘nope’

4x11

this is a big load of dis and misinformation my god… a LOT of disinformation about in inhumans here. why didn’t they try to fight that? like, inhumans are genetic, it’s not a disease, it doesn’t spread like a virus, tbh this goes as far back to season 3 and the ATCU

so i did some research on the 616-inhumans, turns out they can go through more than one terrigenesis. hope we find out what’s in store for Vijay, i really like the dude

4x12

another favorite episode !!!

“sam… stop. we’ve known each other for like, 3 years.” when your co-worker finds out you’re famous

badassess!!! love the shockwave Daisy pushed to the floor to move the darkhold. sam, you are me.

4x14

remember what Coulson said about May being more like S1 Daisy before bahrain? they’re adorable

turns out you can follow paper trails. crazy times

i really have to give it to the writers this season. sure, we’re going to get a homicidal robot in a while but having a conspiracy theorist-slash-hate propaganda fueler (and hate propaganda in general) as the general bad this time is pretty cool

but with that said, i don’t like how they handled the cold war undertones, “i didn’t even remember them.” Coulson, you're shooting the messenger here, putting salt on the would isn’t going to help. i’m reminded of that one post i saw about this being a way to tie in Coulson into Daisy's story (again) (unnecessarily) despite the point of the show shifting the focus from Coulson to Daisy (just… think about it. this is literally her origin story) though i get it, it’s more of a “FU” to the delusionals because conspiracy theorists are just that: theories

4x15 !!!!! lots of favorite episodes this season

4x16

and here goes the framework arc. a digital world so close to my own reality right now it’s actually really terrifying for me to watch this. and actually, not much else to say. only that i hate the Doctor with all of my guts

i’ve said this before but “May… I got in.” / “I don’t care what you’ve hacked,” hints that framework!May and Skye know each other, enough for May to know she was–started out, presumably as–a hacker???? Maydaisy will always triumph against all odds (and i love that, despite the guilt of letting Katya live prevailing in May hence her allegiance with Hydra she still ends up being at least a mentor figure to Daisy / Skye (tbh even with the way things are set up here i doubt Ward trained Skye. brought her in, sure, partners in the field even, but for even the Doctor to know Skye personally as “one of their best assets” i’d bet they trained her with their number 3)

“Wait, are you still dead?” / “No, i’m feeling much better” help 😭😭😭😭😭

4x17

i loooooove that TAHITI actually made an impact on this digital reality, ofc the brain would know

not Radcliffe treating this as a social visit 😭 that never came to me though, Radcliffe never met Ward that is sooo weird

4x19 fav "What, me, I don't make the list?" KICK HER ASS

4x20

Hope is ADORABLE and i love her

well damn… how are Coulson and May able to feel deja vu but Fitz unable to recall Jemma? like… HE ALMOST KILLED HER. though now that i’m thinking about it maybe his brain damage affected him too. but still he almost killed her, i can’t imagine the impact of this

there’s so much discussion of what makes a human human here, i wish we delved even deeper into that but oh well i’ll take what i can get

4x22

mmmmmm Robbie Daisy i know what you two are

it’s so fitting that they defeat AIDA in the Playground, where it all began

i have to say, considering this intelligence inquiry and Robbie and Daisy fighting AIDA being literally mere moments away, they could retrieve CCTV footage and see two Daisys, the real one sporting a black eye??? not to mention Robbie burning the hell out of the LMD. though with no one to defend SHIELD with that, it crumbled, again but really it wouldn’t be so hard to disprove Daisy as the suspect

all in all, solid storytelling, even though there were a lot of scenes that I think wouldn't pass the Bechdel test (scenes between May and Daisy especially, a lot of the time they talk about Coulson, and with Simmons, about Fitz), and it is a bit rough around the edges but hey, the writing's consistent, interactions are gold, the acting, the pacing... perfect *chef's kiss. forever one of my top 3 favorite seasons

[kaypeace21]

"Rebel robin" easterggs

- Robin's friend is a horror movie fan whos fav movie is evil dead (jonathan has a poster of it in his room)

- Robin's parent's car is the " dodge dart" a ref to Dustin's demodog-dart

-robin and her friends make analogies to zombies (like Will- the zombie boy).

- robin faints. And her friend milton says "blink once for yes twice for no". A ref to what Joyce said to Will in s1.

- robin's other friend has a little sister named el-ie who pretends to be a squirrel. A ref to el killing a squirrel in s2. This is also reminiscent of a scene from the st prequel novel ' suspicious minds' where young-kali pretended to be a tiger (the Hawkins school mascot) & a rabbit (Jonathan's hunting story).

- robin reminds me alot of the byers: she is into photography and rock like jonathan and even worked at the movie theatre like jonathan did in the og pilot. They both like David bowie and cook for their families. She also is poor and wears hand-me down clothes from relatives (like Will). She also is into existential philosophers. Which is also similar to jonathan who had a poster of the poet rimbaud in his room.

- robin is almost run over by a car by a bully while riding her bike: similar to Mike, Dustin, and Lucas in s2

- robin says the best accessory for a girl is her middle finger. Cue max giving the middle finger to billy in s2 XD

- robin (before Will dissapears) sees the quarry and gets uncomfortable and thinks of metaphorical monsters

- similar to how billy had baseball references (along with Will). Robin wears a baseball shirt

- her fav flavor of pie is cherry (like alexi and cherry slurpies). She also gets pissed at a guy sipping a cherry flavored drink- similar to hopper in s3 with alexi

- she cuts her hair and she describes it as looking like a lion. El and Will owned lion plushies in s1.

- robin refs Chicago (kali lives there) and NYC (hopper used to live there), and California (where max and billy used to live).

-tammy's fav song is total eclipse of the heart: the song Robin and Steve sang in s3. Tammy would often sing the song in robin and Steve's class.

- they make references to the hellfire club: she describes a time where she dresses like a cross between a nerd and a rebel. And a mom yells at her appearance saying she looks "goddless' . And another of Robin's friend (kate) is told ' what demon is possessing you, kate?" (hinting at the satanic panic). Meanwhile someone describes Mike and his friends as "hellions' as another hint to this. We also see how alot of parents got paranoid and a bit crazy when Will and barb dissappeared- prob foreshadowing the chaos that will happen if more kids dissappear in s4. Along with the satanic panic

-Robin is visiting her friend Kate at her house. Kate wanted to listen to Madonna together. Max and el listened to Madonna at el's.

- Robin's friend (kate) says "I dumped his ass" in reference to her cheating bf. A little nod to the m*leven breakup

- robin (like Will) felt excluded during the summer cause her friends kate and dash (Kate's now ex bf) were always making out . Sound familiar- cough m*leven

- robin annoyed says " makeouts, breakups and declarations of love all in the span of a week". Wow if that ain't a diss to certain pairing we know in s3 XD

- kate (like mike) says to Robin dating the opposite sex is a part of growing up . Which scares Robin (and Will in s3).

- robin has a nightmare of running down the school hallway with short hair (like el in s2 via the upsidedown)

- robin contemplates shaving her head (like el)

- robin says she likes to sometimes dress androgynous . And found a cool suit. Which we saw in s4 bts pics I assume.

- robin watches a music video where there are duplicate indianna joneses (could be a ref to all the billy duplicates in s3?)

- robin says " I stare at the ceiling. The ceiling stares back. I'm stuck and don't know what to do" a ref to the s3 song with robin called "the ceiling is beautiful"

- a character named Sheena reminds me a bit of Will or el . She is very quiet, queercoded, and is often bullied. And she finds mean notes and other things in her locker- placed there by bullies. A bit like how Will found the zombieboy note in his locker. But sheena can be another name for Jane so ...maybe foreshadowing of el/jane being bullied in highscool?

- when robin hears a hom*phobic comment on tv- she describes the anxiety like a ' thundercloud in a big open sky' and a "chill". Which reminds me of the mf being associated with clouds, thunder, and lightning. And the mf liking it cold.

- robin constantly describes the monster or shadow in her life- whether it be her talking about conformity or the problems of consumerism while she is poor (themes of s3).

- robin before realizing she was gay/crushing on tammy just says " I don't get crushes' which reminds me a bit of Will saying " I'm not going to fall in love" (as the lyrics are " love thats new to you, you open up the door')

-robin on her bike hears something (demogorgan) and runs back to her house , locks the door, and calls her friend- and the phone gets electrocuted. The next day Will is said to be missing. (Another Will paralllel).

