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ruumirmir · 5 months

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𝘈 𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘷𝘰𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘗𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦'𝘴 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘛𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘛𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘢 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘴𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘴 Part I Part II

ੈ♡˳ Author's◇ note - ladies and gentlemen i fear that im just yapping atp. Ough this is literally my own character how hard can it be to not make his dialogues ooc (quite a lot). aNYWAYS lo and behold part 2 of the voicelines. They're all subject to change as far as lorecrafting goes. But for now!!! loverboy has a lot to say:

𝘈𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘊𝘢𝘱𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯 [Unlocked at Friendship Lv. 4] A big hulking figure followed by the sound of rattling metal chains as he walks...It would make anyone tremble with fear. Celestia knows what lies under that helmet, but you can rest assured that The Captain is fairly merciful to all. It's just a simple matter of being courteous and following orders. Dare I even say it... one thing that I've heard and observed from the grapevine- is that he's one of the more popular Harbingers... if the bold statements from my comrades are anything to go by.

𝘈𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘋𝘰𝘤𝘵𝘰𝘳 [Unlocked at Friendship Lv. 4] Contrary to belief, the Prime Doctore is a completely sane man. His younger segments, not so much. His experiments have killed hundreds, and I'm sure he would continue if it wouldn't threaten Regrator's profits. He works a little too closely with Lord Regrator, which is bad enough for me. I can't stand it when he asks me to keep their struck deals and the Doctor's activities under wraps... but I do it anyway. I'd be happier if they were never in the same room together, but apparently, those two make 'quite the pair' if I had to quote some rumors.

𝘈𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘋𝘢𝘮𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦 [Unlocked at Friendship Lv. 4] Her reputation as dangerous, even among the Harbingers, should suggest you steer clear of her. I once made the mistake of catching her closed gaze while I was at the palace- and a nasty feeling of paranoia plagued me for days on end. However, if you end up under her radar and she deems you 'interesting'... well- I'll send you my condolences.

𝘈𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘒𝘯𝘢𝘷𝘦 [Unlocked at Friendship Lv. 4]

The Knave, Arlecchino... she's quite the enigma. While she and Lord Regrator are both Harbingers, their demeanors, methods, and goals cannot be more distinct. Her methods, to say the least, are a touch... extreme. There's no denying her skills as a master manipulator and ruthless 'Father' of the House of the Hearth. It's certainly an improvement from the late Crucabena, or so I've heard from the older orphans. But then again, I haven't noticed any changes in the mortality rate of her... "children".

𝘈𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘙𝘰𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳 [Unlocked at Friendship Lv. 4]

The old Rooster's influence can be found throughout Snezhnaya, and his connections are vast. He seems to be on good terms with Regrator, but that's the only thing I'm sure of. He serves as an advisor to the Fatui Harbingers, and his assistance goes beyond the scope of his political power. I suspect there's something important that he may be working on, but I have no idea where to start… They say he's a master strategist, but his only plans involve making a show that impresses a crowd. I only hope the next time he assembles the Harbingers together, it will be over his casket.

𝘈𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦 [Unlocked at Friendship Lv. 4]

Sandrone is the head of a team of engineers who build mechanical lifeforms. Some are small and cute, others gigantic and powerful... but all are emotionless and unfeeling. When I hear the word "creation" I think of beauty and passion, but Sandrone seems to only care about destruction. Just like the mech that carries her around. You'd never see her alone; it's as if the puppet is her true identity.

𝘈𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘊𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘦 [Unlocked at Friendship Lv. 4]

Tartaglia, or Childe as some people call him, He definitely has the strength of a Harbinger, that much is undeniable. But he can be impulsive, even downright suicidal at times. It's as if he has no fear of dying. I guess that's what happens when you live for the thrill of the battle. I can't deny that... Even though he's a loudmouth, his skills back up his words. I've seen him cut through enemies as if they were made of butter. That being said, he's still young at heart. Occasionally disruptive for the duties carried out. He's developed an interest in dueling with me ever since Pantalone granted me this title. Lucky for me, I can always request for Regrator's presence whenever I want him to turn tail and disappear.

𝘈𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘍𝘢𝘪𝘳 𝘓𝘢𝘥𝘺 [Unlocked at Friendship Lv. 4]

The first time I saw Signora, I was struck by her beauty and gracefulness. Unfortunately, my admiration was short-lived as she turned to glare at me the moment she noticed. Arrogance. Ego. Self-conceit- now those are mere words when it comes to the Fair Lady. She was as cold as the snow that covers Snezhnaya and as temperamental as the flames she wielded. She had no tolerance for the weak and would just as easily snuff out a life without a second thought. Although I hold no love for her, I almost felt disrespected on her behalf when the Rooster thought to grant only half a day of mourning at her funeral.

𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘈𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘝𝘦𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘰𝘳: 𝘐

The Northland Bank is a place of opportunity, a place where you can put your destiny into your own hands... and a place where you can see it stripped from you without warning. I have seen many people come and go in my time here. People from all walks of life, eager to make a name for themselves. Some have found the money and fortune they sought after, while others have fallen flat on their faces.

𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘈𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘝𝘦𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘰𝘳: 𝘐𝘐 [Unlocked at Friendship Lv. 3]

I've seen countless conflicts waged with blood and steel, and they pale in comparison to the lives destroyed by the pen. They're both weapons in their own ways. The sword is more direct, no question about it. Yet the pen... it can cut in a more subtle manner, but it slices deep. Both are capable of ruining someone's life. The former requires power while the latter requires intelligence. Really brings out the irony in calling this feathered quill my 'signature' weapon.

𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘈𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘝𝘦𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘰𝘳: 𝘐𝘐𝘐 [Unlocked at Friendship Lv. 4]

To the untrained eye, it may seem like some sort of cruel joke. A title like ‘Venator Dux’ is usually given to one who would strike fear in their enemies and inspire confidence in their allies. Lord Regrator, however, has a different plan in mind. Pantalone sees me not as a ruthless warrior, but as the keeper of his secrets. Someone who can wield knowledge as a weapon and turn his enemies’ greed against them. To him, the title of ‘Venator Dux’ is a reminder of my duty. In his words, I was a useful piece that could shift the entire board on his whim. And isn't that something to take pride in? Knowing you're the most favored player in a man's game?

𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘈𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘝𝘦𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘰𝘳: 𝘐𝘝 [Unlocked at Friendship Lv. 5]

My father died a proud soldier under the tsaritsa's name. He fought and bled on behalf of the nation she created and dedicated his life to protecting. *Sigh* My father would be ashamed if he could see me now, kneeling before a man. Especially after cursing his grave out for dying under another. The irony is not lost on me. Yet, I would rather serve a man who I respect, who I can reason with, than one who demands endless devotion from her subjects. In a strange way, I feel as though I am honouring my father's memory by following my own path.

𝘔𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘈𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘝𝘦𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘰𝘳: 𝘝 [Unlocked at Friendship Lv. 6]

Hilarious to think back to my first year of duty. I was no more than a simple receptionist at the Northland Bank back then. Just another faceless pawn, doing my duty to the tsaritsa without questioning her intentions. All I knew was that I was serving the Fatui's goals. I did not kill anyone directly, yet I still had blood on my hands. Every transaction carried the potential for loss and pain, yet I pushed on regardless. I may have been just a receptionist, but I was already well aware of the cost of ambition. Pantalone then, was different from everyone else I'd met in the Fatui. He didn't use force of arms like the other Harbingers; instead, he used his words and intellect to manipulate the political landscape.

In addition, he held a unique perspective on the tsaritsa's ideals. Not once did he preach about blind devotion. He simply told me that if I wanted to make my mark on this world, I would have to be willing to play by his rules. It took me three years to realize what he insinuated... and I found myself gravitating back to him despite leaving the organization of my own accord.

𝘝𝘦𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘰𝘳'𝘴 𝘏𝘰𝘣𝘣𝘪𝘦𝘴 Playing the piano, perhaps? I'm no good at it yet... but I've been getting better with some help guiding my hand around the keys. It is... nice to unwind after a long day and let the instrument carry me away.

𝘝𝘦𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘰𝘳'𝘴 𝘛𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘦𝘴 [Unlocked at Friendship Lv. 4] *Sigh*... I have to be diplomatic with people I despise and feign politeness with those who can’t hold a conversation to save their lives. Sometimes- when I’m in the middle of running an important operation, few of my juniors just keep making mistakes. It makes me wonder how Lord Regrator manages to do the same for days on end with a smile on his face... I'm not like him at all.

𝘍𝘢𝘷𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘍𝘰𝘰𝘥 I've got a soft spot for a well-seasoned dish of meat. Any kind really— A hearty serving does wonders. Leaves you delightfully stuffed full, satisfied, and warm. I'm not too worried about the specifics of the dish as long as I can savor a mouthful of rich flavor.

𝘓𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘍𝘢𝘷𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘍𝘰𝘰𝘥 Desserts that are too sweet are an affront to my tastebuds and moral values. Sugar is supposed to be an element, not the whole personality. The only thing that does it well is dark chocolate.

𝘙𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘎𝘪𝘧𝘵: 𝘐 Oh! A thoughtful choice, traveller. The aroma alone is tantalizing. Your efforts are appreciated. Thank you.

𝘙𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘎𝘪𝘧𝘵: 𝘐𝘐 Hmm... a pragmatic choice. It may not be an extravagant feast, but it serves its purpose. Your gesture is noted.

𝘙𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘎𝘪𝘧𝘵: 𝘐𝘐𝘐 An... interesting choice. I suppose variety is the spice of life, but I find my satisfaction elsewhere. Nonetheless, your intention is recognized. I won't let this go to waste.

𝘉𝘪𝘳𝘵𝘩𝘥𝘢𝘺 Why is there a celebration? A date marking the day of your own birth... It's simply illogical, but the Fatui celebrate birthdays like everything else, so I'll play along. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! There, I said it. You're now a year older, and one year closer to old age and inevitable death. Oh- haha, don't sulk like that, I'm just pulling your leg. Relax. I wouldn't ignore such an occasion. Here, my gift to you... A box of my favorite chocolates. Freshly imported from Fontaine... straight from a bakery approved by Lady Furina herself. They're a bit expensive; but only the best for people I respect.

𝘍𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘈𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘈𝘴𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯: 𝘐𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘰 [Unlocked at Ascension Phase 1] There are depths to my abilities yet untapped. I'm flattered that you thought to lend me a hand.

𝘍𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘈𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘈𝘴𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯: 𝘉𝘶𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘜𝘱 [Unlocked at Ascension Phase 2] Oh... careful now, I might want to test it out against you.

𝘍𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘈𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘈𝘴𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯: 𝘊𝘭𝘪𝘮𝘢𝘹 [Unlocked at Ascension Phase 4]

Oh, I've unlocked something new... Fascinating. That burst of light was unexpected but now... I can feel the power. Everything feels lighter and sharper at the same time. I'd be a formidable force indeed in the coming weeks... Well, back to work. My Lord expects a report on current fiscal state by the end of the week.

𝘍𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘈𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘈𝘴𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯: 𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘭𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 [Unlocked at Ascension Phase 6]

Aha, I can do a lot more now. More power, better focus, and more options. This is truly remarkable... I'd love to see how my coworkers react to this. Lord Pantalone will be especially pleased, I'd wager. He'd never pass up the opportunity to see his prized jewels shine brighter.

Bonus:

𝘖𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘛𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘊𝘩𝘦𝘴𝘵

Why not try your luck at gambling if you're running low on mora?

You could con a pretty penny out of someone with a couple of these trinkets. Hmm... no?

This is a pretty fun hobby.

𝘑𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘗𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘺

What? No other companion to recruit?

I'll be charging you a fee of 5000 mora per hour for my services... Ha- I'm just messing with you.

I'm a busy man, so let's keep today's adventure short.

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interact-proof · 1 year

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Info Masterpost

Hi everyone, you may know me from around the IF community, probably primarily from here, but you may also be familiar with some projects I've worked on as an editor (the two most prominent being @bodycountgame and @nyehilismwriting's Project Hadea) or other things I've done around the place. Regardless, it's my intention to set up a place here to provide proof-reading and other editing services in order to help people in the IF community who may struggle with doing it themselves for whatever reason (be that due to time, or difficulty, or anything else).

What's on Offer?

We all know that being an interactive fiction author is a HUGE undertaking - we're our own planners, publicists, programmers and also editors a large amount of the time - and sometimes it can be a lot to grapple with. I also know from personally interacting with a lot of authors that editing in particular can feel intimidating for people who don't do it often, and lots of people feel like they don't get it right or don't trust their own judgement with it. That's a normal feeling for anyone inexperienced in a certain skill to go through, but also it turns out that luckily, the internet exists!

For a fee, I can hopefully take some of the stress out of the process by doing copy, line or developmental editing for you, or a combination of the three in some way, shape or form. This doesn't give me any control over your work, obviously, and any suggestions that I make will be just that, suggestions - though like any editor worth their salt, I'll always do my best to explain what I'm suggesting and why, so that you can hopefully make an informed decision about what you want to do about it.

See below the cut for more information, along with pricing and some basic FAQs. Thanks for reading!

So, how does it work?

Well, it's pretty simple, really - you reach out and talk to me about what you want edited, I'll let you know how many (if any) jobs are in my queue currently, we'll confirm what the price will be, and then you decide if you want to go ahead with contracting my services. If we agree to work together, you'll sit back and relax after finishing the exhausting writing process, or, if you're really a glutton for punishment, start writing something new, and I'll do the editing. Then I'll return it to you, and send you an invoice. Easy!

