#fingers crossed i don't wanna jinx it

[picnokinesis]

In extremely exciting campervan au related news (and I apologise in advance because I won't be able to stop shutting up about this probably) but I am now three steps closer to campervan 13's leather jacket actually existing and I am UNSPEAKABLY hype

[violinist-rachel]

Howdy! This is Dynjir (mod) speaking!

First of all, a giant thank you to everyone who follows and keeps up with this blog! This is my first time ever making a blog like this and so far it's been so much fun!! I've been drawing CoN stuff for nearly 4 months straight now (which is still pretty nuts to me), but now, I'm afraid I'm reaching a limit!

Not only has my physical health not been great lately, there's some projects related to my career that I want to focus on, and I need to take some things off my plate until they're done.

Announcing a break like this will also help me mentally so that I don't feel a never-ending pressure to keep updating all the time. Even if the blog's just for fun, I am very task driven, and despite having enough content queued up for weeks on advance, I'll still feel like I have to constantly make/find more content to post. If I don't do this, I'll feel like I'm always on a timer that only ticks down @-@;;

So things will be quiet around here for a bit bc I won't be queueing anything either during the break (for the reason stated above). I also won't be giving out a time on when I'll be coming back, but hopefully, it won't be for too long (bc I still have ideas I wanna draw out)!

Thanks for keeping up with this blog! Until the next update, cya and take care!

[a-tiny-sloth]

cannot wait to get some energy+free time back soon bc i have important tumblr posts to make

[witchwhaat]

OMGOMGOMG

[intertexts]

gmmmmm btw :]]]]

[rosemarytales]

The Madrigals and Anxiety

so, I think it's not a controversial statement to say that anxiety runs in the family... what I find oddly cute is that a lot of nervous ticks or outbursts are very similar to those of other family members, but let's proceed with order.

Alma, Isabela

Alma had it hard. I think homegirl is the culprit, but she probably had an anxious gene in her before everything.

do we need to explain what her anxiety looks like? absolute perfectionism to the point of insanity so people won't turn on her, constantly making Bruno check the future for possible dangers, self-soothing behaviours (asking Pedro for help, wearing the mourning shawl), always needing to keep a watchful eye on everyone, you name it.

The perfectionism moved straight through to Isabela. There's a whole song about not meeting expectations, so I don't think I need to go fruther into it.

Pepa

Pepa is another obvious one. Her anxiety is palpable throughout most of the movie and it is, unlike her mum, mostly related to things that are not life-or-death situations (Antonio's party needing to be perfect).

She is constantly seen spiralling and using self-soothing rituals (hair touching, "clear skies"), often to no avail.

Her mood swings and irritability outbursts are also proof of anxiety.

Bruno

Before you come at me!! He clearly has OCD... It's in the script so it was meant like this. And I know people say he was just superstitious, but I come from a very superstitious culture and it's not like that 😭

I can prove it!!

Throwing salt. It is usually done after you have spilled it. Bruno had not spilled any salt before the throwing over the shoulder. It is an act that is meant to cancel bad luck from an extremely specific action that he had not done.

Knock knock knock knock knock knock on wood. You are supposed to knock twice, say it once, only after someone has said something good you don't wanna jinx or bad you wanna prevent. Bruno hasn't been talking to anyone in 10 years, it's just a ritual to him at this point OR it's a reaction to his own thoughts. Superstitious people don't do things based on their thoughts: that's OCD. Also the number of knocks and the one on the head is oddly specific and not related to any superstitious beliefs as far as I'm aware.

Fingers crossed. Again, you do that when you are hoping for something good, but nothing happened he might want to cross his fingers for, it's just another ritual. Also, all of these rituals are kind of contradicting each other (hoping for something/trying to prevent something), he's just trying to bring as much good luck as possible.

I'm not saying he is not superstitious, he very much is, but his superstition pathologized to the point of becoming an illness. This is not how someone who's simply superstitious acts.

He also has a generally nervous attitude and lots of self-soothing movements, like the rubbing his arm we'll get to later.

The only other explanation could be that he thinks he is the bad luck, but that still does not explain things like the crossed fingers.

Julieta, Camilo, Mirabel

They don't look like they struggle a lot with anxiety (I am only talking about the actual condition, not genuine worry that has a reason of being like Casita breaking or not receiving a gift). They are all very accustomed to dealing with anxious family members though and they are good at it.

Mirabel is probably the more anxious among the three, but she is also an incredible supporter for Toñito, who's not getting his own section simply because his fear was very much justified, but for a literal 5yo his anxiety shows great promise of becoming just like his mum's.

Honourable mention in this section goes to Félix and Agustìn, we stan some supportive husbands and fathers.

Luisa

My baby. The first time we see her as being relevant plot-wise is literally because her eye was twitching. Her character arc is learning to chill. I rest my case.

Dolores

Now, Dolores is a bit trickier, because she is not as loud as the rest of her family. She does always seem to be extremely on edge though and she is often doubting herself (she stopped believing someone was in the walls despite hearing Bruno for 10+ years because they told her it was not possible).

I don't know whether it's canon or if I've read too much fanfiction, but her room is supposed to have some degree of soundproofing, that she doesn't use because she needs to hear if her family needs help (Luisa's eye twitch).

Finally...

