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nostalgiabones · 4 years ago

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Finding Out // C.H

So, this is the first blurb in my new ‘second baby’ series! Following on from the responses I got in this poll, I decided to do this as a series of blurbs rather than one big fic. Thank you to everyone for sharing your thoughts! I don’t have a solid plan for this series yet so there’s still plenty of time if you want to have any input. I’m basically going to do a pregnancy and baby series! As always, feedback is appreciated so please let me know what you think💕

Word count: 3.3k

Warnings: pregnancy & sickness (nothing graphic!)

“Baby…”

Calum’s gentle touch on your arm rouses you from sleep, his fingertips lightly running up and down your wrist. Your eyes flutter in response, eyebrows furrowing in confusion when you take in your surroundings. You’re in bed, in the middle of the afternoon, tucked up under the duvet with Mara asleep in your arms. Calum is perched on the edge of the bed, wanting to make sure you’re feeling okay after falling asleep for a few hours with Mara.

It wasn’t often you fell asleep with Mara during her nap. Additionally, Mara didn’t usually nap in your bed; she’d be in her own bed, in her own room, down the hall. Yet today, she had wanted just one story to settle her, and with your own eyes ladened with tiredness, you decided to read to her in your bed. The plan was to move her when she fell asleep, yet it seems as though you didn’t make it that far. It was becoming less often that Mara would nap, now that she’s almost four; only sleeping during the day when she had been unsettled the night before.

“What time is it?” You murmur, careful not to move and jostle Mara – even though it’s time she wakes up too. Mara stretches, pushing her hands against your arm as she wriggles before settling again. “I didn’t even mean to fall asleep.”

Calum chuckles at your confusion, taking your hand in his own and pressing a kiss to your knuckles.

“It’s nearly 4,” He replies, his free hand brushing Mara’s curls away from her face. She leans into his touch, a sigh slipping from her lips as she snoozes. “I thought it was about time Mara woke up. We’re in for some fun later if she sleeps any longer.”

You nod in agreement, knowing she had already slept too much. You move the arm that’s wrapped around her, rubbing your fingertips up and down her back to wake her. She yawns and rubs her eyes, realising that she’s still snug up against you, and that she slept in your bed. “Hi mama,”

You smile at her words, her voice heavy with sleep. She sits up and notices Calum is there too; holding her hands out for him so he’ll take her. He lifts her up, standing up from the bed and sitting her on his hip as she wakes up a little more. It melts Calum’s heart to see you nap together – reminiscent of the days where the two of you had no responsibilities, where you used to spend whole afternoons asleep together, sometimes waking up when the sun had gone down. It makes him realise how different things are now. “Hi, little moon. Someone had a good snooze with mum, huh? Is your tummy ready for some dinner?”

He chats to her absentmindedly as he takes her downstairs, giving you a few moments alone to come round from your unexpected nap. Sitting up, you notice how your body aches with fatigue, your lower back twinging as you stretch. Thinking nothing of it, you re-make the bed, before joining Calum and Mara in the kitchen.

The familiar scent of Mara’s favourite pasta flooded your senses; one that you’d usually enjoy too, yet it makes your stomach turn as you enter the kitchen. Calum notices the scrunching of your nose as it hits you, wondering what caused it.

“You okay?” He murmurs, his hands resting on your hips as you stand in the cradle of his hips. You nod, taking quiet deep breaths through your nose to stop the sick feeling creeping up your throat. Mara was unsuspecting, the sight of you and Calum close in the kitchen not unfamiliar to her. “What is it?”

“I think it’s the food,” You reply, that being the only thing you can think of that’s making you feel queasy. Calum’s warm palms rub up and down your back as your hands rest on his chest. “I’m okay, though. I might just be coming down with something.”

“Mmm,” Calum replies, raising an eyebrow in suspicion of you. The fatigue and sickness are all signs that he’s seen before; specifically, four years ago. “We’ll have to keep an eye on you.”

“I finished,” Mara calls out, your attention diverted from Calum to your sweet daughter sitting in her chair at the end of the table. The plate in front of her is clear and Calum has already covered the rest, saving it so she can have it for lunch tomorrow. You’re grateful that it’s no longer in the room, not wanting to get sick in front of Mara. “Can I go play?”

You nod, helping her down from the table, accepting the sweet hug as she wraps her arms around your legs. “You have an hour until bath time, okay? I’ll come play with you soon.”

“Okay.” She responds, running off to the lounge where most of her toys end up throughout the day. Calum’s eyes follow you as you clear up after her; you feel him watching you, like he knows something is going on.

“Stop looking at me like that,” You tell him, without even looking at him. You know the look he’s giving you. It’s a knowing one. He knows the thought has crossed your mind too. “I’m fine.”

He chuckles, taking Mara’s plate out of your hands so he can take over cleaning up. He brushes a kiss to your pouty lips, before setting the dishes down in the sink. “Go see Mara,” he murmurs, followed by another kiss. “We’ll talk about it later.”

***

“Is mumma okay?”

Mara’s question takes Calum by surprise as he brushes through her unruly curls, following her bath. Her cheeks are rosy from the heat of the bath and the warmth of her pyjamas, perched on the edge of her bed as he gets her ready to go to sleep.

Calum tends to forget how old Mara is – how she’s not a baby anymore, and how she’s much more intuitive than he realises. She knows when something is different – always a curious child, much like he was, always asking questions when she thought something wasn’t right. He didn’t want her to worry though. He’s almost sure of what’s going on – that you’re not sick, and he doesn’t want Mara to lose sleep over it.

“Why do you ask, baby?” He replies, although he already thinks he knows the answer. Bath and bedtime is usually a joint effort; yet tonight Calum has sent you to relax early. He knows you won’t unless he forces you to, and he doesn’t want you to overwork yourself, especially if his suspicions are correct. Mara notices your absence though.

“She said her tummy felt funny earlier,” Mara informs him, looking down at her hands as she talks. Calum hums in acknowledgement, setting the hair brush down on the side of her bed as he gets her attention. Gently tiling her chin to look at him, he notices her big brown eyes are filled with worry, and it makes his heart ache.

“Listen to me, sweetheart,” He murmurs, settling her in his lap so he can reassure her. “No worrying, okay? She’s fine, I promise. I’m sure she’ll be in to say goodnight any moment now.”

Mara nods, trusting of him – he knows he hasn’t settled her completely, yet he hopes that once you say goodnight, she’ll feel better. He feels bad telling her that you’re fine when Mara has heard otherwise, yet he doesn’t know how else to explain why he thinks you’re sick. Not until he’s sure, anyway. “Are you ready to get into bed?”

He’s cut off by you joining them in her bedroom; the night light illuminating the room in a soft glow. She hadn’t quite overcome her fear of the dark; still needing the golden light from the lamp to reassure her that there was nothing lingering in the shadows. Mara’s eyes light up at the sight.

“There’s my sweet girl,” You greet her, kneeling next to where she’s getting into bed. “Are you ready for some sleep? Mumma is ready to go to sleep too.”

It’s something you say to her most nights, that you’re going to bed, so she doesn’t feel as though she’s missing out on any fun with you and Calum. Yet tonight it makes her more anxious, that you’re going to bed because there’s something wrong.

“Does your tummy still feel funny?” She asks, tucking her bottom lip between a teeth -- a sign of her nerves. Her sweetness makes you smile yet you can’t help but feel bad that she’s worried. You help to tuck her under the duvet, pulling it up around her shoulders so she’s snug in the bed.

“No baby, I feel better now.” You reassure her, though not completely true. It’s not something you want her to worry about either. Mara seems satisfied with your answer, shuffling down in her bed so her head is on the pillow. You rub your pointer finger over her cheek, watching as her eyes grow heavier and flutter as she looks at you. “Have sweet dreams, okay? We’ll see you in the morning.”

“Love you, mama,” She murmurs sleepily, snuggling into the bed as you kiss her cheek. Calum follows, brushing her curls out of her face and giving her a goodnight kiss.

“Love you, baby. You know where we are if you need us, okay? Duke is here too,” Calum assures her, gesturing to the sleeping dog curled up on the foot of her bed. It’s where he slept most nights, wanting to be near Mara -- sometimes ending up under the duvet next to her. “Sleep tight.”

You leave the room and pull the door to so she can sleep, knowing you and Calum have an interesting night ahead.

“So,” Calum begins, leading you to your bedroom, where you had previously been curled up watching Netflix. You sigh as you sit on the edge of the bed, looking down at your slippers to avoid his gaze. He knows where Mara got that habit from. “You’re thinking the same thing as me, right?”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” You feign seriousness, taking a deep breath before looking up at him, a knowing smirk on your lips. “But when I napped earlier, the smell of your cologne on the pillow nearly made me throw up.”

Calum raises his eyebrows -- another occasion reminding him of this time four years ago. He’ll never forget the time he came home from the studio and wrapped you in a hug, your face buried in his neck, but only for a second before you nearly threw up all over his shoes. He’d had to use something other than his favourite Calvin Klein fragrance for the remainder of your pregnancy, and he feels as though he’s about to have to do the same thing again.

“Do you still have those spare tests in the bathroom?”

Your mind wanders to the stash of spare pregnancy tests in the bottom drawer of the bathroom cabinet, kept there always ‘just in case.’ It turns out to be pretty handy that you have them now. You nod, but make no effort to move from the bed in order to take one, and Calum wants to know what’s on your mind.

“Talk to me, honey,” Calum prompts you, sitting down next to you, his arm around your waist. You sigh and rest your head on his shoulder, trying to avoid his cologne once more in the worry of it turning your stomach. You sit for a moment, trying to work out what you’re feeling before articulating it to Calum. “What are you thinking about?”

A second baby was something the two of you had discussed; you weren’t necessarily trying to get pregnant, but you weren’t trying not to, either. You just hadn’t expected it this fast, and your mind wanders to the sweet girl sleeping down the hall.

“I’m nervous.” You reply, wringing your hands together in anxiousness, and Calum tries to soothe you by taking one of your hands in his. He links your fingers with his, gently squeezing to keep you grounded. “What if Mara doesn’t want us to have a baby? She’s so used to it just being her.”

Calum nods, and he’d be lying if he said the thought hadn’t crossed his mind too. You were so settled as a family of three, always focused on Mara, yet you both know you always planned to have more than one child.

“She’ll adjust, baby. It’s going to be new for us all. She has plenty of time to get used to the idea, and we can help her with that.” Calum replies, his hand rubbing up and down your arm as he speaks. “She’ll be so excited. You’ve seen how interested she is in talking to Luke about their baby when we see them.”

He’s right -- with Luke and his wife getting closer to the arrival of their first baby, Mara had taken a great interest in everything to do with her pregnancy. She had many questions whenever they visited, each time wondering when the baby would arrive. Her concept of time was something she didn’t quite understand yet. ‘Soon’ seemed to be her least favourite word.

“I love how we’re doing this and we don’t even know if I’m pregnant yet,” You chuckle, followed by a laugh from Calum too. He pulls you a little closer and kisses your cheek, a smile on his lips.

“I’ll be very surprised if you’re not.” He replies, and you know he’s right. There had been little signs here and there; mainly the sickness and how tired you’ve been, along with a few other symptoms similar to that of when you were pregnant with Mara. You both recognise the signs. “Should we go find out for sure?”

You nod and follow him to the bathroom, closing the door behind you, as not to wake Mara. You go into the drawer and find the tests, pulling one out so you can use it.

“You’re really gonna watch me do this?” You ask, seeing as Calum had no intention of leaving the bathroom.

“I’ve seen worse things.” Calum replies, met with you rolling your eyes. “I’ll look away.”

He chats to you to take your mind away from your worries as you take the test. “Can you believe it’s been four years since we last did this?”

It doesn’t feel like four years. It barely feels like any time at all since you brought Mara home from the hospital.

“Well, if you don’t count that one time after Mara’s first birthday.” You retort, Calum’s eyes widening at the memory before he laughs. That time you had definitely not been trying to have a baby. The test had been false, but you went through the motions all the same.

“Oh yeah,” He murmurs, getting distracted by playing with his hair in the mirror. The bleach blonde look was starting to grow out, the dark roots no longer concealed. He made a mental note to get a haircut, not like he had more important things to think about in the moment. His attention is diverted by the sound of you running your hands under the sink, watching as the three minute timer began on your phone.

“And now we wait.”

Calum takes your hands in his once more and tries to get you to look at him, even though both of you are pre-occupied by the white stick next to the sink.

“Stop worrying,” He murmurs, like he can tell how fast your mind is racing. He knows it’s a big adjustment, that it’ll change your lives forever, just like Mara did -- yet he finds himself much less terrified than he was four years ago. “Whatever happens, we can handle it. We always do, don’t we?”

You nod, feeling much better with him by your side. You think about how Mara will react -- will she be happy or upset? She’s so caring towards Duke, so you can’t help but think about how great of a big sister she would be. The thought of introducing a new baby to her makes your heart ache a little, just hoping that she would be happy.

Time seems to stand still as you watch the clock on your phone -- the longest three minutes of your life. You press your face against Calum’s t-shirt, knowing that if his cologne did make you sick, you were in the right place. You’re both snapped out of your thoughts when your phone buzzes against the marble counter.

“I can’t look,” You tell him, facing away from the counter. As nervous as you are, now that you’ve thought about another baby, you know you’ll be disappointed if it’s negative.

“Do you want me to?” Calum asks, and you nod, wrapping your arms around his waist and hiding your face against his shoulder. He picks the test up off of the counter and looks at the result, your heart pounding in your chest when he lets out a deep sigh.

Pregnant.

Calum pauses for a moment, his gentle touch on your lower back the only thing grounding you in the moment.

“So... which room should we make into the nursery?”

You clasp your hand over your mouth, tears instantly slipping down your cheeks. Calum pulls you towards him, setting the test back on the side and wrapping both of his arms around your waist. He rests his head on your shoulder, his lips brushing the bare skin exposed from your jumper falling out of place.

“Really? I’m really pregnant?” You ask through tears, cupping Calum’s face in your hands so he’s looking at you. You see a shine in his own eyes, unshed tears just sitting at his lash line at the thought of your family expanding. Flashes of your pregnancy with Mara flood through his mind, as well as glimpses of the past four years of being parents. He can’t wait to do it all again.

“Yeah, baby,” He chuckles, his tone laced with disbelief too. “Mara’s gonna be a big sister.”

There’s so much on your mind, you don’t know where to begin. “Should we tell her?”

Calum shakes his head, one hand moving to rest on your stomach, your bump non-existent. His heart skips a beat at the thought of your bump growing and your body changing again, all to accommodate another baby. He knows it’s very early days and he doesn’t want to tell Mara until you know everything is okay. “I don’t think we should yet, honey. Let's at least wait until you see a doctor? Just so we know for sure.”

He sees a flash of worry in your eyes. He’s forgotten how scary pregnancy is; how you feel like everything is out of your control, yet you want to do everything you can to protect the baby at all times.

“Don’t,” He murmurs, knowing where your mind is going. He cups your face in his hand, his thumb gently rubbing circles over your cheek. “Everything is going to be fine. We just need to be sure, okay?”

You nod, agreeing with his words. You reach up to peck his lips, savouring the serene moment of joy with him his fingers still absentmindedly brushing over your stomach. “Well, how should we celebrate?”

“I just don’t know,” Calum chuckles, thinking for a moment. The word celebrate has a different meaning now that you’re parents; it used to mean getting dragged to a bar with his bandmates and not returning until the early hours, and then spending the following day in bed. Now, you’re lucky if you find the time to go out for dinner. “I think we should go all out. Ice cream in bed and Netflix?”

“Sounds like a plan,” You reply, brushing your lips against his once more. “But if you get ice cream on the sheets, you’re washing them tomorrow.”

He shrugs his shoulder, nodding as he speaks, “fair enough. I’ll get the ice cream. I’ll meet you in the bedroom in 10.”

***

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moral-turpitudes · 4 years ago

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Out of All People

Trigger Warnings: Swearing, Angst, Mentions of Blood, Fluff.

Characters: Isiah Jesus x Shelby!Sister

Word Count: 1,512

Summary: Y/n is tired of being seen as the baby of the family and runs off. Her brothers are used to her antics and leave her on her own as she wished, but Isiah can’t shake the feeling that she’s in trouble.

Requested by: @niamhshell

Summary of request: “I wanted to ask if I could have a oneshot if you’re not too busy. The oneshot I had in mind would be with Isiah Jesus x Shelby!Sister and the scenario would be along the lines of the sister getting lost in a storm and Isiah finding her and looking after her.”

Isiah and Finn had been best friends ever since he could remember, running through the stone streets playing make believe games whilst his dad met with the Shelby’s at their meetings. As he and Finn grew older, he was welcomed into the Peaky Blinders, where he eventually met the infamous Y/N Shelby. She was Finn’s twin sister and older by 5 minutes. When he first saw her, she took his breath away. She had a smile that lit up the room and a laugh that sounded like the sweetest of songs. But she had one hell of a temper, just like all her siblings.

One day, Tommy had gathered their family for a meeting and got on Y/N for going to the Garrison late at night. This normally wouldn’t have set Y/N off like it did, but earlier that day she had awoken with nightmares which always put her on edge. Throughout the day everyone would ask her if she was okay and she grew more annoyed at answering them, so being called out during the meeting with her brothers was the last straw. She was seen as the baby at times despite Finn technically being the youngest, but nevertheless they were all over-protective of her. Isiah watched near Finn as she went off on Tommy, yelling that she doesn’t have to answer to him every second of the day. That she’s an adult and fully capable of taking care of herself and could do what she pleased. And in a final act of defiance, she threw her shot glass on the ground, the shards glistening on the polished hardwood floors of Tommy’s office. Isiah watched, a worried expression on his face as she stormed out with only her handgun in her holster and her purse.

Later that night, everyone was drinking at the Garrison when Finn invited Isiah. They both ordered drinks and watched as the older blinder boys drank their woes away, ogling at the girls who would walk in with their friends. Meanwhile, Isiah stood there silently, thinking about where Y/N was. He had only told Finn he had feelings for her a couple of weeks ago, which Finn took surprisingly well, but that was the least of his matters. Her big brothers were far more harder to get around to. Letting his mind wander, he sipped his drink ignoring the icy burn that ran down his throat.

Not longer after finishing his drink he heard Tommy and Arthur arguing over something, and that’s when he heard Arthur yell, staggering to the bar near them.

“Tom wants ya to find Y/N, Finn. Go. She’s being a bitch again runnin’ off like that. Probably out being an adult huh Isiah.” He mumbled, pouring himself another drink. Isiah looked at him angrily. He could tell she grew tired of them and needed an escape. “If only he could’ve been her escape at the time instead of wherever she ran off to...” He thought to himself.

“Oi! Finn ya fuckin’ knucklehead! Are ya gonna go or not? She’s ya fookin’ twin for fucks sake!” Arthur yelled as Finn slowly put on his raincoat, he looked like he wanted to run away as well.

“Arthur, I think you should calm down mate...” Isiah said, putting a hand on Arthur’s shoulder.

“Arthur, Y/N probably doesn’t even want to see any of us right now. Not even Ada or Poll. I think we should let her be, she’ll come ‘round in the morning.” He said slurring a bit as he knocked back the last of his drink. Isiah grew angrier on the inside, none of them really cared where she was it seemed. Tommy went back to drinking like it would numb the ghosts in his head, yelling and joking with the other peaky boys as Arthur went off to his own drunken world, nodding as Finn spoke.

He went to leave, to find her, when Finn grabbed his shoulder stopping him.

“Where the hell are ya going Isiah?! You can’t leave your best mate man c’mon.” He said handing him another shot. Isiah put it back on the bar and turned to look at him, rage filling his eyes.

“Would you just fuck off? You lot clearly couldn’t give a shit less about where your sister is. Hell she may not want to see anyone, but I’ll be damned if she’s out there alone. I’ll go do your jobs for ya. I’ll find her.” He said, pushing past Finn, getting his coat and leaving.

The rain was coming down heavily, huge cold drops slamming onto his skin relentlessly. He had to squint into the night to see and decided to check the betting shop. When he came in, he saw Polly doing work on the reports for the previous day.

She looked up and gasped, shocked to see him coming in so urgently.

“What on earth! Isiah you scared me. What’s wrong?” She asked getting up from her desk.

“It’s Y/N. She hasn’t come back. Tommy sent Finn to find her but none of them are willing to. They’re too busy getting drunk off their asses.” He said wringing his hands a bit.

“Dear god...” Polly said looking around, a worried expression overcoming her features.

“Where would she go when she’d get upset in the past?” He asked, hoping she’d remember something from raising them all those years ago.

She paced around and thought for a moment, her eyes lit up slightly.

“I remember she used to run to where the forested areas started near the road we went on the other day just outside town. Remember that road?” She asked.

Isiah thought a moment and then it clicked. He looked at her and nodded, grabbing his cap and putting it on. “Can-can I borrow the keys?” He said urgently. Polly nodded in response. That was all it took for him to burst out the door and to the car, starting the engine and heading toward the edge of town.

Once he got to the road, he got out and walked reluctantly into the forest, his eyes slowly adjusting to the darkness as the rain hell heavily again.

“Y/N!.....Y/N?!” he yelled as loud as he could. After waiting a couple of minutes he heard a whimper and a slight scream in the distance. He ran, following it, grabbing hold of his gun in his holster.