I'm not going to hover over your shoulder demanding certain changes be made or be offended if you disagree with me - that's not a good editor's function, in my personal opinion. What you choose to do with my editing suggestions afterwards is entirely up to you!

FAQs

What's the difference between copy editing, line editing and developmental editing?

Most people editing for themselves do all three different types of these at once, but they are actually three separate skillsets. Copy editing is another term for what's sometimes called proof-reading; basically, it's checking for spelling and grammar mistakes (including homophones and so forth) but not for other purely textual elements like ineffective word usage or weak sentence structures. Anything beyond basic grammatical correctness is covered by what's called line editing, which looks at some common things people worry about like overused words, weak metaphors or other imagery, and sentences or segments of the text that can possibly be written in a way to more effectively convey the message they're trying to get across.

Developmental editing is a whole other ballgame - this is the part that most often makes authors nervous, the act of considering the text in terms of the effectiveness of each paragraph and story beat, analysing which parts of the narrative and various character arcs are working and which aren't, and so forth. This is a type of editing that is heavy on critique, and very subjective: it's akin to the kind of feedback you might get from beta readers in many senses.

You don't have to want all three types of editing in order to contract my services for, say, just one, but developmental editing on its own will be by negotiation, and likely be an hourly fee rather than a per word cost. You also can't have line editing without copy editing, as it would be impossible to make sure it's effectively-written without making sure it's correct. (You can have copy editing without line editing, however.)

Do you accept works from people whose first language is something other than English?

Yes, this is not a mitigating factor for me. I've worked on some pieces by French- and Brazilian Portuguese-speaking authors before. My editing suggestions come with explanations of why I'm making them, so it should be clear even for ESL authors what I'm suggesting and for what reason. I'm not a translator (unless you're talking about from Akkadian or Sindarin), but as long as you're capable of having a conversation in English, we should be fine.

How should I format my files for you to work on? And how will I get them to you/receive them back?

The two most preferable options are either in a Word Document, or a GoogleDoc document, as these formats both allow me to highlight parts of the work and comment on it directly so that you can see my suggestions. Any other format will make the whole process difficult for both of us as it will require cross-referencing between your work and my responses.

It doesn't have to be formatted in any fancy way, though - as long as it's in the document and readable, even just via basic copy/paste from wherever else you write, that's fine.

We can exchange the files via email or discord, whichever makes you feel more comfortable.

Do you accept jobs unrelated to interactive fiction?

Yes! I've edited novels and short stories before as well, and done work specifically providing developmental editing on outlines so that authors can feel they have a well fleshed-out plan before they begin writing. It's just that there's not many editors out there who are familiar with the IF scene, so that's my marketing focus, so to speak.

You write using British spellings... do you know how to edit for American spellings, too?

Yes, I know how to edit for AusE and AmE as well as BrE. Many authors also use a combination of multiple spelling systems, which I can work with as long as you let me know your style and parameters.

My game is written in the style of Shakespeare... can you handle that?

Individual style, both affected and inherent, is not really a roadblock for most editors. The job of a good editor is to consider each author's personal style and make sure to respect it, rather than try to overwrite it with their own voice, so if you're writing a Tolkienian or Arthurian or epic poetry piece, I'm capable of working with that as long as you let me know what you're aiming for beforehand.

If you have a style guide with particular specifications, feel free to submit it along with your documents, and I'll abide by its specifications. I've worked on projects ranging from high fantasy to scifi to modern fiction in the past.

Can I break my writing up into multiple parts to give to you over time?

Sure! All of the interactive fiction work I've done thus far has been chapter-by-chapter, and you can break it down smaller if you like. However, I can't necessarily bring forward developmental editing concerns from one job into another at peak reliability, particularly if a long period of time has passed between the different jobs.

That's probably all for the FAQs for now - if you have any other questions, please feel free to reach out and ask!

Pricing

How much the editing will cost is based on the length of what you would like me to edit, split up into three length categories: under 10k words, 10k-100k words, and over 100k words. Prices are in AUD, Australian dollars. Per-word rates round up (ie., at a rate of 1c per 5 words, 6 words would incur the cost for 10 words).

Under 10,000 words

Copy editing: 1c per word.

Line editing: a flat $15 fee on top of the price of copy editing.

Developmental editing: a flat $20 fee on top of any other costs, or an hourly fee by negotiation if without the other two services.

10,000 to 100,000 words

Copy editing: 1c per word for the first 10,000 words, followed by 1c per each 3 words for the remainder.

Line editing: a flat $30 fee on top of the price of copy editing.

Developmental editing: a flat $80 fee on top of any other costs, or an hourly fee by negotiation if without the other two services.

Over 100,000 words

Copy editing: 1c per word for the first 10,000 words, followed by 1c per each 3 words for the remainder, plus a flat $20 fee for each 100k words after the first (ie., 150,000 words will incur a $20 fee on top of the per-word price, while 250,000 words will incur $40).

Line editing: a flat $40 fee on top of the price of copy editing, rising incrementally per 100k words after the first (ie., 150,000 words will incur a $40 fee, while 250,000 words will incur $80).

Developmental editing: a flat $80 fee on top of any other costs, rising incrementally per 100k words after the first (ie., 150,000 words will incur an $80 fee, while 250,000 words will incur $160), or an hourly fee by negotiation if without the other two services.

Code-checking

If you're able to include your code with your writing (such as by viewing a proofing copy of a game via twine), and provide me with an outline of your variables and what you're using them for, I can by request check for possible errors (such as adding to a stat when it seems like it should be subtracting instead, or using a wrong or misspelled variable) for a flat fee of $80 per 100,000 words (in this case, the code is included in the wordcount, since I'll be checking it).

Outline Help

If you want me to look over an outline or plan and provide developmental feedback before you begin writing, this can be done for an hourly fee by negotiation.

Thank you again for reading! Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

#infopost #pinned post

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that-ari-blogger · 10 months

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Of Course Orpheus Is Here

As I have analysed Stray Gods: The Role Playing Musical, my thesis has been that this is a story about change, choice, and family. This is why Persephone is a majour player, for example, because of the symbolism of that character and the associated themes of her story. But there is one character who is so iconic to these themes that he has become the poster child for the power of love in Ancient Greek mythology.

It would have been a crime to not include Orpheus in this story. Both because of the themes mentioned above, but also because it's a musical, and Orpheus was a bard. This character was handed to the writers on a silver platter. They didn't even have to change anything to make him fit.

But they did change Orpheus. Or rather, they did give their own take on the character.

Let me explain.

SPOILERS AHEAD

Let's start simple. Who was Orpheus in the myth? I know that this may be obvious, but it's nice to have everyone on the same page and to cite some sources.

According to Britannica, Orpheus was a bard who traveled with the Argonauts to retrieve the golden fleece, and married Eurydice. After her death...

"Overcome with grief, Orpheus ventured himself to the land of the dead to attempt to bring Eurydice back to life."

Which didn't go well for him. He was told to not look back, but he did anyway, and she was gone forever. The story continues, but it's all about his dismemberment, so I'm going to stop here. Worldhistory.org backs up this story, with some added context about his brother being killed by Hercules, amongst other interesting things. I encourage you to read the articles for yourselves.

In Stray Gods, the audience is introduced to Orpheus indirectly. As in, the entire segment with Orpheus in it is a reference to the myth. Freddy, Grace's friend (and in some playthroughs, love interest) has been killed and Grace will descend to the underworld to get her back. Immediately, the parallels are obvious, and we haven't met the guy yet.

There is also the parallel between Orpheus and Persephone. Specifically, the entitlement. Both feel that they made their choice and deserve the reward almost as a payment. The opening of this song serves to remind the audience, or spell it out if they don't already know, Persephone's backstory and motivation in this musical.

This is Orpheus's introductory shot. He's standing on a cliff overlooking an empty kingdom. You want symbolism? Here it is. Everything in this man's life has led up to this, this is a life he has built for himself. Except that he hasn't built it, he's taken it from someone else and is completely unequipped to deal with it. Orpheus is not a good ruler; Orpheus is an extremely lonely man.

And yet he is surrounded by people, by fans, by a chorus. Why is he so lonely?

He's lonely because these are ghosts, both literally and figuratively. They aren't friends or companions or anything similar, they are empty adoration, and he knows. The masks they wear serve to drive this point even further, there is no individuality, they aren't people to him, they are subjects. Orpheus is trying to become like Hades.

"Someone's coming..."

"You better be ready,"

"A wolf if wating in the tune."

"He's a master of his craft"

"Someone's coming..."

"We have to take back..."

"I can feel them howling at the moon."

"What is mine."

Stray Gods does this a lot. Two characters singing over the top of each other. But instead of shouting to be heard, they instead swap between like they are each the backup singer for the other. This is my favourite example by far.

It serves to show off how similar the characters are, but also their conflict and differences. It's like an argument through lyrics.

And that drum. That drum that keeps moving. Steady, like a clock, beating over and over, relentlessly. The drum that punctuates their words.

Time has made enemies of these two, both victims of a cruel king, now bitterness has turned them against each other. And the ticking of that percussive clock keeps on going, as if it's enjoying tormenting them. Until all of a sudden, it is gone.

This is how you present a threat. Grace has so far been the one to control the music, the one to get answers. And now here is a man who can do the same thing.

Orpheus isn't the biggest danger to Grace at all, but the emotionally charged nature of this interaction, combined with how much fun he has doing exactly what she does, means that Orpheus is portrayed here as an outright villain. For the moment anyway.

This is a villain song. This is the cackling egomaniac explaining his plans to the audience, so they know to root against him, while simultaneously explaining how great he is. I couldn't help linking the "best that's ever been" line to Ratigan's World's Greatest Criminal Mind song from The Great Mouse detective. And like Ratigan, Orpheus is surrounded by sycophants who talk absolute bollocks to please him, because he is in command. Exhibit A:

"I haven't really sung a single word."

"No he hasn't even sung a single word."

The man has been singing for nearly three minutes straight at this point.

"What's your problem with Persephone?"

Finally, we understand some things. Why is Orpheus so bitter? Because the love of his life was taken from him, and he blames Persephone for not doing anything about it.

But take this line for example:

"And Persephone you stood right beside him and said what a shame."

Contrast that with this line from an earlier song.

"You abandoned me to a terrible fate... you know how far I bent before I snapped."

The second line is from Old Wounds, and it is Persephone accusing Apollo of abandoning her, now Orpheus accuses Persephone of the same thing. This isn't so much a literary parallel, but two literary lines layered on top of each other.

The point I am making is that Orpheus factors into this story as a warning. Choices have consequences, sure, but so does doing nothing. Apathy leads to complacency, and when victims lash out and the cause of their pain is unavailable, the people who could have acted and did nothing are easy targets.

The caveat is that this is metered by human perception, which doesn't always match reality. Orpheus has perceived Persephone's inaction as being complicit and hasn't recognised her pain. Meanwhile Persephone has done the same to Apollo. And Apollo has actually done this to himself, seeing his own inaction as a weakness, whether accurate or not.

Then there is the question of why Orpheus is so associated with rock. As in, it's fun, and this song is a genuine bop. But why was this choice made? He could have easily gone for more classical, memorial tone, or even sung a pop song. So why this? Other than because a ghost electric guitar is awesome.

"[Rock] has been a symbol of rebellion, youth, and freedom. Rock music has also been a symbol of social change. It has been used to voice the concerns of the oppressed and to challenge the status quo."

- Boysetsfire.net.

Essentially, rock is a genre about change or bringing about change. And what does Orpheus want to do? He wants to take revenge, to change his circumstances. He's been wating for this moment for years, and now he is ready.

But Orpheus is an incredibly static character, at least when he is introduced. He stews and can't move on past injuries. So, in my reading, this is what this song is, the rock here is to bring about the change in Orpheus and Persephone, in finally getting them to move on.

"If he's the victim, what am I?"

This is, in my opinion, the most revelatory part of this song and the musical as a whole. Its a lack of understanding of this basic fact: Pain is not exclusive. If one person is traumatised, that doesn't eliminate or minimise what someone else went through. Life isn't a game of who is suffering more. If you want to heal, you need to understand not just yourself, but those around you. You don't have to empathise, but seeing another victim as an opponent isn't helpful and actively harms people more.

And if pain isn't exclusive, neither is healing. It is our duty as human beings to be kind, and if someone needs help, to at least offer and be willing to give aid. We are a collaborative species. If two people are in pain, especially because of a single cause, then helping each other to heal is always an option.

That drum that I identified with time and trauma returns for most of the song, playing erratic rhythms in ways a music scholar could probably analyse with much more coherence than me. What I will say is when the two finally reconcile, they sing over each other again, but this time it's less of an argument and more of a conversation, and that drum is nowhere to be seen.

They can take this healing on their own terms, in their own time.

Final Thoughts:

I love this song, and I love that Orpheus was included here. I feel that this song is a really nuanced discussion of the effects of someone like this version of Hades. He's not here, he's dead, but his legacy remains, and that empty throne is still ruling over Orpheus and Persephone as if they are still his subjects. I hope my analysis expressed this nuance coherently.

Next week I am covering both Adrift Reprise and The Trial. So stick around if that interests you.

