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apexulansis · 11 months ago
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ardaka's ear scarification (ignoring the tattered ear for the sake of a clearer reference)
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gardenkept · 27 days ago
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Here's a basic layout of Peach Blossom Cookie's beginnings before he became the Keeper of the Heavenly Orchard. His mortal life, essentially.
An orphan displaced due to war, Peach Blossom Cookie does not remember his homeland or the faces of his family clearly, but he has always remembered the injustices he saw in the world. How those in power abused it... How the innocent always got caught in the crossfires of conflict, paying the price of yet another war in which neither side was right... How all that was beautiful in the world would be trampled on with a cruel indifference...
Thus, he took up a sword and began acting as a vigilante from the time he was a young teen, becoming an enemy to the armies of various realms over time — that was how he felt he could truly make change in the world, and what he also found long sought out purpose in. His name was infamous to the crowned by his early adulthood, and for many villages affected by war and corruption of those they were governed by, a beacon of hope.
He is not exactly sure when it happened — when a group of cookies had begun following and looking to him for asylum, but... he realized they shared the same dream for the world. From then on, other refugees would join their group as well — cookies who otherwise couldn't defend themselves, scarred by warfare and tyranny. They were mostly simple farmers and such folk; alongside children, the elderly, and disabled. In hopes for a better life, they banded together and began journeying elsewhere with Peach Blossom Cookie who would protect them.
They would travel tirelessly for a place away from the bloodshed, for somewhere to call home, and far out to the west they thought they had found land they could cultivate. There had been those who were lost during the journey, it was not without risk after all, but they had finally found it — somewhere they could settle down and grow their roots. Together they believed that they could establish a community and build a paradise from the ground up for all those like them... In the end, just when they thought they had fled far enough, conflict would find them again. Peach Blossom Cookie would end up failing to protect them. Every single one of them was gruesomely slain by bandits, the sight of rising smoke and their screams drawing him back to their incipient village in horror.
The last thing he would use his sword for was to dig up the first thing they had planted in order to begin their little paradise — a peach tree sapling that had thankfully been unsullied by blood...
And as you can probably guess now, Peach Blossom Cookie would carry that same sapling upwards to the heavens to start his garden in honor of those he lost that day, hoping to see their dream come into fruition no matter what. The climb was far from easy, though that's for another post.
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heartfullofleeches · 7 months ago
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Liu [Yandere Butcher] tending to an injured Reader. [Commission 1/2]
Word Count: 1.7K
No mentioned Pronouns for Reader, They/She/He used for Liu.
Warnings: Minor Injury
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Dinnertime in the Bishop household.
As things stand, so far it's been just you and the house's owner residing within these four corners as of recent. Liu has yet to tell you much about their family or their time growing up within the residency. Their questions about your adolescence had no end, yet when inquiries concerning their own upbringing arose the subject would change as swiftly as it was directed towards them. Regardless of how dodgey they were to reveal the finer details of their past, Liu did just about everything they could to make this house as much of a home as it was all those years ago.
Cool water drips from your fingertips as you shut off the bathroom sink, shaking your hands over the bowl to remove some of the excess moisture from your palms. You grab a hand towel from the wall behind you to dry off what's left, returning the cloth to its hook as you face the door - flicking off the light as you exit.
Most nights, you had two options when it came to helping with dinner. Making sure things didn't burn, or setting the table- Your partner’s desire for your assistance perfectly rivaled their fears in relation to allowing you to step foot in their kitchen when it came to cooking. Sure, they knew their way around a stovetop before they could even count, and you likely had a similar range of knowledge considering you had to fend for yourself before meeting them, but in their mind their anxieties were well justified.
The house Liu now owned was quite old. It's been in their family's possession from the day it was constructed, and only began to show its age when they were a child. Liu recalls the day the attic entrance was sealed off for good after their father had nearly fallen through. On top of that, the butcher had the awful habit of purchasing any cutlery their eye fell upon. Liu could vividly picture you welding one of their prized steak knives only to trip over a tear in the floorboards- The idea alone scared them so when it first came to them they refused to let you into the kitchen for several days - even to grab a glass of water.
Bit by bit, your partner gradually worked towards letting you play a bigger role in meal prep. Cooking with others has always been an enriching experience for them- food for the soul, as one might say. For now though, it was plate duty for you till they inevitably came to their senses.
Scaling the hallway leading back to the living room, you climb the two steps separating the carpeted floor of the room from the smooth, wooden files of the kitchen entryway. Liu stands in front of the stove where they had been moments ago when they asked you to wash up. Their head turns in your direction, but their eyes do not fall upon you.
“Mind those cupboards, Sweet.”
“Huh-”
Seconds before your head rams straight into them, the shadows of the cupboard’s swaying doors cast over you. You freeze as it grazes your skin. With how fast you were walking it would have been quite the nasty bump, had she not warned. How Liu had noticed it was open with his back turned- Brushing it off, you quickly join Liu’s side.
“Troublesome, even for myself sometimes. Some won't stay shut, others can withstand the wrath of a hurricane. Been meaning to call someone to take care of a lotta things going on around here, but- you know how things are….”
That much was true. For as long as you've known them, it was easy to see Liu was a person who valued their privacy. The butcher retrieves a pair of oven mitts from the counter as they finally turn to face you.
“Everything's just about ready. Was waiting for you to get back before I turned off the oven. Trusting you to grab the plates while I finish up over here. Third door to your right.”
That's already a step up from previous arrangements. Normally, Liu already had the plates and utensils left on the table for you. A clear sign of changing times.
“On it.” Counting each door on your right as you walk over, you reach for the fourth cabinet in the row - fingers clasping onto the silver knob of its handle. You gingerly pull at the door, anticipating it to give with ease. It does not. Trying again, you grip the handle with both hands - tugging harder. The door parts way by a sliver, snapping back into frame before you could slide your fingers through the gap as the oven door slams shut.
“Having trouble? If you need-”
“Don't worry, I almost got it.” You plant your foot firmly against the wall, leveraging all your weight onto it as you pull. The knob begins to turn as you apply more force- Is it supposed to? Pouring all of your energy into freeing the door, you fail to realize how loose it had become, but not in the way you had intended. Liu quietly takes off their oven mitts, deliberately removing each glove as leisurely as possible as their ears pick up on something. Ever so faintly, the muffled screech of splintering wood grows louder- “Y/n, I really think you should back away from that door-”
The desperation in their voice is all you can hear. “Just a sec, I almost-”
Snap!-
“Y/N!”
The last thing you feel before everything goes dark is the wind leaving your chest as your body collides with the kitchen floor. . . .
“120….121….123…..”
Your head is pounding….
“124…125…126…”
Goosebumps riddle your skin from the icy mass pressed to the back of your skull. A familiar hand holds it in place - gray hair sprawled over your blanketed chest. Toning their ears to the gradual beat of your heart, Liu remains perfectly still - eyes closed. Only sign they were awake was the occasional twitch of their lips as they muttered to themselves, squeezing your hand tighter. You stir against the thick wool of the blanket you're beneath. Liu stiffens.
“129…..Uh….Oh…Sorry about that..” Liu lifts their head from your chest, dabbing their face with their apron as they greet you with a worried smile. They set the ice pack aside on the coffee table, combining their fingers through your damp hair as if searching for something.
“No visible injuries so far….How are you feeling?”
The softened serene of their voice soothes the dull ache pulling you from unconsciousness. “My head hurts….How long was I out for?”
“About two minutes, give or take. Would've carried you down to the hospital had you been out a second longer….Careful..” Liu offers you her arm for support as you sit up on what you now realize to be the couch. Another realization comes to you as you notice the odd, marble coloring of what you had previously assumed to be a normal ice pack.
“Is…that a frozen steak? Maybe I hit my head harder than it feels…”
Liu struggles to keep their concerns forefront as their smile cracks into one of slight amusement. “On the bright side, it's good that you're able to bounce back so quickly. I don't use ice on a regular basis myself and to be frank I was too worried about you to think about what I was grabbing. Moving on to more important matters, could you tell me what you remember happening before the fall?”
“I was grabbing some plates for us, but the door got stuck. I kept pulling and.. I think the door knob came off?…”
Liu nods, clutching the broken knob hidden in their apron pocket. “Correct. Looks like your memory is working just fine too. Luckily I was able to catch you, but for a second there as you fell I just…froze.”
“Hey, Liu?… Question..”
“What is it?”
“I didn't do that, did I?…”
You point over their shoulder, eyes glued to the kitchen. The cabin door had been ripped clean off its hinges, chunks of wood and glass scattered across the floor panels. Surely, you couldn't have done that - not without a single cut on you. Far as you can recall, all that came down with you was the door handle itself. The door appears to have been smashed to pieces than anything else. Liu glances in just about every direction beyond where your finger aims.
“Oh… That? I removed the door from the wall while you were out, but the darn thing was so heavy it just slipped right through my fingers! Can I get you some water? You look like you could use a glass of water. I'll go get you that glass. Don't move a muscle while I'm gone.”
Liu climbs to their feet, grabbing one of the couch pillows as they pull you closer to them. They place the pillow behind your neck, guiding your head against it as they fix the blanket over your shoulders. Liu takes your hand, kissing your palm as they bring it to their face, cupping your fingers around their cheek. Though it is to help you, Liu seems reluctant to leave you - afraid of what might happen if they take their eyes off of you.
“I'm so glad you're okay… I'm not sure what I'd do if your injuries had been worse. It's bad enough you got hurt while I was in the same room….”
“It wasn't your fault…”
Liu kisses your hand again. “Wasn't your fault either. This old house has it out for us both, it seems. Could be it's afraid of new faces after so many years alone. I know I was…but you helped me realize there's nothing to be scared of…Still, it's probably best have someone come over by morning to change out those doors…”
“Sounds like a plan…. May I have that water now, please?”
“Oh! Of course, anything you need and I'll grab it for you right away. I don't want to see you off this couch for the rest of the night…unless you'd prefer me to carry you off to the bedroom.”
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barracuda-shark-games · 2 months ago
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Amis | he/him | 28 years old | bisexual
Notable traits: attentive, bold, gentle, sensitive, loyal, composed
Description
Handpicked from the Dawnguard (the Sunrise Palace’s elite guard) for his steadfastness and integrity, Amis has been assigned to the MC’s protection. He stands at 5’9 (175 cm) and has light brown skin, a stocky athletic build, hazel eyes, and wavy brown hair cut just below his ears. His home country of Korcome, famed for its vineyards, was voluntarily absorbed into the Dawn Empire as recently as 7 years ago. Since Korcome has no quarrel with Arevikland, it was decided that Korcomians would not be drafted into the Dawn Empire’s war with Arevikland. This detail also contributed to Amis’s assignment as the MC's personal bodyguard. Amis takes pride in his duties and has an optimistic outlook on life that some might consider naive. Don’t be fooled, however; Amis is very good at his job and when it becomes necessary, he is a force to be reckoned with.