The similar twitches and anxious responses

The arm-rub of Luisa and Bruno (+ supportive sisters <3<3<3<3<3)

The hand movement while screaming, like mother like daughter

[fuck-customers]

bitch-ass coworker/manager finally got fired today (i think) which I'm super duper hoping means I'm gonna get promoted to her position. this girl is on her phone literally all day every day. if shes not scrolling through something or other then she's got an airpod in on the phone with her kids, or her sister, or whoever the fuck, and it makes it impossible to do anything since, because she's a head cashier, we need her to approve any voids, returns, or suspensions on orders. she also frequently no-call-no-shows (which is what we thought was happening for the past two days, but we have reason to believe she's been sacked) and disappears for hours of her shift without telling anyone where she's going.

I don't wanna jinx it but I'm super excited at the prospect of finally being full time AND being rid of her. fingers are crossed.

Posted by admin Rodney.

[owawaaa]

I don't wanna say when exactly bc I don't wanna jinx it but I might be moving into my own place near the end of the month. hopefully. crossing all my fingers toes included. here's an emotional support danny bunny(s)

[ladey]

When I Brush Your Hair | Chapter 2

Jinx x Fem!Reader 🌙🦋🎀

Word count: 4.3k

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

"How many do you got now?" Dorothy asks humorously, chin resting on her hand with a wine glass placed in front of her. Y/n juts her tongue out against the inside of her cheek and looks off into space. Dorothy chuckles.

"As long as you let me borrow them, girl." Her raspy laugh travels through the room as Y/n smiles at her.

"Sure, Dora." She sighs and looks down at the pallet in front of her. The design is evidently high-end; royal blue crystalline surface with gold design cutouts along the sides of it. Her fingers trace the smooth edge as her mind wanders again. She feels kinda bad; usually she's so much more lively and engaged when visiting her aunt. She hopes she isn't being too boring or depressing. She's aware of the kind of job she has too. So she likes to think she can be a sort of relief and sense of home for her. However her aunt's voice halts her running thoughts with an unexpected question.

"So that white haired boy, ey? You two a little duo?" Her voice is teasing, but Y/n can detect a sense of actual curiosity.

Oh...!

Y/n jumps back in her chair with a look on her face that resembles revolt.

"Ew, no! Gross. Just the thought makes me wanna vomit!" She gags as Dorothy laughs at her, shifting in her seat to pull out a long skinny cigar from her pocket.

"Coulda thought you had a little crush on him. You're with him all the time with that other girl— what's her name again?" Dorothy asks while she lights up her cigar. Y/n doesn't immediately answer at first. Her mind wanders and she feels a funny feeling in her stomach.

"N-no. And it's Powder." She answers vexed. She narrows her eyes, feeling almost offended that she'd forget her best friend. She wasn't sure why though.

"Oh my apologies." Dorothy chuckles with a trail of smoke leaving her lips, feigning defense.

"Whatever." Y/n gets up from her seat and walks around while her eyes flit around for the smelly sticks her aunt keeps in a jar.

"Where are the smelly stick thingy's?"

"The incense is in my room on the night stand." When Y/n comes back with the jar in her hands, she's smiling mischievously.

"You got the lavender ones."

"Yup, you can take em' out of your bag now."

-

About a month has passed since then. Not much has changed. The weather is slowly getting warmer, which Y/n is exuberant about.

Except now it's a late Saturday night. The Last Drop is filled to the brim with visitors seated at the tables holding vast amounts of different concoctions of alcoholic drinks.

Alcohol.

That's what Y/n, Power & Ekko are trying to steal at the moment.

Not too long ago, the three were sitting outside on a couple of discarded barrels and crates left at the side of the building. They were getting bored of playing the same card games over and over again, when Ekko brought up the epic idea of sneaking into the bar to steal a bottle of alcohol. Powder was reluctant at first, and   Y/n was having an internal battle with herself about trying to be more "grown-up and live a little."

But in the end, the two girls gave in. Because why not? You only live this life once. Plus they're bored, this could be fun; sneaking around. Growing up Y/n always really enjoyed exploring the smaller hidden areas of the Undercity, crawling through secret doors and windows into other buildings to find out where it would take her. Her excitement would soar whenever Ekko told her about a new area he found while out doing whatever he did.

Now the three of them look through the glass door, peering at the people surrounding the bar, and at Vander who's currently leaning on the bar chatting with folks.

"Okay, we need some sort of distraction." Ekko whispers.

"Can't we just ask Mylo to get something for us? I think he'd be willing-"

"Are you stupid?" Ekko cuts Y/n off before she can finish. She crosses her arms with a pout.

"It was just a suggestion..." Y/n mumbles. Ekko sighs.

"We don't wanna risk anything."

"He'd probably end up keeping it for himself, anyway." Powder scoffs rolling her eyes. Ekko agrees.

"Yeah. We need someone to distract Vander while another sneaks behind the counter and gets the goods." He peers into the bar then looks back at the two girls.

"I'll distract. As for the sneaking... The smallest needs to do it." There's silence when Powder and Ekko stare at Y/n. She looks at both of them bewildered.

"Oh, c'mon!?" She exclaims as she throws her arms in the air. Powder giggles at her and Ekko gives her an encouraging pat on the shoulder.

"Sorry shortstack." Y/n just sighs defeated.

"When I give you the thumbs up that's your signal. Be quick and don't get caught." He then opens the door and shoves them inside.

"As for Powder, you can come with me. I have an idea on how we can cause a little mayhem..." His face and tone scream mischief as he rubs his hands together.

"O-okay." The two head off in the opposite direction and Y/n veers over to the left side of the room.