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#rants #literary analysis #literature analysis #character analysis #what's so special about...?#greek mythology #stray gods #stray gods the roleplaying musical #stray gods persephone #stray gods game #persephone #orpheus #stray gods the musical #stray gods spoilers #stray gods orpheus #meta #meta analysis

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llyfrenfys · 1 year

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Y Hen Llinge and all that: Welsh in The Witcher Series (glossary)

This post is largely my GDrive notes on this subject, but I am a Welsh speaker and have noticed Welsh cropping up a lot in the Witcher series. I'm going to go into a few examples in this post- a word of warning though, there may be spoilers, which I'll mark with a SPOILER WARNING.

The Wiki List:

The wiki contains a glossary of Hen Llinge words alongside their real-world inspirations. Hen Llinge isn't based on Welsh alone, but also Irish, German, English and Latin (among others). The list on the wiki has the following terms marked down as being inspired by Welsh (which I have compiled):

abb (rivermouth), w. Aber

aevon (river) w. Afon

aep (son of) w. Ap

ar (of/on/by) w. Ar

ban (peak/summit) w. Ban (sometimes Fan)

bleidd (wolf) w. Blaidd

breoga (frog) w. Broga

caed (woods) w. Coed

caer/kaer (fortress) w. Caer

col (mountainpass) w. Dol

conyn (plantstalk) w. Coesyn

craag (rocks) w. Crag

darganfod (discovery) w. Darganfod

darl’len (read) w. Darllen

dhu (black) w. Du

dol (valley/dale) w. Dôl

gláeddyv (sword) w. Cleddyf

glean (bottom) w. Glan

gwyn (white) w. Gwyn

gwynbleidd (white wolf) w. Blaidd Gwyn

gwent (wind) w. Gwynt

hen (old) w. Hen

holl (all) w. Holl

marw (to die) w. Marw

ninnau (ourselves) w. Ninnau

pont (bridge) w. Pont

stráede (road) w. Stryd

tir (land) w. Tir

tor (tower) w. Twr

uniade (a joining (n.) w. Uniad

wen (white) w. -wen

ymladda (fight) w. Ymlad

The terms in the wiki are terms created for the TV series- the terms created for the books and games are similar, but the TV lexicon is much more expanded than the book and game corpuses.

Words on the Wiki not labelled as Welsh:

These terms are on the wiki but have no origin listed. I believe they likely have Welsh inspiration (especially the last one):

ghar (word) w. Gair

inis (island) w. Ynys (see also: Irish)

ysgarthiad (shit, excreted waste) w. Ysgarthiad

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

These terms are terms I have heard in the dialogue or seen in-game in Wild Hunt. They are not included in the wiki as they are game terms. They are also only possibly inspired by Welsh as I am not a dev, so I cannot be certain, however, I have chosen the ones I feel are likely inspired by Welsh in at least some capacity.

(SPOILER WARNING: references to Witcher 3 Characters and actions central to plot ahead!)

mor (very/how/as) w. Mor (from location Caer Morhen)

aval (apple) w. Afal (from personal name Aval’lach)

caniatad (permission) w. Caniatâd (from the spell that transforms Aval’lach back to elf, 14:27)

nevid (change) w. Newid (from the spell that transforms Aval’lach back to elf, 14:27)

cyvir (correct) w. Cywir (from the spell that transforms Aval’lach back to elf, 14:27)

taron (thunder) w. Taran (from the spell that transforms Aval’lach back to elf, 14:27)

caeffyl (horse) w. Ceffyl (from the spell by Kiera Metz to transform white mice into white horses, 3:40)

mab (young man/son) w. Mab (from “Aen N'og Mab Taedh'morc”)

cor (choir) w. Côr (potentially a match, from “Aen N'og Mab Taedh'morc”)

me (me/ I) w. Mi (potentially a match, from “Aen N'og Mab Taedh'morc”)

y (the) w. Y (from location Aevon y Pont ar Gwennelen)

carraigh (rock) w. Carreg (from location Ard Carraigh)

llygad (eye) w. Llygad (from location Seidhe Llygad)

ess'tedd (meeting/to sit and meet) w. Eistedd (from “Darl'len, Aen Seidhe!”)

dol (valley) w. dol (from location name “Dol Niev’de”

niev (nine) w. nief (heaven) (from location name “Dol Niev’de”

This is just a glossary of terms for now- I plan to write a proper post about in-game texts at some point (though I am very busy right now with undergrad). I hope you enjoy this first segment at least! Let me know what you think about Welsh in games/media.

Tagging a few folks who might enjoy this post because some of the Welsh is straight up not changed. I found it quite funny in the magic spell cutscenes because I understood every word. Looking at you Keira Metz saying 'tair caeffyl gwyn' to summon 3 white horses!!!

@duine-aiteach @dragonleighs @crynwr-drwg @convolution @margridarnauds

#Hen Llinge #Hen Linge #The Witcher #Welsh #Cymraeg #The Witcher 3 #the witcher 3 wild hunt #Geralt of Rivia #gwynbleidd #Jaskier #Aval'lach #Yennefer #yennefer of vengerberg #triss merigold #phillipa eilhart #Keira Metz #fringilla vigo

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jam-packed · 17 days

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i saw someone post abt the netflix show kaos (which is good u should watch it) and during my watch, i did subject my friend to who (in motogp) would best fit the characters in the show.

spoilers cus im gonna explain them within context and talk about the ending and my prayers for a season 2 :( and 3 actually but thats it.

going to separate this in groups of confident to 🤨🤨🤨 yk. anyways.

Set In Stone (to me):

zeus - TOTALLYYYY vale. eccentric bastards, but very entertaining, very likable in the beginning despite their wrongdoings. i feel like in a different world, vale would be wearing tracksuits around his big ass mansion but a guy has to find joy in dressing like a 15 yo boy so props ig (speaking of, i LOVEEE the wardrobe of this show. muy muy bueno to me.....) both have such an intense paranoia on how others receive them and their eternal impact on the world. its all about aging and their race to defy it, but they cant and that comes to be their downfall. regardless, theyre both crazy powerful and crazy in general they are like. the same guy.

poseidon - jorge lorenzo. in some inherent way. poseidon is jorge to me. theres the (for lack of a better term) jealously that poseidon has for zeus (in terms of hera) that jorge has w vale when it comes to personability/marketability. that, and the way poseidon acts is very jorge to me as well. the way he stands like hes in drag race. anyways, theres a nonchalance to poseidon's character and how he interacts with humans that makes me think, "yeah if jorge had this much power, he would act in this way."

hear me out here. hera - dani. not just because hera and poseidon are having an affair, mind you. but yes also mostly that. because im not knowledgeable about dani uh at all im going to base this on how ive seen him ride in the past. dani, to me, is an incredibly strong rider, hes very determined and sound in his efforts. but theres always someone stronger. and while that doesnt inherently mean he is fearful of them, i feel like within the context of the show, hed probably act in the same ways hera does despite how highly she considers herself. hera's a cunt in this and tbh dani is cunt to me with that crazy power i think hed be similar. also im not saying that dani sucks as a rider, its just. the vale/casey/jorge/marc of it all 😕 bad timing

prometheus - casey fuckin stoner, man. were casey and vale ever friends? idk im sure at points. they follow each other on instagram and casey loves to hate so idk. regardless, casey would be totally on board to help a cosmic plan to take down vale, would he kill his wife for it? real vale, no, zeus vale, its reaching towards the table. prometheus and stoner dont have the same humor, but theyre smart, they know how to act. even if casey isnt one for media, he can beat vale on a bike (ducatis on the straights omgggg). and prometheus and zeus are this weird battle of wits and intelligence. im not saying vale is stupid, im saying that he is blind to his insecurities and that can harm him in the same way it hurts zeus in this series.

marc has to have his own segment cus i could make arguments for 4 different characters. walk with me:

riddy/eurydice - stubborn, headstrong, cunt(y), defined moral code. riddy is such an interesting person within this show and i think marc is very similar to her in some respects. one of the main downsides though is the lack of codependency she has with literally anyone. shes not close to a lot of people, shes kinda isolated (from what i interpret, and idk if thats the fault of orpheus but for the sake of ease, lets say riddy does it herself), but she can connect with people easily. marc doesnt really do that. one, no álex, thats never gonna happen; two, he has a hard time being alone, their upbringings are incredibly different, which may have a major part to play in all of that, and that would kinda change who marc is (duh)---if he were alone all his life rather than surrounded by his closest friends and family, as he is now. so, if you want like. bezquez with a sour note, then yeah go marc eurydice, but idk its not my favorite. maybe luca or pecco (pecco is NOT riddy do not listen to me!!!!)

ari/ariadne - the brotherisms go crazy. very similar to riddy in that she is incredibly headstrong. she is not stubborn she is filled with guilt for something she didnt do my sweet lovely little pookiebear i should not be saying that whatever. so, ari's brother is the minotaur (shocker) and i think itd be interesting to explore marc's love for álex despite not knowing he's alive for YEARS (30 fucking years bro free my girl 😭😭😭). regardless, they are both smart, sympathetic to others, and get shit done when it needs to be. i think they match up as people pretty well, but we once again run into the issue of isolation and relationships throughout upbringing. ari does have some very close relationships as we see in the show (for a few episodes and then never again. ok.) like her father and her bodyguard. is that enough? idk maybe. makes me think abt santi........who will come up later actually. all to say, i think theyd make similar decisions to each other, i think marc if put in this story would be ari to an s (close enough, is my joke). anyways, marc is a good ari if you want a calm, semi-levelheaded marc (who kills someone) who will very likely end up with dionysus. but off the dome idk who dionysus could be. hm.

dionysus - he was my favorite in the show im sorry i want my faves to be each other. dionysus is such a character, hes so guy, i need him to get his cat back. ok, so dionysus is the son of zeus and he wants more responsibility/power---upsettingly, because of how marc is as a rider, i think this is why he ISNT dionysus. dionysus is a character that has to grow into himself (by learning about love ❤️) by killing his dad. haha i joke. but cmon. anyways in the context of dionysus's original goal, ehhhh not marc. but dionysus has this (again for lack of a better term) eccentricity that reminds me of marc. they have larger than life qualities but theyre quite mellow outside of that, they want people to be happy, they want love to prevail, if dennis was shiva he would do the exact same things dionysus does with that cat (carry it everywhere). theres a distance dionysus has with humanity that he loses over the course of the series, and i think thats interesting in marc's case cus once again NOT MARC!!! marc, from accounts that arent him (livio suppo is the only name in my mind rn) say that marc is very like. stable. hes a good kid, he doesnt let fame get to him (or at least how he treats others cus wtf is his house), and dionysus's arc is about connecting w humanity and i dont think marc would really have that problem. yes this was a waste of time yes it was just me convincing myself marc cannot logically be dionysus. this is my post man lemme do what i want :(

persephone - a lot of girls here. wonder what that says about how i view marc. womp womp idgaf. so, persephone is queen of the underworld, wife to hades. she LOVES hades and if we're thinking about old men and the young(ish) people that love them. santi. dovi. persephone is not one to lay down and take it, but hades is so gives me smth to play w in terms of who im going to make not a (I HAVE NO BETTER TERMS) pussy. persephone also loves love, she wants to help the gods because she wants to help her husband but she knows that isnt possible with what the gods (ZEUS COUGH COUGH) are asking them to do, so she defies them, she lies to them, she cares for her husband, she feels sympathy for dionysus and helps him to realize zeus is a lying bastard cunt. with great hair. marc to me. again, like ari, he seems the guy to put his money where his mouth he, he WILL do whats best for people cus he knows they deserve it, he wants to help, he will repay kindness, he doesnt forget (dionysus argument actually. repaying kindness this but i digress).

ares - ares literally isnt in the show yet. he got a technical mention in the last moments of the last episode but like idk......based on my knowledge of motogp and greek mythology and also his name is marc i think itd be cool.........put my man in the show give him a sword let him go ham let him kill god vale pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pls pl

marc my beautiful enigma u cannot be placed. except i think ari is your best bet at accuracy. especially if we're talking human strength and determination, ari n marc brother.

semi confident but could consider others

orpheus - marco bezzecchi. in my heart of hearts, as much as i love bez, he would probably act like orpheus. omggg hes so in love, he WOULD journey to the underworld but also hes a little evil hes a cunt hes a bastard hes cringefail but hes winning. except not really at all. orpheus has this tendency to. self-pity is my best assumption at a word. very whiny man. to me. cus i didnt really feel bad for him throughout the show. anyways, bez does have that intense loyalty that orpheus has, i do think he would do what orpheus does. bez is also kinda a cunt sometimes and i think he would say and do the twat things that orpheus does as well. the hardest part abt bezpheus is like. whos gonna fall out of love with him. you got a lot of options but they all kinda dont make sense yk? pecco just doesnt make sense w the character, cele does make sense he just probably wouldnt fall out of love or be in love in the first place, luca is also an option. luca marini my cringefail bestfriend who is famous and good at sports and doesnt know me, actually yea its luca. honda move, its luca.

riddy (again) - luca. it needs its own section ok i feel like i need to explain myself. luca, currently, looks like he wants to explode and die, he wants out of his fuckass brother's shadow (i dont hate vale im just full of vitriol) and if we transfer those feelings to loveless marriage, do we see how being hit by a truck and shipped off to the underworld and choosing to go to honda (I LIKE HONDA OK IM SORRY) are similar. did riddy choose to die? no its fate she doesnt really have a choice, but grand scheme of things did luca have a choice? idk, talk it up with a philosopher. im a math major, i could care less (lying).