Trivia
On romance: Of all the ROs, Amis is the most open and honest with his affections. This also puts him in a rather vulnerable position, and it means the consequences of a broken heart would be much more devastating for him…
Favorite food: Soup! Preferably in a bread bowl.
Song: ‘Nothing to be Scared Of’ by Kacey Musgraves
Come to me and drop your bags And I'll help you unpack them You're the only one I want to give my love There's nothing to be scared of
Excerpt
Under the cut for chapter 1 spoilers! Keep in mind that this is a rough draft and, therefore, may be subject to change before chapter 1 releases.
Finally, you think to yourself, some alone time. You take in your surroundings. It appears to be some sort of grand library. The room is large with the back wall mostly taken up by two-story arched windows that keep the place bathed in warm sunlight. The center of the room is occupied by a large, round marble desk laid out with an astrolabe, a globe, an adjustable magnifying tool, a simple golden scale next to a wooden lockbox, various quills and inkpots, and haphazard stacks of books and scrolls. The left and right sides of the room contain identical marble staircases that each lead to balconies housing more bookshelves and sitting areas.
As you scan the shelves on the lower level, you are startled by the sudden unmistakable sound of a vase wobbling and a whispered curse. You turn sharply towards the source and see your bodyguard adjusting a porcelain vase on its stand.
“Clumsy,” he admits with a sheepish grin, indicating himself.
You sigh. “How long have you been here?” you ask him.
He purses his lips in thought. “Hmm… how long have you been here?”
“About five minutes,” you answer.
“There’s your answer,” he says with a pleased smile that makes his hazel eyes sparkle. He folds his hands behind him and rocks back and forth on his feet.
When you let out a groan, his expression turns to a puzzled one. “Is something the matter, Your Grace?” he asks.
“You don’t have to call me that yet, you know,” you point out. “The wedding isn’t until tomorrow.”
He lets out a breezy laugh that echoes throughout the empty library. “I find it’s best to get into the habit now, actually,” he says. “I can be kind of forgetful and scatter-brained, after all.” He points to the vase as evidence.
You raise an eyebrow at him. “Is that why they’ve appointed you to my protection? They figured they’d give the job to the least competent guardsman?”
His smile hardens into something more serious, though no less warm. “I can see how it might seem that way,” he admits. “But I can assure you, my clumsiness in some areas is, if anything, attributable to my focus on protecting you. I’ll let other people worry about the finer details.” He waves a gauntleted hand in a playful dismissal.
“Well, hopefully without breaking anything,” he then adds with a chuckle. But his gaze remains focused intently on you. You passively note that the lighting in this room makes his eyes appear almost golden.
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jabesa0 · 7 months ago
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Hii im the same anon who asked for the jewellery rendering tutorial. Sorry i keep asking for tuts but how do you render clothes,, it's currently my biggest struggle along with actually drawing the folds 😭😭
Hey there anon!! Don’t apologize!!! I actually really do enjoy answering questions, whether it’s drawing tips or my opinions and such on mammon!! It’s fun to talk to y’all when I can!
Anyways yeah I think I can explain my thought process when it comes to clothing and such!!
(Putting it under the cut cause it may be a bit long lolol)
So when I draw clothes, my main focus is to understand and be able to get across the texture/material of the clothes I’m making!! I find that when you can get across what material it is, other people will be able to fill in the blanks of what the clothes are supposed to be!!
For example, here’s my pool table mammon where he’s wearing a gold metallic puffy jacket:
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For reference, I looked for a picture that had similar material and overall shape to what I was drawing.
But rather than trying to copy the shading and folds line for line (which wouldn’t have worked either way since the angle, pose, lighting is different and would change a lot of things!), I look at which places the material looks the brightest and darkest, as well as where the clothing puffs and where it sticks to skin to be able to accurately get across the kinda clothes I wanna put my subject (usually mammon for me 🫶🥰) in!!
A few other examples would be these two mammons:
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In these two pictures, mammon wears clothing that have a very distinctive texture to them, leather and knit! Even though I don’t draw every line or fold perfectly, I try to get across that it’s a knit sweater or that it’s a tight leather material by either drawing the wool stitching/pattern or having the shininess of the leather come through the dark material!
Even though it’s messy, you get what I’m trying to convey when you understand that it’s wool or leather or whatever material I’m trying to convey at the time!
Once you understand material, I think it becomes easier to understand folds!
Take this mammon for instance:
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Because I understand denim fabric and because I looked at the jeans I wanna reference prior, I know that those folds/lines tend to be where the legs connect/around the crotch area, so I know to put those there! If it were a longer pair of jeans, I would put those folds around the knee areas, since there’s where denim tends to bunch up!
I think it’s very helpful to spend some time looking at fashion images online and when you’ve picked your clothing, to really look and see where clothes *tend* to fold into itself when it’s made of a certain thing! That way, when you draw something puffy, you know what spots is puffs at and where it sticks to, or if you’re drawing something that clings, you can see what spots cling to the skin and was spots have a looser fit!
I tend to spend a lot of time going on Pinterest lookin at fashion pictures and clothing and saving the ones I wanna draw mammon in, so I’ve built up my understanding of how material works! I still have plenty to learn, but I’ve built up my observation skills to a point where I can trust myself to get down a certain material once I’ve found a good reference!
Hopefully y’all found this helpful!! The way I draw is very much messy and only really drawing what I think is important and letting myself and others “fill in the blanks” when it comes to finer, finer details! My thought process is to draw enough to get the point across, even if it ends up looking more painterly and less clean than it should LOL but I’ve come to enjoy the way I draw :P!!
Anyways thank you so much for the question, I actually really love talking about my drawing process! I don’t tend to do it often, so when I do explain things, I think I also end up learning things myself when I look at my own art and explain it to all of you guys!!
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nahoney22 · 2 years ago
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hi! i really love your writing and i was wondering if you could write something with crosshair? really anything besides angst would be wonderful! thank you!!!
In the Summertime
Crosshair X GN!Reader
word count: 1.4k
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The idea of camping out in Lothal in the summer sounds perfect - the best way to relax in your mind. But what happens when you have to share a tent with your crush after a mix up?
Warnings: none, mutual pining, Crosshair being grumpy, fluff. Not proofread. Mentions of tattoos.
Originally written January 2023, Rewritten January 2024.
Masterlist
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"Is that really necessary?"
Your face betrayed panic as Crosshair unexpectedly thrust his head into your shared tent, catching you completely off guard. The news of a change in camping arrangements, now having to share the tent with Crosshair, left your expression bleak. How does one react when faced with the prospect of sharing a tent with their crush, especially someone as complex as him?
Crosshair's eyes scanned between you and the now makeshift wall of pillows dividing the snug tent. Words failed you, and under his intense gaze, your face flushed. "I thought you might prefer the space," you stammered.
His raised eyebrow assessed the situation as he slowly crawled in, settling on the bedroll and pillow on the right side. "If I wanted more space, I would've stayed on the ship," he drawled, nonchalantly popping a toothpick into his mouth surely that couldn't be comfortable to sleep with in, but he seemed unfazed.
"Oh," you responded, torn between removing the wall of pillows or leaving it. Worried about appearing too eager, you opted to keep it for the time being.
Nightfall descended after a day filled with walking, laughter, and exploration, leaving your legs fatigued. You reclined on your separate bedroll, eyes fixed on the dim, flickering lamp hanging from the tent's center. Playing it cool around Crosshair was your plan of action, not wanting to appear annoying.
Yet, you couldn't shake the tension. Feelings for the Marksman had lingered for quite some time, perhaps since the day you first met. Guilty as charged, you were initially drawn in by his looks, but you hadn't anticipated him being as mysterious and moody as he appeared.
Minutes pass, and you swear you haven't drawn a breath, fearing he might sigh and leave. Carefully glancing over the mountain of pillows, you notice Crosshair's closed eyes, yet he's awake, rolling a toothpick around his lips with his tongue.
As you observed him, you began to appreciate the finer details of his features. His face, though slim and somewhat gaunt, still held a rugged handsomeness.
His tattoo, upon closer inspection, appeared imperfect, either faded or not filled in properly. Squinting, you gasped as his eyes suddenly opened, locking onto yours. Your head snapped back as if on reflex, pretending you hadn't been staring for what felt like an eternity.
Blood draining your face, you try to act nonchalant, but Crosshair, suppressing a smirk, breaks the tension. "Something on my face?" he asks, looking at the tent's roof.
Your hands fumble with your jacket's drawstring, despite the summer night's chill in the thin tent. "No, I was..." You debate whether admitting you were looking at his tattoo would be cringey or claiming it was nothing at all would be more awkward. Hoping for the best, you confess, "looking at your tattoo."
Sucking on the inside of his cheek, he glances back your way. "Don't like it?" His eyes narrow a little.
"No, I do!" Your protest comes a bit too quickly, but it doesn't deter the Marksman. "It just doesn't..." You cut yourself off, sensing a wave of nerves bubbling inside Crosshair. Normally indifferent to others' opinions, he has started to care about what you think.
"Doesn't what?" There's a small snap in his tone, unintentional, but you look horrified at the thought of him thinking you insulted him.
"Forget I said anything; it looks fine." You rush, rolling onto your side, hoping he drops the subject.
Typically, Crosshair would demand his brothers to express themselves confidently, but feeling a twinge of guilt for his sharp response, he let the matter drop.
A stretch of silence enveloped the tent for about ten minutes. Just as you felt on the verge of nodding off, the tent unzipped, accompanied by shuffling sounds. You sat up to find Crosshair gone, but his shadow revealed he hadn't retreated to the ship or sought refuge with the others. Instead, he sat outside, doing and saying nothing.
Sighing softly, you feared you might have irreparably annoyed him, jeopardizing any chance of confessing your feelings. Restless, you tossed and turned for half an hour, but the unsettling feeling persisted. Glancing up, you noticed Crosshair still outside, his silhouette revealing his arms wrapped around his body. If you were cold inside the tent, he must be freezing outdoors.
Taking a chance, you grabbed his warm blanket, ignoring the implications, and exited the tent. His shoulders tensed at your approach, but as you handed him the blanket, he looked down at you.
"It's cold," you stated, keeping your voice hushed to avoid waking the others.