She wonders what Ekko could have planned. It's sometimes a mystery with him. Although he always keeps her informed, the ideas he comes up with can sometimes get risky and chaotic in some way. Not to mention they've gotten caught a handful of times over the years. He's agile but clumsy.

Y/n slowly makes her way over to the far end of the bar, being mindful to stay hidden behind crowds. A part of her is scolding her about looking too suspicious while another is yelling at her to just keep going and ignore her nerves. In the meantime she stays standing beside a pillar a few feet away from the bar, where Vander continues to chat and pour people drinks. She tries to look at the bottles stored behind the counter, eyes flitting over the array of alcohol, when she hears a loud laugh on her right. Her head automatically whips around at the noise and her eyes land on some middle aged man sitting at a table smiling patronizingly at her as he lifts a drink up to his lips.

She hopes to whatever's out there that he doesn't ruin their plan.

Only a minute or two passes when she spots Ekko and Power walking between a couple of small crowds. Their eyes are searching around the room when they finally land on Y/n. Who is smiling at them, but it looks more like a grimace. They stop some 12 feet away from the bar, then Ekko gives her a nod and turns around to face Powder, who stands timidly behind him with fidgety hands. That's when Y/n takes notice of the bag around her shoulder.

She watches their mouths move and Powder reach into her side bag who pulls out one of her bombs... Is this going where she thinks it's going? Powder hands it to Ekko then takes out a second one. They briefly look around scanning the room, and it's all Y/n sees before a group suddenly blocks them out of view. She curses under her breath and leans over to try and see past anyone. But it's no use.

She feels her heart begin to drop. What if she misses the queue? She doesn't want to disappoint them by failing what should be a simple role she was given. Should she just try and go get a bottle now? But what if she does end up given the opportunity to see her queue but misses it, all because she went too early and ends up screwing up the whole plan by making Vander catch her?

There's suddenly a boom resounding within the whole bar. There are shouts and screams coming from everyone in the near vicinity. And those observing from a distance watch on in shock and confusion. The people previously blocking Y/n's view are scurried away by what looks like a second blow of some sort of pink goopy substance. In that moment she catches the back of Ekko's figure and Powder slowly backing away as she looks around at the crowds with an as equally apprehensive face. She stays trained on Ekko, determined not to mess up when he hides his hand behind his back with a thumbs up.

Y/n had been so focused on the others that she didn't notice Vander staring at the scene unfold with a nearly dumbstruck look on his face before stomping off in the direction of the chaos. She wastes no time and makes her move.

Weaving between a couple of people, she makes it through the opening to the bar, making sure to stay crouched. Wanting to make this fast, her eyes zoom across the agglomeration of liquids and bottles; some bubbling or having some sort of odd object submerged inside. She feels herself beginning to get overwhelmed by it all. She has no idea what to grab, some literally look deadly.

In the heat of the moment, her hand reaches out for a square shaped bottle filled with a purple liquid; which she thought had looked pretty. She stays crouched as she peeks around the corner of the counter. Vander is still dealing with crowd control, and there seems to be a great deal of people standing around watching to use as cover. The geezer from earlier had stood from his seat and was now watching with his jaw slack and his drink spilling onto his shoes which he seems to completely fail to notice.

Standing up, Y/n begins to run. Letting out panicked noises as she clutches the bottle in her hand with a death grip. Squeezing through more people, she meets her friends half way who are waiting near the wall covered by some other folks.

And with a giddy triumphant lift of her hand holding the bottle, the three run to the exit and down the street, letting out laughs and giggles that echo through the foggy night air.

-

The three kids end up finding an empty grotty alleyway with a big dumpster and crates. They heave as they finally sit down to rest. Powder slides down the wall into a ball across from the dumpster, where Ekko leans back and looks up at Y/n. He gestures to the alcohol in her hand with a nod.

"Shall we?" Y/n slowly walks over to him while glancing down at the liquid inside.

"There were so many back there. I didn't know what was what so I grabbed this because I thought it looked pretty. I hope it's up to your expectations..." She rambles timidly. She saunters over to the crate beside Powder and jumps up onto it, sitting on her hands. Ekko turns the concoction around in his hands as he inspects it. His eyebrows suddenly shoot up.

"Plum vodka.. I hear that stuff hits." Ekko says with an eager expression. He pops the cork off with his teeth,  Y/n visibly cringing, and looks back up at the girls across from him.

"You still in?" Y/n purses her lips and looks down at Powder to her left; she looks up at her. Y/n shrugs with what she hopes looks like an encouraging smile. She sticks out her hand for Powder to take and the bluenette stands up. Ekko smiles wickedly and raises the bottle up in the air.

"Salud." The boy swings his head back and takes a big gulp. How he didn't spill it from his mouth was beyond Y/n. He immediately starts coughing as he pounds his fist against his chest, eyes watering as he tries to catch his breath. The two girls giggle as they watch their friend struggle.

"Holy shit-" He chokes out between coughs. He extends his arm out to Powder, almost desperate to get the thing away from him as soon as possible.

"Fair warning, it burns." He breathes out. Powder gently grabs it and looks into the funnel of the glass bottle, wearily examining the purple liquid before releasing a deep breath.

"You got this!" Y/n shouts softly, shaking a fist into the air. Powder smiles gratefully. Bringing the bottle up to her lips, she too takes a mouth full. She struggles to get it down at first, a bit dripping down her chin as her face screws up in disgust.