caeneus (i think?) - álex. i think they look similar. i see caeneus and i go omg its álex márquez 2 time world champ in motorsports brother of marc márquez. also theres this weird like almost timidness that caeneus has that i feel is very similar to how álex acts and talks. hes kinda, and this is going to sound so mean to álex, average. however, he is meant for something more, he is more than the surface level by a long shot. and i think thats true for álex as well. caeneus is also very truthful, hes going to get mad at you, if he doesnt wanna tell you shit he wont but hes not gonna walk around it idly, and álex is a marc lie detector so. theres that. again, some downsides, no codependency brothers wth. anyways luca álex ship name. lucquez. aluca. lucalex. rosquez 2 less evil edition. this is so hard cus of fuckin marc bro free me.

not super confident but sure id consider it

dionysus - pecco. vale son, the favorite at some moments, biffs it at others. i dont think pecco has a problem with loving others in the way that dionysus does (aro dionysus slay) but i think theres mentalities that they both have (given by their respective parental figures) that hinder them in similar ways. pecco does not have dionysus's early personality. pecco is very calm, very controlled, (very mindful very demure) but he can also fight with someone after they crash into him, hes not gonna take everything lightly. idk if hes quick to forgive, nor do i know if hes privy to stew in his feelings. one of the primary relationships (thats explored in the show) dionysus has is with zeus. he visits zeus (the only child to do so), he gives zeus gifts (that get rejected), he steals from him (lmao), he defies him (yayy), he gets punished for defying him (NOO FUCK). turbo as dennis ough the thought brings me anguish. anyways, i think with dionysus being a sort of foil to zeus it works with pecco being a foil to vale. evil vale would say flopnaia is a disappointment tho. anyways, if flopnaia were dionysus, hed probably be feeling and doing and saying the same things as d is in the show. would he be as sexually promiscuous? probably not so yk. confidence low. but woah omg very likely marcnaia what a trip.

i dont wanna write an explanation cus this is getting too long but bez could also be considered for dionysus. literally any vr46 boy could lbr.

and tbh anyone else in the cast would confuse the shit outta me i dont know enough people in motogp in that way. i barely know the ones im talking about 😭😭😭 anyways pls diregard everything i said because it makes no sense to try to put people in the correct slots of other media, just write based on the person, not the character you want to portray, thats what makes them interesting, its what allows for different stories and outcomes. all to say i did this for nothing ❤️

#motogp #kaos #im clinically insane #i did not need to do this at all jfc #it took me like 2 hours to think abt and write all of this free me from the hell that is my brain

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delusinaldreamer19 · 4 months

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✨Intro post✨

Hello! Welcome to my blog. Here’s a little about me,

General stuff:

Cis fem irl, but online I prefer they/them because I don’t really want to attach a gender to myself & would like to be viewed more neutrally. But don’t be surprised if I say things like “I’m just a girl!”

I’m an adult, but still on the younger side. The same as pronouns, I don’t really want to attach much of an identity to myself when it comes to age. I don’t want for something I make to be ignored or judged just solely by the age I was/am when creating it. Not that that would necessarily happen, but in my little anxious head it would.

I sadly don’t have a fun quirky name for you to call me 😭. I’m incredibly tempted to say “just call me delusional!” because I think that’s hilarious. But I have a smidge 🤏to much self respect to do that lol.

About me:

I have ADHD, the not-fun, shitty, neurodivergent kind that makes everything hard.

I suck at spelling. Auto correct is my biggest opp.

I'm an equestrian 🐴

I am a maladaptive daydreamer. Meaning that I have extensive, sometimes (more often then not) compulsive, daydreams that are very vivid and can last for hours on end. That’s what my user name is referring to.

I've been so aggressively hyperfixated on Black Butler/Kuroshitsuji for the past 6 years it's not even funny.

That seems like a good place to transition onto the next segment…

What's on my blog?

A lot of my daydreams revolve around black butler, whether it's the characters interacting or story lines I've come up with. And I've discovered that writing them out helps me from becoming so enwrapped in them, sort of like getting it out of my system. CASE AND POINT I have a few fanfictions :)

Fanfic masterlist

Other then that,

I sometimes have funny thoughts

I sometimes like to make long analytical rants about things in black butler

Fanfic Recs

and yeah I think that's it 🤗

Things of note:

There may be some suggestive comments or jokes on my blog, but I don’t post smut. Same goes for fanfics. (That may be subject to change some day)

⚠️I do not ship Sebaciel ⚠️ I don’t like it, but I can’t stop you from liking or commenting or following (Oh yeah I look through all y’all’s blogs to see if u got Sebaciel on there), just don’t bring it into anything I post. ie, no tagging as Sebaciel or commenting sum in favor of it. BUT MOST OF ALL, if you ship sebaciel pls DNI with any of my fanfics. The thought of anything I write bring perceived through the lens of that ship makes me extremely uncomfortable. That is a boundary of mine, please respect it.

Also, please do not send me hate. Not because I’m a little bitch and can’t take it, but b/c I have weird paranoia and the one time I got sent anon hate from sebaciel shippers I convinced myself that these random ppl on the internet were going to find where I live and 🔫me 😃. So yeah, please don’t do that.

I occasionally make little vent/complaining post about random things. Feel free to disregard them. I often just need to get it out of my system and don’t have many outlets. And lord knows my mental health is in shambles. But they don’t include triggering topics, and if they do I’ll add warnings.

Shit this post is long asf my bad

#intro post #black butler #kuroshitsuji #sebastian michaelis #ciel phantomhive #black butler memes #black butler fanfiction #Me

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inventedfangirling · 1 year

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bad buddy fandom getting-to-know-you meme!

ah finally after a gazillion years i've been able to get around to doing this after being tagged by the ever sweet @fiercynn , so lemme straightaway get down to it.

note: i consider "fanworks" to pretty much everything people create related to a fandom, including but not limited to meta/analysis/discussion, gifs, fanvids/edits/fancams, filk, fanart, fanfic, fan food, fan crafts, etc.

name and whatever you want to share about yourself

hello there, i'm a 24 year old gray-ace panromantic desi on the romance positive end of the arospec (im still undergoing the wonderful but also often difficult and long journey of discovering myself so this is subject to change :3), i prefer going by my username so i'm not sharing my name.

when did you watch bad buddy/join the fandom?

i watched bad buddy exactly 3 months ago on the 15th of May, 2023. i watched all the episodes all on the same day and i know the date because after finishing the show i sent a 7 minute long audio note gushing about the show to my best friend. i ADORED it that much. and that's where all of this started. i loved the show so much and the lack of people i knew irl who were interested meant i had to find other people in the fandom to freak out with. i kept posting one after another favourite bad buddy edit of mine on my twitter page, gushing about it, but i got barely any response and that's when i reminded myself that tumblr exists and i should get back on here. and that's how i made this account 2 weeks after i watched the show and voila here i am surrounded by people who are as crazy about the show as i am and i couldn't be more delighted about it :')

favorite ship(s)

patpran and inkpa ofc

favorite character(s)

i love pat with all my heart, the man he ends up becoming along the course of the show is one of my most favorite portrayals of any man ever BUT pran is my actual favorite, he is my baby, (somehow both) my elder and younger brother and my best friend and he has my whole heart. his love, his hesitance, his anxiety, his bravery, his dimples, his FOREHEAD, his striped shirts, his precious heart i would DIE for him no questions asked.

favorite episode(s)

episode 11. each segment had something for the heart, i adored every single second of it...the sheer volume of beaut quotes from this episode is mind blowing! ("being with you already feels like freedom", "i can be anywhere as long as i have you", "we have been happier a lot too", "thankyou for trying to make a silly guy like me happy..." "i wrote this song for him", "one man can't change the world, but this world can't change me too"), and the soft loving looks of adoration making me clutch my chest, but also there was the quintessential patpran banter and bad buddy humour and wisdom i LOVE this episode with all my heart.

episode 5 is perfection. it comes second for me, but that kiss will always be number 1 <3

favorite scene(s)

rooftop kiss, balcony phone call, episode 7 ending when pat comes to save the day and the play, episode 11 red shirts commitment expression scene, and the final credits and post credits scene

one thing you would change about the show if you could

i wished the gangs didnt bully eo or anybody else even in the beginning, i get it shows growth but still i wished that was shown differently. also i wish we got a conversation where they talk about the guitar. and while we're here i wish it was somehow longer, i could have watched ohmnanon be patpran for HOOOURS.

what are your some of your favorite fanworks made by other people?

traffic was slow for the crash years by @fiercynn aka the creator of this meme. i absolutely adored every single second of the fic. despite it giving me a WORLD of pain. all the pain made it more beautiful and everything was worth it in the end. like i said before you took a great thing and made it even better <3

every piece of art that @hereforlou comes up with. you are a GEM!

all of nanons gorgeous gifsets!!

same page video edit that even p'aof tweeted about. SO good.

enchanted (aka patpran's official song) and other patpran edits by this same SO very talented editor

mudhal nee mudivum nee - another beautiful edit but desi so its even better <3

this super clever edit of patpran to message in a bottle. it's an instant serotonin booster for me.

(if you create fanworks) what are your favorite fanworks that you’ve made?

you can hear it in the silence - bad buddy bet era fic (the only one i've written till now)

my bad buddy textposts collection

my pran and pat's growth posts

this post that took me 20 mins to write but is one of my fav things ive written about the show

my long treatise of bet era patpran that took me a week!

list of accounts (hopefully i haven't forgotten any) whose meta and analysis and brainrot i absolutely adore- @miscellar , @telomeke-bbs , @grapejuicegay , @aroceu, @dudeyuri, @dribs-and-drabbles, @dimplesandfierceeyes, @sharingfandoms, @waitmyturtles, @ranchthoughts, @lurkingteapot, @lurkingshan, @thegayneurodivergentagenda, @kenmakaashi, @absolutebl, @charthanry, @bengiyo, @mahuhumaling, @panickedbisexualwatchesbl, @jemmo, @patspran, @fiercynn, @midnightfreeway, @fierceeyesanddimples and a couple more im sure ive missed. it was {and continues to be} a pleasure reading their thoughts about the show (or any other show that we've mutually watched).

a song that makes you think of bbs (the ones in the show don’t count lol)

message in a bottle because of this edit

daylight cos of this edit

enchanted, because of the infinite edits we've got from it and if im not wrong pat ohm has acknowledged it too

and basically all other romantic songs in the history of romance i guess :3

alrighty then i think i'm done with this tag. this was a LOT of fun to compile <3

#bad buddy #bad buddy getting to know you meme #bad buddy fanworks recs #bbs fandom #bad buddy fandom #bad buddy the series #patpran

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tumblydovereviews · 1 month

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In Defense of Caillou

Growing up, my family was one of the very few who weren't avid members of the Caillou hate wagon. It was, and still is, one of my dad's favorite shows that I watched as a kid, and he was genuinely surprised when I revealed to him all the hate the show has managed to amass. I watched plenty of Caillou as a kid, and I'm happy to report that I came out perfectly normal, if not a bit energetic for my age.

Yes, Caillou is not a perfect show by any means. With the characters having little-to-no personality outside of existing in this hairless child's kingdom, annoying voices, and the infamous tantrum scenes, it's no wonder why this show has become so hated, and still is to this day. But I don't think I'm being too generous when I say that Caillou has some merit to it that I feel is overlooked by the general public.

Contrary to public belief, Caillou isn't actually a lonely cancer patient or an alopecia victim- he is actually based off a French book series that originally depicted him as a baby rather than a toddler. To make sure kids could still recognize him even with the age increase, it was decided that Caillou would remain bald. In my personal opinion, I think the creators made the right call. Young kids are still learning how to recognize differences, and chances are if Caillou did have hair, the sudden change in appearance would be overwhelming. It may be weird to us older people, but to kids, keeping Caillou as recognizable as possible was a serviceable move.

A lot of people tend to forget that Caillou is a four-year-old, which is surprising considering that it is established in the literal first line of the theme song (I'm just a kid whose four.) Being four, Caillou is destined to have tantrums, moments where he acts bratty and less than a saint. The real issue comes with the lack of emphasis on condemning the behavior and instead focusing on solving rather than learning. Caillou's parents are the original permissive parents, and one could compare them to the overly gentle parents that exist on TikTok. They rarely call out their son when he does act out and instead dismiss his behavior to the side. The 2020s revival series does a much better job at balancing gentle fairness with firmness. When Caillou or Rosie misbehave, they are scolded for it while also steered in the right direction in an imaginative way, arguably more creative than Boris or Doris' tactics in the original show ever amounted up to being.

Caillou has surprisingly great representation for a preschool show in the 90s, especially in terms of disability and other medical conditions. The show features episodes spotlighting deafness, Down syndrome, autism, wheelchair usage, and even Type 1 diabetes. The episodes in particular talk mainly about how the chronically ill/disabled character is still able to function perfectly normally, even with the condition they have. As a diabetic myself, the episode Emma's Extra Snacks always stood out to be, even before I was officially diagnosed. Diabetes representation and the stigma surrounding it is an issue that not many pieces of media discuss, and I'm happy that Caillou has the courage to tackle a subject that can and has been botched so easily.