He shuddered slightly, accepting your offering reluctantly, draping it over his lap. Uncertain if your presence was welcome, you turned to go back inside. However, just as you were about to step in, he mumbled a small "stay." Uncertain if you heard him correctly, you turned back, looking at him curiously.
"Stay," he repeated, his gravelly voice soft but audible.
Scuttling back, you settled beside him with crossed legs, accidentally brushing your knee against his, though he didn't seem to mind. Or at least, you hoped he didn't. As usual, the two of you lapsed into comfortable silence, the stars twinkling above, and despite the distant sound of Wrecker's snoring, a sense of peace settled over the camp.
"Do you like the summertime?" you ventured, breaking the silence.
"It's messy," he responded quickly, prompting a confused expression from you.
"Sorry?" you asked, puzzled, but he subtly pointed to his tattoo.
Surprised that he was willing to discuss it again after your earlier conversation, you admitted sheepishly, "I... I didn't mean to upset you. It just looks a bit uneven in some areas," rubbing the back of your neck and pulling your knees to your chest.
For a moment, he was silent, but then he chuckled—a rare occurrence that warmed your chest. "I agree, don't worry," he reassured you. Despite your differences, it was always a relief to see Crosshair relaxed and content, especially when it was in your presence.
“I should've gone to a professional," he mused aloud, gazing at the sky before turning to you. "Any guesses who did it?"
An amused smile tugged at your lips. "Would it happen to be that snoring log in the tent over there?" you teased, nodding towards Wrecker's tent. Not surprisingly, Crosshair nodded.
"Yep," he confirmed, a hint of disdain in his tone, yet amusement still glinted in his eyes. "We were younger, but still, I wouldn't let him near me again."
"Why did you let him, then?" you asked, genuinely curious.
"He wanted to."
Despite their frequent bickering, it was unexpectedly touching that Crosshair trusted Wrecker enough to let him ink him, simply because Wrecker wanted to. "That's actually quite nice of you," you remarked, a hint of admiration in your voice.
Crosshair smirked at your teasing tone, rolling his eyes and popping yet another toothpick between his teeth. "You saying I ain't nice usually, darling?" The pet name echoed in your mind, leaving you feeling like you were about to short-circuit. He watched your reaction with amusement, clearly enjoying how flustered you appeared before him. Hopefully, it was the good kind of flustered.
"Don't put words in my mouth, Mister," you retorted playfully, secretly thrilled by the nickname. "I do think you're nice, yeah." A soft breeze passed by, causing you to shudder involuntarily and drawing his attention even more.
"Looks like it isn't just me who's cold," he remarked, his chuckle sending another wave of shivers down your spine. However, it was the gesture of him draping the blanket you brought over you that warmed your heart more than your body. "This alright?"
Confidently, he kept half the blanket for himself, wedging in closer to you. His hair stood on end at the feeling of you practically cuddling next to each other for warmth.
"This is lovely. Thank you," you replied softly, sensing the tension between you both. If you interpreted the situation correctly, you leaned across and planted a quick kiss on his cheek before resting your head on his shoulder, letting your eyes flutter shut.
He froze, a surge of nervous energy coursing through him, unsure if he deserved such tenderness. But he wasn't about to let this connection slip away.
"Yeah," he muttered quietly to himself a few minutes later, certain that you might have even fallen asleep on him, "I like summertime."
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Masterlist
More Crosshair Works
Tags: @nunanuggets @andyoufollowyourheart @littlefeatherr @kaitou2417 @eyecandyeoz @captxin-rex @cwarssimp @jesseeka @ashotofspotchka @oohyesplease e @megafrost4 @adriiibell @theroguesully @equalityforcats @rexandechosandwich @mustluvecho @inagalaxywickedfahaway @misogirl828 @ladykatakuri @jambolska-grozdova @chxpsi @alexandrisonfire @arctrooper69 @padawancat97 @rain-on-kamino @by-the-primes @torchbearerkyle @tech-aficionado o @grizabellasolo @therealnekomari @a-c-lee @autumnleaves1991-blog @tech-depression-inventory @mylifeinthetardisforever @brynhildrmimi i @greaser-wolf @lucyysthings @agenteliix @the-good-shittt @s1st3r @buddee @cosmic-persephone @imalovernotahater
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dangans-ur-ronpas · 11 months ago
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Chapter 2
Give it up for part twoooo
SEE HERE FOR GENERAL WARNINGS AND FIC SUMMARY
Some pre-chapter notes:
From what I know, very few blind people actually perceive their surroundings as complete darkness, and it's more common for people to still perceive changes in light.
For Byakuya, he has low vision, so he can see color and vague outlines, but finer details are more or less impossible. Get Gaussian blurred, idiot.
I'll include content warning tags before each chapter but if I miss anything please let me know.
Content warning tags: mild ableist language (from Byakuya towards himself). Let me know if I need more
< previous - from start - next >
'A killing game!'
The irritating voice of that teddy bear principal is still ringing in Byakuya's head, in time to a sickening, dizzying migraine as he navigates the hall, looking for his room. He grits his teeth with it, feeling fury, disgust, and unease prickling along his skin.
It hadn't even been that long since he was subjected to his family's own inheritance battle, and here he was again in another high-stakes game. With a disability, no less, though Monokuma hadn't mentioned anything about it during his whole spiel about 'graduating' and such. It was entirely possible that Monokuma hadn't planned for it, or else, wasn't responsible for it happening - the bear's personality didn't strike him as someone to be polite enough about someone else's misfortune to not make a show out of it, and Byakuya was sure that if this was part of the game, than everyone else would have some kind of impairment as well, though no one had mentioned such a thing at all.
It was fine. Or, it should be fine; after all, he was Byakuya Togami, the sole heir and savior of the Togami name. He’s survived worse situations. He was the only one out of his father's 16 children to prove themselves worthy, and it was by virtue of his own superior blood and talent, and there was a time where there was nothing in this world that he couldn't conquer.
But now...
He makes it to the end of the hallway and stops, exhaling slowly to calm himself. It was no good. Walking at a normal distance away from the signs made it hard for him to make out who the little pixel icons were supposed to be, much less read the names written on each of the plaques, and the fuzz of pain in his head was blurring his vision even more. He bites his tongue and turns around again. At this point, it was supposed to be nearing the ten PM mandate, so hopefully everyone should be in their rooms, and wouldn't bear witness to his pathetic wandering.
As he turns the corner, he nearly collides with a small shape. As it is, his clumsy attempt to sidestep the incoming figure leads to him stumbling slightly against the wall, and a hand reaches out to catch him by the elbow.
"Hey, are you okay?!" Makoto Naegi. Byakuya bites his tongue on a curse; this was the last person he wanted to run into. "I'm sorry, I was just trying to figure out where everything was, I didn't get a chance to earlier, because, of, you know..."
Byakuya did know, in fact. Earlier, when tensions had been at their peak in the gymnasium, it would have been wiser to stand back and listen as they tried to decide what to do next, but he had been uneasy. He tried to rationalize with himself that the snide comments and casual insults he threw were simply a means to establish himself as what he was in the eyes of others; capable and above all their concerns, and certainly not worried in any way himself.
As a result, he'd provoked Owada, with some snub that he didn’t even remember - something about plankton? Arguably not the best he could have come up with in the heat of the moment. - and Naegi, trying to diffuse the situation, had gotten smacked, and knocked out cold. As Owada took responsibility for his mindless violence and took Naegi to his room, it was decided that everyone should be accompanied by at least one person, at least, with the reasoning that no one would be stupid enough to try and go killing at this point anyways. Byakuya reluctantly agreed, and followed Asahina and Ogami.
Ordinarily, he might have insisted on moving alone, to try and discover anything regarding the mastermind responsible for their situation. But he felt too vulnerable as it was, and paranoid about what might happen if he was on his own again. It made most sense to try and stay by the side of the strongest person here, after all, and Ogami seemed too honor-bound to be intent on killing anyone and Asahina seemed too kind-hearted to begin with. Owada joined their group shortly after, though he had calmed down at this point, and both he and Byakuya pointedly ignored each other throughout the exploration.
Their search was rather fruitless, however. There was no way out, and no way in; windows were sealed by metal plates, doors and exits sealed by steel, and Byakuya suspected that even punching through a wall would be a pointless endeavor, given how the Academy was built to withstand even a bomb.
And this place was Hope's Peak Academy, or at least, a very faithful rendition of it. Kirigiri had gone off on her own and returned with a map, somehow, of the first floor, and it supposedly matched the layout of the original Hope's Peak Academy to a T, aside from the metal barriers. In any case, that meant that the mastermind had the wealth and resources to imprison them in a very secure place, with no hope of escape.
It was another bombshell on top of all the shocking news they had already received, but Byakuya found he could hardly be surprised about it. At this point, he was tired, and more frazzled than he ever had been in recent memory, and wanted nothing more to sleep. He glares at Naegi. "Let go of me."
Naegi does, dropping his arm like a hot pan and stepping backwards. "Um...what are you doing here?"
"None of your business." He snaps. He needed to avoid observant types, like Celeste and Kirigiri, and most importantly, like Naegi. The two girls seemed too smart and calculating, but that meant they weren't likely to reveal his secret yet if they already knew, not unless they had something to gain from him; he had no doubt that the Ultimate Gambler, at the very least, would try and blackmail him somehow before blabbing. Naegi, on the other hand, was also observant, but also stupid and hopelessly honest, and if Byakuya wasn't careful, the idiotic Ultimate Luckster would tell everyone about his affliction before he could do anything about it.
He straightens up, and starts walking again, trying to ignore the sound of Naegi's footsteps pattering after him. He needs to find his room, and quickly, and preferably without drawing the other boy's suspicion - but it was no good. The nameplates were still little more than black-and-white blurs, and he wasn't about to do something as demeaning as reaching out to feel the letters...
"Oh, hey! Your room is next to Mondo's!" Naegi chirps up, and Byakuya freezes. "You're the third door on this side. I'm diagonal from yours, but I'm only second from the hall entrance, so that's not as good..."
"What are you talking about?" In any other circumstance, it might have just been a meaningless comment from a meaningless person. But because it came from Naegi, it only served to set him further on edge. "And why are you following me?"
"I'm just...trying to get back to my room?" Naegi hurriedly explains. "I...my mom always said three was a lucky number, and your room is third from the entrance, so..."
But Byakuya doesn't relax. He thought Naegi stupid earlier, and he still clearly was, but apparently he was slyer than originally thought. This blunt and clumsy kindness was either a ploy to get his guard down, or else, a poorly-concealed attempt at misplaced pity. Either way was repulsive to him, and he cringed at the thought of needing to take handouts from a commoner brat.