"Bleh! That's gross!" She covers her mouth and nearly bends over into a coughing fit. Y/n has to pat the poor girl's back. The bottle is shoved into her hand, the alcohol sloshing around and almost spilling into her lap. Ekko can be heard laughing, but it grows distant as Y/n stares at the bottle in her shaky hands.

She wants to do it. But she's scared of the outcome. Not that she's much of a pessimist; she loves doing sneaky things. But why does her anxiety have to be acting up now of all times? She's beginning to notice a pattern of fear and over-thinking as of recent; she wants to slap herself in the face over it. The other two did it! If they can why can't she!? Stick to your guns and just take a drink like it's juice.. Yeah! Pretend it's juice! She tips her head back and downs two gulps.

Even if it tastes like dog shit.

Y/n has to repress the urge to gag from the burning sensation travelling from her throat all the way down to her stomach. The others eye her with raised brows.

"Oh my god-" She says between coughs.

"Yeahh told ya." Ekko steps over and takes the drink back.

"Doesn't even taste like plums." Y/n says upset.

"Maybe we can try a different drink next time." Powder suggests, taking the other two by surprise. Ekko chuckles.

"Is the alcohol hitting you already?" The three laugh, and proceed to take turns having their share of the purple concoction.

-

It's been over an hour and all three of them are no doubt visibly intoxicated. Initially, the bottle had been filled nearly to the top. Now it sits discarded on the ground, a couple gulps away from being empty.

Powder is sitting against the large crate, and Y/n lays on her back on the ground. Both are laughing at Ekko who stands ahead of them, moving in odd and silly ways while making a hard attempt to resemble a scarf. They're now currently playing a game where they take turns guessing what they're pretending to be.

"A tissue."

"A unicorn!"

"A lion! RAAAA!" Y/n roars. Ekko huffs.

"You guys aren't even trying."

"Pfft I got no clue.. A kite?" Y/n guesses, a slur to her speech noticeable. Ekko sighs and stops what he's doing to stand awkwardly in the middle of the alleyway.

"C'mon you guys. I'm a scarf." He says, like it's the most obvious thing ever.

"How were we supposed to guess something like that?" Powder scoffs. Y/n slaps her hand against her forehead with a groan.

"It was kinda obvious."

"Scarfs are used in so many different ways. You could've demonstrated more. And much better than that." Y/n patronizes.

"Oh really? Like how?"

"Well-"

Before an argument can take over, a shadow coming from the entrance of the alleyway casts over them.

"Oi, what you lot think you're doin'?"

Sheer panic washes over all three of them.

Benzo stands with his arms crossed and a deathly glare shooting at them like lazers. The three kids make eye contact with each other, silently communicating.

"I heard about a couple of bombs going off in Vander's place. Think you have any idea what that could be about?" It's silent for a couple of seconds before Ekko hesitantly speaks up.

"Must've been a robber." Benzo loudly huffs.

"Off you go, boy. I should see you in your bed by the time I get home." Ekko wastes no time to speed off, stumbling into the wall as he passes Benzo. When he's out of sight he eyes the two girls with squinted eyes.

"Get on with it." He says simply. And the girls get up as quickly as their unsteady bodies allow them. Powder grabs the bottle that was beside her and hides it behind her back as she passes Benzo with a sickeningly sweet grin, trailing behind Y/n.

They survey their surroundings in fear that Benzo is still around before falling into a steady stroll down the empty side street. Neither have any idea what time it is, but both assume it must be early in the morning considering only the odd person is seen walking or standing outside smoking.

"That was so scary." Powder giggles, the bottle swinging with her arms. Y/n turns her head to look at her. Her figure is relaxed, much more carefree than the Powder she's familiar with. Although Y/n likes to think she has that effect on her whenever they're together no matter the situation.

"Yeahhh." Y/n says, elongating the last syllable and giggling too, stumbling over her feet a few times. Then Powder giggles again. And now both girls are having a small giggling fit and bumping into each other as they continue to bound down the street.

They very soon come across a ladder that leads them up to a rooftop. Y/n's foot slips when she almost reaches the top making her let out a frightened squeak.

"Here.." Powder reaches her arm down for Y/n to take her hand, and she hoists her up. They tumble onto the ground below them in a fit of giggles and don't even bother to get up, choosing to crawl over to the edge and lay down on their backs. Both are out of breath, and    Y/n groans.

"I'm so tired now." She says just above a whisper, eyes fluttering closed. She hears Powder hum in agreement and shift beside her. She suddenly feels something soft brush against her right hand but it's gone before she can even fully process it. Her cheeks warm and she opens her eyes.

"I wish I could see the stars from here." Y/n mumbles. Powder hums in agreement again. Y/n turns her head to look at her with a teasing smile.

"Why are you being all quiet now?" She can only see the side of Powder's face. She always thought she had such a pretty side profile. While lost in her thoughts, she ends up poking her cheek. This causes Powder to laugh, eyes closing as she grins.

"I don't know." She shrugs nonchalantly, voice airy. Y/n purses her lips then sighs, turning her head to look back up. There's only silence between the two girls as they stare up into the misty sky, watching as it dances around in the lights shining through the windows. A butterfly suddenly lands on Y/n's nose making her squeal, but it flutters away before she can swipe it away.

Y/n is suddenly heard giggling playfully making Powder look at her with furrowing brows, and Y/n is turning onto her side to face her.

"So Miss Powder. Do you.. have a crush?" Her tone sounds as though she's interviewing her. The blue haired girl beside her is startled by the question.

"Uh- What?!"