And let's not forget the puppet segments, arguably the best part of Caillou. These puppet segments focused on three of Caillou's furry companions: Gilbert the cat, Rexy the T-Rex, and Teddy the teddy bear as they go on miscellaneous adventures around Caillou's house. My personal favorite of the trio was Gilbert and his 'odes.' The segments, while on the more basic side, provide a good enough distraction from Caillou's escapades, even if only for five minutes, before we were forced to go back to the bald boy's basic ballads.

While writing this post, I came up a post online asking if people would rather have their kids watch Caillou or Skidibl Toilet. If faced with a decision like this in real life, I'd turn on Caillou in an instant. Caillou has done a lot of bad, but deep down, we can't forget that the show's main intention, no matter how botched it ended up turning out, was to teach kids about life. I would much rather live in a world with mildly annoying preschool shows than brain rot which serves no purpose but to gradually disintegrate a person's cognitive functions.

He's just a kid who's four, and each day he grows some more, so I think that we need to start growing on him, just a smidge more.

#caillou #pbs kids #sprout #tumblydovereviews

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mryaksalot · 7 months

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Important changes to my Backstory AU(OUTDATED)

TW: This post is going to be sorta long, so buckle up.

As you may know, there have been a lack of many new chapters to my story The Road To Success on AO3 these past several months. I've been trying my damn hardest to keep up with updates, but I don't always have the free time in order to write. I have to attend school, work a job, deal with family matters; those things take priority too. I don't have as much free time as I used to back in 2021.

That being said, I still hold a lot of passion for this story. I first got the idea for this story all the way back at the beginning of 2021. It started as just an insightful thought, a drabble I created inside my head. Overtime, I kept expanding on the idea, fleshing out the world, making this story the best it could possibly be. Now we're at the point where the story is over 120,000 words, and it's not even half of the way done yet! I never anticipated for this story to be this long, but here we are.

Now if you are thinking that this post is about me throwing The Road To Success in the can, I just want to clarify that this story IS NOT being cancelled. But the way the story is written and formatted is going to change from what you have seen up to this point.

Just so I am transperent with you guys, here is a list of all of the changes to The Road To Success, as well as the Backstory AU as a whole.

1. The main story, The Road To Success, will be significantly shorter than the original version. The OG version, the version that I have stuck to while initially writing this story, was planned to have 40-50 chapters. That is just not possible anymore, with how busy my life has become. This new version of the story will now have roughly 30-35 chapters. As of writing this, the exact number of chapters has not been decided yet; that will be determined by the end of the year (at the latest).

2. The new version of TRTS (Acronym for The Road To Success) will be more Yakko-centric. I originally wanted to insert a bunch of extra sideplots into the main story, specifically after the Warners become actors. Wakko and Dot were supposed to have their own friend groups, and we would get the chance to see their perspectives as well as Yakko's. However, these sideplots take away from the main story, which is overall more important in the longterm. That dosen't mean Wakko and Dot won't be given any time in the spotlight (they are gonna play some significant roles later on), but I don't want their misadventures to take too much time away from the main storyline.

3. Some of the lore (the details on how the world works in this universe, how certain characters act, family trees etc.) have been and are subject to being changed and altered. I'm very much a perfectionist when it comes to the little details; they're very important imo. Sometimes, I will change my mind about a certain detail and decide to change it on a whim. I will try to restrain these changes to the lore based on what I have already written/talked about publicly, in order to not create too much confusion going foward.

4. The Backstory AU will be expanded beyond The Road To Success. That's right, folks! TRTS is getting a companion story, in order to fill in those lore gaps to answer questions that have yet to be answered. This story will focus on the parents of the Warners, covering their childhood, as well as their inevitable downfall as members of society. More details regarding this companion Peice will be elaborated on in a later post. I'm also cooking up a Christmas story, which will serve as somewhat of a flashback to previous events in TRTS. This story will come out on (you guessed it) Christmas of this year.

5. So you may be wondering to yourself: What's gonna happen to the scrapped segments of TRTS? Well that's where my drabble collection comes in. A month ago, I created a drabble collection titled Splats Of Ink, a collection of oneshots featuring headcanons, future story ideas, and now scrapped segments of already established stories. I'm thinking about fleshing out these Alternate scenes of TRTS, to show you what could have been. Expect the first of these scrapped-segment-reimagined drabbles to come out this April.

So, that's a decent laundry list of all the updates that I have made to the Backstory AU as of late. Chapter 15 is in the works as we speak, and will most likely come out sometime in March. Then it will be smooth sailing into Chapter 16 and so on! There's lots of exciting things in the works, and I can't wait to share it all with you.

Thanks to everyone who took the time to read through the whole thing. Feel free to ask questions if you need me to elaborate further on these changes. Your patience and support is most appreciated.

#yaksalot yaks #yaksalot fanfics #Backstory AU #ao3 #a message to my followers #animaniacs fanfiction #animaniacs #long post

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knightyoomyoui · 2 years

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MiSa/2Na (Mina x Sana)- “Little Miss Perfect”

On a lovely sunny morning, an exceptional student walks down the hall. Everyone's eyes are on her, yet there are no signals of anger or disgust in their eyes whenever they get a glimpse of her near them. It's just another usual scenario everyday in the life for her, she thought. She was already used to it, so she neglected them and concentrated instead on going to her locker. But it doesn't mean it doesn't effect her either. She just can't share or convey it to anybody who has been staring at her with utter fascination and amazement when she isn't very good at talking or engaging with those with whom she isn't even close with. Who exactly is this girl anyway?

She is Myoui Mina: a nerdy, introverted, soft and pure college girl who epitomizes beauty and intelligence.

She is constantly chosen by her instructors and classmates to represent their area in school pageants and academic competitions, which she has won the majority of. Being humble, Mina believes that there are other prettier classmates of hers who deserve to be placed in positions to participate in such pageants, but she is aware that they are no match for her when it comes to the Q&A segment, which is a very significant requirement for the event to be won, so she has no option but to accept.

Although she knows deep inside that some of them are already building up jealousy over her and that worries her. She never meant to develop a rival or enemies in the school. She just want peace and a normal day for her and others to study well.

Through those, it garnered her popularity around the school with the fact of how she possesses a gift of being smart and being beautiful at the same time.

She was happy that atleast she ain't get ignored by many because of only being nerd but sometimes she just can't help but to feel like as if it's getting way too much attraction now.

Like I said, she's an introvert. She only has a very limited time interacting and getting closer together with somebody.

And what irritates her a bit is the number of male fans trying to win her over through their different ways of presenting their charm, doing pick up moves and even directly asking her to go out.

But ofcourse, she is also a straightforward woman as a match to some admirers of hers in the campus, particularly men; through rejecting their date offers or confessions politely.

She observes and analyze how those men take action only for her and she's quite confident that most of them are just focusing into her beauty more on her the outside than to explore how great her personality and kind-hearted on the inside too.

So, secretly she may be looked like as if she's feeling bad for rejecting those fans, but in all honesty she's just huffing an air and an immediate disappointment she felt for them. No signs of mercy either, they deserve it he believes.

That's not only the straight one within her that we could describe on her too. Well let's mention about some of her looks. It includes also her hair which she never color or even change its style.

Perfectly shoulder-length black straight hair match with her innocent gorgeous face is enough for her and it wasn't hrr intention if the students that would be seeing her would began admiring her with these.

Aside from those, her grades in every subjects and her goals through her studies is what made her overall to be proclaimed as the 'Little Miss Perfect' of the campus.

A character whose role is to only focus forward on her studies without allowing any distractions (that being, relationships) to be simply great and excel in subjects and only display how it contributes to her well-being as a student.

She also is right on time on every schedule since she is the appointed head of the student council in their campus. It was a sureball win to her because the members voted for her basically due to her popularity and her ability to critically think for how can they bring development to the campus.

Outside her school image, she was always being invited by her circle of friends to join on parties. Not to drink though, she is allergic to alcohol; but to just chill and have fun until there's the signal for her to assist her drunk friends as the only one who doesn't completely black out at all.

About her favorites, well she likes music and can sing too. Mostly she jams to the songs of her favorite artists like Paul McCartney, Queen, Taylor Swift and many more.

She can dance ballet too, that's also one of the things everybody in the campus knows about her that she is a ballerina too.

Lastly, to make it short; she loves video games. Her all-time picks would be games such as Minecraft, League Of Legends and Apex Legends which she spend her entire free day grinding onto these.

Yup, she is definitely perfect as what everyone describes about her; although what they know is only not that more than meets the eyes yet.

She has everything, and many would think that she's doing very fine everyday since problems won't even last on her due to her many hobbies she can do to entertain herself and the fact also that she's literally living in such a rich background where anything she wants, she gets.

But that's the part where they are clearly mistaken.

If she will be asked how she doing everyday, she's confident to confusingly admit; she's unsure of what she would reply... because that's exactly what she's feeling within these several thoughts popping inside her head.

There was a time where she's in the middle of her deep guessing as she's asking herself what did she do to deserve all of her blessings into her life to be spoiled by her stepparents who adopted and raised her since she was little.

It still feels surreal for her to reach where she is at right now. Studying in one of the most prestigeous schools in Korea, a car, a mansion they live in, expensive clothes, huge allowance and many more. She knows these won't be nothing for her to experience if it wasn't for them.

It makes her wonder why it makes her feel special when she wasn't even their biological child unlike her older brother and she knows she made some mistakes that they might despise and put her in a consequence rather.

However, on the good side; she is very thankful and lucky to meet such an amazing people like them that she can proudly call the only family she has in her life.

In the middle of her messy thoughts, she got unexpectedly received an accidental bump on her shoulder from someone who is passing through the hallway.

It snapped her out from being separated from the reality and rotated her head quickly to look at who did it.

The other one did the same and they both locked eyes, which Mina became astounded at how breathtaking this girl really look.

"I-I'm sorry! I didn't mean to bump you, I am just late in the class right now!", the girl stutteredly apologized at her.

"Y-you can go now, don't worry about i-it.", Mina calms down the nervous girl as she disregards what happened.

"Thank you for your understanding!!!", the girl gratefully shouted at her before vanishing in her eyes, sprinting back at her feet to rush onwards her class.

Now Mina was left alone again in this silent hallway, processing her curiosity on who that girl is and why does it feel like she saw her before.

Not to mention, her heart was increasing its beats as she began replaying her first conversation with that girl she met earlier.

4 DAYS LATER

Days have passed, and thanks to the help of her circle of friends; she learned that the girl she bumped into at the hallway days ago is named Minatozaki Sana.

Sana is student in the same grade from the other section just beside Mina's classroom, no wonder why Mina speculated that she felt like she had saw her around previously.

She is also Japanese and recently she was added as the newest member of the Badminton team of the campus after she passed the training. She already gathered a lot of attention from others who watched the tryouts where she showcased her great playing skills at the said sport.

Mina didn't know that Sana is a close friend of her own friends particularly Momo, another Japanese friend and fellow seatmate of hers, which explains how she got to know Sana even better.

She was eating in the cafeteria with her 7 other girl buddies at the same table when the oldest of them all named Nayeon commanded someone with a shout to come closer at them.

All of the eyes went to the direction where Nayeon is looking and calling at, and there Mina and Sana's eyes met at one another once again for the second time, with full familiarity.

"Finally, it's been a long time since you got to eat with us in recess Sana.", the one who has the most mother-like personality of them named Jihyo said.

Momo hummed as she watches Sana come closer on their spot. "Mmm!!! Suhnuh yurr furna-"

Her words got interrupted when she felt a stinging pain on her shoulder caused by the impact of a light slap made by Jeongyeon, the one with the bobbed cut hairstyle sitting beside her.

"Pabo, swallow the food you're chewing first.", Jeongyeon aka the second mom of the group scolded the eating mochine who elicited a poor whimper in response.

"It's bad to speak when your mouth is full, do you remember that Momoring?"

"Y-yes... pardon.", Momo nodded and replied after she gulped the food in her mouth. Sana just chuckled at the hilarious sight of her two crackhead friends.

Mina looked away and glared at her food after she heard that adorable giggle while staring at her face that somehow panicked something she couldn't identify.

"I'm sorry if I haven't got to be with you girls a lot for a month, God I'm really trying to improve my grades, responsibilities in the house and attending trainings everyday at the same time.", Sana apologetically pouted and said to all of them after she took the empty seat offered to her by a pale skinned friend of hers named Dahyun.

"That's completely fine to us, Sana and you know that right?", Jihyo said, speaking in behalf for the others. "We just hope that you're not struggling and stressing yourself too much with all of these. You know you have us to approach anytime to help you right?"

"I have it in my mind always, Jihyo-ssi... but I'm also training myself to stand up on my own feet and not depend much on others like what I used to before which particularly didn't work because I'm not in my best state as a student then.", Sana explained.

"But I swear, this time I can assure all of you that you'll be getting something from me. I can somehow manage to improve myself while being busy these days.", she lets out a sweet smile that made the girls awed in relief.

Sana was about to release her lunchbox in her bag when she caught the image of Mina's lowered head while eating her own lunch right in front of her.

Her forehead crumpled in curiosity and eyes went wider when a light ticked in her head as she recalled something from Mina.

"H-hey! Y-you're the one I bumped into few days ago at the hallway aren't you?", Sana asked and pointed Mina who stopped from her movements including the other girls around them who became initially confused at what Sana is pertaining to.

Mina carefully raised her head, revealing her face to the bubbly Japanese. "It's you!", Sana said as she finally recognized her.

"Eh?", all of the girls resonated the same reaction.