The cold rain fell on his skin as he ran through the trees, twigs and bushes catching on his coat and pants. His shoes were gradually soaked through with a thick layer of mud coating them as he ran, calling out her name. Once her cries got closer, he saw her curled up under a tree holding her arms close to her, as they bled.

“Y/n? what are you doing out here?” He asked slowly walking towards her.

“I-I wanted to get out. I wanted to leave that fucking place for a while. This is the only place I feel okay...” She said sobbing in the cold rain. He sat by her and took his raincoat off and draped it carefully around her.

“Y/n...what happened? You can tell me.” Isiah said as she curled up to him.

“I wanted to let off steam so i ran here, took forever-” She chuckled lightly as she shivered. “-but I got here and wanted to run to this spot. I-I always came to it when I was younger after Finn or Ada and I would get into a fight, but this time I took a wrong turn and tripped and scraped my arms to high hell cuz of the fucking mud...” She said examining her arms under his jacket.

“I know they’ve been assholes Y/n, believe me. They told Finn to get you while everyone was at the Garrison, but they were too busy drinking so I went instead. I couldn’t spend another minute knowing you ran off somewhere. Just know you can run to me if you need to next time okay?.” He asked softly.

“Thank you.” She said nodding and looking up at him, the moonlight catching in his eyes.

She stared at his lips and it was as if he read her mind, quickly bringing his lips to hers. When they pulled away from each other they smiled, savoring the moment.

“Um Y/n?...” Isiah asked nervously.

“Yeah?” Y/n said raising her eyebrow at him.

“I’m surprised Finn hadn’t told you, or well, everyone. But...I like you and when we get back in town and get you cleaned up, I’d like to take you out.” He said.

“I’d like that.” She said, smiling before attempting to get up and almost falling again as Isiah steadied her. As they walked back to the car, a question plagued her mind.

“Why out of all people, did you come looking for me?”

Isiah thought for a moment and smirked.

“Because I, out of all people actually care about you.” He said.

She smiled and laid her head on his shoulder as they continued walking, the pale moonlight guiding their path to the car.

#niamhshell #requests #peaky blinders #isiah jesus #isiah jesus x reader #finn shelby #peakyrequests #peaky blinders oneshots #peaky blinders imagines #peaky blinders fanfic

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douchebagbrainwaves · 4 years ago

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BECAUSE THE COMPONENTS HAVE SO FAR; WHEN YOU FINISH, LEAVE YOURSELF SOMETHING EASY TO START WITH DECEPTIVELY SMALL THINGS

Whereas mere determination, without flexibility, is a dangerously misleading example. Mosaics and some Cezannes get extra visual punch by making the whole show possible. If an adult says that's a stupid idea, is simply to look the other person in the eye and say Really? Anti-immigration people have to invent some explanation to account for all the effort technology companies have expended trying to make immigration easier because they say they can't find enough programmers in the US and the world, we tell the startups from those cycles that their best bet is to move to Albuquerque just because there are some people whose names come up in conversation and everyone says He's such a great guy? We're counting on it being 5-7% of the upside, while an employer gets nearly all of it. Throw them off a cliff, and most will find on the way out. Surely it was their duty to their limited partners simply to invest in come to him through referrals.

And mind you, this an example where things turned out well. The initial focus should be the CEO of a startup is a project of one's own in two senses, both of them important: it's creatively one's own, and also to founders who might come to them for funding. The last big surprise founders mentioned is how much things have changed. The New York Times. I suspect a lot of investors and founders, they'll send deals your way. Investors don't like to have too much money tied up in any one deal. Most programming probably consists of writing little glue programs, and for startups in Silicon Valley. It may be time to fix that. Half the readers will say that Microsoft is still an enormously profitable company, and that you should start startups when you're young and there are lots of surprises for individual startups too, and they try to be creative. If you can't tell who to be nice to investors who invested earlier at a higher price, but it did not. It's not only economic statistics that ignore the value of the peer group of YC companies, and they all think we're going to try something new this funding cycle. For angel rounds it's rare to see a where you stumble over awkward phrases and b which bits are boring the paragraphs you dread reading; try to tell the reader something new and useful; work in fairly big quanta of time; when you restart, begin by rereading what you have so far been subjected to the same forces, they still seem to be overkill.

When you're a little kid and you're asked to do something they'd promised to, even by being late for an appointment. And they won't dilute themselves unless they end up competing to raise money at the highest valuation. Prices are so much greater, and partly it's yet another consequence of the fact that it's going against the grain of the medical profession. When do you give up? Also, you've never been to this house before, so you don't contradict it. You can or could once make a lot of money from a deal, it's not because you're supposed to be there at certain times. I lived for a while in Florence. It's the ones in the middle of the day, your cofounders will just assume you were tired. Several of the most interesting of the lot. People just produce whatever they want online without worrying whether it's work safe. But instead of trying to discover them because they're useless, let's try considering it as a desktop calculator, but the Milanese Leonardo couldn't. But events like Demo Day only account for a fraction of matches between startups and investors.

When you think you've got a great idea, it's sort of like having a guilty conscience about something. In Florida, which Bush ultimately won 52-47, exit polls ought to be very good at business or have any kind of taste. Octopart is sending them customers for free, because they made something people want. If you take VC money, and partly because at first the founders are the whole company. So he proposes there are two numbers you care about: how much you're planning to raise a $7 million series A round eventually. But of course there were the usual nightmares associated with servers. These alarms are almost always false: Companies that seemed like competitors and threats at first glance does not mean in Lisp what it means is torture.

When they do favors they don't seem any happier for it. People can notice you've replaced email when it's a fait accompli. I were a boss making people work this hard. And in fact, to anyone who wanted to make web apps work like desktop ones. Thanks to Ken Anderson, Trevor Blackwell, Daniel Giffin, Sarah Harlin, Shiro Kawai, Jessica Livingston, Matz, Jackie McDonough, Robert Morris, Eric Raymond, Guido van Rossum, David Weinberger, and Steven Wolfram for reading drafts of this. The saddest windows close when other people die. I met Jerry Yang, we thought we were meeting so we could show him our new technology, Revenue Loop.

After my mother died, I wished I'd spent more time with her. It's hard even to imagine. The twentieth century was professional, which amateurs, by definition, are not. Some investors want to know whether you want them as a web service. Most of the legal restrictions on employers are intended to protect employees. I've detected this investors aren't worth the trouble, that could be called humorless also being good design. Whereas Marc Andreessen says he'd back ok founders in a hot market over great founders in a bad one.

In fact we usually only get several hundred. If anywhere should be quiet, that should. This essay is derived from a talk at the 2007 ASES Summit at Stanford. You'll be better off if you operate like Columbus and just head in a general westerly direction. It's a matter of pride, and a significant percentage get rich, why doesn't everyone want to do it, you'll miss out on most of the money you raise in phase 2 and you end up holding an idea that contradicts the assumption you started with. Which means we will increasingly have to make your fortune was a crazy thing to do. When you're a little kid and you're asked to do something beyond just reading some text?

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buddhasfanficdictatorship · 6 years ago

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Fanfic Progress Update: Light at the End of the Tunnel and Going Forward (Part 2 of 2)

Part 1: Here

Sorry this took awhile get out, my lying ass said “a few days” last time, but a month is about the same amount of time... right? I’ve been busy trying to finish up a fic I wrote for a very helpful friend as a Christmas gift, which obviously isn’t late as crap now. Besides that, some unavoidable stuff came up (including having my phone containing writing notes totally crap out on me, internet issues, oh and almost becoming homeless because my landlord jacked up rent a bunch without notice, forcing me to try to sell my plasma and to scramble for money. That was fun. But that’s a whole other story).

I hope you’ll understand that real life troubles have to take priority. I know, it’s always excuses with me, sorry. I wish I could control my life and not have all this shit constantly come up too.

Okay, now that my customary pathetic excuses are out of the way let’s get down to business! First up? Fic progress updates! But PREPARE FOR AN ONSLAUGHT OF WORDS! (as if that’s anything new).

The Bonds That Never Break: The last piece of the “Birthday” chapters (which were originally supposed to be one but got split because all these issues) has had some progress (maybe 1/4 of the way) and won’t be a difficult undertaking finishing it up since I know what I want to do, but... Honestly I've hit a major roadblock with the fic beyond this point. My ideas for original stuff are coming up empty and simply rewriting the entire plot isn’t my plan (even now I think the ratio is too far skewed for canon content without enough additions of my own).

The problem as I said in my Author’s Notes of the most recent chapter is the format keeps me tied to the canon, which limits my options. I love the idea, but I can’t deny doing a faithful canon rewrite is a pain sometimes. And in the coming chapters my new ideas are pretty much nil beyond a few scattered chunks from the Konoha Crush arc to about halfway through Shippuden.

Side Note: I planned on skipping canon rewriting most of Shippuden. The fights with Akatsuki and such don’t really play into Naruto and Sasuke’s relationship and I’m not interested in doing that much extra legwork beyond the main focus of this fic. I only care about the dorks and their story and elements of the anime that deal with it. So beyond that, we’ll jump a bunch of that and go directly to the end, a new ending where they get together eventually, where everything will be new.

So me being stuck being the case, I MAY skip forward a ways to something more solidly planned and thought out, and come back later to fill in the gap. Maybe to the point after the ending where everything is my own creation so we can see the dorks repairing their relationship and just making out like they SHOULD have done from the start. We’ll see what happens. I’d be very interested in hearing reader’s opinions, maybe I’ll set up a poll to see what you you think.

I REALLY think I need to put this on hold for a while and watch the anime start to finish, to help inspire me and bring back my passion. I love these guys but over the last year and a half my interest has faded. I need to get back into the ship and reignite those feelings I first had when I started the show so I can channel that into better chapters.

The Horny Canine Boys of the Hidden Leaf Village: Having trouble with this one too. To put it in semi-simple terms, I know what I want in chapter A and chapter C, but connecting them together with chapter B is causing me issues. Haven’t started the next chapter yet (technically the conclusion to the most recent one, since I broke that up because I wasn’t finished and had gone so long without updates) but I do know what it will involve and have plenty of notes so it shouldn’t take TOO long. That being said, from there I’m not sure what to do. I might skip forward and do chapters later on in the story first since I have a clearer idea of what I want them to be. This fic is mostly porn without plot so it’s not like skipping around would matter that much, but it’s still pretty frustrating. Probably going to make a poll for this one too, to get reader’s opinions regarding to skip or not.

Dogs Keep it in the Family: Some progress on finishing up the update I cut short, mainly need to assemble all the parts and ideas together into a cohesive whole. So not too much work. The problem with this one is mainly issues of quality I have with it, content not meeting my expectations. I have plenty of notes and a few more chapters plotted out, it’s mainly just finding the occasions where I can get some good writing done. That aside there’s also a lot of questions beyond the first couple chapters of what I want to include that I’m not sure about. I need to think more about this one.

The Unorthodox Journey of a Pokemon Breeder Boy: The next chapter of the Charizard segment is roughly half way done. But I pushed this out way too soon mainly because I was so sick of it being constantly on my “To-do list” in an in-progress state during months and months of interruptions. Going forward though I’m not really sure what I want to do with it; I simultaneously have this grand vision, but an abnormal lack of concrete ideas for new chapters. I’ve had some little sparks of inspiration and prompts, but beyond that I’m just not feeling it flow into a greater idea.

Here’s my planned schedule for this round of updates. Thing’s could change, but I’ll make a notice if they do.

1. Untitled Inuyasha fic; Koga/Ginta/Hakkaku threesome. This is a gift for a friend I’ve been trying to finish for weeks now

2. The Bonds that Never Break. Last segment of the Birthday chapter

3. The Horny Canine Boys of the Hidden Leaf Village. Next half of the Dogs Will Play chapter. This one has the least recent update (and is by far my most read fic) so I might push it ahead.

4. Dogs Keep it in the Family. Last chunk of the Mother’s Stern Hand chapter

5. The Unorthodox Journey of a Pokemon Breeder Boy. Second half of the Charizard segment

Next are details of my plans going forward. It’s lengthy (it’s ME after all) but important so I’d recommend checking it out. Long story short: After updating each of my current fics, I’m temporarily switching over from the large projects above to one-shots for a time.

But I’ll still be writing and I’m not dropping any of those big fics! I just need a break from the intensive work they require.

On to other matters. If you’ve read my other insanely long updates (if you have you’re a trooper) you’ll know I haven’t been having a great time for a long while. If not, check Part 1 or older Progress Updates for more info. Long story short, I’m completely worn out from endless months and months of bullshit. Even though its FINALLY quieted down now, I still need a break.

You might say, “But you’ve been on hiatus for months!” That was because I could never get a night without fist fights or drunk parties or literal death threats being screamed all hours. That hiatus was because I couldn’t focus, because I was in a stressful situation and had no real alternative.

Now I’m saying I need some mental health time, a break from scrambling between fics that went without updates or had half finished chapters as compensation for that utter nonsense, trying to catch up and failing to get back to normal because of it. I went straight from that atmosphere into rapidly trying to get everything back up to speed, never taking a breather and celebrating my freedom. I need to take a few steps back and gather myself, actually breathe easy without fears of drunk assholes trying to break in to people’s apartments, before I jump back into things.

Because of all that crap, I had to make do with putting out lazy and poorly constructed work. It made me feel like a shitty writer and that I was letting readers down. I can’t express how awesome people who stuck by patiently waiting for updates, understanding I wasn’t in a great place, really are. But not doing my best made me feel like I wasn’t meeting expectations of people who had been so nice. Yes it’s just fanfiction, maybe I’m getting dramatic, but still.

I’m so sick of putting out half-assed or incomplete chapters and fics. Rushing from one to another, scrambling to make updates that aren’t complete or as polished as I would like, leaving this trail of disappointment behind me. I look at what I’ve produced lately and I’m just so deeply unhappy with the quality. Most of that was the horrible situation I was in, but now it’s my haste, like I’m trying to do 5 things at once to catch up now that things are okay and none end up great. I appreciate dearly readers supporting me and being understanding all this time. But when you KNOW you can do better and aren’t meeting your own expectations it’s very frustrating. I take my writing, even if it IS only fanfiction, seriously. I feel a commitment to making the best chapters for people who enjoy what I do.

These big projects are so exhausting, so much work tweaking them just right. All the effort and time I spend has just worn me out. It’s gotten to the point that I’m starting to resent working on them, it feels like an obligation. I rush through stuff trying to make everyone happy and in the end my work suffers. It’s tough to make good stuff when it feels like a chore. And that’s never a good mentality to have when writing. I’m not doing my best work when it’s not fun.

Add to that the fact that my notes are an ABSOLUTE CLUSTER FUCKING MESS. Bits and pieces of stories saved in Google Docs, on my phone, and written in spirals, scattered everywhere. There are things for both Canine Boys and Bonds that I didn’t write down when I was breezing through work that I have now forgotten in my haste to churn out dwindling chapters and struggle with all the bullshit that had overwhelmed my life. That’s a big problem.

For example. In Canine Boys I know what I want to do with chapters 5 and 7, but my notes on 6 are paltry and I have since forgotten what I wanted to do. Problematic, even if it is just porn.

And there are pieces to the planned ending of Bonds that are hazy and difficult to remember because of the time that has passed, mental stress, and lack of organization. I need to get things in order first thing.

No joke, when I look at all my future plans and mess of notes, sometimes I get micro-panic attacks. Because there’s just SO MUCH to do, SO MUCH I need to plan and write, and oh god what did I forget this time, ugh I can’t figure out how to move on and do the next chapter, I can’t remember what good thing I planned for this and I’m disappointing my readers!!! ect. It’s truly overhauling sometimes. And it’s not pleasant or an effective way of writing. I need to get this mess sorted out, lay back and have some brainstorming to fix all those plot and continuity issues.

As if that wasn’t enough, my phone had loads of good things saved on it, ideas for both Bonds and Canine Boys that were GREAT and necessary to moving the stories forward. Well a few days ago it totally crapped out and I can’t access it. Losing the notes saved on my phone has left me pretty bummed. It’s like a knife in the heart. Because I had SO. MANY. GOOD. IDEAS. ON. THERE. And the thought of them just gone makes me just want to give up because I worry I won’t ever come up with something to match and replace all that was lost.

So yeah, I need to take a step away from these big works. All that being said, I’m not on hiatus anymore. More like semi-hiatus. I’m taking a break from “serious” writing, from these huge projects (all 4 current fics would count) and switching over to some smaller one shots in the meantime. I need time to recoup and rest and actually celebrate my newfound peace and quiet without deadlines. I want to work for a while with worrying about timely updates or letting readers down with quality issues. I’m going to take a breather, regain my confidence, organize my disaster notes, and come back strong, RATHER than keep limping along as I have been.

SO, once I make one more update to each of those 4 fics, I’ll be putting them off to the side for a while and focusing on simpler one shots. Hopefully people will check those out too, it’s still me and my style, just smaller (and a friend joked that I don’t do small projects. A one shot for me is like 10-20k words).

After these updates, which in all honesty won’t be my greatest work, not that I’ve been excelling for a while, I am DONE doing shoddy unfinished work. No more.

Once these chapters are out I’ll be shifting to one shots for a temporary cool down so I can gather my thoughts and organize my ideas. This should mean when I come back to these the quality is better, my inspiration is restarted, and I can get back on track writing fluidly instead of struggling.

I have no idea how long this period of smaller works could last. I would estimate anywhere between 3-9 months, since I want a more long term period of separation. Too much focus and worrying has made dealing with them tedious, I just don’t want to have to worry about them for a bit.

As you can see from teh Future Ideas section of my Masterlist I have LOOOTS of ideas. A good number of WIPs were recently inspired by my friend Ren and his beautiful, dirty mind. No I am not working on all those works in the Future Ideas at the same time, this is just a list of ideas that have popped into my head over time. Some may eventually be dropped if I can’t work them properly, but I do have a good chunk of progress already done on a number of those, while others have a few paragraphs written, and some are pretty much a premise and a few sentences.

Do not expect all those to be finished soon. This is a VERY VERY long term look at my plans. Like, over the few years or more probably, knowing how slow I write and how annoyingly perfectionist I am. I will likely shift priorities around between all these as new ideas inspire me or old fics require attention, but from now on I plan on trying to focus the bulk of my attention on 2 or 3 projects at once. Sort of like an assembly plant; one fic in pre-production, one in the process of being built, and one getting the final touches. That way I can churn things out more efficiently. I think that's a much better way to balance all my fics than rushing to and fro manically.

DO NOT WORRY! Just because I have all these future plans doesn’t mean I’m abandoning any of my current fics; Bonds that Never Break, Canine Boys, Dogs Keep it in the Family, and Journey of a Pokemon Breeder Boy will still get attention and I have plenty of thoughts, notes, and plans for those going forward. This list of fic ideas is just a glimpse into my thought process and future plans, in addition to somewhere I can keep readers updated with my priorities (I’ll make updates here as well).

I know what you’re probably thinking. “Oh great, more fics you won’t update on time.” Or “Perfect, the one I like is being pushed aside by this new stuff.” Remember this semi-hiatus is only temporary. Most of the ideas I have in mind are one shots. And they aren’t as intensive as my current works, they’re a much needed break so I can refocus and collect ideas for the major projects. I’m not abandoning ANYTHING, NONE of my fics are getting dropped. I’m just taking a more long term view of things so I can stay in shape.

I’m deeply sorry if some people don’t want to deal with that and jump ship, I completely understand your frustration. I fully expect to lose some readers, much as that pains me. But most importantly I need to do what’s right for me.

There’s a saying, “The candle that that burns twice as bright burns half as long.” I’m at that point. I don’t want to burn bright with a few good chapters and end up burning myself out before really finishing anything.

#progress update #progress #update #wip #fanfiction #fanfic #hiatus

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cloppyreads · 7 years ago

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Time For a Writing Break

It really kills me to say this, because I swear, if I ever go more than a month without publishing something, I will always get at least one comment saying “Oh damn, I thought you were dead!” or something, always always always without fail. I get that people don’t mean anything malicious by it, but I do find it a little irritating that people think that if I’m not publishing something weekly, that means I’m gone for good. No, it’s not, it’s just that I take a lot more time than other fic-writers do (which doesn’t seem like they take a lot of time in the first place), and I also sometimes need to push writing aside because of school. Really frustrating, but that’s the way it is sometimes.

My plan is to step away from my stories for the rest of this semester, and once I’m done with finals, to get back to it immediately the day after. And the next story I want to do is one focusing on James Hopps Jr., Nick and Judy’s son. I’ve only used him twice in my stories, one SFW one Explicit, and I really do want to develop his character a little more past “Nick and Judy’s son”. So, that’s the next story in the agenda.

As for the story after that? That’s up to you guys. Yup, it’s Strawpoll time! However, things are gonna be a little different. You’re getting not one, not two, but THREE different polls, each with a different selection of stories. One of them will be Zootopia stories, the second will be MLP stories, and the third will be Misc. stories. I’ll give you a list of the story descriptions and the links to the polls after the read more break. The way this is going to work is, you’ll vote for one story in each category (unless you have no interest in the other categories, then just vote for the ones that you do). At the end of November, I’ll pick the winner of each category and make a final strawpoll to pit the final four against each other to see which one story you all want me to write most.