"I asked you if you have a crush. I was just thinking, even though we've been friends for so long you've never talked about people that you liked before." Y/n says thoughtfully. Powder thinks about it too for a moment as she turns so she's now facing Y/m as well.

"True. I guess neither of us have." Y/n nods at that. But then shes giddy and starts the dreadful discussion again.

"Sooo, do you?" She tries to pry. Powder shakes her head quickly with a funny look on her face.

"Are you sure?"

"Mhm." Powder nods her head.

"I don't believe you. You're all rigid." Y/n laughs out loud, making Powder pout.

"C'monnn tell meee." She boops Powder's nose, making her scrunch her face with a giggle. Then all of a sudden, all foolishness is wiped from Y/n's face.

"You can be honest with me.." Powder bites her lip, a nervous tick of her's that Y/n had taken notice of the more she spent time with the girl.

"Is it a boy?"

"No."

"Is it a girl?"

"Do you have a crush on anybody Miss Candy?" Powder veers the topic onto Y/n instead, smiling triumphantly at the taken aback look on her face.

"Uh-" It felt like the air got punched out of her lungs.

Y/n should've expected that to be honest.

She always knew that she wanted to experience some sort of romance in her future, but she's only twelve. She never really thought too deeply about it before. Even so, she can recall certain moments where she felt some sort of attraction or "giddiness" that ones gets with a crush.

She thinks about Ekko; her visit at her aunt's house where she had that very awkward but very brief conversation about her "relationship" with him. Obviously, they have no relation of the sort. And she still feels the same since that day. So he's a no-go.

She thinks about Vi; who she's always viewed as a person of guidance and wise words. Strong words. Strong arms. Which she hopes to achieve someday possibly. She always liked tall girls, they made her feel safe and protected, that's all... But she can't lie to herself. Vi is a good looking girl and she knows that. There had been numerous times where she smiled softly at her and praised her for finally achieving something and she'd feel her face redden with faint butterflies in her stomach. In fact; when she first met her she couldn't stop smiling and would always have to turn the other way to force herself to stop.

But then her mind wanders to the girl laying in front of her, only inches away from her face. She considers Powder to be one of her closest and dearest friends. She barely remembers her life before she met her. She always was fascinated by her. She couldn't get over the fact that both her eyes and her hair were nearly the same shade of blue. Whenever shes with her she finds herself admiring a specific feature on her face, and her soft hair that she sometimes has the urge to run her hand through just for fun. Not to mention she loves it when they get into a teasing match that eventually ends up turning into a play fight. And lastly, there's no ignoring the racing of her heart the moment she first sees her on a brand new day.

Oh...

Powder is staring at her expectantly. Y/n is panicking. But she's saved by the bell when both girls lift their heads up at the sound of heavy foot steps approaching them.

"Where the hell have you guys been?!" Vi's wild voice immediately breaks the aura surrounding the two girls, and suddenly they're overcome with the feeling of being caught. They shoulda guessed she'd come looking for them. They stand up, Powder more quickly which causes her to stumble.

"I was worried sick! And your dad's been looking for you!" Her face expresses fear and worry. She's panting, seeming as though she's been running around for a while. She probably has.

Then Vi eyes the two of them with suspicion, noticing the dazed look in their eyes and the way they waver in their spots. And then her gaze travels down to the ground where the empty bottle lays forgotten. Ah..

Vi scoffs and has to look away as she takes a deep breath.

"Y'know? I can't believe you two sometimes. Come on." She guides them down the ladder, and soon they're making their way back to The Last Drop. Vi occasionally having to hold onto one of the girl's arms to prevent them from tipping over.

What happened back on the rooftop lingers in the back of both the girl's minds. But it would soon be pushed away to be forgotten until a very long time.

Chapter 3…

—

the actual plot starts next chapter. there you go.

fair warning though, evidently my chapters tend to end up being longer than i anticipate them to be. not to mention i intend to write a tiny bit more chapters about their childhood/teenhood before the time skip, just for relationship development and dynamic purposes. i want y'all to have a clear idea of it. just wanna let yk in case u start questioning why it seems to be a slow start.

(this book also may or may not be based off of my arcane dr. so idk how things are going to play out in the future just yet... we'll see).

[vanmarkus]

it's once again that time when i ask all of you to cross your fingers for me because i need all the luck i can get, i don't wanna talk about the details and jinx it so just please 🤞🤞

[cant-get-enough-btr-forever]

"Big Time Battle of the Bands", Chapter 15: Big Time Supergroup

".....yooouuuu." Gustavo finished, accompanying his last note with a tinkling piano riff. He turned to the crowd. All that greeted him was a muffled cough. One could have heard a pin drop. He chuckled nervously and tugged at his collar.

Miraculously, a moment later, the audience exploded into applause. Gustavo shared a truly shocked look with Logan, Carlos, and Kelly. Clearing his dry throat, he proudly stood. But just as he was about to take a bow, he saw this out of the corner of his eye: Kendall, James, and Cross My Heart, who were fast approaching on the motorcycle.

Logan and Carlos made 'woo-hoo!' faces at each other and fist-bumped. The crowd's applause rapidly grew as Kendall vroomed up to the stage. "Hello, people of L.A.!" he called out, waving. The six of them threw off their helmets as they ran up the stage steps.

Mrs. Knight, who was clapping with everyone else, blanched slightly. "Was my son driving a motorcycle?" she shrieked over the cheers.

"Relax, Mom, it's for the Palmwoods!" Katie yelled back, smirking.