"Y-yeah... hi.", Mina shyly greets Sana after she got cornered from the truth.

The rest turned their head at Mina who was taken aback at the sudden action, which got her nervous. "W-why?"

"You never told us that both of you already met?", the blonde girl with chic aura named Chaeyoung unbelievably said.

"I-... uhm sorry. I didn't thought that it would be relevant for me to share it with you guys that I just got bumped into a stranger which ended up being actually her though."

"Point taken.", the tallest of the gang named Tzuyu acknowledged Mina's understandable reason.

"So... since both of you don't know each other well yet, why don't the both of you introduce yourselves to each other then?", Nayeon suggested.

Sana nodded enthusiastically and grinned broadly, liking the idea. Mina's cool with it too but she can't wear off the unpleasant feeling she has in her still as she finally meeting face to face with the girl that piqued her interest ever since that accidental bump.

"Hiiii! I'm Minatozaki Sana, nice to finally meet you!", she stood up and bent on the table; offering her handshake at Mina who got flustered at the willingness.

"She's already in our group before we met and accepted you to be one of us Minari, by the way.", Jeongyeon added a fun fact which surprised Mina at the revelation that Sana is already one of the originals with them before Momo met her and introduces her to the gang.

"I-I'm Myoui Mina. Nice to meet you too, Sana.", she smiled softly and accepted Sana's handshake. Her touch is so firm and gentle, it sends shivers to her skin which she is clueless why her body reacted that way.

"Let's be friends starting today, okay?!", Sana energetically said.

"Sure."

The rest clapped happily at their two friends finally set the starting point of the buildup of their closeness to one another.

Days afterwards, Mina would get the chance to be whether with or without Sana.

Although she is still acting awkward, she can't deny that she is having fun especially when she have a ray of sunshine spending time closely with her, discovering how bubbly and such a wonderful person she is to be with, which earned more reasons why she's getting this weird feeling whenever Sana is near her.

And that lively effect that Sana brings out on Mina caused her to be oblivious on the reality that she's setting out a free time just to attend early on every scene where Sana would be present around.

She became even more motivated to enter and listen during the other classes where Sana would be her classmate, especially when she gets a glance of her bright demeanor as a sign that she understands the teacher's lectures.

Sometimes, Mina voluntarily joins or even invites her other friends by herself to watch some couple of games where Sana's team would be facing their assigned opponent of theirs. Fortunately, they won all of it and it's such refreshing thing to see Sana victorously happy about it.

Mina even tutored Sana on Calculus on the afternoon after class at her own house.

She was barely hanging on her composure during the entire time she spent being alone with Sana, most likely when she's sitting and pursing her face very close to her as she attentively focusing on her instructions throughout every lessons she struggling with.

Most notably, at the part when Sana began noticing that Mina doesn't look at her when she's answering her concerns about the solutions Mina is solving and writing on the notebook; Sana attempted to tease the younger by cupping her chin and pull up her head which resulted for the dumbfounded Mina to stare directly at Sana's alluring and enticing face. The gap between each other's head is just few inches away for their nose to even touch its tip.

Sana giggled when Mina began blushing intensely and tightlipped, finding it hilarious at how embarassed the nerdy girl is. To escape the hot seat moment, Mina came up with the idea to just join the flow of Sana's funtime by playfully smashing her with her pillow in revenge for teasing her which elicited a laughter from the cunning squirrel.

Most recent one to include with these proofs is the championship game that is currently happening at the arena inside their campus again.

Mina along with her circle of friends are present to watch their fellow friend Sana fight alongside with her teammates against the opposing side who holds the crown as the defending champions.

It is the Finals being held and they're now on the last set of the game where both are slated to a tie. One of the players from each teams are now doing their best to execute a tie breaking plan to end the season.

Successfully, Sana's team did it when the other player from the opposite side failed to catch the rough hit of Sana's teammate after she passed it to her then transferring it to them which was ended up unsaved; thus winning not only the game but also the trophy and become the new champions of the season.

Sana was crowned the MVP and all of the girls including Mina celebrated in joy as she waved her hands in glee at them.

After receiving the award, Sana encouraged to have a picture with all of them then photo by pair as her with every one of her friends inside their group.

Mina took her turn last and Sana unpatiently tugged her arm, placed her to the side, arms wrapped to Mina's waist that made their bodies close to one another as well as when Sana did a pose that required her to lean closer to Mina's face and show a kissing look with a peace sign.

Mina realized what Sana is doing, side-eyeing her plump lips presented very close to her. Her cheeks burned red and turned her eyes back at the camera then smiled sheepishly.

(This is the closest I can give hehe - Author) After the picture, Mina hastily rotated her body away from Sana in shock and nervousness as the look of Sana's pouting lips began to haunt her the whole night even after going back home and sleep in her dream only full of it.

She fanned her face panickedly with her hand, but she didn't noticed that there's others who instantly noticed her suspicious reaction after her duo picture with Sana, their eyes squinted before their lips transformed into a sly smirk.

The next day, Mina joined with her two friends who lives almost close to their neighborhood: Jeongyeon and Tzuyu as they head their way through Sana's house after the invitation she did for all of them to come in her place and join her celebrate their victory last night in a party.

Strangely, Mina hesitated when Jeongyeon and Tzuyu asked her through chat but little does the Japanese know that it was intentionally a way to tease the girl.

And now that her reply even adds to the fact that she's acting very weird when it comes to Sana, that leaves them to a high possibility they can believe of.

During their walk, Jeongyeon nodded to Tzuyu for a go signal which the tall maknae initiated.

"Unnie.", Tzuyu referred to Mina.

"Hmm?"

"What do you think about Sana?"

"H-huh?", Mina became puzzled, not taking what's the point of Tzuyu asking this.

"Just answer it unnie.", Tzuyu scoffed and jokingly presented an irritating expression.

"O-okay...", Mina muttered. "She's a great friend. Always fun to be with, full of positivity that is very contagious for you to be like her, talented and beautiful."

"Is that only, Minari?", Jeongyeon took the turn to ask.

"Yeah."

"Are you sure?", Jeongyeon's tone gotten different, turning into a playful cooing one.

"W-what else do you want me to say? I already told everything?", Mina furrowed her brows while caressing her arm.

"Oh so you want us to help you remind what we believe is missing then?", Jeongyeon asked. "Alright, we'll do it ourselves."

Tzuyu began smirking and walked to the left side of Mina to make her sandwiched between her and Jeongyeon, trapping her for and urge to create a revelation.

"Last night, we saw something made us think that everything you just said to us meant more than that, unnie."

"We saw you trying your best to make your tomato looking face disappear after Sana took a picture with you only.", Jeongyeon playfully nudged Mina's shoulder whose chills suddenly got increasing slowly as she understood where they are going with this.

"You can't just do that when you don't feel any signs of... let's just say, admiration and love to somebody who caused something to have you doing that, right? Especially when that's your friend we're talking about here.", Jeongyeon continued.

"What do you guys want to imply about it?", Mina asked tensefully.

"Mina-unnie, do you have a crush on Sana-unnie?", Tzuyu threw the dart on the bullseye, going for the jackpot question as they finally asked what gets them curious about the strange action Mina did yesterday.

Mina's whole reaction expanded in shock as two of her friends seemingly discovered the possibility of the secret behind everything she's experiencing when it's about Sana.

"M-me?", Mina hysterically baffled. "As if you girls don't know me. I'm straight and only into boys okay? I won't be falling into girls like me, specifically Sana-unnie herself. It can't be possible."

"But do you think you know us, Minari?", Jeongyeon retorted. "You never did, and we want you to know why."

"You don't realize it by yourself, do you? Girl, who in the hell would turn their face away swiftly and try to erase the color of a ketchup running around the surface of her cheeks and try to wash it off away with the air you make just because you had a picture alone with your bestfriend... and let's say that it's also a girl you're belong with."

"Mina-unnie, that isn't normal at all for a friendship. You know a friend won't be capable of doing that if it doesn't affects you more when you don't even treat that friend of yours differently.", Tzuyu added.

"You may be denying and covering the speculation with your own reasoning of being a true straight girl but... recall and analyze carefully everything that you did only for her. It's never too late for something to change, and I'm referring to what you identify yourself Mina-unnie."

"So what am I then to you?"

"The other way around of what you believe yourself to be."

Mina chuckled. "So you're saying that I'm n-not straight anymore? T-that I am what? A bisexual?"

"Exactly.", Tzuyu and Jeongyeon both replied at the same time.

Mina shook her head aggressively. "No. I can't. There's no way. Sana's just my friend really and I'll be into boys that which will remain to be like that. Get o-over it girls."

"Mina, seriously? We never even heard anything from you being interested on any men from our campus frequently.", Jeongyeon ridiculously commented.

"You rather mention Sana most of the time, and at first we were so dumb to not sense something different; thinking that your closeness with her just grown so much... not until we saw you acting like you successfully earned a picture with the one you're falling in love with secretly.", Tzuyu said. Mina then started to rewind back all of her moments with and what led her always to Sana to check if what she's saying is true.

And... she just realized until now that it actually does. She did think and speaks about Sana most of the time unconsciously.

Because of that, somehow Mina was pushed to rethink and reevaluate anything she just said in offense to Jeongyeon and Tzuyu's rumors.

She began asking herself, does she really like Sana ever since they met?

Does her straight personality shifting into a bended one after their first encounter?

Is everything that is happening to all of the days passing by just gets completed if it's not mainly because of Sana.

Is she really that interested and grown another level of fond for Sana all along?

Mina lowered her head as the image of Sana pasted in her mind. "A-are you guys really sure?"

"Definitely, Mina."

Mina sighed deeply and cleared her throat before speaking. "A-actually... I admit that... it makes me confused whenever I get this.

That my heart swells and beats in a unique rhythm along with the rest of my body whenever I'm interacting with her.

It gives me goosebumps, hypnotized... sometimes I even can tell that there's like a wild sensation growing inside my stomach, and I'm trying my best to unconsider that it's the butterflies appearing within me.

S-she's the reason. All about me... is just all about her so far.", Mina looked at Jeongyeon and Tzuyu who are now silent and shockingly staring at her.

"Oh my God, Mina-unnie. It is true.", Tzuyu gasped.

"And for that to be confirmed, let me hear you say it, Minari. All of us are now agreeing to each other here, what you have to do now is to acknowledge it.", Jeongyeon encouraging Mina.

Mina rubbed the upper bridge of her nose and pathetically laughs softly at herself. "I-... I guess I do like Sana.", she shrugged.

Jeongyeon and Tzuyu cheered. "Finally! She said the thing!"

"I just want to add, when you learnt that we can watch Sana's games you even began taking the initiative on your own to invite us which you never did to us on many occassions before.", Tzuyu remembered.

"I g-guess she changed me."

"Yeah, and now you're officially welcome to the gays club. Congrats Mina, you are now a certified non-straight individual.", Jeongyeon teased and winked at Mina who only became embarassed.

"Agh, I can't believe I just said it. I don't know what's gotten into me. She's just so different it drew me in I swear.", Mina panickedly stated.

"Well, that's what love can do. It helps us discover the unique things a person does bring with theirselves which was never blessed unlike to the rest, and it satisfies us in a different turn of events.", Tzuyu said.

"So... Mina, now you just revealed to us that Sana is your crush, do you have any plans to confess to her?"

Mina looked directly through the distance where the figure of Sana's house is slowly emerging and getting closer to them as they are now going nearby to their destination.

She sighed and answered truthfully.

"That, I don't know yet."

Few hours later after arriving and congratulating Sana on her first championship win as a rookie which is very impressive and amazing to hear which allowed them to start having fun and go crazy which left the girls to get down drunk except Sana and Mina who are both limited their energy; separating theirselves from the others for being the only sober ones.

It was 10PM and the girls are now sleeping behind them. To spend the time well to battle their boredness, Sana instead decided to start some random topics for them to converse together which thankfully Mina is related on some of it.

They also exchanged some jokes they have in their pockets and even Sana offered to have Mina let her braid her hair after she discovered that she never experienced having her hair tied like that other than just a ponytail.

Helping her achieve the once in a lifetime experience, Sana finished performing a neat braid on Mina's silky, smooth black hair.

She observed it on the mirror and showered Mina with compliments pertaining to how it perfectly fits her elegant beauty which left the secret admirer to blush heavily and heart flutter badly.

As they tried to take another shot of beer in their own paper cups as they both felt thirsty again, Mina emptied her cup first and lets out a rough breath in response to the bitter and strong taste of the alcohol left to her mouth and throat.

She tilted her head at Sana, and suddenly her sight begun disrupting as things around her gone moving very slow due to the effects of the alcohol taking in towards her stability, including how Sana released the cup to her mouth.

Those pursed plump lips that was once haunted her all night was distracting Mina again and this time, the strong urge and desire of it to seduce her intensely of using the curiosity to find out how does it taste like is pulling her with much force this time.

Mina is now unable to escape as her energy left in her is now outlimited by the now turning-into- drunken state of hers.

She started moving her body closer and closer to Sana who just placed her cup on the small glass table.

Cluelessly, Sana was about to rotate her head back to face Mina when unexpectedly, she felt a very familiar feeling within her lips.

She slowly rolled her eyes down and there she lately realized what just happened to her that made her shakened in immense surprise and shock.

Mina kissed her in the lips.

It lasted for less than 10 seconds before Sana tried to seperate theirselves from each other's kiss by forcefully pushing away Mina.