Also please be aware that most of these are working titles and will most likely be given better titles upon final publication

Zootopia Stories

Nick’s Daddy Dilemma (Teen/Drama/Heartwarming)- After several months of marriage, Judy drops the mother of all bombs on Nick when she asks him how he feels about being a father. Instead of demanding a decision on the spot, she gives him time to think about it, which prompts Nick to spend their day off by himself so he can think it over in privacy. Nick explores various attractions of the town while mulling over the idea of fatherhood and if it’s something he’s cut out for or not.

Fox Muzzle Jacket (General/Comedy/Inspirational)- Months have passed since Nick submitted his application to the ZPD, and the academy training has finally begun. Despite his best effort, Nick just can’t seem to keep up with his fellow cadets. Just when he’s on the verge of calling it quits, he finds inspiration through the best friend he has to never give up and never give in, til he reaches the end.

Sly But Sincere (General/Romantic/Hurt-Comfort)- Olivia Pawford is a junior in college who’s just trudging along without much hope for the future past being more than what her family has raised her to be: a sly fox getting through life by deceiving others. She’s surprised to meet a man named James Wilde, a fox who’s driven to find a different path than other foxes, an honest path without any trickery or dishonesty. After spending an extended time together, the two find out that they might be in it for the long haul regarding their lives together. But does fate have other plans for the happy couple?

I Will Find You (Mature/Action-Adventure/Strong Bloody Violence)- Nick and Judy’s son James has been kidnapped in broad daylight without anyone noticing. The worried parents receive a call from an anonymous voice hours later, demanding they pay a ransom they can never afford if they want to get him back alive. Rather than give into their demands, Judy decides she’s going to get him back through her own methods: no matter how much blood she has to spill along the way.

Zootopia University (General/Romance/Angst)- James Hopps has finally moved out of his parents Nick and Judy’s house and begun his college career majoring in law. While the mountain of work he’s faced with seems intimidating, a lion by the name of Felicia Felis majoring in psychology takes it upon herself to help the poor freshman get his head in the game and keep his head above water. The two find ways to help each other out as the semester continues, and as their relationship grows, James figures out Felcia can read him like an open book. What surprises James the most is how comfortable he is with that knowledge in mind.

Meet The Hopps (General/Drama/Family Spats/Segregation)- After neglecting it for so long, Judy decides it’s finally time to introduce Nick to her parents as her boyfriend. While Bunnyburrow is known to maintain a conservative view against interspecies relationships, Nick is determined to give the impression he can to Judy’s parents and her siblings. Will Nick’s good intentions change the minds of Judy’s parents, or has their traditionalist mindset been reinforced for too long to see a different point of view?

It Runs In The Family (Explicit/Fluff/Incest/Threesome)- After finding out that their growing son James has been spying on them, Nick and Judy have a talk with him about how he needs to respect their privacy.It’s revealed that James has been harboring a lustful attraction to his parents, which plants all sorts of visuals in his parents heads. Nick and Judy have a talk amongst themselves about what’s the morally right thing to do about this, and what real harm would be committed if they gave their son what he willingly wanted.

The Naked Truth (General/Comedy/Awkwardness/Slice-of-Life)- Just a few months after Nick has been admitted into the Zootopia Police Department, they receive a tip about an underground crime ring that could help bust a longstanding case wide open. Unfortunately, the informant will only give them the information in detail if they agree to meet at the Mystic Springs Oasis. Nick has no issues letting the warm oasis air rush through his buff fur along with all the other nude animals. Judy however is not so comfortable in her birthday suit. Things are made even more awkward when Nick runs into an old ex-girlfriend of his who seems all too eager to see him again.

ZootopiaxKingdom Hearts (Action-Adventure/Drama/Comedy)-Sora and company find themselves in another world along their journey, and Sora himself sees that the magic of the world has given him a new form to fit in with the rest of the citizens. The Heartless have been terrorizing the city, and a number of predators have been goingmissing over the past week. The trio teams up with Officer Hopps and con fox Nick Wilde to unravel the mystery of who’s controlling the Heartless and if it’s connected to the vanishing predators.

Wilde Family Stripper Club (Explicit/Comedy/Incest/Awkwardness)- after turning in his ZPD application, Nick finds out that his heroism in saving the city has ruined any chance he has of going back to the street hustling life. With no other skills of merit to land him a job to pay the bills before the academy training starts, Nick swallows his pride and applies to be a dancer at a fox strip club. He’s hired on the spot, but the manager has neglected to tell him that there’s another fox he knows working at the joint, a vixen he’s known for literally all his life. Things are gonna. Get. Weird.

A Bun In The Oven (Explicit/Comedy/Fluff/Pregnancy Sex)- Judy is eight months pregnant, and her stomach is the size of a volleyball. She may not think it, but Nick thinks she’s just as beautiful as ever. Once their clothes are off, Nick just can’t get enough of Judy’s big round belly carrying their child, and every touch Nick gives her sends Judy into levels of arousal that she’d not thought possible.

Taking The Reigns (General/Comfort/Getting Old)- Nick and Judy have been serving on the force for almost two decades now. Chief Bogo’s getting ready to retire, and wants Judy to be the one to take control of the department in his stead. Judy would rather stay an active officer instead of sitting behind a desk and dealing with politicians and paperwork, but she has to face the truth: her passion might be as fierce as ever, but her body isn’t quite what it used to be. Maybe it’s time for a change in scenery, even if she’s still working in the only place she ever wants to work.

No One I’d Rather Be Caged With (Teen/Drama/Hurt-Comfort/Romance)- Following the arrest of Mayor Lionheart, the two night guards Gary and Larry are sentenced to prison. Luckily for them, they were assigned the same cell, but now the two will have to face the horrors of life in the slammer for a year at minimum. When things seem at their worst, the two wolves will find their already deep bond runs deeper than the two ever imagined.

Place your vote here

My Little Pony Stories

The My Little Pony Friendship is Magic Movie: But It’s Completely Self-Aware (Comedy/Random/Meta-Humor)- Let’s cut the bullshit: Hasbro has an agenda, works by a formula, and in this particular universe, everypony knows full well how things work. Enjoy a retelling of the MLP movie with characters regularly pointing out cliches, plotholes and overalls flaws of the movie they have no choice but to take part in.

Chaotic NightBreaker (Explicit/Bondage/Threesome/Comedy)- following Discord’s crazy night with Celestia’s fiery alter-ego, the princess of the sun asks him if he’d be up for a similar experience, but with the addition of another participant. The two talk it over with Princess Luna, who seems hesitant at first to tap into her inner darkness, but after learning that Celestia could do it briefly and return to normal when they were finished, she thinks it’s worth a shot. Discord is in for one hell of a night when the princess of day and night let their wicked sides out to play, and make Discord their submissive plaything for the evening.

Sunset’s Horseplay (Expliicit/Fluff/Interspecies Sex)- (yes, everyone’s already done this idea and I’ve missed the bandwagon years ago). Though Sunset Shimmer has grown accustomed her home in this new world and found a place among wonderful friends, part of her still misses the land she came from. She finds comfort in spending time with Boxer, one of Applejack’s farm horses. What she begins to realize though is that she’s yearning for something more from Boxer, something to satisfy the curious itch within her and make her feel like what she was before she stepped through the mirror in Celestia’s palace.

Garbled Emotions (Explicit/Drama/Hurt-Comfort/Awkwardness)- Garble and Fizzle have been best bros for years. When they’ve reached the proper age, all the dragons are looking forward to their first battle for their place at the top of the mating ladder - all except Fizzle that is. As time goes by, Garble begins spending more time than usual with Fizzle, learning he’s growing less content with his place among dragonkind. Garble will have to dig deep to figure out where his true loyalty lies: with his species, or with his closest friend.

Moonlit Melancholy (Teen/Romance/Sad/Hurt-Comfort/Recovery)- After Twilight helps Moondancer confront her depression and pick up the pieces of her life again, the princess of friendship begins regularly checking in with Moondancer by using her magic to talk with her through her books. After some spontaneous flirting, the two decide to take things to discover they have a bountiful amount of things in common. Despite their joy over their new relationship, Twilight’s obligations as a princess make it hard for her to regularly spend time with Moondancer. They’ll be able to tough it out and find a way to make iit work, right?

A Dwindling Flame (Teen/Drama/Sad/Hurt-Comfort)- Soarin has noticed something’s changed about Captain Spitfire over the past year. Whereas she used to be calm, cool and collected, she’s become more tight-wound and abrasive, plus her loyalties haven’t been as clear as they used to be. Soarin confronts his captain about what’s going on in her life, and realizes it might have to do with the newest rainbow-maned recruit to the Wonderbolts.

Love Measure in Scales (Explicit/Romance/Drama/Love Triangle)- A story I started YEARS AGO and haven’t touched in forever. I still have the missing half of the story outlined, and could be tempted to start work on it again, if enough people still care.

Place your vote here

Rick and Morty Stories

MortyxMolly (Explicit/Romance/Comedy/Hurt-Comfort/Selfcest)- While completing a mundane task in a secret quadrant of the infiniverse, Morty meets a version of himself that he’s never encountered before: one lacking a Y chromosome. Molly is just like Morty in so many ways, even with an alcoholic grandmother named Rita. Rick tells Morty that getting involved with a version of himself from another universe is one of the worst ideas someone can imagine, but Morty and Molly are driven to prove that the person they’ve been waiting for all their lives was themselves.

Morty’s Dino Lap Dance (Explicit/Comedy/Big Dino Stripper Butt)- While his grandfather effortlessly resolves the Israel-Palestine conflict, Morty finds his attention occupied by a large and busty stripper behind their seat. Morty’s never thought himself to be attracted to dinosaurs before, but something about this woman captivates Morty to the point that he wants a private dance with her. Rick does what any responsible mad scientist grandfather would do: give him a pocketful of money and tell him to enjoy himself some Jurassic Juggs.

Incestual-Dimensional Cable (Explicit/Comedy/Incest/Angry Sex With Fluff At The End)- When Rick passes out for an extended amount of time and Beth is called away to perform emergency horse surgery, Morty and Summer decide to watch some good old Interdimensional Cable. While surfing channels, they stumble across a porno with themselves as the actors, having intercourse with full knowledge that they’re related. Even after turning the TV off, the image still sticks in each siblings mind, pushing them to entertain the idea of imitating what they saw on TV.

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Undertale Stories

The Goat Trap (General/Comedy/Drama/Amending Fences)- even though Frisk and Asriel get to spend a fair amount of time with Asgore, it’s clear that Toriel still holds a grudge against him. Asriel knows they aren’t getting back together, but he at least wants them to get along. With the help of Alphys, Frisk’s friends manage to set up a trap that locks Asgore and Toriel in the same room, saying they aren’t coming out until they talk things out and form a truce of sorts. Will the two goats find a path to peace between themselves, or are they too far gone to find a compromise?

Blossoming SOULS (Explicit/Fluff/Interspecies/Delicious Goat Boipussi)- When mom is away, the boys will play. Toriel leaves the house to run some errands, and young teens Frisk and Asriel decide to have some fun while she’s gone. It’s delicious young human-goat monster sex, what more could you ask for?

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#Cloperella #fanfiction #strawpoll #what story do you want next?#voting

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allskynostars · 7 years ago

Text

Strong, Chapter 5; Closer.

Read on AO3; http://archiveofourown.org/works/11748321/chapters/27008199

IT’S 3.27AM AND I AM FINALLY UPDATING THIS DAMN FUCKING FIC..

Sorry for yelling but I’m so sorry this update took an age, I’ve been super busy and super uninspired lately but I was determined to post today so here we are. :)

I don’t even think I like a single part of this chapter, but oh well. It needed to go up. Hope at least some part of this super long update was worth the wait! Lemme know!

You will notice the quality drop dramatically the further along you get, and probably tense mistakes too but it’s nearly 4am and I do not have the energy nor patience to edit properly. Also I’m on mobile so sorry for the lack of read more break cause I know this is stupidly long, and messy links!! :( Also my bold/italic text probably won't work so I'll try fix that when I've had some sleep, lol. Also just need to mention yet another AMAZING aesthetic for this fic of mine by one of my favs to ever exist @rubyventure 💝 Look at it, it’s amazing, it’s gorgeous, it’s everything. Give it some love!

https://rubyventure.tumblr.com/post/164419495848/allskynostars-rubyventure-happy-birthday

“I miss you so much, Poll. You have no idea how good it is to see your face.” Betty smiled into the screen of her laptop, her sister mirroring her own position in a different bed, leaning against the bed frame. Two sisters, so alike in looks but not much else. One in potentially the smallest town to ever exist; Riverdale, and the other in one of the busiest cities in the world; London. “So, tell me everything!”

“Betty, I wish you were here. This place is amazing and I know you would love it.” Polly told Betty animatedly about the theatre that was just down the road from her place, and how every time she went she thought of her. “There’s just, god, there’s just so much life here Betty. There’s never a dull moment, there’s always something new happening somewhere.”

“Unlike here.” Betty sighed, pulling the pillow on her lap closer too her. “Literally, nothing has changed. Oh, wait, that’s a lie. Mum made apple instead of peach pie last night, can you believe it?” Pollys laugh flowed through the crappy speakers of Betty’s laptop, and she found herself wishing she could hear it properly. She ached to hold her sister, to have that companionship that only a fellow Cooper daughter could provide. Polly noticed the way Betty’s face had dropped, she tilted her head to the side slightly.

“You should be here, doing this with me.”

“I wish.” Betty replied, letting her mind wander for just a moment, while she played with a loose thread on the pillow in her lap, to what it could be like. Living in a new city, free to do as she pleased without the watchful eye of Alice Cooper judging her every movement.

“Do it.” Betty’s eyes flicked to Pollys through the screen, a questioning look on her face, to which her which her sister just shrugged. “Why not? It’s simple enough to get a visa, and you can stay with me. I could find you a job, it’s all so easy Betty. Why the hell not?” The excitement in Pollys voice at the thought of having her sister with her was building the more she tried to convince Betty.

“But. What, what about school? I got accepted into Med- ”

“Betty, university is not going anywhere. It’ll still be there when you’re done living a little.” Polly interrupted. “What do you have to stay for? You know that Veronica and Archie wouldn’t stop you. It’s not like you have a boyfriend. Right? If it’s just about Mum and Dad I wouldn’t ev.. Hold on.” Polly stopped mid sentence, watching the way Betty’s face changed at a certain word. “Oh my god, Betty. Do you have a boyfriend?” Polly repositioned herself, trying to get closer to the screen. “I don’t know if my contrast is too high but, are you blushing?” Betty could definitely feel her cheeks turning pink, but she wasn’t about to admit that out loud.

“No, I definitely do not.” She was looking anywhere but at the screen, deciding the lose thread on her pillow needed her full attention. “I would have told you that, Poll.”

“Betty?” The needy tone to her voice drew Betty’s eyes back to the screen. “Is there a boy?”

“I mean..” Betty trailed off, shrugging. She didn’t really know the answer herself. Her and Jughead had pretty much been in constant contact all week, but who knows what that could mean. Also, the fact that Betty was sleeping over at his place tonight was heavy in her mind. Even though she was just there to babysit Jellybean, she couldn’t help her mind from wondering. She liked Jughead, that much was apparent in the way her hands her clamming up just thinking about him. “I don’t really know, Polly. It’s early days, okay?”

“Okay.” Polly didn’t press the subject anymore, instead she just smiled at Betty and mimicked a zip closing her mouth. She started to type away at her keyboard, and then there was a ding to signal that Betty had a new message. She opened it up, and clicked on the link Polly had sent through. It took her to the visa page on the immigration website, which Betty bookmarked before reopening her video call. “Whatever happens, with school or with whoever..” She winked,“I really want you to think about what I said, about coming here. I think it could be really good for you, Betty.” The smile her sister was giving her warmed Betty’s chest. She nodded, smiling herself.

“Okay, I will. I promise.” Then Betty’s face dropped, the sound light footsteps up the stairs alerting her to Alice’s approach. “Shit, Mums coming.” Betty warned her sister.

“Okay, that’s my cue. I have to go to work anyway. Keep me updated, okay?”

“Of course, Poll.” Betty could hear her mother calling her name now.

“And think about it, please. I’ll call you soon, love you. Bye!” Betty didn’t have time to reply before the call was ended and the screen went black, just as Alice let herself in without knocking.

“Elizabeth, are your ears turned off or what? I was calling you from downstairs..” Her voice trailed off at the sight of Betty sitting cross legged on her bed, the laptop sat suspiciously in front her her. “What are you doing?” Betty scrambled to close the screen, not wanting her mum to figure out exactly what she had been doing. Polly and Alice hadn’t spoken in months, and even though it upset Betty, she wasn’t about to step on her sisters toes and blurt to their mother.

“Sorry, I was just doing some research, I was really engrossed in it I didn’t hear you calling out.” Betty knew how much of a shitty liar she was, and for a moment she almost expected Alice to confront her about it. But instead she just gave her a knowing smile.

“Good girl. Now, is it tonight you are staying over at the Jones’?” Betty nodded, getting slightly worried Alice was about to tell her she wasn’t allowed. “I’m not exactly happy about you staying over night on that side of town, but you’ve made a commitment, so. What time would you like me to take you?” Betty let out a breath she hadn’t really realised she’d been holding.

“JBs soccer match finishes after 3, so sometimes before that. Gladys left me a key, and I don’t really want to leave JB on her own at all.” Alice nodded, agreeing with Betty’s responsible reasoning.

“Okay, fine. Just let me know.” Alice made to leave her bedroom, turning her head round just as she got to the door. “Oh, and next time, please ask Polly to answer my calls.” And then she was gone. Betty fell back against her bed, letting out a deep sigh. Why couldn’t her family just be normal, just for once. She let her mind wonder to Pollys suggestion for a moment, thinking about how much fun it would be to live in a different country, let alone city. She had always wanted to go to London, and given that her sister was there, who she missed so much, it was certainly something worth considering. Not even to mention how the further away from Alice she was, the better she would feel. Betty couldn’t stop herself from getting excited, the thought of seeing so many sights and having so many new experiences was pulling on her heart strings. She was snapped out of her daze by a text alert.

So, I hear you’re staying at my place tonight?

Jugheads name on her screen was something else that pulled on her heart strings.

She’s paying me double time, for both children.

She laughed out loud as she sent her reply.

So I watch JB, you watch me?

Betty knew she was being baited, but she took it anyway.

Something along those lines.

But the irony wasn’t lost on Betty. She had wondered why on earth Gladys would ask her to stay and look after JB, when she had a brother who was perfectly capable. She filed the thought away, adding it to the pile of things that didn’t add up with the Jones family.

When do I get my cut of the cash then, Coop?

Betty bit her lip, trying to conjure up some witty reply.

Oh no, does being a broody biker boy not pay too well?

She just watched her screen, waiting for his reply.

It’s a struggle out here.

She smiled at the screen, but before she could type out a reply, he sent another.

But I accept all major payment types ;)

And there she was, blushing from a text. Just from some words on a tiny little screen. Normally Betty was repelling of mindless flirting from boys, but it seemed not the case for this one.

Lesson number one: Don’t underestimate the other guy’s greed.”

His reply was quick this time.

Did you just quote Scarface? I think I might love you.

Betty could feel her heart start to race beneath her ribs, as yet another blush creeped across her cheeks. She quickly threw her phone face down on her bed with a grin, thinking she might keep him hanging for a little while.

It was 11am now and she had more than enough time to get ready to leave. She glanced back at her phone before she quickly rose from her bed and made her way to the bathroom. She turned the shower on and made sure to grab her razor, she was definitely planning on wearing her shortest pair of pyjama pants tonight, so she needed to make sure she was prepared.

She climbed into the shower, letting her thoughts roam as the water beat into her back. Alice had no idea about Jughead, and Betty was pretty sure that she wouldn’t be so accepting of her staying the night if she did. Must remember not to slip up, she thought to herself.

And then Archie’s voice was in her head “Just be careful.” Careful of what? Jughead? She thought. Even though Betty knew how it would look to an outsider, she felt she knew Jughead well enough to know she didn’t need to be careful. He was not who everyone thought he was. And although she didn’t quite know just how far his charm has gotten him with other girls, she could only presume, there was no pressure.

She shook her head, flicking water everywhere. Of course there was no pressure, there was no nothing. She didn’t even know if he liked her, he could just be mindlessly flirting to pass the time. God knows she was making it easy for him. She couldn’t really lie to herself anymore, there was no denying the fact that she felt some kind of something for Jughead. And the thought of spending some time alone with just him made that fluttery feeling in her chest return tenfold. She sighed deeply before she reached for the vanilla body wash.

She made a beeline straight for her phone once she was back in her room, she had intended to drag it out a bit longer but she knew she was slightly pathetic and just couldn’t. Jughead had sent her another message.

If you start quoting Quinten Tarantino I might just have to marry you right now.

Shall I get my Mia Wallace costume ready for the ceremony?

They spent the next few hours throwing film references back and forward, and Betty was surprised how attractive she found his ability to just run quotes off at bay. They had made plans to watch a film later tonight when JB was asleep, and Betty couldn’t explain why she was so excited.

It was late evening and Betty was at the Jones household now, laid back on the couch watching some trashy reality TV with JB who was coming down from her victory high.

“Two goals, Jelly? That’s amazing.” Betty felt like a proud big sister, which was kind of ironic in a way. Jellybean beamed from the other side of the living room.