"Go away. I'm sick of looking at you." He snarls, and in better circumstances, he would have a better comeback. But Naegi takes the hint and scurries off, bee-lining for his door; which, sure enough, was second from the hallway's entrance on the opposite side. Byakuya waits until his door is entirely closed, before turning to the room that the other boy had pointed out, tracing fingers over the nameplate.
Sure enough, there were the characters of his name, stamped neatly in the wood. He tries the handle and finds it unlocked, and as he enters, he sees the layout of a room - nothing extravagant, but everything seems clean and orderly. He runs his hands over the white sheets of the bed, and finds them soft and of decent quality.
His key is located on the small table in his room with his name engraved on the keychain. His bathroom door doesn't lock, but the amenities are all there. There's an unopened toolkit in the nightstand. His clothes were clean and folded away neatly in the drawers. Everything was as the others had said.
He settles onto the bed with a sigh, falling backwards. It'd been a long time since he felt so exhausted. That throbbing pain was still pounding at his temples, and he wonders if there were painkillers in the school somewhere. He'd have to go looking for them later, somehow...
But he doesn't spend long pondering that, before the room flickers to darkness, and he falls asleep.
Once he managed to get a sense of where everything was, it became much easier to conceal his impairment from the others.
It all came down to a matter of confidence, purposeful movements and good timing, things that already came naturally to him. The good etiquette practices of his upbringing helped too, as during the mealtimes he was always careful where he set down his utensils or his cup, so he was never fumbling around for them. After a few laps around the school in the solitude of the early morning, he became familiar with the locations of the first floor facilities and could locate them by memory. When it came to finer details, like laundry, he carefully made sure so as to be in the room at the same time as Ishimaru, whose moral code would keep him from being a real danger, and whose habit of moving like a exaggerated robot made it easy for Byakuya to figure out how to do the laundry himself, though he ended up ruining a few of his shirts until he got it right. Even Monokuma proved to be a help, making timely announcements in the morning and the evening, which saved Byakuya from needing to rely on reading a clock.
There were some things he couldn't overcome, however. For one, pretending to be normal was exhausting, and keeping his eyes open for long periods of time, trying to focus on all these vague, wiggly outlines without obviously squinting often led to pulsing, insistent headaches that made him feel lightheaded and ill, and he would often collapse into bed as soon as he reached his room, exhausted. Furthermore, his E-handbook proved to be a nightmare to try and navigate. The words and icons were indiscernible to him, and he couldn't even begin to try and find the settings to increase the display size. If he held it close to his face and squinted, he might make out some vague shapes that could be puzzled into the letters of his name, but all-in-all it was impossible. He spent a good portion of his second night struggling over it before he finally gave up and tossed the thing onto his nightstand, frustrated with it and himself.
But it was fine even with these hindrances. Ishimaru's insistence on morning meetings included a thorough read-through of any new changes made through the handbook, which saved Byakuya from having to puzzle over it himself, and most new events were also announced by Monokuma, who was quite thorough in ensuring that no one could make a claim to ignorance when it came to new developments.
It was through one of these announcements, that they learned of the first motive.
Byakuya does not approach the box of discs in the A/V room.
Everyone else had already grabbed theirs and was watching their assigned videos. And already, their previous optimism was falling apart, and giving away to despair. He could hear cries of disbelief and outrage, amidst the quiet murmur of the videos' narration, and could make out the way their forms hunched over in grief, or jerked stiff in shock. At this point, his would be the last one in the box, so he wouldn't need to sort through it - but he had a feeling he knew what he might see.
He couldn't imagine it'd be anyone in his family. His mother was long gone, and his father was as distant to him as a statue; something to be respected, certainly, but not to be loved. That had always been their relationship, and even if he saw that man dead, he doubted he'd feel much more than a brief blip of surprise, and a passing acknowledgement of the transference of his titles.
But he doubted Monokuma didn't know that, and probably chose video subjects with the intention to shock and dismay. If Byakuya had to guess, the subject of his video would be his butler, Pennyworth, and probably the only person he had ever really cared about for a long time; but even if he watched the video, it wouldn't do much for him. Togami servants were expendable, and no matter how much affection he had for the old man, he knew that Pennyworth could never be an exception to the rule.
He only half-listens to Enoshima's attempts at getting everyone to calm down and talk, before a blur of dark blue and white clips him on the shoulder, speeding past him for the door. Sayaka Maizono, the pop star, had just about bowled him over in an attempt to escape the room, and he catches himself with a grunt, bracing an arm against the wall.
"Whoa, are you okay?" Asks someone, Hagakure, and Byakuya scowls and smacks away the hand that goes to help him up. 
“I’m fine.” He spits. Of course, lesser people would be affected by such pathetic attempts at riling them up, and it wasn't surprising that Maizono was one of them, considering her position. People that deep in the entertainment industry always had something big to lose.
"Byakuya, what was your video about?" Asks someone else, and he clenches his teeth. He wants to get out of here, and from what he could tell, a good few others have already left. But he needs to get rid of his own DVD first - even if he had no plans on watching the thing, he had no intentions of letting anyone else do so, and possibly gaining any kind of leverage over him, no matter how small.
"Who knows." He replies curtly. He heads for the box, and sure enough, there's only one video remaining. He picks it up and turns on his heel.
"Where are you going?"
"Where else?" He pauses at the door, one hand on the handle as he glances over his shoulder. "To burn it."
He doesn't burn it, in the end. He considers it, but then realizes he actually wasn't sure how to work the incinerator, and wouldn't be able to read the instructions anyways. Instead, he tosses it at the trash can in his room, and he sits down heavily on his bed, fatigue lapping at his limbs.
It was too good to hope that everyone would be able to keep it together after this. Despite the optimism, tensions had been running high, and now there was no way someone wasn't going to snap. Byakuya could only hope he wouldn't be in the vicinity when it happened.
Who could he stick next to now? Previously, he had opted to spend his time either in his room, or when the boredom had become too overwhelming, in the company of at least one of the others. His list of 'safe' individuals included Asahina, Ogami, Fujisaki, Ishimaru, Hakagure, and Yamada, and as annoying and frivolous as they were, they were at least either too principled or too stupid to be threatening, and could make for some decently amusing entertainment. He usually spent his time sitting silently in the same room as them, with a book or a magazine open in his hands as they talked and blathered on about whatever concerned them.
Now, however, his safety with them was compromised. As usual, the only one he could rely on was himself.
Except he wasn't reliable anymore either. Without his eyes, he could no longer be certain of anything. He couldn't even read, and that fact frustrated him to no end. He presses the balls of his palms to his closed eyelids, feeling the warmth of the pressure bloom in his skull.
What am I going to do?
He couldn't remember the last time he felt so unsure about anything.
These thoughts turn over and over in his head, as he considers every possible course of action, mostly finding only dead-ends. If only he could lock himself in his room forever - but that was a coward’s choice, and a shameful one to take. If only he could know what everyone else's motive was, it would help him gauge their threat level - but no, that would mean having to get close enough to them in the first place to get an honest answer, and that might end up revealing his sorry state. If only he could see - but of course, that was impossible, and just wishful thinking rather than anything helpful.
It was circles within circles, and his head was beginning to throb again…
He must have fallen asleep, because when he wakes up, it's to a tinny ding-dong ringing from the speakers in his room.
Disoriented, he half-thinks it's Monokuma's nighttime announcement. But no, it didn't sound quite right, surely he hadn't been asleep for that long? And then it happens again, and it finally clicks together. The doorbell.
He's on his feet in an instant, pulse rocketing. Has it already started? Was someone here for his life?
No...it's too soon, he reasons with himself. No matter how desperate someone might be, it had been clearly stated that the killing needed to happen discreetly, so that a class trial could occur. To try and attempt a murder so soon after the revealing of the motive was too careless, too obvious; and there was no way he could have been targeted as that easy a victim already. Not when he'd been so careful.
But even so...
He opens his nightstand drawer and fumbles for the toolkit, ripping it open with clumsy fingers and retrieving a thin screwdriver that he grips tightly in his right hand. It probably wouldn't do much good against an athletic person like Ogami or Owada, but it was a reassuring thing to have, and he feels the ridges of the handle digging into his palm as he reaches for the doorknob.
The doorbell is chiming again just as he rips the door open, screwdriver half-raised in warning, and the figure who had been standing there yelps and falls backwards. It doesn't take long for Byakuya to recognize that annoying voice, or the ugly green-brown mush of his clothing.
"You." He says stiffly, and the cowering shape of Makoto Naegi flinches on the floor in front of him. He lets the hand holding the screwdriver drop to his side, though his grip remains firm. "What do you want?"
It's a redundant question. He suspects that he knows what Naegi plans to ask, being the nosy, deceitful peasant that he was. Naegi was the type to go around, check on how everyone was doing, ask politely what their videos were about, with seemingly nothing but good intentions and complete honesty. He would try to offer support and encouragement, all while trying to know more, weaseling them for information for the sake of his own curiosity and use; Byakuya hated people like him the most.
"I...I just wanted to check in on you?" His voice is nervous, a little squeaky, and he clears his throat. "You didn't come for dinner."
Was that right? He lifts his wrist on habit, about to check his watch, before remembering he wasn't even wearing it. There wasn't any point when he couldn't even use it anymore. "Don't tell me you're all still having dinner together after all that," He laughs back, voice cold and unamused. "Are you really that stupid?"
There's no response for a moment. "N-no, we didn't. Just about everyone ate back in their own rooms. But I didn't see you go to get food, and neither did anyone else."
"So? What does that matter to you?"
"I'm just worried," There's a stern sort of gentleness in his voice now, and one that throws Byakuya off much more than it should. "Ishimaru said that even if we were shaken up now, we should eat something tonight so we can be strong for tomorrow morning...and, um, we should do our best to get through this together."
"'Together?'" Byakuya repeats, disbelievingly. "Are you even hearing yourself? We're supposed to kill each other." He huffs another mirthless laugh. "I can't tell if you're actually that stupid or just insane."
"I know, I know, but still. That's no excuse to not eat." Naegi shuffles to his feet. He stands nearly half-a-head below Byakuya's eye level, but his back is straight and resolute. It strikes Byakuya then, that he must be determined, because there was no way he missed the screwdriver in Byakuya's hand, or the threatening undertone of his voice, and yet. Here he was, still with the gall to stand in front of him. "Hifumi and Enoshima made ramen soup, but if you don't want it, there's also a lot of packaged foods if you want to prepare something yourself. At the very least, you should get something and bring it back to your room."
"I don't need-" He starts to say, but at that moment his stomach takes the opportunity to gurgle audibly. He feels his face heating, and he scowls. He hadn't eaten since breakfast, given Monokuma’s decision to reveal the motives just before lunch. "Don't look at me like that."