It awakened and threw the sense back in full operation for Mina and as she recovered her awarness of the situation, what she saw made it look like she's literally just looking exactly at a reflection of herself in the mirror...

... as she also shared the same reaction Sana is wearing in front of her. Complete bewilderment and confusion.

"I-I have to go back to my room. Bye.", Sana moved alertly, hurriedly walking out of the room.

"W-wait, Sana... SANA!", Mina tried to bargain her from staying but it didn't worked, it left her alone with the girls who got awakened from the loud noise she made.

They asked what happened and it made them shocked and curious when Mina leaned her body to Nayeon and showed teardrops flowing down in her cheeks, signifying that she cried at something horrible.

They learned about the kiss incident, and they were left speechless at first before comforting Mina along with Nayeon to ease her sadness and anger at herself for doing that.

THE NEXT DAY

Listening to the girls' advice and some bits of convincing for her to follow while Mina had their backs for comfort, she did what they told her the right thing to do in spite of what occurred last night during their party.

Before the classes starts, Mina who just arrived at the freshmen building searched for Sana around. It didn't took her long enough as for the assist of her knowledge about the information of specific places Sana does most likely goes to around the school although it doesn't sound like she's bragging it that turns her into an obsessed stalker but well it's simply just a perks of getting to know that much about her friend and your crush simulteanously. Going around each areas of the building, she finally catched Sana as she saw her just exit their badminton team's locker room. Mina stood and paused for a second, letting Sana perform some couple of steps while she readied herself one more time before creating her courage to be all prepared for what she's going to do today. A slightly fast run and it's good enough to minimize their gaps together for Mina to let Sana hear her voice loud and clear. "Sana!" She watched Sana halt in her steps. She slowly turned around and faced Mina with her blank yet little uncomfy look in face, probably not expecting the sudden appearance of her friend's presence. "O-oh, Mina?", Sana reacted, her eyes then turned anxiously moving around to try avoid staring longer at Mina. "What's for the c-chase to call me?" "I-.... I want us to talk, if you'll me spare you a quick time to let me. This will be quick, I promise.", Mina grasped her both hands behind her back as she sounded it out with desperation. "F-for?" "You know why I had to meet you here right now, unnie. There's no need to repeat.", Mina weakly smiled. Sana pitifully glanced back at her, unable to dodge the grab to caught her in the act. "I-I'll start now and not beat on the bush.", Mina sighed once before proceeding. "I'm sorry about what happened last night. Believe me or not, I'll just gonna place down my own explaination here for you. I-I really don't know what's gotten into me. It's like... my body took control of me and succumbs to the alluring sight of your lips when I caught it in a shot." "However, what my body decided to do on it's own... it picked from one of the things that my heart's been trying all my best to ignore and disregard. The curiosity of what does it feels like to win an opportunity to what it feels like sharing a sweet in contact of sensation made solely by my love with you." Sana's eyes parted slightly when she heard the words "my love" as what Mina mentioned. "Typically what most of the hidden admirers can relate, like me.", Mina tightlipped and unlocked it with a small pop. "It's the kiss, Sana.... and you, you're the person who got me attached on you for me to imagine crazy things like that." Mina shortly stepped forward closer to Mina who only leaned her body backward but keeping in her position still, unready to welcome the nearer approach by her friend which she just learned right now as one of the people included on her long list of people declaring their attraction due to her charms. "I have a crush on you, Sana... but still so far I'm troubled to accept that fact because it just felt so surreal, you know? Falling in love with the same gender as me and someone who I cherish also as my beloved friend right now is very new to me, Sana. I think it's simply amazing that you're the only one capable of making me feel this way uniquely." "It's as if I'm still stuck on this stage where should I fully embrace the realization that I'm having a crush on you or not yet because I'm not convinced at how fast this is for me to develop something like this. Love is extraordinary I know, but I'm trying to get used to it especially that... this is actually my first time experiencing any of this and I don't know much about it, including that moment where it leads you and me standing face to face right here and right now." "I hope you atleast take my side well and I thank you for letting me to finally pour this all out to share what I've been keeping these days in me when it comes only to you.", Mina finished her speech and carefully bowed her head in a blend of anticipation and sheepishness on what would be Sana's response to anything she just said. Sana traced Mina's condition then drew her gaze all around the surroundings enveloping them as she gathers up every words she has the say in return to make it fair for her friend who just confessed her feelings yet unsure so far which she finds it adorable to witness her being so awkward all because of Mina's feelings for her. It urged her to let out atleast a tiny smile to express how convinced she actually was on Mina's declaration before she accepted the turn to speak. "You don't get to be the only one apologizing here, Mina-ssi. I owe you one too, and that is for how I just walked out and left you befuddled at what happened between us on that night which I'm sure it looked offensive on another angle but lemme assure you this Mina... It's all too fine now. I get it all what you're trying to point out and my thoughts about any of that is simple: you're confused, Mina." Mina listened at her more intently. "You don't know what to believe in and what you'll should do on this crush problem you're having for me, and I guess it pressures you so much that your decisions you take either conscious or not results in definite consequences; which is where I can connect that kiss you did to me. Mina you were curious to find out how it is because the confusion running into you regarding about what you feel for me pushes you through it." "That kiss made you think that would be the solution... but it didn't, so that only means your confusion got you thinking terrifyingly that you broke our friendship and it sent a wrong answer about it. Now it sets you up for another that will finally satisfy you on what's the truth. Sana landed her delicate touch from her hand on the frowning Mina's shoulder while presenting a carefree grin on her. "Thank you also for having us talk about it. This is definitely what we need and with that, we're all good now, Mina. Don't overthink about it now please, that won't ruin our closeness or most importantly, our friendship together because... I can't just allow it to happen because I can't lose you. I can't lose one precious friend in my life, Mina." In a quick span of seconds, Sana magnets Mina into her for their bodies to collide in a rest assuring warm embrace. Mina whimpered in delight and relief that atleast for now, it made her sure that Sana will be still on her side despite of the accident.

They freed theirselves afterwards and Sana sent her temporary goodbye on Mina as they have to enter their classrooms now when the bell coincidentally rang just after their conversation together

FEW HOURS LATER At breaktime, Mina quickly emptied her sandwich inside the classroom then decided to visit the library to read another Harry Potter book when just as she entered the space; she saw something that won her attention to stay for a while.

Sana was placing her head down on the table where an opened book of a romantic storybook is in front of her which is being held by one of her friends and seatmate named Seungyeon. She is reading the book well while stroking the length of Sana's orange hair through her fingers. She just silently walked and grabbed the Harry Potter book to inform the librarian that she'll borrow it for a week, walking to the front where apparently Sana can fully take a sight of her. Mina looked one more time on Sana with Seungyeon before she walked out of the library, muttering these words to herself as she makes her way back to the classroom. "She's right, maybe I'm just confused." "There's nothing there that's why it didn't worked, so believe her." "It will never be worth it so stop it, little miss perfect. Don't risk yourself from falling off your throne anymore." On the other hand, little did Mina know that while Sana is listening on Seungyeon's storytelling; her mind is still being distracted by both replays of the incident and the aftermath they had earlier. She was interrupted when she saw Mina appear in the library, and she caught that one final glimpse of her being with Seungyeon before she left; worriedly concerned that Mina might stinged at the sight of her being sweet with someone else she doesn't know when in fact it's totally just platonic.

Before she focused back at her friend, Sana concludes her jumbled thoughts and brought her heart to quiver in confusion and regret on why she left Mina alone after that night when she just agreed and realized to herself that the kiss with Mina... actually felt good too.

#twicemina #twicesana #twiceminaau #twiceminaoneshot #twicesanaau #twicesanaoneshot #twiceoneshot #twiceau #minaxsana #twiceships #kpoponeshot #kpopau

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wmufranniefabray · 7 months

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laying it all out there → fabrevans

TITLE: Laying It All Out There CHARACTERS: Frannie Fabray (@wmufranniefabray) and Sam Evans (@samevans-wmu) DATE: 26th February. SUMMARY: After the gossip tabloids run wild, Sam and Frannie have an open conversation about where they stand.

Sam:

Sam stared at the text screen between himself and Frannie before switching over to Mercedes. No wonder the gossip blog called them a love triangle because that’s exactly what this looks like except Sam’s only into Frannie. Yeah, he’s got things going with a few others but they’re all super casual. It wasn’t until Frannie Fabray entered the scene when Sam felt his pulse quicken and stomach twist in that all familiar way when he’s into someone. Like really into them. Sam looked at the school map, feeling he’s on a quest in a game, and found the lab Frannie mentioned. Sam slowly walked down the hallway and when he reached his destination his head poked into the doorway to see if it’s the right one. “Frannie?” He asked, careful to not be too loud in case someone’s pouring a super volatile solution that might trigger a huge chemical meltdown. “You in here?”

Frannie:

The day had been one of her favourites - the kind of day where Frannie was filled with classes and her brain could properly get stuck into the work she was focussing on, in this case, it was looking at DNA segments. It was where her passion for biology could fully come through and she could fully immerse herself in a subject that she was good at. All day her phone had been buzzing in her pocket, on and off, attempting to distract her from the wonders within the labs, but her mind was made up. The gossip was ridiculous, but may have a glimmer of truth, and her plan was to try and ignore it. That was, until, she had fully started to realise how seriously everyone was taking it. It was easy to camp out with her lab coat on and forget the rest of the world existed. It was a little harder when her phone buzzing was growing more and more persistent. There were only a rare few amount of people that she truly wanted to speak with, though, and Sam was top of the list. Their conversation had been raw, filled with a vulnerability that Frannie had rarely ever let show. As she heard her name being spoken, Frannie raised her head from where she was sitting - cross legged on the floor, leaned over a selection of test tubes - and gave a wave and small smile. “Hi.” She greeted, trying to ignore the flurry of anxious nerves swimming around her stomach. This was Sam, she was safe. Her mind tried to remind herself that it would be fine, but she couldn’t help the uneasy feeling sweeping through her.

Sam:

When he saw a hand go up Sam smiled to himself. It could be anyone’s hand but he recognized the jewelry and voice. As he made his way over Kurt’s words played over and over in his head pull so much better. pull so much better. Is that how his exes viewed him? Was he just one of those guys they string along until a better option comes around? Hell, one of his exes got married last year to another guy in their class. Sam made his way over to Frannie and slid down on the floor. “Hey…” he said and didn’t sound his usual cheerful self. “I want to start and say I am so glad we chose to be honest with each other. I never want to keep things from you. And another thing-“ he paused and leant over to press a sweet kiss to her lips. “You’re amazing. Even after sharing all that stuff about your family and how it might change the way I see you I just want you to know no matter what I feel like I’m getting to know the real Frannie and she’s one of the most amazing women I’ve met.”

Frannie:

Frannie's eyes rose to watch as Sam made his way across, noticing in an instant the change in his demeanour and how his voice just sounded… different. She chewed along her lower lip, guilt washing over all of a sudden, because she hadn’t thought this would cause this kind of reaction. And her not thinking had led to this. As Sam slid down on the floor beside her, Frannie - almost by habit - reached out and took one of his hands into her own, gently squeezing it and running her thumb over his palm. Anything to try and make this situation better. “How are you feeling?” She asked, looking across at Sam with her eyes wide, running over what Sam had revealed to her in their messages in her mind.

“I’m sorry.” The words tumbled out once Sam had pulled away from the kiss between the two of them, looking across to try and meet his eyes. She wanted to say more - perhaps expand on why she was sorry - but in that moment, trying to bring back Sam’s smile was on her mind. The only thing on her mind. “I can’t comment on why things in the past haven’t worked out for you except perhaps criticising their clear lack of taste. All I can comment is on the present. Right now. You’re incredible. And I really don’t want to end this-“ she gestured between the two of them. “this between us anytime soon.” Or ever hung in the air of her mind, lingering as an unspoken melody.

Sam:

“I’m feeling okay. Kind of relieved I put everything out there for you. It’s not that I was keeping stuff from you. Not like that. But more because I like what we’ve got. Our dorm room feels much brighter and not because of the fairy lights. I laugh more in there and I’m not as glued to TV or games. Which you can totally tell me to do if you need Frannie time.”

Sam didn’t know if he should let his insecurity about that Kurt said spill or leave it be. Everyone’s got different tastes. He recognized that. It just the way it was said made Sam feel… defective. “Why are you sorry? You didn’t do anything that’s warranted an apology.”Sam moved closer and carefully slid the test tube thing over to take both her hands. “I don’t want it to end anytime soon. But I also don’t want to make you feel like you’ve got to make a choice between me, Cody, or anyone else. Last thing I want is for you to regret jumping into a relationship.” pull so much better played in head again and Sam shook it. “I meant every word I said in my texts to you. Even when you were drunk. And I keep looking at you in this lab coat and it’s making me want to kiss you. So much for going to a different spot to keep from doing that.” He chuckled, a small smile graced his full lips.

Frannie:

His words were sweet and she couldn’t help the beam that was beginning to form across her lips, the relief washing over her the more Sam was speaking. It was almost as if Sam had a dictionary to her mind and was choosing the perfect selection of words that put her mind at ease. “I’m glad you said something, too.” She admitted, brushing little patterns on his hand with her thumb softly. “You can always talk to me. About anything.” And she meant it. Her words were firm.