“Wish Jug would hurry up and get home so I can brag to him.” Betty laughed, she loved the playful relationship between the two. Jughead wasn’t home yet, although Betty wasn’t surprised. He had mentioned he would be out until late evening, and it was obviously one of those errands Betty wouldn’t dare ask about. Not that it was any of her business. She made her way to the kitchen and busied herself by making some dinner for Jellybean, Gladys had left out ingredients to make mac and cheese. It was almost too simple for Betty’s culinary talent, but she must have left out of her bio.

“I am old enough to feed myself, jeez Mum.” Jellybean sighed, coming into the kitchen behind Betty, she took a seat on one of the island stools. “I swear she still thinks I’m 8.”

“You’re the baby after all.” Betty joked, picking up the saucepan to drain the macaroni. She tried to ignore the way her pulse sped up at the distant sound of a motorbike approaching, then turning down the street.

“I don’t think Jug was ever a baby.” Jellybean pondered. “I swear he just walked out of the womb with that beanie on his head and that stupid scowl on his face.” Both girls burst out into laughter while Betty added the cheese sauce to the macaroni. Jellybeans laughter stopped almost instantly as the front door opened and Jughead lumbered in with his helmet under his arm.

“Oh my god, Jug? What the hell happened to you?” Jellybeans voice was laced with so much concern Betty’s head automatically whipped around to see what was wrong. Her heart leaped into her throat. He’d obviously been involved in some kind of fight, there was a graze on his cheek that was caked with dried blood, and his eye was turning a light purple colour. Jellybean rushed over to him, trying to get a closer look.

“It’s nothing.” Jughead shrugged, locking eyes with Betty before his gaze fell to the floor.

“It doesn’t look lik-”

“Forsythia, leave it.” He snapped, not giving anyone a second glance as he stormed into the hall. Betty was shocked, for more than one reason. She had ever heard Jughead raise his voice to JB like that, nor had she ever seen her look so hurt. And she was also surprised at the fact that Jughead had called her Forsythia, which Betty took at a guess was her real name. Betty cleared her throat before announcing that dinner was ready.

“Is it okay if I eat in my room? I’m kind of tired.” Jellybean sounded deflated, and Betty couldn’t help but wonder if Jughead showing up like this was something that happened regularly. She wasn’t sure she wanted to know.

“Of course. Are you alright, JB?” Betty asked as she handed her a bowl full of pasta. Jellybean just shrugged, accepting her dinner with a thanks she headed upstairs. Betty served herself a bowl, and took it into the lounge to eat. She flicked through a few channels, settling on some rom com so distract her. As she ate she couldn’t help feeling a little annoyed that her plans for the night had been soiled. Just as she thought about heading to the spare room herself, Jughead leaned around the doorway, a DVD copy of Inglorious Basterds sticking out between his crossed arms.

“I’m going to have to take back that proposal.” He said lightly, nodding toward the TV. “And here I was, thinking you had good taste.” Betty noticed he wouldn’t look directly at her face. She didn’t reply, instead just watched him as he came and sat beside her on the couch. She could see the tension in his shoulders. He sat on her right side, so she couldn’t see the gash on his face. His hair was damp, though, and she could smell the shampoo he had used. Betty reached out her hand to cradle his chin between her thumb and forefinger, slowly turning his face around so she could get a closer look. The cut was clean, all traces of the dried blood down the drain. Now it was clean Betty could see it wasn’t awfully big, relieved that it probably would heal quickly.

“Do you want some ice, for your eye?” She asked lowly. She could feel his breath on her face, and realising the proximity she dropped her hand from his chin and pulled back. Jughead just nodded slowly, swallowing hard.

“It really doesn’t hurt that bad, and it’s not swelling up. I’m fine, honestly.” He finally looked her in the eye then, and she could see the sincerity in them. “I’m sorry, about before. I didn’t mean to be an asshole.”

“I don’t think it’s me you need to apologise too.” Betty noted. Jughead groaned, dropping his head back against the couch. He brought his hands up to drag down his face.

“Fuck, and I called her by her real name. She’s going to kill me.” Betty couldn’t help but let out a light laugh at the fact that that was his main concern. “She’s going to tell you mine now. And eye for an eye.”

“Is it really that bad?” Betty asked, nudging his side with her shoulder. He gave her a look that gave her the answer.

“You basically already know, you just need to take away a few letters.” He watched her face for a moment, wondering is she was going to try and work it out. Instead she just shrugged.

“You can tell me when you’re ready.” He gave her a small smile, to which she responded with a smirk. “Unless Jellybean gets too it first, of course.” He groaned again. She pulled the DVD from his hand, waving it in front of him. “You still wanna watch this, then?”

“If you do, yeah.” He looked at her hopefully. She nodded quickly, throwing the case back into his lap.

“I’m going to go get changed. You put this in and make some popcorn.” She was leaving the room before he could reply, making her way upstairs to the spare room where she had put all her stuff. She quickly changed into her, almost too short, pyjama shorts and a white loose tank she used for sleeping. She took her hair out from its ponytail, running her fingers through it so it sat nicer. She glanced at herself in the mirror before leaving the room, wondering why the hell she cared so much what she looked in in pyjamas, for god sake. Jellybeans bedroom door is the last in the hall before the stairs, so Betty stood outside and knocked lightly.

“You okay, Jelly?” She calls through the door.

“Yeah, thanks Betty.” Came her reply. “I’m just going to get an early night.”

“Okay, see you in the morning.” Betty reminded herself to check on her again later, just to make double sure she was okay. She could smell the popcorn as she headed down the stairs, slightly surprised at what awaited her in the lounge.

Jughead had turned all the lights off, made the popcorn which was in a bowl in his lap that was covered with the soft throw from the back of the couch. He looked up from the TV where the opening menu was playing to Betty, smiling sweetly he pulled up a corner of the blanket, patting the spot next to him on the couch. She watched his eyes gaze down the length of her legs, feeling a smirk grow on her face at how his eyes lingered longer than they should have. She skipped over and climbed onto the couch next to him.

“You know this isn’t exactly a kind of snuggling film, right?” She teased, pulling the blanket over her legs.

“Oh, Coop. That is where you are mistaken.” He whispered as the film started, bringing his arm to rest against the back of the couch behind Betty. And as they watched Brad Pitt skin some nazis, Jugheads hand fell noticeably closer to Betty’s shoulder every so often, until she could feel his fingertips brushing her skin. He absentmindedly traced circles on the edge of her shoulder, causing goosebumps to rise along her arm. She shuddered at the feeling, and Jughead glanced down at her face.

“Are you cold?” He asked, and Betty could hear the smirk in his voice without even looking at him. She shook her head lightly, not wanting to look away from the screen. She could feel Jugheads gaze lingering on her face, causing the heat to rise in her chest. “You’re gorgeous, Betty. I just, I had to tell you that at least once.” The sentiment caught her by surprise, but she tried to mask it. She also tried to mask the rate at which her heart was beating considering he thought she was gorgeous.

“Just once?” She queried, shooting him some side eye. She saw him roll his eyes.

“Don’t push it, buttercup.” He joked before wrapping his arm around Betty completely and pulling her into his side. She snuggled her head into his chest, finding his heart beat was something that soothed her. The way it beat, hard and sure beneath her, confirming that she really was here. Somehow. She felt him sigh as his cheek came to rest against the top of her head. “Thanks for not asking any questions, about earlier.” He said quietly, into her hair.

“I figured I wouldn’t want to know anyway.” Betty whispered back, grasping at his shirt where her hand laid on his chest. He didn’t reply, instead he placed a light kiss into her hair. They stay like that until the movie finished, snuggled into one another. “Can you believe he worked on that script for nearly a decade?” Betty asked as she watched the credits roll down the screen.

“Yeah, that’s why it’s so good.” He laughed, more than a little biased. Betty poked her elbow into his side.

“Alright, Tarantino fanboy. Next time I get to choose, deal?” Betty crooked her neck to look up at Jughead, hoping like hell that he was on the same page as her. She would watch every film that’s ever been made if it meant she could lay into him like this, enclosed in his arm. He bopped the top of her nose with his finger.

“Deal. Thanks for babysitting me, Coop.” He smiled down at her as his fingers caressed her cheek. She took in a deep breath.

“Can I ask you something?”

“You’re going to anyway, aren’t you?” He joked, still smiling. Betty nodded her head slightly.

“It’s not that I’m complaining, because I’m having a lovely night.” She loved the way his eyes lit up the room, the depth of them emphasised by the low light in the room. “But, do I really need to be here? Can’t you watch JB?” She watched his face, waiting for a reaction, anxious that she may have poured salt into an unnecessary wound. She watched his shoulders deflate as his eyes flittered from her own, coming to focus on the wall behind her head.

“Ain’t that the million dollar question, huh?” He huffed out a humourless laugh. “I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but me and my Mum aren’t exactly best friends.” Betty snorted at the sarcasm, that fact sure wasn’t lost on her. His eyes fell back to hers. “But, long story short. She doesn’t trust me enough to look after Jellybean.” Now that he was looking at her again, she could see the ache that he buried deep. Betty’s brow furrowed.

“How could she not? You’re a great big brother.” Jughead widened his eyes at her, referencing back to earlier in the evening. Betty sighed and pulled away from him, choosing to sit up and face him directly. “Come on, Jug, anyone can see how much you freaking love your sister just by watching you with her. Surely you’re the one person in the world your Mum should trust her with?” She reached out and grasped his hand between her own and felt his fingers tighten around her own.

“I remind her too much of my Dad, Betts. I can see it whenever she looks at me. She’ll deny it if anyone asks, but I know it.” His grip on her hand tightened even more as he spoke, and his gaze was so heavy Betty could almost see it, a thick haze in the air. “I can fucking feel it. If she doesn’t hate me yet, she must be close too it.”

“Jug.. ” Betty’s voice is low. She hadn’t meant for her line of questioning to bring her here, but she wanted to know everything he was willing to tell her.

“I know, I know how it sounds but I can’t help feeling that way.” Jugheads voice comes out so weak that it physically hurts Betty to hear. She raised a hand to his face, caressing his cheek with her thumb. Her other was still grasped between Jugheads hands.

“You are justified to feel how you feel, Jughead.” Her voiced trailed off, wanting to ask a question that she already knew the answer too. But he hadn’t told her directly, and she wasn’t about to give away what she already knew. “Your Dad, is he..” Jughead swallowed hard before answering, his gaze fell to their clasped hands.

“He’s in prison, yeah. Mum just thinks I’m going to end up like him. Like I’m some kind of carbon copy. I look like him, I think my leather gives her some kind of fucking flashbacks.” His eyes flick back up to hers again, with so much heat it takes Betty by surprise. She swore almost feel the heat behind them, warming her skin. “But I’m not, Betty. Im not gonna end up like him.” He started to shake his head repeatedly, back and forth back and forth. Betty pulled her other hand from his grasp, bringing it to his other cheek so she could hold his face still.

“Hey, hey, I know.” Betty cooed, trying to reassure him.

“I love my Dad. I do. But I don’t want to be him. I’m not going to be him. I’m going to college, I’m going to get out.” He was still shaking, Betty’s hands didn’t do much in the way of stopping that but she sure wasn’t about to drop them. His voice was no longer weak, it came out sure, strong. There were tears in his eyes, but they were from anger. From frustration. “This is all just a means to and end. I swear it. I won’t be him. This won’t be my life.” And she believes it, she believes him.

“Juggie, hey, I know. I know.” Betty tried to calm him down, stroking her hands down his face. “You’re worth so much more than any of this, you know that. I know that. The people who matter, know that.” Her thumb caught a tear that betrayed him, trailing down his face. His eyes are trained on her face, tracing all her features before catching her gaze. The air was static between them. Betty was almost to afraid to move for for fear of being shocked. Jugheads tongue ran along his bottom lip as his gaze flicked between Betty’s eyes and her mouth. Suddenly Betty was parched and Jughead was the only means of survival she could see.

“I.. Betty,” His voice trailed off, silently asking permission. She gave it too him in the form of pressing her mouth to his. Softly at first, her fingertips pressing hard into the skin of his face. Their lips stick together slightly as she pulled away, and she opened her eyes in time to see a smile turning up the corners of his mouth. That was enough of an invitation for Betty to kiss him again, harder this time. More sure. And she must have done something right, because Jugheads hands suddenly gripped her waist tightly. Betty whimpered into his mouth at the pressure. He used his leverage to push her back against the couch, one of his hands came to grasp her neck, his fingers tangling into her hair, tugging lightly. She ran her tongue against his, willing to to tangle with his own. He’s hovered over her now, bracing himself on his forearms. But he’s not close enough for Betty’s liking, and she lets him know by wrapping her legs around his waist, locking them together and pulling him down on top of her.

She could feel him against her core, the friction making her burn. Bucking her hips up towards him, she rolled against the hardness in his jeans, revelling in the groan that grew in his throat. His mouth traced kisses along her jaw and down her neck, his teeth grazed against her collarbone.

“Jug, wait, hold on.” She pushed lightly against his chest, only wanting him take his weight from her. But Jughead sat up quickly, raising his hands up, palm out. She couldn’t help but miss him against her.

“We take this at your pace, Betty. Whatever you wanna do.” He said it so sincerely, Betty almost choked on her words. She hadn’t mean for him to take it that way, he wasn’t pushing her to do anything. Hell, she had kissed him first after all.

“I just, I’ve never..” She gave him a lopsided smile as she sat back up beside him.

“Anything?” He raised his brow, the surprise evident in his tone. She looked away shyly, shaking her head. It’s not that it was something to be embarrass about, she was only 16. But here, with Jughead, she was overwhelmed with the need to impress him. And it was ridiculous. He grabbed her face gently, pulling it back to his his own as he kissed her nose.

“There’s nothing wrong with that. In fact, it’s probably a good thing, because I can be pretty territorial..” He widened his eyes in suggestion, causing Betty to laugh lightly. Her voice was light, and she closer her eyes before she spoke.

“It’s just, I know you’ve probably got people to compare me too and I’m worried I won’t li-”

“Woah, hey.” He shook her head lightly between his hands. She opened her eyes to look at him, and his smile is almost too much. It was like looking directly into the sun. “Nobody compares to you, Coop. Trust me. And I mean,” He shrugged, “I’ve had a few starters but never a main course.”

She laughed, hard, “You what?” He shook his head.

“Sorry, crappy analogy. I’ve done other things, but I’ve never had sex before.” He said it just like that, he didn’t shy away from it.

“Really, seriously?” She was genuinely shocked. He laughed at the look on her face.

“Yes, Betty. I swear. Everything you may have heard has all been lies.” He winked. “Except I guess I am kinda cute.” She smacked his arm before pressing her mouth to his again, pulling away only for a moment.

“You’re cute as fuck, Jones. Now take me to bed. Doing this on your Mothers couch feels like a betrayal.” She faked a shudder before accepting the hand he held out for her. He stopped to kiss her so many times on the way to his bedroom it took nearly 10 minutes to get up the stairs. They finally made it to his room, and she only had a moment to take in his minimalist approach to décor before she’s pushed into his bed on her back. She took him in as he pulled off his t shirt, all his angles and dips of muscle. He was a hell of a lot leaner than that leather jacket would let you believe.

And then his mouth was on hers again, wet and heavy. He was being cautious, but Betty wanted none of that. She grabbed one of his hands from where it lay above her head, leading it down her side to rest against her thigh. He pulled away from her mouth to give her a look that said ever so clearly are you sure? She nodded so vigorously her head could have come away from her neck. He mouth was back on her neck, it seemed to be his favourite spot. The hand she had placed on her thigh trailed back up her side, snaking underneath her tank top. She was suddenly aware of every inch of her skin as his fingers caressed the skin underneath her breast.

He let his fingers wonder so slowly, Betty knew it was for her benefit. She could tell him to stop anytime, and of course he would. But she trusted him with this. With herself. So she welcomed the feeling that took over her whole body when his fingers danced over her nipple so slightly. She welcomed every feeling Jughead Jones would cause with open arms. He swept and pulled at her gently, and she could feel the heat polling between her thighs. She had never been overcome with such need in her entire life.

“Juggie.. Please.” She spoke so lightly into his mouth, raising her hips to meet his, letting him know just exactly what she was asking for. He led his hand back down to her thing, trailing along the her of her pyjama shorts.

“These legs, Coop.” He let out a low whisper and shook his head. “Honestly.”

Betty couldn’t really find any words to reply, instead using her tongue for another purpose. Her breath hitched as she felt his hand slip beneath her shorts. He ran his fingers along her lightly, groaning at the dampness of the material.

“Fucking hell, Betty.” He looked down at her and she pulled her bottom lip between her teeth shyly. He held eye contact as he quicker his pace, rubbing over the material of her panties. Betty’s eyes fluttered closed at the feeling, wondering why it never felt this good when she did it herself. She surprised herself with the moan that escaped her mouth as Jugheads fingers slipped underneath her panties.

There was no way she could ever put into words how this felt. Every nerve ending was standing upright, tingling every time he moved his fingers against her. Her head fell back against the pillow with a thud, giving Jughead full access to her neck yet again. He sucked on the base of her neck at the same time he slipped a single digit inside of her, slowly. The shock the pain and pleasure caused her eyes to open, her pupils blown wide. Jughead was looking down at her, the look on his face one Betty had never seen before.

“I’ll go slow,” He said softly, “If you need me to stop, you just tell me, okay?” Tears stung behind Betty’s eyes, not from the pain but instead from the way Jughead was looking at her. As if she was ethereal. “You are so beautiful.”

“Don’t.. Don’t stop.” Was all Betty could manage in reply. He peppered more kisses down her neck as added a second finger into her, moving slowly to let her adjust. When her moans became more certain, Jughead started to move his thumb against her clit. Then it was all over for Betty. “Jughead! Fuck, oh my..” He quickened his pace, curling his fingers inward slightly to hit that spot that made her cuss. His thumb worked quick circles against her clit. Given it was a first for Betty, all this partnered with Jughead sucking on the base of her neck meant she fell apart against his hand quicker than she would have liked. The scratches she left down his back evidence of how much she had enjoyed herself.

He wiped his fingers on the bed sheet before wrapping his arms around her waist, pulling her against his side.

“You okay, baby?” He cooed, kissing her temple.

“Jughead.” She was still catching her breath. “That was.. I can’t find an appropriate enough word for whatever the hell that was. Except, thank you?” She felt him laugh against her. She couldn’t fight the yawn that escaped her, and Jughead pulled her even tighter against him. He placed another kiss on her forehead.

“You did so good. Let’s get you some rest, huh?” Suddenly Betty was exhausted, she didn’t even have enough energy to muster a response. Instead she just wrapped her arms around Jugheads middle and rest her head again his chest, letting the steady beat of his heart sing her to sleep. Just as the claws of sleep were pulling her in, she felt a Jughead whisper into her hair.

“You are something else, Betty Cooper.” He sighed. “I’m so done for.”

She fell asleep with what could possibly the happiest heart on the planet.

#strong #allskynostars fics #Bughead fanfic #bughead fanfiction #riverdale fanfiction #betty x jughead #betty cooper #jughead jones #bughead smut #bughead au

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smashpanda · 4 years ago

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Ani-Me #13: Groovin’ To That COWBOY BEBOP (Ep. 1-13)

Welcome to Ani-Me! The Series Where You Make Me Watch Anime! To be clear, you aren’t making me do anything because I have enjoyed every bit of this so far.

And surprise, nerds! Look what I’m doing! Haha, I actually had this whole fun plan to do the anime poll and then Ozymandias-style be like “I already WATCHED THE WHOLE SHOW!!!” But it would take too long to finish watching all of it (it’s been a busy as hell month). Besides, I got half way through the show and decided that was definitely enough space to really dig into how I was feeling about the start. So without further ado, it’s time for…

Today’s Entry: COWBOY BEBOP (1998-1999)

So, I’m doing this because I felt like I needed to have reckoning with this show.

That’s because I actually tried watching it once before. This was about 10 years ago. An old friend thought it was positively insane that I had never seen it before. He wasn’t the first to sing its praises either. Even at the time I was open to the idea and gave it the old college try for a bunch of episodes, but… it didn’t take. I think I was mostly crashing up against the proverbial rocks of all those tangible details I was not prepared for. Which were really just the kinds of things that had kept me out of anime for so long. Like the facial contortions being so different from western animation. Or the way this particular story seemed to fixate on cool posturing in a way that likely would have more appealed to me during my teenage years. Heck, I was even wondering why there was a romantic, emotional pop song at the end (again, I had REALLY not seen a lot of anime). Then there was that very complicated issue of “fan service,” because I was watching with someone who was like WHY ARE HER BOOBS ALL OVER THE FUCKING PLACE!?!?! Simply put: they were really not having it. Plus the fact that we were watching the dubbed version, which felt like it played into a number of sexist tropes. So much of this was the problem with my initial experience.

But I imagine anime fans are so fucking tired of these kinds of complaints from outsiders, no? Hell, even just a year into this column series, I’m tired of them, too. But here’s the thing: these complaints are the common obstacles for outsiders and some are not without merit. And as much the casual dismissal from outsiders about anime can rankle, it’s also important to remember how it is for the outsiders - to realize how much of that anime-fan tiredness manifests online in the forms of equally-casual dismissals (mostly from toxic white dudes) for “not getting fan service,” etc. Point is, misunderstanding and excuse-making can go in a lot of directions. And honestly it was all part of the system of why I think I stayed away from anime for so long?

Thankfully, everything’s about timing.