"Go, go! It's your time to shine, guys!" Kelly squealed, pushing Logan and Carlos out into the open. Many laughs and shouts of triumph were heard as the two bands hugged and patted each other's backs.

"I don’t think I’ve ever been so happy!" Mikee exclaimed, fanning herself. She looked down and blushed. "But, um, anyone got a pair of flats?"

In the blink of an eye, Carlos had vanished. He returned almost as quickly with a pair of small red flats. "For you, m'lady." he said with a smile, holding them out to her. When everyone looked dumbfounded, Carlos shrugged. "Wardrobe magic." he said simply. Mikee giggled as he hugged her waist.

"I guess it’s true what they say: Eight really is better than four." Kendall quipped, prompting a laugh from Chloe.

James and Jessica both replied, "You bet it is."

Their eyes widened. "Hey, jinx!" they teased each other. "Jinx again! Triple jinx! Quadruple—"

"Guys!" Logan cut in, laughing. "We don't have time for that!" He beamed at Elena and draped his arm over her shoulders. She looked like she was on cloud nine.

"He's got a point. We need a plan." Kendall added.

Beside him, Chloe grinned and grabbed her microphone. "Hey, guys! Who wants to hear a Big Time Rush/Cross My Heart collab?"

Another wave of cheers rolled over them.

She turned back to the others. "Huddle!" she exclaimed, holding up her finger. Just like that, they converged into one big, whispering huddle.

Gustavo ripped his own mic off its stand and rushed to the front of the stage. He looked equal parts relieved and thrilled. "Everyone," he yelled, "give it up for Big Time Rush and Cross My Heart!!"

The group spun around, seized their mics, and let their singing burst forth.

[James & Logan]

Here I am, there you are, why does it seem so far?

Next to you is where I should be (Where I wanna be)

Something I want so bad, know what's inside your head

Maybe I could see what you see (Tell me what you see)

[Jessica and Elena]

I gotta keep on believing, that everything takes time

I'll make up any reason to make you mine

If you're staying or leaving, I'll follow your lead

So why keep pretending?

Open your eyes

I can be what you need

[Big Time Rush]

Any kind of guy you want, girl, that's the guy I'll be

Turn myself upside down (Logan: Yes I will, yes I will)

Any kind of guy you want, girl, you know I'll agree

Turn your whole world around (Logan: Yes I will, yes I will)

Any kind, any kind, any kind of guy you want

You decide, change your mind, I will be there

Won't you try one more time? Be my any kind of girl

You decide, it's alright, I will be there

Katie turned in her seat to smirk at a sulking Mr. Bitters. "A bet's a bet, dude." she said, shrugging. Mr. Bitters' bottom lip jutted out some more. "Yeah, yeah..." he grumbled.

Katie raised an eyebrow. "So how many shirts did you dole out?"

"Seventy."

“And how much did each one cost?”

“...Ten dollars.”

"That'll be seven hundred bucks."

Bitters groaned and fumbled for his wallet. He grudgingly slapped the cash into Katie's waiting palm. Mrs. Knight looked horrified as she watched this go down.

“It’s for the Palmwoods, Mom!” Katie insisted. Mrs. Knight shook her head, but she was smiling.

[Carlos & Kendall]

You seem so hard to know, say goodbye, say hello

Then you say that it's time to go (Now it's time to go)

Changing my point of view, everyday something new

Anything to get next to you (Gonna get to you), oh-oh

[Mikee and Chloe]

I gotta keep on believing, that everything takes time

I'll make up any reason to make you mine

If you're staying or leaving (Staying or leaving), I'll follow your lead

So why keep pretending? Open your eyes (Open your eyes)

I can be what you need (Oh-oh)

[Cross My Heart]

Any kind of girl you want, boy, that's the girl I'll be

Turn myself upside down (Mikee: Yes I will, yes I will)

Any kind of girl you want, boy, you know I'll agree

Turn your whole world around (Mikee: Yes I will, yes I will)

Any kind, any kind, any kind of girl you want

You decide, change your mind, I will be there

Won't you try one more time? Be my any kind of guy

You decide, it's alright, I will be there

Behind the curtain, Griffin approached Gustavo and Kelly. "This is a truly remarkable thing, Gustavo!" he praised. "The boys get their Palmwoods back, the girls get the exposure they deserve, and the Cheer-O-Meter is going off the charts!" He glanced approvingly at Abdul, who was struggling to control the haywire device in his briefcase.

"You know, the next tour could use a spectacular opening act like Cross My Heart." he mused.

Kelly and Gustavo looked at each other. "That's actually a great idea." Kelly remarked in surprise.

"Way better than a competition..." Gustavo muttered.

Griffin continued, "Perhaps even an album collaboration. A supergroup, of sorts. I can see it now: 'Griffin's Groovers.'"

Gustavo and Kelly exchanged an eyeroll.

[Kendall]

Bring it back

[All]

Any kind, any kind, any kind of guy you want (Any kind of guy!)

You decide, it's alright, I will be there

The entire audience got to its feet as they struck an ending pose. The ovation was deafening as the eight radiant bandmates stood in a line, holding hands.

They took a deep bow.

[ex-textura]

I just played the tiefling party again for Jinx (wanted to go back and try getting Minthara again and his was the closest playthrough) and I don't remember everyone trying to ride his dick so hard last time but oh my god were they ever all over him this time XD.