"Like what?" Naegi's face might just be a hazy blot hovering in front of him, but he catches on the slight tinge of amusement in his voice. "Come on. I'll walk with you to the cafeteria."
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rennybu · 1 year ago
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Hiii Andy! I've adore your art for years and your characters. Their designs are so lovely!! And expressive!! I was wondering if you had any tips for a cohesive character design? Or even advice on adding little asymmetrical details or features? And help is greatly appreciated! Thanks! Wishing you all the best!
HELLOO!!! AAAH Thank you so much for such a thoughtful question, this makes me so happy to hear! I'm so sorry it took me so long to get back to you, it turns out I have way too many things to say about this topic AKLSDHFKLSDG
(pls take this readmore<3)
For the starting point in a design, I try to stick to whatever rules apply for the setting the character is in, and their role in that setting.
Basic colour theory is always at the back of my mind, as well. I tend to use analogous and complementary colours when I design my characters and their closets. Analogous colours keep a palette contained and feeling similar to itself without being monotone. And then using colours that are complementary to that elsewhere in the design adds contrast while still maintaining that feeling of cohesion :D
The intended use of the character also heavily affects what can make a design cohesive or not - it's very dependent on art style and medium. (A design for use in animation would be extremely different from semi-realistic TTRPG concept art. The rest of what I've written skews more towards the second option!)
I consider the colours, shapes and materials that make sense for what I want to convey about the world, and how the character would want to be presented in it. The Dogwood characters are my current exercise; Mel's clothes fit him perfectly since he works a labor intensive job on the farm, and his identity is wrapped up in it so he never strays far from heavy cotton, straight cut. Ryan and Park both wear ill-fitting clothes in completely different ways (Ryan, butchly. Park, autistic and transly) - and they each have work uniforms. Ryan's work uniform suits her gnc appearance (welding coveralls/safety gear), while Park's uniform completely transforms him into "Just Some Guy" and that changes how others read him, too (cashier). And they all shop at Local Thrift Store / Farmer's Surplus / The Walmart 1hr Outside of Town. Their styles give them each a distinct silhouette, and their levels of social comfort as well as public expression contribute to body language, colour choices, and shapes that make them stand apart from each other despite living in the same small bubble. COHESION!
Asymmetrical details and features are my FAAAAV THEY ARE SO FUN, I find inspiration for these in people-watching, nature documentaries, architecture, my reflection, my friends.. <333 This part is also fun to tie in to the character's setting! Springboard questions like. Are they prone to injuries? Magical injuries? Do they have like, modern dental procedures available? Do they give a shit about crooked or crowded teeth? Are they missing a tooth, or did they chip one? Do they smile a lot and have crow's feet/other wrinkles? Do they get a lot of sun, and do they have/use sunscreen? (Even finer wrinkles.) Did they have acne as a teen? Do they still? Are they in a combat-heavy setting, with the scars to show it? Even more uniform features like freckles aren't symmetrical.
Clothing is really good to use to play with asymmetry - maybe the character rolls their cuffs but one is coming undone a little. Jewelry of all types is also great for asymmetry since it can go anywhere on the body!! Facial and other physical deformities or injuries are also incredible to see, and should be researched to find out if they impact other parts of a person's overall health and mobility outright. The different skin texture of a birthmark, for example! I noticed in certain photographs, the subject's red birthmark changed the texture of the skin, so I started drawing Orson with one drooping eyelid on the side affected by his birthmark. The more you look, the more you find!
Before I get too carried away. I try to use asymmetrical details and features as a way to boost that "world setting" cohesion, and to bring attention to parts of the character I am personally endeared by or want other people to notice. Mahon's snaggletooth is an eternal fav, which made me draw him smiling more, which made me more prone to drawing lines around his eyes. And since the anchor is in his left hand, and he tries to hide it subconsciously, I put thumb-holes in his left sleeves, which he plucks through as a nervous fidget, and as a result, his clothes pull a little across his entire body :D ITS VERY FUN to find the right jumping-off point that lets specific details click into place. For Mahon especially, since so many of those details are derived from the setting and his role in it!
Asymmetry and symmetry are just tools at ur disposal. Asymmetry tends to be more comfortable and natural. Symmetry gives a sense of stability and can be pushed for a sense of power, a sense of being uncanny, rigid, etc. Asymmetry can also be pushed into uncaniness depending on what it's applied to!! (But as a matter of personal taste, I find asymmetrical details to feel more natural and inviting than perfectly symmetrical ones. Which. Again. Depending on the character's purpose, could equally contribute to a cohesive design!!!)
OMG ok my final thought. Asymmetry can also be used as a balancing tool which yet again lends to a sense of cohesion. Adding a detail on the left while leaving it out on the right, repeated throughout with different details where applicable. Loam's colour spots, archery gear, scars and jewelry are all areas I've played with this idea.
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hollygl125 · 7 months ago
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yo umm i was wondering and couldn't find on google so i think you could help me
the shifts in csi (like day shift, graveyard shift etc) are around which times?
Hello, lovely anon,
First of all, my sincere apologies for not having responded to your query in a timely (or, you know, remotely helpful) manner. Not as an excuse, but as an attempt at an explanation, I will tell you that I have been kind of a disaster person lately (much more so than indicated in the linked post, and even much more so this past fall than now) and don’t always have a ton of control over where my mind chooses to focus.
I should also acknowledge that, while I carried out my fall 2021 CSI rewatch (when I didn’t realize I was subsequently going to care about any of these details) with sort of rapt attention, in my (yes, many) subsequent rewatches I have often skipped scenes or storylines that don’t really interest me (e.g., where neither Sara Sidle nor Gil Grissom is anywhere to be found), and I am almost always doing two or three things at once while watching. So it’s certainly more than possible I have missed some non-GSR details in there.
In response to your question, the two things I can tell you with certainty are these:
The CSIs of CSI have three shifts: day shift, swing shift, and night/graveyard shift (this last being what the lead characters of CSI are generally working). Logic would dictate that, with three shifts and 24 hours in a day, the shifts most likely start (and end) eight hours apart. (I will not, however, state that logic necessarily dictates that the shifts each be eight hours, and I will discuss that more below.)
At the end of “Mea Culpa” (05x09), after Warrick, Nick, and Catherine are transferred from night/graveyard shift to swing shift, Warrick tells Grissom, “Well, I got to get some rest. Swing shift starts at four in the afternoon. That’s a big change.”
Based on the above (and what I will discuss below), the best answer I can give is that the shifts should start at the following times (and end approximately, though not necessarily exactly, eight hours later):
Day shift: 8:00 a.m.
Swing shift: 4:00 p.m.
Night/graveyard shift: 12:00 a.m. (midnight).
(I will also note some contradictory information below the cut, although I don’t know the source of that information.)
But the other thing I will note (and for which I will give some possibly excessive examples below the cut) is that CSI does a pretty terrible job of keeping track of these kind of workplace logistics. You might have thought the writers and showrunners of what was for a time the most popular scripted TV show in the world (or something like that) would have added a few notes to their show bible about workplace logistics (shift times, scheduling, etc.) but . . . nope, not in any way that is apparent to me! (I find wanting to write a story that is compatible with the internal logic of the show and finding there really is no internal logic of the show to be terribly frustrating.)
Shift times:
Okay, to be honest, the first place I looked for an answer to your query was in @addictedtostorytelling’s wonderful meta, both because she is an expert in (among many other things!) these finer details (e.g., dates on documents shown in the show) and because I was pretty sure I had seen a post from her that addressed shift times.
The only post I could find on the topic was this one, in which the asker states that “we know there are 3 csi shifts: day (7am to 3pm), swing (3pm to 11pm) and night (11pm to 7am).” I don’t know the source of information for that statement. (If anyone else knows, I’d be most grateful if you shared in the comments, so I can update this post!) Honestly, it’s more than possible that CSI has given contradictory information on this subject. But the one place I personally know of a shift start time being given in the show is in Warrick’s statement quoted above.
I also did a general google search on shift times (not specific to CSI or even real-world CSI-type employees). The most common answers I saw were days = 8:00 (or 7:00) a.m. to 4:00 (or 3:00) p.m., swing = 4:00 (or 3:00) p.m. to 12:00 a.m. (or 11:00 p.m.), night/graveyard = 12:00 a.m. (or 11:00 p.m.) to 8:00 (or 7:00) a.m.
In this post on Talk CSI, you can see people trying to answer your question way back in 2006, when the show was airing. One board member there noted that their (forensic, as I understand it) agency had three ten-hour shifts (with two hours of overlap at each end). Another noted that, where they worked (also apparently in the forensic context), the shifts were “12:30 to 8:30, 8:30 to 4:30 and 4:30 to 12:30 working 8 hour shifts.” @figsr kindly advised me that in her (non-forensic) experience shifts would have a half-hour overlap for handover.
I have no personal experience with this, but to me also just logically it would make sense for these shifts to have some sort of overlap for handover—so that, e.g., one team can be dealing with their beginning of shift housekeeping (shifts, assignments, memos from upper management, etc.) while the other is still primarily responsible for calls to the field.
Anyway, based on the above, I can’t give a conclusion on exactly how long the shifts are/when they end. But, as for when the shifts start, my best answer is as given at the top.
The other thing I should probably note here is that the CSIs of CSI do not stop working just because their shifts have ended; when they are in the middle of something that needs to be addressed in a timely manner, they tend to keep going, and they seem to work a lot of double shifts. They also apparently help out other shifts sometimes when necessary. (You’ll note that we see them working during the day a lot, but I don’t know how much of that can be attributed to the issue I discuss below.)
Shift times + scheduling + lack of internal logic (i.e., WTF, CSI?!):
As @addictedtostorytelling discusses in the meta I linked above (which I highly recommend reading, if you’re interested in this topic!), CSI doesn’t make much effort to depict the characters’ work schedules in any sort of realistic way, and drawing inferences about the logistics of the their work schedules is kind of a crapshoot.
Here are a few examples of CSI seeming to ignore its own shift times:
In 01x10, Sara’s asleep with her head on the table in the break room. It’s daylight (looks like morning). She wakes up as the kettle starts whistling. Grissom asks, “Did you sleep here?” Sara responds, “I was working till 4:00 a.m.” —> 4:00 a.m. should be their lunch time. None of this makes any sense.