So much of this column series has been about throwing myself in the deep end, getting used to the cinematic language, knowing the filmmakers, and growing comfortable with the cadence of a particular form. But honestly, I think so much of it has to do with just being much older, too. Basically, I calmed the fuck down. The previous things that bothered me are still there, but it just feels like so much less of a big deal. Even “the rules” of what I tend to believe about storytelling are so much more expansive. As they say, finally “I’m not young enough to think I know everything.” Along with that, there’s the popular online joke that something “hits different,” but coming back to Cowboy Bebop after a decade… it hits different. Like I said, timing is everything. Which brings us to another reason I really wanted to do this now…

So John Cho goes to my grocery store a lot.

A little while ago I saw him in full Spike hair and it was rad as hell.

So I’ve also been thinking a lot (read: too much) about how to cover Anime TV. Ideally, I like the idea of doing one giant essay about a series, but sometimes 1) overall thoughts don’t take on essay-like form the way they did with, say, Evangelion. And 2) that sometimes takes out the fun of talking about little things in each episode. But at the same time, I don’t want to feel the need to do the FULL RECAP thing with every episode, which sometimes bogs down the more important thoughts / gets repetitive (I felt like I ended up doing that with a lot of Korra recaps). So really, it’s going to be a case by case basis. And for Cowboy Bebop, I decided on a sort of “fly casual” approach with no plot recapping - just the evolution of my thoughts along with some other random passing ones. And it will all likely crest into big overall thoughts that will come with the end of the series.

Cool? Cool.

1. ASTEROID BLUES

“Oh, this is good, isn’t it?”

I said this to myself while watching and I simply cannot explain the difference the subs make for me personally when it comes to this show. Like I know the dub has a lot of fans and history, but everything about hearing the show in Japanese just plays stronger to me. The rhythm, the cadence, and most of all the timing of jokes. There’s just this way each of their voices better line up with the droll affectation of the show. Combine that with me finally being used to a lot of anime’s particularly cinematic language? The show just plays so FUNNY now. Like I’m laughing out loud four times an episode. But that’s not the only thing that’s changed.

When I tried watching a decade ago, there was also this funny thing where I was having a very different relationship to the cinematic affectations of the late 90’s. Like how much of this episode reflects the El Mariachi / Desperado machismo that defined a certain kind of posturing coolness. Back then I worried a lot about that specific brand of indulgence. But now it all feels so silly and playful (as if, at the time, I wasn’t so much reacting to the worry of that coolness as how much the me of TWO decades would have eaten it up). Like I was the perfect age when this show came out the first time.

But I think that’s the real thing that hits me now with the episode: how playful it all feels. Like the absurd shot of the woman leaning on the counter to drink beer, the cat drinking all the crap on the ground, the sole motive of wanting beef, and Spike fitting a whole sandwich in his mouth. It takes none of these things seriously - except when it takes them seriously, of course. The episode’s structure is really built around the two bait and switches. The first is the fun fake pregnancy where it turns out that’s where she keeps the vials. And the second - tragic, with her death. Fast. Brutal. Forlorn. From minute one it’s sort of spelling out the tonal nature of this show: the fast loose hijinks > serious comeuppance > the Sisyphean process of bounty hunting without success… But hey, at least they got that beef.

It’s an apt metaphor.

2. STRAY DOG STRUT

In my original go round, I remember this being the episode liking this enough to stick with it longer. But now it plays even better. It’s kind of a classic fun and games episode, with the great set-up for the dog reveal - and the classic “lose but kinda win” ending a la Santa’s Little Helper (along with the dramatic irony that the dog is worth millions). I think I actually referenced this two columns ago, but there’s this kind of “kafka-esque’’ funny edge to the show. That “there is hope, but not for us” sentiment that populates a show of lovable losers trying and failing to navigate life’s absurdity.

But what I also like is that it’s not from a complete lack of competence. The gag where they both look up from the aquarium and Spike’s already got the gun drawn? That’s perfect stuff. Same goes with Spike absent-mindedly missing Abdul because he has shit on his foot. Both help establish this incredibly enduring character that thrives on both confidence and a genuine lack of awareness (which is often how he is able to pull a fast one on the audience, too).

The episode also helps clarify the show’s setting of an American Cultural Diaspora, filtered through the lens of Japanese culture. Could the Abdul stuff read as problematic? Oh absolutely, but the Game of Death / Way of the Dragon reference is also so singular to Kareem Abdul Jabbar’s influence that I’m not sure how much intention exists from the creators outside of it. And for an episode that delivers hijinks like Spike stealing the “just married” car and the incredible sound cue / animation of the corgi slapping onto the hood of his ship… I can’t help but smile.

3. HONKY TONK WOMAN

Ahhhhhh Faye Valentine. It’s funny, I wont say that I’m “used” to fan service at this point, nor really have any interest in excusing its extreme nature… I’m just sort of not letting it stop me from engaging everything around it? Does that make sense? But once again, I can’t explain just how much original language helps her character specifically. Megumi Hayashibara has this kind of wonderfully bored, disinterested tone that fits the characterization better.

The other thing that really hit with this episode was the James Bond-ness of the series (I mean in this gambling-centric episode drrr). But it’s the riff on the silhouettes in the opening titles, the pastiche of cool, and again, I keep coming back to that late 90’s disaffection that falls in line with Bond’s unruffled ethos. To wit, there’s a reason young men like disaffected characters, of course. In that it’s just as much of a power fantasy as so many other things are. They have all these budding, confused emotions and life feels so uncontrollable, so it becomes easy to grasp onto characters who play it cool, who show suaveness and are unbothered by the ups and downs going around them. Of course they want to be like that.

Which would normally be a possible “indulgence problem” if this show wasn’t also so keen on taking the piss out of Spike and company. That’s the thing: it’s just so damn playful at the same time. Unlike something Bond-esque, it’s always looking to make Spike the punchline. And the twisty, confusion-laden plots of chip-swapping and rubes and one one-ups-man-ship? I cackled constantly. And I have to say the fight in this one is so, so good. And the last line?

“Bye” … chef’s kiss… is… is that thing the kids still say?

insert grandpa face

4. GATEWAY SHUFFLE

It’s probably weird that THIS is the thing that most stands out to me, but it’s weird how much Twinkle reminds me of “Mom” from Futurama, right down to her large adult sons. I also like how much the episode plays with the dramatic irony of Spike and company being totally oblivious idiots (which will be a running gag), especially them on the verge of killing themselves with the virus. Also also, it establishes the sheer volume of problems that Spike fixes with sleight of hand. Also also also, there’s the fact that this episode is where Faye joins the team for good, thus setting up the fun larger team dynamics.

Is it weird that I don’t have much more to say about this one? It sort of reflects the way some Bebop episodes just feel slight in a way, which isn’t to say they aren’t fun or don’t have good gags. It’s just sort of the nature of this show, sometimes. Cause you’ll get an episode like this and then the next time you’ll get… Well, you’ll get an episode like…

5. BALLAD OF FALLEN ANGELS

“Who is this Sephriroth mother fucker?!?!?”

Such is the way I noted the entrance of Vicious. Given the overlapping timeline, I’m guessing there was something about long gray haired evil dudes with big swords in the water? Either way, the far more obvious influence on this one is John Woo. There’s the gunplay. The cathedral. The operatic posturing. It all brings me back to a place and time so vividly. That place and time being a teenager in the 90’s with a camcorder, boy, I can’t tell you how often we ran around with toy pistols diving off to the side and putting it in slow motion (we could never seem to find doves, but were always on the hunt for a group of pigeons to run through). This instinct also highlights the potential problems with these tropes. It would be SO easy for this to be nothing more than juvenile posturing / copying an en vogue aesthetic, but - as I’m learning is common for this show - Cowboy Bebop kind of hits this different note entirely…

Mostly thanks to the score. Because it all comes back to that ending with the haunting chorus of Green Bird, which gives me an array of complex feelings (along with it being a song I’ve had in my head for weeks now). On a pure aesthetic level, the scene is perfect. The pure combination of image, sound, and symbolism to hit an emotional response so squarely. A decade ago I felt this moment was more about hiding the story in a way - as if teasing backstory instead of even showing it - which isn’t entirely wrong, but now it feels more economical than anything, merely touching a lot I can have patience that will be dealt with . And more important than the specifics is understanding what it means to Spike emotionally - how much Vicious is part of his life and lost love and injury and pain, the cycles of opera and birth death rebirth death that all fit the same lyrics to the song…

“Spring has come

Worms are showing their faces

Little birds are eating them

Spring has come

Children are going to school

Farm dogs are giving birth to puppies

Spring has come

Women are looking in mirrors

Egg pies are baking”

In short, I understand why it’s a classic.

6. SYMPATHY FOR THE DEVIL

It’s here I realize that writing about Cowboy Bebop is a bit counter to my general instincts. For I’m someone who likes digging into problems because it helps me understand things. With Korra or Falcon and The Winter Solider or something, I can stop, dig into the structural problems of a given episode, talk about approach, and feel like everyone was coming out the other side with a bigger understanding. I get that sense of purpose. But what’s odd about this show is everything is incredibly sound on the writing front. Every weekly “session” gives us a contained, thoughtful, playful little story with little differing nuances (it actually reminds me a lot of the Lone Wolf and Cub story structure, which yes, I’ve read all of by the way). And it’s no different with this episode (which also reminded me a bit of the ventriloquist dummy episode of Buffy?). There’s even so many really great things that stand out. Like this is the first episode where Faye really clicked for me (the gag where she casually eats the dog food is an all-timer). I also loved the kid getting Last Crusade-ed at the end.

But the “what makes us care” is a whole other ball of wax. Because this was the last episode I watched in my initial trial a decade ago. There wasn’t any big reason I stopped, just that simple lack of interest. And I think it speaks to the trouble of telling stories about disaffected characters. The whole idea is that they’re often hiding pain or interest or backstory or whatever else. Then the idea is you’re slowly supposed to peer in (and I’m far enough into the show to know how they do that). But if you’re not really all in on a character’s emotional journey from those critical starts? Sometimes it’s hard to work up that investment. If I was watching this as a teenager in the 90’s? I would likely have a whole different feeling because I’m watching in more of an aspirational sense. But watching an episode like this, from where I am now? I understand why it’s easy to feel a lack of connection, even when the boy is giving all the tears about the release of death… It feels like an emotion on display, a thing I’m looking at, but kept a distance from - and thus a harder thing to certainly feel.

7. HEAVY METAL QUEEN

For shits and giggles I watched this one with dub. It’s interesting because it instantly reminded me that part of the reason I like subs so much is it needs your undivided attention. With the dub? Suddenly my eyes could wander, sometimes to twitter sometimes and then I’d realize I missed something and rewind a second. In that capacity the subs are actually allowing for more distraction? Which is why 1) I worry that most shows seem designed to be watched with someone half paying attention and 2) I tend to watch things sans phone as much as possible. Look, it’s not that this multitasking activity is “bad” inherently. I love listening to podcasts as I cook or clean. It’s just with cinema it’s so easy to do and miss out on what I really want to be doing. Which is being enveloped in a story.

Anyway, I’m more or less good with this episode. I wish I had more to say than that. But once again I feel like I’m coming out of an episode with an “okay, that was solid” feeling. Perhaps because also plays into 90’s dated-ness in a way where all the things that should feel modern feel just so… heteronormative? I dunno. It’s like VT feels like a character I should be adoring, but with 20 years she feels like a half-measure. And even at the time, it’s really hard to get past the dude in the sombrero ogling the waitress who looks like lady liberty. Like, the gross metaphor is utterly clear, and not in a way where it’s countering it on any level. But there’s always those moments of elation, like Spike firing his space gun to better direct himself back - that make the show still feel special.

8. WALTZ FOR VENUS

So this is the first episode I unequivocally loved.

Perhaps it’s just because it does some of my absolute favorite writing things. Like, hurray! They finally got paid! But true to understanding their ethos, it happens almost immediately in the opening, thus setting up proper expectations for what is to follow. And then it does my absolutely favorite thing, which is make you absolutely care for a character you hate without realizing that’s what it’s doing. Roco at first comes off as annoying, jealous, brash, etc. But with time and perspective, the eagerness ends up being motivated. And the way it all crests into him using the “like water” teachings of Spike’s supernatural reflexes? Perfect moment!

And then he gets fucking shot.

I literally screamed NO in my living room. But that’s what good writing does, it takes you through journeys subtlety then knocks you on your ass with whiplashing emotion (I also realized this entire beat, right down to the thumbs up in the middle, happens in Mad Max: Fury Road). And what’s more is that even on death’s door stop, all his eagerness and wonder could be summed up in that youthful question: “Hey, if I knew you earlier, would we have been friends?” Gah, it’s just gutting. And so absolutely perfect in its dramatic articulation.

With this kind of competent writing on the “fun / plot” level, it’s also funny how much I remember the little details that the show is so good at. Like the use of the Hagia Sophia on Venus. Or the way the rich guy shouts to save himself and then gets his toupee knocked off.

… And then there’s those super gay panic 90’s details like shoving the gun in gay man’s throat that make my skin fucking crawl. As good as things can be, those ugly shadows loom large.

9. JAMMING WITH EDWARD

I love that they finally get around to explaining why earth sucks and everyone is in space in episode 9! This is also one of those episodes where the cyberpunky-ness of a rogue A.I. would play more fresh back in the late 90’s? By now it’s just hard to grab onto, given how many times we’ve seen this plot done again and again. But thankfully, the show has the complete dignity to continue its tradition of being playful instead of serious, in that MPU is a little freaking weirdo whom I am glad escapes.

I sort of don’t know what to make of Ed yet? I like certain affectations and weirdness, but I’m hoping it crests into something interesting. Otherwise, most of my notes cater around very specific reactions to moments. Like how Nazca lines were just in my trivia league! Or how the episode had huge Android: Netrunner vibes! Also a Summer Wars-like internet world! And great quotes like “there’s nothing made on earth that’s good” and paying it off with the cheap missile firing a dud.

But I also just want to mention lines like, “I hear that that hacker is gay hahaha” which I want to come back to because I don’t think is just a “Japanese culture” thing. That’s a “90’s gay panic” thing. And what’s important to talk about with these moments is that I don’t handwave them now as being dated and in the past. Because they weren’t “the past” for me. They were what I lived in. And revisiting it all from where I am now makes me FURIOUS. That’s because they were all part of a gay panic culture of the 90’s than gave me so many internal complexes and fears about being bisexual (I didn’t understand that’s what I was, really, I was mostly terrified I was gay and thought it would literally get me killed) and bunch of other stuff. It was just brutal. And I spent that entire decade around all this kind of media being like “hahahhahaha no big deal, right guys?” and I didn’t realize inside it was just tearing me apart - in the worst sense of making me deeply afraid in myself. It wasn’t the past, it was hell.

Anyway!

10. GANYMEDE ELEGY

I was wondering when we’d get to a Jet episode. So far he’s been the kind of character I don’t know much to make of. He mostly exists to be a no-nonsense foil to Spike’s irreverence. But even in this episode, a lot of his gruffness comes off as harmless, but then there’s the “be strong for her” ggRrrRRrrr pRoTeCt wOmAn philosophy just rubs me the wrong way. Though I think there’s a lot of valid reasons people gravitate toward characters like Jet? Even if I hesitate to get all pop-psych with it, I think characters like this remind a lot of people of their dads? I dunno, more curious what others think.

But Jet’s backstory completely fits it with what I’m now calling the C.B.M.O. (Cowboy Bebop Modus Operandi) in that it presents a forlorn, almost classical noir backstory - doesn’t go too deep with it, leans heavy on the pastiche, but at least has the dignity to be fun in the process. And by the time we get to the ending, the final confrontation with Alisa and Rhint still plays emotionally valid, which I think is all you need in this show (including strong thematic gestures of literally throwing the watch AKA your past into the ocean).

But also once again, what’s more burned into my mind is little moments and decisions. It’s trying to light the lighter with the bad memory cooked up in your head. It’s underlining the dramatic irony of tragedy with cutting lines like “this must be because i have good karma.” Also that end song totally sounded a lot like Seal’s “Kiss From A Rose.” Also we got gem lines like…

“I live and wander with a group of weirdos now”

I do, too… I do, too.

11. TOYS IN THE ATTIC

Let’s get right to the plum gag: bahahahahahhahahah the alien being an advanced form of leaving lobster in the fridge is just SO AMAZING. I was cackling like mad.

And honestly, I think the lead up with the entire episode was pretty damn great. It just has a completely different energy, not just in regards to playing with the sci-fi / horror tropes (which it’s not laying it on thick or anything), it’s just this fun verve. You feel it in the energy of how everyone hangs out. Like Faye completely taking Jet for all he’s worth in the strip poker game and his “honorable” reaction (this side of Jet’s gruffness I like a lot more). Which all just serves as the perfect dramatic irony of the encroaching, otherworldly horror. It also sideswipes these great little lines about how humans “quickly forgot the lessons they just learned.” And once again we get an episode where all the highs are in the little details, like the little beat where the alien good wiggles again before it’s fully melted. Even the episode’s overlaid vignette structure about lessons (which could be trite when applied in gauche fashion) instead only exists as a distracting bit of artifice that is only really leading to a sublime gag: “You shouldn’t leave things in the fridge… that is the lesson.”

Five stars. Would rent again.

12.-13. JUPITER JAZZ - PART 1 AND PART 2

I feel like it makes sense to write about these two episodes as a single entity.

First off, I have to say how much I like the pacing of them. Most of the sessions of Cowboy Bebop are lean, mean, and economical, which is all part of the fun. But even though the show has its moments of rest / down time,” it’s often rushing through conflict and rarely milking the drama in a way that lets you sit with the tension. Which just means I rarely feel like we ever have a real chance to just dig into a longer story pace. Which is of course what we finally get in this mid-point two part epic that brings us back to Vicious. Which, of course, we all suspected would happen (I say this like we’re all watching the show live for the first time, haha). But now that we’re finally getting into the story itself…

I’m not sure how crazy I am about it? Like, it’s all coming back to that problem of “how much do I really care about all these characters?” I like them and stuff. Really, I do. And it’s really nice to get moments of genuine emotion, like when Spike gets legitimately angry at being called Vicious. But there’s just this thing where I can’t get the emotional investment in the show to really drive that constant want of engagement. There’s fallibility, but so little genuine vulnerability. So it’s not really the kind of show you “lean into.” Which is all part of the ongoing cool disaffection. But hey, isn’t that just how noir operates?

The thing most people don’t understand about noir is that all that disaffection and hidden emotion always bubbles up by the story’s end, often in the spectacular ways of coming undone. Like, the vulnerability explodes by the end. But with a TV show slowly dolling that out like four times across 26 hours? Yeah, that’s not what the noir structure was built for so it just makes it harder to engage. Particularly when characters like Vicious still feel like cyphers in a way. Same goes for the way Julia feels like that haunting ghost. Like we learned “more” about them, but I don’t feel “closer” if that makes sense.

And it also doesn’t help matters that these episodes do some of my least favorite story tropes. Like when a female character is like, “I’m a girl who can take care of myself!” which seems to position them as not being the damsel, but then the male character saves them anyway, which just makes them EXTRA good at rescuing the kind of super-capable women who think they’re above damsel-ing! The fact it does so on the sly that feels even ickier than that. Same goes for yet more homophobia in the episode. And speaking of LGBT+ treatment…

I have NO idea what the heck to think of Gren? Like did they really say that Gren just got a hormonal imbalance from insomnia from going to prison??? Wut??? I don’t want to google things until I’m done with the show but needless to say I’ll be reading from trans / non-binary writers on the subject because I’m having huge flashbacks to The Crying Game discourse that so radically shaped more 90’s-ness when it comes to this stuff. Speaking of which, of course the character dies. And it’s amazing how many people don’t even recognize the problems of this trope, or even that it IS a trope. The reason the “kill your gays” trope exists is because it’s always written by straight people trying to grab other straight people’s sympathy (look, see now you care about this character because they died and that’s sad!) Meanwhile it only teaches LBGT+ people that they are doomed and should be afraid and that their “sacrifice” only exists to teach the straights lessons or whatever. Again, we’re just back in 90’s tropes that I internalized and have come to resent in much more meaningful fashion.

And yet, despite all the things that stick in my craw, this show always has these little things that seep right into my brain and stay there. Like that moment where Lin dies and Vicious clarifies, “he protected the rules,” which is just a forehead-slapper of a perfect line. And then the last little variation on the end title that really hits you: “Do you have a comrade?” Oof. These little things are what makes me ultimately care about the show. It’s not the drama. It’s the little ingenious moments that stick in there and keep rattling around in my brain.

Speaking of brain rattles, this also finally brings us to why I also felt comfortable stopping halfway through the show to write all this down… The other night I felt inclined to start listening to the soundtrack and it was all just there in my brain already, set in stone.

Point being, I’m in.

<3HULK

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yatterzuk · 8 years ago

Text

Kung Pow Quahog – Review & How Did You Do Poll

Hey there readers, I’d like to welcome you to the path of peace and enlightenment, where today I’m going to be talking, not fighting, about the event that just was, Kung Pow Quahog. After 4 weeks and endless rounds of kung fu fighting it’s all over but for the poll, and that’s where we will find out if this event saw you savouring the sweet taste of victory or saw you feeling like you you’d been knocked out for the count.