Saying sorry was not something Frannie had ever been taught to say in a hurry - it had always signalled a weakness. “I should have spoken to you about the weekend, before.” She explained, shrugging, running her tongue along her lower lip. “The last thing I’d ever want to do is make you feel insecure. That’s the opposite of how I’d want you to feel.” Her eyes watched as Sam moved her biology equipment to the side, trying to resist the urge to explain how awesome her current research findings were. This was not the time. The mention of her situation with Cody made Frannie breathe in gently, looking away for a brief moment. “Would you like me to make a choice?” She asked quietly, looking back at Sam properly. It was a bold question, especially considering how vulnerable she felt she had already been today, but it was a question that Frannie needed to know the answer to. She wanted to prompt further, dig further, find out what was causing Sam to look like that. “No kisses.” Frannie chuckled alongside Sam, reaching out to ‘boop’ Sam on the nose with her finger teasingly. “Tell me what’s going on with you, first. You’re not you.

Sam:

“I know. I actually like we have that kind of relationship. Even before we kissed I felt you’re the kind of person who will make time if someone really needs to talk.” He liked the way her fingers felt on his hand, Sam’s green gaze on the way they traced random patterns on them. This is why he wanted their conversation in person because he needs to know if she’s still comfortable with him after dropping all the information on her.

With a head shake he said, “You had your reasons to keep it from me. Maybe deep down you knew it would bring out this talk we’re having. Or maybe you thought I would view you differently after. Which I don’t. I was gonna wait and see how things were when you got back but our texts carried on like usual and that told me you and Cody might be more about the fun than something serious. At least that’s how I interpreted it because you and I were texting about our feelings and attraction.”

His hand smoothed over hers, stopping her from running random patterns. Sam brought her hand up to his lips to kiss. “I feel like if I say yes it’ll put you in the spot. Do I want to say pick me? Heck yeah. I really, really like what we’ve got going and I want to explore that and everything new with you. But-“ he hated she’s able to pick up his mood shift and knows it’s what’s currently fucking with his mind. Even with the playful nose boop. “It’s stupid.” He breathed. “Read a comment about me online. How someone could do better than me. It’s not I was into the guy or dating him. But it’s a kick to confidence’s balls. Especially after what I told you when it came to my exes. It’s like, maybe I’m great at first when things are new but then I become unbearable at some point. So for you to ask me to choose makes me scared, Fran. I sound weak saying this but it does. What if that guy and all my past exes are right about me. That they can do better. If your family is anything like you painted they’ll probably tell you that. I’m not some polished guy.”

Frannie:

Several thoughts were flooding around Frannie’s brain, most of them all at once - so much so that she removed her gaze again, trying to gain some clarity back in this situation.

A small pause fell between them as she wrestled with her thoughts again. Ever since she had met Sam, honesty had been clear between the two of them. She couldn’t stop that honesty now. “If you’d like me to choose, I’d choose you.” The words were short, and at once, she could feel herself releasing a breath that she hasn’t realised she had been holding in. “Not that Cody isn’t… amazing. He is. But the way you’re glued to my mind, whether we’re together or not? Or the way I find myself increasingly excited to return back to our dorm ever day to see you? You’ve brightened my life so much. There’s no competition at all.”

A small frown crinkled across the side of her forehead as her eyes remained firmly on Sam while she listened to him speak, unflinching. She hadn’t noticed any comments online. “It’s not stupid if it’s affecting you”, Frannie tried to remind him gently, but the mention of her family threw her off-guard. What could she even say to that? She knew Sam was wrong, that the comment was absolutely ridiculous, and yet she could feel herself freezing up at the mention of her family. This was her weakness, something that threw her off guard, as much as she wanted to fight it. Moving her hand from the softness of his lips, she cupped his cheek and felt his skin beneath her fingers. “I’d like to see them try to find someone better than you.” Frannie mused, pursing her lips together in irritation - not at Sam, but at the comment that had been made. Pressing a kiss on his lips, Frannie continued whispering in between each kiss. “You,” Another kiss. “Are.” Kiss. “Incredible.” Kiss. “You’re incredible now. Tomorrow. A year from now. Ten years from now.”Pulling away, Frannie tilted her head upwards to gaze up at Sam. “I wish you could see yourself from my point of view.”

Frannie:

To show Frannie is inner most insecurity, when Sam did everything in his power to mask it, meant he trusted Frannie with these ugly thoughts. Because that’s what they are: ugly. It’s not like he’s looking for validation or pity. He’s not. And if anyone will call him out on his shit would be the very woman across from him, looking like a beautiful vision in her lab coat. “I would choose you, too. There’s no contest. You’re the one who came in and made me want to try again. To say fuck it to all my past exes. But like you saw, that stupid self doubt voice in my head can be a real dick.”

His eyes carefully watched her. There was worry he said too much. That he was too harsh. Or that she’ll see he has too much shit he needs to work through and tell him she needs to get back to her work. But what followed next surprised him. Instead of all the things that would cause him to get kicked out of this lab Frannie managed to assure him everything will be fine between them. Those soft kisses slowly lured a smile onto his lips and the tension in his shoulders subsided. The nasty thoughts from before ebbed away and Sam’s hand reached for her while they kissed. “I think, in time. I will” he whispered. God, was this happening? What started as an off-the-wall gossip post brought them to this very room. On the floor of all places. “I’m sorry what I said before. I was spiraling and-“ he took a deep breath and looked down. “and I shouldn’t have said that. I don’t know your family. I like Quinn a lot from the couple times I’ve talked to her.” Sam’s conscious nagged at him about that remark. “If you’ll have me as your main dude it’ll make me ridiculously happy.” He said, finally able to smile that large Sam Evans grin.

Frannie:

“You don’t need to be sorry. Ever.” Frannie told Sam, watching as his eyes trailed to the floor. It felt new, being this honest. She couldn’t ignore the nervous butterflies still lingering in her stomach, almost afraid that she had said too much, revealed too much. And yet there was a simultaneous feeling of anticipation trembling inside of her; giddy, hopeful anticipation. “It’s okay. I don’t think I’ve given you the best impression of my family so far.” Frannie paused before giving a small, reassuring smile. “My momma knows about you already. She’s the one that made the Star Wars baked treats for you and she asked a few questions this weekend about my new, cutie roommate.” It felt strange calling Sam a ‘new’ rommmate, but Frannie had to keep reminding herself that despite the strength in how she was beginning to feel for Sam, this was still very much new. Exciting. But, still new.

Her smile matched Sam’s when she finally saw his grin return. It was a relief to see Sam relatively back to normal again, and she couldn’t help matching his smile. “Main dude, huh?” She repeated, quirking an eyebrow in intrigue. “As much as that sounds perfect, Sammy, and believe me it does. I want to take my time with you. We have time. All the time.” Running a finger along the side of his cheek again, Frannie gave another small smile, it feeling permanently etched on her cheeks. “What do you think about, just focusing on each other? No distractions. No more squares, or any other shapes, for now. Just us?” It was a step. And for Frannie, it felt like quite a big one. “The last thing I’d want is for you to feel rushed. I want you to be totally sure. And ridiculously happy too. Ridiculously happy Sam is the best.”

Sam:

His fingers subconsciously played with one of Frannies bracelets as he spoke, his attention on her lips and the way they moved and how even while speaking he couldn’t stop his thoughts. God, he wants to kiss her again but they’re still in that figure things out stage of things. “Y-you did? I mean, I remember you said she made them but she didn’t think it was for some kid or charity?” He started to laugh at this, feeling better. Much better. “Does your mom think it’s cool for us to share a room? My parents are laid back but they told me to be respectful and not crowd you.” He shared with her while his index finger moved back and forth underneath the band as his other hand held hers.

With a laugh he nodded, “Yeah. I think I got ahead of myself. When you said you choose me and then saying I’m incredible and all those kisses. I lost my head there for a minute. I’ll let you know right now if you ever want something all you gotta do is kiss me like you did before and I’ll probably agree to anything. It’s like kryptonite but better.” He grinned. How can he not when they’re back to how things should be between them. “So we’re dating but not exclusive? Kind of like a trial run to see how we’ll be like as a couple if we decide to take that plunge?” Sam wants to make sure he understands. “No more flirting with other people. Just with each other?” Plus more but that’ll come later. He hopes.

Sam glanced back down at their joined hands and noticed the test tubes. “I interrupted your work. I was so caught up with stuff in my head and our texts I didn’t think to ask it’s a good time to interrupt.” There’s a touch of guilt in his tone but, “What are you working on. Not sure I’ll understand but I want to see you in action here. I like when you talk science to me. It’s hot.” He dished a smirk and then leaned over, placing a hand against the side of Frannie’s neck to press a kiss, this one lingered longer than the ones from before. He enjoyed the softness of her lips and the soft brush of her nose against his. Sam didn’t realize how much he needed that quiet moment between them until the kiss broke.

Frannie:

For the most part, Frannie’s attention had remained relatively focussed, without many distractions. That was until she spotted Sam’s gaze, lowering onto her lips, and she could feel her concentration slipping. She couldn’t help the immediate rush of sinful thoughts that flooded her mind. Mainly about Sam pushing her body up against a wall.

Flushed, Frannie shifted in her seat to try and hide how immediately distracted she was. A crimson blush starting to form on her cheeks may have been a giveaway. “No, of course not. She knew they were for you.” Frannie smiled, before adding. “She likes you. Especially from how much I’ve shared about you. I’m not sure how much of a fan of our living situation she’ll continue to be once she realises it’s anything but pure.”

Her mind considered Sam’s words, thinking carefully before she answered. “Exclusive means not entertaining anybody else, right?” She questioned. “Because, if you’d like to be, we can do that. I don’t really plan on wanting to be with anybody else while we get to know each other.”

A small smile returned to her lips at the mention of her work and she grinned. “I invited you here!” She chuckled, picking up one of the test tubes and raising it so it was a little closer so Sam could see. Inside was some coloured liquid alongside some small cells, paraded at the bottom. “This is what I’m currently looking at. We’re currently looking at how to make copies of specific strands and copies of DNA. It’s so much fun.” The words were gushing from her lips in an excited flurry, her enthusiasm clearly evident. It was only when Sam surprised her with a kiss - this kiss, lingering instead of the shorter kisses from before - did she pause, her eyelashes immediately fluttering closed as returned the kiss. Pressing her hand against the side of his cheek, she could feel the warmth of skin beneath her fingers and she hoped, more than anything, Sam could hear how hard her heart was beating. For him.

Sam:

Did Sam notice the way Frannie shifted and blushed just then? You bet he did. After all, they’re still kissably close. It felt good after all this talk, his opening up about his exes and how an online comment got to him. It’s very well due to bad timing on that. The guy was upset and Sam was already going something in the moment. He just hopes whatever he and Frannie are about to dive into doesn’t result with those three words returning to his head in horrific clarity like the mom’s voice in Carrie before shit got real.

“Pu-“ Sam started to ask and pivoted his question to, “Are you very up front with your mom? I tell my parents things but I keep certain stuff from them. But I guess once our families learn we’re dating they’ll push us to get separate dorms.” Sam licked his lips and brought his attention down to Frannies hands again. Most of her rings are missing, probably because of the lab. He doesn’t know why he’s focusing on how beautiful and delicate her hands are and how they make him feel all sorts of flustered when she touches oh. Samuel! Focus! “Right.” He snapped out of it. “I’m fine with us to continue living together while we date. Get to know each other in a deeper level. It’ll only be you from now on. All the flirting and everything stops. But, and I’m cool with this, you feel better we have some space and stay in different dorms…” he trailed and chuckled. “Okay, maybe I’m not so on board with that. I like what we’ve got. A lot.”

Sam laughed at her reminder and comically shrugged at this. “I know but you didn’t know the exact time I was rolling in here to talk.” He pointed out. Sam watched as Frankie’s eyes lit up, just like when she talks to him about her favorite authors of showing him a piece of jewelry she just bought. His gaze fell onto the tube and took in the contents and how cool it is! “Isn’t that the cells people use to help regenerate skin? I see this and hear DNA and my mind goes to replicating tissue.” He laughed to himself.

It’s a combination of their honest talk, her lab coat, Frannie’s excitement about her DNA project, and the fact Sam’s feel all sorts of head-over-heels for this woman which brought him to kiss her mid explanation. He didn’t mean it to go as long as it did but her hand on his neck encouraged him to keep with this. There’s the softest noise from Frannie and Sam playfully teased her tongue with his before remembering where they’re at. His lips inched from hers but his fingers pushed a loose strand of hair that slipped from her pony tail. “I-I couldn’t help myself. You got talking about science and looked so cute and excited. And everything from before with what we talked about and-“ he chuckled but there’s such a bright smile on his face, the complete opposite from the Sam who entered this lab 10 minutes ago. “If there’s ever anything sciencey you want to share with me. Just shoot a text and I’ll jog down here. I might not get most of it when you explain it but it means something to you and I want to be a part of that excitement.” His hand rested on her knee as he spoke. Little touches, hand holding, kisses, they’ve worked their way into their lives it all feels natural to him. But now they’ll solely be shared with each other and that made Sam’s heart do a happy backflip. Figuratively. If it actually did that he’d die. “I should get going though. I have class in an hour and gotta grab a bite before it.” He sighed as he moved to his feet. “If we’re not too swamped with studying do you wanna continue that book we started yesterday?”

#{ para ;; all }#{ para ;; sam }#{ all ;; sam }

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