In 07x08, Sara spends her day waiting to testify in court; they never get to her. Afterwards she goes to talk to Grissom in his office; based on the foregoing it must be late afternoon (maybe around 4:30-5:00 p.m.). Grissom has been working on that episode’s case and must have been on shift since at least the night before. He’s now sitting there reading Thoreau, and she tells him, “I won’t wait up.” —> I know he’s traditionally been a workaholic, and maybe they both have the night off, but it always strikes me as odd (and maybe a bit irresponsible?) that he’s still not heading home, given how long he must have been up and the fact that their usual shift time is in probably close to seven hours (and I always imagine him, as supervisor, arriving early).
At the end of 07x18, the TV reporter says that the suspect confessed earlier that day to the murders of the six showgirls. (The TV newscast is supposedly live, and it’s dark outside where the reporter is. He also states, “The families have organized a candlelight vigil that will begin here tonight.”) Grissom brushes a tear off Sara’s cheek then walks her out of the lab with his arm around her/hand on her back. The hallway has dim lighting and is empty aside from someone (not Natalie Davis!) mopping the floors. It’s giving very “end of the day so the lab’s deserted” vibes. —> But it’s literally never the end of the day there! They work the night shift, and the lab is always humming!
Similarly, in CSIV 1x05, Sara and then Grissom as well (“the matched set”) run into their suspect (Martin Kline) while leaving what is very specifically (i.e., with several establishing shots) shown to be a dark and empty lab. (Like, it’s clearly supposed to feel creepy when Kline first confronts Sara and she’s all alone.) —> But, again, the original CSI showed us that place was never dark and empty! It was always humming!
In 08x01, the security guard at the parking lot from which Sara was abducted says that Sara “eats at the veggie place downstairs a couple times a week.” When Catherine asks when she was there that night, he says, “I don’t know, like 7:30, maybe. That’s when she usually comes.” —> Sara eating at 7:30 p.m. is like someone who works a 9-5 job eating at about 4:30 a.m. (I also feel like their working hours are so erratic that, if she were able to pull off anything regular a couple times per week, it would be something regular she could do with Grissom—like maybe sitting down to a nice relaxed home-cooked rather than take-out meal twice per week.)
Shift times aren’t the only issue, though.
In 02x15, for example, Sara’s “Request for Leave of Absence” form states that her work week is “Tue - Sat grave.” Now, I don’t pay much heed to the CSI props department. (They did give us these nonsensical ID cards, after all.) But this would make a lot of sense to me—the CSIs all having a staggered work week, with two regular, consecutive scheduled days off each. Only . . . we don’t ever really see anything like that?
At the end of 03x22, Sara notes that the schedule says Grissom has the night off, and, when he confirms, she then adds, “Me, too.” It certainly doesn’t sound like this is a regular (weekly) occurrence. But in truth I can’t remember ever actually seeing two of our CSIs have the night off together. We almost never see them having a night off at all. Even in 03x03, when we are told Sara had the night off, it’s in the context of Grissom having called her in to work.
(I think there are a very small number of examples of one of the CSIs actually having a night off—e.g., in 03x09, Catherine has a couple days off but stops by the lab to pick something up for Lindsey’s birthday.)
Admittedly, I get this one, because of course the showrunners want for the most part for the whole cast (especially its major players, the CSIs) to be onscreen throughout every episode. So the subject of days off would have to be fudged. But it strikes me as funny that, in 04x12, when Nick is absent for the entire episode, they don’t take the opportunity to show someone having their regular days off; instead, Sara tells us he’s at the “American Academy of Forensic Science convention” (even though it’s about a month early for the AAFS conference).
Another matter that makes no logistical sense to me is the staffing changes that go on during and immediately after season 05.
In the pilot, the graveyard shift is five CSIs (including Holly Gribbs) plus Brass, who presumably does a lot of paperwork. Then Sara takes Holly’s spot and Brass is transferred out, so it’s just five very qualified CSIs (and no wonder Grissom is always behind on his paperwork, with Brass gone).
By season 5, graveyard shift is up to five and a half CSIs, basically, with Greg’s inclusion as a CSI-in-training. Then Ecklie decides to mix things up (i.e., punish Grissom and his pals), and he splits them into two shifts, adding only Sofia (to the graveyard shift). So then graveyard has three and a half CSIs (four once Greg makes CSI I), and swing shift has three CSIs. In 05x11, Ecklie acknowledges swing shift is short a couple bodies and blames budget constraints. But, if swing shift is short a couple bodies, graveyard shift must be short a body, too, even once Greg makes CSI I. How can budget constraints suddenly necessitate them being down that many bodies—especially when by season six Ecklie can somehow justify letting them now have six full CSIs on graveyard shift? Also, we know the swing shift supervisor was transferred to days to replace Ecklie, but what happened to the rest of the previous swing shift?
Now, my petty headcanon would be that the entire day shift save for Sofia quits when Ecklie gets promoted because the thought of him as assistant lab director is unbearable to them, as a result of which he moves the entire swing shift to days and pretends the staff shortages are due to budget cuts. But I find it kind of funny (again!) that, during the fifth season, when CSI really was on top of the world (e.g., ratings, cast winning the SAG award, Tarantino directing “Grave Danger”), the showrunners couldn’t at least have found a couple warm bodies to show up occasionally to round out the swing shift (even if Ecklie was punishing Grissom and his shift by leaving the graveyard shift understaffed). (In 05x16, Catherine is shown talking to three randoms in “forensics” coveralls, one of whom calls her “boss,” but no explanation is given as to who they are, and I think that’s the most we ever see in that regard.)
Anyway, thank you so much for your question, and my apologies for rambling with some of my CSI logistics grievances. My best answer to your question is as given at the top. If you should have another question, please feel free to send it my way—barring any acts of God, etc. (unforeseeable future events), I will most almost certainly be able to manage a more prompt response!
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yes-i-am-happyaspie · 2 years ago
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New Mini-Fic!!
Just a lil something that popped into my head the other day. Special thanks to spideysensible (on AO3) for helping me with some of the finer details.
At 717 words, here's a slightly different take on Tony asking Peter to stop calling him 'Mr. Stark.'
Enjoy!
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Tony has been trying to get Peter to call him ‘Tony’ instead of ‘Mr. Stark’ for months. The refusal started as something akin to a game, a bit, something of a joke between them. But the longer it went on, the more bothered he became by it. Eventually, he decided he was going to have to sit Peter down to talk about it. 
“Pete, please. How many times do I have to ask you to call me Tony?” Tony questioned as the two of them worked side by side on the newest iteration of the spider-suit.
“Once more, as always, Mr. Stark,” Peter cheekily replied.
Rather than laugh as usual at the obvious banter, Tony grew contemplative. He understood that amongst the teasing, he’d never made it clear that he was serious. There was a small part of him that was worried he’d let the joke go on for too long. But he wanted to adress it. And after some thought, he decided that initiating that conversation sooner rather than later would probably be best “Hey, kid?” he questioned, already making his way toward the small break area. “Come sit with me for a minute. We need to talk.” He could sense Peter’s unease and smile reassuringly. 
Even so, Peter looked nervous as he crossed the room towards the couch.
“I know we’ve been making light of it- you calling me Mr. Stark. But I wanted you to know that it actually bothers me when you call me that. Mr. Stark is how colleagues, coworkers, reporters, and random strangers address me. But I know you; you’re practically my kid. And because of that, you calling me Mr. Stark makes me feel kind of uncomfortable,” he said. He sighed and ran a hand down his face before reluctantly admitting, “That and, well, it reminds me of my dad.”
Peter bowed his head. Tony placed a hand on his shoulder to reassure him. “You’re fine, Bud. This is on me. I should have said something a long time ago,” he said.
When he was sure Peter had relaxed, he began to explain. “With my friends,” he said, then paused and tilted his head. “With my family- Tony is my preferred name. I would really appreciate it if you could try to call me Tony.”
Peter nodded his head a bit at his lip. “I mean, I can totally work on that but-” he said hesitantly began. “But I’m probably going to mess up a lot. It’s just that my Aunt May- and my Uncle Ben when he was here- they taught me that it wasn’t good manners to call an adult by just their first name. They said that calling them mister or misses was a sign of respect and I just really want to show you that respect Mr. Uh- Tony.”
“Would it help if I told you that using my preferred name, is being respectful?” Tony suggested.
Peter nodded his head. “I know that. I do. And I want to. It’s just that it’s a habit that’s been drilled into my head since I was a little kid. And I know that’s not an excuse! But just wanted you to understand why I might mess up.”
“I appreciate you sharing that with me, Bud,” Tony said, smiling softly. “And while we’re on the subject, is there anything you would prefer I did or didn’t call you?”
“Do I have to tell you why?” Peter asked, looking up through his lashes.
“Of course not. We’re setting boundaries here, and boundaries don’t require an explanation. Not unless you decide you want to give one.”
“Well, there’s this one nickname,” Peter whispered. “You’ve never used it! But since you asked, I, uh- I don’t like to be called Einstein. Like, at all.”
Tony was a little confused but flourished his hand in acceptance all the same. “Done, deal, Kiddo” he quipped. “I can handle that. Anything else?”
Peter promptly shook his head.
“Great. You let me know if that changes, though. Alright, Kiddo?” Tony requested, hoping to keep the door open for future conversations.
To his relief, Peter agreed. “Perfect,” he said, hIs words accompanied by a genuine smile. “Ready to get back to those suit upgrades?”
Peter smiled between Tony and the workspace, replying, “Yeah, Tony. We definitely should.”
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captain-hawks · 3 days ago
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hiyaaa pls regale us with more tidbits about vampire hoshina. i dislike the thought of any of your hoshina thoughts never seeing the light of day
thank u for asking my dear cheesy<3<3<3
so the finer details on this one are subject to change, because i'm back and forth on how i want it to pan out (and by pan out i mean that i'm incapable of writing porn without agonizing endlessly over every inane plot point leading up to it!!!)
but the premise is that hoshina is, of course, a vampire. because have you seen those lil teef! it's common knowledge that he's a vampire in this universe. supernatural beings are interspersed throughout society and the JAKDF. hoshina (established bf) is perhaps a little jealous that you have to go and spend some time training with the first division + their resident werewolf captain. like in a "hi darling. my beloved. so i randomly bought you this very pretty necklace right before your trip. oh? what? it's made of silver? oh no. no. i had no idea at all. no i absolutely didn't burn my hands wrapping it why would you say that" kind of way.
anyway, you think it's v cute that he thinks a silver necklace is going to keep narumi's shameless ass from flirting with you. so you suggest that perhaps maybe by chance he should finally just feed off of you for the first time instead :'''') (waving my hands in the air playing fast and loose with supernatural rules to established that feeding off of a human partner for vamps is = scenting for werewolves)
wip game
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dramionediscussion · 1 month ago
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what do you think of those characterizations of hermione where she victimizes herself? i don’t know if it’s the right word but for example, something happens in the tory where she sacrifices her well being, even her life, for draco or for others, sometimes i wonder to what point is it credible that hermione would sacrifice her life for someone else? because it bothers me that they create a plot of hermione’s suffering and then in the end things are fixed and all that she suffered (and me for reading it) is in vain because in the end she stays alive, and i guess it is the desired HEA, but honestly, after suffering so much with hermione’s decisions, I’d rather she stay dead or single without draco.