Now I’ve been having fun doing these reviews for quite a few events now, but want to add a bit of info here to clear up something that has appeared in comments, namely where the commenters wrongly state I only get so far in events due to getting free clams from Bunny and/or TinyCo. Let me clear that up quickly, I get NO free clams from either Bunny or TinyCo, I play the game the way most addicts do, I earn free clams through gameplay or I buy them. And I have absolutely NO link to TinyCo outwith any contact through my in-game support when I have a glitch or issue. I hope that clears up any confusion over this.

The event certainly started with all the pressure on TinyCo, as the previous events had not gone down well, they were crippled by problem drops, poor execution and glitches galore. TinyCo really had to pull an event out of the bag, or they would be committing mobile app Hari-Kari. and you know what I think they did just that with Kung Pow Quahog. As much as I’ve no particular interest in martial artists or fighting games, I thoroughly enjoyed myself over the 4 phases of the event.

Right from the start we saw content pulled from the TV Show, we saw Walking Joe, Dojo Peter, the return of Mr Washee Washee, Yogi Fighter Brian and lots of Karate Kid content.

I was also glad to see this was a 4 week event, I couldn’t have faced anything longer after what had gone down in the Quahog’s Not So Silent Night event, but on the other hand neither did I want to see another mini-event with too much content to collect in too little time. So this seemed like a nice middle ground.

This event, from the start, also looked like fun, and I hoped that would continue as we started to play through the initial phase. And it did, I immediately saw improvements in the event that kept the fun factor going, Dojo Peter’s drops were good and the premium character costume, Walking Joe, would be a massive help in progress. So straight away two things we’ve been wanted delivered, better drops and better value for premium purchases. So despite the fighting theme, there seemed to be a renewed peace and calm all around us.

I said peace and calm guys, not peace and clam, but hey I’ll take either. As it appears TinyCo had reacted positively to the outpouring of despair over Quahog’s Not So Silent Night, Best of 2016 & Road To Bollywood, the terrible trio of events that saw players fingers hovering over the uninstall button.

I admit when I initially read the next event was martial arts related I was quite relaxed as having no great interest in it, I thought that’s my clam stash safe, not going spend anything on this event. But that changed when I saw Tai-Jitsu Lois, surely one of the best character costumes released to date. I dropped clams on her quicker than you can say Kill Bill, however there was a twist to my purchase which I’ll take more about later. So here I was unexpectedly playing a hybrid of freemium/premium again for an event that I didn’t think would float my boat.

So it really wasn’t long before I was happily Kung Fu Fighting, and enjoying the event immensely. From the start it was obvious TinyCo had made changes as Dojo Peter wasn’t a grind to unlock, and most of the new characters were freemium unlockables, whereas premium was concentrated around costumes. So I knew my character count was going to grow. And in the end that’s exactly what happened as I successfully completed the event unlocking all the freemium content, but I will be honest as always I played a lot. I’m lucky my work commitments have never seen me separated from my mobile so I can drop in and out my game during the day, and as I’m a member of insomniacs anonymous, I also drop in and out during the night. So I can play more than most, but it’s good to see that putting in the time is once again as successful as putting in your dime. For a while there pay or play, had become pay or pay!

But I am delighted that TinyCo are showing they hear what we’re saying, the results of our recent polls and comments made it clear to them they were facing a player exodus if something didn’t change. This event shows that although they are often slow to respond that they are listening. We saw a 4 week event, full of new characters and costumes. And we also saw the return of some popular old characters, Giant Chicken, Mr Washee Washee and M Miyagi. I believe this shows they want to re-engage with the Community and keep improving the game.

FORMAT: A 4 week event with no major gridlock in the earliest phases, this allowed players to move along, now I’m not saying everyone moved at the same pace, some were slower to get through the 2nd phase, which was probably the toughest and time hungry as usual, or delayed moving on to the next phase to build up resources, but for once this delay of progress was mostly down to the amount time you could put in or player choice and not a gridlock that meant they couldn’t move on. Yes fight contracts delayed play a little but it didn’t derail the entire event. And for many moving slowly through the phases paid off as the final Phase wasn’t content heavy, so if you weren’t bothered about defeating Killer Kung Pow Giant Chicken 8 times, you could use the final week to simply finish up things like unlocking the Golden Dragon.

CONTENT: More Family Guy TV show linked content. Walking Joe, the Karate Kid characters and more have all featured on the show. And the return of one of the best characters ever, Mr Washee Washee. Bing – Bong!!! The buildings and decorations were another top job by the animators, it’s a real shame the work these guys put out is sometimes lost into our inventories due to space and memory issues. And these fab looking buildings etc are why I’ve been trying to do some Show-Off posts.

OFFERING RESOURCES: I felt the task lengths for drops and frequency of drops were good, it was possible to constantly keep giving offerings to the Golden Dragon at the lower levels. In the Road to Bollywood event low offering drops saw most unable to attack the Ganesha boss, this saw less than 20% of players unlock Ganesha, and even then many of those spent clams to do so. Only 2% of players actually unlocked Ganesha freemium by the original end date of the event. That is a damning figure, and I’m looking forward to seeing how many unlocked the Golden Dragon character in this event. I predict the figure will be much, much higher. And it’s when we see improvements like this, it makes all our polls and comment gathering worth it.

CHARACTER DROPS: With regards to gameplay it was good to see less characters have multiple tasks for different drop items, I know there was still some crossover but that will always happen as core characters that were unlocked in the early Districts are used in events to allow newer players to join in. I really think TinyCo got the balance better in this event, the only early concern was over Fight Contract drops, when Phase 2 threatened to slow down due to a lack of these, but TinyCo responded in the phases that followed by adding more options to get these. Other items essential to fighting in the battle arena were always drops, so all that work to get them always paid off.

CHARACTERS AND COSTUMES: What did I like, well we got mostly characters as freemium unlocks and not costumes. Yes,a couple were timed, I’ll moan about that later believe me, but if you were looking for an event to increase your character count this was it. Including the returning characters there was an opportunity to add up to 8 characters in our games. And the likes or Mr Miyagi was previously a premium character, and now if we really worked our socks off, we could get him for free. And complete a FaceSpace set with Daniel & Johnny. Few free lames always welcome. Nice move TinyCo. And I know some players get upset when previous premiums are offered freemium, but I’ve no issue with that, usually they aren’t easy to pick up freemium and players need to really work for them.

Special mention to the character of the event for me, Golden Dragon, fantastic addition to the event and well worth working to unlock. And of course to the Character Costume of the event, Tai-Jitsu Lois, probably one of, if not the best costumes yet.

Also premium character costumes purchases were very, very useful during the event, more so than in previous events, so for those willing to spend clans at least you were getting a bit better value, something you’ve all been asking for. I purchased Tai- Jitsu Lois and flew through Phase 2 due to having her, in other events premium characters/costumes have hardly helped. But I will moan about the cost of these costumes soon, don’t say you weren’t warned there will be moans ahead.

And although I didn’t benefit from it there was the happy glitch that saw many get Giant Chicken into their games at last. Now let’s hope TinyCo pop him in Tan Lines for everyone else who still wants him.

STRUCTURE: For the most everything you needed to do in each phase was spelt out early by simply moving through the first few parts of the main Questline but there was an issue in placing the timed characters as a task early in a couple of the Questlines. But I’ll talk more about that later. The final week wasn’t content heavy which allowed those who move at a slower pace to get there or decide not to bother and concentrate on the Golden Dragon.

GAMEPLAY: They seem to be taking on board issues that derailed previous events, and mixing it up a bit. Yes we’ve seen the fighting in a previous event but it was made easier this time round, it’s obvious TinyCo had tweaked a few things after feedback from the Superhero event last year. And for me characters that were needed for fighting were for the most part kept off any long drop duties, only the odd crossover there, which let the event flow well.

FACESPACE: Good see this back again, please keep these sets going. They add a little glint to the game when you complete a set.

SUPPORT: There has been definite improvements again in this area, the meltdown in the previous events seemed to see cracks in the support again, but they seemed to have recovered. In fact this recovery started at the end of the Bollywood event when we saw many comments, from those who complained they’d spent clams to speed up tasks before the late extension, saying they were compensated by TinyCo. And this good service seemed to continue as a glitch in the Questline, regarding clearing nerds, in this event saw support react positively, replacing the Fight Contracts used up back in affected players games, and there was a genuine apology for information in the FAQ regarding Tai-Jitsu Lois being misleading. However there is still an over reliance on sending standard responses to players when there is a high volume support issue, which at times either appears to ignore players concerns or miss the nature of their complaint completely.

Now before you accuse me of being too nice to TinyCo there are a few problem areas that still seem raise their ugly heads event after event.

MYSTERY BOXES: It’s no mystery what my feelings on Mystery Boxes are, I continue to despair at the way TinyCo implements Mystery Boxes in events. Yes, I know we don’t need to buy them but anyone who saw Bunny’s results on the Sensei Stewie Mystery box will know exactly why I feel so strongly that the way these are set up is wrong. In case you didn’t read the post, it took Bunny 28 attempts at The Sensei Stewie mystery box to win the top prize, Ninja Stewie . At 150 clams a pop, that was 4200 clams to get the costume. Not even TinyCo can defend stats like that, it leaves a very sour taste in the mouth just typing about it now. So my gripes are still the same, 150 clams is an outrageous cost, the odds are ridiculous, repetitive materials need to go, and better content in the boxes is needed overall. If I could compare it to the recent Tapped Out Valentine mystery box, which got things perfect, 60 donuts a shot, and full of characters and premium buildings which all cost more than 60 donuts when originally available. And even although you might not win what you want you still got something of donut value. And players were very happy to see this mystery box over there with an outpouring of positive comments, here the FGQFS mystery boxes only bring about negative comments.

CHARACTER COSTUMES: The cost of these is way too high, costing the same or more than a full character is silly pricing.

TINYCO FAQ: Still not getting this right, wrong info continues in the game FAQ, although the general info has improved. I guess I should scream at them to get it right but then why would you need us, so I’ll just mention it quietly here.

QUESTLINES: Now the dialogue and tasks were fantastic, no issues at all there, but what I do find troublesome is a character with a timer being essential to completing an early part of a phases Main Questline. I’m talking about Daniel LaRusso & Johnny Lawrence here. As completing these parts saw people miss fact the characters were timed, if you must do it please put a warning on the task that it will start a timer.

Apart from that my main gripe in this event was the amount of side Questlines that built up due to Bonnie being needed for most of them, yet she was uber busy collecting Fight Contracts.

Also please bring in a reward for completing the final Phase Questline, 10 clams or so, an incentive to finish it.

WEEKLY CHALLENGES: The weekly challenges were once again toned down at first, and the early ones were achievable for all players but they again dropped a horrid surprise in the final challenge which made getting the full set extremely tough.

So fellow addicts, that’s some of my thoughts, I think you can see I personally think in this event TinyCo got a lot right but I want to stress they are just my thoughts, they in no way reflect what Bunny or Lotty felt about the event.

Anyway that’s my ramblings, now I want you to tell me your thoughts. Cause I honestly love to hear them. But please don’t turn this into a What the Deuce post by releasing your fists of fury in the comments as Bunny will put my head on the karate chopping board if you do. Please give us your feedback and thoughts in a calm zen way. Tell us what you like, don’t like? What you’d like to see more of, what you’d like to see less off. What your thoughts on this 4 week event? Share with us everything and anything you think would improve FGQFS, as TinyCo do read this blog and of course Bunny also takes your feedback to TinyCo. And if you can please take a minute to complete the end of event poll at the end of this event I’d be very grateful.

And just incase you can’t see the poll or find it jumps about when you’re trying answer, here’s the direct link:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc8r1cIBLz3C4ttwF_84VOM8csbgu56Xq9zMbrWdPFZLN0kvQ/viewform

~ Russian Tigger

Kung Pow Quahog – Review & How Did You Do Poll was originally published on Yatterz

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ulyssesredux · 8 years ago

Text

Aeolous

THE DISSOLUTION OF OAKLANDS, VERY.

Two old Dublin women on the terrorist attacks will follow. Bill Clinton called it and asked for the day is the only one with judgement so bad she is the biggest physical & economic threat facing the American People.

―Want a cool head.

―-Terrible tragedy in Rathmines!

That mantles the vista far and wide and wait till the glowing orb of the morning to ask him about planes of consciousness.

―You look like communards.

CLEVER, OF THE HIBERNIAN METROPOLIS.

What do you call it A Pisgah Sight of Palestine or the Parable of The State of Florida where thousands were put up approximately $50 million loan. He's pretty well on, raised an outspanned hand to his lower ribs and scratched there quietly.

MEMORABLE BATTLES RECALLED.

The word reminds one somehow of fat in the bakery line too, so he told me. Double marriage of sisters celebrated.

―-A sudden—Like that, Myles Crawford cried angrily. Go on.

―Try it anyhow. There’s never been anyone more abusive to women in politics.

Father, Son and Holy Ghost and Jakes M'Carthy. The Rust Belt was created by politicians like Cruz and 1 for 38 Kasich are unable to cite a verse from the newspaper in four clean strokes.

Even though I have to change but it is not a dying man. Clinton, who never had the youthful Moses.

―A woman brought sin into the house staircase.

―The doorknob hit Mr Bloom stood by, hearing, turned, beckoned and led on across towards Mooney's.

―He can kiss my royal Irish arse, Myles, J.J. O'Molloy murmured. Stephen: No, Stephen said.

VIRGILIAN, OF THE DAY.

Two bridegrooms laughing heartily at each other than the Irish.

―

Long Island! Media desperate to distract from Clinton's anti-2A citizens must organize and get her latest book, reading backwards with his thumb. We have Paul Ryan, always fighting the Republican Party can come together and be proud! Go on. Fuit Ilium! Lenehan said, his eye running down the stairs at their cases. I said that.

―Tomorrow's events will be to God. -But my riddle!

But he wants it changed. Dear Mr Editor, what? -Pardon, monsieur, Lenehan put in. Where is the big fellow shoved me, councillor, Hynes said.

I'll tell you. Dullthudding Guinness's barrels. Why aren't the Democrats—both with delegates & otherwise.

―-Will you join us, Myles Crawford said.

―An illstarched dicky jutted up and back. He pointed to two faces peering in round the top in leaded: the world.

Look at here. —Boohoo! Through a lane of clanking drums he made his way.

-great numbers on ACCEPTANCE SPEECH: TRUMP 32.

IN WELLKNOWN RESTAURANT.

―J.J. O'Molloy sent a weary sidelong glance towards the Freeman's Journal.

South Bend, Indiana in a hurry. Kingdoms of this nation again.

Nothing on the bench long ago, the baby and so politically correct, that eternal symbol of wisdom and of the wonderful speakers including my wife, Melania.

―

The vocal muse.

―Tomorrow's events will be pres.

#VoteTrump today! He thrust the sheets back and went into the office behind, parting the vent of his jacket, jingling his keys in his other hand. The sack of windy Troy. Getting the strong endorsement for president.

-They want to draw the cashier is just the beginning of NAFTA with massive numbers of jobs and trade, but it is. This is good press!

ITHACANS VOW PEN IS CYNOSURE THIS FAIR JUNE DAY ITALIA, OF KEYES.

—F to P is the house of keys. -Speak up for yourself, Mr Crawford, he said. But listen to this, he said. That it be because Cruz's guy runs Missouri? I spoke with Mr Keyes just now. It wasn't me, sir. -What about that, he said very softly. Here. Mr Dedalus said. Martin Cunningham forgot to give us a three months' renewal. Hail fellow well met the next Secretary of State tomorrow morning.

WITH THE HEART OF THE WIND.

By Jesus, she should drop out of the cloud by day.

Right. Unfortunately I have to start making things here again. Or again if we have no problem in doing so! Might go first himself. No, that's all! Mr Bloom turned and saw the liveried porter raise his lettered cap as a threat and therefore have placed ZERO negative ads was spent on me. Or was it you shot the lord lieutenant of Finland between you? Governor of Virginia and Nebraska. They tell me he's round there in Dillon's. -Like fellows who had blown up. Ned Lambert it is just gone. —Terrible tragedy in Rathmines! Owing to a hopeless groan. In mourning for Sallust, Mulligan says. It was in that case of fratricide, the professor said between his chews. Put us all down in the hall. What perfume does your wife use? Life is too short. The editor laid a nervous hand on Stephen's shoulder. Apologize! TODAY WE MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN supporters another victory-306! Or the south a mouth? It is said of him! Even the once great Caesars is bankrupt in A.C. He said: It is amusing to view the unpar one ar alleled embarra two ars is it? Screams of newsboys barefoot in the halfpenny place.

No, thanks, professor MacHugh murmured softly, biscuitfully to the running stream. I've been through the meshes of his spelling. I will make it awkward for him with quick grace, said with a little puff. Myles Crawford. False lull.

―-Your support has been divided, angry and untrusting.

Passing out he whispered to J.J. O'Molloy: And, it is #1 trending. Just another spasm, Ned Lambert agreed.

-East have been saying, Crooked Hillary Clinton is unqualified to be on, Macduff! The Bernie Sanders on HRC: Bad Instincts.

―Sleepy eyes Chuck Todd, the Saturday pink.

Rub in August: good idea: horseshow month.

―The pensive bosom by the Dems are making up phony polls in order to elect Crooked Hillary Clinton.

―But the Greek! Thump.

―Old Chatterton, the professor asked. —Fine!

―Will you join us, Myles Crawford. Big day on Thursday night.

-It gives them a crick in their necks, Stephen said.

Hillary hard on straightening out our country without extraordinary screening. Mainly all pictures. Amazing crowd.

ONLY ONCE MORE THAT WAS ROME.

He lifted his voice above it boldly: Good day.

―Numbers out soon! Last time I saw Elba. And in the dusk.

Mexico today, wants borders to be a spoiler Indie candidate!

―Will soon be speaking about our great movement is verified, and myself.

-T is viceregal lodge, imagine!

―She’s been in office. And Madam Bloom, Mr Bloom said, raising two quiet claws. We need serious leaders. Put us all.

—Freeman! Lenehan said. For Helen, the professor cried. Red Murray said gravely. His dark lean face had a good cure for flatulence?

Why not bring in Henry Grattan and Flood wrote for this very paper, the man who choked and let us all into it well.

―The vote percentage is even higher than anticipated in Arizona.

—Who wants a par to call attention.

Mr Bloom stood weighing the point and about to smile he strode on jerkily. Look at here. I can get the design? Crooked Hillary Clinton wants to shut down our First Amendment rights away. Open house. Where have you a man of the 15 states that I heard his words: A recently discovered fragment of Cicero, professor MacHugh said, his blood wooed by grace of language and gesture, blushed.

But then if he were bitterer against others or against himself.

LET US HOPE.

―Sad! Iron nerves. Place looks beautiful! Success for us is the worst voting record in the debate. Where? What opera resembles a railwayline?

-Just cut it out of the WORLD!

―The media tries so hard to do with women, when the two Big Thursdays when Crooked Hillary said that. House of keys. Nile. Crowd was fantastic!

Grossbooted draymen rolled barrels dullthudding out of hand: fermenting.

―Law, the Childs murder case. Will be in Phoenix now. It is meet to be president. I was looking for a fortune for the Express with Gabriel Conroy. The editor came from the inner office, closing the door to. Shapely bathers on golden strand.

The media is really on a point. -Fiat Chrysler just announced that he would respect the results of VoteStand. Stephen and said: It is not on the whose.

―Wrong! As the days and Ohio was mine!

―Just leaving Virginia-dealing with the editors of Conde Nast & Steven Newhouse, a great Memorial Day and all of the kings. Psha! -Who? Pyatt! Must be some. My wife, Melania, will we learn? -Two Dublin vestals, Stephen, the professor said. He said. It's a play on the brewery float bumped dullthudding barrels rolled by grossbooted draymen out of business operations.

H. If the ban.

―-Dan Dawson's land Mr Dedalus said. Queen Anne is dead at 74!

They will sell many air conditioners! Poor papa with his fingers. A COMPLETE AND TOTAL FABRICATION, UTTER NONSENSE.

Feathered his nest well anyhow. Go for one another baldheaded in the park to see the idea. Under the porch of the great coach, Bobby Knight, has been pushing hard to Make America Great Again. -They went under. Reaping the whirlwind. In ferial tone he addressed J.J. O'Molloy murmured. J.J. O'Molloy, smiling palely, took up the word BRAINWASHED.

Queer lot of stuff he must have been saying this for God' sake, Ned. -Yes? Not fit! That's what life is after all. He was all their daddies! Right. —Changing his drink, Mr Bloom halted behind the foreman's spare body, admiring a glossy crown.

Mr Bloom said, of Horus and Ammon Ra. —How do you think that's a good place I know him, they say. How's that for high? Member for College green. Foot and mouth. Now am I going to the successful. I heard that the media. Paul Ryan and others in the wind.

HOW A MAN MOSES.

The broadcloth back ascended each step: back.

―Am flag! Careless chap. Crooked Hillary knew the fix was in the other. Hopefully we are a mighty people.

Damp night reeking of hungry dough.

―What was their civilisation? -this election.

―Aha! Myles, he said.

―

Joe Miller. J.J. O'Molloy said gently.

―Hopefully the violence & unrest in Charlotte will come to look so they pull up their coffers by asking for a drink after that.

―

―Usual blarney.

Where did they get wind of a finished orator, full of courteous haughtiness and like pride. Who? Psha! I'll rub that in first. -no solutions, no ideas, no damn nonsense. Two old trickies, what?

THE PRESS.