He's not reading the social cues, doesn't catch on that asking Wyll to dance is romantic. So confused why Shadowheart doesn't wanna share her wine with everyone else. Astarion didn't even give him the chance to say no (he's already turned you down, bud. you gotta find another mark. Wyll is right there I'm JUST saying) He was actually kinda crossing his fingers that Lae'zel's 'i wanna devour you' speech was a weird sex thing... Karlach, ever the bro, absolutely uninterested. Although she did comment on him getting closer with Shadowheart and he just smiled and nodded along and pretended to understand what that meant.

Gale. He told Gale to his damn face "I'd love to get to know you better~" and the man shooed him away.

socializing is hard, my guy. I feel you.

[sweater-daddiesdumbdork]

orchard - share one thing that you’d like to happen this autumn.

For you AND The Pack. ❤️

Hey Babes! wow this has been sitting a while, I am sorry!

For me this autumn- its so up in the air but big things maybe happening, so please keep your fingers crossed. I can't share right now because I don't wanna jinx anything. But something a little more low key, I want to carve pumpkins I grew myself.

For the pack- Steve wants to cuddle Little One on their dock while admiring the leaves changing around the lake. Little One though wants to make a Halloween walking trail covered in pumpkins that leads to a huge bonfire to roast marshmallows and have smores while telling spooky stories to celebrate with the pack.

I think they can do both of these things!

[hacked-by-jake]

Not me trying to finish 2 semesters of college early in less than 2 months 😭 moonvale is literally my only motivation since I wanna be stress free by the time it comes out

Not related but:

I was stalking your page and your post reminded me of when I was complaining on your asks when (I think it was the last episode) of duskwood came out and it wouldn't let me play 💀 don't jinx me bestie 😮‍💨💕

Wahhhh, I can imagine how stressful it must be. Especially when it's so close to the release. It's a real neck-and-neck race. I wish you all the best and much luck for the end of the semester. But remember, don't overwork yourself. This wouldn't be the right solution. But I'm sure you will do well. You can do it. May the power of duskwood (Jake) be with you! 🦾

And yes, I do remember your ask. It happened to me as well. Not for that long but I had to wait until I was finally allowed to download it. I was lucky because many of you had to wait even longer. And that's why I had to do the post. Even though it was so annoying and stressful, having to wait, but the fandom made it so much funnier. I remember us all freaking out.

And tbh, I expect it to be the same again. I mean, I can’t blame, many people, hundreds of thousands, will jump on Moonvale immediately and this means that the servers are too likely to be overloaded again.

So it will probably really be like gambling, who can play immediately and who can not. We just have to keep our fingers crossed that it will work better this time.

Time for some manifesting, I guess. 💚🥲

[shimmerbeasts]

A Miscommunication Issue

"You know you don't have to go down there by yourself."

Vi forced her gaze away from the snapshot photograph, she had been staring at for the last couple of minutes. It did not seem to be anything special; just a picture of graffiti on a wall. Yet where most people would merely see the child-like and crude drawings of a tiger and a cheetah, pulling at the ears and legs of a stuffed bunny with bloodied muzzles, Vi saw a secret message. Whether she wanted to admit it or not, even as 'Jinx', Vi understood her sister Powder better than most.

Folding up the photograph, Vi slotted it into her striped pants pocket and finally looked at Caitlyn before she spoke: "I know, Caitlyn, but I really do not think that this would facilitate much. If anything, Powder would only grow more suspicious if you were present, and well, the only other person who knows what this could mean is currently in Zaun ... I think."

As Vi looked away briefly upon her voiced doubts, Caitlyn pressured softly: "Am I reading this right, and you have not even spoken to Ran? Vi, she has been in my house for several months now. She is my sister, and you cannot keep avoiding her." The detective stepped closer and took Vi's hands in her own. Her gaze was caring and loving, but also stern with worry. "Tiger, what are you not telling me?"

Vi sighed and confessed: "The last time, Ran and I met, we tried to kill each other. I, ehm, I punched them off a bridge. They worked for Silco when we returned to the Lanes. I doubt they wanna see me, much less help me." She tapped her fingers against her thighs. "But I need them to understand why Powder drew them on the wall. Ran's a cheetah. I remember their smell."

Caitlyn stepped closer and placed a hand on Vi's shoulder as she asked: "Were you two... mates?"

"No, I don't think so. I mean, we fooled around once or twice, but no, I do not think that makes us mates."

Vi peered back down into the labyrinth of streets and darkened houses. She hated having to go back down there! She hated it because it reminded her of everything, she had tried to escape from so much. She hated it because instead of being Vi, Zaun almost always facilitated her slipping into Pink or Nemisis as this was just the safer bargain. And it got her results. Vi hated that it got her results faster than just being her true self ever could!

Caitlyn tugged some of her dark hair behind her ear. She implored once more: "Are you sure you do not want me to come along as at least backup? You loathe going down to Zaun, and you know I never mind covering for you."

"I know." Vi boxed Caitlyn in the side teasingly, who smiled back. "And I really appreciate you for it." Her expression turned serious again. "But I am afraid, I have to do this alone. I cannot afford to wait for Ran to come back from her trip. I have to find her and I can do this more efficiently if I travel alone. Do you think you could keep the Enforcers off my back until I have a clearer understanding of that picture?"

"Of course, Vi." A bemused twinkle entered Caitlyn's crystal blue eyes. "The officers will have the longest and most pointless interrogation in history. So you are gonna be fine. But be careful too, alright? I don't need you coming home with the other half of your face slashed to pieces."