EDIT: 
In JKR’s own words:
Hermione does not "play the game" in refusing to sacrifice parts of herself as she grows from a girl to a woman.
So not realistic that he would sacrifice her life and wants and need and well being for others. She may make changes to ensure that she and the others are safe and perhaps at times put someone else first if needed, but I cannot see her doing this at the detriment of herself. 
I too get angry when she is portrayed this way. She does so much and no one notices and listens. And when she does say something, you get a half asses apology and a promise to do better, and all is well. I hate it. 
I was reading a fic a few days ago where Hermione refused to help Ron and Harry with their homework. They were trying to emotionally manipulate her but she stood her ground and they failed one subject but only Harry realized how important this test is and studied without Hermione’s help but Ron sulked and didn’t study so failed another. They finally came to their sense and apologized and Hermione immediately forgave them. Draco, Neville, Parvati and Luna pointed out to her that they were not real friends to her since the war ended and and all throughout their last year, giving her specific examples on how they were not there when she needed them, but she still forgave them easily. Because they are her best friends was her reasoning, but Draco pointed out, she was not theirs. The fic ended with a happy ending of course. Draco never brought up the topic again.
It comes across as OOC and I think because Hermione left school, and obliviated her parents, this gives her the personality of doing whatever for her friends. It’s sad that we do not know more of her right after the war, what happened with her parents, what she went through. In fact we don’t know much any of them at all. For all the “extras” that JKR “graced” us with after the books ended, you would think she would give us finer details about her three main characters.
-Lisa
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llondonfog · 2 years ago
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My diasomnia family Valentine's day headcanons 💚
Lilia presents his V-day gifts in the most frilly and gaudy heart-shaped boxes he can find. They sparkle in the sunlight and are covered in a bunch of cute little bat stickers he put on them. When his valentine opens the box, it's completely filled with Dark Matter. They pass out, the sound of his laughter echoing in their ears.
Sebek is only physically capabale of gifting people items that pertain to the young Lord, be it pocket sized photos of malleus, a self-made compilation of stories of malleus's greatest triumphs, or a one-use ticket that permits someone to directly look at malleus for five (5) seconds (the ticket idea was signed off by malleus).
Silver is incredibly thoughtful with his gifts. His father taught him all about how to be a proper prince and he really takes that to heart when it comes to gift giving. He'll pay close attention whenever he talks to his valentine and hone in on any mentions of things they like or desire. His gifts can sometimes turn out to be more practical than romantic (like giving his valentine a new coat because its been getting cold out and he remembered they mentioned not packing a thick enough one when they enrolled at school, rather than giving them chocolate or flowers), but anything he picks out always ends up being just what his valentine wanted.
Malleus presumes that others enjoy the same things he does - that being experiences rather than objects. He will invite his valentine to come visit some old ruins or abandoned locations with him, and he'll happily regale them about the history of the place and tell them all about the peoples who once lived there. He'll even use his teleporation magic and take them to go admire his favorite gargoyles with him. (Yes, he asks them to take photos of him and the gargoyles together).
incoherent blubbering noises about how wholesome these hcs are!!
Lilia — I LOVE THIS AND 100% AGREE!!! Somehow, I feel that Lilia gets more joy than he gives on Valentine's Day from his lovingly handcrafted gifts... He has to keep the youth reminded of the fact that fae can be so devilishly capricious, and irresistibly cute too!
Sebek — NOT THE HAND-WRITTEN AND HOME-STITCHED POCKET REFERENCE BOOK OF MALLEUS' GREATEST QUOTES, that has taken me out!! (Silver is staring at him in utter bewilderment as Sebek hands him his copy with smug exuberance and one slightly crumpled ticket as if the previous owner had a crisis of faith before handing it over to a certain sleepy human; as if your paltry gift of hair gel could even hold a candle to my offerings, Silver!)
Silver — Currently he's a bit miffed that Sebek didn't appreciate the effort that he went through to get him that hair gel; the poor boy was subjected to hours of the finer details of potion-making and hair care from Vil and Azul! BUT THIS IS SO SWEET, MY HEART? The fact that he'd try so hard to stay awake and pay attention to what his loved ones need to make their lives easier aaaaaa Lilia you can claim NO credit about how thoughtful and darling this boy is, we should just be thankful he wasn't ruined by your impudent nature.
Malleus — I WAS CACKLING; not prince malleus having zero social skills and a certain haughty demeanor to assume that looking at stone gargoyles for hours would be the perfect valentine's day experience NEVER CHANGE HIM!! He tried to take his family with him one time; Silver fell asleep on a gargoyle, Sebek was fretting over his every step lest he trip over exposed stone, and Lilia was more amused to see how many crows would land on Silver's shoulders before he woke up. Needless to say, it was only one time.
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talkingnerd · 2 years ago
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Highlights from Aka Akasaka interview with ANN
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What inspired the original idea of “reincarnated as your favorite idol's child”?
Aka Akasaka: During my debate with my assistant about ways to create manga, we were discussing ways to create a story based on “strong desire.” At that time, one of the assistants and I talked about wanting to be reincarnated as an idol's child. That is a famous joke in Japan, often tweeted as a set piece when news of an idol's marriage breaks. I wrote the idea down in my book of story ideas. A while later, I started to hear more and more grumbles and complaints about the entertainment industry through the live-action version of Kaguya-sama and new streamer friends of mine. I thought this was the right time to create a story about the entertainment industry, and I realized that I could utilize the idea I had back then.
How much of the story's overall plot did you have in mind when you started drawing the first chapter?
Aka Akasaka: For me, the plots of the first act and the final act were a set. Then I pondered what kind of events I wanted to add in between. I had the impression that Japanese entertainment manga in Japan often used dramas, movies, plays, variety shows, etc. as themes. Today, however, the entertainment industry has changed dramatically. Talents [entertainers who frequently appear on TV in Japan] can no longer ignore the internet, YouTube has become super popular, movies are watched with subtitles, plays are increasingly based on anime and manga, and there has been an instance of a suicide stemming from a reality show. Considering all those facts, I then decided to take a contemporary subject, something that is happening in the real world of Japanese entertainment today. That was the first concept.
To what extent do you (Aka Akasaka and Mengo Yokoyari) exchange ideas when developing the manga's plot?
Aka Akasaka: Mengo-sensei has made a hit with Scum's Wish, which isn't based on an existing story or a separate writer's script. She is capable of writing interesting manga without me. When I am stuck on a story, I often consult with Mengo-sensei. I go out to dinner with the editor and Mengo-sensei. We call these “prep meetings,” but we mainly just shoot the breeze. Basically, think of it as me having the flow of the story in my mind, and whenever I get stuck, I consult with someone.
How does working on Oshi no Ko compare to your previous manga?
Aka Akasaka: Fundamentally, I believe myself to be a writer in the vein of Oshi no Ko. The comedy style in Kaguya-sama is just a particular formula that originated from the editorial department's request. So, for me, that series is something made from that particular formula. However, I have also included Kaguya-sama-style comedy in the Oshi no Ko series to make it easier to read.
What is your process for designing new characters? Were there ever any disagreements on how a character should look?
Aka Akasaka: For the main characters, I draw a rough sketch and send it to a lady in charge of storyboards. However, at times Mengo-sensei draws an entire character even without me providing the finer details in writing. Sometimes, the process is more interactive, like I became fond of the character and increase the frequency with which they appear. I like that style of character creation. If there is a problem with the character design, we discuss it and change it. However, it was only once that we actually made a change. That was when I modeled a character off a real person, and the design looked too much like the person in question. Oshi no Ko uses pieces of real-life stories in its plots, but it is not a documentary, and it definitely does not intend to attack real people. I adapt events that could happen with the trends and rules of the current entertainment industry in the storylines. This work is fiction.
What kind of research did you do on the entertainment industries depicted in this manga?
Aka Akasaka: The lines of coverage of research for Oshi no Ko are very extensive. We go around hearing real stories and personal estimations from top talents, underground idols, people who work at TV stations, real producers, managers, editors of gossip magazines, YouTubers, scriptwriters, and many others. What is revealed in this process is a great deal about power balance and logic, and there are quite a few instances of dissatisfaction, like “A is taking B lightly, B is taking C lightly, and C is taking A lightly,” that are chalked up to specific circumstances and rules. Sometimes, I think that if they work with this understanding, the talents and the people around them can work without stress. I have heard that the entertainment industry in the U.S. and Japan are completely different. In the Japanese entertainment industry today, there is no union for talent and writers, there are no guarantees, auditions are disregarded in casting, opportunities are given based on the balance of power between companies, and basically, you can't go against the office manager…those sorts of things. And they continue to happen. If you, American readers, can enjoy reading Oshi no Ko with the knowledge of this unique Japanese situation, you may deepen your understanding of this story.
What inspired you to portray the idol world in such a dark and dramatic way for a fictional work?
Aka Akasaka: There was an instance of a cast member being attacked by a fan who saw a picture of the first news of a movie release. When that happened, the person came across as very tough, but after we became friends, they confessed that they were badly hurt emotionally. When I found that out, I realized that talents hide their true colors for the sake of their works and for their fans who are supporting them. With the spread of the internet, we live in a society where fans' voices are heard directly. I want people to know how young talents are being hurt, exploited, and suffering. I think that this work also asks the question of how people should deal with and treat those talents. I guess it is correct to say that when I wrote about reality, it naturally became darker.
full interview: https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/feature/2023-05-10/how-accurate-is-oshi-no-ko-about-the-japanese-entertainment-industry-an-interview-with-aka-akasaka/.197795
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rosebloodcat · 2 years ago
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I love Kid Transformation Stories. Those stories are always so cute and fluffy and make me feel happy (and it's always fun for the character info/interactions that show up). It's also usually one of those standard fanfic genres you'll find in pretty much every fandom.
So imagine my surprise that there really... Weren't that many in Moomins. I only found one, and it was for the parents getting turned into tots. (And absolutely adorable, btw.)
Of course, this meant my brain promptly started ruminating on its own idea for a Kid TF Fic for Snufkin. (Because I always bully the characters that I like. 😆 )
Basically, Skufkin has been coming down with a cold and is planning on disappearing for a few days to take care of it himself. It's just a little cold and there's no reason for him to bother everyone else with something that he can recover from by himself. (Never mind that the Moomins would never see him asking for help as a bother.) But, obviously, this doesn't go the way he wanted/expected.