Reflect, ponder, excogitate, reply. Hynes said. Professor Magennis was speaking to me about getting together for a fresh of breath air! He wants it changed. Just tried watching Saturday Night Live hit job on me. Obama's Executive Orders and concessions towards Cuba until freedoms are restored. Love and laud him: me no more. —I have raised for the wind. Arm in arm.

False reporting, and they like Trump on trade for so reporting! Twentyeight No, Stephen, the professor said between his chews. He went down the stairs at their faces. I heard the voice of that hermetic crowd, great people! Arm in arm. Come along, Stephen, the Childs murder case. People. He turned. Thank you Ford & Fiat C! A.E. the mastermystic? Penelope Rich. But will he save the circulation? Don't ask. I alone can fix this problem! Lose it out of control. No way It is said of it, wait, the press shop for Hillary Clinton! It is meet to be a safe and special place. I don't watch anymore but I am President, Joe Biden, just what he is a joke! People in our society. The results are in favour say ay, Lenehan said to be seen and heard. He can do it, should not be allowed to raise money for the American people.

No charges. Crooked Hillary, we were told is ok turns out to vote in two states, with trembling thumb and ringfinger touching lightly the black rims, steadied them to the border wall. I look very much forward to Governor Scott. Who the deuce scrawled all over those walls with matches? He was in, and e-mails and DNC disrespect. -What is it? Where? N.!

WHAT WETHERUP SAID.

Johnny, make room for your president? Bulldosing the public and country at risk by her illegal and very boring speech. Scissors and paste. And poor Gumley is down for the racing special, sir. Losing heart.

Sllt. -Agonising Christ, wouldn't it give you a man he truly hates, Lyin’ Ted Cruz consistently said that Debbie Wasserman Schultz is angry that, see? I have interests in properties all over those walls with matches? South, pout, out to be trouble there one day—Donald J. Trump Thank you Ford & Fiat C! Been walking in muck somewhere.

American Senator, Jeff Flake. Exactly opposite! Have you got that? He went in. Uncle Toby's page for tiny tots. Will devote ZERO TIME!

Working away, tearing away. Two and three in silver and one things. Mr Bloom said. You look like communards. The machines clanked in threefour time.

Mr Crawford?

A GREAT DAILY ORGAN IS CHAMP.

―Come on, towering high on high, to in my campaign.

Through a lane of clanking drums he made his mark?

―This morning the remains of the spirit, not mine.

Our economy will sing again.

―Vast, I don't want congrats, I feel a strong stance on Hoosier jobs, and the Blessed Virgin, threatening to come down, I WON! A bit nervy. Love and laud him: me no later than last week. —But wait, Mr O'Madden Burke, hearing, turned, beckoned and led on across towards Mooney's.

―Look out for squalls.

I could raise the wind anyhow.

―Dublin. Don't let the Muslims flow in. They can't!

―House and Senate committees to investigate top secret intelligence shared with NBC prior to the running stream.

―With a heart and a wonderful and truly respected woman, Phyllis S! -They want to see all the help I can get the design?

I've been through the park to see with his finger on a witch-hunt against me were put together by my learned friend.

-Continued on page six, column four. The person who loves people! —He can kiss my arse? Pyrrhus! Our country does not know. Bulldosing the public! Why bring in Henry Grattan and Flood wrote for this very paper, the opal hush poets: A.E. the mastermystic? Wow, Lyin' Ted Cruz. The Crooked Hillary! Kendal Bushe or I mean Seymour Bushe. On my way to the speech, mark you, professor MacHugh said. -Easy all, Myles Crawford cried loudly over his shoulder. -Nulla bona, Jack. They turned to Stephen and said: Where is the newspaper in four clean strokes. Great spirit!

―-Throw him out perhaps.

―Mouth, south. Touch and go with him.

―His listeners held their cigarettes poised to hear any more of the hall and down the steps. Shame!

RHYMES AND REASONS.

―The State Department. It is said of him.

―Tim Kelly, or headline fundraisers-those disconnected from real life. An illstarched dicky jutted up and back.

―Their wigs to show or discuss them.

―-I'm just running round to Bachelor's walk, Mr Bloom said. -Opera?

Shining word!

―Senate in many years our country.

His gaze turned at once but slowly from J.J. O'Molloy's towards Stephen's face and walked abreast.

―It was in a westend club.

We are not happy with them.

―Goofy Elizabeth Warren, a solemn beardframed face.

―J.J. O'Molloy said gently.

―Wild geese. Entertainments.

―Bad judgement!

―Where are they?

―Inspiration of genius. Hello?

The Jews in the fire.

Lazy idle little schemer. A total lie-and I mean. Very unfair! Passing out he whispered to J.J. O'Molloy, about this ad of Keyes's. Hillary Clinton and Tim Kaine together. Nannan.

―-The moot point is did he say about me.

―Losing heart.

―Why did you write it then? —Skin-the-Goat, Mr Dedalus said, pushing through towards the statue and held for questioning.

―—Mr Crawford, he said. Been walking in muck somewhere. Time to get good retainers from D. and T. Fitzgerald.

La tua pace che parlar ti piace mentreché il vento, come fa, si tace.

Noble words coming. —Help! Pyrrhus! Lenehan said. Proof fever. Just another spasm, Ned Lambert said. The finest display of oratory I ever listened to and accepted that view of life, had the biggest budget increase in Syrian refugees 550% and how much it will expand in Michigan and Ohio plants, adding 2000 jobs. If you want to stop bad trade deals & global special interests. Lord Salisbury? Shining word! —No, twenty Double four Yes. -Start, Palmerston Park, Ranelagh. -His grace phoned down twice this morning, at least you know I will be making some very important decisions on the lookout for terror and the door, the professor said. Where Skin-the—Yes? Hackney cars, A.C. units etc. He lifted his voice above it boldly: Entrez, mes enfants! Great Again. Getting ready to nibble the biscuit in his time: obituary notices, pubs' ads, speeches, divorce suits, found drowned. Habsburg.

―Very interesting day! Learn a lot of stuff he must have been precluded from voting!

―Bullockbefriending bard. She is flying with him. -And here comes the sham squire himself!

―-A sudden screech of laughter burst over professor MacHugh's unshaven blackspectacled face.

―Alec Baldwin portrayal stinks. Hillary Clinton just can't get any worse. -Well. Practice makes perfect.

―Depending on results, we can do that but simply showed him groveling when he gave up on the law, graven in the air blue scrawls and under the table, read on: Ay.

LOST CAUSES, CENTRAL!

―That's all right, he said. -Nulla bona, Jack.

―So exciting, big news-I see, that I was viciously attacked by Mr. Khan, who I know him, uncovered as he has a 60 billion dollar trade deficit with Mexico.

―I'll tell you. Quicker, darlint! Met with President Obama said that. Reads it backwards first. Only in the Clarence.

No new deals will be taking over my Twitter account for tonight's #debate #MakeAmericaGreatAgain I will terminate deal.

In my opinion, it is almost unanimous, I would have made my decision on who I know is highly overrated. Cabled right away.

―Quicker, darlint! Yes Yes Yes.

SOME COLUMN!

—Or again if we but climb the serried mountain peaks. Dem Gov. of MN. I TOLD YOU SO! Yes? -mails? He took away the palm of beauty from Argive Helen and handed it to them on a Twitter rant. Dear Mr Editor, what? Against the wall can be great-love you and will be speaking about ISIS, bad judgment of Crooked Hillary Administration is not which party controls our government! —You can do that, Simon Dedalus says. The night she threw the soup in the archdiocese here. My son, Eric, did you see?

Top executives coming in at 9:00 P.M. W. Crooked Hillary help disgusting check out sex tape and past Alicia M in the papers and then catch him out perhaps.

―I forgot.

―The SECRET meeting between Bill Clinton. At various points along the now reverberating boards.

―Tourists over for the endorsement of the late Mr Patrick Dignam. —Who?

―Their donors & special interest groups are not true to self. He'd give the renewal.

―Great day in D.C. Sllt. Don't you forget!

―#Trump2016 This was a hero and inspired generations of future explorers. Myles Crawford said.

-The pensive bosom and the water and the door was flung open. —Speak up for yourself, councillor, the professor said.

―Cuprani too, the professor said. Reflect, ponder, excogitate, reply.

VIRGILIAN, VERY.

―I feel a strong weakness. Hillary can do that? -Start, Palmerston Park, Ranelagh. I saw Elba.

―Crooked Hillary Clinton, perhaps they should APOLOGIZE. Plain Jane, no damn nonsense.

―—of position. Just to see the idea.

―2nd Amendment is under siege.

Rub in August: good idea?

―Red Murray whispered. Gee!

―Plain Jane, no way have a clue. The telephone whirred. Made all sorts of goodies by Cruz campaign.

―It was her very average scream! Yes, he's here still. Rows of cast steel.

A DISTANT VOICE.

Quickly he does some literary work for the Iraq war, not an imperium, that striking of that pocket.

―ISIS LAUGHS!

The foreman's spare body, admiring a glossy crown.

―The Club For Growth, which is a garbage document it never should have said when he was. Crooked Hillary Clinton!

Established 1763.

―He went in. The United Nations has such great potential but right now it is bad for the Republican Party.

―Have you got that? How do you do? Yes, yes. From this moment on, professor MacHugh said.

―Word is I am not only fighting Crooked Hillary Clinton is taking credit for the racing special, sir. Why bring in a westend club.

Quickly he does that job.

―Because Gov. Kasich cannot run.

— WHERE?

-He wants it in for July, Mr Bloom, Mr Bloom said.

―Thank you. X is Davy's publichouse, see? -Hush, Lenehan said. And settle down on their sleeve like the 116% hike in Arizona.

Very smart, tough and vigilant?

Wall Street, and they all lived happily ever after!

―I'll tap him too. Reaping the whirlwind.

He offered a cigarette from the top. I call it A Pisgah Sight of Palestine or the no fly list, to discuss the real message and never let you down!

―False lull. It is not a dying man.

―Wonder is that he got paralysed there and no matter. Right.

—And yet he now wants Obamacare for illegal immigrants?

―He turned towards Myles Crawford said more calmly. Reads it backwards first.

I hold no brief, as at present advised, for a special.

―Come in.

―Tourists over for the day off again to walk by Stephen's side.

A Pisgah Sight of Palestine or the Parable of The Plums.

They had no idea it was one day.

―They are rigged, e-mails-PAY-FOR-PLAY.

―With an accent on the cadge beyond. —Who? Mr Dedalus, staring through his blackrimmed spectacles over the place doing interviews, but they always fell. Penelope. Vast, I would fire them out of business operations. The contrary no. ISIS LAUGHS! Thank you Washington!

KYRIE ELEISON!

So long as they do the typical political thing and BLAME. We have enough problems around the world today.

―The idea, Mr Dedalus cried, running to the Star and Garter.

―The door of Ruttledge's office creaked again. Practice dwindling. -Paris, past and present, he said.

―Myles Crawford began.

Two Dublin vestals, Stephen answered blushing.

―Double marriage of sisters celebrated.

―—We can do much better!

Sceptre with O. That'll do, Ned Lambert asked with a rude gesture he thrust it back into his waistcoat. I'll go through the meshes of his spelling.

―I'm just running round to the footlights: Mario the tenor.

LENEHAN'S LIMERICK.

―The ghost walks, professor MacHugh said. And it turned out to vote-this election. Or again, note the meanderings of some purling rill as it seems.

Give them something with a sweet thing, Myles, one after another, or Kavanagh I mean Seymour Bushe. The moon, professor MacHugh said.

―Lenehan said. System rigged! Youth led by Experience visits Notoriety.

―Screams of newsboys barefoot in the race.

Wetherup always said that I stood in his arms the tables of the land of promise.

―J.J. O'Molloy asked. -F to P is the only one who knows who the finalists are!

―-Come along, the editor said. Sad! It is time for CHANGE!

WE SEE THE RAW.

Last time I saw on television working so hard to determine who was struggling up with a y of a political campaign.

―The make believe! But it makes them giddy to look into it, on the file. Looks as if they did for Hillary Clinton was not a dying man. Lenehan. Poor Penelope.

We mustn't be led away by words, howled and scattered to the remarks addressed to the border.

―I am fighting the Republican Party can unify! Congratulations to my mouth. The right honourable Hedges Eyre Chatterton.

―—Who? Have you got that? Neck. -law of evidence, J.J. O'Molloy said eagerly. Have you got that?

―Now am I still number one act and priority. Lord Jesus?

A smile of light brightened his darkrimmed eyes, lengthened his long lips. Media in the inland revenue office with the victims and families of those affected by the glorious sunlight or 'neath the shadows cast o'er its pensive bosom by the establishment, my speech on ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION on Wednesday.

―Steered by an oracle, made ready to open the magnificent Turnberry in Scotland.

―-Your support has been withheld in response to a Crooked Hillary will approve the job she has done it again. What Bill did was stupid!

MEMORABLE BATTLES RECALLED.

You pray to a local and obscure idol: our cities are hives of humanity and our enemies are watching. They want to be on, Macduff! -But they are too tired to look into it well.

―—Mr Garrett Deasy, Stephen said.

Myles, J.J. O'Molloy turned the files and stuck his finger on a hot plate, Myles Crawford said, did you see? Shows how weak and few are her arms.

―This election is absolutely being rigged by the glorious sunlight or 'neath the shadows of Brussels.

What becomes of it unreeled.

―—Onehandled adulterer! Merry Christmas and a bondwoman. The foreman, without comment.

—We can do that? I have a vision too, wasn't he?

―-That'll be all right, he said.

―I said that our open border. Wrong, it is getting ready to leave for the Super Delegates. My casting vote is that young Dedalus the moving spirit.

I think that it is not affordable-116% increases Arizona.

―That's saint Augustine. Ned. Thank you to all of the very highest morale, Magennis. No, thanks, professor MacHugh said grandly.

RHYMES AND LIKEWISE—FOR FRISKY FRUMPS.

―The word reminds one somehow of fat in the archdiocese here. S. is preparing for battle to reclaim Mosul. -Literature, the language of the clanking noises through the printingworks, Mr Bloom said, the classics—Easy all, Myles Crawford said.

—We are going to lose with dignity.

―-Him, sir. How much BAD JUDGEMENT! Both smiled over the world without yet another terrorist attack, this time in American history, America’s 16,500 Border Patrol Agents was the smartest piece of journalism ever known. AMERICA GREAT AGAIN & MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! Never you fret. Wait. I am going to lunch, he said. Living to spite them.

―That was a hero, Detective Steven McDonald. Doing its level best to depict a star in a child's frock.

―No, thanks, Hynes said. I ever listened to and fro, seeking.

―Lyin' Ted is when he was caught by a vote of 87-12.

―—Tickled the old ones too, wasn't he? So naive! You know, from a passionist father. Fitzharris.

―That’s a lot-and elections-go down! Thump.

Rub in August: good idea: horseshow month. I would win with the shears and whispered: demise, Lenehan said to all, Myles Crawford said, of a racket they make.

―House! Out of this nation again.

―The system is alive & well! What are Hillary Clinton's hacked emails.

―Is he taking anything for it. Debts of honour. Actually, she needs the rest after. -One of the dark, panting, one moment.

Foot and mouth?

―I want you to all for the corporation. #AmericaFirst January 20th, Washington D.C. Oho!

He was the WORST abuser of woman in U.S. history!

―Lord Jesus? -You're looking extra.

The personal note.

―Crooked Hillary, costs will triple!

―That's all right. I can't see the idea. If it were—If Bloom were here, he said.

Crooked Hillary help disgusting check out sex tape and past Alicia M in the United States Congress.

―-There it is lousy healthcare. Highly overrated! With the exception of cheating Bernie out of race.

The Greek!

FROM THE CANVASSER AT WORK.

―To those injured, get it on! The editor came from the newspaper on his topper. Myles Crawford said.

―And then the angel of death kills the ox and the brother-in-Ossory. -Peaks, Ned. —No, twenty Double four Yes. He'd give the renewal. Father, Son and Holy Ghost and Jakes M'Carthy.

He wore a loose white silk neckcloth and altogether he looked though he was caught by a smile. Look out for squalls. X is Davy's publichouse in upper Leeson street.

―He used to say the words. Mary, Martha.

―A bit nervy. Alexander Keyes. As he mostly sees double to wear them why trouble? Bladderbags. Everything speaks in its own way. That's press. That Blavatsky woman started it. They made ready to nibble the biscuit in his face. Mr Bloom took up the Bastile, J.J. O'Molloy took out his cigarettecase. I am President! Demesne situate in the halfpenny place.

―They had no idea it was that high. I highly recommend the just out book, reading backwards with his hagadah book, THE HIGHEST LEVEL IN MORE THAN 15 YEARS!

I win-I see them.

―Shining word! Losing heart.

―I saw it, the Childs murder case. The counter and stepped off posthaste with a nod.

ANNE WIMBLES, HARP EOLIAN!

―Mainly all pictures. Bill's meeting was just charged with assaulting a reporter. She’s been in our country down the steps, scattering in all directions, yelling as he rang off. —One of the files, swept his hand, suddenly stretched forth an arm amply. Or was it you shot the lord lieutenant of Finland between you? Mainly all pictures. Many people are saying that the Iranians killed the scientist who helped the U.S. Citronlemon? Wait a minute. -in-law of Chris Callinan. Next year in Jerusalem. No games! M.A.P. Cleverest fellow at the Polls!

OMNIUM GATHERUM.

Let’s properly check goofy Elizabeth Warren didn’t have the time to renegotiate, and for years.

―It now turns out to all: Call it, the worst in many years. Crooked Hillary to get it, Myles? —demise, Lenehan said. Will you join us, Myles Crawford said, Bushe K.C., for very beauty, of a noble and a failed spy afraid of the Year-a big speech tomorrow with Bobby! Dear Mr Editor, what is a disaster. Justice it means but it's everybody eating everyone else. We are a hallmark of our great movement is verified, and you'll kick. Median household income is down there at Butt bridge. His finger leaped and struck point after point, vibrating. Mexico today-wonderful leadership and high quality people! Kyrios! The civilized world must change, NOW. Myles Crawford cried loudly over his shoulder. Hynes here too: account of the first one that I've missed. Scissors and paste.

They watched the Inauguration, 11 million more than $4 billion.

―It seemed to me that I not allowed to win in November.

―Wait. This joke of a whore. I actually picked up an additional 131 votes. Lenehan, rising to tiptoe, fanned by gentlest zephyrs, played on by the 16,500 Border Patrol Agents thank you!

Damp night reeking of hungry dough.

A DAYFATHER.

January 20th, Washington D.C. Citronlemon? You know Gerald Fitzgibbon. Doing its level best to disregard the many inflammatory President O statements and roadblocks.

We are the other. How's that for high?

-He is trying to convince people that will ever happen!

―He has a house there too. Mr Bloom said. -Peaks, Ned.

Media gives her a pass!

―Reads it backwards first. Let him take that in. Reflect, ponder, excogitate, reply.

―Lenehan extended his hands in protest. Clank it.

—Peaks, Ned Lambert said.

―Yes, Red Murray said gravely. Arm in arm. Cloacae: sewers. As a tribute to the successful.

Why doesn't the media is spending a fortune for the wall. #Debate #MAGA I will be to God.

―Money worry. —Just another case of fratricide, the dayfather. Neck.

Out of this with you in all directions, yelling, their white papers fluttering.

The foreman thought for an alibi, Inchicore, Roundtown, Windy Arbour, Palmerston Park!

―Noble words coming. By no manner of means.

―—So it was, begad, Ned Lambert nodded. Mr Bloom in the language of the law, graven in the official gazette. The Apprentice except for the show. Yes.

THE WINNER.

―That tickles me, he will drop like a cock's wattles.

―Thank you to the files, swept his hand to his chin. —Bushe?

―-Then I'll get the plums?

―Established 1763.

―Going now to Texas. Let there be life.

―The tissues rustled up in the vatican. Wrong, he said. Obama and Crooked Hillary Clinton.

The telephone whirred.

―Fitzharris. World's biggest balloon. Rather upsets a man's day, Stephen answered blushing. For Helen, the soap I put there. A child bit by a local reporter.

WHAT WADDLER ONE SAID.

Now am I still respect them all!

―It gives them a crick in their necks, Stephen said. We love them. -That'll be all right. Debts of honour. -Mormons don't like LIARS!

Noble words coming. On now. Today, all of the jobs I am lowering taxes far more than 7 months.

―On now. I we broke the deal with Bernie. Crooked Hillary Clinton has zero imagination and even, those who lost big. I heard his words and their meaning was revealed to me. J.J. O'Molloy asked. Crazy Bernie, how is she going to be built more quickly. The system is rigged-so what else is new? Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes.

―Obama and Crooked Hillary Clinton is totally based on a point.

—F to P is the spirituality?

―We will, perhaps they should APOLOGIZE.

FROM THE SILVER SEA.

―-Tell him go to yours! I am in Indiana. Why do Republican leaders deny what is a fact, that went under with the editors of Conde Nast & Steven Newhouse, a funeral does. A recently discovered fragment of Cicero, professor MacHugh asked, coming to the inner office, closing the door was flung open. The new joke in town is that he will, perhaps, work together to solve some of the forest. He can kiss my arse? This election is about judgment. No. So long as they believe Hillary that's really saying something! Glory be to God.

Even though Bernie Sanders, who lied on heritage.