Vi made a show of rolling her eyes in exasperation. "Yes, Mum!", she jested back. She then crossed the distance one last time and gave Caitlyn an affectionate kiss on the cheek, face softening in earnest. "You are the best. I owe you one, Cupcake." And with these words, Vi pulled up her hood and leapt off the wall down into the labyrinth of misery and decay.

It was eerie how quickly Vi could adjust her behaviour, the moment she set foot into the streets of the Lanes. Zaun had always been an unforgiven environment, even for those living in its carnivorous belly, however, it was extra ruthless towards any outsiders. While Vi was not a de facto outsider, as she was a Zaunite like anybody else, she still knew that her moving to Piltover, would not be welcomed with open arms. Furthermore, the Lanes were now Sevika's territory and judging by how the older woman had treated her the last time, she had tried to invade, Vi better make this trip as short and efficient as possible.

This also meant Vi could not really go around looking for Ran the normal way. No, she had to use another pair of eyes to find her. And luckily, Vi knew exactly where to hire an additional pair of eyes and a set of quick legs. The market street in the Lanes was not just full of stands, offering their goods and services, but children flitted between the adults, going about their day. Shop owners roared in anger whenever one of these urchins knacked a slice of meat or some sardine from a hook. However, few men actually bothered running after the children. They had their uses as any filthy scavenger did. After all, as frustrating as ravens were, they still could fly.

Her shoulders rocked in the sway of her steps. Vi marched through the market street, each footfall carrying the weight of intimidation and power behind it. While her hood covered most of her face, Vi refused to look up, forcing the cluster of people to part and give her way. A few angry drunkards whistled abrasively after her, however, most fell back into an alcohol-fuelled stupor. The children scampered away from her, eyes locked onto her in awe and fear. Some whispered behind held-up hands into their compatriots' ears.

"Is that Nemesis or one of her informants?"

"I dunno. Maybe."

"Keep an eye on the roofs. Headhunter could be lurking by."

Vi paid them no mind and instead slipped onto a stool at a familiar stall. The smell of roasting fishes and tentacles in boiling pots tickled her nose. Before Vi stood a large, broad Vastaya, covered from head to toe in the scales of a fish. His teeth were pointy and greying. Fins flicked upon his cheeks and wiggled where his ears would be. Yellow eyes glared at the hooded figure and Jericho spoke something in his Vastayan accent.

"Not tonight, Jericho", Vi told him, "Just make me a bowl of whatever broth, you currently have. Fish broth!" She warningly raised a finger and glared at him from underneath her hood. "Keep that other house meat far away from me."

Jericho shrugged, grunted offhandedly and waved a meaty paw. He busied himself with pouring Vi a stew of trout and gravy into a bowl. Vi meanwhile looked around the street before she whistled at one of the urchins: "Hey, you! Get over here!"

Once the boy stopped before her and asked what she wanted, Vi reached into her pocket and pulled out a gold coin. Caitlyn was already swimming in money and Nemesis was too cut-throat to not make use of that fact. Vi offered the coin to the street urchin and said: "I need you to find someone for me. Tall, pale skin, dark hair, preferably dressed in white leather. Should be part of this territory. Goes by Ran. Tell them that an old friend needs to speak with them and it is urgent. Can you do that?"

The urchin nodded; and Vi dropped the coin into his hand and said: "Off you pop." The boy admired the gold coin in awe before he looked at her with a shudder of fear. Only very powerful Zaunites carried gold in their pockets. The boy whispered: "Nemesis" under his breath, gulped in terror and shoved the coin in his pocket. He booked it in search of Ran. Vi turned towards the bowl of food.

Now, all she had to do, was wait.

@playgroundmonsters

[hithelleth]

— 15 Questions for 15 or maybe 5 or 6 Friends —

I was tagged by @figkeele last week and tonight I don't feel like going to sleep yet (which is a GREAT idea) and haven't done one of these in a while, so here we go. Thank you!

Are you named after anyone? My dad.

When was the last time you cried? On Tuesday while reading Archangel's Lineage (Guild Hunter #16) by Nalini Singh. No worries, everything ends well, but one scene made me cry like rain. In felt very cathartic, though. A girl needs a good cry once in a while.

Do you have kids? No.

What sports do you play/have you played? None. Too sick for it.

Do you use sarcasm? Nah, never. Why do you ask? /s

What’s the first thing you notice about people? Voice/tone or IDK, vibe? *shrug*

What’s your eye color? Green.

Scary movies or happy endings? Happy endings. Life's hard enough, thank you very much.

Any talents? Writing? (Haven't written in... too long, though). Singing? (Same.)

Where were you born? To quote the mayor: in the most beautiful city in the word. :P

What are your hobbies? Reading, watching TV, crocheting.

Do you have any pets? Sadly, not currently.

How tall are you? Super tall, a whole meter and a half. :P

Favorite subject in school? Geography.

Dream job? I sort of have it? I've been completely quiet about it as not to jinx it, but last year I began work rehabilitation at a primary school with part-time teaching individual students and part-time doing admin and it turned into tentative government-subsidised employment this year... I like it a lot and I'm hoping really hard that becomes something more permanent. Cross your fingers, please! And don't envy me, it's still hard AF (health-wise) but if I have to work to live I'd at least like to do something I like, such as this.

Tagging (no pressure if you don't wanna do it): @wellwhataboutme, @eveningspirit, @stargazerdaisy, @jadedbirch, @abedsmessedupmeta, @zoi-no-miko and anyone else who wants to do it.