- i was right about robin being in theatre. So we most likely will see robin in theatre in s4 (she also auditioned with a friend in the book). So for s4 my guess is she may be in the drama club with dustin- cause in s1 he had a drama shirt

- one of her friends is named milton. Since the documentary 'paradise lost' was on the s4 movie list. Its prob a ref to John milton who wrote the fictional 'paradise lost'. The character Sheena may be a ref to the 80s film/movies *where sheena (jane) was psychic

-Robin's gal pal (kate) and Robin eat m&ms and candies together. Kate jokes m&ms and candy bars are 'foods of the gods'. El ate m&ms in s3. They joke how talking about plural gods (instead of 1) would get them in trouble. In case you are unaware- kali (is the name of a Hindu goddess) and el (is the name of a cannanite god) .

-Robin also mentions hopper's car smells like eggos.

- robin tries running away (like el in s2, max in her novel, and jonathan also wrongfully assumed Will ranaway in s1 too).

-robin tries to get a job at Joyce's, than Bob's, and later gets a job where jonathan used to work

-bob newby describes the byers family as his "home" . Similar to how El describes the Hawkins gang as "home".

- robin says she was friends with barb before nancy. Suspiciously right after she says this- barb grabs Robin's hallpass that says ' glitch in the time space continuim. " the teacher who wrote this called robin a "glitch". Which makes me wonder if my did theory is right- but ...that certain powers at be may also alter memories or things so people assume said people have always been around.Mentioning it cause it seemed suspicious.

-not an eastegg but robin can't believe how nice Bob is. And Bob says the byers filled a hole in his life 😭 . She also felt an instant connection with Will and saw alot of herself in him.And asked if Joyce ever thought of moving like everyone suggested . One of the reasons Robin didn't like steve was because Steve never mentioned how Jonathan took innapropriate photos of Nancy. So everyone at school just knew jonathan as the quiet kid who takes pictures. So to everyone it just seemed like- wow you're bullying the quiet kid who's brother is missing and take away the one thing still left in his life that makes him happy. Which is why everyone assumes jonathan beat up steve later. Interesting to know how general Hawkins (not in the loop) viewed things

- the book referenced alot of previously mentioned movies on the s4 list or from prior duffer interviews...along with a few NEW movies ,books, plays, singers, and songs that I have to analyze for another day ...

[burst-finish]

i just watched ep 41 and got literal chills again ugh, probably one of the best eps of the season because it offers so much even beyond the crazy good bey battle we get between free and sisco and lui and drum

the ep starts of with sisco scaring the asahi brothers into stop wasting their time fighting lol my first thought was that damn thats so in sisco's character he says the right shit without holding back lol, but looks like im proven wrong later on in the ep lol

then its drum and lui discussing their tactics for the battle! these two get along well and i think we all enjoy it coz its kinda unexpected? lui like this angry short stack lmao while drum's this wholesome cinnamon roll but i realise what brings them together is the intense way they deal things related to blading HAHA like please lui for real sent a heli after drum and brought him back to the his island JUST to ask him to team up LOL that was too much for me. my personal favourite was when lui squatted down to talk to drum lol like please would the?? shirasagijo?? lui?? squat down to talk to anyone? nah man i dont see it. but its really these little details throughout the show that shows us glimpses of how the legends that we use to follow so fervently in the previous season have changed and grown, just found it rlly sweet.

and then comes sisco and free talking while they ride the lift to go to the stadium. sisco opens first with saying "that was kinda out of character for me" which had me thinking wait isn't it actually like you?? but then i realised that i think evo sisco wouldn't even have bothered to talk to the asahi brothers, and he was actually helping them out in his own way, which was really cute haha. then he goes on to say that he didn't expect them to grow so much and that he was looking forward to battling them. when he asks free whether he felt the same free just went "hmm maybe, maybe not" (ISTG THIS CLOWN🤡🤡) and sisco laughed and went "acting all cool as per usual eh" UGH so nostalgic i can't take it

AND THEN the actual epic battle comes and the animation was great, they really know when to do it right. the way lui and free use the same lines against each other gave me chills man i'm really happy they explored their rivalry from evo more in sparking, from pairing them up together in the legend festival and stating that they were a legendary pair up, to making them face off against each other now, all their moments really delivered.

CHILLS MAN CHILLS

i actually didn't remember who had won this one and to me i realised it doesn't really sit well with me if either free or lui won, because their rivalry is so neck to neck i couldn't even imagine any of them winning. and i was right thankfully, because they knock each other out of the stadium at the same time, (they showed the audience watching with anticipation in slo-mo right before the beys touch the floor simultaneously, i was literally at the edge of my seat ahhh) with satan still standing after they do so, slowly coming to a stop. so glad to see sisco win after his entire arc earlier in the season.

and finally we have the lead up to the asahi brothers vs rantaro and valt (ok side note but i finally figured out why it felt so weird typing out rantaro i realised no one uses his name in the show HAHA its always kumicho, also this season is just an excuse to give us the most epic battles of all time lol i remember in the previous set of match ups when it was valt and rantaro vs lui and drum at the end it was just lui and valt facing each other which gave me deja vu of the nationals back in s1 :') but surprisingly they didn't put much emphasis on this one as compared to other legendary face offs, hmm i wonder whyy, do yall got any idea?)

OK that was way off tangent but tbh they didn't really start that battle this ep and i didn't watch 42 yet so i don't have much to say, except for how pumped rantaro was for the match, he even said that he was the most pumped amongst all of them and the bombers was like shookt about how hyped he was, sisco even called him an idiot for grinning so much LMAO (but sisco was also smilling ur ass of when u were saying that hMMmMm) can't wait to see how that battle goes because i have short term memory and forgot who won👌

anyways thats my review of sparking ep41! when i was looking through my posts around the end of last year and realised i said i would analyse this i thought nahh i probably won't be watching that ep anytime soon, so i'm really glad i did! and since this is probably my longest post(or maybe the one on rantaro that i posted recently now that i look at it, but these two are def my longest) i wanna thank yall for reading through my stuff! i'm not sure if yall like this kinda content and honestly i started this blog so i could read through my own favourite moments in bbb, because it's something that's really close to my heart, but i decided to tag it anyways since i realised we don't have content anyways, so i wanted to contribute some myself too? either way, thanks so much for sticking around!

see yall soon!

[low-budget-korra]

Comments on Euphoria s02e07

-This is how the play started? Damn Im both scare and excited. Look at this stage production, it's a school play or a Broadway show? Gosh everything in theater it's so dramatic, I love it.

I feel like the play version of the characters would bully me so bad in high school lmao

-Look at the acting. They are stage acting in a tv series, that's awesome. The back and forth between the stage scenes and actual flashbacks, are top tier

Not the Lexi mom loving her portrayal and just everything, she is not a regular mom, she is a cool mom

-Why I am Lexi?I also do live in imaginary scenarios that are better than my life. And her with weed is me in my everyday

-That Rue and GIA conversation was heartbreaking, anyone who lost a love one go through that, the memories fading away as the time goes until we are left with only a few precious ones.

Rue scene with her mom too was gold. She really need to had that conversation with Rue, she also had to take care of Gia

-Cassie making loud and clear her daddy issues and her scene with Nate is so good cuz he was literally molding her to be something the wanted, which aint healthy. All her scenes with Nate are red flags. That ain't love Cassie.

-Not Jules and Rue relationship being ruined because of Eliott. I really hope his character leave the show and don't appear next season. S1 Lexi and Fez with little screentime was so much better, yes they didn't had backstory or much development but they also we're better written, they did pretend to be something they weren't. They didn't stick Lexi in Maddy arc just for the sake of it per example

-Maddy using the Rihanna quote about confidence. Fake it until you make it Gosh they really were besties besties, Cassie and Maddy. Poor Maddy, I knew she was be more heatbreaked than pissed.

Sydney better be nominated for awards for this, she is killing it every episode

-oh I thought they had forgotten that Kat was a camgirl back in season 1. But I didn't get why that scene was place the way it was. Makes no sense other than randomly remember us that Kat arc in season 1

-That scene with Nate seeing Maddy and Jules was scary. But that one with Cal and him will give me nightmares. And it was a nice callback from Nate character arc from s1

-Where I can find a Samantha? I hope they don't get rid of Maddy character after this season like they did with McKay's. This show needs her

But until now there's no reason from the erotic vibe of Maddy and Samantha interactions(specially the first one). Like until now Samantha is "chill" she didn't pull anything, didn't make a move or something and it seems that she may not be back for season 3

-Go Ethan! pretty sure Nate will wanna kill him ans Lexi for this. Or maybe Cassie will, damn she looks like she is about to murder someone. And from the preview, I'm scary. It seems she will fight Lexi and them Kat and Maddy will intervene

-Everytime the show goes to Fez scenes I feel like I was about to pass out, I was so fucking nervous. And from looking from the preview I think it may have two police calls, one for Fez and other for the school because of the fight it will have there. Fezco was screaming with his face facing the ground so it may be because he was being arrested or that something happened with Ash, and I'm really hoping is the first one because there's ways to have him in the show even if he got arrested in the finale but I can't see Ash dies and how dark Fezco will become after see him die.

[kittydemon9000]

Okay so once again, 3 am thoughts have gifted me with yet another au. It is by no means original but screw it: SmithSwap

The only things I’m switching is their ages, so now Nya is the older one, but it. Gets. Fun.

For specifics, as of the Pilots/S1 Nya is 15 and Kai is 11, because I want bebe kai

Now, prior to Wu showing up, it’s pretty much the same as canon only with roles reversed. Nya mostly runs the shop while Kai is trying to everything he can to make things easier for his big sister, and I mean everything. The only one Nya doesn’t stop him from doing is cooking because Kai is the better chef, though neither can figure out why. Nya also likes to tell Kai stories of their parents since he can’t remember them too well, much to his disappointment.

ANYWAY, Wu shows up, Kai gets upset he’s insulting his sister’s work, then Skulkin show up. Kai does get snatched, much to Nya worry and canon continues.

Okay but also tiny spinoff, it also would’ve been hilarious if Nya still got kidnapped because then when the guys meet Kai they’d be like “who is this sassy lost child?”

So then while Nya’s training, I’m actually going to say what happened when Kai is captured.

You see, a side affect of being really freaking old is that your perception of time changes, specifically how long periods seem shorter. Garmadon decided that because of the prophecy it would be best to snatch the Master of Fire, who he thought would be Ray.

So you can imagine his surprise when his Skulkin bring in a kicking, screaming 11 year old child.

He is, understandably, not happy and very confused.

He sends the Skulkin away and tries his best talking with Kai. Like, as little malice as he can in a gentle voice, and he actually learns a few things. 1) both Ray and Maya went missing years ago, 2) these kids have no idea about anything regarding the Elemental Masters, 3) Kai’s sister has been raising him since their parents went missing, and she’s only four years older than him

Understandably, he is concerned, but also sees this as an opportunity. If he raises the Master of Fire to be loyal to him, then he’ll never want to fulfill his role in the prophecy, thus ensuring his victory. also he really misses lloyd and now when he returns he’ll have two kids!!! how amazing is that

So yeah Kai’s stay in the Underworld isn’t that bad. This Garmadon guy is pretty nice, tells him awesome stories about his parents, teaches him a bunch of things(mostly how to fight), and really just acts like the paternal figure he never had(Garmadad is canon, no matter what form you can fight me on this). The only part that sucks in Samukai, but he’s just a jerk and Garmadon makes sure he’ll never actually do anything to hurt him. He does miss Nya a lot though.

Anyway back with Nya and the guys.

They don’t actually know the exact reason why she was here at the beginning. All they know was that Wu originally left for the Master of Fire and came back with her instead. They know she has a brother, but aren’t quite sure how he falls into it.

They learn her full story the night they’re heading to the Temple of Fire, at which when they’re winding down Zane brings up how she never actually told them how she met Wu.

They are very concerned when they find out the whole story and swear they’ll help her get him back, which is nice.

Then she sees Kai But Actually Garmadon, follows, and bam Sword of Fire time. She isn’t able to fully use it, but she’s able to get a few sparks. However, things then start to take a turn for the worst.

Kai is actually here, very confused why Garmadon’s having him tied to the ceiling, but hey Nya’s here! But then oh no he then realizes that Garmadon is the bad guy, which gets him upset and more then a little betrayed.

Seeing him hurt his sister, the one of raised him, actually has Kai pick up the sword and use his powers. Under normal circumstances, it probably wouldn’t have been bigger than a few sparks, however Kai has his big sister in danger, dealing with the betrayal of an almost father figure, holding the Sword of Fire, and being surrounded by his element.

So yeah. Not that small of a fire.

The guys and Wu are actually able to to witness the truly incredible fire blast he lets out from the camp, put two and two together, and start heading over. Wu didn’t follow Nya…..because plot and was the able to help them fight off the Skulkin.

Anyway, it’s more than enough to dissipate the shadows, however it also wakes up the dragon. Garmadon, who is sort of panicking because That Was Not Supposed To Happen, ends up scooping up an unconscious Kai and the Sword and retreating to the underworld, leaving behind a very pissed Nya and an equally pissed Fire Dragon.

But yeah, Nya deals with the dragon, they get the other ones and head to the Underworld with Wu this time, and he’s actually the reason they’re able to get past all the Skulkin. 

But yeah, Samukai gets vaporized and Garmadon about to leave when a feverish Kai makes his way in and begs Garmadon to not do it and that they can fix things.

And Garmadon….actually pauses for a second and you can see the conflict in his eyes before he shakes his head and says “there’s no going back for me” and walks through. Kai then collapses and the end up heading back home.

As for what’s up with Kai, who would’ve guessed tapping into a kind of power you aren’t supposed to have access to yet in a high stress situation would be bad for the body. He has a really bad fever but he’s fine after a few days.

The few month timeskip in between the Pilots and S1 is mostly spent training Kai, so they have quite a bit less free time. However when S1 starts and Kai hears about Lord Garmadon, he actually wants to check it out himself first.

So yeah, he meets Lloyd by himself and it actually doesn’t go that badly. Kai actually buys some candy for them to share and they leave the town, and Kai actually starts talking with him. Eventually the topic comes up about Garmadon and Kai gives a rough basis about how he sort of got kidnapped, and then his work in progress plan of making him good again. Lloyd is completely down with seeing his dad again and says how they could probably get his dads attention if their got their own evil army.

And because they’re both stupid kids, neither of which have had parents before, Kai thinks it’s a great idea.

So yeah. That’s why they find the Serpentine here.

Ofc, it isn’t a right away type thing. It takes them about a month before they find the Hypnobrai Tomb, and Kai just plays off all his time spent out as him having made a friend, which they can’t exactly argue with.

Ofc, canon still happens and when Kai was busy training Lloyd ended up finding the tomb and releasing the Serpentine, and they do their regular Canon Nonsense. 

However, Kai is not too happy about the whole Attack Villages things and after a bit comes clean to the ninja about their original plan. They very much aren’t happy, but admit his heart was in the right place and they doubt he’d pull something like this again.

Fast-forward a bit more, Kai is mostly chill with Zane’s “weirdness” and unfortunately stays home when the Hypnobrai burn down the Monestary. It’s only because the dragons were able to get out and protect him that he was still alive. Nya’s actually the one who yells at Zane this time around because again. Kai almost died, but it’s all cool later and they find the Bounty :D

Anyway, Canon again continues. Kai is still really good with the dragons and is a little upset they need to leave. He also gets along really well with Ed and Edna. Then when Lloyd joins Kai is a little….well he doesn’t hate him but he does spend a while avoiding him.

Eventually Nya has enough of their dancing around each other and locks them both in the same room so they can talk it out. Turns out the reason Kai was avoiding him was because Lloyd’s betrayal really hurt since they were supposed to do it to find Garmadon, not hurt people. They have a tearful apology, then Kai learns how much of a jerk the Serpentine were and is like “the next time I see any I’ll protect you, since you’re like my little brother and as a big brother it’s my job to keep you safe”

Now it’s Samurai Time :)

You see, this time around Kai has double reasons for being the Samurai. 1) Yeah, he hates being left behind and wants to be involved but also 2) he wants to keep his big sister and big brothers safe

So yeah, that happens. He does think it’s pretty funny when they keep trying and failing to one up him though.

But then :) He gets captured with Lloyd :)))

So yeah, that sucks but it only gets worse because while Kai was able to “summon” his Samurai Mech, he had to send it off to get the ninja away. So that sucks.

Garmadon eventually shows up to help since the Serpentine stole both his kids, much to Nya’s chagrin.

Then comes the freaking Volcano Scene and this one is from Nya when she rescues Kai, then has to choose between Lloyd or the Fangblade. She ends up unlocking her True Potential by essentially leaving behind all negative feels she had for Lloyd and accepting him under her protection just like she did Kai.

The sheer torrent of water easily cools all the lava and thoroughly soaks them. But hey, even Kai has to admit being wet is better than being burnt alive. Also when the ninja start wondering aloud why the Samurai didn’t help Kai bashfully admits he was the Samurai, and this thoroughly impresses the ninja since Kai is like, 12 at this point.

Uhhhh, S2 isn’t too different. Kai is super happy that the dragons are back and is easily Ultra’s favorite. He isn’t hit with either Garms spell nor the Tomorrows Tea, but is there to comfort Lloyd and says that even though he got hit with some magic stuff Kai is still going to protect him since he’s still his older brother. On the Dark Island Kai is heartbroken Nya got corrupted and swears he’ll help fix her. When Garmadon gets purified Kai looses his shit and gets so excited since let’s goooooo not only is his dad not evil anymore they can go out in public together :DDDD

S3, also not too different. During the whole Love Triangle nonsense Kai’s just sitting there so confused. Also Pixal joins team Kai’s Older Siblings. Him getting captured was just him being at the wrong place wrong time. He has a really fun time time in space though, which was nice.

But uh. Then Zane hecking dies, which hits everyone really hard, especially Kai. Only this time, Nya ends up taking Kai back to Ignacia and opens up the forge again, pretty much cutting all contact with the other ninja, Wu and Garmadon. While it might’ve been boring and lonely, at least in Ignacia they were safe. 

Kai is…honestly really miserable, but hides it well. He can barely get up some mornings, but does so anyway since he’s desperately trying to act like things are normal, despite how Nya doesn’t talk very much. He misses the other ninja a lot, even Pixal despite not knowing her for very long, but doesn’t want to tell Nya since again, trying to make things normal again. Nya also doesn’t let him out of the house too often, only really if she’s there to watch him.

This routine goes on for about two months, until Lloyd shows up to try and get everyone back together. And Nya.....Nya doesn’t like that.

She and Lloyd end up having a bit of a passive aggressive argument that is progressively getting louder until Kai just. Snaps.

He yells at them to stop fighting, how they’re acting so horribly and that he wished things could go back to normal, how Zane wouldn’t want this and that he’d be disappointed in them.

The two visibly flinch.

Then Kai realizes exactly what he just said and who he said it to. And he runs.

Nya and Lloyd both spend some time in silence, mulling over what Kai just said because he was right. Zane would hate what’s become of the team and how they separated.

Nya ends up being the one to break the silence, asking Lloyd where and when to meet.

When Kai doesn’t return from the woods, she ends up leaving a note before she leaves, explaining where she’s going and how she’s sorry.

Meanwhile, Kai is having a slight breakdown in a Tree Base he made years ago.

But yeah, fast forward a bit and Kai’s getting ready to sneak onto Chen’s Island, but in a slightly different way than canon. Instead he takes a slightly experimental ship that’s basically a smaller Bounty which he calls the Destiny’s Wish. Think of the comparison like a Car vs a Go Cart. Comfortably, it can fit 2 people long term, but for quick trips can carry as many as 10, but it’ll be a tight fit and the Wish might have some trouble flying.

So yeah, he’s on his own and he doesn’t arrive until a few hours before the EMs all get dropped from the plane. Shade is actually the one to find him first, but has a moment of pause since Literal Child and gives Kai enough time to kick him into a tree and run. The whole chase actually lasts about two hours but unfortunately Kai isn’t able to get back to the Wish and gets caught.

Now for the fun part :)

So all the EMs(and I do mean all because he wanted to “thank them for their contribution”) are in the throne room, their powers snatched, when Chen said aloud “But it is such a shame that we don’t have the Master of Fire, the we’d be able to complete the spell.” and for the briefest second the Ninja Fam are relieved but then Chen does a whole “SIKE, WE GOT HIM” and has some of the guards bring Kai out.

The Ninja are, understandably, freaking out. The EMs kinda are too since Child but only a little bit and it’s not personal

But then just as Chen’s about to snatch his fire, Kai starts saying how Chen cheated since Kai never got to play in a match. Chen refutes it since His Game His Rules but then Kai says that age old statement to get siblings to do Stupid Shit: “What are you, scared?”

Chen is not scared, thank you very much. And you know what, since you’re so confident fine, you now get your own challenge!

So yeah, now Kai has his own challenge.

What is it you might ask?

A vertical obstacle course with a time limit. If Kai doesn’t grab the Jade Blade, the exit closes.

Not that bad you might think. After all, Kai’s been training with the ninja for the past year, he’s probably got this in the bag.

Yeah welllllllll, a little bird told might have told Chen that a certain Master of Fire couldn’t swim.....so he uses Nya’s power to gradually fill up the room and forcing him up.

Surprise surprise, it was rigged against him. I’m talking platforms having false bottoms, ladders being oiled, high pressure water jets to knock him off, the works.

Kai is so close to making it. So close..... but Chen can’t have that happen now can he :)

So yeah, Kai ends up falling in and Nya almost drags all the EMs into the water trying to get him.

Luckily it’s at that moment Lloyd bursts in with Garmadon, frees the EMs and gets Chen’s staff. The EMs bust out and just as Nya’s about to dive in the whole thing starts draining, like an enormous whirlpool.

You see Chen actually thought ahead and realized that “hey, if the kid dies he’ll loose his power” so he made a plan that when Kai was going to fall in, he would use one of the tubes that shot water but in verse and suck him in. Luckily he was able to pull it off before the gem was smashed because if not MMM.

So yeh, Kai is now captured, but still on the island. Skylor reluctantly copies his powers(she got sort of close with Nya and this is the little brother she was gushing about), and Anacondrai happens. However, the two are able to escape, Skylor’s actually able to figure out the Summon Dragon thing, and then they head back to the main group.

Then comes the inevitable question of “how did you get here anyway?” and then Kai shows them The Wish. He actually ends up flying back with Garmadon before all the EMs learn how to Summon Dragon so they can warn people about the ensuing danger.

So yeah, they head out, the Pythor thing happens, canon then Sad because Garm still needs to do the whole sacrifice thing D:

That one hits Lloyd and Kai really hard, but they both use each other for comfort so it isn’t as bad as it could’ve been.

But yeah, this is getting long so tbc for a part 2 :DDD

[fific7]

Ticket to Ride - Part 5

Billy Russo x Reader

A/N: Inspired by The Beatles song of the same name. This takes place in my S1 Punisher AU with Arrogant!Billy in attendance, in which he gets a taste of his own medicine.

Warnings: 18+ NSFW due to sexual content, including oral and unprotected, between consenting adults* in some chapters. Drinking and swearing.

*Irl, please don’t go wild in the country without protection.

(My photo edit)

𝕄𝕪 𝕓𝕒𝕓𝕪 𝕕𝕠𝕟'𝕥 𝕔𝕒𝕣𝕖

𝕄𝕪 𝕓𝕒𝕓𝕪 𝕕𝕠𝕟'𝕥 𝕔𝕒𝕣𝕖

𝕄𝕪 𝕓𝕒𝕓𝕪 𝕕𝕠𝕟'𝕥 𝕔𝕒𝕣𝕖

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

Billy had begun to doze off in the warmth of the gathering dusk, so when he heard her voice saying his name, he was startled. He swung round to where she was standing behind him then leapt up and went to her, folding her into his arms and just hugging her, saying nothing.

After a few short moments, she pushed back from him and stepped away, began walking towards the hotel. “I’m going to take a shower, Billy. Then I think we should go somewhere and eat. And talk,” she said over her shoulder.

“Okay, sweetheart, I’ll be here waitin’ on you.”

At least she let me hug her, he thought.

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

Walking out of the hotel and across the courtyard after your shower, you saw Billy lying flat out across the park bench, boots on the ground and long legs bent at the knees where the seat ended. His eyes were closed and you realised he’d dozed off.

“Billy.” No response. “Billy!” slightly louder. Still no movement. You reached out a hand, shook his shoulder and jumped slightly when his hand shot out and grabbed your wrist. His dark brown eyes were wide open now and staring up at you, and he immediately let go of you. “Ahhh… sorry sweetheart, didn’t realise it was you.” “Spidey senses not working any longer, Marine?” He grinned up at you, before moving and standing up next to you. “You’re to blame, kitten. I’m losing sleep over you.”

You scoffed, “Uhuh. Sure you are. Well, let’s get this show on the road. I’ve got a rec from the reception guy for dinner.” You turned and started walking quickly towards the alleyway, Billy taking only two long strides to catch up with you. “Where we headed?” “Just a little way along the waterfront, past that big church - Il Redentore. There’s a restaurant with tables right next to the water, called ‘I Figli delle Stelle’. Means ‘Children of the Stars’.” You’d turned your head towards him as you spoke and he smirked at you, “Sounds romantic, angel.” Eye roll from you, “That wasn’t my intention, believe me. The reception guy said it would still be pretty quiet at this time of the evening, later on it’ll get busy as the locals eat dinner around 9.30 or 10 pm.”

“Oh, okay,” he said, sounding a little despondent, “I hear ya.” The two of you walked in single file as you made your way through the alleyway, and Billy hurried to get back next to you as you turned right at the waterfront. There was a tense silence as you walked, and you surely weren’t going to be the one to break it. You could tell that Billy was antsy as hell and you were glad… he should be, the big douchebag. After a few moments, he asked, “How much further is this place?” like a kid on a day trip. “I think it’s that group of tables along there,” you answered, “so only a couple of minutes.” Billy wasn’t the most patient of men. “Okay,” he mumbled.

Lordy, he was getting more tense by the minute, you could feel negative energy coming off him in waves. You knew Billy, knew he’d be dreading talking about what he’d done, his feelings, having to (no doubt) apologise over and over. Serves you right, you big bastard, you thought.

Arriving beside the restaurant tables, you noted that only two tables were occupied so you should be able to have a certain amount of privacy in which to hear Billy’s confession. Checking for ‘reserved’ signs, you chose a table in the row right next to the water, well away from the other patrons. The maitre d’ appeared next to you holding two menus, and you asked in Italian if it was okay to sit at the table you’d chosen. Assured that it was fine, he asked if you wanted to order drinks and you asked for a large glass of rosé Prosecco and a Peroni for Billy. As he nodded and walked away, Billy asked, “Whaddya order for me?” You started laughing and he stared at you, puzzled. “Billy… with a last name like Russo I cannot believe you don’t know that Peroni is an Italian beer!”

He looked shamefaced, “Yeah, yeah, okay! So I’m a terrible Italian-American. Thanks for orderin’ a beer for me, not in the mood for wine.” You and Billy began reading through the menu, suitably impressed by the delicious-sounding dishes on offer. The drinks appeared shortly afterwards, and you made your choices - Billy had decided on a steak, and you’d chosen seafood linguine. You clinked your glass to Billy’s beer bottle, “Salut.” Billy grinned, “Yeah, so here’s me - the Italian-American - and there’s you, the all-American girl, Italian rollin’ off your tongue. I didn’t know you spoke it, sweetheart.” You smirked at him as you sipped your chilled Prosecco, “Seems like there��s a lot of things you don’t know about me, Billy. Like… how I will not tolerate cheating in any way, shape or form.”

A pained look crossed his face. Yeah, Billy… time to spill.

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

Billy took a long swig of his beer and cleared his throat. Here goes nothing, he thought. She was studying his face like it was a painting hanging in a gallery.

“I’ve been an asshole.”

She nodded, “I know you have, Billy. Cheating 1.01 - don’t lie about working late and then come home smelling of booze and another woman’s perfume. Oh… and a big smear of her lipstick on the inside collar of one of your shirts.” He winced, looking away, not able to meet her eyes. He twirled the beer bottle round a few times on the table top and finally met her gaze again. “Yeah, not smart, I agree. But… angel, I didn’t actually cheat on you. Not as such.”

She laughed, but it was not a happy sound. “Not as such?! What the fuck is that supposed to mean?” He reached across and put his hand over hers, but she pulled hers away. “Frankie and I got into some shit with Homeland - to do with Afghanistan back when we were servin’.” He saw her eyebrows rise, and hurried on, “We sorted alla-that out with them, but had to agree to carry out a joint operation with them on somethin’ related to it. We found out that our liaison agent - Dinah Madani - was holdin’ back some critical information from us and we needed to know what and why, and make sure she didn’t do it in future.”

Taking a sip of her Prosecco she laughed, again without humour. “Don’t tell me, she wears Eternity.” He looked at her, confused, “What?” “Her perfume, Billy, her perfume.” He shrugged, “I really dunno.” “That’s not good, Billy. She’ll be expecting you to buy her some for her birthday.” He’d been drinking his beer and he brought the bottle back down with a bang. “No! I won’t be buyin’ anything for her anytime, okay?” he hissed at her, aware that the other diners’ heads had turned towards them at the loud noise his beer bottle had made on the table top. He leant in further towards her but then spotted the waiter heading their way with their plates, and moved back in his seat.

Silence fell again, even after the waiter had gone. Napkins unfolded and placed on laps, cutlery picked up, sips of drinks taken, first forkfuls of food eaten, gazing at Venice across the canal.

Billy cut another piece of his fillet steak, looking down at his plate while saying in a low voice, “I knew Madani had the hots for me. An’ I… I used that to my advantage.”

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

You were thoughtfully chewing your mouthful of linguine, swallowing it before picking up your flute of Prosecco and sipping from it. He was silent, also chewing, still not meeting your eye. Let him pick this back up, you thought and sat back slightly, silent.

His eyes slowly raised to yours, apprehension apparent in them. Another throat clearing, another swig of beer…. a big one. Oh ho, you thought, whatever was about to come out must be really bad. You were mad at him but at the same time couldn’t deny you were dreading what you were about to hear.

“I… uh.. took her out a few times for drinks after work. Made out with her a couple times after we left the bar…” he gulped visibly, “Uh… felt her up, let her feel me up.” He broke eye contact, grabbed the beer bottle again and took a huge drink, muttering “Sorry, I’m really sorry,” before looking fearfully at you once more. You stared back at him and hoped your face was expressionless. You actually wanted to smack him in the face and stalk off back to your hotel, but that masochistic streak goaded you to say, “Oh yeah? ….And?” He narrowed his eyes, “And what?” “Exactly, Billy - and what? You’re seriously telling me that was it? It stopped right there?” He nodded vigorously, “Yeah! Yes, sweetheart - it did, I swear!”

Picking up your glass once more, you said in a low voice, “Sorry, Billy, I don’t believe you. I think you took her to some shitty motel and the two of you fucked. Maybe more than once.” His face flushed but then you realised he was angry, not caught out in a lie.

“No,” he said between gritted teeth, “I. Did. Not!” emphasising each word with a thump of his hand on the table. He leant across the table until his face was very close to yours, “It was my stupid fucked-up version of a honey trap, okay! I hated lyin’ to you, angel, and I’m so, so sorry I did that, but I was between a rock and a hard place. I had to find out what her game was. I don’t trust her an inch and I think she’s still after me an’ Frankie for somethin’ else that went down in Kandahar.”

You watched his eyes become distant, and you knew in his head he was back in that hellhole. “Seems like a helluva lot went down in Kandahar,” you said quietly, and his eyes refocused on yours. “Oh, sweetheart, you have no idea,’ he said softly, and chanced placing his hand on yours again. This time you didn’t draw away. “I don’t want you to have to hear all about that shitshow, but I’ll tell you another time… if you want me to.” He laced his fingers through yours, and squeezed your hand, “I promise you, on my life, that I’ll never lie to you again. Total honesty, I swear.”

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

You sighed, “Billy… I appreciate the sentiment, I do… but it doesn’t matter because we’re not together any more.” Billy rocked backwards as if you’d slapped him, and he stuttered, “But.. but we.. I… no! We are! We are still together!” You shook your head, “Maybe you don’t think that what you did with - what was her name again, Madani?” (you absolutely knew what her name was) “yeah, Madani - was cheating but Billy, you kissed her, you got up close and personal with her. You let her think you were interested in her, that she had a shot of getting with you. Okay you say you didn’t sleep with her, maybe you didn’t - but you still went behind my back and acted like you wanted to be with her. How can you expect me to be with you after you betrayed me like that? I don’t share, Billy - even if it’s fake.”

His eyes were wide, filling with tears. “No…please. Don’t say that, please. I… I can’t be without you, you’re the only one who makes me feel safe and… loved.” He placed his other hand on top of your joined hands, and his voice was so low you almost couldn’t hear it, “I love you, angel. So much.”

Now it was your turn to sit back abruptly in your seat. You and Billy had never had that conversation. You loved him but you’d made sure never to tell him that, as you didn’t believe he’d ever reciprocate the feeling. And now he’d said it. First. Before you had.

But did he mean it? Or just saying it to try and stop you breaking up with him?

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

He saw her taking in what he’d just said. He’d known that he loved her for some time but couldn’t get the words past his lips, he’d been shit-scared to say it out loud. Just let the status quo prevail, until she’d left him.

He was not going to let her break up with him. He just wouldn’t allow it, he needed her. She still had not said anything so he laid a finger on her bottom lip and gently ran it back and forward. He sensed he needed to say something more.

“I’m not just sayin’ it for effect, angel. I’ve been in love with you for a while but I’ve been too scared to say anything, I… I wasn’t sure you felt the same way.” She was still gazing at him, her eyes wide and looking a little teary. He felt a tear running down his own cheek and wiped it away abruptly. “Please don’t break up with me, just…. don’t, please. Give me another chance, I promise I won’t screw up this time.”

He heard her draw in a big breath and his stomach knotted. What was she going to say?

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

“Oh Billy….” you raised a hand and wiped away another tear from his cheek, “I… need a little time to take all this in, okay? I thought it was quite straightforward - you’d cheated on me, end of story. And don’t think that because you tell me you love me I’m gonna forget about what you did, because I can’t. Not just like that.” You snapped your fingers in the air. “But you’ve really muddied the waters for me now.”

Billy grinned tearfully at you, “Well, I’m glad I’ve managed to do that at the very least. Means I might still have a chance.” You must’ve looked sceptical or something because he rushed to say, “A very slim chance, I know.”

Sighing, you extricated your hands from his and picked up your fork. “Let’s finish our dinner before it gets totally cold and inedible and we can talk more later.”

He nodded, “Okay, sweetheart. Must admit, I’m starvin’.” You couldn’t stop yourself smiling at him, “When they say that an army marches on its stomach, they weren’t kidding, were they?” “Hell no they weren’t,” he grinned back at you.

You moved on to small talk and once dinner was finished and paid for a short while later, the two of you strolled back to the hotel. Billy had tucked your hand into the crook of his elbow, and you’d let him. Your brain wasn’t really functioning at normal speed at that point and you were looking forward to getting back to your room; you wanted to think very carefully about what you were going to do about Billy.

Back at the hotel, you made your way past Reception and headed for the stairs, Billy following close behind you. Reaching your door, you didn’t unlock it but turned to face him. You could see the hopeful look on his face but he was going to be disappointed. You weren’t going to take that step tonight, no matter how much you missed Billy, his arms around you, his body next to yours, legs tangled together. You gave him a small smile, and you saw the hope fading out of his eyes.

You put a hand on his arm, “Let’s spend some time together tomorrow. I want to visit the Lagoon islands.”

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

The Lagoon islands? He had no idea what or where those were, but he’d go to the moon if she wanted to because she’d said they could spend some time together. “So, no more running out on me, angel?” She smiled more widely at him, “No, not for now, Billy.”

He took a chance and pulled her into his arms, his mouth finding hers in a heated kiss. She didn’t stop him, so one hand made its way to the back of her neck and the other down onto her waist. He pushed his hips into hers - he knew she felt his arousal - and he was still holding out a tiny bit of hope that she’d invite him into her bed.

But now she did pull away, laughing up at him and giving him a quick soft kiss on the cheek, “G’night, Billy, sleep well.” He shook his head, smiling back at her, “You know I won’t… not in this state,” gesturing at his zip area and the tightened fabric of his jeans. She waggled her right hand at him, “Isn’t that what this is for?” He grabbed it, guiding it immediately to his zip, “If you’re offerin’, sweetheart, I’d be more than happy to take you up on that.” “Your hand! Not mine, you cheeky devil!” she laughed, pulling her hand away from him, “Now, goodnight! I’ll see you in the morning, downstairs for breakfast at about 8 or half past, okay?” He nodded, pushing his luck again and stroking her cheek, kissing her once more but more reserved this time, “G’night, angel, have sweet dreams…of me.” Rolling her eyes, she unlocked her door and disappeared into her room.

Billy walked jauntily along the corridor, throwing in a couple of dance moves as he went, feeling elated. He was feeling really optimistic for the first time since the day he’d seen her ‘Goodbye’ note and the torn photo.

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

(My photos - June 2012)

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@blackbirddaredevil23 @omgrachwrites @behindmyeyes-insidemyhead @ourloveisforthelovely @swthxrry @odetostep @supernaturalcat7 @obscurilicious @strawb3rrydr3ss @bruxa0007 @aleksanderwh0r3 @theshadowkingsqueen @bat-luna-cat @carlywhomever

»»————————————-———-　⚜　———————————-————-««

[criminalmutantsins]

Top 10 Favorite Young Justice Characters

10. Jaime Reyes/Blue Beetle

Starting off the list is Blue Beetle. Young Justice introduced me to him, and I was hooked. He’s probably the most mellow and calming voice. His arc and relationship with Bart (friendship or not) were my favorite aspects of S2. They bounced off each other in every scene. I was very disappointed when Jaime and Bart were sidelined so much, and hope S4 changes this (particularly with Bart).

Jaime in the number 10 spot since he doesn’t really have much of a memorable personality. Still love him to bits though.

        9. Will Harper/Red Arrow

Funny enough, I did not like Will. He was an asshole in S1; S2 kind of changed my mind about him but not enough since he didn’t appear as much. What really changed my mind was the episode “Private Security” (S3 Ep.4). I started looking back into Will’s storylines and, I have to admit, his is probably one of the best character development.

The first season had him unwillingly living a lie and betraying the people he cared for. In season 2 he was so consumed into finding the original Roy for five years, not even caring or focusing about his own life. I felt really bad for Will because he was probably going through an identity crisis and thought he couldn’t live his life without finding Arsenal. Probably felt guilty.

Seeing him living his own life and being happy with his daughter was so heartwarming. I smiled every time Will appeared in the latest season (totally ignoring the Will x Artemis fiasco), especially with Lian. I’m very proud of him.

I feel bad for putting him so low, yet I adore the next characters more.

 8. Garfield Logan/Beast Boy

I have been a massive Beast Boy fan since Teen Titans so you probably can imagine how excited to see him. His origin story was unique and his brother-sister bond with M’gann was very sweet. It was pretty weird seeing how much younger Gar was than Dick, but I got used to it. I was bummed that Gar wasn’t in S2 as much; however, S3 truly made up for it. 

After watching Beast Boy being a great leader in S5 of Teen Titans, I wanted a leader-like and more mature version of him. Young Justice truly delivered with Gar being the leader of the Outsiders. It’s nice to see him treated with respect rather than as a joke because that was my biggest gripe with Teen Titans. Though it was weird seeing him not crack a joke at all.

Gar’s story with his mom was heartbreaking to see. I literally cried seeing his reaction to revisiting his trauma in S2 and S3; I just wanted to hug and tell him how awesome he is. My only complaint with Gar in S3 was that the Outsiders weren’t established until near the end of the season.

His voice actor being Greg Cipes also gives him extra points (He’s a chill guy and radiates BB energy).

 7. Dick Grayson/Nightwing/ Robin I 

Sorry to all the hardcore Nightwing fans.

I love Dick (don’t get any ideas), but he doesn’t get enough development in the spotlight. One of the things I really wanted to see from him is his growth as a main leader, and his journey to becoming Nightwing. I was really bummed when these happened between the first two seasons.

To be honest, I don’t have as much to say about him other than straightforward qualities I enjoy about him.

1.His Voice (it’s so soothing)

2.His Personality (very charismatic)

3.Very Handsome (Probably in the top 3 my most handsome YJ Men list)

I put him higher than the others since he made a lot of contribution to the story and his new words (gotta love that aster!)

6. Megan Morse/M’gann M’orzz/Miss Martian 

If I made this list during S1, M’gann would have probably been in my top 3 (maybe even No. 1), but S2 didn’t give her any brownie points.

I really liked S1 Miss Martian because of her kind heart, awkward girl next door personality. Her trouble fitting in the beginning reminded me of when I was going through a time in high school; seeing her having trouble as well helped me feel not so lonely. M’gann powers were (still are) my favorite since I am a big fan of mind-like powers. I would feel so powerful. Watching her identity crisis(?) arc was great too. I’ve had trouble feeling comfortable in my own skin as well as my social anxiety (I’m a mess) and I could understand how scared Megan was of her friends’ thoughts on her true form. 

Oh boy. Season 2 basically ruined her. Learning what she would do to enemies was terrifying to see and left me wondering what happened to Miss Martian that made her step this far. What she almost did to Superboy was almost unforgivable. You do not try to manipulate with your boyfriend’s mind when you guys have an argument! Shame on you M’gann. If Superboy hadn’t forgiven you then I wouldn’t have either.

Good thing S3 somewhat redeemed her. Her kind heart was noticeable again and she refused to do that mind trick again (thank god). Very excited for the Superboy and Miss Martian wedding! Please creators, I beg of you to not skip over it. I want to cry my eyes out in happiness!

 5. Kaldur’ahm/Aquaman/Aqualad 

Now we’re in the top 5 with Aqualad (*ahem* Aquaman) starting it off.

Creating Kaldur was the best decision the creators ever did. I love him with all my heart!

He added diversity to the original team and was a great leader. S1 was not his breakout season, though the second season definitely was.

Kladur played the villain so well that he deserves an automatic Oscar. I never doubted that he was with the heroes, but he didn’t disappoint. My favorite part about Aqualad’s performance was when he rose from the ocean slowly like a cliché villain (he made it work), and the line he said right after he “killed” Artemis; it sent me chills. Love it! 

Pretty disappointed that he didn’t appear as much in S3. Very happy that he is a part of the LGBTQ+ community and is in a happy relationship. I’m a part of the community and loved that there was finally some representation in one of my favorite shows. Even so, I have to criticize how rushed and sidelined it was. I hope Kaldur and Wyynde’s relationship gets development.

 4. Kon-El/Conner Kent/Superboy

Like Will, I did not like Superboy at first. Mainly angry and volatile characters were never really my cup of tea. I do understand why he was upset and felt bad for him; I just handle anger the direct opposite as him. My love for Conner started growing around the end of S1. He was very sweet towards Miss Martian (bless him for not caring about her appearance) and his anger was in control.

Season 2 pretty much switched my opinions on him and M’gann. It was awful what M’gann almost did to him. That scene with him being so sad that what she did ruined that special bond they had almost made me cry. I wanted to give him a hug. He grew so much too since I don’t think he would have handled the whole M’gann drama as well in S1. A lot of furniture would’ve been broken.

I gotta admit something. I almost put Conner near the bottom (maybe no. 7). A comment in a poll in Amino changed my mind. I wrote a poll asking other fans who did they prefer SB or MM. At that point I said SB, though I didn’t think much of it. Someone (specifically yjfangirl) responded “Superboy has the best development in the show.” This had me thinking about how far SB has gone. In the beginning, Conner was an angry guy who felt alone and rejected by the person who he was meant to emulate. Now he is happier and living for himself rather than to be the next Superman. He’s getting married people! A little detail I noticed when rewatching S3 was Superboy mentioning to new characters that they weren’t obligated to be a hero because of their abilities. I adored this! The main reason why Superboy was created to be Superman if the original ever died, and another one of Luthor’s puppets. But he strayed from that pressuring path and is doing his own thing. Conner doesn’t want other people to feel like he did. What an absolute pure soul.

Also, yjfangirl, first I want to say Hi (*waves*)! Then say thanks for writing that comment. It made me really think about the bigger picture with SB and my love for him as grown exponentially. You probably didn’t mean to do that, but I still want to thank you. 😊

 3.Wally West/Kid Flash

We’re in the elites now.

I don’t know how to explain it, I just love Wally. He makes me laugh, and his character growth was great. At first, Wally was this cocky flirt who didn’t take the hero work as seriously. That changed in “Cold-hearted,” one of my favorite episodes in the series. This was when I really started seeing more of Wally than being this dumb flirt. It was great seeing him actually caring about helping people since I believed for a long time that he wanted to be a superhero to just have powers rather than actually protect others. The regret in his eyes when he thought his impulsive behavior killed Perdita helped me see who he really was- this somewhat arrogant speedster who had a kind heart. Episodes that can make me change my perspective on characters are truly special.

I was very upset that he wasn’t in S2 a lot. I understand why since he gave up the life, but I was still bummed. Seeing him being so loving and protective towards Artemis was amazing. Spitfire is my favorite ship and I will not give up on them. All I want is a happy ending! The penultimate episode of S3 was a hint that it will happen. Watching the S2 finale was heartbreaking, I cried watching him disappear, his love for Artemis being the last things he said. Artemis’ reaction did not(I just wanted to hug her). 

I have more to say, though I’m leaving it for another post. 😉

 2.Bart Allen/Kid Flash II/Impulse

Picking between Bart and Wally for second place was tough. Took me a while to decide; I’ll talk about it later on.

The moment Bart made his appearance, I absolutely adored him. He is amazing and I live for his hyper, fun attitude. His arc and relationship with Jaime were my favorite aspects of S2. What can I say, their chemistry is great to see.

That scene when he was meeting the Flash family was so adorable. His excitement was infectious and spoiling his dad and aunt’s births was hilarious! I watch it occasionally whenever I need a good laugh or reason to smile.

Unlike most time travelers- at least the ones I’ve seen- Bart was very involved with what was going on and befriended his biggest enemy- evil and weirdly huge future Blue Beetle. He was pretty careful about disclosing very important information and took things very seriously. You never know if disclosing everything was the thing that brought the world to chaos.

What I found interesting was his choice on how to interact with everyone. He seemed pretty gloomy in the future, but decided to portray this cheerful, devil-may-care attitude to be more likable. I understood (still kind of do). I had terrible mental health issues and I pretended to be happy in front of loved ones because I thought they wouldn’t care about me anymore. Bart got some brownie points for that.

I was dissatisfied when his role was greatly reduced. I wanted the creators to go further with Bart by revealing his past and how it affected him. He was pretty much comedy relief. You couldn’t imagine how disappointed I was, especially with it involving my second favorite character. Season 4 better change that.

I know that you shouldn’t assume a character’s sexuality, yet I really hope Bart is gay. There needs to be more clear representation and Bart can be one of them. I’m also a Bluepulse and Bartuado shipper (fine with either one as long as Bart’s bond with each of them stays strong).

Anyway, I mentioned that I would explain why I chose Bart for 2nd place over Wally. It mostly stems from wishful thinking. I really want S4 to have Bart as a main character since I believe the future will be strong plot point in the season. Development could surely happen such as Bart opening up more about what he went through. Let all those feelings go.

I’m going to write an article on my hopes for S4 when a release date is announced. Bart and Wally will most definitely be talked about.

 …..

We are finally near the end!

And my No. 1 favorite character is…

Drumroll please!

…

..

.

1.Artemis Crock/Tigress/Artemis

That’s right people!

Artemis Crock, original member of the Team and daughter of villains!

She is such an inspiration to anyone who wants to go their own past without their parents’ support.

It’s hard to describe how much I love Artemis. She’s brave, strong-willed, and a kind person. It’s crazy how great of a person she is after all the terrible things that happened to her. I look up to her because I don’t have a healthy relationship with my parents (verbal and mental abuse) and there are times I don’t feel strong enough to stand on my own. I want to carry the amount of strength Artemis has as my own.

After all that happened in S2, it was amazing to see Artemis come back to the team and train the new generation. It must have been hard to walk away from a safe, comfortable life for a chaotic, dangerous life. I admire that in everyone, but I hold more respect for Artemis since “the life” “killed” Wally. I wanted to hug her so bad.

She’s also one of the kindest people in the show, the events in S3 being the best example. When Zatanna was crying about her dad, Artemis was there to comfort her. It was so sweet! Roy and her also took in Halo and Terra like they were a part of the family; the archer treated them like the best big sister. That rainstorm scene was heartwarming to the core.

Wouldn’t Artemis be an amazing mother? Lian and her have a strong bond like a mother and daughter; I loved it, and Lian is in good hands with Roy and Artemis. Though Jade deserves a chance to be a mother. Artemis also seemed to enjoy taking care of those kids in that S1 episode. Wally too. You guys know what I’m guys insinuating. 😉

Get ready for some fanfics on that someday.

My favorite Artemis-centered episode was the second to last episode of S3. I was waiting for this episode centering around Artemis missing Wally and learning to move on. It was great yet heartbreaking. Nothing bad happened. That Will and Artemis kiss never happened. Everyone makes a mistake. No matter how terrible it was.

Anyway, seeing Artemis and Wally living their lives and having a baby gave me life, even if it was fake. It was a vision of the future. I will believe this until there is confirmation that Wally will not come back.

Did anyone else cry when Artemis was so desperate to, but Wally wouldn’t let that happen (the real Wally would do that)? They are a great example of a healthy relationship with all the love and support they have for each other. I want that.

[multimetaverse]

HSMTMTS 2x08 Review

Most Likely To was the best ep of S2 so far and ended one ship while launching another. Let’s dig in!

Gaston was super fun, a very nice showcase for both Larry and Matt. This is the kind of energy that early S2 was lacking. Also feels like the first ep where East High might actually have a shot at beating North High. Covid restrictions played a role but we really needed to see more rehearsal scenes and scenes of the wildcats just being theatre kids. This also may be one of the last times we see EJ perform as a student in the musical so I’m glad we got this.  

EJ has been criminally underused for most of S2, he’s marketed as part of the big 4 along with Nini, Ricky, and Gina and Matt Cornett’s name is listed 3rd in the credits but in the early eps of S2 you’d think he was guest star. Lately he’s started to become more important and tonight was an excellent showcase of why he’s such an interesting character. I’m not gonna check but this feels like it’s the most EJ screen time in a single ep that we’ve gotten all season long. 

Of course, the main reason for EJ’s increased screen time is because of Portwell. I’ve been neutral on them but tonight they really won me over’ their scenes were so sweet that they warmed even my cold black heart. Matt and Sofia are good friends irl and that shines through in their easy rapport and great chemistry. Gina snorting at EJ’s joke was cute and I loved the shot of Gina accidentally walking into the shot for EJ’s confessional. As an aside, they’ve been doing some fun stuff with the confessionals lately which helps add a bit of the metaness that helped make S1 so great.

The real big Portwell scene tonight was EJ and Gina talking on the couch at Ashlyn’s. Lot’s to love there. Gina’s speech to EJ about what she sees when she thinks of him was sweet and her saying that EJ tried to do the right thing and often failed but kept trying echoes what she said of herself during her confession to Ricky. Also when EJ asked Gina if she understood the feeling of having her life mapped out she replied, ‘’not really’’ which is almost certainly the inspiration for Gina asking a question to EJ and him responding ‘’not really’’ in their pre S2 face time call on the hsmtmts instagram. 

EJ is still wracked with guilt for the guy he used to be but Gina reminds him that he’s grown and is a good guy which leads to her slip up about her seeing him that way vs the rest of the gang hinting that she’s beginning to catch feelings for EJ. Which leads to EJ complimenting her and them having a moment that could well have led to a kiss if Ashlyn hadn’t come home. And they cap it off with Gina falling asleep and EJ covering her with his Duke sweater. 

It’s been nice not seeing Gina upset over Ricky these past two eps and it’s a damning indictment of the poor writing and pacing of S2 that her story in the first 6 eps can be summed up as Gina being upset over something Ricky said or did. Not only has Portwell allowed EJ to rise in prominence but also it’s allowed Gina to escape the rut her character was stuck in pining for Ricky. 

I hope after S2 is over that we get an interview where Tim explains how the Portwell plot came to be. The S1 finale set up some possible interest between them as did the pre S2 face time call but nothing came of it during the first 4 eps, they stood next to each other a lot but barely interacted otherwise. Notably in 2x01, which Tim himself wrote, EJ tries to grow a beard and tells Ashlyn that he says her as so young which is extremely jarring now that we know that EJ is crushing on Gina who is Ashlyn’s age. 

Was Tim not set on doing Portwell until he realized he needed to give Gina something else to do other than hopelessly pine for Ricky? Narratively, it made sense after Rini got together in S1 to put the other two Big 4 characters together in S2 but did Tim not want it to seem so obvious to the audience so he deliberately kept Portwell apart until 2x05 where EJ’s feelings make for a nice plot twist? Was he just reluctant to plug EJ back into the love square due to how much more complicated it would make things but later felt he had no other options? Or was it just plain old bad pacing and writing?

Of course, I wish that there wasn’t such a large age gap between Sofia and Matt but there are no Gina ships that avoid that problem, there’s also an age gap between Sofia and Joshua, just as there was between Olivia and Joshua and Matt in S1. Depending on when they film S3 there’s a good chance that most of it will be finished before Sofia even turns 18 which is deeply unfortunate. There’s a broader issue of teen girls being cast in mostly age appropriate roles while their male love interests are older adults and in particular it often affects female characters of colour. Netflix has a really bad track record with those kind of age gaps but Disney has problems too as we’ve seen on HSMTMTS and on GMW where by the end of S3 they had 18 year old Peyton Meyer as the boyfriend of 14 year old Rowan Blanchard’s character (not to mention canon Joshaya which didn’t have such a bad age gap between the actors but was problematic regarding the ages of the characters themselves).

A knock I’ve seen on Portwell is that EJ is just gonna leave for university next year but that was never gonna happen, Matt’s under the same 4 season contract as all the other mains and he’ll be sticking around in some capacity much like Sharpay ended up doing in the movies. It is true that EJ will probably have to move on at the end of S4 while Gina still has her senior year left but that will also happen with her and Ricky since he’ll be graduating at the end of S4. It was a big mistake to make EJ a senior but it also may end up being a big mistake to make Gina a sophomore. It would have been too messy to retcon EJ to be a junior but Tim probably should have taken the chance to retcon Gina into being a junior in S2.

That Rini breakup was so sad (missed opportunity for gotta go my own way). They managed to get in a Troyella reference with the treehouse. This was inevitable they just have not been communicating well though now that we know that Ricky thought Nini left YAC for him some of his desperation to spend as much time together as possible makes more sense. I think Rini is endgame if the series has 4 seasons but it wouldn't shock me if we never seem them dating again and they only get back together in the series finale. It also wouldn’t surprise me if Nini never dates anyone else for the remainder of the series or at least not seriously. 

We’re not even halfway through the series so it’s way too early to permanently slam the door on Rini though this time apart will probably help Joshua and Olivia move on from their own bitter break up before it bleeds too much into their performances. I do wonder if Tim really has a clue what he's gonna do with them for the remaining 24-28 eps of the series, assuming S3 and S4 have 10-12 eps each. 

Roman Banks killed If I Can’t Love Her and the montage of all the couples or ex couples was great.

It was nice to finally meets some parents other than the Bowen’s and Salazar-Roberts’. Kourtney’s mom was played by Dara’s actual mother and their dynamic was great as expected. It seems from their conversation that Kourtney's father is dead which I don’t believe has been mentioned before. Cash Caswell.... well it gets what the character is about across. He really looks and sounds like a rich Utah republican, I bet he knows Mitt Romney personally. I liked EJ going to tell his father that he’s not going to Duke and recognizing that he wants to build his own life on his own merits. 

We saw a bit of that S1 Miss Jenn energy tonight which was fun though I didn't like how curt she was with Seb nor did I like how rude Carlos was to Seb although we know that blows up in 2x10. 

Jazzara rising! I really liked how Jazzara and Portwell are sort of mirroring each other and since Mazzara knows about EJ’s feelings for Gina it wouldn’t shock me if helping EJ out is part of him showing a softer side in 2x12.

Of course Ashlyn is VP of the Nostradamus society. It's clear her family has some kooky new age beliefs (her parents are probably members of some naturopathic medicine group on Facebook that doubles as a gateway into Qanon)

It was nice to see Big Red being such a good friend to Ricky and the return of Ricky’s infamous pillow hugs. Lmao at Ashlyn just chilling while Big Red is comforting Ricky

Also Miss Jenn saying sexy and Big Red referring to pillow talk, the writers are adding a bit of spice when cooking up these scripts.

Looking Ahead: 

Looks like Gina may be wearing EJ's duke sweater next ep according to some posts I saw. Jack presumably is there to somehow help Gina decide what she wants with Ricky and EJ though him having wanderlust might also feed into Gina’s thoughts on settling down in SLC or moving with her mom around the country.

Let's see what mom of the year, Lynne Bowen, has up her sleeves. Ricky’s bedroom at her place in Chicago looks much nicer than the apartment Mike Bowen has so perhaps she makes a lot more money than he does. 

Not looking forward to the Zoom portions of the ep but I guess it was inevitable. 

There’s only two paths for Gina’s story to go in the remainder of this season; either she decides to move on from Ricky and give EJ a chance or she decides that Ricky is worth trying again and squelches her budding feelings for EJ. The former looks much more likely after tonight’s ep but either way it needs to be handled with care. Inevitably Gina and Ricky need to talk about what happened between them but if Tim really wants Ricky to continue being a viable love interest or even a good friend to Gina then he needs to really have Ricky apologize and show a thoughtful, kinder side of him that’s largely been missing this season. 

What I think Tim is doing is setting up Portwell getting together in 2x12 but Ricky pining over Gina until Portwell break up late S3 and Rina get together in the S3 finale before they break up later in S4 and Ricky gets back with Nini near the end of the series. If I had Tim’s ear I would tell him that he should pick which ship he wants to do, Rina or Portwell, but don’t do both. He wants canon Rina? Great then end Portwell before it starts and have Rina happen in S3 and introduce other obstacles to them getting together rather than having to damage EJ’s character and make him lose another girl he likes to Ricky. He wants canon Portwell? Great then have Gina and Ricky’s conversation be closure for the both of them and have Gina and EJ get together and break them up without Ricky being a cause of it or waiting in the wings to get with Gina soon afterwards. Doing both will be a disaster and I truly hope that Tim Federle carefully thinks over his mistakes in S2 and really plans out the remaining 2 seasons of the series while there’s still time to prevent things from going really off the rails like GMW and AM did thanks to the bad decisions of Michael Jacobs and Terri Minsky. 

Until next week wildcats.