Someone/thing magical runs across him on his way to pack up his camp (I've been using "fairy" but that's still subject to change), who views his plans as less "I am Independent and Capable of taking care of Myself" and more "I am a Stubborn Kid that doesn't want to be Babied." (Completely missing the worry about being a burden/bother that's in there as well.) So they decide that they need to show him that there's nothing wrong with getting babied if you're unwell.
They turn him into a little kid to help him "get the message". And leaves after sending up some sparks to make sure someone finds him. (After all, he can't get better without help right now and if no one finds him, it would defeat the purpose of the lesson. Wouldn't it?)
Moomin is the one who finds Snufkin and hurries him home to see if Moominmama can do something to change him back.
Kid shenanigans (and cold shenanigans) ensue.
(The spell has a built-in time limit. After x number of days once the cold is gone, he'll change back to normal. No potions or special medicine or special conditions that need to be met before then.)
Still debating the finer details of the change, like if Snufkin is still himself but dealing with being a little kid physically (and emotionally), or if he's been regressed totally and is just a confused baby until he changes back. But no matter what, I want Cute Baby Stuff happening.
(also, of it's the second one, the Moomins collectively decided that (due to the context clues they've gotten about Snufkin's childhood) they are going to Spoil Him Rotten until this is fixed.)
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uptoolateart · 2 years ago
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Elite Symbolism in MLB
So, @raspberrycatapult was talking to me about all the recurrent butterfly symbolism in MLB - and the fact that all the buses in the show are the number 33 route when there is no such route in Paris - and both of us had noticed the giant 33 behind Kagami in the art room in ‘Lies’. She was pointing out all the single eye imagery in the show, too, which I’ll get to later - among many other motifs.
It was a fascinating conversation that I shared with my husband, who then brought up MKUltra, which I’d heard plenty about but I never really took in the finer details and certainly hadn’t applied them to my beloved cartoon.
As soon as I was thinking on this track, a zillion other things leapt out at me. They are so obvious once you get going, and I’m going to share some of them here. I bet more pops out as I watch the show, from here on out, but this is a quick starter guide.
Caveat
I am not in any way trying to sell you on a belief. Feel free to think everything I discuss here is ‘just conspiracy theory’. My sole point is that a) the creators of Miraculous are at least aware of the theory and b) they have very purposely integrated it into the show in order to propel their story and give weight to the characters. When we examine all these elements that have been embedded into this ‘children’s cartoon’, we see just how dark Adrien’s story, in particular, really is.
Gabriel
Let’s start with Gabriel’s name. It has always stood out to me, because it’s one of the archangels and a definite name of power. This archangel also happens to be held in high esteem in Freemasonry and other similar organisations.
Gabriel’s brand is just a giant G. ‘Oh, it looks like Gucci!’ Yeah. That, and the G of Freemasonry.
And you know that enormous essay I wrote about the symbolism of Gabriel dressing all in white now?? I left out the Masonic uniform of white - like their white apron. Think of Gabriel in the kitchen making those banana pancakes, in that white apron...or how about how the gloves, which simply are Masonic regalia gloves. You can buy them on Amazon, even.
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This is without even getting into the recurrence of the number 33, as mentioned at the start of this post. @raspberrycatapult​ even pointed out that in the original animatic of ‘Stormy Weather’, the bus was number 34, but it got changed in the final animation. You have to ask why a detail like that matters...and then a quick google search will tell you there are 33 degrees / levels in Masonry. And why put that number all big behind Kagami in ‘Lies’? Because she’s a subjugate just like Adrien.
Now, let’s look at Gabriel’s office, where he stands at a dais-like podium on an elevated platform, with his ‘subjects’ on sunken in seats that look like pews in a church or temple. The whole floor is checkerboard. We could also get into the sun imagery on the doors, but...honestly, we could go into a whole bunch of things and I’m finding it hard to know where to stop before this post turns into a novel.
Here’s the image...and below it, a Masonic lodge, for comparison. The image has been tinted blue for effect, but in reality, the checkboard would always be black and white, to signify the balance between opposite energies. And um...isn’t that the whole idea behind kwami energies and yin-yang pairs?
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I also want to note that Gabriel is positioned in a way that gives the impression of him being at the centre of two pillars. There are literally thousands of books written on the western / hermetic magical concept of ‘the middle pillar’, being the balancing way between two extremes. It also comes up in eastern beliefs, e.g. Buddhism.
In hermeticism, this is connected to the practice of cabala and therefore the Tree of Life, a structure built into just about every important building and painting all over Europe, America, and more. No, really. Remember they are called Masons for a reason - it began with builders, and they integrated their spiritual concepts into their work.
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As a tarot enthusiast, this structure is also embedded into almost every single card in any traditional deck. It’s a subject I could spend a lot of time on, but let’s move on.
Eyes
Getting back to the single eye imagery in the show, @raspberrycatapult was pointing out, for example, the eyes on Emilie’s painting, and even pyramids in the design they took from the original inspiration.
I'm getting at this classic image of the Eye of Providence, of course:
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@raspberrycatapult pointed out Marinette’s single eye peeking through the box when she looked into the room where everyone was dancing in masks, in ‘Gabriel Agreste’.
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And like...we all agree that whole party was creepy as hell...right?? As soon as I saw it, I thought ‘rich weirdo cult!’ It was so obvious that Ms Tsurugi must be in on Gabriel’s plans. I was excited to see this proven in season 5. I’m still waiting to be proven right that the Bourgeois are in on it, too, at least to some degree. And come on. The Bourgeois?? It’s a reference to an entire class of society.
I then got to thinking: peacock feathers are known for looking like they have one eye. And whoever uses the peacock miraculous to transform ends up having one eye covered, in their costume, e.g. with a veil. And thinking of Ms Tsurugi again...she’s blind and then can see, when akumatised.
It also helps to remember that we’re all waiting for unveilings / unmaskings in this show, from all directions. We’re waiting for people to see the truth. Makes you think of the names of the first two episodes of Season 4....
Monarch
And now we get super dark.
MKUltra was an illegal CIA experiment begun in 1958 and supposedly concluded, although there are plenty of people who believe it continues to this day. Again - I’m not saying it does or doesn’t. I’m only stating that there is a definite record of it happening in the 1950s and that there are people out there who don’t think it stopped.
MKUltra was a series of experiments in human mind control, a summary of which can be read about here. There’s also this video from the BBC and a zillion other things. Be warned - this is a rabbit hole you can easily fall into for hours.
Very briefly: ‘In the early days of the Cold War, the CIA ordered the creation of a secret programme intended to find ways of mind control. They funded an army of psychiatric institutions across the United States and Canada to perform experiments on patients using psychedelic drugs, sensory deprivation, electroshock treatment and more.’
The point my husband made, which I was not aware of, was that part of MKUltra was something called ‘the Monarch Project’. Again, a mind control and subjugation experiment.
Now, without stating the obvious, let’s think about things like the akumas. Adrien and those rings. Sentimonsters. Every single thing Gabriel does, in or out of costume, is a form of mind control, and he has programmed it into Adrien via his home and even the clothes he wears. This is what gets Marinette thinking perhaps Gabriel is the villain. Adrien doesn’t want to believe it because he wants to trust. Everyone wants to trust the adults / authority figures in their lives. But for the heroes of Miraculous, this trust will be broken.
I’m also brought back to ‘Mega Leech’, when the miniature copies of Mayor Bourgeois crawled into people’s heads and controlled what they said. It has always stuck out at me as allegory for brainwashing - grooming people so much that you get them to preach your propaganda for you. This is what Gabriel does with all his victims, too. He’s not the one out there, doing the damage. He gets in other people’s heads and has them do it for him.
We’ve also seen other instances of this with villains like Despair Bear and Puppeteer. This is...a subject that could take up thousands of words. You get what I’m saying.
Adrien / Cat Noir
If you look into this stuff, you come across a lot of detail about something called ‘the beta kitten’, which is a form of sexual programming. In fact, it literally involves grooming someone into having a ‘cat alter’.
Honestly...you could read so much about it and all the ways it gets applied to celebrities such as Britney Spears. Don’t even get me started on the Britney thing. If that kind of thing can happen in the 21st century, we really need to re-think how ‘far we’ve come’.
Anyway. Part of this involves a lot of repeating imagery and symbols, the way hypnosis and neuro-linguistic programming work. Symbols that appear in tons of promotional photographs, music videos, etc. Symbols like...collars and bells, mirrors and reflections.
Again, I’m not selling you the theory - you’re free to make up your own mind about it. But I’ve said so many times that Cat Noir is fully decked out in bondage gear, right down to his collar and bell. And this is for a reason - he is in bondage. He is enslaved.
I also said in a previous post that Kagami’s name is Japanese for ‘mirror’. There’s all the doubling between Adrien and Felix, Chloe and Zoe, Adrien and his AI replica, each character and their superhero or supervillain alter(s), etc. Again...we could be here all day, listing examples.
What does it all mean??
That’s a good question! I’ll leave it to you to decide. At the very least, it means that Gabriel and his cronies have been designed to represent something darker than we usually discuss. They are authority figures who abuse their fame and power to the highest degree, bringing to mind all the news stories we keep hearing about, for instance, people in Hollywood being accused of years of sexual assault.
Adrien being a model...again, I just think of child stars like Britney Spears, who, like Adrien, was completely owned by her own father. He controlled everything she did, using her to make his millions and having her declared insane so he could continue to control her after she turned 18. Let’s not get into just how disgusting her story is. My heart bleeds for her and others like her, and I’ll leave it at that.
But it’s not all doom and gloom. Miraculous is all about breaking free of mind control and programming. Alya, Nino and Chloe all managed to reject the akumatisation. Marinette did it, too, with the help of Cat Noir. I suppose you could say that in most cases, love broke the spell. That’s what we need to hold onto.
There’s a lot about throwing off the masks and revealing the truth. Adrien’s definitely on his way to breaking free of the ring and overthrowing his father, which will be him overthrowing the mind control and being his own person.
So, I suppose you could take a positive message from all of this and say it speaks of hope. We live in a world where it’s hard to know who is selling us truth and who is selling lies - where we live our lives in public and are often on camera, from CCTV to selfies - where the Internet is teeming with ‘influencers’ and targeted advertising, and ‘smart’ devices really can track us and collect data the way the Alliance can. (The Alliance. Even that name...!)
But every one of us has the power to make up our own minds about things and be our own person. Every one of us has the power to throw off the collar and bell and simply be.
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