―Low energy Jeb Bush, both hospitalized. Highclass licensed premises. By no manner of means.

Tourists, you see.

―Kyrie eleison! But what do you call it? Governor. —Where was that small act, trivial in itself, that eternal symbol of wisdom and of the most matches? Kingdoms of this with you. —Foot and mouth?

―I'll tell him. Press and the bread was wrapped in they go nearer to the bold unheeding stare. What opera resembles a railwayline? Came over last night. —Opera?

―We can’t allow this. In addition to winning the debate.

―I am very proud to have brought the chosen people out of the bad decisions she has done it again! Mary, Martha.

Of boots on him today.

―Thanks, old man, Hynes said. Have you the design? The Old Woman of Prince's stores. Well.

―Ballsbridge. Thank you America! Dominus! Lenehan said. Aha! I feel a strong weakness. Well, get it into the house of keys. He'd give the renewal. Mr Bloom's arm with the Athenian fleets at Aegospotami. Wetherup always said that I drove him into oblivion!

My dear Myles, J.J. O'Molloy turned the files crackingly over, murmuring, seeking outlet.

―He went in. -Will you join us, Myles? -Goat.

I mean.

HOUSE OF THE CROWN.

―She was very bad thing.

―Psha! Can you?

You have no border, we will beat Hillary.

―Very. The law, order & safety-or are they? My first choice from start!

CNN send its cameras to the ground, seeking. On swift sail flaming from storm and south, he said.

―Dead noise. Way in. How's that for high? Come on then, Myles Crawford said.

―Steered by an umbrella sword to the door was opened violently and a bottle of double X for supper every Saturday. Yes, sir? So on.

We will MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN rallies.

―They totally distort so many mistakes-and he said.

―Two Dublin vestals, Stephen, the professor asked. Ah, curse punch, shut down and go with him.

KYRIE ELEISON!

―—Onehandled adulterer! Better not.

―Mr Bloom's face: talking in the hall rushed near and the cat.

A Hungarian it was, Myles Crawford said.

―Press. Briefly, as we know little or nothing about me. In the lexicon of youth See it in your face.

Disloyal R's are far tougher if they got him caught.

―The telephone whirred inside. Child, man, Hynes said.

―He entered softly. Sad case. Absentee Governor Kasich voted for me! Hynes said. Crawford, he said. Old Monks, the vicechancellor, is his granduncle or his greatgranduncle. So exciting, big crowds! —O yes, J.J. O'Molloy said eagerly. I suggest that the election against Bernie. -Monks, the American Voter. It doesn't matter that Crooked Hillary Clinton. President, to bathe our souls, as we read in the spleen. Same as last time w/a shared history.

―That is a loyal Trump supporter & star Having a good place I know.

―Close in polls! Madden up. Their wigs to show or discuss them. Bit torn off.

―-Convention Center, Airport-and it is. Or again if we but climb the serried mountain peaks—My fault, Mr Bloom said. So how and why are they?

―-When Fitzgibbon's speech had ended John F Taylor rose to reply.

―Phil Blake's weekly Pat and Bull story.

You have no border, we have also Roman law.

―There is great unity in my life fell from the hallway.

―On immigration, with trembling thumb and ringfinger touching lightly the black rims, steadied them to a lost cause. Goofy Elizabeth Warren, who should never have been pulling A.E.'s leg. And Able was I ere I saw on television working so hard, even with an ally's lunge of his jacket, jingling his keys in his countenance and bearing in his face. On swift sail flaming from storm and south, he said.

―No way! It was truly an honor to be here. Doing my best to depict a star in a negative light. Steered by an umbrella sword to the down line, glided parallel. There it is-RADICAL ISLAM! -There it is. Ted Cruz, who has been proven to be seen? Inspiration of genius.

I was a pen behind his ear, we just picked up additional votes!

The moon, professor MacHugh said gruffly. To where? Goofy Elizabeth Warren, one asking the other two gone?

SUFFICIENT FOR FRISKY FRUMPS.

Very short and lies. -but nothing can be built here for cars sold here! Stephen went on. Senator Schumer. A moment! Sorry Joe, that went under with the second tissue.

The media tries so hard and personally in the halfpenny place.

I will be remembered as the others scampered out of the file of capering newsboys in Mr Bloom's face, talking with J.J. O'Molloy took out his cigarettecase. It was Pat Farrell shoved me, councillor, he said.

―WP With all of the matinée.

SOPHOMORE PLUMPS FOR HIM!

The invention of email has proven her to be the president!

―Well, now losing Ford and many of her statements were lies and fabrications! Who have you a man supple in combat: stonehorned, stonebearded, heart of stone. Time to retire the boring and unfunny show. Frantic hearts. BAD judgement! Demesne situate in the first batch of quirefolded papers. No way to convince people that have gotten 10 million more than $150,000 new jobs for month in just issued jobs report just reported.

―-Freeman! After he'll see. Poor papa with his fingers. His name is Keyes. I just want to see the Joe Miller. He can kiss my royal Irish arse, Myles Crawford said, flinging his cigarette aside, chuckling with delight. Thank you to everyone for your support!

―Sufficient for the wind to.

―Mitt Romney is a disaster. And Madam Bloom, breathless, caught in a Republican Primary-by General Michael Flynn. Bernie. Sad case. J.J. O'Molloy said, helping himself.

―Speaking about me where I just beat 16 people and am beating her!

Bad temperament for pres I am running against me.

―He has influence they say. Bad performance by Crooked Hillary e-mails yet can you believe. We are TRYING to fight ISIS, illegal immigration, with trembling thumb and ringfinger touching lightly the black rims, steadied them to come here. —I saw it, Mr Bloom said.

The bloodiest old tartar God ever made. I stand 100% behind everything we do. He strode away from this age, that went under.

―Clank it. See the wheeze?

LOST CAUSES, SAYS PEDAGOGUE.

―Illegal immigration, take the will for the inner office with SPORT'S tissues. Go for one, co-ome thou lost one, co-ome thou lost one, is his granduncle or his greatgranduncle.

―

―Let us construct a watercloset. Professor said nodding twice.

#InaugurationDay It all begins today! Longfelt want.

I've ever seen. Nannan.

The moot point is did he get thru system?

-That old pelters, the worst in American political history! Appreciate the congrats for being a movie star-and that was a disaster America is proud to stand shoulder-to—Well, Mr O'Madden Burke's loose ties.

I am running against me.

―Top suspect in Paris massacre, Salah Abdeslam, who shut down and go to Mexico today, home of my speech had millions of votes more than any in the U.S. even before taking office, closing the door, the Cuban/American people and support our values.

Phil Blake's weekly Pat and Bull story.

―Go on. Last time I saw Elba.

―But we have broken the all time record!

―My fault, Mr Dedalus, behind him. Mr Bloom said.

Crooked Hillary Clinton can't close the deal, and Mexico at the young scamps after him. So dishonest! Wife a good cook and washer. —Nulla bona, Jack.

―Cloacae: sewers.

WILLIAM BRAYDEN, BELIEF.

―Wow, interview released by Wikileakes shows quid pro quo in Crooked Hillary put her husband is going on? All balls! His gaze turned at once but slowly from J.J. O'Molloy's towards Stephen's face and then attacked him and is now being joined by the media pushing Crooked hard. Myles? Amazingly, with all manner merchandise furrow the waters of Neptune's blue domain, 'mid mossy banks, fanned by gentlest zephyrs, played on by the horrors we are transferring power from one party to another, wiping off with their handkerchiefs the plumjuice that dribbles out of the race! -Will you tell him. He said of it sourly: Of course, if the God Almighty's truth was known.

-Where do you do that? Holohan? Wall Street. The State Department. It will be watching from North Carolina, where I just got caught!

―I do not believe for there was absolutely no connection between her private work and that is possible, if the God Almighty's truth was known. The idea, Mr Dedalus said, of Roman justice as contrasted with the shears and whispered: lingering—Monks, sir? Just to see and hear ROLLING THUNDER. Thumping. #VoteTrump today!

I will defeat them both.

―A sofa in a Kilkenny paper. -I see it published.

―The nethermost deck of the giants of the bad would rush into our country.

―-war pro-Israel of all that ever anywhere wherever was. Mitt Romney is a man now at the Democratic Convention. Psha!

―On now. Last time I saw him he had made, saw the liveried porter raise his lettered cap as a stately figure entered between the railings. -He said of him that none could tell if he didn't make that deal!

He wishes he didn't know only make it much harder to negotiate better and stronger trade deals, broken borders, and wants massive tax hikes.

Cuprani too, Mr Dedalus said.

―Nile. Wait. Owing to a brick received in the small of the files, swept his hand to his spectacles and, hungered, made ready to leave for the swearing in. Everybody is talking about the invincibles, he said smiling grimly.

Come on, Sandymount Green, Rathmines, Rathfarnham, Blackrock, Kingstown and Dalkey, Clonskea, Rathgar and Terenure, Palmerston Park, Ranelagh. Phil Blake's weekly Pat and Bull story. Now if he were bitterer against others or against himself.

―Hosts at Mullaghmast and Tara of the law, order & safety-or are they? —Bingbang, bangbang.

Crooked Hillary Clinton, who does not say the vials of his discourse. Paul Ryan, always fighting the Republican National Convention were very good man, effigy. Go on.

Totally untrue!

―Crawford and said quietly and slowly: Don't you think his face rapidly with the selection of Kaine for V.P., is now endorsing Lyin' Ted Cruz is mathematically out of Prince's stores and bumped against Lenehan who was struggling up with a rude gesture he thrust it back into the evening edition, councillor, the sources, they say. He took a cigarette from the stable.

Cuprani too, so he told me, sir. Bernie Sanders too hard yet because I love watching what he wants it in your face. Fitzharris. Just announced that the Republican nomination at 9:00 with top automobile executives concerning jobs in America. See you soon!

―The ROLL CALL is beginning at the Republican Party what to do this had we Trump not won the election! He was the first batch of quirefolded papers.

YOU BLAME THEM?

MAKE AMERICA SAFE AGAIN! Kendal Bushe or I mean. -Why will you jews not accept our culture, our religion and our watchful friend The Skibbereen Eagle.

―Hell of a new opening. Praying for all it was one day—Begone! The rallies in Utah and Arizona were great. Can you imagine if I can use all the trees that were never going to do so, professor MacHugh said, in order to keep the Lincoln plant in Kentucky-no enthusiasm!

I see them.

—Tickled the old ones too, Myles Crawford appeared on the scarred woodwork.

―-I hope you will never have brought the chosen people out of their house of keys, don't you see that some hawkers were up to here. That's what life is under siege. So totally dishonest! —The pensive bosom and the economy when she can't even close the deal on Crazy Bernie Sanders said, taking out a hand.

Everybody is talking about trade? More Irish than the Electoral College in a Kilkenny paper.

―-Like that, the editor cried, giving vent to a shape of air, announcing: It was the son of a beloved French priest is causing people to beat me on women Wow, the professor said, is most grateful in Ye ancient hostelry. TOTAL DISRESPECT The Crooked Hillary will NEVER support Crooked Hillary help disgusting check out sex tape and past Alicia M become a U.S. citizen so she could use her in the fire.

—They were nature's gentlemen, had the foot of Nelson's pillar.

ERIN, BELIEF.

That'll be all right.

―MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN supporters another victory-306!

―The cutting awhile and nodded. -But my riddle, Lenehan prefaced.

He gave a sudden loud young laugh as a close.

―Where? I see Right. I told you so, professor MacHugh said gruffly. Silly, isn't it? All off for a drink after that. -He would have been drawing very big and enthusiastic crowds, but with the Clinton campaign, perhaps more cash than any other candidate. -He said of it after? —though—Come on, do they really have to accept the results were the opposite! —I will see you at 11:00 P.M. today at 3:00 P.M.

You are very smart!

―Why is President Obama just had a very weak border must change thinking! Country bumpkin's queries.

―X is Davy's publichouse, see? He offered a cigarette from the lips of Seymour Bushe. RIGGED! Tourists over for the Express with Gabriel Conroy.

―NO! He was not qualified to be a tax on our shore he never set it only his cloacal obsession. —Thanks, old man, bowed, spectacled, aproned. Enjoy! Wouldn't know which to believe that meeting was a big day planned on NATIONAL SECURITY tomorrow. Where's what's his name?

Myles Crawford said.

―Melania is joining me on women. Hail fellow well met the next moment. Heading to Tampa now!

They should be no further releases from Gitmo has killed an American.

―Wow, reviews are in-Ossory.

―The racing special, sir? Horrific incident in FL. -B is parkgate. Stephen went on.

—Never mind Gumley, Myles Crawford appeared on the same-Nice!

―Lenehan said. Don't ask. No. -speaking soon! Red Murray said. The turf, Lenehan said.

That door too sllt creaking, asking to be trouble there one day.

ERIN, MAGISTRA ARTIUM.

As he mostly sees double to wear them why trouble?

―I will never be forgotten again. Sent his heir over to make it strong and great!

-Easy all, including to my team of deplorables will be remembered!

―Like fellows who had blown up the staircase. #BigLeagueTruth Hillary is spending a fortune for the inner office, closing the door was pushed in. The reason I put there. He find that out? Also said Russians did not happen! She is a garbage document it never recovered. -monster story!

Old Chatterton, the lightweight former Acting Director of C.I.A., and wants massive tax increase will be coming to peer over their shoulders.

―Lenehan prefaced.

Poor, poor chap. And yourself?

Paddy Kelly's Budget, Pue's Occurrences and our enemies are drooling.

―These are people who did the phony politicians.

―—Most pertinent question, the sources don't exist. Which auction rooms? Want to get in.

Myles Crawford said with a reflective glance at his toecaps.

―That's talent.

WITH UNFEIGNED REGRET IT!

―The terrorist who wants to essentially abolish the Federal Minimum Wage.

―The dishonest media! Lord!

―—That's new, Myles Crawford.

Thank you. Tourists over for the racing special, sir? What was their civilisation? You look like communards. That's it, J.J. O'Molloy said gently. Ned Lambert pleaded.

Tourists over for the racing special, sir. Iron nerves. Look out.

―Moses listened to and fro, seeking: I will be necessary to MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! He is a man supple in combat: stonehorned, stonebearded, heart of stone. The different churches are: Rathmines' blue dome, Adam and Eve's, saint Laurence O'Toole's. It is so dishonest. Hopefully the Republican National Convention.

―-I will be remembered!

A DISTANT VOICE.

―TODAY WE MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! I had a great guy who openly can't stand him and his American cousin of the CNMI Rep Caucus with 72. Bernie Sanders has been withheld in response to a shape of air, announcing: Thanky vous, Lenehan announced gladly: and the U.S.A.G. was not arranged or that Crooked Hillary help disgusting check out sex tape and past Alicia M become a U.S. citizen so she could use her in the Telegraph office. Why isn't President Obama spoke last night in San Diego, who I would like to thank everyone for making it hard for our VETERANS.

Moses and the dog kills the ox and the paper under debate was an essay new for those days, advocating the revival of the twelve year old story that the crowd was incredible-massive crowd expected. He has influence they say, on the fireplace to J.J. O'Molloy said. He forgot Hamlet.

―No poetic licence. That's new, Myles Crawford said. Senator from Louisiana. -Wait a minute.

Whose land?

I'm just running against the Washington insiders, just came out magnificently. Daughter working the machine in the waiter's face in the national library.

―Our old ancient ancestors, as we read in the parlour.

Remember, don't you see that some hawkers were up before election day. Mr O'Madden Burke asked.

―I want to be here. Sllt.

The editor came from the inner office, closing the door and, breaking off a piece, twanged it smartly between two and two of his newspaper.

―Remember that time? -History!

―-Telegraph! He said.

―-Him, sir. Lenehan's hand and read them, blowing them apart gently, without comment.

He had his heels on view.

―Hosts at Mullaghmast and Tara of the outlaw. Let him take that in first.

ITHACANS VOW PEN.

―By the Nilebank the babemaries kneel, cradle of bulrushes: a man with a wave graced echo and fall. —Monks, the language of the outlaw. Shema Israel Adonai Elohenu. Dear Mr Editor, what is a joke! Quicker, darlint! The statue in Glasnevin. This will be even worse TPP approved. Is it his speech. A GREAT GUY! Right and left parallel clanging ringing a doubledecker and a singledeck moved from their railheads, swerved to the gentleman at the Berrien County Courthouse in St. Thump. Wild geese. Madden up.

―He looked about him round his loud unanswering machines. Big crowds! J.J. O'Molloy said quietly and slowly: The Greek!

Lenehan said, did you write it then? President Obama should leave the baseball game in Cuba, a solemn beardframed face. So with all of the great State of Indiana. All talk, talk and NO ACTION! Where's what's his name? Such a great Thursday, Friday and Saturday! —Continued on page six, column four. Lenehan said. I will send in the Telegraph. Passing out he whispered to J.J. O'Molloy offered his case again and offered it. Crooked Hillary Clinton. The opening of Trump Turnberry in Scotland.

―-often—Good day, sir? And then the angel of death kills the butcher. #Debate #BigLeagueTruth Our country does not.

―-previously—Easy all, Myles Crawford said. For Growth tried to use leverage over me.

Strange he never set it only his cloacal obsession.

KYRIE ELEISON!

―-Which they accordingly did do, there is much more crime, by sounds of words. It seemed to me that I heard that the Iranians killed the scientist who helped the U.S. are now leading in many years, our religion and our watchful friend The Skibbereen Eagle. All that are currently and selfishly opposed to me. Reads it backwards first. Can you imagine if the GOP can't control their own, then dropped me over locker room remarks! Jobs! Hope this is false.

Or the south a mouth? And Able was I ere I saw him he can kiss my royal Irish arse, Myles Crawford said.

―—Then I'll get the plums out of Prince's stores and bumped against Lenehan who was struggling up with the wind.

―Better not teach him his own business. Many people are really smart in cancelling subscriptions to the files.

SPARTANS GNASH MOLARS. LIFE ON PROBOSCIS.

―Way out. Three bob I lent him in the arena! I am President! Time to get in.

―Putting back his handkerchief he took out his handkerchief he took away the palm of beauty from Argive Helen and handed it to be shut. You have but emerged from primitive conditions: we have an open border. This was a pen behind his bent head, soiled by his withering hair.

LOST CAUSES, SAYS PEDAGOGUE.

―—Clamn dever, Lenehan said. Mr Bloom said simply. -Sorry, Mr Bloom said simply.

―Why aren't people looking at this reporters earliest statement as to the Dems are to blame for the inner office.

―Welts of flesh behind on him today. Very impressive people! Bladderbags. We think of Rome, imperial, imperious, imperative. Might go first himself.

SOPHOMORE PLUMPS FOR FRISKY FRUMPS.

―-'Twas rank and fame that tempted thee, 'Twas empire charmed thy heart. He took away the palm of beauty from Argive Helen and handed it to them on a hot plate, Myles, J.J. O'Molloy took the tissues on to the professor said.

-Look at the college historical society. An illstarched dicky jutted up and Bernie is exhausted, no energy left!

―-Yes? Face glistering tallow under her fustian shawl. I can get!

DAMES DONATE DUBLIN'S CITS SPEEDPILLS VELOCITOUS AEROLITHS, SANDYMOUNT. A COLLISION ENSUES. WITH THE WINNER.

―The fabled 270 306. Old Woman of Prince's stores and bumped against Lenehan who was struggling up with a very decent man, bowed, spectacled, aproned. Ned Lambert it is #1 trending. Busy day planned in New York World, the present lord justice of appeal, had he bowed his will and bowed his will and bowed his will and bowed his will and bowed his head firmly.

A moment! —Finished?

You look as though you had done the deed.

THE HIBERNIAN METROPOLIS.

But they are too tired to look into it, the professor explained to Myles Crawford cried loudly over his shoulder. Actually, we are all wanting tixs to the brand new Trump International, Hotel D.C. for a man supple in combat: stonehorned, stonebearded, heart of stone.

ORTHOGRAPHICAL. ORTHOGRAPHICAL.

―What she did! Dr Lucas. I can’t make a statement, they say.

ANNE WIMBLES, FLO WANGLES-THAT'S WHAT WETHERUP SAID. O, FLO WANGLES— FOR HIM!

―Owing to a local reporter. -Crooked Hillary off the thirst of the most over-rated actresses in Hollywood, doesn't know how to get out. Putting back his handkerchief to dab his nose.

―He forgot Hamlet. Let him take that kind—You can do that, he said.

―Tim Healy, J.J. O'Molloy.

Hand on his hat.

―An Obama pick. It was so great being in Tampa this afternoon. Just like I am not bought like others!

SUFFICIENT FOR OLD MAN MOSES.

Gregor Grey made the design, Mr Bloom said, of a possible conflict of interest.

―THE CONSERVATIVE CASE FOR TRUMP.

Briefly, as well as some of the Bowery guttersheet not to mention Paddy Kelly's Budget, Pue's Occurrences and our watchful friend The Skibbereen Eagle.

-FOR OLD MAN MOSES. DIMINISHED DIGITS PROVE TOO TITILLATING FOR OLD MAN MOSES.

―Reflect, ponder, excogitate, reply. The foreman, without comment.

―But then if he got paralysed there and no mistake!

#Ulysses (novel)#James Joyce #1922 #automatically generated text #Patrick Mooney #Aeolous #politics #American politics #presidential elections #21st century #Donald Trump #2016 #